Money

Really didn't wish to work at any IT Fair anymore. But really need to earn some money. The driving lessons, money thrown into my bazaars and investment in insurance are making my cash-on-hand running really low. Need to earn and save up for my uni fees. My income is solely based on my bazaars now, but it's not a guaranteed income. But for the last three bazaars, managed to earn quite a bit back. Hopefully after two or three bazaars, I'll be able to recoup my losses and start profitting.

Worked for Acer as promoter for their desktops and notebooks. Attended the training before the show and was really disappointed to see that there was so many promoters. Thought it would be a really stiff competition. Was really stress that week cos I was really afraid that I would not be able to earn much for the show. Only on the first day did I realise that different Acer booths were manned by different resellers. The one that I was working for had only 10-12 promoters and we were located right at the entrance of the hall. The first day, I was really blur, cos I didn't know much about computer stuff. Kept asking the other more experience promoters there. And they were always so willing to answer. =D Thought I won't be able to last there for more than one day cos the previous working experience at SITEX shows was really unbearable, super tired. On top of that, I was working for money, not experience. Working for experience is fun, but not for money.

Anyway, my knowledge about desktops and notebooks improved and of course, it helped me to made more sales. First day-3 sets, Second day-5, Third day-6, Last day-10sets. For the last day, was told that our basic will double if we were able to sold 15 sets provided the the total sales for the day was 200. But sadly, the competition from other booths were really too formidable. Their prices was slashed as much as $100 less than ours. By the last day, I was really exhausted and was thinking of giving up on that day. My first sales only came an hour or two later. Really very demoralising. But luckily, the subsequent sales didn't take too long. Praying helps. I endured the whole PC Show through prayers, praying that I would be able to last through each day. It also helped me to stay focused and work towards my goal, money. Lol! Personally, I feel that my performance for this PC Show is the best as compared to the previous two. Really chiong all the way.

Met quite a handful of sickening customers who wasted a large pool of my saliva but felt very fortunate to have worked with such nice bunch of experienced promoter. Though our commission is individual based, we worked as a team. We only see other booths as competitors, and not see each other as enemies. Seeing how inconsiderate the promoters from other booths were, I feel really fortunate that I've chosen a company that did not resort to such unscrupulous practice. Though we were located at the prime location, promoters from other booth should not cross the line and stand right in front of ours to snatch our customers. Literally, they snatched our customers while we were talking to them. Was really annoyed by their actions. They did it on the second day, we feedback to our supervisors and they talked to the other booth's supervisor. From third day on, they stopped. But they were really good at conning their customers. One of the models was selling at $999 on the third day, last day, it was $1099. Playing with customer's psychology, so when they ask for better price, $999, wow $100 reduction. Lol! So people who frequent IT Fairs, take note of such techniques by resellers!

All in all, was satisfied that I pulled through the four days. Seriously, I don't know how much commission I would be getting. Lazy to ask, have to check one by one. Hopefully the total pay will be around $400. =D

A Good Lesson Learnt In A Hard Way

Now that things have almost come to an end, except that I haven't gotten my money back, I can openly share with you all without fearing that I might be stressed up. This post is super long, but this will help me to remember the foolish mistake I had made.

On 1st March, I met up with a primary school friend cos he said he got a friend doing business and looking for people to help him. He said the working time is rather flexible so I decided to go have a look, cos so many people asking me for job lobangs.

Met him, and he brought me to the company. The building looks impressive. I thought they just own a small office in the building. To my surprise, they own quite a few levels of offices in the building. The company is actually quite an established one, 4 year-old company. I was wondering to myself: I thought it should be a small company. It was supposed to be just a meet up so I was didn't see the point to be defensive. I totally let down my guard as I thought this friend could be trusted.

When we reached the building, one of the 'shareholders'(Name her A) of LFI (the company), came to talk to us and explain what they do there. Oh my goodness, it was MLM. She explained that they're actually not a totally MLM company as they have physical shops and have salespersons to help us with the sales of the products. As in, they have professionals to explain to customers the functions of the products. She continued to bombard me with information of the products, how they work as a team, how reliable LFI is with Fred Ho as a partner for their diamonds business, how reliable the products are as they have famous artiste like Tay Ping Hui and Vincent Ng advertising for them, etc... As I had totally let down my guard, I was gradually being coaxed by them into believing that this business was really worth giving a try.

Later, A left to attend to something else and another 'shareholder'(Name him B) continued to explain to me about the business. He said things like everyone who join the company are shareholders, tell me the details of their products, how good they are... His auntie didn't believe in such product but after she took some to try from his mum, realised how good the pills were and became a regular consumer. Blah blah blah... Then he shared with me how lucrative this business was. If you sell how many bottles, how many points you'll get... If you recruit some downlines how many point you'll be rewarded... At the end of the month, how much can you earn... He went on multiplying the numbers... $1000... $2000... $3000... $4000... Then if your sales is good become don't know what director, company will sponsor you car. No wonder there's so many sports car outside the company. Wow... Seeing such good earnings, how could I resist the temptation especially when I really need money this days. (If I get into SIM, I need to come out with around $27k for the school fees. I thought: "Hmmm... Sounds like easy money leh. Join their membership first then consider whether to join in their business."

I only wanted to pay the $10+ for the membership cos I thought I could help the friend in this way. But they started to persuade me to buy their package to qualify for their business so that I can sell the products and bring in friend to this business. I told them I really don't have that much money. $1k or $2k leh... They thought what, I open bank de arh. Later A came back to take over B. She asked me how much can I come up with at that moment, so I honestly replied her around $800. So she said she would find some solution for me. She and that friend went here and there to discuss about don't know what. And they offered me a special package, $866. It was somehow within my budget. But I wasn't prepared to spend that money at all so I kept numb. Then she started telling me that the package was only for a limited period of time only, it might not be available after a 2-3days. So, stupidly, I agreed to buy the package.

Let me pause for a moment to share my thoughts after this incident, cos there's more to be shared later on. Dear friends, have any friends approached you in the same way? Telling you that they have business to introduce to you? Make them tell you the company's name and make sure that they're able to explain to you clearly the nature of the business before allowing them to approach you further.

I'm not blaming this friend or the A and B 'shareholders' cos I feel that they are victims too. They have been so brainwashed by the company that they only see the good. C'mon, in business how can there only be pros and no cons. How honest are you all doing this business? What role is Fred Ho playing in the company? He's just a small partner or probably the supplier for your diamonds, yet you all kept mentioning about him like he's a big business partner of LFI. Did you all mention about your chairman? Why not?

They shared about how well their mother company in HK have fared. But that's in HK. I did some research after a few days and found out that LFI isn't that reliable afterall. Below is one of their product which had been recalled by HSA in 2008:

(http://www.hsa.gov.sg/publish/etc/medialib/hsa_library/corporate\/pr20072009.Par.1666.File.tmp/HSAMediaRelease__HSACautionsAgainstConsumingMenergyMEssenceCapsules_121208.pdf)

Either A or B had mentioned to me about the Slim10 incident, do they know their company was in such trouble before too? By the way, A and B are students from a reputable local university. Most people they target are around the age group. I believe it's because, at our age, we're very vulnerable to such temptation as we desire to be financially independent asap. So friends, please don't be as stupid as me, think carefully before investing in anything. The business may seem to have lucrative returns, but is it printed black and white how much you can earn, is it an honest business? If just taking pills regularly can cure illnesses, we won't need any hospitals or clinic, isn't it? If you're not a doctor, how can you give medical advice to people? 100% safe, can you guarantee? I rather not live with guilt. I'm not the only victim, more can be found here: http://forums.hardwarezone.com.sg/archive/index.php/t-2194835.html

Back to my story. After realising how unreliable LFI was, I decided to ask for a refund after finding out from a forum that the products could be refunded within 7 days. I didn't notice that it was printed at the back of the invoices, I just blindly signed them. At the very last minute before their company closes, I rushed down by cab and reached there by 10.15pm. Demanded a refund. Guess what response I got from them? They told me that the refund could only be made before 9pm as the department in charge closes at 9pm. I was extremely pissed off. (And I realised that when I'm pissed off, I could express myself in English perfectly! Lol!) I tried to create a scene there, speaking with a pissed off tone and a slightly louder than normal voice. Giving that super buey song face. Then they say they'll contact someone to talk things out with me, ask me wait by the side. I had a very good reason to behave that way cos I did call them at 9pm plus to ask if I could get a refund through them. The person say yes, I ask them if they close at 10.30pm, then she answered yes. When I confronted her, she said I didn't say I was going to make the refund. Diao~ Isn't it common sense? I asked about the refund of course I was going to make the refund.

Stood at one corner with my black face for around 10mins. The up-up-upline came down to discuss things out with me. Thought he was rather nice cos he kept cool and tried to calm me down. I told him I wanted the full refund, but was told that it was the 8th day, so I was only entitled 50%. I told him it was bullshit and that I should get back 100%. The 7th day was a Sunday so they expect me to stupidly go down to their company to make the refund on that day knowing it was closed. Then he said I should contact my upline, the friend. I told him I don't see the point telling him cos he wouldn't be the one who would refund me the money. I want the money back from the company, not him, of course I come down to the company. He asked B to come down cos he was the one who did most of the explanation to me. So we arranged an appointment with B the next day to see what they could offer me. The up-up-upline said he would try his best to fight for me 100%, and I believed him. Before I left, I stated my stand clearly to them again: I want nothing less than 100%.

The appointment was at 3pm, but I couldn't make it in time, so I postpone it to 7pm. Guess how they 'entertained' me this time round? They said I was late for the appointment, so the person in charge of the department for the refund left the company already. What? I told them. On black and white, it's stated that I could get my refund within 7days, I did came within 7days excluding Sunday and you all delayed me. So why couldn't I postpone my appointment. And it was totally bullshit that the person left at 7pm when you told me the department closes at 9pm. Of course, I raised my voice and voiced out my displeasure. At that time, that friend and his upline was there and B was there too. I insisted that I want 100% if not, I would get it through CASE. Guess what next. The upline tried to tell me the disadvantage I would be in if I go to CASE. Saying what, they have several cases like that and most cases end up getting less that 50% or nothing. This really made my blood boiled like hell, and I was 90% sure that I was going to CASE. 10% of me was reluctant cos I knew it would drag for quite some time and it was only $770.40. Unhappy with the upline's attitude I told him that he wasn't sincere at all, and I asked to see the up-up-upline. Sadly, this guy was just a sweet-talker, he was in the insurance line before so he know how to coax. Seeing that none of them were sincere, I decided to leave. Of course, I wouldn't leave them with peace. I requested the up-up-upline to write a letter acknowledging that I had been there on the 8th and 9th. Then, I was 100% sure that I would go to CASE.

Next day, I went down to CASE which was situated at ulu pandan cc. (The place is as ulu as what the name suggested) When I reached there, did the registration at the recep desk. The recep lady asked what I wanted to complain about and I wasn't pleased with her response at all. Instead of encouraging me, she said things like "why you go to that place, it's at geylang somemore leh, you don't know what they'll do to you, later they sell you away" I kept my cool cos she's just an auntie and my purpose was to complain LFI.

I waited for 2hours for my turn? Nearly fell asleep. Told could lodge a complain there but I was redirected to Small Claim Tribunal instead. Wa liao. Totally sian diao. Sigh. I told myself that it was alright, at least I know how to make my claim. Next day or the day after next, I went down to SCT subordinate court to lodge my claim against LFI. Believe I'm one of the youngest claimant they had came across. The counter person look at me with doubts in her eyes and told me to bring a guardian for the mediation.

Ok, let me explain the procedures I had to go through to finally go to the Hearing.
1. Lodge claim against the company and fix an appointment for the mediation.
2. Mediation or consultation: The Registrar will try to help the claimant(me) and the respondent(LFI) to reach a common agreement on the claim.
3. Consent Order or further mediation: The Registrar will again try to help us reach a common agreement.
4. Hearing or trial: The Registrar or Judge will pass the order as to how much the claim will be after hearing our stand.

For the mediation, I didn't bring a guardian cos I didn't see the point to. Before that, the up-up-upline called to offered me a 60% refund. Of course I said NO! And told him I didn't want to repeat myself all over again. I want nothing but 100%. Then he tell me that by lodging the claim, I may end up with nothing at all. Again, this totally pissed me off and I told him: "You're not sincere at all in offering me the 60%. By telling me that, just shows that you all are afraid hat his case will spoil your reputation. But it's none of my business cos I rightfully deserves the 100%. That's all. See you at the mediation." But he wasn't the one attending the mediation. It was another guy(C) whom I had never seen before. He said he wrote the Terms and Conditions for the membership. Hmm.. I wonder does he really know what he had written? If so, he should have learn about Consumer Protection Act and that the 7days, also known as the cooling down period, should not include saturday, sunday and public holidays. This case was a sure-win one for me, but I wasn't 100% confident cos it was the first time I'm in such a situation.

During the mediation, I stated my reason for the claim and C tried to defend. Guess how he defended for his company? He said, I should have made the decision 3 or 4 days after buying the package instead of asking for the refund at the very last minute. The Registrar responded that it was stated in the refund policy that refund can be made within 7days, so I'm liable to make the refund on the 7th day. I admit, I was secretly laughing. Lol! The Registrar didn't criticise me too saying why was I controlled by them. But anyway, I felt that I had half won the case that day. The registrar asked if LFI was willing to offer 75%, he agreed, but I said I believe I deserve the full refund and declined the offer. So both of us agreed to go through the trial and let the judge decide the amount.

Next, it was the further mediation after a few weeks. I thought it was the final hearing but was wrong. This time, the percentage was raised. The Registrar asked if I would be satisfied with 90% but I kept numb while he did the calculation, but C said no. Then the Registrar calculated a middle amount 82.5%. C agreed, but I said no and asked to go through the trial instead. The Registrar doing his job, told me that settling the claim then would be a win-win situation as I may not get the percentage I want if the judge wasn't satisfied with my stand. I told him that I understand that fact, but would accept any decision by the judge. The trial was arranged a few days later, which was yesterday, 19th April.

Yesterday was the trial and I was almost late. Luckily, the time for the number machine is 10minutes slower. I didn't have a good rest the previous night as I was rather stressed over this trial. First time ma. Thought the wait will be as long as the previous mediation which was around 2hrs so I mentally prepared myself to stone there for quite long. Lol! Then keep going through what I should say in my mind when I face the judge. Surprisingly, the wait wasn't too long. As the normal chambers were taken up, we were asked to go to a slightly bigger chamber. I was quite nervous, hoping that I won't have to make an appeal and that would be my last trip there. 4th time traveling there, really make me feel exhausted mentally. Entered the chamber, greeted the judge. I appear to not be that nervous, face it like a job interview. We were asked to take an oath. The person asked me if I'm a Christian, I said not really, so I took the non-Christian oath. Promising that whatever that I say will be truth, nothing but the truth only. Not this short la, it was longer, couldn't remember the actual one.

After that, we were told to sit and the judge asked me to what was the claim about. Then it was C's turn to defend. The judge told him something like this claim is quite a clear cut, that I should deserve the full refund cos the 7 days cooling period shouldn't include weekends and public holiday, just give it to me, anyway it's not a big sum of money. Phew! Within 10mins, it was over, I won. They were ordered to issue me my $770.40 cheque within 14 days. (Not $866 cos I opened one bottle)

One month plus of stress, four trips down to the court, don't know how many hours spent, in just 10mins, everything got resolved. Finally, I got what rightfully belongs to me. Was really happy yesterday that I've won. Guy C brought along B and up-up-upline as witnesses, but they don't even have the chance to show face to the judge. I'm glad, though I know this is evil, that I've wasted another 2 people's time. :p I thought they would be driving their sports car, but I saw them waiting at the taxi stand. So I wondered to myself again: "Are the sports car outside the company just for show?"

I would say that I have learnt a very valuable lesson. Shouldn't be lured by easy money, shouldn't be greedy. Only hard earned money is worth earning, cos you won't want to live with guilt. I woke up in time and got my money back. This court experience really made me realised how much I'm responsible for myself now that I'm an adult. And I guess it's time to expand my vocab cos I realise I kept using the same words. Lol! =D

5th-6th March: 'Marathon'

5th March

First day at Clarke Quay bazaar. Dragging my luggage there was a real chore sia. Didn't know the place well, but managed to find my way there. Carrying the luggage down the flight of stairs was really a challenge, but I did it! Lol! =D

The next day was my birthday. My beloved besties came down to Clarke Quay to meet me up for a mini catch up. So happy to see them though it was just for a short while. After the meet up, they came to our booth to see see look look. Siang bought a bracelet from Iris at a special discount price. =D After that, they went home and I stayed at my stall. =D

Ming and I =D

Siang and I =D (She came to my stall before the others reached clarke quay =D)

Ying Yan and Clar browsing through the clothes at our boothGroup picture =D

6th March
The marathon day. Took part in the Women's Day Out at Ngee Ann City which started in the morning. Woke up slightly late. Was really tired as I got home only at around 2am or 3am the previous day. Met up with Hui Yin and was late. Had a terrible stomach ache. Took the train, couldn't tahan and alighted at Yio Chu Kang to go poo poo. Haha! =D So Hui Yin went there first cos we were going to be late.

After poo poo-ing, headed to orchard. Alighted at Orchard, see the signs, couldn't spot the directions to Taka so I went back to take the train to Somerset. Haha! =D Orchard changed too much, too complicated le, I know how to go Taka from Somerset, forgotten how to go from Orchard. Lol!

Was late for the first event but it was alright la cos like warm up only. A bit of aerobics and kickboxing then belly dance. We skipped the belly dance of cos, we were to riggid to shake. Hui Yin and I spotted this rather sexily dresse auntie who shook rather well.

Before the next event, we went to look around at the booths and collecting the freebies they were distributing. I super auntie, keep looking out for freebies. Haha! =D

The next event we had was the tri-power challenge, some Latin dance exercise, aerobics and kickboxing for 50mins each. For the first two, Hui Yin and I were just going through the motion literally. Lol! When the people move right, we move along, when they move front, we just follow, without much of their actions and steps. Haha! =D It was just too difficult to catch up with their movements.

But things turned excited for us when it was finally time for kickboxing! It only lasted for 50mins but it felt like a 3hour workout we do for our normal 1-hr kickboxing session we have every week. Lol! It was really fun and shiok! Could feel all the muscles on our limbs being exercised. It was the most satisfying workout of the day that really made us sweat our hearts out. =D

Our next event was at 7pm, 4hours break. Went around to look for food, but no vegetarian. Too bad, ate dessert but was still hungry. Went back to my booth at Clarke Quay to do the set up as one of my partners couldn't make it that day. The other partner was caught up with something so I only got to leave at 7pm.

Was late for the last event. It was some Yoga exercise. Forgottent to bring my yoga mat so Jonathan did me the favour of helping me to bring it over to the event. He gave me a bar of chocolate as my birthday present too. He chose the write fillings, almonds, but I don't really like dark chocolate. :p Thank him for being so nice that day. =D

For the last event, there was a part when we were instructed to sit in the meditation position and close our eyes, I nearly dozed off. Lol! The workout was a good cool down for our entire day of workout. After which, we went to look for my sports shoe. Wanted to buy reebok de cos got special discount, but their cutting down suit my leg. Very tight. Only New Balance fits my leg, so decided to buy it instead. Quite satisfied with it, comfortable to wear. =D

My day have not ended, went back to Clarke Quay to mend my booth. See, I said it was like a marathon le, run here and there and back again. Lol! =D It was the last day, the most dreadful day cos it was when we need to pack up all our stuff and bring them back. But the sales was the best that day, probably cos it was Saturday so more pubbers there ba. Cabbed back that night and cost only $20, cheap right? With midnight charge leh. Haha! =D

What have I been doing?

Recently, have been running bazaars with a partner, Iris, from another blogshop, Melly Rissy. She's a very nice lady and very experienced in going to bazaars.Below were some bazaars we had worked together at:

5th-6th March

Le Rendevous - The Marche @ Clarke Quay
Comment: It was a night bazaar. Thanks to Iris' ikea lamps, our booth was well lit. =D Response was not too bad. Shoppers there were willing to take their time to browse through the stalls. My leather bracelets were well received. =D Though there were times when there were not many shoppers but it was never too boring there. It was Clarke Quay, centre of the pubbing area. You can easily spot sexily dressed 'ladies' around. An eyeopener for me, first time seeing such scenes, though I was quite disgusted. Lol!

Collaboration of our three blogshops =D

15th-17th March
NUS Central Forum
Comment: Iris and I ended up tidbiting! Lol! Too sian le. Average shoppers per hour was like only 2-4people. But those who bought were sincere buyers.

Lots of stocks, no shoppers!

26th March
SMU
Comment: Response was Fantastic. This was the first bazaar that I managed to earn some profits. Lots of shoppers at peak hour. Half bargained, others just pay. Buying power was unexpectedly higher than shoppers at Clarke Quay. Definitely a must go for future bazaars at SMU! Credits to Iris for her recommendation! =D

3rd April
Urban Fleastyle beside New *SCAPE Building - Playground
Comment: Response was pathetic. If I was alone without any partner, I would definitely doze off. It was raining, on and off. Believe the tentage is too old le, water dripping here and there, super irritating like attap house la. Super cramp too. Shoppers there were on budget and tend to look for preloved stuffs. Believe those selling second hand stuff have the most sales.

Next up... I don't know. Haha! Cos most of the time, I decide to go for bazaars at the very last minute. For the moment, I have to find new partner to share booth cos Iris will be going to Bangkok soon. For those who like her charm bracelets or anything on her blogshop, must order fast! If not, can also wait till she's back. She's a regular at bazaars, so if you all can view her stocks when she returns for bazaars! =D

Besties Closet is launching our new collection of apparels soon, in a week or two. Hopefully this time round, our stocks will be able to capture our target audience. =D

Didi's Birthday! =D

31st March 2010
Celebrated my didi's birthday with pizza hut's pizza. Wanted to order the pizza's via their website, but was shocked when I see that the approximate waiting time is 1hr. It was around 6.45pm and my didi and I were really hungry. Thought ordering through their hotline might be faster, so I 'intelligently' dialled the number and waited for a respond. Wait till I was sick of hearing their repeating advertisement through the phone and turned on the loudspeaker instead. Started complaining to my didi and gong gong, who was enjoying his McSpicy Double meal. Finally they answered my call, it was a less than 5mins talk but I waited for like 10mins. Wasn't just pissed of by this fact, the approximate waiting time was 1hr too!!! Argh!!! Should have just ordered online. Damn! But our order arrived in around 45mins and it was really hot. Hmmm... Wonder who is lucky enough to win their one year free supply of pizza.

As soon as the pizzas arrived, my did and I couldn't wait to eat. Wait so long, very hungry le leh. My plan was to eat my Shrooms pizza first then leave the Cheese N Chics one as the birthday cake. I ate 3 pieces of the 10" pizza while my didi only ate 1 and went on to eat his Sweet N Spicy Drumlets.

Waited for my mama to come back so that we could start the celebration. When she finally returned, I opened up the box containing the Cheese N Chics pizza and was surprised that there were missing pieces!! My didi ate them when I wasn't noticing!!! Ahhhh!!! What to do? Time to use my creativity! So the partially eaten pizza turned into this...

Very cute artpiece, isn't it? =D

The birthday boy

Practising how he should blow out the candles with just one breath. Lol!

See how happy my didi is!!! =D

Powerful blow that toppled one candle, but not enough to extinguish the other two. Lol!

Yeah! =D

My elder brother was in camp that day, if not we would be able to take a more complete family picture. Anyway, all these pictures were taken by my dearest Gong Gong. =D He's a good photographer, isn't he? Hehe. =D

Every year, our birthday celebration is more or less the same. Just a cake or pizza, candles, wishes... Sounds boring, but the warmth and loving feeling can be simply felt just like that.

My didi was really happy that he is 14 years old now and he's looking forward to being 16. Sounds so familiar. Most of us probably have the same desire when we were his age. But when he comes to my age, believe he won't want to get any older. Lol! I stopped reminding my family about my birthday since I was 16, I think, with the intention of getting bigger angbao from my mama. Haha! =D But when I reached 18 and going to be 19, I was really afraid of celebrating birthday. I don't want to see the number of candles on my cake! Haha! =D

Age is really catching up and I can feel the gap between me and my younger brother. Can no longer understand him as well as before. He's a teenager now, has his own thoughts and desires. To stop him from doing anything he wants will be forcing him to retaliate. What I can do now, is to be his advisor. Though some thing he choose to do I feel may not be good for him in the future, I can only remind him of the possible consequences. I may not be right cos their generation will be different from ours. Things may not turn out as bad as I presumed. My only hope is that he will treasure his education. He may not like Christianity, but I believe the Lord understands and will answer to my prayers; to bless my love ones even though they are of different religion.

27th March 2010: Gong Gong's Commissioning Ball =D

The long awaited day finally arrived. Was so stressed throughout the month about finding the appropriate dress. Gong described the event until like it was a super formal dinner, that no dress above knee level was allowed and to wear a long dress preferably. During the last two weeks, went around shopping for suitable gowns but the prices were super ex la. Nonetheless, I got one super ex long dress at the very last minute. Was rather reluctant to spend the money though Gong wanted to pay for it. But his money will be mine sooner or later ma, so isn't it the same? :p Super big hole in the pocket. But really love the gown. It's the first ex long dress I have and it's from my beloved Gong Gong! =D

The function was held at Sentosa Pavilion. Yes, it's SENTOSA! Had been complaining to Gong why they chose such an inconvenient place. If not for Gong's parents, we would have spent a bomb on the cab fare. The place is a fantastic place with the view of the golf course and nice breeze. But don't think it's suitable for a formal function. The moment I stepped out of the car, the wind messed up my hair and I start grumbling to Gong. Haha! =D

View from the top

Felt super pai seh la. Almost all the ladies there were wearing knee length or shorter dress. But spotted one lady with long dress too, so made me felt less pai seh. Kept blaming Gong for stressing me up over buying a formal gown when everyone else just dress normally. Very bad of me right? Hehe. :p

I had already prepared myself to be more lady-like that night, but honestly, the event was more like social night. So I decided to not be so bothered and be my true self. I was really hungry. The tidbits at the recep area was catered for meat eaters, so bias. Haha! =D But I managed to find some peanuts so I start munching on it, popping it into my mouth like popcorn. Gong couldn't tolerate my unglam-ness, so he pulled me away from the table. Lol! =D

My peanuts

There was also this fire-man performing his fire skills...

Extinguishing the torch with his mouth

Spitting fire

As usual, Gong and I could never step out of our own world. Explored the place a while and started taking pictures. We seriously don't know how to interact with people. Hehe. =D

Dining hall

Outside the dining hall

Smile =D

At the rooftop with strong wind...

Soon, the night was falling, and we were still camwhoring!!! Haha! =D

Goodie bags corner

Reception area with the hunks and babes

This wasn't a nice shot but I feel the need to show this. See the weird face behind? So inappropriate of him to break into our er ren shi jie la. :p

Taken by one of Gong's friend
(I look fat!!! Time to exercise! Lol! =D)

BIG SMILE! =DGong's super wide smile! =D

Finally the dinner started. I must say that the layout of the table was really high class and the menu was really impressive. The name for the dishes were super detailed. But was rather disappointed that they didn't prepare a menu for vegetarian.

High class table.
(See the baskets of breads, it's super nice with the butter!)

Menu for carnivores

My first dish was this tomato and mushroom dish, it's super nice as compared to the other's. Their first dish was this...

Raw and bloody

My first dish. I liked the vegetables and sauces they used.

Next was soup. Gong's soup was not too bad I guess, some laksa soup. Mine was like a big bowl of corn Campbell soup with some butter and milk. Guess what I had for my third dish? Sorbet! Super nice apple veggie sorbet!!! It was the best dish, but was rather shock that I was served a dessert so soon, thought that was my last dish. Gong had chicken breast which tasted not too bad only, I thought it looked rather appetising. No pics though. Well, the forth dish that was a real challenge for Gong was this...

Another exotic food: Medium RARE beef and foie gra

Mine wasn't impressive too; a big plate of oily fried rice.

It tasted nice la, but the serving and the amount of oil was really too much. Don't have to fill a vegetarian stomach like that right? First was a big bowl of soup, then a big plate of rice. It's definitely not the organiser's fault cos he's not a vegetarian neither is he the Chef. I believe that a good Chef respects his diners. He may not be a vegetarian but since he's preparing a vegetarian meal, he should put in the effort to come up with a more impressive menu. Most vegetarian may have the "eat to live" mentality but the price we paid for the meal is definitely worth the price of a "live to eat" meal, isn't it? But to be fair to the Chef, the dishes are really delicious.

The last dish was coconut sorbet for Gong and another sorbet for me. I had a different kind of sorbet, probably cos it was vegan. Tried Gong's sorbet, preferred my extremely sour tasting one. Overall, it was quite a nice meal for me, except for the in between dishes which pissed me off. But I guess Gong's one was barely tolerable for him, believe the nicest dish he had was the bread? Haha! :p No la... Not that bad, probably the soup and the dessert ba. =D

So engrossed about mentioning the food that I also forget to mention something. If I were still in school doing essay with the topic, "My most embarrassing moment" I believe I would score for it. If I had tripped on my long gown, it won't be as embarrassing man. Can't believe that Gong had really made damn GOOD buddies in camp that we were sabo-ed in being nominated for the most well-dressed couple. Wa liao eh! Don't you all know that we like live in our own world, why do this to us. Super reluctant to go up stage la. Should have tripped on my gown than complain leg pain need to rest to escape from it. If it's singing or debating competition I won't mind going upstage, but it's like a beauty contest la, not for us! Our beauty is to be shown to each other only, not to the public. Really didn't enjoy it, and it was really a spoiler.

There were 3 nominees, we were the first to be called up, super suay, stand there super long. Don't dare to face the audience at all, keep burying my face behind Gong's shoulder. Another couple was boy-girl friend too. The last one was husband and wife, don't know if it's true cos Gong didn't know that guy was married. Lol! Our task was to pose left centre right. Diao... Sian diao. The first to go was the husband and wife, the husband carried the wife for the left and centre, then on the right the husband wanted the wife to carry him. Lol! They looked like a loving pair. Sweet. Next up was the boy-girl friend. Their height and looks, really suitable for being models sia. Huggy pose on the left, kissed in the centre, right... I forgot liao. :p Then, it was our turn, I asked Gong if we could give up cos I really didn't want to do it la. Gong told the MC, of course we weren't allowed. What to do? Anyhow pose lor. Huggy left, bear hug centre, kiss right. Wa liao, mc cock-eye never see then still comment that we like haven't know each other long. Show some respect man, you're an entertainer, we're not! So kena sabo again! Invited upstage to kiss again in front of everyone la. Wa liao eh! Super embarrassed.

Next, the voting. By cheers and claps. Of course, we were not popular la cos we're not as on as the other two. But it was really a mega relief to me when we finally could return to our seats. The other two couples had their own supporting team, and the ultimate winner goes to none other than the model-like couple. I liked the long dress that the girlfriend was wearing. Hehe. =D

It may be a dream for most ladies to have a beauty title but not to me. Beauty is but skin deep. I love to be praised for inner beauty while my physical beauty is for my loved ones and I to comment. After this incident, I told Gong that we should not have any wedding dinner when we get married 10-15years later. Lol!!! =D

After all the food and embarrassing moment, the function finally ended. Thought the photographers would be at the rooftop so headed there. No signs of them, so we ended up camwhoring again. Haha! =D

Self-timer shot. Hehe. =D

Cheesy smile =D

More!!!

And the photo of the day
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
CRAZY!

No la, it's this pic take by Gong's bunk buddy, Zheng Kai.
Looks like we're going to ROM right? Hehe. :p

We left at 11pm+. We had not ended our day. We went to Ink Club Bar at Fairmont Hotel (The first bar I went with Ming and Siang). The ambience was still as nice, except that to the left of us was a horny couple and the right was a group of 3 army boys talking loudly. Heard them mimicking someone like Yok Yong and Gong said they turned over when I mentioned Yok Yong's name. Hmmm... Same person?

Gong munching on the peanuts

Gong ordered Glenfiddich 18 years old. I wanted the Mango Magarito cos of the mango puree. But the waitress said the machine spoiled so instead of blended, it would be shakened. Later she returned to tell us that there was no more mango and asked if it was alright to replace with lime. Wanted to save the trouble to ask for the menu again so we okay-ed to it.

Our drinks =D

Didn't know that tequila is an alcohol that is normally taken with salt and lime. Was wondering why the edges of the cup has salt on it, nice decoration meh? Lol! =D Don't really like the taste, like medicine sia. Shouldn't have agreed on lime, it always make the alcohol taste like medicine. Drank barely one third of the cup and gave the rest to Gong. Hehe. =D He enjoyed his whisky though, he likes the burning sensation down the throat. Tried an extremely small sip, yucks, tasted so disgusting.

As usual, when I take out my camera, I can't stop myself from taking more pictures.

Gong is drunk before drinking! Lol!

Proper one =D

We were snapping so much that the waitress came over to offer to help us take pictures. Haha! =D

We were seriously taking lots of pictures that an ang moh that walked pass us wanted to help us take pictures too. Haha! =D Anyway, we stayed there for an hour or less after taking some pictures in the toilet. Lol!!! I'm simply too obsessed with taking pictures on that day. Hehe. =D

I look like some ghost haunting Gong. Haha! =D

Last shot =D

It was 12am+ going to 1am so I insisted that we take the night rider. It would cost a bomb to cab back to Yishun la. Reached home at around 3am. What a long night we had. =D

Thank you Lord

Things were getting really ugly until I flipped through the daily bread to look through the past articles. While reading through, I asked myself, "Does the Lord really exist?". My question has been answered. He heard my doubts. He saw me struggling. Whatever that had happened, isn't coincedence. I know, He came to my rescue. Gave me the courage to speak out my mind. Instill the peace in me once again. He did all these even though I've neglected him. Thank you Lord.