Hi Friends,
Today is the last day of 2009. The clock is ticking and we are getting closer to year 2010. What do you intend to do during the remaining hours of year 2009?
Spend it with friends or loved ones in a special place to countdown?
Spend it alone or with strangers?
Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
A 42" LCD tv in the Living Room
The tv rack and the 27" CRT tv were working fine for years. Since more and more LCD tv are available in the market and the prices becoming more attractive, J became very tempted to replace the tv. We hope the 27" tv will break down and at least, this gives us a valid reason to buy a new one as a replacement. But it did not happen.
During a grocery shopping trip to Giant in IMM, we walked past a furniture shop and saw a tv console that looked classy. After some negotiations, we got a discount and this new tv console was scheduled to be delivered to our home.
Prior to its arrival, we cleared so many unwanted things to welcome the new classy tv console eagerly.
The tv console sits nicely in the Living Room. The place meant for the tv was empty as the 27" tv was being put in the master-bedroom and the 14" tv used to be in the master-bedroom was transferred to the guest room.
This empty place did not take long before it was filled.
Since then, J "worked" very hard; not to earn any extra bucks but conducted his price and model survey on LCD tv.
He went to Best Denki in IMM and Harvey Norman in West Mall. He explored to AMK Hub but found that choices were quite limited. He went to Courts in Bukit Timah too.
The most trendy is LED tv which Samsung, LD and Phillip produce. This type of tv is energy saving (up to 40%) and slim. But only Samsung has 32" type and the rest are at least 42". I questioned the need to buy a 40" or even bigger tv. I worried about the electricity consumption. My current tv is only 27" and thus my choice would be a 32" type.
A LED tv does not come cheap. The Samsung 32" LED tv is easily close to 2k which is way beyond our budget. We concluded that LED tv is not for us at this moment. So we have to settle with a Full HD would do. This gives us plenty of choices.
After rounds of comparing, LG 32" LCD tv can go as low as $699 during a promotion. The salesmen advised that 32" tv was not that suitable in a living room. There were quite limited choices for 37" tv and the next available option would be at least 40".
In the end, we bought a 42" Panasonic LCD tv under cash and carry for $1099. I am unsure if it was a steal-buy. Just to continue my story, J and the saleman happily carried the big box of tv to the car. We were astonished to find that it could not go into the boot or even the back seat of the car. The delivery was not free and an additional fee to be paid for the delivery?
J suddenly had an idea; remove the box! Yes, the whole screen and the stand fit nicely into the boot of the car.
Now, with a new tv console and a new 42" LCD tv sitting on it, I think we are ready for the new year celebration.
During a grocery shopping trip to Giant in IMM, we walked past a furniture shop and saw a tv console that looked classy. After some negotiations, we got a discount and this new tv console was scheduled to be delivered to our home.
Prior to its arrival, we cleared so many unwanted things to welcome the new classy tv console eagerly.
The tv console sits nicely in the Living Room. The place meant for the tv was empty as the 27" tv was being put in the master-bedroom and the 14" tv used to be in the master-bedroom was transferred to the guest room.
This empty place did not take long before it was filled.
Since then, J "worked" very hard; not to earn any extra bucks but conducted his price and model survey on LCD tv.
He went to Best Denki in IMM and Harvey Norman in West Mall. He explored to AMK Hub but found that choices were quite limited. He went to Courts in Bukit Timah too.
The most trendy is LED tv which Samsung, LD and Phillip produce. This type of tv is energy saving (up to 40%) and slim. But only Samsung has 32" type and the rest are at least 42". I questioned the need to buy a 40" or even bigger tv. I worried about the electricity consumption. My current tv is only 27" and thus my choice would be a 32" type.
A LED tv does not come cheap. The Samsung 32" LED tv is easily close to 2k which is way beyond our budget. We concluded that LED tv is not for us at this moment. So we have to settle with a Full HD would do. This gives us plenty of choices.
After rounds of comparing, LG 32" LCD tv can go as low as $699 during a promotion. The salesmen advised that 32" tv was not that suitable in a living room. There were quite limited choices for 37" tv and the next available option would be at least 40".
In the end, we bought a 42" Panasonic LCD tv under cash and carry for $1099. I am unsure if it was a steal-buy. Just to continue my story, J and the saleman happily carried the big box of tv to the car. We were astonished to find that it could not go into the boot or even the back seat of the car. The delivery was not free and an additional fee to be paid for the delivery?
J suddenly had an idea; remove the box! Yes, the whole screen and the stand fit nicely into the boot of the car.
Now, with a new tv console and a new 42" LCD tv sitting on it, I think we are ready for the new year celebration.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
End of Year 2009
Just a couple of days more, year 2009 will go down in history.
As usual, I have mixed feelings. What have I done or achieved in year 2009? What are the areas which I could have done better? What are the areas that I have overlooked or need improvement? What are my new targets or aims for year 2010?
Health conditions of some loved ones have not been great and thus I wish for better health for everybody. With a healthy body, a lot of things can be done efficiently and effectively.
Isa will be in Primary 5 and taking up Higher Chinese. I wish she can handle her studies well.
My career path has not been smooth-sailing. I am expecting that call from HOD to come once year 2010 starts. I wish I have the courage and wisdom to convince her or delay her decision to post me back to HQ.
As usual, I have mixed feelings. What have I done or achieved in year 2009? What are the areas which I could have done better? What are the areas that I have overlooked or need improvement? What are my new targets or aims for year 2010?
Health conditions of some loved ones have not been great and thus I wish for better health for everybody. With a healthy body, a lot of things can be done efficiently and effectively.
Isa will be in Primary 5 and taking up Higher Chinese. I wish she can handle her studies well.
My career path has not been smooth-sailing. I am expecting that call from HOD to come once year 2010 starts. I wish I have the courage and wisdom to convince her or delay her decision to post me back to HQ.
Friday, December 25, 2009
Christmas 2009
In year 1996, Christmas was spent on moving house. J & I moved to our current flat. This year, we had something special again for Christmas. We did not move house but almost.
To accommodate a new tv console which will arrive on Boxing Day, J has to move the current tv rack to elsewhere. The only possible space would be the spare room. But the spare room was filled with books, empty boxes and plenty of other things. J finally hardened his heart to throw away plenty of books. Isa also busy clearing her book shelves. She dumped many soft toys too.
We realised over the past 13 years, we have accumulated so much rubbish. There were so many things which looked familiar yet seldom used. If there is something which you did not use for 2 years, chances are you can dump it. This is my so-called motto.
Today, we merely offloaded some things but with the arrival of a new tv console, we are almost back to square one; one in and one out.
The tv has been moved to the master bedroom. The little tv used to be in the master bedroom has been moved to the guest room. J will start hunting for a new tv.
OMG, J plans for a 32 inch or 37 inch tv to be put on the new tv console! Another new toy to arrive at my home!
To accommodate a new tv console which will arrive on Boxing Day, J has to move the current tv rack to elsewhere. The only possible space would be the spare room. But the spare room was filled with books, empty boxes and plenty of other things. J finally hardened his heart to throw away plenty of books. Isa also busy clearing her book shelves. She dumped many soft toys too.
We realised over the past 13 years, we have accumulated so much rubbish. There were so many things which looked familiar yet seldom used. If there is something which you did not use for 2 years, chances are you can dump it. This is my so-called motto.
Today, we merely offloaded some things but with the arrival of a new tv console, we are almost back to square one; one in and one out.
The tv has been moved to the master bedroom. The little tv used to be in the master bedroom has been moved to the guest room. J will start hunting for a new tv.
OMG, J plans for a 32 inch or 37 inch tv to be put on the new tv console! Another new toy to arrive at my home!
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas to You
Back home, we have been trying hard to return to our normal routine. The weather was the greatest contrast; from a sub-zero environment in Japan to an average of 28 deg C at home.
There was a flurry of activities: we attended an official dinner hosted by Vietnam. Since J has been overseas often this year, we have missed such dinner hosted by Korea, Japan and other countries. At the dinner, we met again soem old familiar faces. The gentlemen had a great time networking ie catching up with each other, and the ladies had a fun time too.
There was a trip to Farmart located at Chua Chu Kang. Uncle William gave a very interesting tour on this farm. He was humourous in his presentation. Both adults and kids enjoyed very much. We were treated with quail eggs and fried quail too.
Then followed by a bbq dinner hosted by J's colleagues. Again, it was another gathering where there was plenty of food and drinks. I am sure to put on weight as I have been eating plenty of rice/noodles in Japan. With the festive season round the corner, more food especially meat was consumed.
Tonight is christmas eve. As usual, we will be having our christmas dinner at D's home. D told me her menu for the dinner; again more meat such as turkey, ham, sausages etc.
I wish I can find time to starve myself but it seems impossible during the last few days of year 2009.
There was a flurry of activities: we attended an official dinner hosted by Vietnam. Since J has been overseas often this year, we have missed such dinner hosted by Korea, Japan and other countries. At the dinner, we met again soem old familiar faces. The gentlemen had a great time networking ie catching up with each other, and the ladies had a fun time too.
There was a trip to Farmart located at Chua Chu Kang. Uncle William gave a very interesting tour on this farm. He was humourous in his presentation. Both adults and kids enjoyed very much. We were treated with quail eggs and fried quail too.
Then followed by a bbq dinner hosted by J's colleagues. Again, it was another gathering where there was plenty of food and drinks. I am sure to put on weight as I have been eating plenty of rice/noodles in Japan. With the festive season round the corner, more food especially meat was consumed.
Tonight is christmas eve. As usual, we will be having our christmas dinner at D's home. D told me her menu for the dinner; again more meat such as turkey, ham, sausages etc.
I wish I can find time to starve myself but it seems impossible during the last few days of year 2009.
Conclusion : Japan Trip
I must blog some of my feelings after this trip.
The feeling is always pleasant to meet old friends after a break of about 8 years. Seeing the kids have grown up, I feel sad because I am growing up. Well, this is part and parcel of life. We all know death is confirmed once birth happened.
J suggested that he did not want to go back to the same places as we did in year 2001. However, we still returned to 2 places ie Ito's home and Asakusa Sensoji. Maybe for my next trip, I will drop Asakusa Sensoji.
The short path from Kokuya to Snow Monkey Park was memorable. J agreed with me on this part. We walked in a path with tall trees on both sides. Some parts of the path were covered by snow. The 3 of us have to hold hands to prevent any accidental falling. There was not a single bird chirping or other people. We walked and unsure if we were on the right track. What if the wild boar charged at us? What if we were attacked by some animals? What if we fell and no help was available? Plenty of "what if" which we did not seriously consider at that time.
While travelling from Shin Osaka to Shin Yokohama on the Hikari train, I asked the train crew when I would be able to see Fuji-san. He replied at 10.15am. True enough, slightly after 10am, we saw Fuji-san ahead and at 10.15am, it was right in the middle of the window of the train. We did not manage to get good shots as the train was travelling very fast.
The trip to Kawaguchiko was also memorable. Seeing snow-capped Mt Fuji at different angles and different times of the day also created a deep impression. At times, the peak was covered by clouds. At other times, the sky was so clear and blue, we saw smoke pluming out from the peak. The water in Lake Kawaguchiko was calm but maybe we were not at the right place, we did not see the reflection of Mt Fuji on the lake. We wish we have more time at this place because it was so different from home. No noisy traffic, no hordes of people, the feeling was so refreshing and relaxing.
Finally I saw the famous snow monkeys bathing in their own onsen in JIGOKUDANI-YAENKOEN instead from the webcam at
http://www.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/livecam/monkey/index.htm
I have been viewing the above website since my Japan trip has been confirmed. I know it is silly to go all the way from home to see monkeys bathing. But this trip was coupled with a luxurious stay in Kokuya. Thanks to Zeno from Kokuya and Patricia from home, without their advice and suggestion, my family would not have such a memorable moment in Shibu Onsen.
The feeling is always pleasant to meet old friends after a break of about 8 years. Seeing the kids have grown up, I feel sad because I am growing up. Well, this is part and parcel of life. We all know death is confirmed once birth happened.
J suggested that he did not want to go back to the same places as we did in year 2001. However, we still returned to 2 places ie Ito's home and Asakusa Sensoji. Maybe for my next trip, I will drop Asakusa Sensoji.
The short path from Kokuya to Snow Monkey Park was memorable. J agreed with me on this part. We walked in a path with tall trees on both sides. Some parts of the path were covered by snow. The 3 of us have to hold hands to prevent any accidental falling. There was not a single bird chirping or other people. We walked and unsure if we were on the right track. What if the wild boar charged at us? What if we were attacked by some animals? What if we fell and no help was available? Plenty of "what if" which we did not seriously consider at that time.
While travelling from Shin Osaka to Shin Yokohama on the Hikari train, I asked the train crew when I would be able to see Fuji-san. He replied at 10.15am. True enough, slightly after 10am, we saw Fuji-san ahead and at 10.15am, it was right in the middle of the window of the train. We did not manage to get good shots as the train was travelling very fast.
The trip to Kawaguchiko was also memorable. Seeing snow-capped Mt Fuji at different angles and different times of the day also created a deep impression. At times, the peak was covered by clouds. At other times, the sky was so clear and blue, we saw smoke pluming out from the peak. The water in Lake Kawaguchiko was calm but maybe we were not at the right place, we did not see the reflection of Mt Fuji on the lake. We wish we have more time at this place because it was so different from home. No noisy traffic, no hordes of people, the feeling was so refreshing and relaxing.
Finally I saw the famous snow monkeys bathing in their own onsen in JIGOKUDANI-YAENKOEN instead from the webcam at
http://www.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/livecam/monkey/index.htm
I have been viewing the above website since my Japan trip has been confirmed. I know it is silly to go all the way from home to see monkeys bathing. But this trip was coupled with a luxurious stay in Kokuya. Thanks to Zeno from Kokuya and Patricia from home, without their advice and suggestion, my family would not have such a memorable moment in Shibu Onsen.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Day 6 : Tokyo
I have planned to leave Ito's house around 9.30am after breakfast, to catch the 1 hour train back to Tokyo. I have planned to visit Asakusa's sensoji, Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Hachiko statue at Shibuya, Imperial Palace and of course shopping at the department stores at Shinjuku and Ikebukuro.
We woke up around 7.30am. Ito's wife prepared Japanese breakfast which consist of rice, miso soup and various tpyes of Japanese pickles.
So after breakfast, there was sufficient time to make our way to Sakura station.
Then we started dilly dally; the house was so comfortable, the air outside was so cold and commonsense told us to continue remain in the house.
We started chit-chatting while the kids continued with their games.
Soon it was close to noon and Ito suggested us to make a trip to the nearby Beisei Supermarket as I mentioned I would like to buy some Japanese goodies back home as souvenirs. J was more keen on Japanese electronics. This Beisei company has 2 huge buildings next to each other. One is for the electronics and the other is for grocery. What a good match; the gentlemen went to the electronics and the ladies for the grocery. What about the kids? They gladly stayed at home to play. Mind you, they can't communicate with each other very well at all. Ryouta did not seem to understand the existence of language barrier and continued to talk to Isa with his rapid Japanese. Of course Isa looked confused but that did not affect her mood to play the toys and games with Ryouta at all.
The Beisei Supermarket was huge; the section on Japanese sweets was enough to make me see stars. There were so many different types of sweets or cookies. I simply did not know what to grab. So I merely took some and put them into the shopping trolley. We went to see the pickles section. Again, it was an eye-popping experience.
The Japanese restaurant O-Kyo for lunch was in the vicinity and Ito dropped the adults before picking up the kids. The 2 families have a great lunch again.
Once at home, I asked to check for the next available time to Tokyo. We really have to leave else we would only reach Tokyo in darkness.
So a session of bye-bye, take care, see you again in Spore or Japan, domo arigato etc.
By the time we reached Touganeya Hotel in Ueno, it was about 4pm and the sky was already dark.
The walk to Asakusa Sensoji turned out to be longer than expected. Initially we even thought that we have walked the wrong direction on Asakusa dori. Soon we saw the crowd and signs pointing to Sensoji. What a relief! Else my time in Tokyo would only be in that small room in the hotel.
Sensoji looked charming in another way as compared to our last visit during the day. Despite the coldness, there were throngs of shoppers. Of course we did not miss the ningyoyaki. Freshly made ningyoyaki tasted so delicious and they simply melt in the mouth.
We were back to the hotel quite early as we need to wake up early the next day to catch the morning flight. J was busy packing the goodies bought. Packing things nicely into the luggage was really his forte. So I buy and he packs!
We woke up around 7.30am. Ito's wife prepared Japanese breakfast which consist of rice, miso soup and various tpyes of Japanese pickles.
So after breakfast, there was sufficient time to make our way to Sakura station.
Then we started dilly dally; the house was so comfortable, the air outside was so cold and commonsense told us to continue remain in the house.
We started chit-chatting while the kids continued with their games.
Soon it was close to noon and Ito suggested us to make a trip to the nearby Beisei Supermarket as I mentioned I would like to buy some Japanese goodies back home as souvenirs. J was more keen on Japanese electronics. This Beisei company has 2 huge buildings next to each other. One is for the electronics and the other is for grocery. What a good match; the gentlemen went to the electronics and the ladies for the grocery. What about the kids? They gladly stayed at home to play. Mind you, they can't communicate with each other very well at all. Ryouta did not seem to understand the existence of language barrier and continued to talk to Isa with his rapid Japanese. Of course Isa looked confused but that did not affect her mood to play the toys and games with Ryouta at all.
The Beisei Supermarket was huge; the section on Japanese sweets was enough to make me see stars. There were so many different types of sweets or cookies. I simply did not know what to grab. So I merely took some and put them into the shopping trolley. We went to see the pickles section. Again, it was an eye-popping experience.
The Japanese restaurant O-Kyo for lunch was in the vicinity and Ito dropped the adults before picking up the kids. The 2 families have a great lunch again.
Once at home, I asked to check for the next available time to Tokyo. We really have to leave else we would only reach Tokyo in darkness.
So a session of bye-bye, take care, see you again in Spore or Japan, domo arigato etc.
By the time we reached Touganeya Hotel in Ueno, it was about 4pm and the sky was already dark.
The walk to Asakusa Sensoji turned out to be longer than expected. Initially we even thought that we have walked the wrong direction on Asakusa dori. Soon we saw the crowd and signs pointing to Sensoji. What a relief! Else my time in Tokyo would only be in that small room in the hotel.
Sensoji looked charming in another way as compared to our last visit during the day. Despite the coldness, there were throngs of shoppers. Of course we did not miss the ningyoyaki. Freshly made ningyoyaki tasted so delicious and they simply melt in the mouth.
We were back to the hotel quite early as we need to wake up early the next day to catch the morning flight. J was busy packing the goodies bought. Packing things nicely into the luggage was really his forte. So I buy and he packs!
Day 5 : Ito's Family.
The room in K House Mt Fuji was very cosy though the toilet in the room has no warm seat. So we used the common toilet located just a few steps outside our room. I was silly to pay more to have a private toilet in the room but have been using the common toilet.
J put a cup of water outside the balcony before we slept. The next morning, the water has frozen! It became ice; just like the way we make ice in the fridge! So we concluded that the temperature overnight has really dropped below freezing level.
The hotel staff recommended us to have a walk at Kawaguchiko Bridge which offered a great view of Mt Fuji in the morning.
We ate our instant noodles and drank some free coffee and tea before checking out of our room. The luggages were left in the care of K House. The walk to Kawaguchiko Bridge really gave us a great view of Mt Fuji and the lake. The lake was real big and walking around seemed impossible for us. In fact, we did not finish walking across the bridge as we need to walk to take the pier to take the cruise and the cable-car ride.
We arrived at the pier around 9am. The cruise was by a sightseeing boat. Feeling the real cold wind, we decided to drop the cruise and took the Mt Tenjo Kachi Kachi ropeway. The fee was 700 JPY for adult and half price for child.
Reaching the top of Mt Tenjo, there was a big bell. Many people rang the bell and made a wish facing Mt Fuji. Of course, we did not miss this part too. There was a souvenir store where the staff took a photo for us and made it into a key-chain for 400 JPY. We were very pleased with the key-chain made.
We had a great view of the Mt Fuji and its peak was not covered by any clouds. In fact, we could see the smoke coming out of its peak in the clear blue sky.
There were 2 statues: a rabbit and a racoon at Mt Tenjo. I guess there must be a story behind but we have yet to find out.
For more info on Mt Tenjo Kachi Kachi Ropeway:
http://www.h7.dion.ne.jp/~ropeway/new/ropeway_p_e.pdf
We were unwilling to take the cable-car down but the time was running out. J suggested that during our next trip to Japan, we would stay in Kawaguchiko again but at a posh hotel where when we open the windows, we could see Mt Fuji!
Ok, another reason for a trip to Japan in the future!
There was no free transport from K House to Kawaguchiko station. We walked with our luggages to the station. We are amazed by the durability of our luggages. The small luggage has followed us to Europe 2 years ago. The big one was newly bought and has a warranty.
Thomas the train arrived as scheduled at Kawaguchiko station. Isa used to be crazy over Thomas and his friends. Since this service was available and the timing was suitable, we took this train at no extra cost.
From Kawaguchiko to Otsuki, transfer to Limited Express Kaiji train to Shinjuku. We continued to take a train straight to Tokyo before taking Rapid Airport Narita to arrive Sakura station in Chiba Prefecture.
The whole journey took about 4 hours and by the time we arrived at Sakura station, the sky was already totally dark though not even dinner's time.
Ito-san and his little boy, Ryouta, were already at the train station.
Ryouta, as in the photo, was cheerful and funny. Ito-san, remained as handsome as before. In fact, I did not find any sign of ageing in him. He was still the friendly and shy Japanese friend whom I knew for more than 10 years.
The ride from Sakura station to his house was short. We met his wife, Megumi and their daughter, Mari. Megumi looked older and maybe women age faster than men. Mari, as expected, has grown from a 4 years old girl to a 13 years young lady.
We were all very glad to meet each other, after a separation of 8 years. During then, Ryouta, was not even born.
The Japanese style christmas banquet gave me a great surprise. The dishes included chicken in mashed tomatoes, seafood salad, marcaroni in cheese, ham with potato, champagne for adults, sparkling fruit juice for kids etc. There were no sushi, rice, noodles, sashimi, tempura etc at all. A cake with strawberry and cream was later served as dessert.
The Japanese bath was again offered. Ito-san's house has quite a big bathroom. The hot-water bath tub has a small tv which Ito watched his news when he enjoyed the hot-water. Again, the water was simply too hot and we merely have a good scrub outside the tub.
Meanwhile, Megumi was busy preparing our bed in their Japanese room. Isa played with Ryouta and Mari. Ryouta taught Isa how to play his toys though he spoke only Japanese. But the kids enjoyed themselves. Meanwhile, the adults communicated using a laptop which translated English sentences into Japanese and vice versa. Again, we did not learn our lesson from the last Japan trip. I vowed to bring my laptop during my next Japan trip.
Despite the languages problem, the warmth we felt from Ito's family was enough to create an impression. Of course, Isa was most glad to meet Mari.
Day 4 : Lake Kawaguchi
We knew this day would be again spent mostly on the trains. Thus we had a good breakfast before leaving Shin Osaka. We left before 8am and the temperature was only 3C. It was a short walk to the station from the hotel but in this cold weather, any extra minute spent outdoor was a torture to the face. We could cover every part of our body except the face.
From Shin Osaka, we took Hikari train to Shin Yokohama. From there, hop on the Yokohama line to Hachioji station. We took Limited Express Kaiji train to Otsuki station. This Otsuki station was real pathetic; it was small and humble despite it was sort of the gateway to Kawaguchiko. The private Fujikyu line runs between Otsuki and Kawaguchiko stations
By the time we reached Kawaguchiko station, it was 2pm. We did not see any people came to pick us up though prior arrangement has been made. Thus I called K House using a public phone with a 10 JPY coin. The staff arrived with a mini van at the station within 10 minutes. This hotel was quite a distance from the station despite the brochure said a 15 min walk.
Our room in K House was slightly bigger than that in Shin Osaka. It was a Japanese style room and we loved to sleep on the futon. There was free internet access which was a great help to travellers.
K House was located in a "residential' area where there were many other smaller ryokans and hostels. We were very surprised to find another Singaporean family living under the same roof that night when we were about to have our dinner at the dining area. The family was busy cooking noodles with vegetables and meat. We had instant noodles and bento again. There was a big supermarket within walking distance. We bought some food back.
Close to this supermarket, there was a MOS burger shop with a ramen shop under the same roof. We ate noodles there and we could see Mt Fuji when we ate!
Mt Fuji is really, really magnificient. At times, its peak was covered by clouds. We took plenty of photos on Mt Fuji at different times of the day. Its view never failed to impress us. At this time of travelling, the news reported 3 Japanese went to climb mt Fuji. Only 1 survived and the other 2 were dead. Mt Fuji took some lives each year. The sole survivor looked really sad and sorry.
We planned to buy Kawaguchiko View Coupon which covers both the lake cruise and cable car ride the next day.
The hotel staff "warned" us that the night temperature would drop to -6C and yes, it was already -2C outside.
From the news, heavy snow reported in northern Japan and the coast facing Sea of Japan. Heavy snow fell in Snow Monkey Park and from the webcam, I saw the whole park was white. In a way, we were glad that we were not there because we were simply not prepared for a heavy snow. Our shoes were not be able to handle such harsh conditions. And the long walk from Kokuya to Snow Monkey Park in this harsh condition would be impossible for us.
J decided to do an experiment. He placed a small cup of water at the balcony of our room overnight. We would find out what happened the next day.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Day 3: Kyoto City Tour
Our morning started with a Japanese buffet breakfast provided by Toyoko-Inn. Another plus point of this Inn is that the buffet breakfast is available as early as 7am. There is rice, several types of Japanese pickles, sausages, miso-soup, buns, coffee, tea & orange juice. J and I each have 2 bowls of rice before we started our tour in Kyoto.
We took the Kodama train from Shin Osaka to Kyoto. By the bullet train, the journey is less than 15 minutes. From Kyoto, we took Sagano line to Nijo station. With a map, we started walking to Kyoto Imperial Palace. It was quite a long walk. The map has street names in English but the street names we saw in Kyoto was in Japanese. Only the bigger streets would have names in English. We had a hard time ensuring we were in the right direction to Kyoto Imperial Palace.
Since it was still early for the 10am Kyoto Imperial Palace tour, we went to Nishijin Textile Center. It was a big store selling Japanese textile including the famous kimonos.
It was very cold and windy in Kyoto. The female guide was shivering at times when she guided us to various parts of the Imperial Palace. The Palace was simply too big to walk around during that hour. As a result, we saw only some parts of the Palace; already enough to impress us on how the emperors, empresses, their family members enjoyed their living in ancient times.
Lunch was settled in small shops with a vending machine. Some vending machines have pictures of the food and thus making the selection of food very easy. Others do not and we have to match the Japanese characters with the advertisements. J likes noodles, Isa and I prefer rice. Each meal can costs as low as 400 JPY. I must say the portion is not very big and thus we eat more often especially in this cold weather.
We walked to Nishikikoji Market which is famous for selling Japanese pickles. Different colours, tastes, types and shapes of Japanese pickles are available. There was a departmental store just before this Market. Isa first saw the "elevator lady" which presses the lift button for the customers taking the lifts in the departmental store.
The walk to Gion Corner was not very successful in the sense that we did not see any maikos or geishas at all. There were some ladies in kimonos but we were not in the right mood because we were attracted by the Japanese sweets and cakes wrapped beautifully in boxes. Despite we could not communicate in Japanese, the staff eagerly allowed us to sample before buying. I did not hesitate to buy a few boxes though each cost min 600 JPY depending on the quantity too.
The sun started to set from 3pm onwards. We walked back to Kyoto station. Yes, this station looked modern in an old city. Books recommended the Eat Paradise at 11th floor. We went and found different restaurants on the same floor. However, we did not eat there because the food was beyond our tight budget. We returned to train station and looked for a shop with a vending machine. By then, Isa was used to stand while eating.
From Kyoto, we again took the Sagano line to Saga Arashiyama station for the Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo Bridge.
The moment we alight from Saga Arashiyama station, there were already staff distributing leaflets for the Hanatouro (11-20 Dec 2009). The streets leading to the various shrines, Bamboo Grove and Togetsukyo were lighted with lanterns. There were many, many Japanese walking to these places.
The bridge was crowded with people; on one side of the bridge, it was the mountain and the other side was the water. Staff were conducting the traffic for people and traffic. It was really an eye-opening experience for us. Again, all thanks to the recommendation by Mori-san in Kyoto Tourism who has recommended me this trip after I wrote in to ask for some informations.
Supper was settled again in that bento shop round the corner of the Inn which makes fresh warm food. We ordered exactly the same types of bento. Across this shop, there was Lawson Convenience Store, we bought some sushi too
This day was the most stressful for our legs because of the long walk in the cold weather. J already complained about his feet.
Day 2: Snow Monkey Park
The Japanese breakfast was again served by the old lady dressed in kimono sharply at 8am, the time we have requested. Again, the portion of dishes served in the Japanese style breakfast was simply too huge. But we knew we have to eat as the weather was pretty cold.
The street in Shibu Onsen was still quiet in the early morning. Before we set off, we were "armed" with a map and some advice on the directions from the reception staff in Kokuya.
There was a shorter path to Snow Monkey Park (about 4km) which was closed to traffic in the winter. Since this path was still accessible to human beings, we decided to take this path.
Along the path, we saw plenty of tall trees. There was not a single soul except us. We even saw a wild boar at a distance away from us. There was some snow along the path. After walking for a time seemed ages, we finally arrived Snow Monkey Park.
There were plenty of big and small monkeys in this park. A staff was feeding some yellow pellets and the monkeys followed him. Some pellets were thrown into the pond. Some monkeys went into the pond to get their food. The water in the pond was warm. Some monkeys bathed in it. It was quite interesting to see these primates having their hot bath.
Since we already knew the route to this Park, we decided to take the same route back. It was quite a breeze as we were walking downhill.
The train from Yudanaka left at about 1.30pm. We continued our journey all the way to Shin Osaka by Shinano and then Hikari trains.
By the time we checked into Shin Osaka Toyoko Inn Chuo Honkan, it was closed to 7.30pm.
I must say something about this hotel.
This is the first time I checked into this hotel. All thanks to DM who has mentioned to me during my planning of this trip. The hotel room was real small; the bed was small, the bathroom was small,... But it was compact. It has almost everything a non-fuzzy traveller needs. It is a perfect room despite its small size for us
The space in every corner was fully utilized. The tea and coffee making facility is also available. There is even a trouser presser which we do not know how to use.
Just round the corner of this hotel, we found a bento shop. Instead of the cold bento available in most convenient shops or departmental stores, this shop serves warm bento. We ordered 3 sets of different types of bentos, We got piping hot rice that came with 3 cups of miso soup! The whole meal cost 1000 JPY which was about SGD16. I must say that we were already on the very cheapo side!
We brought the food back to the hotel and ate at the dining area with hot and cold water facility.
Day 1 : Shibu Onsen in Yudakana (Nagano)
We arrived Changi airport some hours before our departure.
To continue from A Little Surprise, J's luggage arrived near noon but the condition of the baggage was so bad that it was beyond repair and usage. This is the only big luggage we had and we rushed to Giant in IMM to purchase one.
At Changi airport, we filled in the forms to file a claim against the baggage damage.
Finally the plane took off as scheduled. We arrived shortly before 7am the next day in Narita Airport Terminal 2.
The queue in the immigration counter was pretty long but quite smooth because there were staff stationed to monitor the flow.
At about 8.15am, we have exchanged our Japan Rail vouchers for our Japan Rail pass and seat reservations have been settled.
We took Narita Express to reach Tokyo station before 10am. We bought our first bento to eat on the train from Tokyo to Nagano.
The Nagano Dentetsu was not too difficult to find and by 1pm, we were at Yudanaka Station.
The walk to Kokuya was pretty long as we did not know the way. We asked around but still unsure. Dragging 2 pieces of luggages on icy roads was pretty challenging too. Nevertheless the snow along the route made us quite happy.
Finally we saw Zeno and located Kokuya. Kokuya is a posh ryokan with 8 hot baths in it. Isa was very eager to try the 8 baths plus the 9 public baths in Shibu Onsen. However, after comparing the hot baths in the ryokan with the public baths, we settled for the baths in the ryokan. The conditions in the public baths did not look inviting at all. They looked dark and cold.
We have chosen to remain in the ryokan to enjoy the hot baths for the rest of the day instead of going to the Snow Monkey Park because everybody was tired after the long flight and the train journey.
At 6pm, we had our kaiseki dinner in a private Japanese room. Many dishes beautifully decorated were served by a lady dressed in kimono. We ate one dish after another. At times, we did not know which dish to eat first too. We had an excellent dinner in the first night in Japan. J was shocked when he found that I have spent more than SGD 550 for this night in this ryokan with a kaiseki dinner and a Japanese breakfast. He said we better not sleep but enjoyed the hot baths throughout. But we were simply too tired after a heavy dinner. We went to some of the baths, both indoor and outdoor in the ryokan. The water was simply too hot for Isa and myself. In the end, we did not manage to dip ourselves totally in the baths except J.
We slept pretty early that night.
From Japan
Hi friends,
I am now in Kawaguchiko, Japan.
The magnificient Mt Fuji is just outside the hotel that I am staying. The weather is really freezing but no snow. When the wind blows at my face, my skin especially my ears feel frozen.
Temperatures have been below 10 deg C throughout the places I have been so far.
This time, Isa said she did not want anymore coldness. She prefers home.
I am now in Kawaguchiko, Japan.
The magnificient Mt Fuji is just outside the hotel that I am staying. The weather is really freezing but no snow. When the wind blows at my face, my skin especially my ears feel frozen.
Temperatures have been below 10 deg C throughout the places I have been so far.
This time, Isa said she did not want anymore coldness. She prefers home.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
A Little Surprise
J's flight, after 13 hours, touched down at Changi airport half an hour earlier than the scheduled time. Isa and I were very excited to see him at the airport.
Together with 3 colleagues, the men waited for their luggages. Soon, the rest of the passengers have collected their luggage and left, except these 4 men.
It was found that their luggages did not follow the same flight back home!
OMG, how are we going to pack our things to Japan? His luggage is filled with smelly clothes and chocolates. I can't wait to separate the two.
2 possibilities: either the luggages are still in Paris or totally lost! It is unlikely that the luggages were still in Brest.
The airline office said that there is only a flight from Paris to Singapore. Thus if the luggage is still in Paris, it will catch the next flight back home which will arrive the next day!
Ok, suppose the luggage arrives the next day, then practically, we will be pouring the things out from it and dumping new things into it.
If it doesn't, we will have to rush to buy a big luggage, dump all things inside before charging to the airport to catch our flight to Japan.
Now J is thinking how to file a claim to the travel insurance company.
Conclusion: Never travel without a travel insurance.
Together with 3 colleagues, the men waited for their luggages. Soon, the rest of the passengers have collected their luggage and left, except these 4 men.
It was found that their luggages did not follow the same flight back home!
OMG, how are we going to pack our things to Japan? His luggage is filled with smelly clothes and chocolates. I can't wait to separate the two.
2 possibilities: either the luggages are still in Paris or totally lost! It is unlikely that the luggages were still in Brest.
The airline office said that there is only a flight from Paris to Singapore. Thus if the luggage is still in Paris, it will catch the next flight back home which will arrive the next day!
Ok, suppose the luggage arrives the next day, then practically, we will be pouring the things out from it and dumping new things into it.
If it doesn't, we will have to rush to buy a big luggage, dump all things inside before charging to the airport to catch our flight to Japan.
Now J is thinking how to file a claim to the travel insurance company.
Conclusion: Never travel without a travel insurance.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Woman on 353 forgery counts
Woman on 353 forgery counts By Elena Chong
A FORMER administration manager of a company was charged on Friday with 353 charges of forgery involving almost $967,000.
Christine Jow See Ai, 46, allegedly forged cheques by signing the names of the two signatories of SMP Electrical for the purpose of cheating the bank between 2004 and 2007.
The amounts in the cheques ranged from $150 to $20,000.
Jow, who is represented by Mr S. Radakrishnan, was offered bail of $50,000. Her passport was impounded.
Her case will be mentioned on Dec 18.
If convicted, she faces a jail term of up to seven years and a fine on each charge.
(source: www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_465360.html)
My comments:
Who does not want easy money? Simply hold tight to a pen and with some practices, gut and luck, money starts flowing INTO the bank account.
A FORMER administration manager of a company was charged on Friday with 353 charges of forgery involving almost $967,000.
Christine Jow See Ai, 46, allegedly forged cheques by signing the names of the two signatories of SMP Electrical for the purpose of cheating the bank between 2004 and 2007.
The amounts in the cheques ranged from $150 to $20,000.
Jow, who is represented by Mr S. Radakrishnan, was offered bail of $50,000. Her passport was impounded.
Her case will be mentioned on Dec 18.
If convicted, she faces a jail term of up to seven years and a fine on each charge.
(source: www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_465360.html)
My comments:
Who does not want easy money? Simply hold tight to a pen and with some practices, gut and luck, money starts flowing INTO the bank account.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
The Parade is Over
Finally after the big hoo-haa, the parade is over. I should say it was a great success as everything ran smoothly as planned. Even the weather was so sunny and windy; everybody was in a great mood to see that all effort spent was not wasted.
A mini-reception was held after the parade; as usual, some good food plus wine but without dance.
Now I am back to reality or I should say, my routine work. I still have another presentation due from Beijing to complete. My boss has already suggested that this presentation to be done latest Jan 2010.
The ISO write-ups are still half done which I intend to drag till next year.
OMG, please give me a break and I will be going for holidays very soon.
Yes, though packing is yet to be done as J is still in France, but I have prepared a list of things to be packed. Even Isa is also very excited with the packing which will be done this weekend.
All hotels have been re-confirmed with my date and estimate time of arrival.
This trip, thanks to Patricia, who has given me valuable advice despite her hectic schedule, will be a less hectic and more relaxing one.
I decided to take everything in a slower pace especially snowy weather was forecast in Nagano upon my arrival. Why the rush when I don't even know if the trains can run smoothly or on time if the weather turns bad. Why the rush when I have already secured a room overnight? And I should make full use of my stay in Japan as I have been wanting this trip for many years.
After this trip to Japan, I don't know when will be my next trip.
A mini-reception was held after the parade; as usual, some good food plus wine but without dance.
Now I am back to reality or I should say, my routine work. I still have another presentation due from Beijing to complete. My boss has already suggested that this presentation to be done latest Jan 2010.
The ISO write-ups are still half done which I intend to drag till next year.
OMG, please give me a break and I will be going for holidays very soon.
Yes, though packing is yet to be done as J is still in France, but I have prepared a list of things to be packed. Even Isa is also very excited with the packing which will be done this weekend.
All hotels have been re-confirmed with my date and estimate time of arrival.
This trip, thanks to Patricia, who has given me valuable advice despite her hectic schedule, will be a less hectic and more relaxing one.
I decided to take everything in a slower pace especially snowy weather was forecast in Nagano upon my arrival. Why the rush when I don't even know if the trains can run smoothly or on time if the weather turns bad. Why the rush when I have already secured a room overnight? And I should make full use of my stay in Japan as I have been wanting this trip for many years.
After this trip to Japan, I don't know when will be my next trip.
Friday, December 04, 2009
TGIF
Friend who know me, know I simply love this phrase TGIF.
Yes, Friday is always the day I look forward to eagerly as it marks the end of the working week and weekend is starting.
This week has been real stressful and tiring.
The parade will be next week. As this is a big event, everybody is trying their very best to give their best shot. As a result, it is rehearsal daily since the start of Dec.
Besides the parade, there will be a static display. All the items are out in the open, expose to the risk of rain, shine and wind.
Then following by various vetting and to ensure the parade will be carried out without fail, a wet programme has been in placed.
The whole workplace has been turned upside just for this parade. All personnel's leave has been postponed until the parade is over.
Acoss the various sections, people have been calling each other to give the latest update or progress in the preparation.
If this type of parade is to be held more often, I will surely quit my job.
Yes, Friday is always the day I look forward to eagerly as it marks the end of the working week and weekend is starting.
This week has been real stressful and tiring.
The parade will be next week. As this is a big event, everybody is trying their very best to give their best shot. As a result, it is rehearsal daily since the start of Dec.
Besides the parade, there will be a static display. All the items are out in the open, expose to the risk of rain, shine and wind.
Then following by various vetting and to ensure the parade will be carried out without fail, a wet programme has been in placed.
The whole workplace has been turned upside just for this parade. All personnel's leave has been postponed until the parade is over.
Acoss the various sections, people have been calling each other to give the latest update or progress in the preparation.
If this type of parade is to be held more often, I will surely quit my job.
Dull Winter
J who is now in Brest, France, complained of the cold, wet, dull and gloomy winter. He laments how Isa be able to cope with such weather conditions in Japan.
While it is a striking difference in the weather between temperate countries and Singapore, winter is never my favourite reason.
During my days in UK, the winter days were terrible - so cold and no matter how many layers I put on, I could not sleep well. The radiator was switched off around mid-night and the night was such miserable. Then I learnt not to open the windows but the air in the room became stale and stuffy.
It was so difficult to wait till spring to arrive. When I saw green shoots appearing at the bare trees, I was so thrilled. I knew spring was near! That kind of joy which words could not explain would always stay in my heart.
Yes, my favourite season is spring.
While it is a striking difference in the weather between temperate countries and Singapore, winter is never my favourite reason.
During my days in UK, the winter days were terrible - so cold and no matter how many layers I put on, I could not sleep well. The radiator was switched off around mid-night and the night was such miserable. Then I learnt not to open the windows but the air in the room became stale and stuffy.
It was so difficult to wait till spring to arrive. When I saw green shoots appearing at the bare trees, I was so thrilled. I knew spring was near! That kind of joy which words could not explain would always stay in my heart.
Yes, my favourite season is spring.
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
At a CrossRoad
My immediate boss dropped a bomb onto me - I have a high chance to be removed from my comfort zone and transferred to work in Changi.
Many would say "count yourself very lucky as you are still holding onto a job". Yes, I agreed totally but to be transferred back to HQ in Changi is the last thing in my life.
All along since I was transferred to work in the west about 10 years ago, I "vowed" not to return to Changi. My office is in the west, I live in the west, J works in the west, Isa studies in the west, ... I spend much more time in the west than at other parts of Singapore. Why drag me out from the west?
The management has been dangling carrots - better chance of promotion, make me a more rounded person being exposed to different departments in an organisation, time to return to HQ since I have been out-stationed for close to 10 years, ... all sorts of reasons sensible to the management but did not make much to me.
The management is likely to have 2 approaches on this job rotation. Maybe I can first negiotate or bargain to be transferred about 2 years later since Isa would then be in the sec school. Second, I choose to be ranked last ie no promotion, no increment, ..
If worse comes to worse, I may have to pack up and go!
Retiring at age 42? What am I doing to do for the next 20 years or less? I have never thought to work beyong age 60 and in fact, I plan to tender my big letter once I collect my CPF at age 55. (BTW, are we still able to collect our CPF at age 55 after so much changes in the policies and I can never managed to keep up with).
Find a second career? What can I do? Where did I last place my U-cert, A-level-cert, O-level-cert? I thought I would never need them since the current job is my first and last job.
Life is never a bed of roses.
My immediate boss is understanding and caring. He thinks more humanly than the previous ones who have placed work on top of everything and anything. I have been working with him for the past couple of years and why can't such good days continue till I retire?
This mid-life crisis is going to dampen my mood for the rest of this year until it has settled its dust.
Many would say "count yourself very lucky as you are still holding onto a job". Yes, I agreed totally but to be transferred back to HQ in Changi is the last thing in my life.
All along since I was transferred to work in the west about 10 years ago, I "vowed" not to return to Changi. My office is in the west, I live in the west, J works in the west, Isa studies in the west, ... I spend much more time in the west than at other parts of Singapore. Why drag me out from the west?
The management has been dangling carrots - better chance of promotion, make me a more rounded person being exposed to different departments in an organisation, time to return to HQ since I have been out-stationed for close to 10 years, ... all sorts of reasons sensible to the management but did not make much to me.
The management is likely to have 2 approaches on this job rotation. Maybe I can first negiotate or bargain to be transferred about 2 years later since Isa would then be in the sec school. Second, I choose to be ranked last ie no promotion, no increment, ..
If worse comes to worse, I may have to pack up and go!
Retiring at age 42? What am I doing to do for the next 20 years or less? I have never thought to work beyong age 60 and in fact, I plan to tender my big letter once I collect my CPF at age 55. (BTW, are we still able to collect our CPF at age 55 after so much changes in the policies and I can never managed to keep up with).
Find a second career? What can I do? Where did I last place my U-cert, A-level-cert, O-level-cert? I thought I would never need them since the current job is my first and last job.
Life is never a bed of roses.
My immediate boss is understanding and caring. He thinks more humanly than the previous ones who have placed work on top of everything and anything. I have been working with him for the past couple of years and why can't such good days continue till I retire?
This mid-life crisis is going to dampen my mood for the rest of this year until it has settled its dust.
Holiday trip spoilt by GST shock at airport (ST Forum 2 Dec 2009)
MY FAMILY recently returned from a holiday in Europe.
As usual, we bought some gifts from the countries we had visited.
But we were stunned when the Customs officers stopped us and slapped us with 7 per cent goods and services tax (GST) for the gifts we purchased abroad.
Even the watch I was wearing on my wrist was not spared.
We were told that the maximum limit for gifts purchased overseas is $300 - anything exceeding that is taxable.
I checked with many friends and relatives and none of them knew that this rule exists, not even the tour agency.
Needless to say, the incident dampened our spirit after a great holiday.
Patrick Lim
(source: www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_461188.html)
My Comments:
I did not know that the max limit for gifts purchased overseas is just $300 until now.
As usual, we bought some gifts from the countries we had visited.
But we were stunned when the Customs officers stopped us and slapped us with 7 per cent goods and services tax (GST) for the gifts we purchased abroad.
Even the watch I was wearing on my wrist was not spared.
We were told that the maximum limit for gifts purchased overseas is $300 - anything exceeding that is taxable.
I checked with many friends and relatives and none of them knew that this rule exists, not even the tour agency.
Needless to say, the incident dampened our spirit after a great holiday.
Patrick Lim
(source: www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_461188.html)
My Comments:
I did not know that the max limit for gifts purchased overseas is just $300 until now.
Shopping in Terminal 3
After J has checked-in for his flight to France, he shopped in Changi airport terminal 3. Besides being huge, there are plenty of shops selling things which are quite dear!
He found Hainanese Chicken Rice Paste, Singapore Laksa Paste, Singapore Ba Gu Teh, Singapore Kaya, Dried Mango etc, all nicely wrapped and ready to present as gifts for overseas friends.
Heh, they don't come cheap! A similar type of the chicken rice paste in the super-market cost less than $10. But such in the airport with a nice wrapping costs almost double.
He will be buying some when he returns so that we can pack them into our big luggage to be checked-in.
In a way, I am relieved that the gifts for Ito have been prepared.
He found Hainanese Chicken Rice Paste, Singapore Laksa Paste, Singapore Ba Gu Teh, Singapore Kaya, Dried Mango etc, all nicely wrapped and ready to present as gifts for overseas friends.
Heh, they don't come cheap! A similar type of the chicken rice paste in the super-market cost less than $10. But such in the airport with a nice wrapping costs almost double.
He will be buying some when he returns so that we can pack them into our big luggage to be checked-in.
In a way, I am relieved that the gifts for Ito have been prepared.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Going to Japan at a Wrong Time
December is just round the corner which means I am getting closer to my trip to Japan.
I have started looking at the rates offered by the money exchange in various places. OMG, 100 JPY at S$1.615. When I bought my air-tickets, the rate was 100 JPY = S$1.57.
How am I going to swallow this HUGE difference? And I need quite a lot of Japanese yen to cover my meals, entrance fees to some places of interest, travelling expenses and other misc expenses.
Am I going to Japan at the wrong time?
To complicate things further, J will be leaving for France and be back a day before our departure to Japan. I am unsure how he is going to cope with the jet-lag when we hop on to the plane to Japan.
I have started looking at the rates offered by the money exchange in various places. OMG, 100 JPY at S$1.615. When I bought my air-tickets, the rate was 100 JPY = S$1.57.
How am I going to swallow this HUGE difference? And I need quite a lot of Japanese yen to cover my meals, entrance fees to some places of interest, travelling expenses and other misc expenses.
Am I going to Japan at the wrong time?
To complicate things further, J will be leaving for France and be back a day before our departure to Japan. I am unsure how he is going to cope with the jet-lag when we hop on to the plane to Japan.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Christmas Shopping Spree
Who said there is a recession in Singapore?
Go to Singapore Expo and you will see throngs of people, carrying new tv flat-screen monitors, laptops, electrical gadgets etc. And if this is not enough, John Little is having a mega-sale in Singapore Expo too. Lots of people are buying apparels.
Starlight is also taking this advantage to stock up her wardrobe; a working blouse at $10 is quite reasonable. Isa bought some long pants at less than $10 each.
Tangs in Orchard Road was crowded with lots of shoppers too. After a long search, we finally parted our cash for a pair of Bonia wallets for Mr and Mrs Ito. It is so hard to find something unique from Singapore or Made in Singapore.
Now for the kids, maybe we will buy the Monopoly but on Singapore edition. We have looked at this board game. It is quite bulky and heavy. I wonder if this is a suitable gift as we have to carry it until towards the end of our Japan holidays before we meet Ito's family.
Go to Singapore Expo and you will see throngs of people, carrying new tv flat-screen monitors, laptops, electrical gadgets etc. And if this is not enough, John Little is having a mega-sale in Singapore Expo too. Lots of people are buying apparels.
Starlight is also taking this advantage to stock up her wardrobe; a working blouse at $10 is quite reasonable. Isa bought some long pants at less than $10 each.
Tangs in Orchard Road was crowded with lots of shoppers too. After a long search, we finally parted our cash for a pair of Bonia wallets for Mr and Mrs Ito. It is so hard to find something unique from Singapore or Made in Singapore.
Now for the kids, maybe we will buy the Monopoly but on Singapore edition. We have looked at this board game. It is quite bulky and heavy. I wonder if this is a suitable gift as we have to carry it until towards the end of our Japan holidays before we meet Ito's family.
No bonus for civil servants
APART from their regular 13th month wage supplement, civil servants will not be receiving any other bonus next month.
However, they will receive a one-off payment of a quarter month's pay subject to a cap of $750. This is to acknowledge their support for wage restraint during the recession, the Public Service Division (PSD) said on Thursday.
The 60,000 civil servants also went without a mid-year bonus this year.
This means that civil servants - from the Customs officer to the Cabinet minister - end the year with 1.25 months in extra payment, one of the smallest bonus packages in recent history.
The Singapore economy is expected to shrink by 2 per cent to 2.5 per cent this year.
At the end of 2007, when the economy grew 7.5 per cent, the average civil servant took home about three months' pay in bonuses.
source: www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_459726.html
My comments:
Taking inflation into consideration, we are having a pay-cut. The 13th month pay is mainly to pay tax. There are 52 weeks in a year which translates into 13 months. So that 13th month rightfully is our salary and not bonus at all.
However, they will receive a one-off payment of a quarter month's pay subject to a cap of $750. This is to acknowledge their support for wage restraint during the recession, the Public Service Division (PSD) said on Thursday.
The 60,000 civil servants also went without a mid-year bonus this year.
This means that civil servants - from the Customs officer to the Cabinet minister - end the year with 1.25 months in extra payment, one of the smallest bonus packages in recent history.
The Singapore economy is expected to shrink by 2 per cent to 2.5 per cent this year.
At the end of 2007, when the economy grew 7.5 per cent, the average civil servant took home about three months' pay in bonuses.
source: www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_459726.html
My comments:
Taking inflation into consideration, we are having a pay-cut. The 13th month pay is mainly to pay tax. There are 52 weeks in a year which translates into 13 months. So that 13th month rightfully is our salary and not bonus at all.
Most of the top PSLE students from neighbourhood schools
SINGAPORE: This year’s top Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) student is Qiu Biqing from Qifa Primary School.
Qiu Biqing has an aggregate score of 290, and this is the first time the neighbourhood school has produced a top PSLE student.
The highest PSLE score ever recorded is 294 in 2007, from St Hilda’s Primary School.
Six other top PSLE students are also from neighbourhood schools. These primary schools include South View, Greenridge, Gongshang and Rulang.
The 2009 Primary 6 cohort is the first batch of pupils under Subject—based Branding who sat for the PSLE.
The branding programme was implemented from the 2008 Primary 5 cohort to give pupils the flexibility of taking a mix of subjects at Standard or Foundation levels, depending on their strengths and abilities in each subject.
97.1 per cent of pupils who sat for PSLE this year will proceed to secondary school.
Secondary One posting results will be released on Tuesday, December 22.
source: sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091126/tap-708-most-top-psle-students-neighbour-231650b.html
Qiu Biqing has an aggregate score of 290, and this is the first time the neighbourhood school has produced a top PSLE student.
The highest PSLE score ever recorded is 294 in 2007, from St Hilda’s Primary School.
Six other top PSLE students are also from neighbourhood schools. These primary schools include South View, Greenridge, Gongshang and Rulang.
The 2009 Primary 6 cohort is the first batch of pupils under Subject—based Branding who sat for the PSLE.
The branding programme was implemented from the 2008 Primary 5 cohort to give pupils the flexibility of taking a mix of subjects at Standard or Foundation levels, depending on their strengths and abilities in each subject.
97.1 per cent of pupils who sat for PSLE this year will proceed to secondary school.
Secondary One posting results will be released on Tuesday, December 22.
source: sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091126/tap-708-most-top-psle-students-neighbour-231650b.html
Monday, November 23, 2009
10 Health Benefits of Eggs
1 Eggs are great for the eyes. According to one study, an egg a day may prevent macular degeneraton due to the carotenoid content, specifically lutein and zeaxanthin. Both nutrients are more readily available to our bodies from eggs than from other sources.
2 In another study, researchers found that people who eat eggs every day lower their risk of developing cataracts, also because of the lutein and zeaxanthin in eggs.
3 One egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids
4 According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, there is no significant link between egg consumption and heart disease. In fact, according to one study, regular consumption of eggs may help prevent blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks..
5 They are a good source of choline. One egg yolk has about 300 micrograms of choline. Choline is an important nutrient that helps regulate the brain, nervous system, and cardiovascular system.
6 They contain the right kind of fat. One egg contains just 5 grams of fat and only 1.5 grams of that is saturated fat.
7 New research shows that, contrary to previous belief, moderate consumption of eggs does not have a negative impact on cholesterol. In fact, recent studies have shown that regular consumption of two eggs per day does not affect a person's lipid profile and may, in fact, improve it. Research suggests that it is saturated fat that raises cholesterol rather than dietary cholesterol.
8 Eggs are one of the only foods that contain naturally occurring vitamin D.
9 Eggs may prevent breast cancer. In one study, women who consumed at least 6 eggs per week lowered their risk of breast cancer by 44%.
10 Eggs promote healthy hair and nails because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. Many people find their hair growing faster after adding eggs to their diet, especially if they were previously deficient in foods containing sulphur or B12.
(source: unknown)
2 In another study, researchers found that people who eat eggs every day lower their risk of developing cataracts, also because of the lutein and zeaxanthin in eggs.
3 One egg contains 6 grams of high-quality protein and all 9 essential amino acids
4 According to a study by the Harvard School of Public Health, there is no significant link between egg consumption and heart disease. In fact, according to one study, regular consumption of eggs may help prevent blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks..
5 They are a good source of choline. One egg yolk has about 300 micrograms of choline. Choline is an important nutrient that helps regulate the brain, nervous system, and cardiovascular system.
6 They contain the right kind of fat. One egg contains just 5 grams of fat and only 1.5 grams of that is saturated fat.
7 New research shows that, contrary to previous belief, moderate consumption of eggs does not have a negative impact on cholesterol. In fact, recent studies have shown that regular consumption of two eggs per day does not affect a person's lipid profile and may, in fact, improve it. Research suggests that it is saturated fat that raises cholesterol rather than dietary cholesterol.
8 Eggs are one of the only foods that contain naturally occurring vitamin D.
9 Eggs may prevent breast cancer. In one study, women who consumed at least 6 eggs per week lowered their risk of breast cancer by 44%.
10 Eggs promote healthy hair and nails because of their high sulphur content and wide array of vitamins and minerals. Many people find their hair growing faster after adding eggs to their diet, especially if they were previously deficient in foods containing sulphur or B12.
(source: unknown)
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Final Draft of my Japan Itinerary
The bookings of all hotel accommodations have been made using the credit card.
The most expensive stay would be a night in Kokuya Ryokan in Shibu Onsen, Yudanaka, Nagano.
http://www.ichizaemon.com/en/
I will take plenty of photos of this hotel, the kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast.
From Nagano, we will take the shinkansen to Shinosaka for our hotel accommodation. This is also where we make our day trip to Kyoto. I look forward to the stroll in Saga-Arashiyama.
http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/arashiyama/index.html
We will spend a night in Kawaguchiko!
Yes, I have turned down the offer from Ito-san to go to Disneyland. It is just too expensive and tedious to spend a whole day in Disneyland. Instead, I prefer to see Mt Fuji.
We will still meet Ito and spend a night in his house as planned before we return to Tokyo for our last minute shopping.
With our trip to Kawaguchiko, we will no longer take the double-decker shinkansen to Nikko.
Now is just praying for excellent weather in Japan during our time there.
The most expensive stay would be a night in Kokuya Ryokan in Shibu Onsen, Yudanaka, Nagano.
http://www.ichizaemon.com/en/
I will take plenty of photos of this hotel, the kaiseki dinner and Japanese breakfast.
From Nagano, we will take the shinkansen to Shinosaka for our hotel accommodation. This is also where we make our day trip to Kyoto. I look forward to the stroll in Saga-Arashiyama.
http://www.hanatouro.jp/e/arashiyama/index.html
We will spend a night in Kawaguchiko!
Yes, I have turned down the offer from Ito-san to go to Disneyland. It is just too expensive and tedious to spend a whole day in Disneyland. Instead, I prefer to see Mt Fuji.
We will still meet Ito and spend a night in his house as planned before we return to Tokyo for our last minute shopping.
With our trip to Kawaguchiko, we will no longer take the double-decker shinkansen to Nikko.
Now is just praying for excellent weather in Japan during our time there.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Closure of academic year 2009
The school will be closing soon.
The booklist will only be given on the last day (ie 20 Nov) of this week. So the students have been playing in the school all day long.
This year has been extremely tough and challenging for both Isa and the family. We are glad that it will be over very soon and that next year will be a brand new start for everybody.
Isa has been offered to take up Higher Chinese though she is not very strong in this subject. In fact, she is not strong in any subjects too which bothers me a lot.
Nevertheless, J and I decided to let her try this subject. Afterall, both of us did Chinese as a First Language when we were in sec schools and we enjoyed it. Yes, it is a common mistake that we always assume what has been good for us would be good for our kids too.
The result for UNSW ICAS Mathematics has been returned. Isa scored 28/40 which was not very fantastic. She was weak in geometry. More work needs to be done to improve in this area.
While Isa has been having a fun time after the exam, I have been tidying up my training report after my Beijing Workshop and getting the preparations done for our Japan trip. J's France trip is yet to be finalised which is bothering me too. The last thing I want is we leave for Japan immediately he returns from France.
The booklist will only be given on the last day (ie 20 Nov) of this week. So the students have been playing in the school all day long.
This year has been extremely tough and challenging for both Isa and the family. We are glad that it will be over very soon and that next year will be a brand new start for everybody.
Isa has been offered to take up Higher Chinese though she is not very strong in this subject. In fact, she is not strong in any subjects too which bothers me a lot.
Nevertheless, J and I decided to let her try this subject. Afterall, both of us did Chinese as a First Language when we were in sec schools and we enjoyed it. Yes, it is a common mistake that we always assume what has been good for us would be good for our kids too.
The result for UNSW ICAS Mathematics has been returned. Isa scored 28/40 which was not very fantastic. She was weak in geometry. More work needs to be done to improve in this area.
While Isa has been having a fun time after the exam, I have been tidying up my training report after my Beijing Workshop and getting the preparations done for our Japan trip. J's France trip is yet to be finalised which is bothering me too. The last thing I want is we leave for Japan immediately he returns from France.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Photos from Beijing
Heavy snow again in the early morning of 12 Nov 2009, which caused my return flight to be delayed for about 3 hours.
Water Cube and Bird Nest Stadiums.
The famous shopping street, Wang Fu Jing, in Beijing.
Heavy snow fell in the early hours of 10 Nov 2009.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Last Day in Beijing
I woke up at 4am despite the I have set the alarm clock at 4.45am. I looked out of the window and there was no snow. I felt relief and quite confident that my return journey would be smooth.
I was supposed to collect my pre-packed breakfast around 5.15am. The pre-booked taxi would arrive around 5.45am. Since it was an early morning, the journey from the hotel to the airport should be less than an hour. That would leave me plenty of time in the airport to do any last minute shopping since my flight departs at 8.45am.
I reached the Reception at 5.15am. The breakfast was ready. Besides buns, I have a packet of milk, a big sandwich and a hard-boiled egg. I felt so pampered by the service of this hotel. Just as I was struggling to put my breakfast into my haversack, the taxi arrived. I happily hopped onto the tax and assured myself that I would reach the airport even earlier.
Around 6am, I arrived the airport. I saw something started falling from the sky. The driver told me snowing again. Ok, at least I was able to see snow falling just before I left Beijing. I was quite excited and stood outdoors to see any snow falling. Due to mist, the visibility was poor. Everything was still quite blur and dark. I decided to check in earlier as I knew I have to take a train to my departure gate.
When I reached the departure lounge, OMG, the wings of the SQ airplane were covered with snow. By then, the snow was getting heavier. It was like heavy rain. The ground crew were busy spraying chemicals to melt the snow. I started to worry if my flight could take off at the scheduled time under this condition.
Soon at 8.45am, all the passengers were seated and the doors of the aeroplane were closed and locked. I felt warmth despite the weather outside was chilling. The feeling of returning home and seeeing my loved ones gave me the warmth.
The aeroplane began to move slowly despite it was snowing heavily. It stopped and then moved again. By 10am, we were still in the airport!
The captain announced due to the heavy snow, the aeroplane has to queue for de-icing. The runway has to go for de-icing too. OMG, the cabin crew were rooted to their seatsbecause the seat-belt sign was ON. Passengers were frustrated, thirsty and hungry. Only then the cabin crew started serving drinks.
By 11.30am ie close to 3hours later, the aeroplane was finally given the green light to take off.
Once we were out of the clouds, the meal and dessert were served. Everything was done in a rush. Some passengers began worry about their connecting flights. The cabin crew were unable to offer much info as they could only seek help when the flight approaches S'pore.
Instead of arriving S'pore at 3.15pm, the plane touched down close to 5pm.
I was not very satisfied with the service of this airline.
I was supposed to collect my pre-packed breakfast around 5.15am. The pre-booked taxi would arrive around 5.45am. Since it was an early morning, the journey from the hotel to the airport should be less than an hour. That would leave me plenty of time in the airport to do any last minute shopping since my flight departs at 8.45am.
I reached the Reception at 5.15am. The breakfast was ready. Besides buns, I have a packet of milk, a big sandwich and a hard-boiled egg. I felt so pampered by the service of this hotel. Just as I was struggling to put my breakfast into my haversack, the taxi arrived. I happily hopped onto the tax and assured myself that I would reach the airport even earlier.
Around 6am, I arrived the airport. I saw something started falling from the sky. The driver told me snowing again. Ok, at least I was able to see snow falling just before I left Beijing. I was quite excited and stood outdoors to see any snow falling. Due to mist, the visibility was poor. Everything was still quite blur and dark. I decided to check in earlier as I knew I have to take a train to my departure gate.
When I reached the departure lounge, OMG, the wings of the SQ airplane were covered with snow. By then, the snow was getting heavier. It was like heavy rain. The ground crew were busy spraying chemicals to melt the snow. I started to worry if my flight could take off at the scheduled time under this condition.
Soon at 8.45am, all the passengers were seated and the doors of the aeroplane were closed and locked. I felt warmth despite the weather outside was chilling. The feeling of returning home and seeeing my loved ones gave me the warmth.
The aeroplane began to move slowly despite it was snowing heavily. It stopped and then moved again. By 10am, we were still in the airport!
The captain announced due to the heavy snow, the aeroplane has to queue for de-icing. The runway has to go for de-icing too. OMG, the cabin crew were rooted to their seatsbecause the seat-belt sign was ON. Passengers were frustrated, thirsty and hungry. Only then the cabin crew started serving drinks.
By 11.30am ie close to 3hours later, the aeroplane was finally given the green light to take off.
Once we were out of the clouds, the meal and dessert were served. Everything was done in a rush. Some passengers began worry about their connecting flights. The cabin crew were unable to offer much info as they could only seek help when the flight approaches S'pore.
Instead of arriving S'pore at 3.15pm, the plane touched down close to 5pm.
I was not very satisfied with the service of this airline.
MOH alerts hospitals after two women given wrong dosage of cancer drugs
SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Health has alerted all hospitals to take immediate measures to ensure safety in the use of infusion pumps when administering drugs.
This follows a pharmaceutical error at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital — where two cancer patients are now under observation, with one potentially in grave danger.
Mrs L K Ng, aged 51, and Mrs Yip Poh Hung, aged 44, were given chemotherapy drugs via an infusion pump — but settings on the pumps were inaccurate, despite two pharmacists checking to ensure accuracy before the infusion pumps were given to the women.
The ministry said it will share the findings and risk reduction strategies with other hospitals after KK Hospital completes its detailed root cause analysis.
If things go wrong, Mrs Yip Poh Hung’s organs could be damaged seriously. She is being given an antidote — Vistonuridine — specially flown in from the US. Although stable at the moment, she still needs to be observed carefully. She had consumed five days worth of cancer drugs in just five hours.
The hospital said the antidote being given to the patient is safe to use, even though the drug has not been approved for general use in Singapore. The drug has not even been approved by the FDA in the US. But the hospital is citing a recent study to vouch for its safety.
"They have tested this drug and out of the 17 patients, all actually recovered well. So that is why it is important to have this particular drug for our patient here," said Associate Professor Tan Kok Hian, director, Clinical Quality, KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital.
The hospital said her chances of full recovery are "very high".
Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA), which gave the last minute green light for the special use of the antidote in this instance, said: "Our regulatory framework has a system in place that allows HSA to consider special concession for clinicians to use unregistered medicinal products under exceptional medical circumstances, when there is no registered alternative available in Singapore.
"This is to ensure that patients are not denied access to critical treatments in the case of unmet medical needs." The HSA added that there have been past approvals granted in life or death situations where no alternative is available in Singapore.
Meanwhile, the pharmacists in question have been assigned "light duties", while they assist in investigations.
Hospital officials said they have apologised to the patients and their families. The hospital is also waiving current medical fees for the next cycle of chemotherapy treatment. As for further compensation, the hospital said the issue has not surfaced.
As a safeguard, the hospital has now decided to use only one type of infusion pump, so that the rate and calibration will be clearer and chances of error will be further diminished.
"We have a variety of pumps — the default rate is set at one rate and another pump is set at another rate. So sometimes if you are using the different pumps you should know the default rate and to set it accordingly. Unfortunately, it is very rare, there was an error and it wasn’t recognised," said Prof Tan.
"KK is also sorry about this incident and we take full responsibility for this error and we would also like to say sorry to the patients and their families who are involved," added Prof Tan.
Some patients, the hospital said, were concerned about their own medication after learning about the incident. However, doctors said the patients’ fears were assuaged and they were informed that the chances of such errors are extremely rare.
The hospital said investigations are ongoing.
(source: http://sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091113/tap-828-moh-alerts-hospitals-women-given-231650b.html )
My comments:
My prayers go to the affected patients and their families. I hope the patients can have a speedy recovery.
This follows a pharmaceutical error at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital — where two cancer patients are now under observation, with one potentially in grave danger.
Mrs L K Ng, aged 51, and Mrs Yip Poh Hung, aged 44, were given chemotherapy drugs via an infusion pump — but settings on the pumps were inaccurate, despite two pharmacists checking to ensure accuracy before the infusion pumps were given to the women.
The ministry said it will share the findings and risk reduction strategies with other hospitals after KK Hospital completes its detailed root cause analysis.
If things go wrong, Mrs Yip Poh Hung’s organs could be damaged seriously. She is being given an antidote — Vistonuridine — specially flown in from the US. Although stable at the moment, she still needs to be observed carefully. She had consumed five days worth of cancer drugs in just five hours.
The hospital said the antidote being given to the patient is safe to use, even though the drug has not been approved for general use in Singapore. The drug has not even been approved by the FDA in the US. But the hospital is citing a recent study to vouch for its safety.
"They have tested this drug and out of the 17 patients, all actually recovered well. So that is why it is important to have this particular drug for our patient here," said Associate Professor Tan Kok Hian, director, Clinical Quality, KK Women’s & Children’s Hospital.
The hospital said her chances of full recovery are "very high".
Singapore’s Health Sciences Authority (HSA), which gave the last minute green light for the special use of the antidote in this instance, said: "Our regulatory framework has a system in place that allows HSA to consider special concession for clinicians to use unregistered medicinal products under exceptional medical circumstances, when there is no registered alternative available in Singapore.
"This is to ensure that patients are not denied access to critical treatments in the case of unmet medical needs." The HSA added that there have been past approvals granted in life or death situations where no alternative is available in Singapore.
Meanwhile, the pharmacists in question have been assigned "light duties", while they assist in investigations.
Hospital officials said they have apologised to the patients and their families. The hospital is also waiving current medical fees for the next cycle of chemotherapy treatment. As for further compensation, the hospital said the issue has not surfaced.
As a safeguard, the hospital has now decided to use only one type of infusion pump, so that the rate and calibration will be clearer and chances of error will be further diminished.
"We have a variety of pumps — the default rate is set at one rate and another pump is set at another rate. So sometimes if you are using the different pumps you should know the default rate and to set it accordingly. Unfortunately, it is very rare, there was an error and it wasn’t recognised," said Prof Tan.
"KK is also sorry about this incident and we take full responsibility for this error and we would also like to say sorry to the patients and their families who are involved," added Prof Tan.
Some patients, the hospital said, were concerned about their own medication after learning about the incident. However, doctors said the patients’ fears were assuaged and they were informed that the chances of such errors are extremely rare.
The hospital said investigations are ongoing.
(source: http://sg.news.yahoo.com/cna/20091113/tap-828-moh-alerts-hospitals-women-given-231650b.html )
My comments:
My prayers go to the affected patients and their families. I hope the patients can have a speedy recovery.
北京夜降大雪 未来几日持续阴冷天气
2009-11-10 07:30:00 来源：中国天气网
中国天气网讯 " 北京，又下大雪啦！”今天（10日）凌晨，随着一道闪电一阵惊雷，漫天白雪悄然飘下。一夜飘雪，使今早的京城笼罩在一片白茫茫的大雪中。同时，今早6点的温度只有零下2.5℃，比昨天同期低了9℃。人体感觉比较冷，出行注意防寒保暖。
据北京市气象台最新观测数据显示，9日20时至10日06时，海淀降水量为18.5毫米，朝阳15毫米，门头沟13.7毫米，平谷13.1毫米，其他地区0.1-12.7毫米或无降水。
北京的这次降雪，与11月1日的降雪相比要大得多。据气象专家介绍，造成这种现象，一方面是由于地面温度相对较高，天空飘落的小雪还没有来得及落地，就已经在空中融化了，另一方面是由于本次的降水过程的上升运动并不剧烈，空气中的水汽含量不是很高，因此降水量总体比较小。
气象专家还介绍，今早6时的温度只有零下2.5℃，比昨天早上低了9℃左右。未来几日，北京的气温仍然较低，并且会继续下降，降幅在1-2℃左右。
北京市气象台预计，今天白天，小雪转阴天；今天夜间，阴转多云，最低气温零下5℃；明天白天到夜间，阴转小雪，降雪主要出现在夜间，最低温度零下6℃。
受降雪降温天气影响，路面将出现结冰，请行人和车辆注意交通安全。此外，由于未来气温较低，特别提醒市民注意防寒保暖，及时添加衣物，以防感冒；燃煤取暖的用户需注意防范煤气中毒。
(source : http://www.weather.com.cn/static/html/article/20091110/131657.shtml )
中国天气网讯 " 北京，又下大雪啦！”今天（10日）凌晨，随着一道闪电一阵惊雷，漫天白雪悄然飘下。一夜飘雪，使今早的京城笼罩在一片白茫茫的大雪中。同时，今早6点的温度只有零下2.5℃，比昨天同期低了9℃。人体感觉比较冷，出行注意防寒保暖。
据北京市气象台最新观测数据显示，9日20时至10日06时，海淀降水量为18.5毫米，朝阳15毫米，门头沟13.7毫米，平谷13.1毫米，其他地区0.1-12.7毫米或无降水。
北京的这次降雪，与11月1日的降雪相比要大得多。据气象专家介绍，造成这种现象，一方面是由于地面温度相对较高，天空飘落的小雪还没有来得及落地，就已经在空中融化了，另一方面是由于本次的降水过程的上升运动并不剧烈，空气中的水汽含量不是很高，因此降水量总体比较小。
气象专家还介绍，今早6时的温度只有零下2.5℃，比昨天早上低了9℃左右。未来几日，北京的气温仍然较低，并且会继续下降，降幅在1-2℃左右。
北京市气象台预计，今天白天，小雪转阴天；今天夜间，阴转多云，最低气温零下5℃；明天白天到夜间，阴转小雪，降雪主要出现在夜间，最低温度零下6℃。
受降雪降温天气影响，路面将出现结冰，请行人和车辆注意交通安全。此外，由于未来气温较低，特别提醒市民注意防寒保暖，及时添加衣物，以防感冒；燃煤取暖的用户需注意防范煤气中毒。
(source : http://www.weather.com.cn/static/html/article/20091110/131657.shtml )
Day 4 in Beijing
An official visit to the relevant departments ended in the late morning. Since I was already near National Library Station, I decided not to return to the hotel for a lunch before setting off for a trip to Olympic Green Station. Initiallly I wanted to take the subway from National library Station to Olympic Green Station, when I asked the locals, one of them told me I could take a bus 86. I gladly took up the suggestion as the bus fare was only RMB 1 instead of RMB 2.
The bus journey took about half an hour. Water Cube, Bird Nest and National Stadiums are all located within walking distance from each other. The ground was still covered by snow and workers were busy clearing the snow. There were lots of tourists at these places. Despite the coldness, I managed to take a few photos.
Now the challenge comes. I would like to go toTiantan park (Temple of Heaven Park) which is located at the other side of the city. I doubt there would be a direct bus and have no choice but to try the subway.
The subway fare was RMB 2. You can travel from one location to any others via changing lines. As long as you do not exit from the subway station, you can continue to travel. So I took the subway from Olympic Green Station on Line 8 to Bei Tu Cheng on Line 10. From Bei Tu Cheng, I travelled to Hui Xin Xi Jie Nan Kou Station on Line 5. From there, the subway will brings me to Tian Tan Tong Men Station where Temple of Heaven Park is located.
I did not enter this Park as I am not that keen but still would like to take a photo. From this Park, there is a direct bus 36 straight to the hotel. Again, kudos to Ms Hu from the hotel who has given me this tip.
By the time I have reached the hotel, it was already 2.30pm and the restaurant was already closed. I met a kind waitress, Ms Nie. I told her if there was any rice and piping hot soup for me. Immediately she asked me to take a seat and requested the chefs to prepare. Within a few minutes, a simple Korean style meal was on my table I gobbled anything served and was very grateful to Ms Nie and her colleagues.
Since asking is no harm, I asked Ms Nie if I could take away few pieces of bread during the dinner, so that I can save them for my breakfast for tomorrow. I have a breakfast coupon for tomorrow but since I will be leaving the hotel around 5.30am, I will be unable to enjoy the buffet style breakfast. Ms Nie agreed to arrange some sandwiches for me to bring on my way to the airport around 5.30am.
I am very impressed by the staff of this hotel, Beijing Henan Plaza Hotel. Many are polite and helpful. Staff like Ms Hu and Ms Nie went the extra mile to serve the guests, leaving them touched and grateful. For my next trip to Beijing, I will not hesistate to stay in this hotel again.
Tomorrow, I will catch a morning flight back home. My trip to Beijing is just too short that I have no time to visit the Great Wall. This means another destination for future holidays.
The bus journey took about half an hour. Water Cube, Bird Nest and National Stadiums are all located within walking distance from each other. The ground was still covered by snow and workers were busy clearing the snow. There were lots of tourists at these places. Despite the coldness, I managed to take a few photos.
Now the challenge comes. I would like to go toTiantan park (Temple of Heaven Park) which is located at the other side of the city. I doubt there would be a direct bus and have no choice but to try the subway.
The subway fare was RMB 2. You can travel from one location to any others via changing lines. As long as you do not exit from the subway station, you can continue to travel. So I took the subway from Olympic Green Station on Line 8 to Bei Tu Cheng on Line 10. From Bei Tu Cheng, I travelled to Hui Xin Xi Jie Nan Kou Station on Line 5. From there, the subway will brings me to Tian Tan Tong Men Station where Temple of Heaven Park is located.
I did not enter this Park as I am not that keen but still would like to take a photo. From this Park, there is a direct bus 36 straight to the hotel. Again, kudos to Ms Hu from the hotel who has given me this tip.
By the time I have reached the hotel, it was already 2.30pm and the restaurant was already closed. I met a kind waitress, Ms Nie. I told her if there was any rice and piping hot soup for me. Immediately she asked me to take a seat and requested the chefs to prepare. Within a few minutes, a simple Korean style meal was on my table I gobbled anything served and was very grateful to Ms Nie and her colleagues.
Since asking is no harm, I asked Ms Nie if I could take away few pieces of bread during the dinner, so that I can save them for my breakfast for tomorrow. I have a breakfast coupon for tomorrow but since I will be leaving the hotel around 5.30am, I will be unable to enjoy the buffet style breakfast. Ms Nie agreed to arrange some sandwiches for me to bring on my way to the airport around 5.30am.
I am very impressed by the staff of this hotel, Beijing Henan Plaza Hotel. Many are polite and helpful. Staff like Ms Hu and Ms Nie went the extra mile to serve the guests, leaving them touched and grateful. For my next trip to Beijing, I will not hesistate to stay in this hotel again.
Tomorrow, I will catch a morning flight back home. My trip to Beijing is just too short that I have no time to visit the Great Wall. This means another destination for future holidays.
Day 3 in Beijing
Thick snow fell overnight and when I woke up, the top of the cars and trees were covered by inches of snow. The road was wet and slippery. Some snow has melted but plenty still stays due to the cold temperature of about 1 C.
Today is the second and last day of the workshop. Speakers from the Organizer shared their knowledge and experiences in dealing with disasters. It is really an eye-opening know there are so many different satellites meant for monitoring different types of natural disasters up in the sky.
After lunch, it was Closing Ceremony. The participants thanked the Organizer for such a wonderful arrangement in Beijing.
Armed with some brief instructions from the hotel and a map, at about 4pm, together with 2 participants from Philippines, we took a public bus 802 (fare at RMB 1) to Tian'an men Square. Along the way, we saw lots of Beijingers well-dressed in their winter clothings. I made a mistake forgetting to bring along my gloves. My hands and face were numb due to the coldness. I could not even hold my camera carefully. Staying outdoor was a torture and all we wanted was to stay indoors.
The bus took about half an hour to reach Tian'an men Square. As expected, it was very, very spacious. We just missed the Flag Lowering Ceremony. I realised the importance of knowing another language as travelling in China was no problem to me at all but not for my friends. I have to ask along my way. I took a few photos just to remind myself that I have been there. Then we walked to the famous shopping district, Wang Fu Jing. By then, I wanted to go to the washroom. I recalled a guide book has mentioned; use your nose.
True enough, I started sniffing around and followed that smell. I found a toilet in the shopping mall. The smell was really unbearable that I almost vomitted.
I bought more sweets and snacks at Wang Fu Jing. We took quite some time to locate the right bus-stop to return to the hotel. By the time we reached, it was about 7pm. We were so hungry and cold. The dinner tasted delicious.
Here, I must mention Ms Hu from the hotel. She is very friendly and helpful. We met during lunch. I have never imagine that she went an extra mile to bring me to a shop that is famous for selling Beijing snacks. It was about a 15 min walk from the hotel. This is called excellent service attitude. She was the one who told me how to go to Tian'an men Square too by the public bus.
I was again glad that I have brought a big luggage. When I started shopping, I lost control. By the time I saw all my gifts lying around the luggage, I felt worried. How am I going to bring all these goodies back home? If J is around, it will be his responsibility to pack the luggage. Now I have to fend myself.
Due to the cold weather and the sky getting darker, I did not have a good walk in Tian'an men Square.
What's next for tomorrow?
Today is the second and last day of the workshop. Speakers from the Organizer shared their knowledge and experiences in dealing with disasters. It is really an eye-opening know there are so many different satellites meant for monitoring different types of natural disasters up in the sky.
After lunch, it was Closing Ceremony. The participants thanked the Organizer for such a wonderful arrangement in Beijing.
Armed with some brief instructions from the hotel and a map, at about 4pm, together with 2 participants from Philippines, we took a public bus 802 (fare at RMB 1) to Tian'an men Square. Along the way, we saw lots of Beijingers well-dressed in their winter clothings. I made a mistake forgetting to bring along my gloves. My hands and face were numb due to the coldness. I could not even hold my camera carefully. Staying outdoor was a torture and all we wanted was to stay indoors.
The bus took about half an hour to reach Tian'an men Square. As expected, it was very, very spacious. We just missed the Flag Lowering Ceremony. I realised the importance of knowing another language as travelling in China was no problem to me at all but not for my friends. I have to ask along my way. I took a few photos just to remind myself that I have been there. Then we walked to the famous shopping district, Wang Fu Jing. By then, I wanted to go to the washroom. I recalled a guide book has mentioned; use your nose.
True enough, I started sniffing around and followed that smell. I found a toilet in the shopping mall. The smell was really unbearable that I almost vomitted.
I bought more sweets and snacks at Wang Fu Jing. We took quite some time to locate the right bus-stop to return to the hotel. By the time we reached, it was about 7pm. We were so hungry and cold. The dinner tasted delicious.
Here, I must mention Ms Hu from the hotel. She is very friendly and helpful. We met during lunch. I have never imagine that she went an extra mile to bring me to a shop that is famous for selling Beijing snacks. It was about a 15 min walk from the hotel. This is called excellent service attitude. She was the one who told me how to go to Tian'an men Square too by the public bus.
I was again glad that I have brought a big luggage. When I started shopping, I lost control. By the time I saw all my gifts lying around the luggage, I felt worried. How am I going to bring all these goodies back home? If J is around, it will be his responsibility to pack the luggage. Now I have to fend myself.
Due to the cold weather and the sky getting darker, I did not have a good walk in Tian'an men Square.
What's next for tomorrow?
Day 2 in Beijing
My second day started with temperature around 5 deg C. It was very cold and misty.
Today is the first day of the work. After the formal Opening Ceremony and the Group Photo Taking, the real work started. Each representative from the ASEAN countries made a presentation on how the natural disasters are managed and handled, what are the measures taken to migitate these disasters and how cooperations between countries can be sought etc.
Natural disasters include tsunami, earthquakes, landslide, typhoons, duststorms, deforestations, floods etc.
Philippines in particular, faces about 22 typhoons yearly with 5 to 7 of destructive nature, during June to December. Almost every participant remembers how typhoons Ketsana and Parma affected Philippines badly during the recent months. After the typhoons have crossed Philippines, they are likely to continue their tracks to Vietnam.
Tsunamis from the east and west are likely to affect Thailand in different manners. If the tsunami comes from western Philippines, due to relatively shallow water, the speed is likely to slow down and these tidal waves are likely to reach Gulf of Thailand later. But if the tsunami is from Nicobar Islands, since the water there is deep, it is likely to reach Phuket real fast.
Very soon, the lunch time arrived. Maybe is due to the extreme cold weather, I felt hungry easily despite I had a heavy breakfast. The lunch break was a luxurious 2 hours. But since I am a fast eater, my 2 rounds of rice and dishes were done in about 45 min. So the rest of the time was spent walking around the hotel to "enjoy" the cold weather.
After lunch, another participant talked about how satellites can be used to help monitor any development of natural disasters.
The dinner was hosted by the Organizer. Peking Duck is a must have famous dish in Beijing. Besides this dish, we ate duck's liver, shredded duck's wings, duck soup, duck feet etc. In fact, just like the chicken and pigs, many parts of the duck can be eaten. This amount of food was just too much for all the participants to finish. We were very grateful to the Organizer for such a delicious feast.
In the evening, the temperature dropped below freezing level and light rain started. The roads were wet. People were hurrying so that they can get to their destination faster and be shelted from this dull and cold weather.
Tomorrow, we will learn how the Organizer made use of various satellites in natural disasters management.
Today is the first day of the work. After the formal Opening Ceremony and the Group Photo Taking, the real work started. Each representative from the ASEAN countries made a presentation on how the natural disasters are managed and handled, what are the measures taken to migitate these disasters and how cooperations between countries can be sought etc.
Natural disasters include tsunami, earthquakes, landslide, typhoons, duststorms, deforestations, floods etc.
Philippines in particular, faces about 22 typhoons yearly with 5 to 7 of destructive nature, during June to December. Almost every participant remembers how typhoons Ketsana and Parma affected Philippines badly during the recent months. After the typhoons have crossed Philippines, they are likely to continue their tracks to Vietnam.
Tsunamis from the east and west are likely to affect Thailand in different manners. If the tsunami comes from western Philippines, due to relatively shallow water, the speed is likely to slow down and these tidal waves are likely to reach Gulf of Thailand later. But if the tsunami is from Nicobar Islands, since the water there is deep, it is likely to reach Phuket real fast.
Very soon, the lunch time arrived. Maybe is due to the extreme cold weather, I felt hungry easily despite I had a heavy breakfast. The lunch break was a luxurious 2 hours. But since I am a fast eater, my 2 rounds of rice and dishes were done in about 45 min. So the rest of the time was spent walking around the hotel to "enjoy" the cold weather.
After lunch, another participant talked about how satellites can be used to help monitor any development of natural disasters.
The dinner was hosted by the Organizer. Peking Duck is a must have famous dish in Beijing. Besides this dish, we ate duck's liver, shredded duck's wings, duck soup, duck feet etc. In fact, just like the chicken and pigs, many parts of the duck can be eaten. This amount of food was just too much for all the participants to finish. We were very grateful to the Organizer for such a delicious feast.
In the evening, the temperature dropped below freezing level and light rain started. The roads were wet. People were hurrying so that they can get to their destination faster and be shelted from this dull and cold weather.
Tomorrow, we will learn how the Organizer made use of various satellites in natural disasters management.
Day 1 in Beijing
Finally after about 6 hours of flight, I arrived Beijing International Airport Terminal 3.
When the plane started to descend, all I saw was layers and layers of clouds. The sky was dull and gloomy. The latest temperature reported at the arrival time around 2.30pm was about 11 deg C. All the passengers immediately took out their furry winter coats out from their hand luggage.
I zipped my brown old jacket to fend the coldness.
The frontline staff was the quarantine officers! They were all wearing masks and I submitted my health declaration form. The immigration officers were with mask too. Is the H1N1 virus situation in Beijing very serious?
By the time I reached the taxi-stand, it was about an hour later. The journey to Beijing Henan Plaza Hotel took about an hour. During the first half hour, the traffic was quite smooth. The driver was listening to chinese opera! As we approached the central Beijing, the traffic began to crawl. The locals wore beautiful furry winter coats. I was glad to bring my furry coat too although I do not know when I will be wearing it as most of the time, I would be in the hotel.
This hotel looked posh. The organizer has arranged the participants to stay in the rooms with a PC in it. But I have already brought my laptop. I decided to use my own because I have all my favourite sites.
Dinner was buffet style on chinese food. I could not imagine that I ate a big plate of rice and a plate of dishes with meat and vegetables. After finishing the first round, I ate the second round. I ate 2 bowls of seaweed soup, followed by fruits too. It must be the coldness that made me very hungry.
Temperature reported at 9pm was about 9 deg C and expected to dip to 3 overnight. Rain with snow ie sleet is forecast on the next day.
When the plane started to descend, all I saw was layers and layers of clouds. The sky was dull and gloomy. The latest temperature reported at the arrival time around 2.30pm was about 11 deg C. All the passengers immediately took out their furry winter coats out from their hand luggage.
I zipped my brown old jacket to fend the coldness.
The frontline staff was the quarantine officers! They were all wearing masks and I submitted my health declaration form. The immigration officers were with mask too. Is the H1N1 virus situation in Beijing very serious?
By the time I reached the taxi-stand, it was about an hour later. The journey to Beijing Henan Plaza Hotel took about an hour. During the first half hour, the traffic was quite smooth. The driver was listening to chinese opera! As we approached the central Beijing, the traffic began to crawl. The locals wore beautiful furry winter coats. I was glad to bring my furry coat too although I do not know when I will be wearing it as most of the time, I would be in the hotel.
This hotel looked posh. The organizer has arranged the participants to stay in the rooms with a PC in it. But I have already brought my laptop. I decided to use my own because I have all my favourite sites.
Dinner was buffet style on chinese food. I could not imagine that I ate a big plate of rice and a plate of dishes with meat and vegetables. After finishing the first round, I ate the second round. I ate 2 bowls of seaweed soup, followed by fruits too. It must be the coldness that made me very hungry.
Temperature reported at 9pm was about 9 deg C and expected to dip to 3 overnight. Rain with snow ie sleet is forecast on the next day.
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Snow Forecast in Northern China Again
强冷空气卷土重来 京城有望再现雨夹雪
2009-11-07 07:00:04 来源：中国天气网中国天气网讯
一股较强冷空气正在缓慢逼近我国，此次冷空气的强度与上次寒潮天气过程相比大有“巾帼不让须眉”之势。专家分析，本次冷空气在降水方面将胜过10月底至11月初的寒潮。
冷空气步步逼近
11月7-11日，一股较强冷空气将自北向南先后影响我国西北部和中东部大部地区。其中，内蒙古大部、东北、华北、黄淮、江淮、江南大部将有4-5级间6级偏北风，过程最大降温有8-12℃，局地可达16℃。受该股冷空气继续南下影响，12-13日，华南、西南地区东部将降温6-8℃，部分地区10-12℃。
全国降温预报图（2009年11月7日至12日）
除了降温，我国东部地区，华北一直到华南都会有大范围降雨出现。其中，西北地区东部、华北大部、东北地区东部和南部、黄淮等地将先后出现一次小到中雪（雨）或雨夹雪天气过程，部分地区大雨。
全国降水量预报图（2009年11月8日08时至13日08时）
中央气象台首席预报员宗志平分析，这股冷空气主要给我国带来的是降温和雨雪，具有影响时间长，累积降温幅度大，降水范围广的特点。
尤为一提的是，由于水汽条件较好，此次降水将持续7天左右，可能会带来较多降水。所以这股冷空气至少在降水方面胜过了10月底11月初的寒潮。
(source: http://www.weather.com.cn/static/html/article/20091107/129206.shtml)
2009-11-07 07:00:04 来源：中国天气网中国天气网讯
一股较强冷空气正在缓慢逼近我国，此次冷空气的强度与上次寒潮天气过程相比大有“巾帼不让须眉”之势。专家分析，本次冷空气在降水方面将胜过10月底至11月初的寒潮。
冷空气步步逼近
11月7-11日，一股较强冷空气将自北向南先后影响我国西北部和中东部大部地区。其中，内蒙古大部、东北、华北、黄淮、江淮、江南大部将有4-5级间6级偏北风，过程最大降温有8-12℃，局地可达16℃。受该股冷空气继续南下影响，12-13日，华南、西南地区东部将降温6-8℃，部分地区10-12℃。
全国降温预报图（2009年11月7日至12日）
除了降温，我国东部地区，华北一直到华南都会有大范围降雨出现。其中，西北地区东部、华北大部、东北地区东部和南部、黄淮等地将先后出现一次小到中雪（雨）或雨夹雪天气过程，部分地区大雨。
全国降水量预报图（2009年11月8日08时至13日08时）
中央气象台首席预报员宗志平分析，这股冷空气主要给我国带来的是降温和雨雪，具有影响时间长，累积降温幅度大，降水范围广的特点。
尤为一提的是，由于水汽条件较好，此次降水将持续7天左右，可能会带来较多降水。所以这股冷空气至少在降水方面胜过了10月底11月初的寒潮。
(source: http://www.weather.com.cn/static/html/article/20091107/129206.shtml)
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Preparation prior to Beijing Workshop
Just a few more days to go before I hop onto the plane to Beijing for a workshop.
As I seldom travel alone, the preparation and packing for this trip is really driving me crazy. I need a formal dress for the Opening Ceremony. Am I suppose to wear a cheongsam? I always dress in blouse and pants in my office. Where am I going to find a formal dress? How to keep warm in a dress? Bring a shawl?
The weather pattern in Beijing is just like the unpredictable stocks and shares. Since the first snow fell on 1st Nov, the temperatures have risen a lot. Should I pack my thick winter wear? Maybe bring a normal jacket too in case the weather did not turn out to be that cold. What about the thermal wear?
What about another pair of shoes in case the pair I always wear give me troubles? I recalled during a holiday in New Zealand, the sole of my shoes gave away. Instead of holidaying, J and I were busy hunting for a shoe shop. I did not find a pair of shoes suitable for my size. In the end, I bought the smallest size but still too big for me. Once I reached home, I immediately dumped that pair into the bin. From then onwards, I will always bring an extra pair. Even a pair of home slippers is better than nothing.
Then my digi camera plus its charger, my mobile plus its charger, my heavy laptop plus thumb drives etc. I have been so tempted to buy a lightweigh and trendy net book. But look at the price, it is at least $500 and what am I going to do with it after this working trip? At home, there are already 2 PCs and a laptop; more than enough for everybody in my family. So this net book will soon be left in the dark store room. Ok, I can always save this money for future usage.
Plus goodies/souvenirs for colleagues and family members, I have no choice but to bring a big luggage. This is what I hate most as I always prefer to travel light. I have only 2 hands but I will be bringing 3 things - a laptop, a luggage and a haversack.
My presentation for this workshop? Yes, a few slides of presentation have taken me days to prepare. I must admit it is not of the highest quality as it was done in a rush with lots of cut and paste. I start to wonder if I should drop out from this workshop as I am the only representative from home. But it is really too late as the air tickets have been bought and paid, the hotel accommodations have been arranged too.
Personally, I am not really in the right mood for this trip. Isa's year-end exam results were quite disappointing despite she has worked hard. Maybe not hard enough but how hard is considered enough? Now we have to consider carefully if she should take up Higher Chinese for the next year.
Also, J's France trip is yet to be confirmed and it has to be completed before our year-end holidays. The last thing I want is after he touches down from France, we are hopping on the plane to Japan the next day!
As I seldom travel alone, the preparation and packing for this trip is really driving me crazy. I need a formal dress for the Opening Ceremony. Am I suppose to wear a cheongsam? I always dress in blouse and pants in my office. Where am I going to find a formal dress? How to keep warm in a dress? Bring a shawl?
The weather pattern in Beijing is just like the unpredictable stocks and shares. Since the first snow fell on 1st Nov, the temperatures have risen a lot. Should I pack my thick winter wear? Maybe bring a normal jacket too in case the weather did not turn out to be that cold. What about the thermal wear?
What about another pair of shoes in case the pair I always wear give me troubles? I recalled during a holiday in New Zealand, the sole of my shoes gave away. Instead of holidaying, J and I were busy hunting for a shoe shop. I did not find a pair of shoes suitable for my size. In the end, I bought the smallest size but still too big for me. Once I reached home, I immediately dumped that pair into the bin. From then onwards, I will always bring an extra pair. Even a pair of home slippers is better than nothing.
Then my digi camera plus its charger, my mobile plus its charger, my heavy laptop plus thumb drives etc. I have been so tempted to buy a lightweigh and trendy net book. But look at the price, it is at least $500 and what am I going to do with it after this working trip? At home, there are already 2 PCs and a laptop; more than enough for everybody in my family. So this net book will soon be left in the dark store room. Ok, I can always save this money for future usage.
Plus goodies/souvenirs for colleagues and family members, I have no choice but to bring a big luggage. This is what I hate most as I always prefer to travel light. I have only 2 hands but I will be bringing 3 things - a laptop, a luggage and a haversack.
My presentation for this workshop? Yes, a few slides of presentation have taken me days to prepare. I must admit it is not of the highest quality as it was done in a rush with lots of cut and paste. I start to wonder if I should drop out from this workshop as I am the only representative from home. But it is really too late as the air tickets have been bought and paid, the hotel accommodations have been arranged too.
Personally, I am not really in the right mood for this trip. Isa's year-end exam results were quite disappointing despite she has worked hard. Maybe not hard enough but how hard is considered enough? Now we have to consider carefully if she should take up Higher Chinese for the next year.
Also, J's France trip is yet to be confirmed and it has to be completed before our year-end holidays. The last thing I want is after he touches down from France, we are hopping on the plane to Japan the next day!
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Snow Fell in Snow Monkey Park
(source : http://www.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/livecam/monkey/index.htm)Snow fell in Snow Monkey Park in Nagano, Japan.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
First Snow in Beijing
(source: http://www.cma.gov.cn/)Just when I start preparing to pack for my Beijing trip, I read that the first snow has fallen in Beijing due to a cold outbreak in the northern region.
I was dropping the idea of bringing thick winter clothing as it is still early November. With this latest news, I have to monitor the weather situation in Beijing carefully.
I am bringing a small luggage since the trip is quite short. I am bringing my laptop for my presentation too. I do not want to bring any unnecessary things.
To pack all the necessary winter clothing into my small luggage would be another nightmare for me over the next few days.
If I come armed with thick jacket and the weather turns out to be just early winter condition, I would be embarrassed by my inappropriate clothing.
November Starts
The presentation on Project L went smoothly on Friday morning. As usual, only 5 officers were selected to attend this presentation. Due to the small size of audience, there was quite a bit of interactions among us. They shared their experience during their sail to Australia. They also shared how this presentation would help in their work which I was quite glad.
After the presentation, while I was waiting for my pre-booked taxi to arrive at Changi Naval Base, there was light drizzle and thunder was heard. I even saw lightning flashes across the sky. This reminded me on the case of a golfer struck by lightning in a golf course. I could not wait to leave this place to meet Isa and J.
We went for an ice-cream in Swensens. We went to Giant to buy our groceries.
The rain got heavier when we were on our way home in the late afternoon.
WHile trying to get away from the rain, Isa ran and fell straight on her left. A happy occasion turned out to be a painful and miserable one.
She has bruises on her left cheek, left elbow and left knee. In a way, I was glad that there was no fracture of bones and she was able to stand up on her own after the fall and also the exam was over. We had a teary dinner!
The next day, to ensure there was no complications due to the fall, we went to NUH. The doctor assured us that Isa was ok except to watch for infections setting in especially for the bruise area on her face.
Saturday was spent mostly facing the tv and laptop!
After the presentation, while I was waiting for my pre-booked taxi to arrive at Changi Naval Base, there was light drizzle and thunder was heard. I even saw lightning flashes across the sky. This reminded me on the case of a golfer struck by lightning in a golf course. I could not wait to leave this place to meet Isa and J.
We went for an ice-cream in Swensens. We went to Giant to buy our groceries.
The rain got heavier when we were on our way home in the late afternoon.
WHile trying to get away from the rain, Isa ran and fell straight on her left. A happy occasion turned out to be a painful and miserable one.
She has bruises on her left cheek, left elbow and left knee. In a way, I was glad that there was no fracture of bones and she was able to stand up on her own after the fall and also the exam was over. We had a teary dinner!
The next day, to ensure there was no complications due to the fall, we went to NUH. The doctor assured us that Isa was ok except to watch for infections setting in especially for the bruise area on her face.
Saturday was spent mostly facing the tv and laptop!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
This week's schedule
Almost another week away from the office!
On Monday, I cleared all my various payments at the banks despite long queues. It is never fun standing in the slowly moving queue in the bank.
Today, J and I took a bus to Philips Electronics Singapore Pte Ltd located in Toa Payoh Lorong 1. J wanted to buy a DVD micro home theater system so that the current old fashioned DVD + mini hifi system can be moved into the master bedroom. Finally he fancied this one :
http://www.consumer.philips.com/c/micro-home-cinema-system/mcd802_98/prd/sg/
I have no strong objections except that my home has collected another big item.
On Wednesday, I plan to make a trip to JNTO Singapore Office located in Hong Leong Building to gather more info for my Japan trip and in particular maps of Tokyo and Kyoto.
Nothing concrete has been planned on Thursday except a final touch-up for my presentation on Project L on Friday morning.
From Friday to Sunday, I will be back to office!
On Monday, I cleared all my various payments at the banks despite long queues. It is never fun standing in the slowly moving queue in the bank.
Today, J and I took a bus to Philips Electronics Singapore Pte Ltd located in Toa Payoh Lorong 1. J wanted to buy a DVD micro home theater system so that the current old fashioned DVD + mini hifi system can be moved into the master bedroom. Finally he fancied this one :
http://www.consumer.philips.com/c/micro-home-cinema-system/mcd802_98/prd/sg/
I have no strong objections except that my home has collected another big item.
On Wednesday, I plan to make a trip to JNTO Singapore Office located in Hong Leong Building to gather more info for my Japan trip and in particular maps of Tokyo and Kyoto.
Nothing concrete has been planned on Thursday except a final touch-up for my presentation on Project L on Friday morning.
From Friday to Sunday, I will be back to office!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Ang Hui Hoon Candace Reis v Public Prosecutor [2009] SGHC 226
Suit No: MA 146/2009, DAC 7404/2009, 7405/2009
Decision Date: 02 Oct 2009
Court: High Court
Coram: Choo Han Teck J
Counsel: Roy Yeo Kan Kiang (Sterling Law Corporation) for the appellant, Edwin San (Deputy Public Prosecutor) for the respondent
Subject Area / Catchwords
Criminal Procedure and Sentencing
Judgment
2 October 2009
Choo Han Teck J:
1 This is an appeal against the learned District Judge’s (“DJ”) decision of 16 July 2009 whereby the appellant, who had pleaded guilty to two charges of forgery for the purpose of cheating under s 468 of the Penal Code (Cap 224, 1985 Rev Ed), was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment on each charge. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. The DJ noted that the facts are sufficiently unique and warrant a lenient sentence but he might have felt constrained in deciding what the appropriate lenient sentence should be. I am of the view that the sentence of 12 months imprisonment was manifestly excessive and that an appropriate sentence should be two months imprisonment for each charge.
2 The offences were committed in March and April 2007. The appellant is the wife of the complainant, Lim Chin Foong. She had misappropriated funds from the complainant’s joint fixed deposit accounts with his mother by forging the complainant’s signature on bank documents. Four other charges relating to the forgery of the complainant’s signature on three insurance policy surrender requests and a letter in respect of a fixed deposit account were taken into consideration for the purposes of sentencing. The total amount misappropriated by the appellant came to S$152,453.22. The appellant used the money to settle personal debts and other expenses.
3 The appellant has no previous convictions for any offence. She claimed, and the learned DJ acknowledged, that some of the misappropriated monies went into meeting expenses jointly incurred by the complainant and the appellant.
4 The appellant had pleaded guilty and confessed her intention to deceive the banks. When confronted by the complainant prior to his making a police report, she had confessed and offered to compensate him although she was unable to do so immediately. The appellant eventually entered into an agreement with both the complainant and the complainant’s mother in which she agreed to forgo her right to claim maintenance for their one-year old child if she was not required to make restitution. The learned DJ was of the view that the complainant’s mother was the real victim in this case as the monies represented her life savings and the agreement reached would be of poor comfort to her. While that may be true, the settlement agreement that the mother consented to was not utterly without comfort to her. It would not be productive to speculate the precise nature of this comfort save to note that, the mother’s loss was not, in itself, sufficient to impose a custodial sentence of 12 months on the facts of this unusual case. For that reason, the sentence here would not be a general precedent.
source: http://www.singaporelaw.sg/rss/judg/64193.html
My Comments:
The culprit was let off lightly and leniently by just a mere 2 months' jail for a misappropiation of S$152,453.22.
How many people are willing to exchange a loss of freedom for 2 months with a whopping sum of S$152,453.22?
Decision Date: 02 Oct 2009
Court: High Court
Coram: Choo Han Teck J
Counsel: Roy Yeo Kan Kiang (Sterling Law Corporation) for the appellant, Edwin San (Deputy Public Prosecutor) for the respondent
Subject Area / Catchwords
Criminal Procedure and Sentencing
Judgment
2 October 2009
Choo Han Teck J:
1 This is an appeal against the learned District Judge’s (“DJ”) decision of 16 July 2009 whereby the appellant, who had pleaded guilty to two charges of forgery for the purpose of cheating under s 468 of the Penal Code (Cap 224, 1985 Rev Ed), was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment on each charge. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. The DJ noted that the facts are sufficiently unique and warrant a lenient sentence but he might have felt constrained in deciding what the appropriate lenient sentence should be. I am of the view that the sentence of 12 months imprisonment was manifestly excessive and that an appropriate sentence should be two months imprisonment for each charge.
2 The offences were committed in March and April 2007. The appellant is the wife of the complainant, Lim Chin Foong. She had misappropriated funds from the complainant’s joint fixed deposit accounts with his mother by forging the complainant’s signature on bank documents. Four other charges relating to the forgery of the complainant’s signature on three insurance policy surrender requests and a letter in respect of a fixed deposit account were taken into consideration for the purposes of sentencing. The total amount misappropriated by the appellant came to S$152,453.22. The appellant used the money to settle personal debts and other expenses.
3 The appellant has no previous convictions for any offence. She claimed, and the learned DJ acknowledged, that some of the misappropriated monies went into meeting expenses jointly incurred by the complainant and the appellant.
4 The appellant had pleaded guilty and confessed her intention to deceive the banks. When confronted by the complainant prior to his making a police report, she had confessed and offered to compensate him although she was unable to do so immediately. The appellant eventually entered into an agreement with both the complainant and the complainant’s mother in which she agreed to forgo her right to claim maintenance for their one-year old child if she was not required to make restitution. The learned DJ was of the view that the complainant’s mother was the real victim in this case as the monies represented her life savings and the agreement reached would be of poor comfort to her. While that may be true, the settlement agreement that the mother consented to was not utterly without comfort to her. It would not be productive to speculate the precise nature of this comfort save to note that, the mother’s loss was not, in itself, sufficient to impose a custodial sentence of 12 months on the facts of this unusual case. For that reason, the sentence here would not be a general precedent.
source: http://www.singaporelaw.sg/rss/judg/64193.html
My Comments:
The culprit was let off lightly and leniently by just a mere 2 months' jail for a misappropiation of S$152,453.22.
How many people are willing to exchange a loss of freedom for 2 months with a whopping sum of S$152,453.22?
Last Week of October 2009
Finally this week starts.
Isa's year-end exam falls on this week. It is a nail-biting week for both the parents and the kid.
Besides stressful, it is also a mental torture as everybody can't wait for this week to be over.
Plenty of programmes and activities have been arranged from 30 Oct onwards.
We will worry about the exam results later.
Isa's year-end exam falls on this week. It is a nail-biting week for both the parents and the kid.
Besides stressful, it is also a mental torture as everybody can't wait for this week to be over.
Plenty of programmes and activities have been arranged from 30 Oct onwards.
We will worry about the exam results later.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Gives Blood Saves Lives
The Mobile Blood Bank is at West Mall, Bukit Batok.
I went to the library in the late afternoon and saw lots of people waiting to donate blood. A friendly volunteer asked if I want to donate.
After pausing for a short while, I decided to donate my blood.
After registration and filling up a questionaire, my blood pressure and haemoglobin were checked. Then I was given an anaesthetic jab which numbed the area around my elbow. A bigger needle was then inserted into my vein to draw my blood. It was painless when the bigger needle was introduced. Soon I saw my blood flowing into the special plastic bag. The colour of the blood was dark red or brown instead of the bright red we saw on the tv programmes. In about 10 or 15 minutes, a total of 450ml of my blood was drawn and my donation was over.
I was ushered to a corner to rest and have some light refreshment.
I am glad I have done a good deed today.
http://www.hsa.gov.sg/publish/hsaportal/en/home.html
I went to the library in the late afternoon and saw lots of people waiting to donate blood. A friendly volunteer asked if I want to donate.
After pausing for a short while, I decided to donate my blood.
After registration and filling up a questionaire, my blood pressure and haemoglobin were checked. Then I was given an anaesthetic jab which numbed the area around my elbow. A bigger needle was then inserted into my vein to draw my blood. It was painless when the bigger needle was introduced. Soon I saw my blood flowing into the special plastic bag. The colour of the blood was dark red or brown instead of the bright red we saw on the tv programmes. In about 10 or 15 minutes, a total of 450ml of my blood was drawn and my donation was over.
I was ushered to a corner to rest and have some light refreshment.
I am glad I have done a good deed today.
http://www.hsa.gov.sg/publish/hsaportal/en/home.html
Friday, October 23, 2009
Impose stricter punishment to those who abuse animals
Occasionally I read from papers regarding some people hitting or ill treating pets, in particular the recent "Pet groomer hit dog, jailed (ST 23 Oct 2009)".
It is real sad to know that some people who deal with animals do not have a love for them. If they do not love them, please do not work in this line as it will be a torture to both the human and the animals.
Animals are similar to us, except they can't talk verbally. They have emotions and feelings. They can feel angry, happy, sad or pain.
Can you imagine you sent your beloved pet for a grooming session and a while later, your pet died?
A post-mortem helps to reveal what has happened to the pet. Whatever justice done can't bring an adorable pet back to live.
I despise people who ill treat pets.
It is real sad to know that some people who deal with animals do not have a love for them. If they do not love them, please do not work in this line as it will be a torture to both the human and the animals.
Animals are similar to us, except they can't talk verbally. They have emotions and feelings. They can feel angry, happy, sad or pain.
Can you imagine you sent your beloved pet for a grooming session and a while later, your pet died?
A post-mortem helps to reveal what has happened to the pet. Whatever justice done can't bring an adorable pet back to live.
I despise people who ill treat pets.
Japan trip - final draft
After days of "hard work", I hope my itinerary can be finalised.
Day 1:
Arrive Narita airport and proceed to Yudanaka (Nagano)
Enjoy a kaiseki dinner in a ryokan in Shibu Onsen.
Day 2:
Visit Snow Monkey Park before leaving for Kyoto.
Day 3:
Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nishijin textile Center, Gion Corner and Nishiki Street Market before going to Saga-Arashiymana for its night illumination in Bamboo Groves.
Day 4:
Leave for Tokyo to visit Asakusa senso-ji, Tokyo's Imperial Palace and a couple of free observatories to have a good view of the densely populated city.
Day 5:
Take a double decker shinkansen to Nikko to have a short walking trail in central Nikko before meeting Ito in the early evening.
Day 6:
Tokyo Disneyland with Ito's family.
Day 7:
Morning flight back home.
Train times have been checked and enquiries on accommodations have been made.
In early Dec, I will do a final confirmation with the hotels.
I have decided to save my Kawaguchiko trip, an overnight train on nobi nobi seats etc for my next Japan trip.
Day 1:
Arrive Narita airport and proceed to Yudanaka (Nagano)
Enjoy a kaiseki dinner in a ryokan in Shibu Onsen.
Day 2:
Visit Snow Monkey Park before leaving for Kyoto.
Day 3:
Visit Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nishijin textile Center, Gion Corner and Nishiki Street Market before going to Saga-Arashiymana for its night illumination in Bamboo Groves.
Day 4:
Leave for Tokyo to visit Asakusa senso-ji, Tokyo's Imperial Palace and a couple of free observatories to have a good view of the densely populated city.
Day 5:
Take a double decker shinkansen to Nikko to have a short walking trail in central Nikko before meeting Ito in the early evening.
Day 6:
Tokyo Disneyland with Ito's family.
Day 7:
Morning flight back home.
Train times have been checked and enquiries on accommodations have been made.
In early Dec, I will do a final confirmation with the hotels.
I have decided to save my Kawaguchiko trip, an overnight train on nobi nobi seats etc for my next Japan trip.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
ningyoyaki 人形焼
After searching for the right Japanese name for the Japanese "cookies" that I like to eat, I found its name - yes, is ningyoyaki 人形焼!
I recalled the stalls in Asakusa senso-ji sell quite a lot of different types of 人形焼. In fact, different prefectures have their own versions of 人形焼.
When I went to Sendai in year 2001, I bought back 人形焼 whose fillings quite different from those in Asakusa senso-ji.
I intend to buy these ningyoyaki 人形焼 as souvenirs for family members, friends and colleagues.
Yummy, yummy, ningyoyaki 人形焼 !
I recalled the stalls in Asakusa senso-ji sell quite a lot of different types of 人形焼. In fact, different prefectures have their own versions of 人形焼.
When I went to Sendai in year 2001, I bought back 人形焼 whose fillings quite different from those in Asakusa senso-ji.
I intend to buy these ningyoyaki 人形焼 as souvenirs for family members, friends and colleagues.
Yummy, yummy, ningyoyaki 人形焼 !
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
"Drop" Kawaguchiko and "take up" Nikko
After days of "struggling", planning and even to the extent of considering an overnight highway bus from Kyoto to Tokyo, I think it is better for me to drop my trip to Kawaguchiko to see Mt Fuji.
Well, I can use this as another reason to visit Japan again in the future.
Ito san seemed very eager to plan both families to go Disneyland together. He is thinking hard how to bring a total of 4 adults and 3 children from his house in Sakura-shi to Disneyland. I do not want to disappoint him and of course, my precious Isa too.
I continued to surf for more info on a day trip from Tokyo.
Maybe I will take the double decker Shinkansen Max Yamabiko from Ueno to Utsunomiya and then Nikko. I know Nikko is famous for its Toshogu shrine but am not that keen but planning a walking stroll around Central Nikko.
Here is the website of Nikko Tourist Association:
http://www.nikko-jp.org/english/access/central.html
Well, I can use this as another reason to visit Japan again in the future.
Ito san seemed very eager to plan both families to go Disneyland together. He is thinking hard how to bring a total of 4 adults and 3 children from his house in Sakura-shi to Disneyland. I do not want to disappoint him and of course, my precious Isa too.
I continued to surf for more info on a day trip from Tokyo.
Maybe I will take the double decker Shinkansen Max Yamabiko from Ueno to Utsunomiya and then Nikko. I know Nikko is famous for its Toshogu shrine but am not that keen but planning a walking stroll around Central Nikko.
Here is the website of Nikko Tourist Association:
http://www.nikko-jp.org/english/access/central.html
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
UNSW ICAS Science
From P3 onwards, Isa took part in the yearly UNSW ICAS (The University of New South Wales International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) Math and Science papers.
For this year, the result for Science just came back.
She did very well for this paper as her score was 32/40 which put her in the top 1 percent of p4 participants in S'pore.
I am very surprised as Isa did not do well in her Science mid year exam at all.
The treat will come on the last day of her Science paper.
What can I gathered from this result?
Since the year-end exam is just round the corner, I can only give her a pat at her shoulder and urge her to continue to work hard for the exam.
For this year, the result for Science just came back.
She did very well for this paper as her score was 32/40 which put her in the top 1 percent of p4 participants in S'pore.
I am very surprised as Isa did not do well in her Science mid year exam at all.
The treat will come on the last day of her Science paper.
What can I gathered from this result?
Since the year-end exam is just round the corner, I can only give her a pat at her shoulder and urge her to continue to work hard for the exam.
Presention for Project L
As part of my job, I have to do a presentation twice called Project L for officers working onboard the ships in a year.
The last one was done in Apr 2009. As it was my first time doing it, I did not think I have done a good job. During that 2 hours of presentation, I guess my audience almost fell asleep, probably due to the presentation was conducted after lunch and the materials were boring.
In addition, I do not know what the audience want or expect to learn from my presentation. After that presentation, it was through chatting with the audience and I got a chance to understand more what is needed from me.
The upcoming one has its date fixed on 30 Oct. This gives me an urge to work towards this deadline. I promised myself that I will deliver a good presentation and I purposely chosen the time slot at 10am. I am sure the audience will be wide alert as they know after my presentation, they can head for their delicious lunch.
After this presentation, I will be able to spend some time preparing for my Beijing working trip.
The last one was done in Apr 2009. As it was my first time doing it, I did not think I have done a good job. During that 2 hours of presentation, I guess my audience almost fell asleep, probably due to the presentation was conducted after lunch and the materials were boring.
In addition, I do not know what the audience want or expect to learn from my presentation. After that presentation, it was through chatting with the audience and I got a chance to understand more what is needed from me.
The upcoming one has its date fixed on 30 Oct. This gives me an urge to work towards this deadline. I promised myself that I will deliver a good presentation and I purposely chosen the time slot at 10am. I am sure the audience will be wide alert as they know after my presentation, they can head for their delicious lunch.
After this presentation, I will be able to spend some time preparing for my Beijing working trip.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
One of the PSLE 2009 Maths qn
Jim bought some chocolates and gave half of it to Ken. Ken bought some sweets and gave half of it to Jim. Jim ate 12 sweets and Ken ate 18 chocolates. The ratio of Jim’s sweets to chocolates became 1:7 and the ratio of Ken’s sweets to chocolates became 1:4. How many sweets did Ken buy?
Ans: 68
Ans: 68
A Short Working Trip to Beijing - part 3
The purchase of air tickets to Beijing is on the way! However, I have yet to finalise my return part.
The Organizer in China has agreed to provide a round trip air ticket, hotel accommodation in a 4* centrally located hotel and meals.
My return home flight is at odd hours. I am seeking permission from the Organizer to stay another night in the hotel. Of course this is to facilitate my transport from the hotel to the airport and also giving myself some time to walk around the city.
The schedule of this Workshop is packed from 8.30am till 6pm daily. This leaves me not much time to wander around and needless to talk about shopping.
I think I can only make a brief trip to Tian'anmen Square if I can stay for another night.
Well, just about 3 more weeks to go before I set foot in Beijing!
Oops! I have yet to start preparing my presentation for this Workshop!
The Organizer in China has agreed to provide a round trip air ticket, hotel accommodation in a 4* centrally located hotel and meals.
My return home flight is at odd hours. I am seeking permission from the Organizer to stay another night in the hotel. Of course this is to facilitate my transport from the hotel to the airport and also giving myself some time to walk around the city.
The schedule of this Workshop is packed from 8.30am till 6pm daily. This leaves me not much time to wander around and needless to talk about shopping.
I think I can only make a brief trip to Tian'anmen Square if I can stay for another night.
Well, just about 3 more weeks to go before I set foot in Beijing!
Oops! I have yet to start preparing my presentation for this Workshop!
Love Our Parents More
I can't help but continue to say How Time Flies!
On 15 Nov 2008, my mother in law passed on and cremated on 17 Nov 2008.
http://bungerstar.blogspot.com/2008/11/my-mother-in-laws-final-moments-part-3.html
Nov is just a few weeks away and unknowningly, she has left us close to a year. Initially she was still strong in our memory. Slowly, days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months and soon months into years.
I am glad that I will be able to return from Beijing in time for her death anniversary.
Let us treasure more on our parents when they are still around.
On 15 Nov 2008, my mother in law passed on and cremated on 17 Nov 2008.
http://bungerstar.blogspot.com/2008/11/my-mother-in-laws-final-moments-part-3.html
Nov is just a few weeks away and unknowningly, she has left us close to a year. Initially she was still strong in our memory. Slowly, days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months and soon months into years.
I am glad that I will be able to return from Beijing in time for her death anniversary.
Let us treasure more on our parents when they are still around.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Ito-san's Invitation - part 3
Ito replied eagerly that Disneyland would not be too crowded on a Sunday and he will be willing to send me all the way to Ueno after our trip to Disneyland. How can I turn him down his warm offer?
Looks like I have to accept his suggestion and where can I have an extra day to be spent in Tokyo?
The options are to omit either the trip to Snow Monkey Park in Yudanaka (Nagano) or Mt Fuji in Kawaguchiko.
I think I may drop my trip to Kawaguchiko and can only see the magnificient Fuji-san from far on the shinkansen.
Right now, I have a more urgent matter to attend to and that is my short working trip to Beijing is postponed to 8 - 11 Nov.
All the admin work has to be re-do.
Calm down, else I will have a heart attack soon!
Looks like I have to accept his suggestion and where can I have an extra day to be spent in Tokyo?
The options are to omit either the trip to Snow Monkey Park in Yudanaka (Nagano) or Mt Fuji in Kawaguchiko.
I think I may drop my trip to Kawaguchiko and can only see the magnificient Fuji-san from far on the shinkansen.
Right now, I have a more urgent matter to attend to and that is my short working trip to Beijing is postponed to 8 - 11 Nov.
All the admin work has to be re-do.
Calm down, else I will have a heart attack soon!
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