2008 Last Glimpses

I feel an urge to write a year-end entry for all the blessings the past year. 2008 is a crazy and memorable year for me. Never imagined that my life in SG would be like this.

Work
It was only in 2008 that I can finally say to myself that I establish the confidence in what I'm doing. Previously working in a pampered environment, it's like I was working on a superficial and macro-level, touching just the surface. Now I got to witness a project from requirements gathering down to development, SIT, UAT and production cut-over. I was there from start to end, from higher level to knitty-gritty details. I became part of 2 major challenging projects that really push me to think beyond. I saw my manager defending for my ratings with the country manager, and I really felt moved as it was the first time I saw a person speaking on my behalf for what I deserve. Unfortunately I didnt get the monetary compensation for that due to recession (hehe bad timing!). Still, there are things in this world that a higher paycheck can't buy. We'll see, cant really say, I still have to have a back-up plan if things go wrong, which might be soon.

Back to School
I managed to squeeze in 2 marketing modules from NUS ext. I never really imagined that I'd be going back to school. It was fun putting your focus on something OUTSIDE work, and to realize that your brain is still functioning properly. Research, writing papers, preparing for presentation and exams - all these things seemed so far away and I'm glad I was able to do it again. My creativity skills were challenged. Though tiring to juggle work and studies, it was a rewarding experience.

Leisure Courses Overload
Checking my records, I enrolled in 7 short courses (8 sessions each) and 3 workshops (just 1 session each). Wheew dont know what was in my head. Beat that :p. There's always something to do, something to learn. I am becoming a jack of all trades. (and a master of none!) So hard to remember if you don't practice.

Resto Cooking
Seafood Cooking
*Rice Dumpling Making Workshop
*Mooncake Making Workshop
*Baking Workshop

Pilates
Social Dance
French
Korean
Guzheng

I think I had already posted a blog entry for some. I'd do some backfill for those I havent when I have the time.


Concerts
I watched 11 concerts in 2008 :p With or without companion, rain or shine, nothing stops what my heart desires.


I Keep Coming Back
Recalling my vacation trips, I realized I was in Manila for 5 times last year :p (Jan, July, Sept, Oct, Dec). Thanks to everyone who made my 2008 special.

2007 is all about adjustment. 2008 is like exploration to me, a 2nd childhood perhaps :p. And as 2009 sets in, I'd make sure it's a different me. A stronger, wiser and more beautiful me. Dare me. (That's the spirit!)

I have an assertive female ex-colleague who once told me, 'Some things come with with maturity, come with age'. Now I slowly understand what that means (I hope).

Let me end the blog with a picture, a nice sunset in Bkk. I like it because it exudes life's simplicity. Simple joys from watching sunrise or sunset. Simple me without any make-up or porma get-up. Free of cares and just simply enjoying what life has to offer. And that's just the essence of it. Let go and let God. Cheers 2009:)