I just found this website, The Friday Five, from a link on another blog. The questions this week are exceptionally pertinent to my site, so here goes (even though it's not Friday):

1. Do you like to shop? Why or why not?
Of course I love to shop, didn't you see my alias? Why? Because it generates feelings of happiness and euphoria unwrapping my purchases and trying on the clothes to see what it matches. New clothes also makes going to work more of an incentive when I get to show them off.

However, I have been saying it to Su and other friends that I have been so uninspired lately. No new clothes to wear! (Gosh, I'm sounding like a bimbo...hahahah, but being bimbotic can be fun at times)

2. What was the last thing you purchased?
Sadly (because it's been a long time), my S&K pink outfit.

3. Do you prefer shopping online or at an actual store? Why?
Actual store. You get to try it, silly.

4. Did you get an allowance as a child? How much was it?
Yes, $0.60 increasing to $1.20 a day when I was in Primary School.

5. What was the last thing you regret purchasing?
Haven't made much purchases lately, so likewise, I can't remember anything I regret.

# posted by Shopaholic : 6:03 PM

This article is specially for Workaholic, who is into maintaining her eyes:
Bags under the eyes are a beauty disaster. Get rid of puffy eyes, and dark circles with these tried and tested solutions.

Dark Circles
Unfortunately there is no overnight cure for getting rid of undereye circles. You can conceal them with makeup, but if they keep appearing, it may be a hereditary problem. The good news is, you don't have to be stuck with them.

What Causes Them
It can range from lifestyle habits to genetics. Lack of sleep is a major reason as is a poor diet, and too much exposure to the sun.

However, dark circles may also be inherent in your physiological makeup. Increased skin pigmentation (melanin), dilated blood vessels, and excess skin folds in the eyes are all examples of hereditary causes.

How To Get Rid Of Them
Go on a detox diet consisting of plenty of fruits, and green leafy vegetables. Avoid drinking too much tea or coffee, and drink at least eight glasses of water per day.

Undereye creams and skin lighteners used daily can help as well. Nothing works better than a concealer for a quick fix.

A more permanent way to rid yourself of dark circles is to either get a chemical peel, or laser treatment.

Puffy Eyes
Also known as bags under the eyes, puffiness or fullness under the eyes is usually temporary and can be dealt with quickly.

What Causes Them
A mild case of puffy eyes may be due to weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, or allergies.

Lifestyle habits that cause them are a salt-rich diet, poor circulation, fluid retention, and drinking too many carbonated sodas.

How To Get Rid Of Them
The quickest solution is a cold compress over your eyes as soon as you wake up in the morning. Chilled tea bags can be extremely effective.

Exercising regularly can help promote blood circulation and aid the lymphatic system to dump excess fluids.

Remove salty foods from your diet as this only causes excess fluid retention, and cut out carbonated sodas completely from your diet for the same reasons.

# posted by Shopaholic : 1:21 AM

More on Jac. I really admire her courage for not following the Singapore Plan. She studied architecture in University but dropped out after 1-2 years to become a fitness instructor. From then on, she ventured overseas (Taiwan) on fitness related jobs and studied more on such topics. And now, she's a freelancer working for a company distributing gym gear in Singapore, teaches classes in gyms and is basically living life the way she enjoys. Me? I don't have the guts to step out of the path. It has been instilled since young that to have a good life, you need to have a degree, you need to get a stable job which promises good future returns, you need to get married to a good man and settle down in a house which you spend 20 years paying for.

Another of our ex-JC classmate, Kar also recently gave up her Media firm job to study film-making. I wish, really wish, that I have the guts to follow in their footsteps. It would be heavenly to throw in my resignation letter on Monday and just go abroad to further my studies, take on a totally different subject, or to get a job which would give me the opportunity to see the world. However, there is too much at stake. To do so is to basically throw away what I have been working towards. I just handed Boss my application for a professional certification which requires her testimonial and signature on Thursday.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:47 PM

Yesterday evening, I dropped by a poolside party at St Gregory's spa (theme was Salsa and some other things I can't remember) on the invitation of an ex-JC (Junior College) classmate, Jac's invitation. She is managing a booth at the party selling Gym gears. The clothes are quite nice, reminds me of Lorna Jane's products, but a tad expensive. Even after a heavy discount she gave me, the gym pants costs about S$50+, so I didn't buy anything in the end. Nic-aholic and me also got a tried out a shoulder massage demonstration by St Gregory Spa. Painful!!! Maybe because it's supposed to be a balinese massage? Gobbled down some food at the party before we departed to meet the rest of the gang for the night.

We were supposed to have gone to Insatiable's house for a house party but several people were down with sore throat and cough so we veto-ed the idea. Had dinner at Scott's food court (I had dessert) and stopped by Zara after that, but I simply don't dare to look too much at clothes until the debts are cleared. We then proceeded to Starbucks for coffee. Hahaha, we are such gluttons. Our outings are inevitably centered around food and drinks. There was an interesting insight over drinks which I shall not elaborate on.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:24 PM

2nd Boss was on course yesterday and gave me and Su a quiz to do to determine our behavioral patterns when he got back. In the end, he took the opportunity to allude that I am too detailed in my work, a pet complaint of his. Details is an inherent requirement of my job! If I am not detailed enough and they subsequently ask a question which I did not look into, I will get hell for not being thorough enough. So, tell me, what am I supposed to do? I lose out both ways. And the bastard must have told tales about this to Boss. Problem with the whole department is, the Bosses do not come outright and tell you where you have gone wrong and what you can do to improve your work, but they make backhanded criticisms as such.

2nd Boss also just won the 4D (form of lottery) and promised to give me and Su a lunchtime treat next week. Sure, he can be nice in his own ways but I just cannot stand the way he handles work matters. So unpro(fessional)! And it is so peaceful in the office without him yesterday. He loves to talk loudly on the phone when it's regarding work so that Boss can hear in her room. Being that Su and I share and open space office with him, it's rather annoying and distracting when we need to concentrate on our work.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:02 PM

I just received the results for the 2 exam papers I took last month! Surprisingly, I scored better for the 2nd paper which I didn't study as much for due to lack of time. 89 and 96, I'm now feeling a sense of achievement...... hehe. Most important of all, I get $$$ as reward from the company.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:30 PM

Which power would you choose if you can have one of the Charmed ones' powers? I would definitely choose the power to orb! No more crammed MRT trains and squeezed buses stuck in traffic jams. hmm, or maybe power of prediction? To open up my eyes to which man is worthy. Power to freeze time? Then maybe I can stall a bit and finish up my work while my bosses freeze. I think orbing is more practical.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:21 PM

Ohhhhh, Andrew finally tells Jen he loves her. What a bitch Kristen is. In front of him she says, "What matters is your happiness. That's the most important." 360° change in the car, "I feel sick thinking about him (Andrew) and Jen. Knowing that he might be proposing to her right now makes me want to throw up." Sour grapes!

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:15 PM

Thanks to Cootietushie for the compliments, it's nice to know that people actually notice when I add new stuff. I try and improve the look as and when I learn new techniques or get inspirations from other blogs. haha. You can add the wordings on the bottom bar if you like too, just cut and paste the script to your template. Let me know and I will email it to you.

And EVERYBODY who's reading this, PLEASSSSSSSSSSSSSSSE go and SIGN MY GUESTBOOK and put your little dot on the guestmap. It looks so bare now.

# posted by Shopaholic : 6:13 PM

Gist of the story: This year, each of us are going to come up with a wishlist and everybody has a fixed budget for each person. Presents will be chosen from the wishlist and we can combine to buy a bigger gift if need be. Deadline for submission is 1 Dec 2003 (but I very much doubt it will be kept). So, in the upcoming weeks, wishlists will be posted here and on Ginvie's blog.

Shopaholic's Super Wishlist
Ok, this is my super wishlist which is out of the budget but will be put up just in case anybody strikes lottery or feels extraordinarily generous. Official one will come later.

1) The geek in me wants the Linksys Wireless-G broadband router WRT54G and USB network adapter WUSB54G or Ethernet Bridge WET54G. (Most of you must be going, "What the heck?" by now. haha) I want these things to link up to my brother's broadband wirelessly so that I don't have to plough along using the 56K dialup.

2) The materialistic part of me wants branded stuff!
a) b)

c) Dior new pink and white design

d) Burberry classic print black rims long wallet

e) LV Epi leather long black wallet

3) A car. Any car. As long as it can be driven.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:46 PM

Arrrrrrrgh, a volcano is building and threatening to erupt on the surface of my cheek!!!

Absent-minded me. I forgot to pack socks for gym today, for the umpteenth time!!! I refuse to have to go out and get a new pair each time I forget so I attempted to run without socks. Lasted only 20 min before I couldn't bear the friction on my soles which is now blistering.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:17 PM

Have tons of work to finish because I'm starting a new project next week, so I'm EXPECTED to clear up the current one by hook or by crook. Whatever. Probably shouldn't be blogging now, but I need a break from all those documents and numbers.

I have a craving for Haagen Dazz ice-cream recently, particularly strawberry flavour (Yum yum, chunks and chunks of strawberries) and it's becoming more pronounced. I have cut back this indulgence to maybe about twice a year in view of my dieting efforts. The sweet tooth is aching to be fulfilled though. Think I will buy a tub home one of these nights. After gym, of course, then I won't feel the guilt as much.

Lunchtime debate. People can be divided into 2 categories: 1) Those who must engage in all sorts of activities during the weekend in order to feel good. 2) Those who are contented to sleep in and rest and relax. Contention is that if the extreme ends of this 2 kinds of people come together in a marriage, a lot of compromise has to be made in order for the relationship to work and to grow because the more hyperactive partner would always be wanting to do more.

Me? I'm the sort who would be happy to sleep in the whole day and watch TV, occasionally venturing outside.

# posted by Shopaholic : 5:47 PM

Oh man, it's a holiday and I'm down with flu. Sneezing my guts out since morning. Even the drowsy medicine only helped for the 2 hours it knocked me out for. I hate all these disgusting mucus, I must have used up an entire box of tissue.

# posted by Shopaholic : 3:32 PM

It might sound old-fashioned, but I think the saying "Do unto others what you would others do unto you" (correct?) is very true. I try, but I might not be able to keep to it at all times, and for that I apologize. There are people who have fun at the expense of others, who say mean things and do not realize it themselves but I don't think it's necessary to be mean in order to be witty. For the sake of harmony, I do not retaliate. That doesn't mean that I'm incapable of doing so or that it doesn't annoy me.

# posted by Shopaholic : 10:47 AM

In a relaxed mood as tomorrow is a Public Holiday!!!

Boss just got in because her son did not do as well as expected in the PSLE (Primary School Leaving Examination). Call me mean, but serves her right. She's always bragging about how obediant and smart her children (one son and daughter) are when in fact, they are rude and arrogant brats (yes, even at such young age!). She's now trying to save face by explaining that he might have been too creative in his composition.

I'm looking forward to watching Spanish Apartment (French film fest) tonight! Was somewhat disappointed when we didn't manage to catch it last week.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:41 PM

I'm quite obssessed with blogging now, my latest craze. Hope I don't bore you people out. haha. I got a hit from Portugal, amazing.

Her World (female magazine) is giving a free bag with this month's bumper issue and it's been selling like hot cakes. Nic-aholic and me have been looking around for ones with the free red bag this whole weekend, and my dad just found 2 for me from 7-Eleven! I also helped my 2nd-in-command boss get a light blue version for his wife. He mentioned that she was also looking for one while in the office last Friday. Must "por" (butter him up) him a bit once in a while and hope that he will not make my life so miserable, even though it goes against my nature. My inclination is to show him a black face and tell him to f*** off, to be a man and not to always fall asleep at his desk after lunch, to tell him that it's quite obvious he's putting up a show when he zooms off immediately after big boss leaves, that we can also see him surfing the football websites when he's supposedly working hard. But I believe in restraint.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:09 AM

Taiwanese tourists hit with virus in Bali. Luckily we didn't go to Bali for Sleepaholic's birthday in the end, mainly because I've already visited the place earlier this year. I think it's a wonderful place: cheap bargains (shawls, beachwear etc), cheap food, cheap spa, cheap transport.

# posted by Shopaholic : 10:37 PM

Yeah! I'm going to Genting for a weekend in Dec. We were planning on a short trip for Sleepaholic's birthday which didn't materialize in the end because of various reasons on the side of various parties. Point is, none of my friends are particularly interested in Genting because they feel that there isn't much activities going on there. But what kind of activities do you need when you have a MAJOR attraction there?

So, I am quite excited when my mom asked whether I wanted to join the family for a weekend trip to Genting. It probably isn't a very good interest to have, some would even call it a vice, but I love to gamble. It's heart-stopping-action, especially if those chips pile up in front of me! I love Chinese New Year because that's the season when I have the most number of "kakis" (i.e. gambling partners), where people open up their houses as "gambling dens". I love playing mahjong and I love card games. However, I see gambling as an occasional indulgence and not a habit.

Back to Genting. I used to try and sneak into the casino before I reached the legal entry age and more often than not, was stopped at the entrance. It was only early this year that I can saunter in openly. That was exhilarating!

Hopefully, I will have a windfall this time round, enough to sponsor all my Xmas expenditures!

# posted by Shopaholic : 1:55 PM

Congratulations!
Your IQ score is 127

This number is the result of a formula based on how many questions you answered correctly on Emode's Ultimate IQ test. Your IQ score is scientifically accurate; to read more about the science behind our IQ test, click here.

During the test, you answered four different types of questions — mathematical, visual-spatial, linguistic and logical. We analyzed how you did on each of those questions which reveals how your brain uniquely works.

We also compared your answers with others who have taken the test, and according to the sorts of questions you got correct, we can tell your Intellectual Type is Visual Mathematician.

This means you are gifted at spotting patterns — both in pictures and in numbers. These talents combined with your overall high intelligence make you good at understanding the big picture, which is why people trust your instincts and turn to you for direction — especially in the workplace. And that's just some of what we know about you from your test results.

Accurate? Perhaps this is why my friends are always saying that I went into the right profession for me even though it is the ultimate word in boredom.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:02 AM

I was checking my credit card balance online and saw an annual fee charged to my credit card this month. So, I called up the bank expecting to have to go through a lengthy discussion to persuade them to waive the fee (I redeemed my points for a shopping voucher last month so they couldn't deduct that, hehe). However, the moment I said the magic words "annual fee", the customer service officer instantly knew what I wanted and asked me for my details. He made a last ditch attempt to get me to cough up the money by offering me a free bag if I paid the fee, but I declined. Finally, he ended the conversation with "Your annual fee has been waived. We hope you will continue spending on the card." Short and sweet, the whole process took less than 3 minutes.

But then, considering that I concentrated all my shopping payments on this card (which is a considerable amount!) why wouldn't they want me as a customer? Besides, I pay all my bills on time and have never defaulted. All those banks who rejected my applications? Big mistake! They lost out on a valuable customer!

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:07 PM

Just came back from lunch with Su. We tried out the "Popular Hock Lam Street Beef Kway Tiao" (Who calls themselves popular?) at Far East Square. It's in all those foodie shows and got awards like King of Kings in the Channel U Yummy King and Channel 5 Makansutra. Very smooth Kway Tiao, tender beef and soup which is just right, not too strong-flavoured and "herby". Plus, it's value for money, lots of ingrediants for a $4 bowl. Defnitely worth repeat visits.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:45 PM

This morning, I logged into my blog and saw only a picture there on my URL which wasn't even posted by me in the first place! Huh??? Hacked??? Can't be, why would anyone hack a small blog like mine? Even if they wanted to have fun, they would be trying on those big corporations.

So I drafted a nice "help me" email to the blogger support team and got a very speedy response from them:

"Because of an obscure bug in our Blog*Spot system, on rare occasion you might encounter someone else's blog or image when attempting to view your own. This bug corrects itself after about a minute, so please be patient and try reloading after 60 seconds or so.(yes, we do plan to eventually fix this!)"

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:01 PM

I want to try the newly launched G-Max at Clarke Quay- Singapore's first reverse bungee-jumping machine!!! Although it doesn't really seem like bungee-jumping, it does appear exciting enough. Anyone up for it?

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:30 AM

Meet the parents session. Andrew Firestone just brought Jen and Kristen back home to the vineyard to meet his parents. This episode brought out how contrasting and diverse these 2 women are. Jen is so genuine, she gives the feeling that she is sincerely interested in getting to know everyone and integrate into the family. She's like the sun who brought smiles and laughter. On the other hand, Kristen is more concerned about letting the family know her. Like Andrew's sister said, she talks a lot, but is there really substance behind the talk? Vivacious, stunning, gorgeous, beautiful, these are merely words to describe her outward appearance. Jen generated adjectives such as warm and comfortable.

How will Andrew choose? For those of you do not know the outcome, let's just say I think he made a wise decision.

On another note, having been brought up in the bustling city life of our little island, I would love the experience of living in such a place with plenty of fresh air, surrounded by the beauties of nature and having seemingly limitless space on which to roam. The closest I had to that was when I was on a farm stay during my Australia tour several years back. For me, that was the highlight of the tour. Perhaps I can retire there?

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:07 AM

One minute I was paying for my comments subsciption through Paypal, next minute I received an email from my company IT department informing that there's a virus spreading via Paypal email. Can you imagine my horror? I was so worried that I might have infected my work computer, which might then have spread to the whole company through the LAN system, which would put me in deep shit with my boss for unauthorised usage of company resources, I was scrambling to update my virus definitions, scan my computer etc. Only later, when I read that you have to open an attachment in the email to activate the virus, did I heave a huge sigh of relief.

# posted by Shopaholic : 5:56 PM

They're young, rich and have well-known surnames. But are they brats?

Some people are just BORN lucky. You feel a bit unbalanced reading about such people in our midst. Jealousy and envy? Totally. I know people who act like they are superior to others just because they have parents who give them money to burn. But they are not, and the arrogance is not from their own merits which makes it unjustified.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:38 PM

Sooooo tired. I just spent 4 hours helping my Uncle HJ set up his internet connection. He asked a friend to custom-build a computer for him and bought an ADSL modem. This is the third time I've tried to set up the internet connection in 2 weeks. First time was unsuccessful because the username wasn't activated yet. Second time was because the computer was hit by the blaster virus the moment we logged onto the internet. Today, I managed to remove the virus but still couldn't resolve the problem. The dialer kept disappearing after I restart the computer. Finally, after spending 4 hours downloading 47 MB of Windows Updates and installing an anti-virus program, I got it working (turns out there was another virus). By then, I was unable to make it for coffee with my friends.

Uncle HS also approached me to help him with his income tax filing as he's fined because of late submission.

I have no idea since when I've been appointed the administrator for my extended family. Official mails for everybody came to me, I have to fill in all sorts of application forms and during the income tax submission this year, I submitted 5 at one go via the net. Sometimes, I feel like asking them how they managed to get through all those years without me doing these stuff for them. They managed to do it before, they should still be able to do it now right? I think they just come to me because of convenience.

However, other than the occasional whining to my mom, I do these things for them willingly because they help me in times of need too. When my dad's car is not readily available, I can approach my Aunt PT and Uncle HJ to borrow their cars or for lifts. When my Uncle HJ striked 4D (lottery), he gave me a fat ang bao (red packet) and my Aunt PT always help me to buy my eye solutions near her workplace as it's cheaper. My grandma will save any chicken thigh or fresh prawns for me when I go over for dinner (they live in the block opposite mine) because I like them.

I know that when I have any problems, I can always go to my family for help. Similarly, I will help them when required. But that doesn't mean I will stop complaining about these inconveniences, especially when my Uncle HJ keeps bugging me. hehe.

# posted by Shopaholic : 10:35 PM

We had an early celebration for Sleepaholic's birthday last night at Zouk Winebar and Velvet. The place was unusually quiet for a Saturday night. Birthday gal declared a "blue" theme and we all had to turn up with something blue in order to enjoy a round of free drinks on her. Plenty of alcohol flowing around but somehow, the atmosphere sort of fizzled out when we went into Velvet. But as usual, sexy lady attracted 2 caucasians who tried to pick her up.

We also ran into a secondary school classmate whom we've recently established a connection with on Friendster. I found it interesting to meet up with a friend after 10 years and caught up with what he has been doing. It makes me reflect on how I have changed as well, my ideals when I was younger and whether my life has turned out the way I have expected it to till this point.

# posted by Shopaholic : 10:07 PM

I've been downgraded to the basic version of my comments service after 2 weeks trial. Now in the process upgrading it to the pro version so please bear with it for a while.......

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:10 PM

I finally caught the Matrix Revolutions tonight, by pure chance. Our first choice is Spanish Apartment and then Kill bill. Spanish Apartment had a short run apparently, and Kill Bill was sold out in the only theatre it's shown in. So we ended up in Cathay Cineleisure watching Matrix Revolutions.

Surprisingly, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Perhaps because I've read and heard so much bad reviews about it, I went in without much expectations. True, it didn't answer the philosophical questions of the universe. But seeing that I can't even remember who The Architect is from the previous Reloaded ( think that was the part I fell asleep in), it doesn't matter to me. What it has, is an unrelenting pace and amazing special effects. The battle between the Sentinels and the Zion defenders had me and Sleepaholic on the edge of our seats and a woman on my opposite row screaming every 5 seconds (yes, screaming!).

Some parts are unnecessary, I admit. Like what is that little gal's purpose in the movie? But on the whole, I enjoyed it more than Reloaded and felt that it ended the trilogy with a "bang". Perhaps the real fans of the show are disappointed because the trilogy went a different direction than what was hinted in the first Matrix.

# posted by Shopaholic : 1:16 AM

From Mydaemon
Ah, Shopaholic... my fellow trooper through the same sec school, JC and uni. She's one cool lady who doesn't bat an eyelid at skipping classes or exams (beat that)! To me, she will always be the one who actually understands xxxxxx despite missing all the lectures. Shopaholic has grown to become a dear friend thru the years. Enjoyed the laughs we had and would love to compare notes with her on the latest TV drama series!

From Nic-aholic
Hey, we go way back to our secondary school days, remember her as one of the "notorious Four", the pack of girls who were always in the forefront of fashion, colouring her hair even though it's against the school rule! Now, she is the TV and drama serials queen, always keeping me updated on the best dramas/shows that is available, my fav tv critic! The cool, logical one, I can always depend on her on whatever accounts, funds, insurance issues I may have. Mark my words, her advice are worth listening! Oh yah, we both share a passion for KFC.. nothing but the Original, rite gal?

From Kar
The never dying romantic... who drools over "shuai ges" (cute guys) and I bet an ardent follower of the Jap and Korean dramas. Hee. Shopaholic... one of the best "zuo bo" (stoning) partners one could ever have. Always enthu(siastic) about playing bridge or tai ti (card game). haha. half sleeping in class... yet always manages to pass exams... hee. very easy to get along...

# posted by Shopaholic : 9:02 PM

Mr Alcoholic
The party animal who clubs, drinks and basically loves to have fun, Mr Alcoholic might seem flighty to new friends. However, he has his serious side and is sincere to friends. A great buddy to have, he's a smart guy whom you will not run out of topics with.

Ms Workaholic aka Ashz aka sexy lady
One of my oldest friend from sec school. I've seen her evolve from the sporty runner to the sexy lady she is now. Ms Workaholic not only looks perfect at all times, she is an extremely loyal friend, intelligent, witty and the ultimate PR in our group.

Ms Nic-aholic aka Ginvie aka Cootietushie
Another of my oldest friend, Ms Nic-aholic is quirky at times. She will do what she believes in despite other people's opinions, which displays her confidence. She can be philosophical and moody, but yet, she is the most willing to explore friendships with new people.

And of course, her darling is Mr Insatiable aka NTSM.

Ms Sleepaholic aka Trolly-Dolly
Ms Sleepaholic's fair "guniang, i.e. ladylike" appearance, often mistaken as the Winter Sonata (Korean drama serial) actress, hides a strong- willed and determined personality. She is lively with a cheery smile and we spend hours hanging around, chit- chatting about life in general.

Mydaemon
A wacky gal I've known since sec school. It was in uni that we grew closer as we went through countless tribulations and slam the education system together. Mydaemon has a great sense of humour and never fails to lighten up my day with her jokes. I remember times when we were laughing uncontrollably in public places where other passerbys probably thought we were crazy.

# posted by Shopaholic : 9:02 PM

Ever since I finally made the decision and joined the gym in Sept, I have embarked on a fitness regime, working out 2-3 times a week with my 2 gym buddies, Ms Workaholic and Ms Sleepaholic. Mr Alcoholic and Ms Nic-aholic belongs to another gym.

Choice of gym is because the locations are more accessible for me and most importantly, I can join on my company's corporate rate.

Main purpose? To lose weight and to tone up. Results after 2 months? Lost only a kg but built a bit more muscles. A bit disheartening that I'm not getting the effects I had hoped for. Oh well, at least I feel healthier than I have ever been.

Back in those school days where we were forced to take Physical Education (PE) lessons, I used to conjure up all sorts of excuses to skip the class, especially when we were supposed to do the 2.4 km run. I remember an occasion when I did one round around the track and then ran straight for the toilet to hide when the teacher wasn't looking. I hate the feeling of being all sweaty and panting and basically, looking like a mess. So, it's an accomplishment for me now to be running on that treadmill 3 times a week, 45min each time. I still count down to the last 10 min, but at least I'm no longer giving up halfway.

However, it's a bit hard to sustain these gym trips as I need plenty of rest and relax (and TV) time which the gym time eats into. Sometimes, I just feel like going home, have dinner, curl up in my bed and veg out. So, we have to resorted to cutting out gym classes these last few times in order to finish early. I enjoy those body combat and yoga classes, but I enjoy my sleep more. haha.

Take this quiz to see whether you are a gym addict. I got 5/7, which is fairly all right.

# posted by Shopaholic : 8:37 AM

Both my bosses not around today, one of whom is on urgent leave and I had the luxury of a 1 1/2 hour lunch. Ate with an ex-colleague who was on leave and came by to catch up. We dropped by our old company which is just opposite where I work now. The atmosphere is totally different when you no longer work at the place. You don't feel the stress of being there, you no longer feel antagonistic towards your old manager and you can even joke with them about the boss' mean behaviour (who is not around, of course).

# posted by Shopaholic : 5:44 PM

Email received:

People come into your life for a Reason, a Season or a Lifetime. When you know which one it is for a person, you will know what to do for that person.

When someone is in your life for a REASON, it is usually to meet a need you have expressed. They have come to assist you through a difficulty, to provide you with guidance and support, to aid you physically, emotionally, or spiritually. They may seem like a godsend, and they are! They are there for the reason you need them to be. Then, without any wrongdoing on your part, or at an inconvenient time, this person will say or do something to bring the relationship to an end. Sometimes they die. Sometimes they walk away. Sometimes they act up and force you to take a stand. What we must realize is that our need has been met, our desire fulfilled, their work is done. The prayer you sent up has been answered, and now it is time to move on.

Some people come into your life for a SEASON, because your turn has come to share, grow, or learn. They bring you an experience of peace, or make you laugh. They may teach you something you have never done. They usually give you an unbelievable amount of joy. Believe it! It is real! But, only for a season.

LIFETIME relationships teach you lifetime lessons: things you must build upon in order to have a solid emotional foundation. Your job is to accept the lesson, love the person, and put what you have learned to use in all other relationships and areas of your life. It is said that love is blind but friendship is clairvoyant. Thank you for being a part of my life.

I would say that colleagues and most friends are there for a season, to accompany you during that part of your journey of life. Some closer friends I have now, I hope that they would be lifetime relationships. But the thing is, you won't know till the end whether they are.

I sent this to Someone when I got the email previously. I told him that there was a time when I thought he was there for a lifetime, but I turned out to be wrong. Now? Seems to be here another season, but perhaps I'm having difficulty accepting that fact and letting go.

But whether it's love or friendships, both are fragile. It takes sincerity and work from both parties to maintain either.

# posted by Shopaholic : 5:49 PM

Came across this report in the Straits Times on oral sex ruling in Singapore. It's quite shocking that in this day and times, oral sex is still considered an offence with maximum penalty of lifetime jail term. Plus, a woman even "sabo" her unfaithful husband by performing oral sex on him and then reporting him to the police. What a way to get even!

# posted by Shopaholic : 7:53 PM

Just woke up from a great night out. Instead of the usual "stoning" at wine bar, we brought the wine to alcoholic's house and and a blast drinking and playing some "drinking games", one of which is the 1-100 game on the Sunday Taiwan variety show, quan neng zhong yi tong. We ended up downing 5 bottles of wine between 8 of us.

I think I must have at least 1 whole bottle, considering the number of times I seem to "hit the number on the head". But unlike the previous times, I think I held my drink quite well this time round, at least there was no head spinning or disgusting puking! Unlike Ginvie's NTSM! haha.

And alcoholic was so excited about the game at one stage he got red wine all over my Mango cardigan and spaghetti top. I don't know how it happened. One minute I was talking to Ginvie and next minute, I was splashed with the wine! Anybody who knows any surefire way to remove wine stains, do let me know. I love the colour of that cardigan.

We took tons of pictures. Someone even showed more flesh then he should by accident! And ginvie and NTSM were openly admitting what a satisfying s** life they both have! LOL.

It was indeed a refreshing change from our usual Friday dinner and drinks routine and we spent a lot less money too! Shows that we don't always have to be at clubs to have fun, just hanging out with a bunch of close friends can be just as entertaining. (Plus get everybody high enough)

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:59 AM

I received this email today, written from a man's pt of view:

IT’S no secret: Men do lie. But, believe it or not, we do it to our women folk without any intention of deceiving them. We have noble objectives. We lie because women can’t handle the truth. So instead of speaking plainly, we say a silent prayer as we turn fact into fiction while keeping our faces straight. For to speak the truth, particularly about women’s weight and appearances, can be hazardous to our health. I don’t know about you, but I don’t wish to be: 1. Hit on the head by her handbag; 2. Given the cold shoulder for the rest of the day, or 3. Kicked out of bed and having to spend the night alone on the cold, living room couch. Now, before you call me a congenital liar, allow me to reassure you that I will raise my hand and confess my guilt if I have forgotten to lift the toilet seat cover. Or even write countless lines as punishment so that it will not happen again the next time nature calls. And, yes, I will readily admit to not feeding the luohan and pet cat as Manchester United goes in search of goals in extra-time. Yet, when it comes to matters of the scale, I will not tell the truth for I believe that discretion is the better part of valour. This is a truly weighty issue. One that can crush a man if he dares tell the truth. Who says women do not have egos? This scenario is being played out in countless homes every day: She says (for the millionth time in a week): Have I put on weight? He says: Of course not, dear. It must be the unflattering dress. She says: But you were the one who picked the dress! He says: Well, it must be the lighting then (and proceeds to the kitchen to stay out of trouble). Sounds familiar? Well, of course. No matter what they say, I have yet to find a woman who insists on the truth when the needle threatens to burst out of the weighing machine. Sometimes I wonder if they know what a weighing machine is. All you have to do is stand on it and it tells your weight. Not a kilogram more or less. The scale does not lie. So why the need to ask the men in their life whether or not they have put on weight? I suspect that they want us to lie. Right, ladies? What about this scenario? She says: What are you looking at? He says: Nothing. She says: You were looking at that girl, right? He says: What girl? Oh, that one. Man, she has an ugly nose. Did you see her handbag? It certainly does not match her clothes. Yucks! Often, that last line is enough for the smile to return to her face. When I was younger and more naive, I often wondered why women glared at me whenever I commented that they looked good with the additional kilograms. It didn’t matter that I was sincere. So now, I have perfected my Oscar-winning act. Even if they are double the size they once were, I’ll exclaim: "Wow! You look fantastic! Which gym do you go to?" Most times, they fall for it hook, line and sinker. In the office, female colleagues have no qualms ridiculing the guys on how we have ballooned since we first walked into the job. But when we tell them the same thing, we get a stream of curses such as !#@*. Now, I know better. Call me a coward, but I never tell a female colleague that her once petite butt is now the size of Roseanne Barr’s. For women, it’s all give and no take as they certainly can’t handle the truth (this also applies to cooking). So yes, it is no secret that men lie - but only for the women they love. Note: Adam has found the woman of his dreams with the perfect genes. She has miraculously stayed in shape since the day they met. Bless her.

I agree with him on some points. No matter how feminist a woman claims to be, we still like to hear nice, pleasing things! You can sweeten up such things certainly, but lies on major issues are totally unacceptable. Men should learn to differentiate between the 2.

# posted by Shopaholic : 4:14 PM

My hot pink outfit!

According to Ms Workaholic aka sexy lady, she spotted it in a socialite magazine Tatler, worn by an actress. Oh well, at least it was a socialite magazine eh? Maybe I will be spotted in one some day. I wish! My ultimate fantasy is to live the tai-tai lifestyle of mahjong, high teas, gym, jet-setting. One can always dream right? ;-)

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:35 AM

People who know me well would know that I'm a TV addict. I must get my daily dosage of the little black box. My room is well-equipped with a 21-inch Thomson TV, a Sharp 6-head video recorder and a Philips hi-fi/VCD player. Every morning, before I do my 200 metre rush to catch the train at the designated time, I would set the VCR to record all my favourites. Occasionally, I will forget to set timer option after that, which would cause me grief and disappointment later.

Shows I'm religiously following at the moment:
1) Holland V 7pm
2) Police show on channel U 9pm
3) Friends first season rerun (I didn't watch that season)
4) Charmed
5) Bachelor
6) Lawyer show channel U 7pm on weekends
7) Sun morning HK show

And these are excluding the variety shows I catch when I am home, plus all those VCD sets I buy or which other people lend me. (My aunt is a constant supplier of funny korean shows.......she's an even greater fan of those korean hunks then I am! hehe)

Where do I get the time to watch all these shows? Normally I need my fix for an hr before I sleep and in the morning when I'm preparing for work while I pack, change and do makeup.

# posted by Shopaholic : 12:10 AM

I AM DONE WITH EXAMS! For now, at least. Still got 6 more papers to go before I get the certification.

Back to my twice/tri-weekly routine of gym today with my usual gym buddies, Ms Workaholic and Ms Sleepaholic. As a result of my relative "inactivity" this week, I couldn't sustain my 45 min on the dreaded but needed treadmill today and gave up at 30 min. Quite disappointed with myself.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:58 PM

I want to ZZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. But I can't. I mustn't. I must perservere!

And comments is back up. yeah!

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:11 PM

One down, one to go! (haven't studied for that at all, I'm going to have a hard and tiring time today.) Have I mentioned how much I hate exams???

The comments website is down and causing my blog to stall when loading, so I've temporarily disabled it.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:52 AM

In response to the list on nic-aholic (hehe) aka ginvie's site (http://ginvie.blogspot.com/), here's mine:
1. J

Zilch, that's it. Boring eh? I should have more fun.

# posted by Shopaholic : 9:51 PM

Spent some time on Sun updating my blog's look instead of studying. hehe. I'm a closet geek, had so much fun fiddling with the html and learning how to add images. Thanks a lot to mydaemon, she was my "online faq" ;-).

# posted by Shopaholic : 9:02 PM

Goal:
Wednesday - Subject A, 17 Chapters, 3 yrs' past papers
Thursday - Subject B, 24 Chapters, 3 yrs' past papers

Time remaining:
Sunday - Whole day
Monday - have to work (clear up project and meetings set)
Tuesday - Hopefully, I can take leave.
Wednesday - half day after morning exam

Completed today:
Subject A - 3/17 Chapters, not much.....I only started after dinner.

I must admit, I'm a huge procrastinator when it comes to studying. It can be put on hold for so many things: meals, TV serials, surfing the internet, even blogging! But last minute stress can have amazing effects on my efficiency, most of my revision for Uni exams is done the day before exams. Perhaps that explains the kind of results I get. haha.

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:05 PM

hehe, I fell asleep, as usual. Don't know why, these thick textbooks seem to have sleep induction abilities. Maybe some sort of hex has been placed on them?

# posted by Shopaholic : 6:26 PM

Now trying to get myself in the mood for studying, which from past experiences is going to take some time........

# posted by Shopaholic : 11:04 AM