To all my friends that are teachers, 'Happy Teachers' Day!' Along with missionaries and nurses, I believe that teaching is truly a call. Well, I'm a teacher as well so I know it very well. Honestly, teaching is a thankless job but at the same time, it is a truly job fulfilling job. A good teacher is liken as a good parent, role model, mentor and the list goes on.....
JOB DESCRIPTION OF A TEACHER
A Teacher's job includes the following:
- teacher- debt collector (forms, moneys, more forms, more monies)
- lawyer (arbitrator, prosecutor, chief judge)
- father /mother/uncle/aunty/maid
- cleaner (sweeps....mops....)
- event organizer (camp, games, xxxxx fairs)
- emcee/stage/manager/stage hand/ sound man (staged event. pls take the word 'staged' literally)
- usher- writer/editor/graphic designer/publisher
- telephone directory/switchboard (responsible busy parents who keep in touch wif kids thru trs...)
- social worker(counsel, counsel, counsel....depressed. teacher. not kids)
- photocopier technician
- tuition coordinator (can help my son find tutor?)
- data entry clerk(cockpit MAINLY)
- auditor (something to do wif SAM)
- craftmaker (specialises in making flowers)
-any other RELEVANT duties
Cyn's Blog, 1st Aug
Took this off Cyn's blog.....Found it very true....Gee....teachers have loads and loads to do....
Hate this conversation.
Random person: So, what do you do for a living?
Me: I teach.
Random person: So, you teacher la?
Me: Yes, I'm a teacher.
Random person: Wah, you teacher very good, right?
Me: Why is it good?
Random person: You get lots of holidays, what?
Me: Really, didn't realised it
Random person: Let me count, 1 week in Mar, 1 week in Sept, 4 weeks in June and then 6 weeks in Dec. Like that, 12 weeks in all...Shiok man!
Me: Guess, you don't realise that teachers have meetings, trainings and remedials during the holidays.
Random person: Is it, meh? But you work only half day what?
Me: Half day? Err....that doesn't exist anymore. We work about 10 hours or more a day.
Random person: Really, meh? Whatever, it is I still think teachers have a good job and salary.
Me: So, would you like to be a teacher?
Random person: Oh, never! Teachers got too much to do, man! Always kena complain, so stressed all the time....
Me: (Rolling eyeballs, what a freaking idiot!)
Well, as teachers we get that all the time. But in reality, the work we do is practically endless and in some ways thankless. Thankless not from the kids and parents. On contrary, the students and parents are always grateful to me for making a difference to their kid. Ha, me not being modest, huh...But it is the top management that do not seem to see some of the hard work that the teachers put it. That was one of the reasons that I left Woodlands Primary School. But no hard feelings now....;)
School in Hong Kong starts tomorrow. I'm getting pretty excited about it. Can't wait to meet the kids. I went for a meeting at work a few days ago and I was given my timetable and calender. Well, was a little disappointed. First, they cut down my hours. In the beginning, I was given 28 periods and then they decided to cut it down to 20 periods. I was like....that's only 10 hours a week. And then the next news....first 3 days, I don't have to teach. Why? I asked...Because teachers will be busy with admin work. I'm like...geee....so much for my excitement....oh well, at least I still get to work and see the kids. I left thinking, this is a great job, so little hours, not much marking at all, all planning can be done at work, no work to be brought home....I better enjoy these 2 years...No sure, how am I going to fit back into mainstream teaching in Spore.
Jackie arriving tomorrow. Nice to see another family member. She's going to see grandma as well. I should try to see grandma as soon as I can. Love her to the bits.
9.35 pm
Hong Kong
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Monday, August 28, 2006
My 2nd Weekend
My second weekend in HK came and went really quick. Went to Mongkok with WK and well, there were too much people...notice, much....it's not many....the amount of people in Mongkok, it's uncountable. There were so much people to the point that WK was a little shocked and scared by the sheer number of people on the streets. It doesn't help as we live in Park Island where there isn't as much people as Hong Kong Island or Kowloon.
WK's cousin was in town and we had dinner with him on Sat night. We walked around Causeway Bay to check out the shopping scene. The next day, we went there early for dinner. Had roast goose.....yummy...But to the issue of eating in HK, people here eat all the time but I still wonder how do they stay so slim....
Went to work for a discipline briefing today. As usual it was conducted in Cantonese. I just sat and listened. Not really sure of what's happening. My head, tried to translate whatever she could to me. After meeting, went to a mall in Tsingyi with WK. There were not as much people there. WK seemed to be able to deal with less people there. Well, WK has to learn to adapt to the number of people in HK if he wants to work here. Still waiting on God on that issue.
7 pm
Hong Kong
WK's cousin was in town and we had dinner with him on Sat night. We walked around Causeway Bay to check out the shopping scene. The next day, we went there early for dinner. Had roast goose.....yummy...But to the issue of eating in HK, people here eat all the time but I still wonder how do they stay so slim....
Went to work for a discipline briefing today. As usual it was conducted in Cantonese. I just sat and listened. Not really sure of what's happening. My head, tried to translate whatever she could to me. After meeting, went to a mall in Tsingyi with WK. There were not as much people there. WK seemed to be able to deal with less people there. Well, WK has to learn to adapt to the number of people in HK if he wants to work here. Still waiting on God on that issue.
7 pm
Hong Kong
Friday, August 25, 2006
More Induction!!!
Woke up at 7.15 to go for another induction course. Gee...More induction! I was looking forward to going to induction to meet my friends and catching up with them. It was good seeing my new friends again. But the induction was so so boring and so far away! Took me more than an hour to get to the school.
We had to go to a nearby mall for lunch. Can't believe that we spent 20 mins trying to get seats at the food court. It was incredible! There's something that stuck me as well. The people in HK eat heaps and heaps. They have huge bowls of rice or noodles for lunch and dinner and yet they stay slim. I wonder how they do it. Must find out what's their secret. Maybe, just maybe one day, I might ask the skinny girl eating a huge bowl of noodles!
Met Babe later to walk around and for dinner. Well, his interview was pretty positive. But we'll leave everything in the hands of the Almighty. We'll see where He leads us.
10.10 pm
Hong Kong
We had to go to a nearby mall for lunch. Can't believe that we spent 20 mins trying to get seats at the food court. It was incredible! There's something that stuck me as well. The people in HK eat heaps and heaps. They have huge bowls of rice or noodles for lunch and dinner and yet they stay slim. I wonder how they do it. Must find out what's their secret. Maybe, just maybe one day, I might ask the skinny girl eating a huge bowl of noodles!
Met Babe later to walk around and for dinner. Well, his interview was pretty positive. But we'll leave everything in the hands of the Almighty. We'll see where He leads us.
10.10 pm
Hong Kong
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Teaching a Child to Fish Instead of Giving the Fish to the Child
Went to another teacher training program today. Well, it was interesting as it is conducted again in Cantonese. The principal stayed throughout the workshop. I was pretty impressed by it. At the end of the workshop, in my limited Cantonese and with translations, I understood that she said that the speaker is teaching us how to fish and not to give us a fish.
While she was speaking, my thoughts drifted to what she said. I agree that as teachers, we should equip our students with fishing skills instead of just providing the fish. What is then fishing skills and what is then giving fish to them? Are we teaching students just to pass and score well for the examinations or are we teaching them how to survive in the world, critical thinking skills? In my opinion, teaching them to pass examinations is giving them the fish. But teaching them how to survive in the world, teaching them critical thinking skills, is giving them fishing skills. It is something for us as educators to think about.
And in 2 hours' time, my babe will be here!!!! Ya!!!!
5.25 pm
Hong Kong
While she was speaking, my thoughts drifted to what she said. I agree that as teachers, we should equip our students with fishing skills instead of just providing the fish. What is then fishing skills and what is then giving fish to them? Are we teaching students just to pass and score well for the examinations or are we teaching them how to survive in the world, critical thinking skills? In my opinion, teaching them to pass examinations is giving them the fish. But teaching them how to survive in the world, teaching them critical thinking skills, is giving them fishing skills. It is something for us as educators to think about.
And in 2 hours' time, my babe will be here!!!! Ya!!!!
5.25 pm
Hong Kong
Welcome to the Family
I went to work today for a staff meeting. It was my first time meeting everyone in the school. Naturally, I was a little nervous, apprehensive and not really knowing what to expect. The principal started the meeting with an opening prayer. It was a pleasant surprise. After that, she started the meeting and she welcomed me to the family. Then, it was time for me to introduce myself.
The meeting went on in Cantonese after I introduced myself. It was rather surreal and I kinda understand a bit of what was being said. I had really nice colleagues who translated bits and pieces here and there. I sat through a 4 hour meeting. Not sure how I managed to do that, plus not forgetting it's in Cantonese. In my limited understanding of Cantonese, the principal welcomed the other newcomers and she went on saying that this is a family and colleagues should try to make an effort to make them feel welcomed. I felt really good knowing that this principal is great. She knows what she's talking about.
After the endless meeting, we had lunch. Before lunch, we said grace. The company was good. New colleagues started talking to me. I could see the effort that they were making. They tried their best to make me feel at home. I am truly grateful to God for giving me a Christian school. I believe that it is His will to lead me to this school. What makes it even more important and evident to me was that the principal's effort to put the message across that Christ is the priority in the school and that He's the leader that we should be looking up to.
Michelle popped by Park Island again to have a look at the apartments. After that we met some girls from Geoexpat for drinks. Colleen came along with us. We went to Lan Kwai Fong. Boy, it was crowded out there. After drinks, we had dinner. It was a good dinner, although, we were harassed by restaurant touts. I'm really glad to have friends like them. We're similar in age and thinking and we gel pretty well. Always nice to make new friends.
And in less than 24 hours my honey bun will be here!!!! So exciting....he's going for an interview as well. So, we'll see what happens. Maybe God is leading us in a different direction. Whatever happens, we're learning to leave things in God's hands. Oh...may not be posting for the next couple of days...Busy with my babe...
12.20 am
Hong Kong
The meeting went on in Cantonese after I introduced myself. It was rather surreal and I kinda understand a bit of what was being said. I had really nice colleagues who translated bits and pieces here and there. I sat through a 4 hour meeting. Not sure how I managed to do that, plus not forgetting it's in Cantonese. In my limited understanding of Cantonese, the principal welcomed the other newcomers and she went on saying that this is a family and colleagues should try to make an effort to make them feel welcomed. I felt really good knowing that this principal is great. She knows what she's talking about.
After the endless meeting, we had lunch. Before lunch, we said grace. The company was good. New colleagues started talking to me. I could see the effort that they were making. They tried their best to make me feel at home. I am truly grateful to God for giving me a Christian school. I believe that it is His will to lead me to this school. What makes it even more important and evident to me was that the principal's effort to put the message across that Christ is the priority in the school and that He's the leader that we should be looking up to.
Michelle popped by Park Island again to have a look at the apartments. After that we met some girls from Geoexpat for drinks. Colleen came along with us. We went to Lan Kwai Fong. Boy, it was crowded out there. After drinks, we had dinner. It was a good dinner, although, we were harassed by restaurant touts. I'm really glad to have friends like them. We're similar in age and thinking and we gel pretty well. Always nice to make new friends.
And in less than 24 hours my honey bun will be here!!!! So exciting....he's going for an interview as well. So, we'll see what happens. Maybe God is leading us in a different direction. Whatever happens, we're learning to leave things in God's hands. Oh...may not be posting for the next couple of days...Busy with my babe...
12.20 am
Hong Kong
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
What is a Home?
I went apartment hunting with Michelle today. While apartment hunting, something stuck me. What is a home? What makes a home? What's the difference between an apartment and a home. What does it really mean by your home country? These questions started to swim in my head.
There were some apartments that we saw and we knew that it's not going to make a home. Well, to a certain extent, when I have a little more money than I had when I was in university, it makes a whole lot of difference. We saw a few studios, and a couple of rooms in a serviced apartment block, instantly we both felt the same thing. It is not a home. I felt that a home is my shangri-la, sanctuary, a healing place and somewhere I go back to rejuvenate. It is not somewhere that I dread going to.
Then the next question, where is my home country then? When I fill up immigration card, what is my country of residence now. Singapore is my first home, in a way, it'll always be. Australia at one point of time was my home country. When I first graduated from uni, I really wanted to stay in Australia as my friends were still there. Over time, the desire to stay in Australia diminished. Then I went back to uni to do my masters. Again, when I graduated, I wanted so badly to stay again as my friends were there. But when I found out that Eve was leaving Sydney, again, the desire to move back to Sydney, died. Now that I'm in Hong Kong, do I feel the same. At this point of time, it is too quick for me to say anything. I like Hong Kong but I don't know it well enough to say that I want to stay here forever....But I guess for the next 2 years, when I fill up immigration card, Hong Kong will be my country of residence.
Michelle got her visa today...She's so happy now. One thing down for her. Had dinner with new friends again. Love meeting new people. 2 days to my babe's arrival!
11.15 pm
Hong Kong
There were some apartments that we saw and we knew that it's not going to make a home. Well, to a certain extent, when I have a little more money than I had when I was in university, it makes a whole lot of difference. We saw a few studios, and a couple of rooms in a serviced apartment block, instantly we both felt the same thing. It is not a home. I felt that a home is my shangri-la, sanctuary, a healing place and somewhere I go back to rejuvenate. It is not somewhere that I dread going to.
Then the next question, where is my home country then? When I fill up immigration card, what is my country of residence now. Singapore is my first home, in a way, it'll always be. Australia at one point of time was my home country. When I first graduated from uni, I really wanted to stay in Australia as my friends were still there. Over time, the desire to stay in Australia diminished. Then I went back to uni to do my masters. Again, when I graduated, I wanted so badly to stay again as my friends were there. But when I found out that Eve was leaving Sydney, again, the desire to move back to Sydney, died. Now that I'm in Hong Kong, do I feel the same. At this point of time, it is too quick for me to say anything. I like Hong Kong but I don't know it well enough to say that I want to stay here forever....But I guess for the next 2 years, when I fill up immigration card, Hong Kong will be my country of residence.
Michelle got her visa today...She's so happy now. One thing down for her. Had dinner with new friends again. Love meeting new people. 2 days to my babe's arrival!
11.15 pm
Hong Kong
Monday, August 21, 2006
Turn My Apartment into a Home
My apartment is beginning to look like a home. Met Michelle for lunch and then we went to immigration to try to sort things out. Total waste of time. Got there, didn't really get to speak to anyone personally...Got a number to call and when we called the lady, all she said was to call back at the end of the week. What a bummer.
We went to PriceRite to have a look at some furniture. After that, we went to Ikea to look at more stuff. I bought a couple of things for my apartment. Cutlery, plates, cups and some stuff. Would love to buy more stuff for the home but I couldn't carry everything home and also, I didn't bring enough money out. Which is good....buy only stuff that's necessary. After shopping, we had coffee at Starbucks.
Got home and started to unpack my stuff. Well, feel so much more at home. Can't wait to get my salary so that I can get more things for my home. Talked to babe...can't wait to see him soon again.
11.10 pm
Hong Kong
We went to PriceRite to have a look at some furniture. After that, we went to Ikea to look at more stuff. I bought a couple of things for my apartment. Cutlery, plates, cups and some stuff. Would love to buy more stuff for the home but I couldn't carry everything home and also, I didn't bring enough money out. Which is good....buy only stuff that's necessary. After shopping, we had coffee at Starbucks.
Got home and started to unpack my stuff. Well, feel so much more at home. Can't wait to get my salary so that I can get more things for my home. Talked to babe...can't wait to see him soon again.
11.10 pm
Hong Kong
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Girlfriends
Michelle and Colleen came over today. Colleen is a Canadian girl. She's also a PNET. Michelle is looking for a place to stay and I offered to bring her around my place. Colleen lives with her parents and she decided to come as well. We had a good time chatting and getting to know each other.
After that, we went to Mei Foo to check out the suburb as Michelle might move there. Mei Foo is probably about 20 mins away from me by bus and train. It's not too a bad place to live. Tried my best to speak in Cantonese to help Michelle speak to the real estate agents. Did pretty fine, I guess. Next, we had dinner at Mongkok. Japanese. Yum....
It was really hanging out with the girls. Nice knowing other people and have a support system. I guess this is especially when I realized that there's a huge possibility that I'll never have such good work mates as I did in Woodlands. Plus, it is worse I'm alone in Hong Kong. Thus, every friend I make is important. In a way, it does feel like going back to undergrad days when I went to Gold Coast alone.
And four days to Babe's arrival!!! Ya!!! Looking forward!!!
11.50 pm
Hong Kong
After that, we went to Mei Foo to check out the suburb as Michelle might move there. Mei Foo is probably about 20 mins away from me by bus and train. It's not too a bad place to live. Tried my best to speak in Cantonese to help Michelle speak to the real estate agents. Did pretty fine, I guess. Next, we had dinner at Mongkok. Japanese. Yum....
It was really hanging out with the girls. Nice knowing other people and have a support system. I guess this is especially when I realized that there's a huge possibility that I'll never have such good work mates as I did in Woodlands. Plus, it is worse I'm alone in Hong Kong. Thus, every friend I make is important. In a way, it does feel like going back to undergrad days when I went to Gold Coast alone.
And four days to Babe's arrival!!! Ya!!! Looking forward!!!
11.50 pm
Hong Kong
First Weekend in Hong Kong
This is my first Saturday in Hong Kong. Morning started off with meeting some expats for breakfast at the cafe in my estate. It was pretty interesting as I met these expats online and it's almost like blind dates meeting. It was good meeting people, especially people that live in my estate. It's beginning to feel like home.
Later in the afternoon, I met Angie, her husband and her sister in Mongkok. We walked through 'ladies market'. Gee...the crowd there is unbelievable. I guess after living on the island for a couple of days and there isn't as much people here, seeing so many people can be a little scary. After Mongkok, and lunch, I brought them to my place for a visit. And then off to Amelia's (Angie's sister) place for dinner. Dinner was yum!!! I haven't had such yummy dinner for a long time....Err, 6 days is a long time, you know!
It's always good to see someone familiar when living overseas. I don't really miss home but once in a while, I do have a 'miss home' moment....5 days to seeing my Babe again!!!
Later in the afternoon, I met Angie, her husband and her sister in Mongkok. We walked through 'ladies market'. Gee...the crowd there is unbelievable. I guess after living on the island for a couple of days and there isn't as much people here, seeing so many people can be a little scary. After Mongkok, and lunch, I brought them to my place for a visit. And then off to Amelia's (Angie's sister) place for dinner. Dinner was yum!!! I haven't had such yummy dinner for a long time....Err, 6 days is a long time, you know!
It's always good to see someone familiar when living overseas. I don't really miss home but once in a while, I do have a 'miss home' moment....5 days to seeing my Babe again!!!
Saturday, August 19, 2006
More Friends
Had the second day of induction today. I'm not sure if it was good or not. It was good making more friends but bad, some of the speakers were so boring! Gosh, it's amazing how I managed to stay the whole day. After induction, I went for a social with the rest of the NET newbies organized by NESTA which is the Native English Speaking Teachers Association. It was good meeting NETs that have been teaching in HK and hearing their experiences. Made plans with a few girls for them to come over to my place on Sunday.
Right now, I'm experiencing my first storm in Ma Wan, the island that I'm at. Honestly, I'm so so thankful that I came home early. I just got home about an hour ago and probably half an hour ago the storm started. I opened my curtains and peered out and I literally saw trees swinging and swinging. The wind is strong and I see lightening every couple of minutes. I hear the ships' horns going off too. Not sure if this is a typhoon. But whatever it is, thank God, I'm home. I originally wanted to meet some other people out tonight but decided against it as I wanted to go to the social by NESTA.
Thanks Yati for the sms....Miss you heaps too! Meeting the other people today made me realized that I miss my friends a lot but it is good as well as I made new friends. I'm getting my support group started.
Right now, I'm experiencing my first storm in Ma Wan, the island that I'm at. Honestly, I'm so so thankful that I came home early. I just got home about an hour ago and probably half an hour ago the storm started. I opened my curtains and peered out and I literally saw trees swinging and swinging. The wind is strong and I see lightening every couple of minutes. I hear the ships' horns going off too. Not sure if this is a typhoon. But whatever it is, thank God, I'm home. I originally wanted to meet some other people out tonight but decided against it as I wanted to go to the social by NESTA.
Thanks Yati for the sms....Miss you heaps too! Meeting the other people today made me realized that I miss my friends a lot but it is good as well as I made new friends. I'm getting my support group started.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Meeting New People
Went for induction today. Thank God, managed to find the meeting point. I have been looking forward to induction. Made a couple of new friends. I was reminded of how God have always been merciful to me in providing friends. I made friends with Michelle. She's from Melbourne. We made plans to meet up on Sunday for dinner. During the introduction, I realized I was the only Singaporean there. There's another Singaporean but she's gotten her Australian citizenship, so she's Australian, I guess.
During the induction, I began to realize how blessed have I been. There were other NETs that haven't gotten their employment visas. And then, Michelle's school doesn't even know what her role as a NET is. On top of that, she has to work alternate Saturdays. Most of the NETs are in band 3 schools. A little information on the banding, band 1 is where the best primary schools, band 2, the middle schools and you get the idea. The school that I work in is probably equalivant to Pei Hwa Primary School is Singapore. Some of the NETs, haven't gotten their calendar and also they have meetings everyday for the next week. I felt truly blessed as I'm like, hmmm, I'm going into school like probably thrice next week and for like 3 hours each day. Some of the NETs haven't found their apartments, no HK Id and also no bank accounts. I felt so grateful. I've got everything done. Thank God for everything.
Angie arrived. Going to try to meet her tomorrow. Got my land line fixed as well. And my Babe is arriving in 7 days!!! Ya!!! God is great and life is good!
9.40 pm
Hong Kong
During the induction, I began to realize how blessed have I been. There were other NETs that haven't gotten their employment visas. And then, Michelle's school doesn't even know what her role as a NET is. On top of that, she has to work alternate Saturdays. Most of the NETs are in band 3 schools. A little information on the banding, band 1 is where the best primary schools, band 2, the middle schools and you get the idea. The school that I work in is probably equalivant to Pei Hwa Primary School is Singapore. Some of the NETs, haven't gotten their calendar and also they have meetings everyday for the next week. I felt truly blessed as I'm like, hmmm, I'm going into school like probably thrice next week and for like 3 hours each day. Some of the NETs haven't found their apartments, no HK Id and also no bank accounts. I felt so grateful. I've got everything done. Thank God for everything.
Angie arrived. Going to try to meet her tomorrow. Got my land line fixed as well. And my Babe is arriving in 7 days!!! Ya!!! God is great and life is good!
9.40 pm
Hong Kong
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Pics
Read the comments that were left by Ariel and Cyn. Well, thanks for leaving post. And Cyn, yes, I can really write......Used to torture my teachers with my long winded compositions. And I guess, writing this blog is actually therapeutic for me. It's my way of relaxing and getting things out of my system. I remember when I was living in Sydney, I would call Eve and talk to her. We'll meet at least thrice a week to have dinner. In a way, she was my therapist. But now, Eve is like in a different time zone.....Well, don't think I'll be having dinner with her soon...Probably in like 6 months. Miss her heaps. Can't seem to figure out a good time to call her as when I'm awake, she's asleep. So blogging is a good way for me. And it's also a lazy way for me to keep in touch with my family and friends.
Started my first day at work today. Went to school at 9 in the morning. Took me only 5 mins from home to school. That means more time for me to sleep! Had a meeting with my head. Did heaps of paperwork. And I really mean heaps. So many forms to fill. Talked a bit of their expectations from me. After the paperwork, I sat in an interview. They were interviewing someone to help me with the lower primary. This came as a bonus to me. Didn't expect that at all. After that, my head, brought me to my seat in the staff room. This is when I suddenly realized that I miss all my pals at Woodlands. The staff room seems to be really quiet. I guess it is still the school holidays. I miss talking to Sharon, Marcia and screaming, 'Ariel, you there? Where's mummy? Want to have lunch?' It's bits like this that made me realize that I really had friends at work. And they were the ones that made life easier at work. Was talking to WK in the evening and it dawned on me that I'll probably not make such good friends at work again.
Moving on, came home at 1pm. It's a short first day. Took a nap and then went out to meet Cara for dinner. I met her online. A nice Singaporean girl. She brought her husband along. I really want to thank God for always providing friends when I need one. Dinner was yummy. I've got induction tomorrow. I'm truly looking forward to it. I wonder, it's been a long time that I've been really excited about everything. Hoping to meet the other NET teachers too.
View near the ferry
Private beach in my estate
The pier where I catch the ferry
View from the ferry. The concrete jungle in front of the mountain.
Night view from my balcony
That's all the pics that I have for the moment. Angie and her hubby is arriving tomorrow. Can't wait. Nice to see familiar faces around. But damn....Got induction tomorrow and then PCCW coming tomorrow from 6 to 8 pm so I can't meet them. I'll see them on fri instead.
11.30 pm
Hong Kong
Started my first day at work today. Went to school at 9 in the morning. Took me only 5 mins from home to school. That means more time for me to sleep! Had a meeting with my head. Did heaps of paperwork. And I really mean heaps. So many forms to fill. Talked a bit of their expectations from me. After the paperwork, I sat in an interview. They were interviewing someone to help me with the lower primary. This came as a bonus to me. Didn't expect that at all. After that, my head, brought me to my seat in the staff room. This is when I suddenly realized that I miss all my pals at Woodlands. The staff room seems to be really quiet. I guess it is still the school holidays. I miss talking to Sharon, Marcia and screaming, 'Ariel, you there? Where's mummy? Want to have lunch?' It's bits like this that made me realize that I really had friends at work. And they were the ones that made life easier at work. Was talking to WK in the evening and it dawned on me that I'll probably not make such good friends at work again.
Moving on, came home at 1pm. It's a short first day. Took a nap and then went out to meet Cara for dinner. I met her online. A nice Singaporean girl. She brought her husband along. I really want to thank God for always providing friends when I need one. Dinner was yummy. I've got induction tomorrow. I'm truly looking forward to it. I wonder, it's been a long time that I've been really excited about everything. Hoping to meet the other NET teachers too.
View near the ferry
Private beach in my estate
The pier where I catch the ferry
View from the ferry. The concrete jungle in front of the mountain.
Night view from my balcony
That's all the pics that I have for the moment. Angie and her hubby is arriving tomorrow. Can't wait. Nice to see familiar faces around. But damn....Got induction tomorrow and then PCCW coming tomorrow from 6 to 8 pm so I can't meet them. I'll see them on fri instead.
11.30 pm
Hong Kong
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Temptations
To all my friends that know me.....I'm a shopper....a compulsive shopper. I buy clothes, shoes, bags, everything.....you name it, I'll find a reason to buy it! Actually, I don't even need a reason to buy anything. I just buy to make me feel happy. Buying makes me happy.
So I went to the shopping mall today when I realized that I used up my mobile phone's credit. I wanted to buy a phone on contract. Was thinking of getting a nicer phone. An excuse to buy a phone! Called Wk and he was telling me to wait so that I can get a better phone. I really want to get the Motorola MNG..or something like that. So I listened to the man...and walked out from the shop. Ha, can't believe I actually did that.
Next stop, Citygate shopping mall. This is an outlet haven!!! Adidas, Nike, Calvin Klein....and I just walked and had a look here and there. Oh, I bought a cordless phone there. Needed one for the apartment. Then I went to the supermarket. The supermarket is huge, huge and huge! And I'm no longer worried if I can't get my western food stuff. Wow..the supermarket is just superb. And it was hard to resist temptation to buy more and more.
Looking at today, I'm so thankful for everything, even when I'm done with not very much money. I'm learning slowly that life is not all about having money and being able to buy. If I'm only happy when I buy something, it's sad. Something is really wrong with me. And I realize that it's time to walk away from buying.....But not sure how long that will last though. I wanted to get a book today, pretty deprived of reading. Was going to get 5 People You Meet in Heaven or something like that. But then again, I think I might already have that book at home. So why the need to buy. Met my friends online. Miss Sharon and Yati heaps... Finally wireless working after I stuffed it up last night. God has truly been great to me
8.45 pm
Hong Kong
So I went to the shopping mall today when I realized that I used up my mobile phone's credit. I wanted to buy a phone on contract. Was thinking of getting a nicer phone. An excuse to buy a phone! Called Wk and he was telling me to wait so that I can get a better phone. I really want to get the Motorola MNG..or something like that. So I listened to the man...and walked out from the shop. Ha, can't believe I actually did that.
Next stop, Citygate shopping mall. This is an outlet haven!!! Adidas, Nike, Calvin Klein....and I just walked and had a look here and there. Oh, I bought a cordless phone there. Needed one for the apartment. Then I went to the supermarket. The supermarket is huge, huge and huge! And I'm no longer worried if I can't get my western food stuff. Wow..the supermarket is just superb. And it was hard to resist temptation to buy more and more.
Looking at today, I'm so thankful for everything, even when I'm done with not very much money. I'm learning slowly that life is not all about having money and being able to buy. If I'm only happy when I buy something, it's sad. Something is really wrong with me. And I realize that it's time to walk away from buying.....But not sure how long that will last though. I wanted to get a book today, pretty deprived of reading. Was going to get 5 People You Meet in Heaven or something like that. But then again, I think I might already have that book at home. So why the need to buy. Met my friends online. Miss Sharon and Yati heaps... Finally wireless working after I stuffed it up last night. God has truly been great to me
8.45 pm
Hong Kong
Monday, August 14, 2006
Long Post
My estate
Everyone, this is going to be a long long post....So either you stop reading now....or brace yourself for the long ride. I've got so much to write today. I guess, when I'm thrown into solitude and also to the fact that I don't have that many friends to call in HK to share my thoughts with, I turn to blogging. I need to talk and no one is going to listen so I type instead.
Day started somewhat fine. Woke up real early and then did some stuff at home before heading out to get my temp HK ID done. Took the ferry ride to Central. While on the ferry, for some reason, I got into a pensive mood and started thinking of things. And that's when I realized how blessed I am. Will write about that later. Got to immigration and that's when the fun begin. Waiting and waiting and endless waiting. Spent more than 2 hours there. At least I got my ID and then next, had to go and open a bank account. Got that done and then off to home. Resisted the temptation to walk around the mall. Am pretty proud of myself. Managed to do that. Got home and then off to the supermarket.
My 'pinkified bedroom
On the way to Central, thoughts came and I realized how much God has blessed me. It's to a point that I felt really crappy when I think of the times that I complain. I remember once watching Oprah and she mentioned how when things are not going well, one should write a gratitude journal. It's to remind you to be thankful for everything. Well, this is my gratitude journal.
This is rank in order. The top being what I'm most thankful for.
1) W.K.
Thank God for providing me with such a patient, wonderful, understanding and everything a wife would want for in a husband. I'm truly thankful that God has provided me with someone who only wants me to be happy. And I can't ask for more. He's been very supportive of all the decisions that I made. Can't ask for more! Babe, love you heaps!!!!
2) Parents
In some ways, my parents may not be the best in the world. But I know that they tried their best to raise up 3 girls into women. It was not easy for them. No matter how hard it got, they made it. My parents are only 50 and they raise 3 girls who are graduates. And Jackie even has a 2nd degree and thankfully, I completed my masters last year. Daddy, you're the man!
3) Sisters
My sisters are the best! We may yell and shout when we were growing up. But when someone messes with one of us....Ah ha.....my sisters will get ya! Thank God for them. It's comforting to know that I can call them anytime and they'll be there.
4) Hobbit
My furry daughter!!! Love her!! Thank God for helping me choose her at the pet shop. Even though she gets cranky and she probably has ADHD, but she's still very special to me.
5) In Laws
My in laws are great. I know that my mum in law finds it hard to accept me as I'm too western and wild for her. But she still accepts me. Wk's aunties are great too! Lok Yee is always there when I need her and she tries her best to explain issues to my mum in law when things get rough. God is truly great.
6) Best friends, Eve, Lina and Stanley
For some, it's hard to find 1 best friend. But I've 3!!! Can you believe it? God must love me and that's why He gave me 3. Or that He knew that I'll be a wreck without them. These 3 people are probably the bestest and closest friends that I'll ever have. All 3 are important. And if all 3 falls into the river....Errr....I can never decide who to save! Anyway, they will probably have to save me as I'm the weakest swimmer! Eve, has been my best friend since uni. Her friendship became even more real when we spent heaps of time together in Sydney when I was doing my masters. It is so hard to be even in the same continent as her, much less the same country! Had a great time last year. Miss her heaps! Love her to the bits! Lina, my dearest and oldest friend. We've known each other since we were babies. She understands what I go through with my family and she has never judged me but took time to listen. She loves me just the way I am and accepts me. And I love the way she is too! Stanley, my best male friend. The guy that I might have gotten married to if I didn't meet WK. Not that I was in love with him, but I love his companionship. He's my rock and he brings me back to my spiritual ground. A brother that I never had. Stan, hardly get the chance to say this, but, I love you!
7) Friends from WDP
It's hard to find friends at work and God gave me friends. I remember during school hols, I'll go on holidays with Sharon and my first travelling partner was Veron. Going to work and seeing the people that I love at work, made work so much more bearable. Love them for being there for me when I needed a shoulder to cry, a listening ear and just for being there for me. I miss them already. People like Sharon, Veron, Marcia, Doreen, Ariel and the list goes on.
8) Surrogate mothers
God knew that I didn't have the best mother in the world, although I know that Mum tries her best. God provided me with mothers. I'm so thankful for Angie. She feeds me with physical food and at the same time spiritual reminders. Aunty Sue, is a great mother too. Always looking out for me. And He sent mothers to me when He knows that I need one.
9) Friends
In God's own ways, I'm beginning to see that He sends me friends at the time when I need someone the most. He has this uncanny way of knowing to send someone to me whenever I'm low on encouragement. Friends, you know who you are....thanks for the encouragements, love, time and everything. I love all of you!
10) Material possessions
God has provided for me so much that I can never be thankful for. He knows all my needs and He'll never be short in giving. It was a hard time last year when I was doing my masters. But in my time of need, He's always there to provide for me.
The list goes on. When something happens, I've realized to just commit everything to God. He'll take care of things. This bit of a song came into my mind...it's bits here and there. And I just did a search and found the song. This song is very meaningful to me especially at this point of time. I've always had a 5 years plan. But at this point of time, my plan is reduced to 2 years. Lord, I'm learning to let you hold my hand. Learning to walk beside, not ahead, not behind and not far from you. I'm still learning...
I Know Who Hold Tomorrow
I don't know about tomorrow,I just live from day to day.
I don't borrow from it's sunshine,For it's skies may turn to gray.
I don't worry o'er the future,For I know what Jesus said,
And today I'll walk beside Him,For He knows what is ahead.
Many things about tomorrow,
I don't seem to understand;
But I know Who holds tomorrow,
And I know Who holds my hand.
Ev'ry step is getting brighter,As the golden stairs I climb;
Ev'ry burden's getting lighter;Ev'ry cloud is silver lined.
There the sun is always shining,There no tear will dim the eyes,
At the ending of the rainbow,Where the mountains touch the sky.
Many things about tomorrow,
I don't seem to understand;
But I know Who holds tomorrow,
And I know Who holds my hand.
I don't know about tomorrow,It may bring me poverty;
But the One Who feeds the sparrow,Is the One Who stands by me.
And the path that be my portion,May be through the flame or flood,
But His presence goes before me,And I'm covered with His blood.
Many things about tomorrow,
I don't seem to understand;
But I know Who holds tomorrow,
And I know Who holds my hand.
11.30 pm
Hong Kong
Sunday, August 13, 2006
In Hong Kong Now
View from my balcony
Finally after the long wait, I'm in HK. It's really hot and humid in HK at the moment. I'm still in the mode of excitement. In my little apartment, it's heaps better than my little studio apartment in Sydney. At least, now I have 2 bedrooms.
Will update another day. It's been a long day and I'm pretty tired. Plus....I need to unpack...Damn!!! Hate unpacking.
Miss WK already.....and Hobbit....
8pm
Hong Kong
All unpacked! Gee....for the first time, I managed to unpack everything within a night! Oh and I changed the sheets and the donna cover too. This is shocking for me. Had a shower and now, I can relax. HK is rather humid. I'm actually surprise that it's that humid. Have to keep the air con on the whole time that I was unpacking. Don't want to think of the power bill when it comes. Brought dinner from the little restuarant downstairs. Think I'm going to be their regular. Adrian called. Haven't heard from him for a while. He's in HK as well. At least my friendship circle is growing. Now, let's see....in HK...it's my laptop that's my best friend. The moment I got into my apartment, I had to turn on my laptop to make sure that the wireless thingy is working. Thank God...If not, I can just imagine....
At this point of time. I'm just so thankful of everything that God has provided for me. Wk, thanks so much for believing in me. Thanks for being patient....You're the best and I looooovvvveeeee you!!!!
My beloved and me
10 pm
Hong Kong
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Less than 24 hours.....
Less than 24 hours, I'll be landing in HK. As with my other moves out of the country, I'm getting mixed feelings again.
I'm going to miss my hubby, Hobbit, family, friends and etc......But at the same time, I'm all excited. I love changes and I love having new experiences. This move is slightly more significant than the moves I made to Australia as this is my first move to an Asian country. It makes it all the more exciting. I remember with the move to Sydney, Eve was there and I was truly looking forward to hanging out with her all the time. But with this move, it's time to make friends again.
Will miss my furry daughter
2.30pm
Singapore
I'm going to miss my hubby, Hobbit, family, friends and etc......But at the same time, I'm all excited. I love changes and I love having new experiences. This move is slightly more significant than the moves I made to Australia as this is my first move to an Asian country. It makes it all the more exciting. I remember with the move to Sydney, Eve was there and I was truly looking forward to hanging out with her all the time. But with this move, it's time to make friends again.
Will miss my furry daughter
2.30pm
Singapore
Friday, August 11, 2006
2 Days Left
Met up with Doreen for lunch. Another catching up session before I fly out. And thereafter, rushed to town to meet up with Jack, her daughter and her godma. Well, it was a nice time spent with them. Haven't seen Jack for about 2 years. Nice catching up.
I have been thinking about this question that everyone poses to me whenever I tell them that I am going away to study or to work. What about your husband? What about him? He's fine and great.....Does anyone really care about me? Everyone asks, what is your husband going to do? You're leaving him behind? Well, when I left for Sydney to study, I only had Eve, my best friend who was in Sydney at that time. Now, I'm leaving for Hong Kong and well, I don't really have a lot of friends there. Have a couple though....And wouldn't it be hard for me? At least he has friends here for support. And what do I have? Just me....Not that I'm complaining as I love changes and new environments. But just wonder, if people do realise that it's me that's going away...
Okie, it's enough of my complains. Aunty Sue called today from Shanghai. She's great! Love her to the bits. Real nice lady. And she was reminding not to bring too much stuff there. She predicted that I'll buy more stuff there. Well, you're spot on Aunty Sue. But I love my bags, shoes and clothes.....how? And now, worse, heard that because of some idiots, there is a possibility that I might not be able to bring my hand luggage up the plane...Gee gee....how do I decide what's important to bring there?
8.41 pm
Singapore
I have been thinking about this question that everyone poses to me whenever I tell them that I am going away to study or to work. What about your husband? What about him? He's fine and great.....Does anyone really care about me? Everyone asks, what is your husband going to do? You're leaving him behind? Well, when I left for Sydney to study, I only had Eve, my best friend who was in Sydney at that time. Now, I'm leaving for Hong Kong and well, I don't really have a lot of friends there. Have a couple though....And wouldn't it be hard for me? At least he has friends here for support. And what do I have? Just me....Not that I'm complaining as I love changes and new environments. But just wonder, if people do realise that it's me that's going away...
Okie, it's enough of my complains. Aunty Sue called today from Shanghai. She's great! Love her to the bits. Real nice lady. And she was reminding not to bring too much stuff there. She predicted that I'll buy more stuff there. Well, you're spot on Aunty Sue. But I love my bags, shoes and clothes.....how? And now, worse, heard that because of some idiots, there is a possibility that I might not be able to bring my hand luggage up the plane...Gee gee....how do I decide what's important to bring there?
8.41 pm
Singapore
Thursday, August 10, 2006
3 Days to GO!!!!
Lunch at Veron's place
Ashton....my cutie
3 days to go to Hong Kong!!! I've decided to restart a blog to keep in contact and update my friends on my transient life.
My transient life.....Had breakfast with Lina, my best friend cum cousin cum the godma of my kids if I ever have them...We were talking about life and I mentioned that I'm beginning to realize that my life is pretty transient. Let's look at my life....Outsourced as a kid....lived with nanny till I was about 5 or 6....And then lived in Spore till I was about 21, moved to Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia to do my undergrad. Two years later, I graduated with the intention of working and living in Spore. Then, at that time. the job market was bad. Then, I went to Perth for 10 months to live with then boyfriend, now husband. Back to Spore for about 7 years and then last year, packed bags for Sydney to do my Masters. And now....3 days left to HK...and not even sure how long will I stay there for...
After breakfast, I had lunch with mates from work. I'll really miss them. Mates at work really make a huge difference. Thanks friends, for making a huge huge difference to me! Love you guys heaps and heaps!!! Going to miss you!!!!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)