From My Heart

I've spent the whole morning traveling for meetings with customers. I love meeting new people, asking about their lives. I love working on my little business. There're major, major reasons. Firstly, things are done just the way I like it. Secondly, there're no red tapes. So once upon a time, managing a project could mean sourcing for information from various departments, awaiting for answers, putting the information together to make a decision, then proceed. But in a small business, there're minimal red tapes so time is actually invested into getting things done in a short span of time. In the case there're inefficiencies, processes can be revamped on the spot for faster reaction time. Thirdly, I'm not confined to product A, B and C only. I can make create product whenever opportunities arise. Fourthly, new organizational structure can be created that deem fit our respective talents (meaning, just Bryan and myself). I'm good with talking to strangers and I've experiences in PR and trade marketing. So I'm in sales and marketing rolled into one. Sales just means getting new sales. Bryan is very detailed, organized, extremely careful and a great artistic flair. He's a Production, Customer Service and Graphic Designer guy rolled into one.

I'd have gone into another marketing role and not tried sales, if not for this small business. I think I've a personality that fits better for a sales role 'cos it's much more fun not to be deskbound. Plus I enjoy giving good service and it makes me happy. If all things go well, I really hope to continue with the business with Bryan and grow it for the rest of our lives. I think I might have found my calling.

Boys Like These

I quite like boys that look like these.

Young Bryan & Jamesy

Bryan's going to kill me but here's a photo of him in his younger days. Seated bottom right side next to Best Friend, James. Funny thing is, I knew James when I was about 5 or 6 years old through the Hongkie-tong clan. I found my friend when I was 18 in Junior College. Then through him, I found Bryan, my obsession in when I was 18, or 19. Then through Facebook, Bryan found me when I was 23. Here we are again in Hong Kong (bottom picture), 25 years of age, indulging in our current obsession - alcohol.

Adam Lamber's Groin

...is the first place I set my eyes on. Now, that's one guy who won't settle for being ordinary. I've much respect for people like that.

Will You Have Sex On This Date?

Monday Night Run

Night run with Wei Kwang and Jinfu was a lot of fun. Wei Kwang's been asking me to join his Monday night runs since last year and I've been procrastinating and making loads of excuses because I'm so lazy. Today, I was feeling a little down and needed to get out, see some friends and get some adrenalin pumping, so I thought why not? We ran from our campus to Zouk, pass Clark Quay and back. I wish I've joined 'em for all the Mondays I've missed because it's such a beautiful route. We had an awesome Thai dinner at Bencoolen to end the night. I'm looking forward to Monday already :)

Sunday Tea

It's a rainy and cold Sunday. Today, my work place is at Bryan's place alone. He has gone to off to camp. His parents were out. I'm here, getting some work done while sipping a cup of tea. It's quite a nice feeling to be working from a home that's familiar, yet not my home. How's your weekend?

Smile More Please

That's for myself and for you today =)

Chose Your Neighbour - Ned vs Homer

Hey, can I ask you a question? If you were to move into Springfield and the only vacant homes are 1) right next to Homer or 2) right next to Ned, which one would you purchase? I was asking Bryan that very seriously. He said we discuss the most nonsensical stuff in the most serious manner. He chose Ned because it's safer. Homer's home might go into fire any moment, thanks to his retarded actions. I think I wouldn't mind living next to Homer 'cos he's such an awesome guy. Ned's "Heidily-hey Toodiliy-doo!" annoys the shitass out of me sometimes. Who would you pick for a neighbour?

A Toast To Being Awake

I'm proud to say I've started exploring my life since August 2009. It has been a scary journey, though I don't talk about the process much. There's so much questionings and self-doubt. But at least, I'm awake. At least I've stopped going through the motions of the day because I'm expected to. This month onwards is picking up and the future out there is for us to carve. Cheers and toast to that. My aim is to travel around the world in 3 year's time with a passive income.

For now, I'll head to Clark Quay for a beer break.

A Moment To Remember

I just saw A Moment To Remember on TV. It's a big deal for me because I don't normally watch romance, especially Korean ones because the couples are either permanently crying, or that they were long-lost brother and sister who fell in love with each other. Something along those lines. Anyways, this movie caught my eye because I love the way it was filmed. Very poetic. Very metaphorical. Plus Jung Woo Sung is bloody hot. The movie explores the theme of discovery in a relationship and the burdens of loss caused by Alzheimer's disease (I conveniently lifted this from wikipedia).

It ask the question, what would you do if you'll soon lose the memory of the one you love most? Will you stay or will you leave? If the person you love doesn't remember you someday, what will you do? I try to have an opinion of this but can't seem to. It's a big deal because I've an opinion of everything in the world.

Did I ever share that one of my biggest fears in the world is losing my memory? (Cockroaches rank second). I fear that because it means I'll lose my focal point in the world. I'll have no sense of who I am, and I'm afraid of hurting people who love me by not remembering who they are. Perhaps that's why I was so mesmerized by this movie. It explores what I ponder about sometimes. Plus Jung Woo Sung is really rape-worthy hot as a carpenter.

Rolling Stones Night

I didn't grow up listening to the Rolling Stones but I've always thought young Mick Jagger is quite hot. He's got the swagger and attitude face. Anyways, it was Rolling Stones Night on American Idol last night. Tim Urban sang Under My Thumb and it sounded a little painful. Maybe like 5 fingernails crawling over the blackboard. It's not just the voice, but the overall delivery was quite weak. I thought I'd do him justice, and YouTube the original. Thank God I haven't heard the original before, or I'd have smashed my TV last night. I've started listening to a few Rolling Stones songs and they're pretty darn delicious for the ears.

Of Ants & Bananas

Hello! Long time no chat. Here're some random updates.

• I'm alive
• I'm mad busy
• I tour around Singapore past week like a hardcore tourist for meetings
• My business is still in supplying quality t-shirts and premiums. It's growing healthily. If you need my wonderful service, please do drop me an email.
• I haven't been going to the gym and I miss spinning.
• I played tennis once last week and I got trashed by Bryan. But that's not exactly news.
• I pick up the habit of beer/wine drinking as I work. The idea of it gives me a bigger kick than the alcohol content.
• My mother has flown back to Hong Kong, so I'm more free to have dinner and drinks with friends.
• I wish to color my hair blonde.
• I'm quite upset Lily Scott was voted out on Idol.
• I think American Idol is rather bland and boring this season.
• I think Simon Cowell leaving the show is a smart move.
• I think a drunk and high Paula is more entertaining than Ellen being funny.
• I'm seriously considering buying a car.
• I've Japanese Curry Beef Rice Set for lunch and it's super yummy.
• My dad is going to give me two bottles of red wine.
• I bought 5 boxes of frozen wanton because my mom's not here to cook dinner for me.
• I'm wondering how the print industry (magazine specifically) is going to survive next year, once Apple pushes the tablet out into the market.
• I hope you'd contact me if you're organizing any forms of events.
• I hope you'd send my contacts to your friends if they need t-shirts, jerseys or premiums.
• I know I'm very shameless in my marketing efforts, but life's tough. I'm just finding 3 meals a day.

Mono, St James

We've a tiring work week, so we hung out with Teddy, James and Wensi on one of the nights at Mono Bar at St James. It was my first time drinking Macallen and it's so bloody awesome 'cos the whisky is so damn smooth. Mono has a fantastic set of sound system, in fact, the best I've tried. After a few swings of whisky coupled with highly emotional songs, the night have officially started. Wooohooot!

p/s I realized that I can't take late nights as well as few years back. Is it sign of aging?

Love Story

There's something very heartwarming about these photos. I'm not sure if these are from a film, music video or a movie...but I think there're many ways to interpret this love story, isn't it?

I wonder, if my life's random snapshots are laid in front of me in a scattered pile, I wonder if I'm able to arrange them in order. I wonder too, how I'll interpret them.

{images from weheartit}

Put On A Shirt

please put on a shirt

We were running ironbra for our own self-indulgent jokes and art. Then of late, we've expanded to supplying and printing corporate events tees, class tees, CCA shirts, sports jerseys, sweaters...even shoebags, towels, laptop bags etc.

So we set up Singapore T-Shirt Studio.

We've been rather busy of late. Customers are rolling in for our service but we've yet to find the chance to tell our friends.

If you know anyone who requires t-shirts or premiums, please do refer to us. We're more competitive because we've machines and productions, without the overheads of a store. Also, we provide basic image editing for free, which can be quite a bitch and hassle.

We print t-shirts in wholesale quantity; or for individuals who wish to make quality, retail-cut t-shirts with their own graphic designs or photographs. If you require one of the followings, please drop us a note 'cos we'll like to see how we can be of service!

• Retail t-shirts
• T-shirts for corporate events
• CCA t-shirts
• Class t-shirts
• Camp t-shirts
• Customized t-shirts for weddings
• Polo tees
• Sports jerseys
• Dri-Fit shirts
• Others: towels, shoebags, laptop bags
  

Why It's Good To Engage Us?

1) We're cheaper. We're an online shop with our own machines, hence fewer mark-ups. The lack of a brick & mortar store also means we have less overhead cost. All of which translates into more competitive prices for you.

2) We convenience you. Singapore is not a very big island, so we do free local delivery to your mailing address or we can do meet-ups at a central location.

3) We can handle last minute requests. We're flexible and work 7-days a week. If you have a super last minute request (say, you've designed a shirt for your girlfriend's birthday and need it urgently), we can rush it out for you, even over weekends. You can pick it up at a convenient location.

4) We know what looks good. If you enjoy exhibiting your individuality with your own designs, we can make the t-shirt for you on a quality t-shirt. The t-shirts are fitting and made of soft, comfortable cotton that is perfect for our hot weather. We have tailored packages for all t-shirt whores who love wearing their own art on t-shirts.

5) We do free basic image editing. Not everyone is familiar with image-editing software. Not to worry. Just send us what you have, tell us the effect you're going for, and we will see how we can help you.

6) Our lines are open to you 24/7. Call us directly from 10 am to 10 pm, or if you have a burning question in the middle of the night, feel free to sms us from 10pm to 10am.Contact nos: +65 9002 9609 (Bryan) or +65 9423 6747 (Kitty).

Or you can email your enquiries to

Bryan - bligy@hotmail.com

Kitty - hallokittylo@gmail.com

Visit Singapore T-Shirt Studio

{image from weheartit}

Matching Books

Few days ago, Bryan came to my place and sat at my study table. He took a book from my table, then sat at a corner to read. I was at the living room, and I took a book from the sofa to join him. I opened the book, but the page that was folded was not where I stopped. Creepy fact was...we were reading the exact same novel, but taking each other's book thinking it was ours. What is the probability of that happening?

p/s We were reading After Dark, by Haruki Murakami.

{image from weheartit}

What Are You Drawn To?

Let's sum it up. Here are some inputs from friends when I asked what I can do for my life: Being a DJ, an events organizer, being on TV show, a fashion mogul, a full-time blogger, a martial art expert and "go and get a bloody job" (my favourite one). I know I am supposed to know what I want to do. I thought I did. But what I really want is to wake up each day, jump out of bed and scream like an overexcited Japanese Executive, "Let's do it! Gambafuckingteh!" and fall asleep saying "Wow! What a day..."

I have no idea what kind of job allows for that, hence, I started pondering. But like all love affairs, the heartbeat and fluttering butterflies probably last a short while. You'd die of a heart attack if you experience that daily. I bet neither Andrew Zimmern nor Oprah Winfrey feels that way in every filming session.

So I think I'll just pursue the things that I really want to do at the back of my head at this moment, stick to it, and let's see how it goes. I can always change my course over time. I supposed it doesn't matter. People don't grow up being Oscar Award winners, Steve Jobs, creating Homer Simpson or even being a Xiaxue. They are drawn towards things that they fancy, tried it and stick to it.

What's most depressing is, most people I know go through life without ever stopping to consider what they are drawn to.

What are you drawn to?

{photo of us fooling around}

Thinking What I'd Do In Life

I've been cracking my head like crazy, pondering what to make out of my life. It's not about sitting there, wondering if I should head to gym class tomorrow. But it's like, what choices should I make, what directions I should head. Have you once properly sit down to figure what to do with your life? How do you know what you're doing is what you truly desire for yourself? Forget your role in society for awhile. We always want things based on our roles as daughter, student, employee... But if you move out of yourself, and observe yourself as though you're another person, where will you put this person? Where do you see her?

That's the shit hole I've been staring at the whole day. I don't mean I am that shit hole. Surely, I embarked in a t-shirt printing business, for more opportunities to work with younger generations because I like them more. I like to being involved in projects of young adults, who are designing their own class t-shirts, sports t-shirts etc and getting all excited over it. If possible, I'd love to teach a group of two how to run a t-shirt business, so they could make money by printing for their peers.

Because of that thought, it made me wonder, yes...what could I do to spur more enterprising spirits within our young adults? I like 'em so much, not in a pedophilliac way but they are so full of energy and full of fun. I confess I eavesdrop on their conversations on the streets because their jokes and nonsense are so bad that it's funny.

Then, I thought I'd employ what I've learnt in SMU, and pass it down to the young by conducting workshops. Then, I start questioning myself, who am I to pass down what I think is right? Plus, if students are too enterprising, teachers and principals will start hating me for their students earning $10,000 a month and failing their 'A' Levels.

Then, I thought okay, maybe I should be a teacher. I gave a call to Alvin, who is a teacher who thinks that I'm not cut out to be a teacher. He said I'm the sort who will hang the kid upside down and smack him on the butt if I have to explain a theory for more than 3 times. Patience is key, he said, and patience is not my virtue. Alvin is right, I've to say. So I text Esther a message, and she thought I'd be a lousy teacher. Yea, instead of benefitting our great and bright generation, I'd end up screwing up their lives. She suggested I go back to my cut-throat corporate life because she sees me as an executive for my "ambition, drive and strategical thinking". Hey, I quoted her. You've friends who think you're an idiot but you also have friends who think you're great, right? Well, I've two years of corporate life. It's my time to explore now and I am doing exactly that. So, no being teacher, and no to being an exective for now.

Skip. Then, I thought I'd write a novel instead. But I hate it if I have to sit there every single day, typing. Sure, I love storytelling and I love words, but I really can't see myself sitting there everyday. I'll wither and die if I can't go out to meet people. Not that you can't...but I'd rather have a job/career/business that allows me to interact.

Then, I want to be a wedding organizer. Because it'd make me happy to see young couples walk down the aisle, staring at each other with love and knowing I contributed to their special day. But I hate dealing with crazy people, from past experiences. And I know how crazy brides can be.

I even have the crazy idea of running a daycare center for little children. Instead of forcing 'em to catch up with homework, I'd get them to do Show & Tell, drama and singing, so they can articulate their thoughts better. The theme of their drama is "I Love My Daycare". They can practice the lines over and over to their parents. Fantastic marketing. Then Alvin's words rang through my mind...

Which made me realize how retarded most of my ideas are. Eventually, I talked to Brenda, who's running the successful rope sports business with her boyfriend. I asked her why she had jumped into it, no pun intended. She said there's many things we want to do but if we try to do everything, we'd end up doing nothing. Since I thought of a list of stuff I want to do, every item must be derived from some form of desire within myself. She say stop wasting time deciding. Just decide and stick to it.

So I came out a list of stuff of what I think I like -

• Talking (the more nonsensical the conversation is, the more I enjoy it)
• Having fun with friends, strangers and family
• Having a sense of control
• Not being limited to a fixed routine
• Thinking about myself, like now
• Collecting moments
• Exercising - must do everyday
• Having abundance of energy (and money too)
• Interaction with people
• Positive thinking
• Value adding to society (yes, cross my heart, it's true and don't laugh)

But I can't come out with a list of stuff I'd like to do. Maybe I should have a list of stuff I fancy myself doing, then get a monkey to throw a dart at it and see which spot it hits. Brrrr... Life's a little complex. So friends, what ideas do you have for me?

Designer Tiny Apartments

Here's another apartment that's tiny but beautifully done up. I love the details that contribute to the cosy environment of house - ladder, art on wall, the lights, stylish wallpaper, colorful pillows...They've even got a mini "open closet" with the little rack in the bedroom too. You can see more photos from FresHome.

Thoughts

I think starting a business has been one of the biggest adventures of my life. Some days, I wake up thinking I'm really brave. Some days, I wake up, wishing I've a 9 to 6 job instead because at least the income is stable, but I'd confine myself to my work station and office schedule. Then I'd sit there and wonder if I am capable of building anything for myself. Hey, I'd like to see myself as the adventurous sort. Instead of pondering, why not take action? It's great because...

• My income is dependent on how effective I work, so I really stretch my own imagination and capability. I have grown out of my comfort zone by miles in recent months.


• I can work out my muscles everytime I feel stuck, once I've sweat it out, I work much better. My colleagues will think I am crazy if I start doing sit-ups by my table.


• I can pack up and go for short holidays whenever I want to. No need to get approval for my entitled leave. Just need to tell my customers.
  
• It humbles and excites me; because most people don't give a damn, and you need to how to figure how to make people give a damn about you.


• Some nights, I work till 3am because I'm inspired and write some really inspirational shit that even surprise myself.
  
• I drink wine and sing rock songs as I work. Nobody glares at me.

How's that for now?

{image from weheartit}

March's Resolution: Keep Drinking

It's so hot of late that I think I'm dying from the blazing heat each day. I never have the habit of bringing bottled water to the drink, but thank God, I brought one to spinning class today. I think I'll grab a bottle of water to run next time. At least I can train my arms and hydrate at the same time.

Designer Small Flat

Finally, I've found a chic home that is the space of a Singapore's HDB flat. I love the idea of having a small couple table in the kitchen, and a round table for four outside to host other couple. You can see more pictures and reviews of this home from Design*Sponge.

Static Work Out At Home

I've a good-for-nothing left knee, ever since I've mildly tore my ligaments twice when I was training competitive ultimate frisbee. At times when I run, the pain is unspeakable of. First it feels a bit wobbly, then it feels slightly out of place and that's when I get the sharp jab of pain. Then I'd stand to let the knee rest before I continue. I noticed that the frequency of pain worsening ever since I put on some weight. Maybe is the additional weight that's burdening it? I'm not sure how it works but running has definately become harder. So Bryan suggested that I do some static exercise at home on a frequent basis (at least on alternate days). I bought March's copy of Shape, and I really recommend you grab a copy if you'd like to work out at home. There's this really simple but damn shackadelic exercise that I tried. You just need a pair of dumb bells to work your butt, back, arms and legs at home! Happy!

Need Shirts?

Ever since we offer to do shirt printing in large runs (say company polo tees, class t-shirts, club t-shirts, shirts for events...), I've been so occupied. Dear Friends, if you do know anyone who might require our shirt printing services, I'd really appreciate it if you could refer 'em to us! We print on premiums like bags, towels and mugs as well. Of course we're more competitive 'cos we're an online shop but have the machine capabilities! I'm always contactable at hallokittylo@gmail.com!