I so just want to chill and bludge for one day without doing anything!! Just sitting, playing, doing absolutely no work!! I'm exhausted. Not that I've been working that hard. Tired tired tired. Tired of waiting, just plain tired. Everyone has got only a certain amount of patience!!
Drove up to Gosford today. Surprisingly it only took 1.5hours. I thought it would take longer. Actually the drive wasn't that bad! Again a lot of waiting...
Sometimes I wish I could read other people's mind just for a moment.
I realised the whole day was spent waiting for people.....I'm sick and tired of waiting now...its painful...always looking at the watch...I give up.
Come to think of it. All my life I've been waiting for people - almost always.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Manners
Maybe the older I get, the more paranoid I become. Where has all the manners gone!! Gone are the days of posting letters through the mail. In the modern world, there's phones, emails and sms. Somehow, the more convenient the technology becomes, the lazier people seem to be - or ruder.
Isn't it just common courtesy to reply to emails or sms. A simply no or yes reply to confirm whether you are coming is really not that hard. Sure it may cost you 25c for a sms but if one person can spend that 25c to ask, isn't it logical and polite - saying the least - to reply! Even in emails. Ok emails cost nothing. What's the rational behind that?? Maybe only a couple of minutes of your 'precious time' to reply and all you really have to do is to hit the 'send' button - and there...the message is replied. No confusions, no waiting required.
I just can't get over the fact of how simple things in life can be so complicated for some people!!
Isn't it just common courtesy to reply to emails or sms. A simply no or yes reply to confirm whether you are coming is really not that hard. Sure it may cost you 25c for a sms but if one person can spend that 25c to ask, isn't it logical and polite - saying the least - to reply! Even in emails. Ok emails cost nothing. What's the rational behind that?? Maybe only a couple of minutes of your 'precious time' to reply and all you really have to do is to hit the 'send' button - and there...the message is replied. No confusions, no waiting required.
I just can't get over the fact of how simple things in life can be so complicated for some people!!
Saturday, October 14, 2006
What to eat...what not to eat....
An article worth reading....
Food Fix
Tired, grumpy, hungover? Michael Lallo finds out what we should be reaching for when life has lost its zing.
For a hangover eggs are good, but avoid coffee.
For most of us, the morning after a big night out involves a greasy fry-up, a crate of painkillers and a vase of black coffee. Can't sleep? Have another drink. And how often do we reach for a chocolate bar to ward off that mid-afternoon slump?
But while our homespun remedies might give us a short-term boost, they're usually followed by an even bigger crash. And many might actually be causing long-term damage.
Fortunately, there are some things we can eat and drink that not only relieve our symptoms, they're good for us, too. So next time you need a lift, don't just shovel down whatever's on hand. Follow our handy guide instead.
When you can't sleep ...
Eat: "Your best bet is to have a small, low-fat snack which includes carbohydrates and protein," says nutritionist Dr Rosemary Stanton. "A good option is honey on toast with a cup of warm skim milk." Why? The carbs from the bread help stimulate the production of serotonin in our brains, which is thought to promote relaxation and sleep. And many protein-rich foods such as milk contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that can also boost serotonin and may be metabolised to the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin as well. A little something sweet like honey can also help you drift off.
Avoid: Spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol. "While alcohol might make you fall asleep more quickly, it also disturbs sleep later throughout the night," Stanton says. Caffeine, not surprisingly, should be avoided - especially for those who aren't big tea or coffee drinkers and are less immune to its effects. And steer clear of big meals, spicy food and anything else that's hard to digest.
When you need to concentrate ...
Eat: Carbohydrates are the best source of fuel for our brains, so something such as Weetbix or Vita brits, a slice of bread or toast or a low-fat smoothie will keep you powering through that report. A cup of tea or coffee also helps, as any caffeine addict will tell you. And eat some fish, advises dietitian Sharon Natoli from Food and Nutrition Australia. "The Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish such as swordfish, salmon and mackerel, help keep our brains functioning properly when eaten regularly," she says. Linseeds and walnuts are also good sources.
Avoid: Big serves of anything can make us feel sleepy - great for siesta-loving Spaniards, but not so good for cubicle-confined Aussies. "Fatty foods in particular hamper our ability to stay sharp," says Natoli. And meals consisting largely of highly refined foods such as white bread or sugary products wreak havoc with our blood sugar levels - and our ability to think. Don't overdo it with the caffeine, either: we're all familiar with that jumpy, irritable feeling that comes from one too many coffees.
When you're stressed ...
Eat: Forget about your stomach for a moment - get up off the couch and get active. "Exercise is much better for stress relief than eating," Stanton says, "although it's important not to skip meals." The endorphins our body produces when we're working out act as natural opiates, producing a sense of wellbeing and calming our jangled nerves. Some physicians recommend tyrosine supplements, because the amino acid is thought to be involved in the production of certain brain chemicals that help relieve mild anxiety. Be careful, though - researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Centre have found that eating too much can lead to restlessness, stomach upsets and even changes in heart rate.
Avoid: Most of us tend to either stuff or starve ourselves when we're anxious, and neither extreme does any good. Small, easily digested meals such as a sandwich or a piece of fruit are ideal. Don't be fooled by the relief that a cigarette provides - you're simply relieving the symptoms of your addiction, not dealing with your stress. And while a glass of wine might help you unwind, best not to depend on it.
When you want to avoid that mid-afternoon crash ...
Eat: "Slowly digested carbohydrates with a little bit of lean protein make a good lunch because they provide long-lasting energy," Stanton says. A bean salad, beans on wholegrain toast or a wholegrain tuna and salad roll are all smart choices. Fruits such as apples, oranges and pears all provide slow-release energy, and are therefore an ideal afternoon snack. A small handful of raw nuts can also be very satisfying.
Avoid: Any food that has a high glycaemic index, which means it causes a rapid spike, followed by a rapid drop, in your blood sugar levels. Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and most processed and sugary foods are the main offenders. And a big lunch forces your body to work hard at digesting it, which is why your brain tends to slack off after you've hoovered up a burger, fries and shake.
When you're about to exercise ...
Eat: An hour or two before you strap on your runners, eat some rapidly digested carbohydrates such as watermelon, rockmelon or a banana. Drink some water, because nothing hinders your performance like dehydration.
Avoid: "Anything heavy or fatty and skip the chocolate," Stanton says. "Its high fat content will leave it in your stomach instead of sending it through to replenish blood glucose." A small amount of caffeine can boost your stamina, but because it makes you urinate more frequently, too much will have you running to the loo every 15 minutes.
When you're hungover ...
Eat: You should have known better than to have that eighth tequila slammer last night, but now the damage is done. The most important thing is to rehydrate your parched brain. Drink lots of water when you get home - even if it means you have to make a few trips to the bathroom throughout the night - and have plenty more in the morning. The boffins from Cambridge University suggest that if you can stomach it, have some eggs for breakfast. And not just because they taste good, but because they're also rich in an amino acid called cysteine, which some scientists believe can help our body carry out its clean-up operation.
Avoid: Despite providing a much-needed jolt, caffeine won't undo the effects of alcohol. Forget hair-of-the-dog remedies - all you're doing is delaying the pain and making it worse. And stay away from paracetamol, which the American Liver Foundation says can damage an already overburdened organ. There is only one fail-proof way to avoid hangovers - drink sensibly. "And remember that the recommendations for two standard drinks for women and four for men refer to a standard 100 millilitres of wine as one drink," Stanton says. "A typical glass of wine is 185 millilitres, which is almost two standard drinks in one hit." Darker drinks such as brandy, red wine, rum and whisky all contain more impurities called congeners, which New Scientist magazine reports can worsen the symptoms of a hangover.
When you're feeling down ...
Eat: Good news - you've got medical approval to indulge. "Have a small serve of something you really like," Stanton says. "Make sure it's good and eat it slowly, preferably in the company of a friend." That means a decent meal, a glass of red and a small dessert at your favourite Italian bistro, not a whole pizza and a packet of Tim Tams in front of Dr Who. The herb St John's Wort can be effective in relieving mild depression, according to The Medical Journal of Australia. However, it can interfere with many other drugs, including oral contraceptives and anti-depressants.
Avoid: Too much of any comfort food will only make you unhealthier, and therefore unhappier. Alcohol simply masks your symptoms, which means you're less likely to address what's causing them. Needless to say, if you're experiencing more than the occasional blue day, see your doctor.
As a general rule, if you're thinking of taking supplements, speak to a health professional first. And don't think that popping vitamins will make up for a woeful diet.
Food Fix
Tired, grumpy, hungover? Michael Lallo finds out what we should be reaching for when life has lost its zing.
For a hangover eggs are good, but avoid coffee.
For most of us, the morning after a big night out involves a greasy fry-up, a crate of painkillers and a vase of black coffee. Can't sleep? Have another drink. And how often do we reach for a chocolate bar to ward off that mid-afternoon slump?
But while our homespun remedies might give us a short-term boost, they're usually followed by an even bigger crash. And many might actually be causing long-term damage.
Fortunately, there are some things we can eat and drink that not only relieve our symptoms, they're good for us, too. So next time you need a lift, don't just shovel down whatever's on hand. Follow our handy guide instead.
When you can't sleep ...
Eat: "Your best bet is to have a small, low-fat snack which includes carbohydrates and protein," says nutritionist Dr Rosemary Stanton. "A good option is honey on toast with a cup of warm skim milk." Why? The carbs from the bread help stimulate the production of serotonin in our brains, which is thought to promote relaxation and sleep. And many protein-rich foods such as milk contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that can also boost serotonin and may be metabolised to the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin as well. A little something sweet like honey can also help you drift off.
Avoid: Spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol. "While alcohol might make you fall asleep more quickly, it also disturbs sleep later throughout the night," Stanton says. Caffeine, not surprisingly, should be avoided - especially for those who aren't big tea or coffee drinkers and are less immune to its effects. And steer clear of big meals, spicy food and anything else that's hard to digest.
When you need to concentrate ...
Eat: Carbohydrates are the best source of fuel for our brains, so something such as Weetbix or Vita brits, a slice of bread or toast or a low-fat smoothie will keep you powering through that report. A cup of tea or coffee also helps, as any caffeine addict will tell you. And eat some fish, advises dietitian Sharon Natoli from Food and Nutrition Australia. "The Omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish such as swordfish, salmon and mackerel, help keep our brains functioning properly when eaten regularly," she says. Linseeds and walnuts are also good sources.
Avoid: Big serves of anything can make us feel sleepy - great for siesta-loving Spaniards, but not so good for cubicle-confined Aussies. "Fatty foods in particular hamper our ability to stay sharp," says Natoli. And meals consisting largely of highly refined foods such as white bread or sugary products wreak havoc with our blood sugar levels - and our ability to think. Don't overdo it with the caffeine, either: we're all familiar with that jumpy, irritable feeling that comes from one too many coffees.
When you're stressed ...
Eat: Forget about your stomach for a moment - get up off the couch and get active. "Exercise is much better for stress relief than eating," Stanton says, "although it's important not to skip meals." The endorphins our body produces when we're working out act as natural opiates, producing a sense of wellbeing and calming our jangled nerves. Some physicians recommend tyrosine supplements, because the amino acid is thought to be involved in the production of certain brain chemicals that help relieve mild anxiety. Be careful, though - researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Centre have found that eating too much can lead to restlessness, stomach upsets and even changes in heart rate.
Avoid: Most of us tend to either stuff or starve ourselves when we're anxious, and neither extreme does any good. Small, easily digested meals such as a sandwich or a piece of fruit are ideal. Don't be fooled by the relief that a cigarette provides - you're simply relieving the symptoms of your addiction, not dealing with your stress. And while a glass of wine might help you unwind, best not to depend on it.
When you want to avoid that mid-afternoon crash ...
Eat: "Slowly digested carbohydrates with a little bit of lean protein make a good lunch because they provide long-lasting energy," Stanton says. A bean salad, beans on wholegrain toast or a wholegrain tuna and salad roll are all smart choices. Fruits such as apples, oranges and pears all provide slow-release energy, and are therefore an ideal afternoon snack. A small handful of raw nuts can also be very satisfying.
Avoid: Any food that has a high glycaemic index, which means it causes a rapid spike, followed by a rapid drop, in your blood sugar levels. Refined carbohydrates such as white bread and most processed and sugary foods are the main offenders. And a big lunch forces your body to work hard at digesting it, which is why your brain tends to slack off after you've hoovered up a burger, fries and shake.
When you're about to exercise ...
Eat: An hour or two before you strap on your runners, eat some rapidly digested carbohydrates such as watermelon, rockmelon or a banana. Drink some water, because nothing hinders your performance like dehydration.
Avoid: "Anything heavy or fatty and skip the chocolate," Stanton says. "Its high fat content will leave it in your stomach instead of sending it through to replenish blood glucose." A small amount of caffeine can boost your stamina, but because it makes you urinate more frequently, too much will have you running to the loo every 15 minutes.
When you're hungover ...
Eat: You should have known better than to have that eighth tequila slammer last night, but now the damage is done. The most important thing is to rehydrate your parched brain. Drink lots of water when you get home - even if it means you have to make a few trips to the bathroom throughout the night - and have plenty more in the morning. The boffins from Cambridge University suggest that if you can stomach it, have some eggs for breakfast. And not just because they taste good, but because they're also rich in an amino acid called cysteine, which some scientists believe can help our body carry out its clean-up operation.
Avoid: Despite providing a much-needed jolt, caffeine won't undo the effects of alcohol. Forget hair-of-the-dog remedies - all you're doing is delaying the pain and making it worse. And stay away from paracetamol, which the American Liver Foundation says can damage an already overburdened organ. There is only one fail-proof way to avoid hangovers - drink sensibly. "And remember that the recommendations for two standard drinks for women and four for men refer to a standard 100 millilitres of wine as one drink," Stanton says. "A typical glass of wine is 185 millilitres, which is almost two standard drinks in one hit." Darker drinks such as brandy, red wine, rum and whisky all contain more impurities called congeners, which New Scientist magazine reports can worsen the symptoms of a hangover.
When you're feeling down ...
Eat: Good news - you've got medical approval to indulge. "Have a small serve of something you really like," Stanton says. "Make sure it's good and eat it slowly, preferably in the company of a friend." That means a decent meal, a glass of red and a small dessert at your favourite Italian bistro, not a whole pizza and a packet of Tim Tams in front of Dr Who. The herb St John's Wort can be effective in relieving mild depression, according to The Medical Journal of Australia. However, it can interfere with many other drugs, including oral contraceptives and anti-depressants.
Avoid: Too much of any comfort food will only make you unhealthier, and therefore unhappier. Alcohol simply masks your symptoms, which means you're less likely to address what's causing them. Needless to say, if you're experiencing more than the occasional blue day, see your doctor.
As a general rule, if you're thinking of taking supplements, speak to a health professional first. And don't think that popping vitamins will make up for a woeful diet.
Interesting articles....
Some interesting articles I've come across during my procrastination:
Stressed...drink a Cuppa Stress? Try a nice cuppa
Cosmetic products may not be safe Some like it white
Pimples Acne Treatment: users guide
Bias Don't trust those eyes
From SMH
Stressed...drink a Cuppa Stress? Try a nice cuppa
Cosmetic products may not be safe Some like it white
Pimples Acne Treatment: users guide
Bias Don't trust those eyes
From SMH
The Key to 'A Healthy Heart'
A HEALTHY HEART
- Think positively. Tell yourself you are going to be OK every time you catch yourself thinking negatively.
- Exercise will help lighten your mood. Listen to fast, upbeat music to help get you in the mood to exercise.
- Establish or re-establish contact with your friends and social-support network to talk about it if it helps.
- Be good to yourself. Treat yourself to little luxuries.
- Write down your feelings in a diary.
A Healthy Heart
- Think positively. Tell yourself you are going to be OK every time you catch yourself thinking negatively.
- Exercise will help lighten your mood. Listen to fast, upbeat music to help get you in the mood to exercise.
- Establish or re-establish contact with your friends and social-support network to talk about it if it helps.
- Be good to yourself. Treat yourself to little luxuries.
- Write down your feelings in a diary.
A Healthy Heart
Stinkin' hot weather
Hot weather is just great for headaches!! This is probably more evident for people stuck in rooms - without much air ventilation. Yes, the window was open but the heat is magnified from the computer. No airconditioning to cool down!!
Current feeling: groggy, tired, lack of motivation
Current state of mind: blank
Current progress: N/A due to overheating....
Current feeling: groggy, tired, lack of motivation
Current state of mind: blank
Current progress: N/A due to overheating....
Whirpool of emotions and events....
And the cycle continue. One day good, one day bad. Guess that's the 'beauty' of life. If everything always went to plan or happened as expected, life would be rather monotonic. It's funny. Sometimes, you'd see people but would never talk to them apart from Hi, bye type of conversation. It strikes me as surprising as to how easily or hard some conversations can start...and end. Literally having a conversation across the room. As more people came, the conversation naturally came to an end.
First focus session on Thursday. It was better than what I expected. No presentations, finishing early...10 minute breaks are definitely not enough. I didn't end finish my cuppa!
Opera Bar was so crowded. The atmosphere didn't strike me as particularly nice or maybe cause I was hungry and tired.
First focus session on Thursday. It was better than what I expected. No presentations, finishing early...10 minute breaks are definitely not enough. I didn't end finish my cuppa!
Opera Bar was so crowded. The atmosphere didn't strike me as particularly nice or maybe cause I was hungry and tired.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
F's bday
Another birthday...another weekend! Simple but fun! BBQ, candid shots, Big 2, snap. Prawns, meat, salads, pudding, tarts and ice cream cake! Highlight must be the drinking of 1L to 2L of water for losing in Big 2 and snap!..oh did I mention within 30 secs. Lots of fun and laughter!!
It's all written in the stars
http://www.smh.com.au/horoscopes/aries.html
This should be a good day if you can avoid morning arguments. It doesn't matter what it's over, just don't argue! Then you can enjoy your day without feeling peeved or ticked off in anyway. Try to get some physical exercise at this time as that is a better way to channel high energy levels. A happy afternoon and a traditional BBQ could be a lot of fun.
Its sometimes amazing what the horoscopes say. Sometimes it's just so true that you have to believe it!!
This should be a good day if you can avoid morning arguments. It doesn't matter what it's over, just don't argue! Then you can enjoy your day without feeling peeved or ticked off in anyway. Try to get some physical exercise at this time as that is a better way to channel high energy levels. A happy afternoon and a traditional BBQ could be a lot of fun.
Its sometimes amazing what the horoscopes say. Sometimes it's just so true that you have to believe it!!
Monday, September 25, 2006
Disgusted...
Why people procrastinate? In fact, lets begin with the definition of procrastination.
Procrastination is the deferment or avoidance of an action or task which requires completion by focusing on some other action or task. For the person procrastinating this may result in stress, a sense of guilt, the loss of productivity, the creation of crisis, and the chagrin of others for not fulfilling one's responsibilities or commitments. While it is normal for individuals to procrastinate to some degree, it becomes a problem when it impedes normal functioning. - from Wikipedia.
This has reached its chronic stage for me. Too often am I sitting around doing nothing. Productivity level zero. When placed into perspective, things just get a whole lot worse when everyone else around you seems to be studying and putting so much effort into it. It's not that I don't want to put in any effort. I just have problems concentrating.
I don't believe it's impossible. I know what I need to do. I need self-disclipine, self-control. Why put things off oto the following day when you know that you will eventually have to do it. What do you have to loose in completing something NOW instead of LATER. In fact, I can't think of any cons to that. It's all a matter of prioritising, time management and concentration. Just like aeroplane jelly, 'a little each day is a good recipe'.
Time to put plan to action.
Procrastination is the deferment or avoidance of an action or task which requires completion by focusing on some other action or task. For the person procrastinating this may result in stress, a sense of guilt, the loss of productivity, the creation of crisis, and the chagrin of others for not fulfilling one's responsibilities or commitments. While it is normal for individuals to procrastinate to some degree, it becomes a problem when it impedes normal functioning. - from Wikipedia.
This has reached its chronic stage for me. Too often am I sitting around doing nothing. Productivity level zero. When placed into perspective, things just get a whole lot worse when everyone else around you seems to be studying and putting so much effort into it. It's not that I don't want to put in any effort. I just have problems concentrating.
I don't believe it's impossible. I know what I need to do. I need self-disclipine, self-control. Why put things off oto the following day when you know that you will eventually have to do it. What do you have to loose in completing something NOW instead of LATER. In fact, I can't think of any cons to that. It's all a matter of prioritising, time management and concentration. Just like aeroplane jelly, 'a little each day is a good recipe'.
Time to put plan to action.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Back to habit
It's been over 1.5 months since I've last blogged. A record in itself. For the past two weeks, each weekend has been an exciting and fun bday party - M&M. Seafood, sushi, skilful salmon cutting, seaweed and seaurchin. Together with Big 2, snap and more snap in the most hilarious way. We had it all - laughter, pain and satisfaction. Too bad it didn't end off with some dessert :p
The other M. Cruising in the harbour on the fabulous sunny day on Matilda 3. Nothing to complain about!! The rocking of the boat, snapping of candid shots, watching the scenery - hilarious and relaxing! It's funny how paths cross. Catching up with high school friends, some of which we haven't seen for ages!! Meeting people with the same name who other people had once thought I was her. Hearing some interesting hospitality stories. Discovering new eatery places - ice green tea latte, squid ink pizza, raw beef. Another fab night that captured it all.
The other M. Cruising in the harbour on the fabulous sunny day on Matilda 3. Nothing to complain about!! The rocking of the boat, snapping of candid shots, watching the scenery - hilarious and relaxing! It's funny how paths cross. Catching up with high school friends, some of which we haven't seen for ages!! Meeting people with the same name who other people had once thought I was her. Hearing some interesting hospitality stories. Discovering new eatery places - ice green tea latte, squid ink pizza, raw beef. Another fab night that captured it all.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Change
After so long with dial-up, I have finally ventured into the new era of adsl2+. As always for me, much anticipation without doubt leads to disappointment. The first night after receiving the modem through post, I spent the entire night trying to figure out why in the world I can't connect. The following day, the next logical thing to do is the ring up TPG. Not surprisingly, after conducting a line check, they found a problem with the connection! So afterall, its not my problem but theirs! I don't know why, but I kinda of having doubts after the quality of tpg after my unsucessful connection attempt. But what can I do?
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Food
Funny how everytime I blog, it is always an outing related to food! A long day really - watched Cars (highly recommended - it is so funny - nice to get in touch with the 'childish' side of life again); followed by ice-skating for 2 hours and then korean bbq buffet. Personally I don't think I'll go back there again. Not that the selection of food wasn't very good. There was a bit of variety, but overall I just felt the place was a bit too "smoky". Either a lack of ventilation or that type of food is just not for me! Oh and how can I forget the gelato after buffet.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Food expedition...
Must document my food expedition with the gals. The day began with chocolate eating at Adore at Earlwood (3-in-1 hot chocolate). This was followed by a trip to Watson's Bay. Where's Doyles? There's so many. Next time we must make it into the poshy restaurant! :p Seafood - seafood paella, seafood platter, seasoned avocado with smoked salmon and salad - plus a lil scenic tour - despite no spotting of whales. Superb weather nonetheless!! Dinner at U...something. Forgot the 'type' of food that we had or the name of the restaurant - lamb skewers, dumplings, spinach, noodles. Ice cream for dessert at Cold-Rock - macademia, cookies and cream, coconut (which tasted like medicine!!) and ferro roche. Slight sore-throat now..hmmm...
More eating expeditions are a MUST!!!!!!!
More eating expeditions are a MUST!!!!!!!
Monday, May 22, 2006
It just wasn't meant to be...
3 free tickets for three different reasons to see Da Vinci Code...one on premier night (thursday), one to silver screening (friday), one on monday night...couldn't make it ANY of those. What a waste!! I don't think I was ever meant to watch the Da Vinci Code. Have no further intention of watching it either....ah wells
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Life...at work
Nothing much worth mentioning. In fact I have only a very vague recollection of what has happened in the past 3 weeks - if any at all. Something I'm proud of is that I'm becoming quite familiar with the M5 - having to drive to Prestons and Smithfield. I haven't even heard of these places until now. I feel like I'm getting disconnected with the world. What happened to my weekly outings or fortnightly claims of doing new things? I feel like I haven't been out in ages. Haven't seen anyone. Haven't spoken to anyone. Yeah MSN, but its different...
Assessing the meaning of life again. What am I doing? Where am I heading? What do I want to get out of it? Don't get me wrong. Working is can be 'good' but it can also be 'hell' depending on how you see it. How do I see it? It depends. A bit like weather really - unpredictable. But sometimes, I just want to have a break. I don't know how I'll handle 3 months of continuous work without any break. I can foresee hell is coming my way.
In the meantime, before all hell breaks loose as they say, I just want to have some fun. Do things, go to places, try new things. But noone seems to be free anymore these days. Uni people have exams, work people are too bogged down with their work or have other plans. Leaving me all by myself once again...me myself and I.
Aiii...what can I do? Motivation level is low - which is probably why I'm not having much initiative. What I do: plan, anticipate its going to be boring, cancel plan and start from square one again and the cycle continues.
Assessing the meaning of life again. What am I doing? Where am I heading? What do I want to get out of it? Don't get me wrong. Working is can be 'good' but it can also be 'hell' depending on how you see it. How do I see it? It depends. A bit like weather really - unpredictable. But sometimes, I just want to have a break. I don't know how I'll handle 3 months of continuous work without any break. I can foresee hell is coming my way.
In the meantime, before all hell breaks loose as they say, I just want to have some fun. Do things, go to places, try new things. But noone seems to be free anymore these days. Uni people have exams, work people are too bogged down with their work or have other plans. Leaving me all by myself once again...me myself and I.
Aiii...what can I do? Motivation level is low - which is probably why I'm not having much initiative. What I do: plan, anticipate its going to be boring, cancel plan and start from square one again and the cycle continues.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Archery
What could 11 'adults' and 2 kids do?? The day was fun filled beginning from 2pm and ending at 11:30pm with 5 hours taken up by eating..haha. After a couple of practice shots, they placed balloons on the targets! There were a couple of injuries due to the string of the bow striking the arms and some 'wild' shooting of targets (but obviously, the targets didn't become the anticipated human ones)...but wasn't it worth it?? :p
Thx to F's 3 boxes of sushi and a bottle of coke without cups - that kept us going afterwards until we decided a place to eat for dinner. Well, originally it was karaoke but glad the final decision was dinner instead!! Too bad Novotel was too expensive!!
Shortly on the trip to the ct, I was following PJ's car and naturally got lost. How I wasn't surprised one little bit. But amazingly, I somehow ended up behind her car again not before too long!! How things just turn out...
Dinner decided to be at Red Hot Chilli - finally the much anticipated hot pot eventuated!!! 2 non-hot soup base and 1 half MILD hot and non-hot soup base. How is it possible that gals can eat more than guys!! Hilarious...After a 3 hour marathon of hot-pot and waiters giving us strange looks...maybe cause we ate sooooo much?? (definitely our money's worth), we wanted more..well the gals wanted more! Yup dessert. Well that was after walking off some of the food, with a stroll down to cockle bay and back to town hall. First ice-cream stop was gelatissimo - nah...not enough selection..second stop was passionflower - after sitting for like 10mins and almost decided in ordering, the small print said "Minimum $8 per person, 10% surcharge after 6pm". Of course our reaction is to leave..hahaha. Third and final stop - gelatissimo at chinatown. FINALLY our dessert!!
Thx to F's 3 boxes of sushi and a bottle of coke without cups - that kept us going afterwards until we decided a place to eat for dinner. Well, originally it was karaoke but glad the final decision was dinner instead!! Too bad Novotel was too expensive!!
Shortly on the trip to the ct, I was following PJ's car and naturally got lost. How I wasn't surprised one little bit. But amazingly, I somehow ended up behind her car again not before too long!! How things just turn out...
Dinner decided to be at Red Hot Chilli - finally the much anticipated hot pot eventuated!!! 2 non-hot soup base and 1 half MILD hot and non-hot soup base. How is it possible that gals can eat more than guys!! Hilarious...After a 3 hour marathon of hot-pot and waiters giving us strange looks...maybe cause we ate sooooo much?? (definitely our money's worth), we wanted more..well the gals wanted more! Yup dessert. Well that was after walking off some of the food, with a stroll down to cockle bay and back to town hall. First ice-cream stop was gelatissimo - nah...not enough selection..second stop was passionflower - after sitting for like 10mins and almost decided in ordering, the small print said "Minimum $8 per person, 10% surcharge after 6pm". Of course our reaction is to leave..hahaha. Third and final stop - gelatissimo at chinatown. FINALLY our dessert!!
Sunday, April 09, 2006
On the 'Eve'
Its been 10 days since I've last blog. The old days of daily blogging has now past. Lucky if I do weekly postings. The explanation is simple. After a day of work, if you get home after 7, all you would think of doing is coming home, have dinner, maybe check the occasional email and sleep. There really isn't much time when you have to wake up at 5:30 the next morning in order to escape 'full' peak-hour traffic.
That said, this week has marked the first week of driving to work at North Ryde. Strange as well as good, I anticipated on driving on Monday, but as I went to the garage, discovered that one of the front tyres were sagging. For safety reason I decided not to drive and got a lift from mum. The good thing is that, we noted some lane changes that morning which made it easier for me to drive on Tuesday morning. The culprit of the sagging tyre was a nail in the tyre.
Currently sitting at home, trying to figure out why my pc keeps stuffing up. This is probably the 4 or 5th time that I'm faced with a black screen with the CPU switched on. Usually, how my pc works after this symptom occurs is if I switch off the pc for the rest of the day. When I switch it on the following morning, it seems to operate as normal again. Perplexing.....I just don't get how PC's think!!!
Some highlights for the past 2 weeks:
- AMF bowling
- Shopping
- Hanging out
That said, this week has marked the first week of driving to work at North Ryde. Strange as well as good, I anticipated on driving on Monday, but as I went to the garage, discovered that one of the front tyres were sagging. For safety reason I decided not to drive and got a lift from mum. The good thing is that, we noted some lane changes that morning which made it easier for me to drive on Tuesday morning. The culprit of the sagging tyre was a nail in the tyre.
Currently sitting at home, trying to figure out why my pc keeps stuffing up. This is probably the 4 or 5th time that I'm faced with a black screen with the CPU switched on. Usually, how my pc works after this symptom occurs is if I switch off the pc for the rest of the day. When I switch it on the following morning, it seems to operate as normal again. Perplexing.....I just don't get how PC's think!!!
Some highlights for the past 2 weeks:
- AMF bowling
- Shopping
- Hanging out
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Get Slimmer, Richer, Smarter: 40 Shortcuts
FAST TRICKS FOR SAVING $$$
Want a better deal on a car, flea-market antique, or big-ticket clothing item? Follow these rules of negotiating:
MAKE AN AGGRESSIVELY LOW FIRST OFFER.
If you're willing to pay $500 for an antique bureau with a $650 price tag, begin by offering 70 percent of your real limit, or $350. As negotiations continue, you'll have room to work your way up to your true acceptable price, rather than working your way down to it.
TAPER YOUR CONCESSIONS.
Your first "give" should be the biggest one you make (when he says $350 is too low, offer $425). Then follow up with increasingly smaller, reluctant concessions (if you say $425 and he comes back with $575, counter with $460). The vendor will interpret your mini moves as a sign he's squeezed every possible cent out of you.
ASK FOR A LAST-MINUTE FREEBIE.
Just as you arrive at a price you both agree on, act hesitant and uncomfortable with the sale-then request something extra. ("If you throw in that jewelry box, we have a deal.") Last-minute freebie requests (speaker cables for a new stereo, an upgraded sound system in a car) work because the other person is eager to close the deal. - Jim Thomas, author of Negotiate to Win.
2 INSTANT CLOSET ORGANIZERS
1. GO WITH YOUR GUT.
Find the pieces in your wardrobe that you never wear, and try each one on. If it no longer fits or you don't love it, bite the bullet and donate it to the Salvation Army. Don't overthink: If your first impulse is to ditch, do it. "If you mull it over, you'll find endless justifications for holding on to the jeans you wore in college," says stylist Seneca Moss, who has dressed Molly Sims and Christina Applegate.
2. GET THE RATIO RIGHT.
"You need seven tops to every one bottom," says fashion consultant Linda Cohen. Keep only pants and skirts that fit perfectly. You can wear them repeatedly with different tops. Do hang on to more shirts and sweaters. "People notice them more, so you don't want to repeat two days in a row," says Cohen.
GET GORGEOUS OVERNIGHT
Eat these foods for immediate results
1. Spinach, broccoli, and other dark green veggies are rich in minerals and vitamin A-your antidote to dry skin and wrinkles. "One serving daily will make you gorgeous by the weekend," says Karin U. Kanzler, a naturopath and aesthetician at L.A.'s Allure Pilates Spa."
2. Olive oil, flaxseed oil, and fatty fish like salmon-all "healthy fats"- make your skin supple and glowing, says celeb facialist Sonya Dakar.
3. Drinking fresh-squeezed vegetable juice with lemon juice and cayenne pepper gives an instant rosy-cheek effect. "Vegetable juice boosts energy and the cayenne increases circulation for a healthy glow," says certified clinical nutritionist Natalia Rose.
10-MINUTE WAY TO UNEARTH YOUR PERFECT STYLE
Answer this: Which clothes do you feel most confident in? Pull them out of your closet. Then, scour old photos and pick ones in which you look great. Pull those outfits out, too. Together, these are the clothes that both flatter your body and just feel like you. Make these cuts and colors the cornerstones of your style, and shop for items that complement these key pieces. -Linda Cohen, fashion consultant
6-SECOND RULES FOR LOOKING 5 POUNDS SKINNIER
# Wear V-necks, long necklaces, low-slung belts: anything that draws the eye up and down the body. Avoid boatnecks, chokers, tightly cinched belts, and ankle-strap shoes: These create horizontal lines, which make you appear squat. It's similar to the idea that pinstriped pants make you look longer and sailor-striped tops make you look wider, says Elycia Rubin, co-author of Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat.
# Stick with matte fabrics like cotton and wool. Skip satin and other light-reflecting materials, which enhance your body size.
# Pair flesh-tone heels with all skirts. Heels always make you look slimmer; a pair that matches your skin tone makes legs look like they go on for miles.
# Wear a curvy jacket. A jacket that nips in at the waist creates an hourglass figure without hugging too tightly, says Rubin. Layer over a cami that falls a few inches below it for a lean look.
# Balance full with fitted. Pairing a flowing top with loose fitting pants only makes you look heavier. Better to match a big top with narrow bottoms or a body-hugging shirt with something roomier down below.
QUICKEST TRICK TO UPGRADE YOUR LIFE
Instead of a free economy-class ticket, use your frequent-flier miles to upgrade to first class. You'll actually get a much better deal. "A typical frequent-flier mile is worth one or two cents, but if you use it to upgrade, it's worth more like eight or nine cents," says Liz Pulliam Weston, MSN money columnist and author of Deal with Your Debt. Plus, you'll arrive at your destination feeling like an A-lister!
SHORTCUTS TO A CITY-CHIC SPREAD
It doesn't take tons of cash or work. Three ways to give your home a fresh look in a weekend:
BUY NEW LAMPS
"Changing the lighting is the least expensive way to transform the look of a room," says Ruthie Sommers, interior designer and owner of L.A. shop Chapman Radcliff Home. You can also put existing lights on dimmers and add a few extra lamps to the room.
PAINT
A new hue on the walls makes a room look like an entirely different place. Or, paint just the ceiling (a pale color works well) or the moldings. "For moldings, choose a color two shades darker than the color of the walls in a semigloss finish for an elegant effect," says Sommers.
ADD MIRRORS
"If a room is dark, add mirrors, and place them opposite a window to reflect more natural light," says Sommers. (Reflective surfaces also create the illusion of more space.) Consider having a mirrored top made for your coffee table-it catches and disperses light in a dramatic way.
FASTEST FIX FOR TIRED SKIN
Brew a pot of chamomile tea. Squeeze the juice of two lemons into the pot and add two teaspoons of honey. Drink throughout the day. "Chamomile is soothing. It calms your system and reduces skin inflammation brought on by a late night out," says Kanzler.
INCREASE YOUR ONLINE DATING ACTION-NOW
CHOOSE YOUR SCREEN NAME CAREFULLY
"Think about how it will be perceived by men," says psychologist Lillian Glass, who works with Match.com. "Something like 'little princess' might sound cute to you but will likely be a turnoff to a lot of men."
POST A NATURAL LOOKING PHOTO
"Research finds that a super-posed, 'perfect' picture is less appealing than a snapshot of you laughing or kicking back in a casual setting," says Glass. "Natural shots indicate you don't take yourself too seriously."
BRAG INDIRECTLY
Crediting friends is a great way to broadcast your best qualities without sounding egotistical. "Instead of writing 'I'm friendly and outgoing,' say 'My friends call me a social butterfly,'" says Glass. "You get the message across in a way that sounds modest."
BE SPECIFIC
"If you're only interested in dog lovers, say so!" says Glass. You'll help guys who share your passions find you more quickly-and that sort of efficiency is one reason you're doing online dating in the first place.
BODY LANGUAGE THAT GETS YOU HIRED IN A MINUTE
When it comes to interview situations, how you present yourself to your potential new boss reveals as much about you as what you say. For starters: "Don't just plunk yourself down in a chair-wait for me to invite you to sit down," says Apprentice star Carolyn Kepcher, author of Carolyn 101: Business Lessons From The Apprentice's Straight Shooter. "And don't lean too far back in the chair and cross your legs as if we're old friends. We're not. And I don't want to hire a slouch." Sit up straight in your seat and lean slightly forward to express your enthusiasm.
TODAY, TAKE YOUR FIRST STEP TO GET OUT OF DEBT
"Start by prioritizing," says Pulliam Weston. "Devote any spare cash you have to paying off your [high cost] credit-card balances. Don't worry yet about other debt, like car loans or student loans-that type of debt is cheap, so make those payments as minimal as possible to focus on the credit cards." If you can barely make the minimum payments or are borrowing from one credit card to pay off another, speak with a nonprofit credit-counseling agency (to find a reputable one, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at www.nfcc.org).
HOW TO GET MORE MONEY NOW
1. Before a job interview, think of your dream salary and practice saying that number out loud in front of a mirror. "If you rehearse asking for what you want, there's less chance you'll chicken out and settle for something lower," says Thomas.
2. During the interview, delay stating your salary number. "You want to dazzle them before you talk compensation," says Thomas. If the interviewer tries to pin you down, say, "Why don't we hold off on talking about that until you decide if I'm right for the job?"
3. Make the interviewer give a number first. "Knowing their suggested salary gives you negotiating power. Otherwise, you risk your number being lower than what they had in mind," says Thomas. Once your interviewer names a number, resist the urge to accept. Always ask for more-but in a friendly manner to show you want to reach an agreement.
4. After you arrive at a salary that sounds good to you, use a technique called "nibbling" to close the deal. "This is when you tell them, 'If you throw in an extra week of vacation [or tuition reimbursement, flex time, or other perks], I think we'll have a deal.' By that point, the other side is so eager to close, they're almost guaranteed to give you the little extra," says Thomas.
5. Ask about the possibility of a "signing bonus." Employers might be able to give you money up front more easily than they can raise your salary, because bonus money often comes out of a company's recruiting budget, which is separate from its compensation budget.
3 EASY STEPS TO CHANGE YOUR IMAGE
1. CHANGE YOUR SCENT
"People judge your inner essence based on your outer scent," says Alan Hirsch, M.D., neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago. Some of Dr. Hirsch's findings: When women wear spicy, floral perfume, men perceive them as being up to 12 pounds thinner. Grapefruit scents can make women seem six years younger. Lavender aromas have been shown to cause sexual arousal in men.
2. CHANGE YOUR VOICE
People interpret high-pitched or breathy tones as immature or unpolished. To sound more self-assured, "pretend there's a dime holding your back teeth apart," says Glass. "This lets more air into your jaw and gives your voice extra resonance, which will make your words flow better and sound more attractive."
3. CHANGE YOUR PERSONAL STATIONERY
E-mail has done away with many communication formalities. For this reason, sending old-fashioned thank you notes on upscale stationery will set you apart from the crowd-and the competition. "A handwritten note on nice stationery is a sign of regard for yourself and the person you're writing to," says Arlyn Imberman, a graphologist and executive coach. Engraving your full name ("Kristin Jane Smith") on the cards makes you seem proper, a nickname ("Kristy") is more casual, and a monogram ("KJS") conveys an elegant image. Note-card color is also important, says Los Angeles color therapist and interior designer Carol Smith.
from MSN
Want a better deal on a car, flea-market antique, or big-ticket clothing item? Follow these rules of negotiating:
MAKE AN AGGRESSIVELY LOW FIRST OFFER.
If you're willing to pay $500 for an antique bureau with a $650 price tag, begin by offering 70 percent of your real limit, or $350. As negotiations continue, you'll have room to work your way up to your true acceptable price, rather than working your way down to it.
TAPER YOUR CONCESSIONS.
Your first "give" should be the biggest one you make (when he says $350 is too low, offer $425). Then follow up with increasingly smaller, reluctant concessions (if you say $425 and he comes back with $575, counter with $460). The vendor will interpret your mini moves as a sign he's squeezed every possible cent out of you.
ASK FOR A LAST-MINUTE FREEBIE.
Just as you arrive at a price you both agree on, act hesitant and uncomfortable with the sale-then request something extra. ("If you throw in that jewelry box, we have a deal.") Last-minute freebie requests (speaker cables for a new stereo, an upgraded sound system in a car) work because the other person is eager to close the deal. - Jim Thomas, author of Negotiate to Win.
2 INSTANT CLOSET ORGANIZERS
1. GO WITH YOUR GUT.
Find the pieces in your wardrobe that you never wear, and try each one on. If it no longer fits or you don't love it, bite the bullet and donate it to the Salvation Army. Don't overthink: If your first impulse is to ditch, do it. "If you mull it over, you'll find endless justifications for holding on to the jeans you wore in college," says stylist Seneca Moss, who has dressed Molly Sims and Christina Applegate.
2. GET THE RATIO RIGHT.
"You need seven tops to every one bottom," says fashion consultant Linda Cohen. Keep only pants and skirts that fit perfectly. You can wear them repeatedly with different tops. Do hang on to more shirts and sweaters. "People notice them more, so you don't want to repeat two days in a row," says Cohen.
GET GORGEOUS OVERNIGHT
Eat these foods for immediate results
1. Spinach, broccoli, and other dark green veggies are rich in minerals and vitamin A-your antidote to dry skin and wrinkles. "One serving daily will make you gorgeous by the weekend," says Karin U. Kanzler, a naturopath and aesthetician at L.A.'s Allure Pilates Spa."
2. Olive oil, flaxseed oil, and fatty fish like salmon-all "healthy fats"- make your skin supple and glowing, says celeb facialist Sonya Dakar.
3. Drinking fresh-squeezed vegetable juice with lemon juice and cayenne pepper gives an instant rosy-cheek effect. "Vegetable juice boosts energy and the cayenne increases circulation for a healthy glow," says certified clinical nutritionist Natalia Rose.
10-MINUTE WAY TO UNEARTH YOUR PERFECT STYLE
Answer this: Which clothes do you feel most confident in? Pull them out of your closet. Then, scour old photos and pick ones in which you look great. Pull those outfits out, too. Together, these are the clothes that both flatter your body and just feel like you. Make these cuts and colors the cornerstones of your style, and shop for items that complement these key pieces. -Linda Cohen, fashion consultant
6-SECOND RULES FOR LOOKING 5 POUNDS SKINNIER
# Wear V-necks, long necklaces, low-slung belts: anything that draws the eye up and down the body. Avoid boatnecks, chokers, tightly cinched belts, and ankle-strap shoes: These create horizontal lines, which make you appear squat. It's similar to the idea that pinstriped pants make you look longer and sailor-striped tops make you look wider, says Elycia Rubin, co-author of Frumpy to Foxy in 15 Minutes Flat.
# Stick with matte fabrics like cotton and wool. Skip satin and other light-reflecting materials, which enhance your body size.
# Pair flesh-tone heels with all skirts. Heels always make you look slimmer; a pair that matches your skin tone makes legs look like they go on for miles.
# Wear a curvy jacket. A jacket that nips in at the waist creates an hourglass figure without hugging too tightly, says Rubin. Layer over a cami that falls a few inches below it for a lean look.
# Balance full with fitted. Pairing a flowing top with loose fitting pants only makes you look heavier. Better to match a big top with narrow bottoms or a body-hugging shirt with something roomier down below.
QUICKEST TRICK TO UPGRADE YOUR LIFE
Instead of a free economy-class ticket, use your frequent-flier miles to upgrade to first class. You'll actually get a much better deal. "A typical frequent-flier mile is worth one or two cents, but if you use it to upgrade, it's worth more like eight or nine cents," says Liz Pulliam Weston, MSN money columnist and author of Deal with Your Debt. Plus, you'll arrive at your destination feeling like an A-lister!
SHORTCUTS TO A CITY-CHIC SPREAD
It doesn't take tons of cash or work. Three ways to give your home a fresh look in a weekend:
BUY NEW LAMPS
"Changing the lighting is the least expensive way to transform the look of a room," says Ruthie Sommers, interior designer and owner of L.A. shop Chapman Radcliff Home. You can also put existing lights on dimmers and add a few extra lamps to the room.
PAINT
A new hue on the walls makes a room look like an entirely different place. Or, paint just the ceiling (a pale color works well) or the moldings. "For moldings, choose a color two shades darker than the color of the walls in a semigloss finish for an elegant effect," says Sommers.
ADD MIRRORS
"If a room is dark, add mirrors, and place them opposite a window to reflect more natural light," says Sommers. (Reflective surfaces also create the illusion of more space.) Consider having a mirrored top made for your coffee table-it catches and disperses light in a dramatic way.
FASTEST FIX FOR TIRED SKIN
Brew a pot of chamomile tea. Squeeze the juice of two lemons into the pot and add two teaspoons of honey. Drink throughout the day. "Chamomile is soothing. It calms your system and reduces skin inflammation brought on by a late night out," says Kanzler.
INCREASE YOUR ONLINE DATING ACTION-NOW
CHOOSE YOUR SCREEN NAME CAREFULLY
"Think about how it will be perceived by men," says psychologist Lillian Glass, who works with Match.com. "Something like 'little princess' might sound cute to you but will likely be a turnoff to a lot of men."
POST A NATURAL LOOKING PHOTO
"Research finds that a super-posed, 'perfect' picture is less appealing than a snapshot of you laughing or kicking back in a casual setting," says Glass. "Natural shots indicate you don't take yourself too seriously."
BRAG INDIRECTLY
Crediting friends is a great way to broadcast your best qualities without sounding egotistical. "Instead of writing 'I'm friendly and outgoing,' say 'My friends call me a social butterfly,'" says Glass. "You get the message across in a way that sounds modest."
BE SPECIFIC
"If you're only interested in dog lovers, say so!" says Glass. You'll help guys who share your passions find you more quickly-and that sort of efficiency is one reason you're doing online dating in the first place.
BODY LANGUAGE THAT GETS YOU HIRED IN A MINUTE
When it comes to interview situations, how you present yourself to your potential new boss reveals as much about you as what you say. For starters: "Don't just plunk yourself down in a chair-wait for me to invite you to sit down," says Apprentice star Carolyn Kepcher, author of Carolyn 101: Business Lessons From The Apprentice's Straight Shooter. "And don't lean too far back in the chair and cross your legs as if we're old friends. We're not. And I don't want to hire a slouch." Sit up straight in your seat and lean slightly forward to express your enthusiasm.
TODAY, TAKE YOUR FIRST STEP TO GET OUT OF DEBT
"Start by prioritizing," says Pulliam Weston. "Devote any spare cash you have to paying off your [high cost] credit-card balances. Don't worry yet about other debt, like car loans or student loans-that type of debt is cheap, so make those payments as minimal as possible to focus on the credit cards." If you can barely make the minimum payments or are borrowing from one credit card to pay off another, speak with a nonprofit credit-counseling agency (to find a reputable one, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at www.nfcc.org).
HOW TO GET MORE MONEY NOW
1. Before a job interview, think of your dream salary and practice saying that number out loud in front of a mirror. "If you rehearse asking for what you want, there's less chance you'll chicken out and settle for something lower," says Thomas.
2. During the interview, delay stating your salary number. "You want to dazzle them before you talk compensation," says Thomas. If the interviewer tries to pin you down, say, "Why don't we hold off on talking about that until you decide if I'm right for the job?"
3. Make the interviewer give a number first. "Knowing their suggested salary gives you negotiating power. Otherwise, you risk your number being lower than what they had in mind," says Thomas. Once your interviewer names a number, resist the urge to accept. Always ask for more-but in a friendly manner to show you want to reach an agreement.
4. After you arrive at a salary that sounds good to you, use a technique called "nibbling" to close the deal. "This is when you tell them, 'If you throw in an extra week of vacation [or tuition reimbursement, flex time, or other perks], I think we'll have a deal.' By that point, the other side is so eager to close, they're almost guaranteed to give you the little extra," says Thomas.
5. Ask about the possibility of a "signing bonus." Employers might be able to give you money up front more easily than they can raise your salary, because bonus money often comes out of a company's recruiting budget, which is separate from its compensation budget.
3 EASY STEPS TO CHANGE YOUR IMAGE
1. CHANGE YOUR SCENT
"People judge your inner essence based on your outer scent," says Alan Hirsch, M.D., neurological director of the Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago. Some of Dr. Hirsch's findings: When women wear spicy, floral perfume, men perceive them as being up to 12 pounds thinner. Grapefruit scents can make women seem six years younger. Lavender aromas have been shown to cause sexual arousal in men.
2. CHANGE YOUR VOICE
People interpret high-pitched or breathy tones as immature or unpolished. To sound more self-assured, "pretend there's a dime holding your back teeth apart," says Glass. "This lets more air into your jaw and gives your voice extra resonance, which will make your words flow better and sound more attractive."
3. CHANGE YOUR PERSONAL STATIONERY
E-mail has done away with many communication formalities. For this reason, sending old-fashioned thank you notes on upscale stationery will set you apart from the crowd-and the competition. "A handwritten note on nice stationery is a sign of regard for yourself and the person you're writing to," says Arlyn Imberman, a graphologist and executive coach. Engraving your full name ("Kristin Jane Smith") on the cards makes you seem proper, a nickname ("Kristy") is more casual, and a monogram ("KJS") conveys an elegant image. Note-card color is also important, says Los Angeles color therapist and interior designer Carol Smith.
from MSN
Sunday, March 26, 2006
You can control your age....
Lifestyle factors that subtract 10 years from your age:
1. A long term, happy relationship subtracts 1.5 years for men; 6 months for women
2. If you are a man - subtract 3 years
3. Drinking one alcoholic drink per day, wine or beer, helps men over 40 and women over 50 to add six months
4. Ninety minutes' exercise a week for 3 years or more - subtract 3 years
5. Owning a dog or cat cuts your biological age by 6 months
6. If both your parents lived beyond their 75th birthday - subtract one year
7. Earning more than $50,000 a year removes financial and emotional stresses - takes off another year
6 things that add 10 years to your age:
1. Not eating fresh fruit and vegetables daily - add one year
2. All of your grandparents died before the age of 75 - add 1.5 years
3. Add three years to your life if you have been regularly exposed to more than three hours of passive smoking per day
4. If you have gained nine to 18 kilos since the age of 18 - add one year
5. If you suffered from depression - add two years
6. High blood pressure adds three years
from Sunday Telegraph
1. A long term, happy relationship subtracts 1.5 years for men; 6 months for women
2. If you are a man - subtract 3 years
3. Drinking one alcoholic drink per day, wine or beer, helps men over 40 and women over 50 to add six months
4. Ninety minutes' exercise a week for 3 years or more - subtract 3 years
5. Owning a dog or cat cuts your biological age by 6 months
6. If both your parents lived beyond their 75th birthday - subtract one year
7. Earning more than $50,000 a year removes financial and emotional stresses - takes off another year
6 things that add 10 years to your age:
1. Not eating fresh fruit and vegetables daily - add one year
2. All of your grandparents died before the age of 75 - add 1.5 years
3. Add three years to your life if you have been regularly exposed to more than three hours of passive smoking per day
4. If you have gained nine to 18 kilos since the age of 18 - add one year
5. If you suffered from depression - add two years
6. High blood pressure adds three years
from Sunday Telegraph
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