2009

Hmmm, it's been an accelerated start to the year.

Work has been very hectic - lots of long hours and late nights. I was at my sister's wedding for about a week+ in Melbourne this month which was my holiday ever since I started my new job. It doesn't look like I'll have another holiday anytime soon.

It's funny watching ads. I keep seeing Caucasians serving us at McDonalds and Foodtown on TV, when in fact, it's mostly Asians working at those places. I think they own the place.

I will be back (I said this before) when everything settles down. =)

Ho ho ho

Merry Christmas everyone! I'll be working as usual - going to Hamilton for 3 days.

I did my account checks tonight and realised the tax rates have slightly changed. I've been oblivious to the tax promises during the election by both parties. There's more thresholds, but overall less tax we pay! Woo hoo. But darn those guys who have LAQC!

I'll be back.

Muffler

My muffler fell off about a week ago. It was kinda disappointing, because I assumed I'd spend less money on the car as it was in good condition (it is still). I left the car in the garage during the weekday so I could find "quotes" to fix it.

On a Saturday morning (yesterday), I went to two places that were open. First place, Midas in Grafton quoted me $499 (excl GST). I asked for a 2nd hand muffler, they say it's 20% less. I asked how long it takes, so I could buy a 2nd hand part and they do labour, they say they don't know how long and usually do everything (buy parts).

In conclusion, Midas in Grafton's job is to rip off people. Thank goodness I left immediately. Avoid it at all cost.

I went to my next destination, Pit Stop in Newmarket. This place was a clear contrast. The guy was informative and told me that it was very common - rusting on the exhaust causing it to fall off. It's a 30 min job. They found a 2nd hand part, quote me $100. Total cost, $140.

So I decide to fix it on the spot. Thank you rip-offers, you just make my decision making process easy. =)

Recession

It's been  termed a recession recently, and on TV (and the newspaper) I've been bombarded with features and stories about the fall of many large financial firms, decreasing house prices, job losses, plummeting stock prices etc. It's all gloomy.

One good thing. Fuel prices have dropped. Woo hoo!!! Oh, house prices are reasonable now. Finally, some realistic pricing.

Anyway, with all this recession happening all around, I'm still having the shopping bug. I sold my road bike the other day (for a good profit), and now on the hunt for a mountain bike. Waiting for that end of year sale (08 models). =) 

And with the new job, I don't wear a lot of shirts, dark pants or black shoes anymore. So I'm hunting for a dark brown casual shoes, like the ones they sell in Camper except cheaper!

For some weird apparent reason, I'm strangely attracted to a Chelsea FC Polo shirt. They look awesome. But it's difficult to find any here and if I buy it online, it's just too damn expensive. I guess that'll be on my wish list. I'll focus on getting my bike first!

Spring

Spring is here. Fuel prices just dropped today.

It has been a while - too long actually. Two reasons (1) kinda tired and (2) another project. Work has been fantastic; and that's been keeping me busy and learning cool stuff. The team lunches on Friday is a ritual for me at work, and drinks afterthat. So, it has been good. Recently, there's been some celebrations/social nibbles, and more coming with Christmas etc. Personally, something that people should appreciate when they're at work.

Anyway, I'm selling my road bike =(. It's not sold yet but on the market now. It's a great bike - no complains. I just realised a mountain bike would suit me for what I need it for. I don't race and tend to hit kerbs, pot holes etc.

My bike.

So, if you're interested let me know. Anyway, I've been hearing a few interesting stories from my previous workplace. It's amazing how things change so quickly. I do hope for those people who left, they made the right decision. For me, I think it worked out pretty well. Although it didn't quite fit my long term plans, it achieved almost everything I wanted - for the moment.

One thing's changed, our indoor soccer team is being creamed every week. I've been out of form and no one else seems to be defending. I can understand, it's a boring job without any glory! But I go to indoor soccer to exercise, but it helps to win as well. =)

I'll be back, soon hopefully.

Update

I know, I know. It's been a while and really sorry. It's been 4 weeks in my role and getting to know everyone in the office. I think I've settled down. Anyway, I've also slacked off quite a bit because of my other new project. *evil laughter* But rest assure, this blog I won't ignore, just not much to say really.

In terms of my job, I love the fact that I am based in the CBD. Nothing beats having 20 plus options for lunch + dinner. Even better that you could go for a short stroll to shop. First 2 weeks was training, 3rd week was drive testing (mobile coverage performance testing). In fact I stopped by the old office to greet everyone! 4th week was getting used to sitting in the office (and figuring out how to use the tools). And in between the times, I was fixing the numerous IT issues I had. On Fridays, there's always beer o'clock. In fact, it starts a bit too early which I don't mind! Last week was yum cha at Grand Harbour - awesome! I think this was probably because of the strong influence of Cantonese people in the office (HK and Malaysia).

I just bought a Honda Civic 1996 yesterday (via online auction) for $4450. More than I thought it should be. But the lady offered $100 off for fixing the hazard lights if I win and a stereo. The lady has yet to reply my email and SMS for payment and change of ownership. Maybe she is in shock or something, because I'd jump on the bandwagon to set up a time to swap the car asap. 

One thing I'll be planning to do very soon - bike to work! Yes, you heard it. I did a trial run on Saturday morning, approx 15 mins to work and 25 mins back home (up the hill in Parnell). It all really depends on weather and it'll save me $1.44 per bus trip and burn approx 100 cal or something. All for a good cause. I will be back soon!

Last Day

It was my last day at work yesterday. Thought it'd be interesting to take photos of the stuff I returned - mobile phone, charger, car keys, garage keys, AMEX, Fuel card and access card.


Stuff!

Anyway, I don't have photos of the Holden Vectra and work laptop. I also had a couple of chat with managers - one asked me if she can contact me if a position appears, I told her yes of course, perhaps in 2 to 3 years time. =)