The Tree and the Octopus

We sometimes refer to Chloe as the "Little Octopus". This is because she's at an age when she wants to touch-and-feel everything. It all started when she tried to touch my dirty shoes with her right hand. When my mom stopped her by grabbing right hand, she reached out her left hand. When both her hands were restrained, she used her legs! Her actions are swift and strong - thus the affectionate nickname.

Although Christmas is near the corner, we hesitated for a month before setting up the tree. We were afraid that the Little Octopus might either pluck all the "ball-ball"s off, or worse still, pull the whole tree down. However, we did notice that whenever she's at my sis' place, she dare not go very near the Christmans tree. We thought she was just being well-behaved (because she's a little "afraid" of my brother-in-law). Little did we realise it's because she's afraid to touch plants altogether! Ha ha! [So like Mommy!!]

So our good ol' Christmas tree was fixed in its full glory 2 nights ago! Miraculously, the Little Octopus did not go even 2-foot near the tree. She would stand at a distance and squeal in delight as the tree lights blink, but if you ask if she wants to go near, she would run away or fold her arms and say "scared"! These days, she dare not even go climb the stairs alone, as the tree is so nearby.

My mom suggested we leave the tree there all year round so that all of us do not have to perform the back-breaking task of holding her as we trot up and down the stairs many times a day.....

p.s. Today is Bibit's 25th birthday! Unfortunately, it's impossible to buy her favorite strawberry cake to celebrate. My maid may think I'm mad. Must preserve my "Madam" image.....

Unbelievable....!

I had wanted to blog in the past month but I failed to find time to do it. Went out on an inspection project at the beginning of November, and that greatly reduced my access to and time spent on the internet. The inspection schedule was quite tight, and to top it off, I was assigned an area which I had no experience in. That added to the stress. It's always like that - when you're no more considered junior, your boss just expects you to know. Anyway, I gladly say (after a few white hairs and pimples), that I've survived, I've learnt and I've delivered.

On a fateful day last week, our management announced the year-end bonus, and it is pathetic man!! Unbelievable! We've never received such lousy group bonus in my 10 years with the company. Never mind that the financial crisis brought about extraordinary work demands, never mind that the economy is stabilizing. We're rewarded for the hardwork with a appalling payout, much less than the civil service! Morale is all-time low and a few of my colleagues are talking about leaving. Looks like it's time for me to reassess my options too. Anyone out there, got good lobang, let me know ya?!!