Back in 2008, my office building management always leaves the rooftop doors open. So, once a while we will sneak up there to take a break from mundane work. Our building is 22 storeys and one of the highest around this area, so we do get quite a good view from up there.
But nowadays its always locked. I guess it must be due to the silly things we did up there…
Timing is right and I find myself in KL again in time for Thaipusam this year. So this year I actually pulled myself outta bed before 5am and went to Batu Caves again (still late, as some of my friends were there from 3.30am!).
What’s different this time? Well, firstly the crowds climbing up were not as crowded, so I managed to actually get up to the caves this time.
Not too crowded at 5am…
Inside the caves…
And the queue coming down from the caves…
And I also noticed a few more details this time round.
Instead of the normal oranges and apples, I saw coconuts hanging on hooks this time. Also saw people carrying chains around themselves. And I also noticed people actually rolling up to the base of the stairs…
Who them proceeded to crawl up the stairs, and finally walk into the temple at the caves.
And finally, I leave you with my favourite pic of the day.
Haircut anyone?
My bro and I got Wii for Mom & Dad as presents for Christmas (and birthday).
Tiger also wants some of the action.
After opening… they’re still clueless what it is…
Until they tried it out!
But heck, they’d still rather watch those Chinese shows on Astro. So, I might as well play with it when I have the chance :)
Time passes by so quickly. Before you know it, another year has gone by. What have I achieved in 2009?
1. Working and living in a foreign country for the second year
Wow – cant believe its been 2 years already. Feels surreal to tell people I’ve been living in Bangkok for 2 years now. Also, one of the oldest expat in office now (many have left). But, I still cant speak Thai – although…
2. Learn a foreign language
Yeap – I enrolled in a beginner Thai class. Now I can tell people that I’m not Thai! However, still a long way to go before I could carry a conversation.
3. Blogged
Yeah, I can’t believe I managed to keep this blog alive. Although I’ve been pretty quiet the last few months, especially in December. OK – I’ve gotta continue and update more frequently about life overseas. Oh yeah, I think I earned about $4 this year from Google ads (hahaha).
4. More responsibility in the job
Uh huh – I’ve got promoted from ‘officer’ to ‘manager’ level (feels like I’ve ‘grown up’). And the role comes with a lot of responsibilities. I’m already feeling a bit overwhelmed now, especially towards the end of the year – if anyone has noticed, I’m barely in Bangkok or have any time on my own! And this blog and my photography is the first to be affected. But the learning curve for me has spiked. I’m now managing several projects on my own, conducting workshops on my own and deciding on how I spend my own budget even. And of course, arranging my own time – yeah, lots of flexibility in this job. I think I’m starting to get a hang of this job – although I wish I had more time for myself.
5. Travelled to 9 different countries
Excluding Thailand and Malaysia, of course. This also includes 2 new countries (Tanzania and Philippines) and several new places. Some places are already becoming quite similar, its blurring together already. I’m starting a new column on the right - “Where have I been in 2010?” – so I don’t lose track!
Here’s the list of travels in 2009:
Conclusion: India is still the most sucky place to go. Philippines is surprisingly very nice. And everyone should do a safari in Africa at least once in their lifetime (and don’t skimp on getting a good guide – it does make a lot of difference).
Oh, and I must add that I managed to stay in Bangkok for an entire month (of June) – which is a big feat by itself!
6. Did paragliding!
Its so cool, everyone should do it. And its not as scary as it seems.
7. Upgraded my camera
Bought a new camera and sold off the old one. Although most picture taking experience is still the same – so therefore, its always the photographer, not the camera that makes a good photo. Also managed to join several microstock agencies and sold a couple of photos (I think I earned like $3 so far). Now, I just gotta take and upload more photos. However, due to hectic schedule, my photography enthusiasm is a little down towards the end of the year (yeah, I’m blaming everything on my workload). Gotta find a way to pick it up again this year. Hmm… would having a Macbook help?
Well, in summary: 2008 brought me lots of new experiences. 2009 gave me a chance to refine those experiences. Lets see what 2010 brings…
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