|
August 31, 2003 =Last Day of the Month |
After a big spending (yesterday), it was all quiet here. Alone. No plans and my only plan was to stay in and quiet for no expense. Hahaha. Got up around 10pm and ran into my usual barber for haircut.
"Just make me handsome, please." - This was NOT what I said. Hey, cannot be more than this! Hehehe.
Though, while in that place for haircut, I was so sleepy. You know, went to bed around 2:30am this morning (not last night anymore). I was chatting with darling sister Robyn in Columbia via Yahoo and I couldn't stop telling her things. Vice versa, I bet. Anyway, lack of sleep.
Did I like my new hair style?! Well, so-so.
What matters more than looks is simply of my brain... right?! Oh, I've got any...
Takashi Moriya sent me photo images taken from gathering the other day. Thank you, man!
Takashi Moria in left picture: Amy Shibata smiles just next to me!
In the afternoon, I was busy surfing the Net. Hey, not about porn, got it?! I was looking for some information about how to spend a long weekend coming in the middle of September. Yeah, since MoonFlower wants to do something with me... literally means, "something SPECIAL."
Unfortunately, no plans were written down. Why?! Well, basically I am not good at planning... and secondly, I am broke! Trips in Japan is always costly and makes me to procrastinate to set a plan... along with big figure (amount) to prepare out of my pocket.
Where would you recommend?
Early evening, I had some work to do on job. Bad news came in around 8pm and I got freaked out with this bad news. Called up customer for explanation... and prepared several email messages overseas. This was really something never expected and hope this won't induce some others... don't want anymore!
23:40
|
August 30, 2003 =Last Saturday in August |
Almost summer is over... and Japan's summer was very short... not hot around. Well, it was summer-day like and perfect to go out. Went to Makuhari area and saw the game between Chiba Lotte Maries (home) and league-leading Daiei Hawks (visitor).
1st time ever been to Chiba Marine Stadium (ball park).
Game; Hawks edged Marines easily at 6-2.
MoonFlower wanted to come and held tickets for two... free admission for today. Yeah, nice. She actually wanted to see fireworks more than ball game... this is true! She kept telling me to choose the best seats able to see fireworks well. At that time of looking for place to sit, we weren't sure that which direction the fireworks coming up to.
Famous balloon shots! (lots of noise)
Man, not perfect to see... but still okay, I thought.
Who? (hahaha)
Ate lots of snacks... fattening... I will watch out what I eat from TOMORROW on. So much fun and drank beer! Hehehe.
Lastly - actually it was before the game. Stopped by a store and used my plastic... Another addition to my line-up. See this:
New pair of Regal shoes for work. 11,000 yen.
15:51+1
|
August 29, 2003 =Time Really Flying? |
Pink shirts and pink tie... too vivid?
By my favorite Versace.
Fly me to the moon... I wish. Yeah, I need to go to someplace very far... where all voices of claim and complaints never reach. Hahaha, this might be the pure voice of mine. Came home late... after long meeting with entire department staff members. Serious enough?! Yeah, damn right... serious enough to feel so bad about some finding...
I was and still am too pragmatist and almost (already?) cold-blooded. Goal-oriented... not having any piece of human-kind emotion about work... If you know in the real world, many of you can easily agree.
Meeting was mainly about "what sales people ought to do in order to maximize the sales and profit." And then, "what customer service reps should do getting along with aid to sales staff." So I was the one occupied in the meeting. Yeah, I talked and talked... kept talking to spread my philosophy toward work. Must have been too much on all other members there. Too theoretical for them?! Could have.
Sales are coming from goal set for every fiscal year... and customer service reps should do all to support sales. That's the norm set by my own theory. Many opinions out of others differed from mine. Oh boy. There was serious conflicts in understanding and expectation.
I felt isolated. Indeed.
Everyone really though about work as how to get along with each other... rather than achieving the goal. To me, this was sort surprising. All, besides me, had such perspective and I looked living in different world like "meritocracy."
Each opinion matters for sure. Maybe I was in wrong place?! Hahaha.
Last working day of the month. Man, September is just around the corner...
1:51+1
|
August 28, 2003 =Control? Maybe Not |
Out of control! Or you can say, "fuera de control!" --- Engel's coefficient is gone sky high! You need to pay per read here! Yeah, I really should make this toll site?! Or maybe, based on charged membership?! Hmmmm, not enough number of readers to support entire cost of living for me! <Bang!
This month... has become worst... for last 3 months that I keep the log of all spending. Truly, spent most in this month. That's why I had to say "out of control" as a remark. No kidding.
While income is very much stable (rather downward?!), you know that spending and all necessary expense has to be limited in order to maintain healthy economic condition with some preparation toward future (i.e. saving). Though, I haven't even made a tiny success for last three to four months when spending remains at highest level.
Up to 28th of month, I have spent (19 working days):
Lunch: 8,385 yen (441 yen per meal)
Supper: 19,312 yen (1,016 yen per serve)
Total: 27,697 yen (1,457.7 yen per day)Not included weekend spending at all... strictly about weekdays. All for weekends are based upon different budget calculation (otherwise, no dates, no movies, nothing!!!).
Where is my cheesecake?!
That's why no new ties for a long time! Hehehe. No more needed?! Which is your opinion?!
Tie from German brand called "BOSS." Bought in Dallas, TX.
Can you see all wrinkles on it?! Cool, huh! I like it.
Of course, this isn't silk tie... very unusual to me who sticks with silk ties only.Busy today?! So-so. 2 appointments were taken care up to 3pm and there was an internal meeting from 4pm. Was interesting one since learning new world... that other sales reps sold some business with very different way like on one would ever do. Some "eccentric" way! Or may it call a "magic?" Anyway, something new and that I would never like to do!
Left work at almost 8pm. Still later than the timing I wanted to come out... which was 7:15pm! Anyhow, one more day to go! How about that!!!
0:10+1
|
August 27, 2003 =Almost Forgot?! |
Not dementia senilis yet, right?! Hope so. Today - certainly 27th of the month when I made a promise with Buddy Takashi Moriya who came to Tokyo on business trip from Nagoya and long-time-no-see Amy to get together for drinks after work.
Yeah, surely told them to meet at 7:30pm in Tokyo Station.
However, I had several meetings toward the end of day and sort (truly?) forgot about it. In fact, I really thought that all scheduled for tomorrow, not tonight. Then, came to realize that I was wrong. My personal cellular phone rang and it was from Takashi. Then, saw an incoming message from Amy mentioning that she was already on the way; still could be late.
Wait, I was the only one not planning to go to the meeting point. Man, I forgot! At the same time, coworker Hiroshi Kuboki and ex-coworker Takashi Kiguchi were up for drinks and I was supposed to join them. Man, all screwed up so much!
About 10 minutes to 8pm, I left work and rushed to Tokyo Station. If were Boss Ito, would have grab a cab right out side of the office. Me?! Like poor guy?! Just took subway. Finally made there 8:15pm and I was SO... SO APOLOGETIC! Yeah, no excuse whatsoever. I know-
Takashi and Amy - both looked fine and we had good time together for about 2 hours. Full of drink?! Well in a matter of fact, I just had single glass of beer. That was it. Sorry folks, no pictures. Since I really thought that it was all about tomorrow, (digital camera) not prepared at all.
Orange tie from Barneys New York.
Good night!
0:54+1
|
August 26, 2003 =Busy Still? |
Maybe you're enjoying cool and controlled temperature by AC at your work... unfortunately, my work place is out there. On the field, you know. So means I am outside most of the time and yeah, today was no exception. I know, I shouldn't start things like complaining of my condition to public like this.
Too hot and much seat I had... still weight figure isn't coming down... yet, I hope.
3 appointments complete to make my boss happy! Hahaha. For 2nd appointment in Yokohama, Naohiko Tasei from Narita Branch joined me, covering Yamazaki's (Mgr. - Naohiko's boss) absence. He and I repeatedly went over the flow chart with new client bringing new business along with some small profit.
For that appointment, we had meeting with person in charge of operation. Young... cute... though, still looked KINKY to me. Why?! Didn't small much. In fact, difficult facial expression and impassivity are coming back and forth. Couldn't tell much this young lady was generous enough to make this work with us or not. In fact, the decision to switch services to us wasn't of hers and I just wonder... if she wanted to stay and stick with current service provider. Well, hope am wrong about this young lady. The new biz is to take off on September 1st.
Today's MY expression. Better than all showed before?!
At least I can tie a tie straight and knot is set tight. With such neat fashion ties... I have lots to express myself off the ties... good addition to my smooth talk! Hahaha. Good taste, right?!
Left work late. Still there was a discussion over supper with coworker...
30,000 yen was withdrawn from my bank account. Sumitomo Mitsui Bank. Too bad that I had to take big money out of my account day after pay day! I have to take some classes about how to save money and how not to spend on something unnecessary!
0:24+1
|
August 25, 2003 =Too Hot! |
"Too hot!" --- isn't about how sexy it is... is NOT? Man, you should think about what you need to think besides bad thing! Hahaha. Surely, it was hot --- temperature-wise! Definitely above 90's!
Spent most of the time with clients. 3 of them... all went okay?! Well, I can say so. Thing didn't go well was about my lunch! Up to 3pm, didn't get any chance to eat... until when finishing all appointments. Then, I saw "Denny's" on the street I was walking and decided to go in for eat. Yeah, it was a few minutes after 3pm... and soon as I sat in, asked if still lunch menu available or not.
Gee, negative. I have to go along with regular (dinner) menu for food! Hey, I wasn't planning to wait that much long to spend more! I know, it was pay day today... though, I didn't come down this way at all. Trust me.
And today's this, right?!
from Mila Schon. Beautiful colors and designed flowers, huh.
With purple tie, wore purple eye wear and had purple handkerchief. That's only the color I care?! Could be! Well, still fond of blue, red, and some other colors, too.
It is already after midnight... though, still I have to work on something... Yeah for work. So I have to cut this out short. Please pardon!
Official announcement: Ogakijin's personal movie page is coming up soon!
0:15+1
|
August 24, 2003 =Another Event and More Pictures |
Hi, folks. Weekend is just about over... just about. And I came home from Tokyo Dome. Yeah, the event was "Intercity Baseball Tournament 2003." Seino Transport Co., Ltd. was representing Ogaki City. Against Kimitsu City of Chiba. Team called "Kazusa Magic."
You know, MoonFlower is from Kimitsu and Tak is obviously born in Ogaki. Means a domestic fight besides that baseball game?! Hahaha. She had no show today. Didn't come to the ball game.
The 74th Annual Intercity Baseball Tournament
Board shows Seino's profile and girl receives attention more than players?! She's team assistant.
Cute?! What would you think?
The game wasn't developing toward the way we wanted...
In this game, Seino (Ogaki) did NEVER get ahead.
Today's guardians: (L) Kirk (R) Yoko - my ex-landlord! Now back to Japan.
Next to Yoko - Kirk's colleague, Mr. Suzuki happened to join us.
Cheer leading was, as always in this Championship, part of important roll...
Orange figures... Japanese persimmon famous in Ogaki area.
Game was finished 2-5... loss. For Ogaki by Seno, everything is over with this!
See you in the Dome next year!
Kirk and I stopped by for Ramen noodles.
Man, huge disappointment for all of us... we did cheer the team up hard as possible! But the game wasn't coming under the control... Surely, victory wasn't secured at all.
We should wait and see if Ogaki by Seino can come to Dome again or not... Team should be tough - better than this year!
0:12+1
|
August 23, 2003 =Kick Off 2004? |
Kick Off 2004... was, if all were same, taking place today! Last weekend of August every year. Though, company's profile is NOT same anymore and there is no kick off meeting or party. Though, there was a big party thrown for those who worked for Air Import and Export.
Today's sight of party... Big Boss Nakabayashi's house.
Full of foods waiting for all 20 people of us! and "CHEERS!" Beer to start with.
BBQ was the entree and all meats were so wonderful. Surely, I ate a lot!
<L> Toshinari Tanaka asleep at early stage <C> "usual" Kenichi Eto's muscle <R> Kyoko Fukami & Yasuko Ishiyama.
<L> Shota Shitanishi's wife and kid <C> Nakabayashi house dog <R> Tetsuji Fukui joined afterward.
<L> Shota Shitanishi danced with wife <C> Boss Ito tried monocycle <R> Dai (Shota's kid) sleeping soundly.
<L> Boss Ito, Hanaki, Fukami, and Nakabayashi's daughter Mizuki <C> Boss Ito resting <R> Tanabe worn out.
<L> Too much dance on Shota? <R> Today's host - Big Boss Nakabayashi! (thank you bunch!)
Some OLD picture from Nakabayashi's memorial album. Big change in him?
2:15+1
|
August 22, 2003 =Long Meeting |
Long day for me. How was yours?! Ready for weekend?! I am. Quite so... long waited resting time for me! In fact, there will be a party tomorrow and will go to Tokyo Dome for a ball game Sunday. Means, full of schedule this weekend, already.
Anyhow, long day today. Left work around 10pm. Sales meeting from 5pm lasted like forever for me. Too bad that Yasuko Ishiyama (female) had to miss some prior engagement on personal as well as Akiyoshi Mori (male) decided not to join his friends. Was the meeting serious enough?! Surely.
Okay, today's look:
One of best I have. Pink tie from "Ermenegildo Zegna."
Very expensive tie?! Yeah, I know. I just loved these flowers on it and they are recognizable, aren't they?! Don't remember where I bought this... in US. That was in Dallas, TX?!
And am ready for tomorrow's party.
1:51+2
|
August 21, 2003 =Field Trip? |
To Hamamatsu, Shizuoka - my biz trip of the month. With just about 3 hours of sleep! Definitely, hard working or too much dedication for company. Went bed last night at 2:30am... like I told so... and got up at 5:30am. Just 3 hours, right?!
Thanks to MoonFlower, didn't miss the timing to get up. Didn't ask her to... just told her what I would do. Then she just gave me a wake-up call. She must be up just for me! Wao-
A little after 6am, was already in subway train toward Tokyo Station. Caught a Super Express Kodama at 7:13am! So at 9am when everyone was about to get coffee and chat with coworkers of previous night, I was already off the train at Kakegawa and about to grab a cab for meeting place.
Already retrieved all incoming messages to my computer... but you know, my work laptop isn't good anymore. Battery life is just too short for me to deal with all! Only lasts 30 minutes or so. Today was day for "meeting after meeting." Tough time?! Well to be honest with you, all meetings were under control and, mostly, I had known where each meeting would come to go to... not a problem to me. Although, the thing was not of good or bad... in that sense, I would say - BAD.
Hamamatsu - so famous place for eel! I often eat when coming to this place. Planned to for today too... BOOO, I couldn't. Place (very famous) was closed. What a luck!!! Hey, I cut my sleep so short just for this (food?)!!! It should've been open for me! Too bad... missed to big... huge! (like "Pretty Woman")
Mickey Tie! Snazzy, huh!
This tie... was another oldest in my possession. Bought at Harrods in London (with another tie introduced the other day!). Silk. I think this is good kind.
My darling sister Robyn emailed me TWO DAYS IN A ROW!!! What a lucky man am I?! Hahaha. So glad to see her messages like that. In fact, I phoned (her) Mom last night and received whole bunch of up-to-date of family feud! (not really - meant "family matters")
In addition to her case, I have received many messages from friends... constantly from buddy in Mexico - Israel (sorry, I haven't replied last message of yours!), Sammy in New Zealand... and some others like Kack in Atlanta and erix2 in Tokyo.
Everyone loves me?! Or just easy target to pick on?! Hahaha.
On the way back to Tokyo, I slept mostly... (duration: 2 hours). Became a power nap. Feel much better when coming home. Though, at that moment (after 8pm) didn't know that I had to talk to customer who were home already for urgent issue... Seems things are just after me... to anywhere.
Some day, I would like to say, "Today ain't your day. Take a number!" - I wish.
Anyhow, one more day to go!
23:21
|
August 20, 2003 =Ready for Trip? |
Friend Dawn (in Atlanta) just told me in her message via E-mail that I should get my personal life... yeah, still working, somehow. Now clock is ticking about 1:30am. Yeah, way passed my bed time. Probably - most definitely? I cannot come to a beauty sleep. Just tonight I make things so.
Didn't know that I came to hold 2 laptop computers from work to home. Yeah, happened that way tonight. How come TWO?! Well, this is the story. I went out for appointments directly from my apartment today. I knew that I would have some time to read messages... so I decided to take my PowerBook with me. Not a big deal, right?!
Finished several appointments and had internal meeting from 5 to 7pm. Then, I got a memo that I needed to call back to Hamamatsu Branch. Then found that there was a request for me to come over TOMORROW! Gee. I sort knew... only a little. I really thought low percentage. In fact, the news came to me so late!
So talked to Boss Ito and filed petition for biz trip. Boss Ito verbally gave me an okay, instantly. Just a snap!
Anyhow, I then had to carry my work laptop (by NEC) back home for tomorrow's trip. Yeah, same time still holding my PowerBook with me. Eventually, 2 computers with me! What a day, huh!
Working late tonight. Very very late.
For sure, I will be very busy and sleepy! I have to catch a train about 6:30am or so... 7am latest. Gee, don't have much time to sleep, huh! I know... will go to bed about 2:30am (so decided).
Cannot forget about this, right?!
Sorry, cannot see well about color of shirts... in PINK!
How would you like?! I welcome any comment of yours if any out there... don't hesitate! I know, I COULD be color blind... but could be a genius. Tough to define the difference, right?! Only a slightest difference, right?! Hahaha.
Should wrap all up for today. Well, adjourned! Good night.
1:48+1
|
August 19, 2003 =New Shoes and Feet with Pain |
With brand new shoes... whole new fine day! Nope, didn't go that way. Went outside toward work and found it was sprinkling! Gee, didn't bring my umbrella! Means that I had to get wet... a little.
Though, still news shoes... made me feel NEW! No photos, though. Will be here?! Could be.
Didn't plan to complete 3 appointments for the day and yet did so. Good job?! Well, after work, there is something left in my feeling... Had better say - in my sensation. PAIN! My feet hurt! With new shoes, there were extra (and still unexpected) burden since carefully working with unaccustomed pair! You know how it is.
Okay, here is "Tie of the Day!" From Brooks Brothers.
This is the only Brooks I have. I know, very popular brand... though, there is just one for me. Bought this at some mall near Charlotte, NC... yeah, recalling so. With darling sister Robyn and Mom... long time ago! Man, I should write them! Shouldn't stay out of touch with them for this long. I regret.
At work, seems all were under control. Boss Ito's temper was at normal level and Big Boss Nakabayashi was busy in conference call with some country in Europe. Other salespersons, like Mori and Ishiyama, were out almost all the time for sales calls.
Inside workers... didn't have hard time from customers with vivid demands, either. World peace! Means, this is just a little calmness before something big?! Could be "hush (or lull) before a storm?!?!" - Hope not.
No drinks after work. Left work around 7:30pm. Arrived at home 8:20 --- after stopping by the store for FOODS! (Yeah, I still have to eat and survive, you know!)
Lunch - spent 370 yen. Rice and beef bowl (@Matsuya) and side dish of TOFU (my favorite)
Supper - salad (vegetables, small shrimps, and broccolis) and some rice balls. 1071 yen (along with 2 tea / juice bottles).1st time to talk to Friend Kirk in almost a month?! Well, sounded well. Glad to talk to him... we should held another gathering soon to see how each other's doing! Yeah, there will be a surprise guest to the gathering for sure! Secret... will be the time to disclose who the guest is.
Work - at least today's wasn't that bad... no stress. Will see how this goes tomorrow.
23:57
|
August 18, 2003 =Problems Solved? |
Supposedly hot day and it wasn't. Still rainy somehow and we miss sunshine! You know what?! Yesterday and today, I came to realize something... my next door hadn't moved out. I presumed so... wrongly! I finally came to see her. About my age or so?! Even tonight, I saw her at the apartment entrance. Seemed nice, though. No conversation made. You know how much shy I am!
Today's work. Bad?! Worse?! Or the worst? As expected, I started with full of hectic issues to solve. No hesitation and didn't choose some other way around. Straight to them and mostly solved or dealt up to early afternoon. Good for me! Yeah, I knew that I didn't come to straight like that... but at the same time, I knew that it wouldn't be wise to put all tough things aside.
Let's not talk about work anymore just for tonight. Tired and it's all over!
Recovery (from bad situation) process has to be minimized time-wise. Don't you agree?
This is the oldest tie in the series! Bought at Great Britain's Harrods.By Missoni.
Lunch - spent less than 200 yen. Yeah, cup noodle. Bad for health and great on my wallet! Eased pain from being broke! Hehehe, I know I cannot repeat this so many times. Yes, Mommy. I will stay away from instant foods!
Supper - much better and really considered what I should eat. After junk foods, selected salads. Bid bowl of salad for supper. Much better and very healthy. Spent less than average, too! Just over 700 yen. Pretty good deal!
Chatted with friend ChanKen on MSN Messenger. Confirmed he wouldn't come to Tokyo for ball game on Sunday. Oh boy, I won't see him then. Yeah, planning to show up at Tokyo Dome Sunday.
Saturday, a big party was just announced. For those coworkers?! Well, it might be mix of work and personal... I will figure it out later. Though, surely it will be a huge drinking spree with friends!
23:32
|
August 17, 2003 =Slow Day |
Hangover?! Not quite for me. Never had before, either. Just slow day it was. Woke up around 11am and didn't do much. Outside?! Man, sprinkling all day long. This time, not really fun weekend weather-wise, right?! Yeah, we all know so.
In late afternoon, showed up at Maihama... for shopping mall IKSPIARI. Since MoonFlower was with someone else all day long up to that point, we came to see each other this late. Until then, I had nothing to eat... since being lazy home... no foods and drinks. So soon as getting together, we ran into shop for something to eat!
Keema Curry set. 1,000 yen.A little bit expensive. Though, this was the best choice of mine then. Two different curries with Indian bread. Pretty big meal at the end.
Window shopping thereafter. No purchase made. You know, I have been broke... badly this time. Spent too much on drinks last night and played golf right after pay day. So definitely over spent on personal. Hmmmm, I have to be extra careful about what to spend money out of very tight budget from now on... till next pay day! Save me, will you!
Tomorrow, back to work. And I know there is a big problem still lying before me. Hope this would NOT be as big as I think for now. Top priority, no doubt. I will start with this tomorrow morning. Hope, by the end of tomorrow, I can tell that it's all over.
22:21
|
August 16, 2003 =Party? |
Awfully drank... and now am drunk! Oh boy! Didn't know that I would come to have that much drink tonight. Yeah, I did.
Remember that colleague Arata Yamamoto was about to leave our work place?! Yeah, he's already gone. And he will be relocated to other area at the end of month. Tonight, we had a gathering on him and here it is:
Rear: (Mrs.) Masumoto-Thompson from TN, USA! -- came back to Japan for this?
L-R in front row: Kyoko Fukami, Obara, Arata Yamamoto and TajimaHaven't seen Tajima for a very long time and, of course, it was so great to spend time like this with those friends. Mostly I drank beer and gin and tonic. Ate much?! So-so.
What did we talk about over dinner and drinks?! Well, there were lots of secrets... not possibly put up here. Highly confidential! Hahaha. Although, mostly fun talk and gossips (which I love most!).
12:23+1
|
August 15, 2003 =Peaceful Day Off? |
Power is out, huh! Big chaos in NY and other major cities on East Coast... Are you the one of victims spending outside without power over night?! Great sympathy of mine for you.
Toadies attire. NO TIE?!
Yeah, took a day off! Still paid, though.My "symbol" necklace, huh. This has been with me since I was 19... more than 10 years. Fastening the seat belts?! Not really. Just my sack over shoulder.
Around 10:30am, key man came to my apartment and exchanged to new lock system. Yeah, much better. New key... if you reserve my spare one, please notify me to send you one! Hahaha, for what?!
New comer to my place. Free gift in shopping mall. What kind of cactus?Went out from late morning. MoonFlower has been already on summer vacation this week due to plant shut-down. So went to shopping. She bought T-shirts and I bought a pair of shoes for work! Recently worn out a pair... for this, have I mentioned?!
Anyway, spent over 85 dollars on shoes. Big spending. Hurt too much on my budget. Though, what I need to get is what I have to buy. No other choice or other way around.
Came home happy after fun time. Saw movie too. Popular Japanese movie... Yuji Oda was in it. Man, so funny and cool. Good movie... Title translation in English (according to official web site) is as "Bayside Shakedown 2." Not going to American theaters for sure, though. Will hit in Hong Kong and other Asian regions, instead.
"Odoru Dai Sosa-sen 2"You know what?! Happy time didn't last too long. Came home and read all work-related messages. There was a report about bad news. Man, I wish I were at work today. You know, letting someone else handle won't be as good (?) or as much enough to keep customers feel same way.
Company is based upon organization. Service is "supposedly" out of company... but the quality of service couldn't be same... rather depends upon who provides the service. Today, I came down to this theory ONCE AGAIN.
I told myself that I shouldn't take it personal. This is job and work. Not part of my personal life.... even though I know, I am now facing up to hectic problem with my customer. Oh boy.
15:46+1
|
August 14, 2003 =Falling Asleep? |
Came home as usual and ate. In a while, didn't realize that I was falling asleep. I knew it! Had some alcohol to help it out?! Well... it was long night last night. Talked to more than a few people in US on single issue and took me a while. Finally went to bed around 2:30am. Call me crazy!
2 appointments. Easy?! Yeah, they were (somehow). Good part was that I showed up to Shinjuku area... and came to my favorite ramen noodle place called "Santo-ka." Man, this was better than good. Great.
Famous "Santo-ka" Ramen!800 yen... didn't mind a bit about this pricing... what the heck!!! Good stuff is NEVER cheap! (I hope it will be)
What?! You don't care what I ate and liked?! But my fashion?! Okay, don't rush me much... here it is.
Very very blue tie - by DUNHILL.Bought this back in 1997 or so?! In San Francisco, I remember...
the most expensive one I have ever paid!!! (true)And being home... I was working on Home Shopping Network. Yeah, it is here in Japan, too! The program I watched, on job, was from 8pm till 9pm. Didn't know that it was an hour long! Man, didn't expect to.
Special mini bear - 4 year anniversary edition
And I came to know how expensive they were!!! Surprise!
Why this was of work?! Well, I even taped the program! Hahaha! New business?! No, not really. Just the matter of small thing from work. Taped the program and took notes of what information were given in it.
Man, passing midnight... I have to get back to work! See ya!
0:14+1
|
August 13, 2003 =And More? |
Woke up out of nightmare?! Nope... it was coming true! Gee, big loss. My business (one of the large accounts) is now slipping away! Man, this is serious. It is not my fault or any service failure... still, hurts.
As soon as I acknowledged such message from colleague in Boston, I called him up to see some more information. Although, he was no longer at his desk for the day. Man, I sent report on such bad news to others in my end... Phone calls and E-mail messages... almost all were regarding to the same issue with different reaction or understanding.
Hmmmm, what shall I do with it?! Result is out and determination was already set. Game's over?! Will see and confirm just one more time.
Fun part for you... more than several readers left comments with me about how lovely to see my different attire of mine everyday here... so here it is! See right there ->
So what to wear tomorrow?! You know, this tie... one of the oldest I have... and still remain one of most favorite!
Today, once again busy day. Left work a little after 11am and back in around 4:30pm. 3 appointments. Good news?! Well, breaking news (mentioned above) got my attention and nothing else matters for now INDEED.
Started from Uchisaiwaicho - showed up in Yoga, and then came down to Ueno area. Long trip? Not so hard on me, though. Wasn't that hot outside... so it was rather easy on me, like I said.
Lunch: ate yellow tail. This kind of fish I really like... with rice and miso soup. Good stuff. Paid 680 yen.
Supper: curry over rice (so-called "curry rice") and I made some mess! Hahaha.Summer vacation time starts... many factories are shut down and so many people are home, not working. Having family reunion?! If so, good for you! Me?! Usual. As calendar goes, I work. Still I expect that I will be off on Friday.
23:24
|
August 12, 2003 =Tie Series... On? |
Hot?! Somewhat raining for now outside. Man, should cool off? Not quite. Had better be HUMID! Hmmm, that's not the way I would like to see, you know!
Surprise is not about rain... but the photo from yesterday. Obviously, you would love to see how I looked everyday?! Man, this could be another popular series to be in here?! Here it is... still don't know how long this lasts yet.
Yesterday, yellow and red... today, tie and shirts in PURPLE!How do you like my fashion? Well, I know... you cannot resist too much, can you?! I bet! Hahaha. Man, I have to carefully choose what to put on!!!
How many appointments?! There were 2 things and they went all okay. Not that bad. New business?! Yeah, happened to be talking about whole new businesses in both meetings. Must be hardworking?! (or still calling "hardly working.") Anyhow, still one appointment short to keep the average. Hmmmm, annoying!
Meanwhile, (my competitor in this race) Akiyoshi Mori had 1 customer and Yasuko Ishiyama still had to spend her entire time to adjust current working environment from a week long vacation. So, my situation looked much better in shape.
Am sure that Boss Ito's best interest within sales matters is just about this "average figure" of daily appointments per salesperson. So I am ahead?! At least for now and for this month only. But I have to remind myself that I take a day off on Friday. Mean, I have to get "extra three" some other time. Hmmmm.
Lunch - skipped due to preparation for an appointment with new client N in Nihonbashi.
Supper - late one. Ate just a little. Weight is downward! Starving to death?! Not really.Good night.
23:41
|
August 11, 2003 =How Did I Do It? |
Good evening, all readers. How are you?! Feeling hot summer much out there?! For me, most definitely. The trick was...
NO SHOW to work place today!
How did it happen? Planned to make that happen?! Nope. Had an appointment with brand new prospective (customer) in Shinjuku and that meeting was with president of company. Not as much fruitful as I wanted it to be... though, still there are some good information. Could be new business out of it?! Well, perhaps. Will see how this turns out to be.
Just keep your fingers crossed for me, okay?
Since didn't show up... many of colleagues would (might) think that I just faked being with customers all day long... and possibly stayed in home?! Well, here's some piece of evidence.
My attire for today!
In the afternoon... the main event of the day was scheduled. Didn't have enough time for eat... so I had to stop by some shop for drink and breads. Very simple meal it was. Then, meeting... the longest one ever done just began.
From 1:30pm... the serious (and still interesting?) meeting was in place lasted like making me feel forever... finally came to an end at 5:30pm. Wow! Must be really bad or really good as a result?! Well, difficult to define for me.
Oh, any suggestions or comments about my fashion? I may have some difficulty to agree with your opinion, though.
After the meeting, small wrap-up meeting took place and it was over at 6pm. Gee, what a day! Begged Boss Ito for permission to let me go home. Yet, doesn't simply coming home... working home!!! Called up Client N and B and so for some issues to solve. Yeah, I know, my desk has been in mess because I wasn't there all day long.
And I, like today, will be busy tomorrow on.
Petition for a day off for this Friday (8/15) filed. Boss Ito is going to grant tomorrow (I hope).
Didn't know that my neighbor had moved out. I guess, it was all after that break-in! Man, I really thought that it was she... so vacant for now?! I presume so.
22:48
|
August 10, 2003 =After Typhoon |
Clear sky and beautiful day was here... right after typhoon passed through. Yeah, usual weather patterns... that millions of people (who are used to see typhoons around) are fully aware.
Some display here... finally. From friend Acky:
(Click the image for large one)She is ALMOST like professional? That's what I thought. Man, she should start up some business... I would run for her and I get commission! Hahaha, just kidding. Though, she is very talented for sure.
My day started in Royal Host restaurant. Happened to find friend Eto (and still coworker). Sat together and I had a breakfast even though he was already finished his. Anyway, the conversation was on and on up to about lunch time. The topic covered from work to personal up-to-date, etc. Yeah, men's talk, right?! I know.
Stopped by his place (since he's neighbor). He let me borrow his DVD collections of James Bond movies.
"From Russia With Love"
"Moonraker"
"On Her Majesty's Secret Service"Plus,
Mel Gibson's "The Patriot"
Yeah, at least for a while, I don't really worry about with what to kill my spare time! Hehehe. Thanks, man!
By the way, what would be the best description of Eto's place?! Please select one of followings:
Q: His place was ______ than Tak's apartment.
a. 10 times dirtier
b. 10 times larger
c. 10 times cleaner
I will beg Eto for his permission to disclose the fact on Net. Hahaha. You know which one may be best suitable.
Dinner: "Yakitori" --- typical Japanese foods in many taverns.
That's what MoonFlower and I ate for dinner. Big one?! Not so. Just about 4,000 yen... out of my pocket! Hey, this doesn't happen often... very rare, got it?!
22:07
|
August 9, 2003 =Typhoon #10 Is Passing Through |
Yeah, truly happening. Well, I'd better say, "happened." Seems all were over now. Typhoon didn't come close enough... but certainly affected much to the local weather. Lots of rain and so strong wind. Bad enough to having tied me in.
Stayed home. All day for nothing. Just because of bad weather. Not wanting to let my umbrella get broken.
Woke up around 9:30am and watched TV on and on... and then, came to a nap from 2pm. Oh yeah, did go out for dry cleaning and something to eat (i.e. ramen noodles). Nap continued until 5pm. Man, spent my day for just sleep!
No much (fancy) foods, no drinks (i.e. alcoholic beverage), no friends or women. Very simple day like a monk! Hehehe.
So that was all for today.
0:22+1
|
August 8, 2003 =Maybe Not That Exciting |
Toward another weekend, not necessarily perfect excitement. Rain... lots of rain are expected along with Typhoon #10 coming up to the archipelago of Japan.
Not much rained today. Did... but fortunate enough, I wasn't outside then. Didn't stay in all the time... certainly visited more than several sites of customers on job. Busy?! Yeah, you can define so.
From 5pm, a little sales meeting took place with Boss Ito (and usual Akiyoshi Mori). Wait, Yasuko Ishiyama was missing. Oh boy, I totally forgot that she had been on vacation. For whole week! Man, must be really nice. I should get one like that. Question is where she went for relaxation. I can put up letters as LV.
Las Vegas. Somehow she really loves that place and often goes to same place (even same hotel to stay!) for pleasure. This time, with darling husband. How lovely!
Anyhow, getting back to story of a meeting. Things discussed in the meeting seemed calm and under control. Means I am no longer under pressure?! Well, not so fast. I've got to do what I have to do... to fulfill all requirements in addition to making my boss happy! Hahaha. You know the system.
Why title "not exciting?!" - Well because this weekend won't look too nice about weather. Typhoon is to pass through. Big one. Windy and rainy for 100% positive.
0:11+2
|
August 7, 2003 =Good Trip or Bad Trip? |
Late to be here?! I know- I was busy fixing MY computer at MoonFlower's place. Yeah, currently and temporarily hers for a moment. And tonight, I had to be technical support. Yeah one of FREE kind service.
Didn't succeed. Unfortunately. Just weak communication and connection. Voice chat wasn't unable to engage tonight.
Today, had one appointment in early afternoon and I, after that meeting, hit the road to Narita (office). For what?! Just because it was bad appearance if stayed in the office?! Yeah, true. Wait. Did have serious issue to discuss with operational staff members of Narita Branch.
Took about a little less than 2 hours to get there... usual trip. Read today's newspaper (Nikkei) and some book about "To Make Your English Better" --- yeah, hardworking man like me.
Meeting lasted for over an hour. Done well?! Well, encountered many issues needed to be solved. Mostly my kind of responsibility finding solutions out. Gee, this trip became the opportunity to pile my homework up even higher!
Many of people at Tokyo office thinks that I cut the meeting out short and were ready for some drinks with Narita staff... hey, don't count such extra in that easy! I left that office around 7:30pm and left ALONE. Didn't join any of staff for tonight to hang around. Merely got a train and came home. Ate alone and will sleep alone!
High School Baseball Championship kicked off. I will watch games on TV over weekend. Yeah, I remember of my old days in high school. Nothing but baseball then. Truly I was just one of them...
One more day to go. Two appointments scheduled. Could be 3? I try.
0:40+1
|
August 6, 2003 =Didn't Know of Ogakijin? |
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Once again, it is hot and humid night here... no AC on yet. Am really sticking with such policy... not to turn AC on. Although, I turn it on only in the morning... right before leaving home for work.
Why?! I just don't want to put suits on while being very sweaty. That is only the exception, you know.
Day before yesterday: 3
Yesterday: 4
Today: 5!!!Definitely progressing. So tomorrow 6?! No way (Jose!) Probably about two... three, max.
Went into client Y at 10am. 2nd appointment with T at 11:30am. Then I was just around Ebisu area for all last 3 appointments. You know what?! They were not actually appointments. I just called them up and see whether they would have time for me or not. There were 3 yes' in the afternoon. Lucky me.
Am sure that Boss Ito would be happiest to see such fact... about his BOY working to the death! Hehehe.
You know HEAT is killing for sure. In case I die while on duty, Boss Ito would be most responsible! Hahaha.
Left work a little after 7pm. Happened to be with Ms. Kobayashi from 5th floor in the elevator. She and Mr. Araki were planning to grab some drinks. I was (somehow, never forced them to) invited to join.
At "Akita-ya" --- famous tavern near Hamamatsucho. Stand Bar (sort of). Still old-fashioned, though. Just single large beer for me and they drank more than that. Anyway, there were full of surprises for me. Kobayashi - relatively new to our company... only for a half year or so didn't know the official web page of company... HERE! Where had she been?! Hmmmm.
I can even emphasize here of who she is... Azusa Kobayashi. Ha! Keep up with me, pal!
What other surprises? Well, cannot share whole things here with you. Am not cheap, moron! I can give some hits... she gets along with (old man) Araki and she even asked him to let her meet his son! (close age, yeah) What would you think?! She must be that aggressive?! More than that... like desperate?!
Beer and (free) food... were great for sure. Thanks to Araki... bought it all for us tonight.
Good night.
23:47
|
August 5, 2003 =Serious Work? |
Wow, things are certainly moving. I just found that one of managers at work has submitted her resignation. It was Coco Yokota of Ocean Import. Man, who has expected anything like that?! Well, many of us got this news from company's bulletin with a little surprise.
While there are some new comers to our work place, there is someone else to leave... Natural cause?! Certainly. But not coming along with surprise like this.
Interesting enough, one manager is to leave and Hiroshi Kuboki is to take her place... but no promotion?! His title didn't change to manager somehow. Maybe there will be someone else to spot it in?! I guess.
My day?! Did start exactly at 10am. Meetings went well?! All were okay. You know what?! Visited client Y, A, N, and one more (forgot the name). In total, 4 appointments were complete?! Yeah, good for me. No wonder that I didn't come to have big lunch at all. In fact, stopped by at coffee shop and grabbed a seafood sandwich. With iced coffee. That was it! Man, this summer is to be tough on me... and eased to lose weight?! Will see.
Didn't go to the office until 4:30pm. Almost all day long outside. Good thing was that didn't rain at all while I was out. Afterwards, there was... hard rain like no one wanted to go out with or without umbrellas.
Spent 370 yen for lunch. 800 yen for supper home.
Tax paid - 2,790 yen on extra income. Man, didn't want to!
Water bill - 2,400 yen. A little increased from previous period by 50 yen. Hmmmm.
23:59
|
August 4, 2003 =Verano Serio? |
Man, serious summer is here. "Verano serio aqui." Heat... was everywhere and this was killing! Someone like me... outside sales got suffered from such disaster! You know, how much stink I was even in the morning?! Man, you wouldn't want to be around for sure.
Time to calculate my overtime in July. Was 29.50 hours in total. Compared to previous month, increased by an half hour. Man, didn't have good control about work amount?! Well, I admit that it was a little tougher than thought. Will do better job in August, hopefully.
Here is the summary of OT records for year 2003.
