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September 30, 2004 =Month-End |
Should be in the middle of fall... Yeah, I meant that it was supposedly. The truth is contrary. Very hot... right after typhoon passed by. No damage around in this area. I read some paper reported that there were some victims... got killed by the typhoon.
While other sales staff members were out for sales calls... I remained in the office. Precisely ALL DAY LONG. For what?! I didn't schedule any since typhoon was expected for today... Though, it went away early morning... even before the time I came to work. No effects from the weather.
I dealt with some domestic issues. TWO things came up... both bad results from data of the tests. Hmmm. They seemed awfully bad... like I cannot submit such data to customers for their approval on new products. Some corrections needed... Asked two engineers to see the results in depth and to determine what kind of actions we should take.
Hope both will resolve in reasonable time manner.
Just took a nap for 40 minutes... from 9:50pm to 10:40pm. I was so exhausted?! Somewhat. Sleepiness remains constantly and I tend to fall a sleep so constantly while at work <BANG!
You know of my such habit... <BANG!
One more day to go... for weekend and it is last day of the month! October?! Last (final) quarter of 2004 is now ahead. 90 day or so... I should do something meaningful for this year!!! Have to accomplish something!
0:10+1
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September 29, 2004 =Not Happening |
Tried to get up around 10 till 5 in this morning. All in vain... I didn't get up then. Well, eventually out of Futon around 6:30am. Am not morning person... too much, I admit. I wish I were.
I wanted to have some extra time... in the morning. Yeah, I usually have things to do at night like watching favorite TV programs... skimming through magazines... and checking some dirty web pages <BANG! Anyhow, it is true that I stick with my everyday agenda which gets completed by this diary to be finished. In other words, I wanted to do some extra like reading some serious book or studying something in my mind.
So I came to instant solution... in securing one hour, or at least 30 minutes or so, in every morning. I even thought that I would go to nearby cafe which opens 24-7.
All thoughts and efforts were in vain. As far as concerning today's case. My fault... though, I have to reconsider of such thought because this may not work at all. Are you ever morning person?!
Work... getting busier and busier... though, it's getting more and more interesting simultaneously. Good for me. No pressure from work... which is the biggest difference from previous work. Speaking of old colleagues from that old work place... I heard that many of sales staff had a hard time to get along with new policy that they ought to visit as many as 100 customers a month. For that, I don't think it is fairly possible.
I've been there... I know the possible highest number of customers possibly one can visit in single month! I'll tell ya.
At night, Tuesday "usual" English lesson changed over tonight. 7 of us were there?! Yeah, more or less. I was asked and supposed to give some part... and my plan was for special quiz... though, the class ran out of time. I guess, time elapsed quicker than we thought. So many people took much time to bring "up-to-date" stories. Fun stories.
Someone went to New York and San Francisco and someone else is planning to go to Shanghai. And I've got stuck here?! Hmmm.
Typhoon is to be here tomorrow. Should clear up by noon.
0:10+1
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September 28, 2004 =Searching My... |
Good evening, ladies and gens... how are we? Somehow another typhoon is now expected. Obvious climatic change occurs worldwide. Mentioned typhoon is sure to be around here on Thursday or Friday. Means weekend should be okay and it may have clear sky.
Today's Tak. Had spent quite amount of time for searching. Searched what?! RED. Red what?! Red pen! It was not special kind of pen or anything. It was cheap disposable kind. Yeah, something dispensable. Though, I minded about my missing such.
I knew that it must have been someone came to my desk for talk, coincidently picked up my pen, and went away with it.
Why did it matter so much besides annoyance I had then? Well, there was no alternative. No other (red) pens available in stationery inventory. Usually level of the pen stocks doesn't move much... as considered stationary. Though, someone in the department came and went with last one from the inventory... and didn't place an order for following stock. No one else uses red pens for work besides me?!
Anyway, did I truly spent time for single missing pen at work? Could be.
Got free food for supper. Great. I was late to the place where the festivity took place. Foods were not that much left then. Though, there was sufficient amount of food to fill out my small stomach. Yep, since then, I have been full.
Sleepy? I will go to bed early.
Oh, forgot to mention one thing. From yesterday, colleague Harahira is back to work! Great!
0:10+1
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September 27, 2004 =Koizumi 2nd Term Cabinet |
Prime Minister Koizumi spent a whole day in his official mansion to appoint new members of his 2nd term cabinet. Coming and coming and really came to happen!
Yasufumi Tanahashi, diet member elected and sent from 2nd district of Gifu - the area from Ogaki and other surrounding regions. Currently serving his 3rd term (1 term equals to a 4-year-period) and is aged 41. I met this politician more than several times and VERY smart fellow.
Typical beauraucrat-to-politican career he has. Objections nor criticisms from me. Even graduate of Japan's most renown Tokyo University in law. Yeah, reminded me that he was a lawyer in Ogaki, too. He got his own law firm.
Now (from today for how long?) minister of Food Safety / Scientific Technology / IT Technology.
It is likely that this occurrence results very beneficial, since he can bring many merits to his constituents, for the region to where Ogaki belongs.
Official site: http://www.tanahashi-yasufumi.com/ (somewhat still under construction; may not be available in English)
He now boards to Koizumi's ship... Is this still tough enough to overcome tidal waves?! Even "tsunami?" Will see how this goes from here.
Next time I see him, he has SP around himself?! Hmmm, that could be something.
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September 26, 2004 =A Little Break |
Since worked yesterday, this weekend was shortened and it was only today for me to have a little recess. Way shorter than actually needed. Though, it's almost (actually already?) over!
Got up around 8am. One hour late to the time previously set. This made whole schedule for today force to be changed?! Well, not really. Since not really big plan there for me... things were all easy.
No movies. Wanted to go... though, didn't come to have right moment to go out. You know, I can be considered "houseplant." Had breakfast outside... but came home straight. Stuck with TV thereon. Some reading, too.
Took a nap... yep, was already lazy... Lazy and relax. No laundry or cleaning.
Up to the time for supper, I had been home in doing nothing!
Out for eat like previous night. This time, alone. To McDonald's. Just one happy meal with hot apple pie (never had one ever before in my entire life! Good? Well, probably won't try it again EVER!). Stayed there for an hour or so since I brought some magazines to read. Fashion-related?! Well, it was actually "Newsweek." Hehehe.
Then, made another stop. Over internet cafe. Found an electric massage chair in a place, decided to take a little rubdown. Instead of surfing the net or reading some comic books... stayed in the chair to ease all my shoulder muscle. Definitely, it was so tense and all I got were just what I needed. Probably typing like this (keep this diary for ya'll!) and other stuff, stiff neck will shortly emerge... though, for that moment, at least I felt eased.
Came home after that. Ready for bed early enough?! Don't know. May not have sleepiness since I've taken sufficient sleep during the day time?! Will see.
Great gals got together like that?! WOW!
What have I missed today... Something BIG... Really HUGE!scene from Tokyo Game Show
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September 25, 2004 =Inventory Day |
What kind of doing is this?! Some kind of irony? You know, yesterday was the day I got paid. I was supposed to enjoy some (a little?) time with (still a little) money... Yep, I said, "Supposedly."
American Express sent me a bill of large amount. Surely all data in the statement reflect the record of all my spending through the service. Though, it didn't have to pass out such bill to me right after pay day. Yeah, it was (and still is) perfect time to ask me for payment since I've got some money... Though, too strict on me!
About 1500 dollars.
Oops, that amount is exceeding my current budget! Wow! This is whole new ball game! Timing no longer matters... I CANNOT make payment IN FULL!!! What should I do?!
Well, for this moment, I should put this deal aside. Nothing I can do for now.
Worked. Yep, had to. It had been scheduled so. Inventory Day. I was asked to cooperate such activity and did some work for it. Fun? Tiring! So many inventory cards to look at and to calculate... to confirm all data were correct. Double-check... even more!
What about other staff?! People in operation were mostly there. For sales?! Only a few... Almost all took paid day off since they NEVER like to come to work on Saturday. Neither did I. Just had to. No OT, though. Worked up to 6pm.
Coworker Nakamura and I went out afterward for eat. Japanese dish with soba noodles. 1200 yen. Hmmm, over budget! Man, I should have some sense of saving. You know, money is precious... more than anything (what about love?) and definitely LIMITED. Especially, my budget is way tighter than that of anyone else! More than 100 percent positive!!!
Hmmm, tired. Physically worn out and mentally tired of thinking about personal financial matter.
Who said it would be cloudy and possible shower?! It was more than fine.
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September 24, 2004 =Pay Day |
"Kyu-Ryo-Bi"
Can you pronounce above word?! Literally, "pay day." Big deal, huh? Sure it is. 25th of month and since that day is over weekend, we all got paid last working day before. Paid in full? Surely... though, I know that I have to pay all in full to whoever my creditors are. Are you one?!
Anyway, let me admit that I got paid. Richer than yesterday... though, surely I will get poorer and poorer as time passes from today on. Agree?
Isn't usual Friday... Usual one means that we get free for 2 days on Saturday and Sunday. This time, NOT. I got to work tomorrow. Not only me... but so many others. Since company has set tomorrow as normal working day. Notably, it is inventory day. Big day for those in procurement and logistics department.
Well, am going to take a nap. Too tired. Rest is needed for now. No need of anything else (besides love and money!).
Well, ya'll have a great weekend out there!!!
Zzzzzz
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September 23, 2004 =Sleepy Head |
Cannot stay awake... First of all, couldn't get up at the time set prior to going to bed. Whose fault?! MINE-!
National Holiday doesn't mean anything for me and usual enough... worked. Hard?! So-so?! You tell me... am always who and how I am. No difference whatsoever - I keep own pace like Duracell battery! Good news?! Bad news?! Well as far as today's work concerned, I can judge it as "fair enough." In other words, pretty flat. Hahaha.
Oh, big day for someone special. MoonFlower's best friend Miyako- TOOK A BIG STEP!!! She got married her loved one. Her wedding took place in Yokohama and the thing went well - so I heard. CONGRATULATIONS!
I just wonder if MoonFlower got bride's BOUQUET... well, LET'S NOT ASK. I have strict policy called "DON'T TELL -DON'T ASK." Hahaha, am bad... as usual.
I may bring out pictures from the ceremony... I believe that MoonFlower took photos. Oh, quick delivery already.
Mr. and Mrs. Suzuki
Miyako's maiden name is Suzuki... so no change for her in terms of last name. Well, am sure that they will get along well each other and stay happy. To where for honeymoon? HAWAII. Cool.
After reading this, DON'T even think about popping up a question... to me. Good night. Let me hit my sack before you to ask one.
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September 22, 2004 =Big Bucks |
Sleepy... I must be tired. From what? Wasn't I the master of goof-off on job? Sure, I have been so and still am! Never underestimate me!!! Hehehe. Sounds I am pretty bad, doesn't it?!
Plethora of nicknames... starts with best-known "Ogaki-jin," master of B-S (bull-shit), color-blind-like crazy, gadget seeker, what else... Hehehe. Though, there are still many out there don't know true me!
Most of them...are negative... or double-meaning, huh. No one likes me, huh?
I just wonder if the time that I will be fairly appreciated by others would ever come or not... Hmmm.
For this afternoon, I spent much time with client in its office. Gave so many different explanations of why my quote showed exceeding 10 thousand dollars. That gentleman was literally astonished with such fact... I guess he didn't even take a look at that paper work prior to my visit even though he had received it via fax. Hmmm... didn't do his homework. Anyhow, I can at least conclude that giving him lots of ideas how come the price was made up like stated in the paper linked to his understanding.
After the talk... left that place... and I came to be the end of jammed traffic on the road. Bad luck or what?!
Tomorrow... another national holiday. Good stuff for ya'll and still remain normal to me! Yep, work, work, and work. Which would you prefer... You come to have days off from national holiday every once in a while... and short holidays for summer and New Year... or the other case is that you have to work 5 days a week consistently throughout year with extended summer and New Year vacations.
For that... I have no answer for myself yet. Tough to decide.
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September 21, 2004 =Loud? |
Hi, folks. Am already very sleepy. Went to be around 1am last night and got up at 6am. 5 hours of sleep... bad? Can you stand like this? Well, since no appointments for today, I fully spent my time at my desk for a nap!
Wait a minute. NAP? Did I take a nap at my desk?! Well, not truly happened. It was merely immediate after the meal... within break time. Got it? I may sound bad whatever I do... though, it's rare to do wrong stuff. Okay? No longer trouble maker! Hehehe.
Some lady coworker came up to me to correct her English... her writing in English. Told all I could... though, I received a comment - "You talked too loud." Wow, she wanted to know all in secret... Felt ashamed to ask someone else?!
Man, I wasn't deliberate enough. Hmmm... difficult to read feminine sensitivity. SHOOT ME! <BANG!
Prepared 6 quotations to meet customer's favor. He wanted to receive them within today. Tough? Well, two of them were for more than 10 thousand dollars. Wow! Wish it would be MY MONEY. <BANG!
Finally received a message from some company in US - it charged me double... 225 dollars TWICE. Offered me (surely!) of full refund of $225. Well, hope that money will be back in my pocket soonest. My cash is running out... almost all of it to be out! Pay day is just ahead; though, I may not last financially.
Have to run into a place for money like chasing service (with extremely HIGH APR.)
Still tonight, very humid and hot. Still summer is here, huh. Did some sit-up... didn't (couldn't) last even for 20 times! My bad. Need to be in good (at least better than now) shape. I know so... I really feel uneasy about this condition. Something need to be done!
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September 20, 2004 =Where in the World? |
You know, Prime Minister of Japan was in Mexico and now in US... precisely in New York. Buddy ChanKen is going to NY just as his routine sightseeing. Who else will be out of Japan?! Wow, Charlie is going already?! He just come to a new job and now got big assignment abroad?! Good for him.
Kazakhstan - exactly Republic of Kazakhstan. Got visa already?! Just received a brief message from that gentleman telling of that immediate move like that. Wow! Be careful and work hard as you can, man! Good luck!
While everyone out there has a great day off (as per national holiday), I was certainly at work. All were in peace and quiet? I can pretty much tell like that. No pressures from work at least for today.
Almost end of September and still it was hot. Man, crazy climate still here to annoy us! Don't you think?
Emilio Pucci - Have you heard of this name of brand?! Under Luis Vuitton group, this female fashion brand got my attention yesterday when I saw a vivid color tie in showcase at Sogo department store. Very expensive tie - priced at a little less than 200 dollars (a piece for sure!).
Asked female coworkers around... when I told them that I wanted to buy one like that. "Emillio P - what?" None of those did know of even the name. It was surely difficult to continue that topic with them. None knew then?! Yeah, somehow...
Did you know?
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September 19, 2004 =English Reading |
Upon result of yesterday's miserable failure at R-Prometric ("CAT"), I initiated self-force program. Newsweek Sept 20 issue - When FAT Attacks was bought and now I have been in reading session since the purchase. Not easy reading stuff... Rather serious concentration reading like my old days in college.
Once again, I try to be as serious as possible. Why not! Am young and still energetic. Once more time... let me give it a shot!
Oh I read many articles of the magazine in the train to Yokohama to see darling girlfriend MoonFlower. We met around 1:30pm. Late start. Since asking her to give me an okay to set it up like that, I was busy in the morning. Did vacuum the room (1st time in years?) and other chores. Plus, that (reading) study. In a matter of fact, I woke up, thanks to MoonFlower's single call, around 7am in order to complete entire to-do list for today!
Well done... please tell me so! Hehehe. Have lacked the sleep, though. Went to bed around 2am and up 7pm. 5 hours of sack time. Is that enough for you? I have to survive through with such life pattern from now on to give kick-ass back to the CAT. Like dogs... not cats, I guess <BANG! Just kidding. Too humorous, huh!
With MoonFlower, we spent almost all time for her shopping to have her list complete. Man, it was LONG one and there were too much time to come to the last on the list. Hahaha. Well ultimately, she bought NONE. Yep, let me say that again... She didn't buy anything. Means we didn't even cross any off on the list at all. Whose fault was that?!
For your information, I was very supportive to that young lady with the list. As I gave her my advice and shared my preference, I truly believed that I didn't make her feel like I wouldn't have been there for her. I swear! You know, I am very good at FLIRTING around and never disappoint any woman inside or outside. BANG! I might get a shot. Oops!
Some Chinese dish for lunch (with MoonFlower in Yokohama)
Japanese wester-style meal as supper (ditto in ditto)For this weekend, entirely for two days, didn't even come close to be behind the wheel. Good thing since gas price has been up so much and someone, like me, cannot afford right now. About 1 dollar 30 cents for a quarter gallon in Japan. Seriously.
Well, tomorrow is national holiday as "Senior Citizens Day" with respect. No one (most of people, I mean) doesn't work. Me? Surely, going to make some Benjamin.
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September 18, 2004 =Robot Was Smart? |
Robot was smart than Tak?! Well, even R-Prometric ("gmat") beat (-ed) shit out of me! Not even single punch I could fire all day. My bad?! Sure... though, it was unfortunate. Will do revenge! --- As in next month?
Will Smith's movie hit all theaters around today.In Yokohama, MoonFlower and I gave it a shot to near theater for that movie. Somehow, not that popular yet and it wasn't too much trouble to get tickets right away. The movie started around 4pm and, well, place was more than half full... but not completely.
No disappointment. Pretty well-done movie and I liked it. Cool to see. We have no such imagination of future when we control robots around to do things for ourselves... Robots for now we know are like moving like machines... not like human body functions.
Wow, in Ichihara, Chiba, there is a stand off with some hostage in a house continuing since 6pm tonight?! It's passed midnight. Hope one hostage will be released soon.
Had early and long day today. Tired. Will come to have another early day tomorrow? Sure enough.
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September 17, 2004 =Strike One? |
First time in history - Japan's pro-baseball is going on strike for two days from tomorrow. No other choise it all seemed to be. Two teams in Pacific League - Orix Bluewave and Kintetsu Buffuloas has announced to merge and Players Association is against it since that announcement.
Am I for it? Well, nope. This is a result from economic activity... those two teams are, for a long time, surviving financially. They are not popular at all, unfortunately.
Remember of the big strike happend to MLB about 10 years ago or so?! Nobody won from that event for sure. Right?!
To me, entire this isn't right and I guess, this is likely going to a big loss of so many things for Japan's baseball. Those who were supportive for this strike... WHY NOT didn't go to Osaka Stadium or Yahoo BB Stadium?!
Osaka Stadium = Kintetsu Buffufaloes' home ground
Yahoo BB Stadium = Orix Bluewave's main stadiumLeft work around 7pm and ate Ramen noodles for supper in the same place as last Friday when I was with coworker Nakamura. Good noodle and I would go back. Afterwards, stopped by the Net Cafe Moon. For what?! Spent TWO hours and the charge was 800 yen. Free drink and I had a cold tea.
Computer (by Dell) and small TV equipped for one visitor. Lots of comic books and DVD movies... plus, magazines. Pretty convenient to me. May go back. What in the world did I do in there then?!
Today's score - 40/50, not bad... STILL just for verbal, right?! Need more QUANTITATIVE!
Good night. Let's make tomorrow early.
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September 16, 2004 =Pay Attention |
"Taurus - Male for 9/18 thru 9/24"
According to the horoscope that I saw in a magazine, it says:
"The end of your lucky period is coming up soon. There is still time for you to tell the person in your mind that you have feeling for her or to do something to make your dream come true. Please encourage yourself to move forward. Don't wait!"
Wow, this MUST be a great time for me?! I had never felt so... I know it has been very peaceful and calm. NOT quiet but reasonably comfortable. Of course, I don't want to let any chance to have my wish come true whatsoever. You know what I mean.
Surely, I am NOT procrastinating. In fact, I prefer to use that word "(to) procrastinate" to others alike. I don't express in other way like "I don't wait" or "I stay still" or "I sit for nothing." I need to push myself... and "to procrastinate" should be equal to "to waste (my valuable) time." You know, time is certainly ticking whether you like it or not!
For last several months, it has been quite significant to me. Lots of thinking and a few to decide. You know, being accepted by Tama for MBA program was part of it. Important process and I confirmed of where I was standing. Necessary to look back... though, I still prefer to think and do something forwards.
Oh, let's get back to what I did for today.
I drove and crossed the Rainbow Bridge in Yokohama. Very famous landscape to go with your loved ones. Well, whom was I with?! MoonFlower may rigorously ask me for the truth?! Hehehe. Nothing... I mean no one. I was alone. Just rushed to customer's office for urgent issue. Nice driving it was, though.
That customer in definite need of my assistance was very happy to see me at sight. I brought some solutions for him and all seemed to be smooth for new business... called "MONEY." BANG< not my money. "PROFIT" to be precise.
My gosh... Hurricane Ivan is now in Alabama?!Stay alert!!!
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September 15, 2004 =Personal Business |
Today, it was more Personal Business than business business at work. You know, sometimes you cannot get away from what you have to face. Today, it was my day.
Man, some store charged TWICE... to my Amex. Just sent out a complaining letter! FULL refund is demanded for sure. You do the same, don't you?
"Badcock." Sounds familiar? Well, I found the truth that "Stern" was SO popular.
Am tired. Quite. Let me go.
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September 14, 2004 =Sleepy Head |
Hurricane Ivan is now expected to hit Alabama State? Man, hope whatever damage it may cause... it would be minimal... If you are in that area... make sure that you're prepared well... do all necessary protection for your property and yourselves! Stay alert!
Almost hit... I am talking about myself driving a car this afternoon. Almost bang the rear of vehicle just ahead. At very low speed since sort jammed on the road. Man, almost... I should have been careful. I knew that I had lacked the sleep. I should've stopped.
Anyhow, I have to thank NOT to hit anyone or anything. Was business good? VERY. Good progress I made for today. No complaints. Good enough to have more tomorrow and on? Well for that... I don't know. At least today's business went well and I appreciate that. You know, it will be whole different ball game tomorrow! I deal with tough and fairly competitive business (really?). Used a word, "FAIRLY," huh...
Late supper for now. Just came back from English lesson. Some new comers plus new faces from last period. Good development! I know, organizing lady Nukaga has so many to think to entertain all in class as well as to make class be interesting. She has done so great job as far as I can say. Hard work and great dedication. She certainly devotes her time to prepare classes. No doubt.
Checked out the rules for flex time work shift and I found that I could be through by 5pm if I go to work at 8am. Yeah, I do so... For tomorrow, I've got to go to some place to take care of PERSONAL business. Okayed by Boss Miura. No problem! Will be busy tomorrow...
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September 13, 2004 =Restructuring |
US Airways has filed the Chapter 11 once again?! And now Delta Airlines is speculated to do the same action soon? Man, must be chaos for that industry... US Airways' action is 2nd time... IN TWO YEARS. Wow!
Kanebo - famous Japanese corporation, most renowned in cosmetic industry is under fire. Today it announced its restructuring plan including release of the plant located in Ogaki. That plant of more than 100 workers is to be part of plastic-giant Sanko. Well, at least it didn't become the total chaos like those who work in that factory would have been jobless. I guess, that hand-over was one of best things to occur.
What about Hurricane Ivan? Sounds like very horrific nature storm... Winds at 160mph? Man, really bad, huh.
No typhoons here for a while. Usually, September is the time for typhoons to come around. So far, we have seen so many passing through Japan before September.
Job for today should be described as in peace. Not many calls to harass me much. Yeah, leave me alone! Hehehe. Left work around 8pm... and I've done so much desk work. Very productive it was.
Nikkei jumped more than 160 points! Wow... everyone gets richer than yesterday? Hahaha. Me? You know me... I am always poor and will be poor. Someone got to come to rescue me from current financial crisis!
Somehow, it was hot today. Will be tomorrow?
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September 12, 2004 =Scheduleing Another Event |
Nothing to tell. Honestly nothing for you! You know keeping diary is and should be very honest thing... and I admit that I don't have exciting events everyday. As mere human being... something like this could and will happen.
Got up around 10-ish this morning and rushed to usual cafe for breakfast. Read some newspapers and magazines. After that, came home and stayed home for remaining time today. Yeah, nothing really done besides laundry or some other domestic chores.
Very fun? What an irony, right? Just did what I needed to do. Nothing more and nothing less.
Have lacked the sleep. As far as I remember... I went to bed around 3am or so. Yeah, bad habit of mine.
I have to make everything short so that I can hit my sack quick. No emails back from Robyn in States for now... she should respond... Hehehe.
Received a confirmation from Prometric for following Saturday. New event? Yep. Another endeavor to conquer after Tama Univ.
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September 11, 2004 =Whose Favor? |
Got up late... I was supposed to be on train to Shinjuku by 10:20am. Well, 10 minutes or longer... LATE. Slept in and all my fault it was. Had to send a short message with say, "sorry," to MoonFlower who is usually tough and strict on time. Of course, I ran HARD to the train station. HONESTLY.
Takashimaya Department Store in Shinjuku.
"English Garden and Preserved Flowers Show" is open there and we went in. There were 2 talk shows, 1pm and 3pm respectively, by the hostess Makiko Fujino. She is famous food producer and MoonFlower really respect and admires of her. So it was all her wish to be there for the show.
I thought that we would be there for 1st show only... Though, I never expected to be there for BOTH shows... Notably, I was only male in the 1st session!!! Yeah, I was TRAPPED! <BANG.
Both shows didn't go on the same story... It was bright side for me. Somewhat interesting. That "sweets" celebrity, since famous for cookies and cakes, talked about how her dream came true after all efforts made. She didn't come to such success without troubles. Rather, so many problems to overcome before. Good and touching story. Making sense.
She closed her talk, on both sessions, with a phrase as "flowers eventually blossom and so will your dream." Cool.
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September 10, 2004 =Wrapping-up |
By mistake? Coincident? Or just as mean-to-be? Well, just saw a message from Hilton Hotels that it said that my status, as Gold member, was to be renewed for another half year till next April.
Wow, I had thought that mine would be downgraded due to the lack of stay records. Not enough nights spent within very last period. Well, I told that fact to Buddy ChanKen to see his status would be the same in the condition. He spent so many nights in Hilton as far as I know and he should be qualified before me.
He hasn't seen that kind of message from Hilton yet; unless he had discarded such message with other "spam" mails to the trash.
Anyhow, what happened is happened and I will enjoy another opportunity to stay in Hilton sooner or later. Which Hilton next? Tokyo? Odawara? Otaru? --- Maybe oversea one? Hehehe.
About work? What about it? It was all peachy and quiet... NOT QUITE! I encountered two boring customer LOVING to harass some one like me... Had to babysit them for a long time from the afternoon till late night.
Coworker Nakamura (still 2nd year in the real business world) and I went out for foods and coffee. Good talk to ya, man.
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September 9, 2004 =Long Day? |
Short biz trip for today and I must be tired. For now am thinking to stay up late tonight since there is only one day to go. As weekend is just around the corner, doing such shouldn't be much trouble - I think. Need some (quite) time to read some books!
How did it all go today?! Well, more than several meetings... some were done with good result... like new information to be held... On the other hand, I have to admit that some other meeting were nothing productive. Rather boring! You know, I tried to make all interesting and productive... Some worked and some didn't work at all.
Received a call from Buddy yk110 tonight. She sounded awful. Unusual husky voice she had over the phone. Asked her what was wrong and she told that she had been suffering from a bad summer cold since the time all friends, including herself, got together for Tyson.
Well, in order to schedule next gathering, I now decided to wait and see how fast she can get healed. I will organize another event after confirming that she regains full heath.
I said short biz trip. How short (long)??? Well, I drove about 5 hours in total. Piece of cake, right? Hahaha. Listened to the radio all the time. I sang and laughed by myself in the car!!! (Don't even try to picture it!)
Still too early to think about next pay day (i.e. 25th)... though, empty wallet did remind me of that. How much left for this month? Well, no bills in wallet. Bills of total 6,000 yen clipped separately. No more? Yep, indeed no more. No money left in bank, either. For next 15 days or so... how in the world should I last financially? Hmmm.
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September 8, 2004 =Never Bore You? |
<- Today's appearance. Haven't put that tie on for a long time till today.
I guess, such fashion was quite vivid to those who are VERY conservative in countryside... COWORKERS (I mean "most of."). Some remarked made by some of those people... "Never bore others, do you?!" "Very entertaining." Are those considered compliment? Well, I assume so.
No outing today. Very peaceful day here again? Well, I really believed that until 4 or 5 in the afternoon. Then realized that I was quite wrong and, at the same time, I came in a bad spot.
Some customer called me up with shocking news... The matter required me to set an entire business for that client in particular. The job had been proceeded and I even pushed the deal since the time given was quite limited. You know, the guy (called me up) were very demanding. Though, he sounded sorry to me in giving such change in direction of business.
Oh boy! What shall I do then? Made several phone calls in order to gather information. Will do further actions tomorrow and on.
Tomorrow and even Friday seem very crowded. Weekend is coming faster than I thought it would.
Buddy ChanKen in hometown... must be very crazy or has no words like "wanting girlfriend" or "getting married." He is about to spend big bucks for some kind of audio system for his house... joint investment with his father who is "fanatic" to improve the quality of his equipment like large screen TV and sound system.
He shouldn't have such luxury on home investment... He rather goes out to meet somebody... FEMALE! He doesn't know how? He is not that shy - I tell ya! So what's wrong with this gentleman?
Definitely larger than figure crossed your mind for now. More than thousands.
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September 7, 2004 =Investment? |
Just a book arrived to me. In mail. The tile is "Effective MBA and Ineffective MBA." Sort new book. I picked it up from used book shop online. Pretty clean one I got. About 20 percent off from listed price. Not bad at all.
Since being accepted by Tama University MBA, I have become so curious about such programs around. The title did appeal to me and I ended up to have one copy for myself. Just skimmed through the book. The author is job recruiter in Japan and, according to the passage I just saw, he was quite positive for the case with MBA compared to the reverse one.
I don't have many with such degrees around. Just a few. You know, going to MBA is very expensive and always coming along with doubt that such investment for higher (highest?) education would be covered by the return from the salary of the post-MBA position.
So many questions with me and I hope I can see at least some answers in this printed material.
For tonight's English class, there were three new comers and this news really excited usual members. And it all went well.... I think... in my opinion. All three seemed very impressed (?) by what we did in the session and now I (we!) hope that they will become part of us from here on.
Me? Did I speak SLOW ENOUGH to be understood? Well, sometimes I feel difficult to pace down even a little. Once I start speaking... I (almost) always keep talking! That's how I do and did to improve... You know, I want to be better. Oops, my bad!
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September 6, 2004 =FULL-TIME JOBS |
Just counted... 15 movies have been seen in this year! 20 movies to watch is part of my must-do for 2004. Looks like I can come to complete without having much trouble. 5 movies away... Within remaining 3 months from October till December, only 5 movies... PIECE OF CAKE.
Very humid night here. Sweaty. <BAM
Many of readers here were astonished with a fact that I had been accepted by university for higher education?! Man, I like to surprise others like that. Yeah. maybe your question is...
"When in the hell did Tak have time to prepare/study for it?!"
Hmmm, good question. Answer is rather simple. I did not. Do you ever think that I had plenty of spare time for something like that?! You know, I always get stuck with my computer to update this funky homepage everyday... every night! There is no way... I have TWO full-time jobs!
One at work for money to live!
The other for some contribution to your lives to amuse ya'll.Oops, I didn't count one more. I do babysit MoonFlower. That's absolutely another full-time job to be count. Hahaha. Darn funny.
At work, there were three sessions, throughout the day, for all employees on company's stock option program. Man, I missed it all. Chances were four times... I didn't get even single chance to. My fault? Whose fault?
For entire morning, I was in the sales meeting. In the afternoon, I was in and out... for some issues to solve. Hence, I missed all chances. Am I going to invest some money out of my super tight budget? Well, that's the question.
Keyword: FINALLY chosen - Thunderbird, Smeal, Terry, Owen, and Robinson
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September 5, 2004 =Wow, Surprise? |
"Van Helsing"
Since rainy day for this Sunday, MoonFlower and I decided to see that movie in Ginza. It was right choice... good entertainment. I, in advance, read some reviews by critics... those were not much favorable. But now I can tell that it was simply fun. Recommended.
Tak's rating "Van Helsing": C+
Oh, continuation of yesterday's story. I received a package for the first thing this morning by mail. Express mail it was. Then, a letter was enclosed in that package. It was the letter of acceptance.
To what? Graduate program. Master of Business Administration. Wow, Japanese MBA? Yep, it is. That means that Ogaki-jin is once again going back to school? (not really)
Anyway, here is the proof.
Story about this is to be continued...
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September 4, 2004 =Tama? What's That? |
Tama UniversityWhere is that? Well, it was 3 stations down from here... by 10 minutes or so. Plus, bus for 15 minutes. For what? I had to see two professors for single discussion.
Sort like an exam. Was it really?
That was the only event for today and I came home straight from there after finishing everything with two smart people. At least, they liked what they saw in my resume. That's good start.
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September 3, 2004 =Drinking |
Man, had to cancel the appointment with my usual barber... Did postpone my hair-cut... due to... "DRINKING" with coworkers. Yeah, seriously so.
Last chance, I had to pass... I thought that I shouldn't miss this time. So I went. Didn't know that it would last like forever!
Since I was booked fully for following morning, I came home after 2nd session. When was it? Good question. It was around 1:30am! No kidding!
Good drinks and KARAOKE. 1st time doing so in this town - Sagamihara.
Well, long day tomorrow is just ahead.
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September 2, 2004 =Winner's Comment |
Yep, today I received a message with below photo image. It was from Asaka Kono - my friend from old work place. She is no longer at work? Ready for what?! So-called "life-time commitment." Yep, she will walk on the virgin road soon later this year.
Congratulations!
This is the proof.She made a comment as winner.
"I was just lucky and feel so sorry to cut out the winning streak by Tasei - who won two prizes in a row. For prize I would like to request something useful in house since I received some dirty calendar from Ogakijin when winning one last time. Anyhow, I do respect you on such a great work over Internet. Keeping some kind of diary everyday over years must be something."True. She is not first-time winner. She reminded me of that prize... long time ago! More than several years... I think. Anyhow, she didn't like what I tried to give... macho model calendar. Hahaha!
Since she is getting married, year surely, I will consider something good for her wedding and prize.
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September 1, 2004 =Now Begins? |
Man, new month started and my "wish" was broken off so instantly. Seino Corporation, representing City of Ogaki, sends its baseball team to the Tokyo Dome today. Yeah, "Inter-City Baseball Tournament."
1st round... was against Nissei Life Insurance. Large corporation from Osaka - 2nd largest city in the nation. Very strong delegation as always.
0-5. Yeah, got shut-out. Didn't see a chance to have even single run! What a bout!!! So disappointing. I emailed friend ChanKen to see the result of the game from work. Useless efforts I made... Then was informed so unfavorable score report from him. Hmmm.
He and I had planned to get together for 2nd round. In vain. All of it! Well, I don't show any of players who did try but succeeded well... Instead, I've got some pictures to show from supporters'' end.
Cheer leaders! (Cute?) and Seino mascot - Kangaroo!
Friend Harahira is out from hospital. Still under doctors' supervision. Has to see them everyday even from tomorrow on. Not healed completely. In fact, not diagnosed everything yet. Still in process finding what causes his trouble.
Yesterday's milestone in Japanese Ogaki-jin... The winner was Asaka Kono - she is my ex-coworker! Congratulations! A prize is going to be yours in short term... hopefully soon... as far as financially allowing.
