Life as a waitress

i survived june

2010-07-20T14:45:00.000+01:00

Phew.

First off, i passed my WSET level one. (proud tiny achievement). In serious consideration if i should do my level 2 within this year. August again ,will be a busy busy month for all the hotels. Next exam will be around end Sept? Ahh time flies too quickly.

Well move on, second greatest achievement this year, managed to get thru to Semi final, for hotel's Ultimate Server Competition. Though i wasnt able to get to the next round, being a semi finalist was good enough. The experience part was overwhelming. Friends i met from other sis hotels, the friendship we built, and the working culture we shared. And cigar learning is fun, not!

I realised so much that i didn't know.. nonetheless.. all is over.

Will be on a week break next week, before gearing up for Edinburgh Fest. There comes the kaching kaching part. So much that i wanted to write down, i forgot most of the important bits.

This year itself has been real great experience, mostly work stuffs. So sad that all these will be coming to an end .. too soon!

Hello world

2010-06-18T03:07:00.006+01:00

Hola. Long time ey! Completed one of the resolutions, (fuh, like finally!) Did my level 1 wset and results' out next weekend. All i need is a pass hence i can proceed to the next level. Coffee comp's over. Finally no more "art" class. Won nothing, but learnt something. A good espresso holds the sugar at least few seconds, if the one you have been drinking doesnt.. that means its not good enough. ;)

Hotel's ultimate server comp stage one due next monday (still untouched, i have 3 days left to come out with slides!)If i win, the price enough for me to get a first class to go home!

Busy busy will come to an end this month fingers crossed. Haven't been talking to most of the close ones. Time passes so quickly one guy friend is reaching this weekend. A good holiday i think i deserved ey? Can't wait ! !

you cant make up your mind mind mind mind mind
please dont waste my time time time time time
im not trying to rewind wind wind wind wind
i wish our hearts could come together as one

superman,not

2010-05-17T00:29:00.005+01:00

Slept for 20hours, and that is still not enough. Woke up about an hourish in between because promised the best friend to do a catch up session. But that didn't last long. Too tired, and i fell asleep again while replying his message, with the mobile still in grip.

Weekend is always a night mare. Been doing this superman job the 4th weekend now. Morning in the hotel, night at the thai's. I am nothing , without the assistance of the caffeines. When you have overworked yourself, you just don't feel like doing anything except staying in on your days off.

There was this wicked case at work yesterday. At the thai's , i was taking care of Section A&B, this old couple at their 40s at table #A3, had a bottle of Chile's Santa Helena Chardonnay. The lady ordered not to pour their wine as they would prefered to do it themselves. (Very clever, avoid from paying service charges)

They had a starter to share, and the same main, with a side portion of coconut milk rice. When colleague was doing her table checking, overheard the lady complained about her rice, - less cooked and soggy. How can less cooked became soggy? They had eaten the rice, almost 3/4, only let us know it wasn't cooked well. How clever was that? A portion became two, with the price of one. Human with brains. Very very clever.

When colleague got them another new bowl of rice, I did the checking see if they are alright with that. (Infact they are they same thing from the same rice cooker!)

"How is the rice, is everything alright for you ?" I asked reluctantly

(Deep inside i knew this woman want free stuffs)

"It's overcooked now! " she commented with annoyed tone.

Tolerate no more, I told her directly, the rice is actually same thing from the same rice cooker.

She was obviously embarassed and kept quiet after. Wanted to state that other customers are fine with theirs but why only you? Managed to kept cool. Well that wasn't exactly a complain. More like wanting to get free stuffs by giving us a hard time.

I know, there is no point arguing with people with such skills. In the end, it doesn't bring us any good. That is why, we often surrendered, but not always. Not really impressed with such diners.

i dont know what i feel anymore

2010-05-11T23:13:00.005+01:00

A very hectic April has ended. Hello may.

Met my ex colleagues for lunch, one of the guys is leaving home for good in a month time. Had yo sushi at Harvey Nichols. Posh, classy and they classified it as rich guys' place. (not the sushi, the place. the shopping mall.) Woke up an hour before, rush hour- put on the same dress that i wore last week for lunch with hakka aunty. Didn't bother to dress up since i was late. Sun was literally glaring, hardly open my sleepy eyes. Very pleasant afternoon with the ppl, at least the topics i have some interests on. Basically work stuffs, how the x work place has turned to- since i left.

Thanks heaven i left early :) and the right choice i have made. The only regret i have, why didn't i made up my mind way earlier. Walked through Marc Jacobs, saw the bag i like. This time they have white. One and only. Feel like it's time for plastic card to do some work , but managed to hold back the sudden urge. No i told myself. I just spent £320 on a bag 2 weeks back. Sadly that bag isnt mine. It's for the queen.

After they left, went down to the high street and did some solo shopping. Less than an hour, i got myself 2 dresses, 1 cardi and 1 trench coat. How magic. And they are all beige.

Another day has gone. How quickly.

The recent issues still on going, probably enough to drown me. Perhaps it's time to sort out a get away. At least to a place i can peace my mind and do some blue sky thinking.

bring it on

2010-04-30T01:20:00.004+01:00

Pay day today. End of the month is usually the happiest for us, after long await, money is finally debited. Finished work at around quarter past mid night, they boys headed to Doctor's for couple of drinks, but not me. Very tempted to join but i had to stay in to do my homework given by the sommelier. Wine training tomorrow! Oh poo!

Month of April is about to end. This month itself hasnt been a smooth one. Too many things that i think i should brush up and work on after the coffee chat with Laura. But with the right attitude, everything is possible. And ya, next week onwards, i'll be assessed on my performance handling functions & meetings. I'm nervous and at the same time excited.. something different from staying on the floor.

Oh yes long weekend ! Will be going back to the ex work place do some part time shifts here and there.

So, have good one ya'll! x

baby waitress no more

2010-04-28T02:10:00.005+01:00

Already lost count, how many days since i started this current job of mine. Almost the 4th month? Received a verbal news from the manager today. Not really an official promotion until i gotten the black and white. I'm touched and grateful at the same time. Ah, hard work does paid off. ;)

Oh yes, we had our health & safety training today too. New policies in house. 2 hours wasn't that bad. The first part of the training, I was really enthusiastic , but it didnt last long. Ended sketching the notes with James, and poking each other with the pen.

All in all, very informative. But when there are too many things to take at one, you ended forgot almost everything. Heh heh

A singaporean + malaysian , with chanel's watch, necklace, and bag.. ( i presumed its replica so did Lisa!) Lol. But hey she spent like a rich house wife in the hotel, which is a good thing. She had 2 bottles of reds tonight, just by herself. o.O A bottle costs 95 quid! Hmm we had a lil chat in our mother tongue..she suggested that i should get a position in Sg. Very tempted.

She waved at me as I was passing by her table.

"Where can get I "hokkien mee" in here?

I giggled, and said no where but home!

She sounded like she missed home alot, but its nothing compared to me, truth to be told. Well, at least she gets to eat again by this Friday. As for me?. long way to go matey. Sigh

It's getting late now. I better off to bed, and read myself to sleep.

p.s. happy birthday mum. i love you .

oh cheese me

2010-04-12T03:10:00.001+01:00

My 3rd month in the Bistro now. I see a little achievement, at least the interests have blossomed quite a bit compared to the last job I had. Mostly because of the opportunity to learn and develop. That's the thing. Every employees' mindset are the same. Putting aside the salary, the thing that comes next is actually how they sfaff being valued. All they need is the motivation and enough room for them develop which eventually keep them growing, and to stay on.

Oh yes i shall declare now, i can finally make a nice velvety, smooth and filled with love and effort's cuppa of latte! Almost flat. But not for cappucino. Still couldn't do the perfect froth. As for this month, i have to master all the cheeses on the cheese board. 17 of them.

All i need is 17days. A cheese a day! Hopefully sooner or later i can upsell cheese without having to refer to the notes.

Also, I may have put on some weight. So don't be suprised. Oh, some kind of work's sacrifices.. You know, the cheese testing.

hello opportunity cost

2010-04-07T04:21:00.003+01:00

5am, I know I should be sleeping now but I just don't feel like it. Few things running through the mind, I yet to make the decision. Things aren't that complicated, if you think lesser, not considering others' feelings.

Juggling between decisions is the greatest weakness in me. =/

Hmm

Nvm.

Back at work, there's a new guy came for his trial shift today. I think he's alright, at some point i felt he's cocky, trying to let us know (directly) he's good in something. That is how you outstand yourself, in the shortest time, to show how capable you are?

I think otherwise.

I believe actions speak louder than words. You don't have to say anything, people can still see it through what you do and how you do. I am pretty sure he will pass today's shift. Simple. Simply because he's a friend of the Assistant Manager. -end of story-

And today too, the Sommelier was asking the A.M if we still need another staff.

"I have a friend, a girl- very nice, a good girl, she worked in Italian and French restaurant before, and wanted to improve her english. She's Italian and came to UK to learn her English".

That's mostly what he said.

Upselling . Very good.

AM said , "get her to send her CV to me".

Sommelier replied " Thank you "

Some people had to go through the processes, waited to be shortlisted, interviews, only get hired. But these people can get a job with a snap of fingers. Easy peasy.

Spring '10

2010-03-23T16:10:00.000Z

I have been really really busy! Did i say i'm loving this new job of mine, so much than i have ever expected? I'm giving my 101 per cent of everything. If you don't like your job, it leads you no where. This is true. Mark my words.

Received 2 awards last month. First- the best employee of the month. Second- the nominee for the Inter-Hotel Chain. I did not get that one, because i have only started 1.5 mth. It would have been so unfair if I have gotten it, compared to other nominees from other sis hotels that have spent so long in their respective hotel eh? Being nominated was already good enough.

No greedy.

Bottle of champagne, choc, cert and extra cash. 4Cs.

On holiday almost 10days now. Went downsouth to look for a uni friend of mine. Spent some quality time together, and stayed in Hilton with the equal amount of benefits but much cheaper. The comfy bed, the ok-not-too-good breakfast. But best amenities! Crab Tree & Evelynn. Too generous.

Haven't tried Westin's heavenly bed - but it's already in the "things to do before i die's list." One day i'm gonna dive in and see how heavenly it is.

Spoken to the mom dearest earlier. Asked bout my trip in London. Nothing much i told her, doing like the Londonists- theatre, afternoon tea, books and shopping. And i found a book which is quite interesting and i quite fancy the writer. Great sense of humuor. It's the 'Who moved my Black Berry'. Worth reading over a cuppa of hot choc, with sun or even jazzy back ground!

Oh, mom approached me bout the postgrad thing. I told her it's in the midst of deciding. Even though it's very tempting to stay back to finish up my studies, there is always ..a but. Too much to put into considerations. Thinking bout going back for good is like too real. How would everything turns up? Starting to get use to the life here, and going back to a place almost like a stranger sounds uncool. But i know things will be good no matter what. I still think too early to make up my mind now. Slowly but surely i will embrace myself with a final choice. ha.

It's april in a week time. Hope you have had a nice and joyous march!

More later. I promise.

i'm scandinavian, i don't tip.

2010-02-25T03:22:00.002Z

Day 43 @ Bistro

I am not impressed with the "outsiders". Had their dinner in the hotel but couldn't afford a glass of wine. As funny as it may seem, they are just a bunch of smart ass trying to impress ppl, trying to act rich. Pretending like you're one of the gastronomes? Jesus christ. When you quoted you're on 5pm package, you're already "cheap" as how we labelled.

"I wondered why your rockets doesn't taste like the rockets i got from the local supermarket." he claimed when i presented the check.

o_O

I was amazed. First time having heard such "compliment". I smiled very fakely begging for explainations.

"Oh, maybe just me. But the foods wasn't as great as last time". "Btw, i'm scandinavian..i don't tip."

Honestly i do not want to sound rude, but they are already on the promo menu with £12p.p, thats one. Asking for service charge to be removed, two!. And hoping to get further discounts. THREE!!

Hello, if you want cheap foods, why didn't go to the kebab shop next door? Fish & chips only 3.99, and Subway - sub of the day 2.99! with different selections.

I don't get it. £12 for 2 courses in a hotel, and you still want it cheaper.

Someone please enlighten me.

Because the manager didn't want to offend them, all the extra charges and sides were removed, just the price of the mains.

Even we don't like you, nothing can be done because the hotel is practising the yes campaign. Yes- very stupid. Everything has to be yes.

Thank you sir. All the feedbacks were highly appreciated, and will be noted for further improvement. Thank you very much indeed. Have a nice evening. Hope to see you again.

Smile, keep smiling waitress.

When in real life, we must learn to say no, at work we must learn to say yes. How ironic?

3 days till pay day!

2010-02-23T03:00:00.002Z

Day 41 @ Bistro

The usual mondays are heaven alike, but not today. 3 functions in the house. And they were all around the same time. Real hectic. First comes the big boys from the Chefs Federation. Everyone was tensed up. All were reminded how important their dinner is . It does makes me wonder, before it started, what would happen it there's uncooked foods, sth not up to the par., etc. You get what i mean? Lol. I know I was way too imaginative. Sadly, there wasn't any dramas. ha! Things went well, foods were great, service was excellent. So, 3 yesses!

Felt appreciated tonight, the other function- the guys on table #16 got us a round of drink from the bar. Compliments and thank yous really made my day. We made theirs successful, in return they didn't give us any hard times. Basically win-win. Too much of anything can make you sick but definitely not compliments. For the ppl in service industry especially.

Everyone on the floor left around 11ish. Love the idea how we gathered at the BOH, bottoms-up before we call it a day. Had crab toasties, monk fish, creme caramel, deep fried mars bar... and i'm happily stuffed. =]

it's cork

2010-02-08T15:59:00.001Z

Day 26 @ Bistro

"Heya, our table is wobblying. Can you please do something about it?" demand the wavy hair lady.

"Certainly." i replied

*
At the pantry , trying to look for card boards/papers/boxes.

There was none.

Told Craig. And he said give him minutes.

Right.

The next thing, everyone burst into laughter. Real loud.

Poor boy. He meant Cork. But the accent somehow rather sounded like cock.

And the way he questioned Lancome

"Do you have any co(c)ks with you right now?"

LOL.

The agitated Lancome, "Why do you think i should carry cocks with me?"

Oh dear.

Now i have difficulty pronouncing CORK.

cork. corrk. corrrk.

Still sounds like cock. ;S

Nuff' bout the cork and cork.

*
Yay.
I got my very first compliment from the GM. Was on my own for Saturday lunch. It was hell-alike at the BOH. No delays (not that much), no complains, no wrong orders.

Phew. Was a good experience, seriously. Usually there are 2/more to help at the back.

Good feedback during the briefing.

" Well-done, u did great on your own." GM

Told ya, you wouldn't know who is actually watching. At least something was proven aye. The observation part i meant.

The thing i'm looking forward , is to pass my probationary period. Then i can enjoy the staff rates during my summer. And i'm sooo looking forward for it.

Oh god, is it Wednesday yet. I need a break please.

i'm knackered

2010-02-05T01:59:00.001Z

Day 22 @ Bistro

Was at work from 12-2.30pm. Didn't get to rest during my split shifts, gotta complete the online training, which lasted bout 3hourish. And back to work again at 6pm-12am.

Next shift is at 6am, later. (It's 1.40am now)

Today's service was okay. Busy but not crazy. Still manageable. Running in and out, gotta be the runner and was needed on the floor to take some orders even though i was incharged on the BOH. Few complaints, creme brulee wasn't crunchy. The waiting time was longer than usual - so on and so forth.

A part from that, guess we did a great job despite we were under staffs. The part time girl Ally left home early, and there were only me, James, Lisa and Lancome. 2 in & 2 out respectively.

*
I think i'm still very poor in memorising the stuffs from the menu :(

Was taking the desserts order;

Guy A, "What exactly is Chocolate Pithivier?" he asked politely.

Owkay. I was like..."It is... hmm I'm afraid to tell you that i need to check with the chef. I apologise, I'm new here."

Guy A, "That's fine.."

"I'll be right back."

Went to pastry chef, then back to him. Explained the whole lot, he didn't want it. He wanted a pear tarte tatin instead.

Fine.

Guy B, "What vintage port do you do by glass?"

Owkay. Smile waitress, smile.

"Hmm good question. Port, yes we do port".

"By glass hmm I regret to tell you that i have to check with the bartender."

"Do you.. " and was I interupted.

"Yes, please check, I appreciate that." He grinned very fake. I totally felt that.

*
Poor menu knowledge. :( I will definitely do something about it, when i get a chance to think.

Time just flew by. By the time i realise, it was time to go home.. And so, day 22 has ended. I know i could be better as time goes by! :)

Tomorrow will be better than today! Gambateh waitress!

Almost 2am. Aye, later guys x

snippets of work unrelated. (i)

2010-02-03T02:05:00.005Z

2 days off from work. Yay!

First day ; not really productive since i got up around 5 in the evening. Dinner with jo. Had chinese, and groceries shopping later. The usual stuffs- choc, milk, cereals, no B&J this time cause Haagen Dazs was £2.50 instead of £4. Regretted. Guess i'll just stick to B&J. No special reasons. Personal liking.

I miss Princes Street! Spotted some charms, tops from River Island. bags and sandals! Le sigh. All i can say is NO to shopping atm! Yes must fantasize myself enjoying the sun , laughing and chilling with the gf. Working hard to make the holiweek come true!

Yes we can. This time i am well determined! ;)

Trust me, life is too short. Appreciate every little things infront of you! And enjoy every single moments!

Seriously i miss home.my girls. him. her. them. every single one! Can't tell how much i am anticipating to be home. There is something very important that i have to do by this year end! And i mean it! Ha ha!

Afterall, i believe this year is gonna be a good good year. We shall see.

Yawns. Aye, time for bed!

Night all. x

I see February is coming!

2010-01-22T02:42:00.002Z

Day 8 @ Bistro

My 2nd week in the bistro now. Things are pretty much going accordingly. The superior didn't give much pressure unless it's mega busy, I gotta be on my own without any shadows around. How sad.

Did AM shift last weekend. Quite like working in the morning as time zooms by quicker than night shift. And the best part, free breakfast!!!

Sometimes I do room service. Fun, fun. I loiter around like I am in Alice in the Wonderland. Met this Chinese/Asian guy again for the 3rd time today. Didn't expect it was for him, until he opened the door and we both were shocked. Haha. How funny, the first time - we met at the lift, I was looking down at the floor, and when the lift reached G, we bummed into each other. Second time, he dined in and sat at table #12. Guessed he's on business trip or something. He's always with some documents.

Now I know which room he's in. It's Schloss! cool! And it was funny to see him with short pants. Teehee. No, i didnt stalk! It just happened like that!

Today during service, Laura asked me something which got me thinking. Perhaps i should refer this to my ex-fb lecturer Mr D.

"Why do you use the tray to carry a bowl of soup that comes with an under liner?" In a simpler way, with under liner- no tray needed.

I always thought - be it a spoon, glass , anything - you do it with a tray.

The question that popped up- what's the function of the under liner? If i insists of using the tray, can I please not use the under liner? And since i'll be crumbing down the foods and wipe the mess off with sanitizer - i really don't see what's the purpose of it. Just like how coffee cup and saucer, they are meant to be together. No one ever separates them. Cheeky cheeky.

Okay great, time for bed! And before i go, here are the 2 work-related resolution i made early this year.

1) Be punctual, never know who's observing.

2) Don't be shy to ask about the 7wives and their husband!

Lol. Later x

13th Jan 2010

2010-01-14T01:34:00.005Z

Day 1 @ Bistro

Started my shift at 4.30pm today. Met Laura & Lisa, both the Mgr & Asst Mgr. Both very friendly ladies. Was with Craig, the supervisor, brief me on the rules and regulations, health and safely etc. His accent can kill me. Tried really hard to catch every single words.

Was on the floor for abit, then BOH to do preps and polishing and to over see the running and services. Met the sommelier, Lancome. She is very pretty and the best thing to be friend with her, you get to taste different wines during working hours. Very cool. I know. Had only a double espresso's cup of Pinot Griogio. Was so worried that will turn into tomato.

Learned to make a nice and fluffy cappuccino. And work with the coffee machine. It's actually a manual one compared to those i've used before. It's double troublesome.

The pastry chef offered us 2 different desserts. Pear tarte tatin crumbles with home made ice-cream. And i forgot the other one. It's really sweet - i know working in f&b, thats the best part of it. You get to try new stuffs and free foods. :)

Also met James, the cute function guy. He takes care of the private function and over see the bistro& bar. Multitasks guy we called him. Will be working with him tomorrow as Craig will be having his day off.

Things are going pretty slow. Stress? A little..and very blur most of the time. Way way to go to catch up. It feels like getting back to Uni again, with homework and trainings to attend.

Finished shift at 12.15am, hotel cab sent me home.

Time will tell definitely. To look forward for a brand new day again.

9th Jan 2010

2010-01-11T23:00:00.001Z

Be it happy or sad, all I can say is at every junctions of life , I am learning something. Last Saturday was my last day of work at Jas. They threw me a farewell dinner. Tho it was a simple one, I am really thankful for all their loves and efforts.

Definitely something not to be forgotten.

Even our ideas and perceptions were clashed most of the times, I understand this is how we deal with tolerance, and the rule of giving and accepting. I always ranted how much i hated their style of working, with notepad and pen, not awared how quickly they were when it comes to memorising & calculating. I still have way to go to catch up with the veterans. Or maybe we are too dependent of the technolody nowadays.

When comes to vitality, stability & punctuality - the gen Y still losing.

Perhaps these are the things I wasn't aware of . Working with them can drive you up to the wall, but when comes to problems solving - their ideas are always the solid ones.

Like the saying, the ripen the better?

They always commented, the youngsters these days are way too dependent and pampered. To a point, I agreed. We were spoon fed, and brought up in a comfy environment. Can't blame them. Right or wrong, I hope I don't carry this stigma to the future working places.

And so, I shall conclude this as the end of the first chapter; my life as a waitress.

I am all set and ready for the upcoming challenges. This time, a brand new environment in a uk hotel chain!

More stories to come. :]

au revoir

2010-01-08T16:13:00.003Z

So the new guy is here. Buddying with him today, and tomorrow. Not easy. When you're way too bossy, people start saying things like you don't respect the elderly. But when you're too good to him, people will start taking advantage from you. Others said let him do it.. he learns nothing if you keep feeding him. Maybe I should just step back and watch. Sometimes being cruel is not necessarily a bad thing.

Sigh. This uncle is little shy, and he waits for instructions. I hope he survives well.

So the day is finally here, wee bit reluctant to leave. They have been really good to me. Acting like my mum and sisters. Taking care of me when i'm ill and cooks my fave dishes. ;(

Don't worry, i'm still good. I promise I must stay tough. ;)

china tea please?

2010-01-05T03:45:00.000Z

"Excuse me", she snapped her fingers.

With my eyes rolling 180 degree, no chance to escape, i ran to her.

At the table, "how can i help?" I offered with my killer smile.

"Can i have some china tea please".

"Yes, certainly."

At the pantry, can't help, I burst into laughter.

LMAO! haha and the word china still echoing !

Hm I find this really fascinating though.

So people, watch out your words when you do your ordering!

...

Can I have some england tea then? haha.

merry xmas to you

2009-12-26T03:21:00.007Z

Started snowing again. Very mild. Barely enough for a snowman's head. Dinner with jo earlier was great. Had more than enough, am now like a stuffed turkey.

Already unwrapped the first xmas gift a week back. Long I waited. Finally a yes. It was a job offer from hotel X. Better staff remuneration and opportunities. Can't find the reasons to reject.

Feel bad for the current employer if you ask? A little, thats my answer. For the supports and opportunities given during the toughest time of the economy. But I'm a human too. I can't stay on just because they are nice people.

And now the decision is final, the rest is just history.

The road now is taken, i shall not begin it with a sigh. I promise I will try.

I know i will miss them. But goodbye isn't forever. We will be in touch.

14 days to go, to a brand new beginning.

Christmassey!

2009-12-09T14:28:00.001Z

Dear readers, terribly sorry for the silence if you have been coming back for the updates. Didn't have the time to sit down for a decent post. This year is coming to an end real soon. Approximately, 23days! Mixtures of happy and sad, and most importantly this year taught me much stronger than ever. Kudos!

Ok I already feel like giving up on this current job which is something very unusual. At some points, i pondered why do i give up easily? where has all my patience go? Hmm. I don't know, I really don't know what is happening to me. Maybe like some said, patience has its limit. And i begin to feel lazy and bored at work. Lack of motivations? Must be.

Not a necessity to badmouth on this current employer, because world is too small. Prolly I should put it this way, opting for a company which would encourage personal growth and development.. and value their associates? Sounds better innit. lol

Le sigh. Honestly I was in limbo for months. After spoken to slumber, he was indeed right. We should really fight for what we think is right. (oh, with cheryl cole's fight for this love as the background!) Ha!

Went to an interview yesterday, the interviewer told me he was amazed with my answers (from the questionnaires online!)

He commented, "well said!- with personality and showed your real characters". Gee, I was flattered.

One of the many questions.

Who inspired you? Explain. - My supermum! With her wisdom words, "never say never" and "never give up, before you even started!" - basically these words auto play in mind whenever i face any difficulties despite miles away from home!

My mum is a rockstar. She rocks!

Uh huh I miss home! I want to be home for christmas! Here's a picture that we took in the city of light!

Hopefully if time allows, will do a wrap up for year 09 kay!
Later guys! xx

You're nothing but a sick pervert.

2009-10-31T03:36:00.003Z

Haven't been in here for a while now. Life at the moment? Comparable to the vacuum cleaner. - It's sucks.

Ah just realised, I don't come blogging until something extreme's up. Was busy googling since i got home, looking up which Act actually works to protect us. And what constitutes sexual harrasment at work? Why is everyone taking lightly on this matter. Not forgetting the upper management, do nothing good- but picking their nose during office hour, gossip, updating themselves on facebook, and "observe" us on the cctv.

Honestly this is very very sickening. I told (more like complaining) to Aunty A, and she thought it was only a pea sized problem. She grinned at me and walked away. (!!??)

I was on the floor for this big group of 20 pax- a stag night party. While i was taking the beverage order, this half-drunk-concsious guy came behind me, holding my upper waist and whispered he wanted a beer. I sensed something wasn't right but still managed to escape.

No, story didnt end there.

When i brought the check to the table, the same guy- asked for my name ( ha. i pretended deaf) and he tried to be friendly i pressumed? Hmm he came nearer to me, landed his hand on my shoulder.

Then slowly went thru my back and stopped at the waist.

Do i need to elaborate more? Use your imagination. Hey mate, patience has its limit. What did i do? I pushed him away. Yes i actually pushed his upper arm away from me.

He responded " Watch out you!" - and "becareful." That moment i didn't exactly know what he meant. But i remember vividly, i said " Watch your hand you!"

He was embarrassed i suppose? The people surround looked at us, wondering what is going on. I gave him the most powerful stare. The "thousand yards stare" quoted from waiter rant. He walked out and pretended nothing has happened. I know i know, wtf right?

Sigh. What can I do?

Later Aunty B said , she got molested too. I asked ,"why didn't you voice out to that guy?" Aunty B commented "let it be." Prolly she thought it was a small problem.

Hey why!!?? Was it just me ? Because customers' always right, that's why we needed to keep quiet? What's the point of the act/law against sexual harrasment designed for?

Other colleagues? - They said and i quoted.

"more to come",

"welcome to the harsh world, baby waitress." :)

Those words slapped on my face and i'm feeling wee-bit dodgy now.

Octoburp

2009-10-03T01:40:00.000+01:00

It's mid-autumn now. Winter is near. Weather begin to fall to single digit again especially at night. Not something that i'm looking forward to. Chilly and windy, with the raindrops and that prolly explain why my flu come but never go. ;/

Work was ok today. Had 3 big groups, some reserved and walk-ins. Great thing, there are shows opposite at the theatres. Ever since the festival ended, business goes slow too. Sigh. A part that, ..hmm ..nothing much, lesser drama and things are rather mundane.

It's October now.
And i love the fact that this year is about to end soon. I am anticipating for 2010 to come. Bored with the current. Be it work, life, ah what ever u name it.

Mind went blank again. So peeps, have a great weekend & Happy Mooncake Festival to the readers, if you're celebrating it too.

Night-Night x

money money money

2009-09-20T01:26:00.004+01:00

Started my shift at 4.30pm today. Everything was going monotonously not until 6pm. Majority came in around 6ish, and everyone, and i meant mostly everyone wanted a quick meal. 4 on the battlefloor. Tsk.

When it's mega busy, you hardly find the rest or don't even think getting help from the others. The policy goes like this - you only do your stuffs, don't bother about others'. Thank you very much for your co-operation.

Get the idea yet?

I am still very upset from yesterday's incident. Very, very much. I can't help myself from not thinking about it. And when things involved about monies, you have no way to get out of it. Obviously this time, i was the unlucky ones.

18th Sept 09,

Table #6 had 2 bottles of Sancerre. I remember very clearly that i wrote them down onto the bill. A bottle costs roughly £20ish. So thats equivalent to £40ish. Correct? With the appetisers and main courses, the bill summed up £53ish.

How could the appetisers and maincourses be £13ish for 2 pax. Thats impossible.

This conversation took place during our supper.

"Are you sure you've jotted down the 2nd bottle?" "How come the total brought down was only 50ish?" she asked and sounded inquisitively.

"I am pretty sure i did. When you brought the bill to the table, didn't you check?" i responded with a very unpleasant voice.

" I dont know". she answered.

From the way she questioned , i can feel that she was trying to tell everybody she was innocent.

During closing, i still think i have jotted it down. I took the courage to find the receipts, and the moment that i have found it;

"How come the total was only 50ish when it was supposed to be 70++ for 2 bottles and the meals. I have counted them correctly!!" Must be you, added the 2nd bottle after i have summed up the bill.

Trust me, that moment i was speechless.

Firstly, she pinpointed that i did not jot down the 2nd bottle of wine onto the bill during our supper. (I was already upset , she did not apologise for her "intelligent's guess")

Secondly, when she found out that i actually did my job, she further commented that it was STILL my fault cause there is no way that the amount that she had counted was so much lesser.

Hence the words, "must be you" still playing in my head, till now.

Sigh.

Come to think of it, in this case, there are only 2 probabilities.

1) The person who counted the amount missed out the 2nd bottle.
2) The person who jotted down the 2nd bottle didn't aware that the amount has been calculated.

So, £20ish short in the till.

What did we do?

Tipp-Ex. Liquid paper. Correction pen.

Even the problem has been solved now. I still don't feel right about it. In this case, it could be my fault, or it could be hers too. Tho i stand more chances of making the mistake, but why didn't she admit it could be hers too? or, at least say something like, the person who brought the check to the table was supposed to double check it?

Sometimes silence does not really equal to acceptance. This time, no one stands out to say a single thing. Everybody is just assuming.

imma workaholic

2009-09-11T02:03:00.001+01:00

Hey! Sorry for the silence, I have been really really busy for the past weeks. The Edinburgh Festival just ended last week, and i can finally sit down and compose a post decently. Listening to Karen's Cinta Hello Kitty. So cute and sweet. :)

I got my license like finally. Except that the ID is not here yet.. After so much troubles that i've been thru. Trainings, exam, and police interview. Can you imagine? The police actually interviewed bout my backgrounds, wherebout im from, education and any criminal offence in order to approve my application. So much hassles. phew.. no more.

Work is getting boring, nothing much cause lately the customers have been behaving well. Thank you. Oh ya a new chef is in the house, malaysian foods almost everyday. Starting to feel jelak now. :S Celebrated a colleague's bday yesterday. Italians at 11ish at night is not a good idea afterall. The cheese, the amount of flour. wine pasta seafoods panna cotta, and cakes. Didn't sleep so well cause i was like a stuffed balloon. Might explode anytime.

Owkay i promised myself to sleep early tonight. 2.15am. i better off to bed now.
Nitey. x

the truth and the myth

2009-08-28T03:15:00.001+01:00

"Hey there!" he shouted, in a polite way.

I rushed to him from the bar, hoping not another complain again.

"Yes, how can i help you sir?" i offered.

"Do you happen to know if your foods here have MSG ?

(I knew something wasn't right. I knew it!)

"Errr..." i paused.

"Do you know what's MSG??" he looked pissed.

Yess. "It's Monosodium Glu.... tamate??" D'oh .

"Wow, you knew?" he looked impressed.

(The thing with this customer, he thought peoples who wait for table are usually less educated, and working around the clock just for the monies.)

Bahh. The streotyping.

Back to the conversation,

He asked again, "So, do you know?"

"I am not quite sure. but i can check for you."

"Well, please do so." he looked panic.

And i ran to the kitchen with a confused look.

Along the pathway, Aunty B saw me. After confirming with her, i ran back to the customer with a glass of water.

"Heya sir, i am terribly sorry. Unfortunately, there... is."

"Oh no..oh noo..oh no..." he chanted while shaking his head.

"Shittt" was the only word in my heart. I know we are in the weeds again.

The customer said he is allergic to MSG, and he looked weird when we had the conversation.

He said he has left his medicine/tablets in the hotel room. Feeling dizzy and heart pain.

"Think!. think!!. think!!". the inner voice yelled at me.

I remember, i offered to call for an ambulance.

Hey, that's not a bad idea afterall? Eventhough he was still conscious. That's what we called precaution. Just.Incase. But he insisted that he's fine and kept saying it's alright.. And left with his wife with a cab and £1.70 as the graituity. Oh well.

Hmmm now i'm worried.

I just hope he is alright. If you happen to read any news about an American tourist died of MSG in the hotel room or sth. Harhar. You know why.

Waitress's pov : well, i am pretty sure the exclusion clause does not work here since it's not due to our negligence. He, at the first place should have told us his current illness and any allergic etc. Yes i pity him, but then again, when comes to own health, who has to be more precautious and responsible? Yes, we are almost everything. Clowns, marketers, economists, cleaner, runner, business analysts- but we're not your care taker.

What say you?

Accident happens

2009-08-23T03:38:00.000+01:00

In the midst of service, an indian guy came to me.

"Do you know where's the washroom?"

Lol.

Of course i do. "Just head straight", i replied

"Do you know" sounds so hmm, inappropriate? I don't know.

If i don't, i think i have an issue here.

*
At work today too,

I have no idea how this medium sized lady ram into me. I was carrying a tray with 4 glasses.And it was too late to decelerate. Left hand was shakened, then the glasses were wobblying on the trays. (Now it got me thinking, where was my right hand.hmm.) The water goblet, the wine glass fell on the wooden floor and broke into crystal bits. That second, i was blank. I ran in and out to kitchen, thinking the best way to clear the mess that the lady and i made. Funnily enough, the lady only apologised, and disappeared to-somewhere- god- knows.

I went in the kitchen trying to look for some used/recycle napkins from dinner service. Dee saw me. I murmured the word "effff". It was so obvious i was pissed off la. I then silently pronounced the word. Fuuucker. No, i don't usually swear. Today was exceptional case. It was crazy busy. Fulled house, and woots, new record of no. of customers. Yeaa.. the thing is, everybody was busy minding own business, no one is there to give me a hand. Grrrr.
I was so sad! But then i managed to keep it cool, not letting off my anger.

Yay. i managed to pull it through for another war again.I think i did good. Not great. Tomorrow is another brand new day, with more suprises to come.

Minutes to 4 am. I should go to my dreamy land now.
Toodles. x

S.o.r.r.y.

2009-08-16T02:25:00.000+01:00

Sorry to keep you waiting.

Sorry for the long wait.

Sorry for the slow service

So sorry.

My apologies.

I'm sorry, one moment please

I am terribly sorry.

So sorry. Will be with you shortly

Sorry, will get back to you in a bit

Sorry will get my colleague to attend your table soon.

Sorry thats the best that i can do.

Sorry, i'm afraid not.

Sorry we are fully booked for tonight.

I'm sorry, we have no table left.

__________________________

I have never said so much sorry in a day. It was mega busy yesterday and today. Hope tomorrow is not like this anymore.

An old lady tapped on my shoulder at the prep station.

"Hi!", she said.

"Yes, how can i help you?" i responded immediately.

She seemed shy and talked really soft, and i hardly hear a word that uttered from her mouth.

There were only some parts that i heard.
"Thank you, happy, great time, great dinner."

She then back to her seat.

Later Aunty B told the rest of the team, the son told Aunty B that his mum enjoyed herself very much. And she even sang a song. (??!!)

LOL. Aww how cute.

It's a hectic and tiring day again, but the smile on the granny's face really made it worthwhile.

hello august.

2009-08-03T02:02:00.000+01:00

July went by so quickly, and i already had the best month of the year. Fellow colleagues threw me a suprise birthday dinner, with S came unexpectedly. Can't thank them enough for everything. Something which is rather extraordinaire compared to what i had for the past years. I had 1 gigantic cake, with 3 little candles and 2 average wishes made upon. It was only a simple celebration, but it felt great realising people whom i know for only less than 4months would put such efforts.

Too lazy to continue the rest of the post. So here are someupdates for you, my readers.

1. i have been very bad, not attending my chinese classes. not doing the homework. they are hiding inside the bag- the one that i don't use oftenly.

2. jo got me the latest dkny perfume. aww. and she got herself chanel chance. see how thoughful she is. i can use hers at the same time too.

3. went shoppping today. i got another bag for myself. the last shopping(3weeks back) i told myself "this is the last bag of the year". Today i bought another one, i hesitated and told myself. "ya, that was last year. this month is already a brand new year!"

4. i'm going to check out the gym 2mr. bahaha. i need to work out. too much fats stored. Soon becoming like miss michelin. i don't want to be so cute.

5. colleague's body checkup report shows negative. Swine flu free at the mo. So i'm not gonna RIP yet, anonymous reader.

25mins to 3am. I have to sleep.

p.s. thanks for the birthday msges/wishes. you know who you are :) <3
p.s.s. to dearie C, pls do not give up yet. Stay strong pls. My heart wrenches each time i know you're not happy. :(

has it reaches us?

2009-07-27T14:35:00.003+01:00

A colleague of mine called in sick today. She was already feeling feverish and having sorethroat for the past 2 days. I made her a honey & lemon yesternight, but it didn't helped much.

The only thing that popped up in our mind was none other than the swine flu. She is now resting at home, more like "quarantine period". We are worried. If her sickness still persists, than all of us have to do medical check up for the safe side. Aunty B further commented if the results tested positive,outlet might need to be closed. Oh no.

Now i've got lil' headache and muscle ache. Are they the symptoms too?

waiter rant

2009-07-21T15:02:00.004+01:00

No, this is not about tipping or how fussy my customers are. lol.
So readers, chill.

Having following his blog for awhile, finally decided to get his first published book in amazon for a good bargain! - Waiter Rant. While reading, i giggle and it amazes me.. -Yes. all waiters think the same. I'm glad someone actually speak out our voices within.

For the last thing i will hope for- at least half populations in the world read this. So you will know, to wait for a table is not an easy thing. If you think we only take order, serve and clean your mess, think again.

We work around the clock, we face idiots/drinkers every day and we pull our faces to entertain dumbos. You might want to know, if my jobs scopes are tad demanding- then why work?

Get a copy, and find out yourself. :)

On a second thought, i think i have slowly fallen in love with my job despite all the disagreements. ha. i know, i know. Sounds lil' ironic here.

unhappy waitress

2009-07-15T15:17:00.005+01:00

Customers today are nice people, friendly and not much trouble given. But there's always a lil thing that upset me. I don't know whats wrong with San, guessed she's mad at something. Maybe i did sth wrong without realising it. She didn't talked for the whole morning, neither to me nor other colleagues. Aunty B said maybe she has got some arguments with the bf. I don't know. I assumed it's the time of the month again. I always make it clear to myself, not to bring any personal matters to work, unless it's like super unavoidable stuffs. But hey, who am i to judge? So i proceeded with my tasks, but when someone wasn't in the mood, there will be no team work. And lunch just now was a mess.

Hope things get better when we're back later, for evening service.

Waitress's dictionary: team work is when hands, hearts and mind formed altogether as one.

see u, not again

2009-07-13T17:47:00.004+01:00

What a shitto. A couple, i presummed they are from EU's country. Left only 10p for us. (!!??) Seriously i don't get it. If so, i would prefer if you don't tip at all. 10 p?! what's the point, to show your appreciation? or our service was only equivalence to 10p? Not just that, left the place without knowing how to say a word thank you. Make me felt disgusted for such behaviour.

Another case, yesterday a strange customer made a really funny statement. She told us, our chicken tasted like pork. The message flew back to kitchen and everyone burst into laughter. What a joker. Hello customer, your complaints really made our day! When i was checking if everything's going well at her table, she said so-so. I appreaciate her honesty for telling "this is my first, and also last". Yea, so do we. Put yourself in our shoes, what would you do? Change back to pork, so it would taste like chicken? Why is it i don't see the next table telling us that when they ordered the same?

Uh, thank you for not coming again.

Lucky eh?

2009-07-10T14:41:00.003+01:00

Where is everybody and everybody is. Lunch was quiet and only 2 tables tonight. Not good!
Boohoo. ;(

Yesterday was funny. I picked up a 1K note. Was folded. Jumped in joy, i wondered how much it would be in £ . I told Jo, lets have that 50 50.

She googled, and found out 1k paraguay currency is only 12p! Geez. Thought so. Otherwise why no one picks it up.

Nvm that. At least i was happy for minutes. teehee.

Finishing line, Jo's birthday 2mo. Gonna have a bombing day out. Wee!

007

2009-07-06T01:17:00.007+01:00

When they stepped in to the restaurant, i remember i asked for how many people.

Then Aunty A got excited, and brought them straight to table #17.

Just 2 pax, but Aunty A let them had the big table.

Strange and unlikely.

I was still clueless, not until they told me that was James Bond.

Hmm.

I admit i've got very shallow knowlege especially who is who. What's more, thats James Bond, even not my cup of tea.

I served them like normal. Then Mr Connery asked me, which part of China am i from. I replied politely, "i am not China".

We chat a little, found him quite friendly.

Came home, i googled. This is how he looks.

No wonder Aunty A was drooling earlier.

And the current Sean Connery,

Lol. My first encounter with local actor.

Not bad, not bad.

this is life

2009-07-03T03:36:00.001+01:00

"Noooo..." this must be a joke, i told my colleagues.

"How come his son is picking up those soiled laundry instead of Uncle Jimmy?!"

Everyone was in silence at the staffs' dining table.

I sensed something was wrong. "San!! quick tell me."

Uncle Jimmy was admitted to ICU last night.

"What happened to him?!"

"He had a stroke. Half of the body is paralysed. He can't talk. can't recognise anyone..

My hands flew to my mouth.. I was stunned.

I can't think.

My mind is in total blank now.. All I remember is the smile on his face when i wished him Happy Daddy's day! He laughed and said "Thank you daughter!"

Can't believe on what i have just heard.Took minutes for me to accept the truth. Whole team isn't in the mood, feeling gloomy and depressed.

Knowing that nothing can be done except mentally support to the family members.

Sigh.. feeling torn up and tired. I know i can't tumble, what's more weekend is here.

Another joker

2009-06-25T10:15:00.003+01:00

Conversation between waitress and a black lady.

'Hi, i would like to have a chinese tea.'

'Do you prefer Jasmine or Oolong?'

'Hmmm. could i have the sweet one instead.'

(paused for seconds trying to think)

'I'm sorry, none of them taste sweet.'

'Oh is it?' (Was amazed, and lil disappointed)

(In the heart, already laughing hahaha)

Goodness.

Now tell me, should i add some sugar in her teapots with the tea leaves?
All the staffs laughed non stop behind the bar. lol

waitress is very mad

2009-06-22T18:32:00.003+01:00

I was happily waiting for my new mobile's arrival. I even opted the phone to be delivered today on my day off. I wondered which dumbo in the customer services released the phone delivery on Saturday. Obviously i missed it when post man rang the bell.

Fine. So i had no choice to pick up the parcel today. A very yes secluded place, with no more than 5 human beings. I cleverly predicted it would be cold, even with my hoodie on. Sweat like a pig, face as red as baked lobster.

At the HQ, to pick up my parcel, the lady said, it's not there yet.

What do you mean by my parcel hasn't reached yet?

"It's still on it's way from local post office , i'm afraid". replied the lady.
Meaning to say, my parcel is sitting in the local post office is yet to release back to the HQ.

When can i collect it?

You'll have to call and check again

(I suppose soonest would be around 2 days)

Can i collect it at the local post office?

Yes you can, with extra 50p.

It means my new hp is sitting in local post office, [A] --- (going back to HQ for reporting)----then back to [A] for me to collect.

Goodness' sake. It's not the money's matter. It's the time that i am fussing about.

Honestly i am not impressed with UK ROYAL MAIL services at all.

Not helpful. Not friendly. Not efficient. And very SLOW!

breakie

2009-06-19T16:20:00.001+01:00

Exam's over. At least for now i don't have to think of the rules & regulations.

Training was held in a law firm, with other candidates. Can actually tell i was the youngest. Among others were 40ish-50ish. Some GMs represented hotels/resorts and SMEs.

Overall I think i did alright. Just need to wait and see.

When results' out, thats the time to think, how to pass down the knowledge to fellow aunties, and urm i seriously need to think what would be the best way.

Reverse psychology? Yes? Trust me, having them to accept what you say is the hardest things of all.

Sigh. ;(

Big Boss & the management team came for dinner, and left aside £50 for us. I hope they come like once a week, then i have bit more money to spend.

The film festival is on, so business is getting slightly better. Good for both parties, but there are still bits and pieces left undone.. The system is yet to install, menu has to be changed, and other maintenance stuffs.

Others - SOPs list, the Purchase Order List, and the Wine list.. all needed to re-do.

Where to start, it's a scrathing head question. =/

creative procrastinator

2009-06-15T17:30:00.001+01:00

I've got a slight tension now. When i first knew about the exam, i revised, i seek for advises, i actually marked down those important chapters. Those are the early days.

Pre-hardworkingness.

Then the books and notes were left no where but the corner of the bed for weeks.

Now that i realised exam is this coming wednesday, my notes are crumpled, books are bended. I suggest probably caused by my star fish's position.

What's occupying my mind are the foods to be ordered later- edamame, softshells roll, edamame, soba, yakimono, itamemono, sashimi, tepanyaki, kamaboko. LOL. I googled.

I'm hungry already. 2.5 hours to dinner. Yay.

Waitress' theory : our brain only function well when we're satisfied and happy.
So enjoy first, suffer later. (No citation needed!) LOL

day of the week

2009-06-10T14:15:00.000+01:00

Drizzling out there.

The thought of stepping out has been vanished at a sudden. Ah San asked me to join her and her boy for mountain climbing. Hmm i wonder if their plan is still on.

Probably i should just stay in today, to finish up 老婆大人II.

On the unrelated side, heard that bro's business is going all well. Thank god, i really hope it carries on. I know he is working very hard. At such age, he is able to manage. to decide. to run his own business. "the think big's mind". He once told me he wants to be the youngest owner by the age of 21. I think he's already making it half way thru, even before 21.

Fingers crossing, hopefully this time he is being in earnest and not to disappoint everyone else, esp mum & dad.

**
Been a long time, out of touch
In the end it don't mean much
Cause I am still connected to you
You been out there on your own
Maybe feelin' all alone
But deep inside I thought that you knew
No matter where you are
A part of me will always be with you
No matter where you are
A part of you will always be with me too

**

Lil' bro, just so u know, i am praying, and always will, for your success and hoping things go well for you. xx

it wasn't that bad afterall

2009-06-07T11:20:00.008+01:00

Feet was sore, and back was hurting so badly. The moment i reached home around 1, i removed my make-up, showered, and fainted on my bed till this morning.

Working in 2 outlets 12-6, 6-12 respectively. The night part was a pain. 2 hen night parties, tables reserved, and walked-in.

When its too busy, things didnt go that well, customers complained for the slow service, for the long wait. Ahhh too many to be listed. It was superly crazy service, too rushed and when order slips got missing, that's when everyone got panicked. and showed that "huh, not me, not me's faces".

Thankfully there was an extra back up copy in the runner room.

Around 11, when things get sorted, thats when i realised time to go home soon. But no, trays of glasses waiting to be polished. I sighed and forced myself to finished them up. Everything was done in an hourish. Heh, of course with help.

Later, I dragged myself home like a disabled snail..

Tho it was a tiring service, but then i manage to pulled it thru once again.
War Vs Waitress: 0-1

:)

1st-monthsary

2009-06-01T01:30:00.001+01:00

Yesterday marked my first month-sary in this outlet.

Looking back, i still remember how much i hated everything. Those countable incidents/more like troubles that i've got into. I shouldn't have used past tense.

Yes. I am still hating it.

My first day of work was welcomed by the staffs -grinned and smiled evilly
"Welcome, welcome"

Second day i was passed like a football from one person to another. Aunty A ordered aunty B to train me. Then was passed to C , back to A. Everyone has got their ways in doing something. I was confused, blur and innocent ok.

First week i was already shouting for help.
Not sure how.when.what.where.who.why

The real stuffs haven't came into picture yet. The tough part- taking order in chinese. Wahliao.. can die! Kitchen staffs speak/write/read no england. I took orders in english, they have to translate them into chinese. Meh, double works right.

I know. Thats why i had no choice.. And it took me almost a month to memorise the whole lunch menu like sitting for exams.

Tsk tsk.

Working with veterans, 50 yo and above is never a good thing.

1) they are very stubborn. Never listened to younger generations' ideas/opinions.
2) they nag alot. NON STOP.
3) they order you do something in A's way. But they do B's way.
4) they are old-fashioned. Still using notepad and pen instead of micros.
5) their principle: they have their reasons, we don't have.
6) they are always punctual. wtf
7) they observe like a headmaster with a can (trying to spot your mistakes la)
8) they repeat the same things over and over again. that annoys me.
9) they gossipss alot. woman across the road. ah beng next door. yimakuche. fruits vege meat expensive. where got buy one free one. this good that no good.
10) they - i cant think of others. but yea.. it's supertroublesomelaworking with aunties/ahsam.

ahhh life's just too many obstacles.
stress vs waitress: 1-0

sunday blues

2009-05-31T11:14:00.004+01:00

i screamed in silent,
i weeped with no tears,
i hide my emotions
telling myself everything will be ok

work is so sucky.. colleagues. customers.and everything!!!

waitress is emo, upset, stressss altogether.

no, this is definitely not PMS.

why things aren't going their ways?

Punctual diva, not

2009-05-25T00:12:00.004+01:00

Waitress was so late for work today. Woke up around 12.05pm, by Jo. LOL. And was supposed to be at work at 12. Champion right?

So yeaa, i called and make up some stories.. saying that i have no keys, waiting for Jo's friend to pass me the keys. I know i know, i am bad. But i promise that's the first and last!. No next time.

Yesterday was like hell. Busy, chaotic, and hotttt. Everyone was so busy minding their own business. I can hear misunderstanding between kitchen and on the floor staff when i was taking order. Arguments, shouting here and there. Tsk tsk.

Was hoping for Ireland to win, and yea they won. San, my colleague told me, if Ireland wins, tips are generous. And she was indeed right.

Hmm. Big Boss coming over for dinner 2mo. With his friends from HK. Can't wait to watch drama from those veterans again. So sickkkk!

This saturday marks my 1st month in this outlet. Yippie

waitress likes zee avi

2009-05-23T01:58:00.008+01:00

awesome!

Pay day tomorrow. Woohoo. The only thing that i have been looking forward so desperately from the beginning of the week. 5 more days to go, till my next day off.

Work so sucky today. It's the rugby final 2mo, Ireland Vs England if i'm not mistaken. So it was superly busy and 2mo too. Fulled house with groups coming in.

If tips are generous, i don't mind..but it's only like peanuts. Like today, there were 11 guys, ugly looking guys except one. They ordered banquet menu with the price of £21.80 pp. They had plenty bottles of white, lagers, softdrinks, and bill came out £378.90.

A crazy drunk guy came up to counter after the dinner, acted so macho. He so called volunteered to pay £100, then the rest to be divided among other guys.

Minutes later.

He started questioning "why am i paying 100 when i only had a little." yabada yabada..with all the grandma stories. Commented our prices are too costly and asked for discounts. You cheapo, must have thought we are doing charity or mistakenly thought you're in the market.

"Is that the best price already?"

"Is that the final price?"

LMAO.

The total amount was already exclusive with service charge, still dare to ask for discounts.
Left the place with mess, rubbish and all.. the greatest of all,without a single penny of the table. Sniffs.

Please don't everrrrrrr come back. Otherwise we can't assured you if extra ingredients will be added to your foods.

wickedly lol.

rome wasn't built in a day.

2009-05-14T15:40:00.004+01:00

Swine flu attacks

2009-05-13T00:07:00.002+01:00

So many cancellation this week due to swine flu.
Less customers, lesser tips.

Bad, bad. very bad. ;(

Restless me

2009-05-12T01:30:00.001+01:00

Was home 2weeks ago for grandma's funeral. Grandma left us very unexpectedly. The last i saw her was CNY, she was still very healthy.. Managed to get a last min to and fro tickets, and 10 days unpaid leave. sigh.

For those who have been accompanied me when i was home, a big thank you. Really appreciate and i can sensed all the concern, and love being showered. Thanks guys.

Back to work, so this is my final training outlet, and i'll be placed here permanently.

My 2nd week already and i'm coping quite well except for those irrelevant personal problems between the staffs. Don't want to bother much as i don't want to get involve. Buat bodoh je.

Feel rather restless and tired everyday. 11-11pm, and longer hours during the weekends. My life is only me and myself. Work, home and sleep. Rarely chat with Jo, unless she's still up when i'm back.

Work is getting tougher.Starting everything from scratch it's never an easy thing.

Sighh.

Nice song to destress.

Time to hit the bed

Night all. x

what a quack

2009-04-12T05:18:00.001+01:00

Usually they will pre-assigned me to take care of Section C, and D too if it's not too busy (C&D attached together) but because i'm a newbie, they are afraid that i can't handle well, so all i do is just focus on C, but of course i do help out D, if i am free.

So today, my section wasn't as busy. I went over to help at D, because Mark had to be the runner and server. So okay. I was too busy focussing on D, i neglected my own section. Say me stupid/dumb or whatever you want.

I think i am seriously.

When i was having my 5, a colleague of mine said something like "Oh, remember to clear main courses next time ya". Well, i got her meaning. She was trying to say me avoiding clearing part especially main courses. Hmm how on earth she knew that i did not clear the plates? She was in the runner-room for the whole freaking day!

Haha. i knew who complained about me. So obvious. This guy was so "kind", he helped me to clear the table or maybe tables.

I didn't want to say much, i replied OK.

I thought this is what team-work is all about. I helped out at D, the complainer helped me? Team spirit? No?

Why do you want to help me, then complained to the others?

And why don't you question me for not stand-by at my own section instead of getting others to passed me the message?

This kind of people, appeared to be good and kind, but deep-inside..?

So after work, me and J headed to Shanghai. Had a great night out but feet hurt. Had Mc D, mc chicken at 3am. Full and contented.

5.40am and i seriously need to sleep now. night world.

btw. happy easter. happy birthday to my dear girl. and happy hols to myself. x

no tip policy

2009-04-10T02:35:00.002+01:00

I find it very unfair, the way they set their so called "in-house" rules.

The other day one of my customers gave me tip. Say Mr. L? So Mr & Mrs. L lived in London about 7 years ago. Suprisingly they stayed at the same place where i was previously. We sort of telling each other how much we missed London, the life, the people, my ex employers et cetera. Long story cut short, i am sure they had a great dinner, with £5 note on the table. Thats one. And before they left, Mr. L shook hand with me, with another £5 folded. "Keep this for yourself", he whispered.

I smiled and thanked them. So charcoal-faced manager saw, he pulled me to a corner. He said the tip isn't for you, and was so suprised that he thought RL (the big boss) mentioned it to me before. I told him, i knew nothing about the tipping rules in this outlet.

"Oh that's fine. Now i tell you, so you work in this outlet, you get only your hourly pay. The rest, don't get bothered."

Ha ha.

Get the point yet?

I get nothing more except my hourly wages.

Why? Why can't you treat everyone equally? Or is it because they already have their "clan" in the outlet? Seriously i don't get it at all.

I'm confused.

Just like last week, a customer secretly handed me £10, said the same thing as how Mr. L did.

I rejected, so he gave it to my partner instead.

I am not trying to complaint, but i just hope they can be more transparent and not concealing things. In a way, at least i understand why.

Can't wait till i can actually have the power to amend the rules. As for now, the waitress have no choice but to obey.

very very

2009-04-08T10:38:00.000+01:00

...hungover at the moment.

Dinner at Saigon with S&A yesterday. Headed to The Chanters for drinks after that. A wasn't in the mood. He sort of broke up with his girl, but not in an official way. And i was told, the girl wasn't his girl friend for real. Ah complicated i know. As for S, i have no idea, he got drunk pretty early too. Very unlikely.

Was home around 2.30am, and resumed GG till 6ish. Slept for a little. Sis alarm woke me up, and i was up since then. Gosh, 10 to 11. I seriously need to catch some sleep. Otherwise won't be able to concentrate for my class later.

Later. x

Once bitten, twice shy

2009-04-04T00:45:00.003+01:00

It wasn't as busy as any other weekends. Quiet and mundane. Hmm. Probably easter is around the corner and kids having school break, people away for holidays?

Shits happened today. I was serving this couple, they had beers at the beginning, then a bottle of cabernet sauvignon during their main course. When i was screwing in, somehow felt something bad is going to happen. Yes, i was indeed right. Cork was broken. I was like.. "oh shittt.."

The couples were staring at me, of course they were not impressed.

My hands were shaking, not forgetting legs trembling like an octopus.

Thank god, my hero appeared at the right time. Yes, Mark.

At that point i was already thinking, uh oh there goes my 3 hours of pay. Too bad they don't practise the decanting method.

Speaking of my hero, he managed to pull out the remaining 1/4 of the cork. And stopped them from falling in. Bravo bravo.

Gosh, I wished i have at least half of his steadiness and you wouldn't know how scary it was especially manager was around. "observing".

Sigh. thank god nothing happened.

Hopefully that was once, and only once.

I love peanut butter

2009-04-02T23:18:00.005+01:00

Woke up around 3.30pm today.

Met Tina. Found her through the gumtree ad, and she will be my personal tutor for chinese. Will be starting my first lesson on next wednesday.

Was home around 7ish, and stomach was shouting for foods desperately. Called A, that guy was still sleeping. We had our dinner in Rainbow Arch. Had a really good laugh after all the stress being accumulated from work.

The way he talks, seriously can't explain. But it's exactly like Jay. Probably that's the reason why we are so close compared to me and S.

I miss having Jay around.

A will be away this summer. As for me, nothing interesting except work.

Btw, it's the National Peanut Butter & Jelly day today!

Working night shift tomorrow. How time passes. It's friday again. Now that i work in f&b, no longer looking forward for weekends anymore. Sniff.

Dumb Donkies

2009-03-29T04:05:00.002+01:00

Mark was with me for the past 2 weeks, manager sort of put me with him for buddy system. Seriously, i think he has the potentials to be promoted. At least he is likeable, and has great personalities compared to the charcoal-faced manager.

I was nearly late today to work and when i stepped-in, everyone was having briefing!! Nobody told me nothing. Later Sa, my buddy/partner for this week told me it was only to brief the covers and resvn. I sighed reliefly.

Slow service before 8pm, and it was crazy and hectic after. With humungous group coming in, and no choice but needa entertained some donkies.

#1. What's the hottest food in your menu?

What's the point for putting the chilli/ies symbol next to the foods.
One chili means hot. Two chillies means hotter.

#2. Customers with choosing-disorder.
"Aww, i can't decide." *having own sweet time flipping thru the menu*

And when the waitress recommend something.

Urmm..i don't think i want to have that today.

At times i just feel like yelling at them.

"Make up your blardy mind quick. I have some other things to do!"

But knowing the fact that i just can't.

I still smiled politely :)

"Ohh, that's okay.. take your time".

Fake, very fake.

#3. A lady customer asked,
"Can i have a smaller portion of my salad?"
"I don't think i can finish them."
Her bf apparently ordered salad as well.

I was really amazed on how people think.
Why can't they share?

I took a deep breath through my nose, and i told myself perhaps her first time dine out?

Who knows.

Amaa.. what?

2009-03-28T03:40:00.006Z

Work went well, approximately 100 covers tonight both reserved and walked-in. I was on the floor for section C. Time just flew away, and when i looked at the watch, it was already time to go home. Mark said i have improved a lot in opening the wine since my day 1. Thing is i got panic easily whenever the cork stucked half way, and customer start asking "you okay there?" And worst thing of all, manager standing at the corner observing like a hawk.

A customer ordered "Ama...to" something with ice for his after dinner drink. I thought he wanted an Americano. I asked the bartender, do we serve americano with ice? He puzzled, and looked at me with a deep thought. Later i figured, the customer wanted an Amaretto. hoho, listening problemo. I learned a new beverage today. Our bartender is kind enough, and never failed to share his knowledge. And fyi, he was an ex-HR manager!?

Manager approached me, and he said.."Did RL tell you.." and he paused. I somehow got his message, yes and i nodded. He said the team will start to train me. Bar, Floor, System.. he ended the conversation by saying, RL wants you to be somewhere, that's depends on how fast you can learn and yabada yabada.. This guy defo have some problems with me, otherwise he wont treat me so coldly. Sometimes, i really wanted to ask him, why can't you smile? And that doesn't costs you at all okie?

*
Got a call from peggy, and she got the job offer after the 2nd interview from Hilton. Anyway, i always have faith in this girl. I know she would be a successful hotelier one day. You have my bet girl!

Time to hit the bed. x

This is just the beginning

2009-03-27T14:30:00.005Z

Finally I accepted the offer. It took me so long to actually decide. Honestly I can't foresee where is this route leading, oh well, decisions made. All i can do now is to move forward and do my very best. Opportunity knocks, but once.

I remember vividly that she once said. "you can always pursue your dream job even you're at another place." Reluctantly, i agreed. Knowing that she always hope that we could all stay together, taking care of each other.

Things turned out so differently this time. I blame no one but myself. Probably i did not put enough efforts for chasing what i should have? Or is it because of the "bad economy" like how everybody is telling me?

I think i'm turning into a depressing lady.

Bad, very bad.

Off to library, and dinner with Jo tonight. x

toss.turn.toss.turn.

2009-03-23T02:17:00.000Z

When someone is willing to give you the chance, no harm trying.

You wouldn't know what's next until you try it.

If you think this is not something that you want, it's not too late to change.

You're still young my dear girl.

Give yourself more options.

Don't limit yourself.

Sigh.

Insomnia again.
These words have been toying in my mind for awhile now.
Time for decisions. sniff. i can't decide.

New work place

2009-03-21T00:58:00.001Z

This week they allocated me at another outlet. New beginning.again.
New friends/colleagues. New environment. but charcoal-faced manager.

I was trained on their s.o.ps, so called their in house standards. This time round have to be more serious, as majority customers are business people/high end customers.

Things that i realised.. how do you differentiate loaded customers vs not so loaded (more like pretending to be..)

First. they have bottle of sparkling/still water instead of tap water.
Second. they have individual entree instead of sharing. and when you upsell the sort of pricey chef's recommended, they said maybe next time.
Third. they asked for separate bills.

So next time if you would like to dine-in those high end restaurants, make sure you take note the above.

Sleepy still

2009-03-08T16:30:00.000Z

The Big Boss dropped by the restaurant yesterday. We sat at a corner, and had a little chat. He asked how do i feel, liking the job? etc. I did not comment much except the feedbacks from customers that i noted earlier. I can feel RM was looking at us. Kind of wonder what he was thinking.

After work i joined my colleague, S to his friend's birthday party at Lava. There i met different chinese from Shanghai, China, Taiwan and Macau. Never knew chinese from China speak cantonese too. A taiwanese guy looked very much like those character in anime and when i was chatting with him, i felt like i'm talking to Jerry Yan. (I meant the accent) The Macau guy is cute. He has got great sense of fashion. Green pants + White shoes. How cool is that?

Met another guy, whom very much reminds me of Jay.
He's got a funny name. Anyway. Yes, his name is ANYWAY.

Had 3 bottles of vodka apple and i called it a day.
Was home around 3ish, and off to bed with my jeans and top.

Oh, Happy Belated Birthday to Jonathan! x

My first shift

2009-03-06T12:01:00.000Z

So i started my first shift today. Tired, and i don't quite like the management at this outlet. I reached 10minutes earlier. The manager told me that i was supposed to start at 6pm. (!!??)

I was off on the floor. Nothing much except clearing and serving drinks. Was told to upsell (not knowing what's the menu like) and to check customers' satisfaction on foods et cetera.

I considered myself did a great job, as this is only my first day. Note that, no trainings were given and the reason: i have previous experience.

Crap.

Colleagues were too friendly i assumed. One of them asked, do i have a boy friend? That's bit strange, rather than asking what's my name at the first place. All in all i got along with them pretty well but still can't comment much. More drama to come soon.

Jo picked me up from work.

Tell me if i should

2009-03-04T22:47:00.001Z

Interview today was alright. The director was friendly, and truth to be told, i salute him for being so understanding. Sadly, there isn't any management positions at the moment. But he offered me operation instead. Come to think about it, probably i should grab this opportunity rather than being jobless?

I don't know. i don't want to take the job just because i need a job. but do i have a choice?

I am so tired thinking again and again yet no decisions being made yet.

Another interview with a marketing company on next tuesday. Sigh.