I am elated!

The launch of my DVD featuring scenes of my estate in the form of a slide show with bright and soothing background music, had been a success. Containing 215 pictures, shot with my Nikon D200 camera, it took me one day to compile the 15 minute show.

I produced 200 copies of the DVD and launched the sale on 14th January, 2008. To date, there are now only about 10 copies left. Unfortunately, many residents do not read the notice board, and are not aware of the DVD until somebody tells them about it.

Lately, I was sought after by Citibank and Credo, for permission to use my pictures. Citibank had their function on Wednesday 27th February, at the clubhouse, where they gave a presentation followed by a buffet dinner for the residents.

I was approached to take pictures for the function, so that they can be made into a special DVD, to be given to the residents. The response was good with a large turn out, but I cannot help to note that some of them attended just for the free dinner. Anyway there was much interest shown in investing money with Citibank.

An earlier attempt by Citibank failed to attract the residents. When they asked around as to what latest event aroused the residents' interest, they were told that my DVD was a hit. So they came to see me for help by using my pictures. I am elated!

The dinner event went off very well, with me shooting pictures of everyone. Many residents recognised me for my DVD, and complimented me. One resident told me that he bought two DVD's. I felt humbled but happy that I brought some cheer to those who bought my DVD.

Towards the end of the function, there was a lucky draw. I stood in front ready to shoot the winners. Lo and behold, my wife won the third prize of a bottle of Dom Perignon Vintage 1989 Champagne! This Champagne is the most expensive in the market and made famous by James Bond, with prices going from a few hundred dollars to a thousand.

What happened next caused me some embarrassment. Announcing the next top prize of a Raffles Hamper, the draw was made and to my utter surprise, my name was called. The lady conducting the draw assured everyone that it was a truly lucky draw. I was dumbfounded and embarrassed. Anyway I went up to receive the prize while someone took my picture instead. The second hamper was won by somebody, so it was not that bad we did not monopolise the draw. But what surprised me most was that, I did not submit my name for the draw. Some kind soul must have submitted for me or it was staged for me to win. I usually do not have luck with draws. Anyway I accepted the hamper in good faith and grace with thanks to Citibank.

My next event is the Credo high tea on 15th March, in which my pictures will again be featured. Credo, who handled our en bloc sale, is giving the residents 'high tea'. My pictures will be featured in souvenirs like key chains, coffee mugs, mouse pads, magnets and jig saw puzzles. In addition, I am contributing 100 of my DVD for sale. All the proceeds will go to the Kidney Dialysis Foundation and the ST Children Pocket Money Fund. A noble cause of which I am in full support. It makes me happy to help out. I am looking forward to this. Watch my blog.

A piece of good news from the lawyers. Our sale will complete by 10 March and the funds will be available on 12 March.

I had reported earlier that I was not able to send SMS. Too complicated! Well, today I sent my first SMS to my son, who is currently in Cuba. Surprised my daughters no end. I also SMS a reply to Citibank. So I am not so dumb after all.

Till then....