Merry, Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!!! :)
from R & Me :)
Saturday, December 28
Friday, December 6
Bank Mishaps
Note: Pardon my post, this is just me letting out my irritation on how a prestigious bank like CITIBANK handles the queries of their customers
I didn't really want to write anything about this but my frustration is boiling up that I need to let it out (well, initially, I did that in Facebook)!
I have been a loyal customer for Citibank here in Dubai. When I started out in my first company, they were the first bank who offered to give me a credit card (circa 2003). It was like a gift as I never had a credit card back in the Philippines.
Tempting and it does bite back, over the past few years, I have managed to understand what the credit card is used for.
During those times, I was able to purchase items that are not within my budget, things I want and things that we need. I was also able to understand how the "reward" system works with Citibank and was able to get a few good deals in doing so.
I was able to read in one of the CitiLife Rewards newsletter that I can use my CitiRewards for my annual fee. Since I keep on forgetting to do that, I have made a decision that when this comes up again, I will pursue in using my rewards.
I have enquired and given calls through Citibank's agents. I made about two calls making sure that this is done --------------- wow! only to find out that not only was I MISINFORMED I was also charged with other bank charges.
I made another call only complaining about this (which I am truly sorry for the 3rd agent I spoke with but you can never really avoid having this type of emotions most especially when you have been reassured that this will be dealt with). I guess the 3rd agent can not defend who I spoke with before and can only apologise that I was MISINFORMED.
As I have said, I will understand if outright, someone told me NO, it's not possible but giving you the reassurance this is being dealt with just shows how valuable their customers are --- NOT!
I know we have used the credit card and I know that the annual life is something that I have agreed with the bank and have rightfully paid for the past 9 years but I just want to be clear that this might just be a hundred dirhams only but this is hard earned money I am paying the bank.
The money that I have worked hard for and we do not have a money tree on standby to grow and water. Everything has been hard earned and I was expecting, being a prestigious bank and have consistently been bragging of being one of the best that they do not or they failed to educate their agents properly.
As I have mentioned, I have been a customer since 2003/2004 and this is the service that we get for being loyal customers? I also don't know if maybe because I am not a person in power or authority to demand an explanation.
I thought that we, as customers are always right? In a customer-oriented industry where feedbacks and proper information is important, you have failed miserably CITIBANK.
I do not know where this opinion of mine will go or if it will even reach that agent who has MISINFORMED me but I hope the next time someone calls, do your job well. Be honest if you do not have an answer and I would have appreciate if you have asked me to call back and check again.
image source: http://www.emirates.com/english/skywards/about/partners/banks/citibank-uae.aspx
I didn't really want to write anything about this but my frustration is boiling up that I need to let it out (well, initially, I did that in Facebook)!
I have been a loyal customer for Citibank here in Dubai. When I started out in my first company, they were the first bank who offered to give me a credit card (circa 2003). It was like a gift as I never had a credit card back in the Philippines.
Tempting and it does bite back, over the past few years, I have managed to understand what the credit card is used for.
During those times, I was able to purchase items that are not within my budget, things I want and things that we need. I was also able to understand how the "reward" system works with Citibank and was able to get a few good deals in doing so.
I was able to read in one of the CitiLife Rewards newsletter that I can use my CitiRewards for my annual fee. Since I keep on forgetting to do that, I have made a decision that when this comes up again, I will pursue in using my rewards.
I have enquired and given calls through Citibank's agents. I made about two calls making sure that this is done --------------- wow! only to find out that not only was I MISINFORMED I was also charged with other bank charges.
I made another call only complaining about this (which I am truly sorry for the 3rd agent I spoke with but you can never really avoid having this type of emotions most especially when you have been reassured that this will be dealt with). I guess the 3rd agent can not defend who I spoke with before and can only apologise that I was MISINFORMED.
As I have said, I will understand if outright, someone told me NO, it's not possible but giving you the reassurance this is being dealt with just shows how valuable their customers are --- NOT!
I know we have used the credit card and I know that the annual life is something that I have agreed with the bank and have rightfully paid for the past 9 years but I just want to be clear that this might just be a hundred dirhams only but this is hard earned money I am paying the bank.
The money that I have worked hard for and we do not have a money tree on standby to grow and water. Everything has been hard earned and I was expecting, being a prestigious bank and have consistently been bragging of being one of the best that they do not or they failed to educate their agents properly.
As I have mentioned, I have been a customer since 2003/2004 and this is the service that we get for being loyal customers? I also don't know if maybe because I am not a person in power or authority to demand an explanation.
I thought that we, as customers are always right? In a customer-oriented industry where feedbacks and proper information is important, you have failed miserably CITIBANK.
I do not know where this opinion of mine will go or if it will even reach that agent who has MISINFORMED me but I hope the next time someone calls, do your job well. Be honest if you do not have an answer and I would have appreciate if you have asked me to call back and check again.
Boohoo!!! :(:(:(
image source: http://www.emirates.com/english/skywards/about/partners/banks/citibank-uae.aspx
Saturday, November 30
Favoured and Blessed
I went to hear the Victory church service today and was totally moved by one of the inspirational song that the Praise and Worship team sang.
This is the entire lyrics of the song.
Read more at http://www.songlyrics.com/planetshakers/favoured-lyrics/#wriEzjFpGHQotUtK.99
I am moved by this song because I have been asking him my "whys" and telling him a lot of "it's unfair" but never really see what He has given me.
This song brought me back and snapped me back to reality that I am favoured and blessed. God not giving me what I asked for does not mean he has forgotten my other needs.
It is sometimes difficult to accept when we are not given what we wanted that we tend to forget what is being given to us without even asking for it... Ironic isn't it?
So, I thank you God for letting me know that you have not forgotten me and is working at me... preparing me for the promise that He has in store for me.
I know this is not the right time to be selfish but instead be selfless most especially because of the turn of events that has happened in the Philippines - the scam, the civil unrest, the earthquake and the typhoon - all happened I think a few weeks apart.
I hope people who were affected by all of the natural disasters will be able to stand up again and I know they will because they have God on their side :)
This is the entire lyrics of the song.
VERSE:
You?re my Saviour, You?re my Healer
You?re everything I need
You?re my comfort, You?re my best friend
Forever You will reign
PRE-CHORUS:
You are high and lifted up
And Your Kingdom will have no end
CHORUS:
I am favoured I am blessed
By the cross, and the blood that was shed
I am favoured I am blessed
I can do all things, because of what You?ve done for me
BRIDGE:
Nothing is impossible for those that believe
Nothing is to difficult for our God
Nothing is impossible for those that believe
I believe, I believe in You
You?re my Saviour, You?re my Healer
You?re everything I need
You?re my comfort, You?re my best friend
Forever You will reign
PRE-CHORUS:
You are high and lifted up
And Your Kingdom will have no end
CHORUS:
I am favoured I am blessed
By the cross, and the blood that was shed
I am favoured I am blessed
I can do all things, because of what You?ve done for me
BRIDGE:
Nothing is impossible for those that believe
Nothing is to difficult for our God
Nothing is impossible for those that believe
I believe, I believe in You
Read more at http://www.songlyrics.com/planetshakers/favoured-lyrics/#wriEzjFpGHQotUtK.99
I am moved by this song because I have been asking him my "whys" and telling him a lot of "it's unfair" but never really see what He has given me.
This song brought me back and snapped me back to reality that I am favoured and blessed. God not giving me what I asked for does not mean he has forgotten my other needs.
It is sometimes difficult to accept when we are not given what we wanted that we tend to forget what is being given to us without even asking for it... Ironic isn't it?
So, I thank you God for letting me know that you have not forgotten me and is working at me... preparing me for the promise that He has in store for me.
I know this is not the right time to be selfish but instead be selfless most especially because of the turn of events that has happened in the Philippines - the scam, the civil unrest, the earthquake and the typhoon - all happened I think a few weeks apart.
I hope people who were affected by all of the natural disasters will be able to stand up again and I know they will because they have God on their side :)
(from youtube)
Saturday, November 23
Risk Taker
Awhile ago, I was watching Tim Turner's video (who is called the Maverick Man) at CNN. The clip below was not what I have watched but I just wanted you to have an idea of who he is.
(from youtube)
He seems to have a vision and he works on getting that goal.
A risk taker and definitely a go-getter! Imagine, the first time he heard that Jane Fonda signed the divorce papers of her then husband, he immediately gave her a call and asked her for a date!
While watching this documentary about him, I asked myself if I at least have a bit of his vision. Looking back, I think I only have 1% of his risk taking attitude and that is when I followed my heart to be with the man of my dreams (my husband!).
Hmmm... or maybe add 4% more on that because I decided to start a business opportunity (can't really tell it right now... or never at all! bwahahaha!).
Okay, kidding aside, I asked myself when I was watching his documentary if I did have a vision of what my life will be (now, it's our life since we're married).
... silence...
I guess I have been following the current of the river called Life, the day to day events as they come our way. In other words, things have been easy. There may be a bit of rocky areas but still there was more smooth sailing days.
R, I think, sees this which is why he does not burst my good bubble by pushing through with "the plan" but I know it is of our best interest to go for the plunge... which should be soon!
Am I a risk taker? No but I think I am married to a visionary and like a river, he leads to smooth sailing days... always :)
Sunday, November 3
Undecided
Aaarrgghhh!!! When did choosing a phone becomes a pain!?! :(
I am still undecided... whether to get a new phone or not... whether to get a bigger screen or a regular screen...
Arrggghhhhh!!
I am still undecided... whether to get a new phone or not... whether to get a bigger screen or a regular screen...
Arrggghhhhh!!
Sunday, October 27
Random thoughts
Things have been going well these past few days.
My only worry now is the results of my dad's test results from the lab (background: my dad had his annual check-up and they found out that he has Diabetes Type II. The nurse said that I should not worry because this type of Diabetes can still be cured. My dad just needs to move around a bit more and exercise.
He was given some meds for a month and then they will see how it goes. He is scheduled to do another test by the end of October so I am keeping my fingers crossed that things will be a-ok.
I am beginning to read books again. Not the hard copy but more on my Kindle. Since I have a few minutes in my hands, I read through my Kindle while waiting for the bus or waiting for friends (which by the way is very rare as I always come late in meetings!!!).
It has been a good way for me to catch up with my books! I didn't think I will get the hang of it but I did so here's to more reading till forever!
R is still on a crappy shift. We had worst days and sometimes I think this is why he asks for a break. A complete break from all of this. I tend to agree with him on some days but at times, I put my financial guru hat on and I keep asking myself if we will survive should we decide to take the plunge.
Will we?
A question that haunts me more now then ever before. I have already set a date but I think I am (again) leaning to change it... R says he understands but I can sense the sadness in either his voice or see it in his eyes. It breaks my heart but I have to think about the future.
However, when I look at the people who have decided to set their feet on one place... they seem happy and satisfied with what they have... I sometimes wonder if that will work for us too... after being exposed to a place where everything you want is just within your reach (if you have either a credit card or funds)... will we make it -- this is the question that I always have in my head.
My only worry now is the results of my dad's test results from the lab (background: my dad had his annual check-up and they found out that he has Diabetes Type II. The nurse said that I should not worry because this type of Diabetes can still be cured. My dad just needs to move around a bit more and exercise.
He was given some meds for a month and then they will see how it goes. He is scheduled to do another test by the end of October so I am keeping my fingers crossed that things will be a-ok.
 |
| Most definitely a daddy's girl |
xxx
It has been a good way for me to catch up with my books! I didn't think I will get the hang of it but I did so here's to more reading till forever!
 |
| photo courtesy of Wikipedia |
xxx
R is still on a crappy shift. We had worst days and sometimes I think this is why he asks for a break. A complete break from all of this. I tend to agree with him on some days but at times, I put my financial guru hat on and I keep asking myself if we will survive should we decide to take the plunge.
Will we?
A question that haunts me more now then ever before. I have already set a date but I think I am (again) leaning to change it... R says he understands but I can sense the sadness in either his voice or see it in his eyes. It breaks my heart but I have to think about the future.
However, when I look at the people who have decided to set their feet on one place... they seem happy and satisfied with what they have... I sometimes wonder if that will work for us too... after being exposed to a place where everything you want is just within your reach (if you have either a credit card or funds)... will we make it -- this is the question that I always have in my head.
Sunday, October 6
Buying what you don't need
I am guilty.
I have bought a few things in the grocery or in the boutiques only to be kept to one side. Sometimes, I remember to use them but other times, like food, either R would eat it because it is close to being expired or he would throw them :(
Most of the time, I always have this idea in my head and will get excited about it... then boom... I will get lazy to do it or R will say that he wants to eat out.
Looking at this article published by MSN about the 10 things people buy but never use. I think most of them, I have stored, thrown or ended.
Canned goods is also the Top 1 for me. I keep buying them and then I ended up shelving them either to the back end being replaced with another set of canned goods! I only remember them when I suddenly have the urge to do the recipe again... which at times, is close to the expiry date of the canned good! :-S
Mobile apps is Top 2. The good thing about me is they are all free. This is also the reason why I hesitate when I buy apps. I always ask myself if it will be something that I need or just want. Wants are most of the time, spur of the moment decisions which at times, you regret. I try to wait for a few weeks or months just to be sure I need it. Though if it's on sale, that's another matter! :p
Top 3 is ... books and magazines!!!! I am not sure if book nerds have this issue as well but I usually hoard... both!!! I always have a reading list but usually does not end up following it so to be honest, I am happy that the Kindle and Zinio were released and so are the other reading apps... at least I can hide my overflowing collection from R (though unfortunately, the bills don't lie!).
For now, as much as I can, I try and see if I really, really need it. I stop myself from buying, if I know I am not going to do anything about it. As for my books, good thing torrents are available and of course, thanks to friends too!!!
I have bought a few things in the grocery or in the boutiques only to be kept to one side. Sometimes, I remember to use them but other times, like food, either R would eat it because it is close to being expired or he would throw them :(
Most of the time, I always have this idea in my head and will get excited about it... then boom... I will get lazy to do it or R will say that he wants to eat out.
Looking at this article published by MSN about the 10 things people buy but never use. I think most of them, I have stored, thrown or ended.
Canned goods is also the Top 1 for me. I keep buying them and then I ended up shelving them either to the back end being replaced with another set of canned goods! I only remember them when I suddenly have the urge to do the recipe again... which at times, is close to the expiry date of the canned good! :-S
 |
| Photo from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canning |
Mobile apps is Top 2. The good thing about me is they are all free. This is also the reason why I hesitate when I buy apps. I always ask myself if it will be something that I need or just want. Wants are most of the time, spur of the moment decisions which at times, you regret. I try to wait for a few weeks or months just to be sure I need it. Though if it's on sale, that's another matter! :p
Top 3 is ... books and magazines!!!! I am not sure if book nerds have this issue as well but I usually hoard... both!!! I always have a reading list but usually does not end up following it so to be honest, I am happy that the Kindle and Zinio were released and so are the other reading apps... at least I can hide my overflowing collection from R (though unfortunately, the bills don't lie!).
 |
| photo from http://www.teleread.com |
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