Saturday, August 26, 2006
Off to see Old Pals
I've been missing my friends back home quite a bit, since reality cannot be stronger that every day I spend here, I lose one on the other side. So when the chance came for me to visit the only old pals I have on this continent, I did jump at the chance, even if it meant travelling 6+6 hours.
It was really great meeting Tert and Jan, and my first time seeing toddler Timmy. Enroute to Canberra, we stopped by at Milawa, which is made famous by the Brown Brothers winery, as well as its cheeses and mustards. My 'aperitif' was quite lovely, since I had the whole cellar tasting to myself, and happily sipped all available cellar-door only varieties. By the time I left, I was in a happy pinkish glow. The weather was fantastic, and I had enough sun tan on my left cheek and left arm for a good 6 hours. Lunch was at the Milawa cheesery, and I was fully satisfied with touring along this gourmet region of north-east victoria.
Back to my dear friends at Canberra, I realised how I missed my pals just sitting down to talk. After putting Timmy to sleep at 8pm every night, we'll mull around the lounge room, wine and cheese, or strawberries, or even Jan's freshly made warm chocolate cake, we will talk till late. In the daytime, I'll always ambled out to see little timmy playing with his toys, and staring right at me, it reminded me that visits to friends will soon be less 'rowdy' as age catches up.
The daytime is usually spent at some tourist attraction, like the Parliament, the Memorial, the lakes, and even a deep space observatory. We went to visit Tidbinbilla National Park for walks, just in time to spot grassloads of free ranging wallabies frolicking around. We also had a BBQ the day before we left, and seriously, it was good company and wine that will make me adequately happy. Tert was the BBQ man after Jan played chef to us for the past few days.
I know people gasp at the idea of spending 5 (actually more so 3, since 2 was spent on driving) good days in Canberra, but I must say I was never bored. And if you come back with a certain epiphany about some rethinking some priorities in life, the trip really cannot be that bad. Missss you guys at Canberra! Come reaaaaally soon!
It was really great meeting Tert and Jan, and my first time seeing toddler Timmy. Enroute to Canberra, we stopped by at Milawa, which is made famous by the Brown Brothers winery, as well as its cheeses and mustards. My 'aperitif' was quite lovely, since I had the whole cellar tasting to myself, and happily sipped all available cellar-door only varieties. By the time I left, I was in a happy pinkish glow. The weather was fantastic, and I had enough sun tan on my left cheek and left arm for a good 6 hours. Lunch was at the Milawa cheesery, and I was fully satisfied with touring along this gourmet region of north-east victoria.
Back to my dear friends at Canberra, I realised how I missed my pals just sitting down to talk. After putting Timmy to sleep at 8pm every night, we'll mull around the lounge room, wine and cheese, or strawberries, or even Jan's freshly made warm chocolate cake, we will talk till late. In the daytime, I'll always ambled out to see little timmy playing with his toys, and staring right at me, it reminded me that visits to friends will soon be less 'rowdy' as age catches up.
The daytime is usually spent at some tourist attraction, like the Parliament, the Memorial, the lakes, and even a deep space observatory. We went to visit Tidbinbilla National Park for walks, just in time to spot grassloads of free ranging wallabies frolicking around. We also had a BBQ the day before we left, and seriously, it was good company and wine that will make me adequately happy. Tert was the BBQ man after Jan played chef to us for the past few days.
I know people gasp at the idea of spending 5 (actually more so 3, since 2 was spent on driving) good days in Canberra, but I must say I was never bored. And if you come back with a certain epiphany about some rethinking some priorities in life, the trip really cannot be that bad. Missss you guys at Canberra! Come reaaaaally soon!
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Graduation Ceremony
It came and it went. I did ponder if I should go for this, knowing that all the fuss will result in 5 seconds fame, but frens were saying that it doesn't hurt to go, or at least I wouldn't regret not going.
I wanted to make it a small affair, just friends who are friends. I didn't want to send out a mass email and invite people who might feel obligated to come. Not many people journeyed with me through my uni days, since friends like Cindy have already gone home. I think I made a good choice with those tickets, and am quite pleased to have it in cozy proportion.
The good thing that come out of the ceremony is that I did manage to sit around people I know. Saul and Winnie were directly beside me, and Deena was on the other side. Kristian and Jay were in front. It was as good as it gets in terms of sitting arrangment, since it is no fun sitting next to a stranger for 1.5 hours dressed in stuffy oversized gown and balancing a mortar board on your head.
In the end, I caught up with those I want to catch up, and it was a nice finish, not the kind you get at high school graduation, but after all the projects and classroom bantering, you know who are the people you did share more than just a hi-bye with.
Clara and me
I wanted to make it a small affair, just friends who are friends. I didn't want to send out a mass email and invite people who might feel obligated to come. Not many people journeyed with me through my uni days, since friends like Cindy have already gone home. I think I made a good choice with those tickets, and am quite pleased to have it in cozy proportion.
The good thing that come out of the ceremony is that I did manage to sit around people I know. Saul and Winnie were directly beside me, and Deena was on the other side. Kristian and Jay were in front. It was as good as it gets in terms of sitting arrangment, since it is no fun sitting next to a stranger for 1.5 hours dressed in stuffy oversized gown and balancing a mortar board on your head.
In the end, I caught up with those I want to catch up, and it was a nice finish, not the kind you get at high school graduation, but after all the projects and classroom bantering, you know who are the people you did share more than just a hi-bye with.
Clara and me
Monday, August 07, 2006
Weekend Getaway at Lakes Entrance
Even though I had to sit for my IELTS test on Saturday, we decided that it'll be good to join the rest at Lakes Entrance for a lazy weekend getaway. Lakes Entrance is about 4 hours drive southeast from Melbourne, in the Gippsland region. I did what was the most appropriate, watch The Lakehouse at the Lakes, while the people who have gone earlier were out fishing.
Had a great supper of fresh caught fish and noodles. Yums! The holiday park we stayed at reminded me of the ones I stayed in 9 years back doing the Boomerang Coast. I was getting tired from the test answering questions such as:
1)Do you like flowers? When are flowers given in as a gift in your country? (duh!)
2)Do you enjoy studying (this one i can't resist rolling my eyes)..
At the end of the 'speaking test', the moment the recorder was turned off, the truth came pouring out with me and the examiner agreeing some of the questions are just silly.
Back to the trip...
The next day, we went full swing into fishing. Chartered a boat, packed 15 hamburgers, 4 fishing rods, and a variety of smelly baits. We caught mainly Luderick because the snapper and australia salmon were just too small to be legally caught. I caught 2, but was sad to see them die. So I resigned to just sitting on the boat, enjoying the scenary, watching 5 dolphins around us frolick and black swans gracefully swimming.
And if the lakes didn't offer us enough, we went on to Metung at dusk to continue fishing. By the time we packed and left, all of us were dead tired. Had a nice round of pub food at Bairnsdale, and it was paramount that we kept the drivers of the 2 cars awake for the 4 hours drive back.
Dead tired when I reached home. Collasped and slept like never did.
Fishing @ Lakes Entrance
Had a great supper of fresh caught fish and noodles. Yums! The holiday park we stayed at reminded me of the ones I stayed in 9 years back doing the Boomerang Coast. I was getting tired from the test answering questions such as:
1)Do you like flowers? When are flowers given in as a gift in your country? (duh!)
2)Do you enjoy studying (this one i can't resist rolling my eyes)..
At the end of the 'speaking test', the moment the recorder was turned off, the truth came pouring out with me and the examiner agreeing some of the questions are just silly.
Back to the trip...
The next day, we went full swing into fishing. Chartered a boat, packed 15 hamburgers, 4 fishing rods, and a variety of smelly baits. We caught mainly Luderick because the snapper and australia salmon were just too small to be legally caught. I caught 2, but was sad to see them die. So I resigned to just sitting on the boat, enjoying the scenary, watching 5 dolphins around us frolick and black swans gracefully swimming.
And if the lakes didn't offer us enough, we went on to Metung at dusk to continue fishing. By the time we packed and left, all of us were dead tired. Had a nice round of pub food at Bairnsdale, and it was paramount that we kept the drivers of the 2 cars awake for the 4 hours drive back.
Dead tired when I reached home. Collasped and slept like never did.
Fishing @ Lakes Entrance
Thursday, July 27, 2006
My Dream Job
OH.. I FINALLY FOUND A JOB THAT'LL BRING ME PLACES!
Meter Reader
Immediate Start
Work Outdoors
Various locations across Melbourne
Meter Readers Required
Our client, Australia's leading meter reading company is looking for motivated and reliable people to join it’s 700 plus field based employees in becoming meter readers with opportunities in various locations throughout the area of greater Melbourne
Requirements
- maturity and able to deal politely with the public
- able to walk for long periods and bend
- good communication skills
- willing to work outdoors in all types of weather
- able to work by yourself with direct supervision
The positions are full time opportunities and it is preferable that applicants have a current driver’s license and their own transportation.
contact Matthew
Phone 0423 548 150
Email: Please click the 'Apply Now' button below.
Meter Reader
Immediate Start
Work Outdoors
Various locations across Melbourne
Meter Readers Required
Our client, Australia's leading meter reading company is looking for motivated and reliable people to join it’s 700 plus field based employees in becoming meter readers with opportunities in various locations throughout the area of greater Melbourne
Requirements
- maturity and able to deal politely with the public
- able to walk for long periods and bend
- good communication skills
- willing to work outdoors in all types of weather
- able to work by yourself with direct supervision
The positions are full time opportunities and it is preferable that applicants have a current driver’s license and their own transportation.
contact Matthew
Phone 0423 548 150
Email: Please click the 'Apply Now' button below.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Picasso
Daiz had a day off yesterday and we decided to recharge our artistic batteries. The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) recently brought in a new exhibition featuring the works of Pablo Picasso and his lover Dora Maar, and it seemed like an exciting place to go on a winter's day.
The exhibition was good- about 350 pieces of original art were featured, and I got to know Picasso (and his woman) better. I would rate NGV as a nice place to go, since it is near the city, yet you feel as if you are suddenly transported to a art gallery in Europe. Very deja vu. We took about 2 hours to finish viewing all the pieces, and I truly felt like a tourist.
For those in Melbourne, you don't need to be an art lover to go. Picasso is a pretty contemporary artist, and you won't be muddled by the cherubims or some abstract artistic concepts. It's an excellent place to go get yourself interested in art.
Picasso: Love and War
The exhibition was good- about 350 pieces of original art were featured, and I got to know Picasso (and his woman) better. I would rate NGV as a nice place to go, since it is near the city, yet you feel as if you are suddenly transported to a art gallery in Europe. Very deja vu. We took about 2 hours to finish viewing all the pieces, and I truly felt like a tourist.
For those in Melbourne, you don't need to be an art lover to go. Picasso is a pretty contemporary artist, and you won't be muddled by the cherubims or some abstract artistic concepts. It's an excellent place to go get yourself interested in art.
Picasso: Love and War
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Bread Break
Some facts I have recently discovered:
1)Saving money is an art and science in Australia.
2)Safeway only restock their breads on Wednesday.
3)I do not buy bread on Wednesday, because we eat less of it during the weekend.
4)So if I buy bread on Sunday, I am buying 3-4 day old bread and it will spoil in 1 week before we can finish the whole loaf.
5)Safeway's loaf doesn't go for $1.98 anymore.
Hence the motivation to make my own bread.
Verdict: Don't try making small cutesy breads cos you will only get plenty of crusts and insufficient volume for the airy soft part. Ronald was right about the flour, you HAVE TO (emphasis to the infinity), buy only bread flour. I am not taking about bread-makers, just the plain old in-the-oven type of break making. You don't want your bread to taste like cake. On the other hand, I am deeply satisfied slapping on a slice of Tasmanian Heritage Blue cheese and popping it in the microwave. Heavenly texture... mmm mmmm.....
Bread Break
1)Saving money is an art and science in Australia.
2)Safeway only restock their breads on Wednesday.
3)I do not buy bread on Wednesday, because we eat less of it during the weekend.
4)So if I buy bread on Sunday, I am buying 3-4 day old bread and it will spoil in 1 week before we can finish the whole loaf.
5)Safeway's loaf doesn't go for $1.98 anymore.
Hence the motivation to make my own bread.
Verdict: Don't try making small cutesy breads cos you will only get plenty of crusts and insufficient volume for the airy soft part. Ronald was right about the flour, you HAVE TO (emphasis to the infinity), buy only bread flour. I am not taking about bread-makers, just the plain old in-the-oven type of break making. You don't want your bread to taste like cake. On the other hand, I am deeply satisfied slapping on a slice of Tasmanian Heritage Blue cheese and popping it in the microwave. Heavenly texture... mmm mmmm.....
Bread Break
Monday, July 03, 2006
Deep Winter
Like animals in the enchanted forest, I am now in the stage of hibernating at home during the deep winter. The last week is spend on running around to settle the PR documentation, as well as catching up on hours of lost time for the last few years. However, I must admit that I'm getting a little bored now that I have done most of the things I needed to do. After trying to read the bible in its full glory of the King James version with the thou thee and thys, alternating between Nicky Cruz's Run Baby Run, and savouring bowl of tinned salmon with my own pasta thrown in, I am now the official bummer.
Since last week was about bureacracy, I forgot how well-adapted I was to the Aussie inefficiencies. In fact, I think I've got that factored into my expectations that it doesn't even bug me anymore. The home optus bill was wrongly billed, the house agent took an eternity to fix the door... but with a dash of labourous perserverance, it always straightens out.
Until I got an email reply from the Singapore Police Force. The email came from a real life officer sitting in his office on a Sunday afternoon, and he apologised profusely for taking 4 days to reply my query. I looked at his reply in disblief, and if CID Officer Kumary was standing right in front of me, I'd have told him 'No problem mate.. i wasn't expecting a speedy response, let alone on a Sunday'. So yes, I am techinically impressed that they are one of the first recepients of the 'coveted' (or rather some say a 'farce') Singapore Quality Award.
If I am free later in the week, I'll send him a compliment.
Since last week was about bureacracy, I forgot how well-adapted I was to the Aussie inefficiencies. In fact, I think I've got that factored into my expectations that it doesn't even bug me anymore. The home optus bill was wrongly billed, the house agent took an eternity to fix the door... but with a dash of labourous perserverance, it always straightens out.
Until I got an email reply from the Singapore Police Force. The email came from a real life officer sitting in his office on a Sunday afternoon, and he apologised profusely for taking 4 days to reply my query. I looked at his reply in disblief, and if CID Officer Kumary was standing right in front of me, I'd have told him 'No problem mate.. i wasn't expecting a speedy response, let alone on a Sunday'. So yes, I am techinically impressed that they are one of the first recepients of the 'coveted' (or rather some say a 'farce') Singapore Quality Award.
If I am free later in the week, I'll send him a compliment.
Monday, June 26, 2006
IJ Homecoming
The years in IJ have to be one of the most memorable for me. It's the place where I made my closest friends, where I had the craziest times, and also the best memories.
I would have loved to join Sha and Jing for the IJ homecoming last weekend, but it now takes more than just a dozen MRT stops to reach there. So my dear fren Sha promised me that she'll take a cam there and film all the things I have missed out. I haven't had a chance to see the new school, and best of all, catch up with all my old classmates.
Sha did a nice little video of the new school, but it is not looooooong enongh. More sha! 56secs... you kidding me!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_aIZWN-33k&search=CHIJ
I have to give Jing an award for this... the most shoddy marketing appeal she has ever done in a bathroom. And no, I do not have $80 pure cash to join the Old Girls Association yet. But yes, free gifts are always welcomed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt5xQ0UxOwU&search=CHIJ
I would have loved to join Sha and Jing for the IJ homecoming last weekend, but it now takes more than just a dozen MRT stops to reach there. So my dear fren Sha promised me that she'll take a cam there and film all the things I have missed out. I haven't had a chance to see the new school, and best of all, catch up with all my old classmates.
Sha did a nice little video of the new school, but it is not looooooong enongh. More sha! 56secs... you kidding me!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_aIZWN-33k&search=CHIJ
I have to give Jing an award for this... the most shoddy marketing appeal she has ever done in a bathroom. And no, I do not have $80 pure cash to join the Old Girls Association yet. But yes, free gifts are always welcomed.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt5xQ0UxOwU&search=CHIJ
Monday, June 19, 2006
Cars- The Movie
Was supposed to watch Poseidon as part of the celebration of the end of my 3/4 papers, adopting some kind of a gradual easing out of exam mode.. but ended up catching Cars instead. Turned out to be pretty cute, I was more impressed by the work that went into rendering the cars so real, the graphics, and best of all, set amidst the backdrop of one of the few places i want to go on my list before i die- Monument Valley. So that made up for the jaunt to watch a few cars talking amongst themselves. I must also be getting old, because I actually like the song 'Find Youself' by Brad Paisley.. and the reason why you never ever heard of him is that he is quite a country crooner (shudders).
Aside from that, I've been sick. Down with a fever and hence blogging. Daiz been sick too, and we've been sitting at the telly just trying to pass time. Except for the time when the books call me, and I had a rather excellent discussion with Kristian this afternoon. We actually went full steam and covered all 6 chapters of Wed's paper. It's also first time in my academic life that I actually attempted the questions behind the chapter. So I'm quite proud of myself right now.
Feeling rather feverish but contented. Hmm....
Cars- The Movie
Aside from that, I've been sick. Down with a fever and hence blogging. Daiz been sick too, and we've been sitting at the telly just trying to pass time. Except for the time when the books call me, and I had a rather excellent discussion with Kristian this afternoon. We actually went full steam and covered all 6 chapters of Wed's paper. It's also first time in my academic life that I actually attempted the questions behind the chapter. So I'm quite proud of myself right now.
Feeling rather feverish but contented. Hmm....
Cars- The Movie
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Puff Madness
I must apologise that food seems to have taken a hold of my recent entries. Since it is exam time and there's nothing less guilty than 'feeding oneself', I have taken comfort in escaping to food land.
The theme of the month would have to be Puff Pastries. The French Iron Chef Arwen did a Blue Cheese Puff, Tuna and Potato Puff (compliments of leftover tuna and mash), Nutella Puff, and the Chinese Iron Chef Daiz whipped out her speciality- Curry Puff, in shapes of gyoza, triangular, traditional, spring-roll... I had 3 of them today, since they make great winter food.
Back to my books... burp!
Daiz's Kickarse Curry Puff
The theme of the month would have to be Puff Pastries. The French Iron Chef Arwen did a Blue Cheese Puff, Tuna and Potato Puff (compliments of leftover tuna and mash), Nutella Puff, and the Chinese Iron Chef Daiz whipped out her speciality- Curry Puff, in shapes of gyoza, triangular, traditional, spring-roll... I had 3 of them today, since they make great winter food.
Back to my books... burp!
Daiz's Kickarse Curry Puff
Monday, June 12, 2006
Hair-Raising Business School Ads
I have been enjoying Singapore Idol's Mr Nong Nong Ago and the Campfire in the moonlight as my source of exam relief. But those have some good entertainment value, and it makes me laugh.
But you have to watch this one... not only does it raise eyebrows, it raises ur arm hairs too.
Synopsis Number 1:
(Slightly chessy music playing) Geeky kid brother asks Big Brother:"Eh Khor, so your A level results can get you anywhere you want"... "even the really good ones? you know the ones far far away?... Have you decided?"
Big brother:"eh huh..."...
Voiceover: Preferred around the world by tomorrow's elites- the NUS Business School.
Kid brother: "that's not very far what!"
Synopsis Number 2:
Watch it yourself. Cannot bear to describe and inevitably offend some countryman who might say I'm just being biased.
For the Ang Mohs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeqkQraNO7w
Did they not offer Marketing class 101 in this prestigious NUS school of Business, not to ever exaggerate your brand to what it is not? Does it not make you wonder why it never occured to the applicants that Insead and UofChicago have their own B-schools in Singapore that have a wider selection of 'cuter guys'?
But you have to watch this one... not only does it raise eyebrows, it raises ur arm hairs too.
Synopsis Number 1:
(Slightly chessy music playing) Geeky kid brother asks Big Brother:"Eh Khor, so your A level results can get you anywhere you want"... "even the really good ones? you know the ones far far away?... Have you decided?"
Big brother:"eh huh..."...
Voiceover: Preferred around the world by tomorrow's elites- the NUS Business School.
Kid brother: "that's not very far what!"
Synopsis Number 2:
Watch it yourself. Cannot bear to describe and inevitably offend some countryman who might say I'm just being biased.
For the Locals:
For the Ang Mohs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oeqkQraNO7w
Did they not offer Marketing class 101 in this prestigious NUS school of Business, not to ever exaggerate your brand to what it is not? Does it not make you wonder why it never occured to the applicants that Insead and UofChicago have their own B-schools in Singapore that have a wider selection of 'cuter guys'?
Sunday, June 11, 2006
For My Un-cooked Friends
This one goes to my un-cooked friends... the ones trying to make a meal (deal) for Father's Day.
Try cooking... or rather, pass off cooking if you can't cook. This is quite fool-proof. Recipe is of course, not mine. Credits go soley to Jamie Oliver, my cooking guru. Without him, I'll look like an ignorant singaporean kid.
Sea Bass Baked In A Bag
Yield: 4
Ingredients:
· tin foil
· Fish Fillet (any fish, cod... bass)
· sea salt
· black pepper
· fennel, tops (or any Ang Moh herbs... )
· handful basil (or any Ang Moh herbs.. dried ones if u can't find)
· 1/2 red onion, thinly, sliced
· bay leaf
· olive oil
· 2/3 lemon, juiced
· 2 oz butter (or a knob.. like the size of 2 fishballs)
Directions:
Sea Bass Baked In A Bag
1. Ask your fishmonger to gut and scale your fish. (No need for fillets)
2. Lay out a piece of tin foil and fold in half. Place the sea bass on top of the foil and score the flesh about 2 inches apart on both sides. Rub plenty of salt and pepper into the scores.
3. Lay out the fennel on the foil and place fish on top of the fennel and push to one side of the foil.
4. Cover liberally with the basil, red onion and bay leaves, making sure you tuck some into the slits.
5. Drizzle over plenty of olive oil, lemon juice and knobs of butter. Fold over the left hand half of the foil and seal the 3 sides to gently hug the fish.
6. Place on tray and bake in a preheated 180 degree oven for approximately 25 minutes. (More if ur fish is big). Remove from the oven and allow to stand for 3 to 4 minutes without opening the bag.
Fool Note: Preheat your oven to the temperature before putting it in and counting the time.
Try cooking... or rather, pass off cooking if you can't cook. This is quite fool-proof. Recipe is of course, not mine. Credits go soley to Jamie Oliver, my cooking guru. Without him, I'll look like an ignorant singaporean kid.
Sea Bass Baked In A Bag
Yield: 4
Ingredients:
· tin foil
· Fish Fillet (any fish, cod... bass)
· sea salt
· black pepper
· fennel, tops (or any Ang Moh herbs... )
· handful basil (or any Ang Moh herbs.. dried ones if u can't find)
· 1/2 red onion, thinly, sliced
· bay leaf
· olive oil
· 2/3 lemon, juiced
· 2 oz butter (or a knob.. like the size of 2 fishballs)
Directions:
Sea Bass Baked In A Bag
1. Ask your fishmonger to gut and scale your fish. (No need for fillets)
2. Lay out a piece of tin foil and fold in half. Place the sea bass on top of the foil and score the flesh about 2 inches apart on both sides. Rub plenty of salt and pepper into the scores.
3. Lay out the fennel on the foil and place fish on top of the fennel and push to one side of the foil.
4. Cover liberally with the basil, red onion and bay leaves, making sure you tuck some into the slits.
5. Drizzle over plenty of olive oil, lemon juice and knobs of butter. Fold over the left hand half of the foil and seal the 3 sides to gently hug the fish.
6. Place on tray and bake in a preheated 180 degree oven for approximately 25 minutes. (More if ur fish is big). Remove from the oven and allow to stand for 3 to 4 minutes without opening the bag.
Fool Note: Preheat your oven to the temperature before putting it in and counting the time.
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Muffins to De-Stress
Baking muffins to de-stress. And baked an extra big one as a surprise for a belated birthday.
Muffins
Muffins
Friday, June 02, 2006
Looking for a "Friend"
Single and attractive lady, with wonderful fair complexion, primrose lips, seeks the company of an engaging, intelligent and suave male. Flashy car mandatory, financially self-sufficient, with extras to spare. Must love theatre, with adrenaline-level thirst for adventure. Required behavior should include the frequent giving of flowers and an occasional walk under the starry sky. Anyone above 40 years need not apply.
Must get along with her good friends too.
Those interested, please tag on the blog and leave your details.
Must get along with her good friends too.
Those interested, please tag on the blog and leave your details.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Exam Prep Day 1
I've finally finished my lectures, and the course as well. Felt like I've ran a long race, though not as hard this semester. Now I just need to clear the final hurdle of exams. The stress is revved and I've just warmed up the engine.
Had a nice time hanging out with some friends last night, having herbal chicken and wine. It was my little indulgence before my 3 weeks exile into my little room. Haven't been studying as much as I wanted to, but I'm sure I'll make good progress as the days count down.
Won't bore you with the mundane routine of studying. Had a nice chat with Jamie just now. The funny part was how we ended up talking about our ideal weddings. Of course, the pact is, we'll be each other bridesmaids, and I cannot wear heels, and neither can she at my wedding. Hers is for aesthetic reasons, but my restriction is that she cannot look taller than me. In the end, we abandoned the topic, seeing how ludicrious it was. What good can come out of a stressed up girl and the hive-bugged pal on the other side of the world??
My other pal Sha, is fortunately getting married soon. But she seemed to be more excited over her butt-washing toilet bowl than her gown.
End of Day 1.
Had a nice time hanging out with some friends last night, having herbal chicken and wine. It was my little indulgence before my 3 weeks exile into my little room. Haven't been studying as much as I wanted to, but I'm sure I'll make good progress as the days count down.
Won't bore you with the mundane routine of studying. Had a nice chat with Jamie just now. The funny part was how we ended up talking about our ideal weddings. Of course, the pact is, we'll be each other bridesmaids, and I cannot wear heels, and neither can she at my wedding. Hers is for aesthetic reasons, but my restriction is that she cannot look taller than me. In the end, we abandoned the topic, seeing how ludicrious it was. What good can come out of a stressed up girl and the hive-bugged pal on the other side of the world??
My other pal Sha, is fortunately getting married soon. But she seemed to be more excited over her butt-washing toilet bowl than her gown.
End of Day 1.
Monday, May 22, 2006
P.S Ted, I love you!
Yeah, you heard it right. I love Ted, and I dare say Daiz too.
How can it not be, after he gave us 2 tickets to watch the footy! Tell me, which pastor gives you this opportunity to while your lazy sunday away watching a game of numerous gorgeous hunks scruffling over an olive-shaped ball, in a crowd of 33,309 people who are predominantly people of the opposite sex??
Mine did. Ted Fabs.. you're the best pastor "muack!"... hahhah... On our way out, we heard him offering 2 AFL tickets to some of our people, and while we were trying to prove our enthusiasm for the most deserved winner, I had to admit that 'I am the Barren One' to clinge it (and borrowing daiz's hand for the handover). Pastor Ted was preaching about the barren woman, and how she was to sing despite having nothing.
So there we were, at "The G" on a Sunday, my first footy match, between St Kilda and Carlton Gardens. It was a trashing game, and we cheered for St Kilda on behalf of Ted. It was amusing watching the people, because there would be the funny supporters who say all kinds of things. One guy sweared really hard that we had to suppress our laughter, the other threw his hands in exasperation and went "Oh how does he expect to play the game with his face on the grass", when one guy on his team was being tackled, and that fella just lay still on the ground pretending to look hurt.
Overall, it was a good Aussie experience. The footy is like a cross between soccer and rugby, and it's the national past-time of the people here. There'll be matches going around every week, and they will literally interrupt tv programs to report on the latest tribunal ruiling (these guys fight a lot). You must be supporting a team to be part of the fun tho!
Grinning Daisy
How can it not be, after he gave us 2 tickets to watch the footy! Tell me, which pastor gives you this opportunity to while your lazy sunday away watching a game of numerous gorgeous hunks scruffling over an olive-shaped ball, in a crowd of 33,309 people who are predominantly people of the opposite sex??
Mine did. Ted Fabs.. you're the best pastor "muack!"... hahhah... On our way out, we heard him offering 2 AFL tickets to some of our people, and while we were trying to prove our enthusiasm for the most deserved winner, I had to admit that 'I am the Barren One' to clinge it (and borrowing daiz's hand for the handover). Pastor Ted was preaching about the barren woman, and how she was to sing despite having nothing.
So there we were, at "The G" on a Sunday, my first footy match, between St Kilda and Carlton Gardens. It was a trashing game, and we cheered for St Kilda on behalf of Ted. It was amusing watching the people, because there would be the funny supporters who say all kinds of things. One guy sweared really hard that we had to suppress our laughter, the other threw his hands in exasperation and went "Oh how does he expect to play the game with his face on the grass", when one guy on his team was being tackled, and that fella just lay still on the ground pretending to look hurt.
Overall, it was a good Aussie experience. The footy is like a cross between soccer and rugby, and it's the national past-time of the people here. There'll be matches going around every week, and they will literally interrupt tv programs to report on the latest tribunal ruiling (these guys fight a lot). You must be supporting a team to be part of the fun tho!
Grinning Daisy
Friday, May 19, 2006
10 Reasons Why I'm Happy
Ten reasons why I am happy:
1) I woke up at 1030am
2) My lecture ended 1hr 15 mins earlier tonight
3) Someone wanted to bring me out to the most expensive Malaysian/Sporean restuarant in Melbourne
4) Someone else is cooking me chicken curry next Friday
5) I'm going to the Myer's Sale tommorrow... with a fren who can get me extra discount!
6) I've finished all my assignments!
7) I still love my house (altho it always smells like dinner, but it's so cosy)
8) It's the last week of my course next week. Feels like I am finishing a marathon.
9) I talked to most of my good friends this week
10) God is still good to me
1) I woke up at 1030am
2) My lecture ended 1hr 15 mins earlier tonight
3) Someone wanted to bring me out to the most expensive Malaysian/Sporean restuarant in Melbourne
4) Someone else is cooking me chicken curry next Friday
5) I'm going to the Myer's Sale tommorrow... with a fren who can get me extra discount!
6) I've finished all my assignments!
7) I still love my house (altho it always smells like dinner, but it's so cosy)
8) It's the last week of my course next week. Feels like I am finishing a marathon.
9) I talked to most of my good friends this week
10) God is still good to me
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Huey's Cooking
We thought we do something 'fun' on Fridays. The cook hangs up her apron, the working gal leaves her work behind. This Friday, we felt adventurous enough to visit a different suburb, try a different kind of food. After all, the Japanese Okonomiyaka has been quite an overdose to us throughout the week.
We headed to St Kilda, passing the already-half-drunk middle-age men, passing the van that dispenses free Milo to a crowd of homeless people, and passing the only available 1P parking (arghh). After emptying our wallets of $3.60 full of coins, we entered into Tolerno's, where we were showed to our seats facing the kitchen. That's when the two 'suah koos' here realised we have stepped into Huey's Cooking, literally. The place was cosy, pub-like, with funky murals on the wall (very st kilda); the crowd consists of the better dressed middle-age folks, and a group of 8 ladies who were probably fan of Huey's. Meanwhile, while waiting for our Huey designed Bar Burgers, we were mildly amused with hearing that familar voice waffling out from the hole in the wall. Huey was pretty much in charge of the going-ons in the kitchen and it was fun to see him cook.
The burger turned out to be one of the best ones I've eaten in Melbourne. The meat was succulent and tender, the beetroot was so sweet that you thought you were eating the lindenberries that accompany the Ikea meatballs, and there was a lovely sauce on the home-made buns.
I'll give it a 7.5/10, but alas, Tolerno will be closed in 16 days time.
Huey's Burger
We headed to St Kilda, passing the already-half-drunk middle-age men, passing the van that dispenses free Milo to a crowd of homeless people, and passing the only available 1P parking (arghh). After emptying our wallets of $3.60 full of coins, we entered into Tolerno's, where we were showed to our seats facing the kitchen. That's when the two 'suah koos' here realised we have stepped into Huey's Cooking, literally. The place was cosy, pub-like, with funky murals on the wall (very st kilda); the crowd consists of the better dressed middle-age folks, and a group of 8 ladies who were probably fan of Huey's. Meanwhile, while waiting for our Huey designed Bar Burgers, we were mildly amused with hearing that familar voice waffling out from the hole in the wall. Huey was pretty much in charge of the going-ons in the kitchen and it was fun to see him cook.
The burger turned out to be one of the best ones I've eaten in Melbourne. The meat was succulent and tender, the beetroot was so sweet that you thought you were eating the lindenberries that accompany the Ikea meatballs, and there was a lovely sauce on the home-made buns.
I'll give it a 7.5/10, but alas, Tolerno will be closed in 16 days time.
Huey's Burger
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Geek Talk
I'm going to indulge in a little geek talk here. So those not-too-tech-inclined people out there, here's a good chance for you to take your toilet break. Transmission will resume later.
Found myself a great bed companion. Not a man, but IPTV. I think it's worth touting as a promising new technology (Microsoft is rushing to push out it's new IPTV program), and what better way to watch TV in the comfort of your own bedroom without a TV???
I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this, because someone ought to be doing more than just harping on the technology. We need some good channels here! I'm going to run out of my usual staple here (having watched Friends from the day Monica looked really funny to her more recent self)... First up, I need some good international news channel. The Age or The Australian are not satifying my usual craving for news while chomping down my breakfast. And yes, with all due respect, I'm getting sick of the 24/7 coverage of Tassie miners stuck in the mine (can someone plsss get them out!).
IPTV... hope it materializes. Don't we live in a strange era where we don't know who will get the last laugh? (not you Bill, cos I'm your minor shareholder).
Found myself a great bed companion. Not a man, but IPTV. I think it's worth touting as a promising new technology (Microsoft is rushing to push out it's new IPTV program), and what better way to watch TV in the comfort of your own bedroom without a TV???
I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this, because someone ought to be doing more than just harping on the technology. We need some good channels here! I'm going to run out of my usual staple here (having watched Friends from the day Monica looked really funny to her more recent self)... First up, I need some good international news channel. The Age or The Australian are not satifying my usual craving for news while chomping down my breakfast. And yes, with all due respect, I'm getting sick of the 24/7 coverage of Tassie miners stuck in the mine (can someone plsss get them out!).
IPTV... hope it materializes. Don't we live in a strange era where we don't know who will get the last laugh? (not you Bill, cos I'm your minor shareholder).
Friday, May 05, 2006
Rainy Days
Among one of my favourite things is misty windows. I always enjoyed the ride from the SBS bus number 53 during my JC days on a rainy afternoon. The window gets misty, and suddenly the world from the inside looks very warm and comforting. Singapore didn't feel like Singapore on one of those rides.
It hasn't gotten so cold in Melbourne to mist up my windows here. But on this lazy friday afternoon, the rain began to pelt down, and I had my lesser equivalent of a misty window. So here I am, enjoying my Jamie Oliver fish pie (frozen leftover for a week), reading Tax law, conjuring the next annual travel plan with the Tribe over msn, and enjoying every minute of it.
Rainy Days
It hasn't gotten so cold in Melbourne to mist up my windows here. But on this lazy friday afternoon, the rain began to pelt down, and I had my lesser equivalent of a misty window. So here I am, enjoying my Jamie Oliver fish pie (frozen leftover for a week), reading Tax law, conjuring the next annual travel plan with the Tribe over msn, and enjoying every minute of it.
Rainy Days
Monday, May 01, 2006
Wedding Bells
Wedding bells are ringing again! Not mine though.
I have a little confession to make today. We skipped church to go to Chapel Street. Needed a dress for Yuan's wedding, coupled with accessories and all. Despite braving the rain and taking our chance with a good parking lot (hahha!), we came home with only 3 pairs of earrings between us. Must be God's wrath on the pair of desperate shoppers. But let's not pour too much religiousity on it. It's a good weekend after 3 assignments and 1 presentation in a week! And more to come.
And of course... sha will kill me to know that we bought 4 cupcakes, 2 doughnuts and we had leftover fish pie. Lifegroup wasn't meeting formally this week, so we had seafood at Claypots, making this week the official fish/seafood overdose. I'll turn vegetarian for the week.
Die... still no dress. The one I wanted was sold! Thanks to my indecisiveness, or rather, my lack of impulse.
I must study hard this week... cos the weekend will be burnt again with Yuan's wedding.
I have a little confession to make today. We skipped church to go to Chapel Street. Needed a dress for Yuan's wedding, coupled with accessories and all. Despite braving the rain and taking our chance with a good parking lot (hahha!), we came home with only 3 pairs of earrings between us. Must be God's wrath on the pair of desperate shoppers. But let's not pour too much religiousity on it. It's a good weekend after 3 assignments and 1 presentation in a week! And more to come.
And of course... sha will kill me to know that we bought 4 cupcakes, 2 doughnuts and we had leftover fish pie. Lifegroup wasn't meeting formally this week, so we had seafood at Claypots, making this week the official fish/seafood overdose. I'll turn vegetarian for the week.
Die... still no dress. The one I wanted was sold! Thanks to my indecisiveness, or rather, my lack of impulse.
I must study hard this week... cos the weekend will be burnt again with Yuan's wedding.