D's Quarter 韻語 - Doreen's old blog

I HAVE MOVED

2006-10-15T20:17:00.000+13:00

I have moved to a new address

http://doreenkuok.blogspot.com/

Reason: Blogger Beta sucks! Read all about it there.....

Resident Evil

2006-10-13T21:09:00.000+13:00

Lots of zombies wondered around Lambton Quay this afternoon.

Not sure if they did it for fun (Halloween coming up you see.....), or striking for something (most likely). Don't know why people here so free. Strike this strike that. Don't they need to work or study? .......

..............

Hey wait a minute! It is Friday the 13 today! Must be it then! There you go....zombies had risen from the graves......they're coming your way......Woooarrr..

Last Lecture

2006-10-12T19:21:00.000+13:00

I had my last lecture today.

This marks the end of my year-long academic commitment, well technically, there is still a final exam coming up in 3 weeks time. I had complained along the way and I still have no idea how I could come this far. Thanks to Rick and friends who were willing to put up with my whines. I'm not sure about others, but I find it really hard to get back into campus life (even if it is part time) after years of working life. It's either I'm getting old, or I have been indulged by the stress free, exam free, assignment free environment. Looking back into my engineering campus life, I am amazed how I could managed to study 9 papers in a year. I was young then. Sigh, I sound like an old auntie. hahaha

I remember how excited I was about this 3-year part time course early this year. I had no idea what i was getting into, and I had forgotten the stress that comes with the package. This one-year commitment had compromised my flexibility and freedom. However, having said that, there's no regret. I've learnt a great deal about law and I realised how we could stand up for our rights. But, having to review my position all over again and the material I've learnt so far, it is probably not worth continuing. The course would no doubt help in my career development, but getting a CertLaw is just too overwhelming since I have no intention in becoming a lawyer. I will never stop learning, but I'm through with study. So, yeah, I'm letting it go and coming back to reality.

Allow me to bury my head in the books for 3 more weeks, give me a PASS and I'm off!

Rick is back!!

2006-10-07T00:17:00.000+13:00

After 4 days of his Outward Bound programme, and after 4 days of me being blue and home alone, HE IS BACK! \(^O^)/

Rick was nominated by his company to join this Outward Bound programme along with nine others, at Anakiwa. He was quite reluctant to go as he is not an outdoor enthusiast, but to give in. No harm trying right? What more it's a good opportunity to have some adventurous experience which kiwis are infamous of. It was really hard for me, having to totally cut off from him not knowing if he is doing okay. Yeah, no communication to the outside world is allowed in the programme. Don't ask me why, it's their protocol.

The hostel

Anyway, he came home last night, with bruises and sand fly's bites. (poor thing!) The programme was real tough, it's like those army training. A combination of physical trainings and classroom lectures. They had to get ready for physical training every morning at 6:20am. The morning training routine includes some body stretching, sit-ups, running and the crazy part was to run all the way into the sea until the water level covers the head, then run back for a COLD shower/rinse out in the cold!!! (O_O)!!! Only after that they could enjoy their breakfast. That's how they started their days!!! Crazy isn't it??

Wait! That's not it! There were more! Through out their 4-day programme, they were not advised of the agenda in advance! They took it as they went, spontaneously! Here are some activities they did......

Sailing in a cutter. (they sailed half way and told to jump off and swim back to jetty! RICK DOESN'T SWIM!!!)

Rock climbing (with blindfold!!)

Rafting with their self designed and built raft

AND.........

Spending a night out in the jungle all by yourself, ALONE!!! Each person was equipped with food, sleeping bag, a tent that is only big enough to make a roof for shelter, some other essentials and a big tin for poo poo!!! Oh my god, ask me do that and I'll cry to death!!

Coming back from the camp in a Dinghy

The training really had a good reflection about their lives, their future, what they want, their values etc etc.

"...and trust me, when you're all alone at night in the middle of nowhere, you realise what is the most important thing to you!!" Rick quoted.

Anyway, good thing is, he is back, in one piece! (^_^)

P/S: It's been freezing all week even snowing in some part of the country! :(

Polka polka dot dot

2006-10-04T19:32:00.000+13:00

The retro polka dot is back! It's now a hit in NZ, it is everywhere!! Yellow, black, white, blue, pink...from head to toes......

.....even the shopping bag is polka dotted!!

They are adorable no doubt but putting all of them on together would definitely create a huge fashion disaster!! LOL!

My first Pancake

2006-10-01T21:01:00.000+13:00

Recipe from Irene's mum. I'm very pleased with the result considering it's my first ever attempt. They taste real good! (^.^)V

Bargain hunting

2006-09-30T21:39:00.000+12:00

We had a very satisfactory and enjoying shopping spree today!

It wasn’t our original plan. Our plan was to stay home finishing off the series “24” (yeah, damn good series!). It all changed after Rick came back from his haircut. He saw this nice Abercrombie & Fitch jacket on sale (sneaked into a shopping mall? Naughty, naughty!) and wanted my opinion. I would never say no to a retail therapy, wouldn’t I? So, we popped down to Dressmart for a quick look (and still wanting to come back for the series). After a few tries and opinion on colours, still, to no avail.

The shopping spree spirit only kicked in after a successfull attempt on this shoes. A pair of shoes that meet all Rick’s requirements (he is fussy and picky!). He has been looking for a pair for, er….more than a year? And, what more it’s more than 50% off!!! (O_O)!!! This shoes set him off (or switch him on) right away. He became so “high” that he wanted to keep on shopping!?!? (0_0)!! What the…? This doesn’t always happen y’know, Rick is just like most of the guys, who is not very keen in shopping like us gals. He's not into Retail Theraphy, but SALE Theraphy! Anyway, he got me all excited.

After Dressmart, we drove down to city to shop for the right size & colour of that jacket. To our surprise, the sale price at this city branch is $20 cheaper than the Dressmart branch!! YAY!

We didn’t get enough, so drove all the way to Queensgate mall to continue our therapy ("24"?? What's that?). We haven’t been there since they reopen after their renovation.

By the way, to those ex-wellingtonians who read my blog, in case you don’t know, Queensgate has undergone a huge refurbishment and a total facelift. It has now became the most popular shopping spot with lots of new shops that were never available in Welly, and a brand new SkyCity cineplex with luxury cinelounge. Reading cinemas finally has a competitor. Haha!

So here are our catch today……

Original price: $200 Sale price: $100 Further discount due to last pair: $80!!

Original price: $149.95 Sale price: $49.95 Further 50% off when a 2nd pair is bought: $24.95!!

Original price: $150 Sale price: $80

TOTAL SAVING TODAY: $315!!!

Taking our break from the therapy.....

Stop using my mug!!

2006-09-29T18:45:00.000+12:00

Very pissed off today! (>.<)!!

My coffee mug disappeared again! @#&$%!@#&

I had to scan around the floor only to find it sitting on someone's desk, half filled. Yes, I grabbed it and told him off, well gently!

I don't know why on earth these people do that. We are all matured professionals. Common sense, mugs that look different from others, that have special design or colour are NOT company mugs. They are NOT for public use. THEY ARE PERSONAL MUGS!!!!

Take the dirty mug from the dishwasher and wash it yourself if there is no more clean one left, or bring your own mug!! If you're really desperate and yet bloody lazy, then the least you can do is to put MY MUG back in the dishwasher immediately after use, not seating it on your desk for days like it is yours. That's very inconsiderate!!

Call me selfish, call me touchy, call we weirdo, I just don't like sharing. DOREEN DOESN'T SHARE!!! Definitely not with someone who I don't even know the name. I just can't accept people using my stuff without my permission/knowledge. ARGGGHHH!!!

I wonder.....may be I should get a mug with my name on it, or, get my photo printed on the mug? but then, may be those inconsiderate people wouldn't give a damn, and would still use it as their own anyway.

I will, from now on, wash my cup myself and keep it on my desk. No more dishwasher service!!

Sutures removal

2006-09-28T19:20:00.000+12:00

I had the sutures removed today.

It was only a less than 5-min job, and cost me $40!! Why didn't I take up dentistry??? Why the hell did I study engineering?? What was I thinking?? Nevermind, what's done is done, no point blaming and regreting. My simple paramecium brain (wait, paramecium has a brain? Oh well....) wouldn't be able to cope with it anyway. I was struggling doing engineering, let alone doing dentistry. If I did dentistry, I won't be here blogging today. I would be playing ping pong (don't ask why ping pong, it just popped up like that. It's the Forest Gump!) in the mental hospital. Haha!

Anyway, I am drifting away from my point. As I was saying...the sutures. Yeah, I thought it would be quite uncomfortable since my gum is still sore. To my surprise, I didn't feel much pain. A few blinks, that was it, job done! The doctor told me that the gum and tissue would take approx 3 months to heal fully. 3 MONTHS!! (0_0)!! The soreness should go away in a couple of weeks, and I should be able to eat/drink/brush like normal by then. Phew!!!!

Celebrating the victory

2006-09-25T19:37:00.000+12:00

I just couldn't wait any longer. Celebrating the victory of the battle....at Arizona......

Beef Burger

New York Steak

The surrender of "Wisdom"

2006-09-24T11:27:00.000+12:00

I would like to officially announce the end of the battle between me and the nasty wisdom tooth. The battle had been going on for years, and it was sort of quiet, on/off type of war. The tooth finally surrendered to me (or the dentist to be exact) after a 50 minute fracas, date recorded 21st September 2006, 3.10pm.

Ok, let’s get into some details. I had local anaesthetic, 3 shots!! Yeah, 3 freaking shots to effectively anaesthetized just about half of my face including half of my tongue. Am I thick skin or what? After the 3 shots, I couldn’t feel no pain through out the whole session apart from some pressure when the dr. trying to pull out the tooth. Then, followed by some sewing and that’s it! Well, not quite. I still need to go back for threads removal this coming Thursday.

Although the victory, I was injured during the confrontation. After a few days of recuperation, I’m now back on my feet again!

As I was quite bored and at the same time restless during my recovery (I just couldn’t sleep/eat and eat/sleep as I would go mad!), so I did this……

My 1st ever DIY nail art!! Hehehe

p/s: Yeah, I keep the wisdom tooth. It's my wisdom y'know!

Quick update

2006-09-21T19:05:00.000+12:00

underwent dental operation today. Need a few days to recuperate.

I'll be back! *the Terminator's style*

Hogs Breath

2006-09-18T21:26:00.000+12:00

I wasn't in a very good mood today (-_-). Didn't feel like cooking, so went out to eat my heart out.

Destination: Hogs Breath

Not very impressed with the meal. We asked for medium, and came out, Rick's one was burnt, and mine medium rare!! May be these are how it supposed to be cooked, but they sure didn't fancy us! However, the customer service is above average.

Hogs Breath is famous of their steak. When we were there last time, it did gave an impression. Don't know what happened this time round.

Easy Sunday

2006-09-17T22:03:00.000+12:00

Oriental Bay again.... We just love it on a good day!

Then a quick game at Bowland......

BBQ Day

2006-09-16T23:18:00.000+12:00

Woke up so early this morning to get ready and met Kuok & Irene at Otari park for our BBQ today. It was such a good day. We were all excited, gearing ourselves with backpacks, plastic bags, food and all, walking through the jungle track only to find out that the bloody BBQ/picnic area is undergoing some construction maintenance work (0_o)!! What the..?!!? Shouldn't they at least put up a notice of some sort right at the entrance?

We were exhausted but to drag our heavy feet all the way back up to the entrance carpark... (>.<) ##&%*$@&@!!!

On a positive side, we had a good exercise and took some photos....

Anyway, we still managed to enjoy BBQ at our place, Malaysian way!

By the way, I've tried McDonald's new Peach & Apricot pie. Damn good!

Joys of Spring (the prequel): Colours of Spring

2006-09-15T22:11:00.000+12:00

Shots taken in spring of 2002, Christchurch....

Create Your Own!

Joys of spring

2006-09-10T00:02:00.001+12:00

Yesterday was full on! We joined Irene & Kuok at Astra Bridal. It was Irene's first appointment for her gown selection. Then headed off to Parade Cafe for a light luncheon.

It was such a beautiful day to miss, so we decided to check out Botanic Garden to get our first glance of tulips (I LUUUUV TULIPS!!) before the Tulip Festival.

YEAH! IT'S SPRING!! \(^0^)/

we then started clicking away like no one business.. (^_^)

Create Your Own!

Goodbye cubicle

2006-09-08T19:14:00.000+12:00

Tomorrow is the day, the moving day! I basically spent my whole afternoon packing and throwing out junks! Goodbye my little cubicle....you have served me well these few months, and I'm moving on...sorry.... (-_-)

I could see myself spending the whole Monday morning unpacking, tidying, pinning photos/paper arranging my stuff to make it feel like "home". Hope I will like my new cubicle.

Dental consultation

2006-09-05T19:36:00.000+12:00

I went to see a dentist today for consultation on my wisdom tooth removal. I was hoping that the tooth can be remove without going under the knife. Well, a pious hope that is! The x-ray shows that operation is indeed required. (-_-) Stupid wisdom tooth!

So, I have booked myself in for the 45 mins operation, in 2 weeks time. 3-4 days of rest is required for the recovery. No more escape this time! I'm already freaking out.....!!

Toying with ice-cream

2006-09-03T19:06:00.000+12:00

We were having ice-cream at Burger King.....

Rick: Eh, I got you a flower
Doreen: Oh? Where where? (~_~)??
Rick: Neh, here!!

Doreen: (O_O)!! HAHAHAHA!! sick! (>_<)!!

Then we started playing with the ice-cream *two stupid adults playing like kids*

We put the whole ice-ream into the mouth (without the cone of course!) to see who can do better.....

I lost !! (-_-)

We are sick, I know....(-_-)...

Catch sushi

2006-09-02T17:18:00.000+12:00

We had a ride on sushi train at Catch Sushi, down at Courtenay Place.......

All set to go. I look fierce!! (O_o)

Wah~~ a large variety of dishes.....and they are moving so fast...

Emm...I want this, and that, and this too...Haiya, I don't know what I want! Emm...

Aha! This one!! Nice...yum yum!

and...this is how much we ate!! (O_O) 100% glutton!!

My handphone pouch!! Very Audrey Hepburn eh! (^_^)

Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka!

2006-08-31T21:42:00.000+12:00

HAPPY 49th NATIONAL DAY
MALAYSIA !

\(^0^)/

My new hobby

2006-08-29T19:42:00.000+12:00

I've developed a new hobby lately, blog hopping.

Apart from writing my own blog, I enjoy reading others. It's just like a TV series, only difference is that it is a chronicle of people's life story with no definite season finale. You get addicted to it. I've been to God knows how many blogs and it is interesting to see how people express themselves. From teen blogs to celebrity blogs. Some with lots and lots of photos, some are filled with words, and some, x-rated. Every blog has it's own qualities and personalities. There is no right or wrong, good or bad. It is just a place where people appreciate freedom of speech, a window to the whole wide world.

I've learned from other bloggers, the mistake they've made, experiences they've gone through and also some useful hints or tips. Blog is like a friend, or should I say, a virtual friend. We often hang out with friends who are of the same frequency, keep those other frequencies as hello type friends and those nasty ones at bay. We choose what we think is suitable for us, as we are only human being. Likewise, there are blogs which "clicked" the first time I stumbled on, and I've since became their regular visitor. Reading blogs has now became my daily entertainment!

Ok, enough for the blog hopping thing. This is what was in front of our car this morning...interesting....(^_^)

A toy motocycle???

Declan the cutie

2006-08-27T19:06:00.000+12:00

My nephew, Declan! Awww, he is just soooo cute, isn't he?

He has got incredibly long eye lashes!

Move, move, move

2006-08-26T22:56:00.000+12:00

If you've read my previous post "My 2nd Move in 6 months", I wrote about my shift to another cubicle. Now here comes the 3rd shift!! Yeah, that's right, the 3rd time!

We, the whole team will be moving to another corner, for yet another business reason. We were going to swap with the group based in 9th floor, but the decision has changed. We will stay at current floor, different corner.

Yeah, that will make it to 3 moves in 8 months. (@_@)!! Wo-hoo! I'm going to break my record! Hahaha!

ANYWAY, here is what I had for dinner today at Leuven!

Beer Braised Lamb Shank. Yum!!

I'm feeling much better!

2006-08-23T21:31:00.000+12:00

My gum inflammation is finally subsiding. YAY! Having said so, I know there will be next attack. It's just a matter of time. I've been told, it would get worst and more frequent as I get older :( So, I have decided to go through the terrifying operation to have it remove, ONCE AND FOR ALL early next year when I come back from my Europe trip.

Apparently, the operation will leave you with bruising and swollen face for few days, and, and not being able to eat anything at all! That really gives me the shivers.

Sigh! What needs to be done has to be done.

For now, I just have to make sure there is no more strike for the next 5 months or so.

Waiting For You

2006-08-21T17:19:00.000+12:00

I so like this song! and finally found the MV.

I seen the MV once, last year and that was also my first time hearing this song. I fell for it right away. The MV is soooo sad... T_T *tears*

Pool night

2006-08-20T13:09:00.000+12:00

No, I haven't recover from the "wisdom attack", but hell with it, I needed some fun too!

So, we went off to play pool at The Ballroom last night!

We hung around at Queenswharf before pool.

Rick kicked off the game

My turn

Cheeky Doreen distracting Irene. Hehehe

Nice pose, Kuok!

Yes, I can still smile despite the tooth ache

I had my first ever Snooker game.....

Looking professional, aiming at a precise angle, focus and...MISSED!

It was an early night for me!

The attack of "wisdom"

2006-08-18T21:12:00.000+12:00

I’m “sick”. The stupid wisdom tooth is on strike!

The last time I had it was a year ago. It’s the so called internal body heat I think. I had a few late late nights in a row last week, and this is the punishment. Sigh! I guess this is what happens when the body is getting old and useless.

Actually, I think, the real culprit is the PIZZAs. We had a company social night on Wednesday, with Hell’s pizzas, and that just set the bomb off! Damn! I could barely move my jaws when I woke up this morning due to swollen gum :(

No more nice nice food….can only eat porridge and congee :(

But wait a minute, I the nice nice barley and mung bean soup! To detoxify and deheat (don't think there is such a word, anyway to eliminate my body internal heat). 那可是愛心綠豆薏仁湯喔! hehehe *still eating while typing away*

It's weekend, I WANT TO GO OUT AND HAVE FUN!!

Get well soon Doreen!

Go to bed now.....night!

The Lord of the Rings Trilogy Exhibition

2006-08-12T18:51:00.000+12:00

It's back! At Te Papa Museum. We missed out last time. This time round, with great new stories and exhibits! More that were never been revealed before, claimed it's last-ever season.

The exhibition was an eye-opener, from the design sketches, models to the real thing i.e. weapons, accessories and costumes wore in the movie. I was particularly drawn to Arwen's costume and the infamous necklace that she gave to Aragorn. They're just sooooo beautiful!!! Then, Aragorn's crown, Frodo's sword and the oldest living creature in the set, Treebeard. They're all my favourite!

On public displayat the entrance: Model of the "ghostship" that Aragorn summoned for the battle.

The tickets! We got it for student price! Hehehe

Sorry guys, camera not permitted in the exhibition, so I can't show more :(

However, here are some pics taken outside the museum.

A gift

2006-08-10T22:17:00.000+12:00

Got a new top today, a gift from Rick! (^_^)

It's sooooo cute!

Me very happy! (^_^) (^o^) (^O^)

Keyboard fool

2006-08-07T19:19:00.000+12:00

Came to the office this morning and couldn't log in! Password was incorrect, 3 times I tried, and incorrect still. 3 TIMES!!!!

#%&**$@# !! (>_<)!!

How could it be??? That's the word I've typed hundred times since the last password changed, there's no way I got it wrong, not 3 TIMES in a row!! I typed it again, fourth time, very slowly, one by one, with my eyes sticking close to the keyboard following each key, and what the...? The keys "G" and "H" have been swapped around!! *BISH* (>_<)P What the hell...??? Is this some kinda jokes or what??

I screamed out to my team (ok, not really screaming like in the KING KONG movie). How bizarre!

Then, we realised about the workstation cleaning that happened during the weekend. The cleaner must have dismantled the whole keyboard to clean it. That's very thorough, I thought! or...may be my keyboard was too damn dirty that they had no choice but to dig out the keys. Hahaha!

Anyway, the 2 keys are now back to where they belong.

P/S: Something evil came into my mind. Don't you think this is a good idea for April Fool?? HAHAHA.... *evil laughter*

Yoga for dummies

2006-08-06T17:08:00.000+12:00

Yup, for me. Hehehehe

Picked up yoga this weekend. People have been raving about this thing, so thought i give it a go. I ended up with sore muscles the next day.

I like it!

Still working on my pose. This "Tree pose" is the hardest so far

Supper supper!

2006-08-04T23:50:00.000+12:00

We don't always treat ourselves a supper. Today is obviously an exception coz' we feel like it! (^_^)

We enjoyed ourselves at a Taiwanese cafe, CHA over Aaron Kwok's concert (It's DVD of course!)

Full and happy! (^_^)

A "taste" on the new fashion

2006-08-03T19:00:00.000+12:00

I know I haven't been updating much lately. I scarcely have any interesting tale to tell. Yeah, I live a boring life!! My life is taken up by the monotonous routine: work, study, cook, eat, sleep, internet, TV and a fortiori there is not much time left for other things. Sad, sad, sad BUT true! The only time that I could spice up my life a little (ya, just a wee little bit) is during WEEKEND!

Anyway, new season of fashions are all up and everywhere. The spring collection is alluring. I just couldn't resist the temptation of trying them up. So this is what I picked.....

NICE??? or not?

Honestly, the colour is not what I would prefer but am falling for the design especially the 1st dress. I still can't understand why New Zealanders favour dark colours so much. It's mostly black or dark hues even for spring collection! That just doesn't cut it for me. What happen to those beautiful colours of rainbow??? Emmm......should I get or should I not....Emmm.....*think think think*

......
......
......

Nah, pass! I'll get when they put it on sale! Hahaha!

Saturday

2006-07-29T22:49:00.000+12:00

Yum cha at Big Thumb with some friends today. We were too busy eating and talking, so didn't take much pics. Yum yum!

Anyway, here are some pics taken while I was getting ready for today's outing. One coat of mascara and a quick sweep of lipgloss, off I go!

Sushi day & office night

2006-07-22T23:15:00.000+12:00

Couldn't be bother to write much, too tired! Anyway, here is what I did today...

DAY: Making sushi (tuna and avocado) for our potluck + boardgame session

NIGHT: Accompanied Rick to his office. I spent couple of hours studying (geek, geek, geek!) while he was busy doing some unfinish business.

The building's well preserved interior design dated from the 19th century

A treat at Denny's

2006-07-21T20:37:00.000+12:00

Dinner at Denny's today. Full and satisfied!!

Our order:
Buffalo winger (our entree)
Satay roll with chips & coffee (Doreen)
Double burger with chips & orange juice (Rick)

Test result

2006-07-20T19:55:00.000+12:00

Got my term test result back!

I PASS!!! Although not with flying colours, the mark is above average. I have done my best, I couldn't ask for any better, I am happy! (^_^) I am not particularly obsessed about grades these days. Those days are gone. Life is too short to worry about this tiny little thing. All I am aiming for is a PASS, with or without flying colours is the least of my concern.

So, I bought a pair of nice earrings as a reward. (what a good excuse eh!)

Gucci EDP II pink

2006-07-19T18:00:00.000+12:00

Got myself a Gucci EDP II

I don't know if this fragrance has been on the market for a while or just been introduced lately (not that it matters!), I was most attracted to it's simple yet elegant bottle design. It was the bottle that caught my attention, hence an attempt to test on it's sense. It's soft, floral and fruity sense took my breath away. So, there you go, my catch for today.

Shadows over Camelot

2006-07-17T18:30:00.000+12:00

We finally bought "Shadows over Camelot", the most coveted board game of all.

I had never anticipated that a board game can be that interesting and fun. In the past, to me, board game = MONOPOLY = boring. Although we have played quite a few games recently, Shadows is still by far the one we enjoyed the most.

The strategy is very atypical, unlike the usual games in which players compete against each other, this game, all players join forces towards the same goal, trashing the game itself in order to protect Camelot! Without going into too much details here, in a nutshell, each player would need to perform an evil action followed by a heroic action. A lot of brain storming is required to ensure each heroic action performed outweigh the evil action in order to achieve victory, which is already a challenge not to mention the ever-present possibility of a Traitor!

So, the 5 of us spent our whole weekend battling with the game. We had 6 games in total, we either merely made it to the victory, or badly trashed!!

We were (and still are) full of rages!! I could see what we would be doing this coming weekend. haha!

Update on Europe trip

2006-07-17T18:24:00.000+12:00

YES! My Europe/Singapore/Malaysia trip has been resurrected! \(^O^)/

My travel agent did her wonder and got us on the SIA. There is no change in fares, but a wee change in itinerary that's all. We are now arriving Singapore 12 hours earlier and back to NZ a day later, which doesn't really bother us. Can't complain much. I am happy, we are happy! \(^O^)/

\(^O^)/ \(^O^)/ \(^O^)/

Europe, so close yet so far....

2006-07-13T19:14:00.000+12:00

Our Europe/Singapore/Malaysia trip is now at stake!

In my previous post, I wrote about how excited I was about the trip, and that everything were confirmed and booked. Well, the story has gone all twisted now. Air New Zealand announced yesterday that they are implementing a network change and they will be suspending their Singapore route as of this Oct. Good news is, they will honour those bookings that have been fully paid and ticketed by putting them on other airlines, most likely Singapore Airlines. The bad news is, we didn't have ours ticketed yet!! We contemplated paying next month, and god knows this would happen!

I rang my travel agent today, trying to switch our flights to Singapore Airlines before it's too late, but to no avail. We were too late!!!! They are all fully booked out! What am I going to do?? So, how, how?

I know it is not like the world is going to fall apart or what, the sky is not falling down, but...but....this is THE trip that I've long coveted, most wanted and extremely dying to have. I did everything, all I could to make it true, but.....just when I thought everything was good as go, it struck, big time!

My travel agent is looking into it for me.

I am just speechless, lost, infuriated, vulnerable, disappointed, sad, depressed and dunno what other more words can describe.....

I shall be back when everything is sorted out :(

Joi Chua : 有你多好

2006-07-12T21:27:00.000+12:00

Check out this music video! Very nice song, written by a friend of mine.

I was first introduced by Kevin to this song a year ago, and never heard of it again since. I couldn't even remember the name of the song, and the music . All I could remember was it is a nice sentimental song, and the name of the singer, Joi Chua.

So Kevin, if you are reading this, well excellent job!

Breakfast over FIFA World Cup at Leuven

2006-07-10T19:37:00.000+12:00

There gone the 4 weeks world cup fever!

I only watched 2.5 matches LIVE including Final. I just couldn't wake myself up in such early hours.

So, Rick and I had a late start (i.e.work) today. We went off enjoying our breakfast over the soccer final match at Leuven. Although our favourite teams didn't make it to the final, we had a good time still!

Italy WON!!

New discovery

2006-07-09T17:29:00.000+12:00

Discovered this new lookup area just 5 mins walk from my house. It was "quietly" built in 2005.

Yeah, very nice and sunny today! Something for a change, and we were like freed prisoners. Happy and so full of life.

The view

Vell obviously enjoying the view too :)

Vell was so restless, running here and there

Exhausted!

Mr. Sun, please stay up and bright for a few more days ya?

My favourite Commercials

2006-07-07T22:27:00.000+12:00

Never thought a TV commercial can be this good! These are my fav and considered best I've seen so far! Check it out!

Launched 2006

Bank of New Zealand Piggy Banks TV Commercial view it here (Damn cute!) -might take a while to load, but it's worth it!

Vodafone Mayfly TV Commercial view it here (Cute and meaningful)

Launched 2005

Meridian Energy Wind and Water TV Commercials here (Luv the music and beautiful NZ scenery!)

My unmotivated self

2006-07-06T21:24:00.000+12:00

Life is boring and miserable in this bleak, awful winter. It's been pouring like cats and dogs. Adding to the woe, wind gusting at 100 km/hr! I don't mind being cold, but the combination of gales and downpour is just dreadful. What to do but this is typical winter conditions in Wellington!

I am so unmotivated!

Unmotivated to get out of bed, to work, and basically any outdoor activities (and that includes shopping!). I don't even want to leave the house, and that's how miserable I am!

I just wanna......

bury myself in bed,

sit in front of the heater,

wrap myself into a spring roll (or sausage roll may be?) in front of the TV!!

The LESS movement the BETTER!

Now, how could I not become a PIG with such a lifestyle?! Oh well, piggy is CUTE anyway, so be it then! ( ^@^ ) *oik oik*

Happy Birthday to Vell

2006-07-03T20:45:00.000+12:00

It's Vell's birthday today! She is now 5 years old, but still acts like a puppy. Her birthday present? Well, how about a sausage meal!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Vell! Luv ya! Muaks! (^.^)

Crabs and Tom Yum anyone?

2006-07-02T20:12:00.000+12:00

It's winter, not much to do but eat, eat and EAT!! Here is our dinner today....(I know, FAT is waving!!)

Crabs steamed with rice wine

Tom Yum soup

Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children

2006-06-30T22:46:00.000+12:00

I had been longing for this! A sequel to the popular PS game Final Fantasy VII, a CG movie set two years after the battle in FF7 game. Visit their official site

It was released in Japan at the end of 2005, and only available in NZ 6 months later. I have never laid my fingers on the game, but was following it closely when Rick played. And, I was immediately attracted to its unique story line.

The movie is SOOOOOOO good!! The characters, graphic, music, special effects and the story. I luv it all!! Best CG film I have seen so far. Stunning graphic and spectacular action! Nonetheless, If you are not a devoted follower of FF7, you might find the story a bit hard to follow.

I was a fan of Sephiroth (the bad guy) in the game, but after watching this movie, man Cloud is so much cooler!!

Cloud

Sephiroth

Some movie screens:

Picture from Advent Children.net

Gals night out

2006-06-29T22:19:00.000+12:00

The boys were out enjoying their company's farewell feast, leaving us, the two poor gals all by themselves. We were miserable.....YEAH RIGHT!! That's just perfect for a gals night out! We shopped till we dropped and we partied till dawn!! hahahahaha ok, I am exaggerating.

We enjoyed a good feed at Krazy Lounge.....

Krazy Fiend - everything on a plate

Me and Irene, looking happy

.....and hung around town

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Mans Chest promotion. See the "ghost" behind the skull? (ya, I meant ME!)

Another cut

2006-06-27T21:55:00.000+12:00

Ok, another cut!

I was so so sick of my unflattering, dreary tresses. Just couldn't get "The" hair nowadays. This cut is nothing spectacular or turning heads. Just a way to liven up my look a little. More texture and layers.

I am now determined not to have anymore cut (apart from trimming of course) for the next 6 months! If the length grows long enough in Dec, I will then go for a perm!

By the way, am loving my new lenses! Amethyst eyes...*witchy* Can you see...? Muahahahaha *evil laughter*

Shrek 3-D

2006-06-26T19:37:00.000+12:00

I finally experienced the 3-D movie effect! (Yeah, caveman I am!)

It was Shrek 3-D. Nothing spectacular really. May be the TV settings were not adjusted properly, thus the 3-D effect was not as great. In fact, I had eye-strain watching through the red and cyan specs.

I look so stupid with the specs on

Rick told me that the 4-D effect he experienced in Universal Studio was so real that the object would jump off the screen!

I want that!! I want that!! When is my turn?

Home-made french toast

2006-06-24T14:54:00.000+12:00

Woke up real late this morning, and was famishing for food. I whipped up a breakfast with what I could find in the shortest possible time. Hehehe

home-made french toast

Fishy fish

2006-06-22T20:32:00.000+12:00

Rick was complaining about KOLAP (yes, the floating fish) having to get the spotlights but not her other half. His exact words "Aiyo, how could you put Kolap out there alone without her other half? They are a pair you see, and must always be together." (Aww.....how sweet!)

Okok, since he is coming from a good gesture, I am dedicating this post to the fish then. So, there you go, Rick's two lovely fish, "Kolap" (meaning scabby in Hokkien) and "Cha Sao Bao" (yeah, roast pork bun in Mandarin). Don't ask me why they got such interesting names. They are spontaneous names came out of Rick when we bought them 3 years ago.

Kolap (top) and Cha Sao Bao (bottom)

We had 3 initially, mine one was named Summer, but she died a few days after that :( The only two fish I ever had all named Summer, and both of them died few days later. :( Wonder if it is the name or just me. Oh well, may be I am just not a fish person after all.

My contact lenses are here!

2006-06-21T20:54:00.000+12:00

They have arrived! It was quicker than I expected. Yes, purple colour they are! I have tried grey, but still think purple suits me best :)

Many thanks to my sis and bro in-laws!

Check out my new toy!

2006-06-20T22:22:00.000+12:00

.....A digital photo display! Anniversary gift from Rick! Cool huh! Luv it luv it luv it! Practical and just what I need. No more stakes of photo frames, no more hassles in changing photos. It can now change itself! Haha!

Testing...testing...

Celebrating our anniversary

2006-06-19T19:55:00.000+12:00

Celebrating our anniversary at Bisque

Cheers!

Both the entree and chocolates were on the house! How sweet of them!

I particularly like their ceiling lamp

Happy Father's Day

2006-06-18T21:27:00.000+12:00

Yeah, happy father's day and also happy birthday to my dad. Wish I were there to celebrate this day with my family.....

Board game pandemic

2006-06-17T17:06:00.000+12:00

We going to have a board game session tonight! Introducing our new games to another two friends. Will post a photo or two if I manage to snap a few...

Here are some pics

Rick giving instructions

Irene making her moves

The objective is to control the survival and evolution of a species of dinosaurs. We need to develop our dinos and mutate them in order to survive through the changing climates. When the meteor strikes, the game ends immediately.

Depending of individual strategy deployed, dinos can develop into different characters. Here are our mutated dinos at the end of the game.....

Doreen's Dino - with the most eggs, fast reproduction rate

Rick's Dino - with the longest tail, always the first order in any action, like to dominate situation

Irene's Dino - with the most legs, move fast, best runner

Kuok's Dino - with the most horns, AGGRESSIVE!

Fun and cute game to play!!!!

Board games

2006-06-16T19:02:00.000+12:00

So I have been blogging hell of a lot lately, everyday without a single miss! *a pat on the back*

It's term break, so have to make full use of it. I wonder how long before I break the chain. (^_^)

Ok, a complete different matter. There is currently a sale at Whitcoulls. 50% off all greeting cards, 30% off all board games, etc etc (not really interested about the other offers). Anyway, we bought two board games, EVO and TIKAL (^_~)V. Both have won game of the year awards, EVO in USA and TIKAL in Germany.

Thanks to my colleague who introduced us to these games. We started playing board games with this colleague of mine and some others early this year, once every month. Everyone just get together chatting over dinner and then "fight" over game table. We really enjoy it!

We have played quite a number of games, some are not to our liking, but still glad that we tried. EVO, TIKAL and Shadow Over Camelot happen to be our favourite so far. Shadow Over Camelot jumped on the top among the three, but it's currently not available at Whitcoulls, and we are not willing to pay full price at other game stores. (penny-pinching I know) So, we parked that on the "wishlist" for now (^_^)

My hiding-place

2006-06-15T21:07:00.000+12:00

This is where I am hiding from nine-to-five, Mon-Fri.

Wild weather

2006-06-14T21:33:00.000+12:00

Winter is definitely here.

It is freezing cold! Heavy snow hit the lower south on Sunday, triggering blackouts and road closures. Auckland too was crippled by a power outage on Monday in Auckland due to strong wind (120 km/h) breaking off an earthwire in Otahuhu substation. Traffic lights down and business was suspended through out the day! It was quite a chaos.

Wellington was wet, cold and windy! Severe gales were up to 145km/h!! The wild weather is now tame, but still, COLD!

I could see the ski season is coming early this year!

Europe...we are coming...

2006-06-13T19:29:00.000+12:00

We are going to the romantic Europe! Deposit down, itinerary confirmed, flights secured and it's all go!

Our itinerary:

Germany

Czech

Slovakia

Hungary

Austria

Paris

We will be celebrating Christmas in Vienna, my favourite. Yeah, my first WHITE CHRISTMAS!!! YAY! \(^O^)/

Excited! Excited!

Weird fish

2006-06-12T21:43:00.000+12:00

UPDATE: After some close observations and experiments, we found that this fish is back to normal after a day without food. Once eaten, she is back floating again!

One of Rick's fish has been acting strange lately. She has been floating up-side-down, and no it's definitely not a symptom of dying (I hope!), because she has been doing that for a few months now. She seems enjoying herself with back stroke! We have been observing her, she sometimes requires quite an effort to force herself down in order to swim like a normal fish, and when she gives up, she floats right back to the surface like a bubble fish but with her stomach facing up. Puzzled puzzled. We thought as long as she is having fun, it doesn't bother us.

But, could any fish expert out there provide a clue on this behaviour?

The Da Vinci Code

2006-06-11T21:03:00.000+12:00

Emm…..not sure what to say about this one. The murder plot is predictable, which I already anticipated, so shall I say, as expected. However, it is the myth behind the plot that interests me and indeed it was this aspect that drew me to this movie. I am amazed how Dan Brown tweaked the history merely by a painting, and how they collated clues to unfold the “truth”.

I was told that the novel is even more fascinating than the movie!

So what's next? Poseidon!!

Friday night at Concrete

2006-06-10T12:58:00.000+12:00

It's Friday night! We hung around at Concrete with couple of friends. Loud live music. We basically screamed our words through out the night.

Irene and me

Breakfast at McDonald

2006-06-09T19:29:00.000+12:00

We had breakfast at McDonald on our way to work. It was an impulsive act.

Yup, Hunger Buster it is! Sharing with Rick of course.

Excuse my puffy eyes. It's 7:40 am, still too early for me. (yes, I got my new hat on! Hehehe)

Yes, shit happens!

2006-06-08T20:55:00.000+12:00

You wouldn't believe what happened today. Even myself still find it hard to swallow!

Ok, I was queueing to enter into the exam hall and at the same time having our student ID checked by the exam co-coordinator. Everything was normal until just before my turn, something got into my left eye (don't know what it was, may be one of my eye lashes or something else, but this is not important). I was wearing contact lenses as I normally do. It was irritating. I rubbed my eye gently hoping to get rid of it, which it normally does. BUT, this time round it didn't! My eye was so irritated, tears were streaming down. So, I kept rubbing, and rubbing.

Finally, the irritation gone, and so was my contact lens ! I didn't have time to search around. There were still so many people waiting in the queue behind me and the exam was about to start. SO? I was using only my right eye through out the whole exam! Bloody unbelievable! I have been wearing contact lenses for 5 years, and I had never lost one until today, right before my exam! It just couldn't choose a better time! (>_<)!! @#*#&%@#

After the exam, I walked back to my office contemplating of taking the rest of the day off. There is no way I could continue working with one eye and I was already feeling a little dizzy having one eye well in focus and one not. I was full of rage, not wanting to surrender. So, I stopped by an optometrist shop, told them the story and to see if they have anything to offer. Well, my luck is not that bad after all. The optometrist was kind enough (thank you! thank you!) to give me a 2-week disposable lens sample to keep me going.(^o^) See, there are always nice people out there to give you their hands when you think you are falling off the cliff.

Now I need to arrange to have my contact lenses imported from Malaysia.

Moral of this story: Never ever wear contact lenses to the exam!!

Hats

2006-06-07T21:23:00.000+12:00

Bought a hat today.

I luuuvv hats, am just crazy about them. I think they are the most practical accessories of all.

It gives a hint of style to your outfit
It keeps your head warm
It shields your face from the sun
Excellent quick fix for the bad hair day
It prevents your hair messing all around your face

Everytime I walk into a fashion boutique, I just couldn't resist checking their hats out and try them on, especially during autumn and winter seasons.

My collection

M:i:III

2006-06-05T21:31:00.000+12:00

First, I must stress that I am not a fan of Tom Cruise, but fan of action/thriller movies, and also for the sake of the completeness. That's why I watched. The movie, very ordinary. The plot is predictable, typical "Mission Impossible". If you have watched 1 & 2, then you would get the plot for this one straight away!

Deja vu.

Next, DaVinci Code (Still)

The silence has a reason....

2006-06-04T17:08:00.000+12:00

Sorry for the long spell of silence. I wasn't being slack, but really squeezing every single bit of my time on my study. It was the last week of the term (good thing!), but the cases we discussed were relatively long and wordy, not to mentioned that I have a test this coming Thu. After the test, I will be free like a bird though only for a month or so before the 3rd term begins. Oh well, like it matters. Hehehe

For the meantime, I just have to bury my head in the books!

Having said that though, I am going to treat myself a movie tonight for the hard works I've put together today. hehehe

X-Men, The Last Stand

2006-05-27T18:51:00.000+12:00

Watched X-Men today. Well exceeded my expectation! I personally think it is better than the 1st and 2nd. The special effect is undoubtly stunning. I am always the action movie/thriller lover, the more special effects, the better! They have incorporated some emotional scenes this time. There are some unexpected scenes that caught my breath. Hopefully the next instalment (if there is one) would be even better!

Next, The DaVinci Code!

My 2nd move in 6 months!

2006-05-24T20:08:00.000+12:00

I swapped to another desk today (again!). This is my 2nd move this year. First move was never my intention, it was business decision. I was reluctant but to give in. I love my first location, good view and could enjoy nice sunshine on a good day. Anyway, the 2nd location was not bad, could still enjoy a good view though not so much as the first one, but the sun strike was just killing me, even the window sun shade couldn't filter it. It hurts my eyes. I was at one time almost going to wear my cap or sunglasses to work. It's a health and safety issue you see. So, I initiated the move. Now, my current location, still not the best. Sun strike is gone, as well as the view :( sigh! Only if I could go back to my 1st location...................

We are just food lover!

2006-05-20T22:41:00.000+12:00

I know I blogged about food not long ago, but life is just boring without good food, we are Chinese you see. As the Chinese old saying goes, 民以食為天嘛! So, whenever we have guests visiting us, we give them a good feed. Anyway, David loves Chinese food, so his wish granted!

We started off the day with Yum Cha at Big Thumb Restaurant, then a retail therapy session though we all ended up empty handed. Later on, dinner at Regal, then headed off to Lueven for some drinks!

Dinner at Regal. From left: Rick, me, Sarah and David

We have company this weekend

2006-05-18T19:25:00.000+12:00

Rick's cousin and his gf are coming to join us tonight and the rest of the weekend. They are driving from Whakatane. The last time we met was a year ago......

I still haven't met his gf, but I believe she is nice and sweet. Am very looking forward to meeting them........

Yet another one leaving.......

2006-05-17T19:57:00.000+12:00

Another friend of mine is leaving for Australia, for good. It's kind a strange seeing friends coming and going, and we are still here. The feeling is mixed. Happy for them to embark their new exciting life, yet at the same time sad that they are leaving. This is my 11th year in NZ, 5th year in Wellington.

The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence, I was tempted too but the thought of uncertainty always hold me back, and eventually the temptation fizzled out. I like my job, and I am afraid of not been able to get one that is as enjoyable as my current job. I am afraid that I may not like the new place. NZ may not be the best place to live, but to me, it is not too bad, well for now. There is nothing I want changed. I guess I would just stick around for a few more years.

A trip back home...a year ago....

2006-05-16T22:27:00.000+12:00

I was very determined (and probably still am!) to put something up tonight, but....been sitting there for 10 mins and my head is still blank. No progress! Too much work, too much study...(excuses! hehe). Anyway, I would just let myself get away with some photos, taken while back in Malaysia and Singapore almost a year ago....

Dinner at The Line, Shangri-La

Esplanade

依然是朋友

2006-05-14T16:41:00.000+12:00

情人節的前一天　他離開你身邊
只剩下你不止境的想念

那一夜我陪著你　你哭了一整夜
你是否知道　我對他一樣很想念

直到有一天　我和他碰面
在那間　我們常去的咖啡店

才知道有些感受
我和他誰都不曾說出口
我們之間隱藏了什麼
除了我自己沒人懂

可是你　你怎麼說
你知道後是不是從此避開我 OH
我一樣難過　多希望我們不曾相識過

才知道有些感受
我和他誰都不曾說出口
我們都是最好的朋友
誰會有勇氣去開口

不再哭　不再難過
我們還有好大好大的天空 OH
故事的最後　我們都不曾失去過什麼
我們依然是朋友

曲︰宇恆詞︰宇恆

Homesick

2006-05-14T15:08:00.000+12:00

It's mother's day today. I am sure most of the people are celebrating it with their family. Lucky! No doubt there are also people who are away from family, wouldn't be able to spend the day with family, like myself *sob sob* (~_~)

I miss my parents........

Celebrating X'mas in Singapore. We like sister, aren't we? (^_^)

Where is the fairness?

2006-05-12T21:18:00.000+12:00

I spent most of my spare time studying this week. Part 2 of the course is rather confusing. We have reviewed quite a few past cases in class so far, some interesting, and some, ridiculous. How could two cases with similar situation have exact opposite rulings?? What is the basis of that? I am infuriated, about the contradictory judgements. True as the professor has said, there is no right or wrong answer, it’s all about analysis and argument!! But, if there is no right or wrong answer in the world of law, where else can we seek for justice? Where is the fairness towards human being?

Funny how I always perceived law as an absolute solution to all matters, with unqualified justice. Naive! The law is still evolving. New elements were (and still being) introduced to prevent fraud, give equity and even to relieve the harshness of common law. To me, until the day the law stops involving (a pious hope) , nothing is definite!

Rick cut his hair!!!

2006-05-06T23:25:00.000+12:00

Chop chop! Finally, after a year of having shoulder length hair, Rick had it chopped off! (Phew! I was at one stage fretting that his hair might get longer than mine one day)

Long story short, the before and after photo!

01:02:03 04/05/06

2006-05-04T18:40:00.000+12:00

Anyone noticed the special moment in time early this morning? Yeah, the combination of digital date and time that amounts to an extraordinary sequence of number! Yes, at two minutes and three seconds after one o'clock this morning, it was 01:02:03 04/05/06.

The next one would be in another 2000 years! According to the mathematician, the probability of getting these numbers is one in 3.2 billion!! (O_O)!!

Yeah, we are those lucky ones though I didn't stay up just to watch the clock, rather my sleep is far more precious than that.

What's a big deal anyway? (^_^)

It's All About Food Tasting!

2006-04-30T23:26:00.000+12:00

We had a farewell lunch for a couple of friends that are leaving for Singapore. 11 of us, yum cha at Majestic Restaurant (鴻圖). It is a newly-opened restaurant, so we were a bit sceptical. But, it turned out good. The food and service are above average. The highlight for me was the so called "durian pastry" i.e. fried durian. Yum! We all happy.

No pic to share, we were all busy talking...Hehehehe. However I took this pic while on our way to town, we literally drove under the rainbow!

Later, Rick and I celebrated our special day at this Vietnamese/Mediterranean restaurant called Restaurant 88. It is a relatively new restaurant that I had long coveted to try. We either came out with great satisfaction, or devastated and dinner ruined. We took the risk.

The first thing as I walked into the restaurant, I was thrilled by their unique interior, with a blend of contemporary and Vietnamese-inspired setting. A thumbs-up!

Now comes to the food...far exceeded our expectations. The spiced fish I ordered was the best Vietnamese dish I have ever tried in New Zealand. Even, the rice has been cooked to perfection! The creme brulee was scrumptious with right balance of favours. Another thumbs-up!

Our Entree: Bread of the day with dips

Griddle grilled T-bone steak in black cracked pepper sauce

Vietnamese style spiced fish with banana leaf

Tahitian royal creme brulee. SO YUM!!

The service? Exceptional! Warmth and friendly staff. Yet another thumbs-up.

To crown it all, I will give it 10/10 and goes into our "to return" list.

We are very happy!

Sofitel Lavatory

2006-04-28T21:25:00.000+12:00

Male visitor in Queenstown can now enjoy a good time while in lavatory. I got emailed this pic today and what a creative idea!

Yes, this has been implemented in Sofitel male lavatory. I am sure those gregarious men would enjoy being in there. At last doing their "business" is no longer a humdrum matter anymore. However, I do think this design would have some negative impacts on those introverts.

I wonder what does the lavatory on the other side look like....?? If you have experienced it, let me know?

Good News

2006-04-26T19:58:00.000+12:00

Good news, good news!

A good friend of mine is moving to Wellington! hehehe (^_^)

...and even better, we will be working in the same company (^o^), even even better, she will be my colleague, working side by side! \(^O^)/ hahahaha.

Sooooo happy!

Monday

2006-04-24T19:00:00.000+12:00

Everyone hates Monday (statistically) unless it is a holiday. I don't like Monday too, but today is a bit different coz' tomorrow is Anzac Day! So, effectively, today is a "Friday"! (^O^) Hahaha It's also for this reason, many people has decided to take today off. The office was dead quiet.

Also, today marks the end of the 2-week tri-semester break, taking us into 2nd part of this course that runs for another 6 weeks. The lecturer seems more friendly and has quite a sense of humour comparing to the lecturer in part 1. I am sure his lectures would be more fun!

對馬彈琴?

2006-04-22T18:30:00.000+12:00

This is interesting! I drive pass this huge vacant land just a few kms from my house everyday, and there are always some horses scatter around (no, they are no wild horses ok?). Since I don’t know when (probably a couple of weeks ago) there are not just horses populating that land anymore, one thing has just been added….Take a look at this!

Horses are on the right, with their covers, and, what is on the left? Can’t tell? Let’s zoom in.....

Horses....

YES, it’s a PIANO!!!! (0_0)!! No kidding! Somebody has even built a platform (with roof!!) for the piano! How bizarre! It is used to calm the horses? (o_o)````?? A piano concert with horses as audiences??? And, they applaud after each play. Gosh…my imagination has gone too far. Too much cartoon……

The Morning

2006-04-21T18:59:00.000+12:00

I woke up to a beautiful morning today! It certainly has revived my worn out mind.

By the way, ANZAC Day is almost here, have you fulfil your duty? Yes, I mean the Welfare donation, only if you are in NZ (and OZ too?) of course. Well, I have! (^_^)

Arbitrary Thoughts

2006-04-20T22:27:00.000+12:00

It’s been a long week for me. It is undoubtly a short week, but it seems looooong, to me. Don’t know why….may be I am still in holiday mood, but hey almost everyone is on holiday! It’s school holiday, most of the people took this whole week off till next Wednesday to make use of the Easter long weekend and Anzac day. Even the traffic has been on holiday, flowing freely (which is a good thing for people like me who still going to work)

Why am I not the holiday ones?? I was tempted to take days off, but was also determined to save my leaves for my end of year holiday. End of year…..that’s a long way, too far to even dream about it…..(-_-)````````

Tomorrow is Friday….finally………

Ice Age 2

2006-04-17T18:01:00.000+12:00

Guess what? I saw my old Honda today while on the way to movie, in Porirua!! It was sold only a month ago. Rick and I were wondering when we would catch a sight of that car again the other day…and it happened today! I couldn’t believe seeing somebody else driving it. The car looks sparkling clean and new. The feeling was nostalgic.

Anyway, Ice Age 2…It’s as funny as the 1st one. The first scene is already amusing. A must see movie if you want a good laugh.

One thing that annoyed me was the kid sitting behind me. I really don’t think he has any interest in it, he is too young to know about watching movie anyway (1.5 years old?). All he did through out the whole movie was talking, loudly. Why couldn’t he just be like other kids, sit still and watch the movie! And, the dad just let him be!

I turned around a few times and thought that would make a hint, but nope! The dad was either too much into the movie or it’s just too much for him to shut the kid up. Come on, that’s a very obvious hint, isn’t it? How inconsiderate! Argggh! (>_<)!!

A day in Wairarapa (Part II)

2006-04-16T01:32:00.000+12:00

We left Martinborough, and continued our journey to Greytown and Masterton. Due to the time we lost in waiting our lunch (@#!*&@!*#), we could only do it swiftly.

Leaving Masterton

However, we managed a quick stop at Greytown for a coffee break at Salute Cafe.

Aaahh....coffee...that's all I need....

So, there concludes our Wairarapa trip. We stopped for dinner at Shang Hai Restaurant in Petone on our way back.

Arrived home at 06:30 pm.

BUT….That’s not it for the day. We freshened up, and off we went to join a friend for a supper at CHA. Another impetuous decision. I don't know what has got into us today. Full of energy and restless.

We finally set home at 11:30pm.

That was full on!

A day in Wairarapa (Part I)

2006-04-15T20:35:00.000+12:00

Sunny

We did a quick search in internet on a nice vineyard café, and off we drove up to Wairarapa. Leaving time 11:50 am.

Rimutaka Hill scenic drive

It took us around 1.15 hours, arriving at this Old Winery Café of Margrain Vineyard.

We walked in, and the sense of deja vu emerged. That’s the place we’ve been before, with the good old friends. That was almost 5 years ago! And to be exact, 4 June 2001! Anyway, we found a nice spot and ordered our lunch.

View from our table

Another view

Rick texting a good old friend who brought us here 5 years ago

We bought a wine, "Mad Red". (flatemate, this wine is waiting for you...in 2007.. :P)

Our lunch, which took 1.5 hour to arrive. We got quite a bit upset

Last bite of the steak

Gardening on Good Friday

2006-04-14T21:21:00.000+12:00

Today, nice and warm. It was a very productive day.

Yes, I spent the whole day doing gardening. No kidding.

We started off doing a bit of gardening. Rick was taking care of the weeds, and me, tidying up my little planting patch. I planted hydrangea, lavender, Gerbera and Bird of Paradise quite a while ago. Then, as I got busier and lazier, I didn’t care much about this patch, so it has eventually turned into this!

Pathetic huh! The stupid weeds have grown all over the place, and would soon take over my plants. A make-over is deemed necessary. After all the plucking, digging, weedmat-ing and pebble stones laying, here is the new look...

Nice aye! Although I think it looks kind of bare on the left. I’d probably just get a nice sculpture for that spot.

The gardening was then followed by spring cleaning the house. I think the last time we cleaned was a year ago! The house is now as white as snow! Hehehe

We are both dog-tired (~_~)...but it feels good! (^_^)

YAY!

2006-04-13T21:32:00.000+12:00

Ha! The long weekend is finally here! I was extremely busy this week, trying to push through most of the stuff before the break. This has made me treasure more about this break, albeit short. It is forecasted that the weather would be good, so we will see.....

I wanted an escape but was too busy to even put a plan together. Sigh! Thinking of where to go has already hurt my brain let alone planning it. Well, this time would just let it be impulsive then, and that means a high probability of sleeping through the break, doing nothing! Hahaha

Having said that though, I am determined to at least treat myself a good meal (or a few?) and a movie (emm....better check what's on...)

Have a good break everyone (^_^)!

Cup or Water?

2006-04-09T19:28:00.000+12:00

As I was complaining about my busy life in my last post, some interesting thoughts emerged about the whole thing. Why am I pushing myself so hard that it almost compromised my health, my emotion, my time with love ones etc etc. What is the point for the whole rushing thing? What have I got out of it? Is it necessary to drive myself nuts like that?

I fully agree that the way of life for young people like us is to work hard in the hope to provide better life and to enjoy while retired. But, have we got too carried away that we totally forgot about the meaning of our life and neglected the people we care? Have we been taking people we love for whom we see everyday for granted, and couldn't be bother spending quality time with them? What if we spend all our life pursuing something that at the end, no one to share with?

I was forwarded a piece of meaningful passage, ponder this

A group of working adults got together to visit their University lecturer.
The lecturer was happy to see them.
Conversation soon turned into complaints about the stress at work and life.
The lecturer just smiled and went to the kitchen to get an assortment of cups.
Some porcelain, some in plastic, some in glass, some plain looking and some looked rather expensive and exquisite.
The lecturer offered his former students the cups to get drinks for themselves.

When all had a cup in hand with water, the lecturer spoke:

"If you noticed, all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal that you want only the best for yourselves, that really is the source of your problems and stress. What all you wanted was water, not the cup, but we unconsciously went for the better cups."
"Just like in life, if Life is Water, then the jobs, money and position in society are the Cups. They are just tools to hold and maintain Life, but the quality of Life doesn't change. If we concentrate on just the Cup, we won’t have time to enjoy the Water in it! "

Food for Thought
- Are we getting so caught up with the 'Cups' in our life that we've become slaves to it?

- What's the point in having the best looking and most expensive 'Cups' if we don't live meaningful lives and touch the hearts of the people around us?

Exhausted

2006-04-06T18:46:00.000+12:00

Break! Break! Break! I need a BREAK! Desperately!

The combination of working full time and studying part time is just too much to swallow. I mean, I am not stressful, but just physically and mentally exhausted! I guess this is what happens when the brain, which used to be slack is suddenly being driven too hard. It aches.

Having to have 2 team members short, my workload has became heavier. On top of that, the law paper that I am undertaking, though it's only one paper, it requires a lot of brain activities especially for an engineer. Yes, it is challenging optimistically, no doubt about it. May be at the end of this year, when I look back at what I have achieved, my satisfaction would be sky-scraping, but right now the exhaustion has taken all over me. Let me stress again, it is physically and mentally.

The longed-for 2-week mid-trimester break starts next Monday and the Easter weekend is around the corner. I am crawling towards that like a dehydrated, thirsty man crawling towards an oasis in a desert.

My mind has jaunted off....to Bora Bora......

MyHeritage - discover the celebrities in you!

2006-03-28T19:16:00.000+12:00

I came across this interesting site called MyHeritage from a blog. Just upload your favourite photo and you will be shown the celebrity (or celebrities) that matches your features the most. I was so obsessed that I tried, like 8 photos! The results were not consistent. However, there is only one result that I like the most, and one..well.....you tell me!

Uploaded this photo.....

And, I look like her....

Lee Hee Sun!! \(^o^)/ Wah! 73% match somemore. Good good!

Emm....getting very excited, so why not another try....with this one...

And, the result was.......

THIS!!

(@_@)!!?? Oh come on! Ang Lee?? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA (^O^)

There are also more interesting results from the blog My Secrets, where I discovered MyHeritage. (My Secrets, I hope you don't mind I linked your website here ^_^ )

New Hair

2006-03-28T19:08:00.000+12:00

I had a haircut today! This time round, I had a big cut (well, big in the sense of length) but still below shoulder. I said big because I haven't had such "short" hair for a long time. My hair was always almost half way down the back. Anyway, it is time for a little change and also to chop off the coloured, dried, split ends, which I had been long to get rid of. What do you think?

Before (Boring!!)

After (Better?)