The sparks of life

Goodbye, Jade Wonder

2011-07-23T21:39:00.000-07:00

Yup, it was finally sold, my Jade Wonder! I complained a lot about it for past few weeks because it gave me so much troubles for repairment that cost me few hundreds while having hard time to sell it off. Now, it was gone and I felt released but at the same time, I think I should be thankful for having it to bring me around for the last 15 months. One good thing about him was he was a gas saver. Goodbye, Jade wonder, though I didn't really treat you well (I hardly bathed him =P), you're my first asset in United States.

*This blog has been written long time ago but not posted until now. Paiseh =P

Stand on your feet

2011-07-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

Recently, life has been hectic with my preparation back to Singapore. First, I managed to get rid of the furniture and stuffs at home by garage sales. Secondly, I finally moved into a hotel for more comfortable living condition.

Next step is selling my car. Thing doesn't always come in your way. A series of unhappy things started to happen around me. First, I have been so stressed up selling off the car when time is getting closer to my departure date. People have been asking the car by emails but never showed up in the appointment. This reminds me of the stressful period when I was looking for car so urgently on my first few months in United States. Having a car is not fun! It has been a burden for me right now.

At the same time, I have problem with my credit card that I just found out yesterday that I have 11 fraudulent transactions in my credit card account. My account has been hacked! What a Friday!

Praying hard all these would be over soon. However, I believe, things will get better. I just gotta be calm and be positive. Ultimately, I believe I'll solve the problems one by one. That's life, the roller coaster!

The fighter

2011-07-01T23:41:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've been watching a few good movies which include "The pursuit of happyness" and "Cinderella Man" that I really like the most. Both are about how a man fights for life and for the only man's dignity. It was very encouraging, enlightening and inspiring.

Many times, realizing it or not, I whined about small, little, unimporant, no-big-deal-things happened around. I get upset easily with unnecessary things. I believe it all comes to be small matters when you really have no time to think about, but fight for bread and butter, getting to survive for the day. Yes, I should be grateful of what I have and this should always be my reminder whenever I am complaining or whining about life again.

"When things go wrong as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all up hill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.
Life is queer with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about
When he might have won had he stuck it out;
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--You may succeed with another blow,
Success is failure turned inside out--The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems so far;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit--It's when things seem worst that you must not quit."~ Unknown

感恩

2011-06-25T13:55:00.000-07:00

坐在这超小房间里的窗口旁，眺远望出一片无际的大海洋`远处的雪山脉，不禁让我感慨自己是幸运的`幸福的，身在于此景色，人生还有什么好遗憾的呢?

手上拿着刘墉的《把握我们有限的今生》，正好衬托出我现在的心情。我要学荷兰人一样，生在小小的土地上，却要用很宽旷的心去看这个世界。

曾经我的前任老板问我：“你有什么梦想？” 我说，“我想去环游世界！”。老板张大眼睛对我笑了一下，似乎怀疑那是一件不可能的事情发生在我身上。现在身在美国的我想对他说：我虽然未完成那心愿，但我已经很满足现在的成就，至少我已在美国这个大国多个地方留下脚印！

感恩！

写于2011/06/05，阿拉斯加。

Lazy woman

2011-06-15T16:43:00.000-07:00

Two more months to go, I am yet ready to go home though partly of me is excited for the day to come. I still have so many places that have not been crossed out of my list yet. Chicago, New Mexico, Texas, New Orleans, Portland, Mount Rainer etc etc...... In the mean time, I have so many things to settle before going home, eg, packing, garage sales, selling car, billing, insurance, bla bla bla.... with so little time! Oh no, actually I would say I am just being lazy =p

I don't have the motivation to start packing even though my friends have already started to do so. I don't feel enthusiastic in preparing for anything! Arrhhh..... all I want to do at home after work is just watching a movie!

Please....I need some motivation! I am a lazy bum!

First Time Sledding

2011-04-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

Finally, my friend and I made it to Tahoe for sledding after a few times postpone due to unexpected circumstances and rain. It was 2 hour drive from my friend's place, Vacaville to Mountain Adventure, the place where we sled.

The sledding boards borrowed from Jasmin's friend. We were all geared up and ready for sledding!

The weather was surprisingly good - sunny and cooling, though it was reported partly cloudy and possible shower on weather forecast. First attempt to sled down the hill, I was quite scared but looking around me, the kids (even the toddlers!) seemed to enjoy very much in the sport. Shame to say "I'm scared"! The moment the sled brought me down the hill, I was thrilled by the momentum and of course, I screamed (even though it's not as scary as roller coaster). One word, fun! But...the hardest and most tiring part was carrying the sled up the hill because every step on the snow was triple time of exertion lifting up your leg! Good workout though!

No pain no gain but it all pays off for the thrilled moment of sledding down the hill.

After a while of sledding alone, my friend and I decided to sled together on one board. Whoo...it was even more fun and exciting! We screamed like two crazy women entertaining themselves very much!

We really enjoyed ourselves repeating the same thing up and down the hill until the weather started to change....dark cloud slowly came by to say hello. Of course, I wouldn't just call it a day without making a snowman myself! Before it started to pour, we quickly dug out the snow and made our very first snowman!!

Our snowman with Jackie Chan's nose!

Indeed, it was such a wonderful day with new experience on the snow. Thank you Jasmin for keeping me in company and all the fun moments!

我们永远怀念的四姨

2011-03-11T19:02:00.000-08:00

今早收到姐姐一封电邮，告知四姨最终敌不过病魔过世了。心理真的很难过，也很惭愧。自离乡背井，生活在国外，我已很多年没有探望亲戚们，只是近来在Facebook看到阿姨们的照片，突然感触良多。光阴飞逝，阿姨舅舅们都老了。我也不记得我最后一次见到四姨是什么时候了。想起四姨，我不禁难掩悲切哭了。四姨是个典型的贤妻良母，心地很善良，说话一向来都很斯文温柔，厨艺也顶呱呱。她与妈妈的感情也很深厚，看到她老人家的照片，不禁也让我想起妈妈。她们长得很相似，都有一双慈祥的眼神，一个和蔼可亲的笑容。

四姨虽已不在人世，但她将永铭我们心中。我想四姨应该也走得很安详，很欣慰，因为她的孩子们都成家立业，孙子们也健康成长。

四姨，愿您一路好走，在天之灵安息了。。。。

V-day

2011-02-11T17:28:00.000-08:00

This day has become a normal day for me since last two years. Checking on Facebook, tonnes of valentine present photos posted by friends made me jealous and miserable.... haha! My friend asked,"How do you feel in the period of no boyfriend?" Of course, I won't deny that having a close partner might spice up your life a little with romance but being single, I enjoy spending time with girl friend too. Well, not I specifically mention "girl friend", but to be honest, I don't have close boy friend yet in my life. I am closer to girl friend than to a guy friend. Sometimes, I kind of doubt if male and female can be very good friend? Most of the time, I realised this situation would turn out to be a couple in the end. May be there is a very successful example of good friends between male and female but so far, I haven't met one yet!

Oh ya...I haven't met one yet. I am waiting for the right one and for the only one. Haha...I wish there is in future. Even if not, what can I do? Can I say that's fate? Of course, I don't hope this would happen on me and I wish I will meet him soon.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Same taste, good taste

2011-02-10T22:32:00.000-08:00

I just kept saying OMG OMG....when I saw this few minutes ago on Yahoo news!

Michelle Obama wows in a $35 H&M dress.
The first lady wore a breezy, feminine, polka-dot piece, not from some fancy big-name designer, but off-the-rack and available for $34.95 from Swedish company H&M.

The navy frock is part of the retail chain's current collection, which is in stores across the country now. Mrs. Obama's office said her stylist customized the look by adding three-quarter-length sleeves and pairing the dress with a bold orange belt (in lieu of its original red cloth sash) and bright yellow heels.

Here is the original H&M dress, which is currently in stores. The first lady's version was customized with longer sleeves.

(www.yahoo.com)

OMG!!!! Guess what? I just bought this dress last weekend before I got to see this from Yahoo! Michelle Obama has the same taste with me. Both of us spot on the same dress from H&M! Haha!

Now I start to worry. This dress is gonna be popular soon and I might bump into anyone with the same dress anytime, anywhere!

In rememberance

2011-02-10T10:59:00.000-08:00

How time flies. 10 years passed in twinkling of an eye since you left. I feel guilty for not being able to visit you in the temple over the past 3 years on your birthday while I'm oversea. Now you are being placed at home, brother's new house. I believe nothing will worry you anymore to see us leading a good life and doing well in our career.

I remember, our birthday song, that I am singing in my heart for you.

May you rest in peace, my beloved Mom. I love you.

“You will lose someone you can’t live without, and your heart will be badly broken, and the bad news is that you never completely get over the loss of your beloved. But this is also the good news. They live forever in your broken heart that doesn’t seal back up. And you come through. It’s like having a broken leg that never heals perfectly—that still hurts when the weather gets cold, but you learn to dance with the limp.” ~Anne Lamott

兔年快乐

2011-02-05T23:11:00.000-08:00

屋外的梅花树其实早在两个星期前就已开花了，终于我能在这洋毛的国家感觉到春节的气息。以往每年农历新年，我家都会摆设一盆假梅花，增添春节的气氛。今年的新年，虽然无法与家人，亲戚朋友们一同庆祝，但是看到长得满满都是花的梅花树，我感叹至少我能看到真的梅花，也能感受到春天的到来。这个时刻，有一首新年歌来形容我现在的心情是最适合不过了。。。

春风它吻上了我的脸，告诉我现在是春天；
谁说是春眠不觉晓，只有那偷懒人儿才高眠。
春风它吻上了我的脸，告诉我现在是春天；
虽然是春光无限好，只怕那春光老去在眼前。
趁着这春色在人间，起一个清早跟春想见；
让春风吹到了我身边，轻轻地吻上了我的脸。

今天农历新年已踏入第三天，但我还是想在此祝贺大家新年快乐，万事如意，心想事成！

Peanut Butter biscuits

2011-01-30T22:00:00.000-08:00

Looking at my friend's pineapple tart photo on FB, it inspired me to make something too for CNY. So I've got this easiest recipe that I found on SeaDragon's blog -- peanut butter biscuits. It seems like a piece of cake.

Three ingredients: Creamy peanut butter, sugar and egg.

Three steps:

Mix the ingredients.
Roll it into small balls and flatten it with fork.
Bake at 180 deg cel.

That's it! Easy!

However......

Look at my biscuits....they were all burnt in just a few minutes!!!!

Arrrgghhh....this is so disappointing... but it taste not too bad though. Anyway, it's a nice weekend spending at home cooking and baking.

I'm coming home

2011-01-27T19:37:00.000-08:00

I wish I can tell the world.....I'm coming home!

Awww....I am so so homesick today...especially when my colleagues and I were talking about CNY. I suddenly have the strong feeling of missing home again!

This is my THIRD time (continuously) not celebrating CNY with family.

I miss baking cookies with sister for CNY.
I miss the CNY atmosphere back at home.
I miss the reunion dinner with family.
I miss counting down for CNY with family in front of TV.
I miss going one-house-after-one-house visiting.
I miss receiving angpau.
I miss eating all-you-can-eat cookies.
I miss biting sunflower seed with my sister while watching variety of CNY programmes on TV.
I miss catching up with long-time-no-see relatives.
I miss wearing red on the first day of CNY.
I miss the firecracker sound all over the place during CNY.
I miss friends gathering.
I miss all these so much!!!! And I haven't done these for THREE years!!!!!

I hate being alone at this big festival season while thinking about my family, relatives and friends having fun over the other side of planet!

I wanna go home so so sooooooooooo much!!!!!

First trial Kaya

2011-01-19T21:57:00.001-08:00

I have been wanting to make kaya since last few weeks. I've got the recipe and ingredients ready but all that I need is a weighing scale. Last weekend, I finally found one from Daiso.

The mini kitchen scale at USD1.50 only!

Today after work, I suddenly had the urge to make kaya with everything ready, eventually! Step by step, I happily followed the recipe accordingly with exact amount and measurement until....when it came to making coconut milk (what I had was the coconut powder), I realised it was still far way too little for the amount of ingredients that I had already prepared. Opppsss....

Well, I have no choice but to continue the following steps. I put the egg mixture and coconut milk in double boiled pots. Then I stirred it till it became golden brown. BUT....things didn't turn out well. My kaya was rough and it seemed to lump together. I thought it might be just the way it is for the beginning stage. So I kept stirring and stirring for 2 hours. However, it still looked the same even though with the color seemed to turn to be a bit brownish. In the end, I gave up and that was it my kaya....
Unsuccessful and ugly kaya =(

I think it was not totally because of insufficient coconut milk but it might also be insufficient water that cause the kaya to be too dry and rough. Well, this was just the first trial and I would give myself a second chance to make a nice kaya next time! You'll see....

New Year 2011

2011-01-03T15:01:00.000-08:00

First question comes to my mind at this moment: What did I do for 2010??? All I remember is where I have been to in USA!!!

Basically I spent my whole 2010 (except Jan) in USA for training. I can't imagine that time has passed so fast as if I've just stepped on the land of States yesterday!

I'm blessed that my training has been going smoothly so far. I met nice people around me. I have good trainers and supervisors that really take care of me and guide me along. Of course life is not a bed of roses. Throughout the journey, ups and downs, I'm thankful that I have a group of good friends here that are always there for me, side by side, shoulder by shoulder.

I would say it was a fruitful and meaningful 2010 that I enjoyed every moments very much in USA. Besides training, I basically spent most of my times travelling. So far, I have been to 11 states in USA, which includes Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Wyoming, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusettes, Maine, District of Columbia and California. Every step leaves its print and every trip has its own memorable moments that engrain in my mind.

There goes 2010 and here comes year 2011. My resolutions of the year would be:
1. TRAVEL as MUCH as possible. Not only in USA, I wish I can make it to South America eg. Peru, Brazil and Argentina as well!!!
2. PERSISTENT in exercising!!!
3. READ as much as I can. First of all, finish the Twilight series - "The Breaking Dawn" which has been put aside for long.
4. IMPROVE my English!
5. IMPROVE my photographing skill!
6. Fashion and image REFORMATION.
7. COMPLETE my Quarters collection before I go back to SG.
8. .......
9. ........
10. Getting myself a boyfriend!!! Haha..... *Kidding*

A new year a new start. May this year of 2011 be a year of health and happiness, a year of wealth and wisdom, a year of peace and prosperity, a year of glee and glow and lastly a year of love and laughter! Happy New Year!

我和妈妈的生日歌

2010-12-31T00:47:00.000-08:00

曾经我写过这么一个文章：

我和妈妈的生日歌

今天看了刘墉的《母亲的伤痕》，感触良多。我又再次想起妈妈。里头有一句话：儿的生日，娘的难日，让我深深领悟到在庆祝自己的生日同时，我们也该感恩母亲的伟大。记得小时候每一次的生日，妈妈不管有多忙，都会为我买蛋糕，炒一盘我爱吃的米粉或老鼠粉，然后握着我的手，和我一起唱她那首改版过的生日歌：今天我最快乐，今天我最快乐，你们大家来祝贺，祝我生日快乐！虽然没有昂贵的礼物，也没有华丽的生日派对，但是那是我曾有过最温馨的生日。

记得六年级那年，我认识了一位漂亮姐姐，她提议要为我举办生日派对，妈妈和姐姐也义不容辞为我准备食物，同时也请了很多朋友。同样地，当每个人为我唱生日歌的时候，妈妈习惯性地握着我的手一起唱我们的生日歌。那时候的我感觉好像个小公主，幸福得不得了！

上了高中后，我依然还是有妈妈的陪伴，一起唱我们的生日歌。那个时候的我常骄傲地说：我生日有两个蛋糕吃，一是家人买的，二是朋友送的！好幸福哦！

大学一年级，妈妈生病了，仅管如此，她还是为我唱生日歌。那是我的二十一岁生日，多数人认为那是很重大的日子，因为它象征长大成年的年龄，也是父母亲交还孩子钥匙的年龄。虽然我没有生日派对，但我真的是心存感激还有妈妈的生日歌和家人的生日蛋糕。妈妈问我说：“你想要什么生日礼物？要不要我买条项链给你？”我摇了摇头说：“不必了，我不需要。”但其实我后悔没说出心里头想要说的话：只要你把病养好，那就是我的生日礼物！那一年生日后，我再也听不见妈妈的生日歌。。。

感恩妈妈二十一年来不曾忘记为我唱生日歌，也感恩伟大的她生下我，不辛劳苦地把我们养大成人。遗憾的是我来不及告诉她这一切。。。请记得生日时，向你妈妈说声谢谢，也别忘了说我爱您。

今年的生日也不例外，我想说：妈，谢谢您！我爱您！

三十

2010-12-31T00:29:00.000-08:00

三十不代表什么，那只是一个数字；

三十不代表什么，那只是另一个人生必经过的阶段；

三十不代表什么，那只是我来到这世界的第三个世纪；

三十没什么大不了！！！

December 2010

2010-12-28T15:36:00.000-08:00

I love December because it is the month that is full of happening events and most importantly, it is my birthday month!

This year December has been a busy month for me but I enjoyed every moments. It started with our department's Secret Santa game. Everyday from 6th till 10th, I received a small gift from my secret santa not knowing who he/she is. I like the game that motivated me to go to work everyday for that period of time! I anticipated to receive surprise each day and I enjoyed being secret santa of others too!!!

Left top: A bottle of wine from my supervisor; middle left: A bottle of champagne from James; bottom left and the rest: from my secret Santa, Nikki!

We had potluck for holiday party too!

After the party, I started my 8 day vacation in Washington, D.C and New York City! I would say this is one of my favorite trips in USA. It was not the place that impressed me but the food and the company! For me, NYC is all about food!

It was also my first time to experience snowing and ice-skating in winter!

This is the best dessert I've ever tried in NY!!! It was heavenly yummy! I am happy that Vida got to eat the nice dessert on her birthday!

What's next? Point Reyes. That is the place that my "son" promised to bring me to for sunset and he made it. Though we didn't get to see the sunset in the end, I really felt thankful to him.

Lastly, christmas and my Bday!!! We had a small party at home and we had friends coming from Vacaville and Oceanside. I enjoyed every moments starting from decorating the house, preparing the food till end of the party!
We had fun in the gift exchange!
It was a surprise birthday. Thinking about it, now I realised why was everyone asking for nail clipper that night!!! Thank you buddies! I really had a great time on my day because of all of you!

This year I received two super-duper big cards. One from my best friend, Fang Jie from Brunei. Another one from my STRAT buddies. I think I'm the lucky one to have all these friends!!!! Love you all!

Time flies. Year 2010 is drawing near to an end soon and I am looking forward to welcoming year 2011! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

冬至快乐

2010-12-22T22:43:00.000-08:00

每到冬至，我都会想起老家，想起妈妈。。。

以往的今天，妈妈都会准备不同颜色的汤圆，红蓝白都有，而我却负责搓汤圆。我享受搓汤圆的过程，因为看着一粒粒五颜六色的汤圆，我的心会有种说不出的喜悦及成就感。

冬至的来源我不清楚，但我依然记得妈妈常会带着调皮的笑脸对我说，“每吃一粒汤圆就会老一岁，少吃几粒你就不会老得那么快，知道吗？”话说如此，她总是还是给我最大的那一碗=）

如今冬至已不如往昔，人工汤圆已被超市包装得精致的汤圆取代。不必等到冬至的到来，今昔的汤圆已成了普遍的糖水。各种口味的汤圆样样都有，花生，芝麻，红豆等等任你选。而我最爱的就是芝麻与花生！

今年的冬至，虽然少了在家乡的那份温暖及气氛，我感激还有室友陪我一同吃汤圆，至少我不是一个人。但是像这样的佳节，我总是会更想家。。。。

冬至快乐！

Self-indulgence

2010-12-02T11:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, I woke up with a smile on face when I thought about my new camera that was arriving on this day. First thing I did when I arrived in office --- tracking my delivery on UPS! Yesh, it was here!!!

I have been longing for a good camera since long time ago (well, not that my current Fujifilm is lousy, comparing with my friend's camera, it is considered uncompetitive^^). Since my birthday is drawing near, this is persuasive enough in getting a present for myself (even though I am broke in current situation)! Ha! Whatever you call, I know...self-indulgence!

My friend said I got the good deal with goodies given. Nah....just a few minutes ago, I noticed the price has dropped to $399 on Amazon (comparison to my $414). Holy crap!!!!

I got to know about this brand of camera from a friend of mine who owns a Lumix LX3. It captures high-quality photos with sharp images. That was the first thing that attracts my attention to this camera. Slowly, I heard a lot of good comments about it. In the end, I decided to get Lumix LX5! Oh my beloved camera =)

Good camera needs a good photographer. Next step I should do is improving my photo-taking skill. It is still a big room for improvement, I know and I will....

小人物的心声

2010-11-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

昨天沿着海岸跑步的我，突然脑海闪过这一首歌，不禁让我释怀了。前天的不愉快就这样一笔勾消吧！为了一个不起眼的角落，我何必那么在乎呢？为了别人的眼光，我何必跟自己过不去呢？现在这样休闲的我，不是很好吗？眼前的美景，晴朗不过的天气，有多少人能在这个时候拥有呢？换了个不同的工作时间，现在的我却竟然发现，其实这样也不错。放工之余，我享受跑在寥寥无几的海岸边，一边欣赏美景，一边听着MP3；我享受回家的路途上，满脑子想着晚餐的菜单；我享受在多余的傍晚时间，为自己准备丰富晚餐。。。

这首歌写得很贴切，尤其是这一段：

我从来都不在乎，自己不是一个大人物；
因为平凡也是一种幸福；
看到名人总是忙忙碌碌，
我的时间由我控制，
平凡日子一样会充实

人生何其多，何必为了有的没的，想太多呢？我想通了，你呢？

Goodbye EQC

2010-10-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

I am going to miss EQC dearly. It's the best department that I really enjoyed working at. Nice, friendly, helpful colleagues. What I like the most is their team work spirit! I love all of them. They're awesome!

Yesterday in the meeting, James said he is going to miss me. I suddenly felt so touched and I was trying hard to control my tears. I wanted to say, I don't want to go anymore. I am going to miss all of them too =(

Today is my last day in EQC. My colleagues organised a potluck as my farewell. And again, I stucked at my words. I didn't say much but thank you to all of them. I know I am not good in expressing myself at times, especially in public, but deep in heart, I appreciate everyone of them for being such a good trainer and colleague. I think I am the lucky one to be in EQC!

Goodbye EQC. You are the best!

暖暖

2010-10-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

一壶清甜养颜糖水，
让我甜在心窝；

一碗爱心肉骨茶，
让我感觉温暖；

悄悄地为我们收集银币的你，
让我想说，其实你很好；

从不厌倦成为我们的司机的你，
让我有种熟悉的安全感；

你对我的好，我都知道
谢谢一直在我身边陪伴着我`支持我的朋友们！

Happy Mooncake Festival

2010-09-22T20:16:00.000-07:00

Today when I was driving home from work, I saw the moon just right far in front of me, giving its fullest and roundest appearance. Yeah, it is Moon of the Night. Time flies, here comes another mooncake festival.

It is one of my favorite festivals other than Chinese New Year because it brings the meaning of reunion with family and relatives. On this occasion, my family and relatives will usually gather at my aunt's house, enjoying different variety of mooncakes while sipping a cup of tea. Pamelos is also one of the indispensable fruit on the table. Of course, most exciting moment for the kids would be carrying the lantern and taking a walk around the neighbourhood.

This year, far across another side of the planet, though I can't celebrate the festival with family, we are admiring the same beautiful moon regardless where we are. However, the feeling of homesickness gets stronger on this day. I miss them dearly.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to celebrating this meaningful festival with my friends here on Friday though the moon is no longer rounder and brighter.

Happy Mooncake Festival!

家

2010-09-20T22:02:00.000-07:00

我想家了，
尤其是在夜深人静的时候；

我想家了，
尤其是在佳节即将来临的时候；

我想家了，
尤其是在胸口感觉郁闷的时候；

我想家了，
尤其是在无人可倾诉的时候；

我想家了，
尤其是在别人眼中自己是那么渺小的时候；

家，永远是我的避风港，
但它现在是那么的遥远。。。

我真的好想家。。。。

口说好话，有那么难吗？

2010-09-05T19:53:00.000-07:00

好听的话能让气氛融洽，
好听的话能让人感觉舒服，
好听的话能让话题聊得开心，
那为什么有些人就那么难以开口说好话呢？

我，是不是也如此呢？

短发

2010-09-03T22:14:00.000-07:00

终于，我把它“干了”！
挣扎了许久，今天我不再犹豫，
一声“咔嚓”，它就这样不见了，
啊~我的长发。。。。

突然好想唱梁咏琪的《短发》，

我已剪短我的发，剪断了牵挂，

剪一地不被爱的分岔，

长长短短，短短长长，

一寸一寸在挣扎；

我已剪短我的发，剪断了惩罚，

剪一地伤透我的尴尬，

反反复复，清清楚楚，

一刀两断，你的情话，你的谎话

现在的我感觉焕然一新，

浑身一头轻，

其实，短发也不错！

短发万岁！！

My working place

2010-08-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

Talking so much about travelling, I think I should also update a bit on my working lifestyle here. I can't imagine that I have been working in Genentech for six months already! How time flies. Overall, I would say, I enjoy working with the people here. First day at work, I was so amazed that everywhere you go, people greet to you or smile to you! I felt good! Slowly, I learn to say " Hello, how're you?", "Thank you, (follow by name behind)", "Have a good weekend!" etc... even to someone that I don't know. May be you think this is normal but don't you think this is hardly practiced by our people in Singapore or M'sia or may be Asia countries?

Secondly, they emphasize on ERGONOMICS! The science of designing the job, equipment and workplace to fit workers in a comfortable way. How often do we hear this in our country? Barely. Whatever equipments or devices used here come with ergonomic purposes.

My cubicle. Small but I am contented since most of the time, I am not at my desk. My friends said," It's miracle when you pick up the phone." Yes, I am mostly working hard in the lab!

My first steel-toed safety boots. Heavy but it is important to protect my toes as I am always splashed by hot water while sampling water.

Some scary "decorations" in my cubicle. Well, they're not mine. May be they were the "leftover" from previous halloween party or whatever creative competition, I guess. Anyway, I find it quite useful waking me up in the morning at times.

Thirdly, teamwork in my department that makes me so proud to be one of them! I like my colleagues. They are definitely fun, certainly friendly, amazingly helpful and absolutely good trainers!!!! I really enjoy working with them. I like my supervisor though his first impression to me wasn't "impressive" other than his well-maintained moustache =p Undoubtedly, he has very strong sense of responsibility and he is very disciplined too. One-on-one meeting with him every fornight is not boring to me at all, instead, it is a very good opportunity for me to ask anything about job as if he is my work encyclopedia.

First dinner with colleagues and supervisor (last one at the back with moustache and short hair) at a nice and classic steak restaurant.

Happy hour with colleagues at a bar nearby company.

Party on the cruise during the period of plant shut down. We had lotsa fun!

First time went for Baseball game though not really watched with colleagues but managed to take photo with them.

Fourth, I like the way they hold the meeting because......they provide lunch (Just kidding, it's not just about food though I do love free food =D). Yes, for big meeting, they usually hold it during lunch time and we eat while people is presenting in front. Usually first thing in the meeting is about safety. Whatever safety issues irregardless job related or not. It is a good way to alert people at work about things happening around and promote a safe place at work. Besides, it is open to everyone to give presentation if you have something to share or announce related to job. End of the meeting, we have recognisation session where contribution by someone is recognised at work. This is really encouraging! I like!

Fifth, about our working attire here. It's casual and basically no restrictions so long it is not too exaggerating. I wear jeans and T-shirts everyday to work. However, when comes to working in lab, wearing labcoat and safety glasses is strictly a must before entering lab.

My labcoat with my name on it.

I guess I'm going to miss the working lifestyle here after training. I would definitely miss having donuts with colleagues in the cubicle while sipping a cup of coffee in the morning. I would definitely miss Ho-Ho (kind of gathering for employees on Friday where tidbits and beers are provided). I would definitely miss the coffee here (I am not a coffee person but all kind of coffee in the pantry here totally gets me into coffee addiction). Oh my....I am going to miss so many things here!

One more thing, I am surely going to miss working at bay area with nice views where I used to enjoy the scenery while walking to the car park. At times, I like sitting there, looking far across the sea and taking a deep breath to get rid all my unhappiness of the day if I have.

Let bygones be bygones

2010-08-02T22:48:00.000-07:00

I suddenly found this song on youtube that brings back some memories. Nice song and I like the lyrics. It has been a while I have not listened to sentimental song like this. My taste of music has slowly expanded from slow, sentimental or jazz to those rock and roll type that I didn't really like in the past. Thanks to my STRATS gang here to make my life happier and more cheerful.

Friendship

2010-05-19T21:11:00.000-07:00

The hot tears just uncontrolly welled up in my eyes when I saw this nicely put on my table this evening after work.....

I was very very touched. I saw what a true frienship is. They give me their hand when I am in need. They try to make me happy when I am sad. They feel angry too when I am bullied. They are just there for me when I need them. Besides saying a big "THANK YOU", I really wanna shout out loud to them, "I LOVE YOU!!!!!" I am grateful and I am blessed to have you girls by my side when I mentally need your support.

Thank you so much, Suyee and Vida. Thanks for being so sweet and patient to me. You blow away the dark cloud and shine my day again...

"A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out. A friend is one who walks in when others walk out"
-Walter Winchell

哭

2010-05-18T22:02:00.000-07:00

Updates 2

2010-04-23T19:39:00.001-07:00

When everything seemed to be more settled down, we started throwing out a lot of programmes, eg movie parties, housewarming, snowboarding, sight seeings, shoppings and whatsoever that we would die die want to do here....

First thing, housewarming.
Curry was our main theme. Well, it just happened unexpectedly on the night right after I got my car. A friend of mine suddenly thought of cooking curry and we called up all the friends for dinner. That was it....our housewarming!
Menu: Chicken curry, minced meat bitter gout, spinach and wonton soup.
Drinks: Beer, Laichee dessert, and Jeremy's homemade brewed coffee....and yes, we drank them all....crazy huh?

Next, snowboarding @ Tahoe, my very first experience with snow!

My friend said I'm talented....yes, you got it right! Talented in falling down....but that's how we learn to stand, don't we? Falling down wasn't a big deal for me, but the most tiring part was taking in and out of snowboard and carrying it up the hill with the heavy skiing shoes! Afterall, I like the feeling of sliding down the hill with the sense of freedom!

Whatelse? Shopping, of course! Levis, Nike and Timberland are what I've got so far! More to come....when I have enough money (hopefully in few months later)!

Good food is always irresistible! My size right now says it all but trying all kind of food here is one of the enjoyable things to do. Top left: Medium done prime steak@ Broadway Prime Restaurant; top right: Santa Ramen @ San Mateo; middle left: (can't remember the name) chicken @ The Cheese Factory, downtown SF; middle right: chocolate cheese cake @ The Cheese Factory, SF; bottom left: roasted duck @ Porridge King, Daly City; bottom right: Chicken Jamalaya @ Elephant Bar, Burlingame. These are just the selected nice food.

We won't let go any weekends spending nothing at home and of course, if not going far away from home, we would choose to do some sightseeings nearby.

As Genentech employee, we have discount to Wax Museum, so why not?!

However, it was quite disappointing because I didn't manage to shake hand with Obama!!! He was fenced up and so as all the waxen statues. No fun!

Next, Lombard street. It is often billed as the crookedest street in SF. It was designed to reduce the hill's natural 27% grade, which was too steep for most vehicles to climb. An idea place to test your driving skills instead....

Koit Tower where we enjoyed the sunset view of the city.

Sunset......the moment when my stomach started growling noisily.....to say, "IT'S DINNER TIME"! Oppss...okay, I know it supposed to be a romantic caption but I just can't think of one =P

Guess what? Oh yeah, we went for NBA live!!!!

Golden Gate Warrior VS Utah Jazz.

I am neither good in basketball nor a fans of NBA but I love the lively atmosphere and I enjoyed admiring the basketball players =P They're cool man!!!!

Especially when they do the slam dunk!! Awwww.......my hero!

And yup, that's it for the time being. Needless to say, I enjoy life here and I hope more to come to share with you =)

Updates 1

2010-03-04T22:46:00.000-08:00

I am back! Tonnes and tonnes of updates to do here...but just too little time to finish all at one go...

I had been busy with house moving and car hunting last 2 months. Yes, I finally moved into an apartment which is about 15-20 minutes drive via freeway to work. Nice place that is just walking distance to a big shopping mall and restaurants.

Ikea furnitures is all about DIY.

Bed frame was the headache. 64 knots x 2 beds! We were so stressed up to make it done before the day went dark. Still, we made it! So proud of us, my housemate and me! Excellent teamwork!

The whole process was tiring. We had been going to and forth Ikea as well as Target many times, repeating the same thing (loading and unloading) and finally the house was at least equipped with the basic furniture though the living room is still left totally empty.

I like the apartment, small but homey enough as our nest.

Next, car hunting! This was really a nightmare experience for me. That whole week, day and night, I was totally stressed up looking for car online and making appointments for car viewing after work before the rental car was returned. It was difficult to get a decent car within my budget which was around 3k-4k. I just know the whole week, my mind was only occupied with all kind of Japanese CARS (even in my dream)!!! Toyota Camry, Toyota Corrola, Honda Accord, Honda Civic, Honda Prelude etc. From year 1996 to year 2000. I gained more and more experience in judging a car. However, disappointment sank in everytime after a car viewing or after making a call (good car is always sold off fast). It was either car's condition was not as good as I expected or the price was over my budget or surpass the value it should be according to KBB (Kelly Blue Book, a website that we can check how much the car is worth for). Until one Saturday (2 days before the return date of the rental car), I saw this 2000 Honda Civic online.

When I first saw it, I was actually quite disappointed. The interior was kinda dirty and smelly but when I test-drove it, I could tell the engine and brake were in good condition. In the end, I decided to take it. FINALLY!!!

My Jade Wonder =)

Car hunting

2010-02-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I went for second hand car viewing with friends. It was 2000 Honda Civic with only 104k mileage, selling at 4k. According to my senior, the price was quite reasonable with the car in good condition and well maintained. However, the owner wanted me to give him answer on the spot. Angmoh doesn't like bargaining. It either u take or just leave it. Worrying that I couldn't be able to get such nice car again, I took it. I reserved it with 50 bucks deposit and was thinking to do the full payment by cash the next day.

Who knows.....something bad happened this morning. I was told by the car owner that the car badly needs repairment after an accident by his sister. I was shocked and finally decided to give up the car. Thinking back about it, I doubt if he got a better buyer. That could be just an excuse to reject my offer. Sigh, it is destined not to be mine.....

However, I am glad I still have my red Chevrolet! I love it so much and how I wish it can be mine!!!! Well, I know...it is going to be returned soon after one month because it is just a rental car from Avis provided by company for temporary. I will miss you, my red Chevrolet......

New destination

2010-02-02T21:14:00.000-08:00

It has been a while I left this unattended. Too busy to settle down and accustom to new environment.....

Finally, I am here in South San Franscisco. First 3 days, I struggled with my biological clock--very bad jet lag. I woke up almost every 3 am and struggled hard to fall asleep again. I felt asleep in afternoon. Panda eyes were getting bigger day after day.

I have so much to share yet so little time to get to blog. Anyway, let me briefly share the 10 things I like and noticed here so far:

1) I like the weather here. Not too cold, not too hot but just nice! Range around 10-15 degree celcius.

2) I like my room! Studio type of suite, with kitchen and living room attached. Too bad I'll only be here for a month!

3) I quite enjoy doing things together with other trainees here. We have breakfast, lunch and dinner every day. We laugh, we make fun of each and we help one another.

4) I like the company. They emphasize on human wellfare and they provide lots of benefits to their staff. Good company, good choice!

5) I hope I can get used the left hand side driving, especially turning part.

6) I am glad I am still be able to catch their words, at least much easier to listen compare to OZ slang.

7) I finally have my own cubicle at work! I've never ever had it before.....so it's nice to have my own space.

8) I am sick of bread. The breakfast provided in hotel is 365 days the same....

9) The handphone utility is expensive! One calling out or in....charge USD1.00/day even it's just a few min or sec of talk!

10) First time wearing the safety boots at work and it's really hard!

Overall, it's really a good place to live in.

Year 2010 STRAT Family

Farewell

2010-01-23T04:58:00.000-08:00

Time flies in a twinkling of an eye. Sounding like my nephew (he likes counting days everynight, with cute and kiddie rhythm, "MON-da-y, TUEs-da-y, WEDnes-da-y....etc", I am counting down the days towards the departure to a new start and new challenge. OMG, three days left to bid farewell to my dearest family and friends. Excited? Hmmm.....quite! Sad? Definitely. Nervous? Oh yeah, a bit!

Besides busy with pre-departure preparations, farewell luncheons or dinners or meet-ups with friends occupied my calendar these 2 weeks. It was really sweet and touching moments with a few groups of friends organising heartwarming farewells for me. Hugsssss, buddies!

First group, my old secondary school buddies; steamboat at sis Fang's house, Malacca. This was an early farewell cum hard-to-come-by-after-a-decade gathering, organised in December while Fang was back from Brunei. We started as a gang since Form 5 when we were gathered as a team in an environmental project. Since then, we joined many other competitions in a group that slowly strenghtened and built up our friendship. In retrospect, we couldn't stop laughing and making fun of each other on our funny, crazy and embarassed moments we had during school days. I wish we will have this kind of gathering till we're old. We cheered for friendship forever!

Second group, Doreen and her church friends; at MOF Japanese Dessert, Marina Square. A group of friends whom I enjoyed outdoor activities with. They are friendly, nice, sunny and energetic! Hey buddies, thanks for the fun moments at picnic, beach game, ?hiking (though eating out sounds to be more accurate in the end), and kayaking!

Third group, Zu family (as introduced by Susana); Thai food at Nakhon Restaurant, Kovan; Dessert at Starbuck, City Square. Why Zu? Because they're nicknamed with the Zu/猪 in front or behind, eg, Pei-zu, zu-Yen, Ah Har (Oppss....this one is a bit different, probably originated from marine family? LOL =D), ?zu-Yan (Yee Yan). There're 7-8 of them in Zu family. The rest of the members who are not in the picture includes zu-Na, zu-Li etc (these are whom I knew so far). Interesting? Yeah, a funny, crazy, happy-go-lucky and cheerful family graduated from UTM. Btw, is it free to be a member???? *wink*

It was very sweet of Pei Shi to make us a brownie cheese cake as dessert after lunch. Yum yumm....we love it so much! We suggested her to, perhaps, start up a bakery career in future via online ordering system, with a fascia called "LimMak". Yee Yan volunteered to assist her in marketing and publicity; Ah Har initially said, "Don't worry, just in case your businessis is not good, I'll help you eating up all your cakes!" but trying not to be the only devil, she reclaimed,"Of course not, I will help you in delivery!"; and me, assist her in writing blogs all about her yummy cakes! Good idea huh? Think about it, Pei Shi!

How can I not fall in love with Pei Shi? She is just so sweet and thoughtful, isn't she? She bought me a moisturiser from The Body Shop which I long to have. Thank you so much, sweetie~

Forth group, my lovely pretty cousin and handsome cousin-in-law; at Mellben Seafood Restaurant, AngMoKio. When people say cousin and I are quite look-alike, I would smile smugly to show a kind of satisfaction that I am pretty too ^-^ However, I also feel kind of inferior at times that I would always be the not-so-attractive one beside her as all the glories would unwittingly be concentrated on her. No matter what it is, we are close as sisters. There were many happy childhood moments we spent together at each other's house during school holidays, eg, collecting chicken eggs at her mother's small farm, playing "masak", tying up my hair, swinging on the swing and chit-chatting etc. Talking about her husband, I would say he is quite a perfectionist at times but he is a nice guy whom you will never get bored with as he always has lots of topics to talk. Thanks to both of them for shouting me such a luxurious dinner!

Lastly, I am looking forward to my farewell cum early reunion dinner with family! Though as traditional asian, we don't express love utterly to family, I can feel very much with love from my family that they are pillar of strength to me in life. Though I will be far away from them again, my heart will never be far apart with them. I love you, my dearest family!

A nerd

2010-01-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Since yesterday, I hate to look into mirror. I got frustrated when I saw the person inside. Where is my long, permed and stylish hairstyle???? I miss it so much!

In order to save money and for easy maintenance in future (where I will be in oversea which I heard the hairdo is expensive), I straighten and cut my hair short. But I am not satisfied with it. With my thick, black framed spec plus the student-like hairstyle, I totally look like a nerd! I hate it!

Because of it, I had a bad dream last night where everyone in it was laughing at my hairstyle. Arrrghhh....how can I make it look more modern instead of a nerd??? Please help me....*crying in pain*

宝贝

2010-01-14T01:12:00.000-08:00

突然很不舍，不舍得离开我家的两个可爱宝贝。这半年来习惯有他们的陪伴，习惯有他们的笑声哭声，习惯每天早晨醒来，亲亲她的小脚，逗着她笑，习惯吻吻他的额头说早安，背着他的书包，送他上学，接他回家。这么一走，我得等到一年半才能见到他们，呜呼。。。。我不要走 =(

有这么严重吗？

2010-01-11T00:40:00.000-08:00

最近看了何权峰的《有这么严重吗》。里头有很多有趣即有意义的笑话，看了嘴角会不禁翘了起来，感觉很好。希望这小小的分享也能带给你快乐，轻松一下=）

有个年轻人为了脱发的问题感到非常的苦恼，后来听说有家诊所是专治脱发的，便迫不及待地跑去看。医生给了他一瓶药水，说：[用了一个星期以后，保证头发不会再脱落。] 年轻人很兴奋。哪知道，用了这种药以后，头发竟全掉光了。他气愤地找医生理论。医生说：[我这种药，就是让头发快速掉光，所以你现在也就没有头发可脱落了。] 没有了头发，也就没有[掉头发]的烦恼，不是吗？

当你失去某些东西，就会得到另一些东西；当你想要得到某种东西时，你也会失去另一种东西。
有一对经常吵架的夫妻，有天一起出游，经过一个小湖。太太看到湖上两只鹅恩爱地相依偎着，就感慨地说：[你看，它们多恩爱呀！] 丈夫听了，默不作声。到了下午，这对夫妻返家时，又经过那小湖，依然看见公鹅母鹅在湖面上卿卿我我，真是令人羡慕！此时，妻子又开口了：[你要是能像那只公鹅一样体贴温柔，那就好了。][是啊！我也希望如此啊！]先生指着湖面上的那一只鹅说；[不过，你有没有看清楚，现在那只母鹅，并不是早上那一只哦！]
所谓：[有一好，就没两好。]蜡烛不可能两头烧，甘蔗不可能两头甜；当你找了一个精明能干的人，他[对你]也可能精打细算，想找一个懂得浪漫情趣的人，他可能[对别人]浪漫体贴。

许多人都不愿正视过错，因为一旦承认自己过错，就必须面对自己的问题和罪恶，为了维护颜面，就算明知错了，也要兜个大圈子说：[是谁说的？凭什么证明是我的错？]
法官：[有两个证人看到你行窃，你怎么还说自己是无辜的？]
窃贼：[法官大人，我可以找到一百个没有看到我犯案的人啊！]

房客拼命敲房东的门：[我是来告诉你，我的房间里有老鼠。]
房东：[我不是更你说过不许养宠物吗？]

我们经常掉进一个陷阱，就是[争论必有输赢]。不管自己有理无理，都要[争赢]，结果常闹到不可收拾的地步。那该怎么办，难道要叫我[逆来顺受]？不，正好相反，我们得学学[先圣先贤]是如何[应对进退]，如何骂人骂得很有气质，修理人修理得很有格调；如何[借力使力]，用简单的一句话，就把整个情势逆转过来。
甲说：[我原本留着跟你一样的胡子，后来觉得很难看，便把它剔了。]
丙说：[我原本的脸长得跟你一样，后来觉得很难看，便留了胡子。]

另有一个长得非常瘦的男子，在街上碰到了胖子朋友。
胖子说：[看到你，就知道世界正在闹饥荒。]
瘦子说：[看到你，就知道世界为什么会闹饥荒。]
这就叫以其矛攻其之盾，以其人之道还治其人之身。

悲观者就是，当机会来敲门也会以为是有人在扔石头；而看到花圈就会想到葬礼的人。
有位太太一直都怀疑她的先生可能有外遇。最近，她觉得先生的举止有些奇怪，为此她决定开始搜查先生的全部物品，看看有没有其它女人留下的[蛛丝马迹]。第一天，找到一根乌黑柔细的头发，她生气地对先生说：[我就知道你外面有女人，看这根头发你要怎么解释。] [没有的事，你不要太多心了。]丈夫连忙澄清。第二天，发现一根白发，她更加激动地对丈夫说：[连一个老女人你也要，真是气死我了。] [别再胡闹了！]丈夫无奈的说。第三天，她气得要离婚，丈夫不解的问：[今天你没有找到任何一根头发，却为何生更大的气呢？] 太太回答：[我实在不敢相信，居然连一个秃头的女人你都不放过。]

看吧，是不是很可笑？

摘自于何权峰的《有这么严重吗？》

Lazy worm

2010-01-09T22:13:00.000-08:00

I have been at home for half a year and yet I realised nothing meaningful do I learn or achieve by just letting every minute ticked away so easily. What a shame! I am such a lazy bum and getting-fatter worm.

I felt ashamed when people asking me,"So what do you do at home?" I became more and more inferior when people saying the same thing repeatedly, "Don't you feel bored being at home?" I felt speechless when people showing their jeaslousness towards me,"Oh you're so lucky! How I wish I could have such a long holidays like you!" @_@

Indeed, it is the longest holidays I have ever had. However, frankly, even though I feel sluggish at home the whole day, time past like rocket. It seems like a routine formula to describe my day. Breakfast + newspaper = Morning. Lunch + internet/book = Afternoon. Dinner + TV = Night.

I remember once a tour guide told me he used to spend 3 hours reading newspaper in the morning, 2 hours in gardening, 3-4 hours reading and 3 hours for dinner in a day when I travelled to New Zealand with my family. Clandestinely, I laughed and mocked him for wasting life. Now, such things happen real on me! Nevertheless, I realised how many people can have such priviledge for enjoying plenty of time reading news while sipping a cuppa in the morning.

Rushing of time has no longer be my part of life. Things are done in slow motion and sluggish pace. Whenever I don't feel like doing one thing, I can leave it till tomorrow. Whenever I feel like shopping or watching a movie, I just grab my bag and go without hesitating much at the calendar. Whenever a friend is asking me out, I just say YES! according to their availability. Whenever I feel tired, I just sleep! No wonder people are envious of me!

Three more weeks to go and I am flying off soon. Yet, I can't feel the beat to get ready for the departure. Perhaps I am greedy for more holidays and I am not mentally prepared to leave. I enjoy much spending time with family and friends. I enjoy having a maid at home cooking and doing housechores for me ^-^ Going oversea would mean I have to wash clothes, cook and do housechores on my own =( Yeah, now you know I am such a lazy worm.....

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

Looking at 2009 calendar, I wonder what I have done this year. Do all my resolutions set last New Year come true? Do I happy with what I have achieved so far? What have I learnt so far?

Looking back, certainly, there were something I gained and lost at the same time. I am proud to make my study dream come true in oversea. I treasured the experience spent in Sydney and I am blessed to get to know a few good friends there.

On the other hand, of course, I lost my few years savings into study =( but I keep telling myself ….IT’s AN INVESTMENT FOR MY OWN GOOD SAKE! And this is quite powerful to comfort myself though I am still broke =D. As the old saying goes, no pain no gain. Besides, I missed many festive celebrations with family especially Chinese New Year and I am gonna miss it again in 2010 =( Definitely, I gotta start my new career from all over again.

I came through hardship too after my graduation. I struggled hard in job hunting and making critical decisions for my future. I gave up certain things reluctantly and unwillingly. However, with supports and loves from family and friends, I managed to come to grips with the grief of losing.

A sailor won’t be skillful without storms and thunders. I believe I have learnt to be more appreciative and I am still learning to accept and let go. May the year 2010 brings my family, my friends and myself health, wealth and happiness. Happy New Year!

I beg your pardon?

2009-12-04T23:46:00.000-08:00

English is considered our second language in Malaysia. Some people can learn it fast and manage to speak it fluently and in comfortable way. On the other hand, some can still struggle after so many years of English lessons or exposure to English-speaking environment. I think I belong to the latter one. I freak when the person speaks very fast English as in no full-stop in between sentences. I stutter that I can’t think of a suitable vocabulary in my sentence at times. Hence, I can’t express well in English to this type of person. However, magically and without realizing it, I speak in such a smooth and confident way to some people whom I feel comfortable to talk to.

When I was in Australia, I had problem to catch their slang and words. Most of the time, I would say, “Pardon?” or “Sorry?” Sometimes, I was so shy to say too many times of sorry or pardons. In order to polish my listening to their English, I started to listen to radio or watch their TV programmes. Funny thing is I found it easier to catch their words in radio or TV but in reality, I still faced the same difficulty at times. I guess I need years to get used to their slang.

Back in Singapore, I noticed some speak very fast English like a shooting gun, as if they are rushing for reincarnation, especially those who call to promote credit card or any bank services. The other day, I had phone interview with a visa agent. He spoke like a bullet train – fast and non-stop. I had to stick my ears very close to the phone and pay full attention to him while my heart was beating as fast as his speed. I wonder what is the point then for this kind of communication. Showing off his fluency of English? Or perhaps he had been repeating the same things for too many times till he didn’t realize he was actually chanting but not talking?! Or is it really my problem in listening? Well, I just knew he would definitely get even more frustrated if my response was “Pardon?” in the end of his long speech! What for?!

Though I agree that my English is still far ahead to get improved, getting clear and understandable messages conveyed to the other party is yet as important as learning the language in a communication or conversation. As the old saying goes, never afraid of growing slowly but be afraid of standing still. So I say, never afraid of speaking slowly but be afraid of people asking “Pardon” many times in the end of your conversation.

Rememberance

2009-12-03T02:07:00.000-08:00

Perhaps for many people, today is just another usual day. But it seems to be something more than that for me. Some sweet memories occupy my mind while some sad feelings aching my heart. No matter what had happened, I sincerely wish “you” Happy Birthday and hope you are doing well and staying healthy all the time.

Never give up

2009-11-17T23:13:00.000-08:00

I have failed a few cakes since my last successful muffin. I wonder why all came out the same results. Wet inside, burnt outside.

My sister gave it a name called volcano cake!! @_@

Yesterday when my family was having dinner, I told them I am gonna bake another cake. Everyone suddenly stopped eating and looked at me, rolling their eyes, " Again????" My sister said, "No more baking please!"

Well, I know they are sick with my ugly and tasteless cakes and poor thing is they were my victims to help me finish the cake. I know I know, but do I really have to give up just because of the failures before? NO WAY! I am gonna try it again. This time round, I made cookies. I found the easiest way and the simplest ingredients I could get to make the very basic cookies --- Oat and Chocolate cookies!

I followed the recipe carefully. Step by step. Measured accordingly and added in the ingredients one by one. Waiting and looking anxiously at my cookies in the oven, keeping my finger crossed, I prayed hard for them. 15 minutes had gone, deng deng deng deng deng.....here were my cookies.....
Oh yeah, not bad huh... I gave the maid privilege to try my very first cookies. "Nice!" she said. Wow...this word has long been disappearing in my baking dictionary and now it is back! LOL~ I was happy and hope this was gonna boost my family's confidence on my baking skill. After all, I am not totally a baking idiot, okay?! As the old saying goes, failure is the mother of success. Never give up and keep on practicing. I will be a good baker, I believe.

Marina Barrage

2009-11-09T22:40:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, I went to Marina Barrage with cousin and cousin in law. Initially, I thought it was just normal photoshooting and casual visiting but for them, it seemed to be something big and serious with all the necessary tools and accessories.

Looking at me from head to toe, my cousin decided to give more touch up on my "indistinct" make up before we departed to the barrage.

It was a sunny day but they seemed enjoying much being photographer and model, busy posing and photoshooting for each other. Meanwhile, I enjoyed my self-phototaking =)

I found it awkward when it came to my turn posing in front of his camera. Perhaps I lack of the confidence that I am shorter and uglier than my cousin. LOL~

Walking up the slope, we came to a big field, with the crowd flying kites and having picnic. Standing on the field, we admired much the grandeur of the city, with the Singapore flyer standing arrogantly far out there.

We had a three person photoshooting, lying on the grass with our hand crossed over each other. Once lying on the grass, I felt diffucult to get up, as it was too comfortable and relaxing looking up the sky decorated with all kinds of pattern and colourful kites- jellyfish, hello kitty, little bee etc.

People always say Singapore is a boring place with no elsewhere to go. I say it is not at all. Singapore might not be a great place for adventurous activities but it has many nice parks here. After all, the place doesn't play a key role here but it is the quality time spent with family or friends that matters. Whatever and wherever you do, enjoy the moment. See, what a good day, chilling out at Marina Barrage!

New hobby

2009-11-04T22:08:00.001-08:00

I think I have fallen in love with baking. Last weekend, I made walnut cake. Today, I made muffin! This was my first time baking muffin. I was quite worried at the beginning while beating the butter and egg as it didn't look "normal" for me. However, it turned out to be okay after I added in flour and milk. Look, this is the result which I am quite satisfied with. They might not look appealing but taste good!

Yeah, muffin mission successful!

This is it

2009-10-31T03:20:00.001-07:00

This is it

The new pathway I am heading to
The new destination I am flying to
The new enviroment I am looking forward

This is it

A starting point of new career

A heading point of new future

A beginning point of new challenge

This is it

Be it bad or good

I wish for courage to sail through it

I wish for determination to live it to the fullest

启发

2009-10-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

上周末忙碌的日子已过，我仿佛又回到了“宅女”的生活。前阵子的空虚感又再次悄悄地在我心底作祟，没用的自卑感又再次重重地打击我的信心，头脑装满的都是负面的思想，“没用的我怎么到现在还没找到工，没用的我什么时候才能重新大展拳脚，没用的我怎么那么不争气啊！”

即使家人朋友给了我很多鼓励及支持，我深深明白我有时候还是输给了自己，输的是没勇气接受现况的我，输的是怕被别人瞧不起的我。我需要的是自己能帮自己开窍的方法。最终我选择阅读。

近来读了一些心理学的书，大多数是游乾桂的著作。其中一本叫做“别和自己过不去”。里头有好几则短文我还蛮喜欢的，不但很有启发性，而且还渐渐地把我从负面思想拉出来，在此想和大家分享：

活着就好
我有一个梦，一个非常简单的梦，它叫--活着就好。当你年薪超过两百万，身体只值一块钱时，你会陷入这样的迷思之中--要命还是要钱。赚得全世界，赔上一条命，这样的生意划不划得来，你比我清楚。于是，活着就好，起码代表钱是有用的；死了，什么都别说。（还好，我还活着，虽然我没钱！）

以童为师
心理学家研究发现，孩子生气只有三秒钟，大人生气长达一个月，甚至更长，一辈子死对头的大人大有人在。因为孩子的心理是简单的。大人的心灵很复杂。孩子说一是一，大人说一是十；孩子举一反三，大人举一反零；小孩不计前嫌，大人斤斤计较；小孩烦恼走了，大人痛苦仍在；小孩找不着仇人，大人仇人满街；你是孩子的父母，孩子却是你的心理医生。（感恩我家哥哥的小孩，他们确实是我的快乐泉源！）

生命形式
每种生命都有它不凡的价值。生下来一无所有的人，正代表人有无限可能。生命不能不获得某种形式，却又难以避免的陷入它的形式里。比如，作家，它是一种身份，一种职业，也是一种限制，[无]在那一刻成了[有]，无限也就变成了有限。生命的固定化形同[作繭自缚]。我的生命[虚无]，但却[实有]。无气，有乐。无怨，有悦。无钱，有闲。（我就是那个无钱，有闲的人啦！）

坚持自我
什么最难？坚持自我最难。什么最简单？坚持自我最简单。美国思想家爱默生也这样说过，顺着世俗的方式生活，很容易，依照自己的想法过生活，也很容易；最难的是，在世俗的环境里，过自己的生活。坚持，往往需要一点点[勇气]。（是的，我很需要这份勇气！）

短文摘自于游乾桂的《别和自己过不去》

Reunion

2009-10-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

I felt good meeting old friends again at hometown. Without them, I wouldn't get free accomodation. Without them, I wouldn't easily get moved around the city. Without them, I wouldn't be able to secure a ticket back to Singapore. Thanks a lot, buddies!

I am always proud as a Malaccan. A recognised world heritage and historical state. A place where I grew up. A place where I had lots of sweet memories with family and friends. A place where I can eat all I can!

Nyonya laksa, one of my die-die must eat food when I am back. A year ago, I still managed to get a table inside the restaurant. After a year, I saw a very long Q till the road outside. I saw traffic jam around Jonker Street. You can imagine how fast the tourist industry has boomed in Malacca.

Satay celup! I love it so much! Counting properly, I have not had it for ages! Somebody reminded me that it is actually not hygienic with the gravy used repeatedly. Well, who cares?! The one I went was located at Ong Kim Wee road. There are 3-4 shops and all were full house! See, tasty food is always irresistible!

One trip home reunites and rekindles our friendship. One trip home brings us back to old days. One trip home brings us laughters and happiness!

Happy Birthday, Ah Ko!

2009-10-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

Every day is a new beginning....
But today, is special.....
It is my dearest elder brother's birthday!
Happy Birthday, Ah Ko!
Wishing you a day busting with happiness and sparkling with joys!

We had one-week-in-advanced birthday celebration for him in Penang. Instead of buying a big creamy fancy birthday cake, we bought six different flavour of doughnuts with our own creative decorations on top for him.

Is he still alived?

2009-10-14T01:55:00.000-07:00

Is he still alived? Look properly. Yes, this is fat version of Michael Jackson! A tribute for MJ at Changi airport. I paid more attention to his two dancer instead. I couldn't stop laughing looking at them. The way they danced and their expressions were very amusing.

Coffee or tea

2009-10-11T22:08:00.000-07:00

I am not a coffee or tea person. I like coffee but I can't take it. Firstly, I have gastritis. Secondly, my heart beats very fast and my stomach starts to bloat after drinking coffee. Still, sometimes I can't resist its fragrance. I used to have biscuit (especially the old brand, 888 biscuit) dipping with Kopi-C when I was young. I loved it so much! I don't drink tea as well until recently, I start loving it especially my aunt's or my sis's home made Teh-C.

Last week, I had afternoon tea time with my sister and elder brother at a newly-opened cafe. "You will hardly find in other place for this kind of coffee!" the first thing my brother strongly recommended when we arrived in Penang. Sister and I wondered how fantastic could it be until we tried the coffee...wow...lovely! Ok well, frankly, I don't really know how to drink coffee. For me, most coffee taste the same. However, I still could taste it much bitter and smell stronger than other coffee.

It is kind of modified coffee maker to boil coffee. The process was similar to boiling the water in beaker on the Bunsen burner in the lab. The owner of the cafe showed us how to correctly make a nice coffee. For me, it is quite a tedious job. No wonder, slow work yields fine products.

Our intention was to try the coffee called Kopi Luwak. It was said that this coffee made from coffee berries which have been eaten by and passed through the digestive tract of the Asian Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and other related civets. The civets eat the berries, but the beans inside pass through their system undigested. This process takes place on the islands of Sumatra, Java, Bali and Sulawesi in the Indonesia Archipelago, in the Philipines (where the product is called Motit Coffee in the Cordillera, or Kape Alamid in Tagalogs areas) and in East Timor (locally called kafé-laku). It is sold around RM20. Can you imagine? We were drinking coffee that come from animal's faeces yet it was so expensive! However, we had no luck to try this coffee. Instead, we had Kalosi Jantan coffee which was very nice too.
We tried the nasi lemak and santan dessert in that coffee shop too. One word, GOOD! You should try the coffee and food there if you happen to go Penang: Coffee Lane, 10-B King Street Georgetown 10200 Penang.

Well, after coffee, sister and I had late afternoon tea break again after shopping at a nice tea house called Winter Warmer at Gurney Plaza. I like their English-style decoration and it was very cozy and soothing sitting inside, sipping a cup of tea. What a relaxed and wonderful "tai tai" life....haha!

接受

2009-10-06T00:23:00.000-07:00

我在学习接受，接受近来的不如意，接受难熬的等待，接受事实。人家说成功不会从天上掉下来，逆境常在左右，这就是生活考验。我要学习逆风飞舞，但愿越飞越顺风！

跌倒了，爬起来！

失败了，不灰心，再来一次！

失恋，有什么大不了！

失业，有什么可怕！

逆境，不怕不怕！我一定会过关！

Die-die must eat

2009-09-30T14:50:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to try the authentic Sarawak laksa since my first taste home-cooked Sarawak laksa by Susana in Sydney. I told myself, die-die must have it during my trip to Kuching.

First day, I arrived late in the afternoon, so I couldn't make it. Second day, I sneaked out from Susana's wedding events after church to grab the only time I could, hanging around the city and looking for any famous local food.

From left: Me, Sheau Sia, Tze Ling, Yee Pui
It was so nice of them to accompany me go jalan jalan, especially Tze Ling, carried her big tummy, walking with me under the hot weather. Anyway, walking is good for pregnant woman, easier delivery =p

It is all about CATS!!! Yeah, that is why Kuching = Cat City! Miao~ Too bad that I didn't have time to visit the only CAT MUSEUM there.

Guess what, that was the lemon+lime+coconut juice! Trust me, it taste good and cooling. Right top: Belancan Meehoon. I only had a few bites because I couldn't stand the tangy smell of belancan. Tze Ling ended up helped me to finish it. Haha...not bad to bring pregnant woman along because they usually crave for strong flavoured food. *I am bad =p* Right bottom: Kong Piah with cha siu (roasted pork) inside and some sasame sprinkled on top. Very cripsy and smell good.

Still, I did not manage to eat laksa because all laksa had already been sold out after morning =(

At night, after the wedding dinner, Susana and her hubby brought us to kopitiam for supper. I thought this time round I should be able to taste the laksa. But there was no laksa sold at night=(

Left top: Kolo mee. I love it much. The texture of the noodle was just nice, not too soggy and not too elastic. There are two types of flavor, red (with ketchup) and white (plain). I prefer red one because it smells better. Right top: Ketchup kuay tiao. It taste almost the same as wa-tan-ho but with sour taste from ketchup. Bottom: o-chian (fried oyster with egg). I like it but couldn't eat too much, it's fattening!!

Third day, everyone woke up early for breakfast (mainly for laksa) except me *paiseh*. I just couldn't open my eyes. I was extremely sleepy and exhausted. So, I missed the laksa again =(

I slept till 11am. I went for brunch with Susana's brother. But ALL laksa had already been sold out. So I had Kolo mee again. Afternoon, Sheau Sia came to fetch me. Thought we could still be able to grab the only laksa at the Spring (the biggest shopping mall in Kuching), who knows, the stall was closed (all stalls opened except that laksa stall, arrhhhhh)!! Laksa, laksa, it is destined I cannot have you! Sob sob ='(

In the end, I only had the laksa paste brought home. Sigh.....

Do we look alike?

2009-09-29T20:01:00.001-07:00

Do you think we look alike? I heard about her from Susana long time ago until I met her last week at Susana's wedding dinner.

OMG, I myself have to admit that we do resemble each other at certain angles, especially the upper part of our face features! Don't you think so? She is same age with me but few more months older than me. We might be the missing sisters for years! LOL~

Long time ago, someone told me that there are 7 person in the world who might be resembling you and I got my first one =D

Susana's wedding

2009-09-24T02:25:00.000-07:00

After 9+ years of long term relationship, they finally tied the knot last Monday! It is indeed not easy to maintain a relationship but they made it. Looking enviously at Susana wearing on the white gown and walking down the aisle in the church, I felt happy for her too. It was a touching moment when the bride was passed over from father to the bridegroom. It heralds another stage they will be going through together for the rest of their life.

I have not been to a wedding or being "sister" in a wedding for long time. The moment that I enjoyed the most in a wedding was how sisters playing tricks on bridegroom and brothers ;-p It made everyone on the spot laughed heartily and feeled good.

Something special about her wedding was the welcoming session at the wedding dinner.

" ......I love you....无法不爱你，babe..." the solid voice suddenly came from stage, the bridegroom was singing that seemed to surprise everyone. At the same time, the bride with red elegant gown walked in the hall and sang together at the chorus part. This was my first time to hear Susana singing! Big applause to her! He looked nervous on stage but she looked so calm and steady! Overall, it was quite a successful and well-planned wedding.

After her wedding, we had another birthday celebration for her pretty friend, Soo Li. Though it was just a three-day trip, I enjoyed it much as I got to know her friends and family.

I sincerely wish her a blissful marriage and I believe she will have her own happy family soon.

Graduation

2009-09-16T23:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my second time of graduation in life. Though it was just a small ceremony at Marriot Hotel, I still felt excited for it as I knew this would be the last to wear on academic gown.
It was very different in terms of environment and ambience as compare to my first convocation in UKM. This time, I was the only one from my course to have graduation in Singapore. For me, it seemed a little bit of “one man show”, I am not sure how to describe it but it was definitely different to have a group of coursemates celebrating together. Luckily I met two friends there and so coincident, one just sat beside me.

Instead of saying one man show, I should be blessed that I have my family to support me. It seemed like each of them played an important role in a supporting team to me! My elder brother became my assistant cum video-cameraman. He accompanied me to the hotel first, carried things for me and helped me to put on gown. My sister, my make up advisor; the makeup tools, clothes, accessories and even the heels are all sponsored by her. My second brother, the driver; he took one day off for both my elder brother and me as our driver. My sis-in-law, general assistant cum operator; to look after any matters at home. My little rascal nephew and baby niece, entertainer cum supporter; my nephew was even more excited than me, he ran here and there to really “entertain” us (phew, tough job to chase after him) and my little baby niece, lying down in the pram, once in a while, show her sweet smile. My cousin, the part time camera girl and supporter; bought me 3 big polyester cartoon flowers (yeah, she said it will last longer and it is washable =s). See, how lucky I am to have such a lovely family! Oh gosh, I love you all!!!

The ceremony was held in a small ballroom with 75 graduates and it was only last for 45 minutes. “Graduate Choo San, Yeow, specialize in Molecular Biotechnology.” Gosh, the moment my name was called, I suddenly felt so proud of myself. Oh yes, I made it, one of my dreams in life! Opps, no no no….that’s not dream anymore, I have made it real!

The feeling was good with my certificates on hands but I deeply know that the journey has just started. There is still a long way ahead, waiting for me to venture and pave my career pathway. Gambate, Susan!

Rascal at home

2009-09-06T01:50:00.000-07:00

With him at home, the house is full of laughter and also becomes so much noisier than ever before. At times, he is adorable that makes you feel like kissing him all the time. At times, he can be very naughty that seems to test your patience.

He is a happy and lively child that has full of energy! I reckon he would be an outstanding athlete in future because he runs all the time like Forrest Gump! If not running, you’ll see him jumping or climbing up and down or crawling over the sofa as if he just can’t stop moving for single minute.

He loves dancing and singing. Whenever the music is on, he’ll start moving his body and dance with the rhythms. And so, I called him- Happy Feet. When he is in good mood, he will sing a song for you. “Twinkle twinkle little STAR, how I wonder what you ARE….” It is always the last word with clearer and louder pronunciation. Haha!

He is also very talkative. He used to carry his chair, put in front of you, slowly climb up the chair, and start giving “speech” in his language. He has got full of expressions and gestures when talking. He likes to make his eyebrows up and down (just like what the kids do in the Cadbury chocolate advertisement) and gets you a funny and cheeky look!

He loves book very much. Like a professor, he always clips and carries his favorites book under his armpit, wherever he goes and whatever he does. See, even when he is sleeping!

He also likes listening to story, even the same story has been repeated for many donkey times every day! No joke, he can remember and pronounce sharply and clearly of every last word of the sentence of the story!

He loves going out. The only quiet moment is when he’s sitting on his VIP seat in the car because he’ll be busy looking out the window, enjoying and exploring his wondering moments. Once in a while, he would point to the trees or cars outside and shout out loudly, “Trees!” “Cars!”

He, is my naughty yet lovely nephew.

Oh my dear dear nephew, I suddenly feel like singing the song.....

You are my sunshine, my only sunshine

You make me happy when skies are grey

You never know dear, how much I love you

Please don't take my sunshine away!!!

Single and available

2009-08-23T09:17:00.000-07:00

Nowadays, I face two kind of situations when asking a friend out.

Scenario I

Me: Hey friend, how are you doing? Long time no see. Shall we meet up someday?

A: Oh Hi, I'm fine. *Ignoring the last question*

Me: Are you free this weekend? Or any day that suite your time?

A: Ermmm....Hey I'm sorry, I need to balik kampung with my hubby to see my baby this coming week. Next week, I need to bring my baby to see doctor.....bla bla bla..... Next time la. Oh, I gotta go. Bye..... *leaving in rush*

Me: ..............

Since then, I hardly hear from her again and not even mention about the outing =(

Scenario II

Me: Hi friend, how are you? Long time no see.

B: Hi Susan! Nice to see you online. We should catch up someday.

Me: Oh sure. When and where? This weekend?

B: Great! Bla bla bla....*happily suggesting a place to meet up*

Since then, we have outing very often.

Sorry, no offence by the dialogue above. My key point here is the older I grow, friends that I can go out with are getting lesser and lesser. At my age, most of the friends have got married or attached. Married one, busy with their marriage or family life. Attached one, weekday busy working and weekend busy dating with boy boy or girl girl. So the only friends who usually can accompany me full time are same status with me -- single and available =(

Happy single life anyway =)

Jobless

2009-08-19T19:57:00.000-07:00

It has been a while for leaving this session unattended since I was back in Singapore.

In the beginning, I felt happy and sweet to be home. I felt ambitious to get better job and so, I have high expectation and demands on myself. However, things didn’t seem to turn out the way I wanted to be.

After one month of job hunting, I told myself, just be patient. Two months gone, I start to feel anxious. What happen to all my applications? Am I over-confident? Am I too picky? Is there something wrong with my resume or cover letter? Probably I lack of experience in the job I want.

The longer joblessness lasts, the greater the emotional toll it takes on me. Desperation, depression, anxiety and frustration slowly come to me. I feel a sense of humiliation and my self-esteem starts to take a hit.

Praying hard for better weeks to come……

Oh Susana

2009-07-29T01:53:00.000-07:00

I saw this when I was on my Tasmania trip. Susana, that was purposely snapped down for you...haha!

I suddenly heard a song, ~Oh, Susanna,Oh don't you cry for me....~~

Someone crossed my mind at this moment. My housemate, Susana! Talking about her, the very first thing come to my mind is her smile =) She has a very sweet smile (even my aunt also said so) and that is why I always call her ~sweetie~. Well, I think she is not only sweetie, but also jokie (she likes to joke), auntie (whe she was with me, lol~), smartie (she is always smart for me), "walkie-talkie" (haha, she always has topic to talk about), my breakfast kaki....etc.

At home in Australia, she was the one who I talked the most with, who I share the most with and who I enjoyed doing things with the most. We had breakfast every morning together, we went to Paddy market together every weekend, and after Paddy, we would try different restaurants near Chinatown. We talked non-stop, whatever topics eg food, friends, gossips, jokes etc.

Although just half a year to know her, we seem to be very close like old friends. There were many things that we did together and instead of saying she always scared to be alone, I would say she was the one who kicked off my loneliness.

Thanks to her that brought me her DIY bouquet of flowers on my graduation photographing session. Thank you, my friend!

Thank you

2009-07-24T01:02:00.000-07:00

One week in Melbourne staying in my aunt’s house, I had my time mostly spent in the little and warm house, walked around the neighbourhood and the park nearby and visited my other aunt nearby. Though it was not what I really wanted to be initially (I thought I would have time to hang around city area and perhaps some tourist spots in Melbourne), I think I really appreciate my aunt for taking good care of me. Because of serious and uncontrollable condition of swine flu in Melbourne, she was very worried about me getting sick and kept asking me to take supplement to boost my immune system.

It was so thoughtful of her to prepare so many sweaters and pyjamas for me, worrying that I might catch cold. Sweet~

But the dressing gown might be too big for my size =p

She got everything ready for me including sweaters, healthy food and fruits etc. She made sure I have healthy meals every day. Guess what, I have six meals a day. Breakfast would be oat porridge with nuts and fruits in it and a slice of bread. Lunch and dinner would be rice, one veggie and one meat. Yogurt was served in between breakfast and lunch. Tea break served with tea and bun in between lunch and dinner. See, how can I not get fatter here? In just a week, I have already gained 2 kg!!!!

It was too relax and comfortable to stay at aunt's house.

Every time when we were back from outside, she would never forget to ask me to wash my hands and nose. She said virus is everywhere outside. It is better to take precautions rather than sorry later on.

Worrying that I might get bored staying at home for the whole week, she reluctantly agreed to bring me to city on Sunday. I really appreciate her efforts to find the ways to some nice places in city while at the same time kept asking me if I was too tired. She brought me to a nice restaurant for buffet just to make sure I had enough to eat. I guess that was more than enough! Haha!

Awsome dessert in New Quay Buffet restaurant at Dockland, Melboune.

I felt bad that I still kept complaining to my family and friend that I was like a prisoner being quarantined at home, yet I was actually so well taken care by my aunt. It was very thoughtful of her. I felt so guilty now when I looked at my aunt busy in the kitchen preparing meal for me and washed all the dishes for me just worried I might dirty myself again after shower. I know I should not complain but to appreciate what she had done for me. I should be more understanding to her for being alone most of the time at home and need someone to talk to.

I just want to say, Thank you, aunt! I really appreciate it!

Goodbye Sydney

2009-07-24T00:30:00.000-07:00

Finally, I finished my one year study journey in Sydney. One year is not long but I do learn and grow (both physically-gain on weight and mentally- more matured, haha!) a lot here.

First came to Sydney, I was so homesick and not used to be alone most of the time. The house condition when I first arrived made me so upset and miserable. Slowly, I adjusted myself to new language and people, different culture, different environment (climate and food), different educational system and different status (from working adult to poor student again). I should be blessed that I still have brother’s friends here that they always gave their very best to help me whenever I was in need. Sometimes, they invited me to stay overnight at their place, “fed” me with good food etc….that really warmed my heart and healed my homesickness.

I'm grateful to have them that made me feel being at home.

Second semester, old housemates went and new housemates came. My life started to fill with laughters and noise at home. We always have meal gathering at home, catch up “The Biggest Looser” and “ MasterChef” together, etc. Stephanie- my TV kaki; Susana- my breakfast, dinner and paddy (market) kaki; Selina- my shopping kaki (though not many times, she introduced a lot of good restaurants to me); Yi-Fen- the youngest and the prettiest housemate at home, my ‘baking advisor’. I’m grateful and glad that I know them even though just half a year that made me starting to enjoy life in Australia.

From left: Yi-Fen, me, Selina, Susana, Stephanie

That day on my way to airport, I had mixed feeling of leaving. When I think about going home, I feel excited to see my family and friends in hometown again. When I think about going home, I feel worried about my future career. When I think about going home, I feel sad about leaving my friends in Sydney and I will definitely miss the good weather and nice food here. Again, I am back to the so-called the process of adjustment just like when I first came here.

If you ask me which part of my experience here do I value most, I would answer you I value every moment I had gone through here, be it happy or sad. If you ask me how have I changed, I would answer you I am still the previous Susan, but improving myself to another level of professional knowledge and skills, some social behaviours and being more independent and adaptable to new environment.

Yes! I made it!

"Golden" hair

2009-07-23T23:32:00.000-07:00

The thing that I did the second day upon my arrival in Penang was HAIRCUT. After a year not doing any hairdo, my hair is long and out of shape already. I am sick of straight hair and this time I decided to give it a perm again.

From 2.30p.m onwards, I started to sit in the salon. It was a long long process from cutting, washing, perming, colouring till treatment. During the hairdo, I slept, woke up and read some megazines, slept again and until they called me to wash my hair. By the time I finished the hairdo, it was already evening time around 7p.m. It always take half a day to do hair. That is why I seldom go salon, four times a year the maximum.

I looked at the mirror, wondering who is this in it? Haha! I looked so much different!

Before

After

Guess how much does it cost? I bet you won’t guess the right figure. It was RM810!!!! I got a shock when the lady told me the price. This is the most expensive hairdo I have ever done! What a "golden" hair! Thank God that my brother was willing to pay for me. Thanks ah Ko, I love you! Haha!

Home sweet home

2009-07-22T19:44:00.000-07:00

Finally, I have safely touched down Penang! What a relieved! It has been a long long journey since my departure day from Melbourne.

First I took Jetstar from Melbourne and transit at Darwin. My luggage was one kilo overweight when checking-in my luggage in Melbourne. I thought I would be as lucky as when I was in Sydney to get through baggage overweight issue. Who knows the lady at the counter didn't allow me and asked if I want to take out things from luggage or be charged for AUD40. Of course I was not willing to pay for that just a kilo, so I reluctantly took out a box with six small container of lotion creams. Ok, at this stage, I managed to pass through custom.

After 4-5 hours flight, I reached Darwin. Here, I need to go through custom again to screen my hand luggage before getting in the boarding room. As required, I took out all my toiletries in transparent bag and I was actually a bit worried if I could get through with my lotion creams. Guess what, the staff threw all my face cleanser, toner and toothpaste. He said I should not bring more than 100ml but actually the volume was less than 100ml in a more than 100ml of container only! Arrghhh... Okay, nevermind, guess what next? They asked me to open my bag and take out the lotions. I was asked either put into my toiletries together or check in the bag. For sure, six containers couldn't fit into one small transparent bag. So I decided to check in my luggage. Who knows it was so so long queue and I only had one hour left to get on board. Sigh, I had no choice but gave up to check-in and proceed to screening session again. I only managed to put four creams in the transparent bag. The other two was thrown away by the staff. Luckily the creams were not very expensive, else I would get heart pain =(

By the time everything was done, it was time to get on board. I had no time to have dinner at airport and I was so so hungry. Anyway, I had my dinner on the plane.

It was another 4-5 hours flight to Singapore. I safely touched down destination at about 10.05p.m Singapore time. I straight headed to Ambassador Transit Hotel inside airport lounge without claiming my luggage. I was so glad that there was this hotel in airport. Save my time and money to travel to other hotel outside. I was totally exhausted after this long long trip home. Gosh, if not because of financially tight, I won't take transit flight anymore.

Next day morning, I woke up at 7a.m, checked-out of hotel, claimed my heavy luggage at lost and found session and took a flight back Penang at 10.15a.m. Thank God, I FINALLY reached home! I was so excited to see my brother again after one year. Home sweet home~

This is the budget single occupancy room in Ambassador Transit Hotel. It was clean and tidy.What a smart and great idea to have a hotel inside airport! It enables those transit passengers who need to spend a long waiting time at airport, to have a good rest and sleep. Furthermore, the rate is reasonable. Budget single occupancy room is just SG40+ per 6 hours. Every extension hour is SG15+ per hour. Budget room means no bathroom attached but sharing the common bathroom. Don't worry, the shared bathroom is very clean and body shampoo is provided. I strongly recommend this hotel if you happen to stay at Changi airport and wish to get a good rest before your next destination.

Have you seen this before?

2009-07-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

Can you clearly see what are hanging up there on the lamp-post wire? Yes, bingo! (Ok, I know this question sounds stupid. LOL~) Shoes!!!! I saw this when I was on my way to public library at Ultimo. Ten pairs of them and all of them were branded shoes-Nike, Puma etc. Wow…I wonder is this a new trend of drying shoes? Or is it a new way of decorating the street instead of using fancy colourful bulbs?? Anyway, what a waste!

Apparently, this was a prank but who were the culprits? The lamp-post was approximately 200 metre height and I think these people have the potential in putting the shot. Hats off to them!

Anyway, this is dangerous. A short circuit may happen anytime because of this. Those people should be more considerate to others’ safety. It might be fun but think twice before you do this.

French fries and mashed potato

2009-07-05T21:24:00.000-07:00

Last few days, early in the morning, I was so excited to try something new that I haven’t done before – making French fries, my favorite! It is actually very easy to make and I learnt this from MasterChef (a TV programme all about cooking competition, just like IronChef)! Three easy main steps:

1. Cut the potatoes into long rectangular shape and boil in water for about 20 minutes.
2. Drain the water and put the boiled potatoes in fridge for at least half a day.
3. Fry the potatoes till they turn into golden colours and make sure they are covered by oil which is heated enough. Lastly, sprinkle salts on the potatoes or you can eat it on its own. That’s it! (Alternatively, you can bake them with less oil which is healthier than frying)

Steak with salad and french fries.

See, easy right? You can try to make it at home for your family especially the kids. Save money and healthier!

Another recipe for potatoes that I had tried before is mashed potato (learnt from MasterChef again). It is as easy as making French fries too! Three easy main steps:

1. Bake the potato without peeling off its skin with salts cover on it for about 8-10 minutes until it is cooked. Alternatively, boil it with water.
2. Cut the potato into half and mash it with spoon. Peel off the skin and mix with butter which is cut into small cubes.
3. Slightly boil the milk in fry pan with low heat and mix with mashed potato. Stir the mixture until it is soft.

Steak with salad and mashed potato

I feel it is kind of an achievement of knowing and cooking something that I love to eat and haven’t tried before even though it is a very easy recipe. Haha! I know you are laughing there…but I really enjoy cooking since I am here in Australia.

Nomad within the house

2009-07-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

My bed sheet with pillows wrapped inside

Last two day since moving out from my room, I was busy moving up and down my bed sheet and pillows to and from the living room. Ok, I can start to imagine a lot of question marks above your head. Well, I supposed to stay in living room temporarily (after checked out) before flying off to Melbourne in next two weeks. However, I didn’t lock the door of my previous room when I checked out. So I was thinking , “Hmmm, since no one comes and inspects my room today (as I was told by the receptionist), perhaps I can still sleep on my bed for another night.” So I happily slept on my previous bed that night. However, I didn’t really sleep well, probably I am not used to do ‘illegal’ thing like this.

I woke up very early the next day morning and quickly moved down my whole set of ‘sleeping tools’ to living room. As expected, the management guy came BUT he just inspected the room downstairs which was my housemate’s room who will take over my room when she is back. So I was thinking again, “Hmmm, looks like he won’t be coming anymore since he has done the inspection.” Again, I happily moved up the things to the room in the afternoon. And guess what, I was shocked when two cleaners suddenly came while I was using the internet wire in the room! Gosh, I felt like I was being caught red-handed.

The cleaner asked, “Are you the new resident here?” Spontaneously, I lied,“ No, I’m from the room downstairs but I just came here to use the internet and my housemate asked me to move her things up.” The cleaner looked a bit doubtful but didn’t say anything. I wonder if I blinked my eyes while telling lies =p. Anyway, thank God that they didn’t lock the door as what I reminded them to do so before I left.

In order to have a better sleep, I decided to sleep in living room last night. So I moved my bed sheet and pillows down to living room again. I was like a nomad but an unusual nomad, just moving within the house!

My new 'bed' in living room

This morning, I woke up with a slight back pain due to the soft quality of the sofa. Again, I decided to move the ‘things’ up to my room and I think I will just sleep on my bed for the next 2 weeks. Praying hard that they won’t be coming anymore. *Finger-crossed*

Good bye 8105-3

2009-07-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

Time flies. Here comes the end of my one year course in Sydney. It seems like it just happened yesterday! Oh my God, I finally finished my Master’s degree!

I was busy with farewell, packing and cooking for friends few days ago. It was even busier than preparing for exams and assignments =)

I thought I might not have a lot to pack and was confidently thinking that my luggage should be spacious enough for some local food and souvenirs. Who knows, after putting my things together, I just realized I was wrong. There are so much to bring home!!! Now I regret not getting the biggest luggage.

Look at my luggage, it is overflowed and defintely overweight!

This is before and after packing. Looks like I have not many things right? Hmmm...how come my luggage still can overflow? Packing skill problem?

I still have 2 more weeks to stay in Sydney. Hopefully I can fully utilize these 14 days to hang around Sydney and try all so called “specialties” here for my last chance ( I don’t think I may spend money to come back to the same country).

Touching moment

2009-06-12T07:01:00.000-07:00

Just a few minutes ago, I heard the footsteps climbing up the staircases to my room level (3rd level). As usual, I would expect it should be one of the housemates staying next door or opposite my room. Surprisingly, my door was knocked and again, as usual, I thought it may be Susana (the sweetie pie staying down-stair) asking me for supper again. Unexpectedly, it was Stephanie, the lovely girl staying at the ground floor. She panted a while and said,"Hey Susan, I am leaving tomorrow and I know I can’t see you again when I’m back. Just want to say good bye and take care.” Oh that was so sweet of her and I was really touched at that moment. I felt like hugging her but I regretted I did not. Instead, I just stood still and said thank you. Stupid me! Well, I must give her the warmest hug tomorrow before she leave!

I just can’t help myself to express my feeling at this moment and I want to write it down. Stephanie, thank you for being so sweet and nice to me. I will always remember you as a housemate, a lovely friend and my TV kaki!! You will definitely be missed by me!!!

Sorry…to be continued in next topic…. *paiseh* Half way studying for exam…. =(

Be yourself

2009-06-10T06:36:00.000-07:00

I couldn’t sleep
Something kept lingering in my mind.
The clock was ticking at 5am
I decided to wake up from my warm nest
And wrote them down

Some people are rich
They can buy anything they want without thinking twice
They can just walk in any classy restaurants whenever they wish to
But so what, be yourself
You are not short of anything
Think about those who live in poverty and starvation

Some people are smart
They perform better than others
They need lesser time to be successful
But so what, be yourself
You have a normal brain to think
So long you put more efforts and patience
Think about those who were born with mental impairment and retardation

Some people are pretty
They always have people’s eyes on stalks
They always have someone crushing on them
But so what, be yourself
You have healthy body and normal facial features
Think about those who were born with defects and disabled

Some people are successful
Be it in academic
Be it in career
But so what, be yourself
You are just on the pathway towards it and so long you don’t easily give up
Sweet after sweat
Think about those who have lost hope in life and be depraved

Some people are lucky
Everything seems to come easily for them
Everything seems to go smoothly for them
But so what, be yourself
You fall, learn and grow up from mistakes
Think about how boring a life can be without challenges

Everyone has their own way of living
Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses
Be blessed on what you have
Be grateful the little things in life
Be yourself and be happy!

Sharing

2009-05-28T00:21:00.000-07:00

I just came across this article forwarded by my friend in the email and it seems to answer my questions all this while in my mind. Hope it gives some hints for you too in deciding your lifetime partner.

FINDING AND KEEPING A LIFE PARTNER by Dov Heller, M.A.

When it comes to making the decision about choosing a life partner, none wants to make a mistake. Yet, with a divorce rate of close to 50%, it appears that many are making serious mistakes in their approach to finding Mr./Miss. Right! If you ask most couples who are engaged why they're getting married,they'll say: 'We're in love'; I believe this is the ..1 mistake people make when they date. Choosing a life partner should never be based on love. Though this may sound 'not politically correct', there's a profound truth here. Love is not the basis for getting married. Rather, love is the result of a good marriage. When the other ingredients are right, then the love will come. Let me say it again: 'You can't build a lifetime relationship on love alone'; You need a lot more!!!Here are five questions you must ask yourself if you're serious aboutfinding and keeping a life partner.

QUESTION ..1: Do we share a common life purpose?Why is this so important? Let me put it this way: If you're married for 20 or 30 years, that's a long time to live with someone. What do you plan to do with each other all that time? Travel, eat and jog together? You need to share something deeper and more meaningful. You need a common life purpose.Two things can happen in a marriage: (1) You can grow together, or (2)you can grow apart. 50% of the people out there are growing apart.To make a marriage work, you need to know what you want out of life!Bottom line; marry someone who wants the same thing.

QUESTION ..2: Do I feel safe expressing my feelings and thoughts with this person? This question goes to the core of the quality of your relationship. Feeling safe means you can communicate openly with this person. The basis of having good communication is trust i.e.. trust that I won't get 'punished'; or hurt for expressing my honest thoughts and feelings. A colleague of mine defines an abusive person as someone with whom you feel afraid to express your thoughts and feelings. Be honest withyourself on this one. Make sure you feel emotionally safe with the person you plan to marry.

QUESTION ..3: Is he/she a mensch? A mensch is someone who is a refined and sensitive person. How can you test? Here are some suggestions. Do they work on personal growth on a regular basis? Are they serious about improving themselves? A teacher of mine defines a good person as 'someone who is always striving to be good and do the right ';. So ask about your significant other: What do they do with their time? Is this person materialistic? Usually a materialistic person is not someone whose top priority is character refinement. There are essentially two types of people in the world: (1) People who are dedicated to personal growth and (2) people who are dedicated to seeking comfort. Someone whose goal in life is to be comfortable will put personal comfort ahead of doing the right thing. You need to know that before walking down the aisle.

QUESTION ..4: How does he/she treat other people? The one most important thing that makes any relationship work is the ability to give. By giving, we mean the ability to give another person pleasure. Ask: Is this someone who enjoys giving pleasure to others or are they wrapped up in themselves and self' absorbed? To measure this, think about the following: How do they treat people whom they do not have to be nice to, such as waiters, bus boys, taxidrivers, etc.. How do they treat their parents and siblings? Do they have gratitude and appreciation? If they don't have gratitude for the people who have given them everything; can you do nearly as much for them? You can be sure that someone, who treats others poorly, will eventually treat you poorly as well.

QUESTION ..5: Is there anything I'm hoping to change about this person after we're married?Too many people make the mistake of marrying someone with the intention of trying to 'improve' them after they're married. As a colleague of mine puts it: 'You can probably expect someone to change after marriage for the worse' If you cannot fully accept this person the way they are now, then you are not ready to marry them.

In conclusion, dating doesn't have to be difficult and treacherous.The key is to try leading a little more with your head and less with your heart. It pays to be as objective as possible when you are dating;to be sure to ask questions that will help you get to the key issues. Falling in love is a great feeling, but when you wake up with a ring on your finger, you don't want to find yourself trouble because you didn't do your homework. Another perspective...There are some people in your life that need to be loved from a distance.. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you let go of or at least minimize your time with draining, negative, incompatible,not going anywhere relationships. Observe the relationships around you. Pay attention...Which ones lift and which ones lean?Which ones encourage and which ones discourage?Which ones are on a path of growth uphill and which ones are goingdownhill? When you leave certain people do you feel better or feel worse? Which ones dont appreciate you? Which ones make you feel good, praises you, boosts you with loving and caring words or annotations. The more you seek quality, respect, growth, peace of mind, love and truth around you...the easier it will become for you to decide who gets to sit in the front row and who should be moved to the balcony of your life.

An African proverb states, 'Before you get married, keep both eyes open,and after you marry, close one eye'; Before you get involved and make a commitment to someone, don't let lust, desperation, immaturity,ignorance, pressure from others or a low self esteem make you blind to warning signs. Keep your eyes open, and don't fool yourself that you can change someone or that what you see as faults aren't really that important. Do you bring out the best in each other? Do you compliment and compromise with each other, or do you compete,compare and control? What do you bring to the relationship? Do you bring past relationships, past hurt, past mistrust, past pain? You can't take someone to the altar to alter them. You can't make someone love you or make someone stay. If you develop self esteem, spiritual discernment, and 'a life'; you won't find yourself making someone else responsible for your happinessor responsible for your pain. Seeking status, sex, and security are the wrong reasons to be in a relationship.

WHAT KEEPS A RELATIONSHIP STRONG IS:
1. TRUST
2. COMMUNICATION
3. INTIMACY
4. A SENSE OF HUMOR
5. SHARING TASKS
6. DAILY EXCHANGES (meal, shared activity, hug, call, touch, notes,etc.)
7. SHARING COMMON GOALS AND
8. GIVING EACH OTHER SPACE TO GROW WITHOUT FEELING INSECURE
9.GIVING EACH OTHER A SENSE OF BELONGING AND ASSURANCES OF COMMITMENT 10. CONCERN AND CARE FOR YOUR LOVER IN YOUR OWN WAYS.

If these qualities are missing, the relationship will erode as resentment withdrawal, abuse, neglect, and dishonesty; and pain will replace.

Stress less

2009-05-22T03:49:00.000-07:00

I want to share some tips here on how to loosen yourself from stress. For me, they are quite helpful sometimes (I got this from a postcard in school) and I always have it pasting on in front of my desk. The concepts you have in your mind are very important as they correlate to your actions taken and emotions expressed.

1. Accept the things you can't change

2. Find opportunity in life's challenge

3. Focus on the present

4. Set yourself realistic goals

5. Be active, eat and rest well

6. Relax with a cup of tea

7. Use humour to see things differently

8. Develop supportive relationship

9. Not 5 positive things each day

10. Give someone a helping hand

and lastly, tell yourself: I had a stressful day today, BUT I'm determined to think of 5 positive things! Life is short. Don't let any challenge beat you down! Gambate, everyone!! Cheers~

Relieved...

2009-05-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

Last few months ago until today, I have been on project in molecular lab and it actually makes me feel stressed all the while. Stressed as in I am new to molecular experiments, I have expectation for myself to do well in lab since I have lab experiences before, I don't want to disappoint my supervisors as they are too nice and helpful to me. And today, I finally passed up my report. Hooray! I suddenly feel so released though there is another presentation coming soon.

It is only 3-4 months placement in the lab but I do learn a lot of things and I think they are beneficial to me for my future career. I really feel grateful to my supervisors. I like their way of teaching and they are just so so patient to me all the time. I think I am really lucky to have them. They are just so helpful whenever I face problem, be it in experiments or writing the report.

Sometimes I have to admit that most of the lecturers I met here are more humble than my previous lecturers in Malaysia. They are more open in discussion with students as in they listen and accept your opinion. Sometimes, they would just talk to you as a friend. So friendly and no haught manner at all. Not to forget to mention about another staff in lab, she is so so nice and helpful as well when my supervisor was not around. She is also one of postgraduate reseach fellows but she is not arrogant at all that she always put a smile on her face that makes you feel so comfortable talking to her. She is really lovely. I like her.

I feel great meeting all these people. If I have a chance to be a lecturer, I think I would set them as my example.

Nice hotpot housemate dinner

2009-05-15T21:08:00.000-07:00

The other day, when everybody was in the kitchen preparing for own dinner, Stehphanie suddenly popped out of her room and said:" hey, let's do something together! Whatever...just before everybody starts busy with exams and before Susanna going back for two weeks." She was so enthusiatic and yeah, may be we could have feast again together since studying life is getting more tensed with heaps of assignments recently. So yesterday, we had steamboat, so called hotpot here, for diner.

Instead of hot-pot, we used rice cooker as a hot-pot (but it was much slower of course). Afterall, that's all what we have. We had two different flavor of soup; spicy and non-spicy. This time we have a guest to join our house gathering, Yi-Fen's friend, Loghan. Loghan was actually not late but we just couldn't help ourselves to start the dinner first! Haha~You know, after a long day in school, everyone was so hungry. Poor Loghan, he had no choice but to sit in between me and Stehpanie, the biggest eaters in the house. Haha~ We didn't know he is actually Hindu who can't eat beef, but he was too shy to voice out and only chose veggie and fish balls to eat until we saw him slowly picked out all the beef pieces sticking on the food. Poor thing~~We felt so sorry to him and decided to make him a new chicken stalked soup. So it was happy ending that everyone happily enjoyed the food. LOL~

The dinner had never been quiet with our laughter all night. One word- FUN! I'm glad I have such a group of wonderful housemates though Susanna and Selina always like to tease me ;P. Stephanie asked me, "Will you miss Australia when you are back?" I said, "Besides the weather here, I will definitely miss the housemates in SUV8105!"

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T04:38:00.001-07:00

After reading Susana's blog about her mother, naturally, I reminisce my every moments with my mother in the past too.

Talking about my mother, the first two words that come to my mind to describe her are tough yet kind-hearted. Tough as in she, a widow and the only breadwinner with only Form one level of education, managed to bring four children up all by herself. She faced many obstacles in life but she was smart, tough and determined enough to sail through them. Bringing along with the children, nothing could put her down but making her to become tougher and standing firm to protect her children no matter how many catastrophes we had gone through (no joke, we really had gone through fire, flood, twister and poverty). I would not be here anymore if it was not her who sacrificed herself, dashed into the flames to save me out of fire when I was eight. A very serious fire that engulfed eight families' homes and every bit of it still deeply ingrain in my mind.

We were not rich but a fire caused us even poorer. My mother had to work even harder to gain enough for living and our educations. She was a taylor and as she was good in cooking, she had slowly become an "indirect" food hawker for school children. Well, she used to pack our lunch to school and once in a while, we would share food with our good friends in school and they loved her cookings. Slowly, sharing had become food ordering from them! Sooner, more and more students (even teachers) started to order lunch from my mother until school canteen owner started to complain about it. Amazing, right? Haha...

Other than being tough enough, on the other side, she was a very kind-and-soft-hearted woman. She loved kids and kids loved her too! She was a nanny-mother for my neighbour's children and they used to call her mom as well. Whenever my neighbour (who was a minimarket shopkeeper) was busy, she would cook for the family and the children. She was just so helpful and kind to people. I still remember there was always an old lady who had slight mental problem with no children come to our house for a nap on the floor. She dared not to go other houses (where most people would not ler her step into their house) but only to ours just because my mother was too kind to let her do so. That old lady was smelly and we, children did not like her much and always complaint about it. My mother always patiently taught us not to forget how people help us whenever we had difficulties and we must always remember we should help others as well whenever we can. That was her, always be so kind and nice to people.

We had a very strong bond with her. She was our great mother and a good friend as well to share our happiness and problems. At times, she could be strict in training us to do housechores which we always complaint about but we appreciate it when we grow older as we know we are more independent than others. I am the youngest in the house and I was the only one who sticked to my mother most of the time at home. So I used to be very very close to my mother just like sisters. Like what Susana said, we used to chat on bed till morning most of the time. I was the most talkative one at home. The first thing I usually did after school was talking in front of her while she was sewing. I could spent one two hours talking all about my friends and teachers in school. Sometimes, when I noticed she just keeping quiet while I talked, I would act like a spoiled child and said," Do you really pay attention to what I'm talking about??" Then she would quickly comfort me and said in mandarin," 有啦，有啦！" LOL~

I remember during my rebellion period, I started to argue with my mother. Once, I refused to talk to her for quite some time until she secretly cried at night and felt so upset because of this. Think about it, I really was a bad daughter to hurt my mother so much. I feel very bad and sorry about this until now. I am sorry, mom and I know it is too late to say all these.

It has never been an end talking about my mother. There were too many stories in between us, be it happy or sad. I am always glad and proud of having such a wonderful mother but it is pitiful that I don't have the chance to show filial piety to her anymore. Deep from my heart, I respect her much and I will remember every words she taught me for life. That is the most valuable thing she gave me. Mom, we promised that we will be tough as you and we want to let you know we will always live our life meaningfully and successfully with happiness and that is the best gift we can give you. We love you, mom! Happy Mother's Day~

Great night outing

2009-05-07T06:12:00.000-07:00

Last few days, I received Ellaine's (my coursemate) email suggesting that we, all coursemates, should have at least an outing or sort of gathering before graduating. Yeah, I absolutely agreed with her as so far, there is actually not much outdoor interaction among us. So in the end, we decided to go for a drinks and most importantly, for something which is new to us - CRAB RACING, in a bar at Court House Hotel located at Newtown. For the word itself, you should know what it is all about but stupid me, I thought it is a crab eating competition! That is why I am so much interested to join. Haha~

After a long day with lab works and lecture, I just couldn't wait to have fun for tonight! This was my first time to the bar/pub in Australia. All the while, I imagine the bars here are complicated and doggy places with all kind of weird people and drunkers. Surprisingly, it was totally out of my expectation. The bar we went was not as doggy as I thought. It has very nice and relaxing ambient for dinner and at the same time, it has a section where people can have beers and liquors. Looking around the bar, it was almost full house. Indeed, it is actually a nice place to hang out and have drinks with friends.

Unfortunately, we just realised that the crab racing has actually been rescheduled to every Wednesday from February onwards. However, they provided games which everybody enjoyed much, eg, giant connect 4 and giant janga. In between, we had game competitions with the people in the bar. For sure, you will definitely get a free schooner of beer regardless of you win or not.

Everybody just kept laughing, drinking and having fun all night! Yeah, we had so so so much fun for the first time gathering like this! What a waste if we just graduate without such activities together! And, I am looking forward to the next gathering to be. Hopefully more coursemates are going to join us! It really was a good opportunity to get us closer and talk to those who we hardly get a chance to talk to in the lecture.

Gosh, I think I really have too much beers, think about it, I guess I had total 6 big schooner of beers and cocktails! My friends were just too excited to join every competition and we ended up "drown" in the beers together LOL~ My mind started singing the song ~今天不回家~~

Okay, time to sleep and bet I am going to sleep soundly tonight with my brain completely shut down till morning~ Goodnight and it was indeed a nice and fun night outing! All this credit to Ellaine!

Hello!

2009-05-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

This is my new blog site. Before that, I used to write a blog in window space but I have problem to upload a song for it (btw, does anyone know how to do it on space?). Hence, Susanna recommended this website to me. I like to read her blog. They are funny and so much cheerful than mine.

I remember my very first blog was in friendster. However, that was the one and the only one blog in friendster until I started my blog journey in space. I am not good in writing and that is why I hardly wrote a blog in the past. Well, I believe peer pressure plays a role in influencing me to start writing more. My cousin, cousin-in-law and friends all have their own blog and how can I not have even one?? Haha....kia su ;P Since then, I tried to write once in a while, then once in a month and until recently, I wrote a few in a week! At the beginning, I only wrote a blog when I was down and bad in mood. And again, peer pressure plays a role ;). I starts to write something more cheerful and happy to share, just like what Susanna does. Thanks to her to spark my mood in writing blog more often. She really is a good housemate and companion at home that she is fun and cheerful to be with!

Here is the starting point, and I hope it will become a good source to share my life, be it happy, sad or funny with everyone I know in future. Cheers!