Hi everyone,
*Takes in a deep breath*
Finally can take a breather near the end of the month.
As I predicted, this is going to be a hectic year ahead, which is good and bad in itself. The good thing is that there is never a shortage of things to learn and pick up but the down side is every bit of learning is performed under pressure, which if you believe what my boss says, is the BEST way to learn. lol...
But this month started off with a big bang, really. While I was struggling to find a balanced lifestyle amidst the work pressure, the news about MH370 surfaced. And it was the weirdest incident ever. (If you haven't heard about the news so far, you live a very sheltered life and I envy you) How could such a big plane just suddenly go off course (without any reason released so far?!?) and then now after weeks was determined to have crashed in remote waters (again, without much hard evidences?!?). Is it that simple or easy as someone taking the car out for a joy ride and ending in a crash? It makes no sense. And with each passing day, it makes even less sense.
Even as theories surfaced about the pilot, it just made no sense. Would a suicidal person really kill 200+ person along with his suicide mission? Would a suicidal person really have flown the flight for hours longer than its preset course without the intervention of other crew members, e.g. copilot (I know copilot la but he is not stupid that he doesn't know, right?) or flight attendants? (I seriously don't believe those movie where it is harder to stop one person than a whole team gangsta!) So I really felt for the pilot's family, having to deal with his absence and all the nasty rumours about his involvement.
Right now, I can only pray for a closure. If it is indeed a crash, then let us find something that proves it.
A heartfelt thank you to the search teams out there looking for the missing plane, and to all the volunteers making an initiative to show compassion to the family members of the missing plane's passenger. Thank You!
I would like to dedicate this month's update to all those onboard MH370. Next month, I will be posting reviews on beauty products.
Take care till next time~! :)
Have an awesome March.
Valentine's tid bits
Happy belated Valentine's day~!
I am really... super... envious of how everyone else seems to be celebrating their Valentine's day. This year, February 14th not only stands for Western's Valentine's day but it clashes with the Chinese's Valentine (a.k.a. Chap Goh Mei). Double celebration in a single day!!
And just 3 days ago, while I was digging for something, I found my marriage certificates (not framed away, but at least it is filed? Good enough!) and I realise the day we registered for marriage is 11.02.2011!! wtf?!? Read it from the front and the back also the same! How come we so lucky one got this awesome date and then we just like forgot about it?!? #toolongtogether #totallyungrateful and #unromantic
Oops, back to present day Valentine. We didn't officially celebrate Valentine's day with each other mostly because B was sick.
Somehow, he has decided 'I sick you sick' and splatter cough juice all over my legs. Since he is so disgusting, I purposely slobber all over my food and then pass the food to him asking him whether he wants my immunity or not. #grossoutyet ? lol... I can already imagine my younger sister giving me a disgusted look, shaking her head while saying, 'these disgusting married couple'
lol... I think if she stay around us too often, my sister may decide to stay single for the rest of her life. :P
For Valentine's day itself, the only special thing I had was Valentine's lunch with my female colleagues. It didn't taste so nice but at least it looks good on the photo. :)
Does anyone feel a tinge of sadness for me? Well, DON'T. Because while other people were feverishly posting pictures of their romantic Valentine's celebration after Valentine's, we went to the supermarket and buy all the half-priced cheap chocolates!!
My favourite chocolate of all time, Lindt Gourmet Truffles!! Awesome!!
And to end this post, this is my post-Valentine's day selfie. :)
My Obsession!!
Ok, I have a confession.
I have a dark secret.
Lately, I couldn't really sleep. I close my eyes real tight... like squeeze them shut real tight till I can see stars just so that I would quickly fall asleep and not think about it. Or else I would crave for it. Especially late at night when it just complicates it when you can't find it anywhere!!
Ok, before this gets awkward... I will just let you know what it is.... I am addicted to korean food!! Just thinking of it now makes me hungry even though I have already eaten dinner!!
It didn't help that I started watching this comedy / eat-all-you-can korean drama that focuses on eating all the nice things in Korea, wtf!! The expression they had on their face while they consume a hot bowl of ramen for instance takes food porn to the next level and you know damn well you cannot come/calm down again afterwards!!
I have a dark secret.
Lately, I couldn't really sleep. I close my eyes real tight... like squeeze them shut real tight till I can see stars just so that I would quickly fall asleep and not think about it. Or else I would crave for it. Especially late at night when it just complicates it when you can't find it anywhere!!
Ok, before this gets awkward... I will just let you know what it is.... I am addicted to korean food!! Just thinking of it now makes me hungry even though I have already eaten dinner!!
It didn't help that I started watching this comedy / eat-all-you-can korean drama that focuses on eating all the nice things in Korea, wtf!! The expression they had on their face while they consume a hot bowl of ramen for instance takes food porn to the next level and you know damn well you cannot come/calm down again afterwards!!
And then, my sis bought me to this wonderful Korean restaurant called Dao Rae in Taipan, Malaysia. Omg... die... I cannot control myself. The food is so yummy nice that I attempted to eat like the main character in 'let's eat' korean drama (i.e. putting the hot food into the mouth straightaway and waft out the steam in enjoyment... See above for reference!). While it certainly brought out the awesome taste of the hot food, it also burnt the top palette of my mouth and instead of graceful enjoyment, I probably look close to this while I was nomming.
Let's just say, luckily I am taken... ;D
Top 5 workouts to try out this February!
Happy Lunar New Year 2014!
This lunar new year is the first time in 3 years... THREE YEARS that I finally went back to Malaysia to celebrate!! So forgive me while I binge nonstop on family attention and FOOD!! *Nom nom nom*
So now I am so regretting all those YOLO meals I had because my tummy is so big that I wish I could pass it off as a baby bump (sounds less selfish that way). :( But I can't... O well... it would be a good time to continue where I left off of my new year resolution!! No more excuses! This baby ain't gonna be gone by itself!!
So these are some of the workouts to start off the lunar new year!
(1) Cardio Barre
The front cover of the video looks really attractive, right? Except that the main instructor isn't an attractive slim lady, but it isn't an ugly fat lady too.
This video is relaxing, easy and doesn't take too much time. So, if you don't have much motivation to start with, this video would definitely make you feel great because even when the instructor said it will hurt, it doesn't hurt (at least for me, then again, I could be doing this all wrong... like watching this while seated right in front of my comfy chair... lol.... just kidding... I am very hardworking one, ok? )
(2) Song Challenge by Blogilates
I personally love the Gangnam Style song challenge by Blogilates.
This workout is a mix of dance moves and cardio. More from light to intermediate workout.
Have you ever workout with your BFF? A special person that inspires and motivates you to be the better person he/she knows you really are inside. That is exactly how working out with Cassie Ho, the brain and muscle behind Blogilates, feels like! And what better way to work out than with catchy tunes and forgetting for a moment that you are actually working out? And that is what I call the Ultimate *Workout-ception*!!
(3) Pump It Up
If you haven't tried this out, you are t.o.t.a.l.l.y. missing out!! ROFTL. When bubzbeauty first mentioned about this workout video, I was more intrigued by the guy working out in the video. So when I feel intimidated by all the sexy and fit ladies in the video, I can continue only because he made me feel less awkward and sorry for myself. Don't watch too closely though, you might end up in stitches. (In truth, he has my full respect for his workout, ok? Awesome work!)
But the intensity of the workout is not to be taken lightly. Exhausting!!
(4) BUTI Yoga
This workout combines flexibility (yoga) with strength training. The moves are taught by a sexy and confident lady who moves through the workout swiftly, so this is definitely not the average yoga session. The way she flexes her rib cage and chest takes my breath away, literally... I tried doing it and I can't really catch my breath. But it is definitely something I am working up to. :)
(5) Jillian Michael's 6 week six pack workout
And lastly, who can forget Jillian Michael?!? When I first tried out her workout, I was e.x.h.a.u.s.t.e.d. but feeling good and strong!! I really love her workout series, especially her 6 week six pack abs workout!! I definitely saw some ab definition by the fourth week!! *Yeay~!* (and then I went home to Malaysia and binge on everything!! *sob* but at least I still have the ghost of the ab hidden there!)
With the money I spend on food and any pows this lunar new year, I am definitely going to skimp on expensive gym membership and opt for home based workouts this year!! If you are also working out this year, all the best to you too!!
May the year of the horse give you the strength to workout like a horse? :P O.. come on... Let's get moving!!
This lunar new year is the first time in 3 years... THREE YEARS that I finally went back to Malaysia to celebrate!! So forgive me while I binge nonstop on family attention and FOOD!! *Nom nom nom*
So now I am so regretting all those YOLO meals I had because my tummy is so big that I wish I could pass it off as a baby bump (sounds less selfish that way). :( But I can't... O well... it would be a good time to continue where I left off of my new year resolution!! No more excuses! This baby ain't gonna be gone by itself!!
So these are some of the workouts to start off the lunar new year!
(1) Cardio Barre
The front cover of the video looks really attractive, right? Except that the main instructor isn't an attractive slim lady, but it isn't an ugly fat lady too.
This video is relaxing, easy and doesn't take too much time. So, if you don't have much motivation to start with, this video would definitely make you feel great because even when the instructor said it will hurt, it doesn't hurt (at least for me, then again, I could be doing this all wrong... like watching this while seated right in front of my comfy chair... lol.... just kidding... I am very hardworking one, ok? )
(2) Song Challenge by Blogilates
I personally love the Gangnam Style song challenge by Blogilates.
This workout is a mix of dance moves and cardio. More from light to intermediate workout.
Have you ever workout with your BFF? A special person that inspires and motivates you to be the better person he/she knows you really are inside. That is exactly how working out with Cassie Ho, the brain and muscle behind Blogilates, feels like! And what better way to work out than with catchy tunes and forgetting for a moment that you are actually working out? And that is what I call the Ultimate *Workout-ception*!!
(3) Pump It Up
If you haven't tried this out, you are t.o.t.a.l.l.y. missing out!! ROFTL. When bubzbeauty first mentioned about this workout video, I was more intrigued by the guy working out in the video. So when I feel intimidated by all the sexy and fit ladies in the video, I can continue only because he made me feel less awkward and sorry for myself. Don't watch too closely though, you might end up in stitches. (In truth, he has my full respect for his workout, ok? Awesome work!)
But the intensity of the workout is not to be taken lightly. Exhausting!!
(4) BUTI Yoga
This workout combines flexibility (yoga) with strength training. The moves are taught by a sexy and confident lady who moves through the workout swiftly, so this is definitely not the average yoga session. The way she flexes her rib cage and chest takes my breath away, literally... I tried doing it and I can't really catch my breath. But it is definitely something I am working up to. :)
(5) Jillian Michael's 6 week six pack workout
And lastly, who can forget Jillian Michael?!? When I first tried out her workout, I was e.x.h.a.u.s.t.e.d. but feeling good and strong!! I really love her workout series, especially her 6 week six pack abs workout!! I definitely saw some ab definition by the fourth week!! *Yeay~!* (and then I went home to Malaysia and binge on everything!! *sob* but at least I still have the ghost of the ab hidden there!)
With the money I spend on food and any pows this lunar new year, I am definitely going to skimp on expensive gym membership and opt for home based workouts this year!! If you are also working out this year, all the best to you too!!
May the year of the horse give you the strength to workout like a horse? :P O.. come on... Let's get moving!!
Lip Stain and Lip Balm Review
Don't you think that a good lip balm is like a quiet-but-always-there BFF? It can be the only thing that separates between a dream-come-true first date and an awkward courtesy-peck-on-the-forehead first date.
I recall before I started dating B, I was already wondering what it will feel like to kiss him because he has this naturally glossy and full lips thanks to good genetically produced saliva, wtf! But when genetics falls short, we can always rely on science!
The lip balm industry should totally thank my genetics and the dry weather in Australia, because at a given time I would have more than a handful of lip balm. I like to purchase more than one and throw it randomly around the house, just incase of an emergency. :) And my ability to be attracted to different packaging and marketing gimmicks helped A LOT. *shakes head*
Anyway, there are three lip balm that I will be reviewing today. The Eos lip balm, Revlon Just bitten lip stain + balm and Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain.
I bought the Revlon Just Bitten Balm Stain first and I really like it. The colour and hydration it provided was mild and was suitable for daily use. There is a strong minty smell which may be annoying for some but refreshing for others, I don't really like it. But I like the chubby stick feature and the hydrating feature.
That was when I bought the Just Bitten Lip Stain + balm. The concept was wonderful and it sorta gave you the flexibility to build on your coverage for stronger colour before applying a balm that is not only hydrating but has a better shine than the previous Balm Stain. I wasn't sold on the lip stain because it wasn't that spreadable so I can't really achieve more natural looks. The good thing is that you'll probably be able to achieve really sharp and precise application but the bad thing is when you slip and you can't smudge it off with your fingers. Definitely smudge-proof. But I really like the balm. This is like good quality hydrating balm with slight gloss, no nonsense when it comes to fragrance because there is no smell. I can definitely purchase this product again just for the balm and then use the lip stain as a marker, wtf...
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| Just Bitten Lip Stain + Balm (Precise application ) |
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| Top swatch is the lip stain + balm and the second one below it is the balmstain. balm stain gave a more natural and subtle finish. |
And last but not least, the eos lip balm. For those engineering friends out there, doesn't it remind of EOS = Equation of State??!? Omg... *awkward nerd laughs*
Sorry, I digress. I was so excited with the shape of the lip balm, at first I thought it reminded me of an egg and then I decided seriously... it looks like a rambutan!!! Sorry I had to spoil that well rounded surface with my lips, I had to stop myself from sinking my teeth into it.
The most impressionable moment about this lip balm is that the smell. Forget that it is organic because I can get quite superficial, the fruity smell alone makes me feel like so awesome like I am rubbing yummy lollipop on my lips a.k.a. food porn style! It is quite hydrating not for the driest of days but it is definitely suitable for daily use. And unlike some lip balm I use that sorta dries into something akin to rubbed off glue on my lips, all these lip balms I have reviewed here does not do that.
But summer is upon us poor souls in Australia, if you absolutely have to go out for a long period of time, do remember that it may be a good idea to try on some other lip balm that comes with SPF.
Till next time, I can't wait for lunar new year celebration!! Bring on the festivities~! And say good bye to money... wtf...
Update on My New Year Resolution 2014
Today marks the end of second week of the new year 2014. Cannot believe it is only the second week of my new year resolutions and I am already halfway through giving up the whole idea of getting fit.
I think the more you get suck into the idea of fitness, the higher the chance of digging up rubbish and dirt on it. From the whole variety of diets to the ideal fitness body parts, be it the paleo diet (or should I call it paloi diet? Paloi means something akin to a village idiot in one of the diverse language in Malaysia, just don't ask me which. I just know it must be. And what a pun it would be, because pale diet is also referred to as caveman diet), sunken lower ab, the ocean-apart thigh gap to the latest... wtf... THUT?? (Thut refers to no definition for area between your bum and your thigh)
I am lucky I was born with a distinct butt that does't show thut that easily with an 8-to-5 desk work.
But that is the whole point, some things are genetics and we can't all aim to tax our MIND and body to achieve something unrealistic. Take an example, curved or straight thigh gaps.
Unhappiness ensues when we are constantly comparing ourselves with others.
And headache ensues when we try to find out too much about a particular field of interest. When I try to find out more about what diet to follow best, I got swarmed by too many information. Sugar is bad. Grain is bad. Red meat is bad!! But fish may be laden with mercury-bad!! Polyunsaturated fat is bad. Saturated fat also bad, FU! It is not like I can do photosynthesis, right?
So my conclusion is, eat in MODERATION!! Wtf...
Keeping on track with our New Year resolution can be hard, so stay on track everyone!
Take care~!
xoxo
2014 New Year Resolution
2013 is officially over and with it 2014 has finally arrived!!
Honestly, I wish this year would never end. This year has been good, such as the starting of a new work chapter for me and my first ever Europe trip.
For me, the ending of this year is only going to bring me closer to motherhood, *sigh* and my current response to motherhood is almost matched by my disgust at seeing baby diapers. Hopefully, I will reach a maturity when I can accept all that responsibility without first freaking out. ;(
So, I decided this year would be the year I work to get the body I wanted all along (as I put it to B) before the baby wreaks it forever... wtf.. :)
This year would be the year I will try to work hard for the things I need in life... omg... A more family-friendly house and family-friendly car, let's do this!!
Happy new year 2014, everyone!!
Honestly, I wish this year would never end. This year has been good, such as the starting of a new work chapter for me and my first ever Europe trip.
For me, the ending of this year is only going to bring me closer to motherhood, *sigh* and my current response to motherhood is almost matched by my disgust at seeing baby diapers. Hopefully, I will reach a maturity when I can accept all that responsibility without first freaking out. ;(
So, I decided this year would be the year I work to get the body I wanted all along (as I put it to B) before the baby wreaks it forever... wtf.. :)
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| Source: lifewithelizabethrose |
One of the hype has to be thigh gap. It got so popular that there is an article in wikihow that details what you need to do to achieve gaps between your thighs. You can read it here. Earlier this year, I was pretty much consumed with the desire to get it.
But that was all before I watched the latest instalment of Wolverine. I hate to digress but I really love Wolverine!! But this instalment of Wolverine was a personal disappointment for me, the story line was predictable and the characters were just so awkward and shallow. But I had to really applaud the main female character because since the day I see her in jeans, I decided having thigh gaps is us not all it is crack up to be, wtf!!
I mean there is sexy-and-small thigh gaps and then there is a-continental-apart thigh gaps which just looks plain anorexic. I want strong inner thigh muscles and not muscle atrophy, wtf..
I think life is definitely too pathetic if I have to starved myself to look good. That's right, I am an avid food lover~! :D
But more than that, I have come to realise that vanity is really quite short term. What is deemed beautiful today will be out tomorrow, I won't be able to be fully happy chasing one fleeting butterfly after the other. My main fitness goal should be to appreciate my body (before the baby wreaks it), embracing its strength and weaknesses. :)
I want to be a fitter and leaner, stronger and passionate person this year!
I think life is definitely too pathetic if I have to starved myself to look good. That's right, I am an avid food lover~! :D
But more than that, I have come to realise that vanity is really quite short term. What is deemed beautiful today will be out tomorrow, I won't be able to be fully happy chasing one fleeting butterfly after the other. My main fitness goal should be to appreciate my body (before the baby wreaks it), embracing its strength and weaknesses. :)
I want to be a fitter and leaner, stronger and passionate person this year!
This year would be the year I will try to work hard for the things I need in life... omg... A more family-friendly house and family-friendly car, let's do this!!
Happy new year 2014, everyone!!
Christmas Musings
*Breathe out*
It is the time of the year where we get the chance to doll up and attend Christmas party, pretty much like Chinese New Year in Malaysia (minus the mahjong). This is also one of my chance to be really creative and have fun or fail miserably and regret. Maybe it is the nature of my work, which can be quite tedious and dull at times, I dare say I have become less artistic as days go by. Even a simple task that comes naturally for some becomes hard for me, e.g. colour coordination. I've tried and it wasn't pretty so I have resorted to basics, a prime colour and black, or a bright colour and black. No checkered shirt, no polka dots with strips, so far so good, no warrants out for me by the fashion police. Or maybe there is and one day I will find out the hard way.
For my first company's Christmas party, I thought it would be a breeze because I have lots of practices preparing and attending B's company's Christmas party. But at exactly an hour before the event, B gave a squeal because I have managed to grow this huge ugly pus-filled pimple right on my nose!!
Ok, I calmed myself down, I can swiftly and professionally handle this. After ten minutes of extraction, I have successfully transform myself into Rudolph instead. Well, you know... Merry Christmas... Ho Ho fucking Ho...
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| See that pimple on my nose? It is bigger in real life, a colleague thought my dog scratched me or something. :( |
Random pics
Pictures from last week:
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| House guests and slipper collection |
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| Don't need to go all the way to Paris to hang love padlock, you can now do that at Swan/Bell tower~! |
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| Superfood salad @ Elmars in the Valley |
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| Special of the day @ Ciao Italia: Risotto with scallop, bacon and asparagus |
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| Grilled fish @ Ciao Italia |
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| My version of instant noodle, looks so yummy, right? |
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| Cute collection of mugs |
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| Me and my Fujifilm polaroid camera |
Have a fun summer~!
Christmas Parade 2013
I don't usually know what to do during Christmas in Perth (because I have always escaped the heat of Christmas). So last week was my first time attending the Perth City's Christmas Parade! (also because we had guests at home too).
The parade starts around 7:30pm however to avoid traffic, we went in 2 hours and parked around 8 minutes away from the parade's route strip which is good. But when we reach the parade's route strip, the best spots has already lined with people! Some people even bought fast food while they wait under the setting sun.
So after waiting for almost 2 hours walking up and down the city mall, we only managed to grab a stand behind the crowd. lol... So every pic I subsequently took has been taken zoomed... zoomed... zoomed in from a height taken from tip toe position. *so tiring*
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| Candy Car |
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| Pirate Ship |
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| Tinker Bell |
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| Pirates |
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| M&Ms sponsored gingerbread house float |
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| My Little Pony |
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| The final float of the day: SANTA CLAUS!! |
Hopefully, we will have more fun this Christmas in Perth~!
Poochy had an accident!
There is a saying that the day is long but the year is short. It seems so true, for while I couldn't wait for work to wrap up after a day, it seems weeks and months just whisked past me and we have now entered into the final month of the year!
It took me a while to update my blog these days because B's family came for a visit. Imagine B and I tediously cleaning up prior to the visit and then trying to balance between working and bringing them around Perth. Plus, we didn't have enough leave days to start with so it was definitely a bit of a squeeze.
To make matters worst, one day while B's family was at home, Poochy was left unattended and she made her escape happily through the front gate.
On that particular day, I was so bored at work so I sms B whether he wanted to go home early but he said he is busy so I decided not to go home so soon. Then around 4pm, he sms me and told me he was at home. I got so jealous I wanted to cry. :(
So I hopped on the next bus and head home. Halfway through the journey, I kinda sensed something wasn't so right so I sms B whether Poochy is alright. And he replied, 'All fine now.' Fear just swelled in my heart until I could not breathe. I imagined the worst thing that could have happen and that somehow B's family might have run over Poochy while they were reversing and (and knowing how small dogs and cars doesn't go well together, I imagined that) Poochy was now hanging by the last thread or something. The thought was horrifying. :'(
Ok, the truth is not as scary but Poochy did in fact had a car accident (minor one!) and she fractured a tooth. Apart from some muscle sore and bruising (and being seriously traumatized), she seemed to have really survived the accident unscathed and have since been healing fast. I totally didn't blame the lady whose car hit her, I really believed that if she wasn't driving responsibly and stopped when Poochy dashed across the road, Poochy would be dead today. I have to say that Poochy sometimes act like she is an immortal and nothing can hurt her aside from cutting her fur or clipping her nails (she cry like she was abused). If anything, I am very grateful that she responded quickly after the incident by enveloping her in a blanket (because she was in shock) and stayed around until B's family found them. Since B's family had just arrived in Perth like the day before, she even proceeded to bring them along with Poochy to the nearest vet. I didn't get to see her on that day, so I wanted to float a THANK YOU to her on the internet. Thank you!
The good news is that Poochy is getting better now, just in time for Thanksgiving and definitely for Christmas! Yeay~! :)
It took me a while to update my blog these days because B's family came for a visit. Imagine B and I tediously cleaning up prior to the visit and then trying to balance between working and bringing them around Perth. Plus, we didn't have enough leave days to start with so it was definitely a bit of a squeeze.
To make matters worst, one day while B's family was at home, Poochy was left unattended and she made her escape happily through the front gate.
On that particular day, I was so bored at work so I sms B whether he wanted to go home early but he said he is busy so I decided not to go home so soon. Then around 4pm, he sms me and told me he was at home. I got so jealous I wanted to cry. :(
So I hopped on the next bus and head home. Halfway through the journey, I kinda sensed something wasn't so right so I sms B whether Poochy is alright. And he replied, 'All fine now.' Fear just swelled in my heart until I could not breathe. I imagined the worst thing that could have happen and that somehow B's family might have run over Poochy while they were reversing and (and knowing how small dogs and cars doesn't go well together, I imagined that) Poochy was now hanging by the last thread or something. The thought was horrifying. :'(
Ok, the truth is not as scary but Poochy did in fact had a car accident (minor one!) and she fractured a tooth. Apart from some muscle sore and bruising (and being seriously traumatized), she seemed to have really survived the accident unscathed and have since been healing fast. I totally didn't blame the lady whose car hit her, I really believed that if she wasn't driving responsibly and stopped when Poochy dashed across the road, Poochy would be dead today. I have to say that Poochy sometimes act like she is an immortal and nothing can hurt her aside from cutting her fur or clipping her nails (she cry like she was abused). If anything, I am very grateful that she responded quickly after the incident by enveloping her in a blanket (because she was in shock) and stayed around until B's family found them. Since B's family had just arrived in Perth like the day before, she even proceeded to bring them along with Poochy to the nearest vet. I didn't get to see her on that day, so I wanted to float a THANK YOU to her on the internet. Thank you!
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| The side of Poochy's face showing the dried blood and wound on her snout |
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| Poochy in pain... poor thing... |
A pre-Xmas gift for myself~!
Guilty pleasure!!
I finally bought the Instax Mini 8 Camera! I got a good deal on Target this week, only $88 for pastel colour instax camera and a free pack of basic film.
Pink colour to complement my long pink pen and my pink phone cover!!
That is one thing off my Xmas wish list~!
November in Comics
Nothing has been too much up and going since coming back from Europe trip, though days before I was due to arrive in Perth my friend told me it was cold, I was surprised that the weather has turned into something short of full summer.
Having Poochy back has definitely been a blessing. She has been such an angel for the first two weeks and then one day she turned all naughty and ran out without regards to cars around her. I suspect I would have a heart attack there and then.
So, as punishment, she is my star character in this month in comics~! :)
*the words is a bit weird but it is so hard to adjust it in the current app I am using, so feel free to suggest any other better apps to do it, thanks~!*
Hope you have a nice week so far~! ;)
Having Poochy back has definitely been a blessing. She has been such an angel for the first two weeks and then one day she turned all naughty and ran out without regards to cars around her. I suspect I would have a heart attack there and then.
So, as punishment, she is my star character in this month in comics~! :)
*the words is a bit weird but it is so hard to adjust it in the current app I am using, so feel free to suggest any other better apps to do it, thanks~!*
Europe Trip: The Unglamorous bits
Previously I have written about my happier experiences in Europe, but this time round I am revealing the un-glamorous side.
And it is not even the un-glamorous fact that I had so much fun in a bookstore in London and almost bought 4-5 books. Who goes all the way there and decide to visit a bookstore, anyway? *Nerd Alert~!*
This post may sound more like a rant than anything, so if you have somewhere else better to go, just go. But if you think Europe is some kind of rainbow farting unicorn place, it is time to read this post. I am sorry if anyone feel insulted in any way, I do not intend to insult or offend anyone but I sincerely wanted to share my experience. So, take this partially and objectively but don't take it to heart. :)
Firstly, I loved Paris. Before I went on this trip, I adore the Eiffel tower so much I had a cute Eiffel tower pic as my S4 wallpaper. And as I mentioned before, I did not partake in the planning section of our entire trip, but for Paris I had an itinery (surprising even for me). I was worried about my inability to speak French but my colleague assured me that since I am an Asian, they might give me some leniency. So I went on confidently with only knowing a few random phrases.
On our first stop, Gare du Nord station we got our first taste of being cheated. We couldn't find a ticket counter so we decided to purchase our tickets on the machine but we weren't too sure which tickets to get and the queue at the back just got longer. So, we decided to let those behind us use the machine first while we figure it out. At this moment, a young guy not in uniform but with a badge came over and spoke to us in proper English and insist on helping us buy the ticket. Nobody in the queue said anything and so we thought perhaps this is common and let him help us buy. But when we pluck in our card to pay, he said our travel card is not accepted in Paris and ask us to pull it out. Since we did not punch in the pin code, we thought the transaction hasn't been approved. He then pretended to use his card to purchase the ticket and ask us to pay him in cash. Afterwards, B kept telling me that he must have cheated us, but I told him he have little faith in humanity. But it turns out he shouldn't, we got cheated off €60+.
But that's not too bad, afterwards we heard of more horror stories from fellow travelers we met along the way. Not in Paris though, most happened in Barcelona. Gosh, we must be real stupid!
The next few days in Paris wasn't so much of an improvement, though our bed and breakfast host was very friendly and helpful, everyone else just seemed cold and aloft. And the metro lines smelled like pee. :( But in their defense, I have a strong sense of smell. On the second day, I got kinda homesick and requested for asian food. At least I thought we would feel more welcome there but apparently even the asians look down on asians who do not speak French. When she greeted us in French, at least she was smiling but after we asked her if she speak English, we got the disgruntled sideway glances and then she furthermore complained about us in Cantonese to her spouse. Wtf?!?
I think it was on the second to third day that I started to feel more easily tired so I just felt like staying in bed till the day we leave Paris. From there onwards, my health just deteriorated. I began feeling feverish and tired and even started coughing. Few times, I've asked B to check my temperature with the back of his hand but I must have forgotten B always function at a slightly higher temperature than me so he told me it felt Ok.
On our last day in Paris, I was so happy that we were leaving. We went to a train station (I've forgotten what was the name because I felt so sick) and I was glad to see that they stuck a label that says 'Excellent English spoken here' or something along that line. But guess what? The man behind the counter won't speak to us in English but he knows what we wanted and what we needed. Pissed off yet? Well, I was! A traveler beside us tried to help us by translating but the first phrase she translated was, 'how much do you want?' and after our experience with the cheat earlier during the trip, I may have shot her a 'F off' look. They say looks kill, so she went away. I felt terrible inside but I was too tired to care. Because afterwards, it turned out I got worst. I began puking in the little plane to Barcelona. Thank God I was able to scramble into the toilet to do that or else I can die of shame now. Plus the air stewards were the most scariest bunch ever, not only are they big sized but they scold people too. From that moment on, I have started my countdown to the day I can go home.
When we reach Barcelona, I was too tired to walk properly or to stand still so B sent me to the hospital. We were told that because we were tourist, basic doctor consultation was €270. B consented because we bought travel insurance beforehand so we went in. And because I was a tourist, they not only took my temperature (39 degrees C) but also sent me for chest X ray (in case of pneumonia) and blood test ( in case of infection). In total, my medical bill amounted to €770+. They then told me I had viral infection but it hasn't escalated far enough for antiviral medication so they could only give me a prescription for 1g of paracetamol. *shake my head*
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| Just relaxing at our balcony room |
This post may sound more like a rant than anything, so if you have somewhere else better to go, just go. But if you think Europe is some kind of rainbow farting unicorn place, it is time to read this post. I am sorry if anyone feel insulted in any way, I do not intend to insult or offend anyone but I sincerely wanted to share my experience. So, take this partially and objectively but don't take it to heart. :)
Firstly, I loved Paris. Before I went on this trip, I adore the Eiffel tower so much I had a cute Eiffel tower pic as my S4 wallpaper. And as I mentioned before, I did not partake in the planning section of our entire trip, but for Paris I had an itinery (surprising even for me). I was worried about my inability to speak French but my colleague assured me that since I am an Asian, they might give me some leniency. So I went on confidently with only knowing a few random phrases.
On our first stop, Gare du Nord station we got our first taste of being cheated. We couldn't find a ticket counter so we decided to purchase our tickets on the machine but we weren't too sure which tickets to get and the queue at the back just got longer. So, we decided to let those behind us use the machine first while we figure it out. At this moment, a young guy not in uniform but with a badge came over and spoke to us in proper English and insist on helping us buy the ticket. Nobody in the queue said anything and so we thought perhaps this is common and let him help us buy. But when we pluck in our card to pay, he said our travel card is not accepted in Paris and ask us to pull it out. Since we did not punch in the pin code, we thought the transaction hasn't been approved. He then pretended to use his card to purchase the ticket and ask us to pay him in cash. Afterwards, B kept telling me that he must have cheated us, but I told him he have little faith in humanity. But it turns out he shouldn't, we got cheated off €60+.
But that's not too bad, afterwards we heard of more horror stories from fellow travelers we met along the way. Not in Paris though, most happened in Barcelona. Gosh, we must be real stupid!
The next few days in Paris wasn't so much of an improvement, though our bed and breakfast host was very friendly and helpful, everyone else just seemed cold and aloft. And the metro lines smelled like pee. :( But in their defense, I have a strong sense of smell. On the second day, I got kinda homesick and requested for asian food. At least I thought we would feel more welcome there but apparently even the asians look down on asians who do not speak French. When she greeted us in French, at least she was smiling but after we asked her if she speak English, we got the disgruntled sideway glances and then she furthermore complained about us in Cantonese to her spouse. Wtf?!?
I think it was on the second to third day that I started to feel more easily tired so I just felt like staying in bed till the day we leave Paris. From there onwards, my health just deteriorated. I began feeling feverish and tired and even started coughing. Few times, I've asked B to check my temperature with the back of his hand but I must have forgotten B always function at a slightly higher temperature than me so he told me it felt Ok.
On our last day in Paris, I was so happy that we were leaving. We went to a train station (I've forgotten what was the name because I felt so sick) and I was glad to see that they stuck a label that says 'Excellent English spoken here' or something along that line. But guess what? The man behind the counter won't speak to us in English but he knows what we wanted and what we needed. Pissed off yet? Well, I was! A traveler beside us tried to help us by translating but the first phrase she translated was, 'how much do you want?' and after our experience with the cheat earlier during the trip, I may have shot her a 'F off' look. They say looks kill, so she went away. I felt terrible inside but I was too tired to care. Because afterwards, it turned out I got worst. I began puking in the little plane to Barcelona. Thank God I was able to scramble into the toilet to do that or else I can die of shame now. Plus the air stewards were the most scariest bunch ever, not only are they big sized but they scold people too. From that moment on, I have started my countdown to the day I can go home.
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| Captured at 11.30pm in Barcelona |
I kept crying and apologizing to B for getting sick and having to pay this huge amount of money and we didn't even have time to explore Barcelona! B was really gracious about it but I can't help feeling really depressed, resentful and upset. ( We are still in the midst of claiming the medical bill from our travel insurance... Sigh). I was also scared that I won't be allowed on board the cruise because of the viral infection, so I ninja'd my way in and then quarantine myself in my room.
When we started on our shore excursion adventure, I had started to feel better though I still cough sometimes. Our small shore excursion group consist of 4 couples, and in each group there will always be one annoying couple (if there isn't, we must be the one!). Since most of the couples are older people and also a woman who is pregnant, I thought we would graciously let them sit in the front of the van while we sat at the back of the van. My mistake. The moment we sat in the van, I smell a strong puke smell. I thought perhaps some car sickness dude had thrown up in the van and the driver had not cleaned it properly. I was wrong. For the next few days, I smelt that same horrible smell even though it was a different shore and we were in different vans with different drivers. I finally realized that the horrible smell came from the old man sitting right in front of me. When he opens his mouth, it smelt like thousand year old unwashed ashtray coupled with boozy puke. It was horrible and his voice has obviously turned hoarse from years of smoking. So for the next 3 days, we were stuck in the same seats behind this horrible smelling guy. When he talks, I had to choose between breathing through my nose and smelling the smell or breathing through the mouth and cough nonstop. I chose to hold my breath.
And it wasn't like he was trying to make it any easier for me!! When he slept off, he gave out silent but stinky farts!! God save us at the back!! *tears up at this memory* My goodness!! There was a nurse who was sitting at the back with us and she told us during her training she had to deal with cadavers, so she taught us to chew on STRONG minty gums to ward off the smell. lol... So, that was sorta how we survived all the road trips.
On the final day, the pregnant lady suggested a change of seats so we finally get a chance to sit at the front. I was so happy! I didn't even cough a sound! * so proud * Thankfully the trip back was short and she didn't smell the horrible smell.
But at least I've learnt my lesson from my travels. Like for example...
(1) Always keep minty gums close by
(2) Always bring a face mask, the kind people wear during a haze and not the beautiful italian face mask or beauty mask, ya~!
(3) ALWAYS buy travel insurance (I am not sure how useful it is la, since I haven't receive my refund yet)
(4) Always check your vaccination records before long trips. A lot of people do not have immunity against hep A, C, etc even though it is so important!! Not all places maintain the same level of cleanliness as where you come home, so take precaution!
(5) It is better to take a tour in Paris if you do not speak the language. But if you are akin to Bear Grylls of a traveler, ignore everything I say and just do what you like.
(6) ALWAYS pack Paracetamol!! ALWAYS!!
And Number 7! Because according to my dad, 7 symbolizes completion in Christianity.
(7) ALWAYS USE your hand sanitizer and don't just leave in the bag and forget its existence!!
Europe Trip: Final Installment
I finally reach the final installment of my trip around Europe~! Throughout this trip, I can't honestly say I enjoy each and every place we visited and thus felt like the holiday was much too long and I couldn't wait to just go home. But towards the end, I felt sad that there were still places we haven't had the chance to explore. Still, I am grateful for the many places that I have visited.
One of those places is Mt Etna~! Mt. Etna is still an active volcanic mountain... active! I'd say. I have never actually seen a volcano, what more to say an active volcano!!
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| Me atop Mt Etna... It was so so CHILLY!! |
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| Mount Mordor: What I thought active volcanic mountain looks like [Source] |
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| One of Mt. Etna's crater |
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| Source: BBC News |
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| Clockwise from left: Hyde Park, Florence, Brussel, and Paris |
Towards the last stretch of our Europe leg, we joined an American cruise ship along the Mediterranean coastline and it was one of the most relaxing part of the trip. Each day we'll wake up to a new port of destination we can explore without dragging our heavy luggage and worrying about checking into a new hotel. B even added an anniversary package to our room with balcony which instantly cheered me up (even though I was burning at 39 degrees C the night before). After exploring London, Brussel and Paris on our own, it was quite relaxing to join shore excursion and let experienced tour guides bring us in and around the city.
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| Our Anniversary Suite before I mess it up further |
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| Sunset outside our balcony
Thanks to the beautiful weather, we had such a smooth sailing 8 days out of the 9 days we were out on the cruise. We were able to visit many beautiful places along Italy's port as well as Dubrovnik, Croatia. On the one day we were out at sea, the waves were crashing and the wind was strong, the ship was rocking so hard we woke up with headache. :P But the day after that was the day we reach Dubrovnik, the prettiest and clearest waters EVER!! The headache was well worth it. lol...
Till next time in my version of 'behind the scenes' of my Europe Trip. Enjoy the rest of the week~!
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Europe Trip Part 3
It was a month ago when we first went on our Europe trip and almost 2 weeks has passed since we finally landed back in Australia, I have finally drafted my second to last post on it! Pat on my back. I meant to dedicate this post to Paris and Brussels but at this rate it would be forever before I am done so I will just do a summary of my whole journey.
It has been such an eye-opening experience! I know it sounds totally cliche especially if said person's eye is already so big I don't even comprehend how 'open' it needs to get but it is true. Being in a different place surrounded by people who don't necessarily speak your language and a whole different historical and cultural background is refreshing... at first and then I miss home.
So anyway... throughout our journey through Europe, we have visited so many different churches that my dad would have be so proud of me if I weren't so busy taking pictures. From St Paul's Cathedral to Church of Notre Dame to The Vatican to random chapels and churches, I am not a very religious person but I believe my soul should be more or less cleansed by now, right?
I even slipped in a prayer request at Windsor Castle's chapel and almost forgot about it. Last Saturday, I heard some good news which is kinda related to my prayer request. So... fingers crossed that I can reveal it in due time. :)
And not forgetting all the walking we did on our journey too! When I came back, I weighed myself on my complicated body mass + additional feature scale and eventhough I gained weight, it showed that my muscle mass was about 48% of my body weight. Pretty impressive (I whistled, or at least in my case attempt to whistle) and I was just about to credit all this muscle mass growth to the walking we did in Europe until I realized that I had the setting onto male setting!! Upon changing to female setting, my impressive 48% turn to a pretty average 31.5%. Now I know I am not heavy and fit but just plain heavy and fat... what I have suspected all along. :( bummer...
But it would be stupid to pretend this wouldn't happen because though I was eager to explore Europe, I was equally or maybe more to EAT across Europe and I have tried my best. I was lucky I didn't get food poisoning just massive bouts of indigestion though which made me walk slower and moaned a lot and probably explained why I got fat. *wave fist in air*
I am not a fan of pasta (I am not sure how often I say this but it is so true) but I am so in love with pasta in Italy. And according to my tummy, not creamy too (yeay~!) but the pasta is a bit al dente which isn't too much to my liking.
And I know this is a cardinal sin when you are trying to lose weight, but I have eaten soo...ooo...ooo much white bread while I was abroad!! (I tell myself that I will lose all those weight when I get back home but now that I am back home, I tell myself I needed those extra nutrition to combat all the weird illness that besieged me. It just seems like a losing battle... :P ) And I know I can die now that I have tasted the best baguette, surprisingly not in Paris but in our humble bed and breakfast in Brussels (which incidentally has the BEST BED EVER!! I have even forgiven it for making me climb 4 flight of narrow stairs because of the bed and baguette. If you are interested, check out downtown BXL). I miss it already.
I wish I could post a picture of the aforementioned bed, but I have screened through my 1550 pictures of the trip twice and it seemed that THAT particular pic is missing. I am so sorry. But trust me, this bed exist and you have to sleep on it to believe it!
Which.... speaking of bed, I should get some sleep now. Good night~!
It has been such an eye-opening experience! I know it sounds totally cliche especially if said person's eye is already so big I don't even comprehend how 'open' it needs to get but it is true. Being in a different place surrounded by people who don't necessarily speak your language and a whole different historical and cultural background is refreshing... at first and then I miss home.
So anyway... throughout our journey through Europe, we have visited so many different churches that my dad would have be so proud of me if I weren't so busy taking pictures. From St Paul's Cathedral to Church of Notre Dame to The Vatican to random chapels and churches, I am not a very religious person but I believe my soul should be more or less cleansed by now, right?
I even slipped in a prayer request at Windsor Castle's chapel and almost forgot about it. Last Saturday, I heard some good news which is kinda related to my prayer request. So... fingers crossed that I can reveal it in due time. :)
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| Church of Notre Dame, Paris |
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| Vatican, Rome |
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| Church somewhere in Sicily |
But it would be stupid to pretend this wouldn't happen because though I was eager to explore Europe, I was equally or maybe more to EAT across Europe and I have tried my best. I was lucky I didn't get food poisoning just massive bouts of indigestion though which made me walk slower and moaned a lot and probably explained why I got fat. *wave fist in air*
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| Clockwise from top left: Mediterranean lamb kebab, ME EAT EAT EAT!!, and Mediterranean BBQ chicken wings |
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| Clockwise from bottom left: Best lasagna ever (according to B), fresh clams spaghetti, hand made macaroni, and my attempt at leaning tower of pisa |
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| Clockwise from left: Cock and Mock tails, me and my birthday cake, Souffle, and BEST bread ever!! |
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| Clockwise from top left: BEST porcini mushroom fettucine ever!! (according to me!), escargot by the side of road, food at Pinxo Paris, and lobster tail main meal |
And I know this is a cardinal sin when you are trying to lose weight, but I have eaten soo...ooo...ooo much white bread while I was abroad!! (I tell myself that I will lose all those weight when I get back home but now that I am back home, I tell myself I needed those extra nutrition to combat all the weird illness that besieged me. It just seems like a losing battle... :P ) And I know I can die now that I have tasted the best baguette, surprisingly not in Paris but in our humble bed and breakfast in Brussels (which incidentally has the BEST BED EVER!! I have even forgiven it for making me climb 4 flight of narrow stairs because of the bed and baguette. If you are interested, check out downtown BXL). I miss it already.
I wish I could post a picture of the aforementioned bed, but I have screened through my 1550 pictures of the trip twice and it seemed that THAT particular pic is missing. I am so sorry. But trust me, this bed exist and you have to sleep on it to believe it!
Which.... speaking of bed, I should get some sleep now. Good night~!
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