Somehow it always feels good to be back.
Even if home is Dunedin, and being home reminds me that I have 3 terms test coming up really soon. *sigh* And the flat hunting part isn't over yet.
***
I've got myself a new haircut! Shorter, but not as short as I expected. I don't like the colour though, the hairdresser seemed to have picked the wrong colour used to dye the top part of my hair. Looks lighter, and somehow more ah lian-ish. Argh.
***
Shopping is always better in Christchurch. Bought 2 pairs of jeans (I now have about 20 pairs altogether) and a pair of jandals (somehow I lose them over time).
It sucks being short as I have to get the jeans altered according to my (lack of) height.
***
No inspiration to do whatsoever at this moment, including blogging.
Except eating, of course. Banana and blackcurrent ice cream was AWESOOOOOME. I want more ice cream!
Going On Vacation
Just to clarify- yes, I am looking for potential flatmates. Still not 100% sure yet if we're signing the lease for that 5 bedroom flat, but if we do find 2 other people in time, then I'll confirm with the landlord/agent asap.
***
The cough is getting REALLY bad now.
It was only a mild sinus problems for the past few weeks, then suddenly I started coughing on Sunday morning. I woke up on Monday morning feeling like I haven't drank anything in 100 years. It sounded worse than a frog's croak.
***
And all that had to happen when I'm having my break. -__-
I've been watching movies mainly (highly recommends DejaVu and The Fountain). Watching the Bourne Ultimatum as part of cell group activity tonight. *whee*
***
Getting back to "The Fountain". If you haven't heard of it before, check out the imdb listing here.
If I were to describe this movie in 2 words, it would be "hauntingly beautiful". Not only the graphics left me in awe, but the storyline kept me thinking long after I'd finished watching the movie.
Hugh Jackman is Tom/Tommy, a doctor in the present time trying his best to save his dying wife (Rachel Weisz as Izzi). Izzi writes a book entitled The Fountain and asks Tom to finish the book for her. Though there were many interpretations to how the story actually finished and how the book ended, for me the whole movie is based on creating the perfect ending for the book.
If you read the plot given, it mentions about how the movie is spanned across 1000 years, and 3 stories intertwine to depict how the ending would be, whether or not Tom would be able to find a cure for his wife or to accept the fact that she is dead. I found some parts unnecessary, but of course the director has his own reasons.
This is one of those movies you'll either love or hate. If you like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and "What Dreams may Come", you're sure to be spellbound by this. Love plays the central focus in both films, and the power it gives us to endure, the strength to do anything to save your loved one. Both movies explores the bending of time and space, and give viewers the chance to interpret the movies in their own ways.
***
I'm off to Christchurch tomorrow, will be back Friday. :)
***
The cough is getting REALLY bad now.
It was only a mild sinus problems for the past few weeks, then suddenly I started coughing on Sunday morning. I woke up on Monday morning feeling like I haven't drank anything in 100 years. It sounded worse than a frog's croak.
***
And all that had to happen when I'm having my break. -__-
I've been watching movies mainly (highly recommends DejaVu and The Fountain). Watching the Bourne Ultimatum as part of cell group activity tonight. *whee*
***
Getting back to "The Fountain". If you haven't heard of it before, check out the imdb listing here.
If I were to describe this movie in 2 words, it would be "hauntingly beautiful". Not only the graphics left me in awe, but the storyline kept me thinking long after I'd finished watching the movie.
Hugh Jackman is Tom/Tommy, a doctor in the present time trying his best to save his dying wife (Rachel Weisz as Izzi). Izzi writes a book entitled The Fountain and asks Tom to finish the book for her. Though there were many interpretations to how the story actually finished and how the book ended, for me the whole movie is based on creating the perfect ending for the book.
If you read the plot given, it mentions about how the movie is spanned across 1000 years, and 3 stories intertwine to depict how the ending would be, whether or not Tom would be able to find a cure for his wife or to accept the fact that she is dead. I found some parts unnecessary, but of course the director has his own reasons.
This is one of those movies you'll either love or hate. If you like "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" and "What Dreams may Come", you're sure to be spellbound by this. Love plays the central focus in both films, and the power it gives us to endure, the strength to do anything to save your loved one. Both movies explores the bending of time and space, and give viewers the chance to interpret the movies in their own ways.
***
I'm off to Christchurch tomorrow, will be back Friday. :)
Flat Hunt #6
...the final hunt, hopefully.
Today we went to have a look at a flat at Queen Street.
At first when it was introduced to us, we just dismissed it, thinking it would be too far.
Rent is $100 for 4 rooms and an extra 10 bucks for one room with ensuite bathroom/shower. *Yeap, I'm getting that LARGE room* =) Seriously, I have never seen rooms that huge. The size of 1 room (or the one that I'm eying anyways) is about 4 times the size of my current room. The only downside is the ceiling being higher which makes heating time longer.
As the flat used to be studio units, it came with many furniture. I stress the word many. The room that I like comes with a tallboy, tv with cabinet, couch, fridge, microwave, ensuite bathroom/shower, study desk, chair, double bed with base, and the most amazing view I could ever hope for. Yeap, there is a freaking fridge in my (erm future) bedroom! And so much space so I don't have to worry about putting Waszowski elsewhere. *jumps for joy*
It takes about 3 or 4 minutes to walk from my current flat to that flat, so it actually isn't that far a distance. There's just a few flight of stairs leading to the flat, which would prove a daunting task walking home from uni. However, I think the awesome view makes up for the slightly longer walk.
Kitchen and lounge aren't too bad. Kitchen actually looks classier than the current one. Oh, another big plus is that that flat is directly next to Raymond and Michelle's future flat too! Which means that cell group will most probably be at their place considering they're converting one of the bedrooms to a lounge/sitting room. Having neighbours that you know is always better than living to a bunch of drunken or weird strangers.
Oh, and another thing before that can happen: we're still short of 2 flatmates. The pancakes are heading off to unicol, leaving us 3 girls to find another 2 people. Hopefully, that will happen as soon as possible. Hoping for good flatmates to come along too.
Today we went to have a look at a flat at Queen Street.
At first when it was introduced to us, we just dismissed it, thinking it would be too far.
Rent is $100 for 4 rooms and an extra 10 bucks for one room with ensuite bathroom/shower. *Yeap, I'm getting that LARGE room* =) Seriously, I have never seen rooms that huge. The size of 1 room (or the one that I'm eying anyways) is about 4 times the size of my current room. The only downside is the ceiling being higher which makes heating time longer.
As the flat used to be studio units, it came with many furniture. I stress the word many. The room that I like comes with a tallboy, tv with cabinet, couch, fridge, microwave, ensuite bathroom/shower, study desk, chair, double bed with base, and the most amazing view I could ever hope for. Yeap, there is a freaking fridge in my (erm future) bedroom! And so much space so I don't have to worry about putting Waszowski elsewhere. *jumps for joy*
It takes about 3 or 4 minutes to walk from my current flat to that flat, so it actually isn't that far a distance. There's just a few flight of stairs leading to the flat, which would prove a daunting task walking home from uni. However, I think the awesome view makes up for the slightly longer walk.
Kitchen and lounge aren't too bad. Kitchen actually looks classier than the current one. Oh, another big plus is that that flat is directly next to Raymond and Michelle's future flat too! Which means that cell group will most probably be at their place considering they're converting one of the bedrooms to a lounge/sitting room. Having neighbours that you know is always better than living to a bunch of drunken or weird strangers.
Oh, and another thing before that can happen: we're still short of 2 flatmates. The pancakes are heading off to unicol, leaving us 3 girls to find another 2 people. Hopefully, that will happen as soon as possible. Hoping for good flatmates to come along too.
Riots in Dunedin
Drunken and destructive student rampage shocks Dunedin
11:02AM Sunday August 26, 2007
11:02AM Sunday August 26, 2007
Last night's student violence in Dunedin was far worse than last weekend's carnage.
Photo / Otago Daily Times
Dunedin's mayor has been talking about his shock and disappointment at last night's destructive rampage in the city's student area.
Fifty-two people will face the courts this week after drunken crowds set fire to cars, couches and mattresses.
Mayor Peter Chin has been taking a first-hand look at the mess in Castle Street. He says there are burned-out hulks of cars on the street and a lot of broken glass.
Peter Chin says he is hugely disappointed the Undie 500 event, from Christchurch to Dunedin, turned out the way it did. He says it is clearly not sustainable if this is the kind of outcome the city can expect.
Mr Chin says a lot of work had gone into building a rapport with students, and trying to ensure the event was run responsibly.
Peter Chin says he hopes those who go to court this week will not be able to get away with diversion. He says the people of Dunedin will not want to hear drunkenness being used as an excuse.
Embarrassed students plan to back any calls for a ban on future Undie 500 celebrations. It follows similar trouble on a smaller scale last year. Renee Heal of the Otago University Students Association expects there will be calls for an end to the event and she will not be disappointed.
She says the offending students are in the minority at the University and hopes better behaved students do not have their reputations tarnished.
Ambulance services say the situation was so intense they could not even get to the scene. St John says staff were forced to hold back until police had dealt with the rioting. A spokeswoman says two people needed treatment after an assault, although neither was taken to hospital.
Street cleaners have a massive job ahead of them. Some streets are a sea of smashed glass and burned furniture. Senior Sergeant Steve Aitken says the burning cars, couches and mattress and flying bottles resembled a war zone at times.
Meanwhile Dunedin firefighters were also targeted with bottles during the disorder, which lasted from around 6 o'clock last evening until around 3 o'clock this morning.
Dunedin Fire Station Officer Ian Anderson says he cannot recall such carnage occurring before. He says thousands of people were involved in the disorder.
Fire officers had to wait for riot police to clear the scene before they could douse fires. Mr Anderson says there has been some damage to fire engines as well after bottles were hurled at the engines and firefighters.
Canterbury University says it does not condone such behaviour. A spokesman says the University will not attempt to protect its students from the law.
- NEWSTALK ZB
***
Actually I was not all shocked. Same thing happened last year, same thing will happen again this year.
More than 70 car, rubbish, and couch fires were reported this year, and aren't we all glad hearing that those people will be judged at court. How I wish those drunkards involved will get banned from studying at any university in this country ever again.
I wasn't that sure of what Undie500 was except the fact that students from Christchurch travel down for a weekend with wildly renovated/decorated cars. Maybe some sort of competition involved?
I wikipedia-ed undie 500, and came out with this:
The Undie 500 is an annual car rally between Christchurch and Dunedin, New Zealand, held on the last Friday of the third term. Student members of the Engineering Society purchase used vehicles, spend weeks decorating themselves and their cars and drive the five hour journey south. The vehicles are individually themed and occupants pub crawl over the entire day of driving. The event is characterised by the high level of work performed on entrants cars transforming them from normal motor vehicles into something special.
Cars are understood to meet at least the following:
- Have a cost of under NZ$500 (hence the name Undie [under] 500)
- Stop at nominated pubs and bars on the drive south
- Have a current Warrant of Fitness and Vehicle Registration
- Be driven by a sober driver
The New Zealand Police accompany the convoy throughout the trip to ensure both the safety of participants and other road users.
Since 2003 the number of vehicles have been limited to 150 in number due to the pubs enroute being unable to handle the burgeoning number of patrons. The annual event continues to attract more than 1,000 participants and thousands of spectators. It is widely reported, attracting national TV news coverage, newspaper, radio and has even featured in Ralph magazine.
Before embarking for Dunedin prizes are awarded for outstanding entries. These include:
- Best Car
- Best Dressed Team
- Most Un-Politically Correct
- Best Overall
Prizes go some way to recovering the cost of the vehicle and keeping participants throat's wetted enroute.
I highly doubt they were sober driving those cars. They certainly need alcohol to do what normal people consider to be a total waste of time, energy, and dignity.
I wonder if these people will ever learn. Next year, I'll be looking out for the same old story.
More pics
No wonder some people don't watch news, especially world news.
It's sad to see so many bad things happening, be it caused by man or nature. Watching reports of the innocent getting killed is sure not pleasant.
Floods.
Hurricanes.
School shootings.
A curious male walks past signs announcing "No Men" at the entrance to Italy's first women-only beach at the Adriatic resort of Riccione.
It's sad to see so many bad things happening, be it caused by man or nature. Watching reports of the innocent getting killed is sure not pleasant.
Floods.
Hurricanes.
School shootings.What is our world becoming to? It's saddening, really. And even more depressing if you follow these kind of news 24/7.
Then again, some things in this world bring a smile to our faces.
Falling in love, spending time with friends and family, making music, enjoying a day at the beach, traveling to foreign places backpacker style, seeing the first blooms of spring, laughing until your sides hurt, basically just doing all the things that excite you.
Also, knowing that women are finally fighting for their rights in creating a no man beach. ;P
Then again, some things in this world bring a smile to our faces.
Falling in love, spending time with friends and family, making music, enjoying a day at the beach, traveling to foreign places backpacker style, seeing the first blooms of spring, laughing until your sides hurt, basically just doing all the things that excite you.
Also, knowing that women are finally fighting for their rights in creating a no man beach. ;P
A curious male walks past signs announcing "No Men" at the entrance to Italy's first women-only beach at the Adriatic resort of Riccione.All pictures taken from POTW (Time).
Questions oh questions
Just 2 more lectures tomorrow before 1 week of much needed break!
Times REALLY passes fast. This will be the last break before the final exams at October. Yikes.
And then goodbye second year, hello 3rd year biotech. Hmm, not even sure if I'm ready for the whole working world yet.
***
As mentioned in the previous post, so many things are happening at the same time, it almost seems like a whirlpool of thoughts and actions going in all possible directions at one time.
Thoughts in my head:
`How long should I go back for the end of this year?
`Tickets not booked yet! How if tickets are all sold out except the super expensive ones?
`I wanna wanna wanna watch Bourne Ultimatum! Anyone who wants to watch it too?
`New desktop PC? Hmm.
`*cough* new *cough* phone coming soon. More updates on that as soon as I receive it.
`Hillsong next year- in or out?
`Whatever happened to the Queenstown trip planning? Bungee jumping/sky diving?
`Haven't found the flat for next year yet. Gah.
`3 terms tests coming really soon after the break.
`Haircut? Should I or should I not?
So many questions, as always. I'm still waiting for some 21st century Einstein to come up with a formula or computer software which can solve all questions just by a few clicks.
Times REALLY passes fast. This will be the last break before the final exams at October. Yikes.
And then goodbye second year, hello 3rd year biotech. Hmm, not even sure if I'm ready for the whole working world yet.
***
As mentioned in the previous post, so many things are happening at the same time, it almost seems like a whirlpool of thoughts and actions going in all possible directions at one time.
Thoughts in my head:
`How long should I go back for the end of this year?
`Tickets not booked yet! How if tickets are all sold out except the super expensive ones?
`I wanna wanna wanna watch Bourne Ultimatum! Anyone who wants to watch it too?
`New desktop PC? Hmm.
`*cough* new *cough* phone coming soon. More updates on that as soon as I receive it.
`Hillsong next year- in or out?
`Whatever happened to the Queenstown trip planning? Bungee jumping/sky diving?
`Haven't found the flat for next year yet. Gah.
`3 terms tests coming really soon after the break.
`Haircut? Should I or should I not?
So many questions, as always. I'm still waiting for some 21st century Einstein to come up with a formula or computer software which can solve all questions just by a few clicks.
Flat Hunt #4 (?) 2007
The Flat Hunt continues.
Mr. Landlord took us to the "furnished" unit at Leith St just a while ago. I actually went with a moderately high expectation as I heard there were wardrobes included in this unit. Lo and behold, the so-called wardrobe are 2 rails hanging from the ceiling where a pole serves as the makeshift wardrobe.
The shower is the same as the other units'. No tiling at all, cemented shower area makes me think twice of wanting to stay there and spend quality time in the bathroom. He said bath mats could be provided, but I don't like the idea of paying 95 a week showering in a less than decent shower area.
Interior designing is nice, and I can tell from my flatmates' expressions that they love it. It sort of looks like the chalets at Santubong resort back home. Wooden furnishing with nice interior layout and all. Of course I was tempted to just forgo the fact that the shower is indeed crappy and sign the lease right then and there.
The fact that Mr. Landlord commented on how warm the flat is made me want to reply back "oh yeah? Your current tenant says it's freaking cold". Yeah I do understand that Dunedin flats are cold especially during the winter months, but that's what a heat pump is for! Other flats with a heat pump come in cheaper prices, but may have less attractive kitchen area or lounge, but hey no flat is perfect (except for expensive studio units).
He said that he would be happy to give us a rebate of 2 dollars a week on rent if we continue to flat at his flats next year. 2 X 54 weeks = $108. To be honest, I would rather pay an extra 2 bucks per week living in a warmer flat and showering in a more decent bathroom. The thought of foreign objects crawling up my legs when I'm showering is not comforting at all.
***
So there you go, my elaborate and unnecessary review of that potential flat. I'm giving it a rating of 7 out of 10 based on a few points. The plus sides are good location, big sized lounge, beautiful interior design, nice kitchen, and alrite landlord. Disadvantages are (lack-of) wardrobe, less than ok shower area, no heat pump, and because there are flats that have a heat pump with the same rent.
Making a decision is always hard.
Sigh.
And having to eat less than 50 grams of meat a day is making me go crazy. I'm suddenly a meat lover. Sounds gross. Well it's not as gross as peeing into a plastic bottle through a funnel and having to bring it to uni and have 7 other people analysing your (possibly yellow) urine.
Mr. Landlord took us to the "furnished" unit at Leith St just a while ago. I actually went with a moderately high expectation as I heard there were wardrobes included in this unit. Lo and behold, the so-called wardrobe are 2 rails hanging from the ceiling where a pole serves as the makeshift wardrobe.
The shower is the same as the other units'. No tiling at all, cemented shower area makes me think twice of wanting to stay there and spend quality time in the bathroom. He said bath mats could be provided, but I don't like the idea of paying 95 a week showering in a less than decent shower area.
Interior designing is nice, and I can tell from my flatmates' expressions that they love it. It sort of looks like the chalets at Santubong resort back home. Wooden furnishing with nice interior layout and all. Of course I was tempted to just forgo the fact that the shower is indeed crappy and sign the lease right then and there.
The fact that Mr. Landlord commented on how warm the flat is made me want to reply back "oh yeah? Your current tenant says it's freaking cold". Yeah I do understand that Dunedin flats are cold especially during the winter months, but that's what a heat pump is for! Other flats with a heat pump come in cheaper prices, but may have less attractive kitchen area or lounge, but hey no flat is perfect (except for expensive studio units).
He said that he would be happy to give us a rebate of 2 dollars a week on rent if we continue to flat at his flats next year. 2 X 54 weeks = $108. To be honest, I would rather pay an extra 2 bucks per week living in a warmer flat and showering in a more decent bathroom. The thought of foreign objects crawling up my legs when I'm showering is not comforting at all.
***
So there you go, my elaborate and unnecessary review of that potential flat. I'm giving it a rating of 7 out of 10 based on a few points. The plus sides are good location, big sized lounge, beautiful interior design, nice kitchen, and alrite landlord. Disadvantages are (lack-of) wardrobe, less than ok shower area, no heat pump, and because there are flats that have a heat pump with the same rent.
Making a decision is always hard.
Sigh.
And having to eat less than 50 grams of meat a day is making me go crazy. I'm suddenly a meat lover. Sounds gross. Well it's not as gross as peeing into a plastic bottle through a funnel and having to bring it to uni and have 7 other people analysing your (possibly yellow) urine.
Pictures @ TIME
The online TIME magazine provides all the information you'll ever need to know. I can't believe I haven't stumbled on the website earlier.
I especially love the "Pictures of the Week" section. Sometimes pictures do more justice than words. Seeing those pictures really made me want to leave Dunedin with a camera and travel the world taking snapshots of precious moments. :)
Check out more interesting pictures here.
I especially love the "Pictures of the Week" section. Sometimes pictures do more justice than words. Seeing those pictures really made me want to leave Dunedin with a camera and travel the world taking snapshots of precious moments. :)
Check out more interesting pictures here.
DF Day 14: 1 more week to go
New layout!
I get excited for a while when a new layout is up and running. That explains why a layout on this blog never lasts over 2 months unless it's one that I really like.
So I hope this new layout/template is more user friendly and easy on the eyes. No graphics at all on the template, which increases loading time of course. It still takes time getting used to the new beta blogger template based on xml instead of good ole html.
Changes are good.
***
This is the final ad 3rd week of Daniel Fast. So far, I can say that I've been about 70% consistent. :P The last few days was hard for me to wake up at 6am as I had late nights playing CS. So that's it, I felt a strong conviction in my heart today to stop playing CS (at least for the time being) and focus on the more important things at hand.
***
Flat hunting this year is great. So far, we have about 4 potential flats, each with good and bad point to consider. Personally I would prefer either a flat at Leith Street (provided that the landlord fixes the shower area and lower the rent) or the odd shaped flat at Dundas/Clyde Street. Though the lounge is orientated in a funny way and the kitchen not really accessible, I guess I just love the homey feeling I got walking into that flat. Oh well, fat chance we'll choose that one though.
So it could be Leith Street then. The shower was the only main downside, was so shocked to find out it was not tiled or properly cemented. The interior design, power consumption, and location is awesome though. Also, no wardrobe poses a HUGE problem for me, considering I would need to either buy a big enough wardrobe to fit all my clothes or find another way to magically store my increasing amount of clothes.
***
My low protein diet for the Biochem experiment starts today, but the urine sample is only taken during the last 24 hours (on Tuesday and early Wednesday). *gulps*
Keep reminding myself to NOT have eggs, meat, and too much milk. It's basically a vegan diet if you ask me. The annoying part is NOT having to pee inside a 5 litre container, but having to record down every single thing that goes into your mouth, down to the butter and nutella I spread on my toast.
I'm so tempted to call the other people in my group who didn't volunteer cowards, but hey I'm the one getting this experience, and will find out how efficient my body is in processing nitrogenic wastes.
***
I feel that there's so much going on right now that there's not enough time to just stop, take a step back, and BREATHE.
So that's why I'm trying (especially this week) to learn how to say NO to doing things that are pulling me back and putting extra load on me emotionally.
I get excited for a while when a new layout is up and running. That explains why a layout on this blog never lasts over 2 months unless it's one that I really like.
So I hope this new layout/template is more user friendly and easy on the eyes. No graphics at all on the template, which increases loading time of course. It still takes time getting used to the new beta blogger template based on xml instead of good ole html.
Changes are good.
***
This is the final ad 3rd week of Daniel Fast. So far, I can say that I've been about 70% consistent. :P The last few days was hard for me to wake up at 6am as I had late nights playing CS. So that's it, I felt a strong conviction in my heart today to stop playing CS (at least for the time being) and focus on the more important things at hand.
***
Flat hunting this year is great. So far, we have about 4 potential flats, each with good and bad point to consider. Personally I would prefer either a flat at Leith Street (provided that the landlord fixes the shower area and lower the rent) or the odd shaped flat at Dundas/Clyde Street. Though the lounge is orientated in a funny way and the kitchen not really accessible, I guess I just love the homey feeling I got walking into that flat. Oh well, fat chance we'll choose that one though.
So it could be Leith Street then. The shower was the only main downside, was so shocked to find out it was not tiled or properly cemented. The interior design, power consumption, and location is awesome though. Also, no wardrobe poses a HUGE problem for me, considering I would need to either buy a big enough wardrobe to fit all my clothes or find another way to magically store my increasing amount of clothes.
***
My low protein diet for the Biochem experiment starts today, but the urine sample is only taken during the last 24 hours (on Tuesday and early Wednesday). *gulps*
Keep reminding myself to NOT have eggs, meat, and too much milk. It's basically a vegan diet if you ask me. The annoying part is NOT having to pee inside a 5 litre container, but having to record down every single thing that goes into your mouth, down to the butter and nutella I spread on my toast.
I'm so tempted to call the other people in my group who didn't volunteer cowards, but hey I'm the one getting this experience, and will find out how efficient my body is in processing nitrogenic wastes.
***
I feel that there's so much going on right now that there's not enough time to just stop, take a step back, and BREATHE.
So that's why I'm trying (especially this week) to learn how to say NO to doing things that are pulling me back and putting extra load on me emotionally.
Lift makes me hyper
2007 is the year when bloggers take the headlines; for all the wrong reasons.
Then when Wee Meng Chee finally came out with the truth (yeah that thing that scares guilty people), the public cheered. I'll repeat that. The public cheered. Only those who are guilty of what was mentioned in the video felt convicted and therefore responded by putting a duct tape over his mouth.
Oh well. That's just politics and the thing with Malaysian culture of sweeping the dust under the carpet. Not that it bothers me, but just pointing out the fact that those who rule the country will always have the authority and do what they want to do, no matter what we try to do. So might as well play it smart, and play by the rules as well.
Politics bore me. I get excited about it when the election season arrives and when the votes get counted, and VERY excited watching campaigning adverts, but that's about it.
***
I'm finding it hard to blog every day now; could be because I'm getting addicted to Counterstrike! Yes, it's bad for me especially when the DF is still on. One more week to go before I can go watch the Bourne Ultimatum!
I'm going from 1 topic to the next. Hmm, must be Lift+ with extra guarana. And too much CS. And too much flat hunting. And too much biochemistry pathways to stuff into my small brain.
Then when Wee Meng Chee finally came out with the truth (yeah that thing that scares guilty people), the public cheered. I'll repeat that. The public cheered. Only those who are guilty of what was mentioned in the video felt convicted and therefore responded by putting a duct tape over his mouth.
Oh well. That's just politics and the thing with Malaysian culture of sweeping the dust under the carpet. Not that it bothers me, but just pointing out the fact that those who rule the country will always have the authority and do what they want to do, no matter what we try to do. So might as well play it smart, and play by the rules as well.
Politics bore me. I get excited about it when the election season arrives and when the votes get counted, and VERY excited watching campaigning adverts, but that's about it.
***
I'm finding it hard to blog every day now; could be because I'm getting addicted to Counterstrike! Yes, it's bad for me especially when the DF is still on. One more week to go before I can go watch the Bourne Ultimatum!
I'm going from 1 topic to the next. Hmm, must be Lift+ with extra guarana. And too much CS. And too much flat hunting. And too much biochemistry pathways to stuff into my small brain.
DF Day 10: Low protein diet!
A food event was held for cell group last night: sushi making competition. :P
My group's masterpiece; supposed to be a lighthouse btw.
Everyone got into small groups, and auctions for various ingredients were held for groups to bid for those that are needed to make their choice of sushi. We had great fun, and though there was no definite winner/loser at the end, everyone enjoyed eating sushi and not forgetting the yummy assam laksa made by Raymond.
More pictures can be found here.
***
Biochem lab was erm, shall I say interesting.
We're onto the nitrogen metabolism module, and basically the point of the experiments next 2 weeks are to measure the rate of nitrogen excretion/intake of different diets (eg high protein diet, low protein diet, normal diet, and vegetarian diet).
One guy couldn't make it today and was made to "volunteer" to be one the subjects. He's doing the high protein diet. If you ask me, a high protein diet is considered to be normal among students: lots and lots of meat, less carbs, and less veges.
Another girl volunteered to do the normal diet, and since nobody else would be bold enough to stick to a special diet for 72 hours, I VOLUNTEERED. So I'm supposed to maintain a low protein diet (no more than 50g of meat per day!!!) for 72 hours starting from this Sunday morning, and have to record every single detail of my food intake.
That includes how much milk drank, grams of rice, pieces of bread (which is limited to 5 or less a day), salt, sugar etc. And here's the most interesting bit: everyone doing the experiment has to collect their urine (for 24 hours) in one of these "high-tech tools" (as quoted from the lecturer)...
Then during lab next Wednesday, everyone gets to take the urine samples (white or yellow), dilute them, and do experiments to measure the amount of various nitrogenous compounds in them. Can't wait!
My group's masterpiece; supposed to be a lighthouse btw.Everyone got into small groups, and auctions for various ingredients were held for groups to bid for those that are needed to make their choice of sushi. We had great fun, and though there was no definite winner/loser at the end, everyone enjoyed eating sushi and not forgetting the yummy assam laksa made by Raymond.
More pictures can be found here.
***
Biochem lab was erm, shall I say interesting.
We're onto the nitrogen metabolism module, and basically the point of the experiments next 2 weeks are to measure the rate of nitrogen excretion/intake of different diets (eg high protein diet, low protein diet, normal diet, and vegetarian diet).
One guy couldn't make it today and was made to "volunteer" to be one the subjects. He's doing the high protein diet. If you ask me, a high protein diet is considered to be normal among students: lots and lots of meat, less carbs, and less veges.
Another girl volunteered to do the normal diet, and since nobody else would be bold enough to stick to a special diet for 72 hours, I VOLUNTEERED. So I'm supposed to maintain a low protein diet (no more than 50g of meat per day!!!) for 72 hours starting from this Sunday morning, and have to record every single detail of my food intake.
That includes how much milk drank, grams of rice, pieces of bread (which is limited to 5 or less a day), salt, sugar etc. And here's the most interesting bit: everyone doing the experiment has to collect their urine (for 24 hours) in one of these "high-tech tools" (as quoted from the lecturer)...
Then during lab next Wednesday, everyone gets to take the urine samples (white or yellow), dilute them, and do experiments to measure the amount of various nitrogenous compounds in them. Can't wait!
DF Day 8: NZ, boring?
Warning: Long post ahead.
The English Premier League has begun a brand new season, a bad start for MU though. A goalless draw against Reading (who got promoted from 1st div 2 seasons ago)?! *flabbergasted* Poor Rooney suffers a bad injury too. Oh well, at least Scholes is still going strong at 3o something.
***
I'm amused at the number of people falling for the scam that's been going on (internationally, might I add). And when I thought only Malaysians are the only people silly enough to believe you have to deposit an amount of money to get an even bigger amount of money won at some lottery or lucky draw... I heard on the radio that some listeners received calls about them winning 10,000 bucks, and have to deposit 99 dollars into a bank account first. -__-
The DJ cleared that up and urged people to not believe whoever's ripping them off, which made me think: who would be stupid enough to impersonate a radio station when calls can be easily made back to the station to confirm validity? But then again, there won't be geniuses if it wasn't forfools the academically challenged.
***
Ah, yet another reason for the locals to look at us and think: There goes one of THEM. Coming here as they wish, trying to take over the university, economy, then country. -___- X1000. Just great.
"Asian students" can be categorised into the general 4 types:
Take my flat for example. There's 6 of us, all asians, 4 as PRs, 2 as internationals. Guess what? We all chose to come here, be it because NZ universities offer quality education and that NZ is a unique, beautiful country, or because of some underlying reason.
Boring? NZ boasts beautiful beaches, wonderful sunrise and sunset views I have yet to see elsewhere, clean air (yeah cheesy but true), work experience (minimum wage btw is 20 times more of that in Msia), uni life and culture, 4 seasons, and so much more. Those that claim NZ is boring are probably pointing out the fact that the malls close at 5pm, and not much of a nightlife going on. Well, too bad for them.
I've mentioned this before, but I'll just touch on it again. Here there is a sense of freedom in the air; the freedom you get from jogging in the botanical gardens early in the morning (all you breathe in is polluted air back home), standing on the pier overlooking the vast ocean (you have to drive 45 mins to get to a beach at Kch) and watch seals chase people, the ability to dress in pajamas out in the streets and not get stared at (you'll probably be put to jail for indecent exposure in Kelantan), see snooooow (fake snow is all you can get at Mines Wonderland), sip coffee and chat away at a local cafe (the cafe culture in Kch is overrated and lacks the ambient atmosphere I love), and of course, wonderful firework displays during GuyFawkes weeked.
Then again, no country is perfect. For good, oily, and cheap food, I always look forward to going home. Watching movies is freaking cheap, overcrowding puts me off though. The weather is a constant 30 to 40 degree heat 365 days a year, the only "season" you get is more rain at the end of the year. Shopping malls are bigger and better, etc etc.
It's not about comparing. It's about appreciating the wonders (be it man made or natural) of each country. As for those that don't appreciate what is found here, nobody has the right to chase them away (intl students still pay part of locals' uni fees). It's probably bad enough that they're wasting their youth in a place they find boring, right?
Unfriendly? I have had countless conversations with strangers, be it the check out lady at Countdown, friendly old man at the bus stop, bus driver who offered to stop right in front of the beach for me to get down, or people asking if I'm warm enough when I was dressed in a bunny costume not too long ago. But one thing I appreciate most in general is the courtesy of everyone (young and old) in holding out doors for you to prevent them from smacking right back in your face, and the basic greetings and thanks every time you walk in/out of a shop, even if you didn't buy anything.
THAT, is what I call manners. Yes, there are the occasional drunkards who yell out racist comments, and they account for what- 0.001% of the population? I've gotten over that long time ago. In Msia, don't expect anyone to smile at you at the bus stop (if you smile, people will look away and think that you're a freak). Don't expect a "thanks" walking out of a shop empty handed, the shopkeepers might even glare at you as if you owe them 100 ringgit. Traffic is BAD back home, the accident rate is so much higher. And need I mention the rate of robberies, corruption, rape, and piracy?!
Good ole NZ. This is where I chose to come study, to experience a foreign culture, to indulge in what this country has to offer. My hope is that those who criticize would pause for a moment and look at the big picture, to not take little things for granted.
The English Premier League has begun a brand new season, a bad start for MU though. A goalless draw against Reading (who got promoted from 1st div 2 seasons ago)?! *flabbergasted* Poor Rooney suffers a bad injury too. Oh well, at least Scholes is still going strong at 3o something.
***
I'm amused at the number of people falling for the scam that's been going on (internationally, might I add). And when I thought only Malaysians are the only people silly enough to believe you have to deposit an amount of money to get an even bigger amount of money won at some lottery or lucky draw... I heard on the radio that some listeners received calls about them winning 10,000 bucks, and have to deposit 99 dollars into a bank account first. -__-
The DJ cleared that up and urged people to not believe whoever's ripping them off, which made me think: who would be stupid enough to impersonate a radio station when calls can be easily made back to the station to confirm validity? But then again, there won't be geniuses if it wasn't for
***
From NZ Herald:
Two reports released this week found Asian students think New Zealand is boring, unfriendly and old-fashioned, but also cheap and safe.
Only two-thirds of the students in one study were satisfied with the internet access.
However, 86 per cent felt safe and 70 per cent would recommend the country as a study destination.
(view whole story here.)
Ah, yet another reason for the locals to look at us and think: There goes one of THEM. Coming here as they wish, trying to take over the university, economy, then country. -___- X1000. Just great.
"Asian students" can be categorised into the general 4 types:
- Those are smart enough to be offered scholarships to do a professional course here. I envy and pity them at the same time.
- Those have are loaded enough (or lucky to be sponsored) to CHOOSE to study here, and genuinely think that NZ is an awesome place to get a degree, love NZ culture, and wouldn't mind staying permanently.
- Those that are loaded, but come here as they fail to get into local universities, mostly from the Northern east Asia. They come here and say "boring, gah can't stand this UNFRIENDLY place and sucky culture, can't wait to get home". They get a degree, go back home, use that degree to enter a local uni. Most probably driving posh cars, some without a NZ license.
- Those that are technically NZers, have PR, yet retain their thick accents. Their numbers are increasing day by day.
Take my flat for example. There's 6 of us, all asians, 4 as PRs, 2 as internationals. Guess what? We all chose to come here, be it because NZ universities offer quality education and that NZ is a unique, beautiful country, or because of some underlying reason.
Boring? NZ boasts beautiful beaches, wonderful sunrise and sunset views I have yet to see elsewhere, clean air (yeah cheesy but true), work experience (minimum wage btw is 20 times more of that in Msia), uni life and culture, 4 seasons, and so much more. Those that claim NZ is boring are probably pointing out the fact that the malls close at 5pm, and not much of a nightlife going on. Well, too bad for them.
I've mentioned this before, but I'll just touch on it again. Here there is a sense of freedom in the air; the freedom you get from jogging in the botanical gardens early in the morning (all you breathe in is polluted air back home), standing on the pier overlooking the vast ocean (you have to drive 45 mins to get to a beach at Kch) and watch seals chase people, the ability to dress in pajamas out in the streets and not get stared at (you'll probably be put to jail for indecent exposure in Kelantan), see snooooow (fake snow is all you can get at Mines Wonderland), sip coffee and chat away at a local cafe (the cafe culture in Kch is overrated and lacks the ambient atmosphere I love), and of course, wonderful firework displays during GuyFawkes weeked.
Then again, no country is perfect. For good, oily, and cheap food, I always look forward to going home. Watching movies is freaking cheap, overcrowding puts me off though. The weather is a constant 30 to 40 degree heat 365 days a year, the only "season" you get is more rain at the end of the year. Shopping malls are bigger and better, etc etc.
It's not about comparing. It's about appreciating the wonders (be it man made or natural) of each country. As for those that don't appreciate what is found here, nobody has the right to chase them away (intl students still pay part of locals' uni fees). It's probably bad enough that they're wasting their youth in a place they find boring, right?
Unfriendly? I have had countless conversations with strangers, be it the check out lady at Countdown, friendly old man at the bus stop, bus driver who offered to stop right in front of the beach for me to get down, or people asking if I'm warm enough when I was dressed in a bunny costume not too long ago. But one thing I appreciate most in general is the courtesy of everyone (young and old) in holding out doors for you to prevent them from smacking right back in your face, and the basic greetings and thanks every time you walk in/out of a shop, even if you didn't buy anything.
THAT, is what I call manners. Yes, there are the occasional drunkards who yell out racist comments, and they account for what- 0.001% of the population? I've gotten over that long time ago. In Msia, don't expect anyone to smile at you at the bus stop (if you smile, people will look away and think that you're a freak). Don't expect a "thanks" walking out of a shop empty handed, the shopkeepers might even glare at you as if you owe them 100 ringgit. Traffic is BAD back home, the accident rate is so much higher. And need I mention the rate of robberies, corruption, rape, and piracy?!
Good ole NZ. This is where I chose to come study, to experience a foreign culture, to indulge in what this country has to offer. My hope is that those who criticize would pause for a moment and look at the big picture, to not take little things for granted.
DF Day 7: Worn out
Wargh. Extreme tiredness. *Flops on soft, comfy bed*
Played mahjong last night at Lisa's place. Her house, by the way, has one of the prettiest view of Dunedin city. Her sister's room is basically my dream bedroom- spacious, full-length windows with an awesome view, HUGE built-in wardrobe, and of course, plush carpets! Lucky her.
The 2 celebrities last night were her pets; Jessica and Mooji (not sure of spelling). Having pets at home just makes it seem more homey and cozy, the more reason why I'm so keen on getting pets of my own once I start working.
It was one of those nights when all you can see are countless stars illuminating up the skies. Very pretty. It would have been romantic if it wasn't for the sudden drop in temperature during the weekend.
Randomness: tortoise with glasses, cute right?
Jessica; so fluffy and nice to hold.
Mooji, the people pleaser. Who can resist those eyes?
Miao. *aren't I photogenic?*
Anyway, the late night took its toll on me. I felt a little sluggish playing keyboard at church this morning. At the same time, trying my best not to complain about the keyboard at Cityside right now. Hopefully Jo will allow Michelle or myself to use our keyboards, but the decision is still up to the church elders I guess.
The keyboard used at church now is a KORG M1 synthesiser, not sure what year it was made in or what the specs are though. The pedal has failed on me yet again this morning, and I had 2 choices when that happened: either play as full-on as possible using normal piano sound and risk the tempo/rhythm ruined by awkward gaps, OR use strings sound and end up not giving enough back up to Daniel. So for the fast songs piano sound was used; strings for the slower ones. I have to admit, it sounded better than I thought it would, could just be me being paranoid/a perfectionist at the first place.
Played a good game of basketball at unipol a while ago. =) Badminton was good, but lacked the momentum, I thought. Either I'm better at aiming at the hoops now or this is just my lucky day. *yawns* Feeling really tired this early, might call it a night then.
Played mahjong last night at Lisa's place. Her house, by the way, has one of the prettiest view of Dunedin city. Her sister's room is basically my dream bedroom- spacious, full-length windows with an awesome view, HUGE built-in wardrobe, and of course, plush carpets! Lucky her.
The 2 celebrities last night were her pets; Jessica and Mooji (not sure of spelling). Having pets at home just makes it seem more homey and cozy, the more reason why I'm so keen on getting pets of my own once I start working.
It was one of those nights when all you can see are countless stars illuminating up the skies. Very pretty. It would have been romantic if it wasn't for the sudden drop in temperature during the weekend.
Randomness: tortoise with glasses, cute right?
Jessica; so fluffy and nice to hold.
Mooji, the people pleaser. Who can resist those eyes?
Miao. *aren't I photogenic?*
The keyboard used at church now is a KORG M1 synthesiser, not sure what year it was made in or what the specs are though. The pedal has failed on me yet again this morning, and I had 2 choices when that happened: either play as full-on as possible using normal piano sound and risk the tempo/rhythm ruined by awkward gaps, OR use strings sound and end up not giving enough back up to Daniel. So for the fast songs piano sound was used; strings for the slower ones. I have to admit, it sounded better than I thought it would, could just be me being paranoid/a perfectionist at the first place.
Played a good game of basketball at unipol a while ago. =) Badminton was good, but lacked the momentum, I thought. Either I'm better at aiming at the hoops now or this is just my lucky day. *yawns* Feeling really tired this early, might call it a night then.
DF Day 6: Being Sentimental
I miss your smile, miss everything about you.
I wonder if you'll ever find out about me feeling this way.
I wonder how you would react when you find out.
I wonder if you're feeling the same way.
I wonder if I'll ever find the courage to say those words to you.
I wonder if you'll laugh and make fun of me when you finally find out.
I wonder how things would be if you were here right now.
I wonder what is it that you fear most; wonder what the first thing on your mind is when you wake up.
I wonder if you're reading this.
I wonder what you're thinking right this instant, wonder what you're doing.
Sometimes, a girl just needs to wonder.
I wonder if you'll ever find out about me feeling this way.
I wonder how you would react when you find out.
I wonder if you're feeling the same way.
I wonder if I'll ever find the courage to say those words to you.
I wonder if you'll laugh and make fun of me when you finally find out.
I wonder how things would be if you were here right now.
I wonder what is it that you fear most; wonder what the first thing on your mind is when you wake up.
I wonder if you're reading this.
I wonder what you're thinking right this instant, wonder what you're doing.
Sometimes, a girl just needs to wonder.
DF Day 5: Craving for movies
I've been simpsonized!
Yes, I can see that it doesn't look like me at all, but do go to this website and create a simpson version of yourself.
The Simpsons movie is as funny as it can get. =) My favourite scenes include the Spiderpig song, Green Day playing their swan song as "titanic" breaks in half and sinks, Arnold Schwarzenegger saying "I was elected to leeeeeaad, not to reeeeeaaad."
The way they sort of create parody scenes from other famous movies is so subtle yet cracks you up (if you notice them, that is). Homer saying to the audience about "why would we want to watch this movie when it's being shown free on tv" and Bart scribbling "I will not download this movie illegally" is so original; all of these combine to make the perfect simpson movie.
***
Day 5 of Daniel Fast-> 5 days without any movies (Simpsons was BEFORE that) or trademe shopping is making time pass very slooooooowly.
DF Day 4: Introducing JayCee, my new amp
I just bought a new keyboard amplifier for Waszowski!!!
The girls in the flat decided to give it a name (which I *erm-ly* agreed): JayCee or JC or whatever you wish the JC to stand for. But as for now, JayCee is my new baby. =)
Technically, JayCee is a Roland KC-60 3-channel mixing keyboard amp, probably one of the lowest in its range. Keyboard amps are darn expensive, I bought it for $599 (including a free cable and $20 off Michelle's keyboard stand) at the Rockshop few hours ago. There wasn't much choice there, only this and another Behringer model (which according to the salesman had been returned by many customers...) which was 100 bucks more with better specs though.
Too bad I'm in Dunedin (only when it comes to buying instruments). If this was Auckland, I'll probably have more choices and opportunity to compare & contrast. Oh well, this will do for now.
The good thing about buying an amp is that I'll no longer have to plug the extension cable into the earphone jacks to my speakers, and risk tripping over the cable all over again. Plus, an amp will do wonders if I ever decide to get a guitar of my own in the future. Also, having an amp makes it possible to play songs on the computer and play on Waszowski at the same time! Some people might think that it's not necessary, but it's so much more handy when practising new songs.
Now all I want is a new cell phone. :P But that'll probably have to wait til when I get back to M'sia end of this year.
DF Day 3: Devotion
Since the first day of the fast I've been playing Devotion by Hillsong United very frequently.
In a way, it has become my personal theme song. At 6am every morning, I plug the earphones into my phone, listen to the lyrics and just amaze at the how much meaning it brings; at the same time trying to imagine how much more would it mean to the composer of the song when it was written.
I was especially surprised when the dvd shown yesterday night during home group was specifically about just how indescribable God is. The dvd was AWESOME: it was a recorded preaching of Louise (apparently he's Chris Tomlin's manager) in Houston, USA. He showed many astronomical images, all very cool and surreal. I liked it when he even gave the exact measurements in light years (1 light year = 5.87 TRILLION miles long), how big the universe out there really is, and that the earth is just a tiny speck of dust caught in a ray of light when compared to the whole universe. The statistics given just wowed me again and again.
Then he concluded about how he did not meant for us to FEEL small, but to realise that we ARE indeed ridiculously tiny and insignificant. He also said that since God is able to hold the universe in His hands (which is probably gazillion miles wide), how much smaller are we really are? Though tiny in existence, He still knows every one of us by name, our favourite colour, and even our deepest secrets.
Which is why I'm so keen and excited about singing this song during next week's home group. Go buy the album "All of the Above" if you haven't done so yet. It's Hillsong United's best yet. =)
I've been running, trying to be one who sees
I've been working, salvation out on my knees
There is nothing better than knowing
That we are redeemed
Unbelieving trusting in creative hands,
I am praying for our world to bow to your plan
And this one thought is unmistakable
I take up my cross and follow you Lord
In a way, it has become my personal theme song. At 6am every morning, I plug the earphones into my phone, listen to the lyrics and just amaze at the how much meaning it brings; at the same time trying to imagine how much more would it mean to the composer of the song when it was written.
When You stand the tall trees and mountains bow
When You speak the fiercest of oceans is still
And I see the sinner seek devotion
The lost become chosen, and I fall to my knees
I was especially surprised when the dvd shown yesterday night during home group was specifically about just how indescribable God is. The dvd was AWESOME: it was a recorded preaching of Louise (apparently he's Chris Tomlin's manager) in Houston, USA. He showed many astronomical images, all very cool and surreal. I liked it when he even gave the exact measurements in light years (1 light year = 5.87 TRILLION miles long), how big the universe out there really is, and that the earth is just a tiny speck of dust caught in a ray of light when compared to the whole universe. The statistics given just wowed me again and again.
Unforgiven, my Saviour who did not deserve death
He was blameless and I was lost in shamefulness
Undelivered, but it doesn't seem right
Unless I keep my eyes focused on the Saviour who gave His live
In the middle of a world that denies it believes
It is breaking apart at the very seams
There is one thing to be alive for
And it's to take up my cross and follow You Lord
Then he concluded about how he did not meant for us to FEEL small, but to realise that we ARE indeed ridiculously tiny and insignificant. He also said that since God is able to hold the universe in His hands (which is probably gazillion miles wide), how much smaller are we really are? Though tiny in existence, He still knows every one of us by name, our favourite colour, and even our deepest secrets.
I will take up my cross and follow Lord where You lead me
And I will take up my cross and follow wherever You go
Which is why I'm so keen and excited about singing this song during next week's home group. Go buy the album "All of the Above" if you haven't done so yet. It's Hillsong United's best yet. =)
DF Day 2: Blessings galore
I feel guilty for falling back to sleep at 7am. =( I did wake up around 6, prayed, and read the bible before snoozing off again though.
So I've decided the only way is to get a cup of coffee IMMEDIATELY after 6am. Guess what? I skipped afternoon nap today! *feeling accomplished*
***
Seems like the good news keep coming in since I started on the fast. The BIG good news is that Brooke Fraser is having another nationwide tour with the OpShop this October 21st at the Regent Theatre! =D That news made myday week.
If I go to this concert (which I will make sure that I am), this will be my 2nd Brooke concert this week alone. =) Hope hope hope for an autograph signing session as there wasn't one the last time. Also, I'll make sure to get some merchandise this time.
***
The other good news is that I've finally changed my MANV tutorial time, after 2 unsuccessful attempts. No more broken English Vietnamese/Chinese tutor, this new tutor is supposedly one the best there is.
I was so fortunate to fill up the last space for his tutorial, as the other time was already full too. So 9am every Thursdays it is, from now on.
So I've decided the only way is to get a cup of coffee IMMEDIATELY after 6am. Guess what? I skipped afternoon nap today! *feeling accomplished*
***
Seems like the good news keep coming in since I started on the fast. The BIG good news is that Brooke Fraser is having another nationwide tour with the OpShop this October 21st at the Regent Theatre! =D That news made my
If I go to this concert (which I will make sure that I am), this will be my 2nd Brooke concert this week alone. =) Hope hope hope for an autograph signing session as there wasn't one the last time. Also, I'll make sure to get some merchandise this time.
***
The other good news is that I've finally changed my MANV tutorial time, after 2 unsuccessful attempts. No more broken English Vietnamese/Chinese tutor, this new tutor is supposedly one the best there is.
I was so fortunate to fill up the last space for his tutorial, as the other time was already full too. So 9am every Thursdays it is, from now on.
Daniel Fast, Day 1
Waking up early wasn't as bad as I thought; the alarm rang at 6am, it was still pitch black outside but I managed to spend some quiet time with God.
The not so easy part is trying to stay awake for the rest of the day.
I was dozing off by my 2nd lecture at 10am, couldn't concentrate fully on the ridiculously complicated metabolism pathways in biochemistry lectures. *pinches myself* Coffee didn't help; I'll make it 2 teaspoons tomorrow and see if that works.
I'm thankful that genetics lab only lasted for half an hour. Yeap, that is a record. I'm sure the lab demonstrators were happy to get paid for 4 hours and work only one eighth of that time. I tried to do some biochem revision after that, but managed only one lecture's worth of study. =( I tried, I really did. So I decided to pack up and get some rest.
Now, I'm all refreshed. *Yawns again* Oops. The first few days are always harder, my biological clock still working 2 or so hours behind myself. Hopefully tomorrow won't be as hard, and I'll try to make it through without an afternoon nap.
The not so easy part is trying to stay awake for the rest of the day.
I was dozing off by my 2nd lecture at 10am, couldn't concentrate fully on the ridiculously complicated metabolism pathways in biochemistry lectures. *pinches myself* Coffee didn't help; I'll make it 2 teaspoons tomorrow and see if that works.
I'm thankful that genetics lab only lasted for half an hour. Yeap, that is a record. I'm sure the lab demonstrators were happy to get paid for 4 hours and work only one eighth of that time. I tried to do some biochem revision after that, but managed only one lecture's worth of study. =( I tried, I really did. So I decided to pack up and get some rest.
Now, I'm all refreshed. *Yawns again* Oops. The first few days are always harder, my biological clock still working 2 or so hours behind myself. Hopefully tomorrow won't be as hard, and I'll try to make it through without an afternoon nap.
Ice skating fun
Ice skating was FUN!!!
Group pic.
Right after church (which was awesome because "Hosanna" was sung), the 18 of us packed into 4 cars and went to the ice skating rink despite the cold, gloomy weather these days.
There were so many of us that we were given free chips! We were told it was going to be 3 packs of large chips, lo and behold it was 3 freaking TRAYS of hot chips! *all smiles* Thanks also to the girls at flat 4/777 for preparing the tuna, garlic bread, and drinks.
The ice skating was fully packed when we got there. There were kids skating around with their sledges, people who are obviously skating for the first time, people falling on their butts, and pro skaters doing turns and twirls that make me go "waa, oooh, waaa..."
The painful fall ;P
After skating around for a bit, we decided to play tag and even did a relay match which I really enjoyed. Thanks to the fast and furious Anthony who was on team 2 so we could win the relay, hehe!
My feet are hurting =( especially around the ankle. The boots were either too tight or I didn't tie them the right way. Funny since I never experienced this during my last 4 or 5 times skating. So I guess the bruises are here to stay at least until the end of the week.
The rink closed at 5, and some of us went to St Claire beach just nearby. It was still gloomy then, so pictures aren't that great. I love looking at the crashing waves though, ironically they had a very calming effect. Probably I just miss going to the beach, this being my first time this year.
I love this pic of May.
Hoods down!
Attack of the Canai leg ;P
***
Today, I had my last sleep-in (at least for the next 21 days) as Daniel fast starts tomorrow. I'll get up at 6am every morning and spend some quiet time with God, and see how it goes from there. =) Might even go for jogs at the botanical gardens if it's not raining.
Also, I'll be fasting from watching movies and tv dramas for the next 21 days. No more shopping for clothes at all, be it from trademe or town. Yeap, that will be my greatest challenge, to NOT keep spending unnecessarily or waste time watching movies or series.
I've decided not to fast from coffee or tea, they are absolutely essential for me to endure the boring lectures. Blogging will continue as usual too.
*Looks above* Please give me the willpower to make this an offering to You, not to prove to myself or anyone else that I can achieve my goals, and come out after the 21 days a different person I am today.
Group pic.There were so many of us that we were given free chips! We were told it was going to be 3 packs of large chips, lo and behold it was 3 freaking TRAYS of hot chips! *all smiles* Thanks also to the girls at flat 4/777 for preparing the tuna, garlic bread, and drinks.
The ice skating was fully packed when we got there. There were kids skating around with their sledges, people who are obviously skating for the first time, people falling on their butts, and pro skaters doing turns and twirls that make me go "waa, oooh, waaa..."
The painful fall ;PMy feet are hurting =( especially around the ankle. The boots were either too tight or I didn't tie them the right way. Funny since I never experienced this during my last 4 or 5 times skating. So I guess the bruises are here to stay at least until the end of the week.
The rink closed at 5, and some of us went to St Claire beach just nearby. It was still gloomy then, so pictures aren't that great. I love looking at the crashing waves though, ironically they had a very calming effect. Probably I just miss going to the beach, this being my first time this year.
I love this pic of May.
Hoods down!
Attack of the Canai leg ;PToday, I had my last sleep-in (at least for the next 21 days) as Daniel fast starts tomorrow. I'll get up at 6am every morning and spend some quiet time with God, and see how it goes from there. =) Might even go for jogs at the botanical gardens if it's not raining.
Also, I'll be fasting from watching movies and tv dramas for the next 21 days. No more shopping for clothes at all, be it from trademe or town. Yeap, that will be my greatest challenge, to NOT keep spending unnecessarily or waste time watching movies or series.
I've decided not to fast from coffee or tea, they are absolutely essential for me to endure the boring lectures. Blogging will continue as usual too.
*Looks above* Please give me the willpower to make this an offering to You, not to prove to myself or anyone else that I can achieve my goals, and come out after the 21 days a different person I am today.
Waking Up
Another music post; this time it's Bethany Dillon's awesome album- Waking Up (2007).The simplest way to describe her voice: a striking similarity to Brooke Fraser's. So if you're a big fan of Brooke (like I am), this album won't let you down.
One difference is that more songs are piano-rock driven, especially the second track "Come find me". The intro is really catchy, and so are all the lyrics from the other tracks. Some of the notable ones are "Top of the world" and "Tell Me".
I love the lyrics from "Tell Me", especially since Jo (church music director) just spoke to us yesterday about God's great love that will be there no matter how bad things might turn out. Sometimes we just forget that it's only His love that matters: His love made us able to love others, to love Him back, to do what we're doing even right now.
Tell me of a time when all this gray wasn't such a fightThe lyrics to her other songs can be found here, and if you want to listen to the whole album, click here.
A road I'd stay on for so long
How long have I been this way?
I'm so addicted to feeling guilty
Like the edge of a cliff, it's about to kill me
All the reasons why You wouldn't want to love me
Could I be loved by You?
I've got so much to prove
So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall
Still I know it's like pulling teeth
To try and convince me
That Your mercy can be bigger than what I deserve
I guess I'm just afraid to go head first
Into such a wave, drowning in wonder and peace
Knowing that it will never make sense
That I am loved by You, really loved by You
So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall
Unchangeable, unconquerable
Immovable, irremovable
Unwavering, untiring
Unflinching, stubborn love of God
So tell me when this night is over
And the curtain falls
That I will know the truth
When it's the only thing that's standing tall
How well do you know me?
I've added a few extra stuff on the sidebars at the right -------->
Out of boredom, mostly.
Do have a go at the "how well do you know me" test. It's NOT hard at all, as pointed out by Rebec, and I won't get mad if you score 0 out of 10. You just have to buy me dinner. =)
Out of boredom, mostly.
Do have a go at the "how well do you know me" test. It's NOT hard at all, as pointed out by Rebec, and I won't get mad if you score 0 out of 10. You just have to buy me dinner. =)
Flat Hunt #1 2007
Oo, Chyi Mei blogs at blogspot too.
***
Less and less people are attending the Manv202/Bsns101 tutorial on every Thursday, especially Kiwis. The reason why? Our tutor (which I judge is either from Vietnam or China) talks like this: "er-counteeeeng is-er fher-rieeee ink-tarace-teeng".
Every time I hear her explain something, I imagine the Flying Squid or Mei Hwa boss lady saying "1 doler cheeeeps!!!" Somehow they always manage to emphasize how important the vowel e is.
And now I'm thinking whether I should change my tutorial to another class where I can actually take something out of tutorial lessons. To pity the Vietnamese tutor or to make the most of the $2000 or so I pay for this subject?
***
It's now the flat-hunting season.
Though all the red "STOP" signs are still posted around campus, people are desperately looking around for the cheapest, nearest, and warmest flat for 2008.
Our landlord has decided to accept the offer from Citicol (one of the residential halls) to rent or sell "The Lofts" to them next year, so technically speaking we can no longer stay at Flat 4/777 again next year =( How sad, since I enjoy having all the fast food restaurants and my workplace close by.
So a few days after having a flat meeting, we began looking at potential flats, including one at Castle St which we went to have a look just now. The location is pretty good actually, only about 2 or 3 minutes walk to Science Library. Then again, it is on Castle Street, the notorious street where coach-burning activities are common especially after exams.
I was surprised when I walked into the flat considering there were broken glass and disgusting rubbish on the driveway leading to the flat. It was WARM, almost felt like I was back in Malaysia. haha. Reason? There's a heat pump at the living room! *jumps for joy* The living room and kitchen scores the points; the living room looks so cozy and homey, I almost felt like sitting down on the couches and play the Yamaha keyboard in the middle of the living room.
The carpet is next on the plus list. It's made from one of those plush, thick material unlike the one used at the current flat. Really comfy and helps keep heat in. The kitchen, though smaller, is cool with an L-shape design with a bar counter-style.
The 6 rooms are on the right after coming through the entrance, 3 rooms on each side. One little downside, the rooms are way smaller. Loses a point in its size, but wins one with the HUGE (at least bigger than my current) built-in wardrobe. It's a good thing I bought a single bed last year, a double bed with my current amount of stuff wouldn't possibly fit into the room.
Though the rooms are small, the nice living room is enough to entice me into seriously considering this flat. Rent is $80 a week excluding power, which is 14 bucks cheaper than 777. Plus, the landlord is going to renovate the other units and have it done by next year, and do some fencing to keep away the drunkards. =)
Looking forward to view the other potential flats soon.
***
Less and less people are attending the Manv202/Bsns101 tutorial on every Thursday, especially Kiwis. The reason why? Our tutor (which I judge is either from Vietnam or China) talks like this: "er-counteeeeng is-er fher-rieeee ink-tarace-teeng".
Every time I hear her explain something, I imagine the Flying Squid or Mei Hwa boss lady saying "1 doler cheeeeps!!!" Somehow they always manage to emphasize how important the vowel e is.
And now I'm thinking whether I should change my tutorial to another class where I can actually take something out of tutorial lessons. To pity the Vietnamese tutor or to make the most of the $2000 or so I pay for this subject?
***
It's now the flat-hunting season.
Though all the red "STOP" signs are still posted around campus, people are desperately looking around for the cheapest, nearest, and warmest flat for 2008.
Our landlord has decided to accept the offer from Citicol (one of the residential halls) to rent or sell "The Lofts" to them next year, so technically speaking we can no longer stay at Flat 4/777 again next year =( How sad, since I enjoy having all the fast food restaurants and my workplace close by.
So a few days after having a flat meeting, we began looking at potential flats, including one at Castle St which we went to have a look just now. The location is pretty good actually, only about 2 or 3 minutes walk to Science Library. Then again, it is on Castle Street, the notorious street where coach-burning activities are common especially after exams.
I was surprised when I walked into the flat considering there were broken glass and disgusting rubbish on the driveway leading to the flat. It was WARM, almost felt like I was back in Malaysia. haha. Reason? There's a heat pump at the living room! *jumps for joy* The living room and kitchen scores the points; the living room looks so cozy and homey, I almost felt like sitting down on the couches and play the Yamaha keyboard in the middle of the living room.
The carpet is next on the plus list. It's made from one of those plush, thick material unlike the one used at the current flat. Really comfy and helps keep heat in. The kitchen, though smaller, is cool with an L-shape design with a bar counter-style.
The 6 rooms are on the right after coming through the entrance, 3 rooms on each side. One little downside, the rooms are way smaller. Loses a point in its size, but wins one with the HUGE (at least bigger than my current) built-in wardrobe. It's a good thing I bought a single bed last year, a double bed with my current amount of stuff wouldn't possibly fit into the room.
Though the rooms are small, the nice living room is enough to entice me into seriously considering this flat. Rent is $80 a week excluding power, which is 14 bucks cheaper than 777. Plus, the landlord is going to renovate the other units and have it done by next year, and do some fencing to keep away the drunkards. =)
Looking forward to view the other potential flats soon.
The World Clock
Stumbled on this and couldn't help not posting it.
Click here.
What made my jaw drop was how fast the abortion incidences are increasing and how fast the world's temperature is rising. If you tweak around a bit, you'll find that the number of abortions more or less equal to the number of cars produced at one time. Though only estimates, it is a scary comparison.
Pretty interesting and deep stuff, right?
Click here.
What made my jaw drop was how fast the abortion incidences are increasing and how fast the world's temperature is rising. If you tweak around a bit, you'll find that the number of abortions more or less equal to the number of cars produced at one time. Though only estimates, it is a scary comparison.
Pretty interesting and deep stuff, right?
Stuck in the mud
Dunedin weather is playing tricks on us all again. A few days ago it was all sunny and warm, then it started raining 2 days ago. Then yesterday when it finally stopped raining, I decided to do the unthinkable: wear jandals. Lo and behold, when walking across the park leading to St Davids, all the mud and slime got stuck in my jandals and feet. The embarrassing part was when the right jandal slipped off my foot and got stuck in the mud, and I had to "reverse" back to where I was to pick it up.
Walking across the park has never been so dreadful.
***
Recently, I noticed a change in me: the decrease in ability to say the words that I really want, and end up saying something similar but with a different meaning altogether.
The first time was when I was trying to explain to a friend about how VideoEzy made a mistake about not returning a game on time. I was happily telling my story when suddenly I was pointed out that instead of saying VideoEzy, I'd mentioned EziBuy the whole time.
Then I also said "cereals" instead of "muesli bar" a few times, and many other embarrassing unable-to-talk-properly examples. What bugs me the most is this: I was oblivious to the fact that what I spoke is different to what I MEANT to say, meaning that something in my brain which connects the thought processed to speech has short circuited, or has temporarily taken a nap. Either way, this is not good at all.
So next time if you ask me a question and I answered in a way that doesn't make sense at all, feel free to repeat the question again and again (if you're patient) or just say "Har?!" (with a very puzzled look on your face).
Walking across the park has never been so dreadful.
***
Recently, I noticed a change in me: the decrease in ability to say the words that I really want, and end up saying something similar but with a different meaning altogether.
The first time was when I was trying to explain to a friend about how VideoEzy made a mistake about not returning a game on time. I was happily telling my story when suddenly I was pointed out that instead of saying VideoEzy, I'd mentioned EziBuy the whole time.
Then I also said "cereals" instead of "muesli bar" a few times, and many other embarrassing unable-to-talk-properly examples. What bugs me the most is this: I was oblivious to the fact that what I spoke is different to what I MEANT to say, meaning that something in my brain which connects the thought processed to speech has short circuited, or has temporarily taken a nap. Either way, this is not good at all.
So next time if you ask me a question and I answered in a way that doesn't make sense at all, feel free to repeat the question again and again (if you're patient) or just say "Har?!" (with a very puzzled look on your face).
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