The Mercury World

Home Sweet Home 2009

2009-12-29T18:40:00.002Z

3.5 weeks has almost passed. 3.5 weeks of holidays back home. Why is it that good times always fly by the fastest? It has been a fruitful trip back home. I managed to catch up with lots of people and a lot more of 1-on-1 times with most friends. I also managed to meet up with lots of poeple who I missed out on meeting when I came back last year (even thouhg I was back for a longer time last year). It was also really nice ot meet up with the E6 people at Tat & Annie's wedding as well as meeting relatives at the other wedding. It was nice meeting up with the Astar people (who have almost all left Astar). It wasa nice reminiscing bout life in Swiss with the E6 gang. Its been so long since I has this feeling that I belong to a group of friends who we share so much mischievous adventure with. It makes me feel like staying on in Singapore. And having been abroad for so many years and flying out of Singapore so many times, this seems to be the only time that I feel so reluctant to leave. It leaves a sour taste in my mouth when I say to people 'I will see you next year'. It makes me sad to leave all this behind to go back to gloomy UK to finish my PhD. It gives me this urge to return home after I finish. It makes me think that it is not such a bad idea. It might be a spur of the moment thought, but time will tell. For now, I will enjoy my last few days back home, before I embark on the last part and the toughest part of my PhD.

Stressed.....!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-17T00:29:00.006Z

Been really stressed lately. My list of things to do never seem to end. Everything seems to be a top priority at the moment. Every new working day seems to add new things to the list of top priority. And no, it doesn't mean the old number 1s are being pushed down. It just means more number 1s. So much for prioritising the list. Thereforem it's getting really stressful at work. I wished I was going back next week and not next month.

Had a really crappy past 2 weeks too. I guess that doesn't help matters. This is when I don't think all this hard work is worth it, even for that Dr. title in front of my name. Nor that funky gown and hat you get at the ceremony (if I make it that far that is). This when I think, why do I even bother doing a Phd? Why do I put myself through all this pain and torture? Is there really light at the end of the tunnel?

But then, I do still excited when I get results that I wanted. I still feel the excitement especially when it works the 1st time. I think that's what happens when you get to the point where nothing ever works after repeating it 10 times, and you never expect anything else is ever gonna work. That's when even the simplest of experiment that works give you this thrill. That's when I go; this is why I do science! This is my passion. This is my motivation for doing science (even if the good day happens in about once every 2 months). This is what keeps me going. Till I hit the brick wall again.....

Friends

2009-10-15T01:06:00.004+01:00

It's been a long while since I last blogged. I'm just too ill-disciplined to keep up. Or rather just too lazy.
I've just booked my air tickets home few weeks back. A part of me is rather looking forward to it. Seems like a long time since I caught up with friends back home (and msn doesn't count). Another part of me knows that the turn of the year would signifiy the 'official' point of my PhD. The point where I panic. When I realised that I haven't got enough results to write up and that I've only got 1.5 yrs left to go.
Lately, I've started to miss my friends back home as well. It occurred to me that regardless of how big my circle of friends may be, the ones who I'm closest to and know me best are still the ones I grew up with. The ones who worry that about me while I'm abroad, the same ones who have been there for me and listen to my ramblings about life abroad. Its when I need someone to talk to and analyse certain situations that it dawns on me how very much alone life can be abroad. And this is where I'm glad the technologies like msn and FB which makes the world a whole lot smaller. Though I much prefer to pick up the phone or to catch up with them to whinge about my life. Or just a quick coffee which would of course turn into hours of gossips.
I'm missing too the friends who make me see the reality of life. Who pull me back to the ground when I'm sometimes swept away with the flow. Who knows me too well and would list the facts and make me face up to the questions that I sometimes refuse to see.
For all these friends, I'm glad that you have come into my life and stayed in it and make an impact in y life. It just makes my day to know you back home sometimes still miss me and am looking forward to me going home as well. It makes me ponder somedays if I have the courage to uproot my life back home and settle abroad for the rest of my life. I guess thats a decision for another day. Like the saying goes, we will take one step at a time.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

2009-02-03T23:57:00.008Z

It has finally snowed in Notts. Ok probably the whole of UK. My first snow experience in the UK. When I first looked out my window at 3pm, I just saw white fluff floating around and didn’t realized it was actually really snowing. I just assumed there were just light fluffy snow aka flurries. And next when I looked out at 6.30pm, there were some snow covering certain parts of the road outside my house and also of course the cars (mine included). Another first I encountered on the same day, a blackout. The whole street experienced a blackout at about 11pm or so and probably lasted 30mins or so. When the lights went out, me and my hsemate peeped out the window in the front room trying to decide if it was just us who tripped the circuit. That’s where I realized it had been snowing really hard. Wow. The whole street was white and the cars were buried with snow. Cool… it looked so pretty. Power failure also made us realized how much of our technology rely on electricity. No lights, no TV, no internet even. Gosh .. we were actually thinking that if the power failure last too long we would have to resort to eating the ice-cream in the freezer out in the street. Haha.. to prevent it from melting of course. Or we could just bury it in the snow. Might work too. Anyway we decided the only game we could probably play with just the 2 of us would be battleship. So while we were drawing our grids and plotting our respective battleship plan, the electricity came back. I have to say its pretty efficient for being in the UK.
So, thru the nite the snow continued and the prettiest sight greeted me in the morning. Trees covered in snow. Cars and roads covered in snow. Hse and walkway covered in snow. So were driveways. And it was still snowing hard. Cool! When I got out of the hse, I couldn’t resist taking a pic of my street and of course my poor car. The good thing about snow? It doesn’t ice up the car and the wipers can just push the snow off the windscreen and we are off. The bad thing? Its really challenging to drive on snow. Till you get to the main streets when its salted and therefore snow-free. It definitely was a cool cool experience. So safely got to uni, park the car (couldn’t tell if I took just one lot or more as the white lines were cover with white snow). But hey, who’s gonna blame me. Walk the short distance to the building in the snow and pretty much stayed indoors admiring the snow fall and the pretty site it made while worrying that we might get snowed in and stuck in the building. I rather get snowed in at home of course. Its really amusing to see the undergrads attempt to have a snowfight with the few cm of snow we had. And when all else fail, they gather their ammunition from the windscreens of the cars parked nearby. Oh good on them, clearing the snow from our car. We did have a good laugh from the view we had on the 3rd level looking down at them. And of course some who couldn’t resist and took their hp to take a pic of themselves with snow. Ah.. what and exciting day…. So enjoy the pretty pics….

How my roof looks at 6.30pm.

The street where I live.

Still at 6.30pm.

It's still 6.30pm.

Now its 12.30am. Just past midnight and the Battleship contest is over and the power has since returned.

A close-up view of snow at 12.30am.

Footsteps in the snow. Just about enough snow for footprints to show. Footprints beling to my neighbour. I prefer to keep warm indoors.

Snow at 12.30am.

The same view but about 9 hours later at 9am. After 1 nite of snowfall. It looks so much prettier in the light.

My snow-covered car.

My car in the street. The empty void was a car which drove out of the driveway.

Hiding from the cold inside my car. See the snow?

The snow-covered street where I live. It looks really really pretty doesn't it?

The start of my street with the main road in the background. Its all white I know.

My new toy

2008-09-14T16:18:00.007+01:00

Hey guys

Some pics of my new toy (ok not that new now, been 2 weeks since I got it) that you have been hassling me for. I've gotten myself and yr 2000 Toyota Yaris. So Toyottie now has a sister. In case anyone is still blur, the car is in the UK....I think there is more pics of the car I posted on facebook.

Driver side of the interior.

Sunroof included in this rainy country. Talk about irony.

A rather small boot.

Little Miss Naughty thats supposed to refresh the air in the car. But doesn't seem like its doing the job anymore. Lousy. But at least it looks cute.

My atlas. YW decided I needed this after TomTom (Sat Nav) didn't do a very good job when one of the motorway it wanted us to take was closed and we just got hopelessly lost. Technologies. Not that dependable afterall. Boohoo...

'Food'ful Weekend

2008-08-17T23:07:00.013+01:00

Heyo! Back to blog. Have been out of action last couple of weeks. Busy at work (getting out of lab only after 7 each day) and been going to parties and hanging out at friend's place on weekends. Am hardly home. Thats my excuse for not updating my blog.

Anyway just thought I should post some pics of my life here. First up. Pictures of food that me n YW tried cooking on Sat. Recipes came from this foodblog. Overall, the food pretty much taste what we have back in Sg (which is good, cos YW hasn't gone home in more than 2 yrs and missing Sg food), except that we probably had enough food to feed 10 pple. Seem more like we were having a party. But all that food was just for the 2 of us. Pictures dun reflect the full quantity of food. And also missing are pictures of manago pudding (got too full n tired towards the ending of the meal to bother taking pic) which didn't solidify fully but still tasted good. Also no pic of my bubble milk tea (pearl not sweet). Next time I try to remember.

I'll add pics of my walk to uni and some pic of my uni and city centre next time. And also more food. I really do try to have a life here :)

Meanwhile, enjoy the pics and Xuan knock yourself out with the pics and drool all you want.... Muhahah ....All in all I think it was quite a successful attempt. Would be trying more food then.

A table full of recipes and mess that we created.

Thats the mess in the kitchen that we also created.

Oyster omelette with really spicy homemade chilli.

Close-up view of the oyster omelette. Looks like the real thing?

Siew mai before it has been cooked. Ok looks really fat and big. But here. Its the UK here. Ang moh chinese food is always bigger in size.

Thats the siew mai after its cooked. We managed only to steam and finish 7.

Next up. Carrot cake. This is just the carrot cake before its fried.

Fried carrot cake. The black style.

Chinese red bean pancake.

The red bean paste we made just for the pancake. Therefore we had a BIG bowl of red bean soup and LOADS of red bean paste. I think we went overboard there.

Update after the 1st month in Nottingham

2008-07-29T02:36:00.000+01:00

It has definitely been a busy, busy last week. Both at work and after. Well at work, my pc is finally here after one month. Also been busy learning new techniques as well as troubleshooting for some expt.
I’ve gone to YW hse to have dinner on Mon and to kinda celebrate Ian P birthday. Thursday after a super long day at work, we headed to Emilio’s place for dinner. Loads and loads of food there. And great food at that. And Friday, we took after a day off to go boating in the lake at uni. (Yes, big uni we have). It was what IC calls a lab fieldtrip. It’s not the whole lab outing but just a outing for pple who works for my boss. Well, boss suggested it. Boss also brought lots of snacks and alcohol for the outing. We boated (YW definitely did a good job there) then hung out on the grass for ice-cream and snacks. Headed to town for drinks and dinner (to celebrate Em’s birthday). Was really fun, it seemed more like a gathering after work than to celebrate Em’s birthday.
Had to go back to the lab for a couple of hours on Sat though. Everyone can’t believe it. Barely a month has gone by and I’m back on weekends. Well on the way home from uni, some random stranger tried to chat me up. Can you believe? Was in uni itself. He asked if I knew it was ok to park in uni on Sats. I told him I’m not sure cos I’m new here too. Then he started talking to me and said he was going to the same place as me. I think hes crazy, it’s a 25min walk away from where he parked and you can get free parking near where we were going too. Anyway, I was kinda afraid that he was going to try something and the good thing is the way to that place was on a main road with loads of pple walking on it. Lucky I was also not planning on going home straight, he will probably walk me home too, saying its on the way. Anyway, we go to our destination and he asked if I wanted to meet up again (is that a indirect was of asking for my no? Actually I still can’t remember my UK no, but I can still remember my Aus no). OMG! I told him well, we might see one another again. Gosh … Ok so that’s a little gossip from my end. Other than that, life goes on. Wakie, lab, work, eat, talk, work, home, eat, sleep. And the circle goes on.

Update on life in Nottingham after Week 1

2008-06-29T00:19:00.000+01:00

It’s been a week since I came to Nottingham. Can’t believe 7 days just flew past. Before I know it, it would be 3 yrs. So just to let everyone know (ok if you bother coming to read my blog), all is well with me here. Am still alive and kicking.
Just a quick update on my life here so far, since I don’t seem to meet anyone online anymore. I’ve found a place to stay in this 2 bedroom house. My hsemate aka my landlord is an undergrad student. The hse looks rather nice and my room is also considered big. Rental wise, apparently I got a good bargain. Takes me 30mins walk to get to lab though. 15mins to the uni gate and another 15mins across campus to get there.
Have also started working in the lab. My boss is really nice and so are the pple in the lab. Boss has gotten me to start working in the lab as well, and not just to sit there to read. He reckons it helps a person to settle in better as you are too busy to think too much. I agree as well. It helps me to fit better in the lab. However, I haven’t had the time to read much on the journals, really bad. Have already gone out for dinner and drinks with a few of my lab pple last Thursday. I think my alcohol tolerance level has increased. I actually finished 1 whole Corona without puking. It’s an achievement if you really know me.
The weather here hasn’t been too bad too. It’s summer here now. So far most days have been sunny with cool wind. Later part of last week, it has started raining (still light rain) in the late afternoon and evening. But lucky I’ve gotten rides home on both days. So it hasn’t been that cold yet. Just slightly cooler and can feel the cold when it rains.
As usually starting to be an auntie. I think I’m back to liking supermaketing. I just hate having to carry the stuff back. I’ve got a small town centre 10mins walk from my hse, that’s my supermarket place as of now. 3mins from my hse is another small supermarket, ok more like Cheers. So I go there when I am lazy.
So pple, as I am working the whole of the daytime and get home where everyone is already sleeping back home, I’ll try to update my blog more often so you can updated with my life here. Till the next entry….

Countdown 3 days to my departure!

2008-06-18T19:44:00.000+01:00

It’s countdown 3 days to my leaving for UK. Most stuffs are already done, except packing my luggage. Somehow, I am feeling a little uneasy, like as though there is something that I am missing out somewhere. I actually planned to list all the stuff that I have to pack, in case I forget them, but that’s not done. I also have to write a list of things to do when I get there, but that’s not done too. I also have some forms that I need to fill so I can just submit it when the time comes. That’s also not done. Wonder what have I been doing?
I need to apologize to those people that I promised to inform them when I know when I am flying, those who were supposed to meet me for a farewell. My excuse is that from the day I bought my tickets to my flying day was just 2 weeks, and I have been rather busy. Also trying to spend more time with my family and also getting all my last minute stuff. So sorry if I promised to meet you but haven’t done that. I would do that next time I get back. For those who is interested to know, I’m flying this Sat, T3, SQ322, 11.30pm. And if you wanna catch me online, UK is currently 7hrs behind Singapore. So if you don’t see me online, I haven’t disappeared from the face of earth, we probably just don’t go online at the same time zone. So try harder.
On a side note. While I’m counting down to my departure, PL is counting down to the birth of her daughter. If everything goes according to plan. EnEn aka Ah ger would arrive the same day I depart. Hey PL, sorry can’t see your beautiful gal before I leave, but Liyan meimei promised loads of pics for me. And I’ll see your ah ger when I come back next trip. Maybe then her hair would be in 2 little pigtails.

A day in the life of a tai-tai with the Swiss gals

2008-06-16T19:32:00.007+01:00

Went out the last Wed with some of the Swiss gals. Wx was back in town for the week, Kat was on MC, Jas was talked into taking half the day off, and of course me, the slacker. Been a long long time (and the first time for this combi) since we went out lunching and shopping on a weekday (in the day too). We went crazy eating and shopping as you can see from the pics (didn’t manage to pose with our pretty pink plastic bags though). Kat says we resemble the gals from the ‘Sex and the City’ movie (especially with our pink plastic bags), and was trying to give each of us a character name. I think we didn’t finish naming ourselves though. The group pic was taken by this guy who was watching us trying to self-take ourselves with the timer function while balancing the camera on the opposite table.
Well, it’s gonna be a long long time for a weekday outing to happen again (pity the other gals couldn't make it). What with me leaving for UK, Jas who might be off to Macau to work (if she gets the casino job and of course if she accepts the job) and Wx who is also working in Aus. Sob sob. Good time always flies by. Well at least we have the pics and memories. I’ll sure miss these gals as well as the other gals who couldn’t make it. After all, these were my growing up friends.

Our fabulous lunch spread. Thats excluding the meat bao..

Wx and me with our lunch spread.

Jas and me with our xiao long bao.

Wx and Kat with a widespread of food. That's just lunch of course.

Wx is trying some hair product on Jas.

Yucks! That wax was sticky and slimy. And Wx put that on Jas hair? Look at her innocent expression.

After all that shopping and muacking around wit the hair wax, it's time for a teabreak and rest that aching legs.

What's Kat grumbling about?

Oh! That's because we told her it's picture time before food. That greedy gal.

The 3 gals who might be leaving for Macau, working in Aus and leaving for the UK.

How did Jas managed to have smaller eyes than Kat and myself when we were trying to hard to lose to her? Guess what? She blinked....

Kat, me and Jas with our normal-sized eyes.

Wx and me with our tea.

A final group picture (which a kind soul took for us). For our 'remember that day?' time when we go down memory lane.

I'm leaving on a airbus!

2008-06-14T19:29:00.001+01:00

Things are finally looking bright. I’ve finally gotten all the paperwork done for going to UK, bought the air ticket (on the A380 airbus), done my medical checkup and even settled my accommodation. Seems like everything is now falling into place. Now to just finish packing my luggage, or rather, start packing my luggage. For those who are still living in their own world, I’m flying off on 21st night. Just one more week away and I’m off.
Starting to have mixed feelings. Sad to be leaving home once again, leaving my family and friends. I’m missing a few weddings and also a few friends who are gonna be giving birth this year. But all the same, looking forward to a new place and a new challenge in UK. Looking forward to doing a PhD, which has been on the cards for awhile now. Feeling excited but yet anxious. On the good side, boss and YW seems really nice and helpful, so does my housemate. So fingers crossed that all would turn out fine.
For those who wanna know, I’m off to Notthingham. So if you wanna visit me there, you got 3 yrs to save up. Haha …

Last Day at SICS

2008-05-19T19:28:00.012+01:00

Time just flies. Before I realised it, I've spent the last 2.75 yrs in CMM/SICS. They say time flies when you are having fun. Doesn't seem like it in my case. I've had loads of ups and down in this lab. Don't feel like reflecting on my time in that lab now, maybe I would update on that when I start getting bored bumming around at home.

Anyway, heres some pics of my lab bench. Taken on my last day at work. When my black work desk finally revealed its top to me in a long, long while. My bench still looks as messy as ever though. Sigh...

My desk top on my last morning at work (before I clear it for course).

My bench since March 2007.

Closer look at the bench, where I do my most serious stuff (does it look like what you see on CSI?).

My partner in crime (KY) on the left and my bench on the right.

My desk at the end of the day and all my crap thrown away or brought home.

Why does my bench looks exactly like it did at the start and at the end of the day?

My bench once more time, for old time sake. So long Brenner Centre!

Photos from office

2006-11-17T08:55:00.000Z

Few weeks back my colleagues planned a 'surprise' birthday cake for me. Well, you know how difficult it is to plan something as a surprise, that's because they have no idea what time I would come into the office. So while someone was still in the toilet and another person was taking a picture of my cake, in I walk. I am really touched by the effort KY, Sean and LQ put into making the effort of getting such a nice cake and also LQ for making a trip into Biopolis just to cut my cake. Well, officially now into my mid 20s. Sigh .... did I hear someone say 'Welcome to the club'?

25th birthday cake bought by my colleagues. That is the current workdesk I have in the office (that I share with KY and Sean). Look at the mess on my table and also the catologues behind me. Well, I am a busy person. Heehee...

Getting ready to go for meeting with boss after eating the cake. Thats my lab book.

New look

2006-10-05T07:58:00.000+01:00

For those who haven't heard or seen my new look (which probably is not many by now), here it is. Currently look a bit like goldlilocks, or rather blackilocks / brownilocks (b'cos my hair is black/brown). Next up, to colour my hair so the curls look better.

Feet fetish: Kangaroo vs mine

2006-10-03T09:45:00.000+01:00

Ever wonder the show size difference between a kangaroo and human? Well, now you know. Btw, my feet is like a size 5.5.

What's next?

2006-10-01T18:06:00.000+01:00

Lately I have thinking about what is the next step for me, in terms of career. To do a PhD or not? Where? When? Do I want a scholarship that would bond me to a place for my post-doc? What are my chances of getting a scholarship? Is a PhD what I really want? Is my reason for doing a PhD the right one? Is research what I want to do for the rest of my life? Can I get a job after my PhD? Questions have been running through my mind. I have no idea why I have been thinking of these questions so seriously these few weeks. Maybe it's because I am going into the second half of the 2 yrs I decided to take after my honours yr. Maybe because I have nothing to look forward to in my life and need some excitement in terms of planning my life. Maybe I just don't like living a life not knowing what's at the end of the tunnel or where the tunnel ends. I just hate the part of life where I don't even know where I would be next yr this time or what I would be doing. It's like back to the time before I decided to do my honours, and also after my honours year. To stay in Australia or not? To apply for PR or not? Maybe it's because I am getting older and would be in my 30s when I finish my PhD, if and when I eventually get around to doing one. Maybe it's just the logical next step that people take in science. Maybe it's peer pressure. Maybe it's just so I don't have to do the job of the lab tech.
What puts me off is that after so many years in research, I seem to have not acquired the skill to interpret my results with respect to what is already known or how and what is already found, to know if the results obtained were expected and explain why. I also hate reading papers and presentations and would procrastinate if I have to do either. I seem to lack the drive to improve my knowledge in the field. Also I have really bad memory. I can't remember things so that I can link what I know now to the knowledge I acquired previously. And also I hate updating lab books. What kind of scientist am I? Financial problem is also another consideration if I do continue my studies.
So, would I eventually make a good scientist? Who knows? Would I eventually be Dr Chen? Who knows? I just hate the numerous questions in life now. So many questions but no answer....

The missing tablet

2006-08-06T16:24:00.000+01:00

I did say I would try harder to get back to blogging. So here I am. Unfortunately, its one for complaining only. So here we go....
Went to pray our ancestors at the temple this afternoon. After lounging fruits, food and paper money and stuff for burning to the temple, we discovered that the tablet was missing from the altar (which looks like one giant showcase of tablets). The temple was in a total mess, what with the lunar 7th month and everyone coming in to pray to their ancestors. It was total chaos, everyone asking questions and hunting for the missing tablets for their own ancestors. Also there was no order and no records of where the tablet was located. We were just pointed to this general direction and one look over scare the heck out of me. There were just rows and rows of tablets and we were to look thru all of them just to hunt down the one for our ancestors. This just doesn't make sense. On top of that, finding the one that you are looking for, the family themselves are supposed to pick it up and bring it to the counter for registeration and stuff. The monk copies lots of stuff, give the tablet a new location no (much like a new address), chants at the tablet and moves it to the new location in that big showcase. They also make you 'bao' 2 red packets and make you buy one tray of offerings from them.
Whats my take on this whole incident? Well, first I think its all just to earn extra money for the temple. See if anyone who does not come claim the tablet, then this make space for new tablet, thus extra income. Second, the whole incident was such a mess. No organisation whatsoever on the whole procedure. Its just one person who does everything. Also that monk complains so much but work so slowly.
So in the end, something that would have take like 30 mins to settle, drag onto more than an hour. But I guess, theres nothing much that you could do. Still need a place to put the tablet.....

I am still alive!

2006-08-01T16:45:00.000+01:00

Hey! To anyone who still ever comes here to check on my survival, I am still alive. Have just been lazy to blog, busy with life, work, gym and meeting people. Well, I do know of one person who occasionally comes in to check on me and pester me to blog something. While I try to get back into the mood to blog, here are some pictures to keep you entertain. Try to take your time looking through them. Cos you never know when the next blog is going to be. Haha...Till then...

Well, fun shot in Macau. I think that was in May.

In the cable car from highlands to lowlands at Ocean Park, Hong Kong. Yup, in May as well.

Self-entertainment while waiting for train in KL, in Jan.

Sungei Wang behind us, where Candy spend the last cent she had and had to borrow more from me.

Already not very tall, still gotta pose with these really tall KLCC towers. Well, after taking loads of it from various angels and places, this is probably the best one I can find.

My airflown Easter egg and bunny set

2006-04-12T18:28:00.000+01:00

Finally received the parcel that JJ sent me last Monday (ok I now know it takes one week to send from Brissy to Sg). I knew it was going to be a Easter egg. JJ told me it took her 30 mins to finally make up her mind. Can tell the wide range of Easter eggs they have down under (and I should know, I spent the last 3 there). The suspense was what brand it was (JJ wanted me to have a surprise there). Well, what really did surprise me was that now only did she send me an egg, she sent me many many tiny eggs, one medium sized egg and also a bunny (it comes in a set lah) that has a bell hung on its neck on a ribbon. Its really nice looking as you can tell from the pic (if it does not, blame it on my camera skills). Thanks JJ for sending me this. Its nice knowing I still have friends back there who remembers me and also do not mind to spend the money, time and effort to let me know that I still exist in their lifes. Also, I guess JJ spend almost half the cost of the egg on the postage as well. JJ, I think the bulk of the weight comes from the box. The whole thing weight almost 1kg (can't believe it). Okie now to meet EC to pass her her set, while I enjoy my chocolates. Thanks once again, JJ. See you are still the best hsemate ever!

The whole package.

Its airmailed from Australia, see the cost of postage on the left, the cost of the gift at the bottom left and also its addressed to me. Prove that I didn't fake this.

And heres the finally thing. Cute isn't it?

The new arrival to our lab: Baby Lele

2006-04-06T08:50:00.000+01:00

Theres a new arrival to my lab. One of my colleague has finally given birth. After 9 months of watching Lele (her pet name) getting bigger in Xugang's tummy, shes finally a whole person out in the same world as us. Guess Lele would have gotten used to our voices, what with us sitting just around Xugang everyday and chattering as we work. Lele is such a cute little bundle of joy. She looks so cute and like an angel when shes sleeping, but can also see her peeping at Sean when hes taking her pic. Well, enough said, heres the pics.

Buried alive.......

2006-03-12T16:28:00.000Z

I haven't given up my blog ... yet. Its just that I am pratically buried with work these days. So its impossible to update it in the office anymore. And by the time I get home, I just don't feel getting online anymore. Imagine, my norton hasn't even been updated for one whole month. Well who can blame me! I have already spent the whole day trying to analyze my sequences and doing data-mining. See, already said I hate bioinfomatics. And between that, we were busying trying to buy stuff with the left-over budget we have for this yr. Also both our post-docs are starting within a month of one another, so gotta help them settle in too. Oh ya, and also gotta update my stupid lab book.
So if you are still visiting my blog. Thank you. But pls don't have too high an expectation. Give me some time to crawl back to normal life again. (Though seriously I don't see that happening with expts kicking off and aiming for publications soon.) Hopefully would be back with a vengence soon. Till then.

How grammatically correct are you?

2006-02-15T05:48:00.000Z

You are a GRAMMAR GOD!

Congratulations! If your mission in life
is not already to preserve the English
tongue, it should be. You can smell a
grammatical inaccuracy from fifty yards.
Your speech is revered by the underlings,
though some may blaspheme and call you a
snob. They're just jealous. Go out there
and change the world.

How grammatically correct are you? (Revised with answer key)

Gald to know my English is not that bad. Though I have no idea y I fall into this catagory when a check thru the answer showed that I didn't do too well. Well, at least it made me feel good.

Some things just cannot be avoided

2006-02-12T17:22:00.000Z

Well, after getting poke 3 times in the last 2 weeks, thought it was time to blog. For those pple who thought I was on leave or that wondered why I appeared to report really late for work, its becos I have been busy going for medical check-ups. So first I had to go down to do a Hep B screening. Thats the first poke. The next day, had to do a health screening for my application for radiation worker. Well, going for 2 screening in 2 days is not the big deal. The thing is, after avoiding a blood test for the last 20 plus yrs, you would think that drawing blood once would be enough. Instead, I had to do 2 in 2 days. Sigh, so on the same hand, near the same spot, it got poked twice in a row. The following day, had to go for an eye check-up, so poor me got my eyes dilated and still had to go back to work after that. Lucky it wasn't that bright that day. My eyes just kinda hurt when I went for lunch. One week later, I had to go take my first jab for my Hep B vaccination, and with sore arms at that. And I could hardly tell if the jab hurt more or the sore arms hurt more. But well, after 2 days, the pain of the jab is wearing off. So I should be fine till one month later for the 1st booster.

Quiz: Where will you find love

2006-02-07T07:29:00.000Z

In view of pple asking me to update my blog when I don't have the mood nor the time to do it (due to various reason.. which I myself also not very sure what), a best update would be a quiz. So here goes.

You'll Find Love Through Friends

Your friends get you better than any guy ever has
And they're the perfect people to introduce you to your soulmate
So look and act you're best with them, even if it's a girl's night out
You never know who they might find for you!

Where Will You Find Love?

Okie so now that we all know the answer, friends who are still reading this, you know what to do rite? What are you waiting for. Not exactly getting young here ok. Err .. incase you are wondering, this is not the pre-v-day blues. Its just that the old quizes have all been done but just not posted yet. So more quizes to follow. In the meantime, friends get working.

Auf Wiedersehen to the year of rooster

2006-01-27T05:03:00.000Z

Gong Xi Fa Cai! Wheres my ang bao? But then, most pple reading my blog prob would not be eligible to give out one, yet (unless u are keeping a deep secret that I don't know of). Would be spending this CNY here in Sg, seems like a long time since I have done. Actually, I just only missed last yr when I was stuck in Brissy doing my hons. Though its not the first time that I was spending CNY in a foreign place, it was the first time that I was without my family. Fortunately, we had a gp of friend (n of course JJ) who didn't mind spending a little more for our 'renuion' dinner, what with already being so pitiful as to spend CNY downunder. That was definitely an experience. So this yr, having failed to 'pi nian' becos my sis could not cfm if she could take leave till it was too late, we are stuck in Sg for CNY. I know I just make it sound so 'exciting', but then for me new yr is quite a boring thing. Most of my ang bao are collected within the first day of CNY. First day going to my grandfather's place and 2nd going to my dad's friend's place. Thats it! So I guess I would just take it as a time to rest and catch up on my VCDs then.
Well, in welcoming the yr of the dog, we leave the yr of the rooster (which was the zodiac yr I was born in... err .. I just unknowingly revealed my age). It seems to be a good thing as the pple born under the sign of rooster were 'fan tai shui'. So its seems like we were supposed to be kinda unlucky. Well, I can't say that its been all bad this past yr. Other than the fact that my hons results wasn't very ideal, made some 'screwed up' 'friends' who only look for u when help is required, got messed up with some sales rep (and their finance dept, which shouldn't concern me to begin with) and had bad karma in the lab (expt not working from my hons to work), it has overall been a pretty good yr. I did end up knowing some really good friends, who are missing me there in Brissy (haha u know who u r), reacquainting myself with old ones (thank you for making the effort to include me in ur lifes again), realised that a lot of pple actually miss me in the time that I was away (see how impt an entertainment I am for my friends), found a job in quite a short time, have really good colleagues, work in a fun lab and also started going to the gym frequently, I would say it really was quite a good yr. All I need now is for Prince Charming to drop from the sky, along with a million dollars and also a PhD. Sigh ....
So while we say Auf Wiedersehen to the yr of rooster, I also look forward to the new yr ahead, leaving all the bad karma behind. Hopefully, it would be as good as the last one if not better. Not sure what I would be doing or how I would be doing or even where I would be the next time I see this sign again (now thats a scary thought).

Quiz: The Three Dimension Luck and Power Test

2006-01-26T02:30:00.000Z

You Are Balanced - Believer - Powerful

You feel your life is controlled both externally and internally.
You have a good sense of what you can control and what you should let go.
Depending on the situation, you sometimes try to exert more control.
Other times, you accept things for what they are and go with the flow.

You are a true believer in luck, fate, and karma.
You believe that life is a game of chance - not a game of skill.
You either consider yourself very unlucky or very lucky.
No matter what, you don't feel like you can change the hand you were dealt.

When it comes to who's in charge, it's you.
Life is a kingdom, and you're the grand ruler.
You don't care much about what others think.
But they better care what you think!

The Three Dimension Luck and Power Test

U know what? I think this is prob the most accurate about me. Hmm ... Believing in fate, but still gotta fight for your own destiny. Well, like its said, u win some, u lose some. Some things are controlable and worth fighting for, while others r just ... 'y bother'?
The kingdom part, well I think its quite true. But the way they made it sound, it seems like I'm a little monarch and somewhat tactless. Sigh..... But still, thats me I think. Will try harder to be less tactless. I promise *innocent smile*.

Quiz: What Advanced Degree Should You Get

2006-01-24T02:07:00.000Z

You Should Get a PhD in Science (like chemistry, math, or engineering)

You're both smart and innovative when it comes to ideas. Maybe you'll find a cure for cancer - or develop the latest underground drug.

What Advanced Degree Should You Get?

Hahaha ... see I knew theres a reason why I am in science? But then.. y is it that its not biology? N for those who know my ultimate aim .. its to find a cure for AIDS rem? Well cancer is not too far off anyway. So see I am on the rite track.

Quiz: What Age Do You Act?

2006-01-23T06:24:00.000Z

You Are 21 Years Old

Under 12: You are a kid at heart. You still have an optimistic life view - and you look at the world with awe.

13-19: You are a teenager at heart. You question authority and are still trying to find your place in this world.

20-29: You are a twentysomething at heart. You feel excited about what's to come... love, work, and new experiences.

30-39: You are a thirtysomething at heart. You've had a taste of success and true love, but you want more!

40+: You are a mature adult. You've been through most of the ups and downs of life already. Now you get to sit back and relax.

What Age Do You Act?

I'm happy with just being 21. Hmm.. thats not too far off from my actual age rite? If only I could live in the 20 somethings forever. Hmm... dream on .. hmm... WAKE UP MEL!

Quiz: What type of donut are you?

2006-01-17T07:59:00.000Z

You Are a Boston Creme Donut

You have a tough exterior. No one wants to mess with you.But on the inside, you're a total pushover and completely soft.You're a traditionalist, and you don't change easily.You're likely to eat the same doughnut every morning, and pout if it's sold out.

Oh so true. But then don't eat donut every morning. Heres the site. http://blogthings.com/whatdonutareyouquiz/

Quiz: The Keys to Your Heart

2006-01-16T08:47:00.000Z

You are attracted to those who have a split personality - cold as ice on the outside but hot as fire in the heart.In love, you feel the most alive when your lover is creative and never lets you feel bored.You'd like to your lover to think you are optimistic and happy.You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please.Your ideal relationship is open. Both of you can talk about everything... no secrets.Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment.You think of marriage as something that will confine you. You are afraid of marriage.In this moment, you think of love as something you don't need. You just feel like flirting around and playing right now.

Hmm.. I think to a certain extend this thing is rather true. I don't know about the split personality thing though. N also not sure about the afraid of marriages part too. Hmm... flirting around now? Hmm.... What say u? Anyway, heres the site to it. http://blogthings.com/keystoyourheartquiz/

Cheers! To 2006...

2006-01-15T06:30:00.000Z

Happy New Year to everyone who is still visiting my blog regardless of how boring it is or infrequently that it is being updated. I know this is a little late, with half a month already into the new yr (meaning its 1/24 of the yr), but still better late then never
(infamous words of mine). See I got a reason this time round. Not that I have nothing to talk about, but becos I have been too busy. It has been a crazy few weeks. Everyone seems to want to meet up and also went for a KL trip last week. I'll leave what I have doing for the next few entries with photos too, so that I have something to update my blog with. So first gotta look back into 2005 and look forward to 2006.
2005: Probably one of the most stressful and changing times of my life so far. However, a rather enjoyable one. Started the yr in Sg (was back home for 9 days for christmas and new yr) and was back working hard in the lab on the 4th. The life of working 7 days a week and rushing thru expt after expts (even running few at the same time). I reckon most of my expts were done in this 2nd part of the hons yr. However, it was also prob the best time that I had in the lab. Working so long hrs in the lab and also towards the ending of my hons yr gave me more chances to interact with the members of my giantic lab. Also the time where you get more encouragment in the entire yr. Where I became closer to few pple in the lab, where I also got more help, advice and care n concern. 2005 was the time I actually made the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. I first joined the UQ gym with JJ. Though it was only for 3 months, we made it the best we could (cos its prepaid). Hey, gym can be fine too. Really love combat and pump back then. Ohh n also ABT too. The fun and healthy lifestyle I have continued on amid painfully by joining Fitness First here back home. 2005 was also the yr where I became more sociable with the 'higher' class of scientist. No I don't mean the ones in my lab. But Phd students friends. Actually its Siok Hwee and Darren. A couple of very nice pple. Darren and I actually know one another from the time I went into UQ. Our common friend being Desmond. But we never actually had the chance to know one another till I started working in IMB. We always meet one another on the pathway to IMB (yes the one lined with palm trees). He walking out to lunch and me into the building for expts. We finally met up with one another (also with our hsemates, Siok Hwee is his misus if u haven't realized). Finishing my hons yr also meant I had to look for a job. Was a little apprehensive bout coming back to Sg (the science industry is only so big here) and thought had better prospects in Aussie. However, it was impossible to get one without at least a PR. So it was back to Sg for good. However, still have to thank Darren and Siok Hwee for all their help in helping me to get a job (even after I have come home). They were also the ones to sent to the airport and accompanied me while I waited for my plane to go home. The ones who I spent my last dinner in Brissy with. All these happened while the pple I used to hang around with disappeared. Of course times with the couple was usually with JJ (shouldn't leave her out). Also gone thru the pain of putting together a 50pg thesis (trust me its a pain), having to give a final seminar and finally a viva (now thats intimidating). A panel of 3 markers and a chairperson, asking u tons n tons of ques for half an hr. Something like an interview. Disappointment came. Letters for job rejection. Getting disillusioned with life in Brissy and the friends there. And also the 2A that I got for hons. Also at about the same time and made me look forward to going home. I know I will miss life in Brissy, miss JJ and also miss Siok Hwee and Darren, miss the fun I had driving around with them and all the times we chatted on forever at some cafe or over dinner. However, the disappointment also made it easier for my preparation to go home. It made me miss my family, friends and life in Sg too. Can't say I have regretted coming back, but
I do miss Brissy at times.
Coming home, meeting all my friends, being surrounded by my love ones and getting a job. Well what can I say. I realised I missed a lot of things while I was gone. Friends getting married, ex-colleagues married, giving birth, etc. Everyone have moved on with their lives and gotten so busy. Keeping in contact and meeting up also took extra effort and commitment. However, lucky me actually got a job soon after coming back. Came back on 30th Jul but got a job in Sept. Thats really quick considering some friends spent 6 months plus getting one. Not sure is it just the timing, the hons cert of just them being plain picky with jobs. I got a really good boss, really good colleagues and a fun lab. Also made some new friends who work in IMCB (cos I know shes reading this) and old ones who were once my poly classmates or uni friends. Meeting new pple and seeing familiar face. It has all been an experience. I have to say I have enjoyed my time since I came back. Can't say if 2005 have been a good one or a bad one. Well it certainly has it ups and downs.
2006: Whats in store for 2006. Started the yr at Esplande counting down with Candy, Lili n K(Lili's fiance) with fireworks of course. Not much of a countdown mood there but spectacular fireworks. It was then back to work and trying to settle back into the working mood and out of the holiday mood that descended in the last 2 week of the yr. Just went I got all settled down, time to go to KL for holidays. This time with Candy (cos Wx cancelled out on us, but thats for another entry). Had an ok time there. Just shopping n more shopping. So now that everything is over n done with, its back to work back to life. Well at least CNY is coming up. Another long break and this time its gonna be spent in Sg. Prob a good time to catch all the dramas I want and also take a long rest. Lili is also getting married this yr (ROM) n yours truly is one her bridesmaid (not sure if thats a good thing, but hey we must be quite close for her to ask me rite). So going to be busy with her ROM soon. Lili n I are also planning for our trip aboard. Destination unsure. It was actually Europe (but with her wedding n my spending its not gonna happen) but now we looking for other places. Not sure what else is up. Hopefully, everything will go well this yr. N yes, the search for prince charming is still on too. Hopefully better luck on that too.
So its time to say 'Goodbye Brissy', 'Hello Sg'. Time to say 'Goodbye 2005', 'Hello 2006'. Cheers!

Words from a bored person

2005-12-23T08:56:00.000Z

I'm bored. A friday b4 the chrismas weekend. And guess where I am? Stuck at work. Where I have loads of stuff to do but not the mood for it. Well at least boss is not around till next Thurs so can take it easy. Unfortunely, A is bored and breathing down my neck asking me what we should do next week. Going down my list of thing to do from my boss, its a long long list. Anyway realised I only blogged like 3 times this month, so I thought to relieve boredom might as well post an entry.
Wx suggested going to Genting over the Haji week. Theres 5 of us in the usual gp, and we were thinking of getting 4 (nice no mah). Wx said don't worry, sure got pple cannot make it one. But guess what, Annie and Lili can't make it so we are down to 3. Thinking should we go ahead to plan for it now. Think Candy is gonna kill us this time if we cancel. Last time we cancel our Thailand plans, we had to cancel due to insufficient no. Candy almost kill us when in the end Lili went with her bf and I went with my family. So now awaiting the decision. Though decision to go is pending vacaccy of hotels and transport too. Wx and I had this conclusion that its so difficult planning for a short trip now, what more in future? So whether the trip goes ahead, keep posted. In the meantime, merry christmas all. Enjoy this long weekend but don't party too much. Cheers

Gathering at Ma Maison with the Swiss Gals

2005-12-18T16:23:00.000Z

The Swiss Gals from class of 4E6 (97)

Annie, Candy and Lili (with Candy trying to act demure.. haha)

Annie, Wx and Candy

Amused looking Wx and a tired me

Me and Lili (Pic with the 2 of us seldom look good.. wonder y)

Catching up with the good, old times

2005-12-18T16:10:00.000Z

I know this is a little back dated to be writing this now. But hey, better late then never. So here goes. Met up with the Swiss gals 2 weeks back. (Actually going to meet them again this coming weekend). Meeting up with the gals is always a fun thing. Catching up on all that have happened recently and also gossiping about what we did in the past. Its these pple who make me feel that regardless of what has happened in my life, these gals would always be there for me. Afterall, these numerous yrs of friendship had withstood the test of time. I guess I can only count myself lucky that after all these yrs, we have not only only managed to keep in contact with one another, but also remain rather close. I would not say that we are close to the stage where know the nitty, gritty details of whats happening in each other's life, but at least we know what major things are happening with one another's life. And that end of the day, there are always there to offer help when needed. Candy's stall story was just one really good example. I guess one of the reasons I am trying very hard to keep this blog going is for my friends, back in Brissy and also here in Sg with me, to keep in touch with me and also be updated with my life (thats if I actually have one). It also enables me to put into words things that I would not usually be saying in real life. So once again, thank you gals. For all the wonderfully memories we have had and also for the good times that we would have in the coming yrs. I guess what Lili has written on her blog is so true and it really reflects on what I wanna say (just in a more poetic way). That we would always be a Swiss gal at heart. If you wanna know what I am talking bout, go read Lili's blog. JJ, this actually applies to you as well. Thanks for all the good times we had back in Brissy.

After effects of class chalet

2005-12-12T02:03:00.000Z

I'm feeling the after effects of the chalet. Those pple who have no idea what I am talking about, its the 'stoned' feeling. Its the time where you are awake and doing things like usual but then what u see is thru dazed eyes and where the brain and eyes is not on par. Even as I am typing this, my brain is trying very hard to keep in touch with my hands. How did I get into this state? Chalet! When u get to a chalet, busy BBQ, socialising, chatting, mahjonging, end up sleeping at 6am with a whole roomful of pple, waking up at 10am and continue chatting and lazing around, u get 'stoned'. Usually we check-out on Sunday, have breakfast, get home and sleep the day away. However this time round, becos the chalets ends officially on Mon, we hung around till 5pm before going home. So by the time we got home, its dinner time then snoring time. And also gotta work today, means catching up on sleep is impossible. And so one day after the chalet and back to work, its def a torture. And look at the time! Lucky lunch is coming.
Back to the chalet, its def been fun seeing pple who have gone MIA for a long time. A time to chat and reminisce about the past and the antics we came up with as E6. I think as E6, we have done everything and anything possible. Got into trouble tog and also made a name for ourselves, being the troublemaking class. The first class for most things I reckon. We were the ones who make a teacher cry and run out of the class, the ones to get punished running around the sch in sch uniform for cheering our friends running for PE lessons (err from the 2nd storey), etc,etc.. the list goes on. The fun we used to have.
Unfortunely, as we all get older, more commitments. Meeting up is harder and organizing something like a class chalet or trip also takes more time and effort. This chalet had more of the MIA ones appearing but the ones that always come also could not make it. So in the end, it was kinda quiet. But still overall, a good one. Cos a gathering is always a good thing. It means we all still take the initiative to keep in touch. Afterall these pple have accompanied you on your growing up yrs and also the ones who did the most childish stuff with u.

Goodbye Brissy!

2005-12-06T16:55:00.000Z

The last photo that was taken in Brissy (Brisbane International Airport). Darren and Siok Hwee being the nice pple they were took time out to send me to the airport. Had lunch there and spend my last lunch with them. Chatting while we waited for my flight. Definately miss them! Thanks guys for all the good times! Definately fd it hard to say goodbye when the time came for me to board my plane. Afterall, I spent 2 and half yrs of my life here. But still its just 7 and half hr flight away. So in the meantime, till we meet again. Goodbye guys, goodbye Brissy! For now. Auf Wiedersehen!

I hate science .. err... today...

2005-11-29T09:38:00.000Z

I knew theres a reason why I didn't further my studies in computer. Cos I just HATE (see CAPS) them. Also explains y I'm not doing any bioinfomatics project. I really would love to write more, but brain cells are all dead. I've spent the entire day today in front of the PC trying to sort something out. Now have to wait for boss to let me know if its ok before sending to supplier. Can u believe it, the words in black font are starting to look like grey to me. N I feel really stoned and brain dead too. And I don't feel any satisfaction even after completing what I can for now, becos out of 6 things I only managed to figure 4 out (yes that took one stupid day). Also thats only one part done, still gotta figure out another part a few days later. Come to think of it, I have been sitting in front of the computer doing analysis since last Thurs. Meaning haven't been in the lab since last Thursday. Thats quite unbelievable for true. I really need to get back to benchwork soon before I lose my sanity. Considering that I have started talking to the computer and also amusing myself and the others around me, I seriously think I am turning insane. Quick! Someone pls come amuse and save me......

Swiss alumni gathering

2005-11-28T01:22:00.000Z

Went for the Swiss alumni gathering back at Swiss on Sat. Its amazing that it has been like 8 yrs since I left Swiss. A look on the teachers board showed me that most of whom have taught us before have all either left or retired. Only 8 teachers still in Swiss have taught me before. Even Mrs Constance Wong's daughter is already 7 yrs old. Mrs Wong was only just pregnant when we were in Sec 4. The teachers also looker older and more tired than what they used to. Is it due to the pressures of teaching these days or just that the students are a lot naughtier. Maybe both. Or maybe its just that they are all getting older and 8 yrs back they were all fresh, young and full of energy and passion for teaching. The sch has also changed so much. Theres now more concrete buildings and less space, somehow I just feel the sch is a lot colder. Maybe the buildings being older and more packed used to give me a warmer feelings. Though the building is more colourful these days. Our sec 4 classroom is now part of the library and the old library is now the teachers' room.
Going back to Swiss has def brought back memories of our growing up yrs. The things that we did and the fun that we had. Though we don't excel academically wise (cos we play too much) all of us really have good memories of Swiss and the friends we made there. All of us have turned out alrite and most of gone on to uni and found a stable job (whether its the dream one or not). Sometimes I think about how I used to slack and ask myself, if we had all worked harder and not gone into E6, would we have ended up in polys and still be where we are today and doing what we are doing? Would we still be who we are today? But then not slacking is not really me. And I guess I did end up with my dream job after all. I still believe things like that are fated. I was fated to meet the pple that I have met, learned the lessons that I have learned and also walked the path that I have walked. Well believe in fate but fight for your own destiny. Thats my believe!

Do you have a life quiz

2005-11-27T07:16:00.000Z

Was going through the homepage of the movie Just Like Heaven. Found this quiz and out of curiousity, decided to give it a try. So I do kinda have a life after all. Though I can say that this quiz is not at all accurate cos someone I know who I would consider having no life at all have it stated as Perfectly Balanced.

My subconscious mind

2005-11-24T07:59:00.000Z

Okie guys! Another new test that I just took. Seems like the only thing I put up these days are test results. Good way to keep the blog going. Heres the add though.
http://web.tickle.com/tests/inkblot/index.jsp

And the results. Hmm... never know subconsciously I am kind. Hmm... ponder ponder....

What does your birthday means?

2005-11-13T06:44:00.000Z

Chanced upon my this what does my birthday mean thing on CW's blog. Well and the result of my birthday? Here goes.

You have many talents, and you are great at sharing those talents with others.Most people would be jealous of your clever intellect, but you're just too likeable to elicit jealousy.Progressive and original, you're usually thinking up cutting edge ideas.Quick witted and fast thinking, you have difficulty finding new challenges.
Your strength: Your superhuman brainpower
Your weakness: Your susceptibility to boredom
Your power color: Tangerine
Your power symbol: Ace
Your power month: May

Notice that I didn't put in my birthday. Well for those who bothered to remember, you would knowit anyway. For those who don't, well, I can see you don't really care or you would have remembered it.

An update the week after turning one year older

2005-11-11T03:28:00.000Z

Back one yr older and hopefully also wiser. Met up with quite a few pple last week. Had a good time gossiping with Siok Hwee when we met up last Wed. It was just like back to the good old days of chatting back in Brissy. Quite a good complaining and update session. Daren also called Siok Hwee hp while we met up so also got a chance to sort of chat with him. Next up coming back would be JJ and Clara. Hopefully Daren and Siok Hwee would be back for CNY. Also met up the gals from NEA (err ex in the case of Ange and me) last Fri. Was touched that they not only remembered my birthday and but also remembered the stuff that I don't eat. These are true friends man. Pple who had watched me pick on my food in the time where we were all still working together. Those were the fun days man. Friday was also a cake cutting celebration thing in the lab. Blackforest cake from Crystal Jade. Looks pretty. Pic of cake in my phone and can't send to the pc so its stuck in my phone. Sat was dinner with my family at Palaris at Marina Sq. It was quite ok but kinda expensive though.
So back to reality. Expt have not been working for the last 2 weeks. Twice my expt got sabotage (accidentially of course). Then things also not turning out the way it should be. Boss coming back next week. Don't know how to report to her. Went for the hands-on for my animal handling course yest. Stupid mouse bit me while I was trying to put it to sleep. And finally got killed by me too. Heehee ... served it (her) rite. So if u wanna know what a mouse look like, come look for me this few days. It was kinda sad to see the rabbit get poked by us and finally killed too. Such a cutie. I really hate animal work. But all for the sake of science. Till then.

Keeping the blog alive

2005-11-01T12:28:00.000Z

I'm back. Just leaving a short note to indicate that I'm still alive and kicking. Reason for slacking in my update.. err... busy? lazy? procrastination? Heehee .. I'm actually not the only one that is being lazy. My other blogger friends are also slacking away.
So what have I been up to? Actually not much, its just that I either get home late and don't feel like turning the PC on. Enough of computer usage in the lab. Also getting really tired after getting home from working. Getting really busy in the lab. Was kinda busy with last few weeks. Preparing for lab meeting talks. 2 talks in 3 weeks. Sort of sucks. But thats life in science. Can't escape. Well at least its over and done with till at least next yr b4 I have to do it again. So I'm still just busying myself working and going to the gym. Last but not least, nothing happening in my life so nothing to update. Look at the no of reasons I can come up with to justify my not updating my blog. Creative rite?
Anyway meeting up with Siok Hwee tomorrow evening. Finally someone from Aust back for a visit. Looking forward to the gossip session tomorrow. Friday, my friends from NEA meeting up with me to celebrate my brithday. Haven't met Sara since I came back last year. Heehee another gossip session. After spending 2 bds in Aust, I'm celebrating my birthday with my family this yr. In case any one wants to know, I turning another yr wiser soon!

Another personality test

2005-10-02T17:15:00.000+01:00

I'm back with another personality test. This one sent to me by Kaiyee (my colleague). It comes with your ideal house look too. And heres the link.
http://www.myhome.com.sg/homeimprovement/interior_design/personality_finder/personality_finder.shtml
Heres the results. Oh by the way this is what it says with the title What Personality Are You?
You are a Loyal-Protector
Famous Loyal Protectors: George Washington; George Bush; Mother Teresa
You are a master at managing complex operations, and are extremely skilled in communication and working with people. You are imbued with a sense of duty and can always be trusted on to see a project through.
You have a sense of duty and a steady temperament.
Oh ya and the hse deco part.
Recommended style for the Loyal-Protector: Contemporary
The design style which suits you best is the Contemporary look. You are knowledgeable about culture and do not like to be led by any one particular trend.Therefore, you are comfortable in a home with other influences, like Mediterranean, or Classical.Your look is modern, yet not stark or cold. You enjoy seeing clean lines in furniture but do not mind a mix of styles in accessories or furnishings.

Seems pretty accurate for me too. What do u think? Oh ya Kaiyee tried the previous test that we all hoohaa-ed about and thought it was really accurate too.

My working life

2005-09-21T17:36:00.000+01:00

Thank you for all your concern about my job. I'm really enjoying myself here in my lab. I'm lucky to be in a lab that is full of friendly pple and also a friendly boss. They have made me feel very welcome and I have fitted in very well into the lab env. Also starting to do some labwork. So life is getting interesting. I think haven't been working for ages, so it seems that I'm like dead tired everyday. With some days going to gym and just half a week home right after work, I'm quite reluctant to turn on the PC after I get home. Conclusion, my blog is prob going to slow down again. No promises, but I would try my best to keep it as updated as possible.
Not feeling too good currently. Seem to be coming down with a flu and sore throat, think too much moon cake (at least the sore throat part). Also got some rashes, with the reason unknown. Even the doctor has no idea what happened. At least its now going off. Hopefully the rashes will disappear soon enough. Till then (or rather the next time I will have enough energy to update my blog.)

A step into new beginnings

2005-09-11T17:27:00.000+01:00

Guess what. Starting work tomorrow, or rather later today. Whole new job, whole new environment, brand new faces, different kind of pressure. So how am I feeling. Thought that I would rather look forward to this day. Feeling stressed? Not really. Just a little freaked out. After all, new pple to meet, a whole new experience. Whats in store, nobody knows. Hopefully I will get along with the pple. Wish me the best of luck. Will post my brand new life soon. That is, if I get a chance to post soon.

Reflections on the personality rest

2005-09-09T17:39:00.000+01:00

Seems like the personality test is pretty popular with the Swiss gals. Was pretty impressed with the accuracy of Lili's results, therefore with an open mind (and dubious too), thought I should try it. The shocking thing is, seems like its pretty accurate for the other gals as well (Wx and Annie). Freaky huh? Now it makes me even more skeptical of these results. But then like Annie pointed out, some of our results seem pretty similar. Well theres like only 3 choices to choose from, so of course the chances of getting similar results is always there. The theory of probability. Lili and Wx also both said that the results seem pretty generic, like u know the ans are too generalized, so the description would fit most. At the end, I still have no conclusion. So my question is, is there generally just 3 type of pple (or rather outlook of a certain point) that exist in this big wide world? Or is the similar results that we seem to be getting due to the fact that we are all good friends, of similar character, thus have stuck together for so many yrs. Like they say, birds of the same kind flock together.

Personality Test: How much do I know myself?

2005-09-06T18:34:00.000+01:00

Went to Lili's blog and saw her lastest entry. Seems like the personality test if pretty accurate. So here goes mine. For those interested, http://quizbox.com/personality/test82.aspx is the site.
Results (Get to know yourself better)
Your view on yourself: You are down-to-earth and people like you because you are so straightforward. You are an efficient problem solver because you will listen to both sides of an argument before making a decision that usually appeals to both parties.
The type of girlfriend/boyfriend you are looking for: You like serious, smart and determined people. You don't judge a book by its cover, so good-looking people aren't necessarily your style. This makes you an attractive person in many people's eyes.
Your readiness to commit to a relationship: You prefer to get to know a person very well before deciding whether you will commit to the relationship.
The seriousness of your love: You are very serious about relationships and aren't interested in wasting time with people you don't really like. If you meet the right person, you will fall deeply and beautifully in love.
Your views on education: Education is very important in life. You want to study hard and learn as much as you can.
The right job for you: You have plenty of dream jobs but have little chance of doing any of them if you don't focus on something in particular. You need to choose something and go for it to be happy and achieve success.
How do you view success: You are afraid of failure and scared to have a go at the career you would like to have in case you don't succeed. Don't give up when you haven't yet even started! Be courageous.
What are you most afraid of: You are concerned about your image and the way others see you. This means that you try very hard to be accepted by other people. It's time for you to believe in who you are, not what you wear.
Who is your true self: You are mature, reasonable, honest and give good advice. People ask for your comments on all sorts of different issues. Sometimes you might find yourself in a dilemma when trapped with a problem, which your heart rather than your head needs to solve.
I'm not sure if its really that accurate for me, or is it just that some things I just never realised it myself. What do you guys think. I felt that most of the stuff are pretty true, the only ones I'm not sure if the ones on job, success and the stuff that I'm afraid of. I always thought research is my dream career and thats what I'm going into, so not sure bout the job and success thing. What I'm most afraid of? Not sure. Also not sure if the personality test if right.

Update to ensure blog survival

2005-09-05T19:40:00.000+01:00

Not sure if my not updating my blog is due to pure laziness or nothing to update in this 'unhappening' life of mine. Ben just reminded me today that it seems my blog is dying. So to ensure its survival, here comes an entry. Hmm.. seems most of my friends blog craze is over, everyone is slacking over their entries. Like they say, if you can't beat them, join them.
So what has been going on in my life? Firstly, I'm going to start work next Monday. Finally! So more excuses not to update blog soon. For those interested, I'm working at Biopolis in CMM. I'm going to be working with a medical doctor in a kinda new lab. So hope everything goes well. Its a research job, thats still where my interest is.
Secondly, it seems I have very successfully made my own life really busy. My Fitness First membership started this month. Felt that time I start to keep a healthy lifestyle. So almost every alt days, I can be found in the gym. Thats y I seem to be pretty busy and putting updating my blog.
It was good catching up with Mike over MSN and Cindy over sms. Thank you Ben for providing me with their contacts. Felt a little sad when I realised that I forgot to get their contact b4 we all left Brissy. Guess everyone was busy entertaining themselves towards the end and didn't get a chance to meet up. Mike was one of the first few pple I met when I started in UQ. Really missed the time Mike, Daryl and myself fool around in practs. Those were the time man. Over time, friendship bet me, Mike and Cindy (Mike's gf) grew. With Mike's help, I managed all my DNA and Protein Tech assignments (yes the never ending ones) and also when I couldn't get into IMB, Mike comes to my rescue too.
A few of my friends have found jobs (or rather decided which job they want) and started working. Think we have all been slacking too much, so some of us are finding working life very boring and tough, esp coming back to Sg (yes its Jason actually). But well life has to go on. Think on the bright side, most of us in Biopolis, esp Proteos, so we can still catch up. Cindy and Mary, good luck with your job hunting. Hopefully, both of you are successful in your interviews (in Mary's case, get called up for interview first) so can join the big family of UQ grads working in Biopolis.

Update since I last blogged ...

2005-08-29T18:18:00.000+01:00

Was complaining to Wx that she hasn't updated her blog in ages, and thats like the pot calling the kettle black. So here we go. What have I been up to since I last blogged? Actually not much. Recently started working out in the gym again after almost 3 months. Trying to get into a fit lifestyle again. Also met up with some of my friends, its nice catching up with the Swiss gals. Was planning with the Swiss pple bout a trip aboard. Was thinking of going to one of the island resorts but thought that chalet might be easier. Since these days its harder to get everyone away for days. With the gals, we are planning for a trip to Bangkok. Exactly when, not sure yet. Planning to meet up with EC n CW soon. CW suggested this weekend but gotta check with EC first. Shes one busy person.
Ann gave birth to her little prince last Sun, so going to visit her at her place hopefully tom. Haven't contacted her yet. Lazy me. Also the stuff that I shipped back are finally back, so everything is finally home. Still have to be unpacked though.
Now for the main happening in my life that pple close to me are concern about and are all asking bout. Yes I have had job interviews and all those that I have gone for interview have offered me a job. Though the guy bosses are all known to be slave drivers. Sort of already decided on the CMM job. New lab so sort of can learn to set up a new lab. Met my expected salary too. Just waiting for all the paperwork and prob starting work next week if all goes well. Keep your fingers crossed all.
Gotta say something here upon reading something on my friend's blog. If you are reading this, cheer up ok. If you need help, a shoulder to cry on or a listening ear, I'm here. Feel free okie? I know I haven't been around for ages but back for good now so anyone needs me to listen to you or probs to solve no prob. Even those who are still in Brissy, I here for you too okie? Actually quite a surprise when I read my friend's blog and realized all that she has went thru without me even knowing. Not sure even when it happened. Its quite sad when I think bout it cos she used to be one my closest friend back in Swiss days. Someone who has always been there for me and done all the stupid stuff too. Though we have sort of drifted apart over the yrs, hopefully we will be closer now that I am back. I guess I have been lucky so far, even though we have left Swiss so long ago, we have all still kept in contact and are still rather close to one another. Not only has this gp of pple grown up with me, I'm lucky to have them in my growing up yrs but also till now. Thanks gals.

Spending before earning

2005-08-07T18:04:00.000+01:00

What have I been up to over the weekend? Went on a shopping spree on Sat. Bought a Zen Neeon, a set of clothes and also a hp. At least I got an excuse for my hp. Its was really old. Like bout 1 yr and a half. N the thing was it was starting to auto off. Also had to upgrade my plan. Thats the thing bout Sg. Hp upgrading is like the trend. Down under, owning a hp is like the in thing. Went I first went over, it was like the 3000 series. At least they are starting to go into camera phones now. Mp3 player is like the trend here too. My sis has got a Zen Micro so thought it was time to get a Zen too. The clothes just caught my eye. Tried it on for fun but it looked pretty good. Also had to get something ready for interviews. Not that I have any upcoming yet. So back to the same prob, I'm broke no money no job but still spending. I really need to get a job soon.
Spend the whole of Sun transferring songs into my Zen, theres only like 2G left now. Also looked thru the newspaper for job. Can't believe it, the whole weekend and theres only 3 vaccancy. Wonder why did I choose to do Science. And when am I going to get my dream of working in the research field in Sg? I still wanna be a immunologist.....or a virologist ... ok or a molecular biologist will do as well.

I'm back in Singapore!

2005-08-05T18:11:00.000+01:00

Have been a little lazy and putting this off. I can see my blog dying soon. Haven't loaded my pics from Aussie yet so pls wait a while more guys. Gotta stop procrastinating. This is my first entry since I came back to Sg. Came back last Sat so its like exactly a week since I came back. Am I starting to miss Brissy already? Not really. I'm still in the midst of settling down in Sg. Getting a little bored though. Can someone get me a job pls....
My room is still currently in a mess. My Aussie mess is still on the floor. In the time that I have not been around, my wardrobe and my shoe space have been taken over by my family. So all my stuff are like lying around and my mum haven't had the chance to nag me about unpacking. Becos I have no space to unpack my stuff! Still have 2 more boxes of stuff to be shipped back. My god!
I can finally drive in Sg now. Went to change my license today, so now I can drive in Sg, not that I am though. Unless a car drops from the sky. Hmm... is there a hole in the sky, prob higher chances there.
Haven't had the chance to meet up with any of my friends yet. Prob becos I'm a little lazy. Heehee... ok prob next week okie? Anyway all my friends, I'm still using my old no. So stop asking me if I changed my no or not.
*Sigh* can't believe it. I'm going to spend so much money tomorrow or rather today. Spending b4 I earn. Oh no. I'm going to get a new hp today. My current one has its own mind. It shuts down whenever it likes. But then I haven't been treating it well. It has taken many falls from my car's dashboard (yes I drive in Aussie) numerous times. Lucky for me it decided not to work only after I came back. Actually its already crazy towards the end of my time in Brissy. Also going to get a Zen Neeon. Heehee ... the one that my sis wants. Shes got a micro one but prefers this one. Gotta go with the trend man. MP3 player is the thing to have now. Just felt that ipod a little unfriendly thats all. Not a big fan of Apple/Mac.
So pple I need the money. I need a job. Anyone out there got recommendations, need a RA or lab tech let me know. Err.. in case anyone can't remember, I'm talking about a science job.

Home Sweet Home

2005-07-27T16:05:00.000+01:00

I know I know haven't posted for a long long while. Have been sick the last few days and also busy with packing and moving thats y. Last week was with family in adelaide and brissy and the week b4 was slacking and too lazy to write. Actually I wrote but timed out so lost all that I wrote. Sort of pissed me off then. Ok enough of excuses. Prob will not be posting much till I get back to Sg on sat anyway. Yes! U have not read it wrongly. For those who have waiting for this day since I dunno when, *drum roll* I'm coming home this Sat. Finally... I know. Yes also done with studying for now anyway. Anyway not much to write too with this stupid cough irritating the heck out of me. Okie so keep coming back cos I would post the pics of my adelaide trip and also my grad pic soon. Also anyone who wants to meet up b4 I leave Brissy or those who wanna meet when i get back let me know ok? For everyone's info, I still using the same hp no in Sg. Yes thats the one if u still have me in your phone book cos I only ever had one no. So everyone take care, I'll miss everyone from Brissy. Looking fw to all in Sg. Cheers.

Happy one day, sad the next

2005-07-07T13:04:00.000+01:00

Was going to write about other stuff on my blog today. But the news is basically filled with the bombing in London. It comes just one day after London was announced as the host for Olympic 2012. Imagine what would have happened if this bombing happened even a day earlier? Would the voting still continue on? Would London still be the host nation? Stopping to wonder, whats wrong with the world? Is this the natural way to get rid of mankind? Why is that man never learn from history? Is all this violence really necessary? Is the death of so many innocent people, some of whom are tourist, really worth in this tick-for-tack world? Its horrible looking at the pictures from London. People all bleeding and bandaged. A double-decker bus becomes a single-decker bus. Scary scene.
Away from the national news and back into my life. Kind of looking forward to going back home for good. I know I will miss this place when I eventually go home. Gotten used to the life here. It would be sad to leave all my friends behind here and also the people in my lab. But going home, everyones there. Family and friends. Reckon its still home and prob where my life and heart is. Suddenly missing my life back home too. Guess its just the time to go home thats all. Afterall, I have been here for almost 2 and half yrs. Everytime I go back I realized that regardless of how much I have enjoyed my life here, I still miss all the time with my friends. Everyone have moved on with their lives too.
Have also been feeling very stressed out and tired emotional. I suddenly just felt that I want to get out of Brissy. Too much going on these days. I just feel like everyone around me is making me emotionally taxing. Regardless of which gp of friends I hang around with, where I turn, I get this feeling. Its not that I don't like to offer a listening ear to others, I know Singaporeans here should all stick together and help one another out. But its come to a point where I'm really tired. Also there are people here who make me feel like I have to be selective as to what I say and do. I get questioned for things that I say. It becomes a very confrontational atmosphere and I start feeling very defensive and aggressive too. I kinda feel like I am living in Big Brother house. Thats just how I feel about my life now. Maybe all these feelings come about from all the problems that I have to face with everything that I have to do to settle things here before I go home. Simple things like selling the car to settling the house and all these stuff that just put a strain on my mood I guess. I really need to go for a holiday and looking forward to my family coming over next week and out trip to Adelaide.
So is this strange mood that I am feeling due to the reason that I am going home? Maybe subconciously I am feeling a certain feeling that I have not identified? So many questions and no answers.

Bryon Bay

2005-07-07T10:29:00.000+01:00

Bryon Bay - The most easternly point of the Australia Mainland

2005-07-07T10:28:00.001+01:00

Don't ask what I was looking at

2005-07-07T10:28:00.000+01:00

2005-07-07T10:27:00.001+01:00

Look at the beautiful beach at Bryon Bay

2005-07-07T10:27:00.000+01:00

Cape Bryon Lighthouse

2005-07-07T10:26:00.000+01:00

Treat others the way you want to be treated

2005-07-03T12:08:00.000+01:00

Found out when we were trying to sell our car the other day that our car which was with us for the past 10 months was still not transferred to our name but was still stuck in the name of our dealer. And after 2 days the stupid dealer is still taking their time to solved this prob and not calling back when they promised to. So my conclusion is that this is not a trust-worthy dealer as they charge you for the transfer fee and all but don't do the job. Also the bloody secretary who does all the paperwork only works half day. For those who wanna buy a car is Brissy and wonder which dealer it is, I can't reveal the name. But this particular dealer is in Chemside and has this banner that days Cars under $10000. And its like 2 junctions away from the shopping center. The transport dept is another place to collect money without asking ques but when you need their help they give you so much shit. They allowed us to renew our rego when the car is not in our name but when u asked them for the rego cert they insist the car was not in our name and created a really big scene. Y didn't they tell us that when we renew our rego? Stupid isn't it? Was going out for dinner the other day when we realised that our garage door was stuck. We sort of pushed it shut right past the metal piece that was holding the door in place. So we with the help of Siok Hwee tried to pull it our again and also tried to hammer the metal piece out of the way but to no avail. Called our rental agency on Sat and lucky for us they fixed the problem on the same day. All I can say is that our agency solves maintainance prob really quick for when you need the agency to do stuff like paperwork for you they take forever like months. Weird isn't it?
Someone told me last year that she doesn't really want people to know certain things from other's mouth. I know I make this statement sound really complicated, but I can't uncomplicate it cos this certain person might be reading it. So continuing on. She rather people ask her straight and for me/others not to tell other pple the answer to this specific ques when they asked. But now shes doing this same thing to others. The same thing that she doesn't want pple to know, she is spreading it around for others. Not that we have been asking around for these answers but shes just volunteering these answers. So the next time you accuse pple of gossiping remember this, you are doing it too. I guess I confused everyone reading this and it doesn't make sense and even this certain person would not be know what I am talking bout, but hey I just wanted to put this into words thats all. All I can say is that treat others the way you wanna be treated. And if certain incident happen again, stop and think, have you done it first yourself, to others? Some may not mind others spreading information about themselves to others, doesn't mean it goes the same of all. Some of us would rather make announcements, or tell information about ourselves to pple and wouldn't like others like this specific person to do the honours for us.

Its all in my destiny

2005-06-29T14:45:00.000+01:00

Received some disappointing news yesterday. Finally got my results back. Got a class 2A. Well not that I expected myself to get a first class but I hoped to scrape pass to get it. Its more of the fear of others reaction if I don't. Its the pressure that other pple around me give. Being a Singaporean and a hons student in Microbiology, others always give you the pressure that its where its the easiest to get a class 1. Thats where I aim higher or far too high that what I am capable of. Before I started hons, I never felt it was at all possible to get a class 1. To me it was a impossible feat.
The thing is, I'm not feeling sad. I just feel disappointed thats all. Thinking about it, for someone who have not even achieved a GPA 6 in undergrad, a 80% is a tall order isn't it? At least my parents haven't said anything negative. In fact, mum was quite encouraging. She was more worried that I may have gotten a 2B. Mum felt that with my std of writing it was not very possible to do well. Mum felt it was all destiny.
Well now its time to job hunt. I can at least look forward to working and gaining experience b4 my next step. Just like Allan and Sam. They both have 2A but have gotten good jobs in my lab. So hopefully its not about the class but just the cert? Or is it just wishful thinking? But then, what will be will be! Like what mum said, its all in my destiny.

The mess and the crazy

2005-06-28T15:06:00.000+01:00

Our messy bookshelf

2005-06-28T15:05:00.001+01:00

This used to be our dining table

2005-06-28T15:05:00.000+01:00

Mess created by me while writing up my thesis

2005-06-28T15:04:00.000+01:00

Crazy housemate entertaining herself

What will be will be

2005-06-27T17:13:00.000+01:00

Finally decided to make the final changes to my thesis. Have been putting it off for ages. Just don't really want to face the mistakes that I have made and see the changes that have to be made. But it still has to be done. Wanna know why? Becos we can get our results back already. And in exchange for the results, we have to submit 2 copies of our corrected thesis for binding. Can't really decide if I'm looking forward or trying to avoid knowing how I went this year.
I finally got asked for an interview after countless of application sent. Its for the position of lab officier in the CMM (Biopolis). I sort of really like the job description. The sad news is ... the interview is for this Thursday. And guess where your truly is? Still stuck in Aussie. Hopefully, the opening will still be there in July or that I get some other interview offers when I get back. Guess what will be will be.

Surfers' Paradise in Gold Coast

2005-06-26T13:33:00.000+01:00

Surfers' Paradise

My first breath test

2005-06-25T12:42:00.000+01:00

Had my first breath test last nite or rather this morning. Was sending friends to airport at 5am. Being early morning on a sat nite n all the partying that goes on here. The police asked me to breath into the gadget and smart me asked, 'in or out'? After the whole thing was over I was thinking that was such a stupid ques. Of course its out mah. But usually they will ask u to blow into it not breath into it. So its not really my fault is it.
Well, JJ and I have sort of finally decided on our Tassie trip. All we have to do now is wait for JJ to cfm if we can leave on Thurs and off we go. Always a last min thing for us. It seems like everyone is going to Tassie. A total of 4 different gp of pple r going over. And almost everyone miss one another by a day or 2.
It sure if quiet around here these few days with pple going on holidays n all. Suddenly I can picture the quietness when everyone goes home for good except for the few who are staying on. Its a lonely quiet Brissy!

Fraser Island holiday last Nov

2005-06-23T12:54:00.000+01:00

Went to Fraser Island last Nov with my friends. A chance to take a break from honours and also when things were not working. The excuse used? It was my birthday. Anyway, thats a sand dune behind us.

2005-06-23T12:52:00.000+01:00

Champage pool

2005-06-23T12:51:00.000+01:00

Trying to cross to the other side of the bank at Eli Creek.

2005-06-23T12:50:00.000+01:00

Up close and personal view of the food

2005-06-23T12:49:00.000+01:00

Our first dinner at Fraser Island. A BBQ. It also happened to be my birthday.

2005-06-23T12:48:00.001+01:00

Posing on the barge on the way to Fraser Island

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Our sleeping quarters .. err.. tents..

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A group picture with our 4WD

Its not supposed to be this cold

2005-06-23T12:00:00.000+01:00

Oh my! Its not supposed to be this cold in June only. Whats going to happen in July then. *sigh* The effects of global warming.
The car is finally back from the mechanic. Can't believe it. It looks the same as when we first bought it. The things that money can do. Hopefully everything can be settled by Wed, cos we are thinking of going to Tasmania on Thursday. Not that we already planned or bought the tickets. Was actually hoping to go to NZ but the tickets got too expensive.
The thing I hate about watching sports on Aus TV is that regardless of what other good matches is going on, they always have to show the Aussie players. Esp when it comes to tennis. I dont't particularly like the Aussie tennis players. Well at least I can root for the underdog. And I also get to know more tennis players who I have never knew existed.
Watching ER now. Its the one where Carter is leaving. I really like what Lucas just said to Carter:'We only part to meet again'. I think this sentence actually makes a lot of sense. And I can actually relate to this sentence since I'm most probable going to leave a lot of friends behind when I go home next month.

I missed JJ seminar

2005-06-22T18:04:00.000+01:00

Can't believe it! I actually missed JJ seminar. I woke up at 9.30 when her seminar is at 10. Also the bus to reach uni in time leaves at 9.35. I didn't want to walk in in the middle of her seminar and distract her either. Anyway heard it went well.
Well its back to a cold cold day after being a little on the warmer side the day b4. It doesn't really help to be wrapped up warmly cos its the wind that causing the problem. Finally bought my UQ sweater after planning on doing it for ages. It was on discount anyway.
Wonder when my car will be back from the mechanic. Our buyer also just told me that she wants to do another RACQ inspection after we are done. She sure is rich.

Graduation pictures from last year

2005-06-22T17:14:00.002+01:00

2005-06-22T17:14:00.001+01:00

2005-06-22T17:14:00.000+01:00

2005-06-22T17:12:00.000+01:00

For those that have not seen my grad pics from last yr this is it. I would be graduating again in July though its the same colour hood again.

Another lazy day

2005-06-21T17:31:00.000+01:00

Not that I have done much today. Actually nothing at all. Currently watching the Wimbledon match of Henman and his opponent. A very interesting 5 set match. Its always in the Grand Slam that makes me wanna start playing tennis again. I actually know how to play just that I sucked at it plus I haven't touch my racket since 2 yrs back.
Siok Hwee email me to tell me that she also the rejection letter for the same job that I applied for as well. So I guess I am not alone. JJ is having her seminar tomorrow. So good luck to her. Hopefully she will go better than I did. I'm sure she will go alrite since she had so much practice talking in her lab meetings. But then its always the people who are not in your field that ask the hardest questions cos they try to relate your project to what they do. The other people who ask hard questions are the pple who are very expert in the field who knows more than I do.
Well I really should start correcting my thesis. Since I got it back last Wed, I haven't even flipped thru it to see what needs to be done. But then its because the deadline got extended to next Wed and I know I can always choose not to make the major changes that they have pointed out. Like its already marked the correcting is just to make it nicer for perm binding thats all. Guess I really have to stop procrastinating soon. *sigh*

Birthday dinner last Nov

2005-06-21T12:32:00.000+01:00

My birthday dinner with my friends in Brissy.

Last Ekka in Brissy

2005-06-21T12:30:00.000+01:00

Cowgirl wannabe at Ekka last year.

Me in the lab!

2005-06-20T19:42:00.000+01:00

For those who have not seen me in the lab, this is it! Its my bench in my honours lab, though its after my bench work ended thats why its so neat.

Cold cold day

2005-06-20T13:56:00.000+01:00

Its getting colder everyday here. N it has also been raining for the past 2 days. Puts you in a sleepy mood man. Or is that my excuse. Well Siok Hwee woke me up this morning to ask me if I wanna go for lunch. So went for lunch, got my canterbury top, Anthony Callea CD (for sis) and came back. So, a fruitful day after hunting for the top for ages.
Sara just told me today that Angie is still jobless and Ann is going to give birth soon. I can't believe it man. That was fast. Well everyone around me seems to be getting married, giving birth and all. Is this the mid 20s life? Was pretty sad to find out that someone who I have known for more than 10 yrs did not even bother to mention she was getting married (shes actually married already) and did not even invite us for her wedding (that tells you how low we gals were in the pecking order of her friends).
I also got a rejection letter for my job application today. 2nd one for Aussie and 3rd one since I started job hunting. Reckon the chances of staying on is getting lower as time goes by. Maybe its time to go home or something.
A little birdie (you know who you are, n you sort of reveal urself on the chatbox) said I need to put pics up soon cos she wants to know more bout my life since she last saw me. Will try my best to put some pics up soon ok?

Not a very long day

2005-06-18T16:24:00.000+01:00

I guess from the title that you can tell what kind of I have had. Surprise surprise! I only got up at 5pm today. I was thinking why is the sky so dark (remember that is winter here), looked at the clock which showed 5 o'clock, then looked at my hp which showed the time in 24hr format and was like WHAT 5pm? I was thinking if it was 5am and the sun was rising but then remembered that I slept at 5am so it couldn't be am. Look what thesis writing has done to me! My life is screwed. First I didn't have one, now I have a weird one.
Haven't done much today acutally. Got up watched TV (saw some WWII show in German), The Wedding Singer, Broncos game. Thats bout it. Was looking for an apt to stay when my parents and sis come down for my graduation in July as well. I really liked the ending in The Wedding Singer. I liked the song that Adam Sandler sang to Drew Barrymore. Wish someone would be that romantic to me man. Yeah in lala land I think. Guess I have to get that someone first b4 anything close to that can even happen.
Had another steamboat today for dinner, actually was to finish up the food from yest. And shabu shabu tomorrow with RC and Ben. So another steamboat. I think its the last time the whole gp will hang around together for a meal. RC are going to Sydney in Jul, Ben is goin home on Mon n coming back late Jul, I'm also going home to Sg in Jul. Everyone's just not going to be here anymore, which kinda makes it really sad. The friendships that I have made here. The funny thing is that I only knew RC and Ben in my honours year and we never knew one another thru the whole 3 sems of undergrad that we did and now we are closer to RC than the ones that we knew from undergrad. Isn't it just funny. Guess everything happen for a reason. Though the reason is still unknown to me.

Finally get into the hang of this!

2005-06-17T19:51:00.000+01:00

This is my first blog here. I was previously using another site for my blog, but good old Lili convinced me that blogger was a lot more fun. And before I knew it, here I am. Well, it sure is cool on blogger but its also giving me so much headache. Now I know the reason I am a scientist and not a IT person. Reckon my genes translate into a IT idiot. Nevertheless, I finally managed to figure some stuff out. So it looks more or less like a blog now. I still need to meddle around a little though, so Lili or Wx would get pestered by me again soon.
Rite. Since the last time I made an entry what has happened in my life? Lots. I'm finally done with my honours assessment with the viva on Wed. That was nerve wrecking man. I mean 3 examiners sitting there asking you all these questions. Reckon I went alrite though. At least I could answer the questions, though Kato told me that she could tell I was nervous but she said I did a good job. I hope its the truth and she was not just being polite. Anyway, now the class of my honours is fully out of my hands. I just have to make amendments to my thesis and my results are out on the 29th.
Also went to watch Mr & Mrs Smith on Tues. Don't think it was a fantastic show though. Not very impressed with it. Its just 2 big stars thrown together to make this movie. Get action and IT shots (in terms for gun shots and all). Its back to old basics though, good pple never get shot, but the bad ones always die. I mean how can Brad Pitt get a knife spear into his leg but he can still walk around like normal. Just doesn't make sense at all.
Invited Darren, Siok Hwee & Hong Soon to our hse for 'Ma La Huo Guo' tonite. Gald they like it. Now we have so much food left though. We are thinking of asking some other friends for rd2 to finish the food. It was good catching up with them after a few weeks & we were talking till like 2am.
Its getting freezing cold again. Its like 6 degrees out there. Wonder whats wrong with the weather. I hope its not going to be this cold for the rest of the winter. Now I wonder is it going to be worse in Jul. Hope not.

The pple you meet in this wide world!

2005-06-16T15:11:00.000+01:00

This was from my previous blog written on: June 14 3:56:00 AM

Ever wonder about the types of pple that you would ever meet in this world? Looking back at my friends over the yrs esp the ones that I have met here it seems like all sorts of pple actually exist. And there are always some that r really weird. I mean not that I actually know them. Some instances are when I'm posting to sell my car and furnitures that I have over here. Pple who tell me to contact them becos they are interested in my car is just not acceptable. There are also pple who have to send me 10 emails just to enquire about a speaker that is worth $5. And asking if the speaker actually works on laptop or just desktop. I mean what kind of questions are these. And I thought I was a technology idiot.
Then there are the pple who post ads up with lots of typos. Dun pple actually proof-read the stuff they write b4 they post it. I mean its gonna be posted on public and pple are going to read it and laugh their ass off. Like me and JJ were looking thru places for her to move to when I go home. There are pple who spell flatmate as flatemate. I mean whats a flatemate? Then theres one that said you can use all the kitchen staff. This one totally got us cracking up. I reckon it was supposed to be stuff. I told JJ, all you ever have to do is just walk into the kitchen and tell them what u wanna have and they would whip it up for you. U never have to cook again in that house. See. N I thought my english was bad.
Ok. I have to get back to the lab book now. N have a bad feeling bout it too. Like I am never going to finish it. N still I'm writing this here now. *sigh* The procrastinator is back. Or did she even ever leave?

Looking back at the past year

2005-06-16T15:09:00.000+01:00

This was on my previous blog written on: June 12 3:26:03 AM

Wow! I'm impressed with myself. I actually woke up before noon today. So what have I done today? Not much I reckon. More vcds. Also looked thru my hsemate thesis for her. Its due on Tuesday. See, the point is that often, we look at our thesis so much while we are writing that we reach the point where we are oblivious to the mistakes and inconsistancies that we make. In our eyes, the thesis is as perfect as can be. Thats where another person is needed to look it through for us. As they say the person out of the circle is the one that look looks the clearest (or something like that). This thesis writing is a 50 page pain in the ass (pardon my language). First we go through one intensive, painful, stressful year of experiments, while doing assignments like lit review and review assay (in my case). Worrying about having no results to write up and stuff. Back in our minds is always the thought that do we get our 1st class honours? Then struggle to write up, this 50 page thesis that pretty much decides our fate. The scientific writing is painful (thats when I realized after so many years, my english is really bad), the alignment of the 50 page thing is worse (one move changes the whole document), then theres the printing which causes lots of problem (from the colour of the pictures to sending it for printing which takes 4ever as the document is really big). Not to mention, the seminar that we have to give. Imagine giving a talk in front of so many pple. I hate presentations. I hate Q&A too. Then theres the viva. 3 examiners asking questions on your project. Aka interrogation. Well for me theres just the viva left.
Away from the painful subject of honours. For once, the Brisbane Lions won their footy match while I was watching it on TV. Its the first time they have won 2 matches in a row this season. And hopefully on their way up the ladder. The Broncos also won their match. Finally Brissy teams are doing well this weekend. Now theres the F1 tomorrow.

First entry, first blog!

2005-06-16T15:05:00.000+01:00

This msg was from my previous blog: written on June 11 1:01:02 AM

Rite. First blog, first entry. Still wondering why I finally decided to start a blog. Probably due to peer pressure. Now, I am wondering how long I will keep this up.
So what should I be typing here? Since I haven't been doing much since I submitted my thesis, guess theres not much to talk about. Don't I have a boring life? Have just been talking it easy, catching up with everyone that I haven't had the time to chat to over this stressful year, watching VCDs, reading books and all that stuff. Its a good feeling man, to know that you can do the things you wanna do without something nagging at the back of your mind. Actually I do have something to do. Finish writing up my stupid lab book. Thats what!