L . I . F . E .

august snow

2008-08-07T11:08:00.003+10:00

This week Lucy, Wal, Graham, Flo & myself headed up to the slopes of Mt Hotham for 3 days & 2 nights. The weeks leading up to the trip snow had been falling giving us awesome snow cover on the mountain. This season is definitely one of the better ones! We all didn't know each other except for Lucy who was our central link to each other. Hehehe . . .

Well we made our way up to Mt Hotham on Monday morning boarding for the day then checking into a lodge. The lodge was close to the General store (Lucy counted 150 steps) which is where we hung out & made new friends (Russell aka Ablett, Dicko 8 dumps in a day, Lee, Graham, Hoody, Ken, Stewart & a few more) after the days event. Being a communal lodge we made friends there too . . . Adam (14 yo kid who's been to the lodge since he was 3), Glenn, Tony, Neil, more)

Flo had never seen snow, let alone ski . . . so she got lessons then headed to Zirky's after for a few drinks where we'd catch up when we had had enough (when the lift closed). So she was the one who was absolutely pumped for the mountain night life. Starting drinks at Zirky's (3.30pm) through to dinner & at The General Store. After Flo had disappeared for more than half an hour Lucy found her locked in the toilet asleep. I had to lift myself over the top to call & wake her up. Man, she was out of it. Took her back to the lodge, got her to bed. Then I headed back where we stayed out till 11.30pm but we all woke up with a very spin-ned out head the next morning & some sore tummys.

So we all decided we wouldn't let history repeat the next evening, agreeing not the drink so early & to only go out for an hour at The General then to bed. Another good day out on the slopes, fresh powder . . . we headed out to The General again for a few drinks. It was open mic night . . . Flo was gone for a long while & we saw her on stage . . . hahaha! We didn't know she could play the keys, not even her boyfriend, Graham. So she was hired, & she had a ball of a time, we ended up drinking & staying till 1.30 in the morning. The plan blow out . . . oh well we had fun! Graham stayed out with Flo till 2.

The next day we were sleep deprived but not as hung-over, good thing! So we headed out for another day of boarding before we heading for home that evening.

All in all it was an awesome trip; great company, delicious food, amazing new friends & good night outs.

easter

2008-03-21T13:41:00.003+11:00

I kick started easter on Thursday evening, we Saz & a few of her work mates for bowling. I sat out knowing that I'd probable drop the ball on my foot, being so tired from the weeks load. After they played a round, we headed to a Karaoke bar but found that it wasn't meant to be - $600! Crazy!

So we popped round into the Loin Hotel for a few more drinks, live music & dancing! It was great cos I got to see people I haven't seen in a long long time. It was good.

It's amazing what a dance floor plus alcohol can do to some people!! Hahaha...somethings are meant for closed doors, let's just put it at that!

Well Easter Friday is here, a good time to reflect on things.

To all have an awesome long weekend!

Since turning twenty-five

2008-03-16T11:19:00.002+11:00

Having traveled to Hanoi, Viet Nam - getting to go Halong Bay a beautiful place to go, rest & absorb the atmosphere & environment, as well as the city. Learning how to cross the roads without getting runned over by the millions of motorbikes, cars, bikes & vans, zipping pass.

Spending Australia Day with a brunch of friends at Elwood Beach in the midst of a hot summer day, doing the Aussie thing . . . a BBQ with a stubby in hand! Then making my way to a Karaoke Bar with another group of friends to sing the night away.

Having a birthday dinner at an exclusive Japanese joint, every every tasty . . . loads of sushi, sashami, beef, oysters & more favour-some (If there is such a word). Another beautiful day out at Albert Park Lake for a BBQ birthday lunch with old school mates. Plus an outing to Ocean Grove for some surf, sun, sand, fun, food & a ice cold Crownie! Hummmm . . . hot summer days!

I had a long work week which lasted for 14 days without a day of rest to chill . . . it was indeed a tiring fortnight filled with work & weekend courses. Thank God for Labour Day . . . to have a break from labouring!

About a week ago I gave blood & cut 2 seconds off . . . my personal best! hahaha! Not only that the nurse gave me a nice bruise.

Travelling to Geelong for a re-affirmation of vows for my cousin & husband, then back to Melbourne for drinks & nibbles. Plus finding out the day before to be bridesmaid & to do a solo verse to Amazing Grace! It was great fun to catch up with friends & family.

Plus starting up as a club physiotherapist . . . day one today! How exciting.

25 today . . .

2007-12-28T16:58:00.000+11:00

So this is what it's like to be 25 . . .

Pretty much the same as 24, 23, 22 . . . age! We're only as old as we feel . . . & am feeling real good *grinz*

Anyways, Christmas seems to have gone by as quickly as it came by. It's been a full on year for myself; with friends getting married, making new friends & seeing old ones off, but hey we sort of know the final destination & really its the journey that makes it all worth wild!

Well here's wishing each & everyone of you a Merry Christmas & may the New Year bring you more of the things you'd like, need, want . . . 2008 here we come!

record time . . .

2007-08-28T22:21:00.000+10:00

Today after work two of my work colleagues & I went to give blood. We had planned to challenge each other on how fast we could give a bag of blood, which is about 470ml.

Matt - 6mins:32secs (give the day before)
Sharon - 9mins:10secs
Barb - 8mins:3osecs

** Drum roll **

Cheryl - 6mins:07secs

Hehehe . . . we're a competitive bunch!

weekends ago . . .

2007-08-28T21:27:00.000+10:00

About 2 weekends ago, a number of us heading up to Falls for some sun, fun & especially snow. We took a bus load so that was 48 of us but I stuck to the 5 friends I invited to come along. We fully had an awesome time! The weather was prefect, sunny & the snow wasn't icy hard; lovely.

Snowboarding, huh the life! Learning to grind rails, land jumps, master 360s . . . muahahaha. Fully sick! But with the good times there's always a few mishaps along the way . . .

The first day was relatively injury free, but not so much sore free . . . some had a sore neck from sleeping on the bus, hahaha poor fool! Other were just sore from boarding all day. But the second day, coming off the chair lift, I told lil' M not to fall but ended you big P took a fall! Damn it! I was going straight for him at a pretty good speed too. So I tried to jump him but hahaha, I didn't make it over big P. CRAP! Flat on my face with the board following behind me, smack down on my head. Good thing it wasn't the edge or my beanie would have been ripped. Oh & my scalp split! OUCH! Is right, I got an instant lump . . . they were all oh, Cheryl are you ok! Made them really nervous cos I stayed really still for like 10 seconds before I turned. Hehehe, but dang it hurt. I iced it straight away . . . why not use what's available to you free & in abundance.

The last day, another friend fall awkwardly & pulled his shoulder muscles pretty badly . . . good thing there was a physio on site! hahaha!

Anyways, there's a few more I could tell but maybe next time . . . for now it should keep me going to the snow again . . . let the good times roll

flight . . .

2007-07-23T21:14:00.001+10:00

It's been a week since Gav & I have got back from our trip overseas. It was great to relax in the sun get a tan, enjoy the presence of good company, eat yummy home-cooked meals and have little to worry about.

Gav having first hand experience of fanning the BBQ/grill at a Night Market, where the workers were all too happy to pass him the fan. Hahaha! He also got to try one of the skews, which I like to call 'Bishop's noses' cos it looks like it . . . its a part of the chicken

He also got to have one of the traditional dishes called Ambuyat, which is a sago powder made into a what you see above (at a restaurant)! There's a skill in getting a lump of it, using a utensil which literally looks like a joint chopstick. And its eaten with tasty side dishes.

Those are just a few things we got to do . . . in one night!

bumped . . .

2007-06-24T17:08:00.000+10:00

The other day on the way to ikea to get these fancy mirrors for my aunt, I got bumped! Was a busy intersection turning either way, three cars in front of me were turning right which was worst cos of traffic both ways. I was turning left & so was the car behind me.

The car in front drove off barely making it pass oncoming traffic . . . the passing van gave a huge horn & I stopped but the freaking idoit behind me probably had no bloody idea how to drive. If that wasn't enough I pulled over to the side of the road & just what the bastard did . . . he just drove off! That's right! Wow . . . I was so freaking pissed off, I drove after him. He got caught at a red & I got out of my car (like road rage, but all I wanted was at least a sorry). Walked up to his window & he rolled down his window. Come to think about it he was a little nervy . . . so he should be I was so ready to blow my lid off.

Man in his dark blue Hyundai Lantra, with pitiful eyes: "Ahh...sorry mate! There's no damage, honest! Trust me! Trust me!"

Me: just staring in disbelief that he just drove off. If only looks could kill!

I took his word for it, I got back in to my car but took the liberty of taking down his license plate number, in case there was actual damage when I parked to have a careful look. Man that seriously pissed me off . . . but shit happens!

I reckon it could have been worse . . . me driving off together with the car in front & more that likely getting hit side-on at a greater speed rather than being bumped on the bumper. True? True! So thank God for that.

happenings of the . . .

2007-06-09T11:04:00.000+10:00

. . . past 2 months

It's been an interesting 2 months, as I had dropped two days of work as an aged care PT. So becoming a part-time bum . . . it was awesome to have 4 day weekends! Some thoughted I'd go crazy with so much time on my hands but no I think I will miss it.

Looking for a little more work; being very specific particularly - location, location, location! hahaha. Applied to one - couldn't get that as our timings didnt match up, so after a few weeks another come up & snagged. I must say patience is indeed a virtue! On top of trusting that God will open doors & checking yourself that you don't let the disappointment get to you.

So now after having almost 2 months of 4-day weekends, I will definitely miss the added time to chill & bum. But this private practice job will be an absolute challenge to the brain & the body. As for the past day & a half I have had to go in to the practice to get a feel of things; the use of the equipment, the system & getting to know a few of the patients & all the staff (receptionist, the podiatrists & of cos the other PT who's the co-owner of the practice).

Seeing how things are to be runned, there is a definite key to having your own practice. 1) quality of service, 2) knowledge & 3) interpersonal skills. To be able to problem solve, the presenting condition & spot diagnose the signs & symptoms then treat it effectively. This job will keep me on my toes & the brain ticking away to look for answers. All's very exciting! I can't wait to sink my teeth into the challenges ahead of me.

Jim & Edna

2007-05-10T16:23:00.000+10:00

Just because someone doesn't love you the way you want them to, doesn't mean they don't love you with all they have.

Jim and Edna were both patients in a mental hospital. One day while they were walking past the hospital swimming pool, Jim suddenly jumped into the deep end. He sank to the bottom of the pool and stayed there. Edna promptly jumped in to save him. She swam to the bottom and pulled Jim out.

When the Head Nurse Director became aware of Edna's heroic act she immediately ordered her to be discharged from the hospital, as she now considered her to be mentally stable. When she went to tell Edna the news she said, "Edna, I have good news and bad news. The good news is you're being discharged, since you were able to rationally respond to a crisis by jumping in and saving the life of the person you love, I have concluded that your act displays sound mindedness. The bad news is, Jim, hung himself in the bathroom with his bathrobe belt right after you saved him. I am so sorry, but he's dead."

Edna replied, "He didn't hang himself, I put him there to dry. How soon can I go home?"

the penny drops

2007-05-08T22:03:00.000+10:00

I realise I'm jammed packed with things to do this month . . . I reckon a part of me loves the feeling of busy-ness. However I also realise that my life for the past 11 months has had to include another person into weekly/monthly events. Making a conscious effort to be considerate of the other's likes, dislikes, pet hates, loves, habits - the bad, the good & the disgusting! It seems like having the 'seemingly right' person in your life can complicate things in a pleasurable & delightful way (most times).

But for me I can't not have my other (new, old & to-be-met) friends out of my life . . . so that's where busy-ness of my life begins. However it has never stopped, ever since I can remember. Since my prep/primary school days, life has been filled with swimming training, tuition for major subjects like Malay (oh boy, did I need help or wat!?!)& Maths, plus piano lessons of course my parents gave me time to be a little person . . . to be able to run out in the outdoors (sun, rain or goomy). High school I juggled my life around studying, creating havoc but also making peace with being a prefect, a swim captain & the house vice, there were camps, celebrations, plus swimming training outsode of school. Then in uni, it was trying out in ECAs like water polo, baseball, touch rugby, soccer, to being involved in a student-runned Christain group on top of being a full-time uni student. Till now, work as a professional, socialising with people I've come to call my friends, very slowing involving myself into a church group, keeping myself healthy, having to meet the other half's friends/family/extended family (this again very very slowly).

I actually have no structure or objective to this post . . . just realising where I am in my life! The events, the activities, the social encounters, the people that have rushed passed, jogged by, walked along & just plain lazied by my side, seeing how every single one has shaped & will continue to mold me into the person I am & will become. But one thing is for sure, for certain, one constant & that is my faith, my Lord Jesus.

So upcoming stuff:
Movies tmr
Drinks dis Friday
Mother's day Sunday
Next week
Seminar on Tues
Church group on Wed
Dinner with work collegues on Fri
Birthday bash for a groovy chic turning 26 on Sat

& this is only the middle of the month . . . hahaha! I'm loving it!

When a Triathlete says...

2007-05-04T16:50:00.000+10:00

"...I am an outdoors type of person."
Really means: I train in any type of weather. If it's raining, snowing, 90 degrees w/100 percent humidity, or winds gusting at 30mph. I don't want to hear any complaints because I will still train in it and you're just a big wuss for complaining about it.

"...I enjoy riding my bike."
Really means: with or w/o aero bars, alone or in a peleton, I don't care. If you can't do a spur of the moment 30 miler then you're not my type. I will let you draft, but if you can't hang and I drop you - I will see you later. I am a capable mechanic, but don't expect me to change your flats or tune your bike. You need to learn that on your own.

"...I enjoy jogging."
Really means: Let's run hills until we puke. I have just as many shoes as you only mine are better because they are functional and all look the same.

"...I enjoy dining out."
Really means: I enjoy eating out, in or anywhere else I can find food. Don't be shy because with the amount of food I eat, you can have that main entree instead of a salad and you will still look as though you eat like a rabbit in comparison. Don't get your limbs too close though as I may take a bite out of you. Most importantly don't expect any taste off my plate unless you can bring something to the party… like more food. Eventually though if you're not burning 4,000 calories a day you're going to plump up and have a terrible complex due to watching me eat deserts and not gaining any weight. Friends and family will eventually decide not to dine with us anymore due to my horrid table manners. Oh, and don't ask me any questions during breakfast, Mid Morning Lunch, Lunch, Afternoon lunch, dinner or Recovery Dinner as it does not lend to efficient food intake.

"...I enjoy quiet walks on the beach."
Really means: Walks on the beach warming up into an 8 mile run and then plunging myself in the ocean for a 2 miler. If you get in my way you're going to find out what mass start is and let me assure you that you don't want to find out.

"...I find fulfilment in charitable work."
Really means: If I am not racing, I am volunteering and I expect you to be there along side me as I stand out in 90 degree weather for 8 hours handing out sports drink to cyclists going 20 mph. Just stick the ol' arm out there and hope it doesn't get taken off.

"...I enjoy sharing quiet moments together."
Really means: It's taper time. Just back off because I am strategizing and in a pissy mood because I am worried about my "A" race and can't workout.

"...I am an active person."
Really means: Aside from my 40 hour job, and the 8 mandatory hours of sleep a night. 10 hours a week are devoted to me during the off-season and 20 during race season leaving us 4 hours. 2 of which are spent inhaling food and you not talking to me, so let's make the best of the 2 hours we will spend together on average each day. If you are a licensed massage therapist or doctor this would make the most optimal use of our time together. Nutritionist is also acceptable, but I probably already know just as much as you.

"...I enjoy road trips and leisurely drives."
Really means: You have your choice of Port Macquarie, Busselton, Taupo, and Shepparton[Ironman Races], but don't expect to do much site seeing. If I get enough support from you we might be able to include Hawaii in there.

"...I enjoy site seeing."
Really means: Lets grab a mountain bike and get our HR's up to 90%. There's plenty of time to look around on the descent as trees and bushes whiz by you at 40 mph.

"...I like stimulating conversation."
Really means: while we are running, we can talk about food. Then we can talk about how we decided what to wear on this run based on the temperature at start time versus the temperature at the time we expect to finish, how horribly out of shape we are, how many miles we did last week, and how many we will do this week and next week. Then we can talk about food.

"...I enjoy relaxing soaks in the tub."
Really Means: I'm going to stop on the way home and buy two bags of ice, throw them in the tub with some water, and sit in this torture chamber for 30 minutes.

"...I'm interested in photography"
Really Means: My camera is permanently perched on a tripod in front of my trainer. I obsess over taking photos of my bike position and analyzing them to get the perfect setup.

"...I'm into in technology"
Really Means: My HRM and bike computer are my best friends. Until you can give me some hard data that can improve my training, don't bother trying to buddy up to me. You could one day break into the top three if I find you as entertaining on long runs and rides as my mp3 player.

The Colonoscopy

2007-04-28T16:57:00.000+10:00

All the organs of the body were having a meeting, trying to decide who was the one in charge.

"I should be in charge," said the brain, "Because I run all the body's systems, so without me nothing would happen."

"I should be in charge," said the blood, "because I circulate oxygen all over so without me you'd all waste away."

"I should be in charge," said the stomach, "because I process food and give all of you energy."

"I should be in charge," said the legs, "because I carry the body wherever it needs to go."

"I should be in charge," said the eyes, "Because I allow the body to see where it goes."

"I should be in charge," said the rectum, "Because I'm responsible for waste removal."

All the other body parts laughed at the rectum and insulted him, so in a huff, he shut down tight.
Within a few days, the brain had a terrible headache, the stomach was bloated, the legs got wobbly, the eyes got watery, and the blood was toxic. They all decided that the rectum should be the boss .

The Moral of the story.
The ass hole is usually in charge!

Mildred & Earl

2007-04-28T16:50:00.000+10:00

Mildred, 93, was despondent over the recent death of her husband Earl, so she decided to just kill herself and join him in death.

Thinking it would be best to get it over with quickly, she took out Earl's old Army pistol and made the decision to shoot herself in the heart since it was so badly broken in the first place.

Not wanting to miss the vital organ and become a vegetable and a burden to someone, she called her doctor's office to learn her heart's exact location.

"Since you're a woman," the doctor said, "your heart is just below your left breast. Why do you ask?"

She hung up without answering.

Later that night, Mildred was admitted to the hospital with a gunshot wound to her knee.

TRY THIS!

2007-03-19T21:47:00.000+11:00

How Smart is Your Right Foot?

This is so funny that it will boggle your mind. I don't believe it & neither would you. You'd probably keep trying at least 50 more times to see if you can outsmart your foot, but you can't. I've been trying . . . & damn its so frustrating! Hehehehe . . . while here it is:

1. While sitting at your desk, lift your right foot off the floor and make clockwise circles.

2. Now, while doing this, draw the number "6" in the air with your right hand.

Your foot will change direction.
I told you so . . . And there's nothing you can do about it

time won't disappear . . .

2007-03-16T16:05:00.000+11:00

It's been a while . . . huh! Well no matter how hard & focus we stare at a clock, time can't go any faster, slower or just plain stop. But we can definitely dwell in the moment through the timeless memories of pictures, even mental pictures or just been there! Have no idea where this is leading but . . .

I remember the day I got a bouncing castle for my birthday! I was totally wrapped or the time I got locked out of my own room to find that a bunk bed was being built as a surprised present of me. Tell you the truth was fully peeved off about been locked out but seriously it was an awesome gift. Hehehe . . .

Well I'm officially (as G said) a part-time bum! hahaha! First week into it and it's been great . . . chilling, catching up on lost sleep but hey its all self-inflicked!

So plans for the time-being:
Sports/Musculo Physiotherapy p/t work
Master (hopefully for next year)
Live life to the max!!

pets . . .

2007-02-13T22:03:00.000+11:00

I've always wanted to get a pet! But certain things always holds me back from committing, and it still does.

1. Responsibilities (dat comes with a whole list of other things - feeding, walks, vet trips, baths)
2. TLC
3. Training - especially toilet training
4. Time revolves around the creature

I know I'd love it to bits but somehow I know I'm not ready. So that's why I've got two pets . . . virtual pets! hehehe. Crack, my puppy & Weed, my spider! Great easy & fuss-free pets. *grinz!* No cleaning up after them, no expensive trips to the vet, no need to come home in time for feeding time or to walk. So happy. muahahaha!

entertainer or just plain silly!?

2007-01-21T21:48:00.000+11:00

I reckon there are things that you should only do once . . .

I'm sure most of you have heard or seen or have experimented with a bottle of coke/pepsi & a tube of mentos. Well if you haven't there is a definite reaction once you drop the mentos into the coke bottle. The outer covering of the mentos causes the coke/pepsi to create more pressure & fizz that the liquid shoots up into the air.

Well at work, my collegues had no idea this could happen, so it was a topic of discussion which turned into an experiment of our own. But we decided to up the ante! Me being me, said that I'll be the guinea pig, hahahaha. This should be great fun!

So we decided to see if this reaction in my mouth! Yup, mouth.

Big gulp of pepsi max then pop a mentos in the hatch. After 5 seconds of calm, one of my collegues asked me to shake my head a little then all of a sudden my mouth started to fizz up. I could feel it! hehehe! A little came out of my mouth, instinctively I tried to shallow, holding my mouth tighter but I couldn't shallow as the pressure was building up in my mouth. The next thing I knew was fizz out of my nose then I opened my mouth spraying pepsi max into the courtyard. Hahaha!

So it does work! hehehe! Felt like I had pepsi max up my nose for the next hour. But it was good fun.

shift into gear

2007-01-03T18:22:00.000+11:00

Entering into 2007 was a blast!

First intro was Christmas, on our feet for more than 10 hours straight. Serving drinks, food, tit bits with hugs & kisses all around.

Boxing day brought in a surprise as we decided to throw my birthday that evening. Invites being sent out only hours before the party. Groceries bought, plans made, drinks in place . . . RSVPs came back only seconds after being sent. The party was at full stream ahead!
Mum is definitely a master chef - excellent under pressure even better with planning. Dinner guest came, ate an awesome meal then helped out with the munchies for our after-dinner guest. I was the bartender, ready to mix drinks & learn new mixers! Forzen Orgasm was a treat, Shirley temple delish, standards like vodka cranberry, screwdriver, malibu fizz, shots of vodka, rum, & whiskey was served around. Met & made new friends, who are 3rd cousins, for life! After midnite, there was the cake . . . hummm . . . a mountain of ice cream.
A few of us moved outside to the pool area. I think my birthday, has to always end with a few pool pushing/thrown, & of course I'm the first to be dumped. It was fun . . . scheming to throw more into the pool. Gaby & I got Frieda & Hilda in, Brendan followed with temptation of our fun. We finally got out at 3.

The evening of my actual day, we where for a Xmas open house. That was fun, breezers & vodka twist were served. A few of us moved ourselves to a place called Sugar & Spice. An interesting place, arabic shisha-filled atmosphere. Then we ended the night with a couple of games of pool @ Jubilee.

On the eve of NY's eve, we had a wedding & dinner reception to attend. The church service was different but similar. The dinner reception was more vibrant, especially at the end. When we got on the floor to dance the night away. I reckon because we were cousins (particularly a group of us) we got some close & interesting moves on!

New Year's eve was at an Uncle's. Buffet style food, awesome compilation of songs, up-to-date karaoke songs, great drinks being mixed & fantastic company. After the countdown, there was alot of hugs, kisses, arse grabbing & neck kisses going on! A great start to the year ahead . . . a few of us headed off to a cousin's place for a game of 'circle of death', mee goreng, shisha & even a cigar to celebrate the New Year! This is another very early morning . . . we started hearing the rooster & I decided to go home.

New Year's we continued to celebrations with a pool party starting from 3 pm, and only 5 of us stayed in till 8.30pm. We were definitely very wrinkled when we got out. But it was excellent fun, finishing the day off with a movie at a cousin's & massages all around post-movie with loads & loads of side-splitting laughter! Ahhh . . . a memorable start to 2007.

The party gear has been set I wonder when the gear will be shifted down one or two . . .

Have an awesome, fun-filled & fulfilling year ahead!

random . . .

2006-12-23T19:36:00.000+11:00

Airport camping! At Changi airport (Singapore) particularly in the wee hours of the morning, you'll find people sleeping on the floor, the couch in uncomfortable positions. Like one couple I saw the guy had his face partically in the chic's butt! I guess you can sleep anywhere when you're bugged.

Home for Christmas, to be surrounded by family & friends; food & drinks . . . and everything else that comes along with Christmas!

- - -

How ironic is it that in one part of the world (ie. Australia) there is a total fire ban & in another part of the world (ie. Malaysia) there's a flood alert! Can we say global warming . . . whatever it is, wha can we do to help?!

- - -

Would you rather jump off a cliff into a sea of sharks & onto a heap of jagged rocks?

well this is titled random . . .

early days . . .

2006-11-28T18:30:00.000+11:00

Friday was fun with OCF friends, throwing an early Xmas party. Food, entertainment, games, gifts & carols! Plus catching up with the few I know from my OCF days.

Saturday threw an early birthday bash! Shopping for food & drinks in the afternoon before the nite begun. Coming home I thought I could rest before the party started, but than Chef A. Chu & G came in with hummm . . . curry chicken! Yes I was starving, so we heated up the curry & had it with bread. Thinking of a little sleep after but no go . . . had to help prepare the food for the nite! Found out that I have little knowlegde of chinese vege (got kai lan instead of choy sum, hahaha oh well). Before we knew it people started rolling in, so I went to get ready - shower, dressed, a little make-up & then out into the "crowd" late but hey its my party! muahahahaha! Hugs & kisses all round. Man, I love my friends! Awesome dress, great book, sentimental card & sweet-sweet nectar . . .

Chef A. Chu cooked up a storm; we had chicken & beef satay served with homemade peanut sauce, stir-fry vege with tender beef slices, fresh seafood noodles & spicy curry chicken - all this with wine, beer & spirits! Mich got a fantastic chocolate mousse cake, ohh it was the most sensational cake one could have ever had tasted - yummmmm. Candles were a little hard to blow out, kept on re-litting but no drama. It was an amazing nite; delicious tasting food, great sounding tune, excellent friends to drink with & party on . . . vodka tequilla vodka tequilla hahaha!

A. Chu, Saz, Ben, Annie & Baby Charlotte & Damo either stayed home/left for home/another party. The rest of us (Gav & G our designated drivers, Mich, Gwen, Ly & Mikey) headed off to Revolver for more drinks & to listen to a live gig which Gav's sister was the drummer in - heard it was Rock!

blank

Cheers to G, Mich, Gwen, Ly & Mikey for the awesome nite, who knows where I would have ended up that nite without all of you! Love you guys!

Sunday the clean up!

a problem many tears mixed emotions, just another great way to end
gotta work it out!

round the corner

2006-11-22T18:41:00.000+11:00

Christmas is about a month away!
That's like round the corner & soon it'll be right at our door steps. Time really just flies by.
It only feels like yesterday that I started working, getting into charity gigs (runs, shave for a cure, etc), made a new friends that have added to the spice of life, so many more interesting & exciting events just in this year.

Now its to think of Xmas presents, send off Xmas cards & have loads of Xmas functions in the next couple of days . . . the calendar has been filled with Xmas dinner functions with old friends, work mates, new friends, Caroling events. But there is of course other parties to go too before Xmas! However the world doesn't stop as Christmas rolls by cos then there's New Year's & life keeps bringing on the awesome & interesting challenges with the tiresome & labourous task we tend to dread. Life goes on! Hehehe . . . *grinz*

spring snow

2006-11-15T20:31:00.000+11:00

Today in Melbourne in was hailing - fatarse chunky icy pops! And to think its spring . . . only a couple of days ago it was sunny & warm. Today its a top of 14 degrees, wet & very very windy. But don't get me wrong, this is after all Melbourne . . . we still got our four seasons in a day - the sun would pop out, showing off its rays, then the cloud would cover it & piss down. Standard Melbourne weather.

I reckon the weather men/women, would just have to stick their heads out the window to "predict" what the weather would be like.

Also heard on the news that it snowed in the Rat (aka Ballarat)!

culture

2006-11-08T10:15:00.000+11:00

Last weekend, I reckon I was conned into going to a training camp for triathletes. I was asked it I wanted to go on a camp with his triclub frenz. Of course I assumed that it'd be a relaxing, sort of get away/get to know each other camp. But a couple of days before the weekend, I found out that it was a TRAINING CAMP! This is of course, Gav's idea (well on of his ideas) of a weekend away; early mornings spent either bike riding &/or running then an open water water in freezing cold salty water in the afternoon. I dont mind running or riding or swimming but I'd like to sleep in, especially on the weekends. *grinz*

Alrite it didnt turn out so bad. I had fun meeting his triclub frenz. But there is a certain culture that comes with being in such a club. For one, each other them has a nickname . . . so when they introduce themselves to me its Andrew but when they speak to each other its Arcon. And all their nics has a specfic meaning too!

Here's some others
Nathan - The Rock (cos he sinks like a rock in the water)
Bridget - Yoga (cos she can down a couple (aka 8) Yoga Bombs plus she shouted everyone)
Claire - Buster (I heard that she has been known to bust balls!)
Tammy - Feather (cos she runs as little as a feather)
Janine - 7-up (7 minutes older than her twin sister)
There's also Dr. Lactic, Greeny, Mac Daddy, JDI, Gillie, cant think of anymore but you get my drift . . . ! I had to figure out who Gav was talking about cos I know them by their birth not nicknames. Hahaha.

The other obvious thing with trialthetes is that their somewhat addicted to exercise . . . plus they can constantly speak of riding, running or swimming! Technique, times, types of training . . . Dont get me wrong its ok & interesting for awhile but it does get a little repetitive, alot of the time.

But like youths they can all party & drink! Hahaha 2 - 3 in their system & its decreased perception & jugdement b'cos of their physic it only takes a little to start feeling the effects . . . muahahaha! Hilarious!

Overall the weekend was tops.

spicing up life

2006-10-24T19:52:00.000+10:00

We've been adding spice to life this month!

Mich, Saz & I (Gwen was suppose to join us but due to injury . . . nah!!) so we started salsa dancing & kiteboarding. Something elegant, something extreme!

Salsa dancing @ The Night Cat is like speed dating. Hehehe! But we had ultimately had an awesome time learning & getting to know the people there, like Damian (aka Damo). Hahaha!

We've had 3 lessons for kiteboarding & its been great to learning to control the kite, gain power from the wind with the kite & to body drag thru the water. I'm hoping to get to use the board this Sunday. I'd be sweet!! Plus once again we get to know the people there, like Jeremy (aka Archi boy)

All these names are for the benefit of Saz . . . *grinz*

Well its coming down to the end of the year really soon . . . which only means Christmas is soon. But we all know (or most know) that once Melbourne Cup is over (the first Tuesday of Nov) *blink* Christmas is here! *damn* Oh well, just have to enjoy what's left of the year. And I still can't believe how quickly this year has gone by with work, r/ships & everything else that got thrown my way. But still had to take the good with the bad & live life!

All the best for your assignments & exams
Know that you all can pull thru
With heads up high!

The Ten Last Things a Man Would Ever Say . . .

2006-10-23T20:05:00.000+10:00

1. I think we're lost, we better pull over & ask for directions.
2. Honey, do you need any help?
3. While I'm up, can I get you drink?
4. Sometimes I just want to be held!
5. We haven't been to the mall for ages, let's go shopping & I can hold your purse.
6. Who cars about Monday Night Football, let's watch Opera.
7. Sure I'd love to wear a condom.
8. I think hairy butts are really sexy.
9. Her legs are too long.
10. I think he is one cool guy.

Oh so true . . .

two nuns

2006-10-16T20:11:00.000+10:00

There were two nuns...
One of them was known as Sister Mathematical (SM),
and the other one was known as Sister Logical (SL).
It is getting dark and they are still far away from the convent.
SM : Have you noticed that a man has been following us for the past thirty-eight and a half minutes? I wonder what he wants.

SL: It's logical. He wants to rape us.

SM: Oh, no! At this rate he will reach us in 15 minutes at the most! What can we do?

SL: The only logical thing to do of course is to walk faster.

SM: It's not working.

SL: Of course it's not working. The man did the only logical thing. He started to walk faster, too.

SM: So, what shall we do? At this rate he will reach us in one minute.

SL: The only logical thing we can do is split. You go that way and I'll go this way. He cannot follow us both.

So the man decided to follow Sister Logical.

Sister Mathematical arrives at the convent and is worried about what has happened to Sister Logical.
Then Sister Logical arrives.

SM: Sister Logical! Thank God you are here! Tell me what happened!

SL: The only logical thing happened. The man couldn't follow us both, so he followed me

SM: Yes, yes! But what happened then?

SL: The only logical thing happened. I started to run as fast as I could and he started to run as fast as he could.
SM: And?

SL: The only logical thing happened. He reached me

SM: Oh, dear! What did you do?

SL: The only logical thing to do. I lifted my dress up.

SM: Oh, Sister! What did the man do?
SL: The only logical thing to do. He pulled down his pants.
................................. [love this graphic!]
SM: Oh, no! What happened then?

SL: Isn't it logical, Sister? A nun with her dress up can run faster than man with his pants down. And for those of you who thought it would be dirty, say two Hail Marys!

its been awhile . . .

2006-10-12T18:30:00.000+10:00

if you like someone would you

1) run like the wind
2) shy away
3) flirt with them & get they number
4) ask them out

hahaha . . . curious!

So once you're in it . . . what will it take to realise that its "bloody" hard

One very loved person told me that if you ignore the person's negative traits which is more than likely about half of the person's being . . . then why be with the person at all. Cause wouldn't you want the whole person!?!?

So you basically I figured if you want something to work you gotta to take the bad with the good!

Sometimes you'll wonder why & feel like backing out of it . . . looking for greener pastures. But the truth is from where you're standing the grass is always greener on the other side. It still doesn't mean that it really is, it just depends on how willing you are to take care, nurture & grow it on your side?!

love you!

What are men like . . .

2006-08-25T21:39:00.000+10:00

To all the remarkable women you know, I'm yet to know or may never know & to any understanding good-natured, fun kinda guys I'm lucky enough to know READ ON

For all those men who say, "Why buy a cow when you can get milk for free?"
Here's an update for you: Now a days, 80% of women are against marriage. WHY?
Because women realize it's not worth buying an entire pig just to get a little sausage!!!!

Men are like....

1. Men are like.......Laxatives.
They irritate the crap out of you.

2. Men are like.......Bananas.
The older they get, the less firm they are.

3. Men are like.......Weather.
Nothing can be done to change them.

4. Men are like.......Blenders.
You need One, but you're not quite sure why.

5. Men are like.......Chocolate Bars.
Sweet, smooth, & they usually head right for your hips.

6. Men are like.......Commercials.
You can't believe a word they say.

7. Men are like.......Department Stores.
Their clothes are always 1/2 off.

8. Men are like.......Government Bonds.
They take soooooooo long to mature.

9. Men are like.......Mascara.
They usually run at the first sign of emotion.

10. Men are like......Popcorn.
They satisfy you, but only for a little while.

11. Men are like......Snowstorms.
You never know when they're coming, how many inches you'll get or how long it will last.

12. Men are like.......Lava Lamps.
Fun to look at, but not very bright.

13. Men are like.......Parking Spots.
All the good ones are taken, the rest are handicapped.

You Got Served!

Dance baby! Dance!

Kudos to Rayni!

pick up . . .

2006-08-25T21:22:00.000+10:00

...lines!!

Excuse me, do you have Band-aid?
I skinned my knee when I fell for you. (hahaha...!)

Was your Dad in the Air Force?
Because you're the bomb. (humm...try hard!)

Life without you is like a pencil without lead, pointless. (needs to get out a little more)

I'm a genetic engineer and I need to utilize your body for a stem cell experiment.
It shouldn't hurt too bad. (seriously get out of the lab)

My love for you is like diarrhea; I can't hold it in. (yhew!!)

I think I've seen your picture somewhere.
Oh yes, it was in the dictionary under SHA-BAM! (corny!)

You're so hot that you make the sun jealous. (rite!)

Do you know what the square root of 81 is?
(Hopefully they say nine)
Oh, then you are not just another pretty face. (hope it works out, if you use it)

I lost my teddy bear.
Can I cuddle with you instead? (nice try!)

You're so hot you melt the elastic in my underwear. (hissss....)

Hey c'mon now, I'm ugly, you're ugly, it's perfect. (ohhh....that's bad)

Can I borrow your library card, because I'd like to check you out! (that can go either way)

I should call the police because you're stealing my heart. (speechless)

I can't wait until tomorrow. Somehow you get prettier every day. (wat a line! it could work)

If wishes came true I'd be having dinner with you tonight. (to the point!)

cheers, Saz for the above

My personal favourite:
If I told you that you're body was hot.
Would you hold it against me? *grinz*

petrol prices

2006-07-18T21:15:00.000+10:00

when petrol prices reaches a ridiculous price this may happen

sizes

2006-07-16T18:57:00.000+10:00

(frames are courtesy of Mikey H.)

hilarious

2006-07-16T18:31:00.000+10:00

What do you find funny? I mean side-piercing funny!

ONE

What the opposite of shop-lifting? Well a shop-lifter is a person who steals goods that are on displa in a shop, after entering as a customer! So the opposite of that is a person who leaves the goods on display in a shop, after paying as a customer. True.

Well some of us may have had this experience. Going into a shop, paying for the item leaving in a rush but absence-mindedly leaving the purchased product on the counter. That's not the funny thing, today we saw a little Chinese lady leave the butchers' without her pork. She was on a mission to get to her next destination, pulling her trolley. After calling out to her, that she had left her paid meat, she hurried back into the butchers.

Then one of my fren gave this wierd & hilarious combo of a grunt & a giggle like "i-never-knew-that-there-are-others-just-like-me". And the rest of us started laughing!

TWO

Wedgies! We all would love to do it an unexpected fren/relative/unfortunate individual of choice. But is it fail-proof?! Well it isn't . . . here's one instant.

Standing at an ATM, after withdrawing cash, as you do from an ATM. A mischievous individual creeps up to his fren & yanks his mate's underwear. Hoping that he'll pull his pant so far up the creek that it'll never see daylight again.

RIP!!! People around the atm other perdestrians must have heard it too. But fortunately for the victim, he was wearing paper thin underwear, and as his mate yanked his underwear, he finger ripped through the underwear! Unfortunate for the underwear, but very fortunate for the victim. *wink*

Ahhh . . . always up for a laugh!

living MY life

2006-07-15T00:21:00.000+10:00

Lots have been happening in Chaz's world.

Unfortunately, all I can say for now is that I'm loving it!

Work, live & play!

Deep thoughts . . .

2006-07-15T00:14:00.000+10:00

. . . for those who take life too seriously

1. Save the whales. Collect the whole set.
2. A day without sunshine is like... night.
3. On the other hand, you have different fingers.
4. 42.7 percent of all statistics are made up on the spot.
5. 99 percent of lawyers give the rest a bad name.
6. Remember, half the people you know are below average.
7. He who laughs last thinks slowest.
8. Depression is merely anger without enthusiasm.
9. The early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese in the trap.
10.Support bacteria. They're the only culture some people have.
11.A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory.
12.Change is inevitable, except from vending machines.
13.If you think nobody cares, try missing a couple of payments.
14.How many of you believe in psycho-kinesis? Raise my hand.
15.OK, so what's the speed of dark?
16.When everything is coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.
17.Hard work pays off in the future. Laziness pays off now.
18.Every one has a photographic memory. Some just don't have film.
19.How much deeper would the ocean be without sponges?
20.Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.
21.What happens if you get scared half to death twice?
22."I couldn't repair your brakes, so I made your horn louder."
23.Why do psychics have to ask you for your name?
24.Inside every older person is a younger person wondering what happened.
25.Just remember - if the world didn't suck, we would all fall off.
26.Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright...until you hear them speak.

dress-up!

2006-06-15T21:08:00.000+10:00

Dis was on the Queen's B'day weekend!!!

Look out world!
superheros, supervillians, fairy tale & comic characters
were together
to celebrate

Nope not the Queen's but
Mikey & Yen's 25th
There's Naruto (Mikey) & Neo (aka Matrix guy)

Little Miss Piggy (Sofie), Wonder Woman (Yen) & Snow White (Sox)

Watch out for the big bad wolf!!!

Jenny from the block & school boy Chee

Wonder woman & Inspector Gadget

off with de fairy

ly as some comic character; i cant, for the life of me, remember who he said he was!

some rock star & probably his fan

he-man & snow white together!?!

this is even more ironic!
the devil & an angel together

one of the 3

Little Red Riding Hood & Deb (I can't figure out who she's suppose to be - a milk maid?!?)

Bullwinkle, Rambo looks like he wants something

Jasmine & Captain hook

Austin Powers: Ya, baby! Ya!

soccer or football

2006-06-11T01:19:00.000+10:00

Does it really matter!? Its the love of the game that brings us all to watch on the edge of our seats, biting our finger nails & praying for our team to score a goal of glory - to bring their team onwards to the final & eventually to win the cup!

I'm setting my heart on Brazil & England as well as Australia . . . how can I not!?! Come on Socceroos you can do it!

So far England has won their first game against Paraguay (1:0), where Beckham took the shot but it was Gamarra who accidentally deflected the ball scoring an own goal 4 minutes into the match. From there Paraguay attacked but to their demise England's defenses were stronger; goal-keeper Paul Robinson made a couple of spectacular saves!

This will probably see England going against Argentina in the 2nd round . . . we'll have to see how that goes! Argentina vs Cote d'Ivoire (6am Oz time, today).

love the game
feel the passion
expect the unexpected

32 teams, 1 cup

2006-06-06T20:43:00.000+10:00

This is it . . . the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany . . . where 32 countries meet in one; playing out their skills, showing off their abilities & testing each others endurance & love for the game!

Groups
A

Poland
Germany
Costa Rica
Ecuador

England
Paraguay
Trinidad and Tobago
Sweden

Argentina
Côte d'Ivoire
Serbia and Montenegro
Netherlands

Mexico
Iran
Angola
Portugal

Italy
Ghana
USA
Czech Republic

Brazil
Croatia
Australia
Japan

France
Switzerland
Korea Republic
Togo

Spain
Ukraine
Tunisia
Saudi Arabia

There has been some friendlies going around since March & its all a build up to this coming Friday! The World Cup is drawing closer . . . be entertained, be very entertained!

It's all happening on
Friday, 9th of June
1800 - Germany's clock!
Germany vs Costa Rica

Time to reboot

2006-05-30T20:45:00.000+10:00

Our mind is a precious thing. As we dwell in our own self-pity & insignificance we can start to think mould ourself into what we preceive ourselves as. So I believe that we must guard our mind from those thoughts that destroy, puts us down & even draws us away from what we can become.

So to renew our mind with the truth that our acceptance, security & significance is in Christ alone.

YOU SAY	GOD SAYS	BIBLE VERSES
You say: "It's impossible"	God says: All things are possible	Luke 18:27
You say: "I'm too tired"	God says: I will give you rest	Matthew 11:28-30
You say: "Nobody really loves me"	God says: I love you	John 3:16 & John 3:34
You say: "I can't go on"	God says: My grace is sufficient	II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15
You say: "I can't figure things out"	God says: I will direct your steps	Proverbs 3:5-6
You say: "I can't do it"	God says: You can do all things	Philippians 4:13
You say: "I'm not able"	God says: I am able	II Corinthians 9:8
You say: "It's not worth it"	God says: It will be worth it	Roman 8:28
You say: "I can't forgive myself"	God says: I Forgive you	I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1
You say: "I can't manage"	God says: I will supply all your needs	Philippians 4:19
You say: "I'm afraid"	God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear	II Timothy 1:7
You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"	God says: Cast all your cares on ME	I Peter 5:7
You say: "I'm not smart enough"	God says: I give you wisdom	I Corinthians 1:30
You say: "I feel all alone"	God says: I will never leave you or forsake you	Hebrews 13:5

Yes, there may be times in your life when you think you are insufficient, inadequate or just plain unworthy or dumb. Don't let those thoughts overwhelm you, let your mind dwell in what HE says!!

All the best with rebooting your mind!

the day after . . .

2006-05-29T19:41:00.000+10:00

the williamstown 10k run!

Running along The Strand, Nelson Place and Battery Road and finishing on the Williamstown Athletics Track.

The Williamstown Athletics Track was buzzing with people for the run & along Nelson Place in cafes having breakfast . . . I must say, I don't know when was the last time I've had breakfast @ 8 in the morning!?! I'd rather be sleeping in. And to let you the truth I wasn't too flash hot about having to wake up for the run, but I got motivated.

Check out wat I saw along the run . . .

The Strand

Along Nelson Place
Closer to Battery Road
The Point Gellibrand Tower or is it a Lighthouse?On the way back - The Strand

Ahh . . . beautiful Williamstown

Well I finished the run @ 63mins after Mikey (54mins) & Pete (56mins).

Well we had a great time, having one of the half marathon runners run beside Mikey asking him 'why he was running?'
Mikey's answer 'for fun!'
Half marathon runner 'Wrong answer,mate! For the breakfast !'
Hahaha . . . well I guess it's true, there was hot pancakes cooking, freshly baked apple crumble & a hot stew brewing at the finishline, even a free massage awaited us.

But seeing the line for all of it, we just decided to go home! I don't know about the boys but a hot shower was such a relaxing pleasure with a delicious home-cooked breakky then to bed.
Oh I got a spinning headache, but nothing a good nap couldn't cure *grinz*

Well I achieved my 10k run goal with a time of one hour & three minutes . . . hip hip hooray!!

bugged

2006-05-24T20:45:00.000+10:00

IF YOU'RE IN HELL,
JUST KEEP GOING

Winston Churchill

He probably said this to insprise those going thru a tough time. To hang in there, keep your focus, & you'll eventually come out of it.

I've been feeling a little under the weather lately, feels like my body is fighting off the flu that's been going around at my workplace. However, my immune system is coming thru for me, still feel off but better than yesterday!

Thank you Lord for sustaining me. You are indeed my healer & my strength.

fast track

2006-05-23T20:52:00.000+10:00

A few of us had the need for speed! Well one had the need, the rest supported & felt it too. This landed us in Port Melbourne on Saturday evening at an indoor go kart place called AUSCARTS. Really nice place!

Well we had heaps of fun on the tracks . . .

I seriously enjoyed myself . . . drifting on track, bumped into others with no worries of body damage, accelerating with no need risk of serious injury, however I did end up bruises on my inner thigh due to one spin out. Slamming into the wall of tyres leading to me sliding front & jamming up into the steering wheel.

This is one of the sweet rides . . . taking us over 60kph

Results of the race . . . amongst our group
1st Ly
2nd Pete
3rd Ken
4th Mikey
5th Cheryl
From here there were other racers . . . no idea who but
6th Tris
7th Yen
who were in de group

We all came out of it hyped up. I must say after that experience the Toyota Camry felt so smooth with power steering & the accelerator felt like nothing.

Drive safe all!

williamstown run

2006-05-23T20:47:00.000+10:00

pumping myself up for a 10k run on sunday @ williamstown!

i'm all hyped for it . . . going to try doing the run in an hour, give or take 5 minutes.

Mikey, Pete & Peck will be doing the run with me too . . .

love, hate relations

2006-05-20T13:52:00.000+10:00

When an individual feels physically fit, vitally fit, mentally fit and psychically fit, that is the best time for the individual to run.

Running makes the body young.

Striving makes the vital young.

Smiling makes the mind young.

Serving makes the heart young.

Loving makes the soul young.

Though I may dislike running, it gives me the drive I need to continue to maintain the body fit. This is why I love the competition.

I'll be in Williamstown
on 28th May 2006
@ 8 o'clock in the AM
running 10k

controversy

2006-05-20T12:19:00.000+10:00

The Da Vinci Code

. . . seems like everyone has something to say about it!

Well I for one haven't read the book but I've recently watched the movie. A rather canny & stimulating movie filled with mystery. Based on how a prankster & genius, Leonardo da Vinci was believed to have hidden secret messages within his artwork—works like The Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and Madonna of the Rocks—contain startling anomalies that all seem to be whispering the same cryptic codes. A message that hints at a shocking historical secret which allegedly has been guarded since 1099 by a European secret society known as the Priory of Sion.

Why is he smiling?

I'm not much of an art fan but just in the movie I've learnt a little more of Da Vince's artwork & I'll never view "The Last Supper" the same way again. You'll know why when you've read/seen The Da Vinci Code.

Faith is believing in the unseen &
the only courage that matters is
the kind that gets you from
one moment to the next.
As the final heartbeat of the Christian is not the
mysterious conclusion to a meaningless existence.
It is the, rather, the grand beginning to a life that will never end.
For our life has no meaning in itself;
it has meaning only in relation to God.
To know God is at once the easiest & most difficult thing in the world.
It is easy b'cos the knowledge is not won by hard mental toil,
but is something freely given . . .
It is difficult b'cos there are conditions to be met &
the obstinate nature of fallen man does not take kindly to them.

hav u had a dose of . . .

2006-05-18T19:56:00.000+10:00

laughter?

Some say that laughter is the best form of medicine

Well if you haven't then we've missed out
As the comedy fest is all over
Maybe next year, huh for you

Akmal Saleh is a hilarious act to see,
as most comedians, he draws on his experiences with the people around him.
Crude, rude, vulgar with the occassional obscenity in his act.
But hey, it's comedy, we all laughed!

Comedy, is perhaps, society's way of protecting itself - with a smile.

joey's in de house!

2006-05-13T19:30:00.000+10:00

Who's in de house? Who,who,who,who!!

Joey's in de house!

Don't be fooled by those big puppy dog eyes, they will bring you to your knees! Her puppy dog look will entice & then it'll be too late to back out. Hehehe!
She's adorable, Mich. I'll take good care of you're baby for you. No worries!

Here's her crib! Ah . . . tiled floor, no carpet to stress about if she doesn't do it on her pee/poo pad of which is being well used.I reckon she has a thing of pissing on carpet, cos she has no problems to pee on her pee/poo pad in her 'room'

There she is . . . after I took this pic, she run up so fast at me & leaped towards my face

Joey!

Sit!

Stay!!

Good girl, Joey!!

Oh, heart melting . . . she is so sweet, when she's not biting off your finger, pissing on the carpet, barking constantly for attention, the list can go on . . .

If there isn't a definition for SWEET PAIN, the Oxford should have a picture of Joey, for a picture can speak a thousand words. *grinz*

Anyways, I think I haven't done Joey justice in terms of the sweet side of things.
A few of the wonderful things with Joey is that,
she will come to you drop & show off her belly to you to be rubbed (this only happened once so far)
she will sit behind me, starring at me till I look, then I can't not give her some attention
she will run around the lounge, expecting you to chase her but run towards you if you just sit on the sofa

Hehehe . . . those are the sweet moments that counters the pain!

styles to consider . . .

2006-05-08T19:10:00.000+10:00

Well the hardest part of the task has been done; parting with wat was once on my head, which seriously does keep your head warm.

I woke up this morning, thinking to myself that my head sure does feel a little cold! Reached with my hand to rub it & realised that I don't have much hair on it anymore. I didn't know if I wanted to cry or laugh . . . but I laughed! Hehehe!

It really does feel funny though! Humm . . . anyways I had loads of fun going through with the shave! And I've always wondered what I'll look like with . . .

An Undercut!

Just A Turf Of Hair On Top!

A Mohawk!

A Tip Of Hair!

FINALLY with Not Much Hair At All!

Well as said this is for a cause (the Leukaemia Foundation). . . to date I've raised almost $400! But will definitely redeem each & every hair shaven off.

Hahaha! Or just try to get as many people to donate to the cause but the end of this week.

Some of the comments received from work today:

the bad . . .

Argh...put that beanie back on!

Get another haircut!

the good . . .
That haircut really suits you!
You've got a lovely face!
You still look beautiful!

& out of left field (the watde's). . .

You've got a nice round head!
Your head suits you!

Hahahaha . . . Well I'm still getting use to this new hair style & the chill that comes with it. *grinz*

giving

2006-05-06T15:27:00.000+10:00

About 3 or 4 days ago Mich asked if I wanted to fundraise for the Leukaemia Foundation in the WORLD'S GREATEST SHAVE TO CARE & CURE by colouring our hair. I'm thinking why not, I'll go shocking pink or a techno multi-coloured hair-do! It'd be awesome to do something for another who's less fortunate.
So Mich signed us up as a group (SarahJ, Gwen, herself & myself), & we got the official receipt books, posters & loads of other material on Thursday. That leaves Friday to fundraise & get sponsors for the cause!

Oh well see how much I can get from work . . . I never thought of how much or wat my target will be. Oh well, just ask my collegues & sees how much I can get rite! Ya!! So I told my collegues who I have lunch with & of course work with, about the cause & my plan to colour my hair. They were extremely excited about the whole idea but told me that I should really shave it. Humm . . . ya rite my parents will just die!

So I left it as that but I got thinking may be if I set a target for them to give me 3hundred dollars I'll shave it all off. Fine decided . . . 300 dollars by the end of the day & I'll shave, if not it's just a colour or two *grinz*

As the day when on one of my collegue really got into it, got my receipt book from me & started advertising the cause on my behalf. In like less than an hour, the whole facility knew about me shaving my head for 300 bucks! So the pressure was on . . .

She even got me in front of the residents during a concert to tell them & the family members there about this crazy deal I've made with them. After I got off the stage, people started digging deep into their pockets, purse, wallets for cash to donate for the cause. You realise that Aussies would give so much more to a causethan anything else!

But the end of the day, the count was on . . . a total of 340 dollars in a day, inclusive of pledges! Wow! I never knew how vain I was till I realized I was going to have to shave it all off. Hahahaha!! My hair!!

Now that I have come to terms of wat the future holds, I had to tell my parents & my bro. I sort of knew wat their reaction would be. My brother laughing, amused & not so keen, mum was heartbroken that her daughter would be without hair but my dad was tearing & wanted to give me money to back out & to return the money to the people who donated plus interest.

Well I tried to console my parents, by telling them that I will have hair but the time see me again. And that I will be good till another fun, adventurous & thrilling idea pops into the imagination!

Keep posted everyone . . . will have a before & after pic of me up soon!

Continue to live an outrageous & individual life

precious . . .

2006-05-03T18:05:00.000+10:00

Just recently, since working with the elderly I've come to realize that live is so precious & fragile. As physios, we try to maintain & hopefully improve, ever so slightly, these individuals quality of life. But I figured that as we get older, age seriously catches up on us & when it does taking a step forward most of the time at the end of the day they also go backwards, like two steps. And for some that extra step backwards means being 6feet under. Wat a downer!? For others, it just means we have to work a little more to make a come back. Hummm...

A moment's insight is sometimes worth a life's experiences.

Life is indeed precious . . . forget about: Living fast & dying young! I reckon a better motto would be: Live with a purpose & die knowing you've achieved it. Live expecting & die satisfied. Live worthy of a cause & die respected. Live responsibly & die dignified.

People forget how fast you did a job - but they remember how well you did it.

Cause at the end of the day, we want to use that beautiful set of China dishes & not leave it for a better occassion to be used. It's like asking how long is a piece of string! We never know when a better occasion is nor do we know where the end is. True! True! So basically, life in itself is a celebration, a party to be had each & everyday day, a day of thanks & praise to a God who has given us another day to live & breathe.

We should all be concerned about the future because we will have to spend the rest of our lives there.

Sounds like a sad post, but really it should be an eye-opener, so that we can do the things we need, we want, we should do before our time here is over.

What is important is not where you come from but where you are going to.

claustrophobic!?!

2006-04-25T15:37:00.000+10:00

Does this shock you?

She's in the freezer compartment of the frigde!
To tell you the truth, there was even room to shut the door.
Hahaha, sweet got your attention
*grinz*
The value of SHOCK

- - - a thought - - -

I reckon the world is filled with walls that stop us from getting to our destination.
But seriously, the destination is important & may be our focus
However its the journey that truly counts
How you deal with these different situations
Will make you, who you are!

The world may surround us by its walls,
but you can break free from those barriers.
For it is through Christ alone
that you are already a conqueror
even in the midst of your present impossibilities!

Pushing through, shaking off, break down & moving forward

it was all worth it

2006-04-21T21:22:00.000+10:00

Its been about 2 weeks now since we ran in the Run for the Kids - 14.7km! It was an amazing feeling to be running beside your friend & still be able to talk. Here's a few pics to get the feel of the event.

Here we have - Cathy Freeman, who is an Aboriginal - Olympic athlete, starting the run off.

As we ran through the thousands of people . . . we reached the part that we thought was going to kill us! The Bolte Bridge.

I had a pitspot & that was when I felt my blister from the previous training broke! Ouch . . . this was after running up & down the Bolte! When up to a First Aided that I'd like a plaster for a blister. And when she got to look at it she was like ohhh . . . let me get you another plaster for that!

Check out that fat arse blister.

But that didn't stop me from finishing the run, so along I went. Moments later we came up to the Domian Tunnel. An interesting & rather exciting feeling going through the tunnel came over me.

But by the end of the tunnel I was in desperate need for fresh air. I reckon any longer I would have needed a medic . . . for some O2 relief! Got a little stuffy in there.

From here, we ran towards the city, when we got onto Swanston Street. This was what it was like!!

It was flogged with a multitude of people - walking, jogging, running, sprinting!

At this point the run was getting closer & closer to the finish line . . . but still focusing on the even so gentle uphill slope of Elizabeth Street!

But not to fear the finish line was rather inviting with supporters cheering, encouraging & informing us that its almost all over . . . hahaha! So yes, the finish line was indeed the place to be . . . with Lord Darth Varde, even the somewhat wet grassy turf looked good to have a little spell on!

All in all I enjoyed the run, I can say that it was a Fun Run! But I suffered for about a week & a half from a sore back, of which I have no idea how that happened but it did & found another blister the day after on my right little toe.

All this training, the pain & suffering that came with it plus the enjoyment & the sense of achievement at the end, it was all worth it! I'd probably do it again . . .

NOTE: probably! *wink*

reminiscences

2006-04-03T20:27:00.000+10:00

As I looked through the pictures taken over the past year, a sense of nostalgia come over me.

From good friends parting ways to further our studies

Naez & Nate (in the US)

Chris (& her little bro)

To my cuz's pre-wedding event . . .

on his knees to show Mei Tim his love & dedication

Congrats Nel & Mei Tim, and also for the birth of your son, Christien Elliot (22nd of March)!

The 'Back to school' New Year's party

Daz, Harris, Bryan & me

the dodgy-ness (Daz, Ferdie, Bryan - back; Bev, Wei, Allen - front)absolute perv . . .

got ya! (its ok their together)
Cheers to the year ahead!

Chinese New Year @ Bev's

Daz, Myself & Bev at the pool table

Daz & Steve admiring the cue (I think)

CNY @ Lulu's

All smilez

focus on the game
relax . . .

All in all it can only get better. Missing you all!

broken sleep

2006-04-01T06:06:00.000+11:00

Oh God! For the past couple of days I've been waking up at 4, 5 am. (Damn it, Cheryl why won't you just sleep, argh) Seriously feels like a freight train's going through my head or some nervy subconscious crazy stressful crap I just don't know what!!!

So here I am, I've surfed the net for the past hour an a half & blogging aimlessly about this early morning rises.

And speaking about surfing which is rather passive activity on the internet; a couple of us, crazy enough people, are heading down to Anglesea today to surf with boards, ahhh . . . surf, sand & hopefully sun with minimal rain (likely . . . not)! Anyways I've checked out the surf it should be solid 3-4feet swells, inconsistent though but we can't always pick the good days. Than again if we had gone last weekend, we could have had the awesome sunny weather but maybe lousy waves, who knows. If you do, don't say! Don't even want to hear it!

Well I suppose this sleep thing isn't so bad, especially if there's something to wake up for. Would have liked another 2-3 hrs more of sleep but hey.

Just an aside, guess wat the lyrics of the song playing now on the radio is . . . "wake up now to the situation, wake up now to the situation . . ." Disgusting! Hahaha . . . Anyhoo hope your sleeps been a great one till the next time you snooze.

Daylight saving ends at 2am this Sunday, 2nd April.
Move your clock back an hour *wink*

Have an amazing day today all . . . remember it's April's Fool day *grinz*
Feel free to run havoc in another's live today, but just today.

In agony

2006-03-29T20:09:00.000+11:00

For the last two days, I've been in agony! Far out, man. My quads, my calves, my feet even the sides of my body are in pain . . . I have no idea where it starts or where it beginnings. Crap! I think its all the running I've been doing plus all the squatting down to speak to the patients I work with. Mate!

And today, I squatted down low to pick up my pen I dropped & I almost couldn't get up. My quads felt like it was going to snap or something, plus I've got a cold. I started to feel it on Monday, but now its true! Sniff, sniff! Cough, cough! Squeeze! So I'm going to have to take it easy, a.k.a. relative rest. Hehehe! Gotta think healthy, not sick . . . no pain, no gain.

And the funny thing is since I've started this run regime, I've been getting bruises on my legs. My cuz sayz its broken blood vessels (from her experience!) which I reckon is pretty true. The body just has to adapt to this new stress that I'm putting it through. Hahaha . . . I'm hopefully the downhill part of this will come in soon, but I doubt it. I believe I'm only at the foot of the hill . . . muahahaha! Or at least half way up.

Well here's me; wishing, hoping, praying that my agony will past me by & the truth is I'm feeling better for not doing anything today. *grinz*

RUN TOMORROW @ THE TAN!!!

drawing closer

2006-03-28T21:29:00.000+11:00

Yesterday evening I got my run number! Woohoo! How exciting, how nervy, how spine-chilling! Its only 11 days away, freak out . . .

Oh I've also gotten myself the t-shirt, all in support for the kids!

I reckon we can do it, seeing that Mich & I have pulled 3 other new found frenz . . . hahaha into doing this charity run with us. We should be feeling a little more pumped to run/jog/walk the course. *grinz*

We shall attempt to run most of the way . . . even if it means to "RUN OURSELVES UGLY"!!! Would you believe that the phrase 'Run yourself ugly' is an ad to get people physically activity?!? Go figure!

Run the Botanical Gardens, run the Carlton Gardens, run around Cherry Lake, run the track, run the Princess Park, run Fawkner Park, run Albert Park . . . sweat like you've never sweat before! Focus & run!

I wonder if I'll continue to run after this event . . . humm . . . I must say I do somewhat enjoy it! But I'll just have to wait & see, maybe there'll be another motivational event to keep me running myself ugly. *wink*

for the better...

2006-03-25T00:02:00.000+11:00

Have you ever thought why some people put themselves through a $#!t load of exercise?

Hahaha . . . well currently Mich & I have been pumping ourselves up for the charity run for the kids in early April. We've decided to call it a 'charity run', cos saying its a 'fun run' would imply that we're going to have fun doing it which we have from the very beginning knew that it would not be the case. And saying that we'll be doing a marathon would suggest that we've very fit & are running a 42 kilometre run, which obviously is not true cos it's going to be a massive 14.7 kilometres. I say massive cos the maximum I've even run is 3ks straight & I almost died, so yes MASSIVE!

Well back to the question . . . I figured that there are a number of posibilities why some people put themselves through a $#!t load of exercise. Here's 5 in no particular order & I'm sure you can come up with more . . .

1. Thy name is Vainity - to look good in front of the mirror & of course, others
2. To get in shape for some fancy event or to get into that particular garment of choice
3. To socialise & destress, to express yourself in a healthy form or ahem . . . check out the 'market'
4. For health reasons or simply being forced into it
5. And finally, some my just be plain crazy or going crazy, either way its the love for it all

My suggestion, if you don't already involve yourself in a form of physical activity, but are interested then find a friend who's as psycho as you to do it with you. OR if you're not that keen in doing anything, well I'm very tempted to say just sit in front of the tele & vege out, but unfortunately - get your fat arse outside & moving!

This is my way of encouraging you lot out there. Cheers!

game play...

2006-03-20T21:43:00.000+11:00

4 days ago, Mich, Sarah Jane & I went to Telstra Dome. Why? So that we could be a part of the Commonwealth Games by watching the Rugby 7s! Teams of 7 aside playing for 2 7 minute halves. There were teams from Sri Lanka, Uganda, Tonga to New Zealand, England, Fiji & of course, Australia.

We got to be in view of the preliminaries. The atmosphere was breath-taking, the supporters were rowdy, including us, & the discussions we had were hilarious, with seriousness in it too! We had an awesome time, checking out the plays, sitting on the edge of our seats when a try was about to be scored or not & at one stage we were involved in the best Mexican wave even! The whole stadium took part, in a continuous wave, this was where all 3 of us almost ended up on the floor, literally. Oh I had a sore ass for a day, but it was all good fun!

Another interesting thing that I got myself into is this Charity Fun Run for the children in RCH. Well its for the Good Friday Appeal & the run is in less than 3 weeks. Basically & hopefully I'll come out of it alive, as its a 14.7 km run. From the Telstra Dome, up the Bolte Bridge, across the West Gate Freeway, thru the Domain Tunnel, pass the Rod Laver Arena, Fed Square, the Town Hall & the Queen Victoria Market, all the way to the Royal Children Hospital. I don't even know it I can call it a fun run...hahaha...but hey its for the kids, rite! At least, the person who pulled me into this is going to do it with me. And neither of us really likes the thought of running, let alone doing it. Mich & I saw the marathon runners on Sunday & we were tired for them. Ok but I must say that its not all that bad, I reckon I'm starting to get into the swing of things.

dream

2006-03-11T18:27:00.000+11:00

Today is DREAM DAY! (so I've heard...)
Have no idea why but I suppose its a great excuse to catch some Z's whenever I can and escape into the magical land of nod. And if sleep isn't an option, just dare to dream with open eyes (a.k.a. day dream) till the day fades away.

Every success begins with a dream and a dream, is both the inspiration and motivation we need to move ahead. So dream big and use the power of your imagination on this day.

I dream to be have a blessed life, but then its already a reality! Thank you, Lord *wink*
What else, I dream to be successful in my undertakings as a Physio & in everything (well, in most things) I do.

Have a grand time dreaming everyone & may those dreams become a reality one day.

for the better . . .

2006-03-01T20:38:00.000+11:00

What would you say is the most useful inventions that has improved our everyday life?

You can agree or disagree but here's what 500 Britons said:

10. Ready-tied bow ties (is there no other invention more useful than this?!)
9. Compact broadsheet newspaper (ok, I suppose for updates on world events)
8. Electric toothbrush (water, dodgy bodycasing & electricity . . .)
7. Electric screwdriver (true, say goodbye to sore forearms)
6. Push-button telephones (wat about the mobile phone?)
5. Gas barbecues (mates, the taste is in the charcoal!)
4. Central locking on cars (I totally agree, but better still would be auto-lock censored key)
3. TV remote controls (couch potato)
2. Disposable nappies (humm !?!)
1. "Armed" cockscrews (wat de . . . need I say more)

Can you imapine having your phone ring tone to say this:
"Anger is stupidity, fury is madness."
See what happens but the end of the day. *grinz*

Sleeping on the job

2006-02-26T19:56:00.000+11:00

If your boss catches you sleeping on the job, tell him/her that it's all in the name of productivity.

There was a study done in the Harvard University where 30 people were tested 4 times a day on how quickly they could process informaion. They were shown flashing images of diagonal lines on a screen & asked to identify which direction they were slanted. The performance of the 10 people who stayed awake the entire day declined by 50%, while the people who napped for an hour in the early afternoon did as well on their last test as on their first. Even those who napped for half an hour did better than those who did not sleep.

The other technique that helped! Is doing something else. Participants who were shown a slightly different image for the last test saw their score bounce back to their original levels.

Hope this bit of info has been inspiring . . . to work hard! Whether you choose the former or the latter; it's your own choice.

Article dated Dec 2002...may have been updated since than, you never know! *grinz*

Man's Best Friend

2006-02-24T17:39:00.000+11:00

Here's a grand story...ENJOY!

Usually everyone who has a dog either calls him Rover or some such name. I called mine "Sex". Well, Sex is a very embarrassing name. One day I took Sex for a walk and he ran away from me. I spent hours looking for that dog. A policeman came along and asked me what I was doing in an alley at 4am in the morning. I said I'm looking for Sex. My case comes up next Thursday.

One day I went to the Town Hall to get a dog licence for Sex. The clerk asked me what I wanted. I told him I wanted a licence for Sex. He said he would like to have one too. When I said "But this is a dog!" He said he didn't care what she looked like. Then I said "You don't understand, I've had Sex since I was a two year old". He replied "You must have been a strong boy".

When I decided to get married I told the minister that I wanted to have Sex at the wedding. He told me to wait until after the ceremony. I said "But Sex played a big part in my life and my whole life revolves around Sex". He said he didn't want to hear about my personal life and would not marry us in his church. I told him everyone coming to the wedding would enjoy having Sex there". The next day we were married by a Justice of Peace. My family is barred from the church.

My wife and I took the dog along with us on the honeymoon. When I checked into the motel I told the clerk that I wanted a room for my wife and I and a special room for Sex. The clerk said that every room in the motel is for sex. Then I said "You don't understand, Sex keeps me awake at night". And the clerk said "Me too".

When my wife and I separated we went to court to fight for custody of the dog. I said "Your Honour, I had Sex before I was married." And the Judge said "Me too." When I told hime that after I was married Sex had left me, he said "Me too."

Well, now I've been thrown in jail, been married, divorced and had more damn troubke with that dog than I had ever gambled for. Why just the other day when I went for my frist session with the psychiatrist, she asked me: "What seems to be the trouble," I replied "Well, Sex has died and left my life. It's like lossing a best friend and it's so lonely." The doctor looked at me and said "Mister, you and I both know that sex isn't man's best friend, so get yourself a DOG!

events . . .

2006-01-02T00:34:00.000+11:00

It’s been almost a week since I’ve been back & loads have happening since than, let's get you all up to speed . . .

Christmas day, we had our open day. There was alot of people with spurs of intermittent breaks. Was a great day . . . my bro & I got to visit 2 or was it 3 frenz/family that day too. The next day we also got a few people coming to the house for a Christmas visit. Which was alrite cos there wasn't too many & they were mainly family.

The next day we celebrated my birthday, this was a family & close family friend dinner. It was an awesome day! The company, the laughs, the food, the atmosphere . . . I had a ball of a time. The best bit was the drive down to the restaurant, what a drive that was, fun-filled laughter. Plus a LONG drive down & back but hilarious!

The next day, I invited more family & frenz over to the place for drinks & some food (tit bits). Thanks to dad, mum & my bro for making it all happen. I had an awesome time & judging by what time most of the guest left, they had a fantastic time too. Some actually stayed till about 5 in the morning. Ridiculous!
Overall the highlight of the whole evening is & always will be the company we keep. I had loads of fun that night - making drinks for most, trying a couple of interesting ones, joking around, laughing, chatting, catching up, and playing Mahjong & Big 2.
Thanks to all for an awesome two nights of celebration! Plus more parties to come . . . hahaha!

Like last night, for the New Year’s Eve party had a pot bless with family & frenz over then after the countdown, we hugged, kissed & exchanged well wishes to each other. So after that some of us left for a ‘School dress up party’, where we dressed up in our “old” school uniform. Well I had to improvise for the dress up cos I couldn’t find my old uniform. But mum had the skirt material so we just wrapped the cloth round my waist, pinned it up and secured it with a belt. Hehehe! That party was another amusing, enjoyable & entertaining New Year’s party. *thumbs up* to the organizers.

And today to start off the New Year, we had a very pleasurable time at the beach with, yes again, family & friends. Speeding down a set up course on powerful jet skis. I think I'm going to be sore tomorrow from holding onto the handle bars so that I don't slide off the jet ski. With the excellent weather, masking the sun I'm sure I'm a little burnt . . . sore face! Some of us got to play touch rugby, played sand with the nieces & nephrews as well as the 'donut'. Hooray! So much fun . . .

So 2005 I had a great time - farewell. Well 2006 here I come; even if I’m ready or not you’re here so give me your best challenges & opportunities!

3 more hours

2005-12-25T11:16:00.000+11:00

Well I thought I'd just write what I've done since I've arrived in Singapore, seeing that I have loads of time on my hands before I board my connecting flight home. I arrived into Singapore Changi Airport at 2135. Walked slowly to the transfer counter to make sure my luggage has been transferred to my morning flight which is in an hour!

Good thing Singapore Airport has a couple of interesting things to do besides food. I watched about 1 1/2 movies at the movie lounge. I slept more than watched. After those movies I decided to see if the transit hotel had a room, but no such luck, oh well! Then I got a phone call from mum, wishing me a Merry Christmas after having a church service. Nice!

Well I still want to sleep so I walked around looking for this spot mum & dad was telling me about. I actually walked all the way to Terminal 1. Crap! Anyhoo, looked around a bit, nothing interesting so I headed back to Terminal 2. Walking, walking . . . ohhh, wondering a little area called 'The Oasis'. Ah this is the place my parents were telling me about. So I slept on pretty comfortable reclined chairs! Yes! Reclined. hehehe. Excellent!

After a couple of hours sleep . . . nap! *grinz* I got up to wash up - brush my teeth, wash my face. Then settled in front of a TV watching a cartoon about mice. Plus I think I'm getting pretty good with doing Sudoku puzzles. Alright I think I'll head to my boarding gate now. See you all back home really soon. *wink*

flying home

2005-12-24T11:12:00.000+11:00

It's so weird to be away from my whole family during Christmas time. If I was with my family now, I'd be cuddling everyone saying Happy Christmas eve! Then mum & I would go to the kitchen decide if we're going to bake more cookies or start preparing for dinner. Yummy! I'm thinking turkey stuffed with mum's delicious nut & bread crumbs covered in sweet, sweet honey, hummm . . . the leg of ham sliced not too thick but not too thin either and I'd go for the awesome blast of flavour from the Chicken & Mango salad. ohhhh . . . that's the life.

And today I woke up, excited because all that isn't too far away. Sure I'm not going to have Christmas Eve dinner with my family but I'll be there in about 24 hours & can still have all that yummy food - hahaha leftovers. *grinz* Sure I'll be having an airplane Christmas Eve dinner, but I had an awesome time with people I love yesterday, my frenz, hanging out with each other playing Mahjong, PS2 - Winning Eleven and of course eating, yummm. Thanks you all! Have a geat Christmas lunch tomorrow.

Well wishing you all a blessed Christmas & an amazing New Year ahead! May God bless you & your family as we remember His love & sacrifice for us on that Cross, 2000 odd years ago. And as you enter a brand new year of excitement, challanges & fulfilments, continue to walk in His love & grace.

Have a BLESSED CHRISTMAS all
& a HAPPY 2006!

beautiful

2005-12-20T14:42:00.000+11:00

Plans are good
Life is great
Living is amazing
&
My God is an awesome God

Even before the sunrises You have already known my plans. So all I can do is commit them into Your trustworthy hands.

Even as the sun blazes above me, and though my hand cannot keep me shaded, I know Your love has already engulfed me. So I will embrace that of which You have given to me.

Even as the sunsets, I know that I am save in Your arms. For I will wake up to a brand new day. For you Lord, I am found.

I may be lost & overwhelmed by the things around me
But as I stand here with you, Jesus
I am found indeed

beat de rush...

2005-12-16T18:34:00.000+11:00

For me beating the rush takes on a new & profound perspective. This has to do with me still being here in Australia while the rest of my family are back home. A 'Wat de . . .' moment! Even my frenz here are in disbelief that I am still here. Hahaha! Oh well, you gotta do, what you gotta do, I guess.

So why I say beating the rush takes on a new & profound perspective for me is; imagine trying to get a reference, a money order, an official result transcript, a person to witness your signature, certify your documents, buy an Express post envelope before the shops close & to post all this before everything 6 pm. Well I did all that today!

I got up at 10am this morning, to check if I got a reply regarding a reference. A good tick on the list of things to do. But the thing was it was to be mailed to me today which meant I'd receive the mail either on Monday or Tuesday.

So nevermind, I decided to go to uni to pick up my result transcript ($10). That didn't take long . . . phew! So after that since the post office was close by I got my money order, envelopes, flags/tabs & stamps ($73.20).

Then I called a lawyer friend to see if he'd be available to witness a declaration I had to sign. Another good tick to the list. Praise God he was able to see me today!

So after all that I got home again & I don't know why I didn't do this before. But I called the School of Physio to actually cancelled my appointment to see my Deputy Head & I found out that the letter was still at the school. So I asked to pick it up, mind you this is already 4.10pm. And I was given half an hour to get from St Kilda Road to uni with the peak hour traffic building up. Hahaha! Once again thank God, I made it in time with 2 minutes to spare. *grinz*

So now I can called my mum to tell her I've gotten all the documents I needed & that I can post it off. But my aunt said I should express post it! Which means I had to go to a Post office to buy the envelope ($5). Ok can do if it closes at 5.30pm which, my aunt said it did. So to the Post office close to where I lived, on arriving there I discovered that it closes at 5 pm. *CRAP!!* I'm 6 minutes late. Ok nevermind, wait for a customer to exit . . . ah slip in NOW. Oh, I only need to buy an Express post envelope, please *pitiful look on my face* It worked! Hallelujah.

Now I can relax a little bit. But not totally, I still have to go back home get the rest of my documents so that I can certify them at the Police station. That didn't take too long only about 15 minutes. Good stuff! Time to arrange everything & place it into the Express post envelope. Now the post bags gets emptied at 6 pm every weekday. And by now it's already 5.45pm. *Shoot, can I make it to the yellow postal bins?*

Rushed out of the house again to the car! And wouldn't you know it, I made it with time to spare. Seriously, this is a God-given day & a rather expensive day especially when I didn't intend to spend at all. Hehehe!

All in all, it's been a pretty busy day. However I still got to do a few other things in between: like wash up & get dress :p*, order my work uniform (called & faxed), buy a Christmas present, just to name a few!

What a day!

alone or lonely

2005-12-16T00:36:00.000+11:00

A couple of days back my parents, my bro & family frenz when back home after visiting Melbourne for my graduation plus other stuff too. Today my aunt & cousin went to Brunei for a holiday. Now there isn't anyone at home or anybodies I can call & talk weird family talk or just plain be annoyed by or annoy :P **boo hoo hoo**

It's great to have time alone but where is the line that says you are now entering the lonely zone. Hummm . . . a moment to ponder! Is it when we start saying or singing . . .

Lonely, I am so lonely
I have nobody
All on my own
. . .

It's all very subjective, really. Oh well it shouldn't be to quiet, another of our family friend is coming over later today & will be staying at the house for a couple of days. Hooray! She's really a great person to get to know . . . ok I odd to go sleepy byes now!

excitement @ Smoken Joe's

2005-12-15T00:00:00.000+11:00

The other day when I was sending my family & family frenz to the airport for the midnite flight back home. We decided to have dinner at Smoken Joe's, because my brother heard it's good or something like that. Hehehe!

So we got to the place & sat down at the table, got our menus. Ordered our drinks & then after a little while longer we ordered our mains. I decided to have their T-Bone Steak, medium to rare served with salad & chips topped with mushroom sauce . . . hummm! **mouth washing** Mum got the Salt & Pepper Calamari, Aunty Agnes & her sis, Steph shared a Pumpkin Rositto, my bro & Uncle Peter got the Chicken Burger & my dad ordered the Chicken Creaser Salad.

While we waited for our meals, we tried our hand on they quiz, which was on the blackboard. The quiz involves forming a 4 or more letters word out of 9 letters & the ultimate aim was to figure out the 9 letter word.

These where the letters & each word had to include the letter M!

E N T
I M A
E R T

Then suddenly a girl on the table directly in front of our table dropped on the floor & started to go into an epileptic seizure. I didn't know what happened, until everyone on my table looked down on the floor, then I stood up & saw the girl twitching & jerking from side to side. Standing there for a while, my whole family told me to help her.

So I walked quickly to her & asked the staff if they had some to prevent her from biting her tongue . . . I was lost for words here. Had no idea what to call that object, which my brother told me later on the way to the car that it was called tongue depressors. But I finally said a wooden spoon or something, which was as good as anything.

So while waiting for something wooden & one of the staff to call the ambulance, got her in to the recovery position and assured her & her boyfriend.

Then a hand full of popsicle sticks came but she had stopped convulsing, so I just checked if she was still breathing & conscious. Phew! She was, so we waited for the ambos to come along keeping her companied. When they arrived, she was able to stand up & sit on a chair close by. I was totally relieved that the ambos could take over.

So I returned to my seat & dinner was ready. Hehehe . . . found out that they holded our meals cause they didn't know whether to bring it out or not. But ya, it's all good, one of the staff even came up to me to thank me . . . while I was trying to operate on my cow. Hehehe!

Who knew my first aid skills who come in handy in a restuarant. Well thank God everything when well. He was the One in total control of the situation for sure. Pray that the girl is fine & recovering as well as her boyfriend.

surf's up

2005-12-13T00:24:00.000+11:00

On Sunday, 11 of us when to Anglesea Beach to catch some waves. An early morning wake up with breakfast at McD in Geelong. Arriving at the beach to check out the waves we concluded that the waves weren't as good but its better than nothing! Hooray!

So we all got our rented surf boards & wet suits except me. Hahahaha! No regrets but I must say the water was pretty cold. Finding our spot on the beach we headed off to the surf. A number of them had surfed before (like Eng Hui, Nelson) for many of us it was our first or second time on the waves. But all in all we picked up the standard surfing skill relatively easy. Some of us could stand on our boards which I must say is an awesome feeling. Woo hoo!

There was a couple of times I was too far forward on the board & with a decent wave under me. I reckon I did a half pike in the air, that was fun too. Hahahaha! But initially I was freaked, making me figure out now to get that happy median.

All in all I enjoyed my day out at the beach, got to play soccer & watch some of the boys play soccer against 3 Aussies. Some getting a nice tan, others piling on the sun screen like a centimetre thick coming out of it whiter (hahaha), others got 'black' & blue? you know who you are! The point is we had fun . . .

Everybody go surfing . . .
Surfing USA
(this tune is still stuck in my head!)

expensive paper

2005-12-04T17:40:00.000+11:00

I am officially a qualified Physiotherapist. *hooray!* I recieved a rather expensive piece of paper on stage with the rest of my coursemates & others in Vet Science & Dental Science. *oh so happy* Overall the ceremony took 2hours & I was bored but thank goodness I was sitting next to a pretty good friend. We discussed about different things; the so-called painting on the wall, names in the booklet, played a short game of 'I spy with my little eye...' & other things to help pass the time a little quicker & easier.

After about an hour we finally got to stand up & get up on to the stage to receive our certificate, stating that we have been duly awarded the degree of Bachelor of Physiotherapy. Hahaha! Grinning from ear to ear, I was - on & off the stage. I'm glad to have finally gotten thru the past 4 years truly praise & thank God for it is by His grace that I am able to receive that expensive piece of paper which has my name & qualification. *Oh wat a feeling . . .*

Now I also want to thank those who came to celebrate my graduation by taking pictures with me, early yesterday morning. Know it was rather difficult to wake up at that particular hour. *grinz* Thanks!

You are GOoD

2005-12-01T20:22:00.000+11:00

Today is the day my brother arrives into Melbourne . . .

Saw how his shoulder was, seems to be pain inhibited but he doesn't know what structure he actually injuried! *frown* But ko I am pretty sure you'll be fine in a couple of weeks, just don't be silly.

Today is the day that my exam results are out in the open . . .

It's all good! I will be graduating this coming Saturday! **wink** Was never stressed out.

Today is the day I actually realize how good doctors have it . . .

They can charge an unbelievable price for a 30 minute consultant, recommend a few other test & then say can't do much about it, have to live with it. *wat de!*

Yesterday was the day, Today is the day, Tomorrow will be the day . . .

Definitely EVERYDAY will be the day that our Lord God & Saviour will be with us. Focus your thoughts & actions on him as you go about your daily lives, on His mercy & grace. For He is our Healer, our Peace, our Provider & much much more in any situation.

arrivals. . .

2005-11-26T19:15:00.000+11:00

This morning my aunt, cuz & myself went down to the airport to pick up Mum, Dad, Aunty Agnes & Uncle Peter. Thank goodness I can still remember the way to the airport, it's been a while since I've been down that way. But I'll have loads of practice this time round, bro will be down soon-ish, me thinks! **grinz**
I think its become some what of a tradition to go for Yum Cha the day of arrival in to Melbourne. Well after lunch Mum, Aunty Agnes & Aunty Chu had a good eye & wallet workout. Hahaha! While Dad & Uncle Peter struggled to stay awake especially after lunch.

Another arrival is Crack, my virtual puppy! Hahaha . . . you can feed Crack some treats from the box, play with him (click on him), listen to his rather annoying bark & I have no idea what else he can do. Wonder if he can learn new tricks or sit or roll over or play dead or dance on its hindlegs!?!
Have fun playing with Crack!

ouch!

2005-11-25T18:05:00.000+11:00

A couple of days back, my bro hurt his shoulder playing rugby in KB. And I was woken up from my slumber a little after 2 in the morning by my parents asking me wat to do. He was put in a sling, probably a boardarm sling to hold the shoulder in place plus to maybe help immobilise the joint. All I can remember was mum telling me that he was in pain & that he couldn't move his shoulder. Plus the sling was making his neck hurt.

My advice was go see a physio, hahaha, I can't do anything cause we're miles apart & I can't actually assess him to know wat's really wrong. But do ice it & gentle passive pain-free shoulder movements, this will help the neck pain as well.

Just today I was told that he may have torn one of the shoulder muscles. Most likely supraspinatus, a rotator cuff muscle. So he won't be coming in with mum & dad tomorrow but a few days later. So that he can get an MRI done to see how bad the tear is or if there is any tear. And there may be a need for surgery if its serious, pending wat the orthopeadic surgeon says.

Lord, I pray that as my brother gets an MRI done & sees an orthopeadic surgeon later in the week may you keep him calm & at peace. More so for my parents, reassure them during this time particularly as they leave to fly over to Melbourne. Lord, you are in control & thank you for my cousin's successful operation & safe flight back to Brunei.
In Your awesome Name,
AMEN.

a few good sayings...

2005-11-24T19:30:00.000+11:00

If I omit practice one day, I notice it; if two days, my friends notice it; it three days, the public notices it

(Arthur Rubinstein)

Rather, train yourself to be godly. 1 Timothy 4:7

He is no fool who gives away what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.

(Jim Elliot)

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. Philippians 3:7

People are always good company when they are doing what they really enjoy.

(Samuel Bulter)

Follow the ways of your heart & whatever your eyes see, but know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment. Ecclesiastes 11:9

Prefection is being, not doing; it is not to affect but to achieve a character.

(Fulton J Sheen)

Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48

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A new FEATURE to the blog.
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mountains

2005-11-22T13:55:00.000+11:00

Faith & obedience will remove mountains,
mountains of evil, mountians of difficulty.

But both faith & obedience must go hand in hand.

hopeful ...

2005-11-18T14:45:00.000+11:00

As I await for things to come

I am hopeful for my results . . .
I am hopeful for my Physio insurance & registration to go through . . .
I am hopeful for my medical check up on the 24th of Nov for my PR application . . .
I am hopeful for my family's safe arrival into Melbourne on the 26th of Nov . . .
I am hopeful for my graduation on the 3rd of Dec . . .
I am hopeful for my trip to Perth for the OCF AGM . . .
I am hopeful for my visit back home to Brunei, to see all my loved ones back there . . .

So here I am waiting, expecting in anticipation but do the things I need to do to accomplish all I have set out to do.

Lord, You will be my focus as I go about doing these things required of me. Amen!

A little side note:
My GRADUATION is on the 3rd of Dec, Saturday. The ceremony starts @ 10.30 am in Wilson Hall.
Come along earlier, say 9 am, so that we can take photos together!

puppy dog

2005-11-12T05:10:00.000+11:00

Isn't that the most adorable doggie! (Even if it's not actually my dog)

I miss my pug. We got her as a family a couple years back. And we knew she was the little puppy for us. As she was so hyper & full of energy jumping all over the place at the pet shop. That was when I decided to give her the name 'Flubber'.

One of the first funniest thing I remember Flubber is when we got home. She was so hungry. So we fed her milk. It was either she was drinking too fast or because her head is disproportionately bigger than the rest of her body or a combination of the both. That cause her hind legs to raise. She was doing a hand-stand. She herself got a fright. Hehehe! So cute! Look at that face, all pugs seriously have to same pitiful look.

Another funny moment is when she was younger, her coordination & jugdement weren't very accurate. She be running around the pool deck, playing. All of a sudden we'd hear this splash. Hahaha! You'd guess it. She'd be in the pool, doggie paddling. All dogs have their swimming ability.

I took one awesome picture of her when she was younger. It was when we were at the pool deck napping together. She'd be sleeping on my tummy & I got an amazing imagine of how great a picture would be with her on the pool deck. It's a picture you have to see for yourself.

She's one dog that I can lay on the floor & she'd come & lay under my bend knees. Waiting to playing with the gloves, so that she can bite just that little bit harder.

Well I thought I'd spill a little about my pug, Flubber!

playing with the mouse

2005-11-10T22:00:00.000+11:00

How can you tell if you're bored or just plain sick of doing your work/studying? Well for me & I know many others tend to turn to this game called MINESWEEPER.

It should come with this

Warning: Can be mildly to aggressively addictive!

Can you imagine you're at the final two boxes. Your decision is vital, choosing the wrong box would mean you'd have to start all over again!

Much like the choice we have when it comes to our decision as to what we will do to Christ Jesus, God's only Son.

Well it's happened (in minesweeper that is) . . . I got just little agro when the below happened. And they have the nerve to make the smiling face a sad face, it's like adding salt to a wound!

*arghhhh...hair pulling*

Then you tell yourself I'll show you I can do it & you start all over again.

But all victory comes with a smile & the added sunnies! hehehe . . . it's like you're on top of the world, the cherry on the iced cake. And of course with every addiction you tell yourself I can do that again. Hahahaha . . . & so you start all over again.

So that's one way to know when you're either truly bored or just wanting an escape from your assignments/work!

*wink*

b.o.r.e.d

2005-11-10T19:00:00.000+11:00

Beginning to feel the sting of not having enough things to do. To entertain & keep me pre-occupied. Hope I’m not being a pest to my friends who still have exams & assignments. *grinz*

Oblivious to the things happening around me. Sleeping & waking up at anytime of the day. Doing the things I need to do at my own pace with no worries whatsoever.

Random thoughts on what I can do to entertain myself. I even have time to walk to the places I need to go.

Effectively being a useful friend by cooking for friends who still have exams. Going to the gym to get myself back into the groove of things.

Demanding I have more fun things to do during this holiday. Bringing on the fun!

- - - - -

But I’m not complaining! I reckon once work starts I’d want to have time out, time to myself, time with friends, time just to stone & not to do any sort of quick movements. Hahaha!

So I will hold on to the present & not worry about the future. But I will allow my present to have a positive effect on my future. For today matters & I will not to look back & regret the past.

I have sustained...

2005-11-05T16:50:00.000+11:00

... sustained though 9 months in isolation in my mother's tummy (womb). To grow, to prepare for things outside of a safe-haven & be delivered into an unknown world. Knowing no one but trusting in everyone who was willing to love me & in my Creator who made me who I am today.

...sustained though years of fun & laughter, fights & tears with my brother & my cousins. But yet I have grown to love & care for them as a sister & as part of a family. For He loves me, so I will love those who come along my way.

...sustained though years of learning about life's circumstances & education through people who were willing to give & impart their wisdom & knowledge to a young & still maturing individual. Things that I may or may not ever use; from love, heart breaks, marriage & death to science, maths, geography & history. But yet was given the chance to expand my knowledge & experience. For He has said that He will never forsake me nor abandon me.

...sustained though 3 years of being in a boarding house. Learning to live with others & being able to deal with home sickness; & when things out of your control depending on the One and Only person who can handle that situation. As He is my source of strength & comfort in times of needs.

...sustained through 5 years of tertiary education to weeks of studies & revision. Which consisted of sleepless night, midnight oil burning, head cracking, mind blowing information gathering & receiving. But this will not satisfy, only you Lord will satisfy me.

...sustained though 5 days of grueling, exam torture. To be left with more decides & responsibilities; where to work, which job to apply for or to accept & paying my way. But more importantly, I will take the path in which You have called me too.

Lord, I thank you for sustaining me through all these years, from the time You thought of me & formed my in my mother’s tummy (womb) to this present day. I pray that I will continue to look to You for direction & guidance as I go into a different world, the working one! May I always have an open & willing heart to listen to Your voice & Your word. Father, You are my sustainer & I believe You will always be & much, much more.
Amen.

eve of exams

2005-10-30T22:20:00.000+11:00

I wonder what am I doing on the web, when I should be cramping in as much info as I can.
How now brown cow! hehehe . . .
Well, here it comes. There's no turning back. The time has come to see if I've retained any relevent information over the past four years, plus the cramping session over the past couple of weeks.

I'm diving into the unknown, but Lord for you the unknown is known. I thank you for sustaining me through this period of revision, continue to sustain me through these next 5 days of exam papers. May You keep me calm & give me the ability to remember all that I've learnt (new & old). Please give me the focus & the clarity of mind as I sit for my 5 day marathon, starting tomorrow.
May Your favour continue to fall upon me.
In Your Name I pray,
Amen!

why do we do the things, we do

2005-10-28T14:30:00.000+10:00

I stayed up studying till 6.30 this morning with Eddie & Suet Beng, although Suet Beng k.o (knocked out) earlier. Then I headed home to "nap". hahaha!

So why is it that we do the things we do to our body? Particularly, in a time-pressured situation. I reckon its the "fight-or-flight response", which is also called the "acute stress response". Where we regulate stress in three stages: alarm, resistance and exhaustion.

In a stressful situation, the body releases chemicals that trigger:

Increased heart rate and blood pressure.
Rapid breathing.
Increased sweating.
A sudden rush of strength.
Slowed digestion.
Dilated pupils.

This is the Alarm stage. Shortly after the danger has passed, our mind & body begins to relax, entering the Resistance stage. If the stressor continues, our physiological response enters the Exhaustion stage, in which our bodies continue the fight-or-flight response, this will eventually cause damage to our bodily systems. That's why after our exams papers have past and we can fully relax, your immune system goes on a holiday & we can sick, b'cos we've overworked it.

We also got to deal with how we express the feelings we experience. Its important to express these feelings as we don't want to add to the stress we are already experiencing, as our body & mind are interdependent.

And lastly, we have our behavioural responses to stress, where we unconsciously try to eliminate those feelings. This maybe in the form of food, medication, alcohol, being aggressive, hiding, etc.

Here are a few techniques to help reduce feeling stress:
1. When studying in a group, have one person tell the group something funny. I recommend every 20-30 minutes. A good laugh is the best cure for alot of things.
2. Take a breather from the study table, stand up & stretch yourself out.
3. Do something you like for about 5-10 minutes.
4. Go out for a short walk.

The best is before you kick start your day, say a short prayer.

Lord, I ask that you be my peace, my comfortor in this time of stress (exams).
In Your precious Name.
Amen.

Press on everyone . . .

Closer & closer

2005-10-27T12:50:00.000+10:00

I'm starting to realise that my life as a student, period! Is coming to an end. This morning I woke up to a day planned for studies, yet again. Due to this craze over exams. And was sort of, but not really shocked to receive a phone call, regarding my future career.

After that I didn't really think much of it, but they'd like a reply from me by early next week. So I pondered on the opportunity & the situation.

This was my first job as a physiotherapist. It was my first job interview, the first I've even done in my entire life, with them last week. I haven't even applied for other jobs yet. But hey I did say during the interview that I thought this would be a great place to start working as a new grad, with learning opportunities that I can benefit from.

So just like the pic. I won't be getting much sleep ins . . . as it's an 8am start.

Lord, I don't know the plans you have for me. But I will trust in You. For You know what you are doing & have already planned out my future. Father, my life, my strength & my hope is in You, Lord. Amen!

Jeremiah 29:11 'For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you & not to harm you, plans to give you hope & a future.'

holding on

2005-10-20T13:30:00.000+10:00

There are many seasons in our lives
Opportunities to do things & to learn from them

But what happens if we don't realise those seasons,
Or take those opportunities.
Would that mean we've missed out or
Would it just mean we've taken on a different path in our own lives.

It's like that movie "Sliding Doors". Saying that we each have two sides to every story. In one scene, Helen Quilley (Gwyneth Paltrow), misses the train and in another just made it through the sliding doors. Each had it's opportunities & consequences.

But unlike a movie we can't play and replay the consequences & opportunities of a particular story in our lives. We only have one shot at that particular scene; no editting, no special effects whatsoever.

I think that it doesn't matter nor does it make any difference what another person has done. But for ourselves to have a good look at what God has given us to do. We each have a purpose in our life & once we find that purpose we need to make sure we fulfill it.

God has made everything beautiful in itself & in its time, He will reveal its purposes to us. It's like God gives us a puzzle to do, which means we have to place each piece in its right place. But God doesn't just give us piece, so we look for it. And in the process, God will shine a light on a piece that we're looking for. So in the meantime, i reckon we should go ahead in pleasing God with the gifts He has given us & to get the most we can out of life for His glory.

I like the saying, 'When one door closes, God will open another door!' So for myself, I will trust in Him, holding on to the things He has promised me & developing the things has given to me.

Cheers!

My cousin

2005-10-18T10:31:00.000+10:00

Cousins are like the best peoples to be around. They're like brothers or sisters (depending on their gender, hehehe) you odd to have. Without the constant & annoying buzz that you would get from a sibling. Seriously I have so many its hard to keep track of all them. You think you know them all then suddenly at a family function or something, you find out this other person is a cousin too. The best thing is like friends you have a few very close cousins.

One of them, to me, is the most adorable, most splendid, one of the funniest person in the whole wide world. He's like my personal teddy bear, without much fury though, which is always good! *grinz* Love him to bits. He makes me laugh with the things he does but mostly what he says.

And today, he told me he had to go in for another operation in Singapore. This would mean it'll be his third operation of a pituitary gland tumour, in a span of a year. It started off with him complainting of having vision problems. So he went to see a doctor, and to our shock & dismay he was diagnosed with a pituitary gland tumour. And just recently, he had a review with his doc, and the MRI showed that the previous cyst, the liquid part, that was not removed previously, has grown bigger.

** my thoughts**
Lord, why do these things happen to the people close to us?
I know not the things that You have placed in our lives, but time will tell of lessons to be learnt.
I will trust in Your plans & let You lead the way, no matter how scary it will seem.
...
Cuz, I know our Lord Jesus will pull you & your family through whatever the circumstances may be. Just believe in Him & know that He is Lord over everything.
For when there seems to be no way out, He opens another.
Another way that is even more blessed then the previous!
Love you.
----------

So what can I do, but pray. To ask for God's favour & strengthen upon my cousin, for his family to be strong, & for the surgeon to have steady hands.

On the up side...my cousin will be here in Melbourne for my graduation, which his doctor said will be alright to travel before his having his operation in December! I think he wants more to come to Melbourne than to see me, but than again I could be wrong. *wink*

**BIG, BIG TEDDY BEAR HUG!**

S.T.U.D.Y.

2005-10-16T13:20:00.000+10:00

Steady progress & advancement with lecture notes, tutes, pracs and everything else under the sun

Tedious & tiresome task of actually revising through it all

Unsure, Unconfident & unconvinced I can finish revising in time

Delay & procrastinate, even though I know there is much more to do

Yearn & desire for it all to be over

Lord, I commit my time into Your hands, cause I know by my own strength I will only use & abuse it for my own earthly & human desires. I pray that as I study for my exams I will not soul-ly focus on the task at hand but that I will focus upon YOU; Your love, Your grace & Your patience of which You have shown me over the past years. May You grant me the concentration, the determination and the time management during this period of examination.

This I pray in Your most holy and mighty Name,

AMEN!

What's after this?

2005-10-14T15:20:00.000+10:00

Today, was my final day at uni as a physiotherapy student, to sit in a lecture theatre, listening to a lecturer, trying not to fall a sleep b'cos of the late nite I had the nite before. Can you imagine, in another 3 weeks from now I would have finished my course of 4 years. Wow! I'm excited, as well as freaked out but mostly excited, to get out into the working world and see how it's done on your own as a new grad.

Before i go overboard with excitement I'm into gear for some serious cramming for my finals in TWO WEEKS! Come on bring it on...I guess being a geek/nerd for a couple of weeks will and should pay off in the end...hehehe

So about my exams let's see how it all pans out:

25th Oct Tuesday : Musculoskeletal Clinical exam (11am @ RMH)
31st Oct Monday : Paediatrics Theory exam (2pm @ Arts Hall)
1st Nov Tuesday : Cardiothoracic Theory exam (2pm @ Arts Hall)
2nd Nov Wednesday : Neurology Theory exam (2pm @ Arts Hall)
3rd Nov Thursday : Musculoskeletal Theory exam (2pm @ Arts Hall)
4th Nov Friday : OSCE Clinical exam (11.45am @ School of Physio, Level 2)

It's a pretty full on timetable but I figure it'll be over in a flash *grinz*

So what's after all this? I've been preparing my resume and getting referees. Applying for a career that i can both benefit from and benefit others through. It's a long process that cannot be avoided. Plus there is the application of Permanent Residence here in Australia. Even before my graduation on the 3rd of December, I have to register with the Registration Board of Physiotherapy and apply for idemnity insurance. So many things to do...

Hahaha...I think about it I really had it good before, everything was provided for. I didn't have to worry about what would happen tomorrow or the day after. I suppose as we grow older, wiser and more mature in our thinking, we need to take on these responsibilities. But there is ONE thing that is very secure in my life and that is my place in Heaven, my final destination (but I'm not in a hurry to get there *smilez*). So with that I know I have a Father in Heaven who is looking out for me and whatever happens here on earth I can depend on Him to provide.

How awesome is that!! *Sweet.*

WELL ALL THE BEST EVERYONE FOR YOUR EXAM PREPARATION AND THE EXAMS ITSELF!
**big virtual hugZ**

2005-10-11T22:20:00.000+10:00

pals for life! **grinz**

Have you ever wondered...

2005-10-05T13:50:00.000+10:00

Why do we press harder on a remote control when we know the batteries are flat?

Why do banks charge a fee on "insufficient funds" when they know there is not enough?

Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet?

Why doesn't glue stick to the bottle?

Why do they use sterilised needles for death by lethal injection?

Why doesn't Tarzan have a beard?

Why does Superman stop bullets with his chest, but ducks when you throw a revolver at him?

Why do Kamikaze pilots wear helmets?

Whose idea was it to put an "S" in the word "lisp"?

What is the speed of darkness?

Are there specially reserved parking spaces for "normal" people at the Special Olympics?

If you send someone 'Styrofoam', how do you pack it?

If the temperature is zero outside today and it's going to be twice as cold tomorrow, how cold will it be?

If people evolved from apes, why are there still apes?

If it's true that we are here to help others, what are the others doing here?

Do married people live longer than single ones or does it only seem longer?

If someone with a split personality threatens to commit suicide, is it a hostage situation?

Can you cry under water?

What level of importance must a person have, before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?

If money doesn't grow on trees then why do banks have branches?

Why does a round pizza come in a square box?

How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on bigger suitcases?

Why is it that people say they "slept like a baby" when babies wake up, like, every two hours?

If a deaf person has to go to court, is it still called a hearing?

Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?

Why do doctors, when they ask you to strip, leave the room or close the cubicle curtain while you change?

They're still going to see you naked anyway.

in the distance

2005-10-03T21:40:00.000+10:00

As I gaze over the past, focus on the present and look to the future
I slowly see and understand the work the Master has upon my life
Where things steadily and gradually fall into its place
Even if it doesn't seem right in my own eyes
I trust that He has my life in His hands
And I won't have it any other way

Lord, I give you my life, everything I have was your gift to me
And I thank you for your grace upon my life
I will continue to seek you as I journey through this life
Along side you, as you will never leave me
Along side the people you have placed in my life
My family, friends and even strangers
Father, I truly thank you for your Son, Jesus and
the guidance of your Holy Spirit in my life
Thank you and praise your name!

So as I look into the distance I know that whatever the situation is I will trust in You and allow You to take hold of my life.

Stepping into new things

2005-10-01T21:30:00.000+10:00

Handing over the baton of leadership.

Yesterday I had an awesome privilege to pass on to the next generation of leaders who will take up the challenge and growth as they serve in the committee. To lead the people, the members of Melbourne Uni OCF into the promises that God has for us.

Just as Joshua successed to guide the people to enter and possess Canaan. Like in Joshua 1:5-6 (The Message); 'It's all yours. All your life, no one will be able to hold out against you. In the same way I (God) was with Moses, I'll be with you. I won't give up on you; I won't leave you. Strength! Courage! You are going to lead this people to inherit the land that I promised to give their ancestors. Give it everything you have, heart and soul.'

These verses shows that as Joshua leads the people; there will be problems, there will be challenges ahead. But all these won't matter because our God will never fail us nor will He abandon us. And as the committee leads the members of MUOCF to greater things He has already planned, sensitivity to His voice and obedience to His timing is needed do all He says with everything, heart and soul.

And as Graeme shared with Wang Wei, April and myself. He told us that we're not stepping down but we're stepping up and into the new things of God's plans. And I believe that God has a great and worthwhile challenge ahead for each of us.

Lord, I will place my trust in you. I will make this song my prayer.

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone
I place my trust
And find my glory in the power of the cross
In every victory
Let it be said of me
My source of strength
My source of hope
Is Christ alone

Praise your Holy name O Lord! Amen.

dreams...

2005-09-25T14:30:00.000+10:00

...do come true!

Yesterday, before Melbounre Uni OCF Jazz Night, I lost my dark blue velcro Kathmandu wallet in the Union House basement toilet.

How?

Sarah Jane, Michelle, Fang & I were rushing (sort of) to get ready for the night's event. I placed my wallet in my jacket pocket and hung it close by. Doing what girls do, I guess, hair and a little make-up. We didn't take notice of who came in and/or what they left with.

Then we were made to rush even more as Vanessa called us to head up asap! So in our rush, we helped each other out, carrying each others things. Fang helped carry my jacket, I forgot to tell her my wallet was in it. So as we ran up, we figured that along the way my wallet may have slipped out. When we arrived backstage, I was looking for my wallet but no such luck. My tummy got all knotted up and I told the girls.

**Lord, help me!**

We started a hunt. Sarah and I searched high and low, back tracking and scanning through the hallways, three time. No such luck. But the girls were real encouraging.

The evening had to go on, so I had to forget about it till the night ended.

Once it had Sarah and I started looking for it again. I told some of the guys, and they were reassuring, helping me announce to the packing up committee to look out for my wallet. I even told Steve, the security guard (such a nice fella) and he was real helpful. Telling us little tips like looking in the bins, cos sometimes if a person has taken what they want from the wallet they'd throw the rest in the bin. *Jesus, help me!*

Overall, we had no luck finding it that night but its a new experience for me. Michelle getting numbers to call to cancel my cards. Called mum and dad, they checked that I knew what to report to the police, making sure I had a list of things to tell the police tomorrow morning.

... ZZZZZZZZZzzz Oh wow, you got my wallet, thank you so much!! ...

... Woke up and a heavy feeling of something missing, my wallet's still missing.
*Oh Lord, please help me!!*

No matter. I've prepared myself to go make a police report, cancel my cards and all. So I went and did all of it before lunch time. *satisfied sigh*

After lunch, apartment phone buzz!!

Cheryl: Yello!
Some guy: Hi, is this Cheryl.
Cheryl: Ahmm...yes!
Some guy: Ya, I have your wallet with me. Would you like to come down and get it?
Cheryl: Are you serious? Definitely, for sure, I'll be down in 2 seconds!
Some guy, now my hero: Ok!
--hangs up--
Excited, jumping with joy (in the lift) *grinz*

Down at the lobby.
My hero, sitting on the ledge of the apartment's so called pond with his phone and my wallet at hand.
Cheryl: Hi!
My hero: Hey, here's your wallet. I found it on the floor in the Union theatre.
Cheryl: **humm...Union theatre! How de...!**
My hero: I was on my way to the police station to hand your wallet in and I realise that your apartment is next to it. So I thought I'd just pass it to you. Sorry, I had to look through your wallet to find an address.
Cheryl: That's alrite. Thank you so much for returning my wallet! **sigh of relief**
My hero: No problem! **Walks off - maybe to do another good deed**
Cheryl: Thank you again. **Goes back indoors**

---

There you go my dream did come true! hahaha...I got my wallet back. woohoo!
Thank Lord for looking out for me.

Word...!

2005-09-10T11:00:00.000+10:00

The most destructive habit__________________Worry
The greatest Joy_________________________Giving
The greatest loss_________________________Loss of self-respect
The most satisfying work____________________Helping others
The ugliest personality trait__________________Selfishness
The most endangered species_______________Dedicated leaders
Our greatest natural resource________________Our youth
The greatest "shot in the arm"________________Encouragement
The greatest problem to overcome____________Fear
The most effective sleeping pill_______________Peace of mind
The most crippling failure disease_____________Excuses
The most powerful force in life________________Love
The most dangerous pariah__________________A gossiper
The world's most incredible computer__________The brain
The worst thing to be without_________________Hope
The deadliest weapon_____________________The tongue
The two most power-filled words_____________"I Can"
The greatest asset________________________Faith
The most worthless emotion_________________Self-pity
The most beautiful attire____________________SMILE!
The most prized possession_________________Integrity
The most powerful channel of communication____Prayer
The most contagious spirit__________________Enthusiasm
The most important person in life_____________GOD

- eVEntFUL -

2005-07-04T18:41:00.000+10:00

It's been awhile...loads has happened over the past couple of weeks!

Let's see the lastest thing that's hapened was just this afternoon.
Felt like an ice cream so crossed the road to McD. Turned out to be a rather expensive endeavour. Costed me 52 bucks! Ended up not getting anything from McD. Oh well...
But I'm not gonna tell why the 52! You'll just have to keep wondering why.

oh how eventful...hehe!

I am content

2005-06-08T18:35:00.000+10:00

Learn to be content with whatever your circumstances are.
Be happy with the little as you are with the much.
The recipe for being happy - whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty, whatever you have, wherever you are - is knowing that you can make it through anything in the One who has made you the way you are.

Know who you are in Christ!
Know that who you are now is GOD'S GIFT to you.
And what you become in the future is YOUR GIFT to Him.

tired of work, ready for a break

2005-06-03T18:39:00.000+10:00

Hooray!

This a break long overdue. With 9 weeks of work, assignments, assessments, tests and exams. The next nine days will be used well to rest, recharge & be with the family.

Lord, I thank you for pulling me through the last nine weeks of clinics, classes and all else in this precious life you have given. Guiding and just being with me during my ups and downs, ins and outs. Truly praise you for your awesome love for me and your gracious presence in my life. Again I thank you for everything good and bad for it has shaped me into the person I am today.
Amen.

'"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you & not to harm you, plans to give you hope & a future.'
Jeremiah 29:11

2005-05-22T19:40:00.000+10:00

Experience isn't always the best teacher
Evaluated experience is!

2005-05-19T19:20:00.000+10:00

~ Any time you make a commitment to something, it will be tested. ~

work in progress

2005-05-13T00:19:00.000+10:00

sweet title! hehehe...

I figure that God is constantly working on each and everyone of us. But it depends on our state, our willingness to be changed!

Just like a blacksmith has loads of scrap metal at different stages in his workshop; so we are in God's workshop.

We may feel as though we are useless , as though we're in the scrap pile - broken lives, wasted talents, fires quenched, dashed dreams - in desperate need of repair, no purpose in sight.

Others may be on God's anvil of recasting - ready with hearts open, hungry for change, wounds healing, visions clearing - longing to be rebuilt, begging to be called, but knowing & welcoming the painful pounding of the blacksmith's hammer.

Some lie in the Master's hands - well tuned, uncompromising, polished, productive - responsive to their Master's forearm, demanding nothing, surrendering all. A simultaneously joyful & painful journey!

As we allow ourselves to leave the heap of junk in our lives; to enter the fire, daring to take a walk on the wild side to discover your own purpose in Him - sharpened, defined, primed & mobile to do His will in which He has individually called you!

2 Timothy 2:21
"If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master & prepared to do any good work."