I have finally summarised the actual Tour I was on for 24 days.
I will write up my individual Paris trip soonish...I guess.
I can't believe its only been approximately 3 months since I returned from Europe and to think that on Monday I will be in Malaysia and then Singapore, and when I return from that, it will be 3 months since I returned to work.
I'm not really excited about KL or SG. Even though its my shopping trip. Guess shopping doesn't give me a BIG buzz anymore.
=(
I got really annoyed about 30 minutes ago when the stupid SGAir website wouldn't let me get back into the section to change my seats...that functionality should be revised. And then I called them to check if there was another way of doing so, and the guy TRIED to be helpful but all he could do was F#$%EN write a note to request what TYPE of seat I wanted.
-_-"
Helpful...very helpful.
On another note, HAPPY 2008 to everyone I won't get to see or celebrate with.
I can't believe that the first time I receive 3 wonderful invitations to various NYE parties, I am unable to attend any. Please remember to invite me for 2009.
^_^
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Paris
Day: Wednesday, 26 September 2007
Wellbeing: Decongestant is required!
Weather: Rainy
Highlight: The Lourve and Versailles (Day), Can-can dinner (Night)
It was a struggle to go to Versailles because there was a taxi strike, where all the taxis would literally stop in the middle of the road wherever they are. Fortunately, our bus driver knew in advance and we managed to avoide the strike by 10 minutes of when it was meant to be. We drove past as the taxis as they started to park in the middle of the road.
The rain really dampened the glory of the palace at Versailles. The interiors were lush and obviously covered with lots and lots of gold. I really loved the various themed rooms. The Indian room, the China room, the Glass ballroom...and the garden! Oh I wished my nose wasn't blocked and I could stop to smell the fragrant roses.
After Versailles, we went back to the hotel to get ready for the Can-Can dinner and show at the Nouvelle Eve. When we got to the restaurant, Marese took Lauren and I up the road to a chocolate shop and which is situated between the Nouvelle Eve and Moulin Rouge. The lady who owns it, sells the special chocolate that Juiliette Binoche requested for her movie - Chocolat. So, what else would we do, but buy the same chocolate and the chocolate lady wrapped it up in some special paper and pretty ribbon. I chose the choc hazelnut.
Champagne is good for such a night. And the performances between the actual can-cans and the boobies been thrusted around made it quite an "interesting" night. Most entertaining things were when Craig and Roger got called up on to the stage. Craig was called to help with the jugglers and they barely missed his nose. While Roger was called up to compete in a dancing competition. Mind you, Roger is like over 55 y/o and he only won because our tour group REALLY cheered for him.
It was a brilliant final day and night on the tour. I am SO glad that this tour has gone really well, except for my spending!
I think I have over spent by $1K and there is still 4 nights in Paris...
Wellbeing: Decongestant is required!
Weather: Rainy
Highlight: The Lourve and Versailles (Day), Can-can dinner (Night)
It was a struggle to go to Versailles because there was a taxi strike, where all the taxis would literally stop in the middle of the road wherever they are. Fortunately, our bus driver knew in advance and we managed to avoide the strike by 10 minutes of when it was meant to be. We drove past as the taxis as they started to park in the middle of the road.
The rain really dampened the glory of the palace at Versailles. The interiors were lush and obviously covered with lots and lots of gold. I really loved the various themed rooms. The Indian room, the China room, the Glass ballroom...and the garden! Oh I wished my nose wasn't blocked and I could stop to smell the fragrant roses.
After Versailles, we went back to the hotel to get ready for the Can-Can dinner and show at the Nouvelle Eve. When we got to the restaurant, Marese took Lauren and I up the road to a chocolate shop and which is situated between the Nouvelle Eve and Moulin Rouge. The lady who owns it, sells the special chocolate that Juiliette Binoche requested for her movie - Chocolat. So, what else would we do, but buy the same chocolate and the chocolate lady wrapped it up in some special paper and pretty ribbon. I chose the choc hazelnut.
Champagne is good for such a night. And the performances between the actual can-cans and the boobies been thrusted around made it quite an "interesting" night. Most entertaining things were when Craig and Roger got called up on to the stage. Craig was called to help with the jugglers and they barely missed his nose. While Roger was called up to compete in a dancing competition. Mind you, Roger is like over 55 y/o and he only won because our tour group REALLY cheered for him.
It was a brilliant final day and night on the tour. I am SO glad that this tour has gone really well, except for my spending!
I think I have over spent by $1K and there is still 4 nights in Paris...
Bordeaux & Paris
Day: Tuesday, 25 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy-ish
Highlight: Eiffel Tower and the cruise on the River Seine and the view of Notre Dame at night.
Paris is really a city of lights. The Eiffel sparkled on the hour for 10 minutes, but because of the Rugby World Cup, it was coloured green and gold. We went up to level 2 and took a look at the city as the sun was setting. Need to make my own way to the "Musee de Homme" to take a photo of the Eiffel in its completeness.
Bought a stirling silver charm of the Eiffel for Chloe and Aimee. Need to find a little love heart or flower for myself for the little purse I bought in Leichtenstein.
So tired. The optional excursion finished at 10:30pm.
Got my own room for this last hotel as I am staying on in Paris.
It is Marese birthday today. She was born in 1949. What a shocker!!!
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy-ish
Highlight: Eiffel Tower and the cruise on the River Seine and the view of Notre Dame at night.
Paris is really a city of lights. The Eiffel sparkled on the hour for 10 minutes, but because of the Rugby World Cup, it was coloured green and gold. We went up to level 2 and took a look at the city as the sun was setting. Need to make my own way to the "Musee de Homme" to take a photo of the Eiffel in its completeness.
Bought a stirling silver charm of the Eiffel for Chloe and Aimee. Need to find a little love heart or flower for myself for the little purse I bought in Leichtenstein.
So tired. The optional excursion finished at 10:30pm.
Got my own room for this last hotel as I am staying on in Paris.
It is Marese birthday today. She was born in 1949. What a shocker!!!
Lourdes & Bordeaux
Day: Monday, 24 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay - with a bit of a blocked nose.
Weather: Drizzling
Highlight: Le Chateau fort et son musee Pyreneen.
The fort was a great climb. Following Marese's instructions from the night before, I got the group lost, but we eventually found our way there. There was Bev, Judy, Phuong, Thilaga, and Peter. Lauren was still asleep when I checked up on her at 8:15am. She still felt a little sick and was going to sleep in.
After the fort I visited the underground Basilica and the other 2 churches above it - making it a 3 churches on top of one another. I witnessed a morning mass at Le Grotte, which was filled with many parents and their child who is sick or disabled or terminally ill, with this one last hope that a cure may be found to help their child. It was such a sunny and beautiful day, but I was saddened by what I saw.
After walking away with a heavy heart, I went in search for lunch and found some berets for myself. I bought 1 red and 1 white.
Leaving Lourdes, we headed to Biarritz and when we stopped Lauren and I went for a walk and stopped at a patisserier/chocolatier called Henriet, and we bought some chocolate eclairs. Now after having the choc eclair in Strasbourg, and then 2 in Cannes, and now this one in Biarritz from Henriet...Henriet wins the BEST choc eclair stakes! Lets see what Paris has to offer.
This one from Henriet had a more thicker creme caramel type of centre. It was petite in size and cost 2.50 Euros but worth every cent.
Wellbeing: Okay - with a bit of a blocked nose.
Weather: Drizzling
Highlight: Le Chateau fort et son musee Pyreneen.
The fort was a great climb. Following Marese's instructions from the night before, I got the group lost, but we eventually found our way there. There was Bev, Judy, Phuong, Thilaga, and Peter. Lauren was still asleep when I checked up on her at 8:15am. She still felt a little sick and was going to sleep in.
After the fort I visited the underground Basilica and the other 2 churches above it - making it a 3 churches on top of one another. I witnessed a morning mass at Le Grotte, which was filled with many parents and their child who is sick or disabled or terminally ill, with this one last hope that a cure may be found to help their child. It was such a sunny and beautiful day, but I was saddened by what I saw.
After walking away with a heavy heart, I went in search for lunch and found some berets for myself. I bought 1 red and 1 white.
Leaving Lourdes, we headed to Biarritz and when we stopped Lauren and I went for a walk and stopped at a patisserier/chocolatier called Henriet, and we bought some chocolate eclairs. Now after having the choc eclair in Strasbourg, and then 2 in Cannes, and now this one in Biarritz from Henriet...Henriet wins the BEST choc eclair stakes! Lets see what Paris has to offer.
This one from Henriet had a more thicker creme caramel type of centre. It was petite in size and cost 2.50 Euros but worth every cent.
Lourdes
Day: Sunday, 23 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay - but I overslept on the bus
Weather: Fine, but cool
Highlight: Light Procession in Lourdes at 9pm
After a meagre dinner and settling in the "other" hotel (second hotel owned by the Christina Hotel company) we went out at 8:30pm with a candles, and made our way for the Light Procession.
I'm not religious and at first was hesitant to go, but I thought I should make the effort to see what it was. And I am glad that I went. I'm glad that I got to see the beauty. Its not like it converted me. It was just a sight. It was worth the time and the effort to walk around. It was inspiring, it was hopeful.
It started at Le Grotte and weaved around the statue and stopping in front of the 3 tiered Cathedrals (on above the other) by the river and near the new hospital.
The light illumination (even without the faith) was absolutely breathtaking. All the people with faith who sang with their hearts, moved me. With all the candles lit and this long procession - the sea of all the people, was simply a sight to be seen. Supposedly, tonight was a "quiet" night.
After the Light Procession ended, Bev, Judy, and I went to buy our berets and some glass bottles for the holy water, which we went back to the Grotto to collect. I thought I should bring some holy water back for my friends who are religious. I just hope the customs in Australia will allow me back in the country with it.
I bought 2 red berets for Chloe and Aimee.
Wellbeing: Okay - but I overslept on the bus
Weather: Fine, but cool
Highlight: Light Procession in Lourdes at 9pm
After a meagre dinner and settling in the "other" hotel (second hotel owned by the Christina Hotel company) we went out at 8:30pm with a candles, and made our way for the Light Procession.
I'm not religious and at first was hesitant to go, but I thought I should make the effort to see what it was. And I am glad that I went. I'm glad that I got to see the beauty. Its not like it converted me. It was just a sight. It was worth the time and the effort to walk around. It was inspiring, it was hopeful.
It started at Le Grotte and weaved around the statue and stopping in front of the 3 tiered Cathedrals (on above the other) by the river and near the new hospital.
The light illumination (even without the faith) was absolutely breathtaking. All the people with faith who sang with their hearts, moved me. With all the candles lit and this long procession - the sea of all the people, was simply a sight to be seen. Supposedly, tonight was a "quiet" night.
After the Light Procession ended, Bev, Judy, and I went to buy our berets and some glass bottles for the holy water, which we went back to the Grotto to collect. I thought I should bring some holy water back for my friends who are religious. I just hope the customs in Australia will allow me back in the country with it.
I bought 2 red berets for Chloe and Aimee.
Madrid & Toledo
Day: Saturday, 22 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny and warm
Highlight: Toledo, another enchanting place like Lucca and Vance or Burano.
What I remember the most of today was the shopping I did in Toledo. I bought so many pieces, I've lost count. I bought a pendant for myself, about 4 or 5 necklaces, 2 pair of earrings for my nieces, I bought a hair pin/clip thing - not sure when I would wear it, but its good to have for an occasion.
Toledo is a maze of a city. Our guide admitted that even she, today, would get lost. I got lost trying to find my way back after I roamed off on my own to buy more jewellery.
The jewellery in Toledo that I refer to is gold gilt embossed on blackened steel. There are geometric patterns or flora/fauna themed pieces. I went with the pretty flowers and bird motifs because, well, they were pretty. You can only buy this type of jewellery here in Toledo. Which made every purchase special.
The reason why Toledo is a maze is because the buildings are very hard to distinguish. There are no obvious landmarks to refer to, and its easy to forget that you should turn left not right when you are walking down one of the long winding streets.
Irrespective of whether you will get lost in Toledo or not, its a really special place. We witnessed a wedding and the bridesmaid looked really glamourous in a tangerine coloured, tiered, flamenco inspired design. I think she stood out more than the bride.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny and warm
Highlight: Toledo, another enchanting place like Lucca and Vance or Burano.
What I remember the most of today was the shopping I did in Toledo. I bought so many pieces, I've lost count. I bought a pendant for myself, about 4 or 5 necklaces, 2 pair of earrings for my nieces, I bought a hair pin/clip thing - not sure when I would wear it, but its good to have for an occasion.
Toledo is a maze of a city. Our guide admitted that even she, today, would get lost. I got lost trying to find my way back after I roamed off on my own to buy more jewellery.
The jewellery in Toledo that I refer to is gold gilt embossed on blackened steel. There are geometric patterns or flora/fauna themed pieces. I went with the pretty flowers and bird motifs because, well, they were pretty. You can only buy this type of jewellery here in Toledo. Which made every purchase special.
The reason why Toledo is a maze is because the buildings are very hard to distinguish. There are no obvious landmarks to refer to, and its easy to forget that you should turn left not right when you are walking down one of the long winding streets.
Irrespective of whether you will get lost in Toledo or not, its a really special place. We witnessed a wedding and the bridesmaid looked really glamourous in a tangerine coloured, tiered, flamenco inspired design. I think she stood out more than the bride.
Barcelona & Madrid
Day: Friday, 21 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Cloudy & rainy - Sunny in Madrid
Highlight: Madrid after 5pm
There is a difference between the East side of Madrid and the city centre, especially between where the hotel is located and Plaza Mayor.
We had lunch at a deserted stop between Barcelona and Madrid. Looked and felt like we were in outback Mexico. We were in fact surrounded with arid land. Had a club sandwich in which Judy declared that she wouldn't treat us all if we had food poisoning. This was after I gave my Imodium and Stemitil to Cathy when Toby came down in the morning to tell Marese that Cathy was vomitting.
Madrid is a surprise. I didn't like how i felt about it until the local tour began in the early evening where we visted the Central Park of Madrid and saw the view at the back of the Temple of Debod - the amusement park and zoo inthe centre of the forest/woods. We also saw the old and new cathedral, as well as Palacio Real de Madrid.
For dinner we got Lauren to take a picture with our waiter Nicky as Nicky was flirting with her - like when she asked where the toilets were...he interlocked his arms with hers and walked her into the restaurant. We were having Roast pork in the middle of Plaza Mayor, as Caro (pronounced as Chuaro) recommended the pork at this place and they had a special oven that roasted the pork in about 30 minutes...so we didn't have to pre-order as you usually do.
Dinner was with Lauren and Peter N, and we actually got to speak on a more intimate level. We each revealed a bit more of ourselves and I really enjoyed dinner. It reminded me of having dinner with my friends and catching up after a few months. Pete revealed that Lauren and I had nicknames. Lauren is known as Chuckles and I'm referred to as Happy Eyes.
*^_^*
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Cloudy & rainy - Sunny in Madrid
Highlight: Madrid after 5pm
There is a difference between the East side of Madrid and the city centre, especially between where the hotel is located and Plaza Mayor.
We had lunch at a deserted stop between Barcelona and Madrid. Looked and felt like we were in outback Mexico. We were in fact surrounded with arid land. Had a club sandwich in which Judy declared that she wouldn't treat us all if we had food poisoning. This was after I gave my Imodium and Stemitil to Cathy when Toby came down in the morning to tell Marese that Cathy was vomitting.
Madrid is a surprise. I didn't like how i felt about it until the local tour began in the early evening where we visted the Central Park of Madrid and saw the view at the back of the Temple of Debod - the amusement park and zoo inthe centre of the forest/woods. We also saw the old and new cathedral, as well as Palacio Real de Madrid.
For dinner we got Lauren to take a picture with our waiter Nicky as Nicky was flirting with her - like when she asked where the toilets were...he interlocked his arms with hers and walked her into the restaurant. We were having Roast pork in the middle of Plaza Mayor, as Caro (pronounced as Chuaro) recommended the pork at this place and they had a special oven that roasted the pork in about 30 minutes...so we didn't have to pre-order as you usually do.
Dinner was with Lauren and Peter N, and we actually got to speak on a more intimate level. We each revealed a bit more of ourselves and I really enjoyed dinner. It reminded me of having dinner with my friends and catching up after a few months. Pete revealed that Lauren and I had nicknames. Lauren is known as Chuckles and I'm referred to as Happy Eyes.
*^_^*
Barcelona
Day: Thursday, 20 September 2007
Wellbeing: Fluey
Weather: Cloudy and mild
Highlight: Guell Park and the Tapas dinner and Flamenco Show
We visited Guell Park, saw Casa Batllo (skull looking building), saw La Padrera (first apartment block with an underground carpark). There was a trumpeter at Guell playing "Fly me to the moon" and it lifted my spirits. I can't say it enough, Gaudi is a genius. On the roof of the "Town centre" in the middle of Guell Park, there are benches around the wall that are ergonomically designed. It looks really uncomfortable to sit and lean back on, but its actually very comfy.
We also managed an excursion to Montserrat, which was great, but i napped before we arrived as well as the ride back to our hotel before dinner. Montserrat houses a Cathederal on top of a mountain. Really serene and peaceful. I had a plate of paella in the food court here, wasn't the best, but it was from a food court...so...yeah...
When we got back to the hotel after Montserrat, I rushed to the mall near the "glass penis" and I went hunting for a pair of heels. You know, leather shoes from Spain...but I didn't manage to find heels and ended up buying 4 pairs of flats from Zara. *LoL* The sales girl thoroughly checked my credit card and passport which made me feel confident n the purchase - good on the sales girl!
I'm happy I got to go shopping on my own. A little upset that I couldn't buy the red or the green clutch - but the clasp on both wasn't secure. GDI! Rushed back to the hotel after the sandal purchases to get ready for dinner.
We went to a restaurant off the main strip in Barcelona (like Pitt St, Sydney) and we were entertained with a passionate flamenco show after a buffet style tapas dinner. We managed to find our Mr April. He is from Russia and we made Lauren take a photo with him for our "Calendar". Well, she did think he was cute. *LoL*
Marese taught me how to say "thank you" in Russian, but i can't remember it now. Too much red wine.
After dinner we went outside to wait for the bus and in the mean time Marese got Lucy dressed up as a flamenco and she danced in the middle of La Romdas (?). There were so many of the group standing around her, that the locals thought she was out performing like a local busker. *LoL* She actually had money thrown at her too.
Wellbeing: Fluey
Weather: Cloudy and mild
Highlight: Guell Park and the Tapas dinner and Flamenco Show
We visited Guell Park, saw Casa Batllo (skull looking building), saw La Padrera (first apartment block with an underground carpark). There was a trumpeter at Guell playing "Fly me to the moon" and it lifted my spirits. I can't say it enough, Gaudi is a genius. On the roof of the "Town centre" in the middle of Guell Park, there are benches around the wall that are ergonomically designed. It looks really uncomfortable to sit and lean back on, but its actually very comfy.
We also managed an excursion to Montserrat, which was great, but i napped before we arrived as well as the ride back to our hotel before dinner. Montserrat houses a Cathederal on top of a mountain. Really serene and peaceful. I had a plate of paella in the food court here, wasn't the best, but it was from a food court...so...yeah...
When we got back to the hotel after Montserrat, I rushed to the mall near the "glass penis" and I went hunting for a pair of heels. You know, leather shoes from Spain...but I didn't manage to find heels and ended up buying 4 pairs of flats from Zara. *LoL* The sales girl thoroughly checked my credit card and passport which made me feel confident n the purchase - good on the sales girl!
I'm happy I got to go shopping on my own. A little upset that I couldn't buy the red or the green clutch - but the clasp on both wasn't secure. GDI! Rushed back to the hotel after the sandal purchases to get ready for dinner.
We went to a restaurant off the main strip in Barcelona (like Pitt St, Sydney) and we were entertained with a passionate flamenco show after a buffet style tapas dinner. We managed to find our Mr April. He is from Russia and we made Lauren take a photo with him for our "Calendar". Well, she did think he was cute. *LoL*
Marese taught me how to say "thank you" in Russian, but i can't remember it now. Too much red wine.
After dinner we went outside to wait for the bus and in the mean time Marese got Lucy dressed up as a flamenco and she danced in the middle of La Romdas (?). There were so many of the group standing around her, that the locals thought she was out performing like a local busker. *LoL* She actually had money thrown at her too.
Cannes & Barcelona
Day: Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny, nice breeze
Highlight: Temple de la Sagrada Familia
D'antoni Gaudi, who ended up dying before he could finish the temple was an innovative genius. Mar (our local guide) describes the Sagrada as "organic" as he didn't use straight lines - ever. He was inspired by nature and is absolutely incredible as an architect and designer. The Sagrada is incomplete, and it won't be completed until 2020 (which is when I will be back to see it, in all its glory)!!!
Other architects have tried to complete it but the style is obviously different. Some parts of the monument is art deco, some are contemporary in style. It can hold 55,000 (i think) and it will be the highest monument when it is completed, with the tallest spire standing at 173m (not sure if that sounds right), to represent Jesus.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Sunny, nice breeze
Highlight: Temple de la Sagrada Familia
D'antoni Gaudi, who ended up dying before he could finish the temple was an innovative genius. Mar (our local guide) describes the Sagrada as "organic" as he didn't use straight lines - ever. He was inspired by nature and is absolutely incredible as an architect and designer. The Sagrada is incomplete, and it won't be completed until 2020 (which is when I will be back to see it, in all its glory)!!!
Other architects have tried to complete it but the style is obviously different. Some parts of the monument is art deco, some are contemporary in style. It can hold 55,000 (i think) and it will be the highest monument when it is completed, with the tallest spire standing at 173m (not sure if that sounds right), to represent Jesus.
Cannes & Nice
Day: Tuesday, 18 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Very warm
Highlight: St Paul de Vance.
Vance is a small city/village like Lucca. I also had to buy something in memory of it and couldn't really afford the 2100 Euro pair of antique earrings I saw in the window display of a store next to the church. Ever so grateful that we were visiting Vance early, so the store was closed.
But having that urge to buy earrings, I found a pair of affordable earrings and bought those without a wince! Then I bought an original water colour painting for 25 Euros and 2 replicas that only cost 1.50 Euros each.
Later for lunch, we walked from the coach to the water front restaurant (La Fregate) on the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur). I had a pressed fish soup with crusty bread and aioli which was yum for the entree. I then had a scampi with saffron rice and then for dessert we had profiteroles with ice cream in the centre and melted chocolate on top. If you ever get a chance, I highly recommend the fish soup with the bread and aioli and the profiteroles. I couldn't find the same type of profiteroles anywhere else in France...AND it IS to DIE for!
After lunch we walked back along the promenade in Nice and went to Fragonard for some perfume. We had a tour of the production area and had a personal "smelling" session of their perfumes. They don't sell their perfumes in department stores. They have a couple of boutique stores of their own brand (in France only) and they sell online. But otherwise, you won't be able to buy their fragrance anywhere. I bought two bottles. 1 perfume: Eclat and 1 eau de toilette: Belle du nuit. Perfumes last for about 6-8 hours of wear, while eau de toilette is watered down and therefore lasts for about 3-4 hours of wear.
I realised today that I am running low on cash. GDI! In need of transferring money.
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Very warm
Highlight: St Paul de Vance.
Vance is a small city/village like Lucca. I also had to buy something in memory of it and couldn't really afford the 2100 Euro pair of antique earrings I saw in the window display of a store next to the church. Ever so grateful that we were visiting Vance early, so the store was closed.
But having that urge to buy earrings, I found a pair of affordable earrings and bought those without a wince! Then I bought an original water colour painting for 25 Euros and 2 replicas that only cost 1.50 Euros each.
Later for lunch, we walked from the coach to the water front restaurant (La Fregate) on the French Riviera (Cote d'Azur). I had a pressed fish soup with crusty bread and aioli which was yum for the entree. I then had a scampi with saffron rice and then for dessert we had profiteroles with ice cream in the centre and melted chocolate on top. If you ever get a chance, I highly recommend the fish soup with the bread and aioli and the profiteroles. I couldn't find the same type of profiteroles anywhere else in France...AND it IS to DIE for!
After lunch we walked back along the promenade in Nice and went to Fragonard for some perfume. We had a tour of the production area and had a personal "smelling" session of their perfumes. They don't sell their perfumes in department stores. They have a couple of boutique stores of their own brand (in France only) and they sell online. But otherwise, you won't be able to buy their fragrance anywhere. I bought two bottles. 1 perfume: Eclat and 1 eau de toilette: Belle du nuit. Perfumes last for about 6-8 hours of wear, while eau de toilette is watered down and therefore lasts for about 3-4 hours of wear.
I realised today that I am running low on cash. GDI! In need of transferring money.
Lucca, Pisa & Nice
Day: Monday, 17 September 2007
Wellbeing: Running nose
Weather: Warm & muggy
Highlight: Ria - the local guide we had for Lucca.
Lucca is such a special place, Pisa by no means compared. And the two cities are rivals of each other. And because Lucca was so special, I just had to buy something in memory of it. I happened to come across a store that opened and I bought Mum a pair of leather thongs. Would have bought it for myself, but it was the last pair and it was a size 36, and i'm a 38.
They just had a light festival where the whole town was lit up by candles, but the day we visited they were taking the candles down. Its actually the location of the "real" first colosseum. The town centre is in the circular shape and there are 52 entry ways, exactly like the Colosseum in Rome. It was fortified by Napolean's sister (i think it was his sister, but i could be wrong, because my memory is crap) for a war that never happened, and later she planted heaps of trees around the wall and made it into a park like surround.
Absolutely captivating and i will remember it always. Might go back for a concert in the colosseum shaped town centre. We were informed that Elton John recently had a concert there and so did Van Morrison...if Ria had told me that Michael Buble would be performing there, i would fly from anywhere in the world to attend.
When we got to Pisa I took a token photo of myself leaning on the Tower . And that was basically it for the day in Pisa. I got a slice of pizza in Pisa, but it was pretty crap, so I was pretty disappointed.
As we travelled to Nice, in Genoa Marese advised that our hotel in Nice was completely booked so we have been moved to a hotel in Cannes. I didn't mind where we were going to stay, so long as we got there. Before we would go to Cannes we were going to stop in Monte Carlo (Monaco, France) for the Casino.
I do believe the well dressed and style conscious are in Monte Carlo, if you compare Innsbruck or Lucerne or Vienna (as Marese thinks). Everyone I saw in Monte Carlo were effortlessly beautiful and glamourous. GDI!
Went into the original Casino, but only to use Mrs Murphy. Beautiful interiors, but absolutely no photos allowed. The Mrs Murphy seats were washed once you flushed - talk about poshy!
Really busy tomorrow...
Wellbeing: Running nose
Weather: Warm & muggy
Highlight: Ria - the local guide we had for Lucca.
Lucca is such a special place, Pisa by no means compared. And the two cities are rivals of each other. And because Lucca was so special, I just had to buy something in memory of it. I happened to come across a store that opened and I bought Mum a pair of leather thongs. Would have bought it for myself, but it was the last pair and it was a size 36, and i'm a 38.
They just had a light festival where the whole town was lit up by candles, but the day we visited they were taking the candles down. Its actually the location of the "real" first colosseum. The town centre is in the circular shape and there are 52 entry ways, exactly like the Colosseum in Rome. It was fortified by Napolean's sister (i think it was his sister, but i could be wrong, because my memory is crap) for a war that never happened, and later she planted heaps of trees around the wall and made it into a park like surround.
Absolutely captivating and i will remember it always. Might go back for a concert in the colosseum shaped town centre. We were informed that Elton John recently had a concert there and so did Van Morrison...if Ria had told me that Michael Buble would be performing there, i would fly from anywhere in the world to attend.
When we got to Pisa I took a token photo of myself leaning on the Tower . And that was basically it for the day in Pisa. I got a slice of pizza in Pisa, but it was pretty crap, so I was pretty disappointed.
As we travelled to Nice, in Genoa Marese advised that our hotel in Nice was completely booked so we have been moved to a hotel in Cannes. I didn't mind where we were going to stay, so long as we got there. Before we would go to Cannes we were going to stop in Monte Carlo (Monaco, France) for the Casino.
I do believe the well dressed and style conscious are in Monte Carlo, if you compare Innsbruck or Lucerne or Vienna (as Marese thinks). Everyone I saw in Monte Carlo were effortlessly beautiful and glamourous. GDI!
Went into the original Casino, but only to use Mrs Murphy. Beautiful interiors, but absolutely no photos allowed. The Mrs Murphy seats were washed once you flushed - talk about poshy!
Really busy tomorrow...
Florence
Day: Sunday, 16 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Group photo shot at the highest point of Florence. Lowlight was the fact that the museum staff at the Academia were on strike, so I didn't get to see David in all his glory!
Because of the strike at the Academia, I went nuts shopping. I basically bought everyone in my family a present from Firenze. I bought a leather wallet for my younger brother, which I had his initials embossed with gold (as you do in Florence) and a leather belt for my Dad with his initials embossed with gold as well with 24K gilt. Bought leather bookmarks for my book reading friends, and these really cute keyrings in the shape of a key for my cousins.
Found Mum a handbag and one for myself. I then went over to the "Gold Corner" for a necklace weaved with gold threads like a scarf. The one I really wanted was made with white and yellow gold and is long enough to use as a belt. But that cost over 3500 Euros. There was a thinner, shorter version with a loop on one end (because its too short to knot), but that was 936 Euros. I thought it over, and finally said no. I either buy the one I absolutely love, or nothing at all.
So, I asked the guy to show me some rings! *LoL*
I ended up buying a 18K white gold ring. I have to remember to go to the airport in Paris to claim my duty tax back from the ring.
After spending up big, we went back to the wine country, more specifically Lucca (also known as Monte Carlo) in Tuscany, for some wine tasting at a vineyard.
We tried 3 whites, 2 reds, 1 dessert, a shot of grappa and had olives, sundried tomatoes (which I couldn't get enough of), and olive oil with bread...yum, yum, yum.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Group photo shot at the highest point of Florence. Lowlight was the fact that the museum staff at the Academia were on strike, so I didn't get to see David in all his glory!
Because of the strike at the Academia, I went nuts shopping. I basically bought everyone in my family a present from Firenze. I bought a leather wallet for my younger brother, which I had his initials embossed with gold (as you do in Florence) and a leather belt for my Dad with his initials embossed with gold as well with 24K gilt. Bought leather bookmarks for my book reading friends, and these really cute keyrings in the shape of a key for my cousins.
Found Mum a handbag and one for myself. I then went over to the "Gold Corner" for a necklace weaved with gold threads like a scarf. The one I really wanted was made with white and yellow gold and is long enough to use as a belt. But that cost over 3500 Euros. There was a thinner, shorter version with a loop on one end (because its too short to knot), but that was 936 Euros. I thought it over, and finally said no. I either buy the one I absolutely love, or nothing at all.
So, I asked the guy to show me some rings! *LoL*
I ended up buying a 18K white gold ring. I have to remember to go to the airport in Paris to claim my duty tax back from the ring.
After spending up big, we went back to the wine country, more specifically Lucca (also known as Monte Carlo) in Tuscany, for some wine tasting at a vineyard.
We tried 3 whites, 2 reds, 1 dessert, a shot of grappa and had olives, sundried tomatoes (which I couldn't get enough of), and olive oil with bread...yum, yum, yum.
Rome & Vatican City
Day: Saturday, 15 September 2007
Wellbeing: Really good, except for the perspiration from the roaming around.
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Vatican City - Sistine Chapel and sneaking a photo (without flash)
I know I shouldn't of taken the photo. I know I broke a rule. But I just had to. And although it is blurry, i'm happy I took it. I don't regret it. Its not a famous scene either, its obscure and it was done on the impulse. But its my little bit of the Sistine.
We were first in line to get into the Vatican Museum, we were lining up outside of the walled enclosure at 7am.
The whole day was very intense, but worth every bit the wait.
Had a big lunch and Peter N hooked up with some people from the US, because the waiter sat the Americans with him, thinking they were from the same tour! *LoL*
Dinner was at a place called Tananga (?) - which provided entertainment comprising of opera and comedy acts and a really filling 4 course meal with heaps of wine.
I was extremely tired from all the events that happened today.
Also, Phoung and I were up all night talking.
Wellbeing: Really good, except for the perspiration from the roaming around.
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Vatican City - Sistine Chapel and sneaking a photo (without flash)
I know I shouldn't of taken the photo. I know I broke a rule. But I just had to. And although it is blurry, i'm happy I took it. I don't regret it. Its not a famous scene either, its obscure and it was done on the impulse. But its my little bit of the Sistine.
We were first in line to get into the Vatican Museum, we were lining up outside of the walled enclosure at 7am.
The whole day was very intense, but worth every bit the wait.
Had a big lunch and Peter N hooked up with some people from the US, because the waiter sat the Americans with him, thinking they were from the same tour! *LoL*
Dinner was at a place called Tananga (?) - which provided entertainment comprising of opera and comedy acts and a really filling 4 course meal with heaps of wine.
I was extremely tired from all the events that happened today.
Also, Phoung and I were up all night talking.
Venice & Rome
Day: Friday, 14 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Dinner with Dominico and Peter N making a painting at the restaurant fall, and Fontana di Trevi after dinner.
Today we drove around going from Venice to Rome. As we passed Tuscany (Toscano) it seems even though warned not to open the 2 windows at the back of the coach - someone opened them, causing the air conditioning to shut down. Then it seemed to go kaput!
So, from Tuscany to Rome we sat in a sauna like state to the hotel, but miraculously no one complained audibly - possibly just under their breath. Lauren and I laughed, otherwise we would have cried!!!
About 5 minutes from our hotel seemed to be a "red light" district filled with hookers on the street wearing short dresses or shorts which barely covered the waistband of their g-strings, not lower. The desperation...to work on the streets at 3pm in the afternoon...
Dinner was a riot at Mino (a restaurant on the outskirts of Rome's city centre). We had this really funny waiter - Dominico (like the Republic of Dominico) and his "kissy-kissy" and handing roses out to all the women on the tour. The most funniest thing was when Dominico chose to do his "kissy-kissy" with Peter N, which i happened to film.
After dinner and dessert, we walked to the Trevi fountain and I threw a coin over my left shoulder to make a wish. It was a tiring day after the busy yesterday, but the evening was throroughly enjoyable. Hope tomorrow goes well!
Did I mention that the toilets at Mino were really posh and pretty, and that Dominico gave me a rose too? Well, he did give it to every female there.
Outside of the restaurant, just before we left to get back on to the coach, Sharon (one of the 3 sis-in-laws) was mucking around the outside of a laundromat and was talking to a man who happened to be doing his laundry...she is married and has 3 kids, but is a petite and pretty lady, and as we left, her sis-in-laws were like "out of all places, you bump into another Aussie, at a laundromat in Rome, and he probably thinks you are a pro"...hehehe...she was flirting with him, loudly, she did drink alot during dinner!
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Very warm
Highlights: Dinner with Dominico and Peter N making a painting at the restaurant fall, and Fontana di Trevi after dinner.
Today we drove around going from Venice to Rome. As we passed Tuscany (Toscano) it seems even though warned not to open the 2 windows at the back of the coach - someone opened them, causing the air conditioning to shut down. Then it seemed to go kaput!
So, from Tuscany to Rome we sat in a sauna like state to the hotel, but miraculously no one complained audibly - possibly just under their breath. Lauren and I laughed, otherwise we would have cried!!!
About 5 minutes from our hotel seemed to be a "red light" district filled with hookers on the street wearing short dresses or shorts which barely covered the waistband of their g-strings, not lower. The desperation...to work on the streets at 3pm in the afternoon...
Dinner was a riot at Mino (a restaurant on the outskirts of Rome's city centre). We had this really funny waiter - Dominico (like the Republic of Dominico) and his "kissy-kissy" and handing roses out to all the women on the tour. The most funniest thing was when Dominico chose to do his "kissy-kissy" with Peter N, which i happened to film.
After dinner and dessert, we walked to the Trevi fountain and I threw a coin over my left shoulder to make a wish. It was a tiring day after the busy yesterday, but the evening was throroughly enjoyable. Hope tomorrow goes well!
Did I mention that the toilets at Mino were really posh and pretty, and that Dominico gave me a rose too? Well, he did give it to every female there.
Outside of the restaurant, just before we left to get back on to the coach, Sharon (one of the 3 sis-in-laws) was mucking around the outside of a laundromat and was talking to a man who happened to be doing his laundry...she is married and has 3 kids, but is a petite and pretty lady, and as we left, her sis-in-laws were like "out of all places, you bump into another Aussie, at a laundromat in Rome, and he probably thinks you are a pro"...hehehe...she was flirting with him, loudly, she did drink alot during dinner!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Decision made...
My aunt and future uncle left for Vietnam today.
Yesterday, I caught up with them with some of my cousins for lunch at the Summit. I had an in-depth conversation with my future uncle while we waited for the food.
It clarified many things.
For instance, the forms need to be submitted by the end of March. Its a 6-7 month process of forms, evidence and interviews before approval. I don't have to go over right away. I can go over a couple months after my visa is approved. The length of a working visa is 3 years and it can be extended after that. So, long as i am still working and have sponsorship.
This made the final decision easier.
He advised that it would be better if i gained more experience and expertise in my field. To give me an "edge". And i agree that that is the better choice, especially for tomorrow and beyond.
So, although immediately, staying here with my current employer isn't ideal, especially in financial terms, that is, what i will be able to save for Mauritius and NY...but it will have to make do for now.
I'm still going to be open for other opportunities, in the mean time, so long as they strategically work in my favour.
Gosh, the last 2 days have been really stressful.
But things worked out the way they were meant to.
^_^
Yesterday, I caught up with them with some of my cousins for lunch at the Summit. I had an in-depth conversation with my future uncle while we waited for the food.
It clarified many things.
For instance, the forms need to be submitted by the end of March. Its a 6-7 month process of forms, evidence and interviews before approval. I don't have to go over right away. I can go over a couple months after my visa is approved. The length of a working visa is 3 years and it can be extended after that. So, long as i am still working and have sponsorship.
This made the final decision easier.
He advised that it would be better if i gained more experience and expertise in my field. To give me an "edge". And i agree that that is the better choice, especially for tomorrow and beyond.
So, although immediately, staying here with my current employer isn't ideal, especially in financial terms, that is, what i will be able to save for Mauritius and NY...but it will have to make do for now.
I'm still going to be open for other opportunities, in the mean time, so long as they strategically work in my favour.
Gosh, the last 2 days have been really stressful.
But things worked out the way they were meant to.
^_^
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
The urgency of making decisions...
My Aunt from NY came to visit before her Vietnam holiday on Saturday. She will fly to Vietnam on this coming Thursday, in the morning.
So, the whole weekend I spent taking her and her fiance around Sydney.
You know how i have been actively looking for another role or being head hunter for other positions out there? Well, something amazing happened during dinner on Saturday night with my Aunt.
We had a one on one chat. She asked me what i was currently doing? Jnr PM - Telecommunications - Network Security. And she was impressed. And she was ecstatic! Why?
Well, my future uncle, also from NY, is a PM - Telecommunications - Network Security...AND he owns a company. And there is a skills shortage in the US. And his company sponsors skilled professionals from around the world to work as a contractor for a year.
I have always wanted to go o/s. But with the mortgage, unless i could guarantee a job o/s, it would only be a pipe dream. With this opportunity, it can be a reality.
My Aunt will marry in August/September 08. So, my intentions is to go to her wedding and then stay on for a year.
So, where is the urgency?
Well, i went to an interview today. And after the interview, i found out that i was offered the job. Its a 6 mth contract. Great rates. Perfect timing. But its a pure Project Coordinator role. So, its not quite a step backwards, its like a step sidewards, sort of...And i dont know what will be more beneficial for me?
It would be good to earn a lot before i hit NY. But it might be more beneficial to get more experience as a Project Manager, so when i do go to NY, i will get paid higher rates as a Project Manager there.
What to do?
I have 24-48 hours to decide.
>_<
So, the whole weekend I spent taking her and her fiance around Sydney.
You know how i have been actively looking for another role or being head hunter for other positions out there? Well, something amazing happened during dinner on Saturday night with my Aunt.
We had a one on one chat. She asked me what i was currently doing? Jnr PM - Telecommunications - Network Security. And she was impressed. And she was ecstatic! Why?
Well, my future uncle, also from NY, is a PM - Telecommunications - Network Security...AND he owns a company. And there is a skills shortage in the US. And his company sponsors skilled professionals from around the world to work as a contractor for a year.
I have always wanted to go o/s. But with the mortgage, unless i could guarantee a job o/s, it would only be a pipe dream. With this opportunity, it can be a reality.
My Aunt will marry in August/September 08. So, my intentions is to go to her wedding and then stay on for a year.
So, where is the urgency?
Well, i went to an interview today. And after the interview, i found out that i was offered the job. Its a 6 mth contract. Great rates. Perfect timing. But its a pure Project Coordinator role. So, its not quite a step backwards, its like a step sidewards, sort of...And i dont know what will be more beneficial for me?
It would be good to earn a lot before i hit NY. But it might be more beneficial to get more experience as a Project Manager, so when i do go to NY, i will get paid higher rates as a Project Manager there.
What to do?
I have 24-48 hours to decide.
>_<
Monday, December 10, 2007
Lack of time...
I have 3 Christmas parties to go to for work this week.
Wednesday is the Kid's Christmas Party, which i will be bringing both my nieces.
Thursday is the official Christmas Party for the client company, which will be at Luna Park and the theme is "A Dressy Affair" - ie, cocktail frocks.
Friday is the office Christmas Party, just for our floor.
Saturday - my aunt from the US arrives and basically my weekend will be spent with her and the family. She will be leaving on Thursday, but i'll be at work.
Wednesday 19/12 there is a team lunch for the department i work in. It is also my company's Christmas Party at Home Bar in the afternoon from 3pm until late.
My brother and his family (my nieces) will be going to Foster for a family Christmas holiday, so my Christmas will be with Mum, Dad, and my lil brother. Which really means, we won't be celebrating anything at all.
I will hopefully get all of my holiday blog entries up by then.
>_<
Wednesday is the Kid's Christmas Party, which i will be bringing both my nieces.
Thursday is the official Christmas Party for the client company, which will be at Luna Park and the theme is "A Dressy Affair" - ie, cocktail frocks.
Friday is the office Christmas Party, just for our floor.
Saturday - my aunt from the US arrives and basically my weekend will be spent with her and the family. She will be leaving on Thursday, but i'll be at work.
Wednesday 19/12 there is a team lunch for the department i work in. It is also my company's Christmas Party at Home Bar in the afternoon from 3pm until late.
My brother and his family (my nieces) will be going to Foster for a family Christmas holiday, so my Christmas will be with Mum, Dad, and my lil brother. Which really means, we won't be celebrating anything at all.
I will hopefully get all of my holiday blog entries up by then.
>_<
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Why do i feel...
...as though I have lost something, but it was never mine to begin with???
Is it more devasting to feel such a loss, than actually sustaining a true loss of something that is yours?
I guess its warranted if it belonged to you, that you would feel immense sadness when you lose it.
But its not mine. And i do feel sad. But i really shouldn't.
Am i selfish for feeling this way?
I think i'm feeling pangs of jealousy...of it being acquired by someone else...but i need to remind myself...it wasn't yours, you have no claim, you shouldn't even feel sad.
I'm pathetic sometimes.
About the wedding...its over! I have a broken toenail from the Friday night before the wedding. There was torrential rain before and during the wedding ceremony. It was a crying fest. And more about it later.
Is it more devasting to feel such a loss, than actually sustaining a true loss of something that is yours?
I guess its warranted if it belonged to you, that you would feel immense sadness when you lose it.
But its not mine. And i do feel sad. But i really shouldn't.
Am i selfish for feeling this way?
I think i'm feeling pangs of jealousy...of it being acquired by someone else...but i need to remind myself...it wasn't yours, you have no claim, you shouldn't even feel sad.
I'm pathetic sometimes.
About the wedding...its over! I have a broken toenail from the Friday night before the wedding. There was torrential rain before and during the wedding ceremony. It was a crying fest. And more about it later.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Slacker...
I've been extremely slack in blogging. Sorry.
But November is a horrendous month. I have all these farewell parties, birthday parties, gatherings, race, wedding...the whole month is booked out.
And i still need to lose a couple of kilos with only a week left, essentially, before the wedding!
So, updates after Venice will happen in December. That is, if work doesnt take over my life.
I can't wait until i go to KL and SG.
I need to get away again...
But November is a horrendous month. I have all these farewell parties, birthday parties, gatherings, race, wedding...the whole month is booked out.
And i still need to lose a couple of kilos with only a week left, essentially, before the wedding!
So, updates after Venice will happen in December. That is, if work doesnt take over my life.
I can't wait until i go to KL and SG.
I need to get away again...
JP Morgan Corporate Challenge 2007
I finally did the race last night.
Last year got cancelled on both attempts due to the "Strong 80km/h winds" and i was extremely disappointed that after all my training that i would not be able to go for my run.
This year, we got to the park early at 4:30pm and it was threatening rain. It started to drizzle around 5pm and all we could do was wait around anxiously.
By 6pm we all packed up and headed towards the starting line.
Its self seeded and you were expected to line up next to the time where you thought you could run per km.
So there were markings for people who could do a km in under 4.5 mins and then there were markings for those who thought it was take >4.5 mins to run per km. For the elite competitors, they were supposed to stand in the front and walkers were expected to start behind anyone running. This was to keep it fair.
But the signage wasnt clear, or people were blind, or they just didnt care. People walking the race went straight to the front near the elite. I was going to make a serious attempt, but i knew my limits and so i stood after the signage for >4.5 mins/km. But since walkers were crowding around in front of me, my team and i moved forward near the signage that said <4.5 mins/km.
I'm relieved that i moved forward. Next to me was some girls with oversized handbags on their shoulders, some with backpacks...obvious walkers...and it irritated me so much that i just wanted to sound to go off for the start.
The race was late by 10 minutes.
I was getting antsy.
Then the sound went off and when i got to cross the start line 1:15 mins was already lost. The first km was a hill and although i knew that it was going to be there, i didnt know the course well and was surprised. Going down the hill for 500m everyone around me just picked up exceptional speed and so i followed suit.
For some reason, when you have markings telling you how many kms you have just passed, it makes the whole experience feel extremely long. 1km felt like 2kms to me. I had maintained an even pace except for the hill bit, until i hit 3kms and i could feel the burn.
Its funny, i was motivating myself by talking to myself...not out loud, but in my head, i was telling myself to keep running. Things like "you've done 5-6kms before, this is nothing different"..."P is just ahead, keep her in your line of sight"..."you can finish this, c'mon!!!"..."just keep jogging, dont start walking, just keep jogging"...
So, i slumped between 3-5kms, intermittently picking up. I tried to pick it up to a consistent pace...when we hit 5kms, i heard someone in the background telling his team that now was the time to peak. And so i thought "yeah, 600m...i should pick up the pace"...but i was really thirsty. I tried to pick it up. And i did run faster than i had been in the last 2 km, but then i slowed down because i couldnt maintain it.
Then something weird happened. And i'm sure the runners out there will know what i'm referring to.
When i could finally see the clock it displayed 34:59 and i got really peeved because i wanted to do the run in under 35 minutes. And this was the point where i sprinted the last 200 metres and overtook around 20 people to get the time of 35:12, draining every last breath i had in me.
I'm not the fittest looking person. I'm sure the video footage of me, had someone filmed me from start to finish, would have looked extremely funny. I wonder how i looked while running the last sprint overtaking so many people...
My legs were like jelly. I was sooo dehydrated...I was dripping head to toe in sweat...I was pretty red in the face too...But i was so happy that i did 5.6km in 35:12 minutes.
Its in line with my expectations. And if you minus the delay from the start, i reached my goal by getting under 35 minutes.
I'm definitely going to do this race again next year!
Last year got cancelled on both attempts due to the "Strong 80km/h winds" and i was extremely disappointed that after all my training that i would not be able to go for my run.
This year, we got to the park early at 4:30pm and it was threatening rain. It started to drizzle around 5pm and all we could do was wait around anxiously.
By 6pm we all packed up and headed towards the starting line.
Its self seeded and you were expected to line up next to the time where you thought you could run per km.
So there were markings for people who could do a km in under 4.5 mins and then there were markings for those who thought it was take >4.5 mins to run per km. For the elite competitors, they were supposed to stand in the front and walkers were expected to start behind anyone running. This was to keep it fair.
But the signage wasnt clear, or people were blind, or they just didnt care. People walking the race went straight to the front near the elite. I was going to make a serious attempt, but i knew my limits and so i stood after the signage for >4.5 mins/km. But since walkers were crowding around in front of me, my team and i moved forward near the signage that said <4.5 mins/km.
I'm relieved that i moved forward. Next to me was some girls with oversized handbags on their shoulders, some with backpacks...obvious walkers...and it irritated me so much that i just wanted to sound to go off for the start.
The race was late by 10 minutes.
I was getting antsy.
Then the sound went off and when i got to cross the start line 1:15 mins was already lost. The first km was a hill and although i knew that it was going to be there, i didnt know the course well and was surprised. Going down the hill for 500m everyone around me just picked up exceptional speed and so i followed suit.
For some reason, when you have markings telling you how many kms you have just passed, it makes the whole experience feel extremely long. 1km felt like 2kms to me. I had maintained an even pace except for the hill bit, until i hit 3kms and i could feel the burn.
Its funny, i was motivating myself by talking to myself...not out loud, but in my head, i was telling myself to keep running. Things like "you've done 5-6kms before, this is nothing different"..."P is just ahead, keep her in your line of sight"..."you can finish this, c'mon!!!"..."just keep jogging, dont start walking, just keep jogging"...
So, i slumped between 3-5kms, intermittently picking up. I tried to pick it up to a consistent pace...when we hit 5kms, i heard someone in the background telling his team that now was the time to peak. And so i thought "yeah, 600m...i should pick up the pace"...but i was really thirsty. I tried to pick it up. And i did run faster than i had been in the last 2 km, but then i slowed down because i couldnt maintain it.
Then something weird happened. And i'm sure the runners out there will know what i'm referring to.
When i could finally see the clock it displayed 34:59 and i got really peeved because i wanted to do the run in under 35 minutes. And this was the point where i sprinted the last 200 metres and overtook around 20 people to get the time of 35:12, draining every last breath i had in me.
I'm not the fittest looking person. I'm sure the video footage of me, had someone filmed me from start to finish, would have looked extremely funny. I wonder how i looked while running the last sprint overtaking so many people...
My legs were like jelly. I was sooo dehydrated...I was dripping head to toe in sweat...I was pretty red in the face too...But i was so happy that i did 5.6km in 35:12 minutes.
Its in line with my expectations. And if you minus the delay from the start, i reached my goal by getting under 35 minutes.
I'm definitely going to do this race again next year!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
This time today...
...2 whole months ago, I was in Venice.
It all seems like a blur.
It was a whirlwind tour. Didn't feel like it at the time, while i was there, but it definitely seems so now upon reflection.
Venice was the beginning of excitement for me. The start of seeing extremely vibrant colours.
Everywhere i had been to up until Venice was pretty but not plain, and more polite, like conservative.
While in Venice and all the places there after the colours were exuberant and sometimes in your face...wildly exotic...& passionate.
I miss all the vibrancy.
I watched Sabrina (the movie) on the weekend...and there were bits of her in Paris...and i soooo long to be back there.
I can't wait for next year...I can't wait for P's wedding in Mauritius and more of Paris...*sigh*...
It all seems like a blur.
It was a whirlwind tour. Didn't feel like it at the time, while i was there, but it definitely seems so now upon reflection.
Venice was the beginning of excitement for me. The start of seeing extremely vibrant colours.
Everywhere i had been to up until Venice was pretty but not plain, and more polite, like conservative.
While in Venice and all the places there after the colours were exuberant and sometimes in your face...wildly exotic...& passionate.
I miss all the vibrancy.
I watched Sabrina (the movie) on the weekend...and there were bits of her in Paris...and i soooo long to be back there.
I can't wait for next year...I can't wait for P's wedding in Mauritius and more of Paris...*sigh*...
Friday, November 02, 2007
Venice
Day: Thursday, 13 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Warm and fine
Highlights: Glass blower built like a tank @ Murano, Bridge of Sighs, Murano Island, Burano Island, & Romano Restaurant. Canal ride via the gondola and then a cruise via another boat passing the Rialto bridge.
The boat rides were enjoyable...Saw how glass was blown at the Murano glass house. Visited all the main highlights on the island. Walked through the St Marks, Doges Palace and crossed the Bridge of Sighs and saw the jail in which Casanova was said to have stayed in...
Bought a lot of pendants at a Murano Outlet. Bought postcards on Venice city centre and on Burano Island. Also bought a lace fan from Burano - simple badge like piece of lace to add to something.
The food at Romano was delicious and there was a lot to eat!
Venice is busy with tourists, but it is still very enchanting, as i suspected. On the gondola ride through the canals it was apparently smelly, but i had a blocked nose - thankfully! While on the gondola ride i flirted with one of the gondola drivers/steerers by blowing a kiss to him and Lauren joked that had just accepted his proposal of marriage!
Found Mr March for Dianna, he was the captain on the boat ride to Burano through the lagoon.
No choc buying today.
* Lauren and i had drinks at the Danieli Hotel, paid for by our guide, because she wanted us to look after her belongings after the gondola ride. The Danieli is a gorgeous hotel on the island of Venice near the Doges Palace. The interior is really pretty and i am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to sit and just relax inside at the bar.
Wellbeing: Good
Weather: Warm and fine
Highlights: Glass blower built like a tank @ Murano, Bridge of Sighs, Murano Island, Burano Island, & Romano Restaurant. Canal ride via the gondola and then a cruise via another boat passing the Rialto bridge.
The boat rides were enjoyable...Saw how glass was blown at the Murano glass house. Visited all the main highlights on the island. Walked through the St Marks, Doges Palace and crossed the Bridge of Sighs and saw the jail in which Casanova was said to have stayed in...
Bought a lot of pendants at a Murano Outlet. Bought postcards on Venice city centre and on Burano Island. Also bought a lace fan from Burano - simple badge like piece of lace to add to something.
The food at Romano was delicious and there was a lot to eat!
Venice is busy with tourists, but it is still very enchanting, as i suspected. On the gondola ride through the canals it was apparently smelly, but i had a blocked nose - thankfully! While on the gondola ride i flirted with one of the gondola drivers/steerers by blowing a kiss to him and Lauren joked that had just accepted his proposal of marriage!
Found Mr March for Dianna, he was the captain on the boat ride to Burano through the lagoon.
No choc buying today.
* Lauren and i had drinks at the Danieli Hotel, paid for by our guide, because she wanted us to look after her belongings after the gondola ride. The Danieli is a gorgeous hotel on the island of Venice near the Doges Palace. The interior is really pretty and i am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to sit and just relax inside at the bar.
Vienna & Venice
Day: Wednesday, 12 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay, stuffy nose
Weather: Cloudy, then fine
Highlights: Coming to the hotel in Venice after it was changed on us (error by Tour company).
Park Hotel - Villa Marcello Giustinian (4* Accommodation) was an exceptionally beautiful surprise. King sized bath towels & shower cap (no other hotel has provided this until tonight).
Dinner was at 8:30pm and we had a gorgeous 4 course meal, starting with the local sparkling wine. We then had bruschetta, then i had lasagne (the other option was vege ministrone), then i had a ham/bean/carrot dish and for the main and after main we had a creme caramel for dessert. It was divine!
The foyer of this boutique hotel is beautiful and the garden is suppose to be glorious. I'll check it out tomorrow morning. Although, we do have a jam-packed day.
As we crossed Vienna into Venice, we reached Venice as the sun was setting. The view via the bus was glorious. Frankly, it made me feel as though a chapter in my life had finally come to a close, ready for the new chapter to begin!
If we were still together i would have expected a proposal by now. How ridiculous of me!
No more.
Wellbeing: Okay, stuffy nose
Weather: Cloudy, then fine
Highlights: Coming to the hotel in Venice after it was changed on us (error by Tour company).
Park Hotel - Villa Marcello Giustinian (4* Accommodation) was an exceptionally beautiful surprise. King sized bath towels & shower cap (no other hotel has provided this until tonight).
Dinner was at 8:30pm and we had a gorgeous 4 course meal, starting with the local sparkling wine. We then had bruschetta, then i had lasagne (the other option was vege ministrone), then i had a ham/bean/carrot dish and for the main and after main we had a creme caramel for dessert. It was divine!
The foyer of this boutique hotel is beautiful and the garden is suppose to be glorious. I'll check it out tomorrow morning. Although, we do have a jam-packed day.
As we crossed Vienna into Venice, we reached Venice as the sun was setting. The view via the bus was glorious. Frankly, it made me feel as though a chapter in my life had finally come to a close, ready for the new chapter to begin!
If we were still together i would have expected a proposal by now. How ridiculous of me!
No more.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Vienna
Day: Tuesday, 11 September 2007
Wellbeing: Good - better than the day before
Weather: Rain & rain
Highlights: Schonbrun Palace - Maria Theresia's Summer Palace, Concert at the Palais Autsburg (?)
Violinist made eyes with me - weird. Had a glass of Sekt (Austrian sparkling wine) which came with the ticket for the concert. They had a pair of Opera singers and ballet dancers. Mozart, interval and then Strauss.
Visited the Summer Palace. Walked inside and we weren't allowed to take photos because of the frescoes that are in preservation. The gardens are beautiful!!! Then we visited the Winter Palace, but we didnt go in, but walked around the outside. Bought postcards and bookmarks of both palaces.
I LOVE GARDENS!!!
Inside Schonbrun, we saw the late Baroque and early Rococo designs. Visited the Reception Room, Blue Chinese Room, Black Lacquer Room, the Indian Wood Room, Napoleon's Office, the Tapestry Room, the Servants quarter and the Chandeliers!
Beautiful paintings that used light and shadow!!!
I had a slice of Sacher Torte (Chocolate sponge with apricot jam) at the Rosenberger during lunch. Must have when you are in Vienna.
Schonbrun Palace - Summer Palace
Innsbruck & Vienna
Day: Monday, 10 September 2007
Wellbeing: Pretty good
Weather: Clear/fine
Highlights: Buying up big in terms of souvenirs for everyone...Mozart chocolate cream alcohol bombs, Mozart violin bottles of schnapps, yodelling beaver, and pillboxes.
Rushing around Salzburg and once again being awestrucked at the history and the architecture of the buildings and the garden in Salzburg. I just had to go into the McD when i saw the real "golden" arches for its signage. McD had to conform with the laws in Salzburg and make the signage look consistent with all the other signs in the town. In McD i was intrigued by the deep fried camembert with a berry preserve for dip. It was awesome!!!
After our hit of shopping at a rest stop of a store adjoined to a shell petrol pump, we went to Vienna. Got off the bus at Novotel in Wien West (Vienna West). Then we went to our room and then left to to go the Vienna Woods and had a really fun dinner, with really good Austrian food and unlimited white wine. Good fun and lots of laughs. Dancing and singing on the way home.
The Salzburg trip was for the Sound of Music enthusiasts. We saw the Pegasus fountain (Mirabell Garden), another fountain, the Lake Monsee (Austrian for half moon) as we drove by.
Wellbeing: Pretty good
Weather: Clear/fine
Highlights: Buying up big in terms of souvenirs for everyone...Mozart chocolate cream alcohol bombs, Mozart violin bottles of schnapps, yodelling beaver, and pillboxes.
Rushing around Salzburg and once again being awestrucked at the history and the architecture of the buildings and the garden in Salzburg. I just had to go into the McD when i saw the real "golden" arches for its signage. McD had to conform with the laws in Salzburg and make the signage look consistent with all the other signs in the town. In McD i was intrigued by the deep fried camembert with a berry preserve for dip. It was awesome!!!
After our hit of shopping at a rest stop of a store adjoined to a shell petrol pump, we went to Vienna. Got off the bus at Novotel in Wien West (Vienna West). Then we went to our room and then left to to go the Vienna Woods and had a really fun dinner, with really good Austrian food and unlimited white wine. Good fun and lots of laughs. Dancing and singing on the way home.
The Salzburg trip was for the Sound of Music enthusiasts. We saw the Pegasus fountain (Mirabell Garden), another fountain, the Lake Monsee (Austrian for half moon) as we drove by.
Golden Arches
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Innsbruck
Day: Sunday, 9 September 2007
Wellbeing: Better than yesterday, but throat is drying up
Weather: Cloudy then fine
Highlights: Beautiful Innsbruck city centre, just walking around and then going into Swarovski.
Went into the Swarovski store and bought a bunch of pencils with crystal ends, and for that i got a free gift which was a solitaire brooch.
Seeing the yellow palace of Marie Antoinette's mother (Maria Theresa), the golden roof of Maximillion. Leo (Austrian born, from the tour) was set up to go into a local pub for a free beer!
[Suz, Leo's wife was keen to leave him at the pub so that she could go shopping at the Swarovski store...Leo was keen on having a beer, so when Marese went into the pub and said that she had a local with her that was returning from Australia, the owner of the pub told her to bring him in to catch up and have a beer. So, Leo stayed and Suz went shopping!]
Prior to Innsbruck, we stopped at Leichtenstein. I bought a silver coin purse at a flea market. The store lady wanted 27 Euros but i bargained it down to 25 Euros...not that i made a huge saving and i may have gotten it cheaper but i didnt want to bargain so early in the morning. It was barely 10am.
Went to a Baroque inspired cathedral with a Rococco interior which also took my breath away - again. Just like the Jesuit church in Lucerne. Beautiful!!!
Everything in Innsbruck takes my breath away!
Went on a horse and carriage ride in the valley and up the mountain for gluwein. It was beautifully peaceful and magical as there was snow on the Alps. Which shouldnt have occurred this time of the year, not yet! I felt like standing in the centre of the valley and just soaking it in. Doing a Maria style spin (Sound of Music).
Eaglehawk is cancelled tomorrow due to snow on the Alps.
Diana took photos with Mr January & Mr February. Marese is keeping her act of being the matchmaker.
Diana (pronounced as Deanna) is from South Africa, and looks a little like Angelina Jolie. Marese (tour guide) started this thing of making a calendar with the waiters/bartenders that we thought were worthy. Diana, being an avid photographer is always behind the camera was being forced to model with the chosen guys. So, began the hunt for 12 good looking men to be part of our calendar.
Wellbeing: Better than yesterday, but throat is drying up
Weather: Cloudy then fine
Highlights: Beautiful Innsbruck city centre, just walking around and then going into Swarovski.
Went into the Swarovski store and bought a bunch of pencils with crystal ends, and for that i got a free gift which was a solitaire brooch.
Seeing the yellow palace of Marie Antoinette's mother (Maria Theresa), the golden roof of Maximillion. Leo (Austrian born, from the tour) was set up to go into a local pub for a free beer!
[Suz, Leo's wife was keen to leave him at the pub so that she could go shopping at the Swarovski store...Leo was keen on having a beer, so when Marese went into the pub and said that she had a local with her that was returning from Australia, the owner of the pub told her to bring him in to catch up and have a beer. So, Leo stayed and Suz went shopping!]
Prior to Innsbruck, we stopped at Leichtenstein. I bought a silver coin purse at a flea market. The store lady wanted 27 Euros but i bargained it down to 25 Euros...not that i made a huge saving and i may have gotten it cheaper but i didnt want to bargain so early in the morning. It was barely 10am.
Went to a Baroque inspired cathedral with a Rococco interior which also took my breath away - again. Just like the Jesuit church in Lucerne. Beautiful!!!
Everything in Innsbruck takes my breath away!
Went on a horse and carriage ride in the valley and up the mountain for gluwein. It was beautifully peaceful and magical as there was snow on the Alps. Which shouldnt have occurred this time of the year, not yet! I felt like standing in the centre of the valley and just soaking it in. Doing a Maria style spin (Sound of Music).
Eaglehawk is cancelled tomorrow due to snow on the Alps.
Diana took photos with Mr January & Mr February. Marese is keeping her act of being the matchmaker.
Diana (pronounced as Deanna) is from South Africa, and looks a little like Angelina Jolie. Marese (tour guide) started this thing of making a calendar with the waiters/bartenders that we thought were worthy. Diana, being an avid photographer is always behind the camera was being forced to model with the chosen guys. So, began the hunt for 12 good looking men to be part of our calendar.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Krein and Lucerne
Day: 8 September 2007
Wellbeing: Sore throat/blocked & runny nose
Weather: Fine, 23 degrees
Highlights: Jesuit Church - breathtaking
Swiss Alps - Mount Pilatus - another breathtaking moment. We took a train (furnicular) up the mountain and for the decent, we took a big cable car and then a mini cable car. Caught some footage of some Ibex (type of wild mountain goat with large recurved horns that are transversely ridged in front) crossing my path to go higher up the Alps.
Back in the city I bought some chocs and a magnet for Mon. We had a folk show for lunch and the food was really good! Tracked down a pharmacist for some tissues. It was 2.80 Euros for a 12 pack - which i thought it was really cheap...i mean that would be about $5.00 AUD.
Sat down and did some people watching. Saw a really casually cool woman who looked effortlessly gorgeous. Wish I could be like that.
Soooo many beautiful women around here!!!
=(
At dinner Marese tried to matchmake Mary & Laz' friend David (7th Adventist Preacher?). There was a lot of talking and gossiping with Bev at the table...it was so funny!
Forcefully pushed my roomie to go to drinks with Lucy/Peter/Michelle/Michael/Pauline/Bev and Judy. They were trying to convince her to join, and only went when i gave her that extra nudge.
The Jesuit Church in Lucerne was built with beautiful Rococco interiors that was sooo exquisite, i stopped breathing and i tried to express how i was feeling verbally, but it was caught in my breath...no sound came out. Thats how glorious it is.
After seeing so many cathedrals and churches that were gothic inspired, it was unbelievable to find a church that is a sunny yellow on the outside and bright with white/pink/gold on the inside.
When people ask me which place i liked the most...? My response is a list of places, but Lucerne is definitely one of them. And the reason its one of the places I really liked is because of the Jesuit Church. I would revisit Lucerne simply because of that fact.
I don't know why i didnt mention it in my journal on the day, but we also had a cruise around Lake Lucerne and it was really relaxing and enjoyable and the views of everything was breathtaking...it was sunny with a really cool breeze...just perfect really.
Wellbeing: Sore throat/blocked & runny nose
Weather: Fine, 23 degrees
Highlights: Jesuit Church - breathtaking
Swiss Alps - Mount Pilatus - another breathtaking moment. We took a train (furnicular) up the mountain and for the decent, we took a big cable car and then a mini cable car. Caught some footage of some Ibex (type of wild mountain goat with large recurved horns that are transversely ridged in front) crossing my path to go higher up the Alps.
Back in the city I bought some chocs and a magnet for Mon. We had a folk show for lunch and the food was really good! Tracked down a pharmacist for some tissues. It was 2.80 Euros for a 12 pack - which i thought it was really cheap...i mean that would be about $5.00 AUD.
Sat down and did some people watching. Saw a really casually cool woman who looked effortlessly gorgeous. Wish I could be like that.
Soooo many beautiful women around here!!!
=(
At dinner Marese tried to matchmake Mary & Laz' friend David (7th Adventist Preacher?). There was a lot of talking and gossiping with Bev at the table...it was so funny!
Forcefully pushed my roomie to go to drinks with Lucy/Peter/Michelle/Michael/Pauline/Bev and Judy. They were trying to convince her to join, and only went when i gave her that extra nudge.
The Jesuit Church in Lucerne was built with beautiful Rococco interiors that was sooo exquisite, i stopped breathing and i tried to express how i was feeling verbally, but it was caught in my breath...no sound came out. Thats how glorious it is.
After seeing so many cathedrals and churches that were gothic inspired, it was unbelievable to find a church that is a sunny yellow on the outside and bright with white/pink/gold on the inside.
When people ask me which place i liked the most...? My response is a list of places, but Lucerne is definitely one of them. And the reason its one of the places I really liked is because of the Jesuit Church. I would revisit Lucerne simply because of that fact.
I don't know why i didnt mention it in my journal on the day, but we also had a cruise around Lake Lucerne and it was really relaxing and enjoyable and the views of everything was breathtaking...it was sunny with a really cool breeze...just perfect really.
Lake Lucerne & Krein
Day: 7 September 2007
Wellbeing: Blocked and running nose
Weather: Cloudy and drizzle
Highlights: Strasbourg - Church, design your own pasta, "Chloe" bracelet
I like Switzerland. Feels like its safe and that I have stepped back ino time. Old wooden bridges, that are the original, beautiful architecture, and then there is the "fast food" version of pasta.
Going between Germany and Switzerland border, i take a photo and only after do i get informed that its illegal to take photos at the border...fear of espionage or something.
While in Strasbourg, which is actually a part of France (and the people speak French) there were many French Patisseries. So, Lauren and I got choc eclairs and it was orgasmic. Soooooo...looking forward to Paris!
=)
Earlier in the day I decided to do all the options on the list Marese gave us...which ends up being 1343 Euros...OMG!!! But i know that i'll regret it if i dont go to everything...and it makes everything so darn easier.
Wellbeing: Blocked and running nose
Weather: Cloudy and drizzle
Highlights: Strasbourg - Church, design your own pasta, "Chloe" bracelet
I like Switzerland. Feels like its safe and that I have stepped back ino time. Old wooden bridges, that are the original, beautiful architecture, and then there is the "fast food" version of pasta.
Going between Germany and Switzerland border, i take a photo and only after do i get informed that its illegal to take photos at the border...fear of espionage or something.
While in Strasbourg, which is actually a part of France (and the people speak French) there were many French Patisseries. So, Lauren and I got choc eclairs and it was orgasmic. Soooooo...looking forward to Paris!
=)
Earlier in the day I decided to do all the options on the list Marese gave us...which ends up being 1343 Euros...OMG!!! But i know that i'll regret it if i dont go to everything...and it makes everything so darn easier.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Post 501...
I have stuffed my face with countless amounts of choc bullets and im contemplating about how wrong it would be to die by complete and sheer gluttony.
Why do weddings bring the worst out of me?
In this morbid, self loathing time of my life i see myself wearing a divine wedding dress, covered with all the jewels a girls heart can desire, with a fabulous pair of pumps and matching clutch...but im not at my wedding...no sir! Im just sitting at home, eating all the glorious food my heart desires and slowly die from utter indulgence...sitting in the most luxurious seat you can imagine...
Hey, i can think of many other ways to die that are less pleasant than the one i just described.
Sure I will die a fat pig...but think about it! If i die at an old and lonely age, who gives a fig as to what i look like...i'll just make sure there is enough in the will to supply enough attendants to carry my coffin to the grave. I mean, knowing my luck, all my friends and family would probably die before i do, just to make it more depressing for myself...and as i would be single, there are no kids to mention...my nieces will probably hate me so much that they wouldnt give a sh*t about their only spinster aunt...
If only I wasn't sitting next to my parents this evening, I could have polished the bottle of Verdi on my own...shame the Verdi is only 4.8% alcohol, it has no effect what so ever in numbing one self.
And what is it with the throwing of the bouquet that says that because you are single "you must" go up and stand and try to catch the friggin bouquet!!! I'm single, my prospects dont look good...if i catch a bouquet, it would just give me false hope, only to be dropped to the floor like a tonne of bricks when reality hits me. No thank you. I'll just keep my fat ass glued to my seat.
I went to the ladies and when i got out of my cubicle I got eyed hideously by a bunch of 20's and there was dead silence...it was like i just intruded on the cool kids circle and they were thinking WTF??? Since when was it okay for them to make me feel that sh*t when i obviously should have the upper hand!!! It was so SATC...uno the episode where Carrie and the crew were contemplating the whole 30-something vs 20-something?!?! Well, it was like these f#$%ing 20's thought that they were so "IT" and that i was so "NOT"...If i was a complete b*tch, i would have said "Dolls, i take it as a compliment that you appreciate my assets!"
They sooo don't know what will hit them after 25 and im sure i will be hit with more home truths when im 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, til forever...and you see, this is where i already have an advantage. I accept that i dont know everything...they are at the stage where they actually think that everything begins and ends with them! HA!
I told my Mum about the toilet incident and she said, "Well, they look like a bunch of b*tches!" Go Mum! *claws came out*
I'm getting really sh*tty with being the only competent person in the bridal party for K's wedding. I'm actually putting more time and effort in organising her Hen's party than my actual paid job!!! What's with that? Organising it has been stressing me out. I hate it when K calls and tells me about another incompetent thing the other bridesmaid has said or done. I was soo close to packing up shop the other day and turn around and just tell her that i dont want the honor any more. That it wasnt worth all the time i spent organising her Hen's Party...and basically being her wedding planner for the past 12+ months...
She constantly insists that i do the table decorations during the time in which we are supposed to be taking pictures. The first time she asked, i pointed out that i would be with her assisting in the photo shoot, or actually being in the photo shoot...what did she want me to do? Decorations or be with her during the photos. She says photos. But then a week later the table decorations get brought up yet again. I remind her, she wants the bridal party in some of the photos...i cant be at two places at once. I advise her to get her sisters, who arent doing anything to oversee the table decorations...she goes with the idea, but a week later we revisit the f#$%ing table decorations. This has been going on for a good 5 months now...
The wedding is a month and 6 days away...there is no itinerary...i ask her if i will need to take the Friday before her big day off, she tells me no. A week later she calls and tells me that the wedding coordinator at the gardens has told her that she will need to do a rehersal before the day. So, I might have to take the day off...which actually doesnt work well for my ride...one of the groomsmen as he can't really take the day off due to work commitments.
I ask her, isnt this your wedding? Shouldnt they accommodate you and your guests? So, shouldnt you be able to arrange the rehersal, say at 5pm on Friday instead of allowing the wedding coordinator to say when and your whole bridal party must jump to it???
Its f#$%ing really annoyig me. If it was my wedding, i would try to make it as hassle free for everyone...because i want everyone to be relaxed and enjoy the day/night with me and my imaginery man celebrating our love...tacky, i know...
It seems like she has adopted the "its my wedding, and im going to do whatever i like whenever i like - who gives a f#$% about the people who i invited to be in the bridal party..." type of mentality. Getting close to Bridezilla...
*sigh*
I should really go to bed and sleep all this negative energy off...as i do have a 1 year old's birthday to attend tomorrow...or should i say today. But i've just continued to stuff my face with more choc bullets...the sugar is giving me a buzz...even if its only temporary, its good while it lasts...
Why do weddings bring the worst out of me?
In this morbid, self loathing time of my life i see myself wearing a divine wedding dress, covered with all the jewels a girls heart can desire, with a fabulous pair of pumps and matching clutch...but im not at my wedding...no sir! Im just sitting at home, eating all the glorious food my heart desires and slowly die from utter indulgence...sitting in the most luxurious seat you can imagine...
Hey, i can think of many other ways to die that are less pleasant than the one i just described.
Sure I will die a fat pig...but think about it! If i die at an old and lonely age, who gives a fig as to what i look like...i'll just make sure there is enough in the will to supply enough attendants to carry my coffin to the grave. I mean, knowing my luck, all my friends and family would probably die before i do, just to make it more depressing for myself...and as i would be single, there are no kids to mention...my nieces will probably hate me so much that they wouldnt give a sh*t about their only spinster aunt...
If only I wasn't sitting next to my parents this evening, I could have polished the bottle of Verdi on my own...shame the Verdi is only 4.8% alcohol, it has no effect what so ever in numbing one self.
And what is it with the throwing of the bouquet that says that because you are single "you must" go up and stand and try to catch the friggin bouquet!!! I'm single, my prospects dont look good...if i catch a bouquet, it would just give me false hope, only to be dropped to the floor like a tonne of bricks when reality hits me. No thank you. I'll just keep my fat ass glued to my seat.
I went to the ladies and when i got out of my cubicle I got eyed hideously by a bunch of 20's and there was dead silence...it was like i just intruded on the cool kids circle and they were thinking WTF??? Since when was it okay for them to make me feel that sh*t when i obviously should have the upper hand!!! It was so SATC...uno the episode where Carrie and the crew were contemplating the whole 30-something vs 20-something?!?! Well, it was like these f#$%ing 20's thought that they were so "IT" and that i was so "NOT"...If i was a complete b*tch, i would have said "Dolls, i take it as a compliment that you appreciate my assets!"
They sooo don't know what will hit them after 25 and im sure i will be hit with more home truths when im 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, til forever...and you see, this is where i already have an advantage. I accept that i dont know everything...they are at the stage where they actually think that everything begins and ends with them! HA!
I told my Mum about the toilet incident and she said, "Well, they look like a bunch of b*tches!" Go Mum! *claws came out*
I'm getting really sh*tty with being the only competent person in the bridal party for K's wedding. I'm actually putting more time and effort in organising her Hen's party than my actual paid job!!! What's with that? Organising it has been stressing me out. I hate it when K calls and tells me about another incompetent thing the other bridesmaid has said or done. I was soo close to packing up shop the other day and turn around and just tell her that i dont want the honor any more. That it wasnt worth all the time i spent organising her Hen's Party...and basically being her wedding planner for the past 12+ months...
She constantly insists that i do the table decorations during the time in which we are supposed to be taking pictures. The first time she asked, i pointed out that i would be with her assisting in the photo shoot, or actually being in the photo shoot...what did she want me to do? Decorations or be with her during the photos. She says photos. But then a week later the table decorations get brought up yet again. I remind her, she wants the bridal party in some of the photos...i cant be at two places at once. I advise her to get her sisters, who arent doing anything to oversee the table decorations...she goes with the idea, but a week later we revisit the f#$%ing table decorations. This has been going on for a good 5 months now...
The wedding is a month and 6 days away...there is no itinerary...i ask her if i will need to take the Friday before her big day off, she tells me no. A week later she calls and tells me that the wedding coordinator at the gardens has told her that she will need to do a rehersal before the day. So, I might have to take the day off...which actually doesnt work well for my ride...one of the groomsmen as he can't really take the day off due to work commitments.
I ask her, isnt this your wedding? Shouldnt they accommodate you and your guests? So, shouldnt you be able to arrange the rehersal, say at 5pm on Friday instead of allowing the wedding coordinator to say when and your whole bridal party must jump to it???
Its f#$%ing really annoyig me. If it was my wedding, i would try to make it as hassle free for everyone...because i want everyone to be relaxed and enjoy the day/night with me and my imaginery man celebrating our love...tacky, i know...
It seems like she has adopted the "its my wedding, and im going to do whatever i like whenever i like - who gives a f#$% about the people who i invited to be in the bridal party..." type of mentality. Getting close to Bridezilla...
*sigh*
I should really go to bed and sleep all this negative energy off...as i do have a 1 year old's birthday to attend tomorrow...or should i say today. But i've just continued to stuff my face with more choc bullets...the sugar is giving me a buzz...even if its only temporary, its good while it lasts...
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Koln (Cologne), Germany
Day: Thursday, 6 September 2007
Wellbeing: Sinus problems
Weather: Drizzle and grey
Highlights: Hot Choc from powder...
St Andrews Cathedral, which managed to survive WWII. Heaps of photos and then the cruise down the Rhine River, taking even more snaps of the castles that were everywhere.
Skipped lunch, but dinner made up for it at the Ramada, which is absolute bliss compared to the Amsterdam hotel. The further this trip progresses, the more i feel like tipping the tour guide less. The driver is another thing, he works really hard and puts up with a lot.
After dinner, which was buffet, I caught up with Lucy, Peter and was supposed to catch up with Asian Peter too for a drink. Lucy and i had a drink and thought we should go and find Asian Pete. Lucy thought he was in Room 34? So, we went around that side of the hotel and trying to suss out which room was his by the sounds coming from the door...very childish...but i had a huge laughing fit from it and these are things that makes memories, right?
It sooooo reminded me of high school camps...knock and run...
* Germany, unfortunately i have to admit are still a bunch of racist people...i was walking around St Andrews and a group of young skin heads called me a "Ching-chong"...I dont remember the last time someone called me by a racist name like that...that is how long ago its been...it really ruined the beauty of Koln.
Wellbeing: Sinus problems
Weather: Drizzle and grey
Highlights: Hot Choc from powder...
St Andrews Cathedral, which managed to survive WWII. Heaps of photos and then the cruise down the Rhine River, taking even more snaps of the castles that were everywhere.
Skipped lunch, but dinner made up for it at the Ramada, which is absolute bliss compared to the Amsterdam hotel. The further this trip progresses, the more i feel like tipping the tour guide less. The driver is another thing, he works really hard and puts up with a lot.
After dinner, which was buffet, I caught up with Lucy, Peter and was supposed to catch up with Asian Peter too for a drink. Lucy and i had a drink and thought we should go and find Asian Pete. Lucy thought he was in Room 34? So, we went around that side of the hotel and trying to suss out which room was his by the sounds coming from the door...very childish...but i had a huge laughing fit from it and these are things that makes memories, right?
It sooooo reminded me of high school camps...knock and run...
* Germany, unfortunately i have to admit are still a bunch of racist people...i was walking around St Andrews and a group of young skin heads called me a "Ching-chong"...I dont remember the last time someone called me by a racist name like that...that is how long ago its been...it really ruined the beauty of Koln.
Amsterdam
Day: Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy
Highlights: Clog maker William cracking some funnies while showing us how to make clogs...
Got a show of how to make cheese and clogs. Met William, the clog maker...one of the few left in Holland to do it the traditional way. Got ripped off buying souvenirs here though, could have bought the same things, but cheaper in Volendam (fishing village we visited after the clog making).
The stitching of my umbrella came undone while in Volendam...had to stitch it back up!
Visited a diamond place - Gassan's and saw a beautiful 2.22 carat diamond, D colour, i think VVS1 or 2, and the guy giving the presentation was extremely cute!!! His English was perfect with his accent...hehhe...
Did a canal cruise of Amsterdam through the city centre. Really odd, because if someone said "canal" i would think Venice...you dont associate it with Amsterdam...but it was amazing.
Walked around Amsterdam with Lauren to look for the Rembrandt museum but didnt find it. Found a shopping strip similar to our Pitt Street - very tempted to stop and buy shoes.
Lauren and i stopped for a hot chocolate at a cafe or is it coffee house? *LoL* It took us all day to figure out which was which. The hot chocolate we had was made from powder and we were getting ready to be disappointed, but it was actually really good.
After roaming around, we hopped onto the coach and was driven to the restaurant for our authentic Dutch dinner. I had a pea and sausage soup for entree, Hopsh Kosch (i think thats how you spell it) for main, and fruit salad with ice cream for dessert. Tried a berry gin...not for me.
After dinner, we did a tour of the Red Light District...a lot of girls were either busy or "busy" because the curtains were closed.
Early start tomorrow.
Tipping is required for local guid and driver, not sure how to give.
Unfortunately my overall impression of Amsterdam, city = sleazy...
Wellbeing: Okay
Weather: Rainy
Highlights: Clog maker William cracking some funnies while showing us how to make clogs...
Got a show of how to make cheese and clogs. Met William, the clog maker...one of the few left in Holland to do it the traditional way. Got ripped off buying souvenirs here though, could have bought the same things, but cheaper in Volendam (fishing village we visited after the clog making).
The stitching of my umbrella came undone while in Volendam...had to stitch it back up!
Visited a diamond place - Gassan's and saw a beautiful 2.22 carat diamond, D colour, i think VVS1 or 2, and the guy giving the presentation was extremely cute!!! His English was perfect with his accent...hehhe...
Did a canal cruise of Amsterdam through the city centre. Really odd, because if someone said "canal" i would think Venice...you dont associate it with Amsterdam...but it was amazing.
Walked around Amsterdam with Lauren to look for the Rembrandt museum but didnt find it. Found a shopping strip similar to our Pitt Street - very tempted to stop and buy shoes.
Lauren and i stopped for a hot chocolate at a cafe or is it coffee house? *LoL* It took us all day to figure out which was which. The hot chocolate we had was made from powder and we were getting ready to be disappointed, but it was actually really good.
After roaming around, we hopped onto the coach and was driven to the restaurant for our authentic Dutch dinner. I had a pea and sausage soup for entree, Hopsh Kosch (i think thats how you spell it) for main, and fruit salad with ice cream for dessert. Tried a berry gin...not for me.
After dinner, we did a tour of the Red Light District...a lot of girls were either busy or "busy" because the curtains were closed.
Early start tomorrow.
Tipping is required for local guid and driver, not sure how to give.
Unfortunately my overall impression of Amsterdam, city = sleazy...
Dover/Calais/Belgium/Holland
Day: Tuesday, 4 September 2007
Wellbeing: Tired from jetlag, otherwise fine
Weather: Fine, some rain
Highlight: Cruise from Dover to Calais
I'm over the idea of being excited about the trip and have decided on just taking things as they come. So tired though and sitting in a comfortable coach doesnt help me. I feel like sleeping every 30 minutes.
A lot of travelling, not much sight seeing today except via the coach looking at the country side which is green and lush. First sights of windmills was exciting but i was slow with taking my camera out of my bag, and didn't take a pic.
People on the tour are generally older...older retired or retiring couples...The singles are 30 and over...ranging from 30-39.
Food has been alright - filling at the least.
Doing an optional extra tomorrow night - a proper authentic Dutch dinner!
=)
Wellbeing: Tired from jetlag, otherwise fine
Weather: Fine, some rain
Highlight: Cruise from Dover to Calais
I'm over the idea of being excited about the trip and have decided on just taking things as they come. So tired though and sitting in a comfortable coach doesnt help me. I feel like sleeping every 30 minutes.
A lot of travelling, not much sight seeing today except via the coach looking at the country side which is green and lush. First sights of windmills was exciting but i was slow with taking my camera out of my bag, and didn't take a pic.
People on the tour are generally older...older retired or retiring couples...The singles are 30 and over...ranging from 30-39.
Food has been alright - filling at the least.
Doing an optional extra tomorrow night - a proper authentic Dutch dinner!
=)
My Travel Journal
I will be copying what i wrote in my travel journal straight to my blog and it will be in italics, if i do add any after thoughts, it will be in the usual text font.
You will notice that i had a tendency to write all the positive things down and omitted the negative. I basically erased the bad things as they happened, because i was unusually patient, tolerant and accepting on my holiday.
I was just riding with the wind...
You will notice that i had a tendency to write all the positive things down and omitted the negative. I basically erased the bad things as they happened, because i was unusually patient, tolerant and accepting on my holiday.
I was just riding with the wind...
Monday, October 15, 2007
Leaving Sydney...
The beginning of the trip that would change me...
Well, frankly, i thought everything else would change around me...it always seemed to, when i went away for 2-3 weeks with Mum, when i was younger. The world changed 3 times over and i felt like i had been left out. Which was what i had predicted this time, especially, since i was would be on my own for 4 weeks...wouldn't you think that the world would change without you???
I got on the plane bound for HK and my 5 hour transit, then a flight to LON and so thats how it started.
The flight was fine...the food was alright...i think i drank enough water...it was an extremely full flight...but i was alright. Overall, i think i had about 3-4 hours sleep, which is more than usual.
The transit in HK was okay, since i headed straight to the lounge for a shower and a meal, internet, and a head/neck/shoulder massage.
After that, i hopped on to the plane bound for Heathrow surrounded by Chinese school kids.
These kids with their phones dont seem to respect the fact that the Captain is advising the flight attendants to arm the doors and take their seats...and therefore they should get off their bloody F#$%ing PHONES!!! I had to tap a stoopid idiot as the plane was reversing and about to take off!
To make matters worse, the flight to Heathrow turned even more sour, because as i was watching "Becoming Jane", the inflight entertainment that is on queue just died on me!!! Well, it crashed for everyone.
Anyhoo...landed in London and got through customs pretty easy...
Walked through the exit gates expecting a man to be holding a card with my name on it to pick me up...but there was no one...too early it seems.
So, i go to the office and thats closed! I stand around for about 45 minutes and get told that i need to wait for my coach. Fine, i can do that...
It seems like a long wait...i make conversation with a man who is also waiting for the coach, but is going in a different direction to me because of the hotel he is staying at...he leaves before me and i end up standing around on my own...funny enough, it doesnt bother me. Maybe its the fact that i had only 3-4 hours of sleep over 24 hours, but i was actually holding up pretty well.
My coach arrives and i get escorted to it...and i notice - its sunny in London...whats going on?!
O_o
I was expecting doom and gloom...but its actually sunny.
Its another hour or so before i actually get to my hotel but i am enjoying the ride...just taking it all in.
I get off the coach and check in to the hotel and its pleasant. I was expecting a really dingy place...seeing that its situated between Kings Cross and Angel stations...but i'm happy.
I go into my room, take a shower and head off for my Big Bus Company Tour. I walk from my hotel to Fleet Street and hop onto the first bus that comes around and so starts my whirlwind sightseeing of London!
To be honest, it isnt hard to see the beauty of London - when its sunny. And i see how easy it is for people to relocate to London, (mind the rain).
Around every corner their is history...
I saw every sight, except Buckingham Palace, because i missed the walking tour at 10am...so i didnt bother and instead hopped off at Harrods to go shopping, and then realised that i couldnt afford anything except the chocolates...so i bought a couple of Belgian choccies and headed to Oxford Street to go shopping.
I had to rush from Oxford Street back to the Hotel to catch up with my ex-workmate who relocated to London, for dinner. When i got to the Hotel, i checked on whether the rep for my Tour had arrived with info, and it seems that they came and went.
I thought it was ridiculous that they give you a vague time like 1-3pm and expect you to wait in the lobby for their arrival...i'm sorry, but i'm not waiting for someone to tell me when to wake up to have brekky and join my tour for 2 hours on my one and only day in a new country!!!
I was told to go to my room and check if an envelope was left under my door.
I checked and there was nothing.
I panic...first moment of true panic...how can i check in...? They organised everything for me, how can they NOT know that i am here??? So, i call reception and throw a hissy fit, they give me a number and im thinking its 6pm...i'm going to miss them, they've gone home!!!
I call them anyway on my mobile (what a waste of my money, all to fix up their incompetence!!!) and the girl sounds Australian and patronises me by asking if i booked things separately or through Trafalgar...do i even have a booking reference?!?!?! I'm like YES!!! And give her a reference number and she's like "oh, okay, i dont know what went wrong?!"
So, she fixes things up and says that she will call me back to confirm that everything is okay.
I rush to meet Roh and im only 5 minutes later than when i should meet her, so i dont feel completely horrible. We rush to grab something to eat, because i hadnt eaten anything all day! How scary is that?! And i thought we could get some noodles...but this place was a buffet place and they had horrible Asian food! I now know what everyone is talking about! Its run by Asians...how could they get it so wrong?!
Its 9:00pm when we part ways...because Roh had to catch the train back to her apartment and there was currently a strike and only 3 lines were running out of the 30 or so lines...while i only had to walk around the corner.
I walk back and crash, my wake up call for brekky is at 4:30am.
Well, frankly, i thought everything else would change around me...it always seemed to, when i went away for 2-3 weeks with Mum, when i was younger. The world changed 3 times over and i felt like i had been left out. Which was what i had predicted this time, especially, since i was would be on my own for 4 weeks...wouldn't you think that the world would change without you???
I got on the plane bound for HK and my 5 hour transit, then a flight to LON and so thats how it started.
The flight was fine...the food was alright...i think i drank enough water...it was an extremely full flight...but i was alright. Overall, i think i had about 3-4 hours sleep, which is more than usual.
The transit in HK was okay, since i headed straight to the lounge for a shower and a meal, internet, and a head/neck/shoulder massage.
After that, i hopped on to the plane bound for Heathrow surrounded by Chinese school kids.
These kids with their phones dont seem to respect the fact that the Captain is advising the flight attendants to arm the doors and take their seats...and therefore they should get off their bloody F#$%ing PHONES!!! I had to tap a stoopid idiot as the plane was reversing and about to take off!
To make matters worse, the flight to Heathrow turned even more sour, because as i was watching "Becoming Jane", the inflight entertainment that is on queue just died on me!!! Well, it crashed for everyone.
Anyhoo...landed in London and got through customs pretty easy...
Walked through the exit gates expecting a man to be holding a card with my name on it to pick me up...but there was no one...too early it seems.
So, i go to the office and thats closed! I stand around for about 45 minutes and get told that i need to wait for my coach. Fine, i can do that...
It seems like a long wait...i make conversation with a man who is also waiting for the coach, but is going in a different direction to me because of the hotel he is staying at...he leaves before me and i end up standing around on my own...funny enough, it doesnt bother me. Maybe its the fact that i had only 3-4 hours of sleep over 24 hours, but i was actually holding up pretty well.
My coach arrives and i get escorted to it...and i notice - its sunny in London...whats going on?!
O_o
I was expecting doom and gloom...but its actually sunny.
Its another hour or so before i actually get to my hotel but i am enjoying the ride...just taking it all in.
I get off the coach and check in to the hotel and its pleasant. I was expecting a really dingy place...seeing that its situated between Kings Cross and Angel stations...but i'm happy.
I go into my room, take a shower and head off for my Big Bus Company Tour. I walk from my hotel to Fleet Street and hop onto the first bus that comes around and so starts my whirlwind sightseeing of London!
To be honest, it isnt hard to see the beauty of London - when its sunny. And i see how easy it is for people to relocate to London, (mind the rain).
Around every corner their is history...
I saw every sight, except Buckingham Palace, because i missed the walking tour at 10am...so i didnt bother and instead hopped off at Harrods to go shopping, and then realised that i couldnt afford anything except the chocolates...so i bought a couple of Belgian choccies and headed to Oxford Street to go shopping.
I had to rush from Oxford Street back to the Hotel to catch up with my ex-workmate who relocated to London, for dinner. When i got to the Hotel, i checked on whether the rep for my Tour had arrived with info, and it seems that they came and went.
I thought it was ridiculous that they give you a vague time like 1-3pm and expect you to wait in the lobby for their arrival...i'm sorry, but i'm not waiting for someone to tell me when to wake up to have brekky and join my tour for 2 hours on my one and only day in a new country!!!
I was told to go to my room and check if an envelope was left under my door.
I checked and there was nothing.
I panic...first moment of true panic...how can i check in...? They organised everything for me, how can they NOT know that i am here??? So, i call reception and throw a hissy fit, they give me a number and im thinking its 6pm...i'm going to miss them, they've gone home!!!
I call them anyway on my mobile (what a waste of my money, all to fix up their incompetence!!!) and the girl sounds Australian and patronises me by asking if i booked things separately or through Trafalgar...do i even have a booking reference?!?!?! I'm like YES!!! And give her a reference number and she's like "oh, okay, i dont know what went wrong?!"
So, she fixes things up and says that she will call me back to confirm that everything is okay.
I rush to meet Roh and im only 5 minutes later than when i should meet her, so i dont feel completely horrible. We rush to grab something to eat, because i hadnt eaten anything all day! How scary is that?! And i thought we could get some noodles...but this place was a buffet place and they had horrible Asian food! I now know what everyone is talking about! Its run by Asians...how could they get it so wrong?!
Its 9:00pm when we part ways...because Roh had to catch the train back to her apartment and there was currently a strike and only 3 lines were running out of the 30 or so lines...while i only had to walk around the corner.
I walk back and crash, my wake up call for brekky is at 4:30am.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Knowing what you are worth...
Before i left Sydney for my holiday, i was being headhunted, but i told them i was going overseas and would the recruiters mind contacting me in October.
Before i returned, i got phonecalls and emails from recruiters about opportunities that i would be suitable for.
My workmate left the company before my return. The Finance team and the Billing team all left and were replaced by newbies. My manager was pressured to do my work and basically got my workmate who was leaving to do the work...and basically things got royally f#$%ed up. Not her fault, it was actually all the newbies!
The first 3 days of my return to work was basically fixing up everything that was wrong. And everyone basically realised that im an intergral part of the company and that they can't afford to lose me.
I realised on my trip that i need to make more money. I cant afford to stay with my employer. It doesnt make sense that i can go to another company and basically make twice as much as i am now, if i was permanent. I can make 3 times as much if i was contracting. So, why am i staying with my employer who doesnt value my skills and knowledge?
I sat down with my line manager at the end of the week of my return to work and we discussed about my prospects.
Everyday since my return to Sydney i received a call from a recruiter. Each day a new and different prospect. I told him that this was happening...that i appreciate that we'd be doing our review at the end of the year, but i needed an indication that i was going to be promoted to a Jnr PM, if not a PM and be paid accordingly to reflect that. Market rate...that's all that i ask...
After that conversation...the next day i get a call from another recruiter and the opportunity is actually good. The company is one that is known for treating their employees well. Its a contract position that will end in August 08, which is perfect because i want to go to Europe and Mauritius in September 08.
I sent him what the recruiting company is offering, he said he would get back to me next week.
I'm having an interview next Wednesday. I hope it goes well.
I told my client about the situation, that i am being headhunted daily for different roles. He isnt surprised, he gave me 2 months from the return of my holiday to find something better. But he was offering to advise his manager that i'm worth too much to lose and they would try to match what the recruiter is offering. He asked me to advise him of what would make me happy to stay? How often does a manager ask an employee that? A contracting employee mind you.
I'm taking things in stride...i know this cant last for long...i just need to hear how far my current employer will stretch, if at all.
If that fails, then i will advise the client how much it will take to retain me.
If that doesn't work, i will take on the role being offered out there.
A year ago...i wouldnt have been comfortable with negotiating...
Now, its a different ball game. I tell the recruiters how much i want. They don't argue, they just try to convince their clients to pay up for me. I have reached that point where my skills and knowledge is valued.
Its no longer, will they like me? Its will i like them? I have something they want, can they afford me?
Damn...it sounds like im selling myself. I guess thats what it is at the end of the day.
I dont want to leave the client, because i think there is still a lot to learn from them. It will be a shame if i leave this year.
Before i returned, i got phonecalls and emails from recruiters about opportunities that i would be suitable for.
My workmate left the company before my return. The Finance team and the Billing team all left and were replaced by newbies. My manager was pressured to do my work and basically got my workmate who was leaving to do the work...and basically things got royally f#$%ed up. Not her fault, it was actually all the newbies!
The first 3 days of my return to work was basically fixing up everything that was wrong. And everyone basically realised that im an intergral part of the company and that they can't afford to lose me.
I realised on my trip that i need to make more money. I cant afford to stay with my employer. It doesnt make sense that i can go to another company and basically make twice as much as i am now, if i was permanent. I can make 3 times as much if i was contracting. So, why am i staying with my employer who doesnt value my skills and knowledge?
I sat down with my line manager at the end of the week of my return to work and we discussed about my prospects.
Everyday since my return to Sydney i received a call from a recruiter. Each day a new and different prospect. I told him that this was happening...that i appreciate that we'd be doing our review at the end of the year, but i needed an indication that i was going to be promoted to a Jnr PM, if not a PM and be paid accordingly to reflect that. Market rate...that's all that i ask...
After that conversation...the next day i get a call from another recruiter and the opportunity is actually good. The company is one that is known for treating their employees well. Its a contract position that will end in August 08, which is perfect because i want to go to Europe and Mauritius in September 08.
I sent him what the recruiting company is offering, he said he would get back to me next week.
I'm having an interview next Wednesday. I hope it goes well.
I told my client about the situation, that i am being headhunted daily for different roles. He isnt surprised, he gave me 2 months from the return of my holiday to find something better. But he was offering to advise his manager that i'm worth too much to lose and they would try to match what the recruiter is offering. He asked me to advise him of what would make me happy to stay? How often does a manager ask an employee that? A contracting employee mind you.
I'm taking things in stride...i know this cant last for long...i just need to hear how far my current employer will stretch, if at all.
If that fails, then i will advise the client how much it will take to retain me.
If that doesn't work, i will take on the role being offered out there.
A year ago...i wouldnt have been comfortable with negotiating...
Now, its a different ball game. I tell the recruiters how much i want. They don't argue, they just try to convince their clients to pay up for me. I have reached that point where my skills and knowledge is valued.
Its no longer, will they like me? Its will i like them? I have something they want, can they afford me?
Damn...it sounds like im selling myself. I guess thats what it is at the end of the day.
I dont want to leave the client, because i think there is still a lot to learn from them. It will be a shame if i leave this year.
Monday, October 08, 2007
I just booked 2 tickets for KL & SG...
I decided that if i could pay off my CC after my Europe trip and still have some cash in the bank that i would definitely go to KL & SG for a shopping expedition with Mum.
So, i went to see my Travel Agent after work today and was hoping for tickets to KL/SG on Christmas Day as i did 2 years ago, but it seems everyone has caught on and i could only get tix for Mum and i on NYE. So, i reversed the trip and will be heading to KL first.
And after KL i will be heading to SG for Mum. She hasnt seen it for over 26 years, before i was born. She visited SG when she was migrating from Vietnam to get to Australia...so, I thought i would bring her back to see it while we had the chance.
I apparently still have 10 days of leave, which fits perfectly for my forced leave over the Christmas period. By Christmas, i will have 12+ days of leave...hehehe...
If you want to see photos from my Europe trip and you are not on facebook, please email me and i will send you a link to view it from.
Updates/recounts of the trip will be posted on Blogger, once i get the photos done...so i can actually recall the proper line of events!
So, i went to see my Travel Agent after work today and was hoping for tickets to KL/SG on Christmas Day as i did 2 years ago, but it seems everyone has caught on and i could only get tix for Mum and i on NYE. So, i reversed the trip and will be heading to KL first.
And after KL i will be heading to SG for Mum. She hasnt seen it for over 26 years, before i was born. She visited SG when she was migrating from Vietnam to get to Australia...so, I thought i would bring her back to see it while we had the chance.
I apparently still have 10 days of leave, which fits perfectly for my forced leave over the Christmas period. By Christmas, i will have 12+ days of leave...hehehe...
If you want to see photos from my Europe trip and you are not on facebook, please email me and i will send you a link to view it from.
Updates/recounts of the trip will be posted on Blogger, once i get the photos done...so i can actually recall the proper line of events!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Last moments in Paris...
I'm writing this, literally minutes before leaving the Paris apartment I have been staying at for the last 4 nights.
I truly wished that i could stay here for sooo much longer! It hit me last night as we walked to the Lourve for dinner at Le Cafe Marley. We strolled for over 20 minutes but in Paris, you don't notice the minutes passing because there is so much around you to absorb. I turned to my friend and said i will miss this city...that i wished i could stay...and since I won't be able to stay longer, i will be returning as soon as possible.
I don't know who warned me about the "difficult" French people, because I've only encountered lovely Parisians! And all the strangers on the Metro, well they are civilised and polite.
Heading to the Airport for an amazingly L-O-N-G flight home with unbelievably l......o......n......g transiting hours to pass.
Update, probably when i get to HK International for the leg to Sydney.
Au revoir Paris!
I truly wished that i could stay here for sooo much longer! It hit me last night as we walked to the Lourve for dinner at Le Cafe Marley. We strolled for over 20 minutes but in Paris, you don't notice the minutes passing because there is so much around you to absorb. I turned to my friend and said i will miss this city...that i wished i could stay...and since I won't be able to stay longer, i will be returning as soon as possible.
I don't know who warned me about the "difficult" French people, because I've only encountered lovely Parisians! And all the strangers on the Metro, well they are civilised and polite.
Heading to the Airport for an amazingly L-O-N-G flight home with unbelievably l......o......n......g transiting hours to pass.
Update, probably when i get to HK International for the leg to Sydney.
Au revoir Paris!
Friday, September 28, 2007
Salut, mon cheries...
So I have been in Paris for 2 nights so far and i have climbed the Eiffel Tower, well took a lift to the 2nd floor and then had a cruise along the River Seine. Then I went to visit the palace at Versailles and had a dinner and Can Can show at the Nouvelle Eve. Which i think is the same as the Moulin Rouge, but it has some variety shows between the t*tty and cheek show. There were some crazy acrobatics, and i mean crazy from both extremes (good and incredible wacky).
Bought an unbelievably expensive bar of chocolate, which one can only purchase from this woman in a small obscure store in Paris, which is a story in itself.
Today i left the tour and met my friend...being tired of touring and always on the move, we decided to take today slowly and go exploring Sacre Coeur later today in the early evening but rest throughout the day.
I have done some obscure things on this tour like visit small places: Burano, Lucca, Vance, Burgois, Toledo, or doing the Light procession in Lourdes. We did wine tasting in Tuscany and got to visit Cannes when it wasnt even a possibility.
I did the typical things like buy chocolate from Switzerland...leather, jewellery, lace from Florence...perfume from France...damas jewellery from Toledo...horse and carriage ride in Innsbruck.
I have so many memories but i know i will be going back sooner or later, and i have already decided that i will be returning to Barcelona to see Sagrada Familia completed in 2020.
I will be going back to Sydney next week...so i'll update the blog with stories about each country there after.
Bought an unbelievably expensive bar of chocolate, which one can only purchase from this woman in a small obscure store in Paris, which is a story in itself.
Today i left the tour and met my friend...being tired of touring and always on the move, we decided to take today slowly and go exploring Sacre Coeur later today in the early evening but rest throughout the day.
I have done some obscure things on this tour like visit small places: Burano, Lucca, Vance, Burgois, Toledo, or doing the Light procession in Lourdes. We did wine tasting in Tuscany and got to visit Cannes when it wasnt even a possibility.
I did the typical things like buy chocolate from Switzerland...leather, jewellery, lace from Florence...perfume from France...damas jewellery from Toledo...horse and carriage ride in Innsbruck.
I have so many memories but i know i will be going back sooner or later, and i have already decided that i will be returning to Barcelona to see Sagrada Familia completed in 2020.
I will be going back to Sydney next week...so i'll update the blog with stories about each country there after.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Concert in Vienna...
This has to be quick.
I'm currently in vienna and its really hard to type this because the letters on the keyboard are weird z where the y should be...
Anyhoo...going to a palace tomorrow and then seeing a concert at the palace in Vienna.
Had a glorious dinner in the Woods of Vienna and had some Hungarian men play music all night long!!!
The trip has been fun and is utterly enjoyable...i wish that i had more time in each country...
So far my favourite is Lucerne and the Jesuit Cathedral with the Roccoco interior...completely breath taking.
I wish that all my loved ones were with me when i saw the snow on the Austrian Alps yesterday on my horse and carriage ride...beyoootiful!!!
Plenty of pics...post everything up when i get back...
Love u, and miss u!!!
~petals
I'm currently in vienna and its really hard to type this because the letters on the keyboard are weird z where the y should be...
Anyhoo...going to a palace tomorrow and then seeing a concert at the palace in Vienna.
Had a glorious dinner in the Woods of Vienna and had some Hungarian men play music all night long!!!
The trip has been fun and is utterly enjoyable...i wish that i had more time in each country...
So far my favourite is Lucerne and the Jesuit Cathedral with the Roccoco interior...completely breath taking.
I wish that all my loved ones were with me when i saw the snow on the Austrian Alps yesterday on my horse and carriage ride...beyoootiful!!!
Plenty of pics...post everything up when i get back...
Love u, and miss u!!!
~petals
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Airport Lounge...
So, i'm currently sitting at the HK airport lounge. I'm surrounded by a lot of asians...oddly enough. I figured the people transiting would be foreigners, not asians - Chinese.
My flight from SYD-HK was delayed by 1 hour this morning, but the flight made it hear, like 10 minutes late...how does that work???
On flight, i'm really impressed Qantas food is edible. They even gave me an ice cream...and i love the fact that i was given bottles of water, not just itsy bitsy cups of water. Albeit, the bottles were small too.
So, right now, i need to ride out this long haul of layover time. Try to get myself tired so that i fall asleep on the flight to the UK.
I cant wait to meet my workmate over there.
Funny thing is, im still not excited - what the hell is wrong with me? I dont know...i thought i would feel the buzz when i got to the airport. I thought that while i waited for my flight that i would get that excited feeling, but it hasnt happened yet. I'm not sure if it will happen at all.
Back to the airport lounge, my massage is scheduled for 8:20pm local time. I want to fit in a shower before that...grabbed some food already, but i will grab a sandwich and bottle of water later too.
I do believe that this is the last time i will log onto the net...so dont miss me too much! (And thats aimed at Mon, E, & K).
*hugs*
My flight from SYD-HK was delayed by 1 hour this morning, but the flight made it hear, like 10 minutes late...how does that work???
On flight, i'm really impressed Qantas food is edible. They even gave me an ice cream...and i love the fact that i was given bottles of water, not just itsy bitsy cups of water. Albeit, the bottles were small too.
So, right now, i need to ride out this long haul of layover time. Try to get myself tired so that i fall asleep on the flight to the UK.
I cant wait to meet my workmate over there.
Funny thing is, im still not excited - what the hell is wrong with me? I dont know...i thought i would feel the buzz when i got to the airport. I thought that while i waited for my flight that i would get that excited feeling, but it hasnt happened yet. I'm not sure if it will happen at all.
Back to the airport lounge, my massage is scheduled for 8:20pm local time. I want to fit in a shower before that...grabbed some food already, but i will grab a sandwich and bottle of water later too.
I do believe that this is the last time i will log onto the net...so dont miss me too much! (And thats aimed at Mon, E, & K).
*hugs*
Saturday, September 01, 2007
Au revoir mon cheri...
So, i'll say farewell now...although, i have this feeling that i will be online at the airport tomorrow morning. But in case i dont get the chance...
I dont plan on being "in touch".
I do plan to switch off and not think of anything but where i am, what sights i will be seeing that day, and what food i will be trying.
I'll write up my posts and upload photos when i get back.
Come back in a months time for a read.
See you then...
I dont plan on being "in touch".
I do plan to switch off and not think of anything but where i am, what sights i will be seeing that day, and what food i will be trying.
I'll write up my posts and upload photos when i get back.
Come back in a months time for a read.
See you then...
Friday, August 31, 2007
Dernier jour travailler...
Its my last day at work.
I have a sh#% load to do, but i cant be fudged.
My colleague and partner in crime here has just told me that she will be taking up an offer she cant refuse. And i can see why. If i was in her position, i'd take it too.
Its just a shame that i wont be around for her farewell as i am going o/s.
A lot of crap has been dished out lately...so a lot of my workmates will be leaving soon.
The team is disbanding.
I guess my trip away will give me the opportunity to think things over and see where i want to go next. I'm thinking contracting isnt such a bad idea.
(lit: last day to work...)
I have a sh#% load to do, but i cant be fudged.
My colleague and partner in crime here has just told me that she will be taking up an offer she cant refuse. And i can see why. If i was in her position, i'd take it too.
Its just a shame that i wont be around for her farewell as i am going o/s.
A lot of crap has been dished out lately...so a lot of my workmates will be leaving soon.
The team is disbanding.
I guess my trip away will give me the opportunity to think things over and see where i want to go next. I'm thinking contracting isnt such a bad idea.
(lit: last day to work...)
Thursday, August 30, 2007
I am sick!
I had the cold/flu about 2 weeks ago...it took about a week to get over it. I was okay last week, a bit tired, but over the cold/flu.
Just my luck, im struck again.
My nose is blocked and running at the same time!!! How is that f#$%ing possible???
Just my luck, im struck again.
My nose is blocked and running at the same time!!! How is that f#$%ing possible???
Monday, August 27, 2007
Pourriez-vous m'aider, sil vous plait?
Its drawing near.
I'm anxious.
I'm packed...just need to put documents, cables and stuff into my bag...
Get some food to snack on...
Need to remember to bring an empty bottle so i can get a 1L bottle of water during my flight, and refills...yes i drink like a fish...i typically go through 3-4L a day.
I'm going to miss my family, but i hope the whirlwind of a tour will make it pass with lesser pain.
(lit: Could you help me, please?)
I'm anxious.
I'm packed...just need to put documents, cables and stuff into my bag...
Get some food to snack on...
Need to remember to bring an empty bottle so i can get a 1L bottle of water during my flight, and refills...yes i drink like a fish...i typically go through 3-4L a day.
I'm going to miss my family, but i hope the whirlwind of a tour will make it pass with lesser pain.
(lit: Could you help me, please?)
Friday, August 24, 2007
Trop à faire...
So little time.
It has hit me this morning.
Time is flying by.
Money needs to be transferred.
I need to schedule payments.
I need to finish things up neatly at work, so that the next person to pick it up can find everything.
I need to exchange some money.
I wanted to buy tickets to JT, but missed out on it and cant find 3 tix to buy because there is probably only single tix left...what kind of f#$%ing system does ticketek have where they leave single tix for sale? Who is going to be a nigel and buy 1 seated tix for a concert??? If you are going by yourself, get a standing tix, cos then at least you wont feel like a loner throughout the night!
I can't believe i'm flying out next week.
(lit: Too much to do...)
It has hit me this morning.
Time is flying by.
Money needs to be transferred.
I need to schedule payments.
I need to finish things up neatly at work, so that the next person to pick it up can find everything.
I need to exchange some money.
I wanted to buy tickets to JT, but missed out on it and cant find 3 tix to buy because there is probably only single tix left...what kind of f#$%ing system does ticketek have where they leave single tix for sale? Who is going to be a nigel and buy 1 seated tix for a concert??? If you are going by yourself, get a standing tix, cos then at least you wont feel like a loner throughout the night!
I can't believe i'm flying out next week.
(lit: Too much to do...)
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Je suis malade...
I went to see my doctor to get prescriptions before the trip. I told him about a skin thing i noticed and he told me to take a blood test because he thought i might have low platelet count.
So, i gave some blood and started panicking that i might not be able to go overseas!
How bad would that be? After all this organising and then the waiting and it all amounted to the fact that i would not be allowed to travel due to some blood condition i didnt even know that i had!
=(
Got the results yesterday, and i am fine. Don't know what is causing the problem, but i can still go overseas, so thats a good thing.
But its sooo anti climatic if you have a problem and yet there is no explanation. But its there. You cant treat it, though. It doesnt seem to exist. But it is right in front of you. grrr...
And im currently nursing a flu...Codral cold and flu should kick it...need to get another pack for the actual trip!
>_<
I did a trial pack of the clothing i plan to bring. Even though i am being advised to bring about 5 tops only and 2 bottoms...for me, that is unrealistic. I packed 12 tops - a mix of singlets, tees, long sleeve tees, 2 jeans, 1 pair of shorts, 2 dresses, and 2 skirts, 1 jumper, 2 cardigans, 1 jacket, 2 sets of pjs. And you know what? It all fits into my handcarry bag...and im not talking a HUGE bag i plan on smuggling on board the plane with me without anyone from the airline noticing...i'm talking a standard sized handcarry bag.
The problem for me is all the other things to pack. Like toiletries, medicine, towel, shoes, miscellaneous stuff...but irrespective of all those things, I should be well under my allowable 20kg.
So, i'm pretty proud of myself...no need to take things out of the bag as yet.
(lit: I am sick...)
So, i gave some blood and started panicking that i might not be able to go overseas!
How bad would that be? After all this organising and then the waiting and it all amounted to the fact that i would not be allowed to travel due to some blood condition i didnt even know that i had!
=(
Got the results yesterday, and i am fine. Don't know what is causing the problem, but i can still go overseas, so thats a good thing.
But its sooo anti climatic if you have a problem and yet there is no explanation. But its there. You cant treat it, though. It doesnt seem to exist. But it is right in front of you. grrr...
And im currently nursing a flu...Codral cold and flu should kick it...need to get another pack for the actual trip!
>_<
I did a trial pack of the clothing i plan to bring. Even though i am being advised to bring about 5 tops only and 2 bottoms...for me, that is unrealistic. I packed 12 tops - a mix of singlets, tees, long sleeve tees, 2 jeans, 1 pair of shorts, 2 dresses, and 2 skirts, 1 jumper, 2 cardigans, 1 jacket, 2 sets of pjs. And you know what? It all fits into my handcarry bag...and im not talking a HUGE bag i plan on smuggling on board the plane with me without anyone from the airline noticing...i'm talking a standard sized handcarry bag.
The problem for me is all the other things to pack. Like toiletries, medicine, towel, shoes, miscellaneous stuff...but irrespective of all those things, I should be well under my allowable 20kg.
So, i'm pretty proud of myself...no need to take things out of the bag as yet.
(lit: I am sick...)
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Texas to California...
Mum got a weird phone call on Monday from Texas. It was a lady from my Dad's primary school back in Vietnam. How weird is that?
She asked if Dad was at home, but Dad was at work. So, this lady starts talking to Mum. She told Mum about how after sooo many years leaving Vietnam she was on holidays in Sydney and was in Chinatown at a store when she bumped into Dad again. This happened about 15 years+ ago, as i was still a kid.
It seems that while this lady was at the store in Chinatown, she had written something down and Dad saw her writing and asked her if her name was "so&so"? She didnt recognise him at first until he said his name and that was when he gave our home number to her. They were suppose to bring each other's family and meet up for dinner, but it never happened.
15 years+ down the track and she calls out of the blue. The purpose was to advise Dad that there was going to be a School Reunion in California. Not sure what made her think that Dad would be interested in going...but i guess it was a nice thought?!
After mentioning the reunion to Mum she proceeded to ask about the family and found out from my darling Mum, that Mum has a single 26 y/o daughter. This sparked a frenzy with the lady. She proceeds to insist that Mum and Dad bring me over to Texas to introduce me to her 29 y/o nephew! Like, what the...?
Mum, obviously thought it was funny. Which is why she told me about it the moment i got home on Monday night.
I'm heading overseas in about 10 working days. Weekends dont really count, because they usually fly right by! Last thing to do is purchase some medicine and exchange some money.
I found out that a credit card i have allows me to put my cash on the card (over the limit) and withdraw without being charged any transaction fee or exchange fee from an ATM. Transaction fee will be charged from transactions via EFTPOS, but still no currency exchange fee.
I was over the moon when i found this out! I dont know of any other card, debit or credit, that allows you to do this!!! And get this, zero annual fee for the credit card! The usual 55 days interest free on purchases applies too. Like, woohoo!!!
*^_^*
She asked if Dad was at home, but Dad was at work. So, this lady starts talking to Mum. She told Mum about how after sooo many years leaving Vietnam she was on holidays in Sydney and was in Chinatown at a store when she bumped into Dad again. This happened about 15 years+ ago, as i was still a kid.
It seems that while this lady was at the store in Chinatown, she had written something down and Dad saw her writing and asked her if her name was "so&so"? She didnt recognise him at first until he said his name and that was when he gave our home number to her. They were suppose to bring each other's family and meet up for dinner, but it never happened.
15 years+ down the track and she calls out of the blue. The purpose was to advise Dad that there was going to be a School Reunion in California. Not sure what made her think that Dad would be interested in going...but i guess it was a nice thought?!
After mentioning the reunion to Mum she proceeded to ask about the family and found out from my darling Mum, that Mum has a single 26 y/o daughter. This sparked a frenzy with the lady. She proceeds to insist that Mum and Dad bring me over to Texas to introduce me to her 29 y/o nephew! Like, what the...?
Mum, obviously thought it was funny. Which is why she told me about it the moment i got home on Monday night.
I'm heading overseas in about 10 working days. Weekends dont really count, because they usually fly right by! Last thing to do is purchase some medicine and exchange some money.
I found out that a credit card i have allows me to put my cash on the card (over the limit) and withdraw without being charged any transaction fee or exchange fee from an ATM. Transaction fee will be charged from transactions via EFTPOS, but still no currency exchange fee.
I was over the moon when i found this out! I dont know of any other card, debit or credit, that allows you to do this!!! And get this, zero annual fee for the credit card! The usual 55 days interest free on purchases applies too. Like, woohoo!!!
*^_^*
Monday, August 13, 2007
Rêves...
I had a vivid dream early in the morning (3/4am). I woke up from it. But the only other person that i recall in my dream is my mother, but there were at least 3 other people in the dream.
I was pregnant. There was a man apparently infectious with some sort of disease. He was slumped in his car which rolled into the circle in which we were all sitting - as though there was a camp fire, but there was none. He got out of the car and stumbled towards me. Grabbed both my wrists and started to tell me about how i was now infected and how quickly the infection will reach my heart and there was no cure.
While he reached for my wrists everyone around me was shouting, telling me to run away because he was obviously sick with some sort of disease and that i would catch it too if he touched me. I couldnt hear anyone, not until the old man grabbed my wrists and it was too late.
I woke up at this point.
I had two re-runs after that. One very similar to the description above, but the ending was different. I fainted while the old man grabbed my wrists and ended up dying. The final version was that when the car rolled into our circle, everybody present dodged the car and ran off before the man could get out of this car and infect me or anyone else.
What a whacko dream!?
I dont usually remember my dreams either, so this is an odd occasion. I wonder what it is that is causing my lack of sleep and these weird dreams. I mean, if it was excitement over my trip...shouldnt i have more pleasant dreams?
(lit: Dreams...)
I was pregnant. There was a man apparently infectious with some sort of disease. He was slumped in his car which rolled into the circle in which we were all sitting - as though there was a camp fire, but there was none. He got out of the car and stumbled towards me. Grabbed both my wrists and started to tell me about how i was now infected and how quickly the infection will reach my heart and there was no cure.
While he reached for my wrists everyone around me was shouting, telling me to run away because he was obviously sick with some sort of disease and that i would catch it too if he touched me. I couldnt hear anyone, not until the old man grabbed my wrists and it was too late.
I woke up at this point.
I had two re-runs after that. One very similar to the description above, but the ending was different. I fainted while the old man grabbed my wrists and ended up dying. The final version was that when the car rolled into our circle, everybody present dodged the car and ran off before the man could get out of this car and infect me or anyone else.
What a whacko dream!?
I dont usually remember my dreams either, so this is an odd occasion. I wonder what it is that is causing my lack of sleep and these weird dreams. I mean, if it was excitement over my trip...shouldnt i have more pleasant dreams?
(lit: Dreams...)
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Mes filles...
I like watching the Simpsons episodes on tv. I like watching the dvds. I don't actually tire from watching the cartoons...and Chloe is very similar to me in this way. Before you start pointing the finger and tell me what a bad influence i am on her, that the Simpsons is too "adult" for a 5 year old...i can assure you that the jokes that are for adults fly right over her head. I laugh at some things, she will laugh at others on the opposite side of the spectrum.
I took her out on Saturday to watch the Movie as an early birthday present because I wont be here for her 6th birthday. In fact, on her 6th birthday i will be in Paris...in particular, i will be lunching at La Tour d'Argent and then shopping to buy her something special.
She loved sitting in the recliner at Gold Class, but at the same time she must have felt like she was being swallowed up...because half way through the movie, the novelty wore off and she asked me to put the recliner back upright.
She was armed with her cheesy popcorn from Kernels and i ordered strawberry smoothies for the both us, which arrived when the movie started and were about 750mL each.
I like spending time with her at this age. She teaches me patience, i teach her manners, we can reason with one another. It works when it is one on one. Just me and her. It gets complicated when her mother is around because then she will sulk and throw tantrums and silent treatments and will be awfully difficult.
I know that this is the time to be cherished...because in a few more years, things will change dramatically. She will inevitably start thinking about boys in ways other than just friends. How scary?!
I better start thinking of some tactful answers to the impending questions that lie ahead. I have a knack of being around when she is curious and the questions gets deflected towards me for an answer...*sigh*.
Aimee is such a cutie. She is 3 and a half. I called her a baby the other day and she corrects me by telling me "No, i'm a toddler!" and yes, she is right and i am wrong.
(lit: My girls...)
I took her out on Saturday to watch the Movie as an early birthday present because I wont be here for her 6th birthday. In fact, on her 6th birthday i will be in Paris...in particular, i will be lunching at La Tour d'Argent and then shopping to buy her something special.
She loved sitting in the recliner at Gold Class, but at the same time she must have felt like she was being swallowed up...because half way through the movie, the novelty wore off and she asked me to put the recliner back upright.
She was armed with her cheesy popcorn from Kernels and i ordered strawberry smoothies for the both us, which arrived when the movie started and were about 750mL each.
I like spending time with her at this age. She teaches me patience, i teach her manners, we can reason with one another. It works when it is one on one. Just me and her. It gets complicated when her mother is around because then she will sulk and throw tantrums and silent treatments and will be awfully difficult.
I know that this is the time to be cherished...because in a few more years, things will change dramatically. She will inevitably start thinking about boys in ways other than just friends. How scary?!
I better start thinking of some tactful answers to the impending questions that lie ahead. I have a knack of being around when she is curious and the questions gets deflected towards me for an answer...*sigh*.
Aimee is such a cutie. She is 3 and a half. I called her a baby the other day and she corrects me by telling me "No, i'm a toddler!" and yes, she is right and i am wrong.
(lit: My girls...)
Friday, August 03, 2007
Mes vacances de tourbillon...
My long awaited whirlwind holiday is less than a month away.
I just received advice that my travel documents are at the travel agent and i can go pick it up any time.
My manager's wife works on the airline i will be flying on and she will be helping me reserve good seats so i can have comfortable flights there and back.
LESS THAN A MONTH!
I have been waiting sooo long since i paid for the whole trip for this time to come. And now that it has...i'm feeling a bit ambivalent...I was born a chicken and therefore sometimes feel like a chicken!
I'm excited, no doubt, but being cautious is forcing me to think about the "what ifs" and in some ways, its good to think about those things so you can prepare contingencies to deal with such situations.
But i'm not sure if im well prepared.
Well, thats a lie, i havent prepared anything yet...so im not prepared.
I need to go and see my doctor too, so i can get a med kit prepared, just in case...
(lit: My whirlwind holiday...)
I just received advice that my travel documents are at the travel agent and i can go pick it up any time.
My manager's wife works on the airline i will be flying on and she will be helping me reserve good seats so i can have comfortable flights there and back.
LESS THAN A MONTH!
I have been waiting sooo long since i paid for the whole trip for this time to come. And now that it has...i'm feeling a bit ambivalent...I was born a chicken and therefore sometimes feel like a chicken!
I'm excited, no doubt, but being cautious is forcing me to think about the "what ifs" and in some ways, its good to think about those things so you can prepare contingencies to deal with such situations.
But i'm not sure if im well prepared.
Well, thats a lie, i havent prepared anything yet...so im not prepared.
I need to go and see my doctor too, so i can get a med kit prepared, just in case...
(lit: My whirlwind holiday...)
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
Danser...
So, last night I had my second dance lesson.
We went over the cha-cha, salsa, and jive. We started to learn the waltz and the "box step".
I can do the cha-cha, just not the spot turn. But that could be partly due to the fact that i was wearing my running shoes and not a pair of heels. So, the grip on my joggers didnt allow me the fluid movement that i required.
Salsa became a little more interesting with the "cucaracha" - the "cockroach" stomping move. It seems with this addition, i have managed to move my hips much better.
The jive is sooo much fun. Especially when the music is playing really really fast! We have done the basic step and the instructor incorporated the turn into the sequence, but didnt show the girls how to turn back and return the start, but us girls are so "smart" that we taught ourselves...ahhahaha...to be honest, its actually quite easy to figure how to turn back with the jive. Its actually quite natural for the body to want to turn to the original position and start all over again.
The waltz...what can i say? I can't do anything outside of the "box step". This is due to the fact that you must alternate from right to left (girls), each time you finish the 3-steps (the step-slide-together). I actually thought the waltz was really easy...but i am wrong. Its actually tricky if you are unco like i am.
(lit: Dancing...)
We went over the cha-cha, salsa, and jive. We started to learn the waltz and the "box step".
I can do the cha-cha, just not the spot turn. But that could be partly due to the fact that i was wearing my running shoes and not a pair of heels. So, the grip on my joggers didnt allow me the fluid movement that i required.
Salsa became a little more interesting with the "cucaracha" - the "cockroach" stomping move. It seems with this addition, i have managed to move my hips much better.
The jive is sooo much fun. Especially when the music is playing really really fast! We have done the basic step and the instructor incorporated the turn into the sequence, but didnt show the girls how to turn back and return the start, but us girls are so "smart" that we taught ourselves...ahhahaha...to be honest, its actually quite easy to figure how to turn back with the jive. Its actually quite natural for the body to want to turn to the original position and start all over again.
The waltz...what can i say? I can't do anything outside of the "box step". This is due to the fact that you must alternate from right to left (girls), each time you finish the 3-steps (the step-slide-together). I actually thought the waltz was really easy...but i am wrong. Its actually tricky if you are unco like i am.
(lit: Dancing...)
Monday, July 30, 2007
Mon père...
I often talk about my mother...like it was her birthday on Saturday...i took her out to lunch and my brother paid for dinner later that evening.
I talk about how my mother is so talented and is a brilliant dressmaker.
I tend to not talk about my father's accomplishment.
Its not that i have a problem talking about such things and there are many achievements that i can talk about...i just dont.
I dont hesitate when the opportunity arise, either.
For instance, the bus driver of the company bus noted that he had never been into the Chinese Gardens at Darling Harbour and that he should really make a visit. This triggered me to mention that my father was one of the men in my Great Uncle's team who helped build the structures in the garden.
My father was also one of the men who built the home for the panda's when they visited from China (way back when) at Taronga Zoo. I remember this fondly, because we ended up going to see the panda's after the construction was completed and the panda's were comfortably housed.
On a smaller scale he had worked on some restructural constructions inside the restaurant - East Ocean.
Dad built the shelf in my room where i put my shoes. He built the desk my older brother used during high school. He built one of the wall units that now houses the portraits of my grandparents and the incense holders. The lattice work outside the front of the house was also made by him.
So, Dad is very talented & brilliant too...
I'm guessing that my creativity stems from both my parents. The fact that i'm hands on with everything i do also comes from Dad as much as Mum.
(lit: My father...)
I talk about how my mother is so talented and is a brilliant dressmaker.
I tend to not talk about my father's accomplishment.
Its not that i have a problem talking about such things and there are many achievements that i can talk about...i just dont.
I dont hesitate when the opportunity arise, either.
For instance, the bus driver of the company bus noted that he had never been into the Chinese Gardens at Darling Harbour and that he should really make a visit. This triggered me to mention that my father was one of the men in my Great Uncle's team who helped build the structures in the garden.
My father was also one of the men who built the home for the panda's when they visited from China (way back when) at Taronga Zoo. I remember this fondly, because we ended up going to see the panda's after the construction was completed and the panda's were comfortably housed.
On a smaller scale he had worked on some restructural constructions inside the restaurant - East Ocean.
Dad built the shelf in my room where i put my shoes. He built the desk my older brother used during high school. He built one of the wall units that now houses the portraits of my grandparents and the incense holders. The lattice work outside the front of the house was also made by him.
So, Dad is very talented & brilliant too...
I'm guessing that my creativity stems from both my parents. The fact that i'm hands on with everything i do also comes from Dad as much as Mum.
(lit: My father...)
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Toujours une demoiselle d'honneur, jamais une jeune mariée...
I bought a pair of silver satin shoes for some weddings i will be attending that i could also use for my friend's wedding where i will be one of the bridesmaids. And since its more pertinent that the shoes will match my dress when i am a bridesmaid, i asked her to bring my dress over to my place when she visited her mother last Sunday. (She lives a distance away, while her mother is actually in my local area).
I tried on the shoes and then slipped the dress over my head and tugged on the zipper. To my horror, I couldnt zip myself up.
=(
I'm too FAT!!!!
I first did the rounds of trying on gowns for her wedding in December-January 06/07. It had to be made, so she paid for the dresses and i had forgotten about it ever since. I can't believe that in 7 months...i had managed to put on weight...so much that i cant zip the damn thing!!!
~~~>_<~~~
I can only zip it up to under my bustline. And then i'm stuck!!!
I knew i had put on a little bit of weight compared to what i averaged the last couple of years, but not more than what i weighed in January this year...I thought i was still roughly the same...i didnt think i had put on so much that the dress wouldnt fit!!!
Mum has offered to fix the dress for me...but i dont want her to.
Now, I am on a mission.
TO GET INTO THAT FREAKIN' DRESS (AND LOOK DAMN GOOD TOO)!!!
The bride-to-be had a moment yesterday where she realised how unreliable the other bridesmaid would be...she saw a hint of it previously...but something else happened yesterday that really ticked the bride-to-be off. This wedding is gonna be a loooooooonnnnnngggggggg day for me.
We started a beginners ballroom dancing course last night. The whole bridal party is attending and it was fun, but i cant salsa. I can cha-cha, jive, and rock'n'roll...but am unable to salsa the most basic steps.
Lets see if i improve next week.
(lit: Always a bridesmaid, never a bride...)
I tried on the shoes and then slipped the dress over my head and tugged on the zipper. To my horror, I couldnt zip myself up.
=(
I'm too FAT!!!!
I first did the rounds of trying on gowns for her wedding in December-January 06/07. It had to be made, so she paid for the dresses and i had forgotten about it ever since. I can't believe that in 7 months...i had managed to put on weight...so much that i cant zip the damn thing!!!
~~~>_<~~~
I can only zip it up to under my bustline. And then i'm stuck!!!
I knew i had put on a little bit of weight compared to what i averaged the last couple of years, but not more than what i weighed in January this year...I thought i was still roughly the same...i didnt think i had put on so much that the dress wouldnt fit!!!
Mum has offered to fix the dress for me...but i dont want her to.
Now, I am on a mission.
TO GET INTO THAT FREAKIN' DRESS (AND LOOK DAMN GOOD TOO)!!!
The bride-to-be had a moment yesterday where she realised how unreliable the other bridesmaid would be...she saw a hint of it previously...but something else happened yesterday that really ticked the bride-to-be off. This wedding is gonna be a loooooooonnnnnngggggggg day for me.
We started a beginners ballroom dancing course last night. The whole bridal party is attending and it was fun, but i cant salsa. I can cha-cha, jive, and rock'n'roll...but am unable to salsa the most basic steps.
Lets see if i improve next week.
(lit: Always a bridesmaid, never a bride...)
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Enchante...
(Pronounced: on.shon.tay)
Life is funny in almost every circumstance.
Like shopping with my mother every weekend...ritualistically...meeting all these people - her friends...their children sometimes...
Being single and more the fear of dying lonely with no one to bury me when my turn arrives makes me sit and wonder sometimes.
There are the people who are fortunately charmed and everything seems to go there way. And there are the others who dont lead such a charming life. I come across a lot of people, but i have been trained to keep to myself and and pretty much avoid eye contact.
I dont try to make conversations with strangers. But i have an ability to have friendly conversations with say the stranger that is serving me at the cafe or the local fruit grocer...etc...
I am sometimes lucky, but i dont have it all.
With my weekly ritual my mum goes to this one asian grocer and always chit chats with the owner and their sons. The older of the two sons had a crush on me about 8 years ago...I was young and he was a smoker...sooo not my type. And in the end his parents forced him to marry a girl from Vietnam whom they had arranged for the two of them with her parents when they were toddlers. Weird, i know...who'd actually go through with the arrange marriages their parents set up yonks ago, in this day and age - all willingly?!
His younger brother i knew only by face, because he went to the same highschool as i did and is a year or two younger than my older brother. He would on occasion help his parents out at the grocery store on the weekend and my mother would chat to him whenever we'd drop by. He would always ask my mother what she would be cooking that night and ask if he could come over? My mother would say "sure thing...and dont just say you are and not show up! I'll get angry with you..." She said that jokingly and he never did show up.
The thing is, i never thought he was attractive. And when i saw him, i'd keep to myself and patiently wait for my mother to buy whatever she needed and when she would appear out of the store, the two of them would joke while i grabbed the bags from her to carry the bags to the car. I didnt even say hello to him, nor did he say hello to me...not until maybe 2 years ago did we speak a little to eachother.
After speaking to one another, i guess i saw him in a different light and i noticed that he had a nice smile...that he was cute in a very quirky way...and that this guy genuinely liked chatting to my mother...he didnt do it just out of politeness.
I think its very hard to find a guy who will get along THAT well with my mum. Not that she is a difficult person to get along with...but the two of them talk like friends...and well, its nice to see that.
There are some things word just cant express. Sometimes we'd look at eachother. He would notice something. I would notice something. We're probably not thinking the exact same thing, but were on the same wavelength...and its some form of enlightenment that transcends verbal communication.
I do believe that he finds me mysterious and interesting, because i dont often say anything more than a "Hi!" to him. And i have the tendency to look at something or someone and smile or laugh to myself...and he has the tendency to catch me in the action of doing so.
He was there at the store today. We said hello and i stood to the side waiting for my mother like the diligent daughter i am, he was talking to his parents and as my mother and i left we noticed a girl with him.
When my mother and i got into the car i told her that he caught me laughing to myself when i saw this old lady try on this hat. Mum later mentioned that he was getting married in September this year.
I then realised that i could have, would have, should have...but its too late.
I put it down on the fact that it was one of those moments where i was the unfortunate one.
It just wasnt meant to be.
There is a saying in Vietnamese that my mother often quotes...and it seems befitting this moment.
We both didnt have the "charm"...
(lit: Pleased to meet you...)
Life is funny in almost every circumstance.
Like shopping with my mother every weekend...ritualistically...meeting all these people - her friends...their children sometimes...
Being single and more the fear of dying lonely with no one to bury me when my turn arrives makes me sit and wonder sometimes.
There are the people who are fortunately charmed and everything seems to go there way. And there are the others who dont lead such a charming life. I come across a lot of people, but i have been trained to keep to myself and and pretty much avoid eye contact.
I dont try to make conversations with strangers. But i have an ability to have friendly conversations with say the stranger that is serving me at the cafe or the local fruit grocer...etc...
I am sometimes lucky, but i dont have it all.
With my weekly ritual my mum goes to this one asian grocer and always chit chats with the owner and their sons. The older of the two sons had a crush on me about 8 years ago...I was young and he was a smoker...sooo not my type. And in the end his parents forced him to marry a girl from Vietnam whom they had arranged for the two of them with her parents when they were toddlers. Weird, i know...who'd actually go through with the arrange marriages their parents set up yonks ago, in this day and age - all willingly?!
His younger brother i knew only by face, because he went to the same highschool as i did and is a year or two younger than my older brother. He would on occasion help his parents out at the grocery store on the weekend and my mother would chat to him whenever we'd drop by. He would always ask my mother what she would be cooking that night and ask if he could come over? My mother would say "sure thing...and dont just say you are and not show up! I'll get angry with you..." She said that jokingly and he never did show up.
The thing is, i never thought he was attractive. And when i saw him, i'd keep to myself and patiently wait for my mother to buy whatever she needed and when she would appear out of the store, the two of them would joke while i grabbed the bags from her to carry the bags to the car. I didnt even say hello to him, nor did he say hello to me...not until maybe 2 years ago did we speak a little to eachother.
After speaking to one another, i guess i saw him in a different light and i noticed that he had a nice smile...that he was cute in a very quirky way...and that this guy genuinely liked chatting to my mother...he didnt do it just out of politeness.
I think its very hard to find a guy who will get along THAT well with my mum. Not that she is a difficult person to get along with...but the two of them talk like friends...and well, its nice to see that.
There are some things word just cant express. Sometimes we'd look at eachother. He would notice something. I would notice something. We're probably not thinking the exact same thing, but were on the same wavelength...and its some form of enlightenment that transcends verbal communication.
I do believe that he finds me mysterious and interesting, because i dont often say anything more than a "Hi!" to him. And i have the tendency to look at something or someone and smile or laugh to myself...and he has the tendency to catch me in the action of doing so.
He was there at the store today. We said hello and i stood to the side waiting for my mother like the diligent daughter i am, he was talking to his parents and as my mother and i left we noticed a girl with him.
When my mother and i got into the car i told her that he caught me laughing to myself when i saw this old lady try on this hat. Mum later mentioned that he was getting married in September this year.
I then realised that i could have, would have, should have...but its too late.
I put it down on the fact that it was one of those moments where i was the unfortunate one.
It just wasnt meant to be.
There is a saying in Vietnamese that my mother often quotes...and it seems befitting this moment.
We both didnt have the "charm"...
(lit: Pleased to meet you...)
Friday, July 20, 2007
M'épouserez-vous?
I had lunch with a friend today and was told about a friend we both know. That the mutual friend was going o/s to marry someone he has only had phone conversations with for the past 6 months and plans on going over to marry the girl in a Las Vegas style wedding.
There are twists here...its not a straight and simple connection of 2 single people meeting online and finding love across all the expanse of water and land via the cyber-highway.
She is currently seeing someone long distance. Has not broken up with the current bf, but feels that she can marry this mutual friend.
For me, I just couldnt do it. I would not be flying over to meet the person...I wouldnt even be thinking about marrying them - knowing that they had someone and still hadnt broken up with them...even after supposedly committing themself to you.
Its too wacky for words.
I am a known sceptic...but I do wish the mutual friend all the best - no one wants a friend to be hurt especially from a broken heart...but am i the only one who thinks this situation is too much left of the centre?
(lit: Will you marry me?)
There are twists here...its not a straight and simple connection of 2 single people meeting online and finding love across all the expanse of water and land via the cyber-highway.
She is currently seeing someone long distance. Has not broken up with the current bf, but feels that she can marry this mutual friend.
For me, I just couldnt do it. I would not be flying over to meet the person...I wouldnt even be thinking about marrying them - knowing that they had someone and still hadnt broken up with them...even after supposedly committing themself to you.
Its too wacky for words.
I am a known sceptic...but I do wish the mutual friend all the best - no one wants a friend to be hurt especially from a broken heart...but am i the only one who thinks this situation is too much left of the centre?
(lit: Will you marry me?)
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Dermatologue...
A girls best friends, i think are: water, SPF30+, laughter and a good dermatologist.
Some may want to add to this list and rightly so, depending on their needs, but i would highly recommend a good female dermatologist for all of our girly needs pertaining to skin and hair.
It brings a world of difference when you find a truly talented dermatologist. One who is open and honest and understands what you are talking about...
I have found one and she has helped me return my skin back to the days where i didnt have pimples. I see her now whenever i have a skin problem. She likes to chat too. So, it is quite easy to visit her without having to feel like you are about to be interrogated. The only hang up of visiting such a good dermatologist is waiting to actually go in and see them.
(lit: Dermatologist...)
Some may want to add to this list and rightly so, depending on their needs, but i would highly recommend a good female dermatologist for all of our girly needs pertaining to skin and hair.
It brings a world of difference when you find a truly talented dermatologist. One who is open and honest and understands what you are talking about...
I have found one and she has helped me return my skin back to the days where i didnt have pimples. I see her now whenever i have a skin problem. She likes to chat too. So, it is quite easy to visit her without having to feel like you are about to be interrogated. The only hang up of visiting such a good dermatologist is waiting to actually go in and see them.
(lit: Dermatologist...)
