BOO!

Long time no BLOG!!!....

Since coming back to Adelaide, life was huff and puff, nevertheless its been a whirlwind of delightful activities!


Bringing my family around Adelaide was great fun! Made the right decision of booking a lovely serviced apartment for them rather than cramming in my tiny place. I could guess that my sibling really like the Aussie style, from Boost juice to the mouth-watering ravioli, wood-oven pizza etc *double slurps*

OoooO...My Graduation...I had MARVELOUS time with family and friends!

I can't believe the day finally came after slogging through for 4 years. As I was in preparation to receive my parchment, I began a recollection of memories. When I was in my first year, the day I complete the course seemed eternity. Entering my sophomore year, I forged closer bonds with piggies and other classmates. Probably that’s because I held the loan-shark position XD .Third year was like a roller-coaster. Having to adjust to the new environment, ogling cute ang-moh lecturers ;D, having to study new subjects, feeling disappointed, doing all sorts of fun activities to release stress like going to beaches, attending a pub-crawl event, hosting & attending heaps of birthday parties etc. I reckon it would be the most challenging of all the four years. There was immense fear but we were all in this together. I wouldn’t say entering the fourth year was a breeze. It took hard work too and I gained so much more insight of my choice of career.

Walking up on stage with my gown and mortarboard gave me aura of accomplishment. I had witnessed my brother and many of my cousins going up on stage, and I am so glad now its my turn =)

I know this is just only the BEGINNING.

Here's a toast to all graduates of the course. I'll never forget those who has been there for me and show their support. Okay, this is gonna be like an Oscar speech so skip this part, if you like. My family and lovely aunties and uncles, of course. Thank you for your weekly phone calls to see if I'm surviving...=) Your constant care and concern are deeply appreciated. Thank you piggies for your company. Loved that we could lose it all out when we're chatting. We're all ridiculously wacky bunch of students, don't you think? Oink!

To my beautiful friends - Von, Lings, Cel for your support and love. I loved the balloons, Von. Mom said it was a brilliant idea! Could spot my family easily amidst the crowd. Ta! Also to many wonderful classmates - Zoe, Yvonne, Melody, Loga, TL, Cath, HS, SY, HI, LK, Alex, Patrick & other peeps you know who you are =) , car-pool mates -CK & TJ and ex-housemates KK & MK, who have helped me in my studies or in every other way, thank you so much.

All the best co'z our next mission is getting the license and also, not forgetting to...

Keep in touch!

Love always,

Day Trip

Though plans of going to Indonesia with family didn't work out as I hoped, but I went elsewhere- headed up to Genting Highland with Lings ! Was really looking forward for this trip because this means play Play PLAY!! I like going there anyway co'z it brings back a lot of sweet childhood memories with my cousins and their familes. I miss being a kid.


I thought we were pretty good in conquering most of the good rides. The waiting part took most of the time! I've always wanted to go on the Solero Shot ride and I did!! Felt more comforting knowing that you're not alone. The ride was AWESOME!! For a few seconds when they drop you,its as if the butt had detached from the seat. Felt like free falling. Darn scary but the after effect feeling is so good! Another ride which also pumped heaps of adrenaline was Corkscrew - the double loop roller coaster. Super FUN!


I can play and play and forget about eating at all. Felt so bad after that, co'z dragged Lings ride after ride >.< We both loved the Spinner ride! It was like flying without wings.

An educational and colourful journey of chocolate-making

As I looked back on these past years, I've realised we've grown so much and no doubt continue to grow in terms of knowledge and wisdom. Sometimes I've even forgotten our age and I thank you for reminding me (24, hey?) Thanks for putting up with my silliness and naive thinking. Here's sending you my love and whatever the future holds, our todays make the memories of tomorrow.

Hugs & Kisses,

PS: My full results aren't out yet...Grrggrr...And now, I'd received a notification of unsuccessful graduation. The waiting game can be unbearable at times.

Friends are the Sunshine of Life

To quote John Hay, Friends are the sunshine of life

Even though many have changed, but do not be afraid as, we are each finding our own place in the world. No matter where this crazy world takes us, here's hoping that our friendship stay as it had for 11 years and keeping it strong.

Cheers,


To love and be loved is the greatest happiness of existence ~Sydney Smith

TVB & Movies

Have been watching too much TVB drama lately that I thought I needed to get some dose of English-speaking movies. So far, I've watched the Christmas Carol and am planning to save 2012 to watch it with my lovely cousins. One day, I was bored after shoppping, so I thought hey, let's catch the Twilight Saga - New Moon. Contrary to what other people have commented that they don't like/uninterested in vampire shows, or that these shows are for lame people or whatever, I thought it has an interesting plot (though illogical at some parts). I caught the first one - "Twilight" (thanks to my ex-housemate's influence) and no, I didn't fall for Edward Cullen (the main character), instead my eyes were set on Dr.Carlisle ( Edward's father)...

Dr. Carlisle helping with Bella's wound

He's the MAN in the first movie! I adore his character in the story because he has a solid meaningful role - to save mortal's life (in comparison to Edward who just falls in love with Bella and wishes to protect her, I don't see any significant role beyond that. That's just my own opinion). But to my disappointment, he appeared only ONCE in New Moon =(

But hey, there was a BIGGER surprise.

I would never imagine how this guy - Jacob Black (who has a crush on Bella)...

could transform to this HOT, SEXY thing! OMG OMG OMG

This picture don't do justice. Way better in the movie *wink*

I nearly choked on my popcorn when he took his shirt off to help with Bella's wound (if you have seen both the movies, you'll be shocked with his transformation) And I couldn't help laughing out loudly, listening to other spectators commenting behind my seat "Tengok tu abang- ada six packs! " "Cium dia la... Allah, kenapa dia tak nak" ROFL Yes, the movie theater was not quiet at all throughout the movie.

Oh, by the way his only 17 and so buff! Never saw that coming...


So hot *fans self*

Piggy's journey towards a Happy stomach *double slurps*

Mama made my favourite tong sui - Shuet Karp XD . .. She's the best!

Bah Kut Teh - my steak brother's favourite


Don't really look very appetizing here, but this 'Foong Bak' is something new that I haven't try. I liked the herbal egg!



Met up with my closest girlfriend and we tried something new - Spanish cuisine

Their paellas tasted like risotto although slightly drier.

Cosy ambience

Would you believe this is an omelette? Plus potato. Interesting.

Paella

Salt and Pepper shakers - reminds me of dear Zoe

Sedap... Saya suka! =) More foodie post coming up!

Loving my lecturers...

Cheeky as I am, I've got names for my lecturers! Wanna hear?!

Mr. Phillips,A a.k.a 'Leng Chai teacher'- I remember vividly when we entered our third year in Adelaide, everyone was talking about him! Everyone!! Sure enough, he's the Prince Charming among the lecturers. I bet other girls were secretly in their 'la-la land' rather than concentrating while he was lecturing. Quite unfortunate for me, I didn't feel the same way as I loathed him for misleading us after one exam last year. But during the counselling sessions this year, I found him very amiable and funny! And he's rather precise in picking up our weaknesses, and I credit him for that.

Dr. Ward,M a.k.a 'The Brainy' - Molecular Chemical Basis of Therapeutics (MCBT) is his forte. But it seemed to me that he could well teach other subjects such as Pharmacology and Applied Therapeutics with his broad knowledge. I'm sure we can recall "that guy" in our class, the one who was smarter than the rest of us. I think in his year, it was him. He's got layers- some may perceive him as obnoxious but if you speak personally speak to him, he is willing to share his knowledge and wisdom. Surprise, surprise is his way of expressing his sarcasm. And if you notice closely when he smiles, he sure melts people's heart. He's the man! Haha...

Dr. Sorich, M a.k.a 'The Cute Clicker'- *I can hear girls screaming at their top of lungs* He DOES NOT look like a lecturer AT ALL!!!!!!! He blends in so well with the students as depicted on the picture on top. Plus, he's Sooooooo... CUTE! He's married anyway. But that's not my point. I really liked his lectures because he does it interactively (like a game show where you click your answers) by setting questions and answers (which were hilarious! Some weren't related to the questions at all), not the conventional taking notes type of class. And his lecture notes were very neat and organized. I like!! And he's CUTE. Okay, did I say that again? His blue eyes are so captivating. I remember speaking to him about my potential thesis project last year, and I could not recall a single word he said. That's right, my mind drifted elsewhere. *Ahem*

Dr. Des, W a.k.a 'The PK expert'- If you have any questions about pharmacokinetics or anything associated with it, he's the guru! And don't you ever dare say that we dont' ever need to look at PK or a drug's chemical sructure considering that we've got out therapeutic facts. I have high respect for this man. Seriously. I find him very caring because he looks after S.I.T-ians very well. Truly appreciate that.

Dr. Ivanka a.k.a 'The cutie'- This teacher is adorable. =) She's petite, but don't let her fool you. With her unique experiences combined with ample knowledge, she's an amazing teacher. I've gained so much input from her tutorials and for the first time, I really enjoyed Medication Management tutorials. It was interactive and enjoyable. I had heaps fun, laughing out loud when Dr. Ivanka and Dr. Wiese pair up as tutors in the counselling session. They're incredibly funny because they tease each other.

Dr. Wiese a.k.a 'The Nice One' - He gives good advice and he is very straight forward. That's what I like about him. Unlike some other teachers who beat around the bush. *grrr* During one of the counselling sessions last year, he spoke so softly that I almost leaned on him. Nevertheless, he is very generous and his words of wisdom in the last lecture made me teary.Boohoo.

Yep, so these teachers are the highlights for me. Don't think I'll ever forget them...

Drawing on the road!

I woke up to the the sounds of children shrieking and lots of noise and movement outside my window yesterday. 7.30am-which child wakes up at this ungodly hour? And this is what I saw when I went out 30 minutes later:

Cool, hey? Swarms of 3-10 year old kiddies, babies, moms and dads were sitting along both sides of the pavement on the main street in Adelaide. I'm not sure what was the event.. hmm,Children's Day? I thought that was in October.

Not to mention, it was sweltering hot as well. I wonder if parents have put enough sunblock for them? Skin cancer incident is extremely worrying in here! Haha.. some kid coloured the metal thingy there! Looks like a football now!

Daddy decide to join the kids as well! I want to draw and colour too!!

It's Saturday-Xmas 2009-Humungous flower

These kids' drawing remind me of the good old days when mom used to hang our drawings up in the kitchen wall after the art class. Friends and family used to play the guessing game whose drawings were they (my bro or mine)? The kitchen area was always my pride and joy because of these drawings =)

Just wanna do a quick shoutout to my beautiful friend, Ee von. Happy 23rd Birthday to you!! I would have posted up a picture, but I realized that all the pictures of you are in the old PC =(

Nevertheless, hope you have a great one and I will come back to celebrate with you.





PS: Just received my IELTS result and it was beyond what I'd expected. Overall, I've received a score of 8 and above for each section , but my most 'bangga' ones were listening and reading - 9 out of 9. Sounds absurd right? I am suspicious if the examiners were marking them correctly though. Even so, I ain't complaining. XD

*throws Medication Management notes in the air*


Yay! One DOWN.


Now for the ultimate > FINAL > LAST EXAMINATION test. Typing it out itself feels overwhelming already. Gosh, I can't believe it as I'm approaching the end of my full time job in 2 weeks time.

Boo.



Ever wonder what people do when they are stressed or demotivated or 'sien ah'? While some prefer to go shopping or blast their music loud or eat a tub of Nutella or ice-cream , I always find myself in the kitchen - a therapeutic place for me to de-stress. To cook up a storm! XD

So, today I decided to get creative and made fresh buttermilk pancakes before burying my nose in books/lecture notes!

My flipping techniques are terrible! I blame the heavy non-stick fry pan. How to flip when its so heavy, eh? * in denial - no skill tsk tsk*

Berries are DELICIOUS (love em'), but my housemate, Ann begs to differ. So, I came out with 2 different plates. In the end, while I was taking photos, I realised that I made one kiddi version, the other adult version XD Haha...

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice-cream would make this dish complete =)





PS: Can't wait for family and friends re-union happening very soon.

Stop and ponder

I read the cue card:


If there was one thing you want to change in your life, what would it be?


How would it benefit you?


Will it be difficult to make this change?


...And then, I was asked to speak for 2 minutes about it.

I wished the examiner could have listened to my sincere reply, something which will come deep down from my heart. But, this was an examination setting. If I spoke my mind, I would not be able to answer the next 2 questions. And I can well predict that I won't be able to score very well in it.

*sigh*

But I thought this was a brilliant question. Something which I haven't been asked for a long time.

Ask yourself.

Cheese Fest 09' @ Rymill Park

Yay! The opportunity to upload pictures of my recent adventure, finally! Just completed my IELTS test this morning. It was amazing to see swarms of people with red or green passports in their hands! International students unite. LOL!

Anyway, last Sunday was Cheesey-licious DAY! There was a variety of cheese and wine stalls from different places-Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, Mclaren Vale etc . Afterall, SA is famous for plethora of grapevines XD I should go visit sometime soon. Wait..what was I doing here for almost 2 years? *deep in thought*

Complementary wine glasses

Cheese tasting

Cheese + crackers are the shiznit

Honeycomb!

Sweet treats. Not sure if it really fits in the cheesy atmosphere. Hahaha

Savoury dips

I really like brie out of all the cheeses. Its soft, creamy and smooth. The blue cheese..GOSH!! Too potent... too potent for my liking. The hard cheese, I am sure you are familiar with parmesan, pecorino. Jo and I tried the matured (3 years!!) pecorino cheese. Hahaha.. she said it tasted like sponge. LOL! Zoe and I thought that the Tasmanian Red Square's (washed rind) cheese is very nice tasting too!

Poh Poh's expertise in glass handling. Check out her Marilyn Monroe's tattoo! If there was an Elvis Presley one, I reckon she would have that all over her hands and legs =)

Tried to trick Ann that I was drinking wine. It backfired!

*Ahem* that's green tea ^_^

There are heaps of other photos, but I'm too tired to wait for it to upload.

It was really great to know that there are so many different types of cheese out there. Definitely a good introductory place because I know I can never buy so many different types of cheese and do sample tasting. If I hadn't know how blue cheese tasted like, I might puchase a block out of curiosity, tasted a bite and left it in the fridge and never touch it again-oh, perhaps pass that to Jo piggy. Heeehee (She helps me with my wine, everytime! Such good friend) Yes, cheese is not CHEAP in here by the way >.<