Billainaire : 24 billaine and counting

Mom & Dad's Sydney Tour 09 - Kiama

2009-07-12T17:41:00.005+08:00

AFter 2 years of waiting for them to visit, mom and dad finally decided to grace me with their presence. So with 2 years worth of travelling to fit into a month, we better get cracking!

Dad bought a very suggestive eggplant..muahaha..nature has a sense of humour..

First meal out: Fish market! with Violette, birds and Jocie's parents too

The Kiama blowhole....very dry blowhole

Sunset is always gorgeous..however you look at it.

The tourists at the blowhole

Grand Pacific Drive towards Wollongong

Fraser Island and Noosa

2009-07-12T17:07:00.004+08:00

Fraser Island is the home to Sandy National Park, one giant sand dune. We departed from Noosa Heads on a 2 hour drive to arrive here....where peace and tranquility is born. Endlss ocean on the horizon and stretches of sand so smooth and even as far as the eyes can see.

Although so still, we were warned against swimming in this stretch of ocean due to reports of shark attacks...eeckk!!!!

THIS>>>however..is beautiful Lake MacKenzie..a large freshwater basin in the middle of Fraser Island. The moment you set eyes on it,..its beauty engulfs you and enthralls you in a way you cannot imagine. No sharks in this pool 8). Also, since it is freshwater, swimming in it is like a natural swimming pool with silky soft sand at the bottom. We are continually amazed by the clarity of the water. Is this the real fountain of youth???

Our other fav stop on this trip was a visit to Australia Zoo, home to Steve and Bindi Irwin . Let me remind you this place is everything STEVE and BINDI...they were everywhere!! on drink cups, on the walls and they even played Bindi's album in the croc pen!! no wonder the crocs are always underwater....But it is wonderful to see such a well kept zoo where for once, the animals look happy to be there! They are fed the freshest food (DK and I were envious of freshly cut plums and such in the bird cage) and some animals get daily walks around the zoo.

Exhibit A: Wombat on a leash

Exhibit B: Tigers...one siao handler actually went into the den and swam with them, playing big catnip like they were kittens...amazing to watch.Exhibit C: Can't remember their names now but these two are the lovebirds or rather lovecrocs in the zoo. i.e. a breeding pair. This pic even has them holding hands!! cue audience: awwwww!

Ack!! Something's got my ass!!!

7 months?

2009-07-12T16:56:00.002+08:00

I realise its been 7 months since I updated this blog. One word...SLACKER. no excuses.

After I found out Kim's Mom loves reading it, I thought I'ld do her a favour and give her more reading material...8)

Glorious Maori-land

2008-12-25T21:22:00.019+08:00

Guess I've been procrastinating this post for ages! Only because we have so many pictures and so many stories to tell that its gonna be a long story indeed. Then I thought, heck it's Xmas...I'm home alone..what else is there to do lah?? I'm sure Mom & Dad have been waiting to hear about our trip. So here is a synopsis of the 2600km we drove in 6 days 8)
Punting (we didn;t go) on the Avon river which snakes through Christchurch

Lamby lamby everywhere! 450km / day was made easy by the fantastic view along the way...okay okay...also the good company..8P

Lake Pukaki , among other glacier-made lakes . Famous for their translucent sparkly waters with an out-of-this-world turquoise blue! No camera tricks!

Lake Tekapo, my favourite lake where we also stayed at. This is what we woke up to.
Hey look! It's my precioussss (in a Smigol voice)...just happy to be there

The Blue Pools...no diving pls!

The crazy kids hiked to Fox Glacier...whooo..worth every muscle cramp later!

Mirror Lakes, where the water is still enough to reflect the mountainous landscape..therefore...pantulan effect!!

Falls at Milford Sound. Now if only there were less rain..

Queenstown Gondola ride. Don't look down!!
We're on the..top of the world..lookin' ,..down on creation , and the only explanation I can findddd...It's the love that I've found , ever since you;ve been around...you just put me at the top of the world...

Black sheep! Just as i guessed, its a recessive trait found 1 in 1000 sheep. we only saw a total of 6 in all of our 6 days and millions of sheep on the way. Pretty darn cool to see one up close at Waiau down farms.

Farmer Laine truckin' a truck!

Shearing is a tough job only a farmer can do. Average speed to shear a whole adult sheep is 45 seconds!! beat that!

South Island New Zealand is by far the best vacation we've had. 5 stars and 4 thumbs up from us!

The little patch down South

2008-11-15T12:33:00.042+08:00

You dirty dirty dirty minds!!!! hahahaha....I was referring to Tasmania lah!.. So here is a recap of our 3 day vacay.

Day 1: Upon arrival at Hobart, picked up our cute little Getz rental and drove down South of the island to Peppermint Bay, Woodbridge. The area was reputed to have great views and also the convenience of a good restaurant, aptly named...what else?? Peppermint Bay ! Memorable was the freshly-shucked Bruny Island oysters ..slurpp! We later drove around on our way up to Hobart city and stopped at a blowhole, colony of ducks by a river and weird Tasmanian road signs. Checked into our 3.5 star no-tel motel, got engaged, went for celebratory dinner at a seafood food court! (thanks Muer's) I still think Sydney fish market kicks its ass.

The dining view from my seat.

The dining view from the restaurant.

Seriously, I mean...how cute is that?, there were also a whole lot of ducks hanging out just below and near the sign.

Day 2: Woke up bright and shiny to head up north towards Freycinet National Park. This was going to be the highlight of our trip, so I was pretty excited. First top, food in my belleh!! the only place that had food was at Freycinet Lodge, a pretty cool hotel in the park with awesome views of the Freycinet coast.

View from hotel balcony.

Next up, the trek uphill to Wineglass Bay Lookout. Since Tasmania is surround by heaps of coastline, you are bound to see a lot of nice beaches and scenery. Wineglass Bay is one of those locations you see from postcards and travel advertisements begging you to visit Tasmania. The place surely did not dissapoint, however weather was extremely unpredictable and did dampen our spirits slightly. The hike was pleasant enough, but still worked up a sweat...we finally did it!!

We had to entertain ourselves along the 45-min hike. God bless cameras.

Whoa! It DOES look like a wineglass!

STB Mr & Mrs. Kwong

Cape Tourville lookout

Sleepy Bay was nothing like the name suggests, bursting with color!I adore how the crystal turquoise water meets the bright orange lichen-covered rocks.

Definately did not expect such vibrant and contrasting landscapes barely a few kilometres away from Wineglass Bay Lookout.

We then decided to take a chance and drive north for another 1.5 hours to Binalong Bay, where I looked up an award-winning restaurant ( how appropriate to celebrate our engagement!) I obviously neglected to make a reservation ,but lo and behold, they had ONE opening for two..and was otherwise all booked out. Bear in mind this was a place out of nowhere and not as straightforward to get to, so we may have stumbled on a real gem!

What she said.

Danny was having a good time chowing.

The best freakin' fish I've ever had. Grilled striped trumpeter ...firm and smooth, tasty and simply delightful! Yummy thumbs up for Angasi of Binalong Bay, Bay of Fires.

Day 3: Drove to the Tasman peninsula, which is a small patch of land south-east of the patch of land south-east of Australia (get it?) First stop, Tasmanian Devil Conservatory. We really wanted to see one in real life, and where better than where their name suggests.

Roar! *bite*, beware!

The reason why Tasmanian devils (the largest carnivorous marsupial) are going extinct is that they are extremely susceptible to a rare facial tumour which usually is fatal. The fact that these animals engage in a lot of fights in the wild (for food, for pleasure,..who knows?) and use their sharp flesh-cutting teeth in gnaw at each other's faces leaves horrible scars which then get infected by the disease. The sanctuary we visited thankfully was disease-free and we got a good opportunity to watch them. I wouldn't cuddle one just yet, but they're quite interesting creatures.

Up next, a trip to historic Port Arthur, an 17th century prison for British cons . Back in the day, people would get thrown in prison for petty theft and misdemeanor. It was interesting how they kept such good records of all the inmates and the wrong-doings they committed. The ruins are easily accessible by foot and they have taken great care in preserving as much original detail about the people who lived there.

Penetentiary building and Police headquarters.

Goverment Gardens for goverment officials.

Church (cons have to pray too you know)

Does this shatter your image of prisons being dungeons and cramped, yucky places? The prison also operated the first adolescent boys correctional facility. They were kept on a seperate landmass nearby the area to prevent the "evil" of adult convicts from corrupting their minds.

The guard's tower. Look at the sick puppy's mug. How miserable.

Inside the penetentiary, the roof was detroyed by a fire. They did not bother to rebuild it. Perhaps it adds to the historical charm?

We concluded our trip down-down under with another serving of oysters! I think the one thing I'll miss when I move to Colorado would be fresh oysters. Here at Barilla Bay, they farm and sell their oysters themselves. Good shit....at $9.50/ doz...can't get any better than that!

Next stop: NEW ZEALAND!!

Congratsy Karmen & Vince!

2008-11-15T12:26:00.003+08:00

Karmen and I seem to do everything together..and now, she's also got engaged! Ok, actually she got it before I did..but I think we need to celebrate! Can't wait to see you next, babe!!...(p/s I know I'm fat here, blame it on winter!)

The tale of the lobak

2008-11-15T09:39:00.005+08:00

Dear friends & family,

As you may already have heard....I've got a lobak!! whoo hoo!!! The rainy dreary day of November 6th in Hobart, Tasmania will forever be engrained with memories of Danny's shocking proposal. I always told him I wanted to be surprised and nothing cheesy and it was exactly just that. When he sprang the ring-in-a-box on me, I think my neurons must have misfired cos I was speechless for a good 5-10 seconds! Bzz-Bsstt-bzzssss (the imaginary sound of my neurons). Once reconnected, I could only manage to vocalize "are you freakin' kidding me?"..

After the initial shock on my part...then the whole romantic speech plus a few emotional tears...(would you expect anything less from ms.crybaby?) we are officially engaged!!! Gentlemen, start your engines!! Since Che's wedding planning 3 years ago, I've been christened Bridezilla by some ...heck, is it bad to know what I want ? So Ive promised Danny to not plan ANYTHING for the wedding, and to concentrate about getting my Ph.D before my Mrs.

OH, btw, did I mention my amazing lobaK? Thanks to Che for lobbying for such a fantastic ring! The design is exactly what I wanted and what more, It looks so fabulous on me! Kudos to my dearest Danny for a job well done...tee hee hee...the special Asscher cut is definately worth it!

This year will mark a special year for our family, as 4 became 5 and now about to become 6.

Love you all!!

Wedding bells for Kim & Ern

2008-11-02T10:59:00.011+08:00

Yesterday morning marked an important day in our circle of friends as we joined in the celebrations for Kim & Ern's big day. The ceremony began at a park with gorgeous views of the Opera house as well as Harbour bridge and ended with me in tears!! (during the reading of vows)

The wedding party then proceeded to WatersEdge for the lunch reception. Compared to Msian style weddings, this was a small one..just 11 tables of the most important people. To sum it up in 3 words, it was personal, eventful and helluva good time!

Big Congratulations once again... Hip hip hooraY!!!

Fare-de well Agnes!

2008-10-03T22:25:00.003+08:00

If there's something great about being in a foreign country, its definately meeting some really good people. The Anzac is somewhat blessed to have out very own German invasion thanks to our HOD who is very proudly German.

L-R: Agnes, Anja and I

Germans come, Germans go...thus is life at the ARI. Agnes has been with us for a year now, and is one of the most splendid people I've had the pleasure of knowing. Extremely kind and warm, you're gonna make a great Dr. Weber! 3 cheers to you on a job well done..visit me soonest!

L-R: Holger, Anja, Ludwig, myself and Agnes

Celebrating her last few days in Sydney, the students went out, beers in tow (lemon lime bitters for me!) ala Germ-style. We're gonna miss you Agnes, I sure will need to find someone new to bitch with..8(

Ba de ya...dancing in September

2008-09-30T20:34:00.006+08:00

My big 26th Birthday with my co-bday sistah, kimmy kam kam khoo. Pictures definately speak louder than words, it feels wonderful to have such good friends who care to make your day special. Thanks for the cake and pressies! Me love pressies!

Also, no birthday is consumated without silly faces...

As usual, kam kam khoo likes to kiss everyone.

All I want for Laine-mas is DK lovin! and perhaps a paper to call my own..8)

Not forgetting my other bestie ...

X-Men

2008-09-30T20:13:00.002+08:00

If I had a superhuman power, my choice for today would be levitation...and you can call me Levitator, or LeviLaine (I like Levi Laine!) . Its time now for an exhibition of my powers.......TaDA!!!!!!!!

Photoshop powers courtesy of Jamesu.

Break with the bestie

2008-08-04T21:49:00.008+08:00

DK & I also took a short trip to Adelaide to visit the bestie. I love the city, it's small, has character and is peaceful. Dont even get the sense of pollution, which is great! It was good to have bestie and bestie's man and bestie's dog around. They really made the trip fantastic. Plus, Ive been craving for some girl-time for such a long time....ahh,..makes me miss ma bitchessss!!!

ahhh....the love is strong with this one..............appletini????

One of the blessed things in life; 1 loved one; 2 best friends; 3 locals; 4 25-going on 6 year olds; 5 funny bones and chocolate in a fondue. (sang in Xmas song mode)

So, needless to say, we ate like pigs....only the best adelaide could offer. Thanks KarMen & Vince & Ben! The loveliest 7-yr old dog I've ever met.

Aussie fauna at its best

2008-08-04T21:14:00.010+08:00

Danny was a hungry boy, but Danny doesn't know
Giant pelican may look so cute, but it can swallow him whole!

OKay, okay, so my blogging frequency has been rather erratic...haha nothing has happened to my Sydney lifestyle recently, so Im gona continue to talk about my gold coast trip. Here are some pics and a very cute video.....

This reminds me of a condominium for koalas, its really extremely endearing in real life. Makes me wanna pluck them off the branches n hug them, and squeeze them, and love them and lock them in a cage!!!!

Chillin' with my homies....living the roo-life

Yes, this is an...Australian Kookoodapolu.........oklah I'm bluffing...it's just a wombat.

P for precious, P for Polar

2008-07-19T20:59:00.003+08:00

While at SeaWorld in Gold Coast, I was really excited to see the Polies. Imagine these beautiful creatures embracing 20 degree Celcius weather! What a sight!

Whales in Paradise

2008-07-03T18:59:00.005+08:00

I whisked DK away to a not-so-secret location , away from Sydney's slowly freezing temperatures and helloooo Gold Coast! On our 2nd day, we hopped on a whale-watching tour..hoping to catch a glimpse of the many sea creatures on their yearly pilgrimage to warmer waters. Among the possible sightings are Southern humpback whales, killer whales and giant loggerhead turtles. Unfortunatel we didnt get to see any killer whales (boo hoo) but we did come about 50-100m away from few pods of humpbacks. Tried to take a video, but this is all i managed to get.

It was worth every penny. he feeling of being so close to nature at its best was extraordinary. Only in AUstralia!!

Tetsuya's ; 592 Kent St.

2008-07-01T15:46:00.002+08:00

Everyone and anyone who has been priviledged to dine at Sydney's multi-award winning restaurant would rave endlessly about their experience. I had to make 3 mths advance booking to get our spot in conjuction with our 2nd anniversarry. The place was like a prison outside, hidden behind stainless steel gates, with actively rotating CCTV cameras. But once inside, the building is modestly decorated with a Zen garden (that has a pond with no fish!). Service was obviously top-class , as was the food. Here is what i remember about our 10-course degustation menu:

Entrees:
1. Mushroom and chestnut consomme flavoured with truffles (5 lip-smacking stars)
2. Leek and crab custard (5 lip-licking stars)
3. Smoked ocean trout with avruga caviar ( 4.5 bon appetit stars)
4. 3-styles scampi: au naturale in olive oil, grilled with prosciutto, and in a passionfruit-tomato vinagrette (5 thumbs up stars)

Mains:
5. Confit of Petuna Tasmanian Ocean trout with konbu, daikon and fennel with seasonal green salad. (Chef's special!)
6. Ravioli of blue spanner crab in a tomato and basil vinaigrette (4 tasty stars)
7. Grilled fillet of barramundi with braised baby fennel (3.5 yummy stars)
8. Twice-cooked de-boned spatchcock with capers and olive jus (4 finger-licking stars)
9. Grilled wagyu beef with line and wasabi (DK rates best ever!)

Dessert:
9. Chestnut cream mont blanc with salted meringue (ding ding ding!! best tasting, most unique dessert i've ever had)
10. Granny smith green apple sorbet with apple jelly mont blanc (3 stars)
11. Chocolate terrine with mascarpone and cognac anglaise (4 sweet tooth fairy stars)

For 2 extremely wai-sek people, we had a wonderful 3.5 hour dinner. Thanks babe!

Laine plays hostess

2008-05-04T20:02:00.005+08:00

2 weeks ago, Ah Chim and June came to Sydney for a taste of Sydney living. I hope they had a great time (at least they said so!, but they could just be polite right?) but here are some pics from our week together.

Mussel pots!! a necessity in this part of town. Yes yes we bring everyone here...but its soo worth it!

I want my baby back baby back baby back baby back ribsssss!!

When the going gets tough...get crazy!

2008-05-04T19:50:00.010+08:00

Work is fortunately filled with nice people to work with. (minus 1 cranky boss) At times when we think no one is looking, James and I indulge in a little picture montage!. basically, we have fun with the camera ...c'mon,..how can this not put a smile on our faces?
Seriously!..ahhh Mystie...too bad you're no longer here..

Poster child for "The Dentist II"

Behold! the monster from NiNi land....mwahhhhhahaaaaa

Fukuya Restaurant

2008-04-11T17:04:00.013+08:00

Vat vould ve voo on V Day? Vhy, eat of course!! Che sussed out this amazing gourmet Japanese restaurant on Jln Delima, Ampang. 6 courses costs us not an arm and a leg, but maybe a small toe. However, the experience was really worth it. Too bad Dad passed it up for a night with ugly, fat and unburly men.

Adventures from Phuc-ket!,....continues.

2008-04-11T16:52:00.009+08:00

Phuket was awesome, we should definately do an annual family vacation. Okay, I shouldn't call it an adventure since we didnt go to Phi Phi Island...(doh! I brought it up again)

The nuisance of degenerates

2008-04-07T13:31:00.001+08:00

For a few weeks now, Ive been receiving anonymous comments on the blog, always prompting the reader to click on a link. PLS DO NOT CLICK IT. Don't know where it will lead you, don't know what you'll get.

I'll do my best to delete it as soon as I get to it.

Happy birthday Kah-chui-na

2008-03-20T17:34:00.004+08:00

Was Cat's birthday a few weeks ago after we both came back from KL. We went to a random French restaurant by recommendation from eatability.com.au. The place was called Caliniere, cosy and nice...but with the two of us yackity yacking away , i bet the other patrons were cursing "Kan ni ne!" hahaha. Terence was in town, so we spent the week hanging out, mostly eating. Seen here at Passionflower, the much talked about ice cream bar. Honestly, it aint all that.

This little baby carrot is dedicated to you my dear! (That's Cat, not Danny!) Har har har. Notice how painfully little the carrot is? Brings back memories doesn't it? I promise I'll visit Melb soon. Promise!

I found the next big child star!

2008-03-13T18:36:00.002+08:00

Just finished watching a surprisingly wonderful movie, Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium starring Dustin Hoffman, Natalie Portman and Jason Bateman of Arrested development fame. Dustin was fab as the fumbling Mr. M but it was the performance of 13 yr old Zach Mills as Eric the Hat collector that totally made it a great film. Not only extremely cute, his character exudes a maturity thats endearing and really funny. He's my new fav. child star! Okay okay, this boy is so good his acting made me cry!

2 thumbs and 2 big toes up for this special one. Would watch it again just to see him.

Binge, bang alakazam!

2008-02-25T19:58:00.007+08:00

Returning home for 2 1/2 weeks ..one can only think of the swirly memories of how fresh nasi lemak tickles the nose. Returning home as usual, a party in my mouth every meal..kept me very very happy. Of course, Danny was there too! He's like the cilantro garnish on chicken rice which makes it taste ooohh so much more yum. Our eating binge can only be accomplished by the presence of a team of bingers, Mom & Dad , Che & Jack and of course Danny & I. Our meals generally average the annual carb and fat consumption of 5 Somali children during corn harvest season. How bout that!
Our eatcapades spans the Klang Valley and up north in Penang, crammed in a SLK (small little kembara) our stomachs were as determined as our little engine that could.

My all-time fav. mee goreng stall on Gurney Drive, originally on Egdecumbe Rd.

Food is the best compliment to a great time out, and being home around family and friends makes the heart grow fonder.

My merry Xmas

2008-01-07T19:09:00.000+08:00

Whoa, been ages since I last posted. Already gone to Florida and back for Xmas and new years. Seeing DK was great, we had a wonderful time...waking up at 11, daily home-cooked meals (including very yummy soup and fish!), outlet malls...ahhhh....this is the life. We also headed north to Orlando, to spend some quality "alone" time. Everytime DK & I go on vacation, we become mighty morphing power eaters! Most memorable was lobster buffet!, had the best service and 7 lobsters between the both of us.. whoo hoo!

Not to mention meeting the parents was something else. My Cantonese barely saved me and I had to rely on my not-very winning smile and charm. Lucky for me the Wukster still loves me, and I rewarded him with a super trendy Spongebob sweater..see below:

We hit Universal studios and Epcot this time. It was amazing! Loved the space shuttle simulator ride ..made the blood crawl upstream in my fingers!! even DK was woozy for hrs after..what a wuss!! (kidding !!)...second fav. was the Test track ride where you get a first hand look and feel of how its like being a crash test dummy. Super cool!

Epcot's Round-the-world showcase: Morocco (lamb was mmm MMmm good)

Thanks babykins for yet another wonderful vacation. Till CNY '08!! See ya later, floridian aligator!!

Congratulations Mystie & Samson!

2007-11-20T18:38:00.000+08:00

He did kiss the bride

Mystie in all her glory

Sunday 18th Nov., first friend's wedding for me! Mystie and I are colleagues at the ARI and she's been such a good friend since Ive been here. Samson and her are really compatible and are very obviously perfect for each other. Her big day came after only 5 mths of planning (she had to push the wedding up cos she got preganant, double congrats!) and my,my it was a beautiful day indeed. I attended the morning bride pick-up and tea ceremony as well as the luncheon later on.

Some of the Bonies (L-R): Colette, Hong , Janine, myself, me Julie, Mimi & Ben (from Biogerontology)

Table 23 : Addition of Robert at far right. He's the nicest, most patient, baby-faced Polish Ive met.

Great great day, fantastic food..most notably the seared scallops with prosciutto and fried onions. MMMmmmmMMMMM...pls, sir, can I have some more? *blink blink*

News Break: I passed!

2007-11-07T19:36:00.000+08:00

Today I passed my first year probation, which is mandatory for all postgrads. I'm pretty sure its hard to fail it, but still glad I passed. *grin*

Celebrated with some retail therapy...nice.

Monopoly madness

2007-11-05T21:04:00.000+08:00

The great thing about game night, other than wholesome family fun for generations on end, is that it's always full of laughs no matter how many times you've played it. My current 'in' game is monopoly but not the regular one, modern day monopoly comes in all sorts of themed variations. I'm thinking maybe I should start collecting these sets, and many are limited edition collector's item too! The exciting bit is the incorporation of the new characters into the game, all in line with the theme. How cool is that? You can get all kinds of monopoly , from a range of different producers too. Parker brothers are the original but has now combined with Hasbro. USAopoly provides many US baseball/football/Nascar type versions whilst Milton Bradley has some fun ones like Spongebob. New types may also come with DVD games and credit card function. Don't look confused, you just gotta try it! Some of the ones I have my eBay eyes on:

1. Family Guy monopoly
2. Spongebob Squarepants monopoly (with pewter spongebob characters!)
3. Pwerpuff Girls monopoly
4. Dog Lover's monopoly
5. Monopoly Here & Now with electronic banking
6. Sesame Street monopoly (I want I want I want!!)
7. The Simpsons monopoly

Can't wait to get my hands on my first!

Funkiliy doo-dah names

2007-11-02T15:54:00.000+08:00

I've heard that some Asians relish in giving themselves funky "english" names. Among the many Iv'e encountered before are Patience, Rainbow and who can forget Noodle/Dior Cheng E-Kin. silly Hollywood celebs are also joining the stand for weird names like Nicolas Cage's Kal-El (name of Superman's father) and Gwyneth's Apple. The funniest one i've seen was featured today as the boyfriend of Msian actress Lee Sin Je (the gal from The Eye). Ok here it comes....wait for it...wait for it....OXIDE Pang! C'mon the dude probably thinks its major cool and probably rolls off his tongue really nicely. Freedom of choice I guess.

"Hey Oxide, over here!

Life is like Melbourne's weather

2007-10-26T21:51:00.000+08:00

Behind every big grey cloud lies the sunshine...eventually.

Today was horrible, woke up late as usual. Gobbled down my cereal with milk and trotted in my 2-inch boots along the 25 min walk to work. Only, it was drizzling. Bottom of my jeans got wet. Laine Not happy.

As soon as I got into work, I had to finish correcting some scripts for my class which was due today. No time to talk to anyone, no time to pop into the lab to say my usual cheery good mornings to everyone. 11.00 am bus passed by....Im still not done...11.30am bus zoomed by...still undone!! Finally finished at 11.40 and had to shove my giant tuna sandwich down my throat to catch the 12pm bus.

Click-clacked to Strathfield station and came upon a forked decision:

Train A: Departs in 10 mins..2 stop away from Redfern
Train B: Departs in 2 mins... 6 stops away from Redfern....My mind was not born for math, what more math in stress and heat and sweat!!

Obviously I chose the train that would take longer to get to Redfern..25 mins!! as compared to the usual 15. Darn it. Already 30 mins late to work. Once at the station, I practically had to half-run-walk another 10 mins to my building. By now, my so-called comfy boots that cushioned my feet around San Fran's all-day shopping extravaganzas were screaming profanities at me. So I burst into my lab, sweating like a birthing pig with 5 mins before 80 anxious kiddos flood in.

So my day hasnt given me a reason to smile today. Until I unexpectedly spoke to an ex-classmate from uni days. He said "We need our dose of laine's laughter today, its been quiet around here".

See I told you so. The sun will come out, tomorrow!

My Non-invitation

2007-10-24T19:06:00.000+08:00

James from work recently pointed out that the lanyard Ive been wearing bore the logo of 3 stick people engaged in a threesome. I beg to differ of course, what do you think?

In case you're wondering, its a brand of anaesthetic drug given by my anaesthetist friend Si Panjang. James thinks its my invitation. Since when did it become OK to discuss sexual preferences at work????

Too bad Im really a one man gal.

Oktoberfest! or what's left of it

2007-10-21T19:23:00.000+08:00

Although Oktoberfest isn't celebrated in October but late September, that doesnt stop German restaurants here from declaring the entire month in the name of beer. Before coming to Sydney, my only beer crossing was sniping a sip from Dad's Tiger or Carlsberg. Never really had a taste for beer or bier as the Germs call it, but I think the winds have changed. We went out a couple of weekends ago for a beer-guzzling dinner at Lowenbrau (loo-ven-broie) and my my, I must say, beer really does drown the weeks miseries away! We had loads of fun, loads of pork. Now I understand why Dad loves his beer.

I dont appreciate the growing and impending beer belly. Oh NO!!!!

After one too many biers. One crazy Jocie manages a sane pic.

Lainey wants a Vroom Vroom..

2007-10-21T19:01:00.000+08:00

Saturday 20th Oct. My first international motor show. Oogle and drool...here's some of my favs.

BMW Z4 M Coupe in Midnight blue....for a swanky night out. 5 Stars!

Audi R8 . I give it 4 stars, too big and wide for me, but still a beaut.

Hyundai concept car - Veloster. Name is kinda crappy but that baby's got one fine ass. 5 stars!

And my sweet fantasy ride...tada!! Audi TT 3.2 Quattro . Hand me a napkin quick. Super duper 5 stars!!!

I pick Door D: the one with the devil in it

2007-10-20T20:57:00.000+08:00

Imagine you got sent to hell on a road trip, and was made to choose between 3 doors; behind which you shall spend a total of 15 hours with its inhabitants. Which would be your pick?

DOOR A: Arrogant, obnoxious bitch of a man who coincidently renegades in a bevy of continuous sarcasm in the effort to appear funny. Must also always have the last say in everything. And I mean EVERYTHING. Basically, a ego-maniac who's also self-proclaimed pussy-whipped in the arse, which explains why he needs to be such a fuckin' elitist.
Quote: "I don't mean to put myself up, but at my work, Im regarded as the leader who solves big problems and people respect me cause I can handle them, and thats how I become successful". How is THAT not putting yourself up you little numbnut? God I hope you do really have nuts the size of raisins you shithead.

DOOR B: First man to walk away when the bill arrives. He wished he had Harry Potter's invisibility cloak to slither away unnoticed, but not under my watch mister! Also reported on multiple occasions to instigate others to pick up the tab, while he smiles his Cheshire cat smile. Oblivious that a myriad of unpleasant names are being yelled at him in my head. Who the fuck thinks he can get away at being a real deal cheapo and at the same time guilt-tripping someone else into paying? Fuckin freeloader. Hate you MFs.

DOOR C: The kind of person who will say something unpleasant unnecesarrily. Prolly never heard of the phrase : "If you don;t have anything nice to say, shut the fuck up" or it's kinder cousin : "If you dont open you mouth, nobody knows you're stupid". Have you ever told someone that you disliked them in their face? ambush and attack style? I don't think I appreciate being caught in that situation (which I obviously just did). The worst thing is that they don't think its impolite or wrong. It was like he was raised no, not by a monkey, but the monkey's shit-laden arse.

So I choose Door D, the one with horns and a barbed tail. Why? Cos I cant stand another minute of your smug yong sui face. Why? Cos the only things outta your mouth are filled with smut and pond scum, much like your insides. Why? Cos you have no sense of decency towards people and more so, people you've just met. Why? Cos you're trying to lose your Malaysian-ness to be more Aussie, much like the shallow people who don't embrace their roots and are miscronstrued that West n White is best. Why? I don't really wanna give you a piece of my pork rib cos you indirectly called me a bitch. Why? cos nobody announces how much they make just for public effect. I have a million reasons for disliking you from our brief 15 hour encounter. It's also taught me a valuable lesson. You can definately see how a person looks like on the inside by how much shit that spews out of his mouth.

Can't wait till you're outta our city.

HAHAHA Malaysia!

2007-10-18T20:45:00.000+08:00

Courtesy of Kim, Here's 2 Malaysian jokes I'ld like to share with you guys.

Samy Vellu goes to a village and speaks to the villagers:

Samy: Saya nak bina jambatan untuk semua!
Villagers: Tapi Tan Sri, di sini tak ada sungai. Kenapa nak bina jambatan?

Samy: Tak ada sungai? Tak apa!. Saya bina sungai untuk jambatan!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-There she goes....there she goes..our tax payers money...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

An international convention to send astronauts into space was announced and joined by the big guns.

Russia: We vill send an astronaut to the moon!

US: We will send our 2nd astronaut to the moon!!!

Samy Vellu: We will send our astronaut to the sun!! MALAYSIA BOLEH!!

US: AHem, Mr Vellu, don't you think it's a little too hot on the sun??

Samy Vellu: It's ok, we will send them in the evening.

Tee Hee HEe...

Wonders of Photography

2007-10-14T11:10:00.000+08:00

Samson, Mystie & I

Last weekend, Mystie invited myself and James for a sampler of their wedding luncheon. Food was divine of course and what followed was a short photography session. James creates the most beautiful pictures, very very artsy from his multiple trips to Japan. Who else to best capture her best moments? Being "assistant" bag-carrier, I did get a few shots myself.

I have NEVER looked so tall! 5"1 disguised as 5"6!!! Holy moly!

Life Lotto

2007-10-08T19:17:00.000+08:00

I had a recent discussion with a good galfriend of mine, A about men. Which, coincidently, comprises of maybe 65% of all our conversations. Which makes me think, is it all just fate who we end up with at the end of the day. "A" is beautiful and has a great personality and yet, she always dates the wrong kind of men. On the other hand, some women whose looks are less forgiving (im thinking a former neighbour of mine, proposterously near hideous of a woman. but married a very successful, decent looking man). So how do the birds get the good worms? Are the best worms ones that emerge fresh from the ground like career-driven men, metrosexual and boldly going where no worm has gone before; or are the ones that linger in the ground for a tad bit puffing up slowly on dirt or whatever worms eat which make them a tastier treat for women?

Sadly you will find I do not have an answer for you. However, I do have a pretty logical explanation:

Assume you live in a metropolitan city with a large demographic of all types of people. Lets say there are 10 million people in this city. Now lets have some fun with math:

Of 10 million, half are women . -------------------------5 million EM (Eligible men)

Of 5 million men, 50% are married ----------------------- 2.5 million EM

Of 2.5 million unmarried men, 30% are above 40 years old ----1.75 million EM

Of 1.75 million, 30% are below 20 years old ---------------- 1.2 million EM

Of 1.2 million men, 40% are too fat, too bald, too short or too ugly ----approx 720,000 EM

Of 720,000 men, 20% have emotional baggage from ex-girlfriends ----580,000 EM

Of 580,000 men, 20% have bad BO and/or bad breath ------approx 420,000 EM

Of 420,000 men, 10% add 2 inches to their actual length -----approx 380,000 EM

Of 380,000 men, 30% are cat lovers -------------------approx 260,000 EM

Of 260,000 men, 50% watch too much porn for their own good ---130,000 EM

Of 130,000 men, 50% only wanna get in your pants ------------ 65,000 EM

Of those, 10% will tell their friends that they did
20% watch too much sports
20% expect you to wash, clean and cook
10% have extremely hot female friends
10% talk to your chest
10% somehow used to date friends of friends of friends
10% are mommy's boys ----------------------------6,500 EM

Of 6,500 remaining men,
20% are workaholics
30% drink and /or smoke too much
40% put you second to their careers -------------------------650 EM

Of these 650 EM,
90% are good looking, kind, generous, loving and TAKEN----65 EM

The rest of the 65 EM, 80% won't have the guts to ask you out ------13 EM

That leaves the final 13 eligible and "dateable" bachelors which you of course have to fight over with the 2.5 million unmarried women in your city. So who's the lucky gal? just depends if you bought the winning lotto ticket i guess.

Animagus

2007-10-08T18:03:00.000+08:00

The concept of an animagus, according to Harry Potter's JK Rowling is a person who morphs into animal forms voluntarily. Laine's theory of animagi (animagus ; animagi?) is the phenomenon of animal resemblance in humans, occuring once in every 500,000 individuals. The unfortunate/ fortunate mixture of physical traits inherited by a person which happens to match some animalia physical properties.

Australian Idol host James Mathison & Sea turtle

Jay Leno & a loaf of bread

Celine Dion & Ranch horse

Kelly Osbourne & Miss Piggy

I rest my case.

Mid-autumn moon-gazing festival

2007-09-26T18:46:00.000+08:00

We had a crazy idea to have a bbq after work, at Brays Bay Park. Pitch darkness other than our lil lanterns prettily lighting up the picnic area. Ben thought of everything! portable stove for tea, mooncakes, plenty of food and even an ipod dock for music. Given that its mid-week and also mid-autumn festival, we had tons of fun. Also, new friend Nien Nock (Thien Hock) is a hoot and a half. Must recruit more Msians to Sydney!

Here's how beautiful...our Sydney moon.

Yo, whaddup dawg; its the KLKK (Kia Lai Kia Khee /Kong Lai Kong Khee) gals in da house!

(L-R): Kim, Roy, Sunny, Nien Nock, I & Ben on the ground)

New Age Chipmunks: Nien Nock (aka Nock Nock); Ben (Bobo) and Laine (Choco)

Australia will cut me off

2007-09-14T17:51:00.000+08:00

Had a follow up discussion with my scholarships manager today and clarified some ambiguity in my contract. Apparently, I'm only funded for exactly 3 years with no chance of extending my award. FUCK! Would it be too early to fret? Considering my mind, body and soul was recently refreshed with my fantastic vacation, I think i still have horsepower and drive to work overtime and over weekends. Even so, im getting worried I won't have time. On a plus side, the financial crunch puts pressure on me to push results out of my ears, which would otherwise lie low, simmering slowly. This means only 2.5 years of xperimental time and 6 mths of thesis write-up...you think I'll finish before I hit 28? That's good right? Early finish means I get to move on early.....Think positive!!! I can do it!!..

2007-09-11T20:31:00.000+08:00

My warmest thanks to you, for making your time-zone crossing trip over to me. Can't wait for Xmas, the best time of the year!

Watch out below!

2007-09-11T18:11:00.000+08:00

DK & I were at Sydney Aquarium and came across this funny sign. The crocodile IS real.

Big shout out to Kim & Ernest

2007-09-11T18:03:00.000+08:00

A massive congratulations to Kimball & Si Panjang for their very recent engagement! You both are deserving of each other and I wish you the very best of wedded bliss as you both grow wrinkles together.

So glad to be apart of your special day which will forever be immortalized as "The day we had Eagle Boys Pizza"

Did somebody say holiday??

2007-09-11T17:42:00.000+08:00

The long wait was finally over...DK arrived and we had the most splendid time together. I saved up all the touristy things to do in Sydney so we could do them together, so that it will be a first for both of us. From city tours, to ferry boats....blue mountains to wine country. We managed to cover a whole lot didn't we baby? The past week has been perfect, finally someone to hold my hand and gimme a hug. A recap of the week before:

Me, my man in Manly beach...blue skies, sunny sun sun and a whole lotta wind!

Our day at the Blur Mountains. apparently, they look blue because the secretions of eucalyptus oil (from the plant of course!) reflects blue light!

Max Brennar's chocolate cafe...you guessed it, tons of chocolate everything! Particularly liked the mexican spicy chocolate drink..yummilicious...

Post-birthday dinner karaoke...la la la la lalaland

Hunter Valley wine country...we didn't get drunk on wine, but on laughter and fun!

Love actually....is all around

2007-08-31T19:43:00.000+08:00

I wouldn't particularly call myself a fan of British TV or movies, but I do have to say, my favorite romantic movie of all time...ALL TIME would have to be Love Actually. Aside from the numerous sub-plots of the different characters (which are beautifully intertwined btw) one thing that makes me shiver with a kind warm feeling is the music score that plays during the "reveal" of the story. For example, the part where Juliet suprises Mark (her husband's best friend) at his home, hoping to get a video of her wedding and unknowingly stumbles on Mark's secret love for her. The marriage of the musical climax and the emotions of the scene are completely real and believeable. It's fantastic!. The same score also plays in the scenes of Aurelia and Jamie's evolving love. You'll see the same score repeated in multiple scenes usually revolving an emotional revelation between the characters.

While you might think this is a complete chick flick, it is one that has a lot of humour. My fav lines from the show:

1. "Get a grip, people hate sissies. No one's ever gonna shag you if you cry all the time"

2. "Kids, don't buy drugs. Be a rockstar and they'll give you them for free"

Also, the underlying theme revolves around the merriment of Christmas..and thats one of my favorite holidays. So frankly, what is there not to love about this movie?

Dream of californication

2007-08-27T19:29:00.001+08:00

I have to rave about this. Those of you who know what a TV-watching freak I am (I can see my mom nodding in a far far distance), I just found a fantastically witty, sly-smile-on-your-lips funny show. And yeah for you men and women who loves titties...there's plenty in this show. I dare say it: I admire good titties. As the title suggests, a combination of California + fornication = Californication (not the cleaverest name, but it works) given how much sex they can feature in 40 mins!. Before you say anymore, lemme reassure you my interest in the show is purely innocent. Love the script writing, havent had such funny lines since...since...since....oh gawd... i can't remember!!

Also, there's a 10 second shot of Madeline Zima's boobs. If she's unfamiliar, think little Gracie Sheffield from The Nanny....can I hear you GASP????>>>

"THats the look that shrivels me testes"

Malaysia Fest 2007-Sydney

2007-08-26T19:27:00.000+08:00

The past week, all I could talk about at work was how eager I was to have the warm taste of nasi lemak in my mouth. Today, finally quenched my cravings with Msia fest, a 1 day event held in Tumbalong Park near Darling Harbour by Malaysian students in Sydney. Think 22 deg. sunshine, roti canai, nasi lemak, teh ais...the works...for a price though. We mostly tried to support Clem's Mamak venture but obviously they didn't need our help; the queues were 20 mins to order and 30 mins to collect. If there weren't so much saliva pooled up in my oral cavity, anticipating my sambal, I would have given up.

I've never been in close proximity to so many Msians in Sydney until today, it was almost overwhelming the amount of Msian accents everywhere! We were mostly laughing at some Msians who got really confused on which accent to use: Malaysianized aussie or Aussified Malaysian. Funny funny Mat rempits.

See nasi lemak,........... smell nasi lemak, ............eat nasi lemak !!!!

Beautiful day, picnic under a tree. Oh yah, Jocie beat me twice in congkak.

StriveWell

2007-08-25T19:15:00.000+08:00

My sister Lynn, 1/3 of an innovative geek team has recently developed a wonderful Internet tool to help people share medical information and monitor your own health records. I look at the amt of blood, sweat and tears...I see the fruits of that labour..and now, I'm truly understanding what a fantastic idea this is. In support of their site, I've started another medical blog about my research project. I basically gobble all the scientific mumbo jumbo....munch-crunch and chew on it for abit,..and finally regurgitating it complete in gourmet fashion: small portions, served a lilttle bit at a time...and hopefully beautifully presented.

I hope you'll take some interest in learning more about what I spend 8 hrs /day thinking about: cancers and the bone....

http://cancercouchpotato.strivewell.com/

C'mon....throw me a freakin' bone here!!!

Some helluva soil!

2007-08-23T17:42:00.000+08:00

Every visit to the local produce store brings different surprises. Most days, the beautiful array of flowers, many I've never seen before but oohh sooo pretty!! greet me at the entrance. Today, I found something substantial. Teng teng teng.......!!!!

HUMONGO BONGO SEE TAW BAE LAY!!

Look at the size of these buggers, compared to my thumb. Waiting to be eaten.....muahahahaha

Again, must be some helluva soil!

Temporary insanity

2007-08-12T20:02:00.000+08:00

Jocie's birthday went off with a bang, she's living the life here in Sydney and work is giving her green lights all the way. That must be the best birthday present for her. We celebrated with after work drinks at the Golden Sheath and needless to say, a couple of glasses of bazookas later...all my worldly miseries seem miniscule. Great night out, perfect timing to unwind in the company of your good friends.

Kim & I (still sober)

Half-way there Jocie & I

Almost there and we don't care!! Malaysia mari ah! Apa lu mau??

Spider pig, spider pig

Does whatever a spiderpig does

Can he swing from a web

No he cant, he's a pig

-Homer Simpson-

All I want for Laine's Xmas is...

2007-08-08T20:20:00.000+08:00

Ive decided that since I'm such a fantabulous person (DK can vouch for that!), I'm declaring Sept. 7th a public holiday. And as such, I shall name is Laine's Christmas (cos I love Xmas, and Santa shouldnt have all the glory). As the proprietor of the one-and-only amazing holiday featuring the albeit cranky, wonky, sometimes nutty personality...I demand that all who dare celebrate this day shall hail me , take a bow and present your "offerings". This is no cult, so please dont give me a live chicken, an eye of Gollum or skin of legless frog. Some suggestions to how you can appease thy goddess:

1. Spa. Complete with full body scrub (need to get that smell of mice off me!), 3 hours of relaxing massage of Hector, my imaginary personal masseuse standards. bubble bath in beer...and please, German beer.

2. Magic wand. Not to make my spots dissapear, but with one single wave, can run my experiments for me at 10x human speed. Where can I get me one of those???

3. Shopping money. Or better still, make it so that I'm the sole winner of a "Supermarket Sweep" style keep-all-you-can-grab in Westfields. Love that gameshow.

Most of all, the ultimate gift would be for Intel to deliver DK by Express DHL to me with a note tied around his neck that reads " We're utterly sorry for keeping you, as a symbol of redemption, here's a $50,000 check and 3 months paid leave for DK so he can be of service full time."

Oklah I lied, Sept. 7th is APEC summit in Sydney, and the entire Metro area has the day off. In reality, I'm not special enough to have my own day. Things will change when billainaire rules the world!! MUahahaHAhaha..come along Pinky, today...industrially processed mouse pellets...tomorrow...gourmet 10 course lunch and dinner.

The Government Conspiracy of Morons

2007-08-03T19:22:00.000+08:00

That's it. I almost give up. All gov. depts are composed of idiots too unworthy for the private sector. Seems harsh really, but quite a generous compliment coming from an anonymous, poor student victim made to wait more than a month for work permit (meaning I dont get paid until Mr Howard's administration says "Aye aye"). A typical phone-in scenario:

Ring ring --------------------------voice recordings---------------------"Our operators are currently experiencing a large number of calls, please hold" --------------------------

-20 Minutes later-

"I'm sorry, our system indicates that your application is still being processed. We will call you within 2 working days for an update"

-2 days later-

The only call I got was from my mother.

-2 days later-

Ring ring ----------------------------voice recordings -----------------"Our operators are currently experiencing a large number of calls, please hold" --------------------------

-20 Minutes later-

"We are still processing your application. Please be patient"

-2 days later-

"Please re-submit your application as a paper application"

"Please do not re-submit your application. We will advise you further action in 2 days."

"Please stop calling us!!!" (OK, I made that one up)

At this point, its been 5 weeks since initial application. I'm surprised I have any hair on my head left. Maybe if I had another opportunity to meet Mr. Howard, I can slip him a note under the table (to not embarass him) telling him to hire people with a minimum IQ of 100.

I love shoes. Can't buy shoes if I don't have money. So I love money too. Gimme money damn it!!

See taw bae lay

2007-07-11T16:17:00.000+08:00

Its strawberry season!! Glorious ! I can easily gobble an entire pint in one seating. At 2.99/pint, we are only starting the season so I'll be hoping for cheaper fruits soon. The fruits get so large, they are almost 3x the size of the pathetic Camerons variety. And, I found a great way to enjoy them....

...dipped in chocolate custard! Yummilicious! Just don't look at the fat content.

My Avian Weekend

2007-07-09T20:48:00.000+08:00

The past week, my old high school friend Cheryl decided to bunk at my place while attending an event in Sydney. We went out to the fish market for lunch on Saturday to fulfill my long awaited craving for sashimi and oysters. Oh, and of course to bring her on a city tour too. While enjoying the beautiful sunshine, gorgeous view of the Anzac bridge, my 1/2 doz Oysters (which i swear, were so fresh I could taste the saltwater!), 400g of tuna and salmon sashimi, a platter of other cooked seafood, a resident seagull decided to swipe a piece of my Grade A sashimi from my plate! Needless to say I freaked out and made a small scene , waving my paper napkin around like a top notch sissy. How embarassing.

Ah well, still was a great day to be out and about.

Bone Biology Unit, Anzac Research Institute

2007-07-03T17:21:00.000+08:00

Last week, the entire lab had a celebration for some who had recently published papers and going for oral presentations in New Zealand. I can't wait till I have some nice data to publish and present, hopefully in a swanky international conference. Defintely feeling the pressue to get good work out since everyone in my dept. is doing such a good job.

We took some nice pics to put into the official website so I thought I'll put it up here. People-wise, it really has been great, everyone is super nice and helpful and made my transition into their workspace so easy.

Lunch Dim Sum/ Yum Cha: (Sitting L-R) Gang (visiting scientist from Ireland), Hong, Janine, Colin (my boss), Markus (new dude from Germany). (Standing L-R) Yu (my immediate senior), Mystie, Markus Seibel (HOD), myself, Robert, Colette and James

Markus wanted a nice portrait of everyone for the website. Looks nice eh? Surprising enough, it's just on a skywalk in the mall. Must be a good camera. (L-R) Gorgeous me, Mystie, Janine, Hong, Colette, Yu, Markus S, Colin, Robert, Markus and James.

Our unit has been growing alot since I came, we'll be receiving 3 new additions within the next 3 mths. Grow BBU grow!!

The Big ADDiKtion

2007-06-25T20:27:00.000+08:00

Hi, my name is laine...and I'm a DKholic. To be a DKholic is a little bit like having an alcohol addiction, only that drinking makes people go "It's your birthday...Gonna party like it's your birthday, drink Bacardi like it's your birthday" and my K Diddy makes everyday feel like my birthday.

It's been a year since I've played the emotional Road Runner, and having not won anything more of level 2 of Super Mario Bros. by some strange luck and fate on Monkey Island, I've gone and won Donkey Kong! Kudos to me! I swear I didn't cheat. Just plain smiles and laughs, shits and giggles.

Which is better :
A)winning the lottery
B)being in love
C)being the boss

Survey says 57% chose A. 23% chose B and the rest chose C. Wanna know what I chose?

D) All "D" above

Now am I smart or am I smart? *wink*

Its on the map!

2007-06-25T18:09:00.000+08:00

Since my daily routine consists of a daily viewing of movies and shows, be rest assured I have seen many hours of both since Ive been here. In my many hours of couch potatoness, this is a first for me. View dialogue:

The movie: Reno 911: Miami

The scene: Baddie played by Paul Rudd caught by the Reno sheriff's dept. for drug conspiring.

Baddie: "I really don't wanna take over Miami, I'm originally from around Denver. More specifically, Fort Collins. Business is easy there, really big on mushrooms and acid."

So, there's actually more than 1 person in Fort Collins!! ---- Danny and the guy who wrote the script! HAHAHAHA...

sorry babe, was too funny, couldn't resist.

Rare babykin sighted

2007-06-21T19:13:00.000+08:00

What is a babykin you might ask. Well here is my simple explanation. Recently discovered by one young scientist in the cold rockies of North America, a non-indigenous species of mammal of primate descent given the nomenclature Honeysnookum babykin. Morphologically, the babykin resembles the modern day human with the exception of a distinct vocalization similar to a Wookie. Data suggests that this sound may be a vital mating call, with audible signals detected up to 8,000 miles away.

With little known of the biology of this creature, we can only guess its role in our ecosystem. Its been shown to possess inate skills in cuddling, hibernating and foraging. With only 1 reported case so far, it is absolutely crucial to improve efforts towards the capture of this animal such that PDA studies can be carried out to test the canoodling limits of the babykin.

The amazing race

2007-06-04T17:27:00.000+08:00

Sometimes I feel like im in the geek edition of The amazing race. Only I'm not running around the world solving road blocks and looking for Phil, I'm somehow always running around solving one problem after another. There's beginning to be sad realisation that the rest of my 3 years in Sydney will be filled with these real-life road blocks, laced with troubleshooting and topped with a giant bright red "head-scratching" cherry. I could spend all day complaining about work, the long hours, the over-weekends, the 20min lunch breaks. But when things go right, and you see black and white evidence of the fruits of your labour, I can vouch for that feeling being the top 5 best emotions one can experience.

Today, I got fancy-scmancy X-rays of my experiments which look fantastic!..Phase 1...Complete! Now I hope my next clue box will bring me somewhere nice...and would be sweet to be Team No. 1!! Oh, and don't forget to gimme my prize!

Uncle Chew and his "Cili Padi"

2007-05-19T20:44:00.000+08:00

When I was little, well actually even when I wasn't very little, our neighbour Uncle Chew used to call me Cili Padi, which translates to those little red chilli peppers. I dont exactly know why, maybe I was such a feisty lil brat. Tonight, as promised, I had a little house-warming dinner at my place with what little friends I had in Sydney. Spent the day before taking the train to Eastwood, 4 train stops away from Rhodes, where there are alot of asian chinese shops. Was not my day cos I had to brave the very rare torrential rain in my measly 'el-cheapo' 3 dollar umbrella whilst carrying a sackful of noodles, tofu and such. Also didnt expect my golden moon-man shoes to have miniscule decorative holes in them!! Needless to say, I sploshed my way around in wet socks all the way home.

On the menu for tonight, Mee Jawa, my very favorite dish well made by granny. Got her recipe and everything went fine, although i couldnt find Chilli boh so i had to blend my own fresh chillies. In the end, the soup I made was wayyyy too spicy, I almost killed my friends! Was too busy laughing and feeling bad I forgot to take pictures of they bewildered gobsmacked faces. To me, I give it an honest 60% (which is a bad grade for ms. i-want-to-be-perfect) but beggars cant be choosers and despite the whopping hotness, i still enjoyed my first attempt at mee jawa.

Now, got lots of leftovers for the rest of this weekend, kick back, and sip on some leftover alcohol. ahhhh......

Nudies

2007-05-11T17:19:00.000+08:00

I bet there are alot of Aussie men and women who love to be nudies..be it on Bondi Beach or next to my pool. Cant say its a pleasant sight, unless you have 5% body fat and your flesh doesn't flop under your weight lying down. The nudies I wanna talk about are Nude mice, or scientifically nomenclatured as nu-/nu- athymic mice. These mice are "special" because they're genetically altered to lack the FOX1 gene, causing them to develop without a thymus gland. The thymus is responsible for generating T lymphocytes, essential soldiers in our immune system. That being said, these mice are extremely fragile and live their entirely lives in sterile environments. Because they have a compromised immune system, it allows us weird science geeks to implant human tumours to study their effects in the animal. Sounds cruel, but would you rather we use human test subjects? I only console myself in tha fact that every life lost adds to painting a bigger picture to understanding human cancer biology. I dont actually know why they're hairless, thought I've noticed that they sprout some sparse facial hair at about 6 weeks old.

"Howdy mate, I love my cage and my industrially processed food. Laine tries to be nice to us, I'll tell the rest not to bite" - Mouse no. 1.2.11 (not actual photo)

Ive started my work with them for about 2 weeks now, and will be working with them for the next 3 years. As important as they are for cancer research, they indeniably would have to be sacrificed at the end of experimentation, a sad ending for such an adorable creature. I've decided not to name individuals, so as to minimise the feeling of attachment to them. Having previously owned hamsters and guinea pigs, you can understand my fondness for these lil things. I never expected it to be so hard to euthanize them, despite having done so with rats back at Monash.

With every prayer before they die, I hope they involuntary involvement in my work brings some meaningful progress to human health and disease. If thats any consolation, Mom has suggested I go vegetarian once a week , great idea I must say. Maybe will save 10 chickens/yr.

Winter 2007 Collection

2007-04-28T14:22:00.000+08:00

Come this winter, Sydney presents its latest in fashionable warm accesorries. The hip new look is the WUK, 9lbs of pomeranian fur and flesh, designed to keep any gamer warm in his seat.

Girls in a big city

2007-04-16T14:55:00.000+08:00

Just some pics of our day in the city, it was fantastic having my friends over. Does wonders for a lonesome soul.
Sydney Fish Mkt: DROOOLLL...on the menu was sashimi salmon & tuna, fresh oysters, grilled shrimp and octopi, calamari rings, baked giant oyster, fish...with white wine on the side. YUM!

2 days with 3 lovey-dovey couples...damn it DK, you owe me big time!!

Near Circular Quay, with an excellent view of the opera house and harbour bridge (not in pic)

Martin Place, supposedly where they filmed parts of The Matrix 1

Darling Harbour, without our Lindt hot chocolate in tow, it was closed

See what I have to deal with??????

The Makan Squad

Proudly presents: 2nd hand furniture!

2007-04-16T14:46:00.000+08:00

Being a "poor" student, and with previous referral to my "i-cant-live-in-a-dump" butt, Ive managed to secure my lux pad and inevitably resorted to furnishing with previously-owned furniture. Its not that bad, got it off from friends of friends who were coincidentally leaving Sydney. Minus the fact I spent an entire afternoon wiping off dust and disinfecting the fridge, my hard labour has paid off with a reveal of my new home! The only thing NEW i got was my mattress and covers cos its too disgusting sleeping on one that has been used, and my new TV which was so generously donated to me from Kim & Ernest. Bless their kind hearts.

Also had some guests to initiate the place over Easter break. Karmen and Vincent flew in from Adelaide and Cat from Melbourne, on the pretense of making sure the lonesome me is well taken care off...awwww..aint that sweet. but they just secretly wanna go to the fish market!

Welcome to Laine's Swingin' Shaggedelic Pad!

2007-03-30T17:09:00.000+08:00

So excited! Got the keys to my apartment today...introducing,..first time home-owner (oklah, home renter) Laine Ooi! Boy its been a hectic day, Had to take a bus to the real estate agent to collect my keys and then went to the place to clean it up a little, got my fridge moved in and settled phone line, gas, electricity etc. Its mine!!!all mine!! So here are some pics to show off my brand spankin' new super lux apt. Will be moving in the furniture tomorrow, so will be a day or two before I update the blog with apt + furniture pics.

1. View to the right of my balcony

2. View to the left of my balcony

3. View below balcony...holy smokes!! jump on in!! its 26 deg today!

4. View from my loft-style bedroom

5. My bedroom

6. Ensuite bathroom..too bad I dont have a tub..8(..no more lavender bubble baths

7. View from my big ass balcony, which I intend to also use as my dining area

8. Entrance to my unit..love the dark maroon-brown carpet.

So Laine's lux motel will be officially open for business starting 1st April 2007 at these special discounted rates:

1st degree relatives : FREE (bound by blood...boh pian)

2nd degree relatives : Buy me a nice present

Good friends: Buy me nice dinner

DK: Do laundry, dishes, cook, and be the perfect man-slave

Bee yoo tee fool

2007-03-24T07:15:00.000+08:00

Last night, Kim and I were in the city visitng Clem's Mamak stall in Chinatown. Golly you should have seen the queue! Roti telur, roti kosong, satay and teh ais...that was all in their simple menu but they needed a 7-8 man team to keep the passers-by coming back for more. We were merely there for support and also to try out their fare. Have to say it scored pretty well on my tastebuds, just dont compare the pricing to our RM 1.20 roti telur back home. Ouch!!

After mamak we headed over to Darling Harbour, a treat for the senses. Beautiful view, fresh crisp air, ignore annoying seagulls, people just chilling out and unwinding a hectic Friday away. Here's a spoiler of what we had:

Harbourside view of the city....check!

City view from Pyrmont Harbourside.....check!

After that, we headed to Star city hotel & casino. Considering Vegas is still fresh in my mind, you would expect this to pale in comparison. Laine's casino rating: Top Genting by leaps, less spectacular than Venetian. Although there are a few things I like about it. 1. There was a large non-smoking section where people actually obey. 2. Tons of 1 cent slot machines! yippee! Mom & Dad are sure to love this place.

Kim & Ernest have been telling me of this place, reputedly a fav. spot for them. The view was supposed to be undeniably spectacular. With no expectations, on the way home, we went to McMahon's Point , hidden in a street corner, almost hiding from the city that surrounds it, when suddenly.........

TADA!!!!!!!!!!!!....the most perfect view in all of Sydney. Must remember to inhale and exhale.

My Banggali

2007-03-19T10:00:00.000+08:00

I just thought I'ld put something light-hearted today. Reading about housing all the time is just ZZzzZZ. Danny went to the mountains for his annual snowboarding season last weekend and came home with a bad sunburn. He thinks it makes him look like a racoon, but I think he's a chinese Banggali!

P/S DK: HA HA HA HA....so funny!!!...

Sunday

2007-03-18T11:21:00.000+08:00

Last night, Kim, Ernest & I went to the city to meet up with my friend Clement for dinner. They were celerbating their efforts of starting a mamak stall in CHinatown. Yes, roti canai and the works! So we had a good time, it was called the Belgian Beer House and had tons of different imported beers. I had mussels in Hoegaarden (which is a type of beer) and it was very good. Very relaxing night, well spent.

Status of house-hunting: 2 bedroom in Liberty Grove is perfect! large living and dining space, good kitchen, excellent environment and convenient for work too. Only downside is, there were at least 30 other people viewing the unit! So it all comes down to the owner's pick of tenants. Hate this renter's market. I already struck the lottery once this year coming here, what are the odds to get this place? Pray pray pray. If all else fails, there is my super lux! which i just switched to a better unit facing the pool. Only cos the balcony was facing the road and it could get a big creepy at night. The new unit has a big balcony facing the pool that I can use as a dining area. Very nice. At this point, I hope I get the Liberty grove unit cos its more value for money but I wouldnt be too bummed to get super lux cos who can refuse super lux???

This morning, we headed up to a suburb called Eastwood where there is a large Asian community and lots of shops for grocery. There are designated shops for seafood, meat, veg and dried stuff so its so convenient! and did I mention variety? I was surprised I saw the prawn chilli oil Lynn likes and even dried squid for soup. Dad will love this place. I can see him going ga-ga over this place. Its also near where Violette lives, so when you guys visit, dad can cook us a feast!! yay

Off to IKEA sale. tara.

Rhodes, rhodes, rhodes your boat

2007-03-16T08:49:00.000+08:00

This morning, back to house hunting. Ive finally settled on 3 final choices.
Option 1: Super lux 1 bedder with split level loft-style bedroom, pool n gym, closest to train n bus and work. (335/wk)

Option 2: Medium lux 2 bedder with facilities, still within easy access to work, mall and bus. Yet to be viewed (340/wk)

Option 3: Very lux 1 bedder with facilities, but small living space. Very close to mall and food and within easy access to train and bus. (350/wk)

Bottomline, its gotta be at Rhodes or Liberty Grove cos my pampered toosh can't bear living in a shithole like Meadowbank and I dislike dirty. Hope I get my pad this weekend!!

Learning to smile again

2007-03-14T14:48:00.000+08:00

The number of comments popping up have tremendouly increased. I never knew I had "phantom readers". ehhe..but obviously, Im so glad for all your support and kind advice. Today I conquered the city! well oklah, not the whole city, but I managed to get to where I needed to go and didn't get lost! HOORAH! One thing about Sydney, so many Asians...like a mini Malaysia..altho most are koreans, jap and china-mari folks, still nice to see oriental faces. You can definately pick them out from a crowd. The japs will always be in their harajuku-inspired clothing, the koreans are heavily overdone and the chinese ...well..you can tell by their accents and when they ask you if you can speak mandarin.

Middle of Darlington campus

As you can tell, today was a pretty good day. I feel abit better after I got some things done. Met up with one boss, and he's pretty nice. Tomorrow will meet with another boss in the lab, but will only take the bus since it's close by. Hope that goes well. Real work will probably only start in 2 weeks, since I have to discusss the direction of my project with both bosses only next week. Ah well, in the mean time, I can keep studying and keep looking for a place to live in. I really like this area Im at now that I've seen more of the suburbs. Some just look old and dingy, but this is nice, clean and very modern. I likey very much.

View from the Biochemistry & Microbiology building

So maybe I can learn to like this place over time. Who knows?

Homesick or lovesick?

2007-03-13T19:35:00.000+08:00

I havent been feeling very well for a couple a weeks, got a general feeling of unwellness which 2 of my dr. friends have failed to diagnose. I even WEBMD-ed myself and i got mild anxiety syndrome! characterised by consistent worrying, palpitations, tingling and numb hands and feet, etc. but dont worry, its not serious enough to be a panic attack.

Im beginning to wish Mom came along with me. Haha so hard to admit ok! but don't worry mom & Dad, I'm going to at least try to be alone awhile and if I really beh tahan, i'll give u guys a ring. Everyone tells me what Im feeling is normal, but that doesnt help me feel better now. I wanna feel better now!

Tomorrow will be my first day in the city, all ALONE. scary shit for 12am curfew girl like me. Im more afraid of getting lost, so i got all my directiosn mapped out as detailed as possible. Hope I find my way and get my imprtant stuff done. Will be meeting Prof. Conigrave also, I purposely made the appointment so that I have no reason to procrastinate like I did today. Will update after, hopefully with good news of my well-being.

I was kinda surprised that I didnt cry after arriving here, but im beginning to feel the loneliness of being alone. I miss all the things Im used to, being home and also miss Danny. If only he could be here NOW (hint hint).

Out from nest blues

2007-03-12T13:54:00.000+08:00

Today is my 3rd day in Sydney, got practically nothing done till today cos everything is usually closed on the weekends. Managed to get banking and mobile phone stuff started and hopefully, will be able to find my apartment soon. Was very hopeful before I came here that things will be fine, until I went to see some of the units for rent that I was KIV-ing. Wah lau...cannot man, although a short 5 min walk from the train station, there were no street lights, and the apartment complex was dark and damp and dodgy. Definate NO NO.

Im living with Kim & Ernest for now, at their fab unit in Rhodes. Its perfect, conveniently right outside a mall with easy access to food, bank, work and most importantly,..its SAFE!!! and did i mention utterly gorgeous as well? Can put Mont Kiara to shame!. So Im going to look at some places nearby called Liberty Grove, its an area right opposite Rhodes which is still good and hopefully I'll be able to secure a 2 bedroom at LG compared to a 1 bedroom in Rhodes for the same price.

I have IKEA!! its right outside and so good for me. Suddenly even IKEA seems expensive for a poor student like me. Looks like I'll have to make do with simple furnishing (2nd hand mind you!) Hopefully, I'll get a good place to call my own very soon. Feels like Ive taken for granted having utter convenience back home with the car and all. SIgh..woes of leaving the nest

t- 22 hours

2007-03-09T01:05:00.000+08:00

As of now, I currently have 22 hours left in Msia before fluffing off to Sydney tonight. I was telling everyone that I dont feel any different, given this is such a big step for me, moving out of the nest on my own. Tonight, during last minute farewell drinks with Subang United, I really felt antsy for the first time. Coming home also feels weird now, it feels like Im paying extra attention to everything I set my eyes on at home, knowing that I probably wouldn't set foot at the SS 15 house again. (We recently sold the house and are moving to EcoPark in May). Maybe its like a feeble attempt to store all this in my long term photographic memory of the house I grew up in.

Although I am scared of the unknown, I think I'm feel secure enough cos I know what I have to do there. Step by step, I'm sure I'll be fine, or so I tell myself. Thankfully my old friend Colin will be picking me up from the airport and ferrying me over to Suyinn's cousin Kim's place, where I'll be staying for the first few weeks till I find my own pad. So upon arrival I'm in good hands.

I also got a new do. Looks like im 18 all over again. hehehe. this is to fool all those siao ang mohs that this cili padi isn't to be messed with!. Im looking forward to the challenge, not so much the loneliness since Im used to being surrounded by people I know. Well, if I need to feel sorry for myself, I'll pull out my shoe collection and try to smile.

Freaky Friday

2007-03-03T00:03:00.000+08:00

I was flipping through the local papers today and came across the daily horoscope section. It read " You will encounter soomeone unexpected this evening". Weird as it may seem, one would think generalising the world's population into 12 categories wouldnt be very specific. But funny how things turn out, this column actually gives pretty good hits. I received a surprising email from an old friend I haven't spoke to for the past 8 months. It really made my day to hear from him and that we're back on talking terms. The feeling of losing a friend doesn't seem very dramatic but the feeling of rediscovering one seems to flood me with alot of emotional baggage. People say you won't appreciate what you have untill you lose it, but this is quite different. Getting it back from neverland seems to be the best thing since colour TV. OK OK, I take that back...best thing since mobile phones.

So Thanks AC, for bringing our almost-lost friendship back from the dead. Now I can leave for Sydney with a clear conscience knowing we're on the same side of evil. Good people never have any fun anyway! HAr Har HAr

Who doesn't love chocolate cake?

2007-02-27T16:11:00.000+08:00

The beautiful people & the beautiful 60,000 calories cake

I thought I should post this up, since my dear BFFs have returned to Melbourne and Adelaide, with Aimei going back to Beijing. Can't wait to see them again and have more girly fun talking about boys..haha. Cat baked (yep, she did it all by herself!) a massive chocolate cake for us, topped with hot fudge and all, it was sorta a farewell tea-time thing, and we just sat around her island table, eating cake, drinking tea and talking about boys.

I must say the cake was great, alot better than I expected! given that Cat cheated during our last lunch cookout by asking her maid to cook. Almost as good as the cake in Delicious Cafe..yumm. and we didn;t have to pay RM 9.90 for it! Once I get to Sydney, we will each be only hours away from each other. Hopefully I can get some long weekends off to go visit.

Triple Auspicious Day

2007-02-26T17:15:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, dated 25th March or the 9th day of the Lunar new year marked a really special day for us. For the first time, we had a triple religious affair comprising of a 730am trip to Kalumpang Temple for annual New Year thanksgiving to Kuan Yin; 3pm annual Vipassana chanting group at home; and also annual Ooi's tradition of Pai Thee Kong (Prayers to the heavenly Gods) at 12am. Definately alot for us to be thankful for, with the entirely family blesses with good health and happiness..I was also rooting for success alot this year! I made sure to include all family members, friends and loved ones in my prayers..I hope I didn't leave anyone out!

Since my flight to Sydney has been delayed to the 9th March, its a blessing so that I can be present for all this before I leave. Will miss all the festivities and gatherings when I'm gone. Must come back for CNY next year! Dad made my super-fav. Mee Jawa (from Ah Ma's recipe) and it turned out fabulous, even better than AH Ma's version! So I made sure to bring a copy of the recipe over, I'll send out invites when I can perfect it. This year's Pai Thee Kong was also a little sentimental since it will be the last one we're having at the current house. COnsidering we've done it every year for the past 25 years, its getting sad to leave the old house. Next year, CNY will be held at our new residence at Eco Park, it'll be great!! If only Lil' Bailey and Wuki could come along.

Mr. & Mrs. Loo, Dad & Uncle Stuart

All the guests, in prayer and hopeful thoughts.

The finale: Burning of heaven gold and sugarcane (look past Dad's butt!)

May All my loved ones have a blessed year ahead. Cheers!

Always Valentine's day

2007-02-15T22:38:00.000+08:00

So this is the time of the year again, I just love any reason to celebrate a happy occasion. I havent had a proper Vday in awhile so this year is special just cos its the first VDay for DK &I. 2 days before Vday, DK lied to me saying he didnt send me flowers this year (not like I was hoping for them, but i didnt really mind not getting flowers) was totally cool and then today, I got a bunch of Stargazer lillies! OOhhHHHH!! how fabulous...its a bad thing that he's beginning to get good at lying to me with a straight face...but its a good thing he's getting good at this surprise thingy...god knows how much I love surprises! Also, he's smart enough to remember I dislike roses and I love lillies (all kinds, cos my name actually means lily of the valley or did it mean light? ) Im getting a feeling he's trying to give me all the different types of lillies.haha...good good

These are the Madonna lillies DK got me for my birthday last year , pretty isn't it? Love the green hue.

Here are the latest additions to my lily collection: Pink stargazers for Vday '07

DK is so diabetically sweet, its like valentines day everyday for us. Ok those of you dont wanna listen can click the big X on your top right hand corner of this window now. He also made a super cute card attached to a gift he sent me. FUnny thing is, I already have that gift! Apparently in the chitty-chitty bang bang talks we have everyday, I failed to inform him that I bought one for myself after he had left for back home. So there you have it, my poor DK buying something I already own, thinking it would be a great surprise. Ahh..my heart...

Anyhow, it was still a super sweet gesture. Thank you babe! I hope you like my home-made gift. Even if you dont you still have to use it. Cos I said so and I spent 5 hours making it! All in all,..fab feb 14th this year..can't wait for next year...

BFFs unite

2007-02-11T23:10:00.000+08:00

Last night, BFFs Inc. welcomed back one of our dear members, Ms. Khor Ai Mei. Its been about a year since we've all been in the same place at the same time and the excitement was really noticeable!. We went for seafood dinner with salted egg crabs, clam noodles, and some yummy crispy choi sum, among others. Most of all, it was a great time to catch up and just enjoy the company. Reminiscent of A-levels class 2000/22 (with exception of Cat who was in 2000/17? and secretly wanted to be in our "cooler" all-girl class) where Karmen slept at the back and still aced every exam, while Aimei and I were too busy talking and laughing like freakin' hyenas and checking out guys. Haha.

I love my BFFs..they rock

Karmen and Cat (tranny look-alike) being glad they're apart of us.

Ai Mei (with her funky new do) and I (ain't my new glasses cool?)

What?? More delays??

2007-02-08T13:19:00.000+08:00

I just found out that my flight will have to be delayed cos some Aussies decided they wanna make me wait and wait and wait for the paperwork to get through. SO frustrating! Currently Im just waiting for the Gov. contractor to pay the university so they can issue me a confirmation of enrolment, which I need to start my visa processing. Imagine, Im due to leave on the 24th Feb and I still dont have my visa! Looks very certain that I'll be leaving early March instead, which could be a good thing since I save on my airfare and also a week more of CNY to enjoy. YAY. Also really anxious on getting there and getting settled in and started. Gotta make a lot of progress in my 1st year so that I dont get kicked out of the program, have my scholarship pulled from under me and have to get a job cleaning people's chicken bones off the table. Also need to make sure I have a lot in order before I go for the meet the in-laws trip to florida come this christmas. Sigh. so stressed. Need massage and spa.

Birds a feather boogie together

2007-02-06T20:04:00.000+08:00

I was having lunch today with me mom when suddenly, whilst busy slurping the yummy pork noodles from my fav. vendor, I felt a mass of -thing- on my head. Totally freaked and impulsively started waving my hands about (with chopsticks in tow, mind you). Felt like I whacked it a couple of times before I figured out it was a birdie, and I managed to get a few slaps because its claws (is it claws?, or is it bird feet?) was alil tangled up in my hair. Poor thing never saw it coming. Im sorry!

Which made me think, you'll never know what will happen you and where you'll land, so, what's the insurance to a happy, carefree and secure lifestyle? F.R.I.E.N.D.S. OK I hear the theme song from the TV show playing in your heads, but seriously, Im serious!. How many friends are too many? Some say never to many, but I say I count my lucky stars for having the few (but precious) BFFs (Best Friends Forever) a.k.a CB Chimuis in my life. If you take a look outside the box you call your life for a sec, how many people can you truly truly count on? Lemme think........wait,lah ....Im counting.......the fact that I have to take a long pause to count makes me feel so blessed for these wonderful people. Eh, I dont expect free lunches ok,...but didn't you already know I can be such a sweet and grateful friend? HAHAHA. I know a few who can vouch for that..the others..hmm..keep your nasty thoughts to yourself.

I love that I have a variety of people, each with their own strengths (kinda like an X-men/Heroes/captain planet thing) whom I can always go to. Here's Laine's simple solutions to a wicked life:

Laine's simple solutions to a wicked life
(had to say it again, sounds so good in a big booming voice. Use your imagination!)

Q1. Emotional woes (World vs. Laine)
A1. Start with a little tears for sympathy, run and hide. Lock oneself in DK's cage (whom he purchased at a reasonable price from Elmyra so he can hug me, and kiss me, and love me, and lock me in a cage!)

Q2. Emotional woes (DK vs. Laine)
A2. OOh, talking about sleeping with the enemy (ever saw that movie?, I didn't) Be composed. Be calm. Be cool. Be furious inside!!! ROAR!!! Run and hide. Call/msn/skype/yumcha with one or more BFFs. However, always..be fair.

Q3. Mental torture (Mother vs. Laine)
A3. Sarcasm used to do it, but she has apparently developed a very sophisticated defence mechanism to repel all of it. Next plan of action? Plan to elope.

Q4. Physical pain (Pain in my ass/neck/legs/tummy vs. Laine)
A4. For simple remedies and self-help, visit WebMD.com. However, if physical pain is masquerading as a cry for attention, look self in mirror and repeat this line: I'm not sick, I'm just nuts. Be sure to refrain from consumption of all types of nuts (including coconuts) for the next 24 hours until help arrives.

Q5. Mandatory pain (work vs. Laine)
A5. Chocolate, SHoes and chocolate...no,no...DK, shoes and chocolate...hmm,..oh forgot my maraschino cherry on top. If serotonin levels fail to recover, watch a Will Ferrell movie, and do something that involves nudity. ....Take a bath,lahhh

So you see, friends are our allies, we rarely have trouble with them, but that is also attributed to how well we treat our friends. Thankfuly, KarMen, AiMei, Cat, Des and SuYinn, have the Mother Teresa-like patience with me. A toast to my BFFs.

Groundhog's Day

2007-02-03T07:21:00.000+08:00

It's that time of the year again, and this time Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow which means we should have an early spring here. Thats good considering it was -18 degrees Farenheit this morning but not so good for my season pass for the slopes which I've only used 1 day of so far. Hopefully, I won't have to live this day over and over (at least I didn't hear "I Got You Babe" when I woke up this morning).

Anyways, I haven't updated/contributed to many web pages since Mosaic/Netscape days when it was kewl to write in HTML-2. I doubt my better half remembers those days. =(

Not much going on in Colorado other than the usual: msn/skype, sleep, work, wow

There's an occasional fall on your ass while walking on ice in there as well as maybe food, but a wow diet is a strict diet of nothing but junk food or no food (in case you forget) and leaving the house in a disarray. ;)

The appeal of evil

2007-02-02T17:51:00.000+08:00

Ever wondered why TV shows, with particular reference to cartoons always contain one or multiple evil but utterly adorable characters? I find it amusing that my preference for cartoons are driven by the presence of these oddities, which thankfully, are such a gift to entertainment, they've got me hooked! Case and example:

Exhibit A: Yzma a.k.a Principle Amzy (which is Yzma spelled backwards); Originally sighted on Disney's The Emperor's New Groove and later in the spin-off, The Emperor's New School. One of the many things I love about her is her googly-eyed appearance, her persistance of assasinating Emperor Kuzco cracks me up. Not to mention her trusty dim-witted sidekick, Kronk. This show is so hilarious, with lots of puns and witty dialogue. Also, the repeated humour is in the song and dance, Yzma and Kronk's entry into their secret lab, and turning Kuzco into animals. Laine's rating: 9 Haha-s

Exhibit B: Brain; As seen on Animaniac's Pinky & the Brain. Brain is really one motivator, one and again he proves that size and species are merely obstacles if you're determined enough to get your way. Brain incessantly devises devious plans to escape from the cage unnoticed (his tail can also be used as a key) with again, another dim-witted sidekick, Pinky. And later, to take over the world. Been a fan for so long, just adore the adult humour and the good quotes. Laine's rating: 8.5 Haha-s

Exhibit C: Stewie from The Family Guy. Born a deranged British baby in an all American family, Stewie is convinced he does not belong. Its lovely that no one actually understands what he's saying on the show but to the audience, he has a Brit accent. Also fantastic how he loathes his biological mother and plans to exterminate her in all terrible ways possible. Beautiful comedy for the whole family! Hehe. Laine's rating: 8 Haha-s

Ahh...comedic genius...

No.1

2007-01-30T23:19:00.000+08:00

Being the inaugral post for my first blog, I thought I'ld start out with a recap of my life so far. In preparation for the coming steps ahead, everything I've learnt over the years and experienced has definately made me the person I am today. 2006 has been a plateau year for me. Ever felt like time passes by in a flash and yet you can hardly see any self-improvement and near zero career advancement? that year was very much like that. I had a stable tutoring job at Monash which paid the bills, but doesnt tickle my intellect enough. Paired with the fact that the quality of students has been going downhill, its really hard to find good young people who are sincerely willing to learn. This just demotivates me at work.

My vacation to California to visit Lynn & Jack and to Colorado to see DK was nothing less than great. Its so nice to hang out with family, especially family whom you respect and enjoy the company of. I've talked about my trip in the WuOoi blog alot, and will not repeat myself here. Although I'll add some illustrations.

Squaw Valley Ski resort; Christmas eve 06; DK nursing my bruises from my first snowboarding experience. The view was fantastic, felt abit jakun..haha..but was soaking up the peace and fun.

Nephdog (nephew-dog) a.k.a. Bailey Wu, Min. Schnauzer extraordinaire with his babysitter in Tahoe; Bailey is a brown-noser with new people...love him lots

Stepdog a.k.a Wuki, Standard Pomeranian, professional food-begging machine. He gets his way a lot with me, I'm a sucker for his cute kesian face..c'mon, look at that..must give him extra love cos DK is mean to him sometimes..8(

Oyaji Restaurant, SF ;New Year's Eve 06; The Ooi clan cousins and their partners having a ball..good food junkies..

This post is dedicated to my dear sis and Tah ke....thanks for a lovely vacation..to DK for being the greatest ever..and to the rest of the Ooi clan for being super ...it's definately and Ooi thing...OOI PRIDE!!