Hong Kong Day 2
Merry Christmas!
Instead of going to a church, took the MTR to Wong Dai Sin Temple. Very crowded it being the eve of the full-moon. Drew a good lot for my fortune in 2005. Hope it comes true. *smile*
Took the MTR again down to Hong Kong Island. Walked to Lam Gwai Fong. Nice and empty place given it was still early in the day. Very small place crowded with lotsa pubs and restaurants.
Bought some interesting novelty items before making our way over to the Tram Station.
Wow... Long queue for the tram up to the Peak snaked for some 300 m. Bought some really expensive 'packaged' tix to 'cut queue'. Thank goodness I didn'e go to Madam Tussard's while I was in London.
View from the Peak wasn't too good either with the bad haze but it cleared slightly at dusk.
Was again disappointed by the (same) fireworks but got some pretty photos.
Did some serious damage to my wallet today but was prepared to do more damage at Temple Street after offloading our wares back at the hotel in Kowloon.
Friday, December 24, 2004
Hong Kong Day 1
It's Christmas Eve!
Reached the hotel around noon. Got a fantastic room overlooking the main street but high enough to be away from the noise of the traffic. Room is large and spacious. Lovely!
Walked to a small temple which Temple Street is named after. Small and 'cozy'.
Had lunch at Mido Cafe which serves great french toast. Huge plate of fat char siew noodles but noodles were too good to describe. HK egg noodles are the best!
Walked southwards past Kowloon Park and onwards to the Avenue of Stars. Great view of Hong Kong Island and the high-rise buildings despite the bad haze.
Crowds starting coming in for the fireworks display at 8pm. Decided to get on a cruise to enjoy the fireworks without having to squeeze with the crowds.
The high-rise buildings on both sides of the harbour were so lovely decorated with lights. All pictures of Santa, presents and Christmas trees. Some were even animated!
Fireworks was kinda disappointing - small sporadic ones - compared to the huge ones that I'm used to seeing in Singapore.
Took all of 3 hours to get back to hotel walking with the crowds. Phew!
It's Christmas Eve!
Reached the hotel around noon. Got a fantastic room overlooking the main street but high enough to be away from the noise of the traffic. Room is large and spacious. Lovely!
Walked to a small temple which Temple Street is named after. Small and 'cozy'.
Had lunch at Mido Cafe which serves great french toast. Huge plate of fat char siew noodles but noodles were too good to describe. HK egg noodles are the best!
Walked southwards past Kowloon Park and onwards to the Avenue of Stars. Great view of Hong Kong Island and the high-rise buildings despite the bad haze.
Crowds starting coming in for the fireworks display at 8pm. Decided to get on a cruise to enjoy the fireworks without having to squeeze with the crowds.
The high-rise buildings on both sides of the harbour were so lovely decorated with lights. All pictures of Santa, presents and Christmas trees. Some were even animated!
Fireworks was kinda disappointing - small sporadic ones - compared to the huge ones that I'm used to seeing in Singapore.
Took all of 3 hours to get back to hotel walking with the crowds. Phew!
Hong Kong, Here I Come
3 am - Dad woke up. I had just finished my 3 hour TV marathon of Charmed, The Amazing Race and The Bachelor. Timing was just right.
3.10 am - Alps called to say he's on his way over. Time to wash up & brush teeth.
3.20 am - Laptop just finished downloading Season 5 Episode 8 of Gilmore Girls. Yeh. Perfect timing. Finished my washing up and change into fresh clothes.
3.35 am - Gets into Alps' car to go Terminal 1.
4 am - Reaches Terminal 1 but UA counter not open yet. However, there is already a long queue... And so many security checks, coz it's actually a flight going SIN-HK-CHG-PHI
4.35 am - Got asked by security if we're husband and wife. Was awfully insulted. Although I think my dad might feel pretty good... if he knew what was being said.
5 am - Charmed by the lure of 'Free Internet' enroute to McDonald's. Think Dad is hungry. Better go and feed him. Tata.
3 am - Dad woke up. I had just finished my 3 hour TV marathon of Charmed, The Amazing Race and The Bachelor. Timing was just right.
3.10 am - Alps called to say he's on his way over. Time to wash up & brush teeth.
3.20 am - Laptop just finished downloading Season 5 Episode 8 of Gilmore Girls. Yeh. Perfect timing. Finished my washing up and change into fresh clothes.
3.35 am - Gets into Alps' car to go Terminal 1.
4 am - Reaches Terminal 1 but UA counter not open yet. However, there is already a long queue... And so many security checks, coz it's actually a flight going SIN-HK-CHG-PHI
4.35 am - Got asked by security if we're husband and wife. Was awfully insulted. Although I think my dad might feel pretty good... if he knew what was being said.
5 am - Charmed by the lure of 'Free Internet' enroute to McDonald's. Think Dad is hungry. Better go and feed him. Tata.
Monday, December 13, 2004
Classroom Management Course Day 1
Man, the MRT is really crowded in the morning. And doubtful I can reach Orchard from Clementi in 30 minutes. Got off the train at Queenstown and waited for the cab. But no cab was in sight. Luckily, saw 111 and the bus driver waited while I ran to the bus-stop from the taxi-stand.
Reached Orchard Emerald with 3 minutes to spare. But walking to Cuppage took a while and I was 'mildly late', coz I wasn't the latest. *grin*
Met up with Yux after the course ended for the day and brought him to Glutton Square to try the Fried Oyster and Satay. It drizzled for a while and it was quite interesting holding up an umbrella to protect the food.
Pity I didn't have a camera at hand to photograph the many other people holding up umbrellas while munching on their chicken rice, etc.
Man, the MRT is really crowded in the morning. And doubtful I can reach Orchard from Clementi in 30 minutes. Got off the train at Queenstown and waited for the cab. But no cab was in sight. Luckily, saw 111 and the bus driver waited while I ran to the bus-stop from the taxi-stand.
Reached Orchard Emerald with 3 minutes to spare. But walking to Cuppage took a while and I was 'mildly late', coz I wasn't the latest. *grin*
Met up with Yux after the course ended for the day and brought him to Glutton Square to try the Fried Oyster and Satay. It drizzled for a while and it was quite interesting holding up an umbrella to protect the food.
Pity I didn't have a camera at hand to photograph the many other people holding up umbrellas while munching on their chicken rice, etc.
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Saturday, November 27, 2004
Friday, November 26, 2004
Cleaned up my table
Okies, so it was just a box of worksheets I cleared away. Not really cleaned up my table entirely.
But it's still a start, right? And it did take me an entire morning, you know.
= )
Met up with Wensi for dinner at my place. She brought me some materials which she used while she was teaching back at RGS. Very cute worksheets. Got storyline one. They must really engage the students.
Okies, so it was just a box of worksheets I cleared away. Not really cleaned up my table entirely.
But it's still a start, right? And it did take me an entire morning, you know.
= )
Met up with Wensi for dinner at my place. She brought me some materials which she used while she was teaching back at RGS. Very cute worksheets. Got storyline one. They must really engage the students.
Rainy day
Met up with the Fuel Cell kids again. So much work, so little time and so little input from the kids. Kept reminding myself. You are teacher. Facilitate. Dun do the work for them...
Got home in the afternoon. Fell asleep and woke up late for dinner with my Amities.
What do you know? It's been exactly a year to the date we left Singapore for Vietnam Hanoi on our YEP Hoa Sua.
It was great meeting up with everybody and I still remember everybody's names! *grin*
Oh yes, before I forget, vodka goes pretty well with ice-cream.
Met up with the Fuel Cell kids again. So much work, so little time and so little input from the kids. Kept reminding myself. You are teacher. Facilitate. Dun do the work for them...
Got home in the afternoon. Fell asleep and woke up late for dinner with my Amities.
What do you know? It's been exactly a year to the date we left Singapore for Vietnam Hanoi on our YEP Hoa Sua.
It was great meeting up with everybody and I still remember everybody's names! *grin*
Oh yes, before I forget, vodka goes pretty well with ice-cream.
Thursday, November 25, 2004
Another rainy day
Boring Sunday.
Slept till late this morning.
Read newspapers.
Did more cross-stitching. Must finish this A2 piece for Shiyin's wedding next Feb. Hope I can complete it in time.
Rain was coming down in buckets today. Afternoon was as gloomy as a London winter evening.
Then went to Bukit Batok with my family for dinner. There's this new restaurant I wanted to try. The noodles were not bad. But the dumplings & tofu were not that good.
Met Xinyan online when I got back home. It was great catching up with her. Sorry I can't make it to Europe this winter for the holidays. Would like to have been able to go visit her but got arrowed with a couple of courses and school duties so can only afford to go away for the Christmas weekend. But well, it's better than nothing, I guess.
Boring Sunday.
Slept till late this morning.
Read newspapers.
Did more cross-stitching. Must finish this A2 piece for Shiyin's wedding next Feb. Hope I can complete it in time.
Rain was coming down in buckets today. Afternoon was as gloomy as a London winter evening.
Then went to Bukit Batok with my family for dinner. There's this new restaurant I wanted to try. The noodles were not bad. But the dumplings & tofu were not that good.
Met Xinyan online when I got back home. It was great catching up with her. Sorry I can't make it to Europe this winter for the holidays. Would like to have been able to go visit her but got arrowed with a couple of courses and school duties so can only afford to go away for the Christmas weekend. But well, it's better than nothing, I guess.
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Lunch with friends
Met up with SY and BH for lunch near their workplaces today. Shall endeavor to meet up with more friends while I have the time to do so. Otherwise, surely will forget their faces over time...
Started toying with the idea of getting my Sec 4 classmates together for a 4/4 10th Anniversary thingy. But yeah... it will be a lot of work... So how? We'll see.
Not even sure if I wanna organise my annual birthday chalet next year. Age must be catching up with me...
Went to the airport after lunch. It's time for a holiday. But sigh... No holiday for another 5 more weeks. And it'd only be a short weekend getaway. But hey, better than nothing, I guess.
Came back in time for TAR. Norway. Such difficult names of towns and places. But the place is so pretty...
Met up with SY and BH for lunch near their workplaces today. Shall endeavor to meet up with more friends while I have the time to do so. Otherwise, surely will forget their faces over time...
Started toying with the idea of getting my Sec 4 classmates together for a 4/4 10th Anniversary thingy. But yeah... it will be a lot of work... So how? We'll see.
Not even sure if I wanna organise my annual birthday chalet next year. Age must be catching up with me...
Went to the airport after lunch. It's time for a holiday. But sigh... No holiday for another 5 more weeks. And it'd only be a short weekend getaway. But hey, better than nothing, I guess.
Came back in time for TAR. Norway. Such difficult names of towns and places. But the place is so pretty...
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Odyssey of the Mind
What an interesting concept. Odyssey of the Mind is an international creative problem-solving program for students of all ages. But boy is it a lot of work.
Dun think my school will be ready to join in this year's competition. And competition is fierce. ACS(I) and SCGS implements OM as part of their school curriculum and there is much support from all areas - teachers, principal and parents.
On one hand, I would like to be involved as a 'pioneer' of OM in my school. But on the other hand, what for give myself more work to do?
What an interesting concept. Odyssey of the Mind is an international creative problem-solving program for students of all ages. But boy is it a lot of work.
Dun think my school will be ready to join in this year's competition. And competition is fierce. ACS(I) and SCGS implements OM as part of their school curriculum and there is much support from all areas - teachers, principal and parents.
On one hand, I would like to be involved as a 'pioneer' of OM in my school. But on the other hand, what for give myself more work to do?
Boring day
Yup. Met up with the kids. Think they're doing fine. Needs more pushing though.
Work Review signed and done.
SOW also reviewed and done.
Kenah workshop tomorrow. Whole day affair at ACS(I).
Got home. Fell asleep in the late afternoon and woke up in the middle of the night hungry. What a pleasant day.
Yup. Met up with the kids. Think they're doing fine. Needs more pushing though.
Work Review signed and done.
SOW also reviewed and done.
Kenah workshop tomorrow. Whole day affair at ACS(I).
Got home. Fell asleep in the late afternoon and woke up in the middle of the night hungry. What a pleasant day.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
The Incredibles
Wat a funny show. Great for a few guffaws.
Holidays supposed to have started but unfortunately down with several duties which will keep me in school till mid-Dec.
First thing, Mon morn - meet with Fuel Cell Challenge kids to make sure they are on-task. Work to be submitted in only a week's time.
Wat a funny show. Great for a few guffaws.
Holidays supposed to have started but unfortunately down with several duties which will keep me in school till mid-Dec.
First thing, Mon morn - meet with Fuel Cell Challenge kids to make sure they are on-task. Work to be submitted in only a week's time.
Saturday, November 20, 2004
Staff Retreat Day 2
Still haven't caught up with my nose yet.
But today's speaker - Mr Jeffrey Goh - was a gem. Quite funny, except for the Hokkien & Malay bits which keeps popping up here and there.
And I won a desk lamp during the staff dinner. Not bad. Hm... anybody wans a desk lamp for Christmas?
Still haven't caught up with my nose yet.
But today's speaker - Mr Jeffrey Goh - was a gem. Quite funny, except for the Hokkien & Malay bits which keeps popping up here and there.
And I won a desk lamp during the staff dinner. Not bad. Hm... anybody wans a desk lamp for Christmas?
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
And yet more shopping
Yup. I'm officially addicted to shopping. Bought a new skirt today. However, my excuse is that it was at a 50% discount!
Also bought 2 Qoo bags from MOS Burger. Managed to 'con' 2 of my friends to go down to MOS Burger with me for dinner so they can buy the meals upon which I can buy my bags. Need to buy a meal before you can buy the bag, you see. I know... Evil... *grin*
Chicago to Iceland. First leg of The Amazing Race 6. The teams this round are really competitive. Straight away start borrowing strangers' handphones to call the airlines to check for flight times, etc.
And so cool! To sleep in tents on a glacier. Didn't get to try ice-climbing while I was in NZ. It looks fun!
Yup. I'm officially addicted to shopping. Bought a new skirt today. However, my excuse is that it was at a 50% discount!
Also bought 2 Qoo bags from MOS Burger. Managed to 'con' 2 of my friends to go down to MOS Burger with me for dinner so they can buy the meals upon which I can buy my bags. Need to buy a meal before you can buy the bag, you see. I know... Evil... *grin*
Chicago to Iceland. First leg of The Amazing Race 6. The teams this round are really competitive. Straight away start borrowing strangers' handphones to call the airlines to check for flight times, etc.
And so cool! To sleep in tents on a glacier. Didn't get to try ice-climbing while I was in NZ. It looks fun!
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
It's time to get back to work
Sigh. How time flies. I know. I was complaining of the holidays during the weekend. Why would I be complaining of getting back to work? But hey, human nature to complain, esp a human from Singapore.
Not too bad. Finished zapping some chapters on classroom management from 'How to teach while keeping my sanity' borrowed from the Media Resource.
But was told by HOD just this morning that she has a new format for the SOW (Scheme of Work, ie Syllabus) for 2005. So, have to ditch all the work I did on Monday and change everything to the new format. Do-able, but just tedious, to make all the changes.
The students involved in the Fuel Cell Challenge seemingly on the right path - did their reading, have an idea of what to do. Gave them assignments to finish by Thursday.
Wrapped up by 2pm instead of the 1pm I was aiming for. Reached Raffles Place only around 3 to change $ for my Christmas trip to HK. Found new money changer which gives better rates. Wow... The Raffles Place MRT shopping area is having one BIG overhaul. Can hardly wait for the place to be finished. Yet another underground wallet drilling zone.
Ok. Enough details of my life for now. Time to go to bed. Nite nite.
Sigh. How time flies. I know. I was complaining of the holidays during the weekend. Why would I be complaining of getting back to work? But hey, human nature to complain, esp a human from Singapore.
Not too bad. Finished zapping some chapters on classroom management from 'How to teach while keeping my sanity' borrowed from the Media Resource.
But was told by HOD just this morning that she has a new format for the SOW (Scheme of Work, ie Syllabus) for 2005. So, have to ditch all the work I did on Monday and change everything to the new format. Do-able, but just tedious, to make all the changes.
The students involved in the Fuel Cell Challenge seemingly on the right path - did their reading, have an idea of what to do. Gave them assignments to finish by Thursday.
Wrapped up by 2pm instead of the 1pm I was aiming for. Reached Raffles Place only around 3 to change $ for my Christmas trip to HK. Found new money changer which gives better rates. Wow... The Raffles Place MRT shopping area is having one BIG overhaul. Can hardly wait for the place to be finished. Yet another underground wallet drilling zone.
Ok. Enough details of my life for now. Time to go to bed. Nite nite.
Long Weekend Part 5 - Meeting the gals
2nd day of Long Weekend - 14 Nov, Sun
Selamat Hari Raya!
Woke up darn sian of the holidays. Still got 48 hours of holidays. I'm utterly bored. I know there's work waiting for me but hey... no mood for work either.
Nothing on TV to watch, no books from the library to read. Finished da Vinci Code borrowed from Robin but found it quite a disappointing read. Wasn't as captivating as I thot it might be. The word puzzles were pretty interesting thou.
Went back to sleep around 10 plus but got woken up by May informing me that it was Marilyn's birthday that day. Last minute gathering @ Olio in the afternoon. Yeh. Something to do later.
Olio has terrible spread of food during the weekends. Pasta was nothing to boast of either. Small servings and May's chicken pasta was primarily 3 HUGE chunks of chewy chicken.
But wow... Gelare waffles are fantastic. Hey, just remembered they have offer on Tuesdays. Think I shall have it again for lunch later.
After splitting up to go our separate ways, went for shopping spree part 3 with May along the CityLink Mall. Bought a pair of PINK strappy heels. Influenced May to buy a pair of shoes too. *grin*
Very tempted by a set of make-up brushes from MAC. But resisted and went home.
Total damage so far:
12 Nov, Fri - $63 (2 boxes of Loreal masks & 6 pcs of Neutrogena masks)
13 Nov, Sat - $67 (foundation + casing) + $342 (DVD-VCR combo player)
14 Nov, Sun - $37 (PINK strappy high-heels)
Long weekends are bad......
2nd day of Long Weekend - 14 Nov, Sun
Selamat Hari Raya!
Woke up darn sian of the holidays. Still got 48 hours of holidays. I'm utterly bored. I know there's work waiting for me but hey... no mood for work either.
Nothing on TV to watch, no books from the library to read. Finished da Vinci Code borrowed from Robin but found it quite a disappointing read. Wasn't as captivating as I thot it might be. The word puzzles were pretty interesting thou.
Went back to sleep around 10 plus but got woken up by May informing me that it was Marilyn's birthday that day. Last minute gathering @ Olio in the afternoon. Yeh. Something to do later.
Olio has terrible spread of food during the weekends. Pasta was nothing to boast of either. Small servings and May's chicken pasta was primarily 3 HUGE chunks of chewy chicken.
But wow... Gelare waffles are fantastic. Hey, just remembered they have offer on Tuesdays. Think I shall have it again for lunch later.
After splitting up to go our separate ways, went for shopping spree part 3 with May along the CityLink Mall. Bought a pair of PINK strappy heels. Influenced May to buy a pair of shoes too. *grin*
Very tempted by a set of make-up brushes from MAC. But resisted and went home.
Total damage so far:
12 Nov, Fri - $63 (2 boxes of Loreal masks & 6 pcs of Neutrogena masks)
13 Nov, Sat - $67 (foundation + casing) + $342 (DVD-VCR combo player)
14 Nov, Sun - $37 (PINK strappy high-heels)
Long weekends are bad......
Monday, November 15, 2004
Long Weekend Part 4 - Shopping with 2 guys
Official first day of Long Weekend - 13 Nov, Sat
Got started on my shopping spree last night with the loreal masks at watsons. Got hooked and wanted to go downtown for more shopping.
Seeing my dad & grandad nuahing at home, I decided to ask them along. Hopefully, they might be able to curb my spending.
Yeah, they did help a little. With 2 'elderly' guys hanging around, I couldn't spend as much time as I would like at the clothing shops or shoe shops. Didn't, however, stop me from buying a foundation from ettusais as I was so in love with their special edition Christmas casing...
Then met up with my mum after she finished work. Was to have dinner at Lao Beijing @ Plaza Sing but couldn't use my discount voucher as it was the eve of a public holiday so ended up eating at the food court.
On impulse, also bought a DVD-VCR combo player for my family from Carrefour. *sigh*
Official first day of Long Weekend - 13 Nov, Sat
Got started on my shopping spree last night with the loreal masks at watsons. Got hooked and wanted to go downtown for more shopping.
Seeing my dad & grandad nuahing at home, I decided to ask them along. Hopefully, they might be able to curb my spending.
Yeah, they did help a little. With 2 'elderly' guys hanging around, I couldn't spend as much time as I would like at the clothing shops or shoe shops. Didn't, however, stop me from buying a foundation from ettusais as I was so in love with their special edition Christmas casing...
Then met up with my mum after she finished work. Was to have dinner at Lao Beijing @ Plaza Sing but couldn't use my discount voucher as it was the eve of a public holiday so ended up eating at the food court.
On impulse, also bought a DVD-VCR combo player for my family from Carrefour. *sigh*
Sunday, November 14, 2004
In Honour of Marilyn's Birthday
Dear Marilyn, apologies for posting this a little late.
Here's a birthday song for you:
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday to Marilyn...
Happy birthday to you!
Cheers!
For privacy issues, I think I can't divulge your age for the whole world to know, can I? *grin*
Dear Marilyn, apologies for posting this a little late.
Here's a birthday song for you:
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday to you...
Happy birthday to Marilyn...
Happy birthday to you!
Cheers!
For privacy issues, I think I can't divulge your age for the whole world to know, can I? *grin*
Long Weekend Part 3 - Serious Talk
Oh yes... JH started a 'serious' talk when he started wondering why most of us in this particular knot of friends are unattached. The number was 3 attached vs 5 unattached.
Then we started debating the pros & cons of being attached vs being single.
I know we talked a lot more, but well, I promised SY that I'll 'forget' most of what was spoken. (I can just barely hear all the sighs of relief... *laugh*)
There ends 12 Nov, Friday.
Oh yes... JH started a 'serious' talk when he started wondering why most of us in this particular knot of friends are unattached. The number was 3 attached vs 5 unattached.
Then we started debating the pros & cons of being attached vs being single.
I know we talked a lot more, but well, I promised SY that I'll 'forget' most of what was spoken. (I can just barely hear all the sighs of relief... *laugh*)
There ends 12 Nov, Friday.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Long Weekend Part 2 - Shopping & Dinner
Orchard was very crowded. As usual. Many people must have taken leave or half-day off.
I hate shopping when it's so crowded. Long queues and limited browsing space. Will have to go down again next week on a weekday. *grin*
Walked to Soup Restaurant on Seah Street for dinner with SY, Carol & EK (the birthday boy). JH and Robin were both late coz they were free enough to go home after work. Didn't think I would like the food there - Chinese restaurant food not a particular fav of mine.
But I must say, I did enjoy dinner far more than I thot I would. The tofu was tasty and its skin was well-fried. The chicken was very tasty and went very well with the cabbage leaves and ginger. It was well-cooked too, just enough tenderness and not too raw. Also not oily at all. Very impressed. The rice blew me away. The taste took some time to get used to but after adding the sauce from the tofu to it, I loved it! Goes very well with the salty pork patty.
Dessert was ok. Found it a lil too sweet. But was refreshingly cold.
Was pleasantly surprised that the waitresses did not start chasing us away when it was time to close. We were the last ones left and basically they had cleaned up the rest of the place already... Just waiting for our table to clear.
Generally, it was very good service. And pretty good food. They just found a long-term customer in me. *laugh*
... to be continued ...
Orchard was very crowded. As usual. Many people must have taken leave or half-day off.
I hate shopping when it's so crowded. Long queues and limited browsing space. Will have to go down again next week on a weekday. *grin*
Walked to Soup Restaurant on Seah Street for dinner with SY, Carol & EK (the birthday boy). JH and Robin were both late coz they were free enough to go home after work. Didn't think I would like the food there - Chinese restaurant food not a particular fav of mine.
But I must say, I did enjoy dinner far more than I thot I would. The tofu was tasty and its skin was well-fried. The chicken was very tasty and went very well with the cabbage leaves and ginger. It was well-cooked too, just enough tenderness and not too raw. Also not oily at all. Very impressed. The rice blew me away. The taste took some time to get used to but after adding the sauce from the tofu to it, I loved it! Goes very well with the salty pork patty.
Dessert was ok. Found it a lil too sweet. But was refreshingly cold.
Was pleasantly surprised that the waitresses did not start chasing us away when it was time to close. We were the last ones left and basically they had cleaned up the rest of the place already... Just waiting for our table to clear.
Generally, it was very good service. And pretty good food. They just found a long-term customer in me. *laugh*
... to be continued ...
Long Weekend Part 1 - Positive Start
Got to work on time. Wasn't too busy. Wasn't too lobo. Got allocated some work to do but should be ok as long as I have the discipline to sit down & finish up the SOW on Monday.
Students for the Fuel Cell Challenge came on time to discuss the project and promised me that they will read the materials I printed out for them. Hope they really do read up and can finish the project according to the timeline I have set out for them. Will really be something to my name if they can win something. First time I am in charge of a student group for a competition. Think it'd be really satisfying if they win something, even more than me winning anything when I was in school.
But it started raining heavily and phone died when I was about to leave the school to meet Carol for shopping (it's payday today!!!). Turned out to be a good thing coz I got one more section of my Internal Science Quiz Questions churned out while waiting for the rain to stop & for Carol to finish getting ready to leave her place.
Thank goodness for the advances of technology too. That we could still keep in touch via ICQ while she was at home and I was in the staff room.
Left the staff room promptly. But was very hungry (no breakfast lah), so went to get some cheap finger food. But since I have to finish the food before I could get onto the train, ended up 10-15 minutes late meeting Caroline. Sorry, Carol! = P
... to be continued ...
Got to work on time. Wasn't too busy. Wasn't too lobo. Got allocated some work to do but should be ok as long as I have the discipline to sit down & finish up the SOW on Monday.
Students for the Fuel Cell Challenge came on time to discuss the project and promised me that they will read the materials I printed out for them. Hope they really do read up and can finish the project according to the timeline I have set out for them. Will really be something to my name if they can win something. First time I am in charge of a student group for a competition. Think it'd be really satisfying if they win something, even more than me winning anything when I was in school.
But it started raining heavily and phone died when I was about to leave the school to meet Carol for shopping (it's payday today!!!). Turned out to be a good thing coz I got one more section of my Internal Science Quiz Questions churned out while waiting for the rain to stop & for Carol to finish getting ready to leave her place.
Thank goodness for the advances of technology too. That we could still keep in touch via ICQ while she was at home and I was in the staff room.
Left the staff room promptly. But was very hungry (no breakfast lah), so went to get some cheap finger food. But since I have to finish the food before I could get onto the train, ended up 10-15 minutes late meeting Caroline. Sorry, Carol! = P
... to be continued ...
Yippee! The Amazing Race 6
Yes! The Amazing Race will be back on Singapore TV. Season Premiere coming Wednesday (November 17) at 10pm.
And in this season, the contestants apparently include an ex-Playboy playmate, an ex-striptease aerobics instructor, an ex-CIA operative and a pair of professional wrestlers.
Wonder if their ex-professions will be able to help them in any way...
Yes! The Amazing Race will be back on Singapore TV. Season Premiere coming Wednesday (November 17) at 10pm.
And in this season, the contestants apparently include an ex-Playboy playmate, an ex-striptease aerobics instructor, an ex-CIA operative and a pair of professional wrestlers.
Wonder if their ex-professions will be able to help them in any way...
Friday, November 12, 2004
Do we have nothing to do?
News last night:
Everitt Road Saga continues and
Ms Chan (a secondary school teacher with a doctorate in life sciences)
was shown on the TV doing more filming of her neighbour.
Me: Sigh. After exams lah. She must be bored with the holidays.
Mother: No lah. Too well-educated and single. That's why.
Me: Er...
News last night:
Everitt Road Saga continues and
Ms Chan (a secondary school teacher with a doctorate in life sciences)
was shown on the TV doing more filming of her neighbour.
Me: Sigh. After exams lah. She must be bored with the holidays.
Mother: No lah. Too well-educated and single. That's why.
Me: Er...
Thursday, November 11, 2004
What determines your personality?
Someone just informed me that I am in the wrong profession. According to her, my birthdates do not contain some key communication numbers.
I am supposedly a very private person who keeps to herself and is not a sociable person.
Hm... I begin to wonder: Which has had a stronger effect on my personality and makes me my own person?
Does my birthdate (or even time of birth) really have an effect?
My genes? Or my experiences? And surely my willpower and determination should play not an insignificant part?
Yes. From young, I have been a shy child. But through my forming years in primary and secondary school, I have come to realise that a shy person will be at a disadvantage. If you don't ask questions, you won't get any answers.
And so, having been told that teaching is not the profession for me (like I don't know that) and why I dun make a good teacher, it has come to my attention what I need to improve on - my communication.
I have been 'complained' to by my students - I dun smile enough. Apparently, to them, I am constantly black-faced. And actually, even my mum has been saying that to me, since as long ago as I can remember. So I guess there's only so much you can change about one's own personality?
What say you?
Someone just informed me that I am in the wrong profession. According to her, my birthdates do not contain some key communication numbers.
I am supposedly a very private person who keeps to herself and is not a sociable person.
Hm... I begin to wonder: Which has had a stronger effect on my personality and makes me my own person?
Does my birthdate (or even time of birth) really have an effect?
My genes? Or my experiences? And surely my willpower and determination should play not an insignificant part?
Yes. From young, I have been a shy child. But through my forming years in primary and secondary school, I have come to realise that a shy person will be at a disadvantage. If you don't ask questions, you won't get any answers.
And so, having been told that teaching is not the profession for me (like I don't know that) and why I dun make a good teacher, it has come to my attention what I need to improve on - my communication.
I have been 'complained' to by my students - I dun smile enough. Apparently, to them, I am constantly black-faced. And actually, even my mum has been saying that to me, since as long ago as I can remember. So I guess there's only so much you can change about one's own personality?
What say you?
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Monday, November 08, 2004
Back to Work after a Tiring Sunday
What a tiring day. Walked all around SIMTech @ NTU today while students were having a hands-on workshop assembling a fuel cell.
Thankfully, their fuel cell worked. So now, only need to worry about their report. Or aka 'manual' for the 'Education Kit'.
Yesterday was also a tiring day. Rock-climbing at Tanjong Pagar. But only stayed for couple of hours. It was utterly boring. Coz nobody else was climbing. Then decided to go shopping at Orchard. Almost wanted to walk to Orchard. But thankfully, it was too far away to consider. If I wanted to go Dhoby Ghaut, prob would have walked. But the contact lens promotion was at Wheelock, so had to take MRT. $100 for 13 months' supply of contacts. Very good deal.
Then spent $30 on high tea @ Royal Copenhagen. Very nice sandwiches. Wanted to save the 2 slices of cake for the next day, but I will get to what happened to them later. Spent about 3 hours lounging & reading, so it was money pretty well spent. But think I should go look for better high tea deals with a greater variety of food. $30 for 2 mini-sandwiches, 2 slices of cakes & 2 pots of tea wasn't very worth the money.
Stayed till Robin finished his work & came to town for dinner. Of all places, he wanted to meet at Funan. Coz it wouldn't be crowded with people. True enough. It wasn't crowded. No, sirree, not crowded at all. But since I was in the mood for exercise, I decided to WALK from Taka to Funan. By the time I reached Capitol Building, I almost wanted to call Robin to get him to carry me to Funan. And right there and then, I get a sms from him informing me to take me time - because he's enjoying a cuppa...
It was back to PastaMania. For the umpteenth time, we ate at PastaMania. But at least, he didn't have Aglio Olio this time. *grin* Argh! Just found out that PastaMania has a Loyalty Card Programme. Oh, but it's only valid at Scotts, Lau Pa Sat & Causeway Point. Never go to these outlets. *sigh* Too bad. Had a microwaved lasagne. Ew... Was recommended this new Coriander Chicken Pizza. Not that good either. And then Robin finished my cheesecake from Royal Copenhagen... *sob* Luckily still got a slice of chocolate brownie cake left. Coz Robin DOES NOT like chocolate!
Sunday, November 07, 2004
Past and Present
It used to be:
"If you love someone,
Set her free,
If she comes back, she's yours,
If she doesn't, she never was..."
Now:
Optimist:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
Don't worry,
She will come back.
Suspicious:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
If she ever comes back,
Ask her why.
Patient:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
If she doesn't come back,
Continue to wait until she comes back...
Playful:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
* If she comes back,
And if you love her still, set her free again...
Repeat *
C++ Programmer:
If(you-love(m_she))
m_she.free()if(m_she == NULL)
m_she= new CShe;
Biologist:
If you love someone,
Set her free,
She'll evolve.
It used to be:
"If you love someone,
Set her free,
If she comes back, she's yours,
If she doesn't, she never was..."
Now:
Optimist:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
Don't worry,
She will come back.
Suspicious:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
If she ever comes back,
Ask her why.
Patient:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
If she doesn't come back,
Continue to wait until she comes back...
Playful:
If you love someone,
Set her free...
* If she comes back,
And if you love her still, set her free again...
Repeat *
C++ Programmer:
If(you-love(m_she))
m_she.free()if(m_she == NULL)
m_she= new CShe;
Biologist:
If you love someone,
Set her free,
She'll evolve.
Saturday, November 06, 2004
Emotional baggage
113, 000 links found on Google Search in 0.38 seconds.
One of the link states: "The longer we live, the more experiences we have, the more our emotional baggage grows."
How true.
Another link says: "Unpacking your emotional baggage is one of the most important steps toward letting go and closing the door for good."
To many people, I'm independent, resourceful and self-sufficient. To a 'privileged' few, they have seen (and heard) me at my worst - sulking, whining, not a pretty sight to behold.
I have been told that I don't seem to allow people to come into my life. I wonder why. I thought I have always been very open and honest and definitely talkative, too talkative even. After all, I am a teacher. We are supposed to do a lot of talking. *grin*
Anyway, back to emotional baggage.
Due to what I would call logistical problems, I have been unable to resolve much of my emotional baggage from my previous relationship. (I can't believe I'm putting all these words down for anyone to see... but I feel it's another step in closing the door, I guess...) So, last night, thanks to a friend's birthday bash at Madam Wong's, I was able to finally close the door.
But truth be told, the door has been stuck open for an 'enlightening' 20 months. Finding out that I can do things on my own - shopping, eating, holidaying and even the 'ultimate' - going to a movie solo. A romance movie, at that. Learning new interests and niches. Having a crush on somebody, asking that somebody out (more than once), and accepting his rejections (yes, more than once again). Getting back in touch with my friends and more importantly, myself and my family. Not a minute too late, with my grandmother passing away 2 months ago. Although I must say that I was rather lonely during that time. How often I wished during the funeral and wake that there was somebody beside me, to support me and help me out.
So, with that little snippet of my emotional baggage out in the open, I shall get back to my favourite girls - the Gilmore Girls. *grin*
And yes, I know that my experience is not unique. It happens to other people every day even. But well, 'experiental learning' (to use the latest education jargon) serves the most when it's your own. And I'm a stubborn person. Learning just doesn't come easy at times, does it?
113, 000 links found on Google Search in 0.38 seconds.
One of the link states: "The longer we live, the more experiences we have, the more our emotional baggage grows."
How true.
Another link says: "Unpacking your emotional baggage is one of the most important steps toward letting go and closing the door for good."
To many people, I'm independent, resourceful and self-sufficient. To a 'privileged' few, they have seen (and heard) me at my worst - sulking, whining, not a pretty sight to behold.
I have been told that I don't seem to allow people to come into my life. I wonder why. I thought I have always been very open and honest and definitely talkative, too talkative even. After all, I am a teacher. We are supposed to do a lot of talking. *grin*
Anyway, back to emotional baggage.
Due to what I would call logistical problems, I have been unable to resolve much of my emotional baggage from my previous relationship. (I can't believe I'm putting all these words down for anyone to see... but I feel it's another step in closing the door, I guess...) So, last night, thanks to a friend's birthday bash at Madam Wong's, I was able to finally close the door.
But truth be told, the door has been stuck open for an 'enlightening' 20 months. Finding out that I can do things on my own - shopping, eating, holidaying and even the 'ultimate' - going to a movie solo. A romance movie, at that. Learning new interests and niches. Having a crush on somebody, asking that somebody out (more than once), and accepting his rejections (yes, more than once again). Getting back in touch with my friends and more importantly, myself and my family. Not a minute too late, with my grandmother passing away 2 months ago. Although I must say that I was rather lonely during that time. How often I wished during the funeral and wake that there was somebody beside me, to support me and help me out.
So, with that little snippet of my emotional baggage out in the open, I shall get back to my favourite girls - the Gilmore Girls. *grin*
And yes, I know that my experience is not unique. It happens to other people every day even. But well, 'experiental learning' (to use the latest education jargon) serves the most when it's your own. And I'm a stubborn person. Learning just doesn't come easy at times, does it?
Thursday, June 17, 2004
Thursday, June 17, 2004 onwards
Sorry I kinda lost steam in completing my travel logs the last few days of the trip.
To make a long story short, we went to Queenstown only to find out that the ski slopes were not open yet.
Hence, we had to make a decision - to make our next pit stop at the glaciers or to go back to Christchurch a day early and go to the nearby Mount Hutt slopes.
We decided to do the latter.
We rushed, got a speeding ticket, made our trans-coastal train & skiied.
Then it was time to get back home to Singapore & WORK... Argh...
To make a long story short, we went to Queenstown only to find out that the ski slopes were not open yet.
Hence, we had to make a decision - to make our next pit stop at the glaciers or to go back to Christchurch a day early and go to the nearby Mount Hutt slopes.
We decided to do the latter.
We rushed, got a speeding ticket, made our trans-coastal train & skiied.
Then it was time to get back home to Singapore & WORK... Argh...
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
Monday, June 14, 2004
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Saturday, June 12, 2004
The Moeraki Boulders
After the Takiroa rock caves, we reached Oamaru after a fashion. Not seeing any interesting restaurant which sells take-away, we, or rather Robin, ended buying a McChicken Meal from a McDonald's drive-through. I usually need and do take a long time in deiciding my food, so I wasn't able to make up my mind to place an order in time.
Therefore, I only managed to get a banana milk shake (coz Singapore Mc's dun sell milk shakes anymore and M'sia dun sell banana flavoured ones). Thankfully, I did get these sausage rolls from the petrol station earlier when we had to refuel.
Arriving at the beach where the Moeraki boulders are, we first made a stop at the cafe's carpark. Seeing another carpark further down & nearer the beach, I thought we were at the wrong carpark. Only later did I realise that one should park at the cafe-aka-souvenir shop carpark. It's actually on a cliff overlooking the Moeraki Boulders and there are stairs leading down to the beach and boulders directly.
But since I directed Robin to the other carpark instead, we had to walk along the beach to reach the boulders. It wasn't a bad walk by half though. Long expanse of beach with slight wind and great wave music. Not too many people. And lots of shells to pick.
I just love the sea. If not for the long drive to Otago, would have loved to sit atop the boulder looking and listening to the sea the whole day. As it was, stayed till the sun was almost setting.
After the Takiroa rock caves, we reached Oamaru after a fashion. Not seeing any interesting restaurant which sells take-away, we, or rather Robin, ended buying a McChicken Meal from a McDonald's drive-through. I usually need and do take a long time in deiciding my food, so I wasn't able to make up my mind to place an order in time.
Therefore, I only managed to get a banana milk shake (coz Singapore Mc's dun sell milk shakes anymore and M'sia dun sell banana flavoured ones). Thankfully, I did get these sausage rolls from the petrol station earlier when we had to refuel.
Arriving at the beach where the Moeraki boulders are, we first made a stop at the cafe's carpark. Seeing another carpark further down & nearer the beach, I thought we were at the wrong carpark. Only later did I realise that one should park at the cafe-aka-souvenir shop carpark. It's actually on a cliff overlooking the Moeraki Boulders and there are stairs leading down to the beach and boulders directly.
But since I directed Robin to the other carpark instead, we had to walk along the beach to reach the boulders. It wasn't a bad walk by half though. Long expanse of beach with slight wind and great wave music. Not too many people. And lots of shells to pick.
I just love the sea. If not for the long drive to Otago, would have loved to sit atop the boulder looking and listening to the sea the whole day. As it was, stayed till the sun was almost setting.
The Moeraki Boulders
After the Takiroa rock caves, we reached Oamaru after a fashion. Not seeing any interesting restaurant which sells take-away, we, or rather Robin, ended buying a McChicken Meal from a McDonald's drive-through. I usually need and do take a long time in deiciding my food, so I wasn't able to make up my mind to place an order in time.
Therefore, I only managed to get a banana milk shake (coz Singapore Mc's dun sell milk shakes anymore and M'sia dun sell banana flavoured ones). Thankfully, I did get these sausage rolls from the petrol station earlier when we had to refuel.
Arriving at the beach where the Moeraki boulders are, we first made a stop at the cafe's carpark. Seeing another carpark further down & nearer the beach, I thought we were at the wrong carpark. Only later did I realise that one should park at the cafe-aka-souvenir shop carpark. It's actually on a cliff overlooking the Moeraki Boulders and there are stairs leading down to the beach and boulders directly.
But since I directed Robin to the other carpark instead, we had to walk along the beach to reach the boulders. It wasn't a bad walk by half though. Long expanse of beach with slight wind and great wave music. Not too many people. And lots of shells to pick.
I just love the sea. If not for the long drive to Otago, would have loved to sit atop the boulder looking and listening to the sea the whole day. As it was, stayed till the sun was almost setting.
After the Takiroa rock caves, we reached Oamaru after a fashion. Not seeing any interesting restaurant which sells take-away, we, or rather Robin, ended buying a McChicken Meal from a McDonald's drive-through. I usually need and do take a long time in deiciding my food, so I wasn't able to make up my mind to place an order in time.
Therefore, I only managed to get a banana milk shake (coz Singapore Mc's dun sell milk shakes anymore and M'sia dun sell banana flavoured ones). Thankfully, I did get these sausage rolls from the petrol station earlier when we had to refuel.
Arriving at the beach where the Moeraki boulders are, we first made a stop at the cafe's carpark. Seeing another carpark further down & nearer the beach, I thought we were at the wrong carpark. Only later did I realise that one should park at the cafe-aka-souvenir shop carpark. It's actually on a cliff overlooking the Moeraki Boulders and there are stairs leading down to the beach and boulders directly.
But since I directed Robin to the other carpark instead, we had to walk along the beach to reach the boulders. It wasn't a bad walk by half though. Long expanse of beach with slight wind and great wave music. Not too many people. And lots of shells to pick.
I just love the sea. If not for the long drive to Otago, would have loved to sit atop the boulder looking and listening to the sea the whole day. As it was, stayed till the sun was almost setting.
Maori Rock Art at Takiroa
Sorry for the brevity of the entries to follow.
Very tired. School started. Got to do up worksheets.
Anyway, back to Maori Rock Art.
Amazing to see the pictures on the original rock face instead of on a piece of rock on displayed in a museum. Sadly, some pieces were hauled out of the caves to be on display at museums in New Zealand, Australia, etc. And because of these dug-outs, erosion at certain parts of the caves is at an accelerated pace, destroying the honey-comb look of the limestone caves.
Sorry for the brevity of the entries to follow.
Very tired. School started. Got to do up worksheets.
Anyway, back to Maori Rock Art.
Amazing to see the pictures on the original rock face instead of on a piece of rock on displayed in a museum. Sadly, some pieces were hauled out of the caves to be on display at museums in New Zealand, Australia, etc. And because of these dug-outs, erosion at certain parts of the caves is at an accelerated pace, destroying the honey-comb look of the limestone caves.
Leaving Mount Cook
I was leaving Mount Cook with a heavy heart, when I told myself, 'Hey, you can always come again. In the summer. When it wouldn't be so treacherous to walk and it'd probably feel totally different.'
And with that thought in my head, the both of us left the spectacular dreamscape of snowy Mount Cook for the warmer & wetter lands of the Otago Peninsula.
I was leaving Mount Cook with a heavy heart, when I told myself, 'Hey, you can always come again. In the summer. When it wouldn't be so treacherous to walk and it'd probably feel totally different.'
And with that thought in my head, the both of us left the spectacular dreamscape of snowy Mount Cook for the warmer & wetter lands of the Otago Peninsula.
Friday, June 11, 2004
YHA Mount Cook
A lovely wood fireplace awaits us at the Hermitage to help thaw us out after our long walk. The souvenir shop was very enticing but luckily for me, it was closing time (5 pm) when we reached its doors.
Time then to check in at our YHA accommodation and man, it was a room with a view!
Kitchen was delightfully clean to cook in and we had pasta for dinner.
Have to really recommend YHA Mount Cook here (despite its higher-than-usual tariffs). It's a little far from the walking tracks but the distance is manageable, especically since we have a car. The place is really charismatic, built entirely like a giant wooden cabin with big windows overlooking either the snow-capped mountains (which we got) or dramatic black cliffs (on the other side).
The rooms are clean, with a mirror, desk and chair. Sadly, the heater is again timer-based and have to switched on every 30 minutes. And yes, it's again positioned at eye-level which makes it difficult to effectively heat the room. The toilets were nearby and pretty decent although one has to wait a while before the hot water spews out from the shower head.
A lovely wood fireplace awaits us at the Hermitage to help thaw us out after our long walk. The souvenir shop was very enticing but luckily for me, it was closing time (5 pm) when we reached its doors.
Time then to check in at our YHA accommodation and man, it was a room with a view!
Kitchen was delightfully clean to cook in and we had pasta for dinner.
Have to really recommend YHA Mount Cook here (despite its higher-than-usual tariffs). It's a little far from the walking tracks but the distance is manageable, especically since we have a car. The place is really charismatic, built entirely like a giant wooden cabin with big windows overlooking either the snow-capped mountains (which we got) or dramatic black cliffs (on the other side).
The rooms are clean, with a mirror, desk and chair. Sadly, the heater is again timer-based and have to switched on every 30 minutes. And yes, it's again positioned at eye-level which makes it difficult to effectively heat the room. The toilets were nearby and pretty decent although one has to wait a while before the hot water spews out from the shower head.
Heavy body, heavy heart
Thankfully, there was only time for a quick lunch before we had to turn back. For once, I'm thankful for the limited daylight hours in winter. Anyway, the lunch spot was fantastic. It was right next to the Hooker river and overlooks Mount Cook, the highest point in the Southern Hemisphere. It was dreadfully windy and cold but the view is really worth it. At that point, I just remember how the cold helped me to appreciate how peaceful it was and how far away from civilisation we were.
At 3 pm, it was time to turn back and along the way, the elderly couple overtook us on the way back again. The merits of having the best of nature at one's back door. *sigh* But I guess it also requires a self-discipline (which I lack) to make full use of this proximity. I also have a jogging track near my place back in Singapore but I can count the number of times I have used it on one hand. Of course, I can always blame it on the heat and humidity of the Singapore weather. After all, I very much enjoyed my walk today. And without any sweat too! *grin*
Thankfully, there was only time for a quick lunch before we had to turn back. For once, I'm thankful for the limited daylight hours in winter. Anyway, the lunch spot was fantastic. It was right next to the Hooker river and overlooks Mount Cook, the highest point in the Southern Hemisphere. It was dreadfully windy and cold but the view is really worth it. At that point, I just remember how the cold helped me to appreciate how peaceful it was and how far away from civilisation we were.
At 3 pm, it was time to turn back and along the way, the elderly couple overtook us on the way back again. The merits of having the best of nature at one's back door. *sigh* But I guess it also requires a self-discipline (which I lack) to make full use of this proximity. I also have a jogging track near my place back in Singapore but I can count the number of times I have used it on one hand. Of course, I can always blame it on the heat and humidity of the Singapore weather. After all, I very much enjoyed my walk today. And without any sweat too! *grin*
Daunting path to lunch spot
Along the way, we climbed an icy escarpment to view a memorial to the guides and people who have perished at the Mount Cook National Park (and other mountains, I think). Then it was walking across 2 suspension bridges spanning the stunning (and violent) Hooker River which is fed by the Hooker Glacier.
One had to pay attention while walking the track as not a few stretches were icy and slippery. The track is sometimes just along the edge of a cliff so I had this perpetual fear of slipping and falling off the mountain. (Unknown to me, it would be nothing compared to the amount of falling I would experience while skiing at Mount Hutt a week later.)
The way to the second suspension bridge was the worst as it is along the cliff face and overlooks the Hooker River. It is made even more difficult with the track covered totally with ice and us wearing inappropriate sports shoes. In the end, we were pulling ourselves along via the railing and walking along the wires on the railing. It was also not a straight track but one going upwards and downwards, therefore resulting in much pulling on the railing and slipping on the wires. Needless to say, I was really impressed with myself for making my way across to our destination successfully.
Along the way, we climbed an icy escarpment to view a memorial to the guides and people who have perished at the Mount Cook National Park (and other mountains, I think). Then it was walking across 2 suspension bridges spanning the stunning (and violent) Hooker River which is fed by the Hooker Glacier.
One had to pay attention while walking the track as not a few stretches were icy and slippery. The track is sometimes just along the edge of a cliff so I had this perpetual fear of slipping and falling off the mountain. (Unknown to me, it would be nothing compared to the amount of falling I would experience while skiing at Mount Hutt a week later.)
The way to the second suspension bridge was the worst as it is along the cliff face and overlooks the Hooker River. It is made even more difficult with the track covered totally with ice and us wearing inappropriate sports shoes. In the end, we were pulling ourselves along via the railing and walking along the wires on the railing. It was also not a straight track but one going upwards and downwards, therefore resulting in much pulling on the railing and slipping on the wires. Needless to say, I was really impressed with myself for making my way across to our destination successfully.
Feeling right at home
Started on the Hooker Valley Track at about 11.30 am.
There was this elderly Caucasian couple who was behind us but they started to overtake us not long along the track. This was because the both of us were making such frequent (and long) stops along the way to take photos. *grin*
In addition, I also stopped quite often to just breathe in the fresh (albeit cold) air and admire the beauty of mother nature all around us - the towering snow-capped mountains, the gleaming blue glaciers and contrasting black cliff faces, the evergreens contrasting with their snowy jackets, and the utter peace of not seeing any other human beings in the vicinity once we got started on the track.
Started on the Hooker Valley Track at about 11.30 am.
There was this elderly Caucasian couple who was behind us but they started to overtake us not long along the track. This was because the both of us were making such frequent (and long) stops along the way to take photos. *grin*
In addition, I also stopped quite often to just breathe in the fresh (albeit cold) air and admire the beauty of mother nature all around us - the towering snow-capped mountains, the gleaming blue glaciers and contrasting black cliff faces, the evergreens contrasting with their snowy jackets, and the utter peace of not seeing any other human beings in the vicinity once we got started on the track.
Onward to Mount Cook
Woke up bright and 'early' at 9 am to make our way from Twizel to Mount Cook. The sunrise awaiting us at the Motel Office was spectacular and we spent some time taking photos. It was our 3rd day in New Zealand and our first morning out in the embrace of its natural 'wilderness'. Boy, was it different from any other morning I've have had, at Ubin or elsewhere. The frost on the ground, in the air, the low sun and the rows of evergreens...
Got on our way around 10+ am and reached Mount Cook about 11 am.
Woke up bright and 'early' at 9 am to make our way from Twizel to Mount Cook. The sunrise awaiting us at the Motel Office was spectacular and we spent some time taking photos. It was our 3rd day in New Zealand and our first morning out in the embrace of its natural 'wilderness'. Boy, was it different from any other morning I've have had, at Ubin or elsewhere. The frost on the ground, in the air, the low sun and the rows of evergreens...
Got on our way around 10+ am and reached Mount Cook about 11 am.
Thursday, June 10, 2004
Arrival at Twizel
We managed to arrive at Lake Tekapo at dusk. Wanted to stopped for late lunch at Lake Tekapo but I guess we left Christchurch kinda late.
Anyway, such delightful scenery awaited us! The colours of the setting sun and the surrounding water and mountains were just glorious to look at.
We stopped for a while, taking photos, photos and more photos.
Then onward to our accommodation at Twizel, Mountain Chalet Motel.
At first, we had the Backpackers' Lodge all to ourselves. However, a hitch-hiker decided he wouldn't be able to get a ride out after all and we had to share the lodge with him. But well, can't complain - it was the cheapest of all our accommodation. And NZ$18 is an unbeatable price for long hot showers and beds with electric blankets.
Dinner was at the 'nearby' township of Twizel. Went to this cafe that the owner of the motel recommended. Robin had the mixed grill while I had a burger and a lasagna topper. Wondering what a topper is? It's basically a palm-sized fried batter filled with cheese, ham, tomato sauce, etc.
Drove back to the motel after dinner, and nearly got a crick on my neck from staring at the awesome stars above us.
Can't imagine how much better the stars will look tomorrow night when we stay at Mount Cook itself. *grin*
We managed to arrive at Lake Tekapo at dusk. Wanted to stopped for late lunch at Lake Tekapo but I guess we left Christchurch kinda late.
Anyway, such delightful scenery awaited us! The colours of the setting sun and the surrounding water and mountains were just glorious to look at.
We stopped for a while, taking photos, photos and more photos.
Then onward to our accommodation at Twizel, Mountain Chalet Motel.
At first, we had the Backpackers' Lodge all to ourselves. However, a hitch-hiker decided he wouldn't be able to get a ride out after all and we had to share the lodge with him. But well, can't complain - it was the cheapest of all our accommodation. And NZ$18 is an unbeatable price for long hot showers and beds with electric blankets.
Dinner was at the 'nearby' township of Twizel. Went to this cafe that the owner of the motel recommended. Robin had the mixed grill while I had a burger and a lasagna topper. Wondering what a topper is? It's basically a palm-sized fried batter filled with cheese, ham, tomato sauce, etc.
Drove back to the motel after dinner, and nearly got a crick on my neck from staring at the awesome stars above us.
Can't imagine how much better the stars will look tomorrow night when we stay at Mount Cook itself. *grin*
Onward to Twizel
Woke up at 9+ and got a lift to the car rental office. By the time the paperwork was filled out, it was about 11 plus already. Stil haven't eaten breakfast, so went hunting for food. But first, had to revalidate our air tickets or we wouldn't be able to get back home.
Went to this shopping mall next to the Air New Zealand office. Was very tempted to buy Mac's but it's a little pricey. Bought fresh baked ham & cheese and mushroom & cheese buns instead.
Then it was going to the huge Pak N Sav for groceries shopping for our road trip.
At 1.45pm, we set off from Christchurch Pak N Sav for the first leg of our holiday. Yippee!!! Onward to Twizel.
Woke up at 9+ and got a lift to the car rental office. By the time the paperwork was filled out, it was about 11 plus already. Stil haven't eaten breakfast, so went hunting for food. But first, had to revalidate our air tickets or we wouldn't be able to get back home.
Went to this shopping mall next to the Air New Zealand office. Was very tempted to buy Mac's but it's a little pricey. Bought fresh baked ham & cheese and mushroom & cheese buns instead.
Then it was going to the huge Pak N Sav for groceries shopping for our road trip.
At 1.45pm, we set off from Christchurch Pak N Sav for the first leg of our holiday. Yippee!!! Onward to Twizel.
Wednesday, June 09, 2004
Arrival at Christchurch
Brrr...
Hopped over to the Antarctic Centre from the airport via a free shuttle. The place is rather pricey but very informative. Forked out a hefty NZ$18 (first expense in NZ$) for a (fake) snowstorm, slide down an ice slope, and the viewing of several videos and info boards on Antarctic. But actually spent 2 hours inside the place.
Then took the Airbus over to the city centre. Transfer cost NZ$5. Nice driver. Told him that we were staying at Rolleston and he stopped at the most convenient place for us to get off. Accent similar to the British.
Christchurch was surprisingly very cold, despite it being the start of winter only. But maybe because it was that I wasn't used to the weather yet. Can't imagine how cold when we get out of the city. Thank goodness I decided to buy and bring the handwarmers.
Fish & chips as first dinner in NZ. Were the last customers before the shop closed. It was only 7.30pm. 2 big slabs of fish & too much chips. For only NZ$3. Very good deal. Fish meat was very thick and coarse. It was almost like chicken. And bought a lamb slouvaki from The Greek Recipe. Small shop overlooking the cathedral. Very good slouvaki.
Came back to hostel & had dinner watching Simpsons. Actually fell asleep after dinner at the couch. Thankfully, Robin was at hand to wake me up when the show finished. Went back to room after washing up the dishes and tried to repack my bags. They looked a little better. I think. *grin*
Conked out. Brrr...
Stupid heater has a time-switch. Goes off after every 30 minutes.
Brrr...
Hopped over to the Antarctic Centre from the airport via a free shuttle. The place is rather pricey but very informative. Forked out a hefty NZ$18 (first expense in NZ$) for a (fake) snowstorm, slide down an ice slope, and the viewing of several videos and info boards on Antarctic. But actually spent 2 hours inside the place.
Then took the Airbus over to the city centre. Transfer cost NZ$5. Nice driver. Told him that we were staying at Rolleston and he stopped at the most convenient place for us to get off. Accent similar to the British.
Christchurch was surprisingly very cold, despite it being the start of winter only. But maybe because it was that I wasn't used to the weather yet. Can't imagine how cold when we get out of the city. Thank goodness I decided to buy and bring the handwarmers.
Fish & chips as first dinner in NZ. Were the last customers before the shop closed. It was only 7.30pm. 2 big slabs of fish & too much chips. For only NZ$3. Very good deal. Fish meat was very thick and coarse. It was almost like chicken. And bought a lamb slouvaki from The Greek Recipe. Small shop overlooking the cathedral. Very good slouvaki.
Came back to hostel & had dinner watching Simpsons. Actually fell asleep after dinner at the couch. Thankfully, Robin was at hand to wake me up when the show finished. Went back to room after washing up the dishes and tried to repack my bags. They looked a little better. I think. *grin*
Conked out. Brrr...
Stupid heater has a time-switch. Goes off after every 30 minutes.
Singapore to Christchurch
Alritey!
Flight's retimed. There was a medical emergency and flight got delayed.
Had to wait for Robin to get to airport before checking in and was really hungry coz didn't eat the whole day. Not bad. I actually managed to 'pack' my bags in less than 5 hours.
Was occupied with TV the past couple of days coz I knew that was all the TV I was gonna get from then on. Dun anticipate much TV during the trip and certainly won't be able to catch any TV once I get back to Singapore and start TEACHING!!! Argh!
Anyway... Robin managed to arrive before I fainted due to sugar deprivation and we checked in. Flight was actually a combination of 4 flights but it turned out it was still pretty empty. And we were too slow to 'chope' the empty seats at the back so we had to sit up & sleep during the flight.
And there was no personal entertainment system onboard. Sigh. Luckily, I was quite tired after staying up late to pack my bags and I actually slept pretty much of the long-haul flight (for once!). Watched a bit of Starsky and Hutch while having dinner but can't say it was a captivating show.
Had to rush to catch our connecting flight from Auckland to Christchurch since our Singapore-Auckland flight was delayed. Fortunately, we were just in time for the shuttle bus between International and Domestic Terminals. But it was still a hassle to re-check-in our baggage, get our boarding passes, etc. In the end, we arrived at the plane even before our luggage did. It was quite funny to think that the plane had to wait for our backpacks before it could take off.
Then it was an easy 1 hour plus flight onward to Christchurch! Yippee!!!
Alritey!
Flight's retimed. There was a medical emergency and flight got delayed.
Had to wait for Robin to get to airport before checking in and was really hungry coz didn't eat the whole day. Not bad. I actually managed to 'pack' my bags in less than 5 hours.
Was occupied with TV the past couple of days coz I knew that was all the TV I was gonna get from then on. Dun anticipate much TV during the trip and certainly won't be able to catch any TV once I get back to Singapore and start TEACHING!!! Argh!
Anyway... Robin managed to arrive before I fainted due to sugar deprivation and we checked in. Flight was actually a combination of 4 flights but it turned out it was still pretty empty. And we were too slow to 'chope' the empty seats at the back so we had to sit up & sleep during the flight.
And there was no personal entertainment system onboard. Sigh. Luckily, I was quite tired after staying up late to pack my bags and I actually slept pretty much of the long-haul flight (for once!). Watched a bit of Starsky and Hutch while having dinner but can't say it was a captivating show.
Had to rush to catch our connecting flight from Auckland to Christchurch since our Singapore-Auckland flight was delayed. Fortunately, we were just in time for the shuttle bus between International and Domestic Terminals. But it was still a hassle to re-check-in our baggage, get our boarding passes, etc. In the end, we arrived at the plane even before our luggage did. It was quite funny to think that the plane had to wait for our backpacks before it could take off.
Then it was an easy 1 hour plus flight onward to Christchurch! Yippee!!!
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