Another day in Li' V's World

High Heel Boots in Madrid

2012-02-08T19:54:00.007+10:00

Who was the idiot who didn't bring a pair of non-heeled shoes? ME! Such a dork. I decided, while packing as to not bring any, thinking that "4 days in Madrid..I think I can handle wearing my heel boots." Considering that I didn't want to add 'another .kg in my hand carry-on bag - due t

o the strict RyanAir hand carry-on bag rules. I was stubborn...until we took off in the plane, I realised "shit we are going to walk a lot especially on uneven surfaces...should have!"

Rémy and I went on a 4 day short trip to Madrid, Spain; however ended up as 5 days (more like a bit) due to a strike on the 30th of January at the Brussel Charleroi South Airport (yes I am naming!) we had to reschedule our flight on Tuesday 31st..nevertheless it did give us another day to explore Madrid.

We departed early from Rémy's place for a 1hour and 30mins drive to Brussel's Airport - Charleroi. Got there at about 7am and had our petit déjeuner before heading to the boarding gates. RyanAir's annoying 'only 10kg, including handbag (if you're a girl) into the hand carry-on bag and then 5 metres ahead had to then re-open up my case for inspection and through the security check..dammit..PLUS I had to take my boots off for inspection as well. Left the airport at about 9:30am and touched down at Madrid Bajas International Airport at about 11:30am. We took the metro and stopped at Gran Via Station, which is close to the main 'calle' Gran Via. Wow busy and big..people everywhere and looked for our hotel - Vincci Capitol on Gran Via..wasn't far from the station - about a 5min walk. Once we found it, didn't realise there was a metro station close by - Callao. Could have stopped there if we knew.

Checked-in our hotel and was surprised that the staff member even offered us if we wanted to up-grade to a room, 'where the view is better.' 60€ extra so I decided 'yeah, why not.'

Habitación 806: Beautiful view and room was in a 360degree shape. One end was the bath, the opposite was the shower and toilet and in the middle was the bathroom vanity and then the room. The windows were placed in a semi-circle and therefore saw the view of Gran Via aka the Broadway of Madrid..we even got lollies (the substitute of chocolates) on our bed. It was nice. We were amazed with our room and the view.

Headed out to have lunch at Pans & Company - a mixture of subways and MacDonald. With our trusty Lonely Planet map of Madrid (with thanks to Rémy to organise the places to visit) and we headed out to Puerta del Sol then Place de Mayor and then afterwards to the Royal Palace, where King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia use to reside. Unfortunately cameras where prohibited so you just have to come over to see it yourself. An enormous palace and not all rooms where the same size, colour. It was very extravagant and amazing as to how the monarchy back in the days were able to afford all the luxury and extravagance of items there. Its a place to get ideas if you plan on renovating your place to something majestic as this (and of course at a cheaper price!)

Night falls in Madrid its party time. Rémy & I had tapas upon tapas with cervezas y vinos and ended up at a nightclub, which I am surprised that I can remember up to this date! Mixed drinks = huge hangover.

Saturday I spent sulking in bed, as if it was the end of the world for me. Finally got up at about 14:30 (as to much of Rémy's disgust)and headed out to a place to eat, which I was still queasy and only had a drink of coke and tea. After we took the metro Plaza de España to another part of Madrid and went to visit the Museo Reina Sofía and went to see Picasso's famous artwork "La Guernica" and his other art and sculptures...I got in trouble taking a photo, but anywhere else in the museum you could. Whoops.

On the way back to our hotel had more tapas and then went back to our posh room for a while before heading back out. We decided to have an early night..failed as we ended up leaving one of the night clubs at 3:30am and went to bed at 4am.

Sunday morning, a beautiful sunny (yet cool) day. Had a buffet breakfast at the hotel, got ready and then headed out to the metro and went to another museum - The Prado Museum. Another great place to visit while in Madrid..another huge place (like many other famous buildings in Madrid). We went there to see more art works from the famous Goya, Valézquez, Rubens and other famous artist...yup my feet were hurting. I was kicking myself for NOT bringing non-heeled shoes that whenever I saw a vacant seat I went to sit down for 5 - 10 mins before heading to the other parts of the museum. At the same time, I thought of just 'suck it up bitch,' which worked for a while then I felt the pain in my feet..again. Walking in uneven paths or cobble stones made it worst hahaha.

Sunday evening we booked a table to see a Flamenco show at Villa Rosa. Shared a bottle of rosé and had entrée or jamon before having the traditional Paella during the flamenco. The show was full of emotion but amazing. Olé! After the 1 hour show we had a 'chupito' of agwa before departing. Spent a few minutes at another bar to drink before resting it up at the hotel.

The last day we had the breakfast buffet at our hotel. Regardless it was out last day here, I gave up and brought a pair of non-heeled shoes, lucky on sale black Adidas shoes..thank gosh! My feet can now rest! We got ready and headed to Real Madrid Stadium - Estadio Santiago Bernabéu Real Madrid.

Footballer stars - Beckham, Zinedine, Rolando, Castillas just to name a few have or are currently played in one of the best teams. Saw the museum, it's history of the stadium, the team and how it is not just football but for other sports within the city.It was great to see the Barcelona F.C's rivalry team. It was a great day out, especially when it was another sunny day. Headed back to the main centre of Madrid and watched the finals of the Australian Open at a Tapas bar. One of the longest games in history, as we started watching it while getting ready and then after sight-seeing in Bernabéu, it was still going..both players Nadal and Djokovic are excellent..but the almost 6 hour game..Djokovic claimed the title...Nadal was of course annoyed he lost but still he made it to the finals.

Our last evening ended up packing for a while, had a nap before having our final 'tapas.'

We left early to catch the 7:30am flight..nevertheless the flight had a 'technical problem' we left at 9:30am and reached Charleroi Brussels at 11:30am.

Had a wonderful stay and having up-graded the room made the stay better haha. Will definitly come back for another stay....

....with comfortable shoes next time.

2011-12-13T23:45:00.001+10:00

9th December 2011

7:15am I was woken up by my iPhone alarm of "Hello" and kept snoozing till 7:30. Got up and got ready for a buffet breakfast, at the same place I had my 'late dinner' the night before. The restaurant was almost packed, that I had to find any spot to sit for breakfast. I had a bowl of coco-pop style cereal and then had noodles, scrambled eggs, pancake drizzled with maple syrup. My second round was a banana, apricots, grapes, rumbutan (similar taste to lychee on the inside, except it's exterior is spiky) and a croissant and a drink of very sweet Grape juice. During breakfast seeing the view of the harbour it started to snow. Making it feel all 'Christmassy' was Christmas music playing….such a festive season feel :D.

Now being all so touristy, just couldn't' resist taking photos. Afterwards went up to my room to finalise my packing before checking out and waiting for the bus to Incheon Airport.

While waiting, had some time to kill with going on the internet and then went outside..um 4degrees celsius! Cold much? Didn't stay too long and ended up going back inside. 10:30am bus arrived. A 30min drive from Harbor Park Hotel to Incheon and I had 2 hours to spare before my flight. Duty Free much?

Ventured to the Alcohol & Tobacco section and brought some Camel Cigarettes for Rémy and then I went to the Chanel store. Of course it was pricey (not going to mention how much it was) but I just had to get something from there…however that store (and every other designer store) are so posh in packing your items in their respective bags…and even the receipt is packed neatly in it's 'docket envelope' It's not the stuff-it-in-a-bag no, no. Okays lets just say its just über posh!

I was feeling rather peckish had KFC for lunch. Was contemplating on traditional Korean food, however I'll be getting it in the plane so KFC won over. Tasty and then headed back downstairs for more Duty Free. One hour before my flight went to buy some O.P.I nail polish and then went to the free internet to have my quick dose of Facebook and then boarding my flight at 13:30.

Another delay because of traffic. See I told you not just bad traffic in Brisbane, but also traffic at the airport tarmac. Finally jetted off.

The usual safety protocols and lucky for me listened to it 3 times in different language - Korean, English and then French. However during the safety procedure, it seems the French version was quick while the English was long. Strange.

I am glad I have my own headphones with thanks to Dr.Dre Beatport ones :D Even the guy next to me was asking the cabin crew why he didn't have headphones and I can see the cabin crew tell him that they will hand out the head phones and that some people have their own headphones (probably in Korean, yet I just sussed out what she was saying!)

Organised 'My Music' on my entertainment system from Mariah Carey, Chris Brown, Alicia Keys, Ricky Martin to J-pop and dance. Tunes to make me dance while sitting down.

Trying to kill time I think I will either watch a movie, listen to more music and catch up on some ZZZzzzz. An eleven hour flight from Incheon - Paris, I'd probably get a pressure injury so it's time to do a pressure area care and some leg exercises and deep breathing exercise..Oo one of the perks of being a Nurse know what to do to help stop pressure injury…..XD

I find myself sitting bolt up-right and I see the cabin crew serving lunch…MMM now I wait till I get served.

Lunch time.

A bientôt.

Leaving Brisbane again....

2011-12-13T23:41:00.002+10:00

I am sleep deprived. I have packed in the last minute..packing..unpacking, getting distracted then realise "oh shit I better keep packing…" Eventually I finally finished packing at 3am on the 8th of December. I had only 2hours sleep then it was back to Brisbane International Airport.

I felt a bit bummed because it felt rushed saying 'Goodbye' to my family, and prior to that it was a peak hour for passengers checking-in to their respective flights..and I was caught in a busy one as well. Oh well, that's the airport for you.

Never got the chance to go around at the duty free things after customs, yet managed to get an Australian flag tattoo for Australia Day. Boarded at Gate 81 KE124 Korean Air. A 9 hour and 45min flight from Brisbane to Incheon Airport. There was a 20min delay due to the plane in a 'queue..' See even airplanes are also caught in traffic!

The 9 hour flight was okay..I was aiming to sleep right through, but funnily enough I would suddenly wake up in time for food. Yup for food..no wake up due to the smell, but I think somewhere in my brain there is a little 'wake up for food' hidden in there so I wake up! First meal was chicken with vegetables and noodles and then the second meal was Korean bibimap food, which was yum. I did manage to sleep for at least 3hours and then in between watched The Lion King…ahh memories…How much the ' Lion King' is one of my favourite Disney movie and I admit I was teary. Then I watched 'Crazy.Stupid.Love' Damn! Ryan Gosling is hot in the movie.

My gosh it was very cold..0 degrees celsius..a wake up call for me that I ain't in the southern hemisphere LOL!

Touched down in Incheon round 17:55hours, headed to immigrations then to the Korean Air hotel transit section. Got my little sticker, food vouchers and the form for my layover stay in "Harbor Park Hotel." A 30minute bus ride out of Incheon Airport.

Further than the last time I was here in Incheon. As last time it was at the Korean AIr Hyatt Hotel which was a 10min drive.

Very nice with a nice evening view of the Harbour. On the 9th floor and seeing my window is the harbour view..not that you can see much during the night, but still looked pretty. My room is nice. Two beds and the bathroom a nice heated toilet seat..I am still to chicken to try the 'wash your bum' option. When I went past the TV, it automatically turned on to "Welcome to Harbor Park Hotel." That was pretty cool.

Still felt sleepy so set my alarm on at 20:15 so not to miss out on complimentary dinner courtesy of Korean Air…….Ended up getting up at 20:52 and went up to level 15 for the buffet dinner. The staff member said to me "you're very late..you have 10mins before it closed." Phew lucky she let me stuff my mouth with food..satisfied. The view too at the restaurant was wonderful as well. Afterwards went to the lobby to print out my itinerary for my hotel in Paris..and now in my room watching Donna Hay cooking, while just hearing the Australian accent a Korean voice over is translating what she is saying…(god! Why is it that I end up watching a food show while overseas?)

Channel surfing from Korean news, to soap opera, anime from an American in a Thailand jail as he insulted the King and Queen of Thailand…tough law if you insult or do any form of offence in relation to the Royal family in Thailand…2 - 15 years in jail. Best to bite your tongue.

Time for me to have a shower, watch more korean shows before having a snooze and be ready for another long haul all the way to Paris…. And that my friends is where my adventure begins….

A bientôt.

Packing again

2011-12-04T22:30:00.002+10:00

You would think that I would be an expert in packing, since I am always travelling almost every year, or month or week!.... Trust me I am an epic fail when it comes to packing for an overseas trip!

I have to really think thoroughly as to what to bring because I know I am able to buy some things overseas. However the other option is to pack and then mail some clothes back home, which may prove to be a bit costly (and smelly if it wasn't washed before it was packed up!)

I would pack a 'I might wear this.,' which eventually turns out to as a NEVER! and feeling like a douchebag, packing it in the first place.

I could bring an extra 'check-in bag,' as long as it abides by the weighing guidelines...the downfall too much bags! I want just the minimal one check-in and one carry-on luggage!

I am one of those people who choses a suitcase over backpack - the fact that I like a bit of a 'luxury' side of travelling. I am glad I have up-graded my suitcase a beloved Samsonite one with 360degree wheels..ooh nice nice...save my back.

I am looking across the hallway my scruffy looking suitcase..still opened with piles of clothes and bags..might as well add a cherry on top.... . Then again I have to look at it again over and over to the point I have OCD, making sure I have packed the correct things.

Time to re-do my packing again..and again...

D'oh can't get it right! RAHHHHHHHH

10

2011-11-22T02:44:00.002+10:00

Ten is the number of years since Trevor and I have kept in contact. Through writing letters, e-mailing and social networking, we have finally met up. Back in the days when MSN Messenger had Chat, I don't remember what and how we started to chat; nevertheless we clicked and from there on we started to keep chatting and writing letters. Back when writing letters was 'cool,' I would be happy receiving a letter to Trevor and even a bonus when I got a souviner from Tennessee or wherever he travelled to, and I did the favour as well. Since social networking, e-mailing is quicker than 'snail-mail.' It was good to communicate in respects of our busy schedules.

We, of course kept saying to each other 'one day we will meet up...' And now it is the 'one day we meet up.' I am still pinching myself to this day that I have finally met up with a person I have only known through letter writing and cyberspace. It is thrilling and amazing to see someone face-to-face and not a computer screen monitor. Of course I would be one of the many other people out there who are in the same situation, but yes I'd like to share with you.

Perfect timing that he was in Hong Kong, studying while I decided to have a short break prior to my epic break in France next month. I was contemplating to travel either in Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne or Hong Kong, yet i realised that Trevor was in Hong Kong, and thinking it would be a good opportunity to catch up before he jet sets again back to the USA or Europe. A spur of a moment and bam! Booked a return to Hong Kong for a short break. Counting down the days/shifts left and then before finishing work, I just had to be a bitch and say that I'm going to Hong Kong. *Insert evil laugh*

A mixture of excitement, joy, realising it is finally happening and just jumping in my mind.
A big hug when we met and from there just talked and talked and talked. We spent the whole of Saturday wondering the districts in Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, window shopping, photo taking and strolling along the Avenue of the Stars. It was a hilarious and fun day.

The funny thing is since I am of asian descent. No matter where I go in Asia, the locals think I can speak their tongue so they start to talk to me, until I blurt out a 'thank you' or 'how much?' But what got locals heads turning is that Trevor, blonde hair, american speaking in Cantonese and Mandarine, but it was just fun seeing their confused face. It was just amazing how Trevor fluently spoke it and the also became my tourist guide and translator at things. We ate at a Vietnamese Restaurant and the table next to us was looking rather confused. Classic.

Trevor you crack me up. It was a cracker to see all the filipinos eyes light up and smiles bigger when you mentioned to them you wanted to make Turon. Made their day I think and so did mine, seeing you asking about where to get the rice paper to make Turon..Speaking about it how was it?

Another funny thing was we went to see Mr Wong, who manages a small restaurant closer to my hotel. Mr Wong was a character, apparently he drinks on the job at times but at the same time running the restaurant with his wife/other manager. He was saying to Mr Wong that we will be returning in the evening for beers and food.

Towards the evening, we went back to Mr Wong's small restaurant,which was almost packed. He found us a table and we sat just having our coke and then he tells Trev that he gets us an 'alcholic beverage.' We share and boy it was strong, ended up putting coke in it and ice, but still was strong. While we were there, Trevor caught up with a few of his friends from university and people he met along his travels - such a small world indeed!) At the restaurant, people kept walking to and fro at the back of the restaurant getting 1 - 6 bottles of 600ml Pear River beers. What people do is open it up with a chopstick and like a champange the beer cap pops and just lands to whatever direction. 3 or so beers after we joined his Danish friends, David (who bears a resemblance to my work mate Harely), Esbern, Sarah and her friend. We took the red taxis to Hong Kong to the Ritz-Carlton hotel, where the hotel had the Skybar - Ozone...just imagine the nightclub Cloudland on the 80th floor. Uber posh and the veiw was spectacular. Since it was a nice bar, there was of course a dresscode. We weren't to sure if Esbern could go in because he was wearing shorts.
Unfortunately he wasn't able to go, and we were a bit bummed because did didn't know what to do, until the lady at the front says - "Sorry no shorts allowed...but we do have pants we can lend to you." How cool is that..Brisbane need to incorporate this! I have never been to a venue where they 'lend' you trousers for the stay in the bar. Wow!

We all enjoyed a cocktail HK$130 and Esbern treated us for the cocktail. YUM YUM! Mingling along with other people, started to get rather drunk and then we all decided to head to Lang Kwai Fong one of the main nightclubs strips.
It was an amazing night spending with a dear friend. Hong Kong sure knows how to party!

...now to get rid of the horrible hong kong hangover....

Entree Trip

2011-11-22T02:34:00.004+10:00

Hello my friends. I am in the humid, warm but overcast Hong Kong..well technically in Kowloon. I haven't blogged for a while since my last trip, which was in June! I know how slack of me. Off the topic for a bit, I am not use to my small laptop as I am all Apple Mac now, but I know I'll get the hang of my little Samsung.

SO..I know, I am rubbing this to your face, but I have jet setted to Hong Kong for a short break...
A lovely way to end off 4, 10 hour nights.

Left the beautiful sun of Brisbane to a cold Auckland evening, flying Air New Zealand...(you may be wondering as to why not Brisbane - Hong Kong?..well guess it is just the why the airline has done).
An hour transit from Brisbane to Auckland and then a midnight flight to Hong Kng. Mind you prior to this, I only slept for at least 1hour and 30 minutes before I did a last minute pack and discard packing, before Dad took me to the Brisbane Airport.

The 3hour flight from Brisbane to Auckland was good. Had a nice snack of salmon with mashed potatoes, corn and peas (although I am not a big fan of peas) and a nice drink of ice coke. The safety announcement in Air New Zealand
was pretty funny (just YouTube) and some of the New Zealand All Black players participating in the demonstrations of air safety on the plane. I had to chuckle with that.

While up in the air, I finally got to watch the final installment of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows..my gosh I (and yes lame to say this) was a bit teary because I know that its the end of the Harry Potter series.
That is a good thing to do while on the plane..you get to watch the movies you missed out while it was still at the cinemas. It was a good one, make me think, that Harry Potter should have been called (well along the lines) like
Star Wars.... minus the light sabers but wands and then I imagined Lord Voldermort saying - Harry..I'm your father....
XD....

Landed in Auckland then just before midnight, another flight from Auckland to Hong Kong..an 11 hour flight. I managed to watch 2 movies one while having a late dinner - Horrible Bosses..hilarious! and then Friends with
Benefits during breakfast..in between that, despite the crazy time changes..I managed to sleep for at least 7 hours.
Waking up thinking "what the foook" is the time and what day is it? Yea my Glasgow Coma Scale is down to a 10/15.

Touchdown in Hong Kong International Airport at 6am..(off a tangent..ahh the suns out!)..went to the Hotel-transfer desk re: my transfer from airport to my hotel - The CityView in Kowloon. Saw some double deckerbuses along the way and red taxis. Different and nice..if only Brisbane had double decker buses...:D. The weather at the start was gloomy, overcast and for the 50% mark for humidity..as we speak now the sun is already up..yay.

Considering that the check-in time is 1000hr, I had to wait for a while, so while waiting..I ventured out to the streets of Kowloon on to Nathan Road. I realised I am close to A) a metro station and B) Nathan Road..one of the main streets here in Kowloon. Even though not all stores were open .. with the exception of 7-eleven and other conivient stores went to get a drink and then had won tons with noodle soup for breakfast HK$25 which worked out to be AU$3.35..YUMMMMMMMMM. Yes peeps, food photos to come your way soon :P.

Hong Kong is 2 hours behind Brisbane (current time now is 10:01am)..although I have a small amount of time here,I cannot wait to venture this big CHINATOWN and food!!!

More to come.

A bientot

Duty Free Shopping

2011-06-12T23:46:00.002+10:00

We all have done it while waiting 30mins or 5hours till your flight to your destination or back home - Duty free shopping. I am not sure about you, but for me, (and I am sure most woman would agree) that shopping is one of our forte.
When it come to stores in the airports, there is duty free shopping. Yes tax free shopping how great! You get some great discounts (and not to mention some free tasting/drinking before purchasing). I absoloutely love duty free shopping.
Whether its just to get a bar of chocolate beause I am peckish or if I feel like a rich bitch I'll buy something with a fashionable brand engraved on an item (of course I make a limit!). Stylished displays, Tiger Woods convincing body language, mesmorising me to buy a Tagheuer watch...or is it something else?

White tiled floors, and hypnotising colourful signs, drawing me in to gawk of what the store is offering. The range of fragrances, electronics, foods, drinks, cigarrettes, designer brands, bags and local souviners.

Not necessary to buy things (on impluse and if your bank account allows you to), its fascinating to go into duty free stores. Its amusing to shop there as you know you most likely find an item in your destination or when you touch down at home.

I am a sucker for duty free things. Then, on top of what I've already brought at the airport, theres Sky Duty Free Shopping in the plane. Eversince I have travelled whether with family/friends or my own I always look through the
flight shopping magazines to see what I could get on my way back home. I have a small collection of "duty free" items at home. Some in use or still in it's box, because "its just so nice to look at...." Yes I will use them... I will.

Sometimes you just need to be considerate in what you do buy at duty free. We all have read in-flight magazines of the limit of liquids/cigarrettes etc and aiming to stick to the limit of 'put into the cabin space storage.' It can be convinient and nice to buy items that are compact and small i.e. travel perfumes/lotions. That way you can bring it next time on your travels and so forth.
Sometimes good for 'emergency' because you packed your item in your checked-in bag and you just 'can't live without it.'

There is also the last minute duty free, after you have landed in the airport before reaching customs.... Now that too is tempting, considering
I don't have 8 arms to hold my hand carry and 7 bags of duty free...(okay I exaggerated the 7 bags). Duty free shopping is like a buffet. You get to hoover over things you want, eat (for this instance, buy) and once you feel 'full' well in other words all duty free shopped-out..,.you don't want to look at another item to buy and get sick of duty free... for a while.

Asides from 'some' impluse buying, I normally have a look at what I want and then buy it later. If I like something from the inflight magazine, I plan
on getting it and then on my last leg of my journey..if I still want it, unless I got something else better then I won't.

Whoever invented duty free shopping you are awesome! I don't know what Airports will be like if duty free did not exist???..Wait...bored shitless. Without
duty free stores....airports will look mundane to visit/wait/transit in. Boring.

Thank gosh for Duty Free Shops.
Oh...there's a lovely Dior bag......

Viv Navorski...the other Navorski

2011-05-24T17:38:00.002+10:00

If you haven't seen the movie "the Terminal," then you probably won't know what I mean. But for the others, you know what I mean :P. I have arrived at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport early. I will be catching up with Remy and catching the train to Lille. Before I booked my train from Paris - Lille Europe, for some reason I thought Remy was arriving to Paris in the morning as me from his flight from Frankfurt, but when chatting to him, to help me book it, it is actually in the evening he will be arriving. So I have about 9 hours left to chill before meeting up with him. YAY. So happy, I just wanna scream for joy.

I could have the possibility from the airport and go to Paris but not with my luggage with me! There probably is a place at the airport where I can safely leave my luggage and then venture around the place, but best not. I will head over to Paris any other day while I am here. I decided just to stay at the airport and lounge around (not that I really needed to sit on my ass for another 9
hours). I have had my 'petit dejuner' of 'chocolat chaud et pan au chocolat,' without hesistating to the cafe staff of what I wanted to order :P.

Firstly Monday morning 23rd I have made my family envious, yet again that I am departing to France...AGAIN. Dad admitted he was jealous while mums just so sad for me to be leaving her side for 2 whole weeks..missing me like mad..and only just got out of the car at the Brisbane International Airport. She misses me already??? :P Saying our good byes and 'have a fantastic trip' went inside the airport, organising my things before having my big luggage all glad-wrapped up and then heading over to the 'Singapore Airline' Desk to check-in...I was suprised
that my luggage was less than I had thought...meaning MORE SHOPPING!
Felt peckish so had hot chips and bottle of coca cola from Red Rooster before looking around the duty free...I had about 1hour and 30mins left to spare before boarding my flight.

Once in the plane..I got the window seat just looking over the wings of the plane. I somehow always get a seat where I see the wings of the plane all the time. Before or after. I must be magnetised to always sit where I can see the wings
of the plane. An 8hour flight from Brisbane - Singapore. Ate, watched tv series and had a short nap before landing in Singapore. Arrived at about 840pm Singapore time (1040pm Brisbane time) through to transit and then more shops at Changi
airport. I haven't been to this airport since 1988 so it has indeed changed a lot! It was nice, just like Hong Kong and Seoul Incheon.

Boarded my flight for a long haul of 13hours Singapore - Paris. Most of the time tried to sleep as much as I could in an comfortable and uncomfortable way in either a corpse pose, fetal to the normal sitting on chair sleep. There was
space than the regular economy seats, but still a tad small.

However the flight was good. I got to have the good ol' Singapore Sling cocktail. Yum, and then just switching back to coke, water and tea/ coffee. I have to say I had a rather educational flight because I was watching several documentaries from Samurai: The Making of a Legend, Chamapagne (despite not finishing it), Carla Bruni: France's First Lady, Ice Cream and artsy shows like "Food Sculptors" and more food shows.
I feel rather knowledgable now of somewhat random things. For example with ice cream, back in the 19th century, it was very rude for women to eat ice cream on the cone (figure it out) so what they had to do is to bring it home, tip it up-side down and discard the cone and eat it in a bowl and use a spoon. Random fact..and that ice cream..it's history is still unsure - whether the Chinese found it, italians..well I guess you can just wikipedia it up. Carla the French President's wife a singer, model and also had several afflilations with charities esp. with AIDS. I shouldn't compare her to Princess Diana, but she is out there to make a change and to take part with something, which I find is amazing. I could go on and on of what I learnt but it'd just bore you lol. You could also learn the basic
of languages via the small TV which I did for abit :P.

Later I watched "How to Train Your Dragon" and liked it. It was cool.. and I think I will buy it on DVD...I love my cartoons.
I'm such a kid a heart.

...so now its Tuesday and I have and still kicking myself that I am back here in France. Wow! Well I guess I should brush up on my language part..yea I am a tad slack I haven't learnt for a while. Whoops! My bad. Cannot wait to explore this beautiful place with more photos and more memories.

Until then

A bientot.

Eurovison!

2011-05-14T21:26:00.000+10:00

It's that time again for the Annual Eurovision Song contest. This time its held in Düsseldorf, Germany. To sum it up, there are 20 or so contestants from Europe (hence the EURO-vision) and they sing either in their language or in English, after the respective countries vote who they enjoyed and the most votes of a country wins and the winning country will host the following year.

The first time I watched it was in 1999. I think it was held in Jerusalem that year..just flicking channels and came across the Eurovision. Glued watching the show, because it was funny and catchy cheesy songs in not-so-perfect English TEHEHE.

I don't know how many Australians watch Eurovision, but it seems to be a fan base to Eurovision and thanks to SBS and commentary from Sam Pang and Julie Zemiro, it makes it hilarious with their funny commentary for each contestants.

No matter how bad, cheesy, funny, weird, crazy choreography and bad fashion tastes (some) its still good entertainment. Lots of Pinks, Lady Gagas, Britney Spears, Shakiras, Enriques, Bon Jovi, Bieber, Aguleria, Blue, Aqua and other boy bands..well you name it!

Its the Factor X of Europe..I bet you Simon Cowell is sitting on his sofa with whoever and gasbagging how bad or extremely bad the artists were HAHAHA.

Tomorrow (Sunday 15th is the finals and will see who wins this years Eurovision). Cannot wait.

I'm getting my Eurovision On!

In the Fruity Cult now :P

2011-05-03T22:03:00.007+10:00

I have definitely joined the fruity cult now - technologically speaking. APPLE! The iPod, an iPhone and now have finally brought myself an Apple MacBook Pro. I originally planned on buying the MacBook after my vacation, but hence it was eating my mind away that I decided to buy it, after all the reasonings, the pros and cons of having it now (or having it later) etc... . I brought it and justified to myself (and partial blame that Myer's had a sale), as well as that my Dell Laptop has 'cancer' I just wanted a new laptop. Funny, because my Dell still works..only just... yet the smell of something new is so nice...well you know what I mean.

Absolutely love my new laptop....

....then there is the iPad..hrm...well I guess I could...*insert voice-over from Happy Meal MacDonald Commerical* "Collect all Apples."

To loose weight and 2million other New Year Resolutions.

2011-01-01T20:40:00.002+10:00

Firstly, Happy New Year everyone. 2011, hrm what will it hold for me, for all of us?

Resolutions usually the norm for the coming new year. Resolutions are goals and I quote from my brother Ray "actions to be taken, to become a better person, so one can enjoy a greater and higher quality of life!" Thanks Ray. I sit here, pondering... "Do I really need to do a resolution for 2011?" I've come to realise that whenever I try to make my resolution, it ends up being a continuation to the next year. The obvious things like too busy, will do it later etc... . Then when it is towards the end of the year, you start to panic, because you never got to finish the 'resolution' and feel as if you have failed for the year.

Okay I use to be like that, nevertheless, I never was much of a resolutionist (not sure if that is a word), I am one of the person that goes with the flow (and still do). To me it seems its just small goals throughout the year, just like everyone else making goals for new projects etc... . The obvious resolutions that normally come up are:

A) Exercise more/ loose weight
B) Save more money or house/travel/car
C) Quit smoking/ alcohol
D) Pay up credit card bills etc...

I know a few resolutions I have thought of and I have completed or still continuing i.e. learn a language, travelling to the Americas and Europe, new car.

Sometimes I guess its just nice to be creative with your resolutions. But my mind does not go to extreme with resolutions, because I'd be in 'the thinker position' to come up with a 'brilliant out-of-this-world resolution,' for hours.

Just like I said, just make small goals and a deadline throughout the year and by the time you would have completed your 'resolution.'

... If not you will eventually achieve your goals one way or another...

Happy Resolution to all of you..... :P.

Au Revoir Paris....Hello North of France

2010-12-07T23:58:00.002+10:00

Sunday 28th November
Checked out from the Best Western Victor Hugo Hotel, brought my final Parisian souviners, had lunch at one of the restaurants in Champs Elysees then headed to the Charles de Gaulle Etoile Metro Station to transfer to Gare du Nord. Caught one of the bullet trains from Paris to Lille, a city in the north of France. It was only a 1 hour train ride, which felt like a 30 minute ride (well duh it's a bullet train, it zoom, zoom, zooms!) The train arrived at Lille-Europe Station...."Viv - Welcome to Lille!" Waited outside for Céline and Seb to pick us up. Whoa, for a girl who is accostumed to warmer temperature, it was like a temperature shock to be in a place which was 2°c and windy...BRRR! When it is cold, it is okay-ish, but when its windy, it is icy cold. I think since I touched down in Paris, I have lost count on how many times I habe said F"_- it's cold!
Céline and her husband qarrived and picked us up and a 30 minute or so drive from the station their parent's place in a small town. Unpacked our gear and settled down in the kitchen chatting for a while and then they left. Rémy and I rested for a while and then got ready to head to Céline and Seb's place for drinks, watching football, chatting with them and then later on their parents arrived to visit before heading back home. Rémy and I stayed a little bit more and then just before midnight went back home.

Le Ch'tis as seen in the French movie Welcome to the Sticks, Céline; Seb and Rémy told me some ch'tisque that I may see or hear during my stay here in the north of France. The movie was based round the area, a little further than Lille, but I guess it covers part of Lille. Making me intrigued about the Ch'tis.

Monday 29th November
A cold Monday and while Rémy went off to uni mid-morning, I had a very lazy Monday morning. It was cold and some snow outside, tucked myself back to bed on facebook (of course) and watching French programmes, even dubbed American soap opera Days of our Lives. Trying to grasps some words or even try to understand, however I only managed to hear verbs I recognised (d'oh!) Towards the evening had lovely dinner and then went to Rémy's sisters place to watch Barcelona vs. Real Madrid. OMG.... I haven't seen so much close up of Cristiano Ronaldo, since the FIFA 2010 World Cup! Had to laugh at Real Madrid's goalkeeper and Captain Iker Casillas because he was so pissed off that his team was losing. So the score was 5 - 0, Barcelona won. During the game things were heating up as some kind of punch up with the players from both team and then on another part, Ronaldo pushing one of the men in the opposing team (Barcelona)....I think he got a yellow card for that. After the game chatted and drank somemore and just before 1am left their place and headed back home.

Tuesday 30th November
Still fighting off my friggen jetlag, stayed at home while Rémy went to class till 5pm. Nothing, just ate, showered, watched télé, facebook then ZZZZzzzzzz... . Oh and inbetween stared outside the window seeing the snow topped fields....ZZZzzzzzz!

Pretty Paris

2010-12-07T23:06:00.010+10:00

Saturday 27th November
Our second last day in Pretty Paris. We missed out on our petit dejuner because we got up late. We got ready and just headed straight to Avenue des Champs Elysees, through to the marchés there and had our vin chaud and I had my crepe with sugar while Rémy had his waffle.We looked at some things in the marché de noel before heading out to the Place de la Concorde and through to the Jardin des Tuileries. I could imagine how life could have been in the 1800s; walking through this huge garden just before the Lourve (or is it the Louvre? I still get it muddled up).

The Louvre
An enormous place, where I cannot imagine how King Louis or Napoleon can live in there! Its HUGE!!!! Its as if they have combined the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital together side by side! Now that's huge! The famous glass pyramids at the front of the Louvre (yes another photo opportunity) and then went downstairs to enter the Museum. Rémy and I did not cover all the places inside the Louvre, you have to have at least 2 or 3 days to be dedicated in walking through all the artwork with your trusty walkman - talking you through all the artworks either in Japanese, Spanish, Russian, or Arabic, just to name a few. We only covered a small part and only got to see the world famous Leonardo De Vinci's Mona Lisa. Small, yet a dozen of people stand from afar to catch a glimpse of it. (Yes I was *add sarcasm* so interested!)... . Just like every other tourist, took a photo of it. The paintings of certain people or just paintings of certain events qre magnificent. It is amazing in those days, people have a lot of talent. When it comes to portraits they paintings are real and the colours, shadings oh gosh I sound like a critic! A few paintings are large and I always wonder how artists back then had the patience and dedication to finish a piece of artwork. Some have been painted over 3 years or more. WHOA! Unlike nowadays someone would probably chuck a tantrum!
Even the ceilings are covered with religious themed paintings with golden borders and then the French windows outlooking the many statues, lining up the palace and then overlooking the garden. Wonderful. Well words at times cannnot express how magnificent the Louvre is. After seeing what we wanted to see it was au revoir to the Louvre and headed near the pont neuf for dejuner. The difference with Australian Cafés/restaurant and French is that the staff of the place finds the time to talk to their customers. Rémy had a short conversation with the manager of the restaurant and then asked directions to get to certain places for our next galavanting. With thanks we then headed outise to the little island where the Conciergerie and Notre Dame is.

Notre Dame on the Island
Another famous building where we all know Disney's Hunchback of Notre Dame. Takes place. Magnificent church with lovely interior and stained-glassed windows, again I had to pinch myself as I still couldn't believe I step foot in the Notre Dame. I also put 2Euros donation so I could light a tea-candle and then Rémy and I sat down on one of the seats. I prayed a little just saying 'thank you etc...' Then took more photos before heading out to another Church - Basilique du Sacré Coeur.

Went to the Métro from Notre Dame to Monmartre. Below the Sacré Coeur it was a tad messy than say the Champ Elysees, guess the older part of Paris (so yes I saw a bit of dirtiness in Paris). Walked through so many souviner stores (yes I am a sucker for those) till Rémy and I saw the Basilique du Sacré Coeur. *Jaw drop*

Basilique du Sacré Coeur
Another beautiful church; built later than the Notre Dame in the 1800s. High on the hill, you see an outlook of parts of Paris and what I say the only skyscraper in Paris (probably not, but I say it is) a tall building from afar (which was probably close to La Defense- the financial section of Paris). Speaking of skyscrapers, if you haven't been to Paris, you don't see many, unlike ifyou were in New York. Walking on more stairs (and I swear that is one of the reason as to why French people are slim - a lot of stairs to walk up and down!) towards the Sacré Coeur, before the entrance, there was a crowd around 4 men dancing - pop n locking, old and new hip hop and breakdancing. Luckily I managed to see some and cheered them on. They were great! Afterwards step foot into the church. No photos allowed inside, but again it was wonderful interior; statues and all. Beautiful. Then we walked outside to Monmartre to see the many cute cobbled streets and stores surrounding the Sacré Coeur, an area where artists displayed and drew pictures and alas! I finally saw an accordian player! Walked down further and headed to Pigalle.

Pigalle
Guess it is like the Valley in Brisbane and King's Cross in Sydney. A mixture of sinner and saint in this area of Paris. The famous windmill of what is the Moulin Rouge - if I had the time I would have loved to see a show and have dinner there... Next time....next time. Walked through the main street and looked at some interesting stores then before heading to the Musée de L'erotisme. Seven levels of everything erotic past and present all over the world. It was very interesting place and I would recommend it to of course people over 18 years of age!
After, we had dinner at French equivalent of MacDonalds 'Quick' and then headed back to our hotel for a last stay.

Until then

A Bientot

V x

Paris

2010-11-29T21:12:00.004+10:00

Not a certain heiress but the city. Paris! It has been one of my many destination dreams to come to Paris. Seen the city in many movies and of course Travel shows and I cannot believe that I have made it to the city of lights! Before moving on cutting long story short, returned to Kléber for the remainder of our stay in Paris, unfortunately still couldn't stay there so they transferred us to the Best Western Victor Hugo Hotel (which I have to admit was better) and with free wi-fi!

Paris, when thinking of Paris its the Eiffel Tower, the Lourve, Moulin Rouge and of course the cliché of rude people, dog poo, people wearing stripes etc... . Okay you may get the odd rudeness (which I have had my share of rudeness), all in all it has been fantastique!

I am in awe of everything here in Paris. The streets, architecture, monuments, food, mulled wine and people. Sometimes I think I have stepped onto a postcard or movie set, but no, it's the real deal. Seeing Paris is amazing. People here are so stylish and even if it doesn't match, they find a way to match it! Crazy hats that look like fluro green road kill, still looks stylish.

L'Arc de Triomphe is a huge monument built during Napoleon era (and not going any further to anymore history, look up on wikipedia ha!). It is in the middle of a very busy roundabout and to get to the middle is underground to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. You have to be fou to cross the road to the middle. It looks nice during the evening with the lights on and the lights along the Avenue des Champs Elysees.

Eiffel Tower according to my Lonely Planet Paris book (thank gosh for lonely planet books) over 250 million have ascended the tower to date. I got goosebumps when I saw the tower from crossing a bridge, over the River Seine. Walking through the beautiful streets/Rues in Invalides Rémy and I were getting closer and closer to the Tower. Finally got there and WOW! Two options to get up there - 1: Elevator or 2: The Stairs. We opt to climb the stairs, the reason was that the line was shorter than the elevators. LOL. Paid about 9 something Euros to climb the stairs. Tough work, huffing and puffing to the top, partial top. Six hundred and sixty-nine steps and during that it was getting dark, cloudy and then finally snowed! Beautiful view from the top and even more when it snowed. The rooftops of building covered by the white powder, despite it being cold at the top, it was brilliant! I can tick off my list that I have visited the Eiffel Tower.

Afterwards, more walking then the métro then walked back to our hotel to rest for another day of Parisian adventure.

Until then

à bientot

V

Touch down in Paris

2010-11-27T12:20:00.004+10:00

The flight from Incheon Seoul to Charles de Gaulle Paris was an 11-hour flight. Ate, slept, listened to music on my iPad-seque screen and watched movies (in between slept while watching Inception, then watched it again since I missed the other part). Once the plane touched down in Paris a mixture of excitement and nervousness crossed my mind. Happy to be here and see Rémy, since 5 months ago, Paris, the food, scenery, the monuments and nervous as I only know "un petit peu français."

Touch down at Charles de Gaulle Airport, Thursday evening of Nov 25th, went through customs (woo hoo got my passport stamped!) and then got my suitcase and then information center about how to get to Paris via A. the taxi, B. Bus or C. Train. I took the cheaper option and took the train. Took about 1 hour to Chatelet Les Halles to change over to next train. Oh gosh, I found myself below the métro lost through the winding maze to the next train.... Yea spot the lost tourist! Finally got on the next train thanks with the help of the train staff member reached Charles de Gaulle Etoile stop. More stairs up to the wonderful Champs Elysees Avenue and L'Arc de Triomphe. I am in awe! AMAZING.

Now, the challange to catch a taxi. Hailed one, unfortunately he finished his shift, tried hailing another one, til a man told me to catch it on the other side of the road. Thanked him kindly then went to the direction he told me to go and caught one to the hotel I booked called Kléber Hotel Champs Elysees Tour Eiffel Paris. Unfortunately was not able to stay there and for their reason "water issues/pipes." They kindly made me un café, while I waited for Rémy to come. The staff member explained it again to Rémy what happened and then they transferred us to another hotel for the night. Went to the other hotel and lets just say it was a down grade to what i stayed at Incheon. Couldn't complain much, at least it we had a place to stay. The view from the window of the room, is wht I expected though, very French - the window balcony, the buildings, streets, trés belle!

Until then,

à bientot

V

Seoul Sleepover

2010-11-24T23:11:00.005+10:00

Twenty hour wait for next flight to Paris is not fun at all. I can stay up for 10 hours (the fact that I can stay up that long thanks to shift work!), but when its at the Airport it won't be fun when duty free stores will be closed till morning. I could obviously do an a la Tom Hanks from the movie The Terminal, nah.

A huge thanks to Korean Air I have a layover at a hotel. I am lucky enough to stay in a 4 star hotel ' Hyatt Regency Incheon. I was in awe when the staff member at Incheon Korean Air Service Desk told me. SCORE!!

After getting a hotel voucher and sat down next to the other people waiting for the Hyatt Bus to take us. Followed one of the ladies outside the airport for the bus..brr outside was 9 degrees but it was nice and refreshing... . Guess it was making me accustome to the cold weather in Paris *LOL.*

Got onto the bus and a 10min drive to our hotel. Wow! The entrance is nice. Filled in form like the rest of the people then headed to the hotel receptionist to get my swipe access card to my room. Just like work had to swipe into the elevator to get to level 12. I stayed in Room 1205. Whoa the room nice and I was stoked I even have a phone in the bathroom and even a speaker so I can hear the TV (and have it on MTV ) so I can dance while having a shower :P.

Settled myself down in my room and of course had to go straight onto Facebook :P. Had to sign in on a couple of things and then bam internet for 24hrs (only 20,000korean wons, equivalent to $18 Aus). Wireless (How I love you!)

Felt a bit peckish so headed downstairs to have my dinner. Handed my dinner voucher to the restaurant staff member and asked me what I wanted - either Italian or Korean dinner. I opt for the second.

Had kim-chi and anchovies for side dish then followed with rice, miso soup and beef. Delicious. Unfortunately I couldn't finish because I was still full from the food off the plane! Grr. Finished with fruits for dessert. It was nice. Afterwards, went outside just to be all touristy and take photos at the front of the hotel. Later headed back to my room, channel tv surfing, facebook, blogging and just resting it up in my 'free stay.'

Next morning, woke up 30mins before my alarm set off (1. my iPhone alarm and 2. the 'wake up call' system on my personalised Hyatt phone!). Did the usual get ready and then went downstair for my free Buffet Breakfast. Ate cereals, bacon, traditional Korean food and then fruit and yoghurt (mango yoghurt that is, which was more like mango smoothie).

With my trust Sony Camera went outside to take a few shots by day (FCK it was cold!) then back here to blog and get my gear ready before heading back to Incheon Airport.

Next stop Paris.

Until then

A bientot!

V x

On a Big Jet Plane

2010-11-24T21:32:00.005+10:00

Okay so it's not the current A380 plane. But a 330 plane. Only a 9hour or so flight to Seoul, South Korea. Firstly at the start.... I set my alarm at 4am and didn't get up till 4:45am. Got ready and ate breakfast. In between compulsive obessively checking in my handbag for my passport, travel itinerary, travel insurance and money, finally got everything and then family and I went on the way to Brisbane International Airport.

Some may not know or have heard a bit, but North Korea and South Korea are on some kinda biff up about something. I didn't hear much on the news, but read online (more like scan through the article), however Mum was frantically saying "Don't go they are at War," "Change your flight to Hong Kong instead..." bla bla bla...Didn't hear anything else.

Apologies to Mum, but actually snapped at her saying that I was getting annoyed about the "war this; war that." Anyway haven't heard much, except for the up-coming royal wedding of Prince Williams and Katie Middleton. BORING.

On a funny note, Dad goes to me..."Well if so, that means you can be part of history." Then I go into a 100 year old granny impression saying..."Back in my day....." Then Mum added "Well take pictures if they are missilling each-other." XD. Reached the Interanational section of the Brisbane Airport and family decided to come along with me just in case it got delayed. So I go and check in my bag, then ask at the service counter if I have a complimentary overnight stay in Seoul (as I have a 20hr layover there before heading to Paris), and yes I have. Yay! Thank you Korean Air.

When that was organised we all sat down to have something to eat. Can't get enough of Red Rooster Chips. It seems that I always have it whenever I head over to the airport (and remincising back in the days). Have 45mins till boarding said a quick farewell to family and then headed downstairs to customs and boarding flight. Never got the chance to have a look at the Duty Free because I had less than 10mins before boarding.

Went through to Gate80 and headed to the concourse connecting to the plane into Row 50C. Yes! I have an aisle seat. I prefer aisle seats now than windows. A good thing about window seat is the view you see when you take off and touch down (unless your flight takes off at night). Then the hassel of saying "sorry/excuse me" to head to the restroom or just walking round the aisle so you don't get DVT (deep vein thrombosis)... and that the aisle you get access to the food and drinks cabin hosts bring around tehehe.

Korean Air - I have been on Korean Air 8 years ago and personally, I like Korean Air. The Ecomony (regardless you get premium economy or not) I feel you have more space and I the seats have very nifty screen to watch movies, cartoons (currently watching Despicable Me), games and seeing how far the plane is travelling etc... . The plug for the headset suits any earphones i.e. apple earphones and not the 2 plug outlet back in the days....hrm I think I'm going to watch Inception again...I'll just have a look at my 'in-flight' programs. The screens also touch screen..whoaaa technology nowadays :P and the firstclass looks soooooooooooooooooooo awesome and spacious. :P If I had the extra money yes. There is an empty seat next to me and the other two are occupied with a couple. I mean I could use it, unfortunately the lady has hogged it and used it as a bed..but not too long.

Food on airplanes can be good or bad but the thing I like about airplane food is how compact and organised it is set in front of you. Either way you can start at the dessert and work your way to the main or just do it the normal way.

Ha! Now I'm watching a French film called L' Arnacoeur. Looks interesting ooh and theres Romain Duris (from Spanish Apartment). Learing my 'listening' skills in French. It feels as if I have been on this flight for a long time and it's only been 2 hours of sitting on my 'cul.' About time I move about now. Do those leg stretches, deep breathing exercises, just like patients at work..Work???I shouldn't be thinking about work!

"D'accord, a bientot tout le monde." V.

Packing

2010-11-21T18:20:00.003+10:00

Okay packing for an overseas trip is not my forte. I know I have been a jet setter several years now, and you would think I have got it under control. I'm a girl...come on...us girls (and yes I am generally speaking) would LOVE to pack the whole closet, BUT with limited kilograms and shopping overseas for MORE souviners, clothes etc..., its the crunch time as to what to bring and what not to bring. How to fold or roll it up? Suitcase or backpack or no 'check-in' luggage at all.

Okay sometimes I don't mind packing but the dilemma I am having is what clothes to bring and that will it match with each attire day-by-day as well as how often will I wear it before it starts becoming icky and covered with alcohol. Bare in mind I will be heading to a cooler climate and the chances it will snow!

Yes common sense of course! Well I would be stupid to wear a halter neck dress when outside is -2 degrees celcius regardless it's a beautiful sunny day!

Currently I am staring at my clothes I have unpacked out of my suitcase (packed it 2 days ago, however it was just clothes 'I would think' will be wearing while in France, but since it felt more than 20kgs, I have to really take a look at what I will be packing. Also importantly the souviners and new clothes and/or accessories I buy over there..I need space.

I have had in the past packed things I 'thought' I was going to wear, but never did, packed too much and obviously didn't have anymore space for my new items! Yes its a big no-no. I am not too fashion concious, obviously can't wear the same clothes for 3 days...mix and match (as long as its clean! Ha!).

Yes I do have that voice saying to me "but you might need it..just pack it..." I must bite my tongue and live without it, for that time being.

Until then...

Adios

Vx

Lady Gaga

2010-11-12T11:31:00.002+10:00

No matter whether she is a hermaphrodite or not, Lady Gaga is amazing. Love or loathe her, she is a very creative artist in the music scene. Of course Madonna, Elton John, David Bowie, Cher, Britney and others before her, have entertained people with their dazzling shows and costume changes, Lady Gaga just goes a step further... . Well would you be wearing a Red PVC dress when meeting the Queen of England???

She burst into the music scene round end of 2008 with "Just Dance." At first I wasn't interested thinking "oh great another pop star!" But listening to it over and over started liking her music.

She then toured around Australia with the Pussycat Dolls concert and she was great and her costume OMG I wanted to wear that bubble attire!

She's just amazing!

Accommodation searching..eenie meanie minie mo...

2010-10-05T23:40:00.004+10:00

Right! I've got my flights book...now...where to stay?

Searching for a place to stay for overseas (or domestic) holiday is frustrating at times. Where ever you go to a place you make sure its: -

A) close to the main city and its sites
B) close to transport
C) you get a good view (sometimes)
D) the accommodation is good for relaxation and rest after a long days tour of the place.
E) Fits your budget
F) No bed bugs!
Of course its not alway the perfect (or chosen) accommodation, as long as it's a place to rest your head.

Of course there are plenty of places you can go to such as hotel, motels, backpacking, hostels, house, apartments, couch surfing (?), renting or staying with friends and family.

Staying with friends or family, is an added bonus. One you don't need to pay for your stay (probably a little for your share of the food they cook you) or helping around the place. You get to chat about "What's new with you?" or "My gosh you've grown from this short to this tall!" You get to annoy your cousins (well as long as they are under 18yrs). Sometimes its a con, because you have to work around their schedule at times and then later at the end of your holiday with them (depending how long you stay with them) you'll get sick of them..until you say you will miss them a lot! But hey, don't get me wrong, you do enjoy staying with family, especially when you haven't seen them for a long time.

Backpacker/hostels are of course cheap and good experience in ways, as you get to mingle with every one from around the world, who has the same idea as you - Travel! You get word-of-mouth of certain backpackers, searching the internet or heading to the place to have a look, for approval.
A few know I'm a bit of princess, but when back-packing in New Zealand....it wasn't too bad. Apart from some drunken people coming through the hallway to their room was 'inconsiderate,' I can't speak, because I probably did do that too! Ha! I'm bad as them. Like I said, I prefer to stay in luxury.

Right now I am have a dilemma where to stay in Paris. AirBnB, which I have heard from a few friends is an alternative to hotels, where its 'vacation rentals' of people's apartment during your stay. I haven't used it yet, but can be cheaper I guess than hotels. Just sign up and start searching for places to stay, however need to contact the host in regards to what date you wish to stay. Sometimes they say 'yes' and other times its already occupied...*sigh*...keep searching.
Then I'm also a member of HotelClub, hotels at discounted prices. Hrm, perhaps I'll mix it up..for my first stay, a hotel and then on the way back airbnb?

Decisions, decisions indeed. I will eventually find one.

V x

Get off your Ass and work it!

2010-09-07T21:08:00.004+10:00

To those people who know me, I like to dance. I love dancing. I cannot stay still and if you try to catch me and tell me to 'be still,' I just can't. Three years ago, when I started Mad Dance House, I was addicted to dancing.

All I thought of was dancing. During work - dancing, during mealtimes - dancing, being with friends - dancing. Dancing was my life. Being active, especially doing something I enjoy led me to do other activities, such as an "All Girls Boot Camp" with the lovely (and engaged) Jools Purchase, other dances like flamenco and yoga - Bikram yoga, adrenaline was kicking in. BUT....for the past year I have gradually ceased these activities (or not doing them frequently) as I should, hence I have been inactive for days/months/year(s).

Asides from the usual walking from patient to patients, nurse's station/reception as such, I feel I have become a lazy ass being on Facebook almost 24/7. If not, eating a lot, watching a lot of DVDs, to the point I swear I could be a walkin' & talkin' movie quotes (Go ask my brother Ray)... .

I know I can do 'at home' exercises i.e. housecleaning, just kicking the football round the backyard with Ray (which I still need to!), a stroll round Redcliffe's Sutton's Beach or a brisk walk but I'm LAZY! I have no dog to take walking with...although I have cats...hmm lets not go there.

Then there's work. I really should use a pedometre while walking, so I would know how many steps (and if I had a super hi-tech pedometre counting the kilojoules/calories I've lost while working 8 - 10hr shifts) I have been doing. Pushing, assisting in the handling of patient's transfers etc, guess can be classified as an 'activity,' but really its work and you don't normally count work as 'exercise?'

Why I stopped?

There are several factors. Factors being: -

WORK: being busy at work can be exhausting. Being a nurse means 'shift work' so I tend to work crazy hours and its either no spaces in the class or its closing time. ARGH! Work shouldn't really impend on the activities I do, but heck I use "work" as an excuse. "To bloody busy to do something," which is probably 99% of everyone's excuses.

MONEY: too little (can't do it), too much (do as much but is it worth all the money for a certain amount of time?), 'opportunity costs' and of course wanting to spend my money on 'all-you-can-eat-buffet,' equating to a dance class! What to choose, what to choose????

MOTIVATION: procrastination of heading to class and all other classic excuses "don't have time," " I can't be bothered..." I need the motivation to get up and do something sometimes. Yes I need someone to kick me on my rear-side and do something. It's good doing dance classes, because you have dance buddies who are doing it, so you go and do classes with them and chat in between.

PROCRASTINATING: In relation to motivation...and just being lazy. Period.

Yes its easier to say things than doing it. But actually doing it will be a good sense of acheivement and keeping your body in shape. Yes I'm a tad lanky, slim, but I swear I feel fat inside, being inactive for a certain period. Summer is around the corner. Need to get out of hibernation and get my ass into gear!

V x

Nothingness...so good.

2010-08-02T12:54:00.002+10:00

Nothingness; the definition according to the "freedictionary.com":-
1. the condition or quality of being nothing; nonexistence
2. empty space; a void.
3. lack of consequence; insignificance and
4. something inconsequential or insignificant.

Well my blog today is about nothing...well actually SOMEthing about NOthing. Nothing in regards to not having a plan of 'what to do today, throughout the day.' I guess I am just prodding along there on a beautiful Monday. I would like to say I am doing nothing...nothing? Deeper thinking..?Nothing to do today, I have no plans on my day off, just feeling free and not tied to anything for the time being.

I'm in a state of nothingness...wait I think its more of 'laziness' than nothingness.
Gah!

It is good once in a while to do nothing on your day off.

Nothing that is of any significant.

Vx

Itchy Feet...need to travel...Again

2010-07-21T23:08:00.002+10:00

At the moment I am watching "Hitch," settings in NYC (New York City) and it is reminding me how much I miss and love NYC! In general I love travelling. Of course I've travelled when I was young, however after 2001, I haven't stop travelling whether it is domestically or internationally. There are many places I have yet to conquer...."hot places...." "....cold places..." (Rolando accent). I will eventually get to as many continents as I can.

Yes my feet are really itchy to go travellin' round the place. First head to Europe then South America (fingers cross that I can go and watch the FIFA World Cup in 2014!)

With friends, family or solo....heck I'm not sure if I will even own my own place because travelling around *LOL.*...then again need a place to fit in all the souviners I bring along....

Until then (with my very itchy feet)

Adios

Vx

FIFA World Cup - a Month of Sleepless nights.

2010-06-23T00:57:00.011+10:00

I have blood shot, lost concentration at work (borderline actually), panda eyes and sleepless nights for at least 2 weeks. If there wasn't any time difference then I wouldn't be having these symptoms and marking the sofa with my body shape. This year is the 2010 FIFA World Cup, held in South Africa. Thirty-two (32) countries competing to see which team will be the best for the world cup (and probably a good door stopper!).

I am not going to lie to you, I don't always follow soccer; nor do I have a favourite team. Don't get me wrong, I like watching the game (not just always the obvious when women like footballers (!)) I like watching a good match. However when that 4 years of the FIFA World Cup comes around; I go all gaga and wooo hooo! If the Socceroos are in the cup. I support Australia...and a few other teams may I add. When one of the teams I cheer for is eliminated I go for the next team....don't we all?

"The sport that stops the nation...." Whoops that's Melbourne Cup. Guess the FIFA World Cup stops a nation when your team country is playing a match. Generally die-hard fans go to the local sports bar/club and watch the games while drinking a tasty cold beer; or just gathering with friends and family watching it in their 50inch plasma screen at home. If there is no time difference then the fans are probably ordering take-away food instead of cooking because they are glued to the screen. Well since Australia watches the football in midnight well er its probably just a cuppa coffee and snacks that are left in the pantry and left-over meals. *Ho hum.*

People who aren't a huge fan of football (soccer for the non-european countries and the point a few dislike calling it soccer), trust me you will turn to be a temporary die-hard fan for a month! *Fingers point at Vivian* Regardless how much knowledge you know about football; you instantly become God in understanding the game (bullshitting or not) you just feel as if you do. Tehehehe.

The games so far have been good. Only a few drove me insane and the referees!!! What's the deal with them. Some have given poor judgements in some games i.e the recent goal England 'supposedly' scored against Germany recently and giving straight red card to Australia's Harry Kewell when they where playing against Ghana week ago. Wasn't happy Jan!

Another insane thing are the vuvuzelas. At the beginning to the end it just drives me insane. GRRRR, but if you're into watching the game (on tv) guess it just doesn't bother you with selective hearing - the referees, players, Les Murray and the other commentators. At least theres not much to go till the cup is over in a couple of weeks.

Sam, Santo and Ed Cup Fever has been following the World Cup since it started, the middle and of course the end. It's such a crack up. If you don't know what it is, its just a 30min show where they discuss about the previous games, take a mickey out of certain players, matches, have 'interviews' with a few of the world's greatest former soccer players and coaches. Hilarious. That's what TV's suppose to be!

Now girls, don't get too excited... yes being shallow for a bit sometimes girls just like to watch the match because of the soccer players. Yes i.e Ronaldo, Messi, Villa, er the whole Spanish and Argentian team, South Americans, USA, Germany..err whatever tickles your fancy. A month of perve-fest. No hard feelings there guys......I'm sure when there's women playing sports you perve as well. HA!
Right now it's close to crunch time as each group are playing towards the quarter/semi and then the finals. I wonder who will be going to the finals? I will go for Spain, Germany, Japan, Brazil, Netherlands and Argentina. GO teams GO!

It'd be a tad depressing for me when the cup is over. OH well...another 4 years in Brazil next. I just hope Australia gets in the next world cup. Guess I just wait for the next world cup - the Rugby Union World Cup in New Zealand....at least the time difference is only 3hours :).

V x

AJ Hackett Nevis Bungy Jump

2010-06-14T22:01:00.002+10:00

Orginally Remy and I were only to do the Nevis Arc Swing, nevertheless, we both decided to to the Bungy Jumping. (Don't know what possessed us to do it!). It's not Queenstown unless you get to do bungy (or equivalent). It's not for the faint hearted, and even the last time I went to Queenstown with Lani and Neil, there was no way to do it. 1. It was winter wonderland in Queenstown = FREEZING 2. Were on a schedule to just snowboard and 3. Didn't in a million years think of doing it.

Now that million years have come....I have decided in my crazy mind to "DO IT!" Nike style. So Friday 7th of May we went to the Bungy Shop to book for our jump on Saturday 8th of May. Lucky we didn't pay full price as it was 20% off if you've done a jump/swing with A.J.Hackett...once paid...no turning back. Yikes!

The eve of the jump, Remy and I were at the Altitude Bar @ the Base Queenstown Backpackers and I get a missed call from my brother Ray. I call back......
{viv} "Hey Ray, What's up?"
{ray}"Are you in hospital?"
{viv}"What? Errr..I'm in a club" (doof doof noise in the background)
{ray} " Oh, cause there was a news in Yahoo about an Australian falling from bungy"
{viv} "Huh? Nope. (Ray reads the article to me).
{viv} "No because I'm in Queenstown, not in Christchurch"
{ray} "Oh that's good, because we were worried."
{viv} "Remy and I are all good; we are bungy jumping tomorrow"
{ray}"Okay....(and can't remember what else we talked but then say bye).

*Sigh*
The night before, we went on a Pub Crawl. The Pub Crawl was good, however after the 5th pub we lost the group so Remy and I ended up at the World Bar for a while before heading back to our room to sleep..ready for the next day ahead.

8th of May we will never forget. Read on the site about the accident that happened to an Australian lady and who was in the Christchurch Hospital recovering from her bungy fall. There are risk taking these activities, however I was rather annoyed by the news..honestly (and quietly) it made me nervous because it could happen to anyone who does it. About 130pm was our jump; again the bus with other 'jumpers' to the Nevis Bungy place.

Drove past the Kawana Bridge Bungy, which is the very first commerical bungy jump - 43m and then 15mins was our destination. Firstly checked in and weighed again with the harness and then followed one of the staff member to the platform; gawking at the place where people were jumping off; a cable wired platform..the only way to get there was a cable transporter thingy....4 of us got onto the cable transport thingy, Remy, 2 Swedish girls and me. Got to the platform and I was extremely nervous and shaky. My hands were tremoring while I hear scream after scream of the people jumping off and then seeing them through the glass view on the floor.

A very long way to the bottom..how about 143m??? Remy and I made our own bet to see, who out of us to was to jump first. Paper, scissors and Rock game out of 3. I lost so I was planning on jumping first. Unfortunately they went by weight so I had to be the last..and him the first again.
Lots of picture taking *click click*. I stand at the viewing area, cheering on Remy (Cheering?). The staff member asked Remy "Are you ready?" Remy: "Non"...counting down 3,2,1..JUMP..nope. The he jumped. I just heard a faint "arghhhhhhhhhh!"....after 2 jumps from other people, I was the lucky last. Can't describe how I felt sitting on the dentist-seque chair having my legs bounded together. Guess pissed off, excited and nervousness.

Shuffling like a Geisha to that 'plank' I look down thinking "I cannot believe I'm doing this!" My stomach had butterflies....oh my gosh, oh my gosh...! Waved and posed for photos then the guy counted down...3,2,1..JUMP...then all over. Whoosh! Such a breathtaking view of the lake and mountains...8.5seconds its over. Between those second yes I screamed my head of, I think I may have shut my eyes for a split second.

Wow! What a jump. Sense of accomplishment that I can tick it off my list to 'things to do when travelling'

Afterwards back onto the Cable Transporter back to the base, brought the dvd and photo and then headed back to Queenstown centre back to our place and saying to each other "OMG; can't believe what we just did!"

Would I do it again? Yes...scare myself all over again.

Until then...

Adios

Vxx

Te Anau..rest.eat.go.

2010-05-05T20:55:00.003+10:00

Still relling a hangover from the night before, Remy and I went for another 2hr or so ride to Te Anau; a stop over to go to Milford Sounds.
What's there in Te Anau? Of course there is activities to do like Milford, rafting, sightseeing, walking in the forest/parks...but seriously I find it BORING. OMG Remy and I are bored out of our minds. We just can't wait to go to Milford Sounds then back to Queenstown.

Dead boring and even the backpacker place we are staying is dead quiet. T___T

Adios

Vx

Adrenaline Freak

2010-05-04T15:39:00.002+10:00

So today was a rather THRILLING day. Of course it was hard to get up early - round 845am; had a not-so-warm shower, quick drink of lemon tea, miso soup and Toffee Pop biscuits; and then Remy and I left our room round 950am, grabbed a hot drink on-the-go then headed to the Station to wait for the bus to head to the place for the Shotover Jet. Once we went there, got over to wear the long black jacket and safety jacket and then a 'souvenir photo shot' from the Shot over Photographer, before heading to the Jet boat.
I don't know how long we were on the jet boat, but sure it was an amazing hair-raising ride. Our driver/pilot Glenn is crazy. Travelling at 85km/hr and when Glenn did the 360degree turns, the people on the sides of the jet boat got rather wet, as well as some people in the middle of the boat.
Gosh I'm mean, I let Remy sit at the side. *insert evil laugh*

After all the jet boating and some interesting historical info from Glenn, stepped off the jet boat, back on the bus to the Station. Afterwards went back to our place to just get changed to other jeans/socks/shoes and then hurriedly went to Subways for a quick lunch before heading back the Station for our Nevis Arc swing. Went to the Station to get 'checked-in' and weigh and waited for 1pm to get on another bus. Our friendly dread-lockin' driver took us for a 40min drive to our destination. Even starring at the window, seeing the Hanging platform I was already nervous. Feeling, excited, scared and shit-scared at the same time. I just love scaring myself...even to death.

Once we got to the destination, need to make a 'pit stop' and then went back to get re-weighed and checking in etc before 2 of the crew members took us to the 70m walkway thing (can't remember ) to the platform to have our safety gear on. Remy went first and he was upside down. I was nervous for him. The crew member didn't do much of a countdown, instead just push the button then ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. It's a very high swing indeed. My gosh my turn next.....

...So I just sat up facing the cliffs meters away from me, I give 2 of the cameras a smile before the lady pushed the button and I screamed. Words cannot really express how scared and fun it was. Being suspended for a couple of minutes before going back up, I looked down still was so high up, probably another 80meters from the rushing river, mountains and grass area. Shit I just had to do it again.

Remy and I did the swing again, this time Remy was facing forward sitting while I was facing backwards. Personally facing backwards scared the hell out of me that I screamed more than Remy (and probably made his left hear just a tad deaf!)
Its such an amazing activity. Got footage and photos of it which I will share at some stage via Facebook.

Next adrenaline rush probably Bungy Jump @ the Nevis Bungy 134m. I"m already scared.....SHIT!

Until then

Adios

Vx

Stop, photos, drive, stop,photos, drive,eat,drive.....

2010-04-30T17:37:00.003+10:00

Hrm I think I'll skip the Kaikoura section. Making long story short, went and saw the dolphins in the Delphinidae boat, some swam with the dolphins and others just watched. Remy and I just watched and it was good. A pity I was feeling rather sea sick, as it was rather rough sea to get to the dusky dolphins. They are pretty cool close up...I slept most of the way back to the wharf.

So Hanmer Springs after Kaikoura, searched round for a place to stay, with thanks to Remy he found a place called Hanmer Backpacker. A very comfortable alpine style place, that was like your own home, and what backpacker doesn't give you FREE ICE CREAM!!??? Lol. Yes they owner gave out free ice cream, yes 10 different kinds of flavours too! That's the first. Our room was small but cosy.
The next day got up just before lunch time, ate Mi Goreng Noodles then headed to the Thermal Spa and Pools.
It was wonderful. Of course it was cool and the breeze was even colder, but it didn't matter, because the thermal pools were wonderful. Temperatures ranging from 35degrees celsius to 41degree celsius, hot but wonderful. Later we booked 30mins in a steam room then 30mins in a private pool. It was nice...then back in the 40degree pool. Great view of the moutains, tree tops and the sound of birds chrip and the lovely kiwi accent.
Afterwards, went and had the great ol' tucker of fish and chips @ a place called Captain Mike's Fish and Chips. The shop keeper was cool, because she gave us a pen and we wrote on the store's window, yes we vandalised the window, but don't worry because plenty more people did the same thing :).
Then back to our temporary place for free ice cream then sleep.

Left Hanmer Springs round 10am for our trip to Fox Glacier. Stopped over at Greymouth for lunch before embarking for more driving, stopping for photos, more driving, photos for the beautiful scenery of Arthur's Pass, more scenic road sides then finally at Fox Glacier. Cold but nice.

Next...Fox Glacier walkin.

Until then

Adios

V x

From Yestersday's Post

2010-04-28T20:09:00.002+10:00

From yesterday (27 April 2010) Obviously didn't get up from the alarm, which was set at 930am; instead lazed round the bed til about 1045am, got ready before having a brunch at the What Restaurant downstairs. Again a NZ$12 brunch of *Fush end Chups* yes beloved fish and chips, which was really good! Instead of wondering round the town centre, we headed straight to our hired Toyota car on the way to Akaroa. About a 3hr drive from Christchurch. Driving up and down the paddocked landscapes, zig-zagging through more paddocks, past cows and of course sheeps. HA! Remy and I spotted some on the road; as we were approaching them, Remy honked the horn and boy oh boy can they run so fast! ZOOM! Zooming to the hill and then gwaking at us as if we were so rude to them.

Finally reaching Akaroa, it is a small habour-side town. It is a cute place and the places there reminds me of movie sets. English and French Settlement in the heydays (talking about 1800s!) and nowadays, Akaroa still has its French influence, from 'Rue Jolie'; the French Flag, buildings and the 'Boulangerie du village.' Had a delicious hot chocolate, while Remy had his cappuccino and a yummy caramel biscuit. Chatted for a while then off to another 2hour drive (someone tell me why its faster driving back than driving to the place?) back to Christchurch to our hotel.

Went back to our room then watched some TV (I was watching Angels and Demons, unfortunately didn't get to finish the whole movie..) before heading to the sauna, yes trying out the hotel amenities.Stayed and chatted for about 20mins before heading back upstairs for a shower then out to the town for dinner. HRM for dinner didn't know what to have so we wondered about saying ..."how about this? how about that?" And then later ended up having Chinese food. Then back to the Hotel So lobby for our fix of free wi-fi then back up to the room for sleep. -__-

*****************

Travelling again

2010-04-27T20:36:00.003+10:00

Hello my fellow friends,

Another up-date to my travelling bug er bug!?!?! Bahahaha. It should have been yesterday, but after all the travel, checking out the stuff in Christchurch, was too tired to blog about yesterdays events! So here it goes....

MONDAY 26th APRIL

..Off goes my Daft Punk alarm to 6:00am. I turn my head to the left and reach for my iPhone alarm, "right snooze" 9mins later Daft Punk's "harder, better, faster, stronger" goes back on, snooze, then repeat, then 6:30ish I go to Remy "aight get up and get ready" We get ready and get all our gear packed and finalised. Mum seems to be excited more than Remy and I, (guess its just because we're still tired). So off we all go, yes my whole family - Mum, Dad and Ray come with us to the Brisbane International Airport. Once we reached the 'departures' section, dropped our bags off, "Have a safe trip, enjoy (in between with hugs and kisses)" Remy and I go to the check-in section to well check -in our luggage as well as our flight stuff, then off to the custom/secturity section before having some breakfast of Red Rooster goodness.

9:40am is our flight to Christchurch, flying Pacific Blue. We get in and the cabin crew make a mickey of their names; when they are introducing themselves to us "So welcome to flight DJ80 and taking care of you are Sandy, Mandy and Candy...." Most of the trip I was catching up on snooze, awkwardly sleeping on the side, giving my left side a very good stretch! (ouch!) Woke up in between, listening to music, my frenchPod and then chomping some Burger Ring chips. Our flight was about 2hrs and 30mins, as we were 20mins early than the expected arrival time...not too bad.

Arrived in Christchurch Airport, yet again through customs to get my passport scanned (unfortunately not stamped :() and bags off the conveyor belt then back to security to check no food etc, (cause you know NZ is angst if bringing something that ain't legal!) so I just checked in my Chips! Yes my Doritos chips because I didnt want to dis 'em. Later Remy went to check out the car hires. Went to Budget but they wanted like $1000 something for hiring a car for 16 days so we went to the Britz section, Remy negotiated with the guy and got it for about $542NZ for 16days, so then got a free shuttle to the place where we go and hired a car. After that finally got our car, small/medium white car and with my Dad's trusty GPRS (Thanks Dad for lending it to us) we headed off to Christchurch city to our hotel - Hotel So. It's such a small and trendy hotel with free gym, sauna and of course Wi-Fi! So I recommend you all check out this hotel when staying in Christchurch; not a bad area, as its close to city centre.

After settling down in our hotel room, Remy and I ventured downstairs for Dinner, very cheap from 5pm its $NZ12 Dinner, it was cheap and had steak with chips and salad, YUM! Then we headed out to Oxford Tce and took some tourist photos before heading to another restaurant/bar to have a beer. A bummer I had a throbbing headache, I didn't get to finish having it (:() then after went to the 24hr store to buy some Neurofen (which funnily enough the Korean or Japanese Shop-keeper was suggesting to me 'it was very good to have') well er I'm a nurse lol but I just agreed with what she said. Then back to the hotel, watched a bit of tv before falling asleep. zzzzzzzz

WOW! First blog of the year!

2010-01-28T17:04:00.006+10:00

A very belated HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL! Mind you, it's Janurary 28th...so quick it's going to be February and then again this year will go fast! Some exciting and boring bits have happened with me in the first month of 2010....

WORK
New graduate nurses are coming through the ward I work at....I welcome all of them who have joined our crew. It'd be a very busy year for all of them, yet I'm sure they'll enjoy their time. It's been such an overwhelming month so far at work. Won't say as its confidential, but just MUY LOCO!!!!! 3 days time it will be 4 years since I have worked! A few more digits before I get long service leave Hahaha!

TORTILLA de PATATAS

I have to give credit to my boyfriend Rémy as he made one for me on New Years Eve, since then I observed how he made it and then made my own. I have to admit the first time wasn't much of a success but still was good....so far I have made probably 5 tortillas. It's bloody addicting. Tortillas has potatoes and eggs as like an omellette but looks more like a frittata. Pretty easy to cook and tasty as well! Will make anyone of yous one..and I'm sure you'll be hooked with it.

FOLKS BACK FROM THEIR USA TRIP
So it's my brother Ray and my end of our 'little break from parents.' Our folks came back from their epic USA trip. From freezing temperatures to sweltering hot Brisbane weather. No matter how much fun Ray and I had while they were away, it was good to see them back. Yes Mum, it's back to reality...yet time to save more for another trip somewhere else.

UNIVERSITY
Funny story, sort of...anyway I got an OFFER letter from QUT for summer semester classes - pre-requiste for Psychology. Yes I (did) plan on studying psychology. So 'summer classes' started on January 18th, so here I go to uni, late though (class started at 930am, and I rock up @ Kelvin Grove campus at 1040am!) so I went to look for the class...it was another hot day and looking for the class was making me annoyed so I decided to go to the student service and ask about summer semester.

For some reason I just had this feeling I really wasn't enrolled. And indeed I was right..lol and I am such an idiot to go all the way to university; however driving back home I was having second thoughts of postgrad psychology. I guess it'd come in handy in my nursing, but then at the same time didn't want to spend more on HECS for it or moneywise....so I decided that I will learn a language. Spanish and French @ University of Queensland for a year. Since it was part of my resolution aim to become fluent or understand more of both languages by the end of the year.
So yes I have scrapped the Psychology part to do languages which I feel I am passionate about.

BLACK
Been to the beach with Rémy and his friends to Noosa; and the following weekend Rémy and I went to Byron Bay. It was a beautiful time but a pity we didn't swim much, because stupid bluebottles in the ocean and people got stung by them. Instead we just roasted under the sun, hence 'black' for me because I was friggen dark! Dark with bikini mark ha! Though we did have a bit of a dip in the water to cool off for a bit went straight back to our towels to sunbake

more....Later we went up to Byron Bay Lighthouse, seeing the beautiful view as well as being a photographer for Rémy =)

WHAT'S NEXT? more beach, work, dancing, tortillas and just chilling out with friends and family....and music festivals.....can't wait for that! Until then, Adios V x

The Last Day of December...Bring on 2010!

2009-12-31T12:56:00.003+10:00

Hello everyone,

I have yet to continue typing about my November-December Trip in the USA! I haven't forgotten... Just been busy with the festive season with last-minute-shopping, celebrating Christmas at work, working and trying to sum up what my 2009 has been.

It has been a fabulous year. Apart from some slip ups it has been such an amazing year. Have met up with new and old friends and partied it up here and there. Two thousand and nine will be the year many have moved to new places, jobs, hair cuts, marriages, engagements, babies and vacations. The year will end in a huge bang (fireworks that is). I wait for what next year will hold for me.

Bring on 2010!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy New Year/ Bonne Annee/ Feliz Ano Nuevo!

Kisses/Bisous/Besos

V x

What's with Atlanta, Georgia Airport???

2009-12-09T04:04:00.003+10:00

Early Wednesday morning, Uncle Sam and Lordgene took me to Jacksonville International Airport, my final good byes etc before departing to Los Angeles.....The plane was on time, driving through the tarmac, traffic and waiting for it's turn to fly off.....NOT....the pilot announced there was bad weather in Atlanta that we were on the Tarmac for 45mins..waiting for more announcements before we can jet off.

I panic inside...just quietly, however we finally set off....about an hour flight to Georgia and despite that there was a delay there, I obviously missed my 1135am flight to L.A. D'OH!

I had to go to the Delta Customer Service and the lady put me on Stand By. Now being on Stand by was rather frustrating and an anxious time, because you don't know if you can get on the next flight or not.

Inside my head I was like ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! Felt like I was going to hyperventilate but no..I remained calm..while listening to Daddy Yankee, and my house/dance music...*breathe in....breathe out*........there relaxed.

It was close to boarding Delta 2058 so I had to keep looking at the screen making sure I was still on standby, what number and when I was on the 'cleared screen' to get onto the plan...I kept visualising myself getting on That plane....my luck I got on the Plane yay!

Got to LAX airport.....my oh my, my luggage got there first before me!

I heard similar story from my Mum, when she was here in the States in March...seriously what is wrong with Atlanta Airport???

On a good note...L.A I am here ^-^

Until then...

Adios

V x

Florida....the land of Food...no not really pt.2

2009-12-04T11:02:00.010+10:00

(Continuing on...) And so I had a hangover, that I slept till 1030am. I woke up frm the smell of bacon and so I got up, and when I went to the kitchen to greet my Uncle Sam and Auntie Lani before I went to go and have a shower. Then all of us got up to get ready for the day. Uncle Sam cooked us a delicious breakfast of egg omellete and bacon. DELICIOUS!!!! Talk about restaurant style presentation and yes parsely for garnish!

After breakfast, Uncle Sam kindly showed me around the area where he and his family lives. He lives in an apartment resort with a gym, hot spa, pool, tennis court, small putt putt golf and a place to just go for your morning jog or walk. He has a nice small place which is good, because you really don't need to have an enormous place (even though Americans love everything HUGE!)

After our walk, we headed back home to get ready to head out to the Town Mall Square. First it was Wal-mart to get something (I can never get away from a WAL-MART!....) then headed to the Town Mall Square. It is like Santuary Cove place in the Gold Coast and big. So Uncle Sam and Auntie Lani let us go window shopping and shopping of course...and how I stumbled upon yet another Victoria Secrets (...another place I can never get away from!)

So we spent about 3hours or so then headed back to....Wal-mart..seriously I really can't deter away from that W store! Ha! Before heading back home where Uncle Sam cooked my favourite Filopino meal - Palabok...then enjoyed watching 30-Something with my cousins before heading to bed at 2am!

[Monday November 30th]

Got woken up by some piercing beeping alarm at 7am cause someone was cooking something to a point it hit the fire alarm! Geez!....I managed to get back to sleep, and then woke up at 10:30am again. The smell was amazing so I go to the kitchen to say hello to my Uncle, but he wasn't there, however spotted a rather large bamboo steamer! "Morning my Anak!" I hear from the bedroom.
Yet more food.....breakfast for BLT and Puto! Okay its also the Spanish slang for something but in the Philippines it is also a name of a snack (click on the word "puto" to find out) Its delicious made out of rice. Uncle has cooked another restaurant style sandwich!

In the middle is the Puto. I was full then after got ready to head to St. Augustine. The last time I was here was in 2002 with my family. This time its Uncle Sam and me. I love this place its old-fashioned, it's history and the little church there, which is one of America's oldest church. St. Augustine is about an hours drive from my Uncle's place. Between that took pictures at a beach on the way and then finally went to St. Augustine. The place has a European/Medditeranen feel to it, because the Spainsh came to this part of Florida. I love the way how its still has its old charms and the big fort at the front where there were I guess battles etc.....nice cathedrals and cute shopping alleys for us tourists and locals as well. I will definitely come back here again.

Headed back home were yet again had another wonderful snack of Uncle Sam's famous Hot Chicken Wings YUM and and good ol' Bud Light beer, which I beat my Uncle drinking. I drank 5 and 1/7th bottles..BORRACHA MUCH???? And happen to get on to Facebook..before I passed out on the bed at 130am.

[Tuesday Dec 1]

First day of winter in USA and 1st day of Summer in Australia! Thank you too everyone who greeted me via Facebook and text...made my day. So yes it was my 26th birthday...exaggerating that I'm getting older and need Botox..STAT! Kidding. Suprisingly I didn't get a hangover from the night before, which is good....and then yet again had more food of bacon, potato pieces and rice..Sarap! My cousin Lordgene 'wagged' school as we unoffically declared that today was a public holiday - Vivian Day! :P

Uncle Sam took us to his best friend's place to visit for a while, before heading to Jacksonville Downtown, saw the Jacksonville Jaguars stadium (friggen HUGE, however they Jaguars apparently weren't doing well this season or so I heard) and the Landing before having a lovely frappachino from Starbucks (it ain't Amercia if you don't have a Starbucks!) before heading to her sister's school to pick her up before heading back home....well not exactly home...one more stop to Wal-mart THEN home.

My final meal was Pork spare Ribs. YUMMMMMMMMMM! It was delicious of course. While having dinner their family friend Ronald came by to have dinner with us....
Ron - "Did you cook this?"
Uncle Sam - "Nah I brought it from TGI Fridays......[pauses]...."
Lordgene well all of us "nah he's kidding he cooked it"
Ron - "bull!"
Uncle Sam did cook the ribs, but since its like top quality and looks like something you've ordered from TGIFridays, Uncle did cook the ribs...if you tasted it..you wouldn't know the difference!

My trip to Florida was so full of yummy goodness and good memories....! Next and final stop is L.A...here I come!

Until then..

Adios

V x

Black Friday Sales...I'm sorry my credit cards.....

2009-12-03T07:31:00.007+10:00

The day after Thanksgiving day, my cousins Michelle, Lucia and I got up early to do what I call it "pre-christmas shopping" or what it's called there "black friday." So you think what is Black Friday?

I thought it was about the whole "Friday the 13th" (yes and no) but this Black Friday is about the shopping malls having a huge discount on their products like up to 70% items and they open at 4am or 5am...and apparently it goes extremely crazy!

I heard a news from my cousin that last year's thanksgiving/black friday was a disaster somewhere in VA (Virginia) (i think) that one of th employee was opening the doors in Wal-mart and once the doors were open, the poor employee got trampled on. Another story was that some d*ckhead shot someone in a store, fighting over some kinda item. How sad is that! I was thinking Oh great! I'm gonna be fighting over something like in the movie "Confessions of a Shopaholic!"

..Seriously..nothing happened like that when I went shopping....
..I was hoping to get a pair of Converse shoes, so Lucia suggested we stop over @ DWS for the shoes..we got there and it didn't open til 10am..our time said 845am..bugger. Instead we went to Tyson's Corner.....it spiralled out of control once we (or I) so Victoria Secrets...my shopping spree started! We had a quick break with having Starbuck frappachinos in our hot li' hands for our caffine kick (and energy to look round)Looked round stores, compared prices, went back and forth then round 130pm we went to have lunch. Round 2pm we did our final window shopping/ buying things before we went back to DWS to spend another 1hr or so looking for shoes. I brought a pair of converse shoes and a shoulder bag.

We later stopped by at Target for a bit before heading home to rest and eat...and me packing up yet again *sigh* Later my uncle wanted to head to a sporting store to buy some hunting stuff...Josh, Michelle, Uncle Joseph & I went to Dicks Sporting Center. Michelle & I were being oh so stupid and me PFFT a 25 year old acting imature (LOL) we decided to talk in a southern accent round the store, looking at things, snowboards, looking for Uncle Joseph & Josh, right through to when we went home. Yea I felt like I wanted to be a dag and don't car hahaha.

My last night in Virginia was watching a lot of George Lopez and watching Josh kill people...On the Ninteno Wii that is.

OH gosh I will miss my relatives in VA.

Until next time

Adios

V x

P.s...I can never get away from a Victoria Secret store can I?

Florida....the land of Food...no not really pt.1

2009-12-03T07:25:00.005+10:00

Okay so not literally the land of food, Wal-mart, & Victoria Secrets, but it felt like that to me...you'll see why.
I departed Washington D.C's Reagan Airport round lunchtime, saying my final thank yous and farewells to my relatives on Saturday 28th November. Boarded my American Airlines flight to Miami (as I needed to transit there to go to Jacksonville)
About 2hour flight..I drank and snoozed a bit etc...and when it was close to Miami, I see out my window seat MIAMI..oh my gosh how beautiful it looked. It was sunny, the beach, the buildings just like the Gold Coast in Queensland, it looked amazing from 10,000ft in the air.
I wanted to take a picture, however it was the time on the plane when you needed to "turn off your cell phones and electronic devices." So all I have of it is in my memory *sigh*. I so wish I went to Miami. It would have ben awesome.....next time.

So I touchdown in Miami International Airport and then go to the next gate to board another flight to Jacksonville. I board my flight at 430pm and 1hr and 30mins I touchdown to Jacksonville International Airport.

So I get out.....through to get my baggage, while on the way there....(and I wasn't wearing my glasses) This guy comes close to me and when I looked again it was Uncle Sam..."Uncle Sam!" I say with a huge smile on my face and hugs. I was so excited...we go and get my bags and then he goes "we're going to a party! You tired?"
"Oh you didn't tell me (then I realise he did tell me via E-mail) and I am kinda tired...I may need a Red Bull!" So we stop over at a 'gas' (note I would have said petrol....lol american way lol) and a red bull, before we went to his place and got ready (in between saying hello to Auntie Lani and my cousin Samantha). Lordgene (my other cousin) was already at the party. So we all go to the party.

--- The Party ---
It was Lordgene's Best friend Nicole's sweet 16th party. Wow it was a biggest 16th party I've seen. A conference room; food and lots of people, friends/family/relatives/strangers (like me lol) and a dj....It was pretty cool but the funny thing is that the parents/families there all thought that I was 17yrs old and couldn't believe I was a nurse and was 25! Oh what compliments *smiles*

There was dancing, Pinata and the Limbo. I danced a bit (really stupid) and just sat down most of the time.

The pinata (can't spell it) was funny cause once someone whacked the paper mache the candy popped up all the li' kids (and big ones..not that I am hinting this to anyone) went to the floor grabbing as much candy as they could. It looked hilarious. Round 11pm Sam, her friend Kelcie, Uncle Sam and me went home..Ronny, Auntie Lani and Lordgene came home after. Uncle Sam and I decided to have a drink, so we went to good ol' Wal-mart (prob a 8min drive from Uncle Sam's place) for Smirnoff Vodka Passionfruit flavours and Mascato Wine.

It was good...until I got drunk..and had a hangover the next day....To be continued.....

Until Then

Adios

V x

Death By Turkey

2009-11-30T11:20:00.001+10:00

November 26th is Thanksgiving Day in America...I honestly don't know the history behind thanksgiving (because I live in Australia!) However for an Australian celebrating Thanksgiving, it just feels like the 'pre-Christmas Celebration before the actual Christmas lunch/dinner on Christmas Day.'

My understanding is just an American tradition to stuff your face with turkey, stuffing, desserts, drinks and sharing time with dear family and friends from
all over the USA or anywhere in the world. Okay so like I said I don't know the American history of Thanksgiving...but as far as I know it was some kinda tea ceremony somewhere in the east coast of America and some other place and some Indians...yea something like that. Hrm..I may have too google what Thanksgiving is.

I was sharing the bedroom w/ my cousin and I hear the alarm go at 6am, to help out with the turkey...then Uncle Joseph thought it was too early to start so they started cooking round 730am....while they were doing that, I was still asleep then my alarm goes off round 830am. Auntie Beth wen into my room and said that I can go back to sleep and they can wake me up when its closer to eat....so I re-setted my alarm again to 1030am and then watched the TV in bed, watching George Lopez, some random movie before Michelle came upstairs to tell me to switch it to channel 7 - The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City live....then I slept again.....

1030am..alarm goes, I get up, have a shower and greet my Uncle, Auntie and cousins Michelle and Josh...MMmmmm the turkey smells so goodddddddddd! I laze around for a while before Josh and Michelle's sister Lucia arrives.

1200pm..lunchtime..nope not just yet, Michelle and Uncle Joseph busily mixing, adding etc to whatever they were cooking and I go and help Auntie Beth set the table..oh gosh my stomach is going to eat itself. I didn't even have
any breakfast because I was waiting ever so patiently for lunch.

130pm...nope still not eating..stomachs churning and grumbling actually all of us were so hungry that we started either picking on some food to nibble on or eating a traditional filipino snack made out of rice and chocolate coated poulveron (powdered sweet snack). Then round about 230pm we finally ate.

Had to say what part of the turkey we wanted, I wanted the 'drumstick' - turkey legs and was my favourite part of the turkey YUM. It was HUGE (do see my DC album on Facebook if you want to see how big the turkey leg is). Had
salad, mashed potatoes (it was delcious!), sweet potatoes, cranberry jelly/sauce, gravey, beans, corn oh how delicious it was....30mins in the meal we were all getting full. Despite that we still nibbled on bits of the turkey, corn beans etc to the point were we couldn't eat no longer. YES Thanksgiving is stuffing your face until you actually die!
From all the turkey and food. It was a stuggle to get up from the chair. Joshua started playing the his PC game, Auntie Beth went downstairs in the basement, talking on the phone (then passing out on the couch there), Uncle Joseph watching the NFL while Lucia, Michelle and I were still in the dining room, talking and didn't want to get out of our chairs for another
40mins. OH MY so full...I quietly died.

Josh later played the wii Resort and Godfather and then Lucia, Michelle and I finally went slowly to the living room to watch Josh play some wii before watching tv. We were all talking before we slowly, like dominos passed out....
zzzzz......I woke up intermittently to see who survived....Josh just quietly playing the Godfather, Uncle and Auntie asleep upstairs and Lucia and Michelle on the chair and couche respectively - asleep....then I went back to sleep
again.

We all woke up round 730ish pm, still full we all went out to D.C to go night sightseeing of the Lincoln Memorial,
Thomas Jefferson monument and a drive round DC, before heading back home...for more food T-T

...I still died....

Until then

Adios

Vx

Obama's Crib

2009-11-27T15:57:00.003+10:00

It was a nice stroll in Washington DC's Smithsonian Museums...on a rather overcast and cold mid-morning. Firstly my auntie dropped me off near Pennsylvania Avenue to a rather well-known place - the White House a.k.a Obama's crib (a pity I didn't get the chance to say "G'day from Australia" to the Baracks). Then my auntie picked me up again then found a place to park before heading to the National Art Gallery, for some reason we rushed through some of the find is the Food Court? lol yes we were hungry, so we sat, chatted and ate. Afterwards said our goodbyes (as my auntie had to head home as she had night duty) and left me to galavant round the mall. I roamed round the East and West side of the Smithsonian Art Gallery and then went out to go to the Museum of Natural History. Fabulous. Museums here are huge and convientently close by, the Air and Space Museum, Art Galleries, Natural Museum and others. The park in between the buildings, you get to see the Washington Monument (a.k.a the Pencil Monument) then on the opposite side is the U.S. Capitol Building. After the art gallery, I go to the National Museum of Natural History, which if you do go in there it may remind you of the movie 'Night at the Museum.'

The museum is a big and awesome place. There were different areas such as prehistoric times, mammals, geology, gems, the ocean etc. You really need to have 2-3 days if you want to see all the museums in the mall. I only went to 2 museums but its okay, because I have been to D.C before and seen all the museums. When the museum closed, I waited outside for my Uncle to pick me up...it was traffic hour after he picked me up.Took almost 1hour to come back home. Had dinner then watched tv, before I almost couldn't breathe and before my jaw got sore from all the laughing watching You Tube videos with my cousins and then headed for bed at 2am.

Flying again....

2009-11-23T13:22:00.003+10:00

Time for me to say my final goodbye to New York. *WAHHH!* The Shuttle bus takes me to JFK airport $US20 plus tip >.< had a quick breakfast at Au Bon Pain of Oatmeal and cuppa tea. Flight at 1025am and 55mins later I am in Washington DC.
After getting my luggage and phoned my uncle that I am here. Four minutes later caught up with my Auntie, Uncle and cousins. Its so awesome to catch up with them that I haven't seen them for 7years!

After picking me up we went to a Vietnamese Restaurant to get some food before heading to their cute house to eat. After got ready again to head to West Virginia/Maryland to a Vacation house.

A 3hour drive, which I slept most of the way and then the JET LAG hit me! OUCH Damn Jet Lag. So we caught up with their friends at the vacation house. the Vacation house is amazing. I will show pictures soon. I slept most of the time, sleeping off my jet lag and had Advil pain killer then had some food and then watched movies w/ my cousins. It was so nice to relax. Played fuseball and lost hahah but all in all it was fun.

The next morning all of us had a walk near the lake and took more photo before departing to go home. Ahh home sweet home. Tomorrow (Monday for me here in the USA) I will be heading to the good ol' Museums in DC.

Until then...

Adios

Vx

The Big Apple Baby!

2009-11-23T12:50:00.003+10:00

I woke up early (if you call 9am early so I can venture out to the Big Apple. New the reception area there was coffee, bread buns and muffins (blueberry yum!) so I had a quick breakfast before I headed out. My journey started @ the Da Vinci Hotel - 56th street and with my trusty map (thank you so much New York map!) i followed the directions towards 42nd street! Times Square/Broadway. My aim was not to take any transportation except for walking. If I had more days in New York, I would have ventured in all the places, however since its a huge city, I only was in the top/mid part of Manhattan...but still I have walked a hell-of-a-lot estimated about 9hours of walking. I didn't think of getting taht good ol' metro or NY Taxi, but decided not to and be a cheapie instead. Hehehe.

It was amazing watching people. People watching - people going to work, exercising, people of all different age, race, last minute garbage collecting, and of course people like me - tourist, taking snap shots and videos of this great city. Some people trying to entice me to take the New York Sightseeing Double Decker bus, I say 'No, thank you' and kept walking and snapping away there (with my camera that is). I reach Times Square..Wow! Wicked! Mixture of all the moving advertising billboards and broadway of new shows such as "Shrek the Musical," "Chicago," "Mary Poppins" and many more. I wish I went to watch a show, but time was pressing on me so I needed to see more of New York. Later I went to the PABT - Port Authority Bus Terminal which had the closest Post Office to send postcards, then after headed back to 40th street and ended up at Byrant Park. A small park it is nice as it also had some li' stalls and food/drink stalls and an ice rink, where I also took more photos and brought a nice Hot Chocolate from a stall called Choco Loco..yum!

I lookrf sy my yimr sfn iy esd only 10am, gosh time's going s-l-o-w, then I ventured onto 5th street to see the St Peter's Cathedral. it's such a beautiful church, I went in and sat quietly and say my prayers for a bit (okay I seldomly go to church, however at times I just need to take some time to say a prayer every now and again) then after decided to lok for the famous Trump Tower (..which I couldn't then realised I passed it - idiot) but eventually ended up at the world's #1 park Central Park. Again it is a HUGE park and I am bummed I couldn't see the Strawberry Fields section, but the part I was reminded me of some parts from movies such as Home Alone 2: Lost in New York and Kate and Leopald so I probably stayed for at least 1hr strolling along Central Park, watching more people taking photos, jogging, walking their dogs, walking with their children, ice skating etc, then afterwards I left Central Park then headed back to the city. I ended up on 5th Avenue (well known for shopping esp. Louis Vutton, Tiffany and Co, Abercombie & Finch and co) posh shopping really and while looking round I did eventually find Trump Towers (yes Donald Trumps building) and had a look inside....Oooooo posh!

I was getting rather peckish...but alas I had to go into the stores on 5th avenue. OMG the stores are just like one big Myer Centre...just imagine Myers had its own store but no other stores inside..it was big! Apple Store was awesome! I loved it so I ended up looking at Facebook on one of their MACS on display and when the shop assistant said 'enjoy your day' I said to her the store is awesome! Another example is Abercombie & Finch, inside looked like a nightclub, dimmed lights and the music (dance mixes of old 90s er dance music). It was really incredible inside, yes I had to buy something (or 2) in there...and the spending started from there!

I later went to the NBA, Yankee Store and some others before going to the Rockerfeller Center,..oh yea I was hungry! I went over to TGIFridays where I had Jack Daniels Spare Ribs with fries. It was YUM! Then my last stop the Empire state building. $US20 to go up the Observatory Deck and reached I think 100something stories, the view from the top was breathtaking... and cold..very windy! I must have spent a good one hour before souviner shopping and then dinner at MacDonalds opposite. On the way back to 56th street (and a long way) I saw Macy's and OMG VICTORIA SECRETS. The shop's amazing. It wasn't only lingere, there was comectics, perfumes, sleep wear for women..even if you don't buy anything its just nice to have a look around.

I looked at some other stores but I had to resist or else I wouldn't have any more funds to spend in DC, Jacksonville or L.A. Headed home and now packed and ready for my next adventure in Springfield, Virginia and the capita city - Washington DC

Until then...

Adios

V x

New York @ Night

2009-11-23T12:38:00.003+10:00

American Airline flight lands at JFK airport at about 7:35pm. It felt like the plane was so close to the motorway, because the tarmac well it looked like it was close lol...well I guess its dark and my minds all hazy from all that traveling. When I got out of the plane it was straight downstairs to the baggage carousel and then waited for a shuttle bus to take me to my hotel.

Da Vinci hotel is on 244 West 56th Street in Manhattan. It has a European feel when you enter to the receptionist and then room and bathroom as well. It is small, so yet it's perfect for me LOL. So I have a bit of relaxation watching American TV then had a shower before I went outside to get some late dinner. So on my journey, I of course took some pictures and on my travels I saw "The Letterman Show with David Letterman" it is like 2 blocks away from where I am. That is so cool! I went looking around for a bit and saw that I was also close to Broadway. Saw some NYPD cops, that was one of my highlights seeing NYPD cops LOL and chatting in that typical "new yawrk" accent.

New York at night still bustles with cars, taxis, trucks and people. It is mind bloggling at night (as well as day) and all the bright lights, especially near Broadway.

The weather outside isn't too cold. I was able to tolerate it. HA! It's so nice I LOVE NEW YORK. But I know it gets extremely cold.

I don't know why its just so...well I really can't describe why it is such an awesome city, but I recommend taht you all should go to New York someday. Now I will study the map and I can't wait to venture out Friday morning to explore what the Big Apple has to offer.

Until then...

Adios

V x

L.A. Baby..in transit to New York

2009-11-23T12:24:00.003+10:00

I board my Qantas flight from Brisbane International Airport @ 11:40hrs on Thursday 19th. The plane was suppose to fly at 1205, however it took nearly 45 minutes fro the plane to depart from Brisbane, as there were passengers from a PNG flight to come into transit *sigh* so off I go on a 12 hour or so journey to LAX (Los Angeles International Airport if you are not familiar with airport initials).

The flight were wasn't too bad, just a bit of turbulence as the pilots were trying to get on a high altitude to get "tail speed." The food was nice, nicely presented in those tiny trays. Oh how I love airplane food LOL! I watched 3 movies - Up, The Hangover and Marie Antoinette then later slept for prob another 4.5 hours. When I woke it was 1245am on my watching, and still Brisbane time. Just before landing, I looked outside the window. I can't believe I am in L.A!! in my mind I am pinching myself, I am actually in L.A! It's a dream come true and soon I can cross it off my imaginery 'Destination' List (because I haven't really written a list of places I want to go, it's all in my head). The weather beautiful from the plane window.

Touched down round 7am LA time (about 1am Brisbane time). Marvellous day to my start of day!

Strict USA Custom/border Patrol as we all know (just quietly scared) then to the baggage carousel to gt my bag and then a maze through to Terminal 4 for my next flight to New York. I had to also go outside to get to Terminal 4 and outside isn't as cold as I imagined. It was like an early morning autumn weather in Brisbane. Since the LAX is in renovations, it is one huge airport. (Excuse moi mais)Mierda! Shit!
The announcers are both in English and Spanish with some Japanese, depending on what are of the airport I was in! I go to the American Airlines section to get my luggage checked-in andthen through security again for more checking and then to the gate where I will board another plane.

I am sitting at gat 46A waiting to board my flight in about 1hr and 30mins or so. It is another 5hr flight from LAX to JFK Airport in New York and then there is yet another time difference, New York is 3hrts in front of L.A. (damn!) and I am battling this JET LAG and yes its still 19th Thursday. I hope to sleep o my flight to NY ahhh...so I am alert and refreshed...to venture out in the Big Apple.

Until then...

Adios

Vx

Off Again

2009-11-19T07:19:00.000+10:00

I am off yet again on another flight and this time to US of A. I am so excited! Woo hoo....I would have love to pack all of you in my suit case, but I guess it would have to be first in first serve >.<

I hope to up-date as frequent and as long as I am in range from a free wi-fi or cheap internet.

Miss you

Until then....

Adios

Vx

Bye Bye New Zealand..for another 10yrs or so....:P

2009-11-17T13:51:00.001+10:00

Midnight I went to bed.....

...wake up call in 4:02am from the reception downstairs as well as from my cell phone alarm, got up, showered and checked my facebook before I packed it up. Went downstairs to have 'compliementary breakfast' of orange juice, boysenberry yoghurt, rice bubbles and peaches. Good breakfast! Back to my room to gather my things then checked out and got into the shuttle bus to Auckland International Airport.

I went to the Pacific Blue section to check in my bag and get my boarding pass. I had a wonderful filipino staff member and he kindly asked me where I wanted to sit either aisle or window - row 1D an aisle seat. After doing all the important stuff, it was time to do last minute shopping. I had to try and spend most of my New Zealand currency (note I do have some left) so I went and brought some small souviners, a book and then after Customs and security check, I went straight to the
Duty Free store and brought ALCOHOL....42 Below Vodka - Feijoa...can't wait to have some when I get home!

Went through to gate 15 to board the plane. Sweet as bro! I got the very front seat, only 3meters away from the pilot's crockpit (is that what it's called?) and close to the door if 'any turbluence or emergency' happens on board! Currently still on the plane....over the pacific ocen and probably 2hrs or so more till I reach Australia soil.

My trip down under, the other down under was a wonderful one. I was so honoured to be Maid of Honor for Rebecca and it is indeed special.
It was an amazing wedding and the places I visited during my short stay in Hawke's Bay was "CHOICE AZZZZ!" I must make frequent trips
and not bloody 10yr trips! Ha.

Then next,.... my USA Trip...it's gonna be a bloody long one!

Until then....

Adios

Vx

Last Day in Hastings, Clive and Napier

2009-11-17T13:43:00.002+10:00

Last day for me in Hastings and Napier in Hawke's Bay. It is a bummer when you are only beginning to get use to the routine and different time zones, not that its a huge difference with Brisbane and Auckland/Napier/Hastings (Brisbane only 3 hours behind). Bec & Matt got up early to do their morning Run/Rowing, however I was zonked out from the wedding reception and sunday bbq and didn't hear them, nor did I hear some big 'thud' that happened on the roof round 3am. Woke up when my alarm went off at 8am. I didn't mean to give Bec a fright when I greeted her "Good Morning"....LOL. I had a shower and got some of my things packed and Bec prepared a good breakfast of porridge. Simon Lack, Matt and Matt's brother were sitting in the lounge chatting about rowing and everything in between well mostly about sports really, (hey what else do men talk about) then Garland got up & joined in with the convo. Had a yummy breaky (thanks Bec) and a cuppa coffee. After Bec took me on a tour of my old hometown - Napier and Hastings. It was such a trip down memory lane. Firstly went to Napier's Marine Parade and the stores there. Made my last stop to Kilt store, and yes I had to buy something from there. Kilt had amazing accessories & unique jewelleries. I miss the place already. Afterwards, went to Marine parade and the rather stoney Westshore beach. Took more touristy photos. There was sand but like only 2cm then below it was gravel & stones. Went back to Bec's car and she took me to where I use to live in Guppy Road, and the same road, where we both went to the same primary school - Reignier Primary, the Church we all went to in Grade 4, where we lined up in twos on the way to the Church. The Church now looks so small..well duh Viv, you've grown up! After Bec drove through Taradale, Greenmeadows and the old place where she use to live in, in Onekawa, and then finally a scenic drive along the beach on the way to Hastings to a very good ice creamery - Rush Munros. Bec & I both had Feijoa ice cream. It was so delicious..we stayed there for a while, eating our ice cream and talking about the good ol' days at primary school and the people we remember or didn't remember, before heading to Portman's Motel to say my final goodbyes to Bec's parents...then went back to Bec's place in Clive, was in a bit of a hurry, due to the fact we spent just a tad bit longer @ Rush Munros (whoops!). I said my farewell to Andy and Garland before heading to the car. On the they to the airport, just a mere 400 metres from their place Matt goes "TOGS!" so Bec did a U-turn to head back home, apologised to me that they had to go back to get it and they both zoomed back home to get their swimwear..on the way to the Airport, final farewell to Matt and then Bec jokingly goes Bye Matt, as she helped me w/ my luggage to the check-in. Stayed for a bit, and also bumped into one of her relatives also boarding the same flight as me to Auckland. Thank yous, farewells and safe trip before Bec and Matt headed to a road trip and a short stay in Taupo. I go in the plane....a 50min flight back to Auckland. Reached Auckland Domestic airport at 2pm, got my luggage from the conveyor belt thing (oh how it is SO tempting to take a bit of a ride on it!) to outside to wait for the bus, god I felt like a dork, asking the bus drivers if it stopped to my hotel destination before I went back to the terminal and ask about Ventura Inn shuttle Bus. Dork I am. I finally made it to my Hotel. Probably a 15min drive from the airport (give/take traffic to and from the airport). Not too shabby but it was good for an overnight stay and for a very early flight back to Brisbane. Room 211 it was good, though my view was the motorway and some freight storage place. Saw in the brochure there was 'High speed internet for NZ$9.50' for a 24hour period and I thought it was "Sweet as!" So I go back to reception to pay and get my pass word for it..ah I loved my room oh and internet! As you know I spent a while on my dear ol' Facebook and watching some music videos and shows on the TV. It was 6pm and decided to venture out to get some kai, cause I was so hungry, I didn't eat since breakfast. I had a choice of A) pub food @ er a Pub which was a 5min walk from the Hotel or B) a taxi ride to the Mall/Supermarket...well you guessed what option I took....PUB FOOD. So with my iTouch, strolled in a windy, cold Auckland Road to Toby's Jug Pub (not exactly sure the full name of the pub but it did say "Toby)..and it was my exercise for the day! And ordered a jug of cola cola (I layed off the alcoholic drinks) and
Lamb Shanks on top of mashed potatoes, gravey with mushrooms and salad. It was delicious. Then I ventured back to the hotel for more tv surfing, facebooking and re-packing my things in my suitcase. Gosh packing is such a Bitch! *Grrr!*

Until then...

Adios

V x

Friday & Dinner @ the Harrisons

2009-11-16T13:14:00.001+10:00

NB:- I am back tracking before the wedding.

Friday was a rather productive day for Bex and the rest of us. Firstly Bex and I had our nails French Manicured from the lovely Catherine Sindon at her beauty salon - Refine in Napier. We went to the same primary school as her, though she was in Room 9. I can't remember her however her name did sound familiar. Just like every girls getting their nails done, there was of course the girly gossip of our old school friend's, what they are up to and all that jazz. Cath did a marvellous
job with our nails...they look oh so pretty :). Afterwards Bec & I went to Napier Mall for our last minute shopping. She brought me earrings to wear for the big day and I brought some postcards to write back to some people over the ditch.

While Bec was driving to and fro Hastings and Napier, I was of course being a front passenger (due to the fact I can't drive Manual Cars! I would have offered to drive but I'm a klutz as I only drive automatics!) I was overwhelmed with how Napier and Hastings is and how it has changed in the past 11years!
Some new shops have sprouted out such as Diva, Dotti, Jay Jays, which I see back home in Brisbane (yes I think Australia is taking over New Zealand Bex Lol). There were some places I remember from my childhood in Napier/Hastings. I remember the clock tower in Hastings, the Hasting's Library, the Acquarium in Napier, the smelly motorway near the sulphuric factory, on the
way to Clive, the main street for shopping and some certain street names.
Oh how memory comes flying back to me and how I remember the good ol' days of my chilidhood, growing up in Hastings & Napier.
The school and how small the place is..and about the weather...I wasn't use to. Oh how I missed Brisbane weather. I really have
forgotten the weather in Napier & Hastings.

Our final stop before heading back to Bec's house was Kilt, which is a Hawke's Bay own and operated store, just a tad pricey but had awesome clothes and accessories. I told Bec "this is now my fave. store in Hawke's Bay." So I shopped there (sorry credit card) and brought shorts, earrings and a clutch bag. I love my new items :) Then we went to her place to get some stuff, before we headed off
to her parent's place @ Portman's Motel.

Later towards the afternoon we had a wedding rehearsals at the Kemblefield Winery, Bec and her family, matt, garland, andy, some other people and me went to help out with some of the setting up of the dining area and a practice session of the ceremony with Father Simon. In between I took more photos - like always of the winery and the setting up of the wedding reception etc. The view of the winery was lovely...a pity we never got to try some wine as we were pressed for time, however there will be more wine to come on the big day!

Since its a tradition not to see either the bride or groom together, Bec & I shared a unit/room @ her Parent's Motel. Unit 1 is where we stayed. After putting our things in the room, we went to her parent's place were I was greeted by her parent's and family friend - Chook & Bushie. I honestly don't know their full story on how they got their name's "Chook & Bushie," yet everyone seems to call them
that! We all started drinking wine.... Then it was all fun and laughter after that!...

Oh the dear stories from Chook & Bushie and the witty comments from Bec's Dad Robert, teasing me about me being vertically challenged :- as in when I was about to go to the kitchen to make my lunch

Robert: "Hello Viv"
Viv: "Hello Rob"
Robert: Come make yourself @ home, Viv, there's stools here for you too stand on! HAHAHA
Mind you I didn't tip-toe to get things I needed, well since all the bread et al were already out. He just loved stirring me up. Funny :P

Anyway was having dinner w/ the Harrisons, Chook and Bushie, wine glasses being topped up and this is were the fun began! Chook & Bushie had funny stories, esp stories about when Bec was a little girl and the random joke Blair blurted out a long time ago. Lets just say my jaws was so sore from all the laughing and at the same time my head was spinning....more wine please! After all the
funny stuff that was going on, Bec and I went back to our unit round 10pm to sleep, the last night before the big day.

Until then...

Adios

V x

Wine, Cheese & Rowing at the Backyard

2009-11-15T17:56:00.003+10:00

NB:- typed prior to the wedding.

After allt he waiting at Auckland Domestic Airport, I finally boarded the flight to Napier. It was only a one hour flight from Auckland to Napier. When I arrived to Napier (Napier Airport is very very...very small). I got out and looked round quickly for Rebecca, before heading to the ladies room (Gosh I was busting after the water and tea from my 1Hr flight!) I then went out and after texted Bec that I was outside. Funny that I missed her inside. Accompanied with her was her fiance's brother's girlfriend Garland. After exchanging greetings we headed to Rebecca and Matt's place in Clive, which is just in between Napier and Hastings.

A cute flat overlooking the "I-can't-remember-the-name-of-the-lake," a paddock with 2 horses and a rowing practicing place. Despite having aroun 40minute sleep in total, since I landed, I was still feeling all right. Eyes still just a tinge of pink, but otherwise was good. [Insert smiley face]. The weather in Clive was sunny with some patches of clouds and a cool breeze. It still felt like a mixture of Melbourne's weather and Brisbane's winter weather...Bec kindly offered Garland & I a glass of wine....
...bring on the wine and cheese!...

Since I am staying in Hawke's Bay, the place reknown for it's vineyards and wineries within it's vicinities and speaking of wineries, Rebecca's Wedding is in a Winery. Very exciting indeed...

...and my journey to all the wine and cheese I can handle during my stay here in Hastings/Napier. Oh ain't life great, great company, wine and cheese. you just can't go wrong.

Until then...

Adios

V x

Killing Time

2009-11-12T03:58:00.000+10:00

Okay so I am still in Auckland International Airport....and I have been here for 6hrs and my next flight to Napier is at 11:30am. Personally Auckland International Airport is err small, well just because I have only been in the Arrivals section of the airport and since majority of the stores were closed (with the exception of Duty Free Store open & the City of Sales Espresso Bar, Samsung net Kiosk and McDonalds) there was well nothing to do. NADA....there were a few people still sitting around when I arrived, but other than that, nothing! A little bit of 'action' happened when arrivals from Santiago, Gold Coast, Hong Kong arrived, (yay more people passing) so i did some Arrival spectating and then my several hours on the internet.

I am doing this to kill time and yes time is going kinda slow... and the sad thing is I keep looking at the time and that ain't helping either! Right now listening to my podcast - 'Funky House London Style' not too bad, keeping me up. Some people waiting for their loved ones to go through the arrivals doors to greet 'em 'welcome back!' and the 'prebooked transportation' guys for their clients to whisk them off to their hotels/backpackers.

The weather is currently 12degrees so yes its friggen cold. Before I was sitting a metre away from the sliding doors and gee the breeze was giving me goosebumps, but at the same time kept me awake while trying to converse on MSN and Facebook Chat. I guess its not too bad but its close to summer..it feels like Melbourne weather for me hahaha (sorry folks living in Melb)

okay its time for me to have a 'toilet break' and head over to the 'Domestic Transfer' section.

Until then...

Adios

V x

Travelling with babies and thank god for iPods and Chewing Gum and Randomly Security Search! WTF?

2009-11-11T23:47:00.003+10:00

November 11th - My Mum's birthday and the day I leave Brisbane to embark on my 5 wk holiday in Napier, New Zealand and the USA.
First it is New Zealand for a week... .

As I say au revoir to dear Remy on a Wednesday morning, I drive back to Redcliffe to have lunch with my Mum and brother Ray. When I get there I greet Mama a big hug and a 'Happy Birthday' and quickly got ready for lunch at Sizzlers. Some minor photo taking from Mum & me and then time to pig out with the salad buffet and drinks. Afterwards, I dropped Ray to Music, giving him more insults and a hug and then headed home with mum, to shower and get my final stuff into gear (in between facebooking and email checking)....Right time to go..

So...I get a lift to the airport from dad, mum accompanies as well. We left our place round 4pm and driving onto the Gateway Motorway, then to Deagan Devitation..through to Sandgate Road...then once we reached near Toombull Shopping centre, turning left to the free-way to the airport...then hell starts (not too bad! I am only exaggerating)... BLOODY ROAD WORKS AND 4PM TRAFFIC!
I quietly panic inside thinking oh dear I will miss my flight. Damn traffic & roadworks..when will it ever stop oh and Murphy's Law, There that's my vent.

I made it finally in like 1hr and 5mins. Saying our final good byes, Mum was slowling tagging alongside me on the way to the departures section, while Dad was yelling her to get in the car! Yes dear Mum, she's funny, doesn't want to see her li' girl go and taking a final picture of me "going inside the departures area, for her facebook."

So I go do the usual 'check-in' routine, write on the departure custom form, thru to the departure bit and before that *ah!* good ol' security. I go, have my carry-bag scanned, I go through the metal detector and then I get stopped by security, directingme to (well what I thought was an exit), but a little cubicle. YES I WAS Randomly searched. The security custom chick tells me
I have been randomly selected *pfft* I am laughing it off now so I get checked for any 'dangerous' things I may have on my clothes, items and body! WTF??????????????????????????????????? Verdict - I was let go coz I ain't Bin-ladened up.

I go to Gate 77 as my flight - Pacific Blue to Auckland is at 1830hrs....I sit on seat number 23C, an aisle seat, not too bad, I'm tiny anyway so I dont get my elbow hit by the trolley. Like every flight you go to, you will have the cabin crew '
welcoming you to the [insert areoplane name and destination] and the safety procedure if 'at anytime you experience any turberlence or unexpected bla bla...' I swear whenever I go on whatever flight I will memorise the safety procedures.

Thank you Airwaves chewing gum, my ears didn't pop as bad as it use to be whenever I travelled on a plane.When a place ascends, it really feels like its a rollacoaster ride, because of the funny sensation in your stomach, you get when you are ascending up..towards the sky and then its the same feeling when the plane descends on the tarmac.

I was glad I had my iTouch with me throughout the flight, because there was probably about 3 crying babies, screaming, squealing and their respective partents 'shhing' 'em to be quiet. Wahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, other than that it wasn't a bad flight. Reading the Virgin Blue's 100th issue of it's air-flight reading magazine and yes it was an interesting read. I really should have taken it with me coz I could have learnt from good ol' Sir Richard Branson's tips on business (not that I do business) and that "2 out of 3 men thinks that to get attention from women is to be strong and buff" yes that was some small random fact in the
magazine. Good read.

Ten minutes til it descends, I saw the night view of Auckland city. So nice. It is 3hrs in front of Brisbane (1141pm Brisbane and 0241am Auckaland). Once the plane touched down onto the tarmac etc, then finally out of the plane, through to getting the bags from the conveyor belt, customs, I lazily walk with my trolley of luggage to the arrivals section and straight to MacDonalds..Oh how I love thy 24hr Macdonalds...free internet for 15mins max >.<>

I have another 9hrs to kill in Auckland international Airport before my next flight to Napier. Right now I feel like Tom Hank's character in the movie "The Terminal" 'living' in the airport *laughing*....and note to self, "looking at the time every 2mins isn't going to speed the time its 1130am!".

OMFG I can't believe I've done this, travelling solo and about to see my dear dear friend Rebecca and family in Hastings/Napier for her wedding. So excited! I am
still pinching myself..this can't be true. Whoa!

Till next time...
Adios

V x

To Pack Lots or Not to Pack Lots?....that is the Question!

2009-11-08T19:42:00.002+10:00

As mentioned in my previous blog, packing is indeed a bitch. However how much is too much to pack? Minus the little gifts to give to my friends and family overseas, how much do I really need?

Obviously packing the essentials such as my iTouch, Notebook, Camera, eyeglasses,sunglasses, cell phone and important documents (passport, tickets etc). Another obvious is packing clothes to suit the weather...napier, new zealand guess it's like melbourne spring - just a tad cooler than what brisbane spring is, where as when I reach the usa, nothern hemisphere, it will be autumn to winter so my jackets, scarves and beanies/hats (oh how much i love wearing my hats! and a perfect time to wear them!).

I am a summer gal, but the funny thing is, no matter how much I don't like the cooler months I do like snow! Just like last year in August, when I went to Queenstown, South Island of New Zealand with Neil and Lani, it sure was cold but the snow was absolutely awesome! Snowboarding is 'choice as bro!'..Now I wonder how I will survive if I ever go to Europe..yes that is my next destination to go to, hope in 2 years time.

Anyway back to the packing...Actually early Friday morning round 1am, I started to pack. All I did was got some clothes from my closet then just 'dumped' them in
my suitcase. Thinking to myself "Meh! I'll pack properly."

Yes I have a couple of days before I depart...and yes I will be cramming when it comes to packing, just like when you're cramming for a uni exam! ARGH! I really should write a list of the things I need, yea that is better so that way I don't 'overpack!'

...then when all is packed I prob think 'hang on I think I forgotten something.' If I stick to the list, it will be all right.

Right! First I'm just going to um....have a nice sunday stroll in the city, valley and when I go home
I shall pack pack pack....Pfft

Adios

V x

Ho Hum O_o

2009-11-05T22:36:00.003+10:00

Oh hum I say. Nothing in particular..just me blogging random sh*t and me procrastinating to start packing my gear for my trip. I have so much on my mind - hand in form for university, pondering in what to bring and how to pack my gear, what music I will be putting in my iTouch to gathering all my itinerary and multiple things.

Anyone willing to pack my gear for me? hahaha.

Adios

V x

Holiday Organising

2009-11-03T23:29:00.005+10:00

Heya all,

As you all know, I am super excited to be going overseas. If you don't know where I am heading to, I will be in Napier, New Zealand, a day back in Brisbane and then heading to the USA for a month to see relatives.

Now, since it is closer to the date I have to organise a few things
A) Travel Insurance (I'll be an idiot for not bringing one!)
B) Gifts for relatives and wedding gift and
C) Once I got 'em time to pack, pack, pack!

As the usual 'Vivian' I cram everything in the last minute. I really should write a list of what to bring *Vivi now takes note of this!* A matter of fact she is currently 'multi-tasking' - typing her blog and also jotting down the items I need for my trip!

I know I will get in a frantic mode when it comes to packing. GOSH packing is a bitch to do. Even more of a bitch when you are a GIRL! I swear all of you girls agree that packing is a difficult chore! OKay so I may be exaggerating, but packing items to go overseas, as a girl..you wish you can take your closet full of err clothes, accessories...argh! Might as well take your whole ROOM with you on your trip..trouble is...a) how'd you fit 'em in your suitcase and b) your folks/housemates will be wondering where the missing bedroom is!?!?! Good idea? No?

So, of course I will be not entirely 'fussy' but pick the things I really need to take on my trip...I really don't need 10,000 shirts (exaggerating!) on a trip. It is okay to wear some clothes for a couple of days (depending where you go i.e. if going near mud then frequent) before washing them and of course if all else fails..shop for new clothes (which in realisation..adding extra kilos to a 'supposedly-already-filled-up-suitcase'...but thats my whole purpose asides from visiting friends/family shopping overseas)!
So I guess at the end it won't be too bad for me. *Sighs*

Travel insurance is getting to my head. I have to get before I leave..I will be a knob IF I don't take insurance. There are plenty of travel insurance companies round etc, however being a cheap chick I'm searching for the cheap price with good benefits. I better get that underway before it does my head in.

Gifts, I am stuck for gift ideas for my cousins in Jacksonville, Florida..any ideas? One is for a belated 16th b/day present while the other is just for the sake of getting one for her, as well as the rest of the relatives I am seeing. Don't get me wrong I like to give people gifts. It just gets difficult at times of WHAT type of things your friend/family is into. Sometimes I have a some idea to give and I go with my gut instinct. I also get this vibe of when getting a gift. You can't rush in the last minute (i.e. 30mins before you are at her b/day party or wedding) because it doesn't have any meaning behind to why you brought it. I will eventually find them a gift.

..And back to the frantic part...I have little time, and I am working so it's going to be 'cram-everything-before-I-go-packing!'

Adios

V x

Counting Down.....in single digits

2009-10-25T09:10:00.004+10:00

Well hello peeps,

Another edition to my blog about me heading to a vacation to New Zealand & USA. As you all know, I am SUPER EXCITED, as,

A) I haven't been on a holiday since August 2008 and
B) I get to meet up with my relatives in Washington DC & Jacksonville, Florida, whome I haven't seen in 5 years. That's pretty long still.

It was a spontaneous thought of me heading back to the States, however was also juggling on going to Japan, or the Philippines, but then I thought.."hang on..I want to go not just to DC and NYC but also to LA and Jacksonville, Florida." Back when I was still with my family, having family trip to the USA, it was only in the East coast. Now I also want to try the West coast of America. Of course do all the 'touristy things,' like Disneyland, Universal Studios, Hollywood and I hope to do a dance class in LA's popular dance studios - Millenium and Debbie Reynolds.

The good thing is...I'm over 21...as if I look like ha!

Also letting you know that I will aim to keep you up dated through facebook and here of my galavantings around New Zealand & USA (where internet is available and hopefully free wireless; as well as photos)

Adios

V x

Watch this Space

2009-10-09T14:24:00.001+10:00

Hello peeps,

Watch this space for my new blog entry...something that I love to do, which I have observed for a while and eager to tell you my observations....

...to be continued....

Wisdom Teeth

2009-09-22T09:26:00.001+10:00

Wednesday 16^th September, is the day I have my wisdom teeth extracted. I was both nervous, excited (excited??) and shit scared to have them removed, especially the whole stigma of being at a dentist as a whole. Yes it was D-day for me, as I couldn’t turn back and refuse to have it done. Prior to my removal my dentist did give me options whether to have them removed under local or general anaesthetics, day surgery, under an oral max-face-surgeon or just him (and giving a hint of price wise)...I said that he can remove my wisdom teeth.

So it was indeed D-day for me..., I was just ‘quietly’ nervous. Mum drove me to the dentist, wishing me “Good Luck,” I go to the reception, surprisingly they are waiting for me!!! “Vivian is it?” “Yes,” I say. So I sit down waiting, patiently for my turn. I think about the patients at work to get the ‘nervousness’ out of my mind, how they get all the drain in all different parts of the body and then think at the same time, “what could be worse?” The dentist greets me and puts numbing cream where he will remove my wisdom teeth then heads back to finishing with his patient, before I head in. I think “oh good just numbing cream...wondering if he will use more anaesthetic via syringe; and realise that is what I am shit-scared about...needles in the mouth argh! I start to panic, then take deep breaths & then relax again.

“Vivian, come in,” GAH! My turn! Can’t run now. So I lie on the dentist chair. Patiently.... he checks my x-ray and ask me if I had read my info sheet and know the risks and consequences etc....I say “yes” and also wanted to say “over & over”...nope just leave it to just ‘yes’. I gave him my signed consent and a little now that I need a dental certificate. He asks me if my corners of my mouth are feeling numb, “yes,” I say and then go “so there is no needles” was kind of ignorant what I just said obviously he was still going to inject me with more anaesthesia “oh god!” however it wasn’t all that bad, because all I felt was just a jab, no prick or stinging of the needle going in; and some pressure of the anaesthesia fluid travelling into my gums.

Several minutes I can feel my gums, mouth and lips numb, then he starts “OMG OMG!!!!” He starts on my bottom right wisdom tooth. Scalpel, suction here and there, and other dental instrument used, he was having trouble with removing it (and I’m thinking get out you bloody tooth!) All I feel is pressure, tugging but no pain...finally he yanks it out...one down, 3 to go. I see at the end of that tooth was a 2 little hooks; crazy little tooth didn’t want to come out did it? He then works on my top right one....”Some are easier than others,” he says. Out less than a minute, a break then moves on the bottom left one.

Now this was the trickiest one of all, he had to remove it in probably (from what I can see) was 3 parts. Another break, while this was going on, my knees were shaking because of being so nervous of them taken out. Ironically he goes “you’re very calm.” I guess I was but feeling my knees shaking I don’t think I was calm, unless he was meaning I’m not screaming in pain etc. Finally, my last tooth was the top left one, similar as the 2^nd tooth it was out in less than a minute, despite how awkwardly it was located. WOW that quick! Probably took him 50mins. He estimates it would take him 1hr and 30minutes to remove. Well done Dr Dentist. I was already puffed up like one of Alvin and the Chipmunk’s cousin on my left side. The dentist & his assistant put some cotton ball things in the side of my mouth, to put pressure on the wounds he stitched & excess blood what was still oozing (and I can taste despite my mouth still numb). Paid for my wisdom extraction (and phew it was less than $1000!) and waited for Mum to pick me up. I only waited for 2mins then Mum turned up. I could feel the puffiness of my cheeks and partially drowsy (don’t know if there is any sedative in local anaesthesia) guess it’s just the tiredness from having my mouth open for 50mins. Got home, walked slowly upstairs, went to the fridge, got the coldpak then sat in front of the television, where I would spend 3 days while resting it up (in between FaceBook) sipping on soup, drinking water, coffee juice via straw and eating ice cream, jelly and yoghurt (such a healthy diet!). The past days I love my pain killers (ha!). Dozing off & on in front of the telly, watching documentaries, food, travel & more food (of all channels I had to watch something with food in it, even though I was limited to what I was eating).

The numbness was slowly wearing off while the puffiness was slowly increasing. The dentist rang up asking how I was and if I had any problem that I could go back. What a nice dentist to ring up how I was going. That’s nice. No matter how scared I was, I am happy that my wisdom teeth are removed as least they will not cause me pain and grief as they did last year and the year before. Now am waiting for my blowfish/chipmunk cheeks to go down...!

Scared much?

2009-09-15T23:56:00.003+10:00

I must say I am still scared for Wednesday 16th of September! Why? You ask...it is because I am going to get my wisdom teeth removed. I have of course kept procrastinating since November last year; and since it's flared up (pain wise etc...) it was time to see a dentist and have it checked up and removed. So post removal I will be rather sore, puffed up like a chipmunk and drowsy. Free fluids for me. *sigh*

It probably be my mind playing tricks on me and just getting all hyped up for now reason....guess I should calm down and think 'not-so-scary-thoughts-of-dentists'

V

Sleepy Sunday

2009-08-09T19:04:00.002+10:00

Where did my weekend go? I has night shift last night from 2045hrs - 0715hrs. From work to home, I would have been happy to have driven in only 18mins, unfortunately a driver in front of me had to drive under 60km/hr on the houghton highway so it ended up being 30min drive and its an early sunday morning when there is no traffic! Oh well.

I had a shower then set my alarm to 10am, in order to go to the Christening of Xander Cyril, Wendy's nephew. I got up and felt so drained, tired and sick...and was also going to go out post however postponed and resting it up at home.

Home alone as folks having time together and Ray @ his Dad's place....as I said, resting it up at home.

Prior to that....

Still feeling seedy tired woke up and it was silent at home. Ray wanted me to drive him to his Dad's @ Scarborough then I drove back home. Thinking that my folks were asleep, nope they went out..relised they are staying at the city for the night.

Went upstairs to the lounge, put the heater on and watched Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. He went to Laos, while in between looking at my Facebook and watching Anthony eating Laos cuisine I was craving for noodles and more DVDs to borrowed...sitting for the next 20mins pondering on whether or not to go..well ah I went. First to Video Ezy and then My Noodle Bar @ Clontarf, went home and ate my laksa in the lounge (which is a NO NO) but hey I'm home alone just relaxing and chillin out by the fire..I mean the heater :P

Hasta Luego

V xx

Ahh...

2009-08-06T00:37:00.000+10:00

..Is blank....hrm

Movie Marathon

2009-07-31T22:38:00.002+10:00

Actually a DVD marathon. I find that hiring 7 dvds @ Video Ezy for $10.95 is cheaper than one movie you watch @ the Cinemas. Funny that. I also borrowed some movies from my dear friend so can't wait to watch (even though I have seen some of them before)

Adios

Michael Jackson 29 August 1958 - 25 June 2009

2009-06-29T00:48:00.006+10:00

I came home after night shift and yes me being addicted to FACEBOOK, I wanted to check out what other people's up-dated status. So all I see is "RIP Michael Jackson/ You were the legend...will miss you dearly..." And then I decided to check the CourierMail online and the first pic & news is "JACKSON DEAD" I also turned on Nova 106.9 radio station and waiting for talks that he was confirmed dead etc...so yes He past away round 7:25am QLD Time.

Just how I felt when Steve Urwin died..I was just surprised and shocked that this has happened. NOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooo...I really couldn't believe it noooooooooooooooooooooooOOOOOOOOOO!
Yes I can mourn like everyone else from celebrities to the old man in the cardboard box!
No matter how old we are, what ever generation he has been part of our lives.

Despite all the troubles and how eccentric he was, he is an amazing person. Without him there will be no Justin Timberlake, Chris Brown, Usher, Destiny's Child just to name a few. He has had a huge impact in dance and music..well everything he has contributed to.

May they both Rest in peace. They will be truely missed....they are now up there with all the other greats! My condolences to both their family and friends.

And then on the other hand, another celebrity past away from battle of ?Anal Cancer....Charlie's Angels star - Farrah Fawcett. I don't know much about her but from the Charlie Angel's and some guest appearances in shows. Other than that June 26th (25th USA time) will be remembered as the passing of 2 greatest stars.

My One WeekBreak.

2009-05-31T23:03:00.010+10:00

First and foremost one week break from work is NOT ENOUGH! On a good note..it was good to relax and catch up on things you couldn't do before or after work!

I did manage to help clean up the house..the dishes, clothes washing, ironing and of course my room. But I am happy my room is not as messy as before, so it was easy cleaning up.

Right...Can't remember exaclty what I did Monday 25, but I do remember I finished my night shift at 715am, got home round 830am and slept til 3pm. Six hour sleep ain't bad. Ha! The whole day I 'pose was sleep and just being lazy and the usual house stuff.
Tuesday 26th I got up early round 545am and got ready to have breakfast with a friend..driving on Sandgate Road near Nudgee, I got a msg from my friend saying she couldn't make it for b'fast, so I did a U-turn, went straight back home and then went for another sleep til 1030am. I was planning on doing a Mad Dance class, decided not to and just stay home and watch Dvds, FACEBOOKING and searching the net for cheap hotels for my trip and QUT/ Colleges for (fingers x) studying next year.

Wednesday 27th ahhh got rather lazy (in btwn doing the dishes, washing and ironing) and then took my brother Ray to his work....I craved for a MacDonald's Sundae with Caramel sauce (with thanks to my friend's photo on facebook, a picture of Macdonalds Sundaes with chocolate sauce!) So I went through the drive thru and ordered my Sundae with Caramel Sauce. I LOVE MY CARAMEL SAUCE. Wednesday was also my last night of Spanish Language...despite me going there 30mins late! Finished my 8 wks of Beginners One Spanish - "Yo estoy triste, porque me ultima clase de espanol!" Now what am I going to do 730pm on a Wednesday evenings? However I will still do the D.I.Y Spanish and with the help of mi amigas y novio :D and yes numerous online language sites. Tal vez go back and study again. Hrm!

Thursday 28th went to my beloved Westfield Chermside and browsed around and brought my Tealeaves sieve thingy and a box of Mint & Vanilla Flavour tea. Yum and looking round the usual before heading back home and watching more DVDs, facebooking etc!

Friday 29th Ray, Mum & I went to the city from 1030ish - 6pm. While Mum & Ray went to browse at the film school in Yeronga and Griffith Film study course to a movie, I just wondered round the city, looking for dress/accessories for my friend's wedding. Found a lovely green (emerald) colour dress with a white bowtie on the waist. So cute, so I laybuyed it. Also in the city there was numerous things I saw....

Fridays in the City has their random buskings and peformances. For instance this dude on a tall Unicycle...or at the top end of Queen Street Mall, they were preparing to showcase some modelling and to celelbrate Italy week.
The city can be nice or what I updated on my Facebook - BRISBORING Lol. I was getting rathe bored in city, the fact that I was there since 1030am and that I didn't buy much. Its exciting when you do buy things...I just wait for my next pay day teheheh (which will go mostly to my rent and credit card bills!)

Sometimes I see some 'kinda activist groups' their propaganda and items up on sale etc...in hoping we have a heart to change to whatever political view point they were trying/aiming to tell. Funny I walked past and saw this...Hrm interesting indeed!

Saturday 30th, took Ray to see his Dad, before I went to get some car petrol and a few stuff for mum...oh some DVDS and 2 bottles of Mascato. YUM! I was so happy to see my bf. So much I miss him..been a month since so it was great to spend Saturday evening. Did I mentioned I missed him A LOT!

Sunday wasn't planning too much, but wanted to head out somewhere other than staying home. Spontaneously went to the City and the Valley with Mum. We had a nice Yum Cha lunch at the Valley.....then went to the City for a while..While walking about Saw some busking people :)
Like these 2 mujeres - one playing the harp and one playing a flute instrument..It reminds of watching those movies set in the Reinassance/Middle ages and just felt like doing a jolly jig infront of 'em! Just like a jester.

I have 2 days left of my break.....another spontaneous outing to the City or Chermside..(again!) and DVD movie marathon. Hrm now time to sit back and relax...snooze perhaps....Hasta luego y Buenas Noches! V

Emergency Items

2009-05-25T22:15:00.005+10:00

Don't you hate it when you are searching in your bag for your lip balm, thinking that you left it at home? But then while searching you eventually find A LIP BALM, that you 'apparently lost'. Ha! So much I love emergency items.
Whether it has expired for a week, a month or even a year (whether lip balm or a watermelon chupa chup), in your bags or whatever you seem to find random items that later comes in very good use.

The other day I forgot my lip balm, because I transferred my wallet, itouch into another bag and assuming I put my lip balm in my bag! Thinking I left my lip balm, I thought to myself "well I will just buy a new lip balm"...on my way to a shop, I happen to grab my wallet out of my bag, til i felt something else in there...got it out and it was a Lip Balm. It wasn't the one I normally use, but thank gosh I saved $5. I also realised I haven't seen that lip balm for a long time (about 1yr) and yes I thought i lost that lip balm. I didn't phew!

It hasn't been the first time this has happened. Not just lip balms but chewing gum (as long as it is still edible), hair ties, clothes. Its funny when you do leave certain items, whether it be in your handbag or your car, etc you sometimes don't realise that items scattered really do come in handy at one point.

I think the items for good emergency that should be kept in random bags (yes girls do rotate their bags at times) or in the car should be (not in particular order):-

Lip Balm
Panadol (as long as its not expired)
Bandaides
Hand lotion
Hair ties/bobbin pins
Small comb
Mirror
Shoes
Hoodie/jumper in the car just in case you forgot to bring it for the cooler weather etc...
A pen and small notepad (or just the pen)

Of course there are more that you may think of, but these are the main ones I think sure comes in handy!
Just scatter a few in bags you normally use and next time you have forgotten something, there is always an 'emergency item' in need!

Ahora! Where's that watermelon chupa chup....I wonder if it is still edible since 5 months ago.....

Hasta luego!

V xx

Work, Fiestas & Everything in Between

2009-05-10T16:12:00.007+10:00

Life is so busy work, bills, parties, car/house maintence, learning dance, learning a language and resting, cleaning, showering, sleeping and eating in between... and then its not enough for one full day. You have to either continue it the next day or next week. *sigh!*

The day goes so quick that soon it'd be 2010! Holy Moly!

Well this saturday i will go to a Farewell at the Fox at Southbank, to farewell 2 very good workmates..Larissa y Lauren. I will miss them as they are beautiful, funny nurses to party with and work with. Larissa and Lauren if u read this I'm going to miss you a lot! (need kleenex right now!)
Also on the same day is the Mad Dance House Show so i will b watching the 430pm session. Cheering on for the people on stage. Gosh wish i performed but no i was too busy doing my own things or too exhuasted and pricey to do some dancing. So going to watch instead. I do miss performing.

If a few of you remember i did write an entry about changing career/ studying...well i have decided to go and study next year..., as for this year i will focus on my trip to the New Zealand and USA. Yes i need A LOT OF DINERO for fun in the sun (or snow!) and become rather picky in what i do, eat so if any other people are reading this advance apologies for not chipping in as much, as i am saving for my trip. Oh and yes my credit cards aiming to pay them off as well! Not too long for one Yes i did say ONE of them (not going to mention what other ones i have!), Then that way i can cut them up! Really just need one not like a million! (yes exaggerating!)

Should learn my spanish religiously so i can actually speak without hesitating or writing without hesitating. Practice makes perfect!
Well right now i really should......so....

Adios

V xx

More rambling of dance bla bla & everything in between.

2009-05-05T22:27:00.014+10:00

Oh how i wish it was summer. Right now listening to Rhys' song 'Hot Summer' Yes if you don't remember him, he was the 2nd runner up of Australia's So You Think You Can Dance series 1. He made a music video.

The song's quite catchy and reminds me of a lovely not-so-hot- but lovely-warm- summer, at the pool side, sun baking and sipping on pina coladas! Yes i dream!
Oh how i wish during the day it was summer...morning summer i mean, but not too humid or to the point you have kicked your bedsheets of the bed coz it was just too hot! But no...dawn and dusk are cooler than summer and yes winter is approaching ever so early! yikes! I have to hunt for my winter clothes and pack away my summer clothes (then again i tend to layer my clothes on so i can get warm!)

I really should be asleep now as i have work in the afternoon (Thursday 1230pm) but instead i find myself glued to my laptop monitor, while at the same time listening to itunes. I was planning [in my head] "estudiar espanol" but i failed! Epic Fail....got home after my language class, ate my dinner then watched The Family Guy and then straight on Facebook, You Tube looking at random videos with Ray. I then did a few sit ups and push ups before i resumed looking at Facebook and blogging.

Itching to do a chorey to a few music from Daddy Yankee but where to start. I got tips from my dance friends such as"listen to the song, the beats." It should be a wee bit easy as i have done a chorey before for a dance friend's film. I guess moves come from ideas you see BUT as long as you don't nick someone else' choreography. There are a few who inspire me such as Byran Tanaka, Gigi Torres, Patrick Chen, Lee Daniels, Nick Bass, Sky Hoffman, Marty Kudelka (yes that is Justin Timberlake's Choregrapher) and numerous ppl from Dance2XS or the dance school i go to sometimes Mad Dance House
Back to 'nicking' someone else's work as long as u A) ask them or B) credit it to the people you are teaching your chorey to.
I actually miss my hip hop dancing. It may not be a really girly girly dance (yet depends whether u like the 'skanky' style/ gangsta style/ jazzy hip hop style, dancehall, reggaeton style etc). Or do all styles! That way its versatile.
On the other hand i also like my Flamenco dancing. Powerful, beautiful, sensual and sexy.
On my hand it cost and the effort to travelling from Redcliffe to Brisbane to do one hour and 15mins of dancin'. It really should over-ride my negative thoughts of why i don't dance! I only step foot once in term 2 to do a dance class! In btwn me saving for my holiday in November i should do some classes and keep up my fitness. The more i am listening to Daddy Yankee the more i want do get off my ass and make up a routine. Es en espanol, but it'd be cool to dance to!

Mi espanol es 'mas o menos' creo make mistakes pero it is all in the learning of a language. La idioma - Espanol es facil y dificil. Tambien....over time i prob 'entiendo' espanol. Mi gusta la idioma. Fantastico!

Anyway i best be off to sleep

Buenas noches a todos! Hasta luego!

V xx

A change in the air

2009-04-15T00:44:00.013+10:00

I have been thinking about this for a year, and yet i have procrastinated instead of ":doing what i say!" Instead i chose the option of "saying it than physically doing it!" I was at work pondering about my life in between nursing work...thinking after almost 3yrs i want to go and do something else! hrm a ballerina? a strip dancer? a lawyer? a doctor?
The pros and cons of the jobs, yet it all comes to your passion in the job, money (hey can't lie hey?!) whether you like working alone or with people or animals etc...

Like many people there are the jobs you have dreamt of since being young! Once you are an adult you realise that the 'dream job' may not be as what you thought it would be or that its blatantly not really a job that suits you. wtf?
I am a girl so of course i dreamt of being a celebrity, Miss Universe (watching too much teen miss usa, miss universe, miss world..thanks mum!), the next Nigella Lawson or the female version of Jamie Oliver! a doctor, an actress or an air hostess! There have been times that i would like to be an M.D (medical doctor) but the extra studies for it i honestly don't have the patience. I do like working with people, however i feel i have the itch to do something else other than nursing. Of course nursing does have interesting things to see, hear, do and learn. It sure is amazing that there are certain things that makes the human body an AMAZING body with all the things jabbed, injected, fed you name it!

There are plenty of courses out there, yet some courses are pricey and then other times you think, at the end of the course 'can you really do this ?'

The careers i've wanted to do: -
Lawyer
I found Legal studies @ high school very interesting about law in australia and abroad..to the point i wanted to be a Liar..*ahem* lawyer. Shows like Alley McBeal, Boston Legal, Criminal Minds etc made me think about getting in to legal jobs...not all glitz and glamour like on the t.v's and i know its bloody hard work and cases need to reflect on similar cases throughout the years. Then again i am not a huge debator etc so i think ill just leave it to the experts who are in the legal job.

Air Hostess
(or cabin crew)
Since i got on the Philippine Airline aged 4, on the way to New Zealand i was curious and fascinated on the cabin crew taking care of us in the long flight to New Zealand. They look beautiful, immaculate, perfume smelling (or colonge ..yes men dont wear purfume!), cute heels and uniform. I wanted to be one. I use to pretend i was an air hostess with my teddy bears/ dolls in my 'pretend airplane!'. Not until i was older there were requirements of being one! Well i could always work as a ground staff! :D

Miss Universe/ Model
Like majority of young girls, idolising slender pretty women, catwalking on victoria secrets or Miss Universe. Ahh what a lift! Fashion magazines, catwalks, high life..well not all the time. Hard work..seriously hard work to be stick thin!....Slender and as we age..it's a completely different story. plus height wise..if they do a petite modelling i'm lining up! lol.

Doctor
Yea in medical field...usual stigma for parents to sugguest to their children to become a Doctor. Its a hard job to learn and then where's the social life? There are also times i would like to be a surgeon..then again studying for long periods..ill be bored!

Fashion Designer
At one stage i did...it'd be fun but too much competition and hard work and creativity. I mean i am creative at times but i think it does take a certain person to be one.

Well I will b searching for a while till i find something that really interests me and hope fully has something towards the end of the course!

Adios

V xxx

Trance Energy at the Met

2009-04-12T13:48:00.008+10:00

Saturday well i didn't sleep in (in which i normally do when it's my day off!) so got up early..
..if you say 9am is early. So Ray & I went grocery shopping @ Kippa Ring Shopping Centre a.k. Boganville! urgh! it smelt really bad in the shopping centre...VERY BAD BODY ODOUR. C'om people there is a product called DEODERANT! Spent 1hr and 30mins there - shopping and had MacDonalds for lunch. Then went back home..small chores i.e. clothes and then watched Scrubs and Flight of the Concords with Ray before taking him to his Dad's place in Scarborough...drove back home then went to lie on the couch and watched Iron Chef America marathon ...well for 4hrs!

So yes I was being lazy on Easter Saturday! I was trying to go for a nap so i didn't feel too sleepy at Trance Energy. I was disappointed that my boyfriend us unable to go, however I got over it. I text round and phone around to see if anyone was free but they were either working or decided to stay home so I ended up going on my own.

Trance Energy was fabulous. Like I said i was bummed Andy didn't come but then it turned out good that I went on my own. Don't get the impression i don't like other people's company..it is nice to just go on your own and just have your own fun!

I only wanted to go because i wanted to see BT and Judge Jules...my dreams came true! They rocked. I also like Marco V and Sander Vandorm. Honestly I am not a hardcore Trance (or rave) person, however there are a few good trance music out there. I appreicate their work. Yes people with those huge reflective pants!

Like every other music festivals the atmosphere, the crazy dancers, drunks, sweat, bo, no bo, smiling, cheering, photos (for facebook! lol) and of course the fashion. It was actually not too bad, more like night clubbing clothes however a few did dress up and of course with 'THOSE PANTS!"

The first dj at the met stage i didn't know who it was but when BT was on i just bust-a-groove lol i mangage to get to the front yes close to the DOOF DOOF area/ mosh pit. Danced hard out to Sander, Marco V's and Judge Jule's mixes..more w/ judge jules coz he was brilliant!

Left the Met @ 315am Sunday. Ahh it was great!

Spanish Ole!

2009-04-07T21:19:00.007+10:00

A night before my first Spanish Language Class. I am excited to learn Spanish. Apart from dating the other half who speaks spanish, I have wanted to learn spanish since I was doing flamenco dancing in 1992 - 1994. I guess i got inspired to dance spanish post- Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games...and randomly on my St Mary's Primary Schoolin New Zealand (still living in New Zealand at that time) notice there was an advertisement of learning flamenco.

Anyway not dragging on about it, I was fascinated in the Spanish culture...well guessing due to the fact that my hertiage has Spanish influence. I remember going to the library & borrowing the Spanish picture book over and over to learn some words. Obvioiusly 'gracias,' 'hola,' 'adios,' got stuck in my head :P i even wanted to do spanish language..and then later after i quit flamenco (due to moving to australia), my spanish facination slowly died down.

When my family & i moved to Australia in 1998 i was again interested to do flamenco dancing. I wasn't sure if there was any classes. I did manage to find one but never ever went...over the years i kept procrastinating...however.... i managed to watch a few spanish/flamenco shows either by myself @ the QPAC or with family at the Powerhouse. The one @ the Powerhouse was a dinner and show and it was fantastic! Loved it. So powerful, sensual, just WOW!It made me want to do flamenco again.

I did eventually do dancing in 2007 (that fact that since i lived in australia i finished school, uni, work and procrastinating in dancing! hahaha) i did mad dance house hip hop classes, however i was itching to do flamenco...SO....2009 january i did my first class in flamenco absolute beginners class. So good! I can't wait to go back to flamenco after easter.

Ahora! back to language...Lani & Julie B are also doing Spanish Class. Even though i won't be heading to South America with them in June/July or wherever they are going for serveral months, i will be learning with them.
So excited and nervous at the same time! For the meantime i listen to Spanish Podcast, go online on busuu.com or studyspanish.com, a couple spanish cds, music i.e. Enrique Iglesias y Shakira and spanish books. I admit i do find it hard but hey keep practicing then i'll get the hang of it. :D I still make mistakes just the way i word things, but yes learning from mistakes.

I know mi madre knows un poco espanol, y mi amigos de facebook :D can help and of coure mi novio.

Okay hasta luego

V xx

Having a break at the Gold Coast

2009-02-26T18:11:00.006+10:00

The Gold Coast...you like it or you dont. I must say there are a few things that i am not a fan of Gold Coast, however the positives outweigh the negatives.

The atmosphere is so different than up in Brisbane and it also feels like i am someplace else.
I haven't been down the Gold Coast for a long time ahh about 8 months ago. The last time I went to the Gold Coast was with my family during the June Long weekend on Labour Day. We stayed at Blue Waters Apartment @ Labrador/Southport area. It was really lovely. We also went to the Dinner & Show @ Australian Outback near Movieworld & the other show, Ray my brother n I watched Zingara @ Jupiter's Casino. It was a nice break from Brisbane and Redcliffe, despite the weather being raining most of the time down the coast. Anyway back to my previous....

Andy & I stayed at the coast from saturday 21st feb - Tuesday 24th feb. We stayed @ Labrador in an Apartment called - Sandcastles on Broadwater. It is a really good place to stay and wasn't too bad location. Esp when he had uni to go 2 on Monday morning.

Went to the coast as the 2009 Good Vibrations music festival was held @ the Parklands, Southport. The Line up were Fat Boy Slim, The Presets, Yelle, Kid Kenobi w. MC and many more. It was such a spectacular day and night and boy oh boy it was even exciting dancing in the torrential rain while Fat Boy Slim was playin'

I was smart enough to actually wear Gumboots. My feet were not brown and dirty from the mud...BUT once it rained...my feet were saturated from the water INSIDE my boots lol. I can never win hahaha.

At the end of the festival, parts of the parkland was flooded more like knee deep and of course some people took photos of them/their friends being silly in the water while others tried to avoid it on the way to the exit (and i say Andy & I were the ones Avoiding it!)

The next day Andy, Neil, Alicia & I went for a late breakfast/ brunch @ Aqua on Marine Parade, overlooking the waters & Sea World. Very relaxing to chill out with a couple of friends and had ice cream afterwards.
Then the rest was spending time w/ Andy.

All in all i enjoyed my stay down the coast. I really didn't want to go back home because of the sun, sand, beach and the whole atmosphere of being on a 'holiday' regardless it was short-break. I am even contemplating on going down the coast again for my next annual leave break (which is may/june). Somewhere to go besides staying home like i did the last time. *sigh*

Adios

V

Random Thoughts

2009-02-12T22:35:00.004+10:00

It has been a while since i've blogged...
****intermission*****
now i feel so refreshed now. i had a nice shower..well i do need one after work..don't know what bugs i've got when i get home on me so washed it off.

i brought Stereophonics' Decade Under The Sun - The Best of Stereophonic. Its a good album. A few songs i remember - dakota, superman, i wouldn't believe your radio. I really didn't need to buy MORE cds....well there u go..impulse buy! Funny when u impulse buy, you either like it or loathe it. lucky i like what i brought.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

i am such a dork. i thought today was friday but nope its thursday. it just felt like a friday to me.

lately i've become a dvd-holic..borrowing dvd from video ezy old n new movies. i've also borrowed foreign movies obviously spanish one - amores perros, volver and vengo. more to watch even on SBS :P hrm

neway nothing else to say. just random stuff to type g'nite yo

V

Whoa Michelle Pheiffer's so young, pretty n thin in Scarface!

2009-02-01T14:41:00.004+10:00

I am sitting in front of the tv, watching Scarface starring Al Pacino. My gosh al pacino in his early years is HOT! Bahahaha. The scene when Tony Montana was being interrogated by the police his mannerism reminded me of someone :P

i like gangster/mafia movies. when i first read and watched the godfather i fell in love with it.I even did a speech in legal studies on organised crime n i got a good mark on it. well back to mafias they intrigue me what they do that is illegal et al. The Godfather and now Scarface i personally see are classic movies.

Speaking of Michelle Phieffer i didn't even realise she was in Scarface. Nowadays shes like 50+ and she's still the same person.

Yes i am finally watching Scarface the fact that a few people have quoted or talk about tony montana etc...that i decided to watch it. And yes i am liking it.

I was planning on bowling with Wendy et al then Byblos but i am just staying home chilling out. I didnt get much sleep last night prior to night shift.

Well I'm going to continue my movie.

Adios...
V

Pay Day

2009-01-28T18:30:00.005+10:00

Pay Day woot woot! That time to spend on BILLS...after work i went to Chermside Westfield and went to the 2 respective backs to withdrawal certain amount of money. Some of it is for ma as i owe her some some, a fraction went on paying some of my credit card; the other a DVD & CD from Borders and 2 notebooks from Smiggle store. Then later i went to buy myself a drink of Lipton Mango flavour Ice Tea, as i was thirsty...drinking it on the way back home....and finishing it at the moment.

Nevertheless i am trying to not spend as much because i want to put most of my money in my credit card. Its a pain in the ASS but it's got to be done.....then the spending (wisely) can resume. Asides from necessities such as petrol, food and sometimes dance and fitness.

So i brought "L'auberge espagnole" = The Spanish Apartment. My friend recommended me to watch. I looked it up on youtube.com to see a trailer and parts of the movie and i must say its my kind of movie. so i brought it.

I also brought Volume 2 of Berlitz Rapid Spanish. (seen above). Vol one good so far. Basically just err basic phrases to get you by.

Speaking of DVDs, last night i watched another world movie called "Nicotina" it was pretty good. Of course it had English Subtitles.. i still dont know Spanish well yet. HAha.
Short info of Nicotina (from the back of the DVD cover lol) :-

"Greed transforms into twisted desperations in this highy stylised crime caper set in Mexico City, about a simple exchange that goes awry, causing the lives of nine unsuspecting peopole to explode in one turmultnous night over a fortune of diamonds. When the haze finally clears, computers have been hacked, people have been whacked and lives have gone up in a cloud of smokes"

I give it 2 thumbs up! Mucho gusto!

I gave my dance of pop n locking a miss today as i am still tired from last night (staying up to late!) and i really wasn't in the mood to go. Hopefully next time i wil go.

Well i think i'm going to learn my spanish and watch a dvd that i borrowed from Video Ezy.

until then...adios

V

ADDIT: when i came home i found a package on my bed.. it was my T-Shirts i ordered from the other duck It's awesome. Here's the shirts i got:

Idioma!

2009-01-27T14:22:00.005+10:00

Right now i'm listening to a Cd called - Berlitz Rapid Spanish*. I brought it at Borders (my favourite book store & of course my favourite shop..one of)...along with other Spanish books - Spanish for Dummies and a dictionary ingles y espanol.

Okay i am no pro in spanish yet...i'm more absolute beginner in Spanish. Y u must ask am i learning myself spanish?

a certain someone speaks spanish
i've always wanted to learn spanish
travel to south america/ spain sometime and would like to converse 'un poco' in espanol

Also to get my brain working with something else. Spanish is such a beautiful language along with Italian, & French (its because they all derived frm latin..tho not too sure w/ french can't remember). I know this sounds so cliche but listening to a Spaniard or Latin American speaking is awesome.....and then when they speak in english their accent wow!
So i've been practicing on & off and gradually say a few words to madre y hermano (brother) and amiga (friend) Lani.

Learning Spanish is both hard & easy. Trying to get pronouncations right or close t right. All good..all good.

Today is my day off. I've finally decluttered my room woot woot..just need to fix the things on top of my bed then i'm done. i'm pretty happy that i have cleaned my room. its been like 3wks to actually get round to do my mess. Putting things in the right places (i.e. cds with cds, clothes with clothes, books with books)..not jumble it up. Ahhh *sighs* now it makes it feel like my minds clearer now if you get what i mean.

Right after i will continue on practicing my spanish before i head to my Flamenco Dancing @ Albion.

*there is a Volume 2 of Rapid Spanish..i yet to get hrm probably tomorrow after work. :D

until then..adios

V

Welcome to my humble blogging.......

2009-01-26T10:21:00.000+10:00

Hello my friends

Welcome to yet another blogging site for Miss Vivian to blog about her (not -so - entire) life and sharing it to all my wonderful friends (perhaps enemies)! I must say a huge thank you to Lani for inviting me into this area (through facebook). I couldn't resist to join so here i am typing away.

Happy Australia Day! its been 8 yrs since my family and i are Aussie Citizens and then in April it'd be 11 yrs since we've been here in Australia. Whoa!

I will aim to blog here & i do apologise in advance if i don't blog here due to work, social or the can't be bothered blogging. I hope you enjoy reading.

Peace out
V