This is by far the most photo-packed “Looking back” post. Continue at your bandwidth’s risk.

1st August 2011, Monday

Kath said to me (while she was closing our front door), “Come and have a look!”
Have you ever seen such a contraption? I don’t even know what it’s called – basically it goes around the tree, opens up like an upside down umbrella and shakes the trees of its dry leaves. Save some time raking them at the side of the street. But hey! Never seen them in operation before. This is a first.

3rd August 2011, Wednesday

Honey haul from Arataki.
Bumped into HollyD there and whose baby is still unwilling to say “Hello world!” Apparently Arataki is her daughter’s favourite place.

5th August 2011, Friday

First ACC claim.
My toe looked a bit swollen yesterday and it hurts a little when I put pressure on it. I’ve had this pain before but I never bothered checking my toes because I put the pain down to occupational hazard – being on my feet for too long in closed-toe shoes. It was definitely swollen yesterday (so glad I took a photo) but of course it looked like nothing is wrong with it today when I went to see David. So I showed him the photo I took yesterday…

6th August 2011, Saturday

Jantina got me a big cookie from Westerman’s. Look at the size of that choc chip cookie!
We were talking about BK’s doughnuts for breakfast and was so disappointed when she went there and BK was closed for their renovation.

9th August 2011, Tuesday

Went for my appointment at the orthodontist today and guess what? Dual colour ligatures – oooo!

I was craving, really. The next best thing? Doughnuts from Countdown.
Not as soft, fluffy as I’d imagined them to be but hey! Beggars can’t be choosers.

13th August 2011, Saturday

Can you guess which eye is more “made-up”?

We had Samantha’s farewell dinner at Off the Track – more photos here. Next time? Don’t order any starters (that you don’t intend to share – like piggy me) because you won’t be able to finish everything.

15th August 2011, Monday

Hmmm…so what does that mean? Q6-8H?

18th August 2011, Thursday
My holiday semi-starts here, flying off to Whangarei for the wedding preparation

20th August 2011, Saturday
LiMay and Grant gets hitched today!

21st August 2011, Sunday
Now, this would be the start of my holiday…

22nd August 2011, Monday
This is surreal – I’m back in Malaysia.

Finally got to taste my 姐’s cupcakes! This is the baby hummingbirds.
She is based in Seremban, so you can place your orders through her website here.

Yes, hummingbird cupcakes.

Sprinkles make for beautiful finishing touches.

My first meal at JJKwan’s place consists of Korean instant noodles!

Sitting in the new car!

So happy to see this message! It means my microSIM has been activated and I am back online!

The downside to being back (just for the initial few days), swollen feet! Is it due to travel? Humidity? Change in weather?
*shrugs*

23rd August 2011, Tuesday
Today is my dad’s 60th birthday. I missed out on his celebration last Saturday so today I thought of taking him out for breakfast. Since it was his birthday, I let it slide when he poked fun of me in front of his friends whom we invited along (I wasn’t impressed but I wasn’t going to be angry at him…”give face”).

We went all the way to Nilai for 點心 because the birthday boy insist that Seremban has no good 點心 place…

My favourite porridge – funny how I never liked century egg and now I CRAVE for the porridge.

Your regular picks.

Those shiny mini buns are the 天下第一包 – they are nice as it’s not made out of your regular bun (it’s like those bakery “egg buns”), but as for the name…uhm, a bit of an oversell.

Fluffy egg tarts.

The 點心 was nice but honestly, I don’t think it’s that much better than MinKok – you’re talking to someone who has been deprived of any kind of 點心 in the past year!

After dinner, I got some bb cupcakes from 姐 as dad’s birthday “cake” – he seems to like the hummingbird ones.

I’m surprised that the lamp still works – after being out of action for…2002? Same bulb, too!

24th August 2011, Wednesday

客家麵 for breakfast!

經濟米粉 and 糖水 for dinner.

25th August 2011, Thursday

Thanks to Winne for helping me out even though she was busy at work!

Lunch with my 姐 at PapaRich – also got her to help out with some decorating ideas.

Nasi Lemak – ah!

26th August 2011, Friday

Hokkien noodles.
Gone were the days that a good plate of “黑麵” can only be found when we go to PJ.

I was craving for vegetables but for this to cost more than my plate of noodles (which is an all-in-one meal on its own) is silly!

Ugh! This is something I do NOT miss – traffic jams. More importantly, why is it all jammed up at this time of the night in Seremban?!

27th August 2011, Saturday

Can’t believe I’m here to squeeze with the Raya crowd.

Okay, start with a cuppa first.

The material for this plum coach is very plushy. Like the colour, too!

Meatballs anyone?

I just dropped my naked iPheR on the edge of this on the floor.
*cries!*
No cracks. Phew!

Getting to KL was still okay as I arrived before noon but it took me ONE hour to get from Nilai to Seremban. Should’ve stayed on the highway instead of going off track and take up the same time (or even more!).

Everything looks brown and they are probably bad for my throat – but I am blessed that dad made dinner for me.

Oh! Missed the parcel!

Went out for my first mamak session since I got back – 10pm meet up. That is SOOO late.

Winne’s very unique way of sitting…

Winne and FeR. Winne was sooooo kind to me to rip up the roti canai, so I could pick on the pieces.

28th August 2011, Sunday
I think I need to go shop for track pants – haven’t got any for baptism next week. Jeans would be too heavy when soaked. It was a speedy “baptism class” today lead by EstherTC.

Pleasantly surprised to find that I can get bubble tea from Jusco now!

29th August 2011, Monday

Senawang’s 老鼠粉 for breakfast – so that I can also go pick up my parcel.
Didn’t know that PosLaju has moved to a nook in Senaway so I am thankful dad took me there.

Hello Monkau#1!!! It’s been a while since I last saw you. Hope you’ve been good for JJKwan!

Seeing 姐 in action – orchestrating in her kitchen.

You know it’s bad when I voluntarily take medication. The cough is driving me nuts! Hoping the 15mg of pholcodeine would do the trick.

30th August 2011, Tuesday

Lunch at 415pm in peaceful solitude – how I miss you, Zinger burger (Malaysia)!

It doesn’t look that great but it’s pretty good – and you can’t find it in NZ!

My sore throat has progressed into a cough…this shall be known as The Cough of 2011
*dies coughing*

31st August 2011, Wednesday
Selamat Merdeka, Malaysia!!!

Excited with my 包!!!

This is the kind of 點心 that I miss – by the road, with good company of friends.

Nicole drove to Seremban to meet me, too. It was nice to catch up, despite finding out that it’s been a tough year for the both of us. I do wish you well! Thanks for making the time to come see me.

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2nd July 2011, Saturday

The girls are getting together for LiMay’s bridal shower/birthday party today – too bad I can’t be there.

3rd July 2011, Sunday
Sometimes I miss ALL my close friends at one time and get really emo when I think about the times when we hang out.
Sigh.
I need friends of my own age group/interests/hobbies/maturity/sense of humour/stage of life…it’s a little tricky finding them here.

4th July 2011, Monday
Today, I learnt a new game (well preserved board game by Judy from when Carmen was a little girl!) – very interesting play.

Hey, hey, witch way?

With beginner’s luck, I won.

No wonder she dislikes me when I take unflattering photos of her bum.

Pharmacist is back on the SOL list again. Guess they still need us in Australia!

5th July 2011, Tuesday

The blue section.
The second dress arrived yesterday and I got to try it on today. It needs to be taken in a little but definitely more comfortable than the first one. Yay! Finally got a workable dress for LiMay’s wedding. Cutting it close at 1.5 months…

6th July 2011, Wednesday

Only the cool people get excited about receiving their backordered amoxicillin suspension powders, okay???
It was out of stock for a while and being the most commonly prescribed antibiotic, it was a disaster! We were all very glad to have received this lot – else there would be a lot of dignified begging to get some from other stores.

7th July 2011, Thursday

Applied online 3.3.11 and got the approval on 7.7.11! Praise God!
I was hoping for it to get through but definitely did not expect it to be THAT quickly. Thank God for the “express lane”.

8th July 2011, Friday
Booked KUL-ADL to make my initial entry. MAS was surprisingly cheaper than Jetstar (base fare not including baggage!) – bargain!
I can even visit NN now! Yay!

10th July 2011, Sunday
I got my visa granted but the document checklist still says “required”. Heh! That’s why I gave up checking the online tracker for a while.

11th July 2011, Monday
Pet peeve: When customers say “hypo” to describe their hyper kids. It’s hyper, not hypo.

12th July 2011, Tuesday
Dreamt I went on a holiday with friends and they asked me to take a photo in front of a Korean embassy (why? I don’t know!). Suddenly dancers & crowd came in before I could snap a photo. Photo fail!

Look what we found? Kerry’s dog got loose and thankfully got to our house rather than being caught by dog pound!

Have to use fairy lights because my side/table lamp’s bulb died on me.

13th July 2011, Wednesday
I got a “just because” phone call from Chelle all the way from Penang. Aww
Initially when she texted me, I thought I was in trouble!

14th July 2011, Thursday

Where is my cheese? I paid $0.75 extra for cheese but non spotted here. Sadly, this is also not the first time, BurgerKing.

15th July 2011, Friday
I wondered if it was “one of you HAS to” or “one of you HAVE to” after watching an episode of HouseMD. It sort of sparked a little debate on FB but all good. It’s “one of you HAS to”…just in case if anyone needed to know, like how I needed to.

17th July 2011, Sunday
Evaporated milk as a substitute for fresh cream in my pasta?
NEVER AGAIN! No matter what it claims on the can of the evaporated milk.

18th July 2011, Monday
Little sparks of light under covers – static sparks! Amazing! Only see it when it’s completely dark and when I rustle my fleece blanket.
This is why science is so cool!

19th July 2011, Tueday

Does it look like I broke my foot?

20th July 2011, Wednesday

The dirty green/silver/blond is gone.
Yay!
DIY colour mousse – I’m sure you can spot the coloured area.

21st July 2011, Thursday
I have been looking at GradDipClinPharm courses and considering them again. Distance learning, bettering myself, sprucing up the CV. The thing is, I’m not that confident that I can get back into studying again. It scares me!

23rd July 2011, Saturday
I guess nobody likes to lose. The silence makes me think that I didn’t pass the mark and it bugs me to not know why I wasn’t chosen if so.
I’ve not heard back since 10th June.

24th July 2011, Sunday
Since Alex+Sam do not work in the same company as I do anymore, we have to consciously make time to catch up. They mentioned Speight’s Ale House a while ago and we finally got to try it out.

Getting cosy by the fire.

Mr and Mrs Chan – unfortunately Mrs Chan was fidgety.

Alex’s steak…I forgot what did Sam have?

Plain’s pasta – I now know that having pasta from a restaurant is possible in HB! I do miss the abundance of food/restaurants in Malaysia.

Piggy me couldn’t decide – so I got the Hunter’s ribs as well (starter size).

25th July 2011, Monday
CX smear: One is always vulnerable (emotionally and physically) when one has to drop their pants in front of their doctor.

My radical doctor said, “Who says you must have your period every month?”
Hmmm…biology classes?

Due to snow storm, all flights in & out of Christchurch are cancelled! Hopefully this won’t be happening next month! I need to be home at planned time!

Finally going to dig into my chocolate egg from Easter. Tempted to dunk it in warm milk to make hot chocolate!

26th July 2011, Tuesday
Don’t know what on earth is wrong but I just had to leave the house. Too much unexplainable drama from a 9 year old. So much screaming and baby tantrums from a kid whom you expect more maturity from. Ugh!

I went for a 20 minutes walk around the block and even before I stepped over the gate threshold, I could still hear screaming. They were STILL at home after fussing about going out for a walk! At times like these, I wish (again) I had a place of my own.

27th July 2011, Wednesday

I have onions, bacon, cabbage, carrots and pasta. Bring on fusion stir fry!

28th July 2011, Thursday

Can’t believe mom paid about USD1 for a golden kiwi. ONE. A golden kiwi.
And here we are in kiwi season.

29th July 2011, Friday
Anyone getting emails from atcencommunication? Where did they get my email? I’ve unsubscribed a few times but now there is no option to do so on those emails. It’s irritating and I do not remember EVER subscribing to those emails.

The near-dark sky.

Vasuki, FeR. Will miss her dearly!

30th July 2011, Saturday

Best home made BKT ever!! Secret ingredient is in getting this sachet of instant BKT – tastes like the real deal!

31st July 2011, Sunday

Had leftover cheesecake (NewWorld makes really good cheesecakes!) while updating blog. Loooong overdue update for my (nearly forgotten) blog.

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1st June 2011, Wednesday
Just remembered my odd dream – the diagnosis was left leg thinking/acting like it’s the right leg. Don’t ask me how that’s possible.
To “treat” that condition, I had powdered Olanzapine (schizophrenic medication) in a little box strapped around my left ankle – every time my leg acts up, I had to shake my leg to dispense the powder.
I think I’m working too hard.

2nd June 2011, Thursday
Watched Pride & Prejudice again – balls & social dancing seems fun! Love the courtship (minus the women’s total dependency on marriage for survival). Really love that era (in movies – I think I’d die living in that era but Julie says we would have servants *haha*) Gushing over Pride & Prejudice with Julie!

5th June 2011, Sunday

Mmm! Mother-made 麵粉糕 at the Choy’s place.

6th June 2011, Monday
Really frustrated. Why did I start telling the story about being a sales rep to Jantina right after talking about hair conditioner??? I can’t remember! This is terrible – I possibly have to increase my fish oil intake. I’ve actually done this while explaining/talking to a customer (thankfully at that time, I remembered my story in the end).
Imagine if I didn’t remember then…

7th June 2011, Tuesday

Wah! While walking home, saw this lurking on front door (door that we don’t use).

Surprise “care package” from NN.

8th June 2011, Wednesday

Pearls arrived today. Not too bad, right?
Got this off the internet for LiMay’s birthday. It’s our 30th this year and it would be her wedding gift as well (30th anniversary=pearl, if she chooses to wear it for her wedding, it goes very well with her dress!)

10th June 2011, Friday
Strong candidate. Lip service or really? Hmmm…
I’ve not done this in a while and it’s a little awkward trying to sell yourself in the best light possible.

11th June 2011, Saturday

So spoilt! Couldn’t make it for Ryan’s full moon party but Joanne and Kevin sent these back with David who went at lunchtime.

My first time getting 1st place playing Scramble online with other players!

14th June 2011, Tuesday

I found materials from more than 2 years ago – abandoned projects!

Pretty fabrics that were meant to be used to make reusable shopping bags.

Look! Proof. TWO years ago…

17th June 2011, Friday

Final presentation for Carmen’s birthday. That was the card I left out for her this morning.

18th June 2011, Saturday
It’s been a while since I’ve been to the movies – today I watched “Bridesmaids” with Jantina and Deidre. The part I loved most? The door gifts at the bridal shower!

It took me a few months to find my “i” stamp, I wonder how long it would be before I find my used Farmer’s gift card (I want it as a keepsake). Hmmm…

19th June 2011, Sunday
Went to an open home – I am quite keen on it. Nice, small and tidy. Literally around the block from work.
Possibly needing work: insulation, bathroom, paint.

22nd June 2011, Wednesday

My first “win” – it was a tweet asking anyone who is interested to PM with name, address and t-shirt size. Thanks to grabaseat!

27th June 2011, Monday
Last night with lower braces. It’s coming off tomorrow and after that, dental hygienist appointment to get a good clean!

28th June 2011, Tuesday
Hmmm I thought we get $0.80 off if we bring your own Starbucks tumbler. Now it’s only $0.40 & if I didn’t ask, she would’ve charged full price!

Anyway, the (lower) braces are off! Will be going back later to get the splint.

My incisors (bottoms one, especially) are sensitive to scaling so Jacqui gave me this to try. It’s (as its name states) suppose to provide rapid relief to any sensitivity – here’s hoping it works!
I had to run off at the end of my appointment (even though it’s not quite all cleaned) because I made an appointment to view the flat again – this time with Samantha, Michelle and Jantina. I wanted to get an honest opinion because I think I’ve got “flat goggles”.

It was on this day that I learned loyalty meant nothing in my current job. So many times/examples that the ones who are still here are not being appreciated.
*sigh*

Also on this day, Vodafone increased my monthly text allowance to 2500 (any NZ mobile). Too bad I’m not a teenager, I can’t even use up my allowance of 300 last time. Then again, maybe it’s just sad that I haven’t got any friends to text. Boo!

Tooth Mousse – made easier with my Essix retainers!

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1st May 2011, Sunday
My donation’s tax rebate (you get 1/3 of the total you’ve paid out, pretty good, huh?) was speedy, I think it’s been processed and approved within 2 weeks or so! Now if only I’d hear back from the justice department – it’s been more than 20 days now.

Also got sent some photos of these two cutie pies!

3rd May 2011, Tuesday
Orthodontist says braces can come off! Wowee! That was pretty quick. So much earlier than expected.

In the past 12 months, poor NZ has been hit in all ways! Now it’s a tornado?? Auckland?? Death??

4th May 2011, Wednesday
Many 3′s this year.
28th May is my 3rd year “anniversary” here in NZ, god-daughter turned 3 today and your truly is turning 30 in October! *gasp!*
Well, frankly I think my 20s were not too great…there are things that I wished never happened but those are also the things which brought me to where I am today – here’s looking forward to a better decade!

6th May 2011, Friday

I know I should but I don’t really want to because it hurt the last time.

On the up side, I received a surprise gift from Hazel! Yay!

8th May 2011, Sunday
I know I’m repeating my complaint but *sigh* the outcome still doesn’t fix my facial symmetry. Bleh. Yes, hung up about it. Big time.
I think it can only be fixed by jaw surgery. I’m vain…but not will-do-surgery vain.
Okay. I think I’ll just have to stick with good bite & a deviated lower jaw.

Found another flea! Ugh!!! It jumped away & I can’t find it! Paranoid about sleeping. I really dislike that cat.
Why me? Then again, I’ve had problems I’ve never had prior to coming to NZ – like conjunctivitis and now flea problems! Hmmmph!

9th May 2011, Monday
Time to get to work, saturate the room with flea spray and the clean up begins when I get back.

Bombed my room at 430pm. I now wait for 2 hours.
Carmen wasn’t exactly happy that I’ve decided to do it today – but she isn’t sleeping in my bedroom. She thinks sleeping in the room after bombing it is toxic and will “kill me”. I think I’ve got plenty of time to air it out and clean up after. I would be angry if I still find survivors after this round of clean up!!!

10th May 2011, Tuesday
Yes! It’s here!! Yay! Praise God! (crimical record)

I finally have all my documents for my 176 visa application.

16th May 2011, Monday

It’s a boy! Joanne and Kevin had a baby boy yesterday – I was fortunate to meet their new bub!

Peacefully sleeping while we clattered about in the hospital room.

Chloe; fascinated with the helium balloon

Tiny, tiny Ryan.

She got a little upset when Kevin went to get the car ready.

She loves her fruits!

18th May 2011, Wednesday
3°C! Brrr! Possibly debrace day tomorrow unless my orthodontist listens to my plea.

19th May 2011, Thursday
I am possibly the saddest orthodontic patient when I was told it comes off. Upper off today.

Midlines don’t meet…

Need to get to the dental hygienist to get rid of all the glue/adhesive remains.

Can’t believe my orthodontist played the “miscommunication” card. It’s okay…*sings* “You’re beautiful…”

One upside: brushing and flossing, never been easier (or rather, I forgot how easy they were without braces)

20th May 2011, Friday
My splint (retainer) & retainer case. The excitement’s in choosing the colour of case.
Too bad you only get one case.

Putting it on is like putting dentures on.

Smiling with the splint/retainer on.

If I smile REALLY widely, you can see the edges and know I have something on. Else it looks like I have nothing on. Apparently I need these instead of the Hawley retainers because I had teeth rotated, these Essix ones would be better to ensure that they don’t “turn back”.

21st May 2011, Saturday
This has never happened before – phone fully charged when I went to bed but when I woke up, only 18% left! 7 hours on standby (??)
My phone battery is doing something funny. Why is it draining off so quickly!?
[Okay, not having wifi and being in a group chat is not a good idea. That was the cause of the drain - had to work harder as 3G signal around this area is not exactly mint.]

22nd May 2011, Sunday

Had to use all my greens up!

23rd May 2011, Monday
740pm.
Showered, in jammies, in bed with book.
This is the season where I usually fall off the radar from family and friends.

25th May 2011, Wednesday
What’s with all these practitioners and their attitudes tonight???
[Later on, I found out that this particular patient does NOT qualify for the prescription subsidy. She did NOT have a 2 years' working visa. Where did the midwife get her info from??? Blergh!]

27th May 2011, Friday
Arrived in Auckland, another hour to go for next flight up to Whangarei. Made a fool out of self trying to use mPass for the first time
Bumpy ride during descend into Whangarei. Do NOT like turbulence.

THIS is how you do it…not putting your phone at the top of the machine where it says ePass.

28th May 2011, Saturday
I arrived fresh faced (off the boat *haha*) in NZ on this day, 3 years ago. I was also here in WRE last year on this day.

29th May 2011, Sunday

The mist this morning when we got woken up by, “Good morning, girls!!!” and the sound of locks turning at the front door.

Misty sunrise.

When I got back to HB, I went to Duke Street to pick up our order of Fish+Chips – belated “celebration” of my 3rd anniversary in NZ.

Happy with my crumbed fish!

Even Lucky decided to come indoors and sit with us. Ah! It does remind me of my first day here.

30th May 2011, Monday

I am so blessed! LiMay bought me 2 bags of persimmons…when I went to work today, Julie bought me another 2 bags!
I wouldn’t be able to finish all the persimmons – photo was taken after giving a bag to Kath and after eating a few mushy ones.

Is Whatsapp free now? It’s in the top 25 free apps when I did a search.
[It was from this day that I found out it pays to check the free apps from time to time as they would sometimes have offers on paid apps to be downloaded for free - usually for 1 day or something]

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After Grant left last night, I got a text from him to ensure that LiMay wakes up early and is the first person to draw back the curtains that open up to the deck in front of their house – here I was thinking it’s probably a Kiwi tradition (bear in mind we Chinese have lots of odd bits and bobs, too).

Awww!
It wasn’t a Kiwi tradition – it was just that he had left some flowers out spelling “I LOVE YOU” on the deck and wants LiMay to be the first to see it.

Bridesmaids’ bouquets

LiMay’s bouquet

LiMay all done up – soooo gorgeous!
*sniff*

Here comes the bride!

Can’t believe I haven’t got a copy of this!

I didn’t know that in NZ (I’ve been told this anyway), it’s usually your bridal party that becomes your witness. I was surprised (only got told on the day of rehearsal) because in the past weddings I’ve been to in Malaysia, it was usually the fathers (or family members). Eeeek! I had two days to think about which signature I wanted to use…

…FeR with a flower? Piggy?

In the end, it was the one that I used for my resident visa application. Makes sense right? (Don’t judge my fickleness even in signatures!)

It was a small (by our Malaysian standards) but very intimate wedding – it was definitely an honour to be able to share their special day with them. I love the fact that they knew all their guests, so it was truly THEIR wedding.

I’ve been told this is mean but just look at the female figurine, don’t you think it looks like Whoopi? Okay, maybe not in photo but in real life. No kidding!

Mr and Mrs Grant Morgan! Can you say “gorgeous” when you see LiMay?
LOVE the birdcage veil. LOVE IT! Suits her dress and she looked so elegant! Classic!

I know, I can’t stop raving but it’s true! GORGEOUS!

Hey LiMay! Not bad ah, after signing the paper today, you’ve been promoted to be an official aunty!

I think the number of nephews and nieces amount to 10 or more?

After the ceremony and light refreshments, the bridal party went off for some day photography. We went to the orchard that was just down the road from their house (permission granted prior, of course) – who would have known a plain ‘ol orchard would give us such good photos? Gorgeous photography by Louise Panther!

Sze-Mien and Hoey could have gone with LiMay’s parents to explore Whangarei town a little but I’m glad they came with us. Marie and I were freezing (don’t let our smiles fool you, the wind was cold!) and they helped us with our scarves when we had to take it off to smile for the camera.

The bridal party

Vintage portrait of the bride and groom.

This collage was taken from Louise’s FB page – I like the black and white one of us girls oooh-ing at the rings.

Again, soooooooooo thankful Sze-Mien and Hoey decided to come with us and helped us!

The time after that seemed like a blur – we had some time to rest and off we went for the dinner reception. Sze-Mien, Hoey and I went to the venue earlier to see if help was needed (nope, it wasn’t. By the time we got there – and we were early – it was ALL DONE! Talk about efficient!).

So we sat about and took photos…while I was secretly freaking out about making the MOH’s speech.

I did not change into a different dress – I had to pack “light” in terms of clothes because I had to fly back to Malaysia after the wedding and I had other things to bring back. I know an extra dress doesn’t weigh that much but I haven’t got physical room in my hard-case luggage.

The bride again in her evening wear!

Grant also had a Chinese shirt on underneath his coat. Red looks good on both of them!

I can’t tell you how nervous I was about my public speech. It was worse when I had to go after the funny, insightful one by the bestman and the touching one by the brother of the bride…pressure much?

Anyway, the food was good! Too bad I didn’t take any photos of it. I started when they served us the salad, etc. Then I just got hungry (and nervous) and forgot to continue. It was also my first time sitting right at the front, at the bridal table when I’m not family. All these new things! The upside is that you get served at the bridal table and the rest had to serve themselves, banquet style.

Ah! At the end of the night, the newly wed went back to their undisclosed location (for fear of wedding night hijacking – but truthfully, I don’t think that would’ve happened. Not from LiMay’s side anyway. I just wanted to go to bed!) and we girls went home with LiMay’s family.

For my seemingly simple half-up hair style, there was a total of 39 (?) pins! I had to get Sze-Mien’s help to remove every last one. No wonder my head hurt.

We girls didn’t sleep till about 2am…

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I am sooooo grateful Lynnette let me off earlier (read: FURTHER extend my loooong leave) so that I could attend LiMay&Grant’s wedding rehearsal. I’m excited yet stressed at the same time – I know I’m not getting married but the thought of needing to give a speech in front of (mostly) strangers intimidates me.

I asked Jaime for a favour this time to send me to the airport. The price for the shuttle went up to $42/one way! My goodness. I wonder if it’s the same cost to go by taxi? I usually just pay whatever the amount, just so I would not need to trouble anyone but it’s insane! We also took the chance to have some hotcakes at McDs before we left for the airport (she was starting work at 1130am).

T-2 days: 18th August 2011

When I got dropped off, it was cold and gloomy!

Glad that it cleared up before we took off. I hate flying in bad weather.

LiMay picked me up from the airport and by the time we got back to her house, her family were already in there, arriving from Auckland. We had a quick rest and were off to the church for the rehearsal.

I am sooooooooooooo glad I got to go for the rehearsal because even with the practice, we had to go through the song 3 times (or was it 4?) to get our walk timing right. It was a slooooooow walk. Awkward! Even more awkward on Saturday!

Testing the sound system and positions.

We went to Nomad for dinner after the rehearsal and it was also to celebrate LiMay’s dad’s birthday!

I had their lamb shank – apparently it’s not on the menu everyday. It was really good!

FeR with the blushing bride-to-be.

LiMay’s dad was so cute, going, “Do you want to know what I wished for???”

“Uncle! Cannot say one! Say already won’t come true!”

Well, let’s say it’s public secret. One can easily guess what he wished for.

LiMay’s family helped her prepare these chopstick covers – I didn’t know they had to painstakingly tie the thank-you note to each of the covers themselves. I thought it was done by the supplier! Hard work! We just had to insert the chopsticks now.

T-1 day: 19th August 2011

We were all still in PJs when Grant came by and cooked us all up a big fry-up!

Yeap. Best alarm clock in the world! The smell of breakfast cooking.

Ah! My plate.

Sze-Mien and Hoey were arriving today and we girls were going to have some girly time, getting our nails done. They initially said they won’t join us but I insisted (yes, me, not the bride! *haha*) because I missed out on the get-together in Malaysia AND in Whangarei – I WANT to do some girly/relaxing stuff with my bride!

LiEan also came with us to get her nails done (it was probably hard for her to decide because she also wanted to go with the rest of the family to explore supermarkets – yes, it’s a Malaysian/Chinese thing. We are very fascinated with every country’s supermarket/grocery stores) and we (LiMay, LiEan and I) left the house earlier to walk about town (LiMay needed to get a canvas to pin her handmade craft on).

Sze-Mien and Hoey were supposed to arrive at 1pm but the bus was running a little late and we decided they should grab something during their tea break stops, while we grab ourselves something to eat in town before our mani-pedi appointment at 2pm.

We went to Esquires for coffee, hot choc and small meals.

Uhm…I can’t remember what it’s called. A bacon/potato patty?

The Yap sisters.

FeR, LiMay

I got a text from Sze-Mien while we were on the way to pick them up:

Rite, we r here dy!

2 seconds later, another bleep from my phone:

K waiting inside d northland coach n travel centre. Sejuk..

We squealed for a bit when we arrived the centre but had to keep it short because it was a proper parking space right outside the centre. We had about 30minutes to kill and decided to see if we could go for our appointment earlier.

Sze-Mien, Hoey, LiEan, LiMay

I forgot what was the place called (yes, there is a lot of forgetting here but in my defence, LiMay made the appointment and brought us there) and the package includes complimentary drinks (read: wine – this would make most of my colleagues happy but we are a bunch of Chinese girls who didn’t think drinking at noon would be appropriate, so we settled with coffee/hot chocolate/juices *heh heh*)

For the bride, she got a special room for herself – can’t help but think torture chamber!

LiEan with a gorgeous smile.

Beautiful Hoey.
I can’t believe my eyes when I saw her! She’s all grown up looking now!

We were left last…well, I was left last.

I was tempted to ask, “Uhm, did you forget that there was one more? Me?”

Sze-Mien: I think you can do better than to get that colour lor…
Hoey: Ohhhh… (no, you didn’t just say that!)

No, that wasn’t the conversation.

Positively glowing.
Then again, I don’t know if she requested for a glass of bubbly while in her special room.

My feet looking nice and moisturised for once…

For the Chinese/Malaysian, the happening “room” would always be the kitchen. So happen for LiMay&Grant’s place, the kitchen is also connected to the dining and living. Win-win!

Felt so out of place and awkward that we have not done anything the entire day but relax – and here LiMay’s family fussing over dinner. LiMay’s mom just said, “Nah! Don’t worry about it – just sit down and have your coffee, they will kau tim it.”

Sze-Mien said that’s her philosophy has always been – stay out of the way (since she is not good at cooking so there is no point fussing with them in the kitchen, just stay away and perhaps put her good skills into use when needed – washing up. She said she knows she’s good in that)

Roasted chicken, pasta and sausages.
Thanks, guys!

Of course, it’s not complete for us not to have these 湯圓, especially on the eve of LiMay getting married.

I was excited to catch up with Sze-Mien and Hoey – so we spent our night after dinner in the room chatting and packing (for some)…we didn’t get to sleep until late-ish. As you do, when you have a “sleep over” with friends you’ve not seen in a while.

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1st April 2011, Friday
First day of the month and I got a quote for my watch repair – $130. Apparently the fall broke the coil in my watch…*sigh*

3rd April 2011, Sunday
The clocks are turned back an hour! Yay! Another hour for sleep and well timed because I only got home after 12am.

I took my first threadworm tablet as an adult. I THINK I grind my teeth at night and I’ve been easily irritated…so I thought I’d give it a shot.

My blue streak has turned dirty green and I can see how much my hair has grown since November (about 4-5 inches?). I must go get myself a DIY home colour kit. I thought perhaps I could colour it again but at $70 for that one strip of hair, can you say “overpriced”? Especially when a box from the supermarket costs less than $15 (and I probably could get 5 applications for my streak from that box)

4th April 2011, Monday
I usually (double) check that our Medico deliveries are sorted when I get in on Mondays but somehow the excitement of getting my medicals done within a day made me forget.

So we get a phone call in the evening (when our driver has clocked out), getting told that we are very unprofessional and our slip-up is unacceptable (yes, we are human, we are NOT to make mistakes…EVER). This was coming from the patient’s brother, who apparently works with the DHB/hospital in Wellington and he has a good mind to raise a complaint when he goes back to work.
I apologised and offered to personally deliver the pack after work. I apologised even though it wasn’t my fault because her account was overdue and has reached the credit limit. After all that, he was still harping on how unprofessional we were and asking if we would be responsible if anything happens to her if she didn’t have her pills in the morning. I held my tongue but I was *this* close to saying, “She won’t die. It’s just some paracetamol and low dose of BP medication. Plus, our driver does his deliveries by 10am, she would still be able to take her morning dose.” In the end, I told him that I am doing my best to rectify the situation and if he would just hang up (I had scripts to check and patients waiting in the pharmacy, 15 minutes before closing time), I may get out at 8pm sharp to go delivery the pack.
When we (Jantina graciously offered to go with me because he didn’t sound like a reasonable man) got there, the patient herself was apologetic but the brother was grim. The son who was in the background HAD to add in his two cents when his uncle said anything. What a coward, hiding behind his mom and piping in when his uncle said anything. Pfft.
The brother asked for a receipt and we told him we have to send it with the driver tomorrow (yes, hang on a moment, I’ll go get the cash register from the back of my car and get you that receipt). Unsatisfied, he asked me to write down my name, date and time I took the $30 from him. Yes, I will flee the country with $30.
[The crazy part is, when they came in the next day, the brother was very pleasant and friendly...I'm glad Jantina went with me else everyone would think I'm a drama queen. "What on earth are you talking about FeR? He is such a pleasant man." ]

7th April 2011, Thursday
The vaccinator training pack arrived today – 3 weeks till training! Time to start cracking.
A software update fixed the birthday glitch that happens with NZ timezone (don’t know why but there was definitely a glitch because when I switched it to another timezone, it works perfectly well!) Yay! I can finally make full use of the contact/birthday option. *geek!*

8th April 2011, Friday
Weird dream! I dreamt that I was transported to a weird place/world…but I managed to get home in time because I had a footie tryout (I don’t play or even watch football/soccer!!). And in that dream, I didn’t even get to play on the field at all (I remember that my uniform was light blue in colour) but I was told that I was good and was asked if I would like to join their team…urm…over confidence, much?

11th April 2011, Monday
Did a quick tax calculation and found out that I won’t get any tax back this year!

Found out that all those extra hours last year bumped my tax bracket up! If I knew better, I would have just took those time off and relaxed. Oh well.

12th April 2011, Tuesday
Level 3 first aid training in Napier – after tonight’s training, I’m having second thoughts about getting accredited for the influenza vaccine. So scary if we EVER get a patient with adverse reactions/anaphylactic reaction! We’re talking adrenaline jabs and oxygen tanks.

Today is also one of those days that I sit and admire how some people seem to have so much time to do so much (and are so good at it)…and get a little depressed at my own limitations. A big part of “not doing much” is because of my own laziness (yes, I admit) but even when I do put my time into it, I would only be good. Not a “wow!” or it’s not something people would see and think, “Yup, that’s FeR.” Do you ever feel like that?
I mean, I know I can do some things well, but it’s not my “selling point” or it’s not a “thing” that people go to (e.g. Need a singer? Sandra is your woman! Need a photographer? Lance is the man! You get my point?)
To think today’s thoughts stemmed from the first aid training. It made me think, “Wow, I’m moving forward in my profession but do I REALLY want to be a pharmacist?” It’s always a job to me but I’ve been thinking of extending it further…but have I got what it takes? Even as a pharmacist, I won’t recommend myself to be the go-to person if you need one. I still have to look things up and I feel like I lack in so many areas.
One of those days…

14th April 2011, Thursday
Hung out with Joanne and Chloe while Kevin is away.

15th April 2011, Friday
Happy Friday with a surprise parcel from mom!

16th April 2011, Saturday
Any new found enthusiasm to pick up the guitar thwarted by a cut RIGHT on the tip of my finger. Ouch!

18th April 2011, Monday
Instead of talking about how I envy others of all the things they are able to do (or how they find time to do so much!), I made a timetable to maximise my time. I even made a food/meal plan…let’s see how long this would last. I really need to reign in my time management especially when there are quite a bit to do in terms of studying for my vaccinator training and completing the BLINK modules.

21st April 2011, Thursday
Day 4 of timetable and I think I’m doing alright…I think.
Finally broke into the Pilates DVD that I got in DECEMBER! It says beginner but I think they meant beginners who have the basic core strength already.

Another day in history – the patient that REFUSES to be served by me not only allowed me to serve her, not only did she SMILE at me…she even said, “Thanks, honey” at the end. Can you say PWNED?
It only took 3 years.
Slowly but surely I’d get all of you. You wait…*cue evil laughter*

23rd April 2011, Saturday
Did some baking…and JUST found out there is a workbook to complete before our 4 hours’ training next week! I’m just glad I re-read the instructions today instead of next week…

24th April 2011, Sunday
Had a dream that I lost 2 of my molars and 1 incisor – while braces still intact. It was very vivid and my other teeth felt loose as well. I placed those teeth in a bowl and went running for help…

25th April 2011, Monday
I left my workbook at work! How silly is that??? I asked Lynnette if it was okay to go back to get it – else I’d lose another day of study.

27th April 2011, Wednesday
I guessed that I was forgotten in the head count and there is no place for me. I will have to drive to Dannevirke tomorrow (with storm warning – great!). I expected it but it still hurts to be forgotten. Thanks, mister.

28th April 2011, Thursday
Samantha came with me in my little car to Dannevirke. We got there just in time despite the weather. The immune system video was awesome! If only all our lectures were done that way, I think I would have a better (and permanent) understanding of human physiology.
In other news – the white iPhone 4 is launched in NZ today. Whaaaa…? It’s okay, I still love iPheR, no regrets there.

29th April 2011, Friday
Gina sent out invitations to watch the royal wedding together at her house – dainty plates of food requested, so I made mini cupcakes/muffins.

Dainty teacups for the ladies.

We started watching at 7pm! Can’t believe we sat through all the miscellaneous commentaries.

Buddy is a big boy now! Even then, he is pooped.

I had to work at 8am but couldn’t resist watching the whole thing! I only left Gina’s place at 1am!!! Madness

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2nd February 2011, Wednesday
Glad to have Alex+Sam back…the first time we got together for dinner was also on CNY eve in 2009 when they just got to HawkesBay. We went after work to ThaiSilk on OmahuRoad.

The newly weds back from their wedding and short trip in Malaysia.

Sam and FeR

Appetisers

It’s only 3 dishes but we finished it…with a bit of a struggle. Possible coconut milk overdose!

3rd February 2011, Thursday
People have certain habits that sort of hold them back – if I were to name mine, it has to be sleep. Sleep trumps productivity in my books.
We see a lot of people getting prescription medication to help sleep – I need some that makes me NOT want to sleep.

Went to CC’s place to have a look at their quail chicks. Awww!

4th February 2011, Friday
Too ambitious and greedy – don’t think the 齋菜 came out nice. 唔夠味呀! But I guess it’s better than having nothing, I suppose.

5th February 2011, Saturday
New favourite game. Well, a new way to play it (especially if I don’t have kaki‘s)

6th February 2011, Sunday
Will start eating healthy/losing weight according to resolution (5kg for the year) after CNY (yeah, right!)

Steamboat tonight! In crazy hot weather! We’re having it at Alex+Sam’s place with the airconditioning on.

8th February 2011, Tuesday
My CNY ligatures – red and gold (although the gold just looks like yellow).

My bite is settling in, although midlines are still off.

Top arch.

Bottom arch.

9th February 2011, Wednesday
Drop Dead Diva is quite good! Can’t wait to watch more of it!
Jane somehow reminds me of Lav, I don’t know why. Even when I look at how she places/uses her fingers. *shrugs*

12th February 2011, Saturday
Excellent catch up with JoFo! 1.5 hours yo!
I really think iPheR is my best investment and Viber is great (most of the time) for free calls.

14th February 2011, Monday
Got a special delivery today…my work visa has been approved and I’ve got my passport back! Finally!

15th February 2011, Tuesday
The itch from mozzy bites are killing me! So itchy! And I can count 12 of them on my right leg!!!
(Turned out later to be flea bites!)

16th February 2011, Wednesday
I got a letter to say that my resident visa application has been approved! Praise God!
That was super speedy, especially when I was told (and told again when I rang immigration) that it may take up to 16 weeks to get my case officer (I got mine within 3 weeks!) and it normally takes 9-12 months (they received my application on 21st December 2010 and started the process on the 23rd of December, so it took them less than 2 months) to process an application. That’s why I had to go re-apply for my work visa.

And what I have thought has happened – applying for the work visa in vain and wasting $230 because my previous work visa doesn’t expire until April 2011. I tried ringing to explain my situation, to see if there is ANY possibility of getting a refund or some money back (I only got my passport back for my work visa 2 days ago!). I was told that my previous visa would have been cancelled when they approved the new one, so technically I needed that work visa for 2 days (else I would have been illegally working/living in NZ). 2 days! I don’t earn that much in 2 days to cover the visa expenses…but oh well. Nevertheless I am still really thankful I got my resident visa this quickly.
I suppose it’s better to be safe and have that work visa application sent out anyway – just in case if it did take 9-12 months to get my resident visa. Hopefully their timeline would be consistent for people applying for the residence-from-work visa because then LiMay would be able to make use of my timeline and depend on it (else she would be in the same predicament as I have been – to reapply for the work visa while waiting or not).

17th February 2011, Thursday
It’s a flea! I saw it but jumped out of sight! I feel so paranoid to sit on my bed, let alone sleep in it. The bites are really bad. I have calamine over them to soothe the itching (not really working)

Hah! I found the flea! Semi dead flea (I squished it for good measure after I took photo) that jumped out of sight – the spray works!

Look at the photos below to see how vicious that one flea was! I am guessing (and hoping) it was only one because I only found one.

I went to Jee’s house with Alex+Sam for some sort of a CNY dinner – it was very scrumptious! We were spoilt with roast pork and belacan kangkung! I was also given good ‘ol Mopiko for my flea bites.

18th February 2011, Friday
As far as I remember, as an adult – my first promethazine tablet. The itch is driving me mad!

19th February 2011, Saturday
I’m feeling so tired. I thought the sedating antihistamine yesterday would help me sleep better through the itch but instead, it caused me restlessness!!! I had to be an atypical case.

Went to see Corinna next door and she gave me some prednisone and cortisone cream for my allergic reaction to the flea bites. Here’s hoping it works! Look at how red and “bruisy” the bites have become…

22nd February 2011, Tuesday
Used the Dominos pizza app for the first time today! Geek!

24th February 2011, Thursday
Hmm! Failed to get $1 diamond pendant as a present after queuing outside MichaelHill. My first time doing something like this (for a cheapie!). Jaime and I queued together but she really wanted the pendant for herself (there was only one left – only 3 out for the $1 sale and the two ladies before us got one each), so I told her to go ahead first.

Not bad for $1, ya? Original tag was $700++.

My consolation price – pancakes and hashbrown.

25th February 2011, Friday
Alex’s last shift before he leaves for his new pharmacy job, so I went to meet them at KFC by Dunks to have dinner. On the way out, saw a dead cat in the middle of the road. I thought it was just sitting in the middle of the road but as I came nearer and it did not budge, I pulled over and took a look at it. I did the only thing I knew, walked back to the house and asked Carmen what to do.
She asked, “What colour was it?” but I told her it definitely wasn’t Gypsy or Lucky. She was so brave and picked the cat up (she said it was still warm, so someone JUST hit it) …then she found the owner (she climbed over their gate and knocked on the door), who lives just 4 doors down our street. The poor lady cried.

Then…I’ve never got a breathalyser test before but I got stopped TWICE tonight – within a hour! To and fro KFC for dinner. So silly! The second time made me a little worried because it took longer for the little machine to beep and I only had MountainDew at KFC, okay!
Carmen found it so funny that I got stopped twice and commended me when I said I had to refrain from taking a photo (first time mah!)…else she would have to come pick me up from the station. Not because I had a DUI charge, but under an “obstruction of peace” charge.

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1st January 2011, Saturday
Just got awesome news from LiMay today! When I first saw her message, it came up as a preview on my home screen with her written message only, which was something in the lines of, “Guess what? Happy new year!”

I only saw the photo when I went into my inbox (the message only came through at 5 something am when she actually sent it out late last night – telco congestion, perhaps).

It’s just another day but can’t seem to shake off the newness and excitement of it being 1-1-11. My first patient of the day was our daily dispensing pick-up and it was relatively quiet…until 10 minutes before we were due to close, it turned into a madhouse next door. First day of the year and we’re out an hour later after closing time.

2nd January 2011, Sunday
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms – left phone at home and didn’t find out until I got into work. Feeling jittery.

Sunset as I approach Taupo.

Sunset from our accommodation – TheReef

3rd January 2011, Monday
Orakei Korako thermal park. Hot!!!

More about my meet up with the newly engaged here

4th January 2011, Tuesday
More stories on our day 2 here.

5th January 2011, Wednesday
Definitely got sun burnt on scalp – patches of red on left side and non on right side.

The burnt parting…

Other areas

6th January 2011, Thursday
Excellent day to be out and we went out. Carmen and I went to Ocean beach.

Got the insulated tumbler from Starbucks before going into work in Napier.

Sunset on the way home from Napier after work. It’s been a good day.
Praise God!

7th January 2011, Friday
Gypsy looking like roadkill on the porch – it’s a hot day for us here.

9th January 2011, Sunday
Take home message from church today:
“Humility is strength under control; not a sign or indication of weakness.”

11th January 2011, Tuesday
It is really frustrating having to go through all this work (and cost!) of trying to remain here legally. Yesterday I rang immigration at 1030am and requested the call back. Even after more than 9 hours (I’m sure I keyed in right number), I did not get a call back.
Actually, I have my documents at the ready, it’s just that it’s rather tedious especially when they can’t tell me how long it would take to process my resident visa application. I have a feeling it would be really ironic – when I do submit my work visa application, I would get my resident visa. That would just be a waste of time and money. At the same time, I wouldn’t want to be caught out not having legal rights to work/live in NZ if I don’t reapply for a work visa and my resident visa doesn’t get approved in time.

12th January 2011, Wednesday
Feels like as if for every Wednesday, without fail, we do not get to go home in time at 8pm.

After complaining about the hold back at work, finally left the building at this and everything was forgotten. God is really good, even when I’m bratty and complain about circumstances. I also received my receipt for my professional fees today – with that claim, I can pay for visa fee!

13th January 2011, Thursday
Don’t get me wrong, I am grateful. Thankful! Thank God for the amazing speed but it’s just typical, huh? The day after I sent out my work visa renewal documents, I got an email saying I’ve been assigned a case officer for my resident application. And I assume that they have also received my work visa application because $230 has been deducted from my bank account.

14th January 2011, Friday
My scalp has started to flake today (from the sunburn) and we’re talking about mega sized dandruff-resembling flakes!!! Ewww.

16th January 2011, Sunday
I suddenly had hang ups about friends. Other people go through BGR hang ups, I go through friendship hang ups…but you know what? I should invest my time and energy on the many others who cares enough to keep in touch, rather than have thinking about those who don’t give two hoots.

17th January 2011, Monday
Used all 7 (well, 6 and a blank one) tiles in my Word game with random opponent. “Liberty” for 71 points.

A little overwhelmed while choosing birthday cards – 30th! We are approaching another decade my fellow comrades from class of ’98!

18th January 2011, Tuesday
First time cooking century egg and I threw it into a slow cooker pot with rice, salted egg and minced pork yesterday night. Lesson learnt: do NOT put century egg or salted egg into slow cooker overnight. They’ve completely dissolved. What a waste of eggs…

19th January 2011, Wednesday
I’ve suddenly been sent so many random emails. They started exactly a week ago with the first email dated 12th January 2011. I didn’t sign up for my contact to be mongered – who gave my “work” email out? Why am I still getting emails after going through their links to be removed from the mailing list? Who is associated with ATCEN communications????!!

20th January 2011, Thursday
At hairdressers again to fix up my blue (which is now dirty teal/green) strip of hair. Gotta love pay day…but $75 for my colour touch-up and trim? This would be the second and the last time I would do this before I get a box of dark brown dye to DIY. It’s too expensive to maintain this one streak.

I’ve got to admit that the blue is pretty cool, though.

25th January 2011, Tuesday
Busy, no-overlap-of-pharmacist day. I’m surviving on one banana, one cup of coffee, one plum and one glass of water since 8am. I am famished! But no break till home time in one hour. Life is tough as a sole charge pharmacist.

Look what I found at Whitcoulls! Can’t believe I missed them (tinyyyy section duh!) last week.

27th January 2011, Thursday
Got a letter from HB DHB and my heart palpitated a little, not knowing what news it brings. Turns out, it was just a cc from the specialist (old news). Phew!

Made pineapple jam in preparation for pineapple tarts. Turned out I had the house to myself and I thought I could do some night baking…but I think not. I am tired from making the jam.

28th January 2011, Friday
Boo! 404am – quake woke me up or I woke up right before the quake? I do not recall but my bed shook for a good few seconds. I dislike it when it happens and I’m home alone…

Quail eggs from CC! They have 6 quails at home and graciously shared some of the eggs with me. I love them and mom usually buys from them from the pasar malam for me.

30th January 2011, Sunday
I am so excited! Had my first video call on phone through Skype with mom. When did the update come through??? The last time I tried to show her the house (and the outside) via Skype on my phone, we could only do voice calls. Wow! Exciting! *geek*

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This is how the plane is like to Whangarei – the Beechcraft 1900D

After what seems like forever (accompanied by thoughts, “Where are you taking me???”), we arrive at their new home!

Do you know why I’ve thought about “Where are you taking me???”

Regardless, FULL service bar. I could still surf the internet!
Sad to say that I only have 2 bars when at home in Hastings.

It was from this trip that Grant became my BFF – because even after 20 minutes of driving (talking/smiling/laughing), LiMay did not notice I did not have my upper braces. Grant noticed it when we got to his office.

Nando’s!
I know, it’s not anything to shout about but now we’re even. Napier has Starbucks.

Ah! Peri-peri, come to me!

FeR, LiMay

Thanks for dinner, BFF!

The day after, they had a house-warming/engagement party in the man cave. It was kind of awkward (for me, don’t know about LiMay) that while we were lazing about having breakfast, the men were outside working hard.

Some finger food that we are to be guinea pigs of – if it fares well, it gets into the wedding plan.
We nearly ran away with someone else’s order…

Slab cake!!!
Honestly, best cakes ever! If you ever need a cake for parties, be sure to get them. Cheap and cheerful (and yummy!).

Thawing the mini’s.

28th May 2011 – 3rd year in New Zealand! I was initially told no Fish+Chips but in the end we got them. I’m a sucker for (personal) tradition.

Took the opportunity to take a photo of me “working”.

Uhm, my guess is I’m not hired?

I didn’t get to snap any photos of the BBQ (it was so cold!) but I managed to snap the dessert table. They love their sweets!

$2.50/1.5kg of persimmons. Next best thing to free persimmons!

My fancy lunch (I really didn’t feel like having bread).

Lady of the house in her own kitchen.

Nom nom nom.

Yes, please use my camera.

One last snapshot before I go to the airport.

The next time I’ll be here is when they get married! Not too long now.

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