Back safely!

Just as an ending to this blog, I have arrived safely back home and been fighting off jetlag and unpacking..very tedious. Till now, I still can't imagine how much stuff I had brought home with me that I had to ship my small luggage (19kg) back home..so some stuff will only arrive next week. Had to repack my stuff at the airport to make sure the big luggage is less than 32kg and if combined with 大陆 bag is less than 35kg. Showing Uni letter stating my course ended and flying back can help increase allowance by 5kg. So anyway handcarried some foodstuff else nothing to give people when I'm back. On the flight watched a few Mandarin and 1 Jap movie...couldn't really sleep and I finally tried Singapore Sling! Quite nice...and potent..hahaa..knocked out for a while after that..

Went to Blk 85 market for my local food dinner...the food on SQ flight was not appetising, surprisingly! Maybe cos I didn't sleep well the night before too and the long cab ride...and was panicky unpacking my luggage and rushing to make sure I get to the boarding gate on time.

Oh, for the record, L wasn't at home to bid me farewell..only said bye via C's hp. Whatever...I wasn't expecting a grand farewell anyway.

So shall try and meet my friends up soon...

ta da!

All packed and ready to go..my backpack is so fat..hahah..maybe I shld tie a grocery bag to my haversack to put my snacks..hahaha! See u all in SG!!!

Said my goodbyes and got hugs frm ppl at church..L not in now as im typing but she will prob be back before I leave. Today is quite a warm day but I will still wear my jacket..either ard my neck or on me..hahah

2nd last day in B'ham

Whoa...finally more or less packed. My goodness. Anyway, listened to my mum and opened the bag I got from Dublin airport (like 大陆 bag) to put some stuff so can check in if my big luggage doesn't exceed 30kg. Just going to use strings to tie the zip to the handle cos only have one zip. All along I was bent on just checking in DBS bag and was afraid will exceed weight limit if I put together with big luggage. I could've used my Cath Kidston bag to check in cos it's quite bulky when folded but I scared dirty it lor..scarli kena oil stain that cannot be removed then vv sayang. And I listened to mum and yi who suggested I roll up my clothes to save space..I thought rolling will take up some space but what I did was roll and put them into vacuum bag and then suck up all the air! So managed to get most into the big luggage..then put some in the 大陆 bag to buffer and put the boxed chocs in there too, surrounded by clothes. Added Mr Pig in there as well cos can't go into my dbs bag. Managed to stuff my crocs into DBS bag too after wearing it today. So tomorrow just left my pyjamas top to add to the "dirty" clothes bag in 大陆 bag and I am ready to go! Will wear my PJ pants (track pants) in the plane as what yi suggested last time..more comfy than jeans.

Managed to video call with my niece today cos my parents rendered their babysitting service..hahahaa! She ah...hyperactive la. Oh, and I called mah mah too..just to tell her I'm gg back on Mon..seems that she knows already..then probably will call ah ma tmr..since I still have credits on my hp. Plan to leave some money there in case la..I can't call just before I board the plane cos it'll be like 3+am in SG!

Met M and Ch for lunch today..M drove to my place and passed them a whole bag of my clothes and random stuff to donate..and L and C's. Then we walked to the nearby pub. I had steak and chips..and I had a great deal cos I saw online there was an offer for £4.99 with drink but nowhere on their menu had it...so I asked and they did have!! Was so happy. But I didn't take pic of it. Had it with white wine! Tried steamed treacle pudding for the first time today...not bad..quite sweet but nice.

Steamed treacle pudding

Taken by an elderly customer cos the waiter wasn't free to take!

 After lunch walked home and took the stack of notes and paper/cardboards to the recycling bins near the pub..but end up the bins were sooo full! So just left them on top...and realised they are glass bottles only and papers only. No plastic. After that took bus to Halesowen ASDA. My mission was to find and buy caramel waffles..and was thrilled when it had and it was on reduced to clear though the best before is next year! But then end up I paid more cos the stupid self-service machine had some problems. But never mind!! Got a packet of scones too but they're not the freshly made ones from the bakery...hope it's nice. Too bad I can't buy my mum's fave fruit loaf cos bulky..no space to put..if I buy sure become squashed!

Came home and continued packing stuff into my DBS bag..and L asked how I was going when she came back from work..my room door was closed..and I showed her saying it's a war zone..hahaha! Then she asked if it helps me to send me to the airport..and I told her I'm flying off from London. Then she said she didn't realise. HAHAH! V funny la...anyway, told her I left some stuff like soaps and hangers around.

Finished up my leftover frozen yoghurt as "dinner" cos I wasn't hungry..so tomorrow I'll have my leftover fried rice from yesterday before I leave for airport..then L can have the leftover frozen stuff in the freezer - not a lot also..haha!

I'm putting facial mask now as I'm typing..Hahaha..this is one of the ones that R left behind..keep so long rite? Hehehe..Just pray hard the staff at the check in counter is nice and allows my big luggage and 大陆 bag to be checked in. Have brought my uni letter in case to try if it really works as what my friends say! Anyway I'm prepared to pay for excess baggage la..bo bian rite...oh well. *Praying*

This shall be the last time I'm blogging here in B'ham! Or maybe I can blog after I am back from church tomorrow.

ARGHS! Wish I have a magic wand!

I'm soooo tired. Gosh...Was trying to fit one lot of my clothes into my big luggage..then the vacuum bag didn't work!! Air still leaked out..so used the traditional one instead. Then heng my big luggage can expand..so expanded it else scared zip will burst. Ahhhh!! I don't know how to pack! Wish my parents are here to help or I have a magic wand!!! I still have a bag of boxed foodstuff to get packed into my handcarry dbs bag and there's still some clothes hanging in the attic to dry..I really don't know how. It'll all fit if I open another bag..but if I do then I'll exceed the number of bags allowed on board. Have been praying for wisdom to pack my stuff. I'm already donating quite a lot of my clothes and boots, even my woollen PJs that I like a lot...My consolation is others who need it more than me will get to wear them.

Earlier on went to town's Primark to buy a tank top...decided to replace my current one. And as I was queuing up, I saw them selling a new design of luggage tag!! Was v happy but bought just 3. Went to the bank to close my account cos appt was at 2pm. I queued up to ask if I should just want for the staff in the room to call me (there's another customer in there). Then when it was finally my turn to see the officer in the room, the officer told me I've to queue to withdraw all my money out before she can close the account. Wah biang...she could've said so earlier so I can queue rite?! V funny system...then when I finally got all my money out, I went back to the room and the officer checked and said there's still £5 so she can't close the account..then I recalled maybe cos I used it at Primark just now. But heng I can sign a form to say I authorise the staff to close my account on Mon. So that was all lor. Went to ASDA for a while after to see if they have scones and caramel waffles (stroopwafels) but only had cherry scones. Now looking at my luggage, I also don't think I can buy them....how sad!!!

Cooked fried rice today as planned. Kept a smaller portion for tomorrow if I'm hungry. I think I might not need dinner tomorrow since I'll be going out for lunch. Else shall just keep for Sun and "donate" the left over stuff in the freezer.

Kinda forgot it's Teachers' Day today (yday for SG) and I didn't wish my ex-teachers this year..haha..maybe will do so tomorrow..if I've time!

I still put aside the papers and plastic bottles for recycling cos there's a bin near the Court Oak pub. Don't know if will have space to load into M's car tmr. Else will just come home and bring it there.

Back to Uni..for the last time this year

Watched Korean dramas this morning..then L passed me big trash bag of clothes (half filled) saying I can pass to church..then she also put some dresses and tops aside that say may fit me. Her clothes can be sold to charity shops lor..don't know if Armenians will know these are branded stuff..hahah! Anyway, then she asked to take back again cos C wanted to go through them. Whatever la..anyway now it's outside of my room door. Prob will bring into my room tmr after they say they're done with it. My room also no space to put liao lor..cos I will need some space to pack my remaining stuff.

Anyway yesterday saw that my Uni's Barber Institute of Fine Arts has a recital today for their Masters students..and so I decided to go..and I went in early cos I thought might have a queue and need tickets..but turns out only just need to go in at that time lor...so I went around Uni to take some photos and also returned the calculator manual to my admin..

Previous student undergoing assessment and her friends taking turns to snap pic with her

Taken on 30 Sept 2013

Taken today

Student Guild

St Francis Hall - where church services (or any multifaith events) are held

Then went to Aldi to buy fresh figs cos they're on offer and I haven't tried fresh ones before!

Then wanted to buy some bfast for Sat and Sun but didn't see any cheesecake at Sainsburys..then thought maybe tmr I can go to the Cafe along High St before my bank appt..shall see how. As for bfast, I'll probably eat up my choc oaties. Was deciding which day to go ASDA too..cos was counting the best before date. Hope the nearby one has fruit scones. Else might go have to go to the further one. Maybe tmr late morning can go down Primark in town. I think I wanna buy a white camisole to replace my current one I bought from Korea which kinda not white now. Had no intention to go Primark again..haha..

Did my laundry and today quite "warm"..so probably the clothes can be fully dry tmr then I can pack them in. Planning to wash my dark coloured clothes tmr. Anyway cooked my leftover braised chicken thigh and added a breast meat and ate rice tonight. Cooked all the basmati rice..so tomorrow maybe can fry rice with my leftover pork chop and maybe can add my last two pieces of bak kwa. Then I'll be only left with one chicken leg (which I think even if I can't finish, I can leave for L to cook for Poppy), 3 pork ribs and 1 bratwurst and 1 box of chicken stock. Not bad!

Oh, I've started to fill up my diary for work stuff liao *gasp* Ya, I'm only going back to work officially in about 1.5weeks but have been told of tasks and appts liao.

Back from Dublin!

Blessed Birthday, mum!!!!!!!!!

I'm back from Dublin! Was v blessed with good weather (not rainy) and nice place to stay, convenient to get to the city and planes that left on time. When going to the airport on Mon, I left my house earlier and managed to catch the earlier train to the airport cos that train was delayed. Which meant that I could have been late for the airport if I had caught the train that I had planned to. So God is good!! And it turned out well that S and I met up P on the first day..with our bags..haha..else we would have to drop our bags and head out again. VVV happy for P...she also showed us her U/S cos she just went for her Dr's appt.

V fascinated and excited by the Giant's Causeway tour!! It was really worth the trip! And I managed to drink my Irish coffee during that trip too!! It was really really good..haha..vv strong whiskey taste..hahaa! Then today though we didn't get to eat breakfast, we were lucky to get free entry to Dublin castle! And I had my hot chocolate from Butlers at the airport.

Once I touched down, walked fairly quickly to get the airlink to train station and managed to catch the 6.35pm train to get into town. Then also walked fast to the bus stop and caught the bus to the fish and chips shop. Bought my fish and chips and walked home. The fish and chips was good...for a takeaway shop..ordered medium chips and the portion was huge! Offered L some..and greedy Poppy also wanted..she stared at me when I ate my fish and chips. Oh..and i realised how well fish and chips go well with chicken rice chilli..haha..maybe cos hv lime.

Shall upload more photos tmr. Think I'll do some laundry tmr and another lot on Fri..then I shall also pack again.

gifts!

Went to church as usual today and brought my brownies to share.

Got a pleasant surprise by M and Ch today...and she's so naughty..cos I had requested not to have fancy farewell next week and she put it to today..it was nothing fancy but they gave me gifts!! Ch said I'm not to open them till I get home to SG...and T also gave me a gift - which I didn't expect..but cos hers was in a gift bag, I could see it straightaway..it is a Christmas wreath made out of pieces of cloths...vvv unique!! And light! And Ch only allowed me to take out the unwrapped gift on the top and it was a Morris dancer mouse!!! We were just talking about Morris dancing last week cos T had to learn it and was unable to go for the sewing session on Tue..then they were explaining to me what it was. So here's the explanation and here's a video of it:

and here are the gifts:

I was THRILLED by the mouse!!! It is holding to handkerchiefs instead of sticks as they usually do. And Ch said she was actually knitting it when I went to church on Tue evening and I somemore asked what she was knitting..hahah!! Cos she was only knitting the hat, I couldn't tell ma! Really vv sweet of her! Anyway I peeked at two of the gifts..one felt like the hymn book we use and another like scarf and coasters. Really sweet of them. Managed to put them into my luggage. So I am left with some shoes (including a pair of ankle boots) and clothes to pack in and then handcarry the foodstuff. I emailed SQ to ask for extra allowance but they said they had already increased allowance to 30kg in Nov 2013. Oh well..shall just try my luck again at the counter. I doubt I will exceed. Even if I do, prob a few kg more.

No sign of them yet thought L said they'll be back ard lunchtime. I didn't believe either..but poor Poppy didn't have any food..and she had reflux or vommitted her gastric juices on the carpet! Told her to go out and she knew I was angry...but I left her some biscuits and dentistick. Talk about irresponsible pet owners....sigh..

Anyway, tomorrow will have to leave hse around 9am to get into town to catch the 9.50am train to the airport. Getting there early cos I will need to do my passport check at the counter then if it's like last time, the boarding gate was quite far from the immigration clearance so best to get there early. Will likely be meeting P tmr late afternoon! Quite excited!! After I'm back I'll need to wash my laundry (likely on Fri or maybe Thur) so hopefully can pack them on Sat. Then I've a bank appt on Fri. And bringing Ch and M for lunch on Sat at the nearby pub! And Sun, it's church service and then embark on my journey back home! Wheeeee!

Shall update my blog when I get home on Wed! Traditionally, Happy Teacher's Day in Singapore!

Rump steak and baking!

Quite tired now. Just finished packing for my Dublin trip. Earlier on weighed my luggage so far and it is about 27kg. So I think should be ok..

This morning as L told me, neighbour came to take Poppy out but he came just 10min before I was going to leave the house..so as L suggested, I passed him C's key to the house.

Met up with my group of classmates today. Everyone didn't quite believe that we were all parting! Anyway it seems most of us submitted our dissertation within the first 10! Anyway I had rump steak and also a mint choc sundae. The steak was not bad..considering the price was less than £10! The sundae was a bit of a disappointment though. I thought it was mint ice cream..but I didn't read properly lor..it was vanilla ice cream. Oh well.

Went to Aldi to get some tidbits and choc to buy home. I thought I'll get them so can pack first rather than getting them next week. After that came back to bake. Before I started baking, neighbour came to return the key. Was wondering why he didn't throw the key in or leave it on the table though Poppy was back. Hah..anyway all is good. And so I portioned out the flour and managed to increase my brownie to 1.5 times and also make one lot of biscotti! I'm vv happy la..just finished using up the flour and cocoa powder. But I forgot that I didn't have enough margarine..I could've used theirs and buy to replace but didn't want la..so headed out to buy...went to Tesco in the end cos the nearby shop sold it a little more ex..it's me..I just can't bear to buy something knowing it's cheaper elsewhere! And I regretted not buying it from Aldi earlier on. But never mind la. So came back within about 30min I think..

This time I baked the brownies with Mrs Nelson's recipe (the one I usually bake in SG) and I realised how much I missed the taste!!! I added ground almond on top and some pecans and brazil nuts from my pack of mixed nuts and boxed choc shavings from Germany..heh..also added instant coffee powder. All the cooking programs seem to add coffee to choc cakes cos it seems it brings out the flavour. Greedy Poppy kept hanging around the kitchen, waiting for me to give her some..she's not supposed to have cos has chocolate..but L also feeds her that..so gave her a bit and said "finished". She wanted more lor..but I ignored her. She really likes cakes and stuff. Anyway I packed 2 batches into the supermarket bakery plastic box (bringing 1 for Ai and family and another for church tmr) and another 2 into normal plastic takeaway boxes for S and P. So all will be going with me to Dublin! Then another takeaway box was the border of it and the remainder for the chef herself..hahaha! As for the biscotti, I packed into my "lock and lock" lookalike box and the remainder in a ziploc bag. I will probably give M and Ch the biscotti with the box next Sat when I meet them. Decided not to bring the box back cos quite used also.

Brownies that never fail!!!

After that decided to cook up the pork chops that I marinated this morning. I managed to use up the oyster sauce but still have the kecap manis. May ask M and Ch if they are keen. Have packed the remainder baking powder and loaf tins for them too. Now my shelf looks quite empty! Will leave some leftover seasoning for L..oh, and I am left with one egg only..bought 15 the other day cos I knew I would be baking but didn't realise I'll use up all..but good la! Anyway packed up the pork chops for tomorrow's dinner and freeze the other portion. Didn't eat today cos still full from lunch and I ate some brownies ends and biscotti. I thought I'll cook tonight so in case they are back tomorrow and wanna cook, won't need to fight over the use of the kitchen.

Anyway L called and I missed her call..was busy clearing up the kitchen and Poppy messed up her area with rice. I added some of my leftover frozen rice to her chicken..else just eat chicken like not enough lor. I left the living rm door open through the night last nite and probably tonight too..and when I'm out..so she can go out and do business whenever she likes. 

Packed some stuff to Dublin for Ai and S to see if they want...else I'll pass to M and Ch to see if church needs. Will probably have to pack when I'm back from Dublin again. I told S to stop me from buying anything if I do in Dublin..hahaha! Oh, and I got PF to be my "guardian angel" for my cab journey..just in case. So I'll text her the cab number and maybe company number and update during my journey just to make sure I reach Heathrow safely..haha!

Sarehole Mill....

Last night they were raising their voices again so don't think they will be away...and they are still here.

This morning checked my bank account and saw that there was an additional £3 for my cab fare! I emailed them to ask but cos they didn't reply very fast, I went to their website to start an online chat. The person said it's a card charge. And I told the person off that it's not reflected in the confirmation and I wasn't told or anywhere stated that there's a charge. The person claimed that the colleague had told me..but no! Anyway, the person claimed that I can get a receipt from the driver that includes the card charge too. I told the person on the online chat, if I had known, I would have chose option of cash to driver. I know it is claimable by HR but hope it is fully claimable la..tt day S told me that HR requested a letter from the bank stating the transaction fee reflected in her bank statement was from the cost of the flight ticket (cos S chose to convert and pay in S$). I just think it's not right that I wasn't informed nor was in on their website. Unless they treat mine as credit card on "phone" cos they emailed for my card details. Anyway saw their email reply and replied them to ensure that the driver has a receipt stating the total amt.

Anyway went to Sarehole Mill today..it was about an hr by bus and was a bit disappointed when I got there. Cos it was a vv small place...and cos I didn't feel like paying to go in, I had a look around it but there was nothing much!

So then took the bus to Kings Heath..it's a nice neighbourhood with shops. Got some earrings and soft toy for the baby (and myself!!) then decided to go into town since it was still early..went to see if they sell mooncakes..so only the two Chinese bakery sold..and one piece was about £4.90 for the one with salted egg yolk. Not sure how the taste will be though. I had wanted to buy for church ladies to try cos I mentioned to Mary that I'll be back in SG on that day itself. But I'll reconsider...haha

Went to look for gifts for Ai and family again. I think I v jialat la..keep looking but can't find v suitable ones..cos I was afraid they'll have to carry it back at the end of her husband's studies..ended up buying a baby toy chime for her daughter and I wanted to buy Yankee candle but don't know if she uses...then ended up buying small musical boxes from Clintons! On the bus then saw that they are made in Taiwan!! Haha..I don't know if it's too ex..but I wanted one for myself..haha..and probably another can give Ai too. Compact so can bring back SG next time too.

Came home and L was eating in the living room..so she asked if any news abt dissertation..and I said no, they won't get back to me till Oct when results shld be released. Then I 顺便 told her HR has booked my flight back and told her the plan. When I told her next Sun, she said "oh, earlier" but I thought to myself, that's the date I told her what! Then she asked why I'm taking cab to London, is it cos I've lots of stuff. I was a bit stunned. Did she think I'll take train?? No point even if I have little to carry cos have to change train from Euston to Airport.

As for meal with M and Ch, I've dated them for the day before I leave..they said they don't mind coming down cos they'll be at City Road that day also...cos quite far for them to drive from their place specially to church. Had planned to get some last min foodstuff that day if needed.

Tmr meeting my grp of classmates for lunch! Going to a pub at Selly Oak, next door to the one S and I went. It'll be our last time seeing one another as a group tmr! Preparing a gift for the UAE classmate..haah..

*Added: They left at 6+pm...and before leaving, L asked if I could put Poppy out and feed her. Can I say no? Then she ended by saying "you can't help soon". HAHA..yes, they got to find a proper dog sitter or wait till new tenant is here then go for holiday.

Aston Hall and Perry Barr

This morning checked my work email and saw that I've work lined up for me the week that I'm back!! And my team leader told me of my ward coverage and dates available for leave (cos I had mentioned in my email that I've about 7-8 days of last yr's leave to clear) and is really v fully booked. Then boss actually replied earlier saying to also check with her and my 2nd boss before I take leave cos they have plenty for me to do!! Gosh!!! So anyway was sharing with Cel on whatsapp and she reminded me like can encash a few days too if really can't take. So anyway KIV a few in Dec and on my dad's bday in Oct. See how when I get back!

Went out of the house early to submit my hard copies of dissertation. Phew! Such a relief to submit it finally. I was the first on the list! Typical SGrean hor? KS..hahaha! Also left a box of choc and a card on the admin's desk cos she'll only be back on Mon. After that took a bus to city and then changed bus to get to Aston Hall. Then the blur me ended up waiting outside the entrance cos it's only open from 12-4pm!!! Goon doo leh...I somemore went to the website sooo many times to check that they are open on a Thur..din register in my head that I was planning to reach there ard 11+am! Gosh..but anyway had a walk around the garden outside and then "hid" in the entrance area cos there's shelter..it was really windy and had passing shower too. Well, I think the Hall is really grand! But for admission fee of £3 for concession, it's not that worth to come a 2nd time. And it was quite funny..I noticed that the guides in the room don't bother to explain things to me whereas they will when the ang mohs enter the room. HAHA! But I also don't really care la..cos there're signs around with explanation. I helped an elderly couple switch off their flash in their digicam..cos the guide told them no flash photography allowed and they told him theirs can't be used then..then I offered to help figure out if they want...hah..I haven't heard of any digicam that cannot turn its flash off! Here are some photos! Full album link will be emailed out.

Aston Hall exterior

Ladybirds!! on bench

Not sure if they are mating or parent carrying baby

Main Hall

Bedroom...notice the tam pui!

Long gallery

Part of kitchen deco

Colourful garden benches

Anyway, spent about an hour there then headed to Perry Barr. But I realised I was going to the wrong place so got off and used Google Maps to find back the correct way...waited at the bus stop for about 25min for the bus that was late..and it was coldddd!!! The weather vv crazy cos just after I submitted the dissertation and waited for the bus into city and when I was in the city, I felt warm..wanted to take off my cardigan but didn't..then after that during the bus ride it became chilly. So finally got to Perry Barr. They were having some dinosaur display..only took a pic of one of them.

Aim today was to buy stuff for Ai cos I'll be staying at her place in Dublin. And ended up, I managed to get her a scarf and baby a jacket...and I got myself 2 pairs of shoes from Clarks!!!! Gosh!! Siao liao...I seriously have a weakness for shoes BUT they are comfy and have my size mah! My aunt sure calling me a catepillar when she reads this! Guess which 2 I ended up buying?

This is the design that PF bought in York!

Bought some fruit scones from ASDA as lunch/tea and they were really quite good though only 50p for 4! Maybe can buy home hor? Hahah! Anyway, I "chatted" with 2 men with hearing impairment and dumb at Clarks..cos the younger man was pointing to a shoe while the older man pointed to another and the young man gestured thumbs up to a trendy pair..then I was amused and nodded at them in agreement..then they kinda "asked" if I agreed the shoe was suitable for him, then I asked for who and the younger man pointed to himself then I pointed to the trendier design ones with thumbs up..then he pointed as if to say "see, I told u" to the older man..then the younger man pointed to the dress shoe and shook his head, seemingly to ask if it was not for him..and I also shook my head. It's all good fun! Hahaha..since they were friendly and amusing, I joined in too..it was also cos I was queuing up to pay anyway..hahaha!

Not sure if I should go to Sarehole Mill tomorrow - probably just the outside cos there's no milling on tomorrow so no point paying to go in. Maybe see how the weather is tomorrow too. Then probably bake in the afternoon...depends how things go. Dinner tonight is fish cooked by C..he was meant to cook it yday but didn't bother cos I offered them my baked rice...and he said he was too lazy to do so too.

Think I'll weigh my luggage this weekend just to check...but hopefully I can manage it alone cos usually someone needs to read the scale while I lift the luggage. C and L may be away from tmr till Sun...but even if they are in, doubt I'll ask them to help..haha!

Hard copies arrived!!!!

Was a bit worried about not receiving my hard copy dissertation this morning when the post lady came by..then I emailed the printing company and they replied immediately and showed me the tracked status. And it seems that it's by UPS courier...so at least I know it's not by Royal Mail. So finally the courier came ard 1+pm. He was so scared Poppy will bite him..hah..cos I didn't catch hold of her collar when I opened the door so she ran out and barked at the courier. Anyway, as what S told me, the package came with a free small pack of gummy! Only thing was I ordered for black wiro but it became silver. Checked and signed off the dissertation..submitted the soft copy online and will submit the hard copy ones tomorrow morning. Had emailed the colleague to check if she was around tomorrow but no reply yet. I guess if she's not there then I'll pass to anyone who's there.

After that headed out to ASDA cos I wanted to get mushrooms and KIV mozzarella...still no olive ciabatta...so just got mushrooms and mozzarella only..no fruits that I really want to have so didn't get. After that went to High St to get some snacks from Home Bargains...bought some gummies, chocolates and jaffa cakes..then I saw Redondo! And it's in Salted Caramel flavour!! Made in Indonesia though..haha..bought 1 for P (give her if I meet her in Dublin) and another for myself to try..hah...so I think I'm more or less done buying for colleagues. Next will be from Aldi..oh, I also bought a box of Thortons choc for the faculty staff in Uni.

Came home and packed them into my luggage and added my "summer clothes" into the luggage too. Quite full up already and I still have jeans and tops...

Anyway I cooked baked rice for dinner tonight...used the Jerk cooking sauce to cook the chicken breasts and mushrooms and spinach..then added the cheese on top and baked it. Offered L and C and also offered them the chicken rice chilli...and C simply loved the chilli cos it's spicy! Haha..good la..

Oh, then I told L I will be going to Dublin next Mon to Wed..and she asked how much I paid..when she heard it, she asked me to help her check hw much it costs to fly to Edinburgh. They are going this weekend. WOW! Free dogsitter service again!!!! And I think she wasn't planning to tell me till last min. Anyway they should be driving there on Fri and back on Sun. Happy cos home alone...quiet..but not happy cos need to make sure Poppy is looked after well. Have yet to tell her I'm leaving next Sun. Maybe tmr la.

Ok, my taxi booking is confirmed but now I'm requesting to pick up at 2.30pm instead cos dad said 2.30pm safer. And I walk past the fish and chips shop today on my way to the bus stop to take to ASDA. And it looks like it's not open on Sundays!! True enough, when I came back and checked my email, M had emailed me to say fish shops are not open on Sundays. I don't know if I mentioned previously but I told them I'll want to give them a treat that day. So other option is to go to nearby pub but might be a bit rushed..unless I just come back from lunch and wait for pick up (luggage all packed).

Rose harissa salmon spaghetti

Finally got my eticket from HR..so will be arriving in SG in the late afternoon of 8th Sept and also booked my cab (somehow payment didn't get through though) to pick up at 3pm...flight is at 8.40pm. It should be enough time..taxi company told me to allow for 2.5h to get there and that's if traffic is good. So I also don't know. Ok..just saw their email. They asked for my card details cos true enough, the payment didn't get through. Quite strange that I couldn't cancel my booking at the login page. Anyway have told M that I'll want to buy she and Ch a meal..and others too if they want on the day I leave. Cos I was thinking I should have some food first before setting out.

Videocalled with my niece today...aiyoh..more than half the time I was just watching my korean show lor..cos she bochup me..one moment eat ice cream and then watch tv also..ask her something also don't care...chey! Wait till I see her in person..see if she can ignore me!

Went to West Bromwich in the afternoon..main aim is to get the calendar-and-diary for my boss cos one of the branches is there and other one at New St didn't have that design. So also managed to get some snacks for colleagues. I think I better pack again tmr and see if I really won't exceed...a bit worried lor..hah..on my way back bought a Spanish melon..cos I read abt it in SG papers and it costs $5.99 at Fairprice..here I know it costs less than £2. I saw it at Lidl on Sun but didn't buy cos thought I'll be having it alone. Then today M's email in the morning said that they'll be in church and said I can go if I've nothing to do..haha..so I thought I can buy a melon and bring there to share...and so I did..heng the Halal supermart along Bearwood had cos Aldi didn't have.

Came back abt 5+pm and cooked Salmon spaghetti with the rose harissa paste...used it all up and also broccoli so my fridge shelf is v empty now..haha..thinking of what to cook tmr too..I bought a Jerk cooking sauce from Tesco cos it was only 50p - had actually taken a pasta sauce on offer to try but switched! I had wanted to make lasagne cos I wanted to try fresh mozzarella that they sell in like round balls but I'm trying to use up my stuff.

Went over to church after dinner and a bit of telly. So happen L and C also went out..think L got C to do painting at her office cos he took the can of paint along. Anyway, the melon..I think Galia melon tastes sweeter..but this melon also not bad la..At least I know it's not that worth S$5.99 la..true that it's sweet..but that price is a bit too steep la..can eat 2 bowls of bak chor mee or hokkien mee from coffee shop lor...haha!

Today was supposed to wash my sheets but I totally forgot about it till abt 11+am and decided to do it tmr instead cos I was going to go out. Maybe tmr can cook jerk chicken with chicken breast or if I can be bothered to go out, maybe get some mushrooms and mozzarella and cook baked rice instead of lasagne.

Bank holiday bfast

Went to church to help out at the Bank Holiday big bfast today...basically I was in charge of serving toasts..but it's not popular so helped out ard wherever is needed. Today J and S also helped..and I also paid for my share..and M told us we made £120!! Wonderful!! Most who came were church members from other Methodist churches. Anyway M made me bacon sandwiches and I ate a hashbrown and a sausage. I seriously dun like the sausage here..mushy kind.

After I was almost done, I checked my hp (which was in my bag in the vestry), I saw that I had 3 missed calls,1 voicemail and an sms. All from L. I guessed it right!! Anyway her sms read "sorry we late leaving could u please let poppy out and give her the other bowl of good we be bak this afternoon thxs". What a joke! Did she think I was a kid to believe they didn't plan all this??? I'm not stupid lor. If need my help just say earlier la! Last min say so I can't say no right? So anyway replied her sms saying I'm busy helping out in church now so will do it later. Good that I missed her calls and replied her much later...else she may take it for granted that I am always available to help dog sit. I know I'm not v Christian-like to think this way la..but seriously, I pay rent..and I'm expected to dog sit as a "favour"?

Ppl in church have started asking if I've started packing and some avoid saying cos they can't bear to see me go..awwww...and some said they're sure I'm looking forward to gg home..YES! Haven't seen my family (except my parents) and friends for almost a year! Anyway, I think I'll have to also pack my other clothes and see which to donate to make sure it fits my luggage. Hmm..I haven't gotten my air tix from HR yet but since she has asked the travel agent to book, it shld be done, just that HR hasn't forwarded it to me. After getting it then I'll probably book my cab to London.

Did my laundry when I came back. So tmr can just wash my sheets. Last time to wash my sheets liao. Then pulled Poppy out to do business cos she just didn't want to when I asked her to (and L will sure tell me to do that if I were to say she won't listen). Then put the food out for her (but she prob will wait for L to eat la..this morning then saw almost empty bowl..so she ate when she feels like). Defrosted my leftover ginseng soup for dinner tonight cos I'm not that hungry and it has been a rainy day so great for soups.

Oh yes, before I forget, I said wrongly abt incabin baggage allowance..it's 7kg, not 10kg. Hah..mixed up with the Jetstar and Ryanair that I took here. So hope it won't exceed la!

Haha..anyway Mum has started watching <<Jang Bo Ri is Here>> too!! She also finds it nice..and agrees that the child actors really v lihai at acting. A few of the actresses quite evil in the show lor.

Chilly Sunday

Went to church today as usual..and M told the others I'm leaving them in a fortnight's time. Oh, this morning I realised that I'll just be in time for 中秋节 if my flight is confirmed! Anyway my mum and bro showed me pic of my niece during their day out..so nice. Can't wait to see them again!

After church went to Windmill shopping centre to have a look at kids jackets but din see any particular ones. Prob will check out M&S outlet on Tue. Then went to Lidl to get some muesli for bfast. Tmr there's bank holiday big breakfast in church..all-you-can-eat for £6...so going to help out. Oh, today was pretty chilly n I wore my woollen top and high boots!! Last few chances to wear them liao. I'm also not sure what shoe to wear for Dublin..likely boots too cos temp will be similar to here.

Oh, then saw M's email reply cos I asked if she has any recommendations for places to go. She mentioned  Lichfield again..so I might go some time this week..it's about 36min by train from New St station..but don't know if I should go on Thur or Sat cos there's a food festival event on Sat and the Old Prison Cell also only opens on Sat. Checked out rail tix..same price for weekdays and weekends.

This <<Jang Bori is Here>> is really exciting!! Hope there'll be more uploads soon. I'm at episode 7 as I'm typing now.

*Added: L just called to tell me if I mind putting Poppy out, feed her and prepare her "bed" for her. She has put her food in fridge with clingwrap. I dunno why but I guessed they were staying out tonight! Maybe they really went London for that festival tt C wanted to go. But she said she will be back late. Dunno la. Whatever, cos I saw 2 portions of food in fridge..and she usually doesn't put the food like that..usually prepares when she wanna give Poppy.

R&R day...started packing

Started packing the stuff I bought as gifts and dresses I won't be wearing into my luggage today..filled about half of my luggage. So as long as I can fit all my other clothes and stuff into my luggage, I should be able to buy foodstuff as handcarry. Don't really know how to estimate but I would think I might have enough if I really can get extra baggage by showing my student letter. But shall pack as if I only have 30kg + 10kg. Managed to stuff some things into my pig hot water pouch/cushion..haha

Today C defrosted some lamb in the pot when I went down in ard lunchtime. Then I also defrosted my chicken..but I decided to cook earlier so he can use the pot after me. I can't cook after him cos they usually leave leftovers in the pot. So I started to cook ard 2+pm..then he came down and watched tv..then said he's cooking some lamb if I want to have some but I said I need to use up my ingredients (cos I bought broccoli on Wed but din cook at all lor! So anyway I transferred the braised chicken into the smaller pot to leave it to simmer and told him he can use the pot. Then he said oh..he's waiting for L to come back too..then later I realised he needed onions and L went to Morrisons after work. Then I left it there. So later just cook rice, pack up the remainder and heat up what I wanna eat tonight. I added hard boiled eggs too...and chilli (chicken rice chilli to use up). I wanted to bring to Ai's place (friend whom I'm staying with in Dublin) but cos I didn't buy check in baggage and the bottle is 180ml, I can't put into my handcarry. So I shall just use it up by myself.

Emailed M to tell her I've sent my dissertation for printing and binding, which means I've finished and can definitely help on Mon for the bfast event in church..and also offered to do up posters for the next 2 events if she already has the details. Then she replied means I'm leaving them soon..haha..and happy I can help.

Was looking online for jacket for Ai's baby as a gift..cos I'm staying at her place when I'm in Dublin, with S. So thought will be good to get her some winter wear cos Ireland tends to be colder than here. Not sure what to get for Ai and her husband too. It's been really long since I last met Ai actually..since she left..think about 5-6 years ago??? Then so funny la...only just now when I asked S if she knows if the baby wears a size bigger than the age or same..then I realised the baby is a girl...oops!! I saw the pic on whatsapp and thought is boy lor..tt day after thanking her for putting me up I somemore said her son is cute but she didn't reply. Soooo paiseh..so quickly msg her to apologise..but S said she's not tt petty la. Oh, so we have booked the Giant's Causeway day tour!! Yipee!

I shall plan what to do next week. Some ideas are Aston Hall, Sarehole Mill, Bham museum and the Barber Institute of Fine Arts (within my uni campus) within Birmingham..then looking at possible day tours out of Bham too..but likely will go for those organised coach ones cos train tix might be more ex cos it's only a few days before. Oh btw, A showed me his printed and bound copies of his dissertation via Line. He went to Uni to print and had it bound near his place today. And we'll probably have a class gathering meal or something on Fri since I guess most of us will be going to submit our dissertations.

Tmr after church prob go Smethwick cos I wanna go Lidl to buy muesli for bfast for the remaining time I'm here then maybe go ASDA and Matalan there to see kids jacket. Ch is taking the service tmr so should end early. But depends hw long we stay until to chit chat.

*Added: I ate up the braised chicken v fast...I love it!! Think too long didn't eat Chinese food liao..hah! Anyway, I chose a new korean drama to watch this afternoon titled "Still, Marry Me" but it was a bit boring..so now watching "Jang Bori is Here!" and seems quite exciting so far! Supposedly have 50 episodes and there's free streaming till episode 38 as of today. So that should occupy me a bit..haha!

Oh and L told me the jap girl will be renting the room from Oct..seems that she said wanna rent for 2.5yrs but L told her to see place first and if she likes then talk about it later on. Wonder if she knows if C is also ard.

Lovely day!!!

Just came back from dinner!

It was quite a lovely day today cos I have SENT MY DISSERTATION FOR PRINTING AND BINDING!!!!! Means I've officially finished it and ready to submit! The 2 copies should reach be by next Wed...so all in good time for my submission on Fri. Probably will ask the few of my classmates when they're submitting so maybe can have a meal tog too. Then I went down to the Barclays bank branch at Harborne to enquire about closing of account. Forgot it was long weekend so there was a queue at the bank (but not as long as in SG) but it was quite fast! So anyway the staff told me I can either close here or back home. If close after I leave, I'll have to write in to them to say I wanna close acc then state which acc I wanna TT over (with a charge). And if I close it here, and wanna withdraw money, got to give them 24h notice. So anyway she was nice and asked when I was leaving then arranged an appointment for me. Ya, here open and close acc is see advisor...macam do priority banking or investment. Haha..so I'll get to use my debit card till the Fri before I leave.

Then came back first cos it was too early to go into town (it was abt 3+pm and I was meeting S only at 6.30pm). And as I was entering the house, L said she was going out..and said she was going to Ikea and asked if I wanted anything..then I hesitated then she asked or if I wanna come along..so I said but I'm meeting my friend for dinner tonight (I had whatsapped to inform her earlier in the day cos she was out and I didnt know what time she'll be back). Then she looked at the time and said she'll be back by then or she can drop me into town too. So I followed her!! But alas, it was bank holiday weekend and a fri..so there was a bit of traffic going there...took us about 45min!! Think usually it'll take about maybe 15min by car? So anyway the Ikea vvv similar to the one back home..think they have to follow some standards. I'm not sure if the prices at Ikea SG have increased but the prices here seem to be more costly. Anyway she went there to look for storage ideas for her clinic...apparently she had changed quite a few things to make her office look nicer and she even got C to do some painting work last night..for some money, of course! hahaha! Anyway, she took soooo long and ended up only left the place at 6.15pm..but she told me it'll take me about 5min to go into town from there after she hit the motorway. And she dropped me off in town (quieter side) and managed to meet S ard 6.40pm..so not tt late..she also went Primark for shopping lor..haha..

Went to this Latin American restaurant called Las Iguanas..and I had prawns while S had Enchiladas then she kept telling me to try Sangria..and we did! After that somemore had churros and cheesecake. Super full lah!!! My prawn dish reminded me of thai curry..hahaha! Not bad la..then churros was v diff from those I had before..and S said it's quite authentic cos she has been to Barcelona, Spain.

Red and white Sangria

Sent S off on the train before taking a bus back.come to think of it, my place is quite safe even at night...if I'm back before 9pm, there's a minimart at the main road and corner where I walk in..and if I'm later, it only takes a few min to walk back.

As for my flight back. HAHA! I wanna laugh. Ok, so this morning, checked my email and saw that HR had replied (last night SG time) saying she had sent me the itinerary but will send again tomorrow morning (means this morning). So when I woke up, it was already afternoon in SG but no email..so I replied her saying "Strange that I didn't receive any other itinerary other than the Emirates one and told her to resend". Then cos my sg hp had problems connecting to wifi, I did the trick of switching the house modem on and off and it worked. So my boss had asked me (this morning in SG) if my flight has been settled but I only saw in the late afternoon (SG time) so told her...then ard 7+pm SG time, my boss alerted me to check my email. I had actually left my email open but it keeps auto log out. So anyway, I did check and she had sent the email to me and travel agent asking her to confirm flight for me and I opened the itinerary, it is an SQ flight, flying out from London Heathrow airport!!! HAHAHA! I replied my boss saying "what a joke" and she "haha..ya lor". And then in HR's email, she said "From Birmingham to London, (my name) you may arrange for cab transfer" so I asked boss if HR meant she approved of me taking cab to London and boss said yes, I've approval officially to take cab. I thought it was v funny la! Cos this option was what I suggested in the first place and boss also told me to go ahead but HR said to fly out from Bham. She must have found out that it's either too ex or too hard to book! HAHAH! So anyway she'll prob forward me the ticket on Mon. I'm glad cos at least I got confirmation that my flight has been booked and I can take cab to London and claim (I have emailed the cab company to check if they will give receipt or invoice). And the flight timing was the one I was looking at too cos then I won't be too rushed to leave here and can go for church service that morning too! Checked the airport transfer "cab" website and it says will take me about 1h 44min..so I can always leave earlier and go Heathrow airport to shop more!! I won't need to bother abt baggage limit then..hahahahaa!

So tomorrow shall start packing stuff I bought to buy home and see how much more I can buy cos I'm free next week and a few days after I'm back from Dublin for some shopping!

Can't I cook my own?

Quite relieved now..I have hit 10K words! But still need to cut the abstract by 10 words!! My mum replied me with minimal edits..phew! But I spent most of my day converting the assessment forms for individual studies to include into my thesis (my sup replied saying can add in cos it's a dissertation..so now I've more than 100 pages!!! Which means more expensive cos of printing!!!) then checking the formatting.

This morning asked L for my luggage and he said C will get it out for me..and he did..think he was supposed to do something in the shed. Gave the luggage a wipe..it's been there for so long! Ohh...just realised it's exactly 11 months today!

Anyway did a quick video call to my cousin and also aunt. Great that the ward has free wifi..but skype was rather lagging! Good to know that SQ is coping ok! Hope he is discharged by the time I return! Then my aunt keep asking me to go back on weekend so ppl can fetch..haha..I said my dad fetch can liao lor..else take cab la..think can claim. Thought something happen at home need me to go back earlier.

Oh ya, don't know what happen to my SG hp lor..cannot connect to wifi..the other time it happened too..and I had to restart the modem and it worked. Didn't get to do it today cos C was downstairs..later think what I was doing..haha..my tt hp getting obsolete so surely cranky la. Going to get new hp when I get back

Today decided to send email to HR saying if it's difficult for her to book the flight, to let me know by tomorrow...then I'll book by myself. I sent another email to clarify that I mean Singapore Airlines flight cos KLM, Turkish and Swiss air all have long haul kind..but their baggage limit only 23kg. Shall see if she replies. I'm already prepared to take SQ flight from London liao lor..more options and direct.

Now as I'm typing, I feel quite pissed off! I had prepared to cook braised soy sauce chicken tonight and so defrosted my chicken portions. Then at 5.35pm when I went down, I saw C put all his ingredients on kitchen top and told me he's cooking some chicken that I like and I can have some. Then I said but I've already defrosted my chicken..and I won't be cooking tomorrow. Then he said up to you, if you want to have my chicken you can..or you prefer to cook your own. Then I said I will also need the pot. Then I shoved my chicken back into the freezer while he said "I saw you defrost the chicken and think u'll be cooking..." I ignored and went back to my room and closed my room door. DUH LAH! Obviously I'm cooking and will need that size of pot...now that I'm upstairs, I regretted..I should have just cooked lesser quantity in the smaller pot..but the kitchen will be too crowded. Don't want to use the kitchen with him esp when L is not around. I was surprised that he's cooking so early too cos L starts and ends work late today. So quite obvious I'm "forced" to eat his chicken rite? The other time he cooked later so at least I cooked my own first. Unless he really sincere to cook the chicken cos it's my favourite? I'm not keen also cos it's usually v oily...and I'm also trying to use up my ingredients and I'll probably end up eating at 7+pm! So no choice la. Quite pissed though..throughout the conversation I didn't even give him eye contact (v bad of me hor?? but I don't care lor!) Shall cook on Sat instead. Tmr meeting S for dinner in town. Probably having Spanish!

Weather wise...today was quite chilly..snapped a pic of the sky this morning..probably we won't see in SG! But it didn't rain till later in the afternoon!

Bright sunlight yet dark skies!

*Added: Ok, I should not feel so pek chek with the cooking bit cos since I don't have to cook, I could finish editing my abstract and now it stands at 297 (max was 300 words). And I am doing a read through. Probably tomorrow will be able to do a last read through and send it off for printing and binding! Wheeeeee! And I super KS..saved to my thumbdrive, Dropbox and HDD! As for dinner, the chicken he cooked was not too oily and pretty good - as I like it. I'm sooo full now!

almost there!!!

Scared I forget to blog when I'm back from dinner so blogging before my dinner.

Nothing much to update again cos have been home and working on my dissertation! This morning L told me another potential tenant emailed her to find out more too..seems that she's a 25yo cellist who will be studying in the Conservatorie..and she asked L if she can practise her cello at home...and L thought of the attic..haha..so nice hor? Should be a v gentle gal..musician..somemore from Japan! Anyway L asked me about buses from our place too. Oh..and I told her that I'll be having dinner with my friend tonight so she thanked me for informing her. Said else I usually am in my room and if I'm not, they'll wonder where I went and be worried. Duh..really meh?! Haha

Today C was quite noisy..played loud music on and off..and sang..think he's doing work in the living room downstairs. I haven't gone down since I came to my room after bfast! Anyway I just switched on my online radio louder to drown his noise and awful singing!

Sil didn't have time to read parts of my thesis her morning but managed to get to me just now. So am thankful!! Great to hear that it's now much clearer. I'll have to just read through again and add another few more words! I'm at 9970!! Word count is 10-12K...and I have to cut down words in the "abstract". This whole word limit thing quite sian lah....like what S was saying, we're probably used to writing 2.5k-word assignments...so find it hard to write so much now. Hers max is 10k. Wonder how those in Brunel  (PF, HR and JK) can write 15k!

Anyway no news from my "dear" HR dept. She's probably sorting out the flights. She actually asked the agent to arrange for SQ flight although it is more troublesome (then what about asking me to book my own connecting flight and SQ flight?!).  I'll give her till Fri and if don't hear from her by tmr, I'll probably shoot email to say I will book it by myself. PF says I'm vv patient with her..hahaha!

Going to a local pub for dinner tonight. Pub food is common here and popular cos they tend to be cheaper and quite nice too. So far haven't met rowdy crowds..prob cos I haven't been there at nights..haha..Quite looking forward to it cos going to discuss abt our Dublin trip with S and also share with her abt Cornwall (she's gg before she goes Dublin). Oh, and she managed to ask our common friend if I can stay at her place too and the ans is yes!! So that will save me $ but will surely get her a nice gift too!

*Added: Just back from dinner. Spent about 2.5h there..haha..had a nice time "catching up" and S was sharing with me about her experience in observing a heart op!! (after our meal, of course!!) Had whole tail scampi (is like breaded prawns la) and chocolate fudge cake..also tried Grapetiser white drink..non-alcoholic sparkling white grape drink. S had a curry lovers pie and a cookie cup explosion and same drink but red. The cookie cup explosion is a simple idea and presented v well. It has toffee, marshmallow and caramel presented in a cookie made with a ridge around it. All for only £14.30!

Scampi served with chips and peas

Chocolate fudge cake with ice cream

Cookie cup explosion

Anyway cos I was running a bit late to meet S near her place and I managed to get on bus 48, I suggested to meet her at the pub itself..so I alighted at my usual uni bus stop and cut through the uni to reach Selly Oak, where the pub is. So cos it turns out that I will arrive earlier, I took the chance to snap more pics of my uni while walking...

After that went to Aldi to get some eggs (plan to bake) and waffle (for bfast on Fri) and broccoli too. Walked home from a further bus stop cos the frequency was low for the bus at my place...then came home to an empty house with lights and TV on! Then saw a partially opened and eaten tub of B&J Peanut Butter cup ice cream on the kitchen top..and opened "my" freezer drawer and saw a B&J Chocolate fudge brownie. Wow..at least she really bought me one back. Then they came home after I showered and I saw hi..and she told me she got me a tub of ice cream and some jam donuts..said she knows I like..is from Morrisons. HAHA..I just bought some choc ones from ASDA lor..and she prob saw me eating them this morning ma! I prob will have one or may not have at all. As for ice cream, I'll finish my frozen yoghurt one first..doubt I will open hers. Another 2.5weeks left only.

Weather today was chilly in the morning then quite cool in the afternoon and even when I left house..but turned chilly again at night..but managed with my M&S cardigan..then S so funny lor..wore long sleeved thermals and a thin cardigan..and wore a thick jacket (like astronaut kind)..haha! She definitely needs more fats..haha!