no snow

Today is supposed to snow but where's the snow?!?!?! Anyway it'll be spring tmr..according to calendar

I did up my literature review and sent to my supervisor this morning. Then started on my Ergo assignment. Had planned to cook dinner for all today cos I thought since I was at home but end up L also had day off...and she took out steaks to defrost..so I cooked my own salmon dinner. That's couscous by the way.

Progressing well with my assignment. Just need to decide more on the task I'm scoring the assessment tool on and then go on to talk about the risk management part. I should be able to finish by Mon!

Oh yes, finally heard back from the ISAS person...she said scholarship letter appears to meet Home Office's requirements...and I asked for the CAS no. to be sent to me ASAP and she said Student Enquiry Services is processing it now and should be able to get it shortly. After that I've to finalise and submit my online application (pay too!!) then send my documents to Home Office. I'm supposed to inform her the date I send the application and the documents just for record purposes for uni side. Then it's waiting for Home Office's decision which may take about 2-3 weeks. Just praying hard to be able to attend P's wedding!!! I've yet to tell her though.

Look at what we'll be having for SG Day!!!! Click here. I'm excited cos there's my cravings of crab, hokkien mee and chwee kueh!!

worksite visit

This morning was a workplace visit to our Sch of Mechanical Engineering workshop..we were supposed to choose 1 task to write up on for our assignment out of 3 tasks. This workshop builds racing car for races..and graduates have gone on to work in F1 races. Had wanted to do on the changing of car tyres cos there was more to write up on but I got irritated when the more vocal people also wanted to do that and were asking questions with the staff amongst themselves..so not much chance to get info that I want. End up, likely writing on the same task as what A. and N chose..changing of the chuck for a centre lathe machine. It was quite interesting but definitely more interesting if we had a chance to go to Jaguar Land Rover's workshop to do a worksite visit instead of just listening to presentation by the ergonomist and OHP there.

Afternoon did case presentations...and then later part was a bit on office ergo...so it was like what I already know...talk was given by a PT. Oh ya, my Abu Dhabi classmate bought chocolate lollis from Thortons for us and a huge card and scarf for a classmate who's bday is next week..and our programme's admin bought lots of cakes and muffins cos it was her bday today! We are spoilt!

Tmr no class so going to finish up my lit review and hopefully can send to my sup tmr (decided to send as scheduled so that I can have a load off)..then work on my Ergo assignment. Hoping to finish it by Mon..cos I'll be on full day conference on Tue and Wed.

Eating my leftover herbal chicken meal that I took out of the freezer this morning.

Oh ya, yesterday's weather forecast says there may be chance of snow tomorrow but now it says cloudy...we shall see!

Happy weekend, everyone!!

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Nothing much to update...had lectures as usual..and ended ard 3.15pm! Went to Aldi, planning to get Cod to cook fish soup noodles...but they didn't have! Was about to leave Bearwood but thought I'll check Iceland..and they did have..cooked fish soup noodles today.

Caught up with PF on whatsapp and told her abt my tentative plan for now..ask her to go ahead with her travel plans..don't want to hold her up. Then also asked if she's keen for the Europe tour but she has been to many places there already! Then I was reading the instructions for request for absence from programme our admin sent to everyone..and realised I might get a Biometric Residence Permit instead of the sticker in my passport for my extension of visa!

Also asked SK if she's keen for the tour but she doubt she can spend that many days away cos she'll be doing her project then with another part-time classmate.

Tomorrow will be the worksite visit in the morning then presentations for the afternoon.may end late so I'll just defrost my herbal chicken with rice lunchbox for dinner tmr..haha! Then Fri cos no need to go in Uni, plan to cook salmon fried rice..maybe can offer them too.

No classes on Fri!!

Had quite an interesting morning, using the Ergo Assessment tools while watching videos. Now I'm thinking if we should include that in our Workplace Ergo Workshops Cel and I run in our hosp for our staff! After all, it is more effective if you teach people to do risk assessments rather than train them on what is good postures and stuff! But afternoon was a bit boring...title was Psychological aspects in displays, controls and interfaces. And both A. and I felt that the content didn't match our expectations..haha..I suggested it to be changed to "how to make good displays, controls and interfaces". The other lecture was on Human Error..hmm..not my interest and I can't see how it ties in with our module actually..haha!

Oh..had good news today! The lecture on Fri has been cancelled cos the speaker can't make it..so we were given option if to push one lecture on Thur pm to Fri or finish the students' presentations on Thur pm. I'm glad all of us chose the latter..so means we have Fri free!!! I'm glad cos I was worried if I can finish my assignment, given that I'll be attending a conference on Tue and Wed next week. But this assignment should be quite simple for me considering I've done many ergo assessment reports. But then, may be different thinking and will have to reference to legislations and Regulations here. Just hope I get good photos and videos on Thur when we'll be doing a worksite visit at our Sch of Mechanical Engineering.

Read 2 past year's dissertation that did systematic review..looked a bit overwhelming at first but when read the details then it seems manageable. They ended up with about 8 or 15 studies after including and excluding studies. I also have an idea of what else I can add into my Lit Review. May look at it tmr or on Fri again.

I've sent my scholarship letter to ISAS and emailed to say I'll proceed with my application now cos I really will need my passport on June and I'm not sure if it'll be in time if I were to apply in April (cos in my last email to her, I asked if it was better to apply now or after I'm back from April..that was before I decided to go ahead with my application anyway).

I'm v excited about my parents' trip!!! Though it's some time away, I'm vvv excited and looking at other cities I can bring them..maybe the coastal towns..which should be great in Summer. We shall see! Oh, and I realised Daylight Savings will start again on 30 March (I'll be in London!) and till the rest of the time I'm here! Which means I'll be 7 hours behind SG!! It means more waking hours to stay in touch!

1st day of Ergo module

First day of Ergonomics module today...content was like a refresher for me...was glad to be of help to my classmates when it came to practical session for using the ergo tools. Met up with my dissertation supervisor and she said I'm on the right track..and added I can email her the lit review next week also can..she told another classmate mid March is fine too. She seems quite nice!!


It started with a gloomy but not tt cold morning..then became sunny and then cloudy till late afternoon. It's wonderful that sunset is later now..ard 5.37pm! Sunrise is 7.06am...

Dropped by Home Bargains to get toilet paper and cranberry juice drink. I had defrosted my curry chicken this morning cos planned to just go with my prata since class scheduled to end at 5pm...then end up C was still on hoidays and he was cooking his chicken and offered me too. This time, I managed to snap pic of it cos I ate before them..L was late so C told me I can help myself first.

Oh ya, surprisingly, my HR emailed me a new scholarship letter! But can't have the words "unconditional consent" as requested by UK Border Agency cos have legal implications. I also find it strange tt they want it there. So will send to ISAS side to see if can be approved after HR amends the spelling of my name..hah..maybe she was too rushed doing it and missed out "a" at the end..hah..but thank God for her exceptional efficiency!! HAHAH!

windyyyy

Did my weekly laundry this morning before I went to church. Anyway I had intended to bring the rasperry-lemon shortbread tart for church next Sun cos we were supposed to have Sunday lunch but they announced that it will be postponed cos there'll be communion and service will be delayed next week. So means I can either bring the tart to uni to share with my classmates or bring to the other service I attend in Uni (I assume there's service there next Sun). I don't think I want to keep it for the following Sunday cos usually at this nearby church, refreshments after service is biscuits..no plates involved except teacups and saucers. So I shall decide again...I think most likely will bring to the Uni chaplaincy.

Went to Aldi Bearwood to get bread as planned. Picked up honey, mushrooms too and a bathroom cleaner spray. Popped over to Poundland to see toilet paper but dunno how thin they are. Maybe I should get from Aldi..have been using it and so far ok..Oh! and I went to the Tesco express there to see if they still had Haagen Dazs ice cream...and I ended up buying Cookies and Cream..quite unlike me given that there was strawberry cheesecake flavour too.

It was SUPER windy today again...actually since last night...can hear the wind howling against the windows...and I realised my windows are not completely sealed cos I can feel air blowing when I put my hand near the sides...grrr..quite chilly.

Continued to work on my lit review...and will be borrowing past year's dissertation to have an idea what is accepted. Cos we have to complete a form to loan a dissertation for the day, I opened my uni email to email to our admin..then saw that my dissertation supervisor asked if I could meet tomorrow at lunch. Luckily I checked my email..cos I usually don't check on weekends (and I didn't expect to get emails in the late afternoons on Fri).

Tonight eating my leftover roast pork hock with sides. Tomorrow will be the start of a new module "Ergonomics". Hope it'll be a breeze for me, given my background..but maybe thinking of a therapist will be different frm an Occupational Health practitioner's..haha! We have to do case study also...Anyway all days start at 9am except Fri..and most days end at 5pm!! I guess tomorrow I'll defrost my curry and panfry my prata for dinner..fast and simple.

YAY! Parents are coming!!

I'm THRILLED now!!!!! Cos my parents have booked their air tix to London in June!!!!!! Hehe..and we more or less settled for a coach tour around Europe but haven't booked yet. For single travellers, the company offers to pair with another traveller of the same gender or pay more for single supplement. That's always the problem with me going for tours with my parents..haha! And here they don't seem to have triple sharing option! Oh well, I'm thinking of asking if PF or SK are keen but I don't have high hopes cos as students, we do have tours that are budget but shared facilities and camp grounds...oh well, will probably ask later on. I've to get my VISA sorted. R suggested I go out after my visa ends and re-enter but honestly I'm not keen cos I'm not sure if I can get to travel and it'll be quite stressful. That's the time for submission of my draft dissertation then Aug will be editing it and submitting end Aug. So will most probably still go ahead with my visa application now.

Chatted with my ah ma, cousin and 3rd uncle also today...and my uncle said he will ask the other uncles and aunties if they're keen to come UK/Europe. Told him air tix prob at least S$1.5K and transport and food will be costly..so estimated S$4-5K..haha..depending how long they wanna come and where they wanna go also mah. My uncles and aunt (mum's side) 疼 me a lot though they don't say it out...can tell from them buying me good quality durians (and sending them over to my SG house) and asking me to join them for tours, paying for my meals or giving me stuff..hehe! I am blessed. Even my parents also of course! Love them too! We never say to each other cos just not used to saying such stuff..hhaha! Yes, in case you are wondering, my parents read this..hehe..

Sent a part of my draft of lit review for A. to comment to see if it flows..and he said the flow is good..phew! Hope can finish it tmr. Anyway this submission is to supervisor..probably to just have a look. The dissertation will be graded at the end. Cos I'm doing a systematic review, I've to be careful not to mix the information meant for the dissertation body in the lit review (background bit).

Had dinner at 4+pm today..C cooked chicken..but I think I'll be hungry later cos only had 2 pieces (not enough la!). Not sure if the drinks are still on..he said depends if L is ok to go. Asked L about accommodation for when my parents are here. She suggested one hotel but need to take a bus into town..also said if I want, they can stay here too. I personally am not keen cos have stairs to my room (means hv to lug luggage up) and stairs to toilet...but I guess if just for 1 or 2 nights it's ok. Shall see how.

Oh, L commented the tart I baked was sharp..as in sharp taste...as in sour la..haha! And I had a slice for my lunch too and it tastes more sour today..oops..think the flavours more intense today..haha! But I still love it!

*Added: in the end we didn't go for drinks..C said maybe next week cos L is not working next weekend.

Raspberry-lemon Shortbread Tart and Roast Pork Hock

I can't believe myself! I actually lost sleep cos of this whole VISA issue..and by them who made quite a lot of noise settling off to London for work today. I was v frustrated this morning cos I didn't know if to go ahead with my application or risk re-entering as a general visitor. I had asked my friend in London and she said the date of entry was stamped on her passport only and no validity stated...and was asked where she was studying etc. Actually PF did tell me she was asked a lot of qns too when she first came..but for me, not many qns asked..maybe cos B'ham...anyway, end up in order to ensure CAS no. is issued, I've to start the online application and show the ISAS staff the partially completed form in pdf. So I decided to do so...but yet asked her more questions like if I shld do it before or after my intended trip to Ireland, and will the General Visitor supercede my student visa if my intention is not for studies. Yes, I'm still thinking of re-entering as a visitor/tourist method so I don't have to have my passport taken for dunno how long. Also checked if passport is needed for entry to Ireland from UK cos I know British Nationals do not need..only need photo ID but I'm not British national....The more I read, the more I got worried if I will be able to get back my passport in time if I apply this time cos I still have to wait for HR to draft new letter and also the CAS no. I'm also worried that the UK Border Agency side will hold up returning cos my application is more than 3 months before my expiry.

Emailed to SG Embassy to ask on max stay as general visitor and a little on my situation that my VISA expire and re-enter before..my mum gave me the idea to contact SG Embassy...I didn't think of it cos Embassy to me is like major issue then will need them..haha! But no harm emailing la. This UK border agency v smart..no hotline to call to enquire.

Anyway headed out as planned. Today was cooler than it looked...winds were cold! Anyway, I was v focused today..went to ASDA to get some groceries, ended up with broccoli, yoghurt, scones (for bfast tmr n Sun)..almost got bottled lemon juice then saw there were some marked down lemons for only 10p..so got 2 as the recipe calls for. Then went to the butchers to get pork hock. Yes, I decided to cook roast pork hock for dinner tonight (since they won't be around..C doesn't eat pork). Then went to Iceland to get eggs. My trip took me about 2h..think quite a record timing..haha..

Came home and chatted with dad to discuss abt VISA. He thinks better to get VISA done now and forgo the Ireland trip if I really can't get my passport back in time. Cos now it's kinda dependent on me if I have my passport to travel with them then will book flight here and book local tour here to Europe. Else they will probably book in SG and then extend their stay in UK. I dunno lor..have wanted to go tour Europe with them..else I don't think they will allow me to go alone lor. Told him they can go ahead and plan cos they won't be able to wait till I confirm. I think I was v disappointed when there might be a chance that I can't attend P's wedding..cos she kinda settled for the period when PF and I are there and can attend! I guess I take time to digest info..so after putting down the phone, while baking, I thought to myself, if really that's the case, maybe I'll visit the newly-weds after the wedding. Is just a pity I can't attend their wedding...other option is I apply and settle it and IF I can get it back in time, I'll book tickets there. But it means that I'll hv to tell PF to book everything on her own first. Anyway I just have to wait for ISAS person and my HR to reply. Actually the scholarship letter has to state that they give "unconditional consent"...so should be quite straightforward.

I guess now the more I think of it, strangely what Dad suggested might be a better idea. Then that leaves me probably May and June for travelling if I want to. I don't think P will blame me if I'm not there at her wedding...but of course, I know she would love me to be there. But then as I thought about it, I can always go later to visit her. And who knows, maybe my application will be fast and in time to grab some tickets there...even if they may be more ex.

Anyhow, I baked the Raspberry-Lemon shortbread tart today. Managed to make into 2...may store one up either to bring to Uni on Mon or keep till next Sun to share with the ladies cos there'll be Sunday lunch. I tasted a bit of it, the tart base is a bit too sweet (though I cut down a bit of sugar)..the filling is lemony and not too sweet..I'm supposed to dust it with icing sugar but I didn't. Don't have..unless I check if L has any stock..End up I didn't even open my tray of eggs..haha! I struggled quite a bit cos was using my left hand (to avoid my right fingers from being infected or infecting the dough)..though was supposed to mix the tart base with fingers, I ended up using food processor cos it was just too tiring!

oh, in case you're wondering where the square tin came from, I just bought it today!! I gathered I can bake brownies with that next time so they will be flatter cubes instead of using my loaf tins and end up as slices..haha!

I marinated the pork while waiting for the tart to be done. The smell of the marinade still stayed on my fingers as I type now...smells of my mum's recipe minus the tau joo. Hope it'll be successful! Will cook broccoli and carrots to go with it..maybe use up my instant mash (trying to get rid of it actually).

Shall spend more time on my lit review tomorrow...and C will be bringing L and I out for a drink on Sat..think dinner too...he wanted to bring last night but cos they had to set off early this morning and back late, L said maybe Sat though she's working this weekend. When C asked me, I didn't understand him!! I thought he was telling me about bringing Poppy to the park..he actually said PUB..haha..oops! Anyway L later confirmed that I was joining them. I didn't want to but the way they say..I can't refuse la..last night L gave me a hug when she apologised about hw things had been between them and I think I heard her say he's not moving.

**Added: The roast pork marinate was good but I think cos I didn't add cornflour nor beer, the meat was not as tender as how it should be. But nonetheless, here's the pic of it.

And I managed to pack my tart into this container that I bought my scones with! And was praying hard it won't break when I flip it and store it in...so it's safe in the freezer now. =)

Verdict of the tart: It is SUPERB! I love the tart pastry! Shall use this recipe next time if I wanna make fruit tart. The pastry turned out not too sweet cos the raspberry-lemon filling is sour! So nice balance!! Happy! Ate 1/4 of the round one and left the rest on the table.

Raspberries

Gave L her bday gift and she used it straightaway! Haha..glad she likes it!

Got a call from my classmate this morning asking if I had submitted my assignments cos she wasn't sure if she had successfully submitted 2 files. So end up did up a cover page, checked through one last time, prayed and submitted it!

Headed out to West Bromwich...wanted to get something to send to my KL friend cos her bday coming. Popped by to Boots pharmacy too but was told I've to see a Dr if I want steroid cream. Then tried my luck at Lloyds Pharmacy and I was just looking around and a lady asked if I needed help. So showed her my fingers..and she said will ask the Pharmacist to have a look. Took some time and the lady waiting before me gave up and left. So the pharmacist saw my fingers and offered me steroid cream. So will apply it later after I shower. Anyway here's pic of my fingers. It comes and goes...and I noticed it is more itchy with heat. A. asked his dermatologist friend and said it might be dermatitis..like allergic to something.

Went to Astle Park and New Sq...had wanted to get a passport holder with Union Jack as the gift but that outlet doesn't sell! Saw winter wear and boots on mark down already...was tempted but I guess I won't need it already cos temp seems to be increasing now (between 7-10°C) though still rainy..and I've noticed that flowers are starting to bloom! It'll be spring soon! So no buying for anymore winter wear or boots unless can be kept till I next go to cold countries! Anyway I just ended up buying hair tie from Home Bargains as bday gift. West Brom was rather crowded and lots of (I think) Pakistanis. Saw lots of fruits and vege on sale v cheaply at the open market area but I won't be able to finish eating by myself la! Haha..but I bought a bag of 6 apples for £1 and these raspberries were irresistible!! These 2 trays for £1...wanted to get the blueberries that look soooo fresh and bag of kiwis (think at least 10 inside for £1) too but stopped myself.

Anyway, I'm intending to bake something with raspberry. My initial instinct was chocolate raspberry tart. Went online to find recipes to look for something simple..so may try a Raspberry-Lemon tart. Will get the other ingredients tomorrow. Maybe will bake on Sat.

Finally got a reply from the ISAS abt my visa. I don't quite understand cos I asked if I will be able to re-enter as a visitor and remain in UK as a general visitor till Sept then she replied about travelling in/out of UK during programme is allowed while if after programme, best to avoid?!?! Reason being I've to carry a confirmation letter saying I'm a student here and if programme ended then not much reason to stay though visa is still not expired. Very strange! But I must applaud her for her detailed email. Anyway, I'm checking with my London friend if she got an entry stamp when she flew back to UK from Athens.

Honestly, I'm v sian to do the application..cos the ISAS person claims my sponsorship letter will not be acceptable by the Home Office cos it has to state the amount of allowance given (I don't know if HR will do that!!) and need letterhead (it is lor!!)..by the time wait for HR to give, will probably take time. I might reply her to say I'll sort it out in end April after my trip. By then I'll know if I get an entry stamp in too. If I do go ahead end April, it will mean I'll have to forgo my intended trip to Netherlands in May and risk not being able to travel with my parents in June if I don't get my passport back by then! On top of that, there's visa fee of £406. I'm very pissed with my Uni for offering me only PGDip and not MSc. So what if I have limited research background? There's such implications, do they even know? Anyway I gave this feedback under the online postgrad survey.

Eating my leftover emperor chicken for dinner ltr..and probably will cut the frozen cheesecake as dessert.

Emperor Chicken

Spent today cutting down the words for one of my assignment questions. Finally, it's not at 1537 though max is 1500 words but there'll be only mark reduction if word count exceeds more than 10% of max word count (ie. 1650). Letting both questions sit there till I submit on Fri.

This morning Poppy woke up v early and scratched their door and I guessed that C will be pissed. Anyway they quarreled cos apparently Poppy pooed on the kitchen floor this morning and L told C that maybe it won't have happened if he brought Poppy to the park. Hmm..to me, it doesn't matter lor..cos she might have not been able to control at night or early this morning. I think a better way is to leave the door a bit open or change door so that Poppy can just go out. Of course, that then comprises safety. Oh well....so L was off today..but went out la.

Have seasoned my chicken parts with Seah's Emperor Chicken seasoning and added my own wolfberry. End up I only used half of everything cos it seemed too much if I added all for 6 chicken parts (3 drumsticks, 2 thighs and 1 breast). Hope it turns out like how my mum usually cooks. Will cook wong bok and carrot maybe in a soup then I can add ikan bilis too.

Also washed my sheets today. It seemed so fast that I've to wash my sheets again..meaning 2 weeks had passed...Back home I hardly stick to the "2-week" rule...but have to here cos firstly is not my sheets and secondly, it's WHITE.

Oh ya, last night watched 2 episodes of "100% Singaporean" and it was on FOOD! Goshhh...so looking forward to SG Day! Then today in ST, there was a big write up too! Now I know why we can bring non-SGrean friend for the event..hah..oh! And PCK is confirmed coming!!!

*Added: Yes, the chicken is successful..haha..phew! I think the seasoning has some meat tenderiser inside..and oil/gravy cos after I steamed it, there was lots of "juice". L tried a small piece cos they ate outside already...said it was nice..but from her facial expression the taste is not enough for her la..cos she said is v healthy..haha!

Wong bok with carrots and mushroom clear soup

Emperor Chicken portions

My dinner! 

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Nothing much to update today except I managed to skype with my dear niece today. Unfortunately she can't see me cos my mum's hp doesn't have dual camera..hah..oh well..but so happy to see her walking so steadily now!! I think when I see her in real life, we'll be racing or playing catching..hahaa!

Continued to work on my lit review...got msg from A. asking what legislation we have to refer to in one of the qns..so sent him link..hah..he hasn't started on the other qns tt I have to cut down words..maybe I'll work on it tmr or thur.

Checked out a few ways to get to NEC where I'll be attending the Health and Wellbeing at Work Conference..my other classmates will be going too. Fastest way is still rail (9min) but it'll cost me £4 return and I'll be there for 2 days. There're buses but they take 3-4X longer! Then had a silly thought and checked out hotels nearby..but they're sooo ex! Anyway, we got the conference tix free so ok to pay la..haha!

Today C best...whatsapp to ask if he can borrow my hp charger if I'm in. So I knocked on his door to pass him..instead of opening to get from me, think he expected me to leave it at the door..and said he'll leave it at my door when he's done. It was not until 4+pm that I msged him to ask if he's done with it cos I needed to charge my hp. 不自动！

Had my leftover pork chop and sides tonight for dinner. C apologised again for making me wait yesterday...and said will cook better one also next time.

Tmr I guess I'll do my assignment and also lit review...then will head out on Thur or Fri. I'm thinking of cooking my herbal chicken tomorrow..will defrost the chicken tmr morning. I think 6 pieces of mixture of drumsticks, breast, thighs will be equivalent to about a chicken?

Double checked with C that L's bday is Thu...and so I've bought the card and gift (Starbucks tumbler) so just need to write and pack it. It's rent payment also on Thur/Fri and I've withdrawn most of it. Will prob withdraw the remainder on Thu. It's my 5th mth here...

assignments!

Praise the Lord! I passed my Toxicology resubmission! Scored 70 this time but cos it's a resubmission, it's capped at 50. Well, at least I passed.

Spent this morning to mid-afternoon on my EWH assignment. I've to cut no. of words for the 1st question (sitting at 1992 words now!) while 2nd question is about 1482 words (max 1500). Have to probably look at it another day cos I am kinda stuck to know what to cut..haha..have put some stuff in appendices. The remaining time before dinner was spent reading my journals for my lit review.

C cooked chicken today..told me don't need to cook cos he's cooking my favourite chicken tonight. Told him actually I have leftover pork chops..but can keep for tomorrow. He's having a week hols this week - if I were him, I would've booked tickets or go out and explore...but the weather also not exactly v good to do that today.
Oh yes, I was on YES 93.3FM's fb when I saw the post that popular singer 高凌风 had passed away this evening (Taiwan time probably). Seemed so sudden but he had been battling leukaemia and I went to google. Realised he managed to sing at a recent concert in SG in Nov last year! That was probably his last public performance. From google also found out that his son took part in a singing competition in China too and did a duet together. See here and here. RIP...his songs will always be remembered cos they are all so catchy!

*Added: End up they went out when L came back just after 6pm (which is earlier than usual). Wanted for them till 7.30pm then buay tahan liao so popped my frozen curry into the microwave and had it as my dinner. GRRR! I didn't want to eat my pork chop from yesterday cos it'll be too heavy to have at that time, considering I sleep quite early. Terrible lor! They didn't even say I can have it first if I want..think L didn't know C also offered me...but C also didn't cook the rice before he left. Of course, I could've picked out the chicken and cooked my own noodles or pasta..but I decided nvm..just clear up my frozen food.

Beautiful sunny day!

And yes, it was a lovely sunny, glorious day today! Managed to take a lovely pic of my Uni as I was leaving the Uni Chaplaincy! It was quite cool too...so it was a nice weather today!

This morning had cinnamon and raisin bagel with donut...yums! Spread cream cheese with smoked salmon and dill on my bagel.

Anyway my classmate did turn up for church but didn't get a chance to ask how he finds it cos he left straight after service to catch his train to Manchester. Anyway had Mac and cheese for lunch today. After church, went to Aldi at Selly Oak to get pork chops and carrots as I planned yesterday.

Came home and continued on my EWH assignment. Too many words again!! Grrr! Shall try to cut down. And this is the 1st question. I have yet to look through my 2nd question again...no interest cos it's on Occ Asthma..haha! Shall do it in a while.

Cos I figured they wouldn't be cooking dinner today, I decided to cook my pork chops. Cooked 2 today (keeping one for tomorrow) and kept other 2 in the freezer. Anyway I also heated up my frozen apple puffs. Apples go very well with pork! And I used up my broccoli...so next week will be wong bok as vege.

Then after dinner, L wanted to bake pineapple upside down pudding (she did tell me she's gg to bake tt when I came home but I didn't bother cos I'm not a fan of pineapples). Then she kinda wanted me to help..or maybe cos I hv measuring spoons. Anyway, it turned out not bad..and they had it with my Haagen Dazs ice cream...so if this week still have offer, prob will buy it. The freezer is kinda full and hard to fit my ice cream tub...ended up reshuffling stuff to fit my ice cream back in. Sian lor...seriously think K's method last time works better..leave me my own shelf..and if she needs space then just put if there is. Anyway another problem when they buy chopped up chicken and pt in freezer, they don't pack it nicely so v odd shapes! What to do..anyway maybe will buy magnum mini if still hv offer. I'm aiming to head out either on Thu or Fri to replenish my groceries. The next few days will be finalising on my assignment and start writing up my lit review!!

Oh yes, I'll likely be watching a musical in London when I go over end March with SK! Glad she wants to watch too..hehe..but cos she has watched Phantom and Wicked in SG and Lion King and We Will Rock You in London, we will probably catch Les Miserables or Billy Elliot. Mamma Mia is on too but I watched the movie twice..might be too similar.

Stratford and Warwick!

Had a great trip to Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick castle!! I would likely go back to Stratford and town of Warwick in spring or summer when there're flowers or when I have visitors..haha. Anyway today about 5 coach buses went so you can imagine how crowded it was...I'm glad I had the company of A. and his bro's friend (also Thai) who's doing his PhD in law in Paris! Anyway he was saying that he had a Japanese friend who also travelled out of Paris (he thinks it was to UK) and re-entered as tourist when that friend's VISA expired. So it's possible!

These are some sneak peek..will send album link soon...

Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon

Holy Trinity Church - Where Shakespeare and family were buried

American fountain

My Gammon, egg and chips for lunch and cappucino (£9.35)

With A. and his Thai friend, T

 Then it was to Warwick...20min bus ride away...

St Marys Church in Warwick

Anyway, it was a lot of walking..and considering we had an early start..and there was uni last week, I was tired at the end of the trip. But I still dropped in at Sainsbury's...wanted to buy fresh pasta but they went back to original price..so didn't buy. BUT, I managed to get choc croissant and cinnamon and raisin bagels marked down...and also this 375g summer fruit cheesecake for only 75p! After that then realised is not made from cheese..haaha..shall try it..usualy price was £3 and it's not expiring leh. Also got Ryvita crispbreads and Nescafe cappucino cos it was on offer.

Oh yes, this is my filled donuts that I've been buying from ASDA! Where to find in SG for this price (50p for 5)?!

Tmr is supposedly to be sunny..but will probably get pork chops and apples from ALDI on my way back from church and then head home to do my assignment. I've to try and find some freezer space again...my poor Haagen Dazs tub was squashed and the lid came off..heng I didn't peel off the whole wrapper lid else my ice cream would've been exposed! Grrr...

Oh ya! Yday C told me hope I don't mind but he asked L to charge his hp in my room. No wonder the switch was on cos I usually check that I switched it off before I leave the house. And today also the switch was left on and cable left on the floor instead of twined around my lotion...even if he was the one who came to my room, I wouldn't know right?! Winner already lor! Instead of borrowing charger from me, my room becomes a charging centre. -,-||| Anyway my table is in a mess with my lecture notes..but bed made up la..toilet also try not to make it messy.

driving and sea bass

Happy Valentine's Day!

Roses on sale at ASDA

I had a pleasant surprise at sch today cos one of my female classmates gave the young girls in the class (she calls us "her girls" an envelope this morning. I opened and to my surprise, it contained MONEY! Gosh..told her I can't accept..but she insisted...so I said I'll get something nice tonight. Maybe I'll give her something next time...or bake something for her la..anyway she's the classmate who's v vocal, doesn't look her age at all and I didn't have a good impression of when I was doing group work with her..but she's ok la..haha..she's also the one who passed me the Chanel make up samples she got.

So today was the day to the Driving Assessment Centre. Particularly keen on this cos I always had an interest in assessing client's fitness for driving since I helped out at the offroad assessment bit...too bad I had plans to study Occ Health else would've be given the chance to go for the driving assessor certification course. But never mind! I still am happy where I am now. I kinda asked quite a lot of questions..hahah..cos I was establishing how different it is from our dept's assessment. Anyway, when the OT was checking if our licences were valid, think she was trying hard to find the expiry date on mine..so I thought her there's no expiry date..lasts a lifetime..then she and the tutor who brought us there seemed surprised..and the tutor said no paper too (cos UK one has the card and a paper thingy).

Simulator

Equipment assisting client to get in and out of the car

That's the OT

the Driving Advisor (aka instructor) demonstrating how to operate the push/pull accelerator

That's my legs cos I'm driving it!!!

Yes, I was able to drive the car..went 2 or 3 rounds around the industrial estate...i needed time to get used to the modification..Push is brake and pull towards me is accelerate..haha..I had to even be reminded to turn key and release hand clutch before I start the car..hahaha! So paiseh..cos my dad's car is not like tt! Oopss..but thankfully, the instructor, my 2 classmates who were in the car were safe...phew!

Class ended just after 12pm so had some time to do grocery shopping. Went to the bank to get and submit the form so that they don't tax me on my interest cos I had realised I'm taxed a few pence of my interest..though not a lot, it's still the principle leh! Cos I'm not a UK tax payer what! I wonder why the staff didn't let me fill up straightaway when I opened the account! So after that went to ASDA. Bought donuts (it seems like it's becoming my weekly fix!!)...tried the apple one this time..they had milk chocolate ones too..maybe next time can try. Then I bought a whole sea bass (not v big la) cos it was 50p cheaper..at £1.50 (first time buying whole fish here..or maybe I should say fish with bones) and Chinese cabbage (wong bok) but small bunch compared to the one I bought from Korean supermart at £1, mushrooms, block cheese, Baxters canned soup (on offer 50p) and ginger.

So here's my baked sea bass! Added my homegrown basil, ginger, garlic, salt and pepper. Tastes quite good but the meat seems more flaky than what I usually have in SG home. Anyway kept half portion for tomorrow's dinner cos I guess by the time I head back will be too tired and lazy to cook.

Oh yes, I finally got the email from ISAS about my request for CAS needed for VISA. The person asked me to show her scanned copies of what I'm intending to send to Home Office ie. partially completed visa online application, bank statement and police clearance if needed. Then added that visa application usually takes 4-14 weeks so cannot guarantee that my original documents (including my passport) can be returned by my trip in April! Gosh! I replied her asking if I'm supposed to do online application even before I get my new CAS no.?! Cos I think I will need the no. to apply leh...I'm confused la! Then sent the scholarship letter too. And I decided to ask if there's a possibility of re-entering UK as a tourist before my VISA expires cos we are entitled to stay in UK for max 6 months without VISA and I just need another 1-2 months! That will be good if I can then can save on the VISA fee of £400+ and the trouble of applying again. I just wanted to know the implications. I don't know if she'll reply me on that since it's in black and white. I strongly feel that I should go ahead despite my intended April trip. I dunno leh..I guess it also depends on if I can start applying now. Shall keep praying!

I'm quite excited about the trip tomorrow...I hope the weather will be better than today..but thankfully, I wasn't caught in the HEAVY rain today when I was walking on the streets.

2nd last day of module

And so today had the talks by Occupational PT and an OT. The Occ PT presented on what he does (which is essentially what I do!!) and then OT presented on her role in the outpatient setting for brain injured clients. No wonder some of my classmates are confused over the role of PT and OT. And mind you, the PT mentioned that they are upskilling PTs to also handle psychosocial aspects and mental health aspects, which traditionally had been OT's training. Hmmm...anyway, I asked both of them for attachment or a visit...prob will go in May. I had intention to look for places to visit too since I'm here..and great that both said can drop them an email and arrange.

I made myself potato salad yesterday for today's lunch!

Towards the afternoon it was a bit boring though. Fewer ppl attended class today too..but I think tomorrow will be almost full attendance cos we'll be going to the Driving Assessment centre! I don't know if SG driving licence is recognised here..if so then I will get to drive vehicles with modifications!! Else shall just take pics of them! Class is supposed to end before lunch tomorrow...so probably will do some grocery shopping then head home to do my assignment. Hoping to finish my module assignment by Sunday so that I can concentrate on my literature review next week. This Sun the Bishop will be conducting the service at Uni Chaplaincy and my classmate will be joining me too!

Weather forecast for tomorrow is HEAVY RAIN. Grrr..then Sat is Light Rain..and Sun is sunny intervals. I'll be bringing brownies to share around tomorrow since it's V-day! Oh ya, this morning some parts of the pavements were icy so walked slower so as not to slip and fall!

Some comics for Valentine's Day!

Bus pass arrived safely!

I realised I forgot to post this pic...this was a few hours the snow yesterday! Such a sunny weather suddenly!

Yay! My student travelcard arrived safely! Praise the Lord! Told L to help me look out again this morning cos mail came later than usual and I had to leave for uni. Walked to uni but took bus back cos it was already dark. I put the wrong travelcard to be returned with my bus ticket into the prepaid envelope and see if they really refund the bus fare..haha. Tmr I'll decide if to walk all the way or halfway...cos tmr's class is at 9am..traffic will be slow moving to Harborne anyway. Shall decide later...at least I've my travelcard. Lectures today were so-so..only 11 of us attended..8 others missing!! We (A., N and I) were v sleepy at the last lecture cos lecturer was a bit boring leh!

It was super windy after class..actually in classroom already saw the trees swaying in the wind. It's still blowing v hard now! The impact is like can be blown away!!! Seriously! Forecast for tomorrow is light rain which should be better but Fri will be heavy rain. Let's pray hard Sat will get some sunny intervals cos I'll be going Stratford and Warwick Castle!

Got P's whatsapp on travel plans for her wedding..she offered her place and also her parents' farm! I would love to visit her parents' farm..was totally awed when she showed us the video that her dad sent her when she was in our team in SG and was determined to visit it one day...cos she had sheep, daffodils and animals!! Yes, she's a farm girl..hahaha! It does sound exciting! Anyway then I just forward the msgs to PF and PF asked if I wanted to go Spain cos her classmate from there and returning ard that time! Quite cool! I love it when we have invitations to visit someone's country..cos it means I don't have to research a lot on our own..hahaha! But of course, we need to have gifts! And locals probably know where's best to bring tourists! So we might go Spain then Ireland in April and back at or after Easter.

Cooked noodles with my leftover pre-marinaded chicken wings (I froze up some the other time) and also prepared potato salad for tomorrow's lunch. Then I realised C had used up the frozen mixed vege...and L said he must have been using it and will tell him off..hahaa! So L offered sweet corn to add to my potato salad..haha! I got offered some chips too cos they had fish and chips and I politely asked for chips when L offered..yums! When L did tell him abt the mixed vege, he said he thought it was L's and said will buy to return..haha! Anyway, today I prob talked the most to L when I came back. She kinda shared with me about things between them too..And she talked abt SG after dinner too. 

2nd SNOW!

Walked to uni again today and it was raining...cos I didn't open my umbrella (I was afraid that it'll be blown by the wind), my bag was wet and my pants! Took some time to dry myself when I reached uni.

And when we were having our 2nd lecture for the morning, it SNOWED!!! This time, by the time the lecturer ended his lecture, it was still snowing so we could take photos and even video!! Woo hoo! Even went downstairs and out to take photo!

first pic of myself in the snow!

Especially like the description of this weather app.."Flurries" As for Met Office weather, it was "Sleet shower".

And so classes ended early today as scheduled. Went to the Enquiry Services to submit my Request for CAS form then I asked the person what next then she said I've to apply VISA online or approach ISAS...then I got confused and all along I thought they were ISAS - the Intl students advisory...hmmm..anyway, shall wait for CAS no. then see how it goes.

On my way back, dropped by Home Bargains to buy bottle brush..the one they sell look similar to those I saw at Bearwood but they were slightly cheaper at Home Bargains. Then on my way there I was already thinking I should buy my muesli when I have my bus pass cos then I won't have to carry it all the way back. Then I forgot and went to take and paid for it..haha..maybe KS la..scared thur or fri won't have stock..haha!

Anyway, came home and saw my mail and Poppy had chewed on it already!!! Look at this!!!!

I was soooo pissed!!! Cos this morning before I left, I specifically told L that I'm expecting my bus pass in the mail and part of it will be paper...asked her to look out for me!! Then it looked different from my old one...then I realised that it was for Coventry (another area) so called the company and explained. Then the person said will send one with a pre-paid envelope today..and ask me to return this one. So strange that they didn't check properly what I bought and replace with the same one! I vaguely heard her say return this and any bus tickets. I'm quite sure L saw it cos the pile of mail was placed on a side cupboard. I told C that it's my turn that my mail got chewed...he was so fed up also lor...say tt's why he doesn't like that dog. I'm tempted to stay till the postlady comes tomorrow...but I doubt I'll do that. But cos classes start at 9.30am tomorrow, I might just leave the house later. Usually the post comes at 8+am. Oh ya, and cos they sent me my ID card also (placed in the bottom pocket of the "pouch"), I realised there's no name on it! It's just membership number. Will think of how to make it more secure when I carry it around.

Btw, if you're thinking how can L look out the mail or prevent Poppy from biting or chewing mail, there's a way to hang around downstairs and when the postlady comes, just get the mail and stop Poppy from biting it from the chute. Cos that's what I did when I was expecting some mail..that's if I didn't have classes la. Grrrr...I seriously hope she doesn't chew my actual pass that will likely come tomorrow. Shall see if L apologise..she came home late today and I'm already hiding in my room to prepare for sleep so didn't see her.

Anyway, cooked salmon tonight but cos it was a small slice, I decided to have it with spaghetti aglio olio and with broccoli and sultanas! YUMS!