drama

Drama late last night. L knocked on my door to ask if I had seen a big white envelope lying around. I replied I didn't see and asked where she put it and when. She said in kitchen and it was from Tue afternoon..and she only realised last night when she looked for it. So I asked what was in the envelope..I was expecting her and to be important documents but no, it was money!! Then I thought it was strange...after about an hr later (around 11.30pm when I was preparing to sleep (I was in my bed liao!) then she knocked at the door again and told me it's a mystery. And I asked if she has checked all the possible places..and went down to help her find. C was out for a smoke and L had told me he's unhappy that she accused him. Then after his smoke he just stayed in the kitchen, didn't help to find or try and solve the mystery. L went to find the whole living room, kitchen, utility room and her room. And she started stating possibilities. When C was out, she was saying she's not convinced it's not him from his body language. Anyway, I asked if she wanna search my room and she replied immediately "no, no, no". So anyway, after that then realised that she had not left the envelope out in the open. Which explains why I didn't notice any envelope! Haha! Went back to bed ard 12mn..had difficulty sleeping cos of this mystery..haha! Managed to sleep after some lavender oil.

This morning had my kopi-O..and L continued to talk about it and told me more..and then she told me C had left for good last night or rather this morning) and it makes it even harder to prove his innocence. She knows that the money is gone. She even said she looked in the shed and even freezer to make sure she wasn't herself..hahaa! For now, the biggest suspect is C cos I didn't even know where she put it and I didn't leave the house till yday itself so I couldn't have taken it and kept it with me nor could there have been a random thief. Anyway before she left for work today, I told her I'll check through my cupboard n drawers just in case. Then she asked to make sure she wasn't sleepwalking or something and misplaced it there? Then I said no..but C might have taken and put it in my room? Then she said oh..u better check if anything is missing. Actually last night when she first told me that an envelope with money was missing, my first instinct after closing my room door was to check my drawers..I just had the feeling could he sabotage me? Hahaha! Don't ask me why! I guess I don't trust him. For the record, none of my stuff was missing.

So I was shocked to find out that there was so much money kept in the house! She said she has reasons for doing that. Not going to probe further..but told her it was scary not knowing that..to me it's like what if I didn't lock the door properly?! But then again, it is not placed at a v obvious place. She said there was about £3+k inside. Anyway she also shared with me what she did since she came back frm her trip and their quarrels the past few week/s..and added that she was certain to make C leave after their US trip and regretted not making him do so when they came back from the airport. To me it's like 破财消灾 lor. Yday I even asked if she wants to call the police but like what she said, they can't do anything either..no proof.

Anyway, that was the drama. Vacuumed my room and cleaned my toilet and then continued with my thesis. Felt quite motivated today..managed to finish picking out points from the articles I did summaries of...these are for the discussion and recommendations bit. So with a clear and motivated mind (maybe after I come back from hols), I should be able to piece them together. I'm kinda doing it backwards..haha..cos I'm unsure hw to do the results bit. Oh, and cos C is no longer here, T came to bring Poppy out..which was good cos L was running late for work this morning so she didn't get her walk.

Weather was comfortable today..about 17-18°C! Could open room windows and not feel too cold. Nice weather! Intervals of sunshine. Tomorrow forecast is 19°C sunny intervals..

Eating my baked chicken leg for dinner tonight. I couldn't believe that I was hungry last night ard 10pm (about 3.5 hours after I had dinner and green apple)! Oh ya, opened the oats I bought from Aldi..not bad too but seems like takes longer to cook. But the pieces look bigger.

Ohh, El has her dissertation published in a journal!! Earlier she had gotten the best dissertation award from her Uni!! V proud to be friends of journal authors..haha..first was A then now El! Hehe..

Ingenious!!

4 more days and 3 more (SG time)! And 3 more days to London!

baked chicken leg

Washed my sheets this morning and finished my 1kg bag of oats today. Spent some time sorting out travel documents and maps to put into my Dropbox so I can download to my hp and have a soft copy of them. This is all thanks to technology these days!

Then O msged me to ask how I am..and then we kinda chatted where we are with our theses. Apparently he had sent the 1st 3 chapters to our dissertation supervisor (we have the same sup) but has not heard from her. Then I realised maybe I should too. I had been contemplating if to send cos I'll be gg away for hols and don't want to be disturbed during that or rather can't reply fast. Then I thought maybe ok la..since the sup will take time to read and reply. Kinda asked O for help with identifying study design also cos I've asked El and PF of their opinion. All cos authors of the studies didn't state clearly what their study design is! Now continuing to pick out impt info from all studies I've read to put into point form so it will be easier when I do up my discussion part. I am still a bit blur about the results bit..haha! Anyway realised O will be back in Brum when I'm away..so prob won't get to meet the clique till July.

So I have to get something for breakfast for the next few days. Went out to buy some stuff then passed by the fruit and vege stall in Harborne. They were selling avocadoes 6 for 60p!!! I was sooo tempted to get but not sure if will ripen in time before I go. Didn't get in the end. Went to Home Bargains cos wanna see if have the poppadums but they didn't have..so might buy from Tesco on our trip since it's on offer till mid June. Went to Bearwood in the end. The Tesco express there didn't have the Scottish oats so went to Aldi to get. I was thinking I can't get muesli or granola cos then I'll have to open milk and I won't be able to finish by Tue. So oats is a better choice! I cooked it with water and is also quite thick. Hope this Aldi one is ok too!

Bought chicken leg quarters. Plan to bake them since I have sweet potatoes and the medium-sized pot is not cleared of oil yet so can't use. Bought a bag of frozen broccoli, cauliflower and carrot mix so that will be my vege for tonight. Went to Heron Foods and saw Haagen Dazs..they have new flavour now! Marc de Champagne truffle!!! Sounds sooo good! Was contemplating if to buy first n keep when parents are here but thot if put in freezer then dun offer like not nice (though I've already shifted my stuff to the bottom shelf to differentiate!). In the end decided that I shall get it when my parents are here. If no more then then too bad la..hahaha...

Came home and marinated the chicken leg quarters. Bought 2 packs..now they sell in 2s. They used to sell in 4s. Anyway marinated 2 with the usual "mummy's recipe" and another 2 with mustard, curry powder and paprika. Probably will bake all and freeze 2 up. Remaining 2, eat one today and another one tomorrow. Quite looking forward to it! Checked weather for the road trip and Europe. Realised that Europe will be warmer than here generally! Then saw that temp in Bham will be 23-24°C on the week of 7-13th June! Time to wear my sun dress when we are back here..hahahaha! Anyway roughly got an idea what to pack for Europe. Bringing 2 thin long sleeved tops and will pack other short sleeves that my parents will be bringing over. First few days will be about 17-19°C and rainy..then when we get back to London is above 20°C.

Oh ya, found out that one of my colleagues (currently taking over my ATL role) may be gg to Brunel (London) to study this Sept. So quiet and even when I asked in whatsapp group also no reply till PF told me. But this colleague also all along quite confident so didn't ask PF and I abt the interview or stuff. She only asked PF abt application process for her uni..that's how PF knew. Anyway it was cos they were planning for working Sats roster. So was asking among the TL/ATLs how it should be planned given manpower changes for Sept/Oct. So for sure I'll be back in my team..and may be still given the ATL role =X

*Added: here's my dinner..and for days I don't feel like cooking!

These just cost me £2.30! Super cheap right?

My dinner..baked chicken leg with homemade sweet potato wedges and boiled vege

5 more days! 4 for SG time! Hehe...

Stay home...

Hmm..nothing much to update today cos again stayed home to do my work and kinda packed my stuff for the road trip when I was a bit sian or reading journals. End up quite heavy..I packed 2 long sleeves and 1 short sleeved top. Saw weather forecast at Cornwall is about 18 to 20°C, warmer than here..but weather here can change just the day before. Probably will bring my light jacket..if less than 15°C then I might wear my checked or Nike jacket. Think I'll bring my Nike one for Europe? Specifically Switzerland la. Also dunno! Probably do final pack on Sun/Mon.. Kept windows closed today too cos it was quite chilly.

Was chatting with PF and SK on whatsapp. Managed to encourage SK to stayover at PF's place also on Tue!! SK offered to prep satay cos she has satay marinade..then for the rest of the dinner menu, we'll decide when we are at the supermart! We are all looking forward to it! It'll be sooo fun!! They are both older than me..but I think they look younger than me! Haha! Anyway it will take me about 3h to London and another 1h to PF's place! She stays on campus (Brunel Uni) in Uxbridge. Anyway when I reach Victoria station, I'll try to settle my oyster card too..wanna link it to my Railcard so will have discounts on my travels on my oyster card. Didn't manage to do it last time cos the station office was just soo crowded!

Oh anyway Uncle J (from Adelaide) whatsapped to ask when I'll be back too...so took the opportunity to ask when they are coming Europe..then he replied that they're not doing big trips this year...so they changed their plans lor..sad...but they said might see me in SG. Shall see how! Then I went to check my photos..I last saw them in 2010!! How fast time flies! Then realised I'll be 30yo soon! Oh myyy..I'm sure my relatives n family won't believe I'm coming to 30! Seems tt ah ma just asked my mum too. Hahahaa..next time I call back sure nag me to open eyes big big again (yes, n my aunt reading sure agreeing). Time seems to just zoom past so quickly! It has been 5 years since I left Adelaide..and my niece is already 17 months!

Plan to go out tomorrow since it'll be cloudy (not raining). Need to just get some groceries like rice n kiv oats/muesli. Not sure where to go yet but likely Harborne n maybe Bearwood or Tesco at West Bromwich or Halesowen (to get pig trotters? heheeh!)..decide tmr n see what I feel like. Cos I have planned to go West Brom when parents are here..and the offers last till then. More urgent are rice and something for bfast.

6 days (UK); 5 days (SG) more!

Sultana biscuits

Rainy day today with temp about 13°C. Weather will be better from Fri..Sat and Sun supposedly to be sunny and 17°C. This morning L commented on the weather too..n said she has to find winter clothes for today..then I said ya, and my mum asked what kind of clothes to pack...and added that she's not sure if she has packed enough warm clothes cos some days I'll tell her v warm. Then L replied, yea, have to pack everything! Hahaha! Seriously unpredictable weather. So I guess pack clothes for summer and maybe end or start of winter la. HAHA..having said that, I got the travel agency's reply whether we need to bring winter wear for Switzerland and the ans is yes! She said though the place for optional tour is indoors, the location is on the peak so encourage to pack winter wear. Haha..aiyoh. maybe I've to carry my big luggage for the London/Europe trip liao! That time I brought my thick jacket to Scotland, I wore it so didn't have to fit it in luggage. But likely it's only for tt leg of the trip. I'll roughly pack over the weekend while I pack for my road trip.

Baked sultana biscuits today...turned out not bad think I need better rolling skills to flatten the dough out more..haha..I made double portion but only ended up with portion the recipe is for. And cos I doubled portion, I forgot to double the sugar so my first batch was not sweet..haha..made the original portion of the recipe as 2nd batch cos like v few..a bit better la. Packed most of it for the trip and kept some for L.

While I was baking L came back to bring Poppy home. Then she told me she has told C to leave again and this should be it..but apparently he refused to leave and threatened to call the police if she throws him out. Then I said..huh? But this is ur house...then she gave me the "that's why! I don't know either" look. Then she said she's not cooking or buying stuff for C to cook..and told me not to make him feel welcome. HAHA! I guessed right that there was still tension. Last night was too quiet...a bit unbelieveable..hah..but I stayed in my room quite early la. This is like watching drama..hahaha!

Today did journal search again and realised that my uni library search is not v good cos they only display first 15% of the number of articles with the keywords and I'll have to keep clicking "Display more results". I checked with the online help chat service and the person told me there's no way to display all. I decided to do the search again to see if I missed out any potential..and also need the numbers to be documented. Tedious!!

Again don't know what to cook tonight. V sian...but probably cook soba or porridge to eat with bratwurst or salmon or salmon fried rice...decide later when I wanna cook! Had defrosted my chicken stock in the afternoon. I think I'll cook some chicken dish tomorrow with my frozen chicken (provided the usual pot I use is cleared of the oil they use to fry stuff!). I guess I'll only go out on Fri. Quite amazing that I haven't gone out of the hse since Mon..hahaha! Guess I don't have much reasons to go out. Prob will buy some stuff on Fri.

Oh ya, I realised that the <<妈妈的庭院>> show is not uploaded to the end!! The last upload was 4 days ago and not finished yet. So I got to wait...but truth unravelling slowing liao!

7 more days (UK time) and 6 more days (SG time)!

*Added: In the end I cooked salmon fried rice, added sultanas and peanuts. Used chicken stock to cook the rice and used up all my rice..so when I head out on Fri will hv to buy.

videocalls!

This morning not long after I woke up, Poppy started barking and barking. Turns out that the gardener was here to fix the fence. He doesn't need to come through the main door cos there's a back door with number lock. So anyway after that she must have made herself dirty playing with the water, L left her outside. So this is her looking so pitiful from outside!

My 1kg bag of oats is finishing! Checked when I bought..Kinda lasted me 3 weeks. But makes sense since each time I use is 50g. So have to decide if to continue with oats or muesli. Googled and people say muesli has sugar compared to oats. I may try Aldi's swiss style muesli or just buy oats from Tesco.

Today skyped with video call with my aunt and later my niece in group video call. Thanks to technology these days! It was fun! My aunt and uncle luring me to Shanghai lor! I also wanna go but is when la...probably next year? Not sure about this year cos have to check hw many days of leave I have and if I'm using up all of last year's leave straight after I finish my studies. My focus now is my thesis. Along the way may go for short trips but hv to look again after my trip with parents. Anyway my niece was attracted to my uncle who appeared later. She smiled so sweetly and waved at him lor!! And she was again thrilled by my sis-in-law's friend's son's video. V cute! Today my bro had to use laptop to skype cos ipad couldn't support group video call. 辛苦了！Next week can't chat with her liao cos I'll be on my way to London!

Anyway didn't do much for my thesis. Just read how to do up summary and findings. Now I'm thinking if my studies are really of strong evidence. Weather today was cloudy with on and off drizzle. Temp was about 14°C. Oh, I couldn't resist temptation again..opened Butlers chocolate bar with irish coffee. Then saw the ingredients..the whiskey content was higher than the other bar of Irish Whiskey chocolate I bought (for parents). Quite shiok! And I'm v happy cos found out that there's a Butlers in London!! Tomorrow plan to bake sultana biscuits. Hope I'll be home alone to bake. Last night they quarrelled again and this morning. Don't know what the status is like now.. L is off today but I stayed in my room with door closed la (don't want to be disturbed by Poppy). Doubt C has started a new job.

Almost finished <<妈妈的庭院>>..prob can finish watching tonight. Not sure what to cook tonight. Wanna cook certain stuff but either I hv to get more ingredients or open "perishables" and use up before I leave. Might just cook pasta or soba..easy.

Oh..just checked email and realised M had sent me an email thanking me for my help yday and said they got a profit of £71!! I thought it was pretty good considering it was not a community event!

*Added: Ended up cooking pasta with the smoked ham...topping was the leftover from what T bought..like bombay mix.

Bank Holiday Breakfast

Bank holiday (aka Public holiday) here today. Woke up at 8am by alarm I set last night. So tired..haha..but it was really great fun helping out! Reached there ard 8.50am . It was actually pretty cooling! Went in to the kitchen straightaway cos I was the earliest besides Ch and M. During bfast time, M and I were the main people in the kitchen while T and J were outside helping to serve up orders and mingling. Perfect job for me..haha..I was kinda in charge of serving toasts and scooping up the tomatoes and baked beans. Didn't have time to snap pic..but took pic of the English bfast but missed out toast, hashbrown and mushrooms in this pic. Basically, people can choose any 6 items (excluding toast and coffee/tea) for £5. There were bacon (aka rashers), fried bread (bread cooked in LARD), sausage, tomatoes, baked beans, fried egg, hashbrown, mushrooms to choose from and toast. Only lard was used for cooking so u can imagine how fragrant everything was!

People came ard 10+am so that timing was peak and we had many orders..which was fun! Hahaha..I think we plated about 15? Prob will know on Sun when M tells me. I left ard 11am since it seemed like ppl were not coming and it was almost ending. Took the chance to see what cooking stuff I could use if I were to cook the Singaporean meal! I must say there's lots of pots and pans to use...even a big stock pot..and they're v well maintained! Hahaa! Came home and showered cos I smelled of lard..Poppy came and sniff me lor! Heng didn't lick! Hahaha! Did my laundry too and I told L I went to help out at church..told her abt bfast but it was almost ending. Think C wasn't keen to go too so they didn't go. Anyway they came back a while later and L was asking about my parents trip and said to invite them for dinner. Said she'll check her work schedule and let me know. I also became excited about my trip while telling her the travel plans!

Continued with my thesis for the rest of the day. Searched through SG army journals too to see if any studies were done on their functional assessment cos Dr Lee also replied me. She said the assessment is not made public (as expected). And though my cousin-in-law, WJ is a regular, was hesitant to ask him cos don't know if there's any standard operating procedure. Then I asked myself what info I want also. As usual, the more I read the more blur I get to know which studies I should include. Now I have 9 but wonder if they are the best ones available.

While doing my thesis, I couldn't resist the temptation and opened the paprika flavoured rice cakes I bought from Home Bargains last week. I had actually packed to bring to London to share with my friends lor..but I just craved for something savoury. V bad rite?? hahah..anyway was also checking weather in Cornwall for next week. Seems like warmer than B'ham..16-18°C max and minimum abt 11-13°C..so I guess I'll pack long sleeves and not pack my summer dress. Weather really quite unpredictable lor. Today also on and off had drizzle and seems cooler..opened my windows less than an hour and left it closed before I get too cold.

Oh ya, yday read Sunday Times and a vietnamese was interviewed and apparently he started as a dishwasher at Chung Ying restaurant in Bham! I've seen it every time I go Chinatown. He opened a Canto restaurant, Char in Singapore's Guillemard Road. Anyway, went to see the Chung Ying menu..the dim sum costs £3.50-5 per item! Gosh! Can't wait to go back SG and eat at Peach Garden!! And roast meat joints to have my sio bak png, roast duck and char siew!! Awwww! I had them in London's Chinatown when I met up with Dr Lee but it wasn't to my liking cos too salty to me.

R was telling me she's bringing bak kwa to ADL for her friend..I was surprised tt it's allowed..so she showed me some sites. Looks like the restrictions are clearer now. And she was saying SG passports now can use epassport thingy..so bypass customs officers! That'll be sooo convenient! Guess they realised how many SGreans are studying there or visiting there!

Bake the fresh lasagne tonight and made sweet potato chips too. Tastes ok but I think I cook nicer..hahaha! So maybe will make it one day. Probably tmr clean toilet before or after chatting with my niece..then maybe wed bake the sultana biscuits..then shall decide if I should go out on Thur or Fri..

Pan-fried Salmon

Woke up to a quiet house this morning (cos they were still sleeping..including Poppy). Anyway it was rainy this morning too..and cloudy. Everyone at church was saying how awful it was yesterday too. It really poured yesterday on and off. Today was supposed to be sunny day in the afternoon but the sun only came out for a few minutes! It was actually quite chilly despite it being 16°C. I seriously don't know what clothes to pack for the road trip..haha! And praying that the weather will be sunny else photos won't turn out nice and inconvenient to get around. Anyway only 5 of us stayed for coffee/tea after service today. The young couple who recently got married came with her sister but didn't stay so didn't get to chat with them. Anyway the M again said my parents MUST come. I assured them that it's in the itinerary and have been telling my mum that they wanna see them (sure is to tell them what a good girl I am la!!! Hahahaahahaha!!!). Read Psalm 13 as 1st reading today. Today supposed to have Communion but cos the Minister couldn't be here so didn't have.

Anyway there's Bank Holiday Breakfast tomorrow in church from 9.30am and they asked for helpers to prepare. I offered to go and help at 9am but won't stay for bfast..cos it will go on till prob 12pm! (means a lot of chatting!!) and is £5 for full English bfast (6 items) which I'm not keen (but it's for church funds too). They were saying they're expecting at least 10 ppl. Actually they should sell "tickets" to make sure people turn up..cos I think they only collect money tmr. Oh ya, then they talked about how the "chinese meal" cooked by one of the ministers was. Said there was two big pie dishes of piled-up beansprouts with curry powder?!?! And deep fried sea weed? Oh my...sounded unappealing..and they said they didn't expect this either and no where near Chinese...haha..anyway I took the opportunity to ask them when I shld do my Singaporean meal and for how many. Ch said up to me..whenever I'm ready and number of people also up to me! I'm thinking to cook chicken rice as main course..then appetiser can be either kaya toasts or bak kut teh (cos is soup) and dessert can be agar agar or sweet potato soup with ginger? I also dunno! Any suggestions???? But I will definitely enjoy cooking for them. One of them suggested to do when my mum is here so she can help but told them too soon...and another said maybe not cos my mum is on holiday..haha! I was thinking either July or Aug. Aug will coincide with National Day. I will have to ask what utensils I will have access to.

After church went to Bearwood. Went to see some shoes n tops at Select and Peacocks shops cos there was sale. But didn't get anything. Then went to Aldi..got some cookies, waffles (bring for friends in London) and also bought mixed leaf salad, butter and sweet potato. Was tempted to buy chocolate but resisted...haahaa! Was thinking what to cook for next few days and thought should get some greens and sweet potato to make as sides if I wanted to cook salmon and my lasagne. Kinda walked around a few times deciding if that's all I'm getting..hahaha!

Finally managed to call ah ma. The moment she picked up the phone, she said ah ma went missing already la..everyone looking for her. HAHAA! Apparently my aunt was also looking for her yday..so funny la! I think I'll call her on weekdays next time..prob higher chance to get her. Good that she's active in her "poot tng" and have her circle of friends.

Too bad I missed the chance to video call with my niece when my parents went over after gg to ah ma's house. But I made appt with her via my bro for tue at my parent's place. Also asked yiyi to settle her skype then we can try video conferencing..will be fun!! Oh, last week I told my bro during video call tt my niece seems like wants a playmate lor..hint to them to have no. 2 la! Cos she was so happy when she saw my sis-in-law's son's video...then she also kept talking and playing with puppet. Then my bro lame la..ask me find guy get married and have kids so my niece will hv playmate...siao lor..as if instant. Then asked why I keep rushing them. HAHAH! Aiyah..kids are adorable mah..n better to have more now than later on then age gap won't be tt big.

Continued with the Risk of Bias assessment for my articles for thesis for the rest of the afternoon. Cooked salmon with salad and sweet potatoes as sides for dinner tonight. YUMS

雨过天晴

Rainy day today but sunny now. Really is 雨过天晴! This morning was such a nice weather to sleep in but woke up ard 8.30am. Anyway waited a while (don't wanna disturb C in case he's still sleeping) before vacuuming my room.

Continued rest of my day with my thesis..on to methods now and stopped at risk of bias..I have to do for indiv studies. And then I got confused myself..so sought help from PF..haha..then she was sharing with me about her progress with hers..poor thing..cos she's doing survey..need to clear ethics back home too. Told her maybe do systematic review as back up in case ethics don't approve or don't approve in time..I guess I'll aim to finish methods by mid next week then start a bit of discussion late next week and continue after I'm back.

Tried calling ah ma in the afternoon but no ans..prob went out. Will call again tmr.

Nothing much to update today...heard them arguing last night..and when L came back too...I dun care..just stay in my room with door closed. Oh, asked to read Psalm 13 tmr..apparently Christine is taking the service tmr..can't wait to see them. I guess I'll be attending nearby church next week too and following week bring my parents! Woo hoo!! Super excited abt parents coming..hahaa! Also can't wait to watch Wicked! R was telling me she booked Sound of Music musical in SG..v ex. Wah..if only I am in London..can watch almost all the musicals lor..haha..cheap for students for offpeak performances and standby tickets. Bham v few and think most happening after July..like Wicked is only coming here in Sept!

Going to have my leftover chicken soup tonight. Nothing much on tv tonight cos hv football...so I shall just watch my Korean drama online. Storyline getting exciting already..hahhaa! The <<日落洞>> show also getting exciting..

L trimmed her hair and did her hair while I was watching Longmire (crime drama). Tried to take pic of her but she went up to L's room cos she was in her room. Then I went up to my room and left door ajar and Poppy came in..walked around and then sat down. Managed to take nice pics of her..in her new hairdo..hahaha! Then while taking pics she was like almost dozing off..her eyes closed partially then opened again..haha..she must have been on a big run just now. L brought her for walk after she came back from work. As usual, she was trying to get the rubber bands out but rubbing against the sofa, chair and carpet.

See her half-closed eyes!!

Chicken soup...for the soul

I don't know how this week went by so quickly!!! It's Friday again! Had planned to go Perry Barr to have a look if hv suitable Clarks shoes on sale cos there's a factory store there. In the end, changed my mind cos weather forecast was heavy rain for the afternoon. So I just went to High Street to post card then Home Bargains.  Bought a fruit shortcake from Home Bargains and it was good! A bit sweet though but nice..haha..addictive! Seeing that it was still light rain and kinda early, I decided to go to ASDA. Bought the crispbreads cos they were on offer...also managed to buy sultanas (plan to bake those khong guan-like sultana biscuits next week). Managed to buy fresh lasagne for £1! It's normal price but haven't seen that brand before..made in Belgium apparently so buy to try.

Haha..anyway C had eaten up his own chicken leftover for lunch. Say until so nice yday evening, leave for me in the fridge so I can have it. Haha..only rice left in the fridge. But it's not like I wanna eat it. At least he washed up all the pot and utensils. Anyway I soaked some salad bean mix this morning. Thinking of cooking chicken potato soup or curry chicken and add the beans tonight. Will decide later..haha..

Finally the English Heritage person replied saying can use any card as long as identifies me as student! Yay!! So my parents and I will get discounted rates for most of the places of interests!

Weatherwise today, it was pretty cooling with light rain. I had to wear my Nike jacket cos I wore short sleeves today and it was nice and warm. The weather here really quite unpredictable...Supposed to warm up again from Sunday. That also explains why I haven't packed my clothes for the road trip. Prob have to check weather again next week then pack.

Will stay home tmr and go church and Bearwood on Sun. Mon is a PH here so I should be staying home too (cos buses work on a Sun timetable - less frequent).

*Added: I end up cooking comforting chicken soup and added potatoes and beans. That's why they call it chicken soup for the soul?

Did u spot the carrots?? Hahaha! I asked C if he saw my carrots while I was preparing my dinner. Then he said he used them yday and said he took my garlic too. He said he thought they left them before their trip (AS IF!! Cos they were in my container). Then I said oh..I wanted to use them and he offered to buy them from the shop at the corner of the road. And I actually said tt will be good. Hahaha..no more being a kind soul. So I used 2 carrots and put the remainder in their vege compartment. How honest I am hor? Anyway L loves this soup I cook. But it's really easy to cook..today added bay leaves and 花椒. She added her chilli powder, lime juice and salt. C bluffed her tt he had some too. Prob he ate something before he came back la. Oh, L brought back some cupcakes from Morrisons..think she bought or someone bought and she brought back the remainder. Tastes like steamed cake..hah..but not tt sweet. When L said she loves boiled chicken, I told her Poppy likes it too and said I had to cook chicken for her cos she won't eat her dog food a few of the days while they were away...then she commented she's (Poppy) spoilt!

Oh..and when I was cooking, C chatted with me (on his way to outside to smoke) and shared with me about his plans. Apparently he's gg to continue with his PT degree and do some lorry driving work?! It started when he said he's gg to quit smoking after he finishes his cigarettes he bought from USA..said his friend at his apartment was told he left with 18 months to live and he has been smoking, drinking etc. Can't quite imagine him being a PT..hahaha! Claims to be good at science and he's the only one in his family without a degree.

Can't you just get your own??

Woke up only ard 9.30am today!! Got a shock when I saw the time..and it was cos neighbour knocked on the door. Earlier heard L and C talking but thought it was still early so told myself can continue to sleep. Then Poppy barked and whined cos I guess Buddy was at the door. Anyway think I was too tired staring at computer whole of yesterday. Made chocolate peanut butter oats today. Have been eating with cinnamon and sugar/honey so today added cocoa powder since I have. Not bad..haha..the peanut butter is the cheap one tt L bought to return me but I don't like the texture so wanna use up.

Finally booked Wicked musical tickets for my parents and I!! Got reply from the English Heritage site but he also just redirect me to the website of ticket prices. Wonder if he understood my question?! I asked if Uni card is still eligible for concession price or have to have tt NUS card (not SG's NUS but is some Union card that students can apply for £12/year). Anyway if don't have then I just book adult lor. Not worth to pay for the card cos I'm leaving soon anyway and probably won't use tt much of it to make it worth. So now left with Stonehenge tickets to purchase in advance.

Anyway they rolled back the carpets in the living room and dining area last night..and vacuumed too. Actually I had vacuumed and cleaned quite a bit while they are away but I guess can't tell? Good that there's much more walking space now. While they were away I also bought fabric conditioner and yday they did lots of washing. Let's hope they don't use up and not replace when it's my turn to do my laundry. Nowadays I kinda don't talk to them much also. Dunno what to say also...but I also busy with my thesis la.

Spent today looking through again at my thesis. Then I wondered if I used the right search terms with "" or without and funny that my search results numbers don't match. Hmm..but never mind la. As long as I have identified my key articles. I can always search again later on. Hope can still get by. Kinda finished drafting my intro part and on to my methods section. After that will be findings and critiquing of articles then discussion.

Anyway now cos L is back, Poppy ignores me..or rather I also don't go and talk to her or what la..hahaha! Good la..can do my work in peace. Now she follows wherever L goes around the house. Yday she vomitted just at the door and I only saw when I opened the door for L. When I went down to cook my dinner, didn't see it. Anyway I continued to serve and eat my dinner. L cleaned it up and apologised cos I was about to eat my dinner. Then what can I say rite? haha. She vomitted cos she din eat la..L gave her the tray dog food..which I think she doesn't like..compared to the chunky kind.

Eating my leftover spaghetti from yesterday...didn't know how to estimate and ended up cooking quite a lot so kept some aside for today. But I hear C using the chopper. Not sure if he's cooking tonight...didn't go downstairs yet. Anyway I've moved my frozen stuff to the bottom most shelf liao...in a way to differentiate my stuff from theirs. See if they notice. I had to put my olive oil in the common pull-out rack cos bottle was too tall for the cupboard. Wanted to pour into the old bottle then decided nvm la..if they wanna use, let them use lor. But they have their vegetable oil la. I don't mind sharing but don't like when I don't have it when I want to use it. It's that kind of 明明有但没得用 thinking. Moreover I don't drive or have trolley lor! So I have to plan and space out what I buy if they are heavy.

Oh..earlier today, one of my NYP friends whatsapped our grp saying this yr is our 10th anniversary since we met! Gosh!! Has it been that long?? But it's right cos we started our OT course in 2004! Not exactly 10 years yet cos we started in July. Then spent some time sending them some photos. Realised I keep lots of photos (soft copies)..enjoy taking photos of events to remind myself..haha..reminiscence! Think we didn't change much though most said they look old now..hahaa!

Tmr need to go out cos wanna send card for friend's bday..after that then not sure where to go. Weather forecast for tmr is light rain shower for the afternoon and about 16°C.

*Added: Went downstairs and C told me he's cooking chicken later and I can have some but L only finishes work at 8pm. He asked if it's too late for me..so told him it's ok..I'll have my leftovers. Then he said there will be leftover of the chicken in the fridge so I can have it tmr. Then saw 2 carrots on the kitchen table and suspected he took mine cos they didn't replenish their groceries yet. Then saw tt I had lesser garlic left too. GRRRR!! And I kinda waited for him to say while I was eating my own dinner but he didn't. Take it for granted that I'll say ok??? Pissed not cos he takes my stuff without asking but more so is don't replace and I've to buy if I wanna use?? Or worse still I will think I have but actually he used up? It's not like I am stingy or what lor!! But he went out today and I guess he bought chicken but why didn't he buy his other ingredients???? Wah biang! Buay paiseh one lor! Or maybe he thinks it's ok since I'm eating it anyway. I used up the peas (for Poppy) and corn for me and Poppy while they were away and still waiting for him to replace (guess he won't!). Anyway I will not be buying carrots already since I don't think I will finish eating it by next weekend. And I better finish my foodstuff in the fridge by then (except wholegrain mustard that I just opened).

Maybe tmr if no leftover, I'll cook baked potatoes or rosti (if I can be bothered to shred it) or something with potatoes..maybe potato salad with the salad beans. Got to use up the potatoes.

sunny day

Finally got to video call with my niece today! She's sooo adorable. Told me a lot but in her gibberish language so I don't know what she is saying. But she seemed to be telling me about her day or something..had intonation. Haha..but she today v distracted by toys and walking around..didn't really look at me lor!

Was searching online for student tours to Isle of Wight and saw a few then chanced upon one that goes to Durdle Door..saw pic and looks cool! And then checked and saw that it's near Weymouth so added in to itinerary. Anyway it's exactly 2 weeks before my parents arrive!! Wheeee!

Continued the day with writing up my intro bit for thesis. Basically removed the citations from articles that are supposed to be derived from my search and rearranging the order. Was home alone with Poppy most of today. Was woken up by them today (I miss the quietness!!)..C left house ard 8+am, unusually...and L went to work before 10am. Too bad Poppy didn't meet her good friend, Buddy (neighbour's dog) at the park cos he came by and I told him L is back and they are at the park. Paid L rent and she said what will sort something out. Means she'll gv me invoice? Or NATO again? Anyway, it was pretty warm today again in the afternoon but now cooling down. Supposedly to be heavy rain tomorrow. Plan to head out on Fri..not sure where yet but prob wanna buy some raisins to bake my sultana biscuits..haha! That day went Aldi, they didn't have the everyday essentials range so was more ex. Checked supermarket catalogues online to see if any offers worth buying but nothing much. Plan to buy some snacks for PF and SK and also road trip..prob get them next week.

Have been watching <<妈妈的庭院>> and the 7pm and 9pm SG drama..the korean drama is quite dragdy..but can learn Korean..

Going to cook spaghetti tonight with mustard and bratwurst. Lazy to think of what to cook liao..haha..mayve tmr cook curry..but the pot I usually use was not scrubbed properly..C prob burned it and didn't scrub it. Later L think I burned it lor! See how la.

pork ribs and gift from US...

Spent most of today finishing my critical appraisal of my studies. Went out a while to throw rubbish. Didn't want to throw outside kitchen cos dun look nice esp L coming back today. Anyway today neighbour brought Poppy out for walk with his dog too. After shower, Poppy didn't let me tie her fringe up..so I ignored her till later in the afternoon then managed to tie. She kinda chose rice...left the harder ones in the bowl. Grrr!!

L came back in a taxi ard 5pm..dropped C at barbers so she can meet up with Poppy (and T) in the park..haha..after tt she came back with Poppy and then went out again to look for C. Then C came back on his own..macam play hide and seek.

Anyway, cooked pork ribs as planned. All gone!! Even my potato wedges too! Only left tau geh. But she did say none of the places they went to in US had ribs! And she was telling me tt C ate pork when he was there, without knowing tt it was pork..haha..it was in sausage and another time he thought it was fish?! What a laugh!

This slab was only abt £2.69!! 

Then they told me how long they drove during their road trip..4-12hr to get from one place to another!! Then L told me abt The Cheesecake Factory and wanted to bring me back a slice but couldn't. She even brought back the menu?!?!? Dunno for what..hahaa! C offered to pass me some family and friends discount card for Marriott (cos apparently they used it and had really good prices for hotels) but told them my parents have booked. I guess ang mohs are usually quite last min?

Ohhh..u all must be guessing what they got for me rite?? L said it's not v much...and honestly, I can't agree more..after all, she kinda left Poppy for me to look after though I wasn't keen! Not like I'm complaining la. So here it is! Doesn't it look so familiar?

Anyway I don't know what happened to my hp..had taken this pic of Poppy putting her head all the way down to show that she's being a good girl but it appeared in my hp only yday. So here it is when I refused to give her treat cos she didn't finish her dinner.

 Things will be back to "normal" tomorrow! Now I've to think of what to cook for tomorrow..but come to the worst, just cook pasta with bratwurst.

Shopping!!

Another warm day!! 24°C! I was out with my sleeveless dress/long top, denim skirt (cos without it the dress looks too short) and M&S slippers. Of course, applied sunscreen on my body and face. Headed to West Bromwich as planned in the afternoon. It was kinda stuffy in the bus...then I wondered if the bus even has air conditioner!! Imagine in summer..oh my..but I think it's worse in the London Tube!

Anyway, back to my shopping trip. I'm happy cos I was lucky to buy many cards from M&S! Was thinking can keep some and bring home. R bought lots of cards when she came too..and I am not surprised cos there's so many varieties and pretty and inexpensive compared to back home! Then went to Primark. bought a short sleeve plain yellow top (to match my skirt in case I wanna wear) and jelly sandals!!! They remind me so much of one I had when I was a kid! And I have always like wearing such plastic-y footwear cos no need to worry if it rains! Actually had seen it the last time but didn't think much of it. Today cos I was looking around for sandals, I tried them on and they seemed ok..so bought them. Only £4. Tried on the other covered shoes too but not many have my size..maybe my size is a common size here lor!

After that went to the market area and bought a bag of apples. Was deciding between apples or pears..and was tempted by the peaches too but maybe wait till parents are here, can help to eat. Then went to Morrisons. First time I went into one cos most not along the way for me..more for people with cars lor. But I realised their stuff also quite affordable! Managed to get marked down beansprouts (yes, tau geh) but they still look fresh and PORK RIBS!! Unit price was only £4.49/kg! Just nice..so I will cook ribs tmr for dinner and keep some for L when she gets back.

Anyway, spent last night and this morning planning itinerary for London trip when parents are here. Hope it'll be ok...a lot of walking but can also take public transport la. Then I realised how near everything is actually. Have been following my friends to take Tube so didn't need to see map.

Oh ya, I forgot to mention...yday I was walking along Bearwood and a (black) male driver (act cool kind) whistled at me from his car. I ignored him and he did it again...I act blur and continued walking. Siao! As if I was wearing v sexily or what. These youngsters...*shake head* Anyway cos the weather has been good, everyone seems to come out from their houses. It's such a vast difference from Winter! And of course, have to be careful of strange people and people causing trouble...I guess the heat will get to people..hahaha!

Have been feeding Poppy rice with ham cos no more dog food that she likes and T didn't buy. Anyway L coming back tmr evening liao...so just cook more rice so I can eat for dinner and then keep for Poppy's meals tmr can liao.

Enough of R&R these few days...Time to continue doing my work from tomorrow! Temp dropping tmr onwards to below 20..so staying home is a good choice!

WARM!!!!

Oh my goodness!! It was soooo warm today! Checked the temp according to my hp app, it was almost 23°C! It has been the hottest day so far since I'm here...and it's either I'm acclimatised or the sun is really strong!! Feel like can get sunburn lor! It was pleasantly cooling this morning with cold winds blowing when I left house for church...but heated up especially after I walked back with my groceries ard 2+pm. Came home and changed out of my M&S dress into tshirt and shorts (heng I brought shorts!). Buay tahan! Anyway, I snapped pic of the Med Sch...to also show the sunny day!

and a pic of this pretty flower bunch on my way home!

Church was ok..only 9 of us today but glad cos I finally partook Holy Communion after some time..hehe. Had croissant with salami and cheese for refreshments today. After tt went to Bearwood to get groceries and cards. I managed to find hair brush at Poundland too so I was happy!

Not long after I came back, put laundry down to wash and chat with dad on Viber, I thought I smelled smoke but thought nothing of it since from time to time, we'll get smell of burning wood (from ppl's chimneys). Then a while later, heard sirens and there were 3 fire engines (and later an ambulance) along my place! A neighbour's house (think about 5-6 doors away) caught fire..can't see the damage but only saw smoke on and off. The other neighbours went out to see what happened and chatted. I just stayed indoors and snap pic..hahaha..oops! Poppy seemed to know something is up and started barking when people passed by and looked at the fire engine then sniffed at the main door.

Anyway the fire engines are still here (about 2hr have passed!!) and they have blocked the road. I was just thinking if one operation takes so long, then are there many firefighters?? Should ask one of my classmates who works in the fire services. He did invite us to his workplace too...may arrange for a visit one day with my grp of classmates later when most people are back from their hols.

It's the 2nd time I saw an ambulance today. Earlier on saw someone being brought into the ambulance while I was on the bus. Might have been an accident earlier or maybe someone fainted..not sure. But the patient's condition looked serious. Bless them!

Don't feel like cooking cos it's soo warm!! Had wanted to buy salad mix but the shelves were empty! Think everyone doing BBQ today lor! So came home and defrosted the pork shoulder chops I bought and the leftover dhal. I'm not sure what I'm cooking but may dump everything together and just cook prata. Poppy has only left with 2 trays of dog food which she doesn't seem to take very well. I don't know if it's coincidental but the two times I gave her, she puked the next day.

Anyway, earlier this morning, got my 2nd boss's whatsapp (she's one of my RO and ex-sup when I was a student also) asking about my findings for my thesis cos apparently she's doing a quotation for an external company who wants our dept to do the FCE for pre employment screening! She was saying how she wish the person approached her after I go back..hahaa! Imagine tt she's doing this on a Sun!! Obviously as much as I know how capable she is and a good role model, I want my personal social life too..hahaha! Anyway then chatted a bit with her too. Seems tt when I go back, I'll do half inpt and half outpt work...and I'll cover pain management clinic too...fearful..haha..and was telling her hv to prioritise what I need to do first...lots waiting for me -,-||| I must really enjoy my "hols" first. Quite sad no kaki to go travel with..but I might just go if I finish my thesis or almost finish. Then checked when my graduation ceremony might be..seems may be mid Dec. The other day was chatting with M and I said I doubt I'll be coming back for graduation and she sounded surprised! I also didn't attend my UniSA one though I rented gown to take pics. Well, I might hor? If I still have leave and have places I wanna go...but if in Dec means shorter days..shall see how things go!

I guess I'll head out tomorrow to West Brom...see if can get cheap sandals or maybe get another pair of flip flops from Primark..haha! Tmr's weather forecast is sunny intervals (it showed light rain shower this morning but I guess it is now the latest!). Wed and Thur temp supposedly to be about 16°C.

*Added: This is my dinner!

And I thought I'll show a pic of bored Poppy by the window. Cooked basmati rice and added slightly salted butter and ham into it. She finished almost all of it! I made her finish all of it before I give her her treat..then she sulking on her kitchen bed..put her head down and looked at me sitting outside..haha!

Sunny Saturday

Sunny day again today.

view from room window

view from toilet roof window

First time perspire but that's cos I did vacuuming and a bit of cleaning of the glass table tops and my toilet. Also washed my sheets and packed stuff for my parents to bring back excluding clothes. Looked at my notes and unsure how to bring them back! Think they weigh about 2kg?!

Anyway today's forecast was 21deg..so I looked for short sleeve top to wear at home and thought I'll wear my nyp one. I had put it aside cos tt time it seemed to drop black fibres ard so didn't dare to wear for sleeping (else my bedsheets will be grey!). So thought I'll wear for in the house today. Bad move!! Somehow the fibres got into my nostrils too and my pi sai was grey..(sorry for the gross description!) and then cos I was wearing a white lingerie, it had black fibres on it too!!! Then I spotted a few small holes in the tshirt and pulled to see if it disintegrates or what cos I dun rem seeing them there. So anyway, it kinda tore easily. So I quickly removed and bathed. Threw away that top and wore my other PJ short sleeve top. Was looking for other short sleeve or sleeveless tops/dresses to wear..esp for tmr. Anyway, I can wear my sleeveless dresses. Adding 2 I bought, I have 5 sleeveless ones altogether. Then tops I only have my puma one and 1 polo tee. Other short sleeve is as PJs. But I found 2 shorts..haha..so it's good that I've asked my mum to bring some of my tshirts here.

Anyway today Poppy must be sooo bored. No one came to bring her out or play with her until now (4+pm). T called to check on her twice and he said he's not sure what time he will come but he will come. Hope he remembers dog food. Else will feed her ham..hahaa! Realised there're 2 more unopened 400g packs in the fridge! Poppy followed me out to the garden for a bit (I wanted to get out of my room and into the sun) but she did bizzie and looked at me then went into house. Can't find her tennis ball..maybe misplaced cos T kept throwing it ard and asking her to fetch..not sure if he brought it to the park and didn't bring it back.

Started doing my critical appraisal for my articles today. That's the process to make sure the studies I included are worthy to be included in a way...

Great that yiyi has arrived Shanghai safely and seems to be enjoying her life..haha..nice weather there too..abt 19deg!

Oh ya, L called last night but I was in the shower so missed her call..then checked email this morning and saw that she emailed..said can't wait to see me n Poppy..said will be arriving in Bham 3+pm and probably reach home ard 6.30pm. Had thought of cooking the soup she liked but maybe she won't be hungry cos food is served during the flight. But shall see how. This kind of weather also don't feel like drinking soups..haha..but forecast for Tue is 19 with light rain shower.

Tonight going to cook cod..probably pan fry and have mushrooms. Maybe will bake/panfry some wedges too. Will go Aldi after church tmr to get groceries. Nothing in mind to cook this week. Shall see how things go.

*Added: Cooked cod today with loads of sides! Don't know why but had wanted to eat egg..haha..so fried an egg.

Then I suddenly wondered if I was supposed to pay more this month cos I had worked out that I'll need to pay a week more rent every 3rd mth to make up for total cost for 52 weeks since I pay monthly. But now when I calculate, it seems like if I continue to pay £100 more, I'll be paying more! Hmm..I don't know why it didn't work out. Anyway it should be right now. Will probably ask L to check after she has settled back..maybe next month. Cos she has been saying she'll print invoice for me but she never did and I said as long as she knows I paid. I also recorded la...so probably will ask her to double check. So from now if I pay the usual amt till July, and then stay till early Sept, it'll be 50 weeks and the total amount till July is right for 50 weeks. Heng I checked lor! How fast time flies!

No sign of T yet..guess he will only appear later at night (it's 8.30pm now but it's still bright outside).

Sunny friday

Poppy vomitted either last night or this morning...and it was more liquid and had peanut halves and peanut skin!! Was pissed cos it meant that she ate it while with T! I had already told T that L says she can't have choc and nuts! Anyway had my bfast before cleaning it up. Neighbour came to walk her this morning so it was good that I set alarm and woke up only when my alarm rang. After showering her, washed all of Poppy's stuff..cos her bed and cloth she usually sits on by the window all white then these few days T keep bringing her out even after I shower her..n she doesn't get showered after..so the stuff all dirty lor! And I hate it when he asks her to climb up the dining chair (with white covers) on to table to "hug" him. Grrr..so the cover also dirty than before but I'm not going to wash it. I'm not their maid lor! Anyway today quite a good sun so hung outside in garden. Told T that she vomitted and mentioned that there was peanuts..and he said she probably picked them up along the way. So I guess she might have been to his restaurant or maybe in his car cos they looked like those he bought for me.

This Poppy v smart..today I mixed chicken and dog biscuits into her dog food..she picked them out and left the dog food in the bowl. Anyway dog food running low also..left with 2 trays and 1 pouch only. Doubt can last till Tue unless I feed her chicken and/or rice. Wanted to ask T to buy but they left the house too fast and when they came back, I was chatting with my dad on Skype. Maybe later when he comes again. I wanted him to buy since he has car and doesn't mind buying food for her. Actually I knew the dog food will run out when I saw the stock after L left. Maybe she thinks T will buy her other food anyway. Oh well. How fast that they're coming back 4 days later! Honestly, I'm quite used to being alone (excluding Poppy) cos I'm not disturbed by them staying late at night or waking up in the morning for work. Hah..but good cos then I don't have to be the housemaid or pet sitter!

Today worked on my thesis..and got myself confused and unsure if the articles I'm including is sufficient and if I was doing two parts actually. Hmm..need inspiration. Anyway cos it's been quite warm and will be, have been opening my room window and the door to garden from living room lately. But cos there's no net frame, insects fly in! This morning saw big fat houseflies in the kitchen..they must have flown in from the door. So have to leave it a little ajar only.

Cos I'm in whatsapp groups for colleagues, have to ignore what I read sometimes. But I'm glad I'm here..haha..was asking PF if she read and she said yes and she believes God sent us away for a reason..hahaha! She's so cute! Anyway, guess things would have changed when we go back. Hope I won't need to lead a team..haha!! Else no social life liao...and more white hair..

Tmr gg to do a bit of cleaning then continue with my thesis. If bored then may head out for a while to buy some groceries..else can wait till Sun when I go in Uni church. I guess the only reason I go to the Lutheran congregation in Uni is cos hv Holy Communion whereas the nearby church only has it once a month or sometimes maybe don't have but so far the times I've been, I've only taken there once! Btw I'm tempted to buy a pair of open toe sandals (hiao hor?) so that I can wear on days like these few warm days (ok la..not tt warm..temp is about 21°C.

Symphonic afternoon!

Poppy had her walk today..and shower..when I was drying her, she darted out (I forgot to close or block the toilet door!) and T was downstairs..maybe she smelled T..haha! Then T brought her to the garden and ask her jump here and there again! Arghhsss..anyway he spoils her again la...add ham into dog food..grrr..I can't be bothered liao. Let him do what he likes...if Poppy acts funny when L comes back and if she asks then I'll say lor.

Today as forecasted, it was pretty warm..but chilly when the winds blow. It felt strange not wearing any leggings to go out so wore stockings instead..haha! Also to cover my pimple scar and a blueblack. Wore my M&S dress with a tank top cos too low cut without it. Brought a cardigan in case it gets chilly but didn't use it at all. The buses were stuffy...hope they switch on the air con in summer!!

Oh ya, the OT at the Outpt Brain Injury Clinic replied and agreed for me to go down to their centre to have a look at their services!! She proposed a date in July..wow right? They plan so advance? hahaha..anyway it'll be a great opportunity to compare the services they provide here and back home. Would love to visit an acute hospital too and apparently the hospital that this outpatient is attached to has a neurorehab unit too! Hope can see more la...think the other PT vocational assessment one not interested cos non-money generating...didn't even reply despite 2 emails!! Either that or he's arrogant (as my impression of him when I saw him at the conference I attended in early March).

Went in earlier for the preconcert talk which was pretty interesting and is free seating so sat on the lower ground. Then snapped some pics of the hall and outside while waiting for performance to start.

from where I was seated

Most of the audience were elderly and a few young people. My seat was really good! 1st row in the circle and I happened to see the tickets of the couple who sat next to me and the price was £37!!! I'm vvv lucky to be able to catch this for just £5! Realised there are some free performances at the cafe bar at 5pm on some Fridays too but I guess u'll have to buy a drink else paiseh. Shall look out for more of such concerts. The Orchestra was pretty good! At one point I was actually quite sleepy..not cos it is boring but it was soo soothing. Saw an elderly man doze off sitting at the choir loft (opp where I was).

Ended around 4.15pm..so about 2h. Anyway I wonder why they sell ice cream at concert and musical interval..cos tt day when I watched Billy Elliot too..and SK told me they sell cup ice cream during the interval.

After tt went to Home Bargains..wanted to find round hair brush..cos my hairstyle needs curling in else will look messy. But they only had the flat ones..but I managed to find cupcake liners..thot I should put the steamed egg cakes into them when I make for PF. Then wanted to go to Bearwood (Aldi and Poundland) but the bus took sooo long to come and it was already 5.30pm..by the time I reach there, Poundland may have closed. So I didn't bother.

Cooked instant pasta and added ham and bratwurst for dinner tonight...yumssss! No plans for tmr so might just wash up Poppy's stuff and air dry since next few days will be sunny and warm.

Steamed egg cake..passed!

A bit not used to seeing my shorter hair length..haha! And I guess I need to keep combing it inwards else will look messy! But I think it can look trendy being messy too!

Finally tried the 鸡蛋糕 since I might make it for PF when I go over London! I realised the egg mixture didn't double in size as fast as my cake mixer back home..cos the attachment here is not a whisk. Oh well..then no sieve also so could only use colander to improvise but the holes were big. I kinda understand why need to sift so many times and top flour or cake flour is recommended! So that you don't end up with lumps of flour and overmix. I think the result is not bad just that cos I don't have coarse sugar to create the breaking effect (according to one website), it didn't 发. It's a v basic and easy recipe to follow. Probably will make when I'm back home too! I followed this recipe more cos portion is smaller..The recipe is not tt sweet too. Also adapted from this recipe that PF showed me.

Will probably make this again to bring to London for PF. Showed her on whatsapp and she said looks good and asked if any soggy bottom..said no..then she said successful. I had 2 for lunch and wanted more..ok..less than 2 cos I offered Tariq some and Poppy loved it..haha..kept the remaining 3 for tmr!

Continued with my reading and started to arrange my introduction part a bit.

Tonight eating my leftover steamed chicken rice cos didn't eat dinner in the end last night. Then tmr gg for concert. Will go earlier (at 1pm) for the pre-concert talk..meant to explain more about the concert. Quite looking forward to it. So tmr dinner prob have pasta or defrost the frozen Indian dinner..shall decide tmr!

Today's weather max 16°C sunny intervals but it was pretty chilly in the morning (below 10°C). Tmr supposedly cloudy, 10-17°C and friday will be sunny intervals, 11-20°C!! This is the correct spring to summer temp! Then I'll know how to pack for my road trip and Europe/London trip!

hair CUT!!! =)

Just came back from haircut, lunch and snacks shopping at Tesco.

Heng I left house early today cos apparently there was an accident near Harborne High St so the bus had to be diverted and by the time it got back to the end of High St, the later bus was just behind the one I was in, using the High Street! But reached the place early. The Uni was easy to find..and the Spa reception was pretty big and people were waiting seated..and there was a coffee/tea dispenser too. Didn't wait long for my turn.

Haircut took about 2.5h including the consultation, washing, blowing, paying. The student was soo nervous..even when she led me in. I told her "Don't be nervous!!" before I sat down. Haha..then asked what length I want to cut it to so showed her..then her teacher came to ask too and I said I leave it to u all. Just wanna get rid of my split ends. The teacher commented to the student "It's a gift from God". These ang mohs sure talk v nicely..haha! Anyway the teacher told her to show me a hair magazine and see if I like any. After shampooing, the student showed it to me..and after a while, I asked if she really wants me to choose from there...she just smiled nervously. So showed her a simple one with bangs (as what I usually have). Then the teacher came by to ask if I saw any..so showed her tt simple one. So she went through with the student the technical names. So cutting off the length was long cos she split into many sections...then came the fringe..had to tell her to cut off more..don't be scared..ahaha! After tt blow dry my hair and asked if I want it to be straightened (with hair straightener) and I said yes but then realised time and said it's ok...I also don't want my hair to be pulled..hehe..wished her luck and left her encouragement in her assessment form before I left. Anyway, they were really having half price for Level 2 hair and beauty treatments till end June! So my cut was super cheap! I'm shy to post my pic here so if u wanna know how I look, whatsapp me!

After met M for lunch cos other Msian girl can't make it! So just two of us...had the lunch set which was an appetiser and main course for only £4.95! Good value! I had the Moroccan paella which had tender chicken breast and lamb. Yums!!

Anyway M is my classmate from UAE..she's a Dr by training..and oh my..she's super rich la..haha..she just came back from a trip at Forest Holidays and was telling me about her adventure literally staying in the forest!! Shall see if can go Dubai one day..prob after Mers..haha! Wanted to foot the bill but the card machine was not connecting so end up she paid in cash and I paid with whatever I had. Paiseh lor..cos tt time the sushi she kinda paid for most of it. But she's nice..haha..

After that decided to drop at Tesco near my place to buy my mixed nuts and raisins...finished munching the previous batch. Ended up buying choc digestives biscuits and gummy. Came back and it started raining..guess I was lucky. It wasn't that cold today and will be warm if not for the winds. Next few days will be above 15deg. Tmr shall stay home and maybe try the ji dan gao..then Thur gg for concert!!

I kinda forgot to follow up on the attachment request. Had sent to the PT twice but no reply. Maybe I should change to the OT who works at an outpatient rehab centre for brain injured clients. 

I guess tonight I'll have a light dinner cos I'm still full from lunch! That rice portion is way beyond my usual..haha!

Steamed chicken rice

Did quite a bit of housework this morning..first it was preparing my bfast..and when neighbour came to bring Poppy out for a walk, I decided to debone and marinate the chicken for tonight's dinner before she comes back and I've to shower her. Then chopped up chicken into small pieces and add to her dog food for her "dinner". After she came back, showered her. T came by a few times today and only went down to "report" to him that she has gone for walk and I showered her the first time he came. The other times I was sitting comfortably on my bed doing my research so didn't bother to "entertain" him. One of the times he came he shouted out to me to check if I was around -,-||| Does it make a diff?! Also left chopping board and knife on kitchen top again.

Anyway, got to video call with my niece today but no nice Hiii today..only smiled when she saw me. She's still blabbering in her language..cute! Hehe..

Did more reading and data extraction for my thesis for the rest of the afternoon. Tedious! Quite looking forward to tmr. Going to leave hse quite early (from usual) to have my haircut then meeting 2 other classmates for lunch at Zagora Moroccan food (the others can't make it!). Weather is supposedly to warm up by this end of week reaching 18deg or news said low 20s?! That should be the feel of summer..so I can gauge then. Today and tmr is ard 13deg.

Cooked steamed mushroom chicken rice tonight! Quite an adventure..cos I have to use bowl to cook rice in microwave oven then thought I can use the same bowl to steam with chicken but it was too high so touches the lid. So I use chopsticks to hold it but it didn't seem to be steaming! So had an idea to do the method I do my Emperor chicken so used aluminium foil to wrap the rice. TADA! It worked..haha..

before cooking

Verdict: Not as fragrant as my mum's..partly cos I didn't use dried mushrooms and chicken had to be deboned (cos no chopper here)..haha! And of course, mum cooks best mah! But not bad for a first attempt! Rice wasn't soggy!!!