Sunday, January 27

The 2008 Australian Open Men's Champion

... is Novak Djokovic.

He's the first Serbian to win a Grand Slam Championship and if I've heard it right, the youngest to have won the Australian Open trophy.

The match was a battle of the champions. His opponent, Tsonga played really good winning the first set but I think, Djokovic loosen up after the first set and started to play excellent tennis that he bagged the three sets consecutively.

It was a match worth missing a movie that I've been looking forward to see. :)

Saturday, January 26

Happy Australia Day



The family is going to celebrate Australia Day like true-blue Queenslanders/Aussies, head out to the beach (minus the barbeque).

Happy weekend everyone! Have fun! We'll do. :)

Friday, January 25

Whiney? No, Just Wishing. :)

When I came here, I was introduced to the complexity of home theatre system (for me that is) with VCR, set top box, DVD player attached to the box. Our tube is sort of like vintage, jurassic or of bygone era. (When MCJ read this, he'll say I'm a whinger - hehehe). I am not really complaining as though the box maybe of old model, it gives good picture and that's what important isn't it? But, having a wide screen one would be more than alright as I dont have to wear my glasses while watching. :)

Anyway, as of now the VCR sort of like controls all the other what-have-you visual media. I have to remember which channel is it in the VCR if I want to watch DVD, which channel is it when I want a digital picture, etc. My wish list though has the wide screen latest model box in it and maybe, I could add HDMI switches. It would really make it more sophisticated and easy to use. :)

The Aus Open Bit

It's the last weekend of the Australian Open and one of the grandslams would be over. And it is a big night tonight, well for me that is, as Roger Federer is playing...
... against a Serbian seed 3, Novak Djokovic in the semi-final.
I will be rooting for Roger for sure but if he will lost, I won't be that devastated as I know Novak play excellent tennis.

It's been sort of a habit to have munchies (read junk food) on Friday night for movies and for tonight, tennis. But I havent really tried buying popcorn, as first I am not big on it and, second, we don't have popcorn machine. I don't want to make in microwave. Oh well, the choice of munchies is not really a problem to us, as MCJ and I love Twistees. :)

Family Game

Jens have been the family joy when he was born, more so when he was able to smile, to interact properly, to roll-over, to crawl, to grab and eat or lick things, to eat solids, and so on. (You know I can blabber on and on about our Little Boy. LOLz)

Anyway, as parents, we are always proud whatever milestones and achievements he has. We can't stop bragging about it to family and relies, sometimes up to the extent that it seems it was us who do those things - though we're not owning those achievements. They gave us wings that let us fly and feel light and dizzy.

Okay, enough of being melodramatic.. what I really want to say here is just about Jens' recent antic. He can play peek a book. It started the day before last when he was on our bed and got inside the sheets. His reaction from being blinded was kicking furiously but at the same time, he found joy in doing so. He thought it was a game. Then I started introducing him to peek-a-boo game.
Jens covering his face.


And when I say, where's the bubbub.. he'll take the cloth out of his face.

As a Mummy, you always feel nice even if you're tired when you see your Bub happy. Its a reward more expensive than specially engraved plaques.

Talking of Jobs

Just recently, I was chatting to my ex-officemate/friend from the Philippines. We used to work in the same company and the same department before I left and apparently she left the company also. Now she's working as a consultant - the best job, well for some, that you can land on after working on a financial software (which includes financial reporting) for more than two years.

I gather from her that, the said profession, if you may call it, is highly in demand here in OZ. I knew that then when we were still working together but despite living here, I can't say yes to that, as I don't really have an idea. Maybe because I haven't tried looking for a job even just for curiousity sakes on the internet. One of these days, I may try looking up the net. I mentioned it to MCJ and he said, that might be true because the software company has this huge building in the city's CBD. If that's the fact, it gives me high hopes that someday.. I might land on the same job - but do I really need the pressure there? :) Big question mark that I don't have to answer right now.

Wednesday, January 23

Fave Song(s) Tag

Sis, got lots of fave songs.. but I'll just limit it to two. :) thanks for this tag.

~ Start Copy ~
Here are the rules :
1. Please write your favorite love song, and what's the story behind it?
2. Please include your name and your URL blog.
3. Share this tag to your friends as much as you can.
4. Copy from "Start Copy" until "End Copy"

My favorite song is "Endless Love". Because I sang this song as a surprise for my love on our engagement party - Nyumix

With me, my favorite song is Korean Drama Soundtrack songs ;-) My favorite are Winter Sonata, Lovers in Paris, Full House, Love Letter, etc too much i don't remember the the title. Why? Because they all nice to hear over and over again - Juliana RW

My favorite song is "Heaven" by DJ Sammy and Yanou. The songs tells so much about me and my husband - Liza For me, i love so many so many songs - from kiddie songs to romantic love songs. But let me share with you 2 songs that stands out from everyone. ONe is YOU ARE MY SONG by Martin Nievera and the other one is LET'S TALK ABOUT LOVE by Celine Dion. I picked fav songs thru its lyrics (inspiring) and music (mellow). - Arlene

Mine is the Insatiable of Darren Hayes because it's OUR SONG. It's a little bit naughty but still nice. Lols. Also, I love "Thanks to You". It speaks some of my thoughts. - HappyMum

~ End Copy ~

I'm passing this on to Wirelessbliss, Emma, Thet and Chubby.

Tuesday, January 22

Weekend Snapshot 4

MCJ let Jens stand on his bed - and he was able to stand for minutes. Yayyyy!

Everybody loves weekend, it is the time for leisure, recreation and other religious activities. And when everyone is having a grand time, you want to capture it and share it with others. That’s why Weekend Snapshot is here for you. Come and join us! - WS Author

More WS participants here.

Saturday, January 19

PhotoHunt No 1: Important

This is my find for .

...our planner/diary for 2008 (again courtesy of Nan) where I record all our appointments, especially Jens GP visits and other important dates. Plus it has a provisor for shopping list and some recipes. Cool!

The Rise of an Aussie

A Little Aussie Battler as some call her, has become an Australian Number 1 in Women tennis. She's through to the fourth round - defeating Amelie Mauresmo, a former world number 1 last night. It was so exhilirating watching her and very dramatic when the match was over especially for her family.

Like most players, she worked her way to the top. Her humble start is very inspiring. She told in an interview that she buy her training outfit in Target. Can you imagine that. That was aired nationwide and Target's response was providing her some outfit that she can wear (seen a jacket in an offcourt interview this morning) and a two grand shopping spree. She also said, she's lucky that her game outfit was sponsored by Nike. Well, as far as I know players of any game and event were always sponsored by big companies (like Adidas golf).


Hopefully, this little Aussie will make it to the top.

Weekend Snapshot 3

Everybody loves weekend, it is the time for leisure, recreation and other religious activities. And when everyone is having a grand time, you want to capture it and share it with others. That’s why Weekend Snapshot is here for you. Come and join the fun here. - WS Author

Something To Keep Me Busy

When we get excited of doing something or going to somewhere, we always prepare mentally. Maybe not all of us, but I am this kind. When I was working, I've figured out what will I wear for the entire week on Sundays. When I have upcoming events to attend to, my mind is seem like in panick mode almost all the time trying to think what will I wear, what will I do, etc. I don't worry that much but I guess it's just a bit of OC in me.

Okay, MCJ and I planned to go "home" to RP this year. What comes in my mind first? Presents for the relies. Yeah! Funny, isn't it? I haven't thought of how are we going to prepare for our trip knowing that we have Bub in tow. Maybe, because aside from the basic stuff that Bubby needs, there's nothing much to prepare. But wait, we don't have luggages. I've worn out our luggages when I was coming to and fro last year and the year before last. That's another thing to look out for on sale. I'm not really aiming to buy something like Swiss Army luggage but just anything that my budget will afford and of course durable. I'm sure shopping for this will keep me busy in the next days.

Friday, January 18

Late Christmas Presy

I'M BACK!


No, I haven't been away from home.. just from blogging. I was and still is busy watching tennis. We've been inundated by tennis since three weeks ago but one of the grand slams started Monday (the Australian Open), so my days and nights were occupied (deserve another post).


Anyway, this morning I received a package. I'm not really excited about it but since it cost me nothing, I was looking forward to it.


I've been on shopping spree online since Christmas because of the sales and bargains. I'm really a sucker of these. And then I found out that there was a nice offer in one of the sites where I shop - free shipping and a freebie (perfume) when you pay through Paypal. So I grabbed the opportunity (just like the paid opps). But just this week, I received an email saying that it has run-out of perfume so it is sending a makeup kit instead.


And this is it, a 98 color eye shadow.


I don't use makeup but it's nice to have this just incase I need one.


And there's another freebie coming.

Saturday, January 12

What Awaits for Me this Year?

This is a nice tag from Idealpinkrose. Thanks, sis!

Rules: Visit this link, choose your zodiac sign and copy/paste what the stars have to say on your blog then highlight all the predictions that you like or you can relate to.

The Scorpio Horoscope 2008 brings into limelight the need for hard work in order to overcome hurdles for the people born under this zodiac sign. The thinking abilities of Scorpio people would be sharpened as per the horoscope 2008. Thus they will learn many new things and this learning will also bring much success for them. Unfortunately the domestic affairs can witness some problems or discomfort during the year. These affairs should be handled diplomatically and major changes concerning them should be avoided.

The Scorpio horoscope 2008 terms passion as the theme for the coming year. So, being passionate in important things would help the Scorpio people to attain success in their lives.

The professional life of the Scorpio people would demand more seriousness and new zeal to achieve more and more. Those who would be able to do so would definitely achieve success and no one can stop them for climbing up the ladder to leadership.

The love life is going be full of passion and excitement for the people born under this zodiac sign as per the Scorpio horoscope 2008. For those who are yet single, this is the perfect time to find a loving mate. While those who are already married can look forward to add more spice in their love lives. Take care to surely add a pinch of love in your martial or romantic relationships in order to make it all the more exciting.


Love reading this.

I'm passing this to Mich, Arlene, Mitchteryosa, Julai, and Vivien.

Cheers to goodlife, ladies!

Sports and Seasons

New year means new season. Season for what, you say. Well, not really all about TV series but also in sports. New season for footies - rugby league, rugby union, soccer - for tennis - Kooyong, NSW International series, Australian Open - and what-have-yous. Yes, the television had been inundated by tennis and Australian Open hasn't started yet. But it will be on on Monday.

Aussies love sports, being that almost all sporting events were televised on free tv. People who depend on free to air channel are thankful for this and we are among them. We don't miss out on any sporting events that the nation deemed important. But of course, there are many ways on how to be up-to-date and not just in the comfort of ones lounge room but also anywhere that one wants as there are lots of media that can be used - just like the RBS that will have 6 nations podcasts. That's talking of comfort and style.

Our Health Insurance

One of the things that we did right away after Jens and I got our medicare card, include us to MCJ's private health insurance. Jens had his medicare card ahead of me and when MCJ added him, it just cost us about less than 50% of the individual health insurance premium to become a family health insurance but when I was added, it cost us double of the already family health insurance premium. The figure just doesnt add up. MCJ planned on talking to the representative at the kiosk where we went to but up til now, the plan is standing. We either always forgot about it when we were at the shop and we don't really have time to go there just for that purpose. Oh well, I just hope we'll get our money's worth when we avail the extras.

Getting Intouch

I'd been a lousy, sloppy bug last holidays. Why? Because I never bother to send sms's, emails, ecards and what-have-you's to most of my friends overseas to greet them last Christmas and New Year, except though to my family and some online friends. It was so unlike me as sometimes I am thoughtful. Well, Ive thought about them, I haven't just gotten around to make an email or use my fingers to press the keys on the phone. I guess, I was on holiday mood (read lazy) on those days.

Anyway, I've been thinking of rectifying my action or lack of it, soon. I'll be in a mood to get in touch with them one of these days. Sometimes, I consider of being conventional despite of the technologies and systems available in this age, that is going back to snail mail - sending Postcards, occasion cards, and thingie-me-bob. I reckon, it is still the sweetest way of keeping intouch in these days. I was really touched, flattered and happy when I received a snail from a friend back in RP last year. She's really sweet anyway.

On the side note, if you're considering of ordering cards for the holidays this year (some of you might be like me), you can visit vistaprint. There are whole lot of products available from brochures, flyers, letter head, folders, and what-have-yous. Check it out!

Glasses for the Family

Both MCJ and I wear glasses. I am short-sighted while he is otherwise. I reckon we complement each other, what do you think? If he needs his glasses and they're not handy, I would kid him to borrow mine and just put them away from his eyes, it might help. NOT!



Recently, he had been complaining that his glasses are giving him headaches. He might need another prescription one but he couldn't be bothered. I told him we can claim a portion of the cost from our private medical insurance but.. but.. but.. many buts. One time when we were at the mall, we bought him one, with grade closer to what he got. He likes the frame and all because it was very light. The only complain was because he tested them on a different distance in the shop, he now can't see clearly when he's infront of the computer because of the distance. Huh!

So there, he needs another but not really emergency while I want a transition one so I don't have to wear sunglasses, if I need be. And I have this Great Discovery: www.ZenniOptical.com. Selling glasses online is their specialty. As much as I love shopping especially online, I'm so keen on giving away important personal details like card details and home address. So I guess, I could use some of my blogging money (from paypal) for shopping eyeglasses, if we want to.

Friday Five # 1: You'll Forget the Sun


1. Where do you like to walk?
Anywhere, but particularly on the beach.
2. What does your hair look like?
Long, black and wavy.
3. What are you jealous of?
Nice hair do.
4. What kind of promises do you make?
Something that I'm capable of doing.
5. What makes you stare?
If somebody is well-dressed. Clean nails. Small car.

Creating Business

In our state here, most people are into business - small scale business. I think, it has something to do with the lifestyle because as we all know though running your own business isn't a piece of cake, it also has some incentives. Once the business is already established you can manage your own time, with equates to more time spend to the family, leisure, holidays, etc. We are in a sunshine state and most people are always on merry and holiday mood - beaches are just an hour drive and flocked by big mob every weekend.

Anyway, people who venture into business needs skills because most were not just managers who sit on their swivel chair in the office, they also were the employees spending time working on the field or with the customers. Government also plays a vital and important role in this venture. There are lots of free training and free education (or sort of like that) offered to the people of the state. Institutions were also created (just like CITB) - another business created.

Friday, January 11

Big Mosquito: Another One Down

Yesterday, Jens had his BCG (Tuberculosis) vaccine. Normally, it isn't listed in the red book (baby's health book) as necessary vaccine for all babies. But since, I came from Asian country where according to them, TB is common, my Bub should have the shot so he has defence against the disease.

Actually, we didn't have an idea about BCG. We went to Princess Alexandra hospital two months ago to have my lung x-ray there for visa apps. One of the receptionists was a Filipina and while I was in for the x-ray she played with Bub and talked to MCJ and eventually told us to have Jens get BCG shots.

Supposedly, the midwives in the hospital where my baby was born will be the one to inform the Tuberculosis Control Center (or the like) that my baby needs the shot and I will just be informed of the date when will it happen. Apparently, the midwives at the hospital didn't seem to know that I am Asian. Lolz. I did the coordination myself.

The shot should be given before the baby turns 6 months so it should just be in one dose, otherwise, it will be three doses. I've coordinated this stuff late because I want the timing to be right as Jens has vaccines every 2 months that causes fever and pain to him. I don't want them to be overlapping each other and let my Bub suffer. But actually, as things caught up, Jens will have three more vaccines on Monday - vaccines that surely hurt because they go to the muscles. Thankfully, BCG is just skin-deep but will have scar and will heal for up to 12 weeks.

On Loosing Weight

According to the news, Australia is one of the most obese country in the world. I haven't see much obese people yet, but that was according to study, surveys and what-have-yous.

With this issue, come the influx of all sorts of diet (at some time during the day tv commercials were inundated by all forms of diet), lapband surgery and other weight loss surgeries, etc. People has soo much option to choose from inorder to get rid of the excess weight or to just pretify.

Last week, I've seen in the news a 14 year old girl who underwent a weight loss surgery. She didn't look really fat to me but she want a good life - maybe one that nobody will perceive her as fat. Sometimes you can blame them to resort in this form of weight loss option because let's face it , descrimination happens anywhere. Oh well, to each his own.

Wednesday, January 9

Is This Coincidence?

Or what? At some point some of these are true. I want to laugh really loud. Lolz. :-)


What Era Means

You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.
You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.
At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.
You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.
You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.

You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection.
You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive.
You have the classic "Type A" personality.

Too Much A Risk

We had an elderly lady for a customer that has become a sort of like friend to us. I had tea with her one time at her house and had a conversation on how she keeps herself same. She does puzzles and I asked her, what else. She said, she's playing solitaire in the computer. I asked her why don't she have internet connection so she can play games other than solitaire. I gather that her son actually offered her to pay for her internet bills but she refused because according to her, she's a big risk when it comes to getting online. She feared that she might loose everything she owned eventually. Why because according to her she might not just use the internet for a play money gambling but also rather play online casino with real money. Well, I couldn't argue with her because the way I see her, she's sort of free-spirited woman and wants challenge and adventure.

Monday, January 7

WS No. 2 - Bonsai Anyone?

Everybody loves weekend, it is the time for leisure, recreation and other religious activities. And when everyone is having a grand time, you want to capture it and share it with others. That’s why Weekend Snapshot is here for you. - WS Author

Come and join the fun here.