The Four Meme

Four jobs I would stink at:
1. Prime Minister of Malaysia (sure give my best friends the plumiest job and contracts)
2. Doctor (will get depress looking after sick and suffering patients)
3. Teacher (not enough patience)
4. Sales (hate to apple polish and grovel for sales)

Four pretend nicknames I'm making up for myself:
1. Peppy
2. Teyve
3. Ghost Gums
4. MapleLeaf


Four movies I have watched over and over (and did not fall asleep):
1. You only live twice (good plot, beautiful scenery, a more realistic spy movie out of all the James Bond Movie)
2. Shall We Dance (wish I can dance I that)
3. Bad Girls (4 Leng Luis ride together, stop running, stop to fight & stay alive)
4. Beauty & the Beast (sucker for movie with happy endings)

Four things I love to do on weekends:
1. Sleep
2. Wear old clothes.
3. Go for a walk in the park
4. Go to bookshop, browse and drink cappuccino

Four alcoholic beverages I've enjoyed:
1. Kahlua
2. Bailey's
3. Campari
4. Port

Four celebrities I would go on a Big Date with:
1. Madeleine Stowe
2. Evangeline Lilly
3. Angelina Jolie
4. Titoki (she is a celebrity isn’t she? Me, not picky)


Four things I could not live without (excluding the essentials):
1. Cannot think of anything I cannot live without
2.
3.
4.

Four of my favourite foods, whom I'd like to bon appetite with:
1. Pizza & Pasta at La Porchetta with my wife
2. Petaling Street's Woon Kee Wan Tan Meen with my Dad & Mum
3. Roti Chanai with Dahl Curry with anyone
4. Nasi Lemak (Malay ones only) with myself, with myself

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Anywhere in Canada & US
2. Florence, Italy
3. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
4. Paris, France

Anywhere with Titoki for a hot cup of chocolate drink (cannot resist to Kiek you, hehhehehe)

Four people I'm not mercilessly tagging:
1. None, I got a kind heart. If you are free & nothing to do, you are welcome to do it.

My Indulgence

Here is another of my indulgence. Look at it, lick your computer screen if you must while I try to finish a meme. I had being tagged by some loving kind soul who remembered me when she ran out of friends to tag (Am trying to keep a straight face). Ha, ha, ha.
But it is nice to be remembered once a while than not at all.
Hmm, that Rum & Raisin Chocolate, hmmmm, it is so hmmmmm yummy. Blurrh!

Desert, anyone?

This is what do when I have a mental block. Eating ice cream, the brain food. Don't believe me? Ask yourself where did this post come from? Yes, from eating ice cream, the brain food. Still don't get it, then go and eat ice cream not any other kind but Weis' ice cream. Maybe you will get it.

Psst, to any top guns from Weis' Ice Cream reading this, any free ice creams for this plug in? Yes? It will be much appreciated.

LIFE IS BEAUTY

A long time ago, there was an Emperor who told his horseman that if he could ride on his horse and cover as much land area as he likes, then the Emperor would give him the area of land he has covered.

Sure enough, the horseman quickly jumped onto his horse and rode as fast as possible to cover as much land area as he could. He kept on riding and riding, whipping the horse to go as fast as possible. When he was hungry or tired, he did not stop because he wanted to cover as much area as possible.

Came to a point when he had covered a substantial area and he was exhausted and was dying. Then he asked himself, "Why did I push myself so hard to cover so much land area? Now I am dying and I only need a very small area to bury myself."

The above story is similar with the journey of our Life. We push very hard everyday to make more money, to gain power and recognition. We neglect our health, time with our family and to appreciate the surrounding beauty and the hobbies we love.

One day when we look back, we will realize that we don't really need that much, but then we cannot turn back time for what we have missed.

Life is not about making money, acquiring power or recognition. Life is definitely not about work! Work is only necessary to keep us living so as to enjoy the beauty and pleasures of life. Life is a balance of Work and Play, Family and Personal time. You have to decide how you want to balance your Life. Define your priorities, realize what you are able to compromise but always let some of your decisions be based on your instincts. Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of Life, the whole aim of human existence.

So, take it easy, do what you want to do and appreciate nature. Life is fragile, Life is short. Do not take Life for granted. Live a balanced lifestyle and enjoy Life!

Naked a man comes from his mother's womb,
and as he comes, so he departs.
He takes nothing from his labor
that he can carry in his hand.

We dumped our Coated Pan

Last weekend, we decided to dump all our non-stick Teflon and Titanium coated pans. Why?

Our Teflon coated pan was a well known branded pan. We have used it for a while and noticed the Teflon coating has discoloured and has little bubbles in the coating. Because it has a lifetime warranty, we sent it back for a claim. To our dismay our claim was rejected because “we overheated our pan”.

Chinese cooking requires a very hot pan for stir frying otherwise the food will not be tasty (Ng Kow For).

A little research and we found that Teflon coated pan releases poisonous fumes. If you heat an empty Teflon coated pan to 400°C, the Teflon particles become airborne and can cause polymer fume fever. Also Teflon’s key ingredient, Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), a chemical, is released and “sticks” in the environment indefinitely. PFOA combined with the airborne fume released when non stick cookware overheats may be more toxic than realised. PFOA is also a human carcinogen and is linked to several types of cancer, as well as birth defects and immunosuppression.

While the hotly debates in on and until the verdict is in, it is back to the good old fashioned cast iron wok.

Yes, Mum, you are right about the good old wok.

The cast iron wok is heavier and it takes a little longer to heat up but it can withstand a higher temperature and distribute the heat more evenly. The foods cooked in it are also tastier.

Over the weekend, we bought a 10” stainless steel pan; this is for light cooking like frying eggs or sausages. The Sales lady told us a majority of the customers are shying away from the coated pans and going back to the non coated pans.

Mum knows best! Listen to her.

Good Medicine

I was busy writing an article last week and in passing I heard the presenter from the TV show “What’s good for you” quoted some writings by King Solomon. She, then, goes to say a happy, cheerful and merry heart can help you live longer and can prevent heart attack. Scientific test has proven it is so.

So I quickly get the Bible out and look for the verse. It is in the book of Proverb 17:22.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

A responsible blogger like me, love my readers and wants them to be happy and live longer. I want them to keep coming and coming to read my blog. So today, I will not bore you with a lengthy serious post. I will post a joke, a small joke only, to make you laugh and keep you happy. OK!

A reporter on a religious newspaper was polling religious beliefs of the world leaders and sought an interview with Bill Clinton.

He was shown into the Oval Office and was impressed to see among the bank of phones with Hotlines to Britain, Russia and the Pentagon, a purple phone on the end.

“That’s my direct to God,” said Clinton.

“Gosh,” said the reporter. ”How much does it cost to call God?”

“Oh, just on a thousand dollars a minute, but the communication is essential.”

Benjamin Netanyahu was the reporter’s next assignment and in the Prime Minister’s office in Tel Aviv, he noticed another purple phone among the rest.

“No doubt that is a direct line to God?” said the reporter.

“Indeed it is,” replied Peres.

“How much does it cost?”

“Oh, about thirty cents, I think,” said Peres

“But it costs the US President just over a thousand,”

“Ah yes,” said Netanyahu, “but from here it is a local call.”

Did you have a good laugh or not? If not try harder.

The City & Fiddler On The Roof

Yesterday we went down to the city to watch Fiddler On The Roof. We wanted to drive down but on the 2nd thought, since it was a beautiful day we decided to take the train down. The train fare through & fro on weekend is $2.50.
Also on this Sunday, there was a special steam engine train ride. This is an annual affair for the steam engine club to raise fund for the maintainence of the steam engines.

Steam Engine Train

The train ride into the city was pleasant and smooth. I was surprised the city was packed with people. Normally it is very quiet.

Federation square was packed with activities and we did not stop over for a look.
Sunday, the 25th of June marked the 150th anniversary of the State Parliament officially opened exactly 150 years ago. The parliament was opened to public and entry was free. Visit Wu Ching's blog to read more.
And the annual sales was on, too. Bargains everywhere.
We went to Chilli Padi for lunch and it was disappointing. The fried Koay Teow was cold and not delicious. It was $13 and it was not worth it. Curry Laksa was passable at $9. No photos of the food as I do not want to spoil your breakfast, lunch or dinner. The service was slow and it took us 45 minutes to get our lunch even the place was not packed. Wasted time!

Buskers

We then strolled the city as we made our way the The Royal Majesty Theatre for the " Fiddler On The Roof" show. There was a large crowd and show was packed and completely sold out. Maureen & I enjoyed the show thoroughly.

Topol was fantastic. The music was superb accompanied by a well conducted orchestra. Topol got a standing ovation for his performance. I would strongly recommend anyone wanting to see it to go for it. Photograhy or any recording were not allowed.

"Fiddler on the Roof follows the journey of a family that has its traditional life turned upside down when the modern world starts to impact on life in their idyllic village. Its comedy and passion are infectious and the show offers audiences of all ages a theatrical experience that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Timeless classics such as If I Were a Rich Man, Matchmaker, Tradition and Sunrise, Sunset, combined with Jerome Robbins' masterful choreography, have honoured this production with a multitude of awards including nine Tony Awards (New York) and Olivier Awards (London) for Best Musical, Best Score and Lyrics, Best Book and Best Actor. Topol also won a Golden Globe Award and Oscar nomination for his appearance in the film of Fiddler on the Roof."

I have seen the movie many times and I alway love the songs. One particular song that always stick in my mind is " If I were a rich Man". The lyrics are funny and I guess I do sometime ask God that question.

If I were a Rich Man

[TEVYE]
"Dear God, you made many, many poor people.
I realize, of course, that it's no shame to be poor.
But it's no great honor either!
So, what would have been so terrible if I had a small fortune?"

If I were a rich man,
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
All day long I'd biddy biddy bum.
If I were a wealthy man.
I wouldn't have to work hard.
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
If I were a biddy biddy rich,
Yidle-diddle-didle-didle man.

I'd build a big tall house with rooms by the dozen,
Right in the middle of the town.
A fine tin roof with real wooden floors below.
There would be one long staircase just going up,
And one even longer coming down,
And one more leading nowhere, just for show.

I'd fill my yard with chicks and turkeys and geese and ducks
For the town to see and hear.
And each loud "cheep" and "swaqwk" and "honk" and "quack"
Would land like a trumpet on the ear,
As if to say "Here lives a wealthy man."

If I were a rich man,
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
All day long I'd biddy biddy bum.
If I were a wealthy man.
I wouldn't have to work hard.
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
If I were a biddy biddy rich,
Yidle-diddle-didle-didle man.

I see my wife, my Golde, looking like a rich man's wife
With a proper double-chin.
Supervising meals to her heart's delight.
I see her putting on airs and strutting like a peacock.
Oy, what a happy mood she's in.
Screaming at the servants, day and night.

The most important men in town would come to fawn on me!
They would ask me to advise them,
Like a Solomon the Wise.
"If you please, Reb Tevye..."
"Pardon me, Reb Tevye..."
Posing problems that would cross a rabbi's eyes!
And it won't make one bit of difference if i answer right or wrong.
When you're rich, they think you really know!

If I were rich, I'd have the time that I lack
To sit in the synagogue and pray.
And maybe have a seat by the Eastern wall.
And I'd discuss the holy books with the learned men, several hours every day.
That would be the sweetest thing of all.

If I were a rich man,
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
All day long I'd biddy biddy bum.
If I were a wealthy man.
I wouldn't have to work hard.
Ya ha deedle deedle, bubba bubba deedle deedle dum.
If I were a biddy biddy rich,
Yidle-diddle-didle-didle man.

My niece, Tania, was at the show, too. She volunteered to drive us home.
It was a good and blessed day.

St. Kilda Road

Duck Bin It Code?

The grass was long and the lawn looks so untidy. I thought it is time to give the lawn a trim. While mowing the lawn, something caught my eye on my neighbour’s nature strip.

Curious I walked over and have a look. This message is on the concrete storm water drain cover.

I guess my curious mind will run wild tonight. Is it a coded message to someone? Is my neighbour a spy? Ha, ha, ha. Sorry, cannot help it. Blame it on Dan Brown and his Da Vinci Code.

Bag of Air Fever

Bag of Air fever comes around every 4 years. It is wide spread round the world and affects mostly on men. Some women do catch this fever but it is not as wide spread among them.

This fever makes men loses their sleep and they tend to get overly excited and all fire up. When the fever is at its peak, it is best to leave men on their own in their thoughts. Their eyes will only glue to the idiot box and is oblivious to any happenings in their surroundings. Any minor interruptions or any wrong words will cause them to flare up inevitably. They can become agitated, impatient, noisy, swearing and loud mouth for unknown reasons. It seems to bring the worst out of them. Every now & then they will jump up, punch into the air with their fist and rub their hand with glees. Or they sometime will groan, flop into the seat and look dejected.

Funnily, if you put all the men with this fever together, they can be very communicative. They will now and then pat each other on the shoulder, do the Mexican wave, smile or cry. Even to the extent of consoling one other if they are dejected. They are some how more generous and willing to share their beers, chocolates, nuts and any other food at hand which they seldom do when they are well.

If there are no idiot boxes around, they become frigidity. They will circle like hawk looking for one and continue to do so until they find one. You may find them at their mate’s home, the mamak shop, kopi tiam or anywhere that has an idiot box.

During this time, they do not mate. They neglect their spouse and family. They have no inkling to do any other things. For some unknown reason, they do continue to go to work with their baggy eyes. They will wake up late or not sleep at all, skip breakfast and be late for work. At work they will be cranky, ill temper and unproductive. They are agitated, discomposed, disconcerted, on the edge and worked up and will have no mood for work. Surprisingly, their bosses seems to understand and tolerant during this epidemic. However, if they are in contact with someone carrying this fever, their whole being changes. They become chatty and relax.

These unpredictable moods, sometime breaks up good marriages. Smart spouses will keep away from them. They will either be shopping & spending all the money with all the others neglected spouses or they will be on extended holiday. The men will not be any wiser.

Oh, one important observation. When the fever is at its peak, the men do not watch just anything on the idiot box. They watch one important channel that broadcast 22 grown men in colour jerseys and knee high socks, aimlessly chasing after a bag of air and trying to kick it in between 2 poles.

Medical expert call this fever “Football Fever” but ask their spouses, they will tell you that a bag of air.

Kodak Moments

One day in one of our Marketing Course lecture, the lecturer gave us an interesting question. “What do the Kodak company market”, he asked. A few hands shot up.

“Photograph paper”

“Kodak Film”

“Camera”

“Disposable Camera”

“Chemical for film processing”, answered the few.

The lecturer answered,”Yes, they do sell that stuff, but the main thing the company market is memories”.

In the early fifties and sixties, cameras were expensive, so are photography papers, chemical and processing. Even they were expensive, Dad make sure each of his children have a record of their childhood.

When Dad passed away, we went through his stuffs and found he had a collection of photographs and other things that we used to have when we were young. Stuffs we thought were useless. Running through his collection, there was photograph collection of our childhood.

We ran through them and found we were laughing at ourselves and reminiscing over the old days.

10 month old

My personal photo albums were kept by Dad among his collection. I took it back with me to Down Under.

Yesterday I leafed through some old photo albums and photographs that would have been lost if not for Dad foresight.

2 years old

As I looked through them, my eyes welled with tear, bringing back memories. Even though we were poor, we have happy childhood. Some of my childhood pictures makes me cringed looking at myself. I often wondered when my uncles & aunties used to remark that I get more “lang chai” (handsome) as I grow older. The childhood photographs answered the question. My sisters used to tease me that I have a serious face. I guess there are right.

3 years old

So when you look at a photograph, what do you see? Photograph paper? Camera? Film? Memories?

Dad, thanks the memories.

For You

A blog, I came to know

Has so much to show

But sad it has to go

And that a blow

A sweet, lovely Lass, she is

Writes to share, she love

Her adventures need to be told

That will make my heart glows

A cup of coffee, a must, to need

Everyday to start a day

Her blog, a must, to read

To make and fill my day

Her every words fill my heart

With fun, joy & happiness

Pains, if there are any

This, too, will I carry

The clock Tick & Tock

I will search for a key

To open a door

Where she can blog without fear

Will she be back?

I cannot tell

Wherever you are

My thought & prayer will be there

Take care and this I must tell

To you only and for you only

That I am glad I know you

Even for a short spell.

Amboi!

KL ranked 3rd as the rudest city in the world.
It wouldn’t surprise anyone who drives, parks, shops or uses public transport here, but Malaysia’s capital city has emerged the third-worst in the world for sheer rudeness.
Do you agree?

Shortest Day, yippee

I woke up late this morning!

Today is the shortest day of the year.

The Winter Solstice marks the point when the Southern Hemisphere is tilted furthest away from the sun.

The sun rose at 7am and set at 4.54pm.

The winter has not put much of a show this year The cold winter were relied upon to bring much needed rain, but this year they have largely failed to do so.

Guess it will be a dry summer.

Meanwhile, our friends in the Northern Hemisphere will enjoy its longest day. We will have to wait until 21^st December to get ours.

Enjoy your longest day.

The Girl From Kampar

I flipped the wallet opened to pay for the 4 cups cappuccino we had earlier. My friend’s wife looked at the wallet and said, “It is time for a new wallet. Your wallet looked old and worn. Your Birthday is around the corner; let me buy you a new wallet as a gift to you.” I smiled weakly at her and in a low voice replied, “Thanks but I think I will stick with this one a little bit longer.”

Nineteen years ago, I stood at the airport arrival lounge waiting for her. The plane has landed and it was over an hour past and she was not out yet. I checked the flight details, it was correct. Where is she, I wondered? Did she change her mind? Is she lost? Is she hurt? The wait was killing me.

My mind wondered back 16 years ago, I was nineteen, then, when I first saw her. My eyes spied her when I was in the company of young people after a Church service. She was there smiling and chatting with her friends. The smile, that sweet smile caught my attention. It is a sweet and cheeky smile. I could not tear my eyes from her.

I plucked up my courage and approached her. “Hello”, I introduced myself, “My name is SH”. She shook my hand with a firm hand and shyly whispered, “I am Christine”. We caught on like wild fire. She had an infectious smile and laughter. Her eyes sparkled and she was soft spoken and gentle. She was beautiful.

The remaining few days we got to know each other better.

It was time to go, with sadness I said goodbye to her and promised to write. We wrote to each other almost everyday.

I remembered on my 2^nd trip up, my friend WL and decided to drop in to her place before we went to WL place. We rang the door bell, she opened the door. Her jaw almost dropped when she saw us. She was in her apron, her hair unkempt and her hands were covered in flour. She shrieked and ran into the kitchen. We had a good laugh and her sardine rolls was the tastiest I have ever eaten. Yes, sir!

One day, she wrote she was leaving for overseas to further her studies. I went to the airport to send her off. I was sad, she was sad. She promised to write.

She did write regularly for a while and after some time it became less frequent. I took it easy, maybe because of her studies and exam. One day my letter was returned to me unopened. She moved and I did not hear from her until she finished her studies and returned home. We kept contact for a while and then she disappeared again.

I often wonder why? What was she afraid of? Why does she keep disappearing on & off? Is it because I am poor? Is it because I do not have a college or a university degree? Is she afraid of commitment? Is she afraid of the future? Is she afraid to take the journey of faith with me? I have waited and I have being patient. I could not wait, I moved on.

One afternoon checking the mail, after a year I migrated with my wife to Down Under, I saw a mail with familiar handwriting. Emotion came over me. She wrote to say hi and enquired how I was. I continued to correspond with her. A year later she wrote she is coming to visit Australia and if we could put her up. We wrote back, yes, she is welcome to stay with us.

Then, I saw her coming out of the immigration. She looked different. She had facial makeup and I almost could not recognize her. She was not happy. As we wheeled her luggage to the car, she blurted, she was stripped search and questioned by the immigration officers. They asked her, “What was the purpose of her trip and why she is here”. After some tough questions, she remembered my letter asking her to come and stay with us. She showed it to the officers and they let her through. She was fuming and annoyed. I asked her why? The officers have mistaken her as a call girl. I laughed out but stopped quickly as my wife stared at me.

During her stay, she was always deep in thought. She no longer laughed or smiles like she used to. I sense she was unhappy, she was searching for something. I wanted to ask her what was troubling her but I did not want her to think that I am prying. We did our best to make her stay as comfortable as possible.

After the first week with us, she gave me a wallet. “Happy Birthday to you”, she wishes me. She remembered my birthday after all these years. After 2 weeks with us, she returned home and I never heard from her again.

Every night before I sleep, I whispered to God to take care of her wherever she is and wherever she goes. Whatever she is looking for I hope she finds it. No matter what, she touched my life. She made an impact in my life. I, too, was changed.

God had a plan and a purpose why we met each other and loved each other. I may not know or understand it now but I hope to ask God when I see him one day.

I am sorry if I broke your heart. They say time will heal a broken heart but will it fix a broken heart?

I know because mine was broken, too.

She is the girl from Kampar. Now you know why this wallet is precious to me.

Kampar

I have often passed through Bidor & Kampar on the way up North and have never stopped over for a visit until I met Ng Wai Leong (WL) in the early ’70.

I met WL when we both attended Klang Gospel Hall church. He hailed out from Kampar and had just started working at Shah Alam. WL lived with his brother, Andrew and sister in law, Karen, in Berkeley Garden, Klang.

I was also living out with some friends in a rented house opposite where he lives. We became good friends such so he invited me to visit his home town, Kampar. I often wondered what Kampar have to offer other than Tin Mines. He said, “Come for a visit and see for yourself”.

One long weekend, I decided to join him. We bike down to Kampar, each on our own motorbike and as we approach Kampar Town, the good Lord decided to give a good wash before we entered the town. Shower of Blessings, I would say. WL home was near the market where there were a lot of houses, wooden houses; kind of remind me of my younger days.

WL mum was concerned that we were wet and made us jump into the shower before we caught a cold. It was a simple wooden house like I envisage – 3 bedrooms, a hall and a kitchen with bare necessities. The air was cleaner and fresher.

Here I met WL younger brother, Wai Peng, and younger sister Wai Onn and adopted sister, whose name I have forgotten.

After the rain, I went for a walk around Kampar before we had dinner. He showed his old school ACS, Kampar Gospel Hall and the market. WL’s father was a pastor in Kampar Gospel Hall Chinese Section. He had passed away a few years ago.

Andrew and Karen were back, too. Karen took us to his uncle’s shop for dinner. In front of the uncle’s shop was an old man selling “Ngah Poa Fun” (Rice cooked in clay pot with Chicken and Chinese sausage garnished with salted fish and ginger. This is the first time I seen such a dish. Klang & KL do not have such dish, then. The old man was Karen’s family friend and he saw my fascination and he invited me over and taught me how to cook this dish. I am glad he did because I cook it now & then over here in Down Under whenever I feel like eating it. Each time I cook the dish I remembered the old kind hearted man. He was ever ready to show me, a stranger, and his trade secret. Guess I must have an honest face. Hahahahahha.

Karen was surprised, too. She told me later the old man had been there for a long time at the uncle shop and his children were not interested in continuing his trade. Guess my curiosity and fascination won him over.

WL took me to the market the next morning for breakfast. We had beef noodle, Chee Cheong Fun, Yong Tow Foo etc. The foods were yummy. The market was crowded with people and makes you wondered how a cowboy town can have so many people. It was an experience I will never forget.

All the time, I passed Kampar Town through Gopeng Road, to think it is only a cowboy town. The treasure was hidden behind the town. Karen took us to visit his cousin on Gopeng Road. He makes Kampar “Kite Chai Peang” (chicken biscuit) and he introduced me to Kampar “Kite Chai Peang”. I always thought Bidor is the only place to have “Kite Chai Peang”. The biscuits in Kampar were different, there were crispy. A first taste I was sold. Yes, I still long for Kampar Chicken Biscuit. “Wink, wink”, Titoki.

One evening we went to church for the Young Person Meeting (YPM) and I met a few young people. One of them I met invited me to his father’s shop after church. He told me I must try Kampar Chap Sweet (Air Champor – shaved iced with red beans, sweet corn, seaweed jelly topped with sweet syrup and carnation milk), and told me it is the best in town. I guess I have to admit it is.

Long time ago, my Ipoh Aunty used to tell me Ipohgirls were renowned for their beauty. I hate to disagree. I think Kampar girls are renowned for their beauty and still is (wink wink, you know who you are). It was at the YPM I met a beautiful girl. Well, that is another story.

Kampar continues to holds fond memories and I will always cherish it in my heart. Thanks for the memories WL.

Ed. Notes:
I wanted to blog on something else until I saw someone ask Titoki if she is from Kampar. Hence this blog.

The Lord's Prayer

THE LORD'S PRAYER

Rather cleverly done.
This is in two parts,
the prayer ( in blue type) and
GOD (in red type )
in response.
It is very, very good.

**********

Our Father Who Art In Heaven.
Yes?
Don't interrupt me. I'm praying.
But -- you called ME!
Called you?
No, I didn't call you.
I'm praying.
Our Father who art in Heaven.
There -- you did it again!
Did what?
! Called ME.
You said,
"Our Father who art in Heaven"
Well, here I am.
What's on your mind?
But I didn 't mean anything by it.
I was, you know, just saying my prayers for the day.
I always say the Lord's Prayer.
It makes me feel good,
kind of like fulfilling a duty.
Well, all right.
Go on.
Okay, Hallowed be thy name . .
Hold it right there.
What do you mean by that?
By what?
By "Hallowed be thy name"?
It means , it means . . good grief,
I don't know what it means.
How in the world should I know?
It's just a part of the prayer.
By the way, what does it mean?
It means honored, holy, wonderful.
Hey, that makes sense.
I never thought about what 'hallowed' meant before.
Thank s.
Thy Kingdom come,
Thy will be done,
on earth as it is in Heaven.
Do you really mean that?
Sure, why not?
What are you doing about it?
Doing? Why, nothing, I guess.
I just think it would be kind of neat if you got control,
of everything down here like you have up there.
We're kinda i n a mess down here you know.
Yes, I know;
but, have I got control of you?
Well, I go to church.
That isn't what I asked you.
What about your bad temper?
You've really got a problem there, you know.
And then there's the way you spend your money --
all on yourself.
And what about the kind of books you read?
Now hold on just a minute!
Stop picking on me!
I'm just as good as some of the rest of those people at church!
Excuse ME.
I thought you were praying
for my will to be done.
If that is to happen,
it will have to start with the ones
who are praying for it.
Like you -- for example.
Oh, all right. I guess I do have some hang-ups.
Now that you mention it,
I could probably name some others.
So could I.

I haven't thought about it very much until now,
but I really would like to cut out some of those things.
I would like to, you know, be really free.
Good.
Now we're getting somewhere.We'll work together -- You and ME.
I'm proud of You.
Look, Lord, if you don't mind,
I need to finish up here.
This is taking a lot longer than it usually does.
Give us this day, our daily bread.
You need to cut out the bread.
You're overweight as! it is.<> <> Hey, wait a minute! What is this?
Here I was doing my religious duty,
and all of a sudden you break in
and remind me of all my hang-ups.
Praying is a dangerous thing.
You just might get what you ask for .
Remember,
you called ME -- and here I am.
It's too late to stop now.
Keep praying. ( . . pau se . . )
Well, go on.
I'm scared to.
Scared? Of what?
I know what you'll say.
Try ME.
Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.
What about Ann?
See? I knew it!
I knew you would bring her up!
Why, Lord, she's told lies about me, spread stories.
She never paid back the money she owes m e.
I've sworn to get even with her!
But -- your prayer --
What about your prayer?
I didn't -- mean it.
Well, at least you're honest.
But, it's quite a load carrying around all that bitterness
and resentment isn't it?
Yes, but I'll feel better as soon as I get even with her.
Boy, have I got some plans for her.
She'll wish she had never been born.
No, you won't feel any better.
You'll feel worse.
Revenge isn't sweet.
You know how unhappy you are --
Well, I can change that.
You can? How?
Forgive Ann.
Then, I'll forgive you;
And the hate and the sin,
! will be Ann's problem -- not yours.
You will have settled the problem
as far as you are concerned.
Oh, you know, you're right.
You always are.
And more than I want revenge,
I want to be right with You . . (sigh).
All right . all right . .
I forgive her.
There now!
Wonderful!
How do you feel?
Hmmmm. Well, not bad.
Not bad at all!
In fact, I feel pretty great!
You know, I don't think I'll go to bed uptight ton ight.
I haven't been getting much rest, you know.
Yeah, I know.
But, you're not through with your prayer are you? Go on.
Oh, all right.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Good! Good! I'll do that.
Just don't put yourself in a place
where you can be tempted.
What do you mean by that?
You know what I mean.
Yeah. I know.
Okay.
Go ahead. Finish your prayer.
For Thine is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory forever.
Amen.
Do you know what would bring me glory --
What would really make me happy?
No, but I'd like to know.
I want to please you now.
I've really made a mess of things.
I want to truly follow you.
I can see now how great that would be.
So, tell me . . .
How do I make you happy?
YOU just did.

The Long Weekend Trip - Day 3

The early morning was fine and we set out for the Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. Heading towards Apollo Bay, about 2km out of Skenes Creek, we turn right up North on Skenes Creek road. Just about 20minutes we turn left into Turtons Track. This is the unsealed track of 12km passing through the rain forest of Otway National Park. This is the shortest route to the Fly Tree Top Walk.

The slow was slow and easy because of the wet slippery track and also we were savoring the beauty of the rain forest. There was part of the forest which reminds us our drive up to Cameron Highland.

After the 12km of unsealed track, the track is then connected to the Beech Forest road. This remaining 13km is sealed road.

The view changed from forest into grassland with diary farm and beautiful green pasture and then back to forest at Fly Tree Top Walk.

The Otway Fly is a 600 metre long walk, 25 metre above the forest floor, made from 120 tonnes of steel. It was opened on Sept 8, 2003 and is privately owned located on 225 acres. The structure was prefabricated in Launceston and shipped over in 8 metre spans where it erected on site by the use of cranes. It took 10 months to complete the project. The structure can withstand winds up to 280km/h.

Entrance to the walk is about $14 per person. It was an easy walk and was also drizzling which give a magic touch to the walk. Along the way there are displays describing the forest and what to look for. We met a few people who were afraid of height and they want to get of the Fly Walk as quick as possible. I am afraid of height but I also enjoyed the walk and scenery.

We had lunch at Otway Fly Café. The hot foods were selling like hot cakes and there was a long queue for it. The café closes at 2.30pm.

After the walk we headed South West to The Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard gorge.

The mighty Twelve Apostles are world-recognised icons of the Great Ocean Road. These giant rock stacks soar from the swirling waters of the Southern Ocean and are a central feature of the spectacular Port Campbell National Park that extends from Princetown to Peterborough.
The dramatic and imposing limestone cliffs that are the backdrop to the Apostles tower up to 70 metres, while the tallest of the rock stacks is around 45 metres high.

The Apostles had their beginnings up to 20 million years ago with the forces of nature attacking the soft limestone of the Port Campbell cliffs. The limestone was created through the build up of skeletons of marine creatures on the sea floor. As the sea retreated, the limestone was exposed. The relentless, stormy Southern Ocean and blasting winds gradually eroded the softer limestone, forming caves in the cliffs. The caves eventually became arches and when they collapsed, rock islands up to 45 metres high were left isolated from the shore.
This has created the Twelve Apostles and a host of other stunning natural features along this truly remarkable stretch of coastline. Among them are Pudding Basin Rock, Island Arch, the Razorback, Muttonbird Island, Thunder Cave, the Blowhole, Bakers Oven, London Bridge and the Grotto.

Extensive boardwalks and viewing platforms ensure visitors experience sweeping, awe-inspiring vistas. While anytime of day provides great views, sunrise and sunset are particularly impressive for the blazing hues created.

Loch Ard Gorge visitors are treated to a beautiful vista of towering cliffs, sparkling blue-green sea and a small, sandy beach. It’s hard to imagine that the drama of one of Victoria’s most tragic shipwrecks was played out at this very spot more than 120 years ago, giving a name to the gorge.
Fifty-two people died after the sailing ship, the iron clipper Loch Ard, rammed into the sheer cliffs of Muttonbird Island in stormy weather on 1 June, 1878, just days from completing a three-month voyage from England to Melbourne. The island lies near the entrance to the long, narrow gorge. It was this gorge and its tiny beach that were the lifesavers for apprentice crewman Tom Pearce and young passenger Eva Carmichael, both 18 years old.
According to Tom’s account of the disaster, the ship had been sailing in thick, hazy weather. When noticed it was rapidly heading toward shore, Captain Gibb began evasive action and dropped the anchors. But the ship dragged the anchors and desperate attempts to raise the sails were abruptly cut short when the Loch Ard struck the cliffs. “The ship commenced to roll, and was fast sinking, the sea breaking aboard her on both sides,” Tom said in his account. “Captain Gibb ordered the lifeboat to be got ready to receive the ladies. They could not get the boat clear of tackling for some time, owing to it being stuck on the skids.”
Tom said he and five seamen managed to launch the port lifeboat and hold it against the ship to receive passengers. But a huge wave struck and washed them away. Tom was eventually washed into the gorge.
“During the whole of these proceedings, the captain stood on the port side of the ship giving orders. The ship went down within 10 minutes or quarter of an hour after striking the bluff,” Tom said.
Eva was lucky to survive. Washed into the boiling sea with only a life-belt, she managed to grab hold of a floating chicken coop.
“By this time, the Loch Ard had disappeared under the waves,” Eva said in her statement. “In a few minutes, after turning the point of the rock, I saw Tom Pearce standing on the beach. I shouted to him, where upon he walked into the water and swam towards me.
“Tom had a desperate struggle to bring me ashore; and from the time I shouted to him to the time we were safe on the beach about an hour must have elapsed.”
Tom took Eva to the cave in the cliff behind the beach. They found a case of brandy and drank a bottle.
“Cold and exhausted - for we must have been in the water for about five hours - we lay down on the ground. I soon fell into a state of insensibility, and must have been unconscious for hours,” Eva said.
Tom climbed the precipitous cliffs and met a party from nearby Glenample homestead. Eva also was soon rescued and taken back to the homestead to recuperate.
Visitors to Loch Ard today can descend the staircase to the beach and see where Tom and Eva struggled to survive. They can visit the cave where the teenagers collapsed, exhausted. Visitors also can walk along the headlands and overlook the very spot where the Loch Ard smashed into the sheer cliffs. Storyboards on the paths explain the Loch Ard story. A path also leads to the small cemetery where there is a monument to the Carmichael family and where the few bodies that were recovered are buried.
When the sun shines and the weather is calm, it is difficult to understand how this tragedy happened. But visit when storms and gale force winds are whipping the sea into a frenzy, and you’ll quickly realise it’s miracle anyone survived.

After Loch Ard we drove to Port Campbell, had coffee and headed straight back to Melbourne via the inland road.

The journey back took 3 hours.

I hope you this long weekend trip post. Let me know whether you like it or not and how I can make it more interesting. Your opinion counts.

A woman knows her place

This post is for Titoki. Have a good laugh.

Barbara Walters of Television's 20/20 did a story on gender roles in Kabul, Afghanistan, several years before the Afghan conflict. She noted that women customarily walked 5 paces behind their husbands.
She recently returned to Kabul and observed that women still walk behind their husbands. From Ms. Walter's vantage point, despite the overthrow of the oppressive Taliban regime, the women now seem towalk even further back behind their husbands and are happy to maintain the old custom.

Ms. Walters approached one of the Afghani women and asked, "Why do you now seem happy with the old custom that you once tried so desperately to change?"

The woman looked Ms. Walters straight in the eyes, and without hesitation, said, "Land mines!"

Another Banana Story

Ever since Cyclone Larry decided to drop in for a visit in Northern Queensland, it wiped out most of the country's bananas crop in March.
Like anything on demand & supply, the price of bananas is a whopping $15 per Kg. Don't cuci your mata. I did not make a typo mistake. Yeah, it is $15 a Kg.
A Banana a day is part of my daily lunch and with the high price is " Chiak kim".
The government is thinking of importing bananas to ease the shortage.

Banana imports planned to ease shortage

By Asa Wahlquist and Jennifer Sexton

June 16, 2006

AUSTRALIANS could be eating imported bananas within months under a proposal to make them available in selected fruit shops and supermarkets.

The plan, if adopted, will come too late to offer immediate relief to consumers, who have been paying up to $15/kg since Cyclone Larry wiped out most of the country's crop in northern Queensland in March. Local banana prices are expected to fall by the end of the year as plantations recover.

Agriculture Minister Peter McGauran rejected calls earlier this year to fast-track imports, which are being pushed by the Philippines Government. But the Government's quarantine assessment and policy advice body Biosecurity Australia will shortly ask for submissions on a draft plan to import bananas.

The plan will be considered by a panel of scientists and Biosecurity Australia quarantine director Joanna Hewitt, in a process that is likely to take six months to a year.

While retailers contacted yesterday declined to back the call for imports for fear of upsetting local growers, many are frustrated at the lack of alternative supplies to ease the shortage.

In a submission to Biosecurity Australia, Filipino growers provide assurances they can produce export-quality fruit with adequate biological safeguard.

Although other countries such as Ecuador and Costa Rica are big exporters of bananas, no application to import bananas from those countries has been made. The local industry is free of a range of diseases that affect bananas in The Philippines.

Australian Consumers Association food policy officer Clare Hughes said as long as the imported fruit met Australian standards and carried no risk of disease or pests, consumers should be given a choice. "If they are meeting a need and consumers are prepared to buy them, you cannot necessarily stop (importation), just because it's going to create competition for local farmers," she said.

Source: The Australian

The Long Weekend Trip - Day 2

We started the morning with an early phone call. Maureen's younger brother called to said he will be camping Aire River East and if we like we can drop in for a visit. He will be leaving for a 1o kilometer hike immediately and will be away approx. for 4 hours.
We studied the map and decided we will go toward the camp and visit the other places in between.

One stop is the Shelley Beach and it is part of the 91Km Great Ocean walk beginning from Apollo Bay and finishes at Glenample homestead. The Shelley Beach is about an hour walk. It is a reasonable walk but have us puffing on the way back. The strong wind from the coast was cold. We met a number of hikers who have walked from Apollo Bay via the coast and return to Apollo Bay via the main road.

After the walk, we drove to the Cape Otway Light house which is about half an hour away. The place was crowded with tourists and we have to wait for a while before we got a parking space.
The Cape Otway Lighthouse at the northern end of The Eye of The Needle was the oldest operational lighthouse with unbroken service on the mainland Australian coast until it was decommissioned in January 1994.
The 84 kilometre gap between, Cape Wickham on, King Island and Cape Otway is known as the "Eye of the Needle". It is the Western entrance to Bass Strait. Sea captains would hug the Victorian coast, to avoid being driven into King Island in bad weather, resulting in many wrecks.

Access was a problem in establishing the lighthouse and after three attempts, the Cape was finally reached by land. A site was selected and after great difficulty a road was cut. Construction began in 1846 with the light being lit in August 1848 making it the second light to be established on the mainland coast.

After enjoying the tour and the fascinating view, we took a slow drive to Aire River East. Aire River East is in Horden Vale. Most people camp here to hike, swim and fish.
At the camp we met Kath, who was alone watching the campsite while the others men went hiking. Kath is the sister of one of the camper and she is the only lady there. Kath told us to make ourselves at home. We have a BBQ over wood fire. The sausage and steak taste exceptonally tastier. I guess it must be the wood fire. The BBQ goes well with a bottle of red wine.The fire also kept us warmed.
Maureen's brother returned after half an hour later with one of the friend, Kath brother's. They did half of the 10Km hike and returned to drive the cars to pick up the remaining group. The remaining group decided to finish the hike at the lighthouse which we were there earlier. Kath went with her brother for the drive and we were left to jaga the camp. About half an hour later they returned with the cold, wearied & tired hikers.

We stayed and chat for a while before we returned to the Motel.
At 7pm, we caught a "glow worms" tour in the forest near Barham River. It was disappointing least to say. There were so little "glow worms". My SIL told us the " glow worms"in New Zealand are more spectacular and the "glow worms" live in caves. It was 1.5 hour tour.
After the tour we went back to the same hotel for our Din Din. This time I had Kangaroo Steak. Oh, yes sir, I ate one of the country emblem. I wonder whether it will make me more Australian.

We managed to catch the band playing which we miss yesterday. They played their own compositions and after 3 songs we decide to go back as it was 10.30pm.

Great Ocean Road, Lorne,Skenes Creek & Apollo Bay

It needed the fighting Anzac spirit to blast out the Great Ocean Road route, ending decades of isolation for Lorne and other coastal communities. Work began in 1918 and was finally completed in 1932.
Before the road, travel was far from pleasant. In the 1870s, a trip from Lorne to Geelong was long and arduous via a rough coach track through dense bush to the railway at Winchelsea. Previously, the ocean supplied the link to the outside world.
It's not surprising plans for an ocean road were widely acclaimed. But it took a world war to bring them to fruition. Key mover for a coastal link between Barwon Heads and Warrnambool was Geelong businessman and mayor, Alderman Howard Hitchcock. He saw it as a way of employing returned soldiers, creating a lasting monument to those who died in the war and providing a tourist route. He moved to form the Great Ocean Road Trust and set about raising the money needed to finance the gigantic project.
Survey work began in August, 1918, and thousands of returned soldiers descended on the area to start work. It was back-breaking toil using picks and shovels - helped along with the odd stick of explosive - and horses and drays.
Stage 1 - Lorne to Eastern View - was completed in 1922, but it was another 10 years before Lorne was linked to Anglesea and Cape Patton. The Country Roads Board built the section from Cape Patton to Apollo Bay.The full route was officially opened on November 26, 1932, as a tollway. Drivers paid two shillings and sixpence (25 cents) and passengers one shilling and sixpence (15 cents).

Signs along the Great ocean Road reminding oversea tourists we drive on the left hand side.

Lorne's beauty has been drawing visitors for more than a century. the beachfront boulevard of Mountjoy parade has a Mediterranean look with its many cafes and fine eating houses. Hot chocolates taste even better after a bushwalk past spectacular waterfalls in the Great Otway National Park.
The town's unique charms were recognised early, with Lorne the first Victorian place to be declared an area of Special Significance and Natural Beauty - more than 100 years ago.
We gave Lorne a miss because we have been there many times.






Skenes Creek is 6 kilometer away from Apollo bay. We broke our journey for the night here at Budget Motel. It cost $103 per night and if you want the sea view it set you back another $30.
After a quick washup, we drove to Apollo Bay to look for food. A few years ago, Apollo bay was a cowboy town with a main street. The only food available was fish & chip and shops closed at 6pm.
Today it has many shops, hotels, motels and new homes. They are many eating places and they open till 9pm.
We walked the town and checking out the eating places and decided to give fast food a miss. One restaurant, Great Ocean Hotel, caught our fancy was the reasonable price and good atmosphere.

Sister in law and I have Linguine Pasta with seafood in olive oil. It was very good. The pasta was the most expensive, going at $28 each. The seafood was very fresh and it is worth every cent. Maureen had Reef and Beef which is good too, going at $24. My BIL had eye fillet and that was also at $24. Yes, we all enjoyed our food.
The restaurant also had band music which begins at 9pm but we decide to call it an early night after a long day.

Anglesea & Aireys Inlet

Anglesea is 109 kilometres southwest of Melbourne, located on the Great Ocean Road.
Anglesea is protected from southwesterly weather by Point Roadknight, and the beach behind this point forms a majestic half-circle around to the river mouth. The cliffs of the Great Ocean Road rise up to the sea on either side of the Anglesea River mouth, generating spectacular walks and views.




Split Point Lighthouse is situated in Airey Inlet.
Split Point lighthouse was built of concrete in 1891. It has a tower height of 34 metres and stands 66 metres above the ocean, overlooking Eagle Rock. The white light beams 21 nautical miles out to sea while the red light can be seen up to 16 nautical miles.

Torquay

Torquay is located 95 kilometres south west of Melbourne, the official start of the Great Ocean Road and a very popular coastal town has quiet, protected beaches popular with families and plenty of restaurants.
It is busiest in the hot summer months, Torquay is a year-round destination offering

more than just amazing beaches. There are great walks, shops, eateries and excellent accommodation.
Torquay, centre of the surf world and is undoubtedly Australia's surfing capital. Some of

the biggest names in surfwear and accessories are headquartered here, with huge retail and seconds outlets at Surf City Plaza. Nearby Surfworld Museum captures the spirit of surfing and Bells Beach is booming!

The Long Weekend Trip

Last weekend is a long weekend. Monday the 12^th was a holiday. It is the Queen’s Birthday and Maureen’s Birthday happened to fall on this long weekend. So we decided to getaway and visit Otway Fly Tree Top Walk at the Otway Ranges. Initially it was only the 2 of us. Then Maureen’s sister and hubby decided to join us.

Our trip began from Melbourne through Geelong via the coast on The Great Ocean Road passing Torquay, Lorne, Wye River, Kennet River, Skenes and Apollo Bay. Because it is a long weekend hotel & motel were fully booked. So we stayed at Skenes Creek. Skenes Creek is 6 kilometer before Apollo Bay.

From Apollo Bay we will explore the ranges, Otway Fly Tree Top Walk, The Twelve Apostle, Loch Ard Gorge and Port Campbell. Then we will return via the inland road through Simpson, Colac, Geelong and Melbourne.

We left Kew at 9am dropping into the city to pick something up. Then we proceeded to Geelong. The road was widened and it was pleasant drive.

Geelong - Victoria's largest regional city is less than an hour from Melbourne.

Geelong, the heartland of Ford car manufacturer and is the biggest employer to the residents of this city.

We stopped at Geelong water front and decided to have fish & chip for lunch before we move on to Lorne. At 11 am the sea front was covered with mist and it was freezing cold.

Banana, Me?

The Chinese waiters at the Chinese restaurant sneers at me when I ask for an English Menu.

The wall on Chinese restaurants plastered with colorful hand written menu glares at me when I stare at them blankly.

The Chinese lady minding the grocery store insists on speaking to me in Chinese when I speak to her in English.

My Chinese colleague from China keeps reminding I must learn to speak Chinese since I am a Chinese.

My Aussies friends treat me as their mate, one of their own. They make me feel at ease and at home. They don’t ask me if I speak Chinese. They respect me, they give me my space, and they treat me fair. They speak English to me.

That is bloody why I live in Down Under and not in China.

Damn, if you insist I am a Banana, so be it. I am very proud to be one.

Note:

I will be away for 3 days on this long weekend. Enjoy your weekend.

The wheels Of Life

Very true!

Krispy Kreme Doughnuts Came to Town

Today Krispy Kreme delivered 5 boxes of doughnuts to the office. They have been delivering to all the offices and factories around Dandenong's suburb, free of charge. It is their marketing strategy to promote their coming into Melbourne.

We use to get them from Sydney when friends come over. Now we can get the doughnuts fresh. Yummy! Whoopee!

A frustrating day

The Saleman came into my office early in the morning and said " That body out there is not right & it is incomplete. That is not how the customer wants it".

After hearing him out, I politely told him I have drawn up production drawings as per his written specifications conveyed to him by the customer over the phone. The boss had approved the drawings before it went to production.

I told him,"if any modification is required, please see the boss".

What irk me was, he never bother to look at the drawings or at the body while it was in production until it was ready for delivery.

So my boss went out with him and ran over his specifications and my boss conclusion was the specifications could have written better and clearer. We were right with our interpretations. My boss suggested we sent some digital pictures of the finish body to the customer before we do any modifications.

Lesson learned. Next time, I will ask him for sketches, photos or get him to send our drawing to the customer for approval before we build it.

Jell Park

Jell Park is 10 minute drive from my place. Where opportunity arises, we often go there for a walk to exercise and relax.

The park is abundant with native plants and wildlife. With over 9 Kilometres of path and trail, hectare of wide open space and picnic areas for everyone to enjoy, the park attracts over 700,000 visitors a year. It is deal for cycling, kite flying, walking, jogging, fishing and picnics. No wonder, it is a popular destination for the whole family.

There are so many things to do. You can walk or bike around the trail through a variety of bush landscapes and parkland. On good days, enjoy a family get together at one of the many BBQ and picnic areas. Off course, there are playgrounds for children. Enjoy the wide open space, the panoramic lake views and the tranquility of peaceful surroundings. Bring your fishing rods and fish off the pier for red fin, shot finned eels, carps and yabbies. At the bird hide, you can view Australian native birds such as ibis, swamp hens, darters, cormorants, pelican and migratory birds from Asia to Jell Park during summertime to escape the cold winter of their homeland. Over 150 bird species either live or visit the park.

In the night, if you are lucky you can see nocturnal creatures including possums, bats and sugar gliders frolicking in the treetops at night, in search of food.

History:

Jell park was officially open in April 1976. It was named after one of the first pioneer settlers in the area, Joseph Jell, the park has had an interesting history, being used for grazing, a piggery and even a storage area for the American Army during World War 2. Prior to European settlement, Aborigines from the Woiworung and Bunurong tribes lived on the land for over 30,000 years.

Kayu Nasi Kandar - Box Hill, Melbourne

After hearing and talking about it for the last few months, we had an opportunity to try Kayu Nasi Kandar. Steven and Serena, Maureen & I drove to the place in Box Hill. It is about 20 minutes from where I live. Thursday Night was very cold and a great night to try out the hot and spicy food.

Parking was no problem since it is a weekday. It will be a problem if it is the weekend because there are also others restaurants around the vicinity. The restaurant looks clean and cosy except I don't like the food counter in the middle of the shop and have taken much space.

We order teh tarik and teh lihir before we order the meal because we were cold. The teh came and it was disappointing. It was not piping hot and it was just below warm. The teh tarik has no tea taste, it taste like weak tea and has no foam. Rich Mahal, another Indian restaurant, make better teh tarik and it is hot and foamy just like back home.

Since we were there the first time, we decided to share and we ordered Nasi Kandar Chicken, Nasi Kandar Beef Rendang, Nasi Lemak Biasa,Fish Curry, Roti Canai and Roti tissue. The Nasi were good and spicy but the roti canai was not crispy like back home. I think it was premade and microwaved, thus making it chewy. Roti Tisu was good and have to be eaten while it is hot otherwise it will quickly turn soft. However, the nasi lemak, in my humble opinion was a bit pricy of $6.50. Singapore Selera, read my previous post, goes for only $3.50.

No, I will not purposely drive all the way there for the food but if I am around there I would drop in. I will give it 6 out of 10.


*Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here is entirely based on my personal tastebuds and may vary for others. The reviewer also declares that he has not received any monetary or non-monetary compensation from the restaurant for writing this review.

My Other Love

It was one sunny day when I saw her. She went passed me, purposely slowed down in front of me, enough to catch my attention. One look at her, I was hooked. She was dressed in orangey red with a slim, sexy body to show. Her movement was slow and deliberate but graceful. How can one not fall in love with her? Yes, Sir, line & sinkers I was totally hooked. Dazed and falling heel in love, I got to know her and have her.

In the next few weeks, I kept looking out for her. One day I saw her again. Yes, she looked exactly the same as I saw her the first time. I introduced myself and her laugh was soothing and she purred like a cat. I knew, she knew we were destined for each other.

I cannot lie; it is a sin to tell a lie. I cannot sleep. I must tell my wife about her. One fine day, I told her about this beauty. She was furious with me. “You cannot have her. It is covetous”, she screamed at me. I told her I cannot live without her; please don’t make choose between both of you. For a minute, there was a silence, then, with a soft voice, she said “ok, but promise me that you will not neglect me, you will continue to love me, and you will come home every night”. I was so happy and I promised her.

Our love affair went for eight years. It was a memorable happy eight years. She gave me so much pleasure. How much more can I asked? She is like every woman that needs assurance now & then. She loves to hear you whisper “I love you”. You have to pamper her. Every now & then she will be moody, throwing up tantrums, you have to stoke her, caress her and hold her gently.

The last 2 years, she was behaving badly. She started playing up. She felt stifled and cooped up. No matter what I said or do she refused to listen. “I want to travel. I want to see the world. I want the wind blowing into my hair. I want to feel free & young again” she exclaimed. “All you do is to go to work & back, you do not take me anywhere” she shouted, “It is so boring”.

I was sad. How can she say those harsh hurting words? Doesn’t she know I have commitments – bill to pay, food to put on the table and my promise to my wife? Why is she like that? I cannot live like that anymore, it is so stressful. After some deep thinking, yes, I was being unfair. She needs someone younger to love her, to give her what she wants. I guess I have to let her go, give her freedom and let her live her life.

Last 2 month, we parted company. She was happy, she found a new love. He is tall and handsome. He is young & full of life. His parents are rich and he can give her what she wants – new clothes, latest and top of the range hi-fi system to play her favorite music, expensive make up, expensive makeover and detoxification clinic to make her feel young and vigorous again.

I was sad to see her go and yet happy to see she had her life back again. It was like the first time I saw her. I cannot complain. She loved me and gave me her best years. I will treasure these memories. Good bye love, I wish you the best.

Scroll down to see her photo.

Why so slow? Hurry, lah!



























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Disappointed? What are you expecting? You dirty minded readers.

A Cold Winter?

Since last month, the Autumn was colder than usual. Did Winter came early? Or is it a sign we will have a very cold Winter, I wonder? Today is the 2nd day of winter and it is very cold.

Pictures taken this morning, outside the office and I am cold. Brrrrrrrr.