tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-109583212024-03-19T22:44:50.027+11:00The Sassy MelbourniteVersion 2.0 - Faster, stronger, and sassier!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-89745031675324640142012-11-04T23:31:00.001+11:002012-11-04T23:31:34.584+11:00Has it been 3 years???After so long, I have decided to get back into blogging.<br />
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It has been quite awhile, but I do miss writing and sharing my thoughts to people who want to see what I have been up to or want to read my thoughts on certain topics and stuff.<br />
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Also, it actually took me this long to bloody figure out my blogger password, which is really dumb of me.<br />
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Can't blame it on baby-brain anymore. Hell, my daughter is already 2 and a half years old... how time flies!<br />
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Even if it's short posts, I'll try and write something everyday just to ease myself into this again.<br />
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Happy blogging to moi and you'll be hearing from me very soon :)Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-24935310134061356192009-05-21T10:08:00.003+10:002009-05-21T10:15:20.935+10:00Melbourne Kitchen TalesIn the past few months, I found my interest in food to have grown exponentially. In a city like Melbourne, one is spoilt for choice - the perils of multiculturalism. You find yourself sometimes undecided as to what to eat and making a decision can be somewhat taxing.<br /><br />My friends at work have already dubbed me "the lean, mean, eating machine." All I can talk about is food and all that I can think about is food. So, I thought, what would be the best way to express my passion for food other than eating?<br /><br />I started taking photos of everything that I eat in restaurants and dishes that I have cooked myself with the intention of starting a food blog.<br /><br />Without further ado, welcome to <a href="http://melbournekitchentales.blogspot.com/">Melbourne Kitchen Tales</a>.<br /><br />I hope you enjoy it as much I. Cheers!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-49357419156751195312009-05-18T11:36:00.004+10:002009-05-18T11:46:45.109+10:00You know you're getting old when...... you go into a shop like Tommy Hilfiger and see this on the rack...<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRfba69ow-SA9UL7aR_JoYaTIaR5GyZul_nUL09kYEifIMqQcP6G_9tzWmUVotIgbBpR6Y3vc7fOJRb9eCwEPmCh21cZc8cpaHHjDMp_ug3Bdi278V_nPgLKiSrbQ1UcB_TQBo_Q/s1600-h/untitled.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336972188856658898" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRfba69ow-SA9UL7aR_JoYaTIaR5GyZul_nUL09kYEifIMqQcP6G_9tzWmUVotIgbBpR6Y3vc7fOJRb9eCwEPmCh21cZc8cpaHHjDMp_ug3Bdi278V_nPgLKiSrbQ1UcB_TQBo_Q/s320/untitled.bmp" border="0" /></a><br />Paisley Shirts! Are you kidding me??? I remember seeing guys wearing these like 20 years ago and now they make a comeback? I suppose it's inevitable. The Paisley was an original 60s creation and was again in vogue in the 80s.<br /><br />Back in the 80s, everyone who had even an ounce of fashion sense had one of these. Funny how guys like my husband, who was a teenager back in those days, cringe when he sees kids in their late teens wearing these.<br /><br />Note to self: don't throw anything away because fashion gets recycled every 20 years!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-30175538699480355972009-05-07T22:15:00.006+10:002009-05-07T23:05:18.051+10:00Snacking with a difference<div align="justify">I am an avid <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">snacker</span>. It's a very bad habit that I have acquired since I was a kid. I snack between meals and this drives my mum mad! The older I get the hungrier I seem. I do not believe in diets, except for the sea-food diet which I am an avid fan of - when I "sea" food, I eat it. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Hahaha</span>!<br /><br />In a city like Melbourne, one is spoilt for choice. A <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">snacker</span> like myself has a vast amount of different sorts of goodies to choose from - from healthy options like sushi rolls for $2.00, a slice of pizza for $1.00, or an oh-so-naughty K<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">rispy</span> K<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">reme</span> donut.<br /><br />One of my favourite places to go to when I feel like snacking is the David Jones Food Hall. The place caters to a slightly different clientele - the sort who likes snacking on a tail of lobster and half a dozen oysters at 3:00pm. But don't be fooled by the seeming <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">upper class</span> feel of the place, for David Jones Food Hall has a lot of very affordable goodies available to everyday working people like you and moi.<br /><br /><br /></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333058822989018098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvo-TYyygpYzogyzT7hUNi1GBjqqSu-N_zX4J1cVzhdNAsaJ0KBb0GnIP4mC3cp12Oa136j5Y1xKLhiUhJfoBhQa4z22tv6EZHYzBd_57O8-rYUG6dYSlIquw3CqCL69g9WkyMg/s320/Picture+009.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center">My favourite before dinner snack, a strawberry-topped <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Evia</span> Vanilla <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Yoghurt</span> for $5.50<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIQ9KoBpgBn_JHTDlHXs846GSOCkITle31OCFXPvr7MfsSWIKxerlYP_WiWP5Lv8mNdo5c0GA7W-QhC1F0hNUGNGdxvkNcNoQHOPGcnO-Zp5coGMvC3iAKtPVueUFUmYpg5q7-A/s1600-h/Picture+010.jpg"> </a></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333058818956693458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIQ9KoBpgBn_JHTDlHXs846GSOCkITle31OCFXPvr7MfsSWIKxerlYP_WiWP5Lv8mNdo5c0GA7W-QhC1F0hNUGNGdxvkNcNoQHOPGcnO-Zp5coGMvC3iAKtPVueUFUmYpg5q7-A/s320/Picture+010.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p align="center">A wide selection of fresh salads, for very reasonable prices!<br /><br /></p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8R45vsTempzVG6kF8PEZSyhoV-xY6Vxt4Si6vrr58spqJOszk07GfaIsLxGMMSiWCBABBEtlJjMyWAYP15i8ZixcUbG5F-qqC4XyjQENA3g3R9dMDzXk8e1TdwXeL9EuGl0MUlg/s1600-h/Picture+008.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333058814763218066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8R45vsTempzVG6kF8PEZSyhoV-xY6Vxt4Si6vrr58spqJOszk07GfaIsLxGMMSiWCBABBEtlJjMyWAYP15i8ZixcUbG5F-qqC4XyjQENA3g3R9dMDzXk8e1TdwXeL9EuGl0MUlg/s320/Picture+008.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p align="center">The freshest seafood - look at the size of the oysters and lobsters!<br /><br /><br /></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqJjbb-qFZJizt_4-BEhzDs8_xwdG-jcl1lhELE6JdQWyffSzt73NS_XFf70t0VFamfk9Z3qNKIX9pRT7BwuSQuUDScBr8BEGdEdTCy5srmcCZlIg2YiHyVFj41yItZMenqqulQ/s1600-h/Picture+007.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333058809822607298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcqJjbb-qFZJizt_4-BEhzDs8_xwdG-jcl1lhELE6JdQWyffSzt73NS_XFf70t0VFamfk9Z3qNKIX9pRT7BwuSQuUDScBr8BEGdEdTCy5srmcCZlIg2YiHyVFj41yItZMenqqulQ/s320/Picture+007.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>Different <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">yoghurt</span> fruit toppings!</p><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTs5YvauSN9K3birTlwqn2qQI_Tj8SlecLirnxtTSggpCRhZ_jxO79eD_UzzSTLX8Ck2pxWH64a7bgJggqdaxhZ3v5NSPtCkGWVKEgic7mtkmKRUiId_M1899N4X44wI96i02bw/s1600-h/Picture+006.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333058807520489602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTs5YvauSN9K3birTlwqn2qQI_Tj8SlecLirnxtTSggpCRhZ_jxO79eD_UzzSTLX8Ck2pxWH64a7bgJggqdaxhZ3v5NSPtCkGWVKEgic7mtkmKRUiId_M1899N4X44wI96i02bw/s320/Picture+006.jpg" border="0" /></a> At the Butcher section - lamb chops, steaks, sausages, the works!</p><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4Ol2temfSjb0p8tlrGAKeWVNNpyjmE3mcs1k50eEQv_3AXl6cVdZ5tK1h1h3jmknPb7YpxRm93_kCbrXCClVw3ZuJyA9vrUnmIDo5VsdoS1D5bvfJV3riQiiXKCoWaKfVDHRcw/s1600-h/Picture+005.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333057556537770834" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI4Ol2temfSjb0p8tlrGAKeWVNNpyjmE3mcs1k50eEQv_3AXl6cVdZ5tK1h1h3jmknPb7YpxRm93_kCbrXCClVw3ZuJyA9vrUnmIDo5VsdoS1D5bvfJV3riQiiXKCoWaKfVDHRcw/s320/Picture+005.jpg" border="0" /></a> Different flavoured meat pies at the Delicatessen. My favourite is Steak Pepper Pie!</div><div align="center"><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMMfo1dvR_pFUezwza0KTYIx-2ltEg8DnYU18ct4IyLS37awsMayF8gFo-4Vrhw-yW5xgSU3pEkiCJ8kmI-XlDpjxaf9467LE5goQY4s7nAFMfzCW9wlOVezisYej1d0islFpXA/s1600-h/Picture+004.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333057550375501154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkMMfo1dvR_pFUezwza0KTYIx-2ltEg8DnYU18ct4IyLS37awsMayF8gFo-4Vrhw-yW5xgSU3pEkiCJ8kmI-XlDpjxaf9467LE5goQY4s7nAFMfzCW9wlOVezisYej1d0islFpXA/s320/Picture+004.jpg" border="0" /></a>Nuts about nuts!<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8dCGHejPkaPA64UpbMhkkPHQAhtP9kf7VJcLQD0YWYo9MfE3ebzHJfe_sol6RnM2KYVcLcDdCAB23P1bPeAOb0Jlsl1-ev8F-C6HB84DXw9CzAyq7mERqwwxKWEY4Ky8tpK45Q/s1600-h/Picture+003.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333057551833371218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8dCGHejPkaPA64UpbMhkkPHQAhtP9kf7VJcLQD0YWYo9MfE3ebzHJfe_sol6RnM2KYVcLcDdCAB23P1bPeAOb0Jlsl1-ev8F-C6HB84DXw9CzAyq7mERqwwxKWEY4Ky8tpK45Q/s320/Picture+003.jpg" border="0" /></a> A wide variety for wine <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">connoisseurs</span>!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22Y2MRfYqeeSjiSeLiySGwfcOeWL5zffzj3xZ4L6OESoof76su4UwzZTxYP0x_8wx7MD_3CdmQ3daVx5tpuRcXPs-9GZUtFAgrr6rf1pgL9qcjEQd_es05nTCQoD1rjtOAlKGYA/s1600-h/Picture+002.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333057547097824994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22Y2MRfYqeeSjiSeLiySGwfcOeWL5zffzj3xZ4L6OESoof76su4UwzZTxYP0x_8wx7MD_3CdmQ3daVx5tpuRcXPs-9GZUtFAgrr6rf1pgL9qcjEQd_es05nTCQoD1rjtOAlKGYA/s320/Picture+002.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />I love couscous. My favourite is the Pumpkin. Y<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ummers</span>!<br /><br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TaddxFG74_62NX_bsaxTIevWuB-SK6XnMMePRZb2WR7kogVNAUl6dN_fjW1_KbdAOr_Q92hsxusBXxI37F8cy_E4lwQbIK8ZFZl_n71kCgndWWIgrCGbGhNOKmIRygzHdHP0BA/s1600-h/Picture+001.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333057542140558226" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7TaddxFG74_62NX_bsaxTIevWuB-SK6XnMMePRZb2WR7kogVNAUl6dN_fjW1_KbdAOr_Q92hsxusBXxI37F8cy_E4lwQbIK8ZFZl_n71kCgndWWIgrCGbGhNOKmIRygzHdHP0BA/s320/Picture+001.jpg" border="0" /></a> Every beer brew from every country, take your pick!</div><div></div><div></div><div align="left"><em>David Jones Food Hall</em></div><div align="left"><em>David Jones Bourke Street Mall</em></div><div align="left"><em>310 Bourke Street</em></div><div align="left"><em>Melbourne 3000</em><br /></div></div><br /></div>Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-70044793627673293082009-05-05T16:01:00.003+10:002009-05-05T16:11:52.542+10:00Sassy Melbournite Version 2.0It's been a year since I last posted something in this blog. I guess life has been a bit busy. So, I've been married for a whole year. What can I say? Marriage does not change anything contrary to popular belief. Hubby and I are still very much in love. We still do the same things that we used to do. We still value our independence and spend time with our own friends from time to time. I guess the only difference is that we now run a household together and are thinking about having kids... <em>seriously</em>.<br /><br />The blog may look a bit droll compared to my previous template. I guess I am more for simplicity nowadays. I am still the Sassy Melbournite, but more mature and focused on what I want to achieve in life.<br /><br />The past year has given me a lot to think about - career, marriage, love, kids - I've just about figured out what's important for me. I have re-shuffled my life and went through a much-needed reboot.<br /><br />And the result - Sassy Melbournite Version 2.0 - Faster, Stronger, and Sassier!<br /><br />I hope you enjoy her as much as I :-)Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-76722986235340919962009-04-30T14:15:00.003+10:002009-04-30T14:17:01.975+10:00Sorry for the extra long hiatus...Hello folks. Are you still out there?<br /><br />Very, very sorry for the absence. It's been a very busy year!<br /><br />I am now in the process of revamping this site and making it more focused.<br /><br />Watch this space!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-42594544660340052132008-07-28T11:05:00.013+10:002008-07-28T12:59:20.856+10:00Two things that made my weekend complete...<p align="center"><a href="http://pressthebuttons.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/playstation3.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 146px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 235px" height="235" alt="" src="http://pressthebuttons.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/playstation3.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><br /><br /><p align="justify"><a href="http://www.presentationtek.com/images/Samsung_LNA650_LCDHDTV.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://www.presentationtek.com/images/Samsung_LNA650_LCDHDTV.jpg" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /><br /><a href="http://pressthebuttons.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/playstation3.jpg"></a><br /><a href="http://www.presentationtek.com/images/Samsung_LNA650_LCDHDTV.jpg"></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br />The "techie" in me is very much alive and well!!!<br /><br><br />Full HD LCD Televisions and Blu-Ray compatible gaming stations are not overrated my dear friends - they are a necessity! Crisp, motion-flow, realistic picture quality and sound - it's every nerds' wet dream come to life!<br /><br><br />To top that off, we'll be getting an upgrade on our cable TV connection and will be getting full HD on all channels!<br /><br><br />Looks like I'll be raking in a lot of overtime on my "couch potato" duties...Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-43448153450575480322008-07-21T11:19:00.000+10:002008-07-21T11:19:08.012+10:00What I thought about The Dark Knight<a href="http://im.rediff.com/movies/2008/apr/29look4.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://im.rediff.com/movies/2008/apr/29look4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Last Saturday night, Arnie, I and along with a couple of friends watched the much anticipated film The Dark Knight. Not only is this the sequel to the very successful resurrection of the Batman films called "Batman Begins" but it also happens to be the very last completed film made by Australian actor Heath Ledger who died of an accidental overdose early this year.<br /><br /><br /><br />There was a lot of hype surrounding this movie regarding Heath's performance as the Joker and how he went a bit nuts after making this film. As I sat in that packed movie theatre waiting for him to appear onscreen, I can't help but feel a bit of sadness that this man has passed. And surely enough, when Heath appeared in full Joker <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">regalia</span>, he just filled the screen in all his mad glory and everyone in the theatre was left in awe of his portrayal of a classic character.<br /><br /><br /><br />The Dark Knight is not just all about Heath Ledger though. The cast was fantastic. Christian Bale makes a very good Batman - the one of the comic books, dark, disturbed, and a bit sinister. Although when he steps out as the handsome and perpetually groomed Bruce Wayne, I can't help but see Patrick <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Bateman</span> in American Psycho.<br /><br /><br />Michael <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Caine</span> plays a calm and straight talking Alfred Pennyworth, Bruce Wayne's butler and second father. Gary <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Oldman</span> is perfect as good cop Jim Gordon. Aaron <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Eckhart</span> was fantastic as Harvey Dent AKA Two Face. He is a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">villain</span> that I honestly felt sorry for. He was a victim of circumstance and he was truly a good hero for Gotham if not for what happened in the film which I will not tell for I might ruin it for you although if you are a fan of the comic books like me, you'd probably know it anyway.<br /><br />I don't have anything bad to say about the film. It was entertaining, the plot was excellent, and all the actors did a superb job. As for Heath, he went out with a bang and deserves to be nominated for an award for his efforts.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-32989267283668719942008-07-18T13:30:00.008+10:002008-07-18T13:51:03.309+10:00Married and loving it!<a href="http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v274/30/103/1044514797/n1044514797_30103483_6642.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://photos-d.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-snc1/v274/30/103/1044514797/n1044514797_30103483_6642.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />It has been a hectic four months. But Arnie and I finally made it out alive...<br /><br /><br />WE ARE FINALLY MARRIED!!!<br /><br /><br />Amidst all the drama and preparations we had to endure, the end result is what really mattered: we have taken the step that people have been waiting for us to take, that both of us have wanted to take for a long time. I finally get to call Arnie my husband, and me, his wife.<br /><br /><br />Arnie and I did nothing but laugh and smile through the whole affair. The event was filled with people who loved us and truly celebrated the moment with us. A lot of tears were shed because of happiness. Arnie's family have always loved me from the moment we started dating. My mum loves Arnie like her own son.<br /><br /><br />I never felt as lucky as I do now that I have bagged this wonderful man and I feel like I have won the lottery a million times over for being able to call him mine.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-12965711120773715272008-02-12T22:56:00.000+11:002008-02-12T23:01:45.383+11:00Finally the big 3-0Today I turn 30.<br /><br /><br />I vividly remember my younger self thinking about how I would turn out when I reach this age.<br /><br /><br />I'm getting married in six weeks to a fabulous man.<br /><br /><br />I have two wonderful fur kids.<br /><br /><br />I am surrounded by friends and loved ones.<br /><br /><br />I am happy with my career.<br /><br /><br />I have a fabulous boss.<br /><br /><br />I am happy - period.<br /><br /><br />Life truely begins at 30.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-46506442492789091862008-02-04T11:58:00.000+11:002008-02-04T12:22:20.467+11:002 months till the big day!How time flies!<br /><br /><br />It is two months till my wedding day. So many things to do still...<br /><br /><br />Last Saturday, my matron of honour, Itchie, and I went to the bridal shop to do our dress fittings. I was nearly in tears when I got into my dress. It fit perfectly and the only thing that needs to be done is the hemming. The bead work was excellent, the material soft and stunning. I just can't wait to see Arnie's face when he sees me in it.<br /><br /><br />The invitations are mailed out and am just waiting for the RSVPs. We potentially could have around 90 people which is not a huge number at all. Luckily most of my family is in Manila or we could end up having close to 150 people!<br /><br /><br />We have already booked the car (an Audi A6) and will be using it for three days. Our honeymoon is all booked and the hotel accommodation is already paid for by my sister-in-law (she's a sweetheart). All in all, we're in track.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-41305517168232679372008-01-07T12:55:00.000+11:002008-01-07T13:07:25.120+11:00Happy holidays and all that jazz...Let me start off by greeting everyone a belated Merry Christmas and I hope the New Year's celebrations you've had didn't leave you all hung over :)<br /><br><br />The past couple of months have been busy in so many ways. First, I started a new job. Second, Arnie and I moved to my mum and I's house. She decided to give it to us and be fully responsible for it. Not bad for a pre-wedding present, huh? Thirdly, all the wedding preparations. There is only about 80-something days till the wedding and I am in panic mode now. Everything is finalised except for the hair and make-up people, bridal car, honeymoon flights, and reception details (which unfortunately has to be left at the last minute till I get the final guest count). I am torn between getting <em>uber</em>-excited to ripping my hair out because of the stress!<br /><br><br />It's been a whirlwind and the days are closing in. I have just finalised accommodations for the bridal party after the wedding - very irresponsible of me to allow them to drive after the huge piss-up! I still have to check prices on hair and make-up for the day, and all I can seem to find are atrocious prices! It's pissing me off now...<br /><br><br />I am leaving the bridal car hire to Arnie because I honestly cannot be stuffed to look at that. I still have to finalise the guest list and have the invitations printed and sent off. I have to get this done within the week.<br /><br><br />Will be posting more about the wedding in the next couple of months since my mind will be mostly preoccupied by this from now on...Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-6263722447381468432007-11-28T11:30:00.000+11:002007-11-28T11:42:42.544+11:00Finally... a Labor government!I have never been a keen follower of politics nor am I a political scrooge by any sense.<br /><br /><br />But I have to be honest by saying that this past election has turned me into a raving, opinionated, political activist.<br /><br /><br />First off, let me just say that I am extremely happy with the results of the last Federal election. Kevin Rudd, leader of the Australian Labor Party for only a short 50 weeks, has been successful in winning the most coveted seat of Prime Minister when Labor leaders before him (Simon <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Beazley</span> and Mark <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Latham</span>) failed to do so. And may I add, it's about bloody time that someone knocked John Howard off his high horse!<br /><br /><br />I am by no means a member of the ALP (although I am seriously thinking about doing so). I dislike politicians in general. But Kevin Rudd's policies addresses modern issues such as climate change, broadband, improvement in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">education and</span> the health system, multiculturalism and of course, abolishing the dreaded <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Workchoices</span> (IR) laws. Anything that threatens to destroy the livelihood and working conditions of the common working man is absolutely appalling.<br /><br /><br />So Kevin Rudd is now Prime Minister-elect. Julia <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gillard</span>, MP for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Lalor</span>, is his Deputy-Prime Minister - the first woman ever to hold such a high seat of power in Australian politics. I will now see what Mr. Rudd does. The "education revolution", signing of the Kyoto Protocol, and formal apology to the Australian Aborigine people are the issues that I am closely looking at.<br /><br /><br />These are definitely exciting times and truly a new era for Australia.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-37623121312453234372007-11-21T08:26:00.000+11:002007-11-21T08:42:40.510+11:00Back in the working worldI never thought I would say this...<br /><br /><br />but I am now a public servant!<br /><br /><br />Yes folks... Jennie has bitten the bullet and is working in government.<br /><br /><br />My official job title is Records and Information Management Officer for a particular department in the Victorian Government. I started last Thursday and I am, so far, enjoying the change of pace.<br /><br /><br />We're a small team, my boss is a lovely motherly type of woman, and the people are very easy going. I have short working hours (8:30 - 4:30) and my building has magnificent views of the city.<br /><br /><br />After my first few days here, it made me realise that I should have left my previous job earlier. The grass is definitely greener.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-91315690939955696562007-10-25T12:24:00.001+10:002007-10-25T12:37:50.973+10:00Freedom!I am finally free! Free from the shackles of corporate greed and politics!<br /><br /><br />As if my prayers have been answered, I was made redundant from work a couple of weeks back. Isn't that the best way to go? You get a huge payout and leave the work that you dread behind?<br /><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Wahahaha</span>!<br /><br /><br />So these past few weeks have been spent on looking for other employment opportunities (I am waiting for a couple of phone calls this week) and catching up on playing The Sims 2. Since my mother gave me that game for Christmas (and I bought all the extension packs), I have never had the time to play it. My former job made sure that my "me" time is completely ripped out of me. I surely made up for it this week though. I created a couple of characters and the character I based on Arnie (named Lawrence) already has two loves and scored with both (called a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Woohoo</span>) in bed and in the jacuzzi! He is now aspiring to do a "public <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">woohoo</span>" and having a third love. What a pervert! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Hahaha</span>!<br /><br /><br />I also caught up with household chores (the ironing is killing me) and took up a new hobby... taking care of fishes that is! We now have two new fish tanks - one for tropical carnivore fishes (Arnie's choice of course) and one for a couple of cute red cap <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">oranda</span> goldfishes that I have named Sid and Nancy. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Hehehe</span>.<br /><br /><br />I have also taken this time to evaluate what is really important in my life. I found that my career will always come second to my family. Because of the stress from my former job, I now have a condition in my neck and shoulder joint that needs to be tended to by a doctor. I am now seeing a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">naturopath</span> who is giving me weekly treatments of remedial massage, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">acupuncture</span>, and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Chinese</span> cupping. I really need to take care of myself from now on. I am also taking medication for my stress, pain and energy levels.<br /><br /><br />Well, I hope in my next entry I'll be telling you guys about my new job.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-55452037685370211012007-10-03T16:09:00.000+10:002007-10-03T16:18:46.821+10:00Jaded workerI never thought I'll say this, but I am no longer happy about my work.<br /><br /><br />The company I work for has turned into a profit-driven, heartless cesspool. They have sacked so many people in the past few months that I am just waiting my turn.<br /><br /><br />"Operational re-structure", they say.<br /><br /><br />It's budget cuts, in my opinion.<br /><br /><br />Also, my present role is becoming such a chore. I wasn't trained properly for this job, thus my work seems to be half-baked. I was expecting full support from management which, unfortunately, I am not getting. And they expect me to perform well? <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hah</span>! It's like asking a person who has been a vegetarian all his life to cook a medium-rare steak! I have turned into a zombie that just turns up to work to get the cash. I no longer believe in what I do nor the company that I work for.<br /><br /><br />In my honest opinion, I don't see myself staying for another month. I actually just came from an interview regarding a job that I actually studied for. I used to do that particular job before I got this "promotion."<br /><br /><br />Here's hoping... and who knows what's going to happen in the next few weeks? I feel like something is about to hit - an axe on my neck probably. And you know what? I don't care.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-22130336209302152152007-09-28T14:52:00.000+10:002007-09-28T15:07:14.054+10:00To sleep perchance to dream...<em>From Hamlet by William Shakespeare</em><br /><br /><br />Talk about whacked out dreams!<br /><br /><br />Last night was a classic in my "wet dreams gone weird" book...<br /><br /><br />I have been a huge fan of <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/doctorwho/">Doctor Who </a>since the series has been resurrected to the hip and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><em>uber</em></span>-sexy show that it is now. I also have a huge crush on David <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tennant</span>.<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><img src="http://www.scifi.com/sfw/images/interview/20070226_Tennant1_rev.jpg" /></p><br /><br /><br />Could you take a guess at what my dream is about?<br /><br /><br />Well, I happen to be the Doctor's companion and we were starting to discover romantic feelings for each other!<br /><br /><br />We were having a quick bite to eat while we were in 1970s England. He told me that whilst he won't be able to live the rest of my life with me (being almost immortal), it doesn't stop him from falling in love with me. I told him that from the moment that I accepted his offer of being his travel companion, I'm his. He was about to kiss me when I was suddenly jolted awake by the joint snores of Arnie and my pug <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Meeko</span>.<br /><br /><br /><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Grrrrr</span>..... I was so tempted to knock Arnie on the back of his head. Here I was about to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">pash</span> David <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tennant</span>, for crying out loud!<br /><br /><br />Perchance I dream again of my dear Doctor? Here's hoping...Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-59674669771022303202007-09-26T15:40:00.000+10:002007-09-26T16:04:07.374+10:00Back from the brink...I know, I have been away for sometime. It's been madness - work and life - and it has gotten in the way of updating this blog.<br /><br /><br /><br />My apologies.<br /><br /><br /><br />So, what have I been up to?<br /><br /><br /><br />Well, wedding plans are starting to come into fruition. Invitations that are being mailed overseas have been sent to me and are on their way to the people we've invited. I have an appointment with bridal dressmaker to try on the dress that I saw on the shop's website. I have fallen in love with the dress and can't wait to put it on!<br /><br /><br /><br />We have already picked up our wedding rings and it's now safely hidden in my closet (gotta remember to bring up the contents insurance - AGAIN!). I picked out a very simple 18k white gold band while Arnie got a two-tone 18k wedding band that is thicker and chunkier - suits his huge fingers.<br /><br /><br /><br />What else? Oh, I got my wedding shoes! eBay is an absolute god send. Instead of paying around $200 for a pair of shoes that I'm only going to be wearing once, I got this beautiful ivory pair from England for only $67 and that already includes postage!<br /><br /><br /><br />What else is new? I am now totally addicted to make-up. Recently, I bought a couple of eyeshadow pallets and lipstick from Clinique, Radiant Illuminator and lipstick from YSL, and am planning to buy another lipstick from Clinique and an eyeshadow pallet from YSL. Jesus, at age 29 and am only starting to like make-up??? Talk about a late bloomer! Hahaha!<br /><br /><br /><br />*****<br /><br /><br /><br />So, what's in my bag? (Got this from <a href="http://vayieplease.blogspot.com/">Vayie</a>)<br /><br /><br /><br />It really depends on which I bag I'm using. If I have my big Burberry bag, this is what I usually have:<br /><br /><ul><br /><li>Burberry Nova Check Wallet</li><br /><li>My mobile phone (Nokia N70)</li><br /><li>Black iPod Video</li><br /><li>Body Shop Almond Oil Hand & Nail Cream</li><br /><li>Estee Lauder Powder Make-Up</li><br /><li>hair brush</li><br /><li>car keys</li><br /><li>house keys</li><br /><li>Clinique quickliner for lips Pink Truffle</li><br /><li>Clinique lipstick Perfect Plum</li><br /><li>YSL Rouge Pure Shine Sheer Lipstick Frosted Fig</li><br /><li>Chupa Chups Strawberry and Cream</li><br /><li>Vicks Butter Menthol</li><br /><li>Parker pen</li><br /><li>Medication (for my facet joints)</li></ul><br /><p>How about you? What do you have in your bag?</p><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-69074527628931623042007-08-13T17:30:00.000+10:002007-08-13T17:59:20.837+10:00Been given a dose of The Cure<p>What can one say when one's childhood dreams have come to life?<br /><br /><br />In my case, I took out the 14-hole Docs, wore black nail polish, lipstick, and black eyeshadow, and teased my hair to an untidy mop. I carefully chose my clothing and decided on black tights, black shorts, a black button-down short sleeved military style shirt and a white tie. And of course, I danced and sang like a maniac. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hahaha</span>!<br /><br /><br />The so-called "Grandfathers of Goth", the masters of all things "doom and gloom", and my most favourite band of all time, The Cure, had a one-night-only-show last night in Melbourne at the Rod <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Laver</span> Arena. Arnie, his brother Rey, and I had really good seats that we could clearly see Jason, Simon, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Porl</span>, and Robert's features. It was a sea of black, bad hairstyles, and posers (some of the teenyboppers anyway). It was a mixed crowd to say the least but it was the loyal fans (people 30 years and up) that dominated.<br /><br /><br />What can I say? I was blown away, of course! Here is a band whose music I've grown up with and their songs are a huge part of my life. It was three hours of non-stop Cure goodness. No yucky starter line-ups. It was all Cure and the fans absolutely loved it.<br /><br /><br />They played the obscure and the popular. I was pleasantly surprised to hear them play "Primary", "One Hundred Years", "Shake Dog Shake", "How Beautiful You Are", and half of the Three Imaginary Boys' album - "Boys Don't Cry", "Three Imaginary Boys", "Jumping Someone Else's Train", "Grinding Halt", and "Killing An Arab", which of course Robert had to change to "Killing Another" due to the current political climate.<br /><br /><br />Of course, they played the show stoppers - "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Inbetween</span> Days", "Close To Me", "Why Can't I Be You?", "Lullaby", "Friday I'm In Love", "A Night Like This", and of course, Arnie and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">I's</span> theme song, "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Lovesong</span>" - I have to admit that I was teary eyed when they played it.<br /><br /><br />They also played heaps of tracks from the Kiss Me album. Kinda says something about Robert's current mood I guess.<br /><br /><br />I just love Robert Smith to bits. He looks like an adorable overgrown rag doll. He's so gorgeous!<br /><br /><br />I am so happy to have been able to attend such an extraordinary event. I don't know when this will happen again, but it is definitely a night to remember!<br /><br /><br />Most notable moments?<br /><br /></p><ul><li>When they played "Primary", I noticed that Simon Gallup's current hairstyle resembles his hairstyle in this song's music video. That's going back 26 years ago!!!</li><li>Robert Smith is so cute doing his signature "mini-jig" <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">ala</span> "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Lovecats</span>"</li><li>They did not play "A Forest"! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">ARGH</span>!!!</li><li><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Porl</span> looks like Billy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Corgan</span>... <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">hmmm</span>...</li><li>Robert looked at me when he looked at our direction! I was waving my arms around like a mad-woman! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Hahaha</span>!<br /></li></ul>Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-78206173726397139692007-08-06T10:44:00.000+10:002007-08-06T13:10:13.573+10:00Gandalf as the Mad KingLast Saturday, I had the privilege of watching the Royal Shakespeare Company's performance of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_Lear">"The Tragedy of King Lear", </a>played by no one else but by the great "Gandalf", "Sir Teabing", and "Magneto", Sir Ian McKellen.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.ianmckellen.us/images/3504.jpg" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Sir Ian McKellen as King Lear</span></center><br /><br />For theatre and Shakespeare lovers, King Lear is a role that one would describe as the "Mount Everest" for any Shakespearean actor. They basically say that "if you're old enough to play King Lear, then you're too old to play King Lear". It is a role known to be emotionally and physically challenging. Sir Ian delivered, and more.<br /><br /><br /><center><img src="http://www.ianmckellen.us/images/3505.jpg" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Sir Ian McKellen with Sylvester McCoy as The Fool</span></center><br /><br /><br />He took his kit off... naked as the day the Maker made him and might I add, not bad for an old gay man!<br /><br /><br />But I digress.<br /><br /><br />He is truly the greatest stage performer of his time. His stage presence, his command and ease of Shakespearean English, and his ownership of the part of Lear just proves his magnificent talent.<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><img style="WIDTH: 498px; HEIGHT: 326px" height="466" src="http://www.ianmckellen.us/images/3508.jpg" width="498" /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">A fallen King Lear with The Earl of Gloucester, played by William Gaunt</span></center><br /><br /><br />Jonathan Hyde (you'll probably remember him as Richie Rich's butler and Robin Williams' greatest fear in Jumanji) was a fantastic Earl of Kent. Sylvester McCoy who played King Lear's Fool was a joy to watch as well. Frances Barber who played the evil eldest daughter Goneril was so effective is her role that I literally wanted to strangle her.<br /><br /><br />It was truly a night to remember. Seeing Sir Ian perform in all his excellent theatrical glory is something that I will truly take with me till death. He made me cry. He made me sympathise with an old, proud, foolish man who not only lost his kingdom but also lost his whole family, especially his dearest daughter Cordelia.<br /><br /><br />Howl, Howl, Howl...<br /><br><br />Found this sample in YouTube. This is a scene between King Lear and The Fool. Enjoy!<br /><br><br /><object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/T8IPQ6R3XZ8"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/T8IPQ6R3XZ8" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><br><br /><br /><br /><em>O, let me not be mad, not mad, sweet heaven,<br />Keep me in temper: I would not be mad.<br /></em>- King Lear, Act I Scene VJenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-65101563542713950842007-08-01T16:00:00.000+10:002007-08-01T16:16:34.014+10:00Psychedelic flashbackGot inspired by <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><a href="http://vayieplease.blogspot.com/">Vayie</a>'s</span> post about MTV...<br /><br /><br />Do you guys remember this song?<br /><br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/oQo5DO6NDlw"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/oQo5DO6NDlw" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />Don't you just love it?<br /><br /><br />How about this one?<br /><br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/-IrhNldLMFE"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/-IrhNldLMFE" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><br /><br /><br />And who can possibly forget this one?<br /><br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gLDDL6upIbA"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gLDDL6upIbA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychedelic_Furs">Psychedelic Furs</a> is one of those bands that a Filipino growing up during that incomparable era (the 80s of course) will possibly first mention when asked about new wave music. They first emerged as a post-punk band but ended up making albums with a more "pop-bent" to it with biting vocals and fantastic droning guitar work.<br /><br />Hope you enjoyed that short blast from the past and who knows? I might find some other gems...Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-19385141357349700052007-07-22T11:05:00.000+10:002007-07-22T11:34:12.700+10:00The end of Harry Potter in Deathly Hallows<center><img style="WIDTH: 237px; HEIGHT: 285px" height="376" src="http://english.people.com.cn/200703/29/images/xinsrc_152030429125684327911.jpg" width="356" /></center><br /><p><br /><br /><br />I have attended the book launch at Borders in Melbourne Central yesterday morning. I was there since 8:00 am, waiting alongside other Harry Potter fans for the first box of books to be opened by lucky little girl. I was part of long queue to purchase the book, and the queue didn't abate till the afternoon. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is clearly the most anticipated book of the decade. Finally, the question whether the 17 year old hero Harry Potter will defeat his nemesis Voldemort once and for all or will evil reign the world.</p><br /><p>I have finished the book last night and have fully enjoyed it. I was also saddened that there won't be anymore Harry Potter after this book, but I 'll be consoled for the meantime because there are still two movies about to come out.</p><br /><p>For my full review, click <a href="http://jennie-on-the-arts.blogspot.com/2007/07/harry-potter-and-deathly-hallows.html">here</a>. Major spoilers abound!<br /></p>Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-24973432235552189412007-07-16T13:46:00.000+10:002007-07-16T14:03:48.281+10:00A bit of culture and child-like gleeThis weekend was quite eventful. After spending three days at Newcastle for a conference, I went back home to Melbourne on the Friday only to get ready for a night of theatre - Miss Saigon.<br /><br /><br />Needless to say, it is a fantastic piece of musical excellence. The cast was full of Filipino talents. The Engineer was played by no other than Leo Valdez. He made a very good impression with the Australian audience. It's quite amusing that I still remember the songs from when it was made popular back in 1989 by the original "Kim", Lea <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Salonga</span>. My girlfriend and I couldn't refrain from singing along, albeit softly, to Kim on-stage.<br /><br /><br />The boys had a wonderful time. I couldn't help myself from getting a bit teary eyed in the end. It is a tragic story but was a very common <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">occurrence</span> during the war. I guess people who watch Miss Saigon do get side-tracked by the music and fail to remember that women like Kim suffered in the hands of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">GIs</span> and fellow Vietnamese alike. I hope that Miss Saigon stands as a reminder of the atrocities and sacrifices people have suffered during the war.<br /><br /><br />*****<br /><br /><br />Yesterday, Arnie and I - along with my mum - watched Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. It was a full house and everyone seemed to enjoy the film. It wasn't a bad effort - a 772 page book crammed into a 2 1/2 hour film. Of course, it was to be expected that there are some changes made to make the story flow better in the movie. In my personal opinion, it was fun. It was nice. Harry and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Cho's</span> first kiss was sweet - and there were people in the theatre who gushed of course. Luna was endearing. There was not enough <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Kreacher</span> though. Bellatrix's appearance was short but very effective. The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Thestrals</span> were cool. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Tonks</span> was cool. Ginny kicked arse - very powerful <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Reducto</span> curse.<br /><br /><br />I enjoyed Order of the Phoenix as much as the last Harry Potter movies. But if I was going to be honest with myself, it was anti-climactic. Sirius's demise was expected, of course, but very understated. Harry and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Dumbledore's</span> interaction was short and a bit emotionless. I was expecting Harry to have blown up spectacularly like he did in the book. Oh well, it was to be expected anyway - the movie will never be completely faithful to the book.<br /><br /><br />I am now looking forward to the book. I'm picking it up on Saturday morning at Borders and am expecting my free Hedwig plush doll. Can't wait!!!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-1683600601227539662007-07-04T11:18:00.000+10:002007-07-04T11:21:38.144+10:00I got tickets!Miss Saigon is finishing it's Melbourne run on July 15 and we've got tickets to see this wonderful musical on the 13<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span> of July!<br /><br /><br />Very exciting considering I wasn't really planning to watch it to start with but a friend emailed me and told me that all tickets are being sold for $75 only. Wow! What a great opportunity to catch one of the best musicals ever written!<br /><br /><br />I vividly remember this musical when it was just new and our very own Lea <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Salonga</span> played the most coveted role of Kim. That role made her a worldwide sensation. In this version, Kim is also played by a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Filipina</span> woman based in Sydney.<br /><br /><br />Can't wait for a piece of great theatre!Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10958321.post-61152772337786692702007-06-26T10:39:00.000+10:002007-06-26T11:00:23.800+10:008 years of separationI've been in Sydney since yesterday to conduct a series of training sessions for managers and team leaders with regards to systems procedures. It was also yesterday, last night as a matter of fact, that I was able to catch up with a friend that I have not seen since I graduated from La <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Salle</span> in 1998.<br /><br /><br />His name is Xerxes, one of my closest "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">sistahs</span>" back in La <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Salle</span>. We took the same classes together when we were doing our Literature degree. He's a good looking, well groomed man. And of course, he is a first class flirt which I absolutely love.<br /><br /><br />He took me to the Opera Bar for a few drinks. I am currently addicted to Smirnoff Double Black Ice and had a couple while he had a Vodka Cranberry drink. We were seated outside with views of the Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House which was absolutely breathtaking at night. Sydney winter is nothing compared to Melbourne for we were able to sit outside comfortably. We chatted about old times and what's been happening with our lives. He was really happy for me finding Arnie, and that he was really glad I found my soul mate. I also found out about his boyfriend who is a few years older than him - a graphic designer who has his own place in the Rocks. Impressive, I said. Then, he calmly told me that he's actually his boyfriend's "number two". I told him that's fine as long as they both know what they're getting into. I am fully aware that some gay relationships do have a tendency to be non-monogamous but as long as consenting adults are involved, it's fine.<br /><br /><br />After our drinks, we headed off to a restaurant which, unfortunately, I can't remember the name but had the same amazing views of the Opera house and the Harbour Bridge. The food was excellent and the service was very personal. We both knew we were loud while we chatted away and laughed, but they didn't care and left us to enjoy ourselves.<br /><br /><br />I am not sure when we're going to see each other again, maybe the next time I visit Sydney for work, or better yet when he visits me in Melbourne. But after 8 years of not seeing him, I realize that I have a real friend in Xerxes. He's a non-judgemental kind of guy who is honest, comfortable in himself, and is genuinely happy for his friend's achievements. He helped me out during a time in my life back in our uni days when no one else could. I will always treasure him for that.<br /><br /><br />I miss him already. I am now consoling myself by eating the yummy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Bon</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Bon</span> chocolates he so kindly bought me last night. What a sweetheart.<br /><br /><br />It's hard to find true friends, and Xerxes is definitely one of mine.Jenniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07385501980574132943noreply@blogger.com0