After years of refusing to be the same as everyone else, I've given in and got myself an iPhone.
The iPhone 5s in gold to be more specific.
It's not even that I really wanted this phone. It was just because my phone was 3 years old, driving me crazy and I needed to get a new one.
Truth be told, I'm in love with the Galaxy S4 and was even contemplating waiting until the release of the S5, but it's not available on au. And I absolutely refuse to switch networks, so I settled for the iPhone.
I'm neither overwhelemed nor underwhelmed with it. I have an iPad, so it's not like I need to spend ages trying to work out how to use it. Downloaded all my apps again, imported my contacts and I was all set to go.
Loving how fast it is and the battery life though. So far so good.
The other good thing about getting a new phone, is that it gives you the chance to clear out your phone book. I went through all my contacts and just deleted, deleted, deleted. There were so many people I couldn't even remember in there! So I've gone from over 200 contacts to just 59. And I'm feeling good about that!
Now I need to go through all the old messages and actually reply to some of them! LOL!
xoxo
Wednesday, 11 December 2013
Monday, 9 December 2013
\(^0^)/
This month has been crazy.
Crazy busy, crazy stressful, crazy FAST!
I'm going back to the UK NEXT WEEK!!! What the hell?!
And now I feel that I have a to-do list the length of my arm, full of stuff that I need to sort out before I leave!
But let's start with the good stuff.
I finally finished my pain-in-the-arse DELTA application , had my interview, and I've been accepted onto the course!
WOOP WOOP!
The truth of it is, I didn't really expect to be accepted. I was told by the coordinator in the summer, that most people who apply have at least 3-4 years post-CELTA experience. I applied with less than 2, but I thought I'd just give it a go anyway.
Now that I've been accepted, I'm literally like FFFFFF*****************!!!! Not just because the course is going to be 2 months of intensive stress and then a third month of more stress, but the financial side of it all has completely freaked me out. I got my acceptance letter and along with it came the request of $1000 as a deposit with the remaining $2500 to be paid before the end of January. Then there's the visa fees, flight, rent in Tokyo, rent in Bangkok and the price of books.
It wouldn't be so bad if I was being paid for those two months that I'll be out. But I'm not. So on my return to Japan, I'm going to be well and truly financially crippled for pretty much the rest of the year.
And you know what that means......
....NO TRAVEL!!!!
My. Heart. Is. Broken.
I literally won't be able to go anywhere until at least next winter. A year with no travel - that will be in the first time in......erm......god knows how many years!
And NO - going to Thailand doesn't count as travel. It's purely for study purposes and I'll have ZERO free time. An MA in two months - think about it.
I am looking forward to going back home though. It will be nice to see my family - especially my grandad who turned 90 today.
Happy Birthday!
xoxo
Crazy busy, crazy stressful, crazy FAST!
I'm going back to the UK NEXT WEEK!!! What the hell?!
And now I feel that I have a to-do list the length of my arm, full of stuff that I need to sort out before I leave!
But let's start with the good stuff.
I finally finished my pain-in-the-arse DELTA application , had my interview, and I've been accepted onto the course!
WOOP WOOP!
The truth of it is, I didn't really expect to be accepted. I was told by the coordinator in the summer, that most people who apply have at least 3-4 years post-CELTA experience. I applied with less than 2, but I thought I'd just give it a go anyway.
Now that I've been accepted, I'm literally like FFFFFF*****************!!!! Not just because the course is going to be 2 months of intensive stress and then a third month of more stress, but the financial side of it all has completely freaked me out. I got my acceptance letter and along with it came the request of $1000 as a deposit with the remaining $2500 to be paid before the end of January. Then there's the visa fees, flight, rent in Tokyo, rent in Bangkok and the price of books.
It wouldn't be so bad if I was being paid for those two months that I'll be out. But I'm not. So on my return to Japan, I'm going to be well and truly financially crippled for pretty much the rest of the year.
And you know what that means......
....NO TRAVEL!!!!
My. Heart. Is. Broken.
I literally won't be able to go anywhere until at least next winter. A year with no travel - that will be in the first time in......erm......god knows how many years!
And NO - going to Thailand doesn't count as travel. It's purely for study purposes and I'll have ZERO free time. An MA in two months - think about it.
I am looking forward to going back home though. It will be nice to see my family - especially my grandad who turned 90 today.
Happy Birthday!
xoxo
Sunday, 1 December 2013
Are You Kidding Me?!
I'm sorry, but on what planet do some people think it's OK to just not show up when you've made plans with someone?!
I mailed my friend this afternoon just to check that we were still good for dinner tonight. They were supposed to head over mine and I was gonna rustle up something - just because I needed to be at home to make a cake.
So my friend was like, oh yeh, yeh that's cool.
And still hasn't rocked up.
No mail, no phone call, nothing.
I probably wouldn't care if I hadn't already jumped in the shower (covered in flour) and re-done my make up. But I have. So I'm p*****. At least I hadn't bothered getting dressed yet.
Now I know that there could be a perfectly reasonable explanation for it. Something might have happened and their phone could've died so they couldn't contact me to let me know.
Yawn. It better be something good if that's the case.
But I'm pretty sure I know what's happened. My friend told me earlier that they had a seriously late night last night, were feeling hungover and had to work all day. My guess is, they got home and fell asleep. I'd rather hear that than some bollocks about a phone dying. They know where I live, so if they were intending to come over, then really, there's no excuse, ne.
Less than impressed.
On a different topic, I've finished making my second German chocolate cake. The filling is even better than the first one as I added extra butter and evaporated milk. It looks awesome.
And on a completely different note - did you hear about Paul Walker?! I was so shocked to hear that he had been killed - and in a car crash!! It's a little ironic really, but extremely sad news. If someone asked me who I thought was the hottest actor in Hollywood, I would always say him. Hotness. What a shame.
R.I.P
xoxo
I mailed my friend this afternoon just to check that we were still good for dinner tonight. They were supposed to head over mine and I was gonna rustle up something - just because I needed to be at home to make a cake.
So my friend was like, oh yeh, yeh that's cool.
And still hasn't rocked up.
No mail, no phone call, nothing.
I probably wouldn't care if I hadn't already jumped in the shower (covered in flour) and re-done my make up. But I have. So I'm p*****. At least I hadn't bothered getting dressed yet.
Now I know that there could be a perfectly reasonable explanation for it. Something might have happened and their phone could've died so they couldn't contact me to let me know.
Yawn. It better be something good if that's the case.
But I'm pretty sure I know what's happened. My friend told me earlier that they had a seriously late night last night, were feeling hungover and had to work all day. My guess is, they got home and fell asleep. I'd rather hear that than some bollocks about a phone dying. They know where I live, so if they were intending to come over, then really, there's no excuse, ne.
Less than impressed.
On a different topic, I've finished making my second German chocolate cake. The filling is even better than the first one as I added extra butter and evaporated milk. It looks awesome.
And on a completely different note - did you hear about Paul Walker?! I was so shocked to hear that he had been killed - and in a car crash!! It's a little ironic really, but extremely sad news. If someone asked me who I thought was the hottest actor in Hollywood, I would always say him. Hotness. What a shame.
R.I.P
xoxo
Wednesday, 27 November 2013
Really?!
So, I've just been catching up with the X Factor.
I loved Saturday's show. Luke Friend is really coming up from behind, Sam Bailey SMASHED it, but my fave performance of the night was Rough Copy's rendition of En Vogue's "Don't Let Go".
That is like, one of my favourite songs EVER and every time they perform, I find myself grinning from ear to ear. The groups always do so badly, but this one is so talented and I'm totally rooting for them to win.
And then I watched the results show and was MORTIFIED to see that Tamera - who completely, royally f***** up - managed to escape the bottom two, leaving Rough Copy facing Hannah in the sing off.
WHAT. THE. F***?!
How the hell did the British public come to that conclusion?! Tamera is the one that truly deserved to leave this week.
The sing off was UN-BE-LIEVE-ABLE!! I loved Hannah's rendition of Etta James - she nailed it. And Rough Copy's flawless harmonies just make me melt. It wasn't a surprise that Hannah was voted off because she's been in the bottom 3 times, but she didn't deserve to go. Not in the slightest.
Oh well - at least we know Nicole won't be winning this year, considering Tamera is her only act left!
So shocked to see Rough Copy in the bottom two, but still want them to win.
GO ON BOYS!!!!
I loved Saturday's show. Luke Friend is really coming up from behind, Sam Bailey SMASHED it, but my fave performance of the night was Rough Copy's rendition of En Vogue's "Don't Let Go".
That is like, one of my favourite songs EVER and every time they perform, I find myself grinning from ear to ear. The groups always do so badly, but this one is so talented and I'm totally rooting for them to win.
And then I watched the results show and was MORTIFIED to see that Tamera - who completely, royally f***** up - managed to escape the bottom two, leaving Rough Copy facing Hannah in the sing off.
WHAT. THE. F***?!
How the hell did the British public come to that conclusion?! Tamera is the one that truly deserved to leave this week.
The sing off was UN-BE-LIEVE-ABLE!! I loved Hannah's rendition of Etta James - she nailed it. And Rough Copy's flawless harmonies just make me melt. It wasn't a surprise that Hannah was voted off because she's been in the bottom 3 times, but she didn't deserve to go. Not in the slightest.
Oh well - at least we know Nicole won't be winning this year, considering Tamera is her only act left!
So shocked to see Rough Copy in the bottom two, but still want them to win.
GO ON BOYS!!!!
Monday, 25 November 2013
Proud As Punch
Today, my German chocolate cake was put to the test.
And I couldn't be more thrilled with the feedback!
The first person to try it was the person that I originally made it for. He told me it was perfect and better than the one that he had bought from the shop before! The rest of the feedback has been pretty much along the same lines, and now my friend has confirmed that he wants me to make one for his birthday - and he'll pay me for it!
That was the other comment that I've been getting all day - I should sell them. Apparently this particular cake is practically non-existent or Tokyo and if you order it, then you're looking at a 3 week wait for a one-layer mediocre cake. That's what my friend said anyway. He offered me money for this one, but I was happy to do it as a favour, plus it was just a trial run to see how it tasted. I've got no problem making them for people to buy if I'm asked. It won't be cheap though - to get the ingredients for just ONE cake rings in at like 4,500yen and then add the time it takes to make the whole thing from start to finish....I've got a price, so if you're interested, mail me! LOL! I'm definitely open to making them to sell, so just let me know!
It's a great feeling when you've tried something for the first time and it's turned out to be a great success. I'm not a fan of chocolate cake myself, but I've thoroughly enjoyed other people appreciating it all day. Thank you all for your compliments! They are making me grin from ear to ear!
xoxo
And I couldn't be more thrilled with the feedback!
The first person to try it was the person that I originally made it for. He told me it was perfect and better than the one that he had bought from the shop before! The rest of the feedback has been pretty much along the same lines, and now my friend has confirmed that he wants me to make one for his birthday - and he'll pay me for it!
That was the other comment that I've been getting all day - I should sell them. Apparently this particular cake is practically non-existent or Tokyo and if you order it, then you're looking at a 3 week wait for a one-layer mediocre cake. That's what my friend said anyway. He offered me money for this one, but I was happy to do it as a favour, plus it was just a trial run to see how it tasted. I've got no problem making them for people to buy if I'm asked. It won't be cheap though - to get the ingredients for just ONE cake rings in at like 4,500yen and then add the time it takes to make the whole thing from start to finish....I've got a price, so if you're interested, mail me! LOL! I'm definitely open to making them to sell, so just let me know!
It's a great feeling when you've tried something for the first time and it's turned out to be a great success. I'm not a fan of chocolate cake myself, but I've thoroughly enjoyed other people appreciating it all day. Thank you all for your compliments! They are making me grin from ear to ear!
xoxo
Sunday, 24 November 2013
That Smell
I have literally spent the last 5 and a half hours in the kitchen baking.
I finally got around to making that German chocolate cake that I've been banging on about.
That is not an easy batter to master! But I was really pleased with the way the sponges have come out.
Now I'm just waiting for the filling to cool and I should be finished!
The filling is DIVINE. It's egg yolks, butter, sugar, evaporated milk, pecans and shredded coconut and it seriously tastes AMAZING!!! I'm started to understand why my friend raves about this cake - I'm kinda looking forward to trying it now, even though I don't really like chocolate cake.
One of my favourite things about baking is the wonderful smells that fill your kicthen. There is nothing quite like the smell of bread or cake baking in the oven.
And since I had some leftover egg whites, I went ahead and made a massive meringue. No idea what I'm going to do with it though! I thought about making a pavlova, but I just don't have any more ingredients left! I'll tell you what - a German chocolate cake is NOT cheap to make over here! Especially when you're spending 1000yen on a 200g bar of baking chocolate.
Ufffff....
Looking forward to seeing the end results!
xoxo
I finally got around to making that German chocolate cake that I've been banging on about.
That is not an easy batter to master! But I was really pleased with the way the sponges have come out.
Now I'm just waiting for the filling to cool and I should be finished!
The filling is DIVINE. It's egg yolks, butter, sugar, evaporated milk, pecans and shredded coconut and it seriously tastes AMAZING!!! I'm started to understand why my friend raves about this cake - I'm kinda looking forward to trying it now, even though I don't really like chocolate cake.
One of my favourite things about baking is the wonderful smells that fill your kicthen. There is nothing quite like the smell of bread or cake baking in the oven.
And since I had some leftover egg whites, I went ahead and made a massive meringue. No idea what I'm going to do with it though! I thought about making a pavlova, but I just don't have any more ingredients left! I'll tell you what - a German chocolate cake is NOT cheap to make over here! Especially when you're spending 1000yen on a 200g bar of baking chocolate.
Ufffff....
Looking forward to seeing the end results!
xoxo
Wednesday, 20 November 2013
Made In Chelsea
So when I realised that I was completely up to date with the ridiculous amount of TV shows that I'm watching, I started watching Made In Chelsea.
I have absolutely no idea why - it's not the most exciting viewing in the world.
But I've stuck with it because of where it's filmed...Chelsea!!!! And I keep getting totally nostalgic watching everyone hanging in some of my favourite spots in town, as well as getting googly eyed over the stunning views of London at night. The South Bank really is absolutely beautiful - especially at night.
I've just finished Season 2 and it was the Christmas episode. I've been left with the hugest grin on my face, as I realise that I'm finally going to be celebrating Christmas in London after 6 years of spending this time of year in the sun.
I'm just pumped to catch up with a lot of friends that I know are going to be back at the same time and I'm hoping to get away for new year with my travel bf. I never realise how much I miss everyone until I think about the prospect of seeing them again after such a long time.
And don't even get me started on the food. Me, my mum, my mum's kitchen and an effing OVEN!!!! When I was back at my parents' house last year, I cooked dinner every day and I'm sure this time is going to be no exception. I'm really, really excited!
I've also been thinking a lot about goals and New Year's Resolutions. I can't remember if I told you at the beginning of this year that I've had pretty much the same resolutions for the past 10 years.
Well, if I haven't achieved them already, then I think it's time to accept that they are never going to happen! LOL! So I've already been thinking about more practical and realistic goals for the next year. It's going to be a huge year with a lot of change - I already know that - so my resolutions need to be able to work into all these anticipated changes.
I can tell you now that, that first and foremost is HEALTH.
Getting healthy and doing everything that I can to stay healthy. I'm not getting any younger after all!
And quite randomly, I think I want to try and stop drinking beer. It makes me fat and gives me horrid breath and a ghastly hangover. Wine hangovers are also pretty crappy....think I'll just try and stick to spirits and champagne! LOL! Maybe that's a Made In Chelsea influence, but it could be worth a shot. I am totally going to miss Corona though - those of you that know me well, know that that's my beer of choice.
Yah...feeling very reflective. And ready for change.
xoxo
I have absolutely no idea why - it's not the most exciting viewing in the world.
But I've stuck with it because of where it's filmed...Chelsea!!!! And I keep getting totally nostalgic watching everyone hanging in some of my favourite spots in town, as well as getting googly eyed over the stunning views of London at night. The South Bank really is absolutely beautiful - especially at night.
I've just finished Season 2 and it was the Christmas episode. I've been left with the hugest grin on my face, as I realise that I'm finally going to be celebrating Christmas in London after 6 years of spending this time of year in the sun.
I'm just pumped to catch up with a lot of friends that I know are going to be back at the same time and I'm hoping to get away for new year with my travel bf. I never realise how much I miss everyone until I think about the prospect of seeing them again after such a long time.
And don't even get me started on the food. Me, my mum, my mum's kitchen and an effing OVEN!!!! When I was back at my parents' house last year, I cooked dinner every day and I'm sure this time is going to be no exception. I'm really, really excited!
I've also been thinking a lot about goals and New Year's Resolutions. I can't remember if I told you at the beginning of this year that I've had pretty much the same resolutions for the past 10 years.
Well, if I haven't achieved them already, then I think it's time to accept that they are never going to happen! LOL! So I've already been thinking about more practical and realistic goals for the next year. It's going to be a huge year with a lot of change - I already know that - so my resolutions need to be able to work into all these anticipated changes.
I can tell you now that, that first and foremost is HEALTH.
Getting healthy and doing everything that I can to stay healthy. I'm not getting any younger after all!
And quite randomly, I think I want to try and stop drinking beer. It makes me fat and gives me horrid breath and a ghastly hangover. Wine hangovers are also pretty crappy....think I'll just try and stick to spirits and champagne! LOL! Maybe that's a Made In Chelsea influence, but it could be worth a shot. I am totally going to miss Corona though - those of you that know me well, know that that's my beer of choice.
Yah...feeling very reflective. And ready for change.
xoxo
Tuesday, 19 November 2013
Food Dreams
Recently, all my dreams have been about food.
And other stuff, of course, but you don't need to hear about that! LOL!
A couple of weeks ago, I dreamt about scones. When I woke up, it was all I could think about and I just HAD to make some.
Last night dream was about chicken korma. I've actually managed to find a cute little store that sells Asian spices so that you can make all these amazing sauces from scratch and last month, I picked up a whole load of Indian spices from there. So this morning, before I go tot work, I'm gonna attempt to make a korma from scratch. I know I can nail a madras or a masala, but I've never tried a korma before. In hindsight, it should be easy considering it's much milder than the other two.
Other food I've been dreaming about?
Pao de quiejo. As soon as I can get hold of some tapioca or corn starch flour, that's defintiely going to be my next project!
Right now, I'm going to start my day with French toast and a cup of tea!
xoxo
And other stuff, of course, but you don't need to hear about that! LOL!
A couple of weeks ago, I dreamt about scones. When I woke up, it was all I could think about and I just HAD to make some.
Last night dream was about chicken korma. I've actually managed to find a cute little store that sells Asian spices so that you can make all these amazing sauces from scratch and last month, I picked up a whole load of Indian spices from there. So this morning, before I go tot work, I'm gonna attempt to make a korma from scratch. I know I can nail a madras or a masala, but I've never tried a korma before. In hindsight, it should be easy considering it's much milder than the other two.
Other food I've been dreaming about?
Pao de quiejo. As soon as I can get hold of some tapioca or corn starch flour, that's defintiely going to be my next project!
Right now, I'm going to start my day with French toast and a cup of tea!
xoxo
Monday, 18 November 2013
Counting Down!
Honestly - this month is just disappearing from before my eyes!
I swear last time I looked at the calendar, it was only the 3rd November.
Where did the last fortnight go?!
In exactly one month, I'll be lounging on my mum's sofa with a cup of tea, crumpets, sausage rolls, Walker's crisps and a nice selection of fruit watching crap on TV.
Not even that, but it's neafrly Christmas! And then before you know it, it's going to be 2014!
I can barely get my head around the fact that exactly one week ago, I was on a plane to Okinawa.
Now THAT was an interesting trip.
Firstly, I was pissed at the weather. My friend had told me that it had been gorgeous for the last couple of weeks, so there I was packing summer dresses and sandals.
I got there and it was raining....and continued to rain for the duration of my time there. And then the say I left, it was sunny.
Typical.
My friend is a military wife. And over the short time I was there, looking in from the outside and seeing the childish playground antics that go on, I'm so glad that I don't live that liftstyle. When I was listening to stuff, I was literally thinking, "What are you? 15?!?!" Pettiness.
I was also kind of sad to see my friend hate on Japan. She doesn't HATE hate it, but because of the little bubble that she's in, and the fact that she has a young baby which stops her from travelling, she hates it here. I'm really hoping that next year I'll get the chance to show her some more of the positive points of this beautiful country that has been so good to me over the years. I can't blame her completely though - I LOVE Okinawa, but there's no way I'd be able to actually LIVE there.
I dunno.
Anyway, the point is, I'm excited about going home. And going to Tesco. And baking in a proper oven. I hit up an international supermarket yesterday and blew an absolute fortune on overpriced basic ingredients to make a German Chocolate Cake. Two weeks ago, I'd never even heard of one, but I'm gonna have a bash at making it for a friend. If this trial one goes well and tastes good, then I'll make a couple more for him. Not eating it though - seriously not a fan of chocolate cake.
For some weird reason as well, I've suddenly got this urge to attempt Pao de Quejo. Definitely going to have to try and find a recipe for that online.
In the meantime, I'm gonna enjoy a cup of tea, white chocolate Tim Tams and some trashy TV!
xoxo
I swear last time I looked at the calendar, it was only the 3rd November.
Where did the last fortnight go?!
In exactly one month, I'll be lounging on my mum's sofa with a cup of tea, crumpets, sausage rolls, Walker's crisps and a nice selection of fruit watching crap on TV.
Not even that, but it's neafrly Christmas! And then before you know it, it's going to be 2014!
I can barely get my head around the fact that exactly one week ago, I was on a plane to Okinawa.
Now THAT was an interesting trip.
Firstly, I was pissed at the weather. My friend had told me that it had been gorgeous for the last couple of weeks, so there I was packing summer dresses and sandals.
I got there and it was raining....and continued to rain for the duration of my time there. And then the say I left, it was sunny.
Typical.
My friend is a military wife. And over the short time I was there, looking in from the outside and seeing the childish playground antics that go on, I'm so glad that I don't live that liftstyle. When I was listening to stuff, I was literally thinking, "What are you? 15?!?!" Pettiness.
I was also kind of sad to see my friend hate on Japan. She doesn't HATE hate it, but because of the little bubble that she's in, and the fact that she has a young baby which stops her from travelling, she hates it here. I'm really hoping that next year I'll get the chance to show her some more of the positive points of this beautiful country that has been so good to me over the years. I can't blame her completely though - I LOVE Okinawa, but there's no way I'd be able to actually LIVE there.
I dunno.
Anyway, the point is, I'm excited about going home. And going to Tesco. And baking in a proper oven. I hit up an international supermarket yesterday and blew an absolute fortune on overpriced basic ingredients to make a German Chocolate Cake. Two weeks ago, I'd never even heard of one, but I'm gonna have a bash at making it for a friend. If this trial one goes well and tastes good, then I'll make a couple more for him. Not eating it though - seriously not a fan of chocolate cake.
For some weird reason as well, I've suddenly got this urge to attempt Pao de Quejo. Definitely going to have to try and find a recipe for that online.
In the meantime, I'm gonna enjoy a cup of tea, white chocolate Tim Tams and some trashy TV!
xoxo
Sunday, 17 November 2013
Fooled Ya!!!!
K so on Monday last week, I posted a picture of me in my friend's place in Okinawa...
...with blonde hair.
Whilst many people were complimentary of the look, I did receive a lot of private messages telling me to go back to brunette.
Well, those people can rest easy because....
...that was only my friend's $1,000 wig!
HAHAHAHA!!!
Good isn't it?
I was at her place and just saw it lying on the side and naturally when you see a wig, you just HAVE to put it on. When she told me I needed something black, she lent me a hooded and voila!
I was actually blonde when I first came to Japan and it has taken me years to try and repair the damage that all that bleach has done to my hair. I'm not gonna lie, I loved being blonde, but I can assure you that that's not going to happen again any time soon!
xoxo
...with blonde hair.
Whilst many people were complimentary of the look, I did receive a lot of private messages telling me to go back to brunette.
Well, those people can rest easy because....
...that was only my friend's $1,000 wig!
HAHAHAHA!!!
Good isn't it?
I was at her place and just saw it lying on the side and naturally when you see a wig, you just HAVE to put it on. When she told me I needed something black, she lent me a hooded and voila!
I was actually blonde when I first came to Japan and it has taken me years to try and repair the damage that all that bleach has done to my hair. I'm not gonna lie, I loved being blonde, but I can assure you that that's not going to happen again any time soon!
xoxo
Sunday, 10 November 2013
Sucked In!!!
OK...where to start with this!!!
So basically, I've kinda been dating an American and a Brit over the last few weeks.
Why does that sound so much worse than it really is?!
Nothing shady - just dinner, OK!
So, a lot of Japanese girls always ask me whether I prefer British or American men. In the past, I hate to say it, but it really hasn't been much of a contest - the Brits won every time.
Gentlemanly behaviour, understanding the second British language of sarcasm, being more mature.
But recently, I've noticed that I've been steering in the direction of American men more and more. And then when I was thinking about it, the last few guys I've been on dates with (in between the Asian ones) have all been American.
Now don't get it twisted - I know I was heartbroken, but that was like a month ago! LOL! And as I mentioned, it was an impossible situation, so there's no point in dwelling about it, right? Everyone told me that I should get right back out there, so I am!
HAHAHAHA!
It all sounds so bad, but it really isn't!!
So, back to these American men. I've worked out what it is that keeps pulling me back in.
It's something so damn small that people are gonna be like WTF, but...
I absolutely, insanely ADORE...
...being called....
....ma'am!!!!!!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! I wish that I could say I was joking, but I'm not!! It drives me crazy!! Even more so when it's in a southern drawl....which used to be an accent I absolutely couldn't stand, but for some reason, that word and that accent.....especially when it's coming out of an incredibly hot mouth.....
Complete sucker!!!
Don't judge!!!
xoxo
So basically, I've kinda been dating an American and a Brit over the last few weeks.
Why does that sound so much worse than it really is?!
Nothing shady - just dinner, OK!
So, a lot of Japanese girls always ask me whether I prefer British or American men. In the past, I hate to say it, but it really hasn't been much of a contest - the Brits won every time.
Gentlemanly behaviour, understanding the second British language of sarcasm, being more mature.
But recently, I've noticed that I've been steering in the direction of American men more and more. And then when I was thinking about it, the last few guys I've been on dates with (in between the Asian ones) have all been American.
Now don't get it twisted - I know I was heartbroken, but that was like a month ago! LOL! And as I mentioned, it was an impossible situation, so there's no point in dwelling about it, right? Everyone told me that I should get right back out there, so I am!
HAHAHAHA!
It all sounds so bad, but it really isn't!!
So, back to these American men. I've worked out what it is that keeps pulling me back in.
It's something so damn small that people are gonna be like WTF, but...
I absolutely, insanely ADORE...
...being called....
....ma'am!!!!!!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!! I wish that I could say I was joking, but I'm not!! It drives me crazy!! Even more so when it's in a southern drawl....which used to be an accent I absolutely couldn't stand, but for some reason, that word and that accent.....especially when it's coming out of an incredibly hot mouth.....
Complete sucker!!!
Don't judge!!!
xoxo
Wednesday, 6 November 2013
YUCK!!!
I'm not joking.....my taste buds have been seriously offended!!!
Months ago when my friend was visiting, we went shopping and he bought sea salt chocolate.
The idea alone was enough to make me turn my nose up at it and refuse to try it. That, and it was dark chocolate - and I can't stand the stuff.
Anyway, when he left, he forgot to take it with him and it has been sitting in my fridge ever since.
I decided to make scones and as I was putting my dough in the fridge to rest, I looked at the offensive chocolate and curiosity got the better of me.
I took it out, unwrapped it and broke off the tiniest piece.
Put it in my mouth...chewed....
...and then spat it right back out!
WTF?!!??!
It was like eating salt with the offensive bitterness of dark chocolate mixed in!!!!
EEERRRRRGGGHHHHHH!!!!!
Whose effing idea was that?!
The ONLY time chocolate and salt should ever be mixed together is when making a chocolate souffle. And it should be the absolutely TINIEST pinch of salt...just to lift that chocolate flavour.
The ONLY time!
What an absolutely ghastly taste! The rest of that is going in the bin!
Uffffff.....
xoxo
Months ago when my friend was visiting, we went shopping and he bought sea salt chocolate.
The idea alone was enough to make me turn my nose up at it and refuse to try it. That, and it was dark chocolate - and I can't stand the stuff.
Anyway, when he left, he forgot to take it with him and it has been sitting in my fridge ever since.
I decided to make scones and as I was putting my dough in the fridge to rest, I looked at the offensive chocolate and curiosity got the better of me.
I took it out, unwrapped it and broke off the tiniest piece.
Put it in my mouth...chewed....
...and then spat it right back out!
WTF?!!??!
It was like eating salt with the offensive bitterness of dark chocolate mixed in!!!!
EEERRRRRGGGHHHHHH!!!!!
Whose effing idea was that?!
The ONLY time chocolate and salt should ever be mixed together is when making a chocolate souffle. And it should be the absolutely TINIEST pinch of salt...just to lift that chocolate flavour.
The ONLY time!
What an absolutely ghastly taste! The rest of that is going in the bin!
Uffffff.....
xoxo
Bring on 2014!
The last 3 months have literally just disappeared before my eyes.
And now, after a horrible month, I'm ready for the New Year!
Bring it on!
It's funny how up and down a year can be. My year started off so boring - I came back from New Zealand and then just worked. And then since turning 30....I dunno - so much stuff has happened and sometimes it's kinda hard to get my head around it all!
But I have decided to keep on looking forward and I feel ready to start working on the next step. Which is this DELTA application which I had actually planned to submit last month.
It's full of really annoying questions which are just time consuming and recently, not only haven't I had the time to work on it, but I just hate those kind of questions and haven't wanted to answer them - lol! But I've realised that doing my DELTA is a massive part of next year and I need to know whether it's actually going to happen or not.
My friend has already applied, had the interview and been accepted. But his application looks exceptional next to what mine will look like. I've already been told that I'm applying for it much earlier that other people who have already completed a CELTA. Apparently, most people wait like 4/5 years - but I'm applying just after 2. I've realised that there is a good chance I won't be accepted onto the course at this stage...but I have a plan B, which I can't tell you about right now....but it's SUPER exciting.
So it's a win-win situation really. Of course, I'll be disappointed if I don't get onto the course, but at the same time, I'll have other exciting things to work on, so it won't be the end of the world.
In the meantime, I need to get back on track and focus on having a healthy mind and body and getting my direction back. May as well start now, ne!
xoxo
And now, after a horrible month, I'm ready for the New Year!
Bring it on!
It's funny how up and down a year can be. My year started off so boring - I came back from New Zealand and then just worked. And then since turning 30....I dunno - so much stuff has happened and sometimes it's kinda hard to get my head around it all!
But I have decided to keep on looking forward and I feel ready to start working on the next step. Which is this DELTA application which I had actually planned to submit last month.
It's full of really annoying questions which are just time consuming and recently, not only haven't I had the time to work on it, but I just hate those kind of questions and haven't wanted to answer them - lol! But I've realised that doing my DELTA is a massive part of next year and I need to know whether it's actually going to happen or not.
My friend has already applied, had the interview and been accepted. But his application looks exceptional next to what mine will look like. I've already been told that I'm applying for it much earlier that other people who have already completed a CELTA. Apparently, most people wait like 4/5 years - but I'm applying just after 2. I've realised that there is a good chance I won't be accepted onto the course at this stage...but I have a plan B, which I can't tell you about right now....but it's SUPER exciting.
So it's a win-win situation really. Of course, I'll be disappointed if I don't get onto the course, but at the same time, I'll have other exciting things to work on, so it won't be the end of the world.
In the meantime, I need to get back on track and focus on having a healthy mind and body and getting my direction back. May as well start now, ne!
xoxo
Thursday, 31 October 2013
Arigatou!
I just got back from the Immigration Office.
3 more years!!
I think this country doesn't want me to leave! LOL!
It's weird to think that I've been here so long. The paperwork now classifies me as a mid-long term resident. I never would have thought that when I first came here!
But it's all good. It gives me time to get where I want to be. What is scary though, is that if I stay until the expiration of my visa, I would have been here a whopping 9 years. THAT freaks me out!
Getting a new visa has kinda given me a kick up the arse to keep pushing on with what I came here to do. I'm aiming to take my first attempt at the JLPT 1kyuu next December. I'm not expecting to pass, but I think if I can really spend the next year applying myself, then by July 2015 I should be there. That's the aim anyway.
I wish I could afford to just not work for a year and spend an entire year in one of those intenseive 5 hours a day study courses. That would be awesome and way more effective than trying to study the way that I am now. Which is not very hard!
Hell, even a month long intensive course would be seriously beneficial. Not at this stage, but maybe some time next year. Trying to negotiate that around work is going to be tough, but I think it's worth a shot.
Thank you Nippon!
xoxo
3 more years!!
I think this country doesn't want me to leave! LOL!
It's weird to think that I've been here so long. The paperwork now classifies me as a mid-long term resident. I never would have thought that when I first came here!
But it's all good. It gives me time to get where I want to be. What is scary though, is that if I stay until the expiration of my visa, I would have been here a whopping 9 years. THAT freaks me out!
Getting a new visa has kinda given me a kick up the arse to keep pushing on with what I came here to do. I'm aiming to take my first attempt at the JLPT 1kyuu next December. I'm not expecting to pass, but I think if I can really spend the next year applying myself, then by July 2015 I should be there. That's the aim anyway.
I wish I could afford to just not work for a year and spend an entire year in one of those intenseive 5 hours a day study courses. That would be awesome and way more effective than trying to study the way that I am now. Which is not very hard!
Hell, even a month long intensive course would be seriously beneficial. Not at this stage, but maybe some time next year. Trying to negotiate that around work is going to be tough, but I think it's worth a shot.
Thank you Nippon!
xoxo
Wednesday, 30 October 2013
Homeland
So a couple of weeks ago, my friend told me I should watch Homeland.
I'd never even heard of it before, but since I was up to date or had finished watching everything else, I thought I'd give it a go.
OMG...I LOVE IT!!!!
And today I finished the latest episode in season 3. So I am completely up to date.
I love the kind of shows that let you get your emotions out and that's one of them. I don't know if it's coz I know people in the military and military wives that it connects so strongly, but it also makes me worried sick about them and their lifestyle!
LOL!
I need to stop getting so involved in TV programmes! HAHAHHAHAHA!
Actually, no I don't....coz I love it!!
On another TV note - can you believe the winner of the Great British Bake Off?! What an outrage!!!! I was literally like WTF at the TV! Going off the showstopper challenge alone, then fine, but if they were supposed to be taking the whole season into account, then one of the other two were much worthier winners. Very disappointing.
And speaking of cake, my beautiful red velvet is nearly finished! >_< And for the first time ever, I didn't eat it all myself!
Right, now it's time to find something new to watch!
xoxo
I'd never even heard of it before, but since I was up to date or had finished watching everything else, I thought I'd give it a go.
OMG...I LOVE IT!!!!
And today I finished the latest episode in season 3. So I am completely up to date.
I love the kind of shows that let you get your emotions out and that's one of them. I don't know if it's coz I know people in the military and military wives that it connects so strongly, but it also makes me worried sick about them and their lifestyle!
LOL!
I need to stop getting so involved in TV programmes! HAHAHHAHAHA!
Actually, no I don't....coz I love it!!
On another TV note - can you believe the winner of the Great British Bake Off?! What an outrage!!!! I was literally like WTF at the TV! Going off the showstopper challenge alone, then fine, but if they were supposed to be taking the whole season into account, then one of the other two were much worthier winners. Very disappointing.
And speaking of cake, my beautiful red velvet is nearly finished! >_< And for the first time ever, I didn't eat it all myself!
Right, now it's time to find something new to watch!
xoxo
Monday, 28 October 2013
Stars
And just a lil one to thank everyone who has been super supportive this month!! You guys are WONDERFUL and AMAZING and thank you!!
xoxo
xoxo
Moving On
My goodness me, this has been a very difficult month in more ways than one.
As much as I would LOVE to go into all the details....there are just too many of them! LOL!
I've been keeping super busy this month and it has been really wonderful to catch up with friends.
I swear that something is happening this season. So many people that I haven't seen for years are appearing in Japan and it has been so fun seeing friends from the UK, old friends from Kyushu and catching up with friends in Okinawa.
But I think the biggest catch up has been with a childhood friend, who before Saturday I hadn't seen for a whopping 21 years! LOL!
I never go out for Halloween, but this year I decided to hit up one of the big parties and I am so glad that I did! It was nice to glam up, put on the stilettos, guzzle champagne and meet a load of new people. Laughing is so good for your health and it has definitely been missing this month!
It's also been great to have a friend staying with me since I got back from Okinawa last week. Brutally honest - he doesn't sugar coat anything and he just reinforces what I already know myself. I had a great time last night cooking a 3 course meal which ended in a red velvet cake - I'm not gonna lie, I was upset with the cream cheese icing, but it still tasted good! I guess my point is, is that it's been good to have someone around to stop me dwelling on stuff that has happened.
Everything is clear - I just need some time. My horoscope has been scarily dead on for the last few weeks, but today summed up the whole month. I was spending a long time waiting for something, that happened and I got my answer. Now that I have the answer, there is only one way to go and that's forward. Because that is the answer and it's NOT going to change. So there is nothing that I need to wait for anymore.
Onwards and upwards. Time to make an effort.
Strength. Power. Drive.
xoxo
As much as I would LOVE to go into all the details....there are just too many of them! LOL!
I've been keeping super busy this month and it has been really wonderful to catch up with friends.
I swear that something is happening this season. So many people that I haven't seen for years are appearing in Japan and it has been so fun seeing friends from the UK, old friends from Kyushu and catching up with friends in Okinawa.
But I think the biggest catch up has been with a childhood friend, who before Saturday I hadn't seen for a whopping 21 years! LOL!
I never go out for Halloween, but this year I decided to hit up one of the big parties and I am so glad that I did! It was nice to glam up, put on the stilettos, guzzle champagne and meet a load of new people. Laughing is so good for your health and it has definitely been missing this month!
It's also been great to have a friend staying with me since I got back from Okinawa last week. Brutally honest - he doesn't sugar coat anything and he just reinforces what I already know myself. I had a great time last night cooking a 3 course meal which ended in a red velvet cake - I'm not gonna lie, I was upset with the cream cheese icing, but it still tasted good! I guess my point is, is that it's been good to have someone around to stop me dwelling on stuff that has happened.
Everything is clear - I just need some time. My horoscope has been scarily dead on for the last few weeks, but today summed up the whole month. I was spending a long time waiting for something, that happened and I got my answer. Now that I have the answer, there is only one way to go and that's forward. Because that is the answer and it's NOT going to change. So there is nothing that I need to wait for anymore.
Onwards and upwards. Time to make an effort.
Strength. Power. Drive.
xoxo
Tuesday, 8 October 2013
Crack
That's the sound of my heart breaking.
Which happened this morning....not long after I woke up.
What a way to start the day, eh?
I'm not surprised, I'm not angry...I knew it was going to happen and I'd been mentally preparing myself for it.
But it doesn't mean that it doesn't HURT.
I'll be OK.
Nothing that drinks with the girls all week won't cure!
xoxo
Which happened this morning....not long after I woke up.
What a way to start the day, eh?
I'm not surprised, I'm not angry...I knew it was going to happen and I'd been mentally preparing myself for it.
But it doesn't mean that it doesn't HURT.
I'll be OK.
Nothing that drinks with the girls all week won't cure!
xoxo
Monday, 7 October 2013
Nearly!
Have you seen the latest episode of Grey's Anatomy?
I swear I NEARLY made it through the whole thing without shedding a single tear and then BAM! Yang and Hunt set me off.
DOH!
I've just gotten home from Saitama after catching up with my girl and her adorable little baby boy! It was so weird to think of all the madness that we were getting up to just a year ago - a year goes so fast and so much can change it's scary!
It was fantastic to catch up with her though. It's nice to see a couple so happily married for a change! LOL!
I'm feeling absolutely exhausted. Trying to keep busy in order to keep myself distracted from my complicated life is certianly taking it's toll! I was running on just a few hours of sleep as I got in late from a friend's birthday party and then getting home and having to deal with my other friend's dramas until the early hours of the morning, along with waking up at 5.30.....well...it's definitely gonna be an early one for me tonight!
xoxo
I swear I NEARLY made it through the whole thing without shedding a single tear and then BAM! Yang and Hunt set me off.
DOH!
I've just gotten home from Saitama after catching up with my girl and her adorable little baby boy! It was so weird to think of all the madness that we were getting up to just a year ago - a year goes so fast and so much can change it's scary!
It was fantastic to catch up with her though. It's nice to see a couple so happily married for a change! LOL!
I'm feeling absolutely exhausted. Trying to keep busy in order to keep myself distracted from my complicated life is certianly taking it's toll! I was running on just a few hours of sleep as I got in late from a friend's birthday party and then getting home and having to deal with my other friend's dramas until the early hours of the morning, along with waking up at 5.30.....well...it's definitely gonna be an early one for me tonight!
xoxo
Wednesday, 2 October 2013
Prepared
I've decided that October is going to be a super social month for me.
Yesterday I got my schedule, a pen and have practically filled up every day starting from next week.
Why?
I need to keep manically busy.
Why?
*sigh*
I am gearing up and preparing myself for heartbreak.
Why I get myself in these impossible, overly complicated situations, I'll never know. But everything in my head is telling me that it is never going to go my way, so the best thing to do is ride it out and then deal with what comes next. I'd also like to point out that there has actually been no indication that this heartbreak will happen - the situation in beyond complicated, but from the other side, there has been nothing but positivity and reassurance.
The problem?
I just can't let myself believe it.
When you see this stuff happen on TV or in movies, it NEVER ends well, so I'm not expecting it to be any different for me.
Now I just need my damn heart to listen!! The heart wants what it wants! LOL!!!!
So I need to keep busy to keep myself fabulously distracted. And I am long overdue a catch up with some people, so I'm looking forward to it!
頑張る！！！！
On a completely different note, I'm feeling pretty chuffed with myself after waking up this morning (after a seriously rotten sleep), seeing that it was absolutely p******g down with rain and STILL went to the gym. As in I WALKED to the gym. YAY! Go me! LOL!
xoxo
Yesterday I got my schedule, a pen and have practically filled up every day starting from next week.
Why?
I need to keep manically busy.
Why?
*sigh*
I am gearing up and preparing myself for heartbreak.
Why I get myself in these impossible, overly complicated situations, I'll never know. But everything in my head is telling me that it is never going to go my way, so the best thing to do is ride it out and then deal with what comes next. I'd also like to point out that there has actually been no indication that this heartbreak will happen - the situation in beyond complicated, but from the other side, there has been nothing but positivity and reassurance.
The problem?
I just can't let myself believe it.
When you see this stuff happen on TV or in movies, it NEVER ends well, so I'm not expecting it to be any different for me.
Now I just need my damn heart to listen!! The heart wants what it wants! LOL!!!!
So I need to keep busy to keep myself fabulously distracted. And I am long overdue a catch up with some people, so I'm looking forward to it!
頑張る！！！！
On a completely different note, I'm feeling pretty chuffed with myself after waking up this morning (after a seriously rotten sleep), seeing that it was absolutely p******g down with rain and STILL went to the gym. As in I WALKED to the gym. YAY! Go me! LOL!
xoxo
Sunday, 29 September 2013
Autumn is here
Can you believe it's nearly October already?
Before I know it, I'm going to off on a plane back to London!!
More importantly, Grey's Anatomy is back on!
I remember the finale of the last season - it left me practically hyperventilating, I was so shocked.
The first double episode of the new season does not disappoint. But if you haven't seen it already - make sure you have your tissues handy!
I swear that show leaves me in a world of pain! I literally balled my way through it and I was just exhausted by the time that it had ended. It's without a doubt, the biggest emotional rollercoaster on TV.
Some of those difficult relationships...I think everyone can relate to them.
I dunno.....there are a million different things going on right now and I can't even tell you about them.....not yet anyway.
Everything is so damn frustrating right now!!! I've decided to try and catch up with friends through October so that I can try and take my mind of all the craziness that I've somehow managed to find myself right in the middle of. I honestly wish that I had the strength to walk away from some stuff, but when you find yourself literally bang in the middle of something, it becomes much, much harder. And you don't want to.
I FINALLY got back in the studio today for my first step class in........goodness, I don't even know how long! It was great - worked up a sweat, felt some stress release and for those 40 minutes, I got to focus on nothing but step. And music. And looking in the mirror and realising how much weight I've put on! LOL!
And before you start, NO, I don't think I'm fat. Just a little bigger than I was, say, 6 months ago! Not that I should complain - it's gone in the right places! (^_-)
Here's to a much healthier October!
xoxo
Before I know it, I'm going to off on a plane back to London!!
More importantly, Grey's Anatomy is back on!
I remember the finale of the last season - it left me practically hyperventilating, I was so shocked.
The first double episode of the new season does not disappoint. But if you haven't seen it already - make sure you have your tissues handy!
I swear that show leaves me in a world of pain! I literally balled my way through it and I was just exhausted by the time that it had ended. It's without a doubt, the biggest emotional rollercoaster on TV.
Some of those difficult relationships...I think everyone can relate to them.
I dunno.....there are a million different things going on right now and I can't even tell you about them.....not yet anyway.
Everything is so damn frustrating right now!!! I've decided to try and catch up with friends through October so that I can try and take my mind of all the craziness that I've somehow managed to find myself right in the middle of. I honestly wish that I had the strength to walk away from some stuff, but when you find yourself literally bang in the middle of something, it becomes much, much harder. And you don't want to.
I FINALLY got back in the studio today for my first step class in........goodness, I don't even know how long! It was great - worked up a sweat, felt some stress release and for those 40 minutes, I got to focus on nothing but step. And music. And looking in the mirror and realising how much weight I've put on! LOL!
And before you start, NO, I don't think I'm fat. Just a little bigger than I was, say, 6 months ago! Not that I should complain - it's gone in the right places! (^_-)
Here's to a much healthier October!
xoxo
Thursday, 26 September 2013
On A Roll
It's visa renewal time.
Normally, every time I need to do this, I've needed to set aside pretty much a whole day because the Shinagawa Immigration Office is a nightmare.
The last time I was there just to PICK UP my resident card, I had to wait 3 hours.
I got up super early this morning and made it down there just after 9.10am. I still wore my work clothes and armed myself with a book, my phone charger and iPad thinking that I was going to be stuck there all day.
Headed in...no queue at the photobooth....got my pics snapped....headed upstairs....queued for a measly 10 minutes at the application counter....waited for about another 10 before my number got called and voila! I was done! The application section was over!
As I walked out the office, I checked my watch. It wasn't even 9.30!!!! How the hell did I manage to get in and out in under 20 minutes!!! I couldn't believe it!
Not that I'm complaining - all this bureaucratic crap seems to have gone swimmingly this year! I remember when I went to file my tax return, that took under 30minutes and now this?! Well chuffed.
Even better, I've been able to come home, do 4 loads of laundry, bake chocolate chilli brownies AND watch 2 episodes of the Great British Bake off and it's only 13.30!! Go me!!
And even better....Grey's Anatomy starts again tomorrow!!
Loving this week!
xoxo
Normally, every time I need to do this, I've needed to set aside pretty much a whole day because the Shinagawa Immigration Office is a nightmare.
The last time I was there just to PICK UP my resident card, I had to wait 3 hours.
I got up super early this morning and made it down there just after 9.10am. I still wore my work clothes and armed myself with a book, my phone charger and iPad thinking that I was going to be stuck there all day.
Headed in...no queue at the photobooth....got my pics snapped....headed upstairs....queued for a measly 10 minutes at the application counter....waited for about another 10 before my number got called and voila! I was done! The application section was over!
As I walked out the office, I checked my watch. It wasn't even 9.30!!!! How the hell did I manage to get in and out in under 20 minutes!!! I couldn't believe it!
Not that I'm complaining - all this bureaucratic crap seems to have gone swimmingly this year! I remember when I went to file my tax return, that took under 30minutes and now this?! Well chuffed.
Even better, I've been able to come home, do 4 loads of laundry, bake chocolate chilli brownies AND watch 2 episodes of the Great British Bake off and it's only 13.30!! Go me!!
And even better....Grey's Anatomy starts again tomorrow!!
Loving this week!
xoxo
Wednesday, 18 September 2013
Work It Out
I'm feeling amazing.
I haven't been to the gym in AGES and this morning, I got off my lazy arse and headed down for an aqua aerobics session.
That class has suddenly gotten seriously hard! But it was awesome to work out to nineties classics and I'm feeling great right now!
There were a few new people in the class. After I came out the shower, I was drying off and then suddenly there were 3 old women just standing there watching me and telling me I had a cute arse! Honestly, I was so embarrassed, I had no idea what to do except bow and say thank you and then quickly wrap a towel around me!
LOL!
Those ladies kill me!
xoxo
I haven't been to the gym in AGES and this morning, I got off my lazy arse and headed down for an aqua aerobics session.
That class has suddenly gotten seriously hard! But it was awesome to work out to nineties classics and I'm feeling great right now!
There were a few new people in the class. After I came out the shower, I was drying off and then suddenly there were 3 old women just standing there watching me and telling me I had a cute arse! Honestly, I was so embarrassed, I had no idea what to do except bow and say thank you and then quickly wrap a towel around me!
LOL!
Those ladies kill me!
xoxo
Friday, 6 September 2013
The Lowdown On KK
It's our third day in Borneo and today we're heading out of Kota Kinabalu and heading east.
I arrived pretty much a whole day ahead of my friend, so I've had loads of time to take a look around Kota Kinabalu (KK). I'm not gonna lie, it's not exactly my favourite SE AsIan city. First off, it's ugly as hell - there's an industrial, concretey feeling everywhere you go, the nearest beach is littered with rubbish and there's nothing to do or see here. Why people keep this as a base for day trips instead of actually moving out of the city and staying closer to where they want to go is beyond me. Granted, you can do loads of day trips from here, but it's one of those things where you'll spend longer on the bus than you actually do at the destination.
So yesterday was our big one. Climbing Mt. Kinabalu. We already knew it was gonna be tough because we only had a few hours sleep the night before and we were heading there from KK, so we were up at like 4:15am on the day of the climb. When we were on the way to the national park, the sunrise was BEAUITFUL. It put a smile on my face. When we saw the mountain. I started to get nervous - I think it was coz the summit was all these jagged rocks and I was in disbelief that we were going to try and climb to the summit and back in one day.
We set off later than we should of and from the off, it was tough. Stairs, stairs , stairs. You can't climb without a guide and as my friend powered off ahead of me, he told me that only one in four groups who attempt the day climb make it to the top. Crap.
I started to get tired quickly, but I took a lot of mini rests and kept powering on. But when Istarted to get close to 2500m, apparently my breathing started to change and I started to feel dizzy. I've never had altitude sickness before, so I just thought it was because I'm not the fittest person in the world and I hadn't had enough sleep the day before. I started to power on and after about 50m, I just threw up. And the started throwing up every 50 meters from there.
My friend was way ahead of me and my guide advised that I turned back. He said that even if I continued, by the time I made it to the 6km mark at my current pace, I wouldn't be able to go onto the summit anyway because I needed enough time to get back down before the gate closed. And then he also to,d me that I would only get worse and if I had to be carried back down from the 6km point, there was a fee of RM300 (9000¥) per kilometer. I made the decision to go back down and let the guide go and catch up with my friend.
Gutted didn't even come close to the way I felt as I headed back down. I felt like shit and was throwing up as people were walking past me. I went past a group at the rest stop and they thought I was the first person down from the summit and were cheering me on. Ridiculously embarrassed, I hurried past. The guides on the other hand, knew that I was turning back and they were really sweet, giving me praise that I made it as far as I did and told me that it happens to people all the time.
When I got back down and to the bus stop I met a guy who had done the day climb the day before. He was an experienced climber and he told me that it ws just relentless stairs the whole way up. Literally. He said he was hoping for even 5 mins of flat land, but it never came. I saw another guy's pictures of the sunrise and they made me cry because they were just stunning and I felt that heavy sense of disappointed that I hadn't been able to even make it halfway. He told me though, that one woman got severe altitude sickness at the 6km mark and had to turn back. That would be more frustrating because that is so close!
From hearing all that and then my friend's experience, it sounds like a super tough climb. They said that you need adequate fitness, but I reckon you need to be fitter than average to get through this climb. My friend said climbing Mt. Fuji was a doddle compared to this and it sounds like you need serious mental toughness to do it. I wonder now if I actually would've made it if I hadn't gotten altitude sickness.....
Anyway, now it's off to see the orangutans!
Xoxo
Anyway, now it's off to see the orangutans!
Xoxo
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
Happy Happy
NOTHING makes me happier than travelling.
I've had such an awesome 2 weeks. I had a visitor over the weekend, and with the exception of being sick on Sunday, everything was perfect.
(*^_^*)
And now I'm making my way to Borneo on another spontaneous trip out of the concrete jungle.
Lol - I know, I know - you think I'm always jetting off somewhere. But trust me, I have friends who travel way more often than I do, so don't hate.
I'm just chilling at KL airport now - I'd forgotten how mental this place is! Great seeing the diverse cultures side by side though - last time I was here, it was definitely one of my favourite things about this country.
I'll tell you what though, I'm never flying AirAsia again! Not for a flight more than a couple of hours anyway. Apart from all the hidden charges, I just hated how rude the cabin attendants were and the "choice" of hot meals was actually only one....which had effing tuna in it!!! So I went hungry for 7 hours. I chowed down this bowl of noodles so fast, you would've thought I hadn't eaten in months! Lol! My own fault - I should have taken something with me. Not that I had time, mind you.
On the plus side, I had already reserved a seat online in the "quiet zone". The 2 seats next to me were empty and even though I could kinda lie down, I still had to keep my earphones in to drown out the snoring from the guy sitting opposite. There have been worse flights, though, so I'm not going to complain too much!
Just a couple more hours to go until my flight - think im gonna take a wander around.....or have a nap!
Xoxo
I've had such an awesome 2 weeks. I had a visitor over the weekend, and with the exception of being sick on Sunday, everything was perfect.
(*^_^*)
And now I'm making my way to Borneo on another spontaneous trip out of the concrete jungle.
Lol - I know, I know - you think I'm always jetting off somewhere. But trust me, I have friends who travel way more often than I do, so don't hate.
I'm just chilling at KL airport now - I'd forgotten how mental this place is! Great seeing the diverse cultures side by side though - last time I was here, it was definitely one of my favourite things about this country.
I'll tell you what though, I'm never flying AirAsia again! Not for a flight more than a couple of hours anyway. Apart from all the hidden charges, I just hated how rude the cabin attendants were and the "choice" of hot meals was actually only one....which had effing tuna in it!!! So I went hungry for 7 hours. I chowed down this bowl of noodles so fast, you would've thought I hadn't eaten in months! Lol! My own fault - I should have taken something with me. Not that I had time, mind you.
On the plus side, I had already reserved a seat online in the "quiet zone". The 2 seats next to me were empty and even though I could kinda lie down, I still had to keep my earphones in to drown out the snoring from the guy sitting opposite. There have been worse flights, though, so I'm not going to complain too much!
Just a couple more hours to go until my flight - think im gonna take a wander around.....or have a nap!
Xoxo
Friday, 30 August 2013
Devilishly Evil
Just before I moan about this devilishly fattening muffin which I can't stop eating, I need to tell you about yesterday.
I told you I was having a great day.
It got even better when I received....
......FLOWERS!!!
I haven't received flowers for a reason other than my birthday or as a leaving gift in years! So you can imagine the size of my smile when I got presented with a bunch last night.
Nawwwwwwwww......
Knackered again today, but it was worth it. Don't you love that feeling you get when you see someone that you've missed for a long time? It's so awesome.
Anyway, onto this damn muffin.
I didn't have time for breakfast this morning, so by the time it got to 11.30, I was starving. I came to Starbucks for 2 reasons - it's close and I can't be arsed to go outside and because of the free wifi.
Every week I order the blueberry and cream cheese muffin along with my sandwich. Every single time I shovel it down and end up feeling sick. Today is no different. Even the sight of the wrapper looking at me right now is making me wanna chunder. I just don't understand why I never learn my lesson and stop ordering the stupid thing. It's like, the first couple of bites are amazing and the. It just becomes way too sweet.
And now I'm uncomfortably full and am gonna struggle through my afternoon. Again.
When will I learn, eh?
A least I have something fabulous to look forward to at the end of the shift!
xoxo
I told you I was having a great day.
It got even better when I received....
......FLOWERS!!!
I haven't received flowers for a reason other than my birthday or as a leaving gift in years! So you can imagine the size of my smile when I got presented with a bunch last night.
Nawwwwwwwww......
Knackered again today, but it was worth it. Don't you love that feeling you get when you see someone that you've missed for a long time? It's so awesome.
Anyway, onto this damn muffin.
I didn't have time for breakfast this morning, so by the time it got to 11.30, I was starving. I came to Starbucks for 2 reasons - it's close and I can't be arsed to go outside and because of the free wifi.
Every week I order the blueberry and cream cheese muffin along with my sandwich. Every single time I shovel it down and end up feeling sick. Today is no different. Even the sight of the wrapper looking at me right now is making me wanna chunder. I just don't understand why I never learn my lesson and stop ordering the stupid thing. It's like, the first couple of bites are amazing and the. It just becomes way too sweet.
And now I'm uncomfortably full and am gonna struggle through my afternoon. Again.
When will I learn, eh?
A least I have something fabulous to look forward to at the end of the shift!
xoxo
Thursday, 29 August 2013
(^0^)
Honestly, I am having the best day!!
This morning started off really shitty - I was up at 5 and absolutely knackered. I've hardly been sleeping this week and when my alarm went off, I had to do everything in my power not to roll over, turn it off and call in sick.
Fast asleep on the train, when I jolted awake at my stop, I knew there was no way in hell I would make it through the morning without a red bull.
After I saw my first client, I realised I didn't need it.
Not only do I love her, but she came in with a box of Cherry Bakewell Tarts from London! I'm not joking - I squealed with delight and just sat in my chair beaming. She was shocked at my reaction, but I was so humbled that she had remembered that I had told her that I absolutely LOVED them and took a little time out on her trip to pick me up a box.
That was it - my mood perked up and even though I could feel that I was exhausted, after that moment I wasn't able to keep the smile off my face.
And about 30 minutes ago, that smile got even bigger! I'm not joking, my face is hurting!
I got a message from a very, very important person telling me that they were coming to Tokyo.....TONIGHT!!!!!
Woop woop!
I am so effing excited, I can barely contain myself! Even though I'm working every day - it's gonna be awesome knowing that at the end of every shift I'm going to get to spend time with that person. So happy.
Now I just wish I didn't have to go to work in an hour....badly need to catch up on sleep!
xoxo
This morning started off really shitty - I was up at 5 and absolutely knackered. I've hardly been sleeping this week and when my alarm went off, I had to do everything in my power not to roll over, turn it off and call in sick.
Fast asleep on the train, when I jolted awake at my stop, I knew there was no way in hell I would make it through the morning without a red bull.
After I saw my first client, I realised I didn't need it.
Not only do I love her, but she came in with a box of Cherry Bakewell Tarts from London! I'm not joking - I squealed with delight and just sat in my chair beaming. She was shocked at my reaction, but I was so humbled that she had remembered that I had told her that I absolutely LOVED them and took a little time out on her trip to pick me up a box.
That was it - my mood perked up and even though I could feel that I was exhausted, after that moment I wasn't able to keep the smile off my face.
And about 30 minutes ago, that smile got even bigger! I'm not joking, my face is hurting!
I got a message from a very, very important person telling me that they were coming to Tokyo.....TONIGHT!!!!!
Woop woop!
I am so effing excited, I can barely contain myself! Even though I'm working every day - it's gonna be awesome knowing that at the end of every shift I'm going to get to spend time with that person. So happy.
Now I just wish I didn't have to go to work in an hour....badly need to catch up on sleep!
xoxo
Wednesday, 28 August 2013
Such A Lady
When I was on the train on my home home last night, there was this woman sittng opposite me.
She was so elegant and poised and looked fabulous.
And then she just slumped back in her chair with her phone in one hand and hardcore started picking her nose with the other.
?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
And when I say digging for gold, I really mean digging for gold! Her hand was moving all over the place as she shoved her finger up deeper and deeper, pulling it out, examining the contents, rolling it up and then flicking it on the floor.
ON THE TRAIN!?
It was absolutely disgusting, but I couldn't stop looking at her. I was on that train for a total of 20 mins and even when I got off, she was still at it. Sometimes it ended up on the floor, sometimes in her mouth and when I looked at her black skirt, it was scattered with rolled up balls of snot.
Even when I caught her eye with my screwed up face, she didn't stop. She just looked at me with her finger up her nose. I could see other people looking at her as well, but she just carried on, completely unphased.
Disgusting.
Ergh!
xoxo
She was so elegant and poised and looked fabulous.
And then she just slumped back in her chair with her phone in one hand and hardcore started picking her nose with the other.
?!?!?!?!?!?!?!
And when I say digging for gold, I really mean digging for gold! Her hand was moving all over the place as she shoved her finger up deeper and deeper, pulling it out, examining the contents, rolling it up and then flicking it on the floor.
ON THE TRAIN!?
It was absolutely disgusting, but I couldn't stop looking at her. I was on that train for a total of 20 mins and even when I got off, she was still at it. Sometimes it ended up on the floor, sometimes in her mouth and when I looked at her black skirt, it was scattered with rolled up balls of snot.
Even when I caught her eye with my screwed up face, she didn't stop. She just looked at me with her finger up her nose. I could see other people looking at her as well, but she just carried on, completely unphased.
Disgusting.
Ergh!
xoxo
Wednesday, 21 August 2013
**BIG GRIN**
Honestly, the last 5 days have been....
WOW.
Incredible amounts of fun.
I wish I could go into all the little details, but I can't.
Actually, I'll rephrase that...
I don't want to.
LOL!
You know when you have those moments when you feel kind of disconnected from reality - you go into work, you're super impatient to finish because you're really looking forward to that thing that you're doing after....and then you just let go and have a wicked time.
And then when that period ends, you're faced with reality and everything goes back to normal.
Well, not 100% back to normal, but you know what I mean.
I'm kinda in that phase right now.
But I'm feeling good - I caught up on sleep, I've rearranged some appointments around so I can do all that crap that I've been putting off for the last few days and more importantly...
I can't stop smiling!
HAHAHHAHA!!!
On a completely different note, how HOT is Don's makeover in ANTM?!
So much TV to catch up on and not enough time.
xoxo
WOW.
Incredible amounts of fun.
I wish I could go into all the little details, but I can't.
Actually, I'll rephrase that...
I don't want to.
LOL!
You know when you have those moments when you feel kind of disconnected from reality - you go into work, you're super impatient to finish because you're really looking forward to that thing that you're doing after....and then you just let go and have a wicked time.
And then when that period ends, you're faced with reality and everything goes back to normal.
Well, not 100% back to normal, but you know what I mean.
I'm kinda in that phase right now.
But I'm feeling good - I caught up on sleep, I've rearranged some appointments around so I can do all that crap that I've been putting off for the last few days and more importantly...
I can't stop smiling!
HAHAHHAHA!!!
On a completely different note, how HOT is Don's makeover in ANTM?!
So much TV to catch up on and not enough time.
xoxo
Tuesday, 13 August 2013
Noooo!!!!
One of the first things on my mind when I woke up this morning was Breaking Bad.
I've been waiting impatiently for it to restart, so as soon as those links were available, it was time.
I am so infuriated with the last episode! Was that really 47 minutes? It felt more like 20.
And it moved at an agonizingly slow pace. Teasing. Making the view wish that things would just hurry the fuck up.
I am left highly unsatisfied and now next week can't come soon enough!
I was up until 3am last night watching the World Championships. I mean, I had to - my boy was running in the 110m hurdles. And i'm not gonna lie - I was shocked to see that he made the final and even more shocked that he managed to place 5th. Congrats!
But naturally it was all about the women last night. Christine Ohuruogu absolutely smashed the British record in the 400m to take home gold in a super tight finish. Her smile could light up a room and it was awesome to see her add another gold to her collection after winning at the Olympics last year.
Of course I was cheering on Japan's Seita Yamamoto who managed to clear a new PB in the Pole Vault. But it was a disappointing end for the GORGEOUS Koji Murofushi, who failed to get a medal in the hammer. Such a shame - his team looked so disappointed, but it's OK. I could stare at that face all day! HAHAHA!
Hoping to see Mo Farah do the double as the 5,000m heats start this afternoon. And then of course it's the men's 400m final later, which is always a treat. Mind you, I'm not sure I can stay up until 3am every night this week though. (T T)
I could spend all day watching athletics. I just wish I was able to!
xoxo
I've been waiting impatiently for it to restart, so as soon as those links were available, it was time.
I am so infuriated with the last episode! Was that really 47 minutes? It felt more like 20.
And it moved at an agonizingly slow pace. Teasing. Making the view wish that things would just hurry the fuck up.
I am left highly unsatisfied and now next week can't come soon enough!
I was up until 3am last night watching the World Championships. I mean, I had to - my boy was running in the 110m hurdles. And i'm not gonna lie - I was shocked to see that he made the final and even more shocked that he managed to place 5th. Congrats!
But naturally it was all about the women last night. Christine Ohuruogu absolutely smashed the British record in the 400m to take home gold in a super tight finish. Her smile could light up a room and it was awesome to see her add another gold to her collection after winning at the Olympics last year.
Of course I was cheering on Japan's Seita Yamamoto who managed to clear a new PB in the Pole Vault. But it was a disappointing end for the GORGEOUS Koji Murofushi, who failed to get a medal in the hammer. Such a shame - his team looked so disappointed, but it's OK. I could stare at that face all day! HAHAHA!
Hoping to see Mo Farah do the double as the 5,000m heats start this afternoon. And then of course it's the men's 400m final later, which is always a treat. Mind you, I'm not sure I can stay up until 3am every night this week though. (T T)
I could spend all day watching athletics. I just wish I was able to!
xoxo
Monday, 12 August 2013
Go GB!!
Have you been watching the IAAF World Championships?
Of course the highlight of any athletics tournament is the men's 100m.
No surprises - Jamaica 1, 3, 4 and 5.
This country absolutely DOMINATES men and women's sprinting and it makes me feel a little nostalgic about the days when British sprinters used to make it into the top 5.
Well, at least we had Jason Dasaolu in the final....even if he did come last. Better than having no one representing at all, right?
But of course, we are all super, super proud of Mo Farah, who smashed it in the 10,000m to bring home his 3rd gold medal. He's so humble and super nice to the media - he deserves it so much!
Looking forward to the women's 100m tonight. Asha Philip will be representing, but the poor girl is significantly the slowest in her heat....and will have to SMASH her PB if she's to make it anywhere near getting through as a fastest loser. I won't be holding my breath. But at least Jamaica will get a run for their money - Nigeria and the US have super strong female sprinters, so I'm looking forward to seeing what happens there.
Should be a good championship!
Go GB!!
xoxo
Of course the highlight of any athletics tournament is the men's 100m.
No surprises - Jamaica 1, 3, 4 and 5.
This country absolutely DOMINATES men and women's sprinting and it makes me feel a little nostalgic about the days when British sprinters used to make it into the top 5.
Well, at least we had Jason Dasaolu in the final....even if he did come last. Better than having no one representing at all, right?
But of course, we are all super, super proud of Mo Farah, who smashed it in the 10,000m to bring home his 3rd gold medal. He's so humble and super nice to the media - he deserves it so much!
Looking forward to the women's 100m tonight. Asha Philip will be representing, but the poor girl is significantly the slowest in her heat....and will have to SMASH her PB if she's to make it anywhere near getting through as a fastest loser. I won't be holding my breath. But at least Jamaica will get a run for their money - Nigeria and the US have super strong female sprinters, so I'm looking forward to seeing what happens there.
Should be a good championship!
Go GB!!
xoxo
Saturday, 10 August 2013
What a Scorcher!
It was a whopping 38 degrees in Nerima today.
I listened to people complaining left, right and centre. But even as I sat on the train with my shirt practically sticking to me, I refused to let myself get irritated by the heat.
You know I hate winter. I know I'm a nightmare in winter. I can't complain.
It's better to go home and sit around in your underwear than go home and spend the whole evening with multiple layers on and a scarf and hat shivering.
I did feel glad that I didn't go to the Summer Sonic festival this year though. What a sweaty mess that would be in this temperature! It's definitely hotter than last year, but I can deal with it.
I was just looking at my friend's pictures of the Tokyo Bay fireworks this evening. Part of me is wishing that I'd made more of an effort to go and see them - I haven't been to a summer fireworks display for a few years. The reason is always the same - I hate the crowds! It's not the same as in Kyushu - even though there were hundreds of people everywhere, it never felt as claustrophobic and uncomfortable like the city ones do. And again, I don't really fancy being squashed in among huge swety crowds either.
Maybe next year, LOL!
I went to a beer garden yesterday with my girl. I'm glad it was last night because there was a bit of wind and it was great to hang out with some new people.
On a completely different note, how much are we loving the co-ed ANTM?! Don and Marvin are my favourites by a mile - I think the boys could actually take the whole thing!
Project Runway has also started up again, which I am just loving! And if that wasn't enough, guess what's back on tomorrow......
BREAKING BAD!!!!!
I cannot WAIT!!!!
xoxo
I listened to people complaining left, right and centre. But even as I sat on the train with my shirt practically sticking to me, I refused to let myself get irritated by the heat.
You know I hate winter. I know I'm a nightmare in winter. I can't complain.
It's better to go home and sit around in your underwear than go home and spend the whole evening with multiple layers on and a scarf and hat shivering.
I did feel glad that I didn't go to the Summer Sonic festival this year though. What a sweaty mess that would be in this temperature! It's definitely hotter than last year, but I can deal with it.
I was just looking at my friend's pictures of the Tokyo Bay fireworks this evening. Part of me is wishing that I'd made more of an effort to go and see them - I haven't been to a summer fireworks display for a few years. The reason is always the same - I hate the crowds! It's not the same as in Kyushu - even though there were hundreds of people everywhere, it never felt as claustrophobic and uncomfortable like the city ones do. And again, I don't really fancy being squashed in among huge swety crowds either.
Maybe next year, LOL!
I went to a beer garden yesterday with my girl. I'm glad it was last night because there was a bit of wind and it was great to hang out with some new people.
On a completely different note, how much are we loving the co-ed ANTM?! Don and Marvin are my favourites by a mile - I think the boys could actually take the whole thing!
Project Runway has also started up again, which I am just loving! And if that wasn't enough, guess what's back on tomorrow......
BREAKING BAD!!!!!
I cannot WAIT!!!!
xoxo
Thursday, 8 August 2013
Katsunuma
Yesterday, I took a little day trip out the city to Katsunuma in Yamanashi.
The only thing I knew was there was wineries....and that really is all that is there! LOL!!
With the temperature hitting around 35 degrees, it really wasn't the best day to choose to go walking for kilometres and kilometres, but it felt good to be surrounded by so much green and just spend the day outside of Tokyo.
The views were great, the food was good and then we got to the wine tasting.
90 minutes. And we took advantage of every single minute.
Leaving the tasting area suitably drunk, I had come to the conclusion that I don't really like red wine. I drink it when it's put in front of me, but I think I ended up spitting out more red wine that I did actually drinking it.
But allo in all, it was a giggle - slow paced, no stress, not too crowded....and we got to eat delicious peaches!
Check it out.
xoxo
The only thing I knew was there was wineries....and that really is all that is there! LOL!!
With the temperature hitting around 35 degrees, it really wasn't the best day to choose to go walking for kilometres and kilometres, but it felt good to be surrounded by so much green and just spend the day outside of Tokyo.
The views were great, the food was good and then we got to the wine tasting.
90 minutes. And we took advantage of every single minute.
Leaving the tasting area suitably drunk, I had come to the conclusion that I don't really like red wine. I drink it when it's put in front of me, but I think I ended up spitting out more red wine that I did actually drinking it.
But allo in all, it was a giggle - slow paced, no stress, not too crowded....and we got to eat delicious peaches!
Check it out.
xoxo
Tuesday, 6 August 2013
Japanniversary
I was just looking at the date and I realised....
2 days ago marked my 6th year in Japan.
6 years.
Wow.
Who would've thought it?
It's really weird, because most people here have the same story. They plan to stay for a couple of years and then they turn into veterans. Not that I would call myself a veteran yet, but it's at the stage where it's been so long, it becomes harder and harder to leave.
But I still have my eye on the prize and next year is going to be a huge one.
xoxo
2 days ago marked my 6th year in Japan.
6 years.
Wow.
Who would've thought it?
It's really weird, because most people here have the same story. They plan to stay for a couple of years and then they turn into veterans. Not that I would call myself a veteran yet, but it's at the stage where it's been so long, it becomes harder and harder to leave.
But I still have my eye on the prize and next year is going to be a huge one.
xoxo
Game Of Thrones
I know I'm seriously behind with this one.
But when I was sick a couple of weeks ago, I started watching Game Of Thrones.
Barely two weeks later, I have completed all 3 seasons.
Oh. My. God!!!
Seriously, that show has kept me up until like 3am countless nights and I am well and truly addicted.
How good is that show?!
It had me from the very first episode. The ending made me gasp and since that episode, that show has just had a million shock factors!!!
I've been left stunned with how many characters have been killed off - I would never have guessed any of that would happen!
And Khaleesi? By far my favourite character. I just simply ADORE her and I cannot fucking wait for her to kick that stupid little **** off the Iron Throne!!!
The other things I admire about the show:
I feel like they've really pushed the boundaries with this one. I have no idea how it was received in the UK, but I've smiled my way throughout all 3 seasons.
DESPERATE for the 4th one!
And defintiely need to start on the books now!
xoxo
But when I was sick a couple of weeks ago, I started watching Game Of Thrones.
Barely two weeks later, I have completed all 3 seasons.
Oh. My. God!!!
Seriously, that show has kept me up until like 3am countless nights and I am well and truly addicted.
How good is that show?!
It had me from the very first episode. The ending made me gasp and since that episode, that show has just had a million shock factors!!!
I've been left stunned with how many characters have been killed off - I would never have guessed any of that would happen!
And Khaleesi? By far my favourite character. I just simply ADORE her and I cannot fucking wait for her to kick that stupid little **** off the Iron Throne!!!
The other things I admire about the show:
- The language - seriously, I don't think I've actually seen a TV show which uses the C word so liberally. And all the accents - I just love listening to all that foul language. Makes me feel like I'm back in London! HAHAHHAHA!
- The nudity - and not just the women - the men! You never see that on TV.
I feel like they've really pushed the boundaries with this one. I have no idea how it was received in the UK, but I've smiled my way throughout all 3 seasons.
DESPERATE for the 4th one!
And defintiely need to start on the books now!
xoxo
Friday, 26 July 2013
Sick As A Dog
I'm one of those people that doesn't really get sick a lot.
But damn, when I do, I really do!!
This cold has been coming on for a couple of weeks. I've really struggled with the air conditioning this year - it seems to be super, super strong absolutely everywhere and spending all day in the office in it...I knew I was gonna get sick.
And then on Monday I started getting a sore throat and was feeling really lethargic. Tuesday came the hardcore sore throat, husky voice and cough...and I had to bust out the mask.
Wednesday I was feeling pretty rotten, but I sucked it up and went into work. I knew I had a fever, but I didn't think it was that bad.
Thursday, I woke up, took my temperature and it was 38.8. I have my reasons for not cancelling my shift at that point, but I seriously struggled through the morning and was forced to cancel the other commitments I had during the day and sweat it out at home. By the afternoon, my temperature was 39.4, but I was still reluctant to go to the doctor with a cold. I headed to the pharmacy, got some meds, put on long sleeves, opened the windows and fell asleep. I woke up drenched, but feeling like I had started to sweat it out.
When I woke up this morning, I wasn't feeling toooooo bad. I still had a temperature, but I popped some pills and I thought I'd make it through the day. During my first lesson, I started to feel super drowsy, no energy and I was really started to doubt if I could make it through to 6pm.
By 11, I was so ridiculously hot - I went to the bathroom to check my temperature and I'd managed to break 40!! I don't think I've ever had a temperature like that in my life!! I popped some more tablets but the staff were looking at me, shivering and sweating at the same time and pretty much sent me home. I felt bad because it was such short notice for all the clients I had today, but I knew as well that I really needed to get to a doctor.
I've just come back from seeing one. He told me "your body membrane is inflamed". LOL! The scary way of telling me I have a bad cold!! He also asked me a whole heap of questions and told me that I was suffering from exhaustion and should take a week off. Chance would be a fine thing!
Anyway, I'm back at home and have some supposedly super strong tablets to bring my temperature back down. He told me if I could rest today and just try to sweat it out, then I should be a least able to go into work tomorrow. Another day back in the blasting aircon.
**sigh**
Surely I can't be the only one who thinks it's too cold!?!??!!?!?
xoxo
But damn, when I do, I really do!!
This cold has been coming on for a couple of weeks. I've really struggled with the air conditioning this year - it seems to be super, super strong absolutely everywhere and spending all day in the office in it...I knew I was gonna get sick.
And then on Monday I started getting a sore throat and was feeling really lethargic. Tuesday came the hardcore sore throat, husky voice and cough...and I had to bust out the mask.
Wednesday I was feeling pretty rotten, but I sucked it up and went into work. I knew I had a fever, but I didn't think it was that bad.
Thursday, I woke up, took my temperature and it was 38.8. I have my reasons for not cancelling my shift at that point, but I seriously struggled through the morning and was forced to cancel the other commitments I had during the day and sweat it out at home. By the afternoon, my temperature was 39.4, but I was still reluctant to go to the doctor with a cold. I headed to the pharmacy, got some meds, put on long sleeves, opened the windows and fell asleep. I woke up drenched, but feeling like I had started to sweat it out.
When I woke up this morning, I wasn't feeling toooooo bad. I still had a temperature, but I popped some pills and I thought I'd make it through the day. During my first lesson, I started to feel super drowsy, no energy and I was really started to doubt if I could make it through to 6pm.
By 11, I was so ridiculously hot - I went to the bathroom to check my temperature and I'd managed to break 40!! I don't think I've ever had a temperature like that in my life!! I popped some more tablets but the staff were looking at me, shivering and sweating at the same time and pretty much sent me home. I felt bad because it was such short notice for all the clients I had today, but I knew as well that I really needed to get to a doctor.
I've just come back from seeing one. He told me "your body membrane is inflamed". LOL! The scary way of telling me I have a bad cold!! He also asked me a whole heap of questions and told me that I was suffering from exhaustion and should take a week off. Chance would be a fine thing!
Anyway, I'm back at home and have some supposedly super strong tablets to bring my temperature back down. He told me if I could rest today and just try to sweat it out, then I should be a least able to go into work tomorrow. Another day back in the blasting aircon.
**sigh**
Surely I can't be the only one who thinks it's too cold!?!??!!?!?
xoxo
Monday, 22 July 2013
Zzzzzzz
Man, I am absolutely knackered.
I know that it's my own doing, with my 7 day work week, but I was in bed super early last night to make sure I could get like 7 hours sleep.
The problem is, my housemate wakes me up literally every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. It doesn't help that I'm a super light sleeper, but she is one of those people who is really heavy footed and lets all doors and draws slam, instead of closing them properly.
So even though I don't need to be getting up as early as I do, I get woken up and it's pretty much impossible for me to get back to sleep.
And now I feel super tired and I'm going to get that huge slump at around 3-4pm.....right when I need to get into work.
Great.
I've got my Japanese lesson first, which is always a giggle, but seriously, I feel like I need about 50 cans of red bull to get me through today!! I hate this feeling - I just wanna stay at home and watch crap TV.
=(
xoxo
I know that it's my own doing, with my 7 day work week, but I was in bed super early last night to make sure I could get like 7 hours sleep.
The problem is, my housemate wakes me up literally every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. It doesn't help that I'm a super light sleeper, but she is one of those people who is really heavy footed and lets all doors and draws slam, instead of closing them properly.
So even though I don't need to be getting up as early as I do, I get woken up and it's pretty much impossible for me to get back to sleep.
And now I feel super tired and I'm going to get that huge slump at around 3-4pm.....right when I need to get into work.
Great.
I've got my Japanese lesson first, which is always a giggle, but seriously, I feel like I need about 50 cans of red bull to get me through today!! I hate this feeling - I just wanna stay at home and watch crap TV.
=(
xoxo
Saturday, 20 July 2013
I'm Missing You!!!
Recently, I've been watching X-Factor NZ.
I have no idea what made me start watching it....but when I saw that Stan Walker was one of the judges, I'm not gonna lie, that's what made me continue watching it!!!
Mighty fine speciman of man.....even if he is super young! LOL!
I've badly started to miss New Zealand!!!
Stan Walker totally reminds me of my dear friend that lives there - his actions, his facial expressions and OMG his ACCENT!!! I never really thought it was super hot when I was there, but I certainly do now! And not only Stan Walker, but my friend is super hot as well which has just made me miss him even more!
Mental!
It's a spot that I defintiely want to go back to in the future. There is so much to see and the 2 and a half weeks I was there allowed me a whirlwind tour of a good chunk of the hotspots. It's like Australia - you need absolutely months to go around and give everything the attention that it deserves. Mind you, I defintiely see myself going back to NZ before I go back to Australia.
What a great country.
And those Maori boys.
Oh my......
xoxo
I have no idea what made me start watching it....but when I saw that Stan Walker was one of the judges, I'm not gonna lie, that's what made me continue watching it!!!
Mighty fine speciman of man.....even if he is super young! LOL!
I've badly started to miss New Zealand!!!
Stan Walker totally reminds me of my dear friend that lives there - his actions, his facial expressions and OMG his ACCENT!!! I never really thought it was super hot when I was there, but I certainly do now! And not only Stan Walker, but my friend is super hot as well which has just made me miss him even more!
Mental!
It's a spot that I defintiely want to go back to in the future. There is so much to see and the 2 and a half weeks I was there allowed me a whirlwind tour of a good chunk of the hotspots. It's like Australia - you need absolutely months to go around and give everything the attention that it deserves. Mind you, I defintiely see myself going back to NZ before I go back to Australia.
What a great country.
And those Maori boys.
Oh my......
xoxo
Wednesday, 17 July 2013
I'm Coming Home!!!!!
Nnnnnyyyaaaaaa!!!!
I am SUPER excited!
I've just booked a flight....
....BACK TO THE UK FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!
Woop woop! (^0^)
I haven't been back to the UK for Christmas for 6 years! Every year, I've opted to spend Christmas in the sun and that really has been amazing. The last two times I've been back to the UK have been in the summer, and whilst a British summer is beautiful, I really want to spend Christmas and New Year back in London this year.
First awesome thing I'm excited about:
CHRISTMAS DINNER!!!!
OMG and helping my mum cook it!! I can't wait to gorge on all the copious amounts on chocolate, cake and booze! And SAUSAGE ROLLS!
Second awesome thing I'm excited about:
EFFING SALES SHOPPING ON OXFORD STREET!!!!
Think I might have to purchase extra luggage in advance for this one! I always end up paying for an overweight bag....I may as well just pay for 2 suitcases - the price is the same anyway! And that means I'll be able to bring back 46 kilos of awesome clothes, bags, shoes...and more importantly...FOOOOOODDDDDDDD!!!!!
People who say British food is shit have no idea what they're talking about!
Third awesome thing I'm excited about:
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON OXFORD STREET!!!!
I absolutely LOVE the colours of all the department stores - golds, silvers, purples and I'm thoroughly going to enjoy all of the Christmas music while I'm at it! HAHAHAHA!
Fourth awesome thing I'm excited about:
Of course, CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!!!!!
Ah man, I'm not really one of these people who misses a lot of people back home, but so many of my friends here have moved back, so it's going to be great to see them all again in the same place! Let the partying commence! Naturally, I'm looking forward to spending time with my family as well - my lil sis has had a mammoth year and I'm so proud of her! (*^_^*)
So pumped, I can't wait!
YAY!
xoxo
I am SUPER excited!
I've just booked a flight....
....BACK TO THE UK FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!
Woop woop! (^0^)
I haven't been back to the UK for Christmas for 6 years! Every year, I've opted to spend Christmas in the sun and that really has been amazing. The last two times I've been back to the UK have been in the summer, and whilst a British summer is beautiful, I really want to spend Christmas and New Year back in London this year.
First awesome thing I'm excited about:
CHRISTMAS DINNER!!!!
OMG and helping my mum cook it!! I can't wait to gorge on all the copious amounts on chocolate, cake and booze! And SAUSAGE ROLLS!
Second awesome thing I'm excited about:
EFFING SALES SHOPPING ON OXFORD STREET!!!!
Think I might have to purchase extra luggage in advance for this one! I always end up paying for an overweight bag....I may as well just pay for 2 suitcases - the price is the same anyway! And that means I'll be able to bring back 46 kilos of awesome clothes, bags, shoes...and more importantly...FOOOOOODDDDDDDD!!!!!
People who say British food is shit have no idea what they're talking about!
Third awesome thing I'm excited about:
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING ON OXFORD STREET!!!!
I absolutely LOVE the colours of all the department stores - golds, silvers, purples and I'm thoroughly going to enjoy all of the Christmas music while I'm at it! HAHAHAHA!
Fourth awesome thing I'm excited about:
Of course, CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY!!!!!!
Ah man, I'm not really one of these people who misses a lot of people back home, but so many of my friends here have moved back, so it's going to be great to see them all again in the same place! Let the partying commence! Naturally, I'm looking forward to spending time with my family as well - my lil sis has had a mammoth year and I'm so proud of her! (*^_^*)
So pumped, I can't wait!
YAY!
xoxo
Monday, 15 July 2013
(*^_^*)
Look up.
Would you just look at that sunset!!
That was on the first night I got to Zamami Island in the Keramas, Okinawa.
Stunning.
Japan is so much more than huge cities, bright lights and shrines.
To the south is just a whole load of untouched beauty.
Stunningly clear sea, sandy white beaches and just beautiful sunsets.
You know I love the beach. I have been to so many beautiful beaches in so many different countries.
And still, Japan, well, Okinawa, remains one of my favourites for sunsets. And just for beauty in general.
The beaches on the smaller islands are NEVER crowded,,,not just because these islands aren't as popular as the main island, Ishigaki or Miyako, but because Japanese people don't really sunbathe, so if you go out during the day, you're pretty much guaranteed to have the beach to yourself. It's just fantastic. And gorgeous.
And I'd love to be back there right now!
I was planning to hit up Greece in September, but my girl is moving to Africa, so that's been postponed.
I couldn't admire her more - she's going to live in Sudan for 2 years. I seriously have to take my hat off to her because I could never do that. Good on you, girl!
YAY to the summer!
xoxo
Would you just look at that sunset!!
That was on the first night I got to Zamami Island in the Keramas, Okinawa.
Stunning.
Japan is so much more than huge cities, bright lights and shrines.
To the south is just a whole load of untouched beauty.
Stunningly clear sea, sandy white beaches and just beautiful sunsets.
You know I love the beach. I have been to so many beautiful beaches in so many different countries.
And still, Japan, well, Okinawa, remains one of my favourites for sunsets. And just for beauty in general.
The beaches on the smaller islands are NEVER crowded,,,not just because these islands aren't as popular as the main island, Ishigaki or Miyako, but because Japanese people don't really sunbathe, so if you go out during the day, you're pretty much guaranteed to have the beach to yourself. It's just fantastic. And gorgeous.
And I'd love to be back there right now!
I was planning to hit up Greece in September, but my girl is moving to Africa, so that's been postponed.
I couldn't admire her more - she's going to live in Sudan for 2 years. I seriously have to take my hat off to her because I could never do that. Good on you, girl!
YAY to the summer!
xoxo
Wednesday, 10 July 2013
Turning Up The Heat
Phhheeewwwwwww....that is HOT today!!!
Back in JHS with no airconditioning and a whopping 35 degrees outside. Running around on stage, getting these girls acting....it's hot work!
I refuse to complain. It's sticky, it's a little uncomfortable, but it's a MILLION times more manageable than winter. Plus, look on the bright side - sweating is healthy!!
I finished work at 1pm and have been running around at home doing loadsa stuff that I've been putting off for ages.
Unfortunately, I've been distracted by TV as usual.....I was just flipping through shows and realised that the new season of BINTM has started!
Yay!
I know, I know...trash TV. But it's easy to watch and requires the smallest amount of attention, which means I can do a whole load of other stuff at the same time.
And I have to say that Elle Macpherson is still absolutely, sensationally, STUNNING!! She must be getting somewhere close to 50 by now, right? She just looks absolutely amazing! And no one says no to a bit of Tyson Beckford do they? HAHAHAHA!
On a completely different note, you remember I told you about that person who just walked into my life and blew me away? Yeh, well, when someone feels the need to tell you that they're not avoiding you even though you never said anything in the first place....in my eyes (and experience) they generally are. So I'm thinking now, maybe it's best to let this one go. As hard as it is, you know what they say....
....don't waste your energy wanting someone who doesn't want you.
Taken on board.
xoxo
Back in JHS with no airconditioning and a whopping 35 degrees outside. Running around on stage, getting these girls acting....it's hot work!
I refuse to complain. It's sticky, it's a little uncomfortable, but it's a MILLION times more manageable than winter. Plus, look on the bright side - sweating is healthy!!
I finished work at 1pm and have been running around at home doing loadsa stuff that I've been putting off for ages.
Unfortunately, I've been distracted by TV as usual.....I was just flipping through shows and realised that the new season of BINTM has started!
Yay!
I know, I know...trash TV. But it's easy to watch and requires the smallest amount of attention, which means I can do a whole load of other stuff at the same time.
And I have to say that Elle Macpherson is still absolutely, sensationally, STUNNING!! She must be getting somewhere close to 50 by now, right? She just looks absolutely amazing! And no one says no to a bit of Tyson Beckford do they? HAHAHAHA!
On a completely different note, you remember I told you about that person who just walked into my life and blew me away? Yeh, well, when someone feels the need to tell you that they're not avoiding you even though you never said anything in the first place....in my eyes (and experience) they generally are. So I'm thinking now, maybe it's best to let this one go. As hard as it is, you know what they say....
....don't waste your energy wanting someone who doesn't want you.
Taken on board.
xoxo
Tuesday, 9 July 2013
Giggles
It's been a few years since I've taught Junior High School Students in the classroom.
Today, I headed out to a private school in Kichijoji for their summer English camp.
I loved it!
I'd forgotten what it was like to have a whole classroom full of kids who adore you and help bring out the kid in you.
Even better, was that I got the 3rd years and we got to write the script to the first half of the story of Cinderella. In the beginning, I wasn't sure that their imagination would stretch so far, but it did just enough to incorportae judo and gymnastics into the story.
LOL!
I had a right giggle with the girls - they cracked me up with their weird questions and over the top dramatics.
Now there's one more day of rehersals to go and then the final performance on Thursday. I can't wait to see if they bring all that energy onto the stage in front of the whole school.
The only downside was that I was reminded of the lack of air conditioning in the classrooms - just perfect on a day where the temperatures hit 34 degrees. What would we all do without sweat towels, eh?
I can't even tell you what a nice break it is to get away from the routine of teaching one-on-one to adults. Such a welcome break.
Got a splitting headache now, but it was definitely worth it!
xoxo
Today, I headed out to a private school in Kichijoji for their summer English camp.
I loved it!
I'd forgotten what it was like to have a whole classroom full of kids who adore you and help bring out the kid in you.
Even better, was that I got the 3rd years and we got to write the script to the first half of the story of Cinderella. In the beginning, I wasn't sure that their imagination would stretch so far, but it did just enough to incorportae judo and gymnastics into the story.
LOL!
I had a right giggle with the girls - they cracked me up with their weird questions and over the top dramatics.
Now there's one more day of rehersals to go and then the final performance on Thursday. I can't wait to see if they bring all that energy onto the stage in front of the whole school.
The only downside was that I was reminded of the lack of air conditioning in the classrooms - just perfect on a day where the temperatures hit 34 degrees. What would we all do without sweat towels, eh?
I can't even tell you what a nice break it is to get away from the routine of teaching one-on-one to adults. Such a welcome break.
Got a splitting headache now, but it was definitely worth it!
xoxo
Monday, 8 July 2013
Making Britain Proud
At last.
After a 77 year wait, Britain finally has a Wimbledon Champion.
GET IN!!!!!
When we all lost hope in Tim Henman, along came Andy Murray - and ever since, the pressure has been on his shoulders to perform and bring it home.
And he has. In straight sets!
I was so knackered last night, but I just HAD to stay up and watch. I started to lose hope in the second set and I made the decision that if he dropped that set, it would probably go to 5 sets - and given how long each game had been up until that point, there would've been no way I could stay up for it.
Man, I was on the edge of my seat during those last 4 points. And when he won, I did some crazy weird manic dance around my lounge. LOL!
At least I got to go to bed with a smile on my face, still get a reasonable amount of sleep and I woke up with a smile on my face this morning. I've watched that final match point on YouTube about 6 times already this morning. I so wish I could've been there - seeing all my friends having picnics in the gorgeous weather made me so jealous!!!
Not that I can complain - I've just had a gorgeous week in Okinawa!
xoxo
After a 77 year wait, Britain finally has a Wimbledon Champion.
GET IN!!!!!
When we all lost hope in Tim Henman, along came Andy Murray - and ever since, the pressure has been on his shoulders to perform and bring it home.
And he has. In straight sets!
I was so knackered last night, but I just HAD to stay up and watch. I started to lose hope in the second set and I made the decision that if he dropped that set, it would probably go to 5 sets - and given how long each game had been up until that point, there would've been no way I could stay up for it.
Man, I was on the edge of my seat during those last 4 points. And when he won, I did some crazy weird manic dance around my lounge. LOL!
At least I got to go to bed with a smile on my face, still get a reasonable amount of sleep and I woke up with a smile on my face this morning. I've watched that final match point on YouTube about 6 times already this morning. I so wish I could've been there - seeing all my friends having picnics in the gorgeous weather made me so jealous!!!
Not that I can complain - I've just had a gorgeous week in Okinawa!
xoxo
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