tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68051022286318149832024-02-19T15:13:28.596+11:00piffles inc. v2Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.comBlogger542125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-5369469583037166542018-07-01T02:00:00.000+10:002018-07-01T02:00:06.123+10:00OMG My Baby Is 25 Months Old<div style="text-align: justify;">
Would you look at that date? How time effing flies!</div>
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I've been dying to talk about B for ages, just for my records but argh, he's a bit of handful these days. </div>
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He doesn't go to bed that easily and we are out of our wits trying to get him to settle into bed on time. Half of it is definitely my fault, not getting dinner ready on time. Part of it is Bin's fault as he returns home from work rather late so B will want him to play together.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doesn't want to have his photo taken.</td></tr>
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A few months ago I tried to keep a record of B's expanding vocabulary. I was a wee bit concerned that he wasn't speaking the average amount of words. Just before he was 22 months old, he started speaking a bit more, and knowing some stuff (gee, I've forgotten what), much to my surprise.</div>
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Once he turned 2, I just gave up with my records. I know for a fact that his longest words are kookaburra and cauliflower, which doesn't seem that impressive. Heh. I will never forget my sister telling us that my niece said "embarrassing" before she was even 2! :)</div>
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<b>Singing</b></div>
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He loves listening to his nursery rhymes and singing to himself. Well, just the recent 2 months, I suppose, the singing part. He's been trying to sing the entire alphabet song, London Bridge, Driving in the car, and many more. It's tiring to be his jukebox as he'll demand, 'Mama sing (names the song)!' whenever he feels like it, at the dinner table, on the bus or train, supermarket ... yikes!</div>
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B is also pretty good in adapting a particular situation to the song. Not sure if 'adapting' is the right term to use here but my brain can't function at the moment. In his bath tub, he was singing 'big bubbles, big bubbles' to the tune of the alphabet song. In his toy Jeep, he sang 'driving in the jeep' instead of 'driving in the car'. </div>
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I can't help but to grin, of course. There's a rhyme that goes, 'Teddy bear, teddy bear, go to bed' or something like that, and whenever we are doing something, B will say, "Mama sing, 'teddy bear, teddy bear, drink water now'" when I've just requested him to drink some water.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFr24ORrrg7N8tqDH1abRm96vzfD23QOzzpX-DaWvW6YG53OUFvdISC7tSlJewo4jAvKwAbCF9QBI8TpAs9XQzbC7UUjkKi6-lQfKbgeLlhy-1m0bWtNFe34rjNdZlTKufs8Ga84I0L4/s1600/20180624_192531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFr24ORrrg7N8tqDH1abRm96vzfD23QOzzpX-DaWvW6YG53OUFvdISC7tSlJewo4jAvKwAbCF9QBI8TpAs9XQzbC7UUjkKi6-lQfKbgeLlhy-1m0bWtNFe34rjNdZlTKufs8Ga84I0L4/s400/20180624_192531.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Books</b></div>
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Our little bookworm still enjoys books. Just the other day he requested me to bring him to the library to borrow some books. I might have misinterpreted it as a request when he could have just been stating a past fact. Hmmm...</div>
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Anyway, as you know, I love books and I am always browsing online for some good book deals. I have to sit on my hands to stop myself from purchasing books for him when I know I should just borrow them from the library for him.</div>
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Just recently we borrowed 2 of Ed Vere's books, Mr Big and Bedtime for Monsters. B loves them. He enjoyed Mr Big when I read it to him twice, although I'm not sure if he empathized with the gorilla at first.</div>
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I am sorely tempted to purchase a copy of Mr Big for our collection but I'd best wait until it goes on sale.</div>
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I've also been twiddling my fingers whether to purchase the Gruffalo for keeps like NOW or later!</div>
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<b>Tunnels, Towers, Things with wheels</b></div>
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This boy loves his cars and trucks and engines and he gets very excited at the department store's toy section. He's been asking for a biiiiiiig police car ever since he saw one at his friend's house. </div>
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But he also asks for Rosie, Stanley, Kevin, any Thomas and Friends' engine that suddenly takes his fancy. Just this evening he asked for Mavis, which was a surprise. I didn't think she made much of an impression on him!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He was given a light up Thomas, but now<br />wants a light up Rosie or Stanley. *roll eyes*</td></tr>
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Tunnels ... when he sees any crevices, including my rolled up exercise mat, he'll exclaim, "TUNNEL!!!!!"</div>
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Just recently he's been enjoying the concept of building towers and a few days ago out of the blue, he built one on the fridge. ;)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B's very proud of his tower. :D</td></tr>
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I get a bit agitated at times when B starts hogging certain toys at play group. I tried reasoning with him that he can't have all of them, he needs to share them with the other children as they don't belong to him. But honestly, it's like talking to a mule's butt.</div>
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I don't even know how to dissuade him from playing with other children who aren't keen on playing with him. You can tell as they're older and they get all grumpy and hug the toys to their chest. </div>
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Oh, but let's not start with the toy grabbing by the other children. Yikes.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiY8ZxfcixTxC_zGY4N6hArcztEDvvEyf_AuP2zBTZGxkKdnjrV92VfIArgmUNqCvW6-UpjUTl3zSiY1pLIxhBYRYW3oq998oIKHibLIDcCtYl5zsFGOqNy3r_SDSE4pCsTZMhFEDfz0/s1600/20180525_101709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwiY8ZxfcixTxC_zGY4N6hArcztEDvvEyf_AuP2zBTZGxkKdnjrV92VfIArgmUNqCvW6-UpjUTl3zSiY1pLIxhBYRYW3oq998oIKHibLIDcCtYl5zsFGOqNy3r_SDSE4pCsTZMhFEDfz0/s400/20180525_101709.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hogging the little cars and engines.</td></tr>
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<b>His 2nd Birthday</b></div>
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We didn't throw him a birthday party these year, but it was celebrated 3 times. I made a cake and brought it during our camping weekend at Creswick, a week before his actual birthday.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJEBg4z2w4cvjjwYz9JRe4KoJN6B8RVEd-SJQOd03T_0cJHFUdH4_5Vu_MfDiQjkAAo1p6W9X6VOdz90WnDi87lMcmCOspoyq_t_KdnDqH2mU-oJmkZV1n4URF7el-OBS8cUllsVFx7qY/s1600/20180519_164900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJEBg4z2w4cvjjwYz9JRe4KoJN6B8RVEd-SJQOd03T_0cJHFUdH4_5Vu_MfDiQjkAAo1p6W9X6VOdz90WnDi87lMcmCOspoyq_t_KdnDqH2mU-oJmkZV1n4URF7el-OBS8cUllsVFx7qY/s400/20180519_164900.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See that rascal, putting his half-eaten mandarin<br />on the cake board as if it was his plate!</td></tr>
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I made another cake the weekend before his birthday with my favourite ang ku kuih. I wanted the cake to be a centrepiece for our family photo but argh, my frosting skills are still lacking. I decided to use fondant at the last minute for the windshield and windows. If only I had decided earlier to use fondant right at the beginning, it might look a bit better.</div>
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At least he recognized it as a police car and my lovely neighbour said the cake was yummy. I had to admit that it tasted better than it looked!</div>
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On his birthday, I brought cupcakes for his play group friends and the kids loved them. I wish I had slathered on more frosting but I doubt the mums would have approved of a sugar-laden cake for their children.</div>
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The obvious difference of his development after he turned 2 was his agility. Out of the blue, he could climb much better. I was just terrified he would slip and fall, but that's just me, always worrying about him tripping and hurting himself. </div>
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He can peel a mandarin orange by himself and was very proud of his achievement the first time it happened. He went, "Yay!!!!"<br />
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Since then, mama must not peel it for him as he'd like to do it himself, please.<br />
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We took him to the Werribee Open Range Zoo on Sunday before his birthday and I suspect his parents were more excited than he was. I guess at this age, kids just want to be able to touch things to relate better, instead of observing them from afar.</div>
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As for birthday presents, we just bought them yesterday - a scooter and a wooden tool kit. He's very excited about the scooter - he prefers to push it around like a trolley. Haha!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Train set from a good friend!</td></tr>
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But looks like we forgot to buy him elbow pads and knee pads ...<br />
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<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-24099964222505232562018-04-07T17:37:00.000+10:002018-04-07T17:37:03.603+10:00Dusting the Cobwebs<div style="text-align: justify;">
Look at the cobwebs over here. Geez!</div>
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As you know, time is always of the essence and there's rarely enough time for me to spare for this little blog of mine. Granted, I do miss scribbling my flyaway thoughts but gawd, I do not have the patience to wait for my laptop to start up and for this page to load. </div>
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Instead, I prefer to bury my nose in a novel whenever I can. I love the libraries here ... the books are in great condition and I don't have to buy them anymore! I don't have any space on our bookshelves now that Brendan's occupy 1/3 of it. I've stashed my favourite books into boxes and they're hiding in the closet of one of the spare rooms.</div>
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Such is my love for my son. :D</div>
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So, books. And library.</div>
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Yes.</div>
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I get to borrow up to 40 items and books can be borrowed for 30 days. It's really such a good deal. I've renewed several toddler books twice and that's me hgging the book(s) for up to 3 months. Gosh. </div>
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Well, just this 1 book. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/assets/full/573680.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="568" height="640" src="https://shop.abc.net.au/assets/full/573680.jpg" width="604" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image taken from <a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/thomas-amp-trains-of-world-bbk">https://shop.abc.net.au/thomas-amp-trains-of-world-bbk</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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He's a bit Thomas-obsessed at the moment. I'm not sure how long it will last, but he likes looking at books in general. Thank goodness for that. I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before, but when he was younger (before he was 1 years old), he didn't seem keen on books so I was quite disappointed with his lack of interest.</div>
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Now I'm a secretly proud mama. :D</div>
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OK, back to me, before I go on and on and on and on about the love of my life. Brendan, not the hubs, mind you.</div>
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Last year was spent dedicating most of my time to B. This year, I hope to regain control of my weight and fitness.</div>
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My 1st event is coming in 2 weeks and I haven't trained as much as I had hoped. B and I fell sick after we returned from Malaysia last month, and we spent 2 weeks on the mend. It's funny how the unexpected happens, and now I'm rushed for time to get back into shape.</div>
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A 10km distance still needs some form of training.</div>
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When I first signed up for it in January/February, I had a goal which was to set a personal best (PB). Now I know that it's NOT going to happen. Argh!</div>
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Seriously, running 10km today was SUCH a struggle for me. I hope I won't suffer too much on race day.</div>
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Anyway, I don't really want to talk about running. Let's talk about food.</div>
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Once upon a time I used to judge people who had their freezer packed with frozen food. Now I understand WHY there's a need to indeed stash your freezer with some form of convenience. </div>
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While I'm chopping meat of veg or preparing food to cook for dinner, my son would come to me and ask me to play cars with him. With such hope in his eyes, I do my best to spend a few minutes in between food prep to play with him. I can't deny him just a little bit of attention. Because it's not nice.</div>
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I do try to cook 1 pot meals or have the food prepared while he's napping. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1zkel10QQsKIW7zHCZRV3Uu3qmQe-3vNf1cT8oepInKfjINWdO97Z4dFD4OJfKakJR3Mgx2LppH5p3R5pfNDVdcaRPCRhmOza4pqu-clcRVn_9YF1Gmd2jAWj6hRfJZywENj57z4ATY/s1600/20180402_182351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1zkel10QQsKIW7zHCZRV3Uu3qmQe-3vNf1cT8oepInKfjINWdO97Z4dFD4OJfKakJR3Mgx2LppH5p3R5pfNDVdcaRPCRhmOza4pqu-clcRVn_9YF1Gmd2jAWj6hRfJZywENj57z4ATY/s640/20180402_182351.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe: <a href="http://msihua.com/2012/03/revisit-claypot-chicken-rice-with-a-rice-cooker-recipe/">http://msihua.com/2012/03/revisit-claypot-chicken-rice-with-a-rice-cooker-recipe/</a></td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I've made 'claypot' chicken rice in the rice cooker twice because I really like the convenience of it. It was also because I still had some leftover Korean sesame oil my neighbour had given me - it is REALLY good.</span><br />
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Its aromatic fragrance is more intense than say, the Malaysian ones we're so used to. I am sorely tempted to purchase a bottle (and use it sparingly) as the Asian grocer nearest to us has 1L retailed at $18. My neighbour says that's quite expensive.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUjpl3CiR0NZT1USneeXld5QHUHx6RHOZsHOQipzBnO9D-D3VvQXzHvl2N83MDYwcHo3DqX7hn1xMGwCyiQM1BPgL7aKsrRSTAnmNeyXm4m9IoaWxXjqpMH_lO3zrAU4YID57eej5z2o/s1600/20180329_200916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUjpl3CiR0NZT1USneeXld5QHUHx6RHOZsHOQipzBnO9D-D3VvQXzHvl2N83MDYwcHo3DqX7hn1xMGwCyiQM1BPgL7aKsrRSTAnmNeyXm4m9IoaWxXjqpMH_lO3zrAU4YID57eej5z2o/s640/20180329_200916.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe: <a href="http://thesweetspot.com.my/?p=5833">http://thesweetspot.com.my/?p=5833</a></td></tr>
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Dry chilli pan mee was a almost a disaster for me. I used dried SMALL chillies for the chilli and boy, the heat was ridiculously intense that our heads were perspiring! The only saving grace was my first attempt at making noodles from scratch. They were nice and bouncy. </div>
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The only problem I had was cutting the dough with a pizza cutter and then stretching them a little, before dusting them with flour (to prevent sticking) was a very time consuming job. Dinner was served late, it was almost 8pm when we started eating.</div>
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If I'll have to make them again, I'll have to start in the morning!</div>
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(Or buy a pasta making machine ...)</div>
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Oh gawd. It's time to prepare dinner.<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-26577535270212485272017-10-06T14:54:00.005+11:002017-10-06T14:54:52.329+11:00Anak Anak Malaysia Taste Of Malaysia<u>Saturday, 26th August 2017</u><br />
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In conjunction of Merdeka Day on 31st August 2017, <b>Eco World Group</b> hosted the abovementioned event in South Yarra that day, inviting people to pop in for free Malaysian food.<br />
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What's not to love about free food, eh? :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVpffT4uSTy-XGuf-2M9ri8D1PsJ8Px6HzURGQwKHAdEQ55MLotIHZUOZQdPjRXUfOAxYCajLQ-Yr5NZhqQ3oHyoh48KsHCnnkUWZECYL7bu6LBIKE6MQ9ZJPm3qzvJE-Pg3GPkdxn3w/s1600/20170826_114935.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVpffT4uSTy-XGuf-2M9ri8D1PsJ8Px6HzURGQwKHAdEQ55MLotIHZUOZQdPjRXUfOAxYCajLQ-Yr5NZhqQ3oHyoh48KsHCnnkUWZECYL7bu6LBIKE6MQ9ZJPm3qzvJE-Pg3GPkdxn3w/s640/20170826_114935.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We arrived at the venue at noon and found the place backed with mostly Malaysians and Singaporeans. </div>
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Upon entry, we were given our ticket cum food voucher which allowed us to select 4 items from each category. I thought it was pretty generous, hehe, but it might not be enough for some to have a full meal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4pqRE6mfkJfo5eaeantvjpEjnpulfigPQrOa6WDDtPyFWthtv9vNthL1JSQTXe4wIga1U0n1NxLo4B3ZPrM5kQi7EZ117ay3mVg3Frj_UBXqROIW0DlsnZe2yRhQzk1bI5OoDFYw_dM/s1600/PhotoGrid_1503769658946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja4pqRE6mfkJfo5eaeantvjpEjnpulfigPQrOa6WDDtPyFWthtv9vNthL1JSQTXe4wIga1U0n1NxLo4B3ZPrM5kQi7EZ117ay3mVg3Frj_UBXqROIW0DlsnZe2yRhQzk1bI5OoDFYw_dM/s640/PhotoGrid_1503769658946.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The choice of satay gave us 2 sticks and they were really delicious. The small square piece of murtabak was paled in comparison. As the satay was made on the spot, the stall always had the longest queue.</div>
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The kuih was a hit and miss. I was informed by the stall owner that the rainbow coloured kuih lapis was the Sarawak one but honestly, I don't recall Sarawak kuih lapis tasting so artificial. Perhaps it's due to the amount of colouring used for the kuih.</div>
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For the mains, we had the Mamak Mee Goreng and Curry Mee (not stated in the voucher) and both were good. We took home the Mamak Mee Goreng and had it for dinner. :D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYC04rxw8qQvCycuIFsjXO1jmUaEuuV1BHLl6KXypIIFIO00tePrV1sXH655sJp8WbSzJb4nAl074QYlcbt35GLoLADqJZTodO7Cv4mrlWJoioI_0fLxZzNAtPa_lFPJTP4TYdt6B3L7Y/s1600/PhotoGrid_1503769848072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYC04rxw8qQvCycuIFsjXO1jmUaEuuV1BHLl6KXypIIFIO00tePrV1sXH655sJp8WbSzJb4nAl074QYlcbt35GLoLADqJZTodO7Cv4mrlWJoioI_0fLxZzNAtPa_lFPJTP4TYdt6B3L7Y/s400/PhotoGrid_1503769848072.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I was pretty excited to spot <b>Diana Chan</b>, Masterchef Australia 2017 when she appeared to officiate the event. She held a cooking demo in the developer's office (indoors) so I wasn't there. I never knew she was so tall!</div>
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Later on, everyone had an opportunity to have their photo taken with her. We took the chance and I don't think I managed to say anything meaningful to her besides, <span style="color: #674ea7;">"Congrats on your win!"</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5iQHRyYr6sG0BVQHUoJjycbawe6QEbHI4SGKrH5RpQKMUgpBilEpu6xhA7WlsafSLtLG2yCA91k5UuBWZ_KL2wbK95HJfXYx2gQ4gtVk-rQd8Hdc8q2yo726WmtYKeqLybuuuxXsGPc/s1600/21125379_10155328802186117_9128747124159254326_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1064" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU5iQHRyYr6sG0BVQHUoJjycbawe6QEbHI4SGKrH5RpQKMUgpBilEpu6xhA7WlsafSLtLG2yCA91k5UuBWZ_KL2wbK95HJfXYx2gQ4gtVk-rQd8Hdc8q2yo726WmtYKeqLybuuuxXsGPc/s640/21125379_10155328802186117_9128747124159254326_o.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Screenshot of photos from Yarra One Apartment's Facebook page.</td></tr>
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Brendan was very mesmerised by her. Diana did try to cajole him to smile but all he could do was look at her with googly eyes. :D</div>
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As for me, sigh, why didn't anyone tell me I needed a haircut and better fitting sweater?!</div>
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Right after the event, WH and I popped into <b>Zumbo</b>. We practically drooled over the selection but after deliberating for almost 30 minutes, we walked out with a very small purchase: 2 pieces for me and 3 for her. :D</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfe5Eh16kKTpnKpU3eGMsoceo1xfHG92nIbk9CpuaUE_KeD3UV_DjFvLjohyphenhyphenP-U-yqLJ7oJ7wB4rAmcxlphIFkZtyIT2CFxHUhOrfRzGm488qC5P0t2C-1r5ewrJoSSf0JhBwNXZFDm54/s1600/PhotoGrid_1503769927412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfe5Eh16kKTpnKpU3eGMsoceo1xfHG92nIbk9CpuaUE_KeD3UV_DjFvLjohyphenhyphenP-U-yqLJ7oJ7wB4rAmcxlphIFkZtyIT2CFxHUhOrfRzGm488qC5P0t2C-1r5ewrJoSSf0JhBwNXZFDm54/s640/PhotoGrid_1503769927412.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cheesecake looked really good!</td></tr>
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I opted for the passion fruit tart (based on raving reviews) and salted caramel tart. I was sorely tempted to buy a piece of brownie as well but had to force myself to walk away.<br />
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The passion fruit tart turned out to be just so-so. Hmmm, I honestly can't remember how it tastes now, perhaps it wasn't tarty enough with passion fruit flavour. The salted caramel one was much better, but hehe, I'll have to say right now that the taste of <b>Bibelot's </b>salted caramel tart is the one that is stuck in my head right now!<br />
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<b>Zumbo Patisserie</b><br />
18 Claremont St<br />
South Yarra, VIC 3141<br />
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<b>Bibelot</b><br />
285 - 287 Coventry St<br />
South Melbourne, VIC 3205<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-8247838952308009822017-09-22T13:52:00.000+10:002017-09-22T13:52:55.274+10:00Red Curry Paste Recipe<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ah, I found the curry paste recipe for the <b>Thai Red Curry</b> (for Roast Duck). It was scribbled in my notepad, amongst other recipes I've copied from the Internet. I am old-fashioned as such, I find it easier to refer to a notebook than the IPad. ;)</div>
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<b>Red Curry Paste</b></div>
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<u>Ingredients</u></div>
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1 tsp cumin seeds</div>
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2 tsp coriander seeds</div>
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1/2 tsp black peppercorns</div>
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1/2 tsp salt</div>
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10 large dried chillies (or 20g), rehydrated/soaked in warm water for 30mins, finely chopped</div>
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1 tsp grated galangal</div>
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1 stalk of lemongrass, finely chopped</div>
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6 coriander roots, washed, finely chopped</div>
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2 shallots, finely chopped</div>
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4 cloves of garlic, crushed</div>
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2 tsp shrimp paste</div>
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8 red birds eye chillies, seeds removed</div>
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<u>Directions</u></div>
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1. Dry roast cumin, coriander and peppercorns over medium heat for 2 mins until fragrant. Cool.</div>
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2. Grind them until they become powder. Add remaining ingredients and pound until a smooth paste forms.</div>
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Alternatively, which I did, add 1/4 cup of water to all ingredients and blend until smooth.</div>
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I'm sorely tempted to make the paste right now but it's too warm to be eating spicy food today!</div>
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So sorry for the last post - I was too sleepy to end it properly. I was trying to make a list of some of his current favourite books and ask anyone some suggestions for new books to try.</div>
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I am excited about going to a books warehouse sale tomorrow - I really hope I snag some good bargains. The best thing about it is that, I'm hoping to get children's book and none for me. HAH!</div>
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For me, borrowing books from the library is so much better now as the bookshelves certainly do not have space for both Brendan and my books. :D</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-33841118447596564342017-09-22T00:02:00.001+10:002017-09-22T00:02:35.500+10:00It's Time To Sleep You Crazy Sheep<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51hMiHI8OrL._SX405_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="407" height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51hMiHI8OrL._SX405_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="325" /></a></div>
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... is Brendan's <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Its-Time-Sleep-Crazy-Sheep/dp/1845066308">all-time favourite book</a> and we don't know why.</div>
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Could it be the rhymes or the illustrations?</div>
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<strike>We've</strike> I've read it so often (at least twice a day: before nap and before bed) that I've memorised the first two pages. If I can memorise the whole book, that would be great - I'll just recite the whole book in the dark while he settles himself to sleep. Ha!</div>
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I thought our trip to the library on Wednesday was fruitful, with 9 books for him and 4 for me, but I realised later that night that 1/3 of the books were related to colours. Boring!</div>
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<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51tEDhqDifL._SY450_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="500" height="361" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51tEDhqDifL._SY450_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This book isn't too bad, although I try not to be bothered by the American spelling. :D</div>
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Except that I'm still trying to get him interested enough to read/go through the whole book! </div>
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<a href="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61ZS9yEipiL._SX479_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="481" height="400" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61ZS9yEipiL._SX479_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="383" /></a></div>
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One of his other favourite book is called <b>Piranhas Don't Eat Bananas</b> and it's a pretty entertaining book. It was a birthday present and he happily shrieks "Nana!" when he sees the cover, although I do wonder if he's referring to the banana or the piranha.</div>
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I'm looking for more books to buy for him, although he's stopped flicking through a few of his Sandra Boynton and Dr Seuss ones. Noooooo ... I can't wait for him to be able to read so we can go through them together! :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCEBaQpxKlVfbqpRj44nuoy6TiEPAVMugQWcK1Luxfspo9ECGcdgpyA9ImFDjSnRKfT13HbjrVSL2lzP2_tKXt1H4JeMnfHRmpMy2l6Ka10M0GCWXklS4nj8TbL3YkIFyIBQ7Th8gO0o/s1600/20170419_160342.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimCEBaQpxKlVfbqpRj44nuoy6TiEPAVMugQWcK1Luxfspo9ECGcdgpyA9ImFDjSnRKfT13HbjrVSL2lzP2_tKXt1H4JeMnfHRmpMy2l6Ka10M0GCWXklS4nj8TbL3YkIFyIBQ7Th8gO0o/s400/20170419_160342.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little bookworm back in April. *heart*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Crap!<br />
I just nodded off for a second here!<br />
<br />
I think I better get to bed ... zzzz<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-37196418384089367692017-09-15T17:22:00.000+10:002017-09-15T17:22:23.985+10:00Recently Tried Recipes<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of the hardest things I've yet to accept is the lack of time to do the things I want and long to do. Sometimes it gets me down, and I do the unthinkable of blaming it on B, but most of the time I've given up on getting things done ASAP, but choose to spread the work to be done within a few days. Hahaha!</div>
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For example, the <b>Serunding Daging (Beef Meat Floss)</b>. It took me almost 5 days to get it done because I didn't have time to shred the meat as finely as I wanted it to be. [Tried in August 2017.]</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoKdv0IP058dwsjOMIdsdEjRxfZ2VfnU-a4cfuVaLWyI8euKMVYA_OoNRonT9hXQxAqEfXJpL9d6u2FiXy90xYGRpfggR-6VEGVuo7fW72p1a_GQITPPuwL7Kb1t39-4aWofWGhryIXo/s1600/20170811_161344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXoKdv0IP058dwsjOMIdsdEjRxfZ2VfnU-a4cfuVaLWyI8euKMVYA_OoNRonT9hXQxAqEfXJpL9d6u2FiXy90xYGRpfggR-6VEGVuo7fW72p1a_GQITPPuwL7Kb1t39-4aWofWGhryIXo/s640/20170811_161344.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Ironically, despite my attempt in shredding the meat as finely as possible before cooking it, they clumped together during the cooking process. Ha! I shouldn't have invested THAT much time. ;)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-0bohcqEOSaC1ZUC5yQTZSqAzu2ShjyvKpzxh5X9UcKR0oEGsQoWgqhsy11EMrAw3aLUpeZnHfYW6rKjCGrGVxXCrGcu3UXD7uBmNp6nXsQwiBT9xalhyphenhyphenkKu7BqEdLs3JF4oeUrph7I/s1600/20170815_190909.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS-0bohcqEOSaC1ZUC5yQTZSqAzu2ShjyvKpzxh5X9UcKR0oEGsQoWgqhsy11EMrAw3aLUpeZnHfYW6rKjCGrGVxXCrGcu3UXD7uBmNp6nXsQwiBT9xalhyphenhyphenkKu7BqEdLs3JF4oeUrph7I/s640/20170815_190909.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The recipe from <a href="http://www.friedchillies.com/recipes/detail/serunding-daging">Fried Chillies</a> I referred to uses coriander seeds, cumin and fennel seeds. I'll probably find another recipe to try out as I didn't enjoy tasting the coriander seeds in my mouth. I picked out as many seeds as I could but alas, guess what? I've still got a container of the floss in my fridge as I haven't picked out as many as I am hoping to before consumption! :D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8-pLHz2lztS-c8Q4Jp7LIGzqYoCsXOxXSPOFl2P76lelXsBdbYelxN17MtZ4HSBXeW1NDvlJ9vOaiLauhu9kNp6uG4DlazFt3fLPcvFnInudtSGsHeWtKrkZvvXhuxPPRNB3b-3k6Do/s1600/21013929_10155314904261117_3050167706631521364_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="1440" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG8-pLHz2lztS-c8Q4Jp7LIGzqYoCsXOxXSPOFl2P76lelXsBdbYelxN17MtZ4HSBXeW1NDvlJ9vOaiLauhu9kNp6uG4DlazFt3fLPcvFnInudtSGsHeWtKrkZvvXhuxPPRNB3b-3k6Do/s640/21013929_10155314904261117_3050167706631521364_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nevertheless, it was good eaten with rice or even pasta! It's very useful to have some at standby should you need to have a quick meal to get out of the way.</div>
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Hoping to try the Chinese version one day. ONE DAY when I believe I have all the time in the world, haha!</div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Angku Kueh (Red Tortoise Cake)</b></div>
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This is one of my favourite childhood snacks to have. My paternal grandmother would bring over tons of it when she visited and the ones with peanut filling were always quickly snapped up. I haven't tried making the peanut filling yet, but like mentioned above, ONE DAY I shall!</div>
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Initially I thought it was hard work, but after getting the hang of it the first round, the second one was a breeze. Well, I had the hubs helping me out as we were rushing to have food ready for Brendan's 1st birthday party. :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwJxJvuSmiVibL94G6dpy9yT60kpAhHoE-4QqKR8ETtovoqJ2XeaT8oiqg_oSUxp_TgI3-wlcz_EkmlUFY16L9enpfXQJAuyCIcw_OTBuF02Jyh3CB8aE7c9RZiHyVUCFWw4tMN93fkc/s1600/18767556_10155045784526117_5112196962159569062_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBwJxJvuSmiVibL94G6dpy9yT60kpAhHoE-4QqKR8ETtovoqJ2XeaT8oiqg_oSUxp_TgI3-wlcz_EkmlUFY16L9enpfXQJAuyCIcw_OTBuF02Jyh3CB8aE7c9RZiHyVUCFWw4tMN93fkc/s640/18767556_10155045784526117_5112196962159569062_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe from <a href="http://nasilemaklover.blogspot.com.au/2013/05/ang-ku-kueh-red-tortoise-cake.html">Nasi Lemak Lover</a>. Tried in May 2017.</td></tr>
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Hmmm, I wish I could have some right now. *tries not to drool* It turned out to be a huge hit with my Malaysian and Singaporean friends - and thank goodness there was enough for them to bring some home with them. :)</div>
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<b>Mee Hoon Kueh </b>[July 2017.]</div>
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One of my friends was always sharing photos of this dish on Facebook and yes, it seems like most people know this dish as Pan Mee. The hubs said the same thing when he saw it the first time.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiI5f4LCEhr759afRwPVkNGah0M9fYMfJEkiojuV8IVajrKNuCVMj25b2vJMmR3N5NEZKiL7tCdHrgzpAL8KJTd59lFoOf1JnS8VlYmVG0Emya73P1CzL6qX_pYVRNTB0h6A6QymVf2U/s1600/20597350_10155270773756117_7597394200225559005_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdiI5f4LCEhr759afRwPVkNGah0M9fYMfJEkiojuV8IVajrKNuCVMj25b2vJMmR3N5NEZKiL7tCdHrgzpAL8KJTd59lFoOf1JnS8VlYmVG0Emya73P1CzL6qX_pYVRNTB0h6A6QymVf2U/s640/20597350_10155270773756117_7597394200225559005_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recipe from <a href="http://nasilemaklover.blogspot.com.au/2010/06/mee-hoon-kueh-hand-pulled-noodles.html" style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nasi Lemak Lover</span></a><span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I believe they're the same thing, especially when Pan Mee condiments are added to this broth of pulled dough pieces. I made it plain the first time, like how my grandmother did it - just spinach and dough in broth. That was it.</div>
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The second and third time I made it, I added Pan Mee condiments of minced meat and mushroom, and fried anchovies.</div>
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In all honesty, as much as B loves the dish (he loves his carbs), it is quite time consuming to prepare it as a meal. Letting the dough rest for at least an hour before pulling it and cooking it in boiling water can take a while. Zzzz</div>
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Just last night I threw away the rest of the dough I didn't finish using the day before. :(</div>
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<b>Lei Cha </b>[Tried in July 2017.]<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YTY0YyA1ly8K9Irj3dp1NbLtnZQzNGqJZjkc-WxBKPsb6hmKRaqkXQW58wSbk_Hz9oeVq7QxurO-BZog1tY9pKsXS2RQbndF4gFMpgS_J9A9Wt_oV6ONQGBGC5ovrkSCwWeGpLV_4-o/s1600/20170719_195733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9YTY0YyA1ly8K9Irj3dp1NbLtnZQzNGqJZjkc-WxBKPsb6hmKRaqkXQW58wSbk_Hz9oeVq7QxurO-BZog1tY9pKsXS2RQbndF4gFMpgS_J9A9Wt_oV6ONQGBGC5ovrkSCwWeGpLV_4-o/s640/20170719_195733.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I first ate this dish in Ipoh, when the hubs and I were still in an unmarried relationship. His father advised me that not everyone liked this dish and there were two ways of eating it, drown your rice and condiments with the broth, or eat your rice with enough broth as you please.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnJ_HvAEjkGErLakCq5acCApk6uYX4dULoaP3NjqoeVfWoQUTUPawlcnLkTFMwaxNDVJyGpvvfisowX1v2upWT8jeKgPs_RqXhBo1BEHjWf6LcuUuKwmpNA9WX5aa5UQ9gU4HiJl2kXU/s1600/20597469_10155270773871117_2217926826024563007_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfnJ_HvAEjkGErLakCq5acCApk6uYX4dULoaP3NjqoeVfWoQUTUPawlcnLkTFMwaxNDVJyGpvvfisowX1v2upWT8jeKgPs_RqXhBo1BEHjWf6LcuUuKwmpNA9WX5aa5UQ9gU4HiJl2kXU/s640/20597469_10155270773871117_2217926826024563007_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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It turned out that I enjoyed the dish very much. I would request for it whenever we were in Ipoh for the weekend. Later on, we found a coffee shop in Kepong serving it, and some of our friends loved this dish as well.<br />
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The recipe I tried is from <a href="http://www.thestar.com.my/lifestyle/food/recipes/2014/09/21/traditional-lei-cha/">The Star Online</a> with some of my own condiments. It's extremely hard work and the taste was 90% to what we were used to. The broth is heavy in terms of flavour but it looks watery in the picture. I'm not sure how I'd tweak it should I attempt the recipe again.<br />
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Pumpkin recipes - <b>Steamed pumpkin and radish cake.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig_r2K2ORCgyU91uV76M5NvxX53Xip19JNJM_wmHXtjFhQWwykGiNyu8Y-zP2AoXwwWq-i5jTBzI_dV42JFCebH4-j0GFkspBs11X_mwjckIzSOizzPj6TCE5ej81_SkWDPgel_LR823M/s1600/19787143_10155174962156117_8888819187807277918_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig_r2K2ORCgyU91uV76M5NvxX53Xip19JNJM_wmHXtjFhQWwykGiNyu8Y-zP2AoXwwWq-i5jTBzI_dV42JFCebH4-j0GFkspBs11X_mwjckIzSOizzPj6TCE5ej81_SkWDPgel_LR823M/s640/19787143_10155174962156117_8888819187807277918_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I replaced a portion of radish with pumpkin instead, curious to see how it would turn out. Pumpkin, as you know, is mild tasting, so you couldn't tell that it was one of the ingredients in this dish.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiE1AMV9PWTiAgOilfEAtHZEOZgx4jXTEt_4F4wsSNC0ByZPpO2n_8gdmAc7qTivYfxnBjryXMDxwRQ1LdZe8VNvIm3PcIPXBT7adFA_rdhuR1Ehm9w4ZdTY-Aiuj7mdDS3CBxB33kv0/s1600/20170708_151339.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMiE1AMV9PWTiAgOilfEAtHZEOZgx4jXTEt_4F4wsSNC0ByZPpO2n_8gdmAc7qTivYfxnBjryXMDxwRQ1LdZe8VNvIm3PcIPXBT7adFA_rdhuR1Ehm9w4ZdTY-Aiuj7mdDS3CBxB33kv0/s640/20170708_151339.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pan-frying leftovers are always so much tastier. I love the colour, if not disappointed in the lack of taste. :)</div>
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<b>Pumpkin No Churn Ice-Cream</b></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01s4cbqU0qTZykNoFteUoFtNskcP99ggtcWXnxF4Dc2F_LzRaQHVaCY_kPloMAxXi8XUuCZ_yvD3Ig03T0fJRfOLCP_AFb5WS1OmsG4dU8RmFkjIj2SaPNKV5U6eNvS2GUQmJhUSus6g/s1600/20451762_10155252541621117_6447879885365227313_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01s4cbqU0qTZykNoFteUoFtNskcP99ggtcWXnxF4Dc2F_LzRaQHVaCY_kPloMAxXi8XUuCZ_yvD3Ig03T0fJRfOLCP_AFb5WS1OmsG4dU8RmFkjIj2SaPNKV5U6eNvS2GUQmJhUSus6g/s640/20451762_10155252541621117_6447879885365227313_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I was so excited to discover that you can make ice-cream without the need of an ice-cream maker!</div>
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I soon realised that unfortunately, I could mostly taste the cream in it, no thanks to pumpkin being mild flavoured, remember? It gives you a gorgeous colour, no doubt about it, but taste wise, it was a bit of a disappointment.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But it didn't stop us from finishing it, especially when you want something cold to end your meal. </div>
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<br /></div>
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I'm hoping to try another flavour and see if it'll stand out. :)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Roast Duck Curry</b> [Tried in July 2017.]</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5zdp-AbX6_lWQxRO7gW6hJBbYzUxR4-kT5cKnZJlf2Mkse7eomh1ulKvpW8HbATNrp0P3lQFAtCrLSvbX7M3TNyULknrakWzusSSrC53GrmliVJw-mKaJEPFUyFucbYaoTiRoC4G4U4/s1600/20170713_202112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5zdp-AbX6_lWQxRO7gW6hJBbYzUxR4-kT5cKnZJlf2Mkse7eomh1ulKvpW8HbATNrp0P3lQFAtCrLSvbX7M3TNyULknrakWzusSSrC53GrmliVJw-mKaJEPFUyFucbYaoTiRoC4G4U4/s640/20170713_202112.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
OMG ... I LOVED the curry paste!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The hubs had brought home some leftover roast duck he had for lunch with a colleague. He commented that the duck was lean and wasn't very appealing (in taste) so could I please make it better?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I could only think of curry and had to find a <a href="http://www.templeofthai.com/recipes/duck_curry.php">recipe</a> I thought suitable. The thing is, I can't recall where I took the curry paste recipe from. *ponders*</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The curry was delicious, but would have tasted so much better with lychee and eggplant, both of which I didn't have. Grapes and mandarin just made it weird.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Nevertheless, I wish to emphasize that the curry paste was da BOMB.</div>
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Now where the heck is the recipe??</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Kuih Bangkit.</b> [Tried in May 2017.]</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-aX70AymVFHq1hlG80Dqj0moh8Sj8mxRbQVUMSmpfLmJeSDtH5mbH_5gP7bE-pjIAge-d4sYJnpMcLRrWCt3PURvmFHBBrDHSW2AHctgJDEjnW2OKUKzfvQwJj9xw9Zn3oJYjzYhiwE/s1600/20170517_143851.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-aX70AymVFHq1hlG80Dqj0moh8Sj8mxRbQVUMSmpfLmJeSDtH5mbH_5gP7bE-pjIAge-d4sYJnpMcLRrWCt3PURvmFHBBrDHSW2AHctgJDEjnW2OKUKzfvQwJj9xw9Zn3oJYjzYhiwE/s320/20170517_143851.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I had cravings in May 2017. I was desperate to taste the creamy coconut in my mouth that I trawled the internet for a recipe I could follow.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Whilst they didn't look anything like kuih bangkit as I didn't have the mould, they tasted like it. I was so happy. I asked my friends to try it during Brendan's birthday party and made them take some home, too, otherwise I would devour everything. </div>
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<br /></div>
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Now that I have the mould (thanks to the BFF for bringing them over), I shall make them again!</div>
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But one fine day!</div>
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<br /></div>
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Because, I shouldn't.</div>
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If I'm on a diet and all ... :D</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Laksa Johor</b> [Tried in August 2017.]</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmyx9CU4jvftuOXIrXYfRqYipzYXY98vETfj779F9ZBj61-xGlhwhPUnhNBf0QlD_6aoDsTYMi0H-_UxIyuhuFb0BDWNNmS0uELGBwMN1ANnBaPocTt791oeqvu4vVC4sxr9677jFQ54/s1600/20934140_10155314919731117_2961509211717875397_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXmyx9CU4jvftuOXIrXYfRqYipzYXY98vETfj779F9ZBj61-xGlhwhPUnhNBf0QlD_6aoDsTYMi0H-_UxIyuhuFb0BDWNNmS0uELGBwMN1ANnBaPocTt791oeqvu4vVC4sxr9677jFQ54/s640/20934140_10155314919731117_2961509211717875397_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I've only eaten this dish once, and it was a homemade version of it.<br />
<br />
I loved the thickness of it, and the use of spaghetti that the dish just stuck in my head since ... 10 years ago?<br />
<br />
For the first round, I blanched the diced french beans as I thought they would be too hard to chew. For the second round with leftover gravy, it was raw and it made such a huge difference. It brought out the flavours of the gravy and the dish was altogether whole.<br />
<br />
There are plenty of recipes out there that will tell you what fish should be used (mackerel, tuna, parang or sardines) but I used sardines and they tasted good enough for me.<br />
<br />
------<br />
<br />
Right.<br />
<br />
The pictures are making me hungry as I relived my cooking moments.<br />
<br />
Have a great weekend!<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-18978681070618333122017-09-12T14:54:00.000+10:002017-09-12T14:54:07.076+10:00Spring is springing<div style="text-align: justify;">
Why, hello!</div>
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It's been a while!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'm here because I'm wondering how long will it take for a tray of brownies to cool down before I can dig in. I'm also wondering if I should bake some cookies while waiting.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Or prepare dinner instead.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3dEIcEB4cEkUynHFemBsdd9iHJmpDGwBmOiR8fRzG2GD-BjfJzcBGYVz2oMkFraPw5fV6DQpvb_CJw-4MrLLf9iqN3FAGpYKRtyv8BmKlGLdsdkx450ivQtPdu0yrySahEpRq7swfkA/s1600/20170911_144400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="701" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir3dEIcEB4cEkUynHFemBsdd9iHJmpDGwBmOiR8fRzG2GD-BjfJzcBGYVz2oMkFraPw5fV6DQpvb_CJw-4MrLLf9iqN3FAGpYKRtyv8BmKlGLdsdkx450ivQtPdu0yrySahEpRq7swfkA/s640/20170911_144400.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Betty Crocker's Triple Fudge Brownies - first time trying a brownie mix.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I can't believe it's September and in a few months, it'll be another new year. I dread the new years as they remind me of how old I'm becoming and how fast B is growing up!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There has been some progress in some of his skills and thought process that sometimes surprise us. I'm probably not like some mums who keep tab on every single achievement but should I?</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvnzI-6cJKVKVonj7k76V5HF3Gs6Lo9KK3u1W8m_QObktwDOcf25JDK9S5JsexsBi7VAVOlKrevPS0X_-dMjzy4R11FrRab6PPevrHYxrQLajMpbM27Nov73I2MR55yg0y3_srm4KRCI/s1600/20170812_105543.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuvnzI-6cJKVKVonj7k76V5HF3Gs6Lo9KK3u1W8m_QObktwDOcf25JDK9S5JsexsBi7VAVOlKrevPS0X_-dMjzy4R11FrRab6PPevrHYxrQLajMpbM27Nov73I2MR55yg0y3_srm4KRCI/s640/20170812_105543.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">August 2017 - He finally knew how to stack them. Almost brought tears to my eyes. :P</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just last Friday, I was chatting with another mum when out of the corner of my eye, I noticed B going down the plastic kiddy slide on his tummy. The fact that he was sliding down head first wasn't what surprised me (he's a bit of a daredevil, me thinks), but the fact that he had managed to climb up the 5 steps on his own and I didn't get to witness it the first time. Oh, man!</div>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgio88D_tGkEc6OYWooj2SxYl44Dq4mbIhhxMgHwRn6rXZKXuImUGYzG4KhWfr2SyhZHFPA5MB5549T8TF_IhKcQJ5mUFBBGRGJF4oWXGZ_z9poE6-gEUNvqo0XCxk1lhNc9xPmQpXE5Gs/s1600/20170810_102617.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgio88D_tGkEc6OYWooj2SxYl44Dq4mbIhhxMgHwRn6rXZKXuImUGYzG4KhWfr2SyhZHFPA5MB5549T8TF_IhKcQJ5mUFBBGRGJF4oWXGZ_z9poE6-gEUNvqo0XCxk1lhNc9xPmQpXE5Gs/s640/20170810_102617.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr Sociable wanted to be friends but the kid wasn't pleased to be interrupted<br />from his playing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
He's very keen on being friends with other children and it's hard to rein in his excitement and friendliness. When mums of the other children aren't around to guide or advise their children on how to react to B's attention, I try to steer him away, just in case the other children/mums don't really like it. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
B has a few friends at playgroup who are used to his attention by now. He likes handing over toys from the containers or anything, just to be friends. But now that he's a bit more aware of his surroundings and he is 15 months plus now, he is at that stage of wanting to play with the toys that other children are playing with. Oh gawd, I have to tell him to either share or wait for his turn, and sometimes drag him away, telling him that the other kid does not want to share the toy.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's the truth, and I might be handling it all wrong but hey, it is NOT easy to deal with the situation, mmkay.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know a mum who once told me she had tears in her eyes when she observed her son playing on his own while she was preparing dinner. She was imagining how lonely it was to be an only child. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yeah, I sometimes feel the same way, too, when I see B bored and alone with his toys, as if in need of some company. I tell myself that I need to bring him out as much as possible for play dates so he can play with the other little people like him. :)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But sometimes I want to do my own things, too ... and housework. :D</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaBifn4Lo54-4PqPjK60rcgb5p5wQofK_DhWc822_F23BxL61eh_7kVJwgDHTHpV4CC8vIgC4QpASFc-pxFfUX7XYl2J2fUU3RyK1rbSbCCNtkj7IbG8rsuAOcc2EPKG7gySN5OiCRKQ/s1600/20170822_170121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaBifn4Lo54-4PqPjK60rcgb5p5wQofK_DhWc822_F23BxL61eh_7kVJwgDHTHpV4CC8vIgC4QpASFc-pxFfUX7XYl2J2fUU3RyK1rbSbCCNtkj7IbG8rsuAOcc2EPKG7gySN5OiCRKQ/s640/20170822_170121.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neighbour's chilli was so spicy! I thought they'd harvest it so I left it there but they never did!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am trying to get myself back into running and it's hard work when you have to push the stroller at the same time. It's a good workout, I have to admit, but my runs are pretty dependent on the weather. The weather is kinda crummy this week, and the sun peeks out from the clouds during B's afternoon naps! Hah!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyhoo, I need to post some recipes here before I forget them. I'd like to think that I've cooked up a storm for the past few months I haven't updated this blog but I don't think I've been that productive. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Laters.</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-87929613627100034412017-04-30T23:06:00.000+10:002017-04-30T23:06:19.997+10:00Autumn is here<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>This post was drafted last week and finally completed the day this post is published!</i><br />
<i><u><br /></u></i>
<u><b><br /></b></u>
<u><b>Brendan</b></u><br />
One of the things I love doing is looking back at old photos of my little koala, and chuckling to myself, amazed as to how much he has changed. Heehee. It really tickles me.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now that <b>B </b>is almost 11 months, I can see his developments progressing bit by bit, from improvement of his motor skills and expressing himself better. There's a lot of baby babble and hand pointing and I nod and respond accordingly, pretending to understand him when I only understand 10% of it!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of my daily struggles involve preparing his meals. While I wish I was one of those super health freaks who insist their children eat only the best organic food, I can only be partially bothered. *guilt-stricken*</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY49255PToc6W6AeZkqgWMImYQh-zXNX03wm5IvvdO0z2dgPXVsOB_aoExHBV8_Joqaf3LJW-JJ0TRcNBtHL44gm-LL-9hv4vDiJ9VDQk52vtRvG2RzudyMvxyeAfSBQGiPBEhwzbwixg/s1600/20170418_085340.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY49255PToc6W6AeZkqgWMImYQh-zXNX03wm5IvvdO0z2dgPXVsOB_aoExHBV8_Joqaf3LJW-JJ0TRcNBtHL44gm-LL-9hv4vDiJ9VDQk52vtRvG2RzudyMvxyeAfSBQGiPBEhwzbwixg/s640/20170418_085340.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Breakfast are the toughest. I used to feed him some yoghurt when we were in Malaysia but I stopped, fearing for its sugar content. Right now, I alternate between oats with pieces of bread and fruit, and Cerelac with pieces of bread, as well as a piece of bread to keep his restless hands busy (so he'll feed himself) while we watch Sesame Street on tv.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
I try to stay away from processed baby food but having Cerelac and some baby rice puffs (for snacks) readily available at hand is very convenient!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQDZuwT9vEKVNYSEt6pTmvrkq3_FkBGqOIh4U1mynoysNLA2j7MS4g7GEgGv-yDW8HRFO4TWm0HHIPVH5DQ4ZliNkRwEBYB_8_QL6VpupTh6sO85MB4OcS0R51tqwg48XsamzGPpKVT8/s1600/20170418_085300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQDZuwT9vEKVNYSEt6pTmvrkq3_FkBGqOIh4U1mynoysNLA2j7MS4g7GEgGv-yDW8HRFO4TWm0HHIPVH5DQ4ZliNkRwEBYB_8_QL6VpupTh6sO85MB4OcS0R51tqwg48XsamzGPpKVT8/s640/20170418_085300.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a mess!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I dread cleaning up after his meals, I really do. Well, the hubs does, too. It's hard work!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometimes I prefer to feed him to limit the mess but it helps to have some finger food available when he insists on feeding himself.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTv9Io0afi_DThoRolkFnADCPZBRDoBFUAyQnPmU5ZrBB-zC0tLyL0ybHZ6MNc8ucwvy5szCWqh87Qd1BG8jADQQtI4CRhVnk1VPZfUrPvtV0vR0C67Czv2gqKK4zuHlY8T0iDlGsexnU/s1600/20170418_121053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTv9Io0afi_DThoRolkFnADCPZBRDoBFUAyQnPmU5ZrBB-zC0tLyL0ybHZ6MNc8ucwvy5szCWqh87Qd1BG8jADQQtI4CRhVnk1VPZfUrPvtV0vR0C67Czv2gqKK4zuHlY8T0iDlGsexnU/s640/20170418_121053.jpg" width="468" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out the scrunched up toes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But I need to let him feed himself since it's part of the development and growing process. It also helps to give us some time to enjoy our meals without having to feed him every now and then. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
He has also learned to 'share' his food and occasionally offers us a piece of half-eaten veg/fruit/pasta/snack he's holding in his hand. Sometimes we relent and let him feed us, and sometimes we vigorously shake our head to say no, just as he does.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlDS6nm0d9uiM6LtaeTmQ3HCpMbjCXGCBeH-DZDQi0FBn7UNdPxT83iZZvp9JRKAmuose_dkOu7dzDxIP5UUXZJNnkUOxzqpXwUYxWDkp-UkMezWMPFO9XlOvPMzBqSjKo4d-NN1hpss/s1600/20170418_085456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOlDS6nm0d9uiM6LtaeTmQ3HCpMbjCXGCBeH-DZDQi0FBn7UNdPxT83iZZvp9JRKAmuose_dkOu7dzDxIP5UUXZJNnkUOxzqpXwUYxWDkp-UkMezWMPFO9XlOvPMzBqSjKo4d-NN1hpss/s640/20170418_085456.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The house is a daily war zone. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The best part of our day is when he takes a really long nap so I can prepare his lunch / our dinner / do the laundry / clean the house a bit / rest / gardening / watch TV / read / sew, etc. No matter how much I am tempted to nap and rest as well, I can't until his lunch is ready and some chores are done!<br />
<br />
The worst part of our day is when he doesn't go to sleep at his bedtime.<br />
<br />
<br />
<u><b>Gardening</b></u><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The highlight of our backyard is our pumpkin patch. We were very surprised to see one fruit greet us in our backyard when we returned home from Malaysia. It was totally unexpected, as we had forgotten we had it pollinated (by hand) before we left.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BOT0zTPZJVDcmU9-4WJBVAzjMeyVGpcXAXXhr51uzTIKGYkZwUGvOGFb1JsLHHTYJ2Lz3G2AFy8BdbZncQQs_-DwC_vheLx6x_6vxVf9hRhEIFoAGz6izC5fF69nX-VhgR7gxKRSTh8/s1600/20170411_110713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7BOT0zTPZJVDcmU9-4WJBVAzjMeyVGpcXAXXhr51uzTIKGYkZwUGvOGFb1JsLHHTYJ2Lz3G2AFy8BdbZncQQs_-DwC_vheLx6x_6vxVf9hRhEIFoAGz6izC5fF69nX-VhgR7gxKRSTh8/s640/20170411_110713.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our first pumpkin! :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
After weeks of dilly dallying (the hubs wanted me to harvest it and I wanted him to have the pleasure of harvesting it), I finally harvested it last week. It weighs almost 3.5kg and is currently sitting on our buffet table, like a trophy to showcase. Ha!</div>
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<br /></div>
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I asked the hubs if he wanted to cut it for me so we could roast a few slices for dinner last night but he refused. He said he'll wait until we harvest our 2nd pumpkin, which I tell you, could be weeks before it happens. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-NyJQadXBeEvQbxqucMuIs3CMKF1DBGKuKvXDXRDy81gbiS-pUvQiZer34MHdNEmXsgjx-phbYdVmOISh6zLzuNebESYed1ulu_GSf15tj3FoXYmvGaOFXU1X3KPSTb9n6UvBVb2JnU/s1600/20170411_110341_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm-NyJQadXBeEvQbxqucMuIs3CMKF1DBGKuKvXDXRDy81gbiS-pUvQiZer34MHdNEmXsgjx-phbYdVmOISh6zLzuNebESYed1ulu_GSf15tj3FoXYmvGaOFXU1X3KPSTb9n6UvBVb2JnU/s640/20170411_110341_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I tell the hubs that it reminds me of a hairy testicle. :P</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another surprise was to see this little round fella. We had completely forgotten about planting hairy melon, or better known as winter melon! </div>
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Not sure when it'll be ready for harvest (or even survive) but it'll be exciting when it happens. :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKULZPVDfmL3xrT12BnL8fHrZJwP0OtlMxZCrTGM5kt3BN7dL9V9bOh8uuhySLYkG4eVEWlVlfj_f5qTAPRiXr8RCb_-flho35Y3inzGucZJ-ufgozRmR2hsu-PyXeucqps95Pyh2GH0/s1600/20170411_110409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOKULZPVDfmL3xrT12BnL8fHrZJwP0OtlMxZCrTGM5kt3BN7dL9V9bOh8uuhySLYkG4eVEWlVlfj_f5qTAPRiXr8RCb_-flho35Y3inzGucZJ-ufgozRmR2hsu-PyXeucqps95Pyh2GH0/s640/20170411_110409.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butternut pumpkin near our air conditioning unit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
We look forward to having butternut pumpkin as well but we missed the opening of the female flowers as we were away during the Easter weekend. Argh! </div>
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So now we'll have to wait for some new ladies to bud. The male flowers are pretty useless for pollination without females available for business. :D Crude, I know, but sadly true. :(</div>
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(Note: The above plants were planted from seeds of the vegetables I bought from the supermarket and grocer. You can try planting your own as well!)<br />
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(Update: The 2 females in the picture above didn't make it. However, another female one appeared and is happily preggars at the moment. :D)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2372SVgtzJbDuGYam669NSvfBCkIvnfHzWO0XCkMqLdRiws7mg3SPpSDv8B4A9985zkc_Poa-UQdgOnJAJ6KSRFX_pDEXGtq0c5T53yy6t9x_JtXu7jcJWUb3LViBbBO7nWQTVjJQMRE/s1600/20170405_125350.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2372SVgtzJbDuGYam669NSvfBCkIvnfHzWO0XCkMqLdRiws7mg3SPpSDv8B4A9985zkc_Poa-UQdgOnJAJ6KSRFX_pDEXGtq0c5T53yy6t9x_JtXu7jcJWUb3LViBbBO7nWQTVjJQMRE/s640/20170405_125350.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gazania - a pretty weed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Along our driveway is a narrow strip of land which we've chucked patches of gazanias we grabbed from an open field near our house. They are technically weeds, originating from South Africa. But such pretty weeds that we couldn't resist!</div>
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<b><u>Mt Buller</u></b><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
We spent the Easter weekend up at Mt Buller, a popular skiing destination. We stayed in Merrijig, a 30 minute drive to Mt Buller village instead of at the skiing village itself.</div>
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It wasn't skiing season yet but it was exciting to spot a few piles of ice along the road as we neared the village. There were a few more in the village itself but as they were on slopes beneath chalets, it was considered too dangerous to approach it for a selfie.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAL6XvazBEsYpDsNFLpej5iN7hIYx_qowGPpY_IH_tWw9e3gfeAwYBSTrN3ZUreV-MCeIIuKfRKeSR7hATwLLUHLMIlqfe8FsRsSy-wGAZ_lW_k5BzyocTaL88ZL948fmx9dwPaJwFTU/s1600/20170415_092802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAL6XvazBEsYpDsNFLpej5iN7hIYx_qowGPpY_IH_tWw9e3gfeAwYBSTrN3ZUreV-MCeIIuKfRKeSR7hATwLLUHLMIlqfe8FsRsSy-wGAZ_lW_k5BzyocTaL88ZL948fmx9dwPaJwFTU/s640/20170415_092802.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bin was there to take part in the Mountain Fun Run so bub and I kept ourselves busy by doing a poop so I had to change his diaper, feed him his breakfast, walk around, exploring, cheering for papa when he ran past, waiting for papa at the finish line but he ended up snoozing before papa crossed the finish line.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52_s_ry_F39EJF4YqvWD6rXPGWNTFdG1ejgXBhLlJWIyICLQJoxU0XMGdAOGCsSoBj9wt2QsITdUBrWpKGfX3Gdq_pAoto1rBb2C9ear2OdfZigv_ta4KI4DKT57rbGCbQn158UfLf_0/s1600/20170415_093450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh52_s_ry_F39EJF4YqvWD6rXPGWNTFdG1ejgXBhLlJWIyICLQJoxU0XMGdAOGCsSoBj9wt2QsITdUBrWpKGfX3Gdq_pAoto1rBb2C9ear2OdfZigv_ta4KI4DKT57rbGCbQn158UfLf_0/s640/20170415_093450.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Later on, we drove up to the bottom of the summit to trudge up the summit, hoping to catch the view of the valleys beyond us. Alas, the fog came in, so there were very small pockets of clear views. I wished I had brought my gloves because my fingers were cold!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhyphenhyphenz7eLNXN3hNYNRPjLZOmx_YCOJNEfjX8yQOPpOnZqvEsv6TRW6JeYtGrs_QcNLJ5ho9C5Dge3ud3SyiLj8chwyPDDaI9Cpsp41oP1zC6ONHb3m02PcCxb0uBu-FL5vfnj4noFP81T8/s1600/20170415_123125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLhyphenhyphenz7eLNXN3hNYNRPjLZOmx_YCOJNEfjX8yQOPpOnZqvEsv6TRW6JeYtGrs_QcNLJ5ho9C5Dge3ud3SyiLj8chwyPDDaI9Cpsp41oP1zC6ONHb3m02PcCxb0uBu-FL5vfnj4noFP81T8/s640/20170415_123125.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The run itself brought 14km runners up to the summit to have their little bib stamped by a marshal waiting at the top (to avoid cheaters) and I really can't imagine how long I'd have taken had I participated in the run. </div>
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There were plenty of visitors trudging up the summit that day despite the fog.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfqCf6vm6R8abyTIbNxCg1PD4XamAvdvfcG1-y9jjNh0wOyGXFdTwZhFQr6bPO1wNC1oocaDiD5FykIH4xhU0j3pKlvd6SZYybGJVEPTPVhXghOO1VXwRxXk8NixmY0_CLpkM40TXEwI/s1600/20170415_124329.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXfqCf6vm6R8abyTIbNxCg1PD4XamAvdvfcG1-y9jjNh0wOyGXFdTwZhFQr6bPO1wNC1oocaDiD5FykIH4xhU0j3pKlvd6SZYybGJVEPTPVhXghOO1VXwRxXk8NixmY0_CLpkM40TXEwI/s640/20170415_124329.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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B was lucky that I had prepared some food for his lunch so we fed him in the car before we walked up to the summit. His parents ate cold noodles and plums and some biscuits - such is life when I hadn't packed enough food for our trip. As long as we have everything for B, the adults can make do with everything else you can purchase at the stores. C'mon, B can't eat fast-food yet! ;) </div>
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<b><u>Me</u></b></div>
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I am currently hooked on <b>Call The Midwife</b> series. It's pretty cool that we get to rent the DVDs from the library for 2 weeks and we're almost finished with season 4. One of our favourite characters is Sister Monica Joan, who quotes phrases from great literature and uses such bombastic words for her vocabulary. </div>
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I am still getting poor sleep at night as B has regressed into his old habit (at the age of 6 months below) of waking up every 3 hours for feed. I don't know why he's such a glutton. *gloomy look* He's just like his parents!</div>
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B turns 1 next month and we are a little bit hesitant to throw a birthday party for him. It's a lot of work, you know, but sigh, probably necessary to have a few friends over. Nothing extravagant like those huge banners and buntings, or cakes with fondant icing decorations or cupcakes with cartoon toppers and what-nots. We strive to keep it low-key and homey as ours once was. Call us old-fashioned but hey, a 1-year-old won't remember much about it, right?</div>
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Hmmm ... I've got several sewing and cooking projects to embark on but simply don't have the time to indulge myself. If B was contented in playing on his own for an hour when he's awake, then perhaps it's possible. But I suspect he's also running out on toys to content himself with. I find himself flicking through pages of his books every now and then, and I smiled happily to myself. It has been a concern of mine that he wouldn't love books as much as I do. Hehe.</div>
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<br />
So now that the month of May begins tomorrow, and after deliberating for months, I will finally get my a$$ back on a regular exercise regime - I will wake up early tomorrow and get my workout done at the gym and get home before hubs leaves for work. Which means, I should go to bed NOW.<br />
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It's the only way to get some exercise done since I don't like running while pushing the stroller!<br />
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Oh gawd.<br />
Wish me luck.</div>
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P.s. on Sesame Street: He's pretty taken with Elmo and I have to grudgingly admit that he does grow on you. (I was never an Elmo fan.) I'm glad B likes Cookie Monster too as he cracks me up in his Crumby Pictures parodies of movies!</div>
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(Check them out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=crumby+pictures">here</a>! I guarantee you'll laugh, especially <b>Twilight Breaking Cookie</b> as they got Bella's acting spot on - just looking stoned!)</div>
Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-9681194933282046742017-03-07T13:03:00.001+11:002017-03-07T13:03:13.362+11:00Running Again - Wyndham Rotary Fun Run Walk 2017<div style="text-align: justify;">
I never thought I'd be running again (in races) until B turns 1. You know, until my pelvic floor and <i>whatnots </i>are functioning properly again. :D</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
But as a step towards regaining my fitness, I signed up for the 5KM run just two weeks ago as a kick in the right direction. Only then did I start 'training' for it, heh, jogging at least 3 times a week! </div>
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It's a pain to run while pushing the stroller, you know, that's why I'm always inclined to walk around the neighbourhood instead!</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, the goal was to complete the distance within 40 minutes, at most, as the hubs' 10KM starts 45 minutes after my run. Someone had to take over minding our koala.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawSV8BE3BLsNcEGb4HZplKhTey88OPwlQ0C7JhjdtKQSdCYpqAAjB3z1rU4P_AUcNjlupP5nMNUbIwhXewkY-1mgCP30Z38faTj6PPq9itlTLyhT_Q97U7SQxOWMNEBawz1wnLkKbmwA/s1600/IMAG2600_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgawSV8BE3BLsNcEGb4HZplKhTey88OPwlQ0C7JhjdtKQSdCYpqAAjB3z1rU4P_AUcNjlupP5nMNUbIwhXewkY-1mgCP30Z38faTj6PPq9itlTLyhT_Q97U7SQxOWMNEBawz1wnLkKbmwA/s640/IMAG2600_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wyndham Rotary Fun Run/Walk 2017 was held at the Chirnside Park, Werribee on March 5th.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was a pleasant Sunday morning for a lovely run as it was cool and cloudy. I love small events as it's less crowded on the route.</div>
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We ran along the Werribee River and made a u-turn halfway through (along the highway / Federation Trail) to head back to the field. I wasn't really paying attention to the scenery around me as I was focused on my breathing and trying to maintain a steady pace. I thought I would end up killing myself if I pushed too hard but the actual fact was, I held myself back.</div>
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I stopped to walk twice, just to catch my breath up a tiny slope and before entering the finishing chute. I know I shouldn't have!</div>
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About 500m before the finish line, I encouraged a fellow runner who was walking, to keep on going as we were nearly there. He must have somehow taken offence when I ran past him while saying that, because he suddenly shot off with a tremendous burst of speed.</div>
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(You know how sensitive some older folks can be ...)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rkPcAuSArzTVl-4wXB2H4_zAwaHjnnkvLXrzNyleQtEfdM6Qad622glLwHgQy588Evk9ebXRXDf45hWlc7G24JfgQC_64FS536m4xAW1BxYgegxSQ1iUAueaVLVRUb-NbCFNWBjEelA/s1600/IMG-20170305-WA0011_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7rkPcAuSArzTVl-4wXB2H4_zAwaHjnnkvLXrzNyleQtEfdM6Qad622glLwHgQy588Evk9ebXRXDf45hWlc7G24JfgQC_64FS536m4xAW1BxYgegxSQ1iUAueaVLVRUb-NbCFNWBjEelA/s640/IMG-20170305-WA0011_1.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wanted to show off my dress here. :D<br />Oh, and my cute grumpy boo!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
It turned out that my fitness is still OK, despite not running regularly for the past 3 months - there is hope to get back to where I used to be! </div>
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I was pleasantly surprised that I could squeeze into my running dress. I only remembered it when I was getting reading that morning. </div>
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I was also chuffed to finish under 30 minutes in good form! I should have pushed myself, shouldn't I? Heh. Let's not kill myself so soon ... baby steps!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPwMkNo3_Q6BXu_BTdPO8Ce0yUhfFaIhV5cJPIh2TQdCKCsKfBmUwr5K0nfLxPwqy9Eg0HV3dOyyDsk5zFZXmDMGFKbrcj8ewdFnKC83ylvisdtzd-CNDQ8_ComyupEOZuhCsI2oWE2Y/s1600/IMG-20170307-WA0003_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsPwMkNo3_Q6BXu_BTdPO8Ce0yUhfFaIhV5cJPIh2TQdCKCsKfBmUwr5K0nfLxPwqy9Eg0HV3dOyyDsk5zFZXmDMGFKbrcj8ewdFnKC83ylvisdtzd-CNDQ8_ComyupEOZuhCsI2oWE2Y/s640/IMG-20170307-WA0003_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Everyone did better than they expected, the hubs and Eugene. Everyone hasn't been running regularly so they had concerns about how they'd fare. Hehe. </div>
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So, the hubs tells me that my next event (preferably end of this month) should be a 10KM. Whattt ... the thought of training again makes me feel lazy ...</div>
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But I confess, running regularly again and to be able to do a 10km effortlessly is this year's motivation. Well, maybe graduate to a half marathon distance by the end of the year. I can't afford to put in too much time into training as little B will need my time and energy as well!</div>
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Sorry for ending most of the sentences with exclamation marks! Haha</div>
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-18141339378785649632017-02-15T23:12:00.001+11:002017-02-15T23:12:46.828+11:00Brendan's Bear<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once upon a time, my boy received a lovely gift pack from a good mate (I bet his wife did the careful shopping). He was two months old when we first visited them.</div>
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In the pack was a dark brown bear comforter snuggly (what do you call it?) and we'd place it on his chest every time he slept. I believe that's how he grew attached to it. :)</div>
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He'd shriek with glee each time he spotted the bear when we put him in his cot, and would proceed to chew on its snout or tag. In fact, he'd suck on the tag until he'd fall asleep during his naps.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj98N6RCDBVytR2_gCeb2iFXh6-AOeES-STPbfC5PeEgC_bsVz6RD_u_DaKIrodG1A5iVK_3VTFyXERk3nqols1ew9xjBjmdmltZTLpjbbODMGmWDYocQSFui9OFidz0d7XSrTxECkUUnc/s1600/IMAG2157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj98N6RCDBVytR2_gCeb2iFXh6-AOeES-STPbfC5PeEgC_bsVz6RD_u_DaKIrodG1A5iVK_3VTFyXERk3nqols1ew9xjBjmdmltZTLpjbbODMGmWDYocQSFui9OFidz0d7XSrTxECkUUnc/s640/IMAG2157.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Above is one of the pictures I took of his nap times in the past. I just couldn't resist smiling (with total adoration for my boy, hehe) whenever I find him with The Very Hungry Caterpillar cloth book or the bear partially covering his face.</div>
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He adored the bear so much that if you were to hold the bear and any other plush toys hostage, he'd dive and save the bear first.</div>
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Always.</div>
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A few weeks ago, we flew to Malaysia to celebrate Chinese New Year with our families. We made sure the bear traveled with us as his dependable companion on the plane.</div>
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Unfortunately, unknown to me, the bear fell out of my bag last Monday at KLIA before we cleared security check for our flight to Melbourne. I only realised this halfway through our flight.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnCt60Dr7QhDAOEV3ZRGsE57hp7k4lsZgV-1iY2f0TFf1wtqYk6v8k8YtgoJEsOx2ahgQe_aoVXotfJy-2kKJCGoaBAYqXPmeGlwqcLVZEhkyeOzorRVT2kz0dmXX_c-FjTw-iXwPU-U/s1600/Screenshot_2017-02-09-23-12-59.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhnCt60Dr7QhDAOEV3ZRGsE57hp7k4lsZgV-1iY2f0TFf1wtqYk6v8k8YtgoJEsOx2ahgQe_aoVXotfJy-2kKJCGoaBAYqXPmeGlwqcLVZEhkyeOzorRVT2kz0dmXX_c-FjTw-iXwPU-U/s640/Screenshot_2017-02-09-23-12-59.png" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the bear.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I was so so so gutted.</div>
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I felt terrible.</div>
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Bin and I were horrified!</div>
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The night we got home, I think Brendan had difficulties with heading into dreamland. Not sure if it was because there was no bear, as well as jet lag and tired, but he cried inconsolably for an hour. </div>
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Two nights after that, he cried for 2 hours. </div>
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OMG it was tough for everyone as we were a bit under the weather, too.</div>
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I decided then and there that I'd try to replicate the bear for him as the bear was no longer available on the shelves (since months back).</div>
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Geez, talk about true love for my baby ...</div>
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It took me 3 nights (intermittent hours here and there) and I finally managed to make something which resembled closely to the bear. Granted that the materials I used were not 100% accurate, but colour wise, I almost nailed it. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmIreIdyQCl6OSst3e0r-733UKwL4AoOJPcU1QhyNQYSQipFt0zVo_wfonm2qFEoZSNXF26uB6AF-SRyaTCvS4wOdLikQke1JV2cB5xGTptLPij9elPOwpVIy3mL9rwXu06ZEzXjorCc/s1600/IMAG2452_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmIreIdyQCl6OSst3e0r-733UKwL4AoOJPcU1QhyNQYSQipFt0zVo_wfonm2qFEoZSNXF26uB6AF-SRyaTCvS4wOdLikQke1JV2cB5xGTptLPij9elPOwpVIy3mL9rwXu06ZEzXjorCc/s640/IMAG2452_1.jpg" width="446" /></a></div>
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Kinda.</div>
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When we presented the bear to him, he smiled and reached out for it. He checked its snout and tag, and decided that the bear was alright.</div>
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<br /></div>
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He doesn't have the same attachment as he did with the first one but he's doing much better now. At least he has something to reach out to when he needs it. :)</div>
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But should the hubs hold it hostage with the other plush toys, the bear would not be his first choice to save.</div>
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Nevertheless, I'm pretty impressed with my newbie skills. Heh.</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-17407117342319492572017-01-13T22:48:00.002+11:002017-01-13T22:48:47.310+11:00It's 2017!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Soooo ... looking back on 2016 achievements, I don't recall having any!</div>
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I'm just glad that I had a good pregnancy at the beginning of the year, and blessed with a healthy and happy baby boy in May. </div>
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The first 7 months of motherhood have been interesting. </div>
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Taxing. </div>
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Happy.</div>
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Lethargic.</div>
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Trying.</div>
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Laughter.</div>
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Love, love and lots of love. :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuisJZaXb7IymV9OuAFKkUz5murS_UE-mqyVwT40ypIW80-qKkFdkTIq4eaKsD4EYHosvlWUaspLUfjde7wpXWazVKGZMBel2b4FOlOnxLx8ZVN4NnHuPGRlUcZcuJhFqUgm5Yxue7GI/s1600/IMAG2316.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuisJZaXb7IymV9OuAFKkUz5murS_UE-mqyVwT40ypIW80-qKkFdkTIq4eaKsD4EYHosvlWUaspLUfjde7wpXWazVKGZMBel2b4FOlOnxLx8ZVN4NnHuPGRlUcZcuJhFqUgm5Yxue7GI/s640/IMAG2316.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dec 2016: Sleeping side by side in our living room.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We spent a few days of the Christmas holidays in Gippsland, checking out a few local sites. During that time, Melbourne was hit by high temp and we managed to escape it for a while and have the luxury of sleeping in a hotel for 2 nights. Bliss!</div>
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When we returned home, well, the heat came back and we camped out in our living room for 2 nights as that was the only room in our house with an air conditioning unit. </div>
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I couldn't bear it anymore after that and decided I'd rather sleep in my own bed, with the fan blasting my direcgion. </div>
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We're flying to Malaysia next weekend so we're left with just this weekend to complete our spring cleaning. There's TONS to do, and it's going to be harder to complete them with a sticky koala needing cuddles and attention every now and then.</div>
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Bub is suffering from teething pain and sometimes prefer to stick close to us once he's done exploring. The past 2 nights he has been waking up a few times for feed/comfort. *roll eyes* </div>
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He's crawling about these days and can sit up now. Some mornings, I'll find myself being hollered an <span style="color: #e69138;">"Ehhhhhh!"</span> to wake up - he'll push himself up and go to the corner of his crib nearest to me to do so! </div>
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Sometimes, he'll thump the railing a couple of times for impact.</div>
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Often, I'd wish I could continue sleeping and ignore him ...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hYn4SD7EfCFyE6qr5e_jr4yEULc764xk7-LWSBPuM5Z9alU8tRgCHWVwPJHlqmOcuDpHS8RVDEM14cmpw-qLSMApkWVuMEQEPJC5VIAeUZQYM56eQj2duen9A8PKUbhDPghSfqcSFHE/s1600/IMAG2342_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hYn4SD7EfCFyE6qr5e_jr4yEULc764xk7-LWSBPuM5Z9alU8tRgCHWVwPJHlqmOcuDpHS8RVDEM14cmpw-qLSMApkWVuMEQEPJC5VIAeUZQYM56eQj2duen9A8PKUbhDPghSfqcSFHE/s640/IMAG2342_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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No such thing as extravagant dinner these days.<br />
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I did attempt cauliflower rice a few days ago, to accompany the creamy tomato chicken dish. It was a messy affair to grate the cauliflower!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA04hiu6lXyJrwuJ-2B7pEJBjQbyuThnVQTBErg7ekwEomzHIG8MdqgdxlFuiZD0hEGAS7KMhqQAuhUu_flpuqQFq6lN5HgJ6RSSyN14Mg4nxCa4R9q5SARadlhycg4yS6JMUG3Vpd0do/s1600/IMAG2345_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA04hiu6lXyJrwuJ-2B7pEJBjQbyuThnVQTBErg7ekwEomzHIG8MdqgdxlFuiZD0hEGAS7KMhqQAuhUu_flpuqQFq6lN5HgJ6RSSyN14Mg4nxCa4R9q5SARadlhycg4yS6JMUG3Vpd0do/s640/IMAG2345_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then I started reminiscing my childhood days of eating prawn fritters cooked by my mum or grandmother. I did such a poor version of it, just because I was too scrooge to add an egg to the batter. Hehe. Instead, I experimented with sesame seeds and crushed peanuts in the batter. Taste wise, you don't really taste them but they add texture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12efchOoFF6-kvIYxOS0YsHkXT5MCY3dKDlefjdOpxawEn2aVwo5wB5hEySq6LyBElScNa7agfTaneZx83HqGMcLiZFW04MVJcPV7Q5HDYokPMK2b3SXw_zNrLGAhalkf2QJ8tesN1AE/s1600/IMAG2362_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh12efchOoFF6-kvIYxOS0YsHkXT5MCY3dKDlefjdOpxawEn2aVwo5wB5hEySq6LyBElScNa7agfTaneZx83HqGMcLiZFW04MVJcPV7Q5HDYokPMK2b3SXw_zNrLGAhalkf2QJ8tesN1AE/s640/IMAG2362_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today is Friday, and the hubs initially suggested we go out for dinner instead of cooking. Since he suggested pizza, I thought I'd make them at home instead. (Try this <a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/user/2692581/recipe/no-yeast-pizza-dough">No Yeast Pizza Dough</a>.)<br />
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Experimented with pork meatballs as toppings!<br />
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Hmmm, had to make the meatballs beforehand, though. So this really was quite time consuming.<br />
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We finally opened bubba's Christmas presents yesterday. When I say we, I actually mean me.</div>
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Among the stash, he really liked a finger puppet book and a toy xylophone. Most of all, he was eyeing any plastic wrappers he could get his hand on so he could chew on them ...</div>
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Oh my gawd, I'm falling asleep here and this is not even a long post!</div>
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Sorry peeps, I'll have to cut it short. </div>
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I know if I don't keep this short and sweet, I'll have nothing to say but gush on and on about how happy it makes me feel to see my sticky koala happy and laughing every time. </div>
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And that would be quite a pain to read. :)</div>
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And no, I don't have any new year resolutions.Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-19403930813084016382016-12-16T11:58:00.001+11:002016-12-16T11:58:36.415+11:00What, December Is Here??<div style="text-align: justify;">
Soooo, I've been a mum for 6 months now, and gosh, how time just seems to fly when you're not sleeping enough! </div>
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I swear I've aged 10 years since.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0NP39DufVBoGTc9wJm0Kty8cbDNiJh871yyVJgweFqxESERbTzTj3Zvx7zZZyk67JEucjG7QydMPuE1JzrZml1coe3Tx9lsOJyD8P1n47QVNHmpwvFa4w0VcPbBK7fQnO-xGbpfKzO8/s1600/PhotoGrid_1476500709816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq0NP39DufVBoGTc9wJm0Kty8cbDNiJh871yyVJgweFqxESERbTzTj3Zvx7zZZyk67JEucjG7QydMPuE1JzrZml1coe3Tx9lsOJyD8P1n47QVNHmpwvFa4w0VcPbBK7fQnO-xGbpfKzO8/s640/PhotoGrid_1476500709816.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I've yet to make a few more to complete the fleet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Little B is no longer the little dumpling he was 6 months ago, but is now mummy's little sticky koala. He's a cheeky fella with a ready grin and restless hands, and doesn't take mummy's <span style="color: #0b5394;">"NOOOOO!!!!"</span> seriously.</div>
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In fact, he'll chuckle and think it's one of mummy's sound effects. (I do a pretty impressive clucking hen and yapping puppy!)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89DsN1o-J77vmyQLY_MdPexiahfcWCnHd6wrU6pL58PUcGxDgWxVfziDp1KZMWFAkXniBWEr6XZHiSAYC1_S6k192NBJMKuzyD5riEcCuQN4KEwFd3j9HReSXSnIxxbhF5nWeZa3ThD8/s1600/IMAG2161.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh89DsN1o-J77vmyQLY_MdPexiahfcWCnHd6wrU6pL58PUcGxDgWxVfziDp1KZMWFAkXniBWEr6XZHiSAYC1_S6k192NBJMKuzyD5riEcCuQN4KEwFd3j9HReSXSnIxxbhF5nWeZa3ThD8/s640/IMAG2161.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not impressed with the toy mummy made for him.</td></tr>
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I wish I could proudly say that it has been a breeze but we all know that it would be a terrible lie. I struggle with putting him down for his naps and bedtime - bedtime is a constant battle as he often screams and wails. I amuse myself by singing <span style="color: #741b47;">"The End Of The World" </span>which puzzles him. Hehe. I find it amusing because I suspect he thinks being left in his cot to sleep is equivalent to a death sentence and it really is the end of the world. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAU6USJ8rH92_M_slqolu0qm2uz9RxT0mu0_XsIMSc3BC3gXX4lFkn7VW4tr5w4NV_-Q63PlZQMJ7stgz-YOlBGruI_-oMWKDoggV4BK8DnwBbTS9USp7kJLTENFgq5NP6h1eDZ7QEdQ/s1600/IMAG2183.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqAU6USJ8rH92_M_slqolu0qm2uz9RxT0mu0_XsIMSc3BC3gXX4lFkn7VW4tr5w4NV_-Q63PlZQMJ7stgz-YOlBGruI_-oMWKDoggV4BK8DnwBbTS9USp7kJLTENFgq5NP6h1eDZ7QEdQ/s640/IMAG2183.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fell asleep after mummy refused to entertain his wails. Yes!!!<br />
But only a half hour nap, though. Booooo!</td></tr>
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And when he finally sleeps, I rejoice!</div>
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And then comes the dilemma: do I catch a few winks, too, or get on with my chores?</div>
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Bugger.</div>
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Such is my daily struggle. :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemG5RjRGxAdU6FLGN7-ohq1ZW3VU6vO6WpFNN7GcG_-7EcwFGd11eM0tlhXrXbFJXU4L0Sc0dvLhMdS3wCaSc3TrDgUVYxzbhh0Xxm927A4t23rFJNNGWnWmBXlcuzN0QcJrOFjkK4YI/s1600/IMAG2111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiemG5RjRGxAdU6FLGN7-ohq1ZW3VU6vO6WpFNN7GcG_-7EcwFGd11eM0tlhXrXbFJXU4L0Sc0dvLhMdS3wCaSc3TrDgUVYxzbhh0Xxm927A4t23rFJNNGWnWmBXlcuzN0QcJrOFjkK4YI/s640/IMAG2111.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hiking the Northern Range track at You Yangs Regional Park.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We try to go for a hike every weekend so the parents can get some exercise in and also expose him to the outdoors where he'll be spending a good chunk of his childhood. Unfortunately there are a lot of flies and mozzies now that the warm weather is here.</span><br />
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Poor bub gets so bored on the trails that he tends to take a nap while mummy will huff and puff up the incline.</div>
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So far, there hasn't a need for me to feed him on the trails. Thank goodness for that!</div>
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I'm going to talk about something else besides my little bub now, lest I end up rambling about him. (Let's hope he'll continue napping until I finish writing this post!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegyxxk9LM2lWk8ca2e_gAyck3f9z0qrRCXDXJeu-L_OlNeGjpq6LaLMbI3mY1oURy8OJRvOyeWw0_1elWuJJm4pHFWy8QUhXAz_mTbrlQryb9tq2FoklbgngyPzXga0NUA5qD7tiTWtc/s1600/IMAG2191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegyxxk9LM2lWk8ca2e_gAyck3f9z0qrRCXDXJeu-L_OlNeGjpq6LaLMbI3mY1oURy8OJRvOyeWw0_1elWuJJm4pHFWy8QUhXAz_mTbrlQryb9tq2FoklbgngyPzXga0NUA5qD7tiTWtc/s640/IMAG2191.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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This is our neighbour's plum tree. Every time I step outside into our backyard, these fruits stare at me so invitingly that I wished one of its branches was leaning over to our side so I could pluck them. I found a fallen fruit in our yard that day and we tasted it. It was decently sweet, not sour at all. Lucky neighbour!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3t-pU6k_VndtLv1yvwGOmyCmpppK_rgRbRsz6ZUfA-elnnhfZuGfxqJNRbi8IJFB-wVmTdLpU6G1wFFrkwAc1yVSQYIe_H0n5vSZWrfMIudzFYIvCTqS6SOFbhNa2AGLB5j8gkyg3x9o/s1600/IMAG2206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3t-pU6k_VndtLv1yvwGOmyCmpppK_rgRbRsz6ZUfA-elnnhfZuGfxqJNRbi8IJFB-wVmTdLpU6G1wFFrkwAc1yVSQYIe_H0n5vSZWrfMIudzFYIvCTqS6SOFbhNa2AGLB5j8gkyg3x9o/s640/IMAG2206.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This is one of our blueberry plants. It was exciting for a while to see them turning ripe, until I realised how I had to check on them on daily basis to know when they were ripe enough to be plucked. </span><br />
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I guess that's the reason why they cost quite a bit as you need tons of plants to yield enough blueberries to fill a punnet!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYWblJUXtXXE5umP1qXIBTnZaVqczuhZ_e-SQW5nk1qpiO5QFUkswBooE4pro_rBpPXETD06ChFuGukJCZLT4rAELAxHCmwl7N9_0J_7AdCIKlAog9jrw3REq99JK80f95oNVZPXAI4Q/s1600/IMAG2207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlYWblJUXtXXE5umP1qXIBTnZaVqczuhZ_e-SQW5nk1qpiO5QFUkswBooE4pro_rBpPXETD06ChFuGukJCZLT4rAELAxHCmwl7N9_0J_7AdCIKlAog9jrw3REq99JK80f95oNVZPXAI4Q/s640/IMAG2207.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">One of the herbs we have been trying to grow since 2 years ago is the coriander/cilantro. We bought 2 or 3 punnets from Bunnings a few times and every time they'd struggle and just die.</span><br />
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Then the hubs decided that he'd try and grow them from the roots of store bought ones. They flourished for a while, grew seeds and flowers, and died.</div>
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The ones pictured here are from those seeds. It turned out to be a pleasant surprise as we really didn't expect them to find its way into our vegetable patch! </div>
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We're now waiting for it to 'pass on' for the next generation. I've even chucked some cuttings onto our nature strip in front of our house to see if they'll shoot up next year. :P</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We grew some curly kale from a packet of seeds and we didn't expect them to grow so well. I lost interest in them when I realised that stupid aphids loved kale - they're a pain to clean off the leaves prior to cooking and consumption!</span><br />
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Not only that, we had a short stint of caterpillars happily leaving lots of holes in the young juicy leaves. The hubs had to check the plants regularly and 'dismantle' the caterpillars from the leaves and give them a new home some place else. :P</div>
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We are excited that our persimmon tree is fruiting!<br />
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It's still struggling to be a very healthy tree so we're obliged to give it tons of TLC and pray its fruits will stay with us until they're ripe.<br />
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Gosh, gardening is a tough job.<br />
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It's a pretty Aussie thing to do, I suppose, to have a vege patch. It does gives a topic of conversation to have with like-minded friends. :D<br />
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My post from our trip to New Zealand last December is still in draft!<br />
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Tsk tsk.<br />
It's going to be another new year by the time it's ready.<br />
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I hope not!<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-82876938722445389762016-07-16T13:00:00.000+10:002016-07-16T13:00:35.428+10:00Fears Of Being Pregnant and Being a Mother<div style="text-align: justify;">
For years since we got married in 2011, we've had people asking us to have a baby pronto while we were still "young". Only a few people (and friends) advised us to do what we wanted to do first before jumping into parenthood. You know, like travel the world, win the lottery, etc ... haha!</div>
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In all honesty, I was always terrified of going through pregnancy and motherhood. No, it wasn't about 'being pregnant' but going 'through pregnancy', if there's a difference. Which I think there is.</div>
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Or maybe not ... :D</div>
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<b>My main fear was being an overweight pregnant woman and an overweight mother soon after the 9 months were over.</b> I was terrified of putting on too much weight and never be able to shed it off. </div>
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I thought I'd be able to lose some weight first before being pregnant but I don't think I tried hard enough! </div>
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I didn't enjoy the weight gain during my first two trimesters because I was always hungry (1st trimester) and I didn't exercise enough during the second trimester. I was annoyed with myself, especially when my weight kept increasing and my appetite was not fading.</div>
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It was hard to stop worrying about the unnecessary or excess weight gain and focus on being healthy and fit. Somehow through time, I did adjust my focus. It made me feel better when friends commented that I looked OK for a pregnant woman.</div>
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Nevertheless, I would remind myself every now and then about how lucky and blessed I was:</div>
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<i>1. My pregnancy was normal and there were no complications;</i></div>
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<i>2. My weight gain was 14kg, which some might say was still too much and some will say that's not too bad. I made sure I walked more during my final trimester and did my best to eat well.</i></div>
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<i>3. I don't have too much stretch marks, just a little bit below my abdomen.</i></div>
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<i>4. I was able to sleep well through the night - you hear stories about babies in tummies kicking up a storm when mummies are sleeping at night.</i></div>
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<i>5. My baby was (and still is) a healthy one.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3XpHNTQsDdOYnvV2guB5EuorRtuuGFwhq8HEt4YfyAdAOvLofDiu6_1QDGZkEnkCnzUR9claiTns6vSMYe5QV082EE5VTiopOvr_2KsbqDGQsshc5dyvQVsjR_Kz4BJ4OCfd-50vuKs/s1600/Screenshot_2016-04-04-16-52-36_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN3XpHNTQsDdOYnvV2guB5EuorRtuuGFwhq8HEt4YfyAdAOvLofDiu6_1QDGZkEnkCnzUR9claiTns6vSMYe5QV082EE5VTiopOvr_2KsbqDGQsshc5dyvQVsjR_Kz4BJ4OCfd-50vuKs/s640/Screenshot_2016-04-04-16-52-36_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Made these bibs in April. Haven't used them yet as they are quite big for him at the moment.</td></tr>
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Moving on, now that the bub is out and 6-7 weeks old, let me tell you about what I feared about being a mother. One of the main reasons I felt that I wouldn't be ready for motherhood was being <b>selfless</b>. <b>I could never imagine myself devoting 99% of my time and energy to a helpless child nor the patience it required.</b> ('It' as in motherhood, not baby!)</div>
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I still can't imagine myself being unselfish but no doubt motherhood will slyly change me all for the sake of the bub. Hmmm ...<br />
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The first few weeks of postpartum were hard. I was irritated by the constant crying and my inability to decipher his cries. The lack of sleep didn't help either. Nor did it help that there were restrictions in my movements during confinement, e.g. I had to walk slowly and carefully so that I didn't tear my stitches. And he was just so fussy - he hated being changed out of his clothes and diapers, didn't enjoy his baths, took more than an hour to settle after feed to go back to sleep, and wanted to be carried often.</div>
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What I thought I'd get, was the ideal baby who could sleep through the night with less fuss after feeds, the independent one who could be put down to sleep without having to be rocked and held to sleep first.</div>
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Well, it's a hard knocked life and I had to be more realistic, Bin said.</div>
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Before I was even pregnant, I swore to myself that I would be the stern, no bullshit mother who would NOT practice <b>attachment parenting</b>. I was annoyed when the hubby would pick up the baby to soothe him when I wanted him to cry it out. (Yeah, mommy's a meanie.)</div>
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I kept reading about how we had to be firm, how we had to instill a routine for him to adapt and soon live it, etc and how we'd be able to have more sleep at night. And you know our Asian parenting also tells us that picking the baby up often results in a pampered child, i.e. he'll be so used to sleeping in your arms, he's bullying the parents as he clearly wants his way, etc.</div>
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So I kept trying to practice being stern and heartless, but his crying and distress would derail me and I confess, there were a few times when I shouted at him to shut it. It was just driving me nuts.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">20th June - During one of our afternoon naps. Not sure how <br />
he moved towards me and ended up resting against my arm. <br />
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Then I read elsewhere that I should pick him up whenever he cried, to find out what he wanted as the sooner I attended to him, the calmer he would soon be and his constant crying would slowly decrease.</div>
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So I tried that instead. Trust me, you would do <i>anything </i>to calm a fussy/crying baby. Bin was more desperate than I was as he needed his sleep in order to function well at work the following day!</div>
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Somehow, the latter method works better and I <i>believe </i>he is less fussy now. </div>
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Or maybe I've reined in my annoyance and anger whenever he cries (I have to remind myself it's not his fault that he's crying, he's not doing it deliberately, it's just his way of communicating, he's just a <i>baby</i>) and am more calm now when dealing with him.</div>
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Or maybe he has grown up, I don't know.</div>
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So that is part of attachment parenting, being able to calm and soothe the baby whenever he needed it. Not the other school of thought where you had to let the baby cry it out and sort himself out. Carry him, if that's what he wanted!</div>
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Trust me, I was the person who smirked and shook her head in disagreement when the midwife in our antenatal class told us that there's nothing wrong with holding our baby as much as he/she wants or whenever he/she cries. No, no, I didn't want to spoil my child.</div>
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<i>(Oh wow, look at that. I actually had the time to sit down to write this post when I thought I'd never be able to have the time to do this ever!)</i></div>
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Anyway, things are a bit better now. I am quite surprised as to how much his behaviour has improved - he's much more calmer. I can change him out of clothes and dirty diapers with no fuss at all, even bathing him is alright, provided I don't do it too close to his feeding time!</div>
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Before I digress further, let me mention one of the other things about motherhood which I feared and was not looking forward to - <b>breastfeeding</b>. This fear was generated based on my perception of pregnancy and motherhood before I got onto the motherhood bandwagon.</div>
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The thought of breastfeeding gave me shudders. I mean, geez, wasn't it like a violation of my privacy??</div>
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It sounds silly but hey, I'm just putting it out here. </div>
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And after this long talk, it's easy to surmise that:</div>
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<b>On being pregnant</b></div>
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I feared being fat and overweight.</div>
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I feared having to go through a Caesarian surgery.</div>
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<b>On being a mother</b></div>
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I feared breastfeeding would speed up the process of sagging boobs.</div>
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I feared I had to be selfless towards the new human I helped create, as I honestly believe I am pretty much a selfish person.</div>
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I fear(ed) having a spoiled brat of a child.</div>
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On being selfless, let's just say that sometimes I don't even have the chance to brush my teeth!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7LTTszgeSp0Ss2PIaya7e5MyoUdbqhZTpA6N39jyofXY346ls5zK0uT-7bcxFgMvfOi21DKUm4tmGvOd4-7YPMpW2234KmbvRz6JBaJbVeVV2DSE_6zlSRPhG8CulnZ2yz1w0f-Y5LY/s1600/IMAG1314.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7LTTszgeSp0Ss2PIaya7e5MyoUdbqhZTpA6N39jyofXY346ls5zK0uT-7bcxFgMvfOi21DKUm4tmGvOd4-7YPMpW2234KmbvRz6JBaJbVeVV2DSE_6zlSRPhG8CulnZ2yz1w0f-Y5LY/s640/IMAG1314.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14th July, 1045pm - Instead of settling down for the night, <br />
he was gurgling non stop and wanted to chat.</td></tr>
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Bin says our son will definitely be mommy's boy and I did my best not to smirk. Mommy's the food provider at the moment, so of course he's mommy's boy!</div>
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Anyhoo, I foresee some difficulties in adjusting our routine in the future but we keep reminding ourselves that he's just a baby and not even 2 months old yet. Granted, he's giant baby and looks like a 3-4 month old so we do tend to forget his real age. :(</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-52139323181123374112016-07-14T13:07:00.002+10:002016-07-14T13:07:14.970+10:00Making A Mess With Sewing<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>14 July 2016 </i></b><br />
<i>Gosh, this post has been in the draft folder for a few months now and I'm already a mother to a 6.5 week old baby boy! :D :D :D</i><br />
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Sooooo in February, I finally took out the sewing machine I bought last year. I finally had the guts to test it out and see if I'd enjoy sewing.</div>
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I had so much fun that I find myself hunting for things I could sew, without it being too complicated for a beginner like me.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HDu5n3g8kRbQPxBbN4FjmVP6jMMsYsO5L6kZvgS0P2QlvRIyeQ_Gf6kJMBCl-yQMmBR89O0XSEIb0fbaMbdKTX7SCmgKegzQphzR4Z3MhuBYmJgV_gYz3sPdaH1EioHVqxtTT9UNEMY/s1600/IMAG0865_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HDu5n3g8kRbQPxBbN4FjmVP6jMMsYsO5L6kZvgS0P2QlvRIyeQ_Gf6kJMBCl-yQMmBR89O0XSEIb0fbaMbdKTX7SCmgKegzQphzR4Z3MhuBYmJgV_gYz3sPdaH1EioHVqxtTT9UNEMY/s640/IMAG0865_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bigger elephant cushion will be handy for the bub's tummy time, I think.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I started with a small elephant pillow and was surprised how small it turned out. So I got the hubs to enlarge the pattern which he drew for me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8IB9HZ0SovQVYV9HQvGfa8ugRjTZyGbfeGxgzvGmBzhqjqnU22ORgeGnAwKQ5JY_7Lg-uMu7QIEiMlsHdNJOm0faNKqKnBV7mgGhDVdTm2z99oTZt9X17rD4yQdvhP9f7M827nS3cOE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1461210453397_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_8IB9HZ0SovQVYV9HQvGfa8ugRjTZyGbfeGxgzvGmBzhqjqnU22ORgeGnAwKQ5JY_7Lg-uMu7QIEiMlsHdNJOm0faNKqKnBV7mgGhDVdTm2z99oTZt9X17rD4yQdvhP9f7M827nS3cOE/s640/PhotoGrid_1461210453397_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Made a pink striped version for my ex-colleague who's expecting a baby girl this month. </div>
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I was so pleased to finish my crochet baby blanket and sew a pale yellow flannelette backing to it, which makes it feel *really* comfy, I didn't expect to be emotional whilst sewing the flannelette to it, but I started to think about my late paternal grandmother, who is the only person I know in the family who used to sew us pillows, pajamas and patchwork blankets. Despite my shoddy handiwork, I hope she's proud of me for picking up sewing as a hobby. :D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IfMb0FmyfVy8ryn1OyKebafHNqSvbB-Hhs-wpeGkg8ROcrkJPCBTS41MK6Fl1kvNin5xJrt65nGI2Zp3OquBNBWlSXmVWuDf_2MJvIPm4aGR_-H8dsw6cRm7iFkdgsARcV3HvJYPbZw/s1600/IMAG0977_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1IfMb0FmyfVy8ryn1OyKebafHNqSvbB-Hhs-wpeGkg8ROcrkJPCBTS41MK6Fl1kvNin5xJrt65nGI2Zp3OquBNBWlSXmVWuDf_2MJvIPm4aGR_-H8dsw6cRm7iFkdgsARcV3HvJYPbZw/s640/IMAG0977_1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I made 2 kiddy tote bags for a friend's daughters and they were pretty excited and happy to receive them, despite my really poor handiwork. A shame I didn't have enough of that glittery striped fabric to complete both bags!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qB-6Q_qZ2guZbPQup6O2yudNo0c_MNa71uIjtGnLEdDvzjQjxOKykojLRYthkpn9TmZwSnExz97LoUJlKn1Y6CMvm9_nd1iA42e8_15xQVXAg1oyUwURsPZnyFnKDhC4qTjVXs1wUw0/s1600/IMAG0978_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qB-6Q_qZ2guZbPQup6O2yudNo0c_MNa71uIjtGnLEdDvzjQjxOKykojLRYthkpn9TmZwSnExz97LoUJlKn1Y6CMvm9_nd1iA42e8_15xQVXAg1oyUwURsPZnyFnKDhC4qTjVXs1wUw0/s640/IMAG0978_1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I had to use 2 - 3 different pieces of fabric to piece 1 bag together!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIsi5-Yc3z0GTfHWFaeXa4Ajzs5QlCftUoyQWCGWJ6N5YzMUhwVIyAM9X8PITJLrv4TSpFD0yG_H1-Of-zSVIWFEWbc1fFxpJl9nQa0CCKJbOE7HOQ_SiR4StNOOqknGMl0P0DC3Wlxs/s1600/IMG-20160518-WA0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFIsi5-Yc3z0GTfHWFaeXa4Ajzs5QlCftUoyQWCGWJ6N5YzMUhwVIyAM9X8PITJLrv4TSpFD0yG_H1-Of-zSVIWFEWbc1fFxpJl9nQa0CCKJbOE7HOQ_SiR4StNOOqknGMl0P0DC3Wlxs/s320/IMG-20160518-WA0002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lil Miss K posing with the bag.</td></tr>
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I made another tote bag for a friend to use as I had this great idea that it would come in handy, especially when you're out and about with the kids. Of course, when it came to execution ... that was another story. :P</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXe-p5qqeqtPgjideqvswhck64Btqt7siVWrPWEFRLZ9hKZDLuz9w20H0h779mcgryuascWcMhAxwp4x0vm7jJ1zASslX3E3EITTiQkLhlXoaNAnGUeVqGqAOLa0dKzwXoSRqBiB4lNk/s1600/IMAG0992_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtXe-p5qqeqtPgjideqvswhck64Btqt7siVWrPWEFRLZ9hKZDLuz9w20H0h779mcgryuascWcMhAxwp4x0vm7jJ1zASslX3E3EITTiQkLhlXoaNAnGUeVqGqAOLa0dKzwXoSRqBiB4lNk/s640/IMAG0992_1_1.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once again, using Fat Quarter fabrics and trying to match the colours.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRN8XcUxdVeKqgltQPMQ02Jeqmrm5Afls50MGCGYKfppWTqJh8oUxXR7WU-sWn7UxHLzU6WfvTTsR9wHocphB_rnX8ZDhWq-K3ywHhlKePntNN4Ry6ypEg7kea0FWR2UI3KzNKDVej5A/s1600/IMAG0994_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrRN8XcUxdVeKqgltQPMQ02Jeqmrm5Afls50MGCGYKfppWTqJh8oUxXR7WU-sWn7UxHLzU6WfvTTsR9wHocphB_rnX8ZDhWq-K3ywHhlKePntNN4Ry6ypEg7kea0FWR2UI3KzNKDVej5A/s640/IMAG0994_1.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A different colour inside.</td></tr>
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I was hoping I'd be able to make myself a nappy tote bag but decided not to stress myself and wait for some free time in between baby's naps but ... well, seems like that's going to be impossible until he starts napping for more than 30 minutes!</div>
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I can honestly say that sewing is fun, but a shame that the materials you need can cost a bomb!</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-18185394599951850442016-02-15T11:38:00.000+11:002016-02-15T20:31:28.156+11:002016 CNY Gathering At Our Place<div style="text-align: justify;">
Valentine's Day this year was celebrated with a Chinese New Year lunch gathering at our place. Well, it's always nice to have a few friends over during the festive season to promote/generate some positive energy in your home.</div>
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One of the main concerns I had was keeping 7 children entertained as we don't have an abundant stock of children's toys. I devised a few games to be played, which I know came to a surprise to some people! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKjD4izlZFqHmcWj5WAcRdHchrM_EHq09kT0iLQB_NMQ2CyTICZX6iNqZf_ursNCO1h0GlaWVLrLS6B5POZNi50A3D05A6uZi0dUPeqQXelS_v_Iq5hyPDnZe4sMpgGN841hWKW9esDs/s1600/IMAG0788_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKjD4izlZFqHmcWj5WAcRdHchrM_EHq09kT0iLQB_NMQ2CyTICZX6iNqZf_ursNCO1h0GlaWVLrLS6B5POZNi50A3D05A6uZi0dUPeqQXelS_v_Iq5hyPDnZe4sMpgGN841hWKW9esDs/s640/IMAG0788_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This year's Yu Sheng ot Yee Sang, the 'Chinese salad' to be tossed during Chinese New Year.</td></tr>
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This year's 14th of February was also the 7th day of the lunar calendar, and better known as 'Human's Day'. It is commonly referred to as 'everyone's birthday' and rightfully, the day for the Prosperity Toss (of the Chinese salad).</div>
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This year's version excluded coloured strips of yam and decorated with segments of mandarin oranges. (Thanks Valerie and Wen Hui for your assistance!)</div>
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The kids ended up having lots of fun running around our yard, playing with cut grass and pulling weeds. Had we known weeding would keep them happily occupied, we would have set them loose in the yard sooner!</div>
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We decided that since they didn't mind being outside (although I felt it was a tad bit warm), we played Pass The Parcel.</div>
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Now my childhood version of Pass The Parcel requires the person who gets the parcel to complete the task s/he uncovers on the paper. But the Australian version involves a prize uncovered at every level!</div>
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So you can imagine how gutted they were that they were playing my version. Hehehe.</div>
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Examples of some of the tasks at hand, illustrations provided by the hubs because I can't draw for nuts.</div>
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At the end of it was a bag of chocolates to share among themselves, which the kids did so without complaints.</div>
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One of the tasks of Pass The Parcel involved everyone receiving a cookie, which was the heart shaped cookies I baked and iced 2 days earlier.</div>
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The next game was a treasure hunt involving the small owls I had made as a 'door gift' for the kids. However, I had made a mistake with the variety of colours - where 6 girls are involved, it's best to have more pink options available.</div>
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Earlier on I had subtly asked what were their favourite colours and only 3 chose the colours I had made for them. One girl burst into tears because she wanted a pink one, so another girl was made to give hers up in order to appease her tears. (I was earlier informed that her favourite colour was red!)</div>
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ANYWAY, I've just completed a replacement pink owl for the nice girl. She was a champ for not succumbing to tantrums whatsoever so I might just make her an extra something.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXv1Ztwf1M8LDbs9YX5bFrfl4zqiA1NDkIS0gtJjNGBZyqLtPiCEzbhJoY6c8LW9BKcbCm3QN7eeQigGT1mfZdrQohrESyEzKuFypwb80JSi1IGZJpLVed_GVaO_Eko-2ODqZxIqMg2yM/s1600/IMAG0786_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXv1Ztwf1M8LDbs9YX5bFrfl4zqiA1NDkIS0gtJjNGBZyqLtPiCEzbhJoY6c8LW9BKcbCm3QN7eeQigGT1mfZdrQohrESyEzKuFypwb80JSi1IGZJpLVed_GVaO_Eko-2ODqZxIqMg2yM/s640/IMAG0786_1.jpg" width="360" /></a></div>
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The first game the kids played was Pin Olaf's nose. It was a nice ice-breaker game which got all the kids intrigued at having a go. I'm mentioning this here just so I can keep this picture of the drawing as a memento!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuaHhOXKHDna3wbaY_M7RInIhKHZf4kchMZD8WiG9ltg4RHhZrmxb-1M3TTcBP1CNLPOTG43d81oZNvg65I-0ts5JAZDCddN374m9wa-2JkBxtx4WRepQA_Dh1qff2vu1JagLBV5Q2Hc/s1600/IMAG0792_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuaHhOXKHDna3wbaY_M7RInIhKHZf4kchMZD8WiG9ltg4RHhZrmxb-1M3TTcBP1CNLPOTG43d81oZNvg65I-0ts5JAZDCddN374m9wa-2JkBxtx4WRepQA_Dh1qff2vu1JagLBV5Q2Hc/s640/IMAG0792_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just for the record, this year's cookie stash is a bit of a disappointment for me. I tried 4 new recipes and only 1 turned out excellent (in terms of taste). I also made my 2 usual ones, peanut cookies and butter cookies which lacked something ... focus? love? Hahaha I have no idea!</div>
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Hope everyone else is enjoying the Chinese New Year festivities. We have one more gathering to attend this Sunday which will mark the end of binge eating sessions! :)</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-32670005778256725512016-01-28T20:26:00.003+11:002016-01-28T20:26:45.791+11:00Beef Korma Recipe - A Keeper!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello and happy new year! I hope everyone is fine and dandy!</div>
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I have been wanting to dust the cobwebs off my blog for months but I just couldn't find my blogging mojo. Not sure why, as I have tons of thoughts running through my head on a daily basis that I would love to share with everyone ... and then I stop myself. I mean, surely there's just so much pictures of food and cooking experiments I can share??</div>
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I am excited to share with you a recipe I found on <a href="http://allrecipes.com.au/recipe/10861/beef-korma.aspx">All Recipes</a> which I tried today!</div>
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I think it's good enough for me to save it here as a bookmark. It's a creamy and non-spicy version which can be easily adjusted if you'd like a hint of heat. </div>
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<b>For the spice paste</b></div>
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<u>Ingredients A:</u></div>
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1/2 TBSP of coriander seeds</div>
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1/2 TBSP of cumin seeds (I used powder)</div>
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1/2 tsp of cardamom seeds (Open up the pods - I think I used about 8 - 9 pods)</div>
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1/2 tsp of paprika (I used sweet paprika as it was either this or smoked paprika)</div>
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3 whole cloves</div>
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<u>Ingredients B:</u></div>
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2 TBSP of water</div>
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1/8 cup of almond meal</div>
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2 garlic cloves, crushed</div>
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1/2 TBSP of ginger, crushed</div>
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1/4 tsp of salt</div>
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1/4 tsp ground cinnamon</div>
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<u><b>Main </b>ingredients</u></div>
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1 medium onion, sliced or diced</div>
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600gm of beef</div>
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2 TBSP cooking oil</div>
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1/4 cup of water</div>
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150ml of cream</div>
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1 TBSP of plain flour</div>
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1/4 tsp of garam masala</div>
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1 TBSP of chopped fresh coriander (or as much as you like)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9OOpcpqcUeABeVCU4PlJrTO9bV5qwDAHBul5VYNCXygGejbifzascEfcUYL3eNjfZfTMTbjapKWWKBY0CNgL09BkPhPtrKM5yoRqSTRP2XsmAZFbowYsI-XbnMrG3LedU5kg0oU4WTww/s1600/IMAG0742_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9OOpcpqcUeABeVCU4PlJrTO9bV5qwDAHBul5VYNCXygGejbifzascEfcUYL3eNjfZfTMTbjapKWWKBY0CNgL09BkPhPtrKM5yoRqSTRP2XsmAZFbowYsI-XbnMrG3LedU5kg0oU4WTww/s640/IMAG0742_1_1.jpg" width="450" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">It took me quite a while to pound </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Ingredients A to a powder as I <br />don't </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">have a proper mortar. :P</span></td></tr>
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<b>Directions:</b></div>
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1. Grind Ingredients A into a powder. </div>
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2. Blend Ingredients B and combine with Ingredients A.</div>
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3. Heat oil in pan to brown the meat. Remove and set meat aside. </div>
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4. Lightly brown onions in pan for 2-3 minutes, and add spice paste. Stir and cook for 4 minutes.</div>
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5. Add meat and water to the pan. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until meat is cooked through and tender.</div>
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6. Stir in cream, flour and garam masala together with meat until it bubbles and thickens. Add coriander and simmer for 2 minutes.</div>
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7. Add salt to taste.</div>
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<i>*The original recipe calls for yoghurt as well as cream but I omitted it as I didn't have yoghurt in my fridge.</i><br />
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I didn't have 600gm of meat, so I added 4 pieces of chicken drumstick to whatever amount of beef I had. I think if you don't want to wait too long for your meat to cook, just use chicken!</div>
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I found the gravy too creamy, so I stirred in another 1/4 cup of hot water to the dish. One bad thing about creamy dishes is that it makes you want to eat it with LOTS of rice! :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIDomtfootHzQ6DEAPE69UxNlxYmqkadzc_Iav-vaV41WyguX7TC_-ZszFKTW40Zsq3LjSBpI9hbbpVPgI2Gs1ETgxsVp8d7zN1ep3NIXYMPrB68hka9FDFsGdFWt_em5VBG6N07ASMU/s1600/IMAG0745_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIDomtfootHzQ6DEAPE69UxNlxYmqkadzc_Iav-vaV41WyguX7TC_-ZszFKTW40Zsq3LjSBpI9hbbpVPgI2Gs1ETgxsVp8d7zN1ep3NIXYMPrB68hka9FDFsGdFWt_em5VBG6N07ASMU/s640/IMAG0745_1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hmmm ... there wasn't enough gravy!</td></tr>
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<b>Tips for future use:</b></div>
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1. Add 1 - 2 tsp of chilli powder to Ingredients A or B for a little bit of heat. This time, I added them at Step 6.</div>
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2. Add 2 chopped tomatoes 15 minutes before Step 6. It will cut through the creaminess.</div>
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3. Add another 1/2 cup of water (making it a total of 1 cup) as there wasn't much gravy to go around.</div>
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4. Probably will taste better the following day when the spices permeates into the meat. :)</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-35112479381112741702015-11-20T10:59:00.002+11:002015-11-20T10:59:17.609+11:00Obsessed with Sambal<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hello!</div>
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I have recently been quite into perfecting my <i>sambal </i>("spicy paste") to have it readily available as a condiment for our meals. </div>
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I had a phase (and still do) of craving for spicy Malaysian food such as the <i>nasi lemak</i> and curry laksa, both of which I have not cooked from scratch before.</div>
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OK, I <i>think </i>I attempted the nasi lemak sometime in 2014.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1MpBEd-ePvFxfOLNuWp1Ej5-S0ljNasofcxBPf9kYu1lORBfKrYOC2lKQBW0-rHB4vAnTrZyG2u7JOQMt4MaPKxBRMkskTgeP52vlMEI7ktMzF8WZlUihPy_KTatM600ktx0_Lx3KaE/s1600/PhotoGrid_1446806698391_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq1MpBEd-ePvFxfOLNuWp1Ej5-S0ljNasofcxBPf9kYu1lORBfKrYOC2lKQBW0-rHB4vAnTrZyG2u7JOQMt4MaPKxBRMkskTgeP52vlMEI7ktMzF8WZlUihPy_KTatM600ktx0_Lx3KaE/s640/PhotoGrid_1446806698391_1.jpg" width="410" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creamy chicken curry, fruit rojak and steamed rice with condiments <br />of fresh cucumber, sambal toasted anchovies and peanuts</td></tr>
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This time I have managed to get the toasted <i>ikan bilis</i> ("anchovies") and peanuts done nicely. It was a far cry from my first ever attempt in 2014!</div>
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And the chicken curry that you see in the picture above was a different one from my usual simple recipe. I quite like it as a wider variety of spices were used which made it more aromatic.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKrX4ThaNH-88uL2LnntHw6dLt8EE71tTBJhHxP0iQEyXIqa2DsqflakZZmBGOgtCgHBdSDzX2Evf2ltz1MuX0KX1RZOOKjrltnrx2MdAF5mfq3-I9l1_khLeE-EwaSgfXzjFJjRxEic/s1600/PhotoGrid_1447976445124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUKrX4ThaNH-88uL2LnntHw6dLt8EE71tTBJhHxP0iQEyXIqa2DsqflakZZmBGOgtCgHBdSDzX2Evf2ltz1MuX0KX1RZOOKjrltnrx2MdAF5mfq3-I9l1_khLeE-EwaSgfXzjFJjRxEic/s640/PhotoGrid_1447976445124.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hard boiled eggs with shrimp cooked in sambal, stir fried choy sum and pickled cucumber and mango with steamed rice.</td></tr>
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A few days later, I decided to try another sambal recipe (which looked pretty similar to the first recipe I tried for the earlier meal) and ... it still tasted the same but a tad bit more fragrant as the shrimp paste (<i>belacan</i>) was toasted before it was blended with the garlic and shallots.</div>
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I think I'm getting the hang of it!</div>
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But it sure is hard work.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ71RQiRsyaPaJdyIuXtOxAJEi1VkKDxsKUnPlRnaW-V-X-FGD4qE4-q1WETLmNPCddtwtWVc1SL5H_YSXHgZpalOn4KBRzljvgcPqCos15Qt4qC2fxxJsJnkKG8kF-JlrYY9_HANgq0Y/s1600/PhotoGrid_1447812171479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ71RQiRsyaPaJdyIuXtOxAJEi1VkKDxsKUnPlRnaW-V-X-FGD4qE4-q1WETLmNPCddtwtWVc1SL5H_YSXHgZpalOn4KBRzljvgcPqCos15Qt4qC2fxxJsJnkKG8kF-JlrYY9_HANgq0Y/s640/PhotoGrid_1447812171479.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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As a treat, I decided to bring lunch for my colleagues a few days ago. Yeah, it was my imaginary tuck shop. :)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYwrgXmkmgi8RaHcvykvhIMEIH6Dh1xvE4byzAzJG2XdOIUKBgacgJ7bDU44bTBACi7oJNf5gFI7ldImMahIVPFafAosIlGHcDW3upzWzqLfPF-jHG2n0baoVS20Vj7D97hgMkvrx6DQ/s1600/IMAG0409_1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="419" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRYwrgXmkmgi8RaHcvykvhIMEIH6Dh1xvE4byzAzJG2XdOIUKBgacgJ7bDU44bTBACi7oJNf5gFI7ldImMahIVPFafAosIlGHcDW3upzWzqLfPF-jHG2n0baoVS20Vj7D97hgMkvrx6DQ/s640/IMAG0409_1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed rice with chicken curry and condiments!<br />Made onion sambal to tone down the spiciness.</td></tr>
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My colleagues enjoyed it, and so did I. Haha! I don't mean to blow my own trumpet but I was testing out a different way of cooking the chicken curry. I tweaked the recipe and used a few different ingredients.</div>
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I must say that the curry tasted way much better 2 days after it was first cook.</div>
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Serious.</div>
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Just for the record, both the nasi lemak and chicken curry are traditionally cooked with coconut milk added to it. For all my cooking done above, regular full cream milk was used for the chicken curry and plain steamed white rice was served. None of that rich and fragrant steamed rice with coconut milk ... a shame as my meals would be have been so much more delicious.</div>
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Nevertheless, it's a sacrifice for a healthier meal. :D</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-32560679220296327522015-11-03T16:05:00.001+11:002015-11-03T16:05:33.990+11:00Keeping The Family Entertained is Hard Work<div style="text-align: justify;">
My family came over <strike>last month</strike> two months ago (September 2015) for a short visit. A week is definitely a short visit, especially when there's so much on the itinerary to cover.</div>
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<b>Day 1</b> - We visited the <b><a href="http://www.zoo.org.au/werribee" target="_blank">Werribee Open Range Zoo</a></b>. I remember enjoying my visit back in 2006 and prayed that it would not be any different this time, if not better.</div>
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The best bits:</div>
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1. going on the ride that brought us around part of the Park. It kills 20 minutes and you get to rest your feet. You'll also be amazed with how much land they have for the animal to roam free!</div>
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2. Seeing the gorillas up close. They have 3 gorillas and they looked magnificent. If you were as tall as a 4-year-old, you'd be almost face-to-face with them.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCc3lfCb-5ViRZTotd_41HKxNLjiZsGqadWD2kBIvvqsRSnYfbcav6320f6HpcGFzVChUWJwN8L_8KSoKKsbANt0HLAi5WHiY2zfFoC5-LUx9-KDPop5eOreFdJU2V6Mefd0EV3DFy5o/s1600/12031636_10153203531981220_1507571919018516272_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvCc3lfCb-5ViRZTotd_41HKxNLjiZsGqadWD2kBIvvqsRSnYfbcav6320f6HpcGFzVChUWJwN8L_8KSoKKsbANt0HLAi5WHiY2zfFoC5-LUx9-KDPop5eOreFdJU2V6Mefd0EV3DFy5o/s640/12031636_10153203531981220_1507571919018516272_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Niece refused to pose with me.<br />[Bin's pic.]</td></tr>
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The not so good bits:<br />
1. Weekends are always packed and it's not easy to find a picnic table and seats for a group of 7 for lunch.<br />
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2. It was a warm day and everyone was tired from walking.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUD12VQpSVj-GOILvRoPIqpBjSwXAv66tRx0bWygC0C81nxHZDl3ytIt9Y_Ykv4gA-4Hj7XKrk1Asojgoi1ZIvhzToIFHBKUKFInNHuUmc_uJUwhVSTS_wvaAtZwhZN7rVZhE0qVYyqcY/s1600/11225107_10153203533701220_3954068837253824186_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUD12VQpSVj-GOILvRoPIqpBjSwXAv66tRx0bWygC0C81nxHZDl3ytIt9Y_Ykv4gA-4Hj7XKrk1Asojgoi1ZIvhzToIFHBKUKFInNHuUmc_uJUwhVSTS_wvaAtZwhZN7rVZhE0qVYyqcY/s640/11225107_10153203533701220_3954068837253824186_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Bin</td></tr>
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3. Did not cover the entire place because my parents were too tired from walking. My niece was getting bored, she just wanted to go home to do some painting with me.</div>
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<b>Day 2</b> - It was a long drive along the <b>Great Ocean Road</b> and got as far as<b> Wye River</b> to spot the wild koalas. But seeing that the koalas were high up in the trees and were doing nothing, it was the birds which attracted my niece's attention.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSqjyz_Gbbt7YOTExrkVxabGRP1WX6bpdq6K4g3DdS_NzAgS0D3B8HaUxUxIyC8BuPN46Vhcs-rV_USjF5B33LiROWwNNWOy95EMcv2XalAcvs7T-LilB9Hy3tCVCyaspyh1-k0K81_k/s1600/IMG_5667.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipSqjyz_Gbbt7YOTExrkVxabGRP1WX6bpdq6K4g3DdS_NzAgS0D3B8HaUxUxIyC8BuPN46Vhcs-rV_USjF5B33LiROWwNNWOy95EMcv2XalAcvs7T-LilB9Hy3tCVCyaspyh1-k0K81_k/s640/IMG_5667.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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She was more interested in the birds. A kind lady offered her some bird seeds to feed the birds but my niece ended up throwing the seeds onto the ground as she was scared of the birds.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUC16zb5vlfhQVXhCkDStBAA_2O7l0s4Z_jsBkPlb2pzs7ea3MkIg5mIdeGXQb5VwsSyCtkkz9lSS-6r44xrcCOI1Udma0tpqZaMHSxdQuhhMil7JNmLlFir4mAfui9Op3MHXtA68PnA/s1600/IMG_5676.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUC16zb5vlfhQVXhCkDStBAA_2O7l0s4Z_jsBkPlb2pzs7ea3MkIg5mIdeGXQb5VwsSyCtkkz9lSS-6r44xrcCOI1Udma0tpqZaMHSxdQuhhMil7JNmLlFir4mAfui9Op3MHXtA68PnA/s640/IMG_5676.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild koalas in the trees outside of BIG4 Wye River Caravan Park.</td></tr>
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<b>Day 3</b> was spent shopping in <b>DFO South Wharf</b>, before picking Bin up to head out to Lygon St for dinner. I don't seem to recall the name of the restaurant ... it goes to show how much of an impression the food gave me. :P</div>
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After dinner, we headed to <b><a href="https://www.zomato.com/melbourne/il-dolce-freddo-carlton" target="_blank">Il Dolce Freddo</a></b> for gelato, which I tell you, is probably the best on Lygon St. They have durian and ferrero rocher flavours! Bin and I tried Casa Del Gelato, supposedly the oldest gelato store in Melbourne before and it was disappointing. </div>
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<b>Day 4 </b>was spent walking around in the city before heading off to <b><a href="http://squiresloft.com.au/" target="_blank">Squire's Loft</a>, </b>Albert Park for ribs. Yeah, I confess that Bin and I were quite tired of eating out but our guests were insistent that it was their holiday and might as well eat out and enjoy themselves. The beef ribs were pretty good as we found the pork ribs a bit dry.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6u8mixOxDhKX7hKtMDQSmPj3ndj7qM-jSyBx-KSDzJfqf37j4-ZL7g2MA63GxCEHPXWKxO_F4KtCWCcvQdt5X09GeDmkpj2fzFnZnc-UHfuB_a93W9a4NngyH3krppzavNXbdFkX6vA/s1600/IMAG0251_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil6u8mixOxDhKX7hKtMDQSmPj3ndj7qM-jSyBx-KSDzJfqf37j4-ZL7g2MA63GxCEHPXWKxO_F4KtCWCcvQdt5X09GeDmkpj2fzFnZnc-UHfuB_a93W9a4NngyH3krppzavNXbdFkX6vA/s640/IMAG0251_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tea at <b><a href="http://www.laurent.com.au/" target="_blank">Laurent</a></b>, 3 hours before dinner.</td></tr>
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I didn't even have a chance to bake Bin a birthday cake that day. :P</div>
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<b>Day 5</b> was a long drive to Yarra Valley for lunch in a vineyard. We stopped by the <b><a href="http://www.yvci.com.au/" target="_blank">Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamer</a></b>y before lunch. The niece was happy with the free chocolate tasting.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S0k1nDYvwF7KONvVJyuy7d161oWfciZka0nD6WuJYkYRsgR5b361kAuTtMqqxn5JayjM2t0pPNeXYWW6pG_Sb_WCOW5JeL4QeUQA6yzatawZwVLs_d9EJELXY6M2UQGIyVT4lSP7-Zg/s1600/P1030049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8S0k1nDYvwF7KONvVJyuy7d161oWfciZka0nD6WuJYkYRsgR5b361kAuTtMqqxn5JayjM2t0pPNeXYWW6pG_Sb_WCOW5JeL4QeUQA6yzatawZwVLs_d9EJELXY6M2UQGIyVT4lSP7-Zg/s640/P1030049.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing Lady and the Tramp with a breadstick.</td></tr>
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We had to rush off to <b><a href="http://www.debortoli.com.au/home.html" target="_blank">De Bertoli</a></b> for our lunch reservation. I think Bin and I had the rabbit and lamb dishes, while everyone else had pasta. My niece had a shock of her life when I told her that her aunt and uncle chase little rabbits and lambs for their meal. She moved away from us to sit with my sisters for about 15 minutes. :P</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9KTHpArU9CdL7N3lpGZ7_nX8f3jJTinuZLss02BH0xve6QJrulfuBDFLvXNp6PfJPrlWZS0NXWtYd3uiagynl3mzrkh-va7qopXnaLTLp6MHworA_5_6okCseABMZefU09G_PJsW3lCE/s1600/P1030063.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9KTHpArU9CdL7N3lpGZ7_nX8f3jJTinuZLss02BH0xve6QJrulfuBDFLvXNp6PfJPrlWZS0NXWtYd3uiagynl3mzrkh-va7qopXnaLTLp6MHworA_5_6okCseABMZefU09G_PJsW3lCE/s640/P1030063.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy rabbit tasted like chicken ... oh gawd, I can't look at it right now!</td></tr>
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We made a quick pit stop at <b>Healesville Sanctuary</b> for my dad, sisters and niece to pet the kangaroos. We only had 2 hours to cover the place before it was closed for the day! Saw the dingos, wombats and Tasmanian devils, and platypus!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdpNWrfL6ojITwJZGHwhyphenhyphenQyVU6gOn81u04fsp_D7pYYYXBx9AYQ-u6lcfxzV-hkxzGPY0E6cdGW6LFjEEiKQIT3YTWOmhh9vpBsUQNOwGiQ8au4-a4MtluYYy59UjxoQJ0iSvMGnwq-k/s1600/12029842_10153203543046220_1251244542044612471_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMdpNWrfL6ojITwJZGHwhyphenhyphenQyVU6gOn81u04fsp_D7pYYYXBx9AYQ-u6lcfxzV-hkxzGPY0E6cdGW6LFjEEiKQIT3YTWOmhh9vpBsUQNOwGiQ8au4-a4MtluYYy59UjxoQJ0iSvMGnwq-k/s640/12029842_10153203543046220_1251244542044612471_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Bin</td></tr>
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Right after that, we drove all the way to <b><a href="http://www.chadstone.com.au/" target="_blank">Chadstone shopping centre</a></b> because they wanted to do some late night shopping, seeing that it was a Thursday night after all. Bin and I were exhausted, so were my parents, I could tell, but we had to soldier on.</div>
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It was a long drive home and we were all knackered.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjq-3511cyj_5jeCdO8wDfG_MZO-7yEkgoHqn2xsLrEXk_AGGVkjRQYIo_TLShQawWiNHcv7rOkDandqwuVOb3kKSTQg6FTamHOfbe9gvpeNbSui6C4qE-UQPQ4xuwA2yfN-hCQ1KTXw/s1600/IMAG0260_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjq-3511cyj_5jeCdO8wDfG_MZO-7yEkgoHqn2xsLrEXk_AGGVkjRQYIo_TLShQawWiNHcv7rOkDandqwuVOb3kKSTQg6FTamHOfbe9gvpeNbSui6C4qE-UQPQ4xuwA2yfN-hCQ1KTXw/s640/IMAG0260_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of our chocolate stash from the Chocolaterie.</td></tr>
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<b>Day 6</b> was their last day in Melbourne and it was time for some last minute shopping. We met up with my uncle (mum's elder brother) for dinner that night at <b><a href="http://www.lazatmalaysianrestaurant.com.au/" target="_blank">Lazat</a></b>, Sunshine.</div>
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After they left the next day, the house felt pretty empty. It's always sad to see your family go after such a brief holiday, but everyone has their work commitments and probably missed sleeping in their own beds!</div>
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I had to adjust not having a little shadow following me around anymore and insisting I sat with her during meal times so we could chat and eat together. OK, it probably involved me feeding her as she takes <i>forever </i>to finish her meal. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1BDZD4K_BZYR-TlSAGEI64SQii4gi3GF_Bn_su6RMqVJqos-Nnz5cFqI5Uov8A6dO38bvBm286OAtXNIt4ssR6HqqbDvOVm4FcutO4dQtSJf1VkqrqAVmaUGwU2U0lfPc91wM6tFcy8/s1600/IMAG0247_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ1BDZD4K_BZYR-TlSAGEI64SQii4gi3GF_Bn_su6RMqVJqos-Nnz5cFqI5Uov8A6dO38bvBm286OAtXNIt4ssR6HqqbDvOVm4FcutO4dQtSJf1VkqrqAVmaUGwU2U0lfPc91wM6tFcy8/s640/IMAG0247_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My temporary 'mini me'.</td></tr>
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Keeping a toddler entertained is HARD work!</div>
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For the past few times we have been on Skype, she tells me that she is coming to visit me again really soon, and asked if I could go home for a visit really soon as well. :)</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-68616929506801140792015-10-16T09:28:00.001+11:002015-10-16T09:28:33.542+11:00Oh My, Camping For The First Time!<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've never ever been camping before in my entire life. Most of the people whom I tell it to seem rather surprised. The hubs wasn't impressed with that revelation and called me a '<i>city girl</i>', which I always strongly disagree. :P</div>
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I've explained to him that my first camping experience should be a kind and gentle introduction, and our backyard would be a great place to start with!</div>
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And, should we ever want to venture into the outdoors, it would be a better idea for the campsite to have proper loos. As much as I'm used to peeing in the bushes (during hikes), I don't think I'd be able to poop in the wild. :D</div>
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About three weeks ago, I nonchalantly suggested to him that perhaps we could go camping over the weekend. Just for a night.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVKz4CVdc6uS9x3xHVSGJh7nldwVlcb6YVjgSGMsCcohk-OxLJqYJUmbJMQ5XwXScVEm-d2-crjRY2s8uy4kPBJD2XpEdit9a7SQxw8LEWyQZogbCFdK0mLIljGZ0hMNzNm-Kk91tfHs/s1600/P1030085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioVKz4CVdc6uS9x3xHVSGJh7nldwVlcb6YVjgSGMsCcohk-OxLJqYJUmbJMQ5XwXScVEm-d2-crjRY2s8uy4kPBJD2XpEdit9a7SQxw8LEWyQZogbCFdK0mLIljGZ0hMNzNm-Kk91tfHs/s640/P1030085.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonderland, Grampians.</td></tr>
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The hubs thought he was dreaming and looked at me with disbelief.</div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">"Are you serious?"</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">"Er, well, make sure the campsite has facilities!"</span> I replied, almost changing my mind.</div>
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We made last minute arrangements to camp in the <b>Grampians National Park</b> over the AFL finals weekend (read: Australian Football League and Friday, 3rd October 2015 was a public holiday in Victoria).</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-62g3wTLMmBb6mtHtky2CY3PU7xCAs0iaR5fH_X1xUEINfL_hmqEmm2mfk0MXf9ZUGbR8DUrTFmdsLIBPzzTzjD65NyL-RV522H4SZurubopECxDqzinPA0-AF__OENsrocZqZg4diXM/s1600/P1030088-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-62g3wTLMmBb6mtHtky2CY3PU7xCAs0iaR5fH_X1xUEINfL_hmqEmm2mfk0MXf9ZUGbR8DUrTFmdsLIBPzzTzjD65NyL-RV522H4SZurubopECxDqzinPA0-AF__OENsrocZqZg4diXM/s640/P1030088-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Just for a night!</div>
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I think I was quite nice to suggest camping in the first place. Wifey brownie points for me! Two nights might have been a bit too much for a gentle introduction to camping!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bY_MhAjK1zY7xUlf2olQBjkMglprAiq3upwR0kVJNoxU9yE0TEUHwbCl2WMcR-b3c3tsMgeUD-30gOyoh1Rwqt8IQgZ1X-LZitLOzVwoMG1Z7BL4IaARgavsTkLuhyVq8VjC7JH07nU/s1600/P1030095.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7bY_MhAjK1zY7xUlf2olQBjkMglprAiq3upwR0kVJNoxU9yE0TEUHwbCl2WMcR-b3c3tsMgeUD-30gOyoh1Rwqt8IQgZ1X-LZitLOzVwoMG1Z7BL4IaARgavsTkLuhyVq8VjC7JH07nU/s640/P1030095.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking Silent Street.</td></tr>
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We drove for 3 hours before arriving at the Grampians. First stop was <b>The Pinnacle</b>, where we took almost 3 hours for a return hike. The place was busy with plenty of visitors going up and down, and everyone was looking for the best spot for photos of the view.</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We decided to wash our hair with the available supply of rainwater beside the toilets (at the car park) before heading to our campsite. I forgot to read the description of the campsite and wasn't quite sure whether there was water supply. Heh.</span><br />
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Anyway, good thing we did, because the campsite was packed! Almost every camp area was taken up.</div>
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Our camp lot was next to a lot occupied by 2 Vietnamese couples. Now the picnic table is to be shared by both camp lots but our neighbours were kind enough to hog the table.</div>
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We quickly set up tent before the sun set, cleaned ourselves up and settled in for a long night.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eYDN9bu6reL3WBdK0OiM0StHquoL6hz-MMM9ttf0zafuKg9qKSbw-ZF8xbY_5n4083YWXWI_xPjD5hR9B2HuolHyls3Ojpb3LZhYXWXT2Of4MG5OctHiiH7y2NvxxM0ShoVX8URon30/s1600/P1030113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eYDN9bu6reL3WBdK0OiM0StHquoL6hz-MMM9ttf0zafuKg9qKSbw-ZF8xbY_5n4083YWXWI_xPjD5hR9B2HuolHyls3Ojpb3LZhYXWXT2Of4MG5OctHiiH7y2NvxxM0ShoVX8URon30/s640/P1030113.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure why he looked so miserable hahaha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our feast of instant noodles, fried eggs and salad was ... OK. It was hard for me to adjust to sitting on the ground as I can't sit cross-legged for too long - I needed them stretched out.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We both lamented that we should have brought some stools at the very least.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvVzPHogxQGkNqqVJoadqUFKW5QFicGAVbEBrH6yAESuMcCdsm8fp6IvhF2_4N9rYTdm9S_z7Pp-bh0Q8JLERQhSI0DjMvkAnsmQLXsWKyjLB5_TxBwu97kfut8SSxdTAPeDm02JhURY/s1600/IMAG0297.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFvVzPHogxQGkNqqVJoadqUFKW5QFicGAVbEBrH6yAESuMcCdsm8fp6IvhF2_4N9rYTdm9S_z7Pp-bh0Q8JLERQhSI0DjMvkAnsmQLXsWKyjLB5_TxBwu97kfut8SSxdTAPeDm02JhURY/s640/IMAG0297.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best camp food ever!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Once we were done with dinner, er, there wasn't anything left to do. I should have brought a pack of cards to play!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I wish I could have taken a picture of the starry skies because it was so beautiful. The constellations were clearly seen ... a shame I didn't know them!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsf1iEme0TxqdH77KVYBtNpFIC9ZJ9Y7F1BjmKNZUJ7IZCtOMdvlcvLfAawQnkPqcx8At9bdjQJ4gw-nBb33zGZKbgM3Gb3WhnJGXa4PQ6iQc9qI2FdLxsQssmsWPiJht8PdePkWK11Q/s1600/P1030114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcsf1iEme0TxqdH77KVYBtNpFIC9ZJ9Y7F1BjmKNZUJ7IZCtOMdvlcvLfAawQnkPqcx8At9bdjQJ4gw-nBb33zGZKbgM3Gb3WhnJGXa4PQ6iQc9qI2FdLxsQssmsWPiJht8PdePkWK11Q/s640/P1030114.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not much of a view, heh. That's the picnic table hogged by our camp neighbours. They were cooking up a storm<br />last night. We were already done with our dinner before they even started cooking.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We woke up before 6am the next morning, with backaches. I think us old folks need an inflatable mattress for our next camping trip because lying on the hard ground really isn't comfortable for us at all. We didn't really sleep well, I was waking up every now and then, and we were both trying to stay warm as the temperature dipped.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfrzTpBlpP2BVNpPuwQ_NQoE2E_rvsY3-4wHlwz2M9Hc2DBsAMFzOknoFOpirlKHeWz6or03eTo2NDtX-UVb78wLKsR_iYL6Q7wkicj45AotxJPJURji-VTHql6T7Oj1GdvfrPMX2CK4/s1600/P1030115.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfrzTpBlpP2BVNpPuwQ_NQoE2E_rvsY3-4wHlwz2M9Hc2DBsAMFzOknoFOpirlKHeWz6or03eTo2NDtX-UVb78wLKsR_iYL6Q7wkicj45AotxJPJURji-VTHql6T7Oj1GdvfrPMX2CK4/s640/P1030115.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We need a bigger tent. This tent is for 3 people and honestly, it was such a squeeze for both us fatties!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Breakfast was the same as what we had for dinner. I swear, since then, I've not eaten instant noodles! The thought of it makes me gag.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcdrgp7A-Bk3N49LwcG38nWboU80I_IbWe8jHgc-jX6W7dDZ3Yrl5j9Mwz1FiXLwp5NuxZl_jnPfN9-DZNh1rTQORXZks2gOFtSiXE78DdoXPaE7FzB6AR4tXr13bgaMH-YCVLm8TIGA/s1600/P1030119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihcdrgp7A-Bk3N49LwcG38nWboU80I_IbWe8jHgc-jX6W7dDZ3Yrl5j9Mwz1FiXLwp5NuxZl_jnPfN9-DZNh1rTQORXZks2gOFtSiXE78DdoXPaE7FzB6AR4tXr13bgaMH-YCVLm8TIGA/s640/P1030119.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bush shower. Fill bucket with water and open up the shower head and taadaa, you'll get to have a cold shower!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We packed up and left before 9am. Our plan was to go for a hike before driving home.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbMTeuVagQYkYhE0T-FDuu-KalT-GAtNy8EpsqRgjJaqfwtQXx5xO8D-Oruo5K2UJLyCYO_29WEjZ9sp1QKQBYP6mVxfDCS2NdtFYgi8DDQQ2IOrrl8jSQJ0qLX8S48hde82M-Sia5e8/s1600/P1030122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVbMTeuVagQYkYhE0T-FDuu-KalT-GAtNy8EpsqRgjJaqfwtQXx5xO8D-Oruo5K2UJLyCYO_29WEjZ9sp1QKQBYP6mVxfDCS2NdtFYgi8DDQQ2IOrrl8jSQJ0qLX8S48hde82M-Sia5e8/s640/P1030122.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<b>Lake Wartook</b> was just around the corner from the Smiths Mill campground.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lmTlnvc2uV0iflIDfh9upK-KldGYifIUbf8k881ccENkDCco45Vh5sFL5KPwE-_oNgY0dcL7KAhYnIXXlfKwnMBlHp2FzfzLi2QfFElBwHB0MkvvZbcCn3XgQXt_lq1SJy-8HivWVEg/s1600/P1030135.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2lmTlnvc2uV0iflIDfh9upK-KldGYifIUbf8k881ccENkDCco45Vh5sFL5KPwE-_oNgY0dcL7KAhYnIXXlfKwnMBlHp2FzfzLi2QfFElBwHB0MkvvZbcCn3XgQXt_lq1SJy-8HivWVEg/s640/P1030135.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Such a pretty place but no swimming allowed!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>MacGregor Falls</b> is definitely a must visit. The place has been developed pretty nicely for comfortable walking. Its track goes as far as ... but decided to stay put.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Our next stop was <b>Mt Difficult</b>. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh20fJ_RPxI1zA7jfOQS41QbkFax6iT4G48xHRK8N8tMJuKhyesLvHqXUdZV49E0j8siITaUDYVekymGXywmDoGQHrP9_FJmMqHmx4uJihyphenhyphenRz1Ck6sJbQUY7JEgvQZtR0mCobrDA-1QWY/s1600/P1030141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh20fJ_RPxI1zA7jfOQS41QbkFax6iT4G48xHRK8N8tMJuKhyesLvHqXUdZV49E0j8siITaUDYVekymGXywmDoGQHrP9_FJmMqHmx4uJihyphenhyphenRz1Ck6sJbQUY7JEgvQZtR0mCobrDA-1QWY/s640/P1030141.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I didn't realise how difficult it would be. I suppose the warm weather did not help at all.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OJ0Nz2C3ZsDNvWoTIJwIJgu5tMVQ6t2Exn-or__caN9Zq0NF7rForIrLRDiPbKIf2N9pl5moFa3PExXhY-FMBr_f4C1txyWvZ8S9xS-fsrdLnLvlAmyn4so9OqqwWLeghl_8_Ib54_8/s1600/P1030147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9OJ0Nz2C3ZsDNvWoTIJwIJgu5tMVQ6t2Exn-or__caN9Zq0NF7rForIrLRDiPbKIf2N9pl5moFa3PExXhY-FMBr_f4C1txyWvZ8S9xS-fsrdLnLvlAmyn4so9OqqwWLeghl_8_Ib54_8/s640/P1030147.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">And we were ill-prepared for a long and difficult hike.</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUwYrETuhDdI-9jZJaD5ycdYrGXhsexAVIXdk2mz_i5JRejuQ4zqV14dqPDczkeMdH9DYnl7YNBeG4Hvb1tuKY2bRwAbArLJMd1BpP-mTFa-wOGPquioHNkK3HhKE0T3BulW0p6DpUoE/s1600/P1030149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkUwYrETuhDdI-9jZJaD5ycdYrGXhsexAVIXdk2mz_i5JRejuQ4zqV14dqPDczkeMdH9DYnl7YNBeG4Hvb1tuKY2bRwAbArLJMd1BpP-mTFa-wOGPquioHNkK3HhKE0T3BulW0p6DpUoE/s640/P1030149.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found a small waterfall along the way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The given distance was 4.4km one way but we must have went off track for a bit as my watched showed 5.3km by the time we reached the summit. </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMV8jitqZGv9_HNmlBcioS54C-Xs7oRh75CUfANNKQdAECpRCbrpjijQ-NJI2wmCevDaLIwOsgs6WWbB2FtpyWsid8iYFvWB3O_toQvBNEOBCgptSRP9qPqE6TZdsHc_UXGqqK1Q-sD90/s1600/P1030150.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMV8jitqZGv9_HNmlBcioS54C-Xs7oRh75CUfANNKQdAECpRCbrpjijQ-NJI2wmCevDaLIwOsgs6WWbB2FtpyWsid8iYFvWB3O_toQvBNEOBCgptSRP9qPqE6TZdsHc_UXGqqK1Q-sD90/s640/P1030150.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">Boy, I was miserable and thirsty and tired, I lost my excitement after 2km into the hike. The track was overgrown as it has been closed since December 2014 due to a bush fire incident.</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was hard to spot the reflective arrows every now and then, to be sure that we were on the right path. </div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AiRnJZv5KpRZ48rDZXPAc9ZB8ZVYNRSIPefTX0Ql923jQ_r75uvoysZNk8Q_wCt6XBcl4Yz81GrLnJW_bEV7sQIZSsc_GyRluHJPMcyeEQEmdiDYxZX2BzhjenDI20O-4Ib4pB1PqlE/s1600/P1030154.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0AiRnJZv5KpRZ48rDZXPAc9ZB8ZVYNRSIPefTX0Ql923jQ_r75uvoysZNk8Q_wCt6XBcl4Yz81GrLnJW_bEV7sQIZSsc_GyRluHJPMcyeEQEmdiDYxZX2BzhjenDI20O-4Ib4pB1PqlE/s640/P1030154.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The top of Mt Difficult.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before we reached the top, I had already conceded defeat and wanted to sit and wait for Bin to continue on his own, but he made me walk on despite the fact that my face was black as thunder.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Retracing our steps was one of the hardest things to do. The arrows were so hard to spot that we went off course and got lost. We had to look around to catch our bearings (and found none) so we decided to retrace our steps to the last marker and thought carefully about the direction we had come from.</div>
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<br /></div>
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We found the track again (thank goodness) to our relief, and we slowly trudged back to our car.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbRdf5-urRFQ0pEvwZpVp6zcyIm6y6iO6LwH8cDZmTUC2zazgxa1G42bPB2ug01DUmMzSDebtSzhEjlAxaG9_fvDsv1HUkRDvtUZhJhdXED9MYmwypKPgWaKIZh8iMAiYG1S_Bv7Qo7s/s1600/P1030155-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxbRdf5-urRFQ0pEvwZpVp6zcyIm6y6iO6LwH8cDZmTUC2zazgxa1G42bPB2ug01DUmMzSDebtSzhEjlAxaG9_fvDsv1HUkRDvtUZhJhdXED9MYmwypKPgWaKIZh8iMAiYG1S_Bv7Qo7s/s640/P1030155-2.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
If not for the little piles of rocks which were left at some corners of the track by previous hikers, you would not have been able to know whether you were on the right track. We added a few piles of our own along the way as well as some arrows were too hidden from sight.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
What have we learnt from our first camping trip?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
1. Despite the need for traveling light, we definitely need to pack sufficiently for our comfort, too!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
2. We need to buy a bigger tent and an inflatable mattress.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
3. Bring stools and a small foldable table.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
4. Bring enough drinking water. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
5. Bring some card games. </div>
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<br /></div>
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You don't know how pleased we were to return home to sleep in our bed that night. :)</div>
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<br /></div>
Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-20436443289094327212015-09-08T11:33:00.001+10:002015-09-08T11:33:13.457+10:00Surf Coast Hell Run 2015 - Relay Team Challenge<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>When: Saturday, 5th September 2015.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Where: Lorne, Victoria</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Time: 7.00am</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Distance: 21.1km (half marathon)</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So, Bin and I kinda retired right now. That's right. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then Jon invited Bin and I to be part of his 21km relay team less than 3 weeks ago. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhYdIYSMwoRkslIUvt4SJEXpjEZ5w-4OpbctgoSIYQY-Dl7PhGjJlNP2YX6Kus5leo4_C9yheo3QYnIZza2S4-Yvq9r0jYcFPi0ce0-26870fO021VxZfb681BGz2JnRYqlQ2O6iFPbug/s640/10623927_10153449712026117_5204411360915789047_o.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Best team name ever!!!!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We spent Friday night at <a href="http://www.lornecaravanpark.com.au/" target="_blank">Lorne Foreshore Caravan Park</a> and spent the of race day at Sheoak picnic area.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Due to too many events taking place in August and September, the crowd at the inaugural <a href="http://www.trailsplus.com.au/hellrun/" target="_blank">Surf Coast Hell Run</a> was a small one. It felt so much more cosier this way, which I rather enjoyed, although I'm sure any race director/organiser would prefer it the other way round.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVNWBl1Wmtb7kxnHuidMsojIqCkNIopzUDSQZ78FiiHflkBKg_z331j00s5-4HYCmT05ZArpgvffw3O0wnx266lnfMkZWXk3Ur2tmMC2eB_yzEVat_w575eUebzDXuEECSUWxXhyphenhyphenvHbY/s1600/P1020961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtVNWBl1Wmtb7kxnHuidMsojIqCkNIopzUDSQZ78FiiHflkBKg_z331j00s5-4HYCmT05ZArpgvffw3O0wnx266lnfMkZWXk3Ur2tmMC2eB_yzEVat_w575eUebzDXuEECSUWxXhyphenhyphenvHbY/s640/P1020961.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 21km runners were flagged off at 9am.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There were 4 categories: 7km, 21km, 42km and 63km. Except for the 7km, the rest of the runners had to run a 21km loop which consisted of a U-turn point at the 11km mark. The 63km runners needed to do 3 loops and the 42km runners would do 2.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The route was described as, 'up, up, up, and then down all the way.' Despite the undulations and 'gentle' slopes, the route was mainly made up of 4WD tracks with no trail technicality involved.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqCPkGnxmjJlU9vY-sRaVO9DBVIM4COi0D6NAbqQwPX66GWsGo5v75nigfxSLHPAR3qr2KS8UlF-HCI7Wrf0WsSwphnI7715-3hfujeO65xj6EAVYS4QcW4VgKutDe0QlJrlRbYzITxo/s1600/P1020967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqCPkGnxmjJlU9vY-sRaVO9DBVIM4COi0D6NAbqQwPX66GWsGo5v75nigfxSLHPAR3qr2KS8UlF-HCI7Wrf0WsSwphnI7715-3hfujeO65xj6EAVYS4QcW4VgKutDe0QlJrlRbYzITxo/s640/P1020967.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"WHERE'S MY TEAMMATE??" Jon panicked.<br />"Hello????" I furiously waved my arms in the air to catch his attention.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>SCTR Laksa Lovers</b> was the 1st team to sign up, with <b>SCTR Catch Me If You Can</b> signing up at the last moment. There was friendly ribbing between the 2 team captains Gavin and Jon a few days leading up to race day.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Clueless me went into the race thinking our team was just in it for a relaxing weekend run. Haha!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Gavin and Jon were the 1st runners for the teams, with Gavin coming in at 2:11:xx and Jon at 2:18:xx, giving the other team an 8-9 minute head start. I was pretty impressed with these 2 chaps!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvxj8tPdaK0PjH2an9ZPbMJdrMXYXVGjCzAHF4I5UmSWg5CQb5QRZjSJJgUH_dYMfckyet5H9DX3cgNWnwLFngr2dT8LdYSaluVEzCDcFXi5a5xdWPikAL6pK3lXR8Xzq7ooicOmSQMg/s1600/P1020970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvxj8tPdaK0PjH2an9ZPbMJdrMXYXVGjCzAHF4I5UmSWg5CQb5QRZjSJJgUH_dYMfckyet5H9DX3cgNWnwLFngr2dT8LdYSaluVEzCDcFXi5a5xdWPikAL6pK3lXR8Xzq7ooicOmSQMg/s640/P1020970.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I'll just keep ... running ... until ... that tree ... over there ..." I huffed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The weather was nice and cool that day, with occasional showers. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The first 4km of the run was filled with teasing undulation, which made me think, "OK, this isn't too bad!" until 4km. The next 4km involved trudging up (with the help of 2 sticks) and a few seconds of flat after every 1.5km.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It probably doesn't make any sense to you, so don't bother doing the maths!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddSmNAG_9MWMVeEwq4JYZRoJyKsPERaZRTS120_kQnwN_hmtYmlscSCawxJRIzljExijxJRCzoF71Xdmxc7PQRSxRIjN0ythqPHdOy3Rd5fcIOVDOjailSotjuHJQLATlAIXWLpIPSpE/s1600/P1020972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddSmNAG_9MWMVeEwq4JYZRoJyKsPERaZRTS120_kQnwN_hmtYmlscSCawxJRIzljExijxJRCzoF71Xdmxc7PQRSxRIjN0ythqPHdOy3Rd5fcIOVDOjailSotjuHJQLATlAIXWLpIPSpE/s640/P1020972.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Let there be a view!"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
7km in, the slopes were a bit kinder to the legs... kinda.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8YrjgMlzTCGfzhpabsR4n8bwdnHvKdMGprMPYucEUinPi9gk2aVHCRZwLrB6aNtk2ueofvKD4Hulv_bYtKws0D8FNwLl5uVorcbXkEzuqIFcklBxe4n2wqN5Mg3k_r3OdhFcMKgZ-p4/s1600/P1020973.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ8YrjgMlzTCGfzhpabsR4n8bwdnHvKdMGprMPYucEUinPi9gk2aVHCRZwLrB6aNtk2ueofvKD4Hulv_bYtKws0D8FNwLl5uVorcbXkEzuqIFcklBxe4n2wqN5Mg3k_r3OdhFcMKgZ-p4/s640/P1020973.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No view.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was looking forward to the aid station!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWm-UXnL5J2e8q7_7sKVjOAEbDVAK2NA0GzA3iVylH2dYK_PemuY-iGHLdrCDO8CTawbv-zDoFw-cZPYqla2QVG7UzhyphenhyphenZEUtQeqJt5cnA7ruLsXWEUv74j4Zwov27RtlvMmOraDfSmCw/s1600/P1020975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYWm-UXnL5J2e8q7_7sKVjOAEbDVAK2NA0GzA3iVylH2dYK_PemuY-iGHLdrCDO8CTawbv-zDoFw-cZPYqla2QVG7UzhyphenhyphenZEUtQeqJt5cnA7ruLsXWEUv74j4Zwov27RtlvMmOraDfSmCw/s640/P1020975.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The one and only aid station at the 8km/14km mark.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
John Yoon and George Mihalakellis were there to greet me, with George telling me hurry up as Ken was 14 minutes ahead!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
*yawns* </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was like, "Whatever..." :P</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Runners had to run towards the u-turn point and head back towards the aid station, and it would be downhill all the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was rather lonely during the first 8km so starting the 6km loop was so much better as I was meeting runners who were making their way back.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjMZ_1OYlG1chevB0bTKa900q0d3kx9grXWHHHD7v_sUQtRgjsno2UKK7I5FKT5m_-bsw1-cr2mpKv07mZIfgwy70BWZmJyTQA0f8rRbwTquXP3qBMv1tI0l99-aPQ1ZHp-_psJrhAgo/s1600/P1020979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjMZ_1OYlG1chevB0bTKa900q0d3kx9grXWHHHD7v_sUQtRgjsno2UKK7I5FKT5m_-bsw1-cr2mpKv07mZIfgwy70BWZmJyTQA0f8rRbwTquXP3qBMv1tI0l99-aPQ1ZHp-_psJrhAgo/s640/P1020979.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The leading runner for the 63km category, Mark Swinkels, happy as can be!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I hurried a little, cheered some runners and took a few pictures.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6Njs4Wd9fmvJ8bjPYU176T52vcS4VS2iZrYYNVELEz1z_vsRhUIQobQIL3SVeAEsF3O5l3IJt4F3Ib-bIrjEIKIoJTeIV9Ks4BcJbRmZKGAbUYX-bsa182YL-6zmp45X3o0uiB9Jd7E/s1600/P1020981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh6Njs4Wd9fmvJ8bjPYU176T52vcS4VS2iZrYYNVELEz1z_vsRhUIQobQIL3SVeAEsF3O5l3IJt4F3Ib-bIrjEIKIoJTeIV9Ks4BcJbRmZKGAbUYX-bsa182YL-6zmp45X3o0uiB9Jd7E/s640/P1020981.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That moment when I should have tripped Ken and tie him to a tree ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0imJAShf5mpJIKKq2cJkYpUalF2IORVHrLu4p8Li2KFPrJCEvL5aMQTbvqTSRrfepPgBLsuh5DQ6IsWkr1rhEpohwGFnzVQDhXHK-LNwJg4JOwCWKsdAm8_E6wXVKvQUwXdB19lMqn5E/s1600/P1020982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0imJAShf5mpJIKKq2cJkYpUalF2IORVHrLu4p8Li2KFPrJCEvL5aMQTbvqTSRrfepPgBLsuh5DQ6IsWkr1rhEpohwGFnzVQDhXHK-LNwJg4JOwCWKsdAm8_E6wXVKvQUwXdB19lMqn5E/s640/P1020982.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loved this section!!! So pretty!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This section was so much more prettier.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xKQ7dxA4cBeHuAqeuoK24cZ61UB3fFwAePr7qsXCguDewG8evq9Hp_kQi7L3LkWgPyxxQ3g1fot6w0iLh52XcKXPfFVhi0OoLtelcZMkOZZUnXRVB9x_FXsvZdCZ0DTjUNh4no0VKTw/s1600/P1020983.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xKQ7dxA4cBeHuAqeuoK24cZ61UB3fFwAePr7qsXCguDewG8evq9Hp_kQi7L3LkWgPyxxQ3g1fot6w0iLh52XcKXPfFVhi0OoLtelcZMkOZZUnXRVB9x_FXsvZdCZ0DTjUNh4no0VKTw/s640/P1020983.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heh. I couldn't yell out his name in a cheer as his bib read, "Stupid Old Guy."<br />His name is Kev. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I enjoyed chatting with everyone as much as I could.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know I shouldn't have but ... COME ON!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We're on the trails!!! </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's so nice and lovely and everyone's so friendly!!!! </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-E0cnZPW54Ui1h12FgklWjliY7wQiKXFlg01YcxO2M_4n8M9wmJWd6Jano64iLNMTJfOOmp_NfKfilV_C9_p6e-zwhUlOekW8MDMHb4Nw20YJj3UF5iQZlEPnmLvMA6u5vLAewRKUFM/s1600/P1020986.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-E0cnZPW54Ui1h12FgklWjliY7wQiKXFlg01YcxO2M_4n8M9wmJWd6Jano64iLNMTJfOOmp_NfKfilV_C9_p6e-zwhUlOekW8MDMHb4Nw20YJj3UF5iQZlEPnmLvMA6u5vLAewRKUFM/s640/P1020986.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Most of the runners took a selfie right here.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bin was at the halfway point taking photos of the runners. He made me pose as well, which I think he shouldn't as it cost us 1 minute. :P</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I chatted with the few 21km runners I caught up with, mentally kicking myself in the head for not being on race mode. (Sorry, Jon! My bad.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Coming up to the aid station again, George was eager to shoo me off but I wanted a cup of Coke.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Another mistake I had to pay for, as that cost us another minute and a belly full of gas. It made running downhill faster a tad bit uncomfortable. :)</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4bTxeTl7E6gE-PSn4xhgSgDhNwTX3XIpdQHH97GvQdks2D5ZSJG9dlcmop3L4GWX1KgP3TMR6Ud8cn_j-4z5JGx-4jMHhIE81DnpF31BVpQ0fg-T6hAkjjg_lIpQpeZxogFShivYSv8/s1600/P1020989.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk4bTxeTl7E6gE-PSn4xhgSgDhNwTX3XIpdQHH97GvQdks2D5ZSJG9dlcmop3L4GWX1KgP3TMR6Ud8cn_j-4z5JGx-4jMHhIE81DnpF31BVpQ0fg-T6hAkjjg_lIpQpeZxogFShivYSv8/s640/P1020989.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wasn't sure if I was on the right track ... why is there an obstacle in the path??</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Running downhill was pretty fun, I suppose. Sue (O'Brien) had already told me that it was the best part of the run. Hehe.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I did my very best to be a bit more cautious, just in case I'd roll my ankles. (I rolled and sprained both my ankles during our Hipster Coffee Run recce the week before, and to be honest, they weren't fully recovered.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I was raring to go until 17.5km in, my left calf started twitching. I had to stop to stretch it for a while and at this stage, I felt like a total noob for not packing some salts for this <strike>race </strike>run!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvEDFnaHIhIMjv8IpbNlTYRqL5R19nBwlUokY9eFkGK5n6aRg1OZivoMOM4jq6Ezp6QSdTROG26oh53_QMtSb7-32LCE-bJa3DjoDTl5OafHLjCnx_GW7PiKYFCRqfoyzaYbcwgNW1fA/s1600/P1020992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKvEDFnaHIhIMjv8IpbNlTYRqL5R19nBwlUokY9eFkGK5n6aRg1OZivoMOM4jq6Ezp6QSdTROG26oh53_QMtSb7-32LCE-bJa3DjoDTl5OafHLjCnx_GW7PiKYFCRqfoyzaYbcwgNW1fA/s640/P1020992.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nearing the finish, woohoo!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
20km in and with 1km to go, I was getting excited!</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuzs3E5yKBKLtEzmoQR47sR7l9ONy2jIjk3Phk8qJ86A64bzzDzPOyTPtrtTWRDQ28r4IMhk7b5y-tQtN6RPTqDV6vFCVwtaAOoIDm_9YPJFSlBZrG5yER5JdRBL_NEJBwF9yCXf1baA/s1600/P1020993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuzs3E5yKBKLtEzmoQR47sR7l9ONy2jIjk3Phk8qJ86A64bzzDzPOyTPtrtTWRDQ28r4IMhk7b5y-tQtN6RPTqDV6vFCVwtaAOoIDm_9YPJFSlBZrG5yER5JdRBL_NEJBwF9yCXf1baA/s640/P1020993.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No, this wasn't the finish line.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I still couldn't hear the crowd from here ... </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I managed to pass through the gantry at 5:07, 25 - 30 minutes after Ken had come through. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisF2HVLko4P5YH2bGJSwcRedTOP3ZpJHV2NpplGmaryR7hM2gqm0s6_SGPdVm2Z-7UVOVKrnXUAK1lmK9oJJeHrWGF2I9-86O4yAIEl6SZAsEHVlxU-FLoTIJRBdYJmqfxzE2GhBP8s4g/s1600/P1020998.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisF2HVLko4P5YH2bGJSwcRedTOP3ZpJHV2NpplGmaryR7hM2gqm0s6_SGPdVm2Z-7UVOVKrnXUAK1lmK9oJJeHrWGF2I9-86O4yAIEl6SZAsEHVlxU-FLoTIJRBdYJmqfxzE2GhBP8s4g/s640/P1020998.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brett made Tash shove the winner's cup into Bin's face as he came through.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So it was up to Bin to catch up with Tash now, but 30 minutes was a lot of time. George was updating Brett every now and then when they came through the aid station.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tash crossed the line at 7:09 with Bin 10 minutes later, hot on her heels.</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHywh4fG4pqM8E44J4uA8oSNsV_siCy7JD1xz8c4cDvAG0FKvU4btNUtPaU0vpryiWG1BjMhRifsjpN14swvDZpfEeTtm8WyAgn1iFwhUSobYunq3tz04phZlCLTjJ58IIO2lqrfyOhKg/s1600/P1030001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHywh4fG4pqM8E44J4uA8oSNsV_siCy7JD1xz8c4cDvAG0FKvU4btNUtPaU0vpryiWG1BjMhRifsjpN14swvDZpfEeTtm8WyAgn1iFwhUSobYunq3tz04phZlCLTjJ58IIO2lqrfyOhKg/s640/P1030001.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The relay runners - 2 teams from Surf Coast Trail Runners. :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
All in all, everyone had fun; from the runners to the organisers and volunteers, and to the spectators. Trust the SCTR relay teams to provide you with comic relief! :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Huge thanks to the organisers and volunteers for being terrific help, and to everyone on the trails who spared me a moment of their time chatting to me. You guys are the best!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Thanks to Jon for arranging the team, he's da best! Having said that, he was one of the first few friends I made since I started running in Melbourne. :)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sooooo, of course I felt bummed out for being the weakest link in the team (it was painful) but if it's any consolation (to me), I'm sure I wouldn't be on the team if it was meant to be in the race for the win. Heh. All in good fun.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And for #traillove, of course!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Bin was impressive for doing his best to give Tash a chase, and narrowing the gap to 10 minutes, and we all know they both had fun running the last leg!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSvg0CTlz-xtfFqDTL1CWQXHCA5xgI7wQik5-7UGPJi_2IxcppFnauGvMOgiU_EuHNiHjKWSbMSPOYR3JXok_8_EYDccNDgwJ-MhbUuo8kPO6zlHcnSsaBYlML233zFrLuTGaHIS-UAM/s1600/11987169_10153499787681480_2702366693815387899_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbSvg0CTlz-xtfFqDTL1CWQXHCA5xgI7wQik5-7UGPJi_2IxcppFnauGvMOgiU_EuHNiHjKWSbMSPOYR3JXok_8_EYDccNDgwJ-MhbUuo8kPO6zlHcnSsaBYlML233zFrLuTGaHIS-UAM/s640/11987169_10153499787681480_2702366693815387899_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What we would have done with the trophy ... haha!<br />Photoshop credit: Bin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Me and my thoughts</u>:</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>1. Never ever ever be a grumpy runner. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I'd remember you if you were the happiest person, as well as the grumpiest. Hah!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>2. Never run when you're recovering from injuries. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, I am stubborn but I know myself. I can only say that only you know yourself better than anyone else. IF you think you can do it, do it but carefully!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>3. Keep on fighting.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I know, I know. I should have been more competitive and ran faster during my leg. But this is not the point I'm trying to make for this point here. While huffing and puffing uphill, I was thinking about the fighters we all know. My mother was one of them and I'm glad that she's OK now. To my friend who's fighting cancer right now, keep on fighting because your friends and family are behind you all the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>4. I love trail running!!!!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I really really really really do enjoy the trails. I can't emphasize this as much as I would love to. :) </div>
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<br /></div>
Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-1457493079654963612015-09-02T10:22:00.000+10:002015-09-02T10:38:44.729+10:00Hello September, Goodbye August!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Time flies, and it's zooming by really quickly.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Where are the brakes?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I don't want the year to end so soon!!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's been 2 years since I've moved to Melbourne and there's so much I've yet to experience or see. We probably need to speed things up a little but it's hard when a) they can cost a bomb and b) we just want to stay at home and do some gardening, or go trailrunning, or catch up with friends.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Winter has been tough, in a sense that we don't feel so inclined to go out there and run. We found ourselves doing a bit of workout in the comfort of the gym and I have to say that multi-tasking (watching TV while running on the treadmill) makes me a happier person - I wanted to watch Masterchef Australia!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now that Spring is coming, we can't wait. More daylight means being able to tend to the garden when we return home from work! We'd feel more energised, too when we arrive home after work. Winter's dark evenings kinda sucked the life out of us that made lazing in front of the TV more tempting than going out for a run.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last weekend saw us taking an hour drive from our place to Olinda, Dandenong for a 20k trail run. Jon wanted to recce the route for the Dandy Hipster Run (taking place on 26th Sept) and seeing that we needed some training for our race this weekend, we succeeded in dragging our fat wobbly arses out of bed at 5ish am. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbFEquXNfd5HgD9J5tVZjfd7GCCwZ8_djXnCB86DsheLJTYWo_EF29-bW7W_Ab8zWE-r06AIIIhNBP-VXLcR8Ab6Z5enQUYzQO8RVOhvpogXdmo2-96FPm3I9ujZls1WNfOcnVoReSY0/s1600/P1020941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbFEquXNfd5HgD9J5tVZjfd7GCCwZ8_djXnCB86DsheLJTYWo_EF29-bW7W_Ab8zWE-r06AIIIhNBP-VXLcR8Ab6Z5enQUYzQO8RVOhvpogXdmo2-96FPm3I9ujZls1WNfOcnVoReSY0/s640/P1020941.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disappearing into the wilderness.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchAJbvFCCQBBv7TvEBFZr4JcmzLP5QQUSUK-aqrv7CcneD_iyWN7A0-L3J1D6Qz9safnAzAZL-GYK7YoOQ3paUPVSGq_K2vL-ZPmvPWt75qzdw20-qx3eEeiU-pHM8Obk1C7PsYOq8K8/s1600/11951872_10153483264156480_5284566144087099324_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhchAJbvFCCQBBv7TvEBFZr4JcmzLP5QQUSUK-aqrv7CcneD_iyWN7A0-L3J1D6Qz9safnAzAZL-GYK7YoOQ3paUPVSGq_K2vL-ZPmvPWt75qzdw20-qx3eEeiU-pHM8Obk1C7PsYOq8K8/s640/11951872_10153483264156480_5284566144087099324_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Jon.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
We felt so alive! Wooooo....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTQMu8bUUIqp2TaUzRHDWEq5H10SSHtCOJykyDfRAF4kov86YtvHofNDntWG1TmOtMCYaLCs989E0p1hVI8bg_0s5Ehrq_UhAwekSw58Jq66mfnWq9tDv7JeloPTpNIWAF2C28kuE8T4/s1600/P1020945.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTQMu8bUUIqp2TaUzRHDWEq5H10SSHtCOJykyDfRAF4kov86YtvHofNDntWG1TmOtMCYaLCs989E0p1hVI8bg_0s5Ehrq_UhAwekSw58Jq66mfnWq9tDv7JeloPTpNIWAF2C28kuE8T4/s640/P1020945.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We walked up this stretch and joked about setting up a few mobile coffee stands along the way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV9M7rKAQoMg83GgaqDuBPy1-lStSL4MUThOaby9OiGtcvp4PSn7x36ryy4epOIvXJoXW_Bg1HAB41Jv1MTuzpH9_xBHclRcyNEz02i9DLAxAiwTat7UAi7n7i7Ej8FmzU-ghGd_VmDM/s1600/P1020954.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV9M7rKAQoMg83GgaqDuBPy1-lStSL4MUThOaby9OiGtcvp4PSn7x36ryy4epOIvXJoXW_Bg1HAB41Jv1MTuzpH9_xBHclRcyNEz02i9DLAxAiwTat7UAi7n7i7Ej8FmzU-ghGd_VmDM/s640/P1020954.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I thought it was the end of our run but turns out that we had another 2k to go after this this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It was great running in the Dandy's again. We love love love being surrounded by the lush green and tall trees and the muddy trails. I rolled my left ankle when I tripped over nothing and it took 10 minutes of rest before I could continue on. With 5k to go, it seemed like a huge feat but somehow, I could walk OK, especially on the inclines. Once my ankle felt much better, I managed to jog the last 3k as the route was flat. I was pretty pleased; thank goodness no major injuries. *mixed feelings*</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yet somehow I managed to twist my RIGHT ankle a few hours later. In my tired state of mind, my foot slipped off the pavement while we were walking towards Freedom. Arghhhhhhhhhhh!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now that hurt 10x more than the earlier incident!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I sat around on the sofas in Freedom while waiting impatiently for Bin to make his purchase and go.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I hobbled around most of the day and it was only at night (after our dinner guests had left - we invited them over at the last minute so we could continue catching up) I managed to ice and heat both ankles.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anyway, to cut the long story short about my being a heroic idiot with 2 injured ankles, I haven't been able to walk properly not because of them, but because of my very sore quads! My ankles are good, albeit just a little swollen. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Website: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/362324817311488/" target="_blank">Inaugural Dandy's Hipster Coffee Run</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
We managed to make a trip up to Lake Mountain with the Kweks two or three weeks ago for a bit of fun in the snow. We bought our pants, boots, gloves and I bought a snow jacket - Eugene laughed and said it would have been a waste of our money if he decided to cancel the trip altogether.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
(You can choose to hire the clothing and shoes instead of purchasing your own, at the same ski hire centre where you can hire the toboggan, skis and snowboard.)</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It took us 3 hours to reach the resort, as there was a long queue to enter the premises.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0WvaH-a_ScfQukZcFm-GygKijhDoWqF3XWr3U9A_ZtCBtdNL6tXtntmeuB1q3hRQCHBgDwmHscIomayej81Afi77N6_xX84JHwPuAHXPP-SYL7lSHoWdWzeV41euib97uQ3tnB3-kao/s1600/P1020908-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ0WvaH-a_ScfQukZcFm-GygKijhDoWqF3XWr3U9A_ZtCBtdNL6tXtntmeuB1q3hRQCHBgDwmHscIomayej81Afi77N6_xX84JHwPuAHXPP-SYL7lSHoWdWzeV41euib97uQ3tnB3-kao/s640/P1020908-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Took a short walk up one of the tracks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31rqu0tpgsIcokjeD3aLxmK8brPP10fHr4NNhVul3kW1eBbGD_3b0iwMSvycMErdiOSz9x8TQHeC_EFvstsx1zaPK8ShrCcFj-47dVUE264nVGqXHrxwwbHbua1eMMf_8HglfuHsiH3c/s1600/11882386_10153120903031220_7317068854646451946_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi31rqu0tpgsIcokjeD3aLxmK8brPP10fHr4NNhVul3kW1eBbGD_3b0iwMSvycMErdiOSz9x8TQHeC_EFvstsx1zaPK8ShrCcFj-47dVUE264nVGqXHrxwwbHbua1eMMf_8HglfuHsiH3c/s640/11882386_10153120903031220_7317068854646451946_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My first snowman experience, with Izelle and Neve. :)<br />
Photo credit: Bin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB1ERrDz3-fvAvpT5bl8cdo3He0ljnp3sSMhaK2GUoE8laVFgdyXBw6gpYLI-8F_teXFGVplww8A1LGjQmRjrrksYR36BsxVg5Kc7yNJngH7QgRIi-TglTIjvSDqNG_EReqQWwMvsFgk/s1600/11878952_10153120904771220_5693634100921680193_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB1ERrDz3-fvAvpT5bl8cdo3He0ljnp3sSMhaK2GUoE8laVFgdyXBw6gpYLI-8F_teXFGVplww8A1LGjQmRjrrksYR36BsxVg5Kc7yNJngH7QgRIi-TglTIjvSDqNG_EReqQWwMvsFgk/s640/11878952_10153120904771220_5693634100921680193_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I chose to toboggan 'cos I was too scared to learn how to ski.<br />
Photo credit: Bin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Tobogganing is pretty fun if you can go as far and as fast as you can. The toboggan run was rather short, but I guess it's more for the kids. You had to walk up the slope and back to the start line - now that was a bit of a workout!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjP5KudNSD-uT1OsgCoJ7CToZCzD1BMhR5NijebDtA7N5bW08NRSjf-gxpUiTw0fSiK23SooYPuSBM7cMSEaaBRyJUc30qm19CWtjaCzig6q5uqPkpAI_-qtRCt0x02Z8V40w18UCIzZg/s1600/P1020913.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjP5KudNSD-uT1OsgCoJ7CToZCzD1BMhR5NijebDtA7N5bW08NRSjf-gxpUiTw0fSiK23SooYPuSBM7cMSEaaBRyJUc30qm19CWtjaCzig6q5uqPkpAI_-qtRCt0x02Z8V40w18UCIzZg/s640/P1020913.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sent this pic to my sister to show my 3.5 year old<br />
niece and she said Olaf looked weird. :P</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now Bin tells me that we have to pick up skiing next year.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Website: <a href="http://www.lakemountainresort.com.au/">http://www.lakemountainresort.com.au</a>/</b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpe8xC64EmHd973UJySv3HFgcxGQsCyM1WIUrNaquixh8f7YdjCDJp-JJh70QFE8-Y_mxBP2Clm9yuJQUc-AhnXkq3H5evUzJ6zr4sWtq7vWIVR-nPeY5jyDI-3-Dicf54aWZnG01cTo/s1600/11834899_1247930941899912_1888849599205112561_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilpe8xC64EmHd973UJySv3HFgcxGQsCyM1WIUrNaquixh8f7YdjCDJp-JJh70QFE8-Y_mxBP2Clm9yuJQUc-AhnXkq3H5evUzJ6zr4sWtq7vWIVR-nPeY5jyDI-3-Dicf54aWZnG01cTo/s640/11834899_1247930941899912_1888849599205112561_o.jpg" width="404" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">N2's Ferrero Reveal.. mmmm</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Earlier in the month, Kirsten took me to her favourite gelato shop, the <b>N2 Extreme Gelato</b> at Sutherland St (opening hours 1pm - 11pm). She has a sore spot for their salted caramel creme brulee while I opted for their Ferrero Reveal, both priced at $9 each.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I loved the chocolate covered rice bubbles, but the chocolate hazelnut gelato with chopped hazelnuts tasted a bit bland on its own. Hence the need for one to grab a spoonful with all its elements together for a yummy taste - gelato + chocolate rice bubbles = awesome!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I took a <strike>hobble</strike> walk to the store yesterday only to be disappointed with its choice of flavours for the week. In a way, it was good news for me, I saved my $9. So I walked all the way back to the office, empty-handed but relieved. Haha!</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Website: <a href="http://n2extremegelato.com.au/">http://n2extremegelato.com.au/</a></b></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, it seems like nothing much happened in August. September will be a bit more exciting, I suppose, as my family will be visiting us. I can't wait to see them again! :)<br />
<br />
Ohh, I forgot to mention that I have started Zumba classes!<br />
That's pretty exciting, I suppose, especially when I'm not very good at dancing haha!<br />
Since it's free, I thought I'd give it a go. It's a fun workout and I enjoy it, even though it can be quite embarrassing not to be able to follow the class well. :)<br />
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-17654010245680004072015-08-23T01:02:00.001+10:002015-08-23T01:02:29.375+10:00A Quick Chat with Siqi WU<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8NjB6mo7YaFYP-uobg10wFEd7SWvZyN7ys1wppUsSEJ0xfnnkDGTmQHZT2R89DLclnpV4t9h8GXhawY9J4DEvJ6_yAF5abJ-wt0G5Y1z-k_kG8dkAAZI4kyM4aWt7BKIKXLy4KbLI-rQ/s1600/1606389_10152000331849232_1372425539_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8NjB6mo7YaFYP-uobg10wFEd7SWvZyN7ys1wppUsSEJ0xfnnkDGTmQHZT2R89DLclnpV4t9h8GXhawY9J4DEvJ6_yAF5abJ-wt0G5Y1z-k_kG8dkAAZI4kyM4aWt7BKIKXLy4KbLI-rQ/s400/1606389_10152000331849232_1372425539_o.jpg" width="266" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Bays Trail Run 2014</td></tr>
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It came as quite a shock to know that our running buddy, <b><span style="font-size: large;">Siqi</span></b> a.k.a. Ricky, a.k.a. Smiling Assassin, was leaving Melbourne so soon (this Sunday) to return to his home country. 24-year-old Siqi has been here for 2 years and recently graduated from the University of Melbourne. </div>
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A few of us were lucky to have the opportunity to spend a little time with him for lunch today. </div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: What will you miss most about Melbourne?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: That will definitely be the friends here.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: What about the trails??</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Definitely the Alpine area! </span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Dandenong's?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Yeah! Pretty good.</span></div>
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Gary: Surf Coast!</div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Among the trail events, or running events you have done in Australia, which one is the most memorable one for you?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Memorable one ... I would definitely say last year's <a href="http://www.buffalostampede.com.au/" target="_blank">Buffalo Stampede</a> when I got lost and while climbing Mick's Track. It was already dark and it was raining, I couldn't see anything. It was right after 14 hours of running. I got lost with a bunch of guys.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe7e418gxCFsq__WqOSlZNMvj-BsXJM2LAn09delf0zztN0MrsZZOdC-kbvZ1VcNAUvVFONZ1Z5cWEcOPSiS5RIMEXri56NgUS6Bd_K0AaoVGp-AlgSyoWLBUcy1espZEMaXjku8SClo/s1600/1609992_10152275059696117_511969446_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFe7e418gxCFsq__WqOSlZNMvj-BsXJM2LAn09delf0zztN0MrsZZOdC-kbvZ1VcNAUvVFONZ1Z5cWEcOPSiS5RIMEXri56NgUS6Bd_K0AaoVGp-AlgSyoWLBUcy1espZEMaXjku8SClo/s640/1609992_10152275059696117_511969446_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mucking about at Buffalo Stampede 2014.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: How many events did you take part in (Australia and New Zealand) since your stay in Australia?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: About 15 to 20. I have done 2 events in New Zealand. This year, I did about 2 events per month this year.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: If you were to return to Australia in the near future (very soon again!), which event would you like to do again?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi, Oh, definitely <a href="http://runningwild.net.au/alpine-runs/alpine-challenge.html" target="_blank">Alpine Challenge</a>! That's my only DNF, 'Did Not Finish' race.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Which distance would that be?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Jon: He would not leave home for anything less than a 100 miles!!</span></div>
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Bin: Yeah!</div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: I think 100km is pretty good, but if I can, I might try the 100 miles. To do it now would be beyond my capability, I would say. I did not finish that 100k race and I need to finish that!</span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuIpJLPG4MNyO-Q0CAzmUqqKhvi_-V5E9A0T5koDeBbfAoxYHIYcgre_Phyphenhyphen0W0EYg-dxU74-fWjMNLb6AiYpN-7kZBKEWnGdTlWkJeCnQ1lgO6piSdeVKCfgg0B4Wr6BFKKlLUyyC7Xg/s1600/11270378_903631326360384_8720543457671421112_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuIpJLPG4MNyO-Q0CAzmUqqKhvi_-V5E9A0T5koDeBbfAoxYHIYcgre_Phyphenhyphen0W0EYg-dxU74-fWjMNLb6AiYpN-7kZBKEWnGdTlWkJeCnQ1lgO6piSdeVKCfgg0B4Wr6BFKKlLUyyC7Xg/s640/11270378_903631326360384_8720543457671421112_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2015/08/runner-profile-yuanchao-cheng.html" target="_blank">Yuan</a>, after they both completed 2015 TNF100 Australia.</td></tr>
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<a name='more'></a>Von: Do you have any pre-race food you prefer to take?<br />
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Uh no. When I did my first 100k race, the <a href="http://www.thegreatnorthwalk.com/" target="_blank">Great North Walk 2014</a>, I only had 2 pieces of white bread toast. I couldn't get anything when I was there, there was no supermarket nearby the area.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: What was the first event you ever took part in?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Ah, the <a href="http://au.srichinmoyraces.org/sri-chinmoy-princes-park-30k" target="_blank">Sri Chimnoy Princes Park Winter Running Festival</a> 20km. It was just 10 days after I first arrived in Melbourne.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: That's hardcore. :)</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Ok, so among all the events and all the road trips you took with Jon Lim, what do you remember most?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Jon: He doesn't, because he slept through all the way there, and slept all the way home.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: Hahaha that's true!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: But another thing is, what I remember most is always having KFC after that.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: OK, I'm going to ask someone else. <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/melbourne-runner-profile-jon-lim.html" target="_blank">Jon Lim</a>, what do you remember most about Siqi during your road trips, besides him sleeping all the time, what did you learn about him?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Jon: What did I learn about him ... You'll have to come back to me on that, I've got to think about that.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Alright, I'll move to <a href="http://garycheong.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Gary Cheong</a>.</span></div>
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Gary: How I'll remember him? He's the Smiling Assassin!</div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Yeah, but I remember you mentioned picking him up in You Yangs (for one of the night runs)?</span></div>
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Gary: Oh yeah, I was driving to You Yangs and suddenly, I saw him on Branch Road. He was running from Little River train station. I thought I was picking up some girl, but it turned out to be Ricky ...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YtTZUtxqFhCv3SnZRVnC9x_CWUg-4475j42iGEYPuKc3MWv6jkKZkC_SAVpAzNPoMWtb5D5zHeMvD8R1WmSi7E7ohyml1knoQEwQmiKTRA1PGmJ2phEMyoBLWeGOkmafn-gwXiQp6jY/s1600/11181786_1658077657757133_7713650031115895918_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2YtTZUtxqFhCv3SnZRVnC9x_CWUg-4475j42iGEYPuKc3MWv6jkKZkC_SAVpAzNPoMWtb5D5zHeMvD8R1WmSi7E7ohyml1knoQEwQmiKTRA1PGmJ2phEMyoBLWeGOkmafn-gwXiQp6jY/s640/11181786_1658077657757133_7713650031115895918_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At 2015 Surf Coast Trail Marathon.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: OK, if you had a chance to organise an event back in your hometown or home country, where would it be, and what distance would you design it for?</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: That's a good one. I'm not sure about the location but it would be a self-supported one, you have to self-navigate, there would be no markers, ..</span></div>
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<b>Everyone: Woahhhhhhh</b></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: Isn't that rogaining??</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0b5394;">Siqi: It's a bit like that but I want people to have really good knowledge about navigation, how to use compass and how to read maps. I think it's a really useful skill and I learned a lot (about it).</span></div>
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Gary: We shall look forward to a fat ass event organised by Ricky back in PRC!</div>
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<span style="color: #b45f06;">Jon: What I remember was, is that I've never seen you (Siqi) tired in a race. You're either moving really fast, looking happy, or you might be walking a bit, but when I see you walking, you're suddenly running again. I've actually never seen you plod along, like, "Oh, I'm so tired."</span></div>
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<span style="color: #38761d;">Von: But you missed him taking a Trail Nap*!</span></div>
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Then we all got into a discussion as to when the Trail Nap happened, whether Jon was there, whether it was before or after Jon took a video with Siqi, when did the Wild Wombat Fat Ass take place, when did Jon took out his GoPro out on the trails, etc. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7dnvOGZXXc7jtjgdFeDrJPyx2QD4AvCpJHJomq7RnOQfrtcsXzro1Hg3aT0Flrh23hD3qwMjKZgeYk1HQpClp-gRl-yC8Z0LnOM8RTETn_mJbNuuP10nGAxSN88mJGXXPIhQYCthv3c/s1600/IMG-20150822-WA0008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK7dnvOGZXXc7jtjgdFeDrJPyx2QD4AvCpJHJomq7RnOQfrtcsXzro1Hg3aT0Flrh23hD3qwMjKZgeYk1HQpClp-gRl-yC8Z0LnOM8RTETn_mJbNuuP10nGAxSN88mJGXXPIhQYCthv3c/s640/IMG-20150822-WA0008.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">22 August 2015: Having coffee after lunch.<br />
Photo courtesy of Gary.</td></tr>
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It's amazing how time flies. We can't believe it's just been 2 years since we got to know one another!</div>
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Just April last year, a few of us (<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com/2014/04/couple-runner-profile-dion-and-liberty.html" target="_blank">Dion</a>, Anthony, <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/wild-wombat-fat-ass-30-quick-interview.html" target="_blank">Isaac</a>, Jon, Bin and I) teased Siqi that we'd set up a Facebook page to find him a girlfriend - and a few days ago, he reminded me about this project. Haha! In my defence, I did say that he might have to fly us over to his hometown to allow us to kick off the project from there. :)</div>
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We wish <b>Siqi </b>all the best in his future endeavours and look forward to having him back on Australian shores. </div>
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<i>*Isaac came across Siqi taking a nap on the trails during the 2nd loop of Wild Wombat Fat Ass. He said he was so tired that he decided to take nap then and there!</i></div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-39924344336875207932015-08-02T21:50:00.002+10:002015-08-23T00:58:07.869+10:00Runner Profile: Yuanchao Cheng<div style="text-align: justify;">
Say hello to this ever-smiley friend of mine who is better known as <b><span style="font-size: large;">Yuan </span></b>(among us). He's pretty shy, I think, but with an ever-ready smile on his face, you'd be sure to spot him from a mile!</div>
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I have to confess that I have been dying to ask him whether his polka-dotted shorts was his favourite running attire, so ...</div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">1. Tell us, Yuan, are these your favourite pair of running shorts? :D</span></b></div>
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<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">(YT: If you don't know what I'm referring to, it's <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmyTPLf8Mi9z6AIR_qowsUu-vMSoIdVzSQSB6FKchy9UC_adlkJ3S718yzDP6OyYqDKf9xIWfgAQ_eOW8V6kQedh0wutwULq1NnLXwQTOlLcfQF6bF4sX_9YaKrZBm8ydwApf15lZT7qc/s640/10154203_10152128441296220_6805821668516592020_n.jpg" target="_blank">this one</a>, but lately, he hasn't been wearing it so often!)</span></i><br />
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Haha. Yes they are. I’m a very boring man at my daily life. So I want to try something different while running, like wearing some colorful fancy pants...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the 2015 TNF100 Australia.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #38761d;"><b><span style="color: #38761d;">2. It feels like the last time I saw you was when you were running towards the finish line at the 2014 Surf Coast Century 100KM. Since then, you have been hopping from one ultra event after another. What has been your most memorable event so far?</span></b></span><br />
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I would say <b>2015 Two Bays Trail Run</b> would be the one. Even though I have done a couple of 100k events, this year’s Two Bays 56k was the hardest one I ever ran. It was the only one I had a goal to achieve from the beginning to finish. So I pushed myself very hard and hurt me a lot...</div>
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2015年的两湾挑战赛。虽然我已经完成四个百公里了,但是今年初的两湾56公里确是目前为止我觉得最痛苦的一个。这是目前为止唯一的一个超马我从比赛开始就有完赛目标并且一直坚持到比赛结束的。比赛自始至终我都很严肃的逼自己跑的好一些,最终成绩确实比上一年进步很多,但是由于这场比赛把自己逼的太狠导致之前累计的疲劳全部爆发出来。从这场比赛开始,我的身体遭受各式各样的过度训练症状,疲倦,困,容易生病,失眠。。。几个月过去了,现在已经好多了,希望我能尽快返回跑道。</div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">3. How long have you been running?</span></b></div>
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Nearly 3 years. I stopped smoking in Feb 2012 and noticed that I had put on too much weight. Suggested by a friend, I started running since Sept 2012. </div>
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到今年9月份就满3年了。我在2012年2月份戒烟,然后就像几乎每一个戒烟成功的人一样疯狂增肥。然后在2012年9月份,在一个朋友的建议下开始跑步,然后一发不可收拾。像很多跑者一样,为了减肥而开始跑步,真正开始跑步之后就爱上跑步,完全忘记跑步的初衷了。</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyzruNSlj3W3SX9ZboioilNfMVCPp2UMN83XWSzTA5LukFEtYlTdPlhAu3yvbIHxp4I6SjFZ0ctt5ORd27j9NYVbvmP7O3BcYBJe8JtirZxNxUVSzPZHo3CI67lVBgpmds__M5V77PZVk/s1600/GOPR0720.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyzruNSlj3W3SX9ZboioilNfMVCPp2UMN83XWSzTA5LukFEtYlTdPlhAu3yvbIHxp4I6SjFZ0ctt5ORd27j9NYVbvmP7O3BcYBJe8JtirZxNxUVSzPZHo3CI67lVBgpmds__M5V77PZVk/s640/GOPR0720.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the family at Tarawera Ultramarathon 2015.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">4. What's your favourite food? Do you follow a strict pre-race diet regime?</span></b></div>
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I grew up in North China, where noodles and dumplings are the traditional food over there. So I still love noodles and dumplings, even all kinds of breads more than rice.</div>
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我在中国北方长大,面条馒头包子饺子之类的是那里的主食,所以直到现在我仍然最爱这些食物。</div>
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No, I don’t follow any pre-race diet regime. I even had fish and chips for dinner before <b>Great Ocean Walk 100</b> (GOW 100) (<b>Siqi Wu</b>’s idea). </div>
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没有,我没有赛前饮食讲究。在去年大洋路100公里前晚我甚至吃了一大份鱼薯当做晚餐(斯骐的主意)。只要不是吃的特别辣就行。</div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">5. What do you think about when you're running long distance?</span></b></div>
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During a race, I usually just focus on my body and the race itself, like my running form, pace, nutrition, hydration etc. At training, I just purely enjoy the moment to be alone, I'm not thinking too much.</div>
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一般来讲并不会想很多事情。在比赛的时候我会更加关注自己的身体状况以及比赛本身,比如补给跑步姿势等等。在训练中跑长距离的时候我基本上也是在享受难得的独处时间,放空自己。</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDvkD8dXCBw5ObioeISj_niueEiL0y0ffxzUW8Z4UnFL8lXOI9fpx-1tOZJ-qdMuXfvzBc8-mM0yS0YhuoH8zUXRSOdpFcrUhE2XXeLBhlbw4cGOEvZONDR8rjy8KrCRqwuAiAjEcWOg/s1600/10631170_10152737550418395_7061581371231534907_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxDvkD8dXCBw5ObioeISj_niueEiL0y0ffxzUW8Z4UnFL8lXOI9fpx-1tOZJ-qdMuXfvzBc8-mM0yS0YhuoH8zUXRSOdpFcrUhE2XXeLBhlbw4cGOEvZONDR8rjy8KrCRqwuAiAjEcWOg/s400/10631170_10152737550418395_7061581371231534907_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the family after completing the 2015 Surf Coast Century 100km.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">6. You and your family take part in the parkrun quite regularly. Are they as passionate about running as you? </span></b></div>
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No, they are not as crazy as me. My wife runs 3 or 4 times a week, only 5-7ks with her dog .My son, Andrew only runs at Saturday mornings' parkruns. I believe we will be doing more parkruns together when my 6 year old boy can run the whole 5k.</div>
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没有。她们并不像我这样跑的这么疯狂。我太太每周带着狗跑三四次5,6公里的段距离。而我的大儿子也只是跑parkrun或者跟着他妈妈一起带狗出去跑步。</div>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">7. When and where can we expect to see you again for the rest of the year?</span></b></div>
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I think I joined too many events last year and pushed myself too hard. Since early this year, I started getting sick frequently. So this year, I’m trying to join less events. For me, there's only one left for rest of the year: Ultra Trail Mt Fuji (UTMF), which is the one I’ve dreamed of for a couple of years. I used to climb up Fuji summit when I lived in Japan. I'm so excited that I will run a loop around it this time.</div>
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After UTMF, I will probably have a long break, of course not out of running, but will spend more time with the family, going hiking or parkruns, etc.</div>
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去年参加了太多的比赛,把自己逼的太紧了,身体严重疲劳,今年开始不停的生病。所以我今年会放慢脚步一些,参加的比赛比去年要少很多。下半年只剩下一个比赛了,就是环富士山一百英里。我以前住在日本的时候曾经爬到过富士山顶去看日出,这次我将尝试着去围绕着它跑一圈!而且这是我的第一个百英里,好兴奋。</div>
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这个比赛之后,我会放松自己,不赶着去参加任何比赛,当然还是会跑步的,只是会花更多的时间跟家里人一起,parkrun或者带她们去爬山什么的。</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDm80MkZ5TjSaf9pbNeesFFZImVL6W2Ni2asBUKLCg0UC50BdYLakyZlfmb9qXPxC6y2KdA354sVIjq9iythv6EmJyVY6J1TytiTLzqej6n_ggj2xe5lC-CyJZVEU6KNI2iVEt6kZFxc/s1600/20140112_065249.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpDm80MkZ5TjSaf9pbNeesFFZImVL6W2Ni2asBUKLCg0UC50BdYLakyZlfmb9qXPxC6y2KdA354sVIjq9iythv6EmJyVY6J1TytiTLzqej6n_ggj2xe5lC-CyJZVEU6KNI2iVEt6kZFxc/s640/20140112_065249.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With some of the Surf Coast Trail Runners at the 2014 Two Bays Trail Run.</td></tr>
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<b><span style="color: #38761d;">8. Where in Melbourne would you recommend me to go for the best noodles or dumplings? :D</span></b><br />
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Haha, for me, my wife makes the best dumplings in Australia!<br />
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">Good luck and all the best in conquering UTMF this coming September! Looking forward to hearing about your experience and achievement.</span></i><br />
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<b><u><span style="color: #0b5394;">Other SCTR runner profiles:</span></u></b><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/12/wild-wombat-fat-ass-30-quick-interview.html" target="_blank">The Wild Wombat Boys</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/01/melbourne-runner-profile-gregor-hartnell.html" target="_blank">Gregor Hartnell</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/melbourne-runner-profile-jon-lim.html" target="_blank">Jon Lim</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/04/couple-runner-profile-dion-and-liberty.html" target="_blank">Dion and Liberty Milne</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/06/runner-profile-caroline-bertrand.html" target="_blank">Caroline Bertrand</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/07/runner-profile-kirsten-maplestone.html" target="_blank">Kirsten Maplestone</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/07/tony-and-erin-running-together.html" target="_blank">Erin Vaughan and dad, Tony</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/runner-profile-chris-roberts.html" target="_blank">Chris Roberts</a><br />
<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2014/08/matt-hosking-and-his-100-mile-debut.html" target="_blank">Matt Hosking and his 100 Mile debut</a><br />
<br />
And <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com/2014/08/why-i-interview-runner-friends.html" target="_blank">why I interview runner friends</a>. :)<br />
<br />Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-29601036692889794102015-07-26T19:47:00.001+10:002015-07-26T19:49:28.652+10:00A Quick Getaway to Gold Coast, Queensland<div style="text-align: justify;">
<u>Friday, 3rd July 2015</u></div>
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We flew into Gold Coast via Jetstar and landed at the airport before noon. As we queued to picked up our rental car from Budget, the lady at the counter asked the hubs if we were there for the <b>Gold Coast Airport Marathon</b>. :D</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM4lqCZu2NJxXlWSJZCcg2BldlIgR3ZT3ndg18pa_DoUYNiCOZNb8QE_vXInU-3zrOujg-esttQzLd_Jv2dj6D8hldoSuMuOvg8br0IaYu2c9IvT-V-e0tt4xuOJfb2Wed6G-MHGhCSw/s1600/IMAG9794.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEM4lqCZu2NJxXlWSJZCcg2BldlIgR3ZT3ndg18pa_DoUYNiCOZNb8QE_vXInU-3zrOujg-esttQzLd_Jv2dj6D8hldoSuMuOvg8br0IaYu2c9IvT-V-e0tt4xuOJfb2Wed6G-MHGhCSw/s400/IMAG9794.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We were pleasantly surprised to have been given a new red car, woohoo!!<br />
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We decided to stop by <b>Burleigh Heads</b> for some lunch as our tummies were beginning to grumble. Unsure where to go for food, we found ourselves outside the fish and chip shop.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjSuf_nJjOCrJ1QDKk7Vyn1MYEfWUdShl60m3DlF7lOKH29wv28gfCt9k5NW-4wrK7aGzbQQuxm85MWkGLrkLtfhUQGmzx-y6NwaFIjx9atMnWICPsjuOyfOQkECMhuFsojXKlPokpIA/s1600/IMAG9795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfjSuf_nJjOCrJ1QDKk7Vyn1MYEfWUdShl60m3DlF7lOKH29wv28gfCt9k5NW-4wrK7aGzbQQuxm85MWkGLrkLtfhUQGmzx-y6NwaFIjx9atMnWICPsjuOyfOQkECMhuFsojXKlPokpIA/s400/IMAG9795.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Might as well!</td></tr>
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Shared a single platter for $17. No biggie but good enough to keep our tummies happy. :)<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walked towards to beach after lunch for a quick look-see.</td></tr>
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We were rather too chilled for words - instead of stopping by the expo to pick up our bibs, we headed straight to our accommodation to check-in, rest a bit before heading out again.</div>
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We found ourselves at the unofficial <b><a href="http://www.parkrun.com.au/mainbeach/">Main Beach parkrun</a></b> because some friends said they'd turn up. *no names mentioned* While waiting for team McCleish to arrive, we chatted with Trish, a runner from Brisbane. She was there with her husband and running buddy, and they were doing the half marathon on Sunday.</div>
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The crowd began to build up and Tim (General Manager of parkrun Australia) kicked it off with an opening speech and introduced several people to the crowd. There were a couple of elite runners that day, but for the life of me, I don't remember their names.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCTR represented!</td></tr>
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The legs felt good. We were stoked to find ourselves mostly running on a track instead of a concrete pavement. Most of the run was on a track and it was pretty cool - I would say it's a light trail for beginners, with a little undulation every now and then. Every now and then, we'd catch a glimpse of the aquamarine sea beyond the trees on the route back to the start area.</div>
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The pictures I have don't do the route justice. I have to say that it's a pretty good parkrun route. In fact, I loved it!<br />
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If you're in Gold Coast for the weekends, do join their parkruns on Saturday mornings at 7 am.<br />
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After that, we rushed off to<b> Surfers Paradise</b> to meet up with our friends from Malaysia for dinner. We didn't expect it to be so difficult to find a parking spot!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyMEPmdOshdL1HG5_fBP4T4Twk4FTSYKG4V4ZGf4JsIIahSdoIyfylvCMpjffdVpeKa3YK6VGVaEaQUUUmQE05-_tCdIBkoUBVK6Jh_RQ5HkebxMr4oHl08EKBhHe-e0feP-nS0Fe5ag/s1600/11036077_10153447268163899_7931350232673157299_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifyMEPmdOshdL1HG5_fBP4T4Twk4FTSYKG4V4ZGf4JsIIahSdoIyfylvCMpjffdVpeKa3YK6VGVaEaQUUUmQE05-_tCdIBkoUBVK6Jh_RQ5HkebxMr4oHl08EKBhHe-e0feP-nS0Fe5ag/s400/11036077_10153447268163899_7931350232673157299_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">*sigh* There is always a photobomber trying to be funny!</td></tr>
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Bin and I were clearly under dressed for that rather breezy evening. :D</div>
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We were indecisive where to have dinner and eventually decided on <b>Belly Busters</b>. We took a while to decide what to order (we were pretty clueless) but after 15 minutes, we made our selections reluctantly. The whole stack of ribs was huge!</div>
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<u>Saturday, 4th July 2015</u></div>
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First thing to do was to pick up our bibs at the expo. Bumped into Eugene and Steven (who were both doing the half marathon as well) and we bid them g'day after a while.</div>
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We headed off to <b>Mount Tambourine</b> to find one of the waterfalls that the hubs was determined to check out. Waterfalls, waterfalls, waterfalls. That's the only thing I kept hearing from him before and during our trip to Gold Coast!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpVf55C-55YzlOpAFwCIrc0NnT2UbQzmwhIHBIlgw15efUsQN6_KU9kEWf0dFwiWB3V30d472ePXk6M2UJINhMHtYgWCAhzz1EN7Y8mPxh1LfC-R62lWf_AVQnbwKGYl2shI4fdUv8WE/s1600/P1020843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBpVf55C-55YzlOpAFwCIrc0NnT2UbQzmwhIHBIlgw15efUsQN6_KU9kEWf0dFwiWB3V30d472ePXk6M2UJINhMHtYgWCAhzz1EN7Y8mPxh1LfC-R62lWf_AVQnbwKGYl2shI4fdUv8WE/s640/P1020843.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Their claws are rather sharp. I had scratches on my arm and fingers!</td></tr>
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Popped by <b>The Polish Place</b> to say hi to the Mccleish, who were there for coffee and bird feeding.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgme6ZeGGE2mDzNu5uewcsL_vs6RNo7l0fUy5GjW4ung7XbRW_nfwWI3RCCMKgjcnWR8R7myy2rNQyNQqEL6ER0zlEWGGMt6nJOIn6rxnfSSJpNBgh3W9uhVUkBJpLqAyz6HPAKmPl-lZI/s1600/P1020845.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgme6ZeGGE2mDzNu5uewcsL_vs6RNo7l0fUy5GjW4ung7XbRW_nfwWI3RCCMKgjcnWR8R7myy2rNQyNQqEL6ER0zlEWGGMt6nJOIn6rxnfSSJpNBgh3W9uhVUkBJpLqAyz6HPAKmPl-lZI/s640/P1020845.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We were feeding sugar from sachets which isn't good for them, actually. :P</td></tr>
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Next up, <b>Cameron Falls</b>. The picnic area was packed with people having barbies and picnics, and its parking area was full.</div>
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It was so nice to be out in the woods on a sunny day. It made us extremely glad to be away from Melbourne's gloomy skies!</div>
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Then we headed to <b>Harbourtown </b>to check out what the fuss was about. I wished we had delegated enough time for shopping - the place was huge!</div>
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Rushed back to freshen up at our hotel before walking to Surfer's Paradise to join the gang for dinner. The queue for <b>Vapiano </b>was horrendous at 6pm!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLANXaqZP-pCGvnccNBCVF-U9plfuUddHPhq4xzCZzY2mNhD53hZuEAQrTpt5-7SIGX55jDkMNDCwRKnWeGG-uywC-IoJiLUIUUmrkz8JzYW9ya8P2Y7OJn6eQ_VpijTFG4u48fOSKmBs/s1600/IMG-20150704-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLANXaqZP-pCGvnccNBCVF-U9plfuUddHPhq4xzCZzY2mNhD53hZuEAQrTpt5-7SIGX55jDkMNDCwRKnWeGG-uywC-IoJiLUIUUmrkz8JzYW9ya8P2Y7OJn6eQ_VpijTFG4u48fOSKmBs/s400/IMG-20150704-WA0011.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo credit: Foo</td></tr>
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It was a loooong wait. By the time we sat down to eat, it was 7.15pm and it was disappointing that the food was not great. :( Thankfully the company was fabulous. :)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUdnavn7qezSuYOmhi28sLpx5FeO_GloVkNGzk9Yu_xxxdHUhjlVck75OFa1DQRGXjayxNpbBObBjnpshklyfUGUz4zzB9U76Fxc-z33ktrhnk3idSt6IdgkSiIJVynvS_l7sSySBQd0/s1600/IMAG9836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUdnavn7qezSuYOmhi28sLpx5FeO_GloVkNGzk9Yu_xxxdHUhjlVck75OFa1DQRGXjayxNpbBObBjnpshklyfUGUz4zzB9U76Fxc-z33ktrhnk3idSt6IdgkSiIJVynvS_l7sSySBQd0/s400/IMAG9836.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The food was sadly disappointing - lacking in taste.</td></tr>
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<u>Sunday, 5th July 2015</u></div>
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<a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2015/07/recap-of-asics-half-marathon-at-2015.html">Read race recap in my earlier post</a>.</div>
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Dinner was over at Onz, Foo and Jeanie's apartment at Breakfree Long Beach. Once again,we underestimated the lack of available (free) parking spots so we ended up parking somewhere with a 2 hour limit. My friends must be fed up of waiting for us by now - we were late for all our appointments with them! :(</div>
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As it was a potluck dinner, there was plenty of food to go around. Somehow my friends have tiny appetites so there was a lot of leftovers. I contributed a tray of brownies and a few bottles of apple cider.</div>
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Everyone was exhausted so we called it a night at about 10.30pm. Pretty early, but we were definitely quite knackered. Bin and I had to pack as we wanted to check out early the next day.</div>
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<u>Monday, 6th July 2015</u></div>
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After hearing Isaac and Gavin mention '<b>Hinterland</b>' to us for a couple of times, we finally realised what they were talking about - <b>Springbrook National Park</b>. We checked out at 8.30am and made our way there to find the <b>Natural Bridge</b>.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpeAW842icavxckm_6URfo8RVR3KWBaAa-Yzk0xN9m-0weaWDhfzqFauquaKiXULcBD2kL_VQD-SUESEgKtm8kBhtVPX4gfLLEhsDXbUiFzt9m-yH_F0iEg_xTs6kk-OHaOXE0YiQEaM/s1600/IMAG9877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUpeAW842icavxckm_6URfo8RVR3KWBaAa-Yzk0xN9m-0weaWDhfzqFauquaKiXULcBD2kL_VQD-SUESEgKtm8kBhtVPX4gfLLEhsDXbUiFzt9m-yH_F0iEg_xTs6kk-OHaOXE0YiQEaM/s640/IMAG9877.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So cool ...</td></tr>
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And it was breathtakingly amazing. I seriously recommend this place!!</div>
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There are several lookouts and waterfalls in the area but we could only visit a few. We had to cut our trip short because I had forgotten to pick up my contact lenses from Onz!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the lookout points near Canyon lookout.</td></tr>
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Spotting the waterfall from afar, we thought we'd have enough time to run towards it and back. I was doubtful, as the information did mention that the 4km hike would take 3 hours for a return trip. I didn't think I'd be able to run like crazy!</div>
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We ran towards it for a while, and then turned back as we decided no way in hell we would back it back in time. So we headed the other direction instead.</div>
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Racing for time is something I don't like to do when I'm on the trails because I am such a clumsy oaf.</div>
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Indeed, I rolled my right ankle when my foot landed on a rock. I thought I'd yelp pretty loudly but nope, the hubs didn't hear me and continued running ahead.</div>
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If my stares shot daggers, he would have been stabbed in the back multiple times.</div>
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Anyway, I waited for 5 minutes before testing it and semi-hobbled/jog my way towards him. Once I reached him, however, we said it was time to turn back. So I hobbled-jog my way back to the car.</div>
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Well, we made our way safely back to Melbourne and boy, did we miss the sunshine in Gold Coast.</div>
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Looks like we will make our way back to Queensland to finish our exploration of <b>Springbrook National Park </b>for its trails and waterfalls!</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6805102228631814983.post-43164927788419530232015-07-12T12:00:00.000+10:002015-07-12T12:02:16.978+10:00Recap of Asics Half Marathon at 2015 Gold Coast Airport Marathon<div style="text-align: justify;">
I signed up for the <a href="http://goldcoastmarathon.com.au/races/half-marathon/">Asics Half Marathon</a> at the <b>2015 Gold Coast Airport Marathon</b> for 2 reasons; a post-exam weekend getaway to celebrate the end of a full-time 6 month course, and to provide myself a goal to keep fit and keep myself in check lest I lose my fitness altogether. The trip itself was also to catch up with some friends. :)</div>
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Being too busy and exhausted with studying during the past 6 months certainly took a toll on my fitness. I gained weight, felt less of a runner, and my frustration ate into whatever I had left of my confidence. Every day after work and every month after an exam, my respect for working mothers increased by a notch – how did they juggle everything??</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4lwYc1cgfgzFjIjDmJzGk48ayjLYdAwkgrYiHxbOkXxgPCuNCUtKA35tiX9fPNeNg2RuUHc5Vbdv_al09ee2ZGu7XePFOouPpbM2xkP1Hirk7iLBnKremxpth1JVjs7Kh1QFLyA8hBsk/s1600/10506887_10153271585831117_463229958117752094_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4lwYc1cgfgzFjIjDmJzGk48ayjLYdAwkgrYiHxbOkXxgPCuNCUtKA35tiX9fPNeNg2RuUHc5Vbdv_al09ee2ZGu7XePFOouPpbM2xkP1Hirk7iLBnKremxpth1JVjs7Kh1QFLyA8hBsk/s640/10506887_10153271585831117_463229958117752094_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the long runs with Bin and Eugene at Altona Beach.</td></tr>
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<b>Studying and training</b></div>
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When I signed up for the half marathon in April, on the last day of the early bird registration, I only had 2 months of strict training (haha) to follow. This forced me manage my time properly, giving me a perspective of what I wanted to achieve in the evenings, besides cooking dinner, studying and completing assignments.</div>
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Getting involved in running again definitely made me happier, and parkruns on Saturdays reflected the progress of my training. I was gaining my speed once again, although not as speedy as I was 2 years ago.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB50FHbMqmxXov8B4NUM5AZHqOZ8E1MkNipYzk-CfrxoyuSzH3YL9waZy6_bwsQMhpieCy72-UmOZ0l3EEEhc2RdttfL9k3qsuiUHNEAj4VV0rfmzRw8uM8tPsQqgzFBYBHa2cA0BvEA/s1600/IMG-20150704-WA0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRB50FHbMqmxXov8B4NUM5AZHqOZ8E1MkNipYzk-CfrxoyuSzH3YL9waZy6_bwsQMhpieCy72-UmOZ0l3EEEhc2RdttfL9k3qsuiUHNEAj4VV0rfmzRw8uM8tPsQqgzFBYBHa2cA0BvEA/s640/IMG-20150704-WA0011.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">While waiting for a table at Vapiano for dinner the night before the race.<br />
Photo courtesy of Foo.</td></tr>
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The gloomy winter evenings didn’t help things. It was always easier to say, <i>“It’s too cold, let’s skip the running!”</i> rather than change into running gear and get our butts out of the door. It was hard work.</div>
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I told myself that even if I did minimal training, I would manage to comfortably finish in 2:15 so I need not put too much pressure on myself to chase the sub-2 finish that has been eluding me for all these years.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0HAKpSOJR97FeKVwFoSF8eA-u6mksl13LSQFTJxKTSceVYHfERQLR45a0ZhqS4ZHMHO_efFDDf1b1_avCh5Viz73MSVXp063-3IwyOHj6rGs3MNLM0u5Z8UopTTS_sM7Tm2KPvtM9jo/s1600/IMAG9836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0HAKpSOJR97FeKVwFoSF8eA-u6mksl13LSQFTJxKTSceVYHfERQLR45a0ZhqS4ZHMHO_efFDDf1b1_avCh5Viz73MSVXp063-3IwyOHj6rGs3MNLM0u5Z8UopTTS_sM7Tm2KPvtM9jo/s640/IMAG9836.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Vapiano, standing in line to order your food before a designated cook.</td></tr>
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<b>Was my training enough?</b></div>
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Like the last 2 (full) marathons, I adopted a training plan which I was comfortable with. I did a half marathon trial 3 weeks before the event and despite how difficult it was for me, I was surprised to finish in under 2 hours. Granted my posture was horrible and I was panting like hell, but I was happy to know where I stood - the sub-2 was within reach. </div>
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No more doubts about it!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8HRJ-6KV68uq-vm49hUcItlqpBiGRAHCZQYGcG4xiaR_x0ogajZqqcrF3PwizGQV7Ry-CWUmpcMrAgKupNLSB1QDSUoNdnJ_BFqS6eWMDTuSoepEVWGsovKkqOZ558ezozlVSx8AicE/s1600/11231318_10153450279658899_5255884648569829582_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA8HRJ-6KV68uq-vm49hUcItlqpBiGRAHCZQYGcG4xiaR_x0ogajZqqcrF3PwizGQV7Ry-CWUmpcMrAgKupNLSB1QDSUoNdnJ_BFqS6eWMDTuSoepEVWGsovKkqOZ558ezozlVSx8AicE/s640/11231318_10153450279658899_5255884648569829582_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Managed a group photo despite being late. We got lost in the crowd!<br />
Photo courtesy of Jamie Pang.</td></tr>
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<b>Race Day – Sunday, 5th July 2015</b></div>
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We stood at the end of Corral B and couldn’t see the start line at all. It took us several minutes to cross the timing mat but I wasn’t sure how long it took. I tried looking for the clock but I don’t think there was one at the start gantry. Or maybe it was facing the other direction.</div>
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The first 1km was slow at 6:15 pace. I wondered how long it would take for the road to widen so I could increase my pace. The second km went by at 5:15 pace, making up for lost time. After that, I kept a steady pace of 5:25 and prayed I could last the rest of the run comfortably at this pace. </div>
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Based on my past experience and training, I knew it was a long shot as I still wasn’t as a strong runner as I’d hope to be. </div>
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I wanted to pop a power gel at the 8km mark but there wasn’t an aid station. I had failed to study the aid station locations! Thank goodness there was one at the 9km mark.</div>
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The timing mat at the 10km mark showed 1:00:xx and I was surprised that I was faster than I had anticipated. It got me worried, as I knew I wouldn’t be able to last.</div>
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True enough, right after the u-turn (halfway), my strength faltered. I supposed the energy gel hadn’t kicked in, but I felt so depleted that I wanted to call it quits at 11km. I began to struggle to ease my breathing, but from the feel of my posture, I knew I was weak.</div>
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I kept moving and looking at my watch every 500m, just to keep an eye on my pace. I was going at 5:35 pace (not too bad) and I began looking out for aid stations as an excuse to stop to hydrate and catch my breath. It was a poor judgment call when I gulped down a full cup of Endura as running with a belly full of liquid wasn't fun.</div>
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Seeing as I was starting to falter, the hubs forced me to take my 2nd power gel at 13 – 14km. I was breathing so hard and I hated it! I kept moving, of course, but with less vigour and determination. </div>
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I was annoyed. </div>
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I was frustrated. </div>
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I wanted to quit. </div>
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Every time I checked my watch, I was conscious of the decision I had to make.</div>
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">“35 minutes left to get that sub-2 …”</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">“30 minutes left …”</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">“25 minutes to go …”</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">“Finishing 2:01 isn’t so bad …”</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="color: #38761d;">‘Should I give up?”</span></i></div>
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By 17km, the hubs forced me to take another power gel, despite me asking telling him that I wanted to quit. Somehow I ended up behind a guy who’s top had the words, <b>“Never give up ..”</b></div>
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Geez.</div>
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I supposed at this stage, I slowly snapped out of the gloom. <i>What happened to the tenacity I used to have when tackling a tough event?</i> I asked myself. <i>What's wrong with me?</i></div>
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I was disgusted.</div>
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By 18km and looking at my watch, I knew I could still make it. I was half disappointed, to be honest, as I wanted a reason to give up! Haha.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">[<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHxqWjLvpxwqyHpHAF-lKbzqx_pf3zoJufOdTz1G5cnF_1Rt1h4Z0Fa8OUtKK13F3IiCGaOcOrYh-SidZlVtUcu_b_EeNLtv9cAUdMSGBFDVb00Zi20LTmY4ullrE58N5dIQdAY3u-TM/s320/Untitled.png">Click here</a> to see happy pic of me!]</span></i><br />
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By 20km, I stopped focusing on trying to straighten my horrible posture and focused on maintaining my strength and energy to cross the finish line. Granted my breathing was out of sorts, but I kept moving.</div>
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After the 21km mark, I was despaired that the finishing line was not within sight. I was FURIOUS. I was so afraid I was going to collapse before I even cross the finish line.</div>
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A runner next to me asked the question aloud, <i><span style="color: #990000;">"Where's the finish line??"</span></i></div>
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We spotted it and that's when we sprinted for it. </div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">[<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCoxTjdfrR47pKAbUSrhi9iUUK1auOYSGNWCSEmbTtJDcDUf6YwrrasGqAP-EicSzr9qLmlWL2mdhClEILSuCUY15hEzKrhUEUlR_41OEW3YV_mcSVvDwwM9tnXy6Ok1-ZqZIpt0cmQkI/s320/GCAM1.png">Click here</a> to see pic of me and my horrible posture!]</span></i><br />
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It was finally over.</div>
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After collecting some fruits, water and finisher tees, we headed out towards the exit. I was starting to cramp, alternating between the right calf and left shin, so the hubs made me sit on the curb so he could stretch my legs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-lax1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10981611_10153038677846220_8162920245500269192_n.jpg?oh=fd6cc4b1e3754e8004daaa25c7845bb1&oe=56576CFE" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://scontent-lax1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/10981611_10153038677846220_8162920245500269192_n.jpg?oh=fd6cc4b1e3754e8004daaa25c7845bb1&oe=56576CFE" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Damn you, stupid crampy legs!<br />
Photo courtesy of Bin.</td></tr>
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<b>Supporting our friends and runners</b></div>
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We changed into fresh clothes and met up with Eugene and Steven for breakfast at the Australian Fair food court. Both guys completed their half marathon in 1:52 and 1:41 respectively. After that, the hubs and I headed out to keep an eye out for our friends who were running the marathon.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZouSmbUtf-_NXA8CJdT7Mb2wrHohUhBXkI5QVwkiqjMO1BL98rde90jaV79A2_h20F19Nhs_lgarcWubvdKf-EF5hFBgURwZPiPzQ6SsKoZEVGBKecITEdtnQIykGZozIr_35PPtMmsM/s1600/P1020879.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZouSmbUtf-_NXA8CJdT7Mb2wrHohUhBXkI5QVwkiqjMO1BL98rde90jaV79A2_h20F19Nhs_lgarcWubvdKf-EF5hFBgURwZPiPzQ6SsKoZEVGBKecITEdtnQIykGZozIr_35PPtMmsM/s640/P1020879.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the marathon runners in a cute get up. :)</td></tr>
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Standing at the 31KM mark and feeling the heat on our skin, we cheered the runners who ran by, and hoping to catch a glimpse of our friends. We were so worried that we had missed them but eventually spotted Gavin, Sophie, Yuan and Jamie.</div>
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The hubs then went off towards the finish line to catch them in action while I waited a while longer to catch CY and the rest. However, I only waited long enough for CY to come into the picture before heading off to the finish area.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-lax1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/11401427_1229210863771920_3299147440911304424_n.jpg?oh=5c7c8bb4362b6b1c96411dd5732c4c88&oe=5620F025" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://scontent-lax1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/11401427_1229210863771920_3299147440911304424_n.jpg?oh=5c7c8bb4362b6b1c96411dd5732c4c88&oe=5620F025" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Someone setting a record of running the fastest marathon while balancing egg on spoon.</td></tr>
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It was not easy to get close to the finish line as there were barricades around the area. I squeezed into a spot on the grandstand and waited impatiently for our friends to cross the finish.</div>
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<b>Happy celebrations</b></div>
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It was good to be able to cheer for some of our friends who were running the marathon that day. The event location was packed to the brim with people, which made it hard to cheer for the runners who were crossing the finish line. It was madness!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0J6-eyBGj6yhuTtbrcKWmWmSI2g1dJsejDr83YJhGjAKIFuObBQP32RwheVfjkGK3o7DbDx15WGxJYHfOYylASDfSCh-YBqqL0JUPoDDgnbLSVHhFAh_qDg1zAFaLAw4w9YGbrfaNlLA/s1600/1891024_10153451123513899_2772671774499931465_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0J6-eyBGj6yhuTtbrcKWmWmSI2g1dJsejDr83YJhGjAKIFuObBQP32RwheVfjkGK3o7DbDx15WGxJYHfOYylASDfSCh-YBqqL0JUPoDDgnbLSVHhFAh_qDg1zAFaLAw4w9YGbrfaNlLA/s640/1891024_10153451123513899_2772671774499931465_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Got to be part of their team photo. Yay!<br />
Photo courtesy of Jamie Pang.</td></tr>
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Basking in the atmosphere, I was happy to hear of my friends' achievements and their drama stories. They remained cheerful and it was good to know that they did extremely well. Most of them scored a new personal best that day. Yay!! :)</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZjzGChUjS_rcoj2pyKhUneVZnFUuoeVCdvBRkX0sm_ae5Toea595TfMXCpEhYXha_1e9YhCe-mMiqaizk62WLtATKoCt_J1SxL3uVxVKHmGxRv88gBck8IMFF59Mi0Q0pY40jOIJZxc/s1600/11710035_10153038734981220_7172314579005597295_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZjzGChUjS_rcoj2pyKhUneVZnFUuoeVCdvBRkX0sm_ae5Toea595TfMXCpEhYXha_1e9YhCe-mMiqaizk62WLtATKoCt_J1SxL3uVxVKHmGxRv88gBck8IMFF59Mi0Q0pY40jOIJZxc/s640/11710035_10153038734981220_7172314579005597295_o.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Managed to get everyone to do a jump shot with me. :)<br />
Photo courtesy of Bin.</td></tr>
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<b>What can I say about the event?</b></div>
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1. I was surprised to see spectators already out on the roads to cheer the half marathon runners. To be up at 6am and cheering us on is quite amazing, especially for the kids! I had a gel in each hand so I wasn't able to high-five them along the way, but I was glad that the hubs managed to score a few high-fives.</div>
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2. There was some Beatles' or oldies music blasting somewhere along the way - I loved that!</div>
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3. Plenty of aid stations.</div>
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4. Funny moment at about 1.5km into the run. We heard a spectator cheering us and saying, <i>"You're almost there!!"</i> Everyone around me laughed. So did I. :D</div>
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5. Every tiny slope felt like a mountain to me - that's because I am weak! :P<br />
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6. Distance markers went a bit off after the u-turn. I think my watch said I ran 21.2km but hey hey, that means I still ran pretty fast despite the extra distance! :D</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKOpmnTCkvCIpFnh9WWAL8nqo8sDdYnJsuX4DKEBu0TkK9FH-Z_1dMwoFHcs4ZYmxEuY3fQkWvWzkNOZXZpLkKUo-XGIyAdEtzQAkyyCyAUsuxNOPjXd4hrvvJTVgdnoQT8IgHS1AHB4/s1600/IMAG9859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKOpmnTCkvCIpFnh9WWAL8nqo8sDdYnJsuX4DKEBu0TkK9FH-Z_1dMwoFHcs4ZYmxEuY3fQkWvWzkNOZXZpLkKUo-XGIyAdEtzQAkyyCyAUsuxNOPjXd4hrvvJTVgdnoQT8IgHS1AHB4/s640/IMAG9859.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Post-race lunch at <a href="https://www.zomato.com/chevron-island-qld/obsessions-on-chevron-chevron-island">Obsessions</a>.<br />
I had the Shady Cortez burger, it was <i>so </i>good.</td></tr>
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<b>Post-race frustration</b></div>
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I remain disappointed that I am not as strong as I have always hoped to be. Two years ago, I was running faster 5ks than what I do now, but the sub-2 was always far beyond my reach. It was almost impossible then, yet I always carried the belief that I <i>could</i>.</div>
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Fast forward to 2015, I lost that faith and had high doubts that I could finally have a sub-2 half marathon officially on record. It was <i>never </i>my intention to resurrect this 'dream' of mine but what the heck, life is not worth living if you don't chase those touchable and <i>un</i>-impossible goals, I suppose.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmWBQdvnOmo2-ljLRVwnaVucwkhO3dpXwwWUkx5IZCiSDNkYrBt2XPjnMPJlPIcV_axtTItgwo1SRF2DqgZPOgGTuyQjQpV6whH7uO1I2wpMJS8G1XxhC3eNwbiKl_SYv9QpVGYsp-F8/s1600/11029486_10153307160856117_5368994344225465299_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmWBQdvnOmo2-ljLRVwnaVucwkhO3dpXwwWUkx5IZCiSDNkYrBt2XPjnMPJlPIcV_axtTItgwo1SRF2DqgZPOgGTuyQjQpV6whH7uO1I2wpMJS8G1XxhC3eNwbiKl_SYv9QpVGYsp-F8/s400/11029486_10153307160856117_5368994344225465299_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The obligatory selfie to share on Facebook!</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I thank the hubs and all my friends, near and far. who for some strange reason, believed in me when I didn't. Somehow reading your congratulatory cheers and messages online was the one thing that triggered my tear ducts into action, not the numbers </span><i style="text-align: justify;">1:58</i><span style="text-align: justify;">. </span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Thank you! xx</span><br />
<b style="text-align: justify;"><br />The Malaysian GCAM Training Clinic</b></div>
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For those of you who are wondering why I was graciously allowed to join the group of Malaysian runners in their photos, I don't know, too! </div>
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Haha I'm just kidding.</div>
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Two years ago I joined them for training runs, and whilst they were training for the GCAM in July, I trained for my <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/nestle-fitnesse-malaysia-women-marathon.html">Malaysia Women Marathon</a> in April. We also ventured into trail running together (some will say I dragged them into it) and these bunch of peeps became my regular running buddies.</div>
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[See this <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/gcam-run-clinic-sessions.html">post</a>, <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/05/gcam-group-run-training-towards-marathon.html">this one</a> and <a href="http://pifflesinc2.blogspot.com.au/2013/06/gcam13-team-my-group-runs-come-to-end.html">that one</a>.]</div>
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Thank you for letting me hang out with you guys a few times during the trip! xx</div>
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Piffleshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02113596450413499961noreply@blogger.com3