Apple Sale (in Australia)

Last week in US and some other lucky countries, Apple did a sale event which was called a Black Friday sale. It's a similar concept to the Boxing Day sale in Australia. So, one day after Thanksgiving, the stores hold sale events to suck you dry of the pocket money you might received during the holiday season.

Anyway, Apple did the sale last Friday, 24th of November 2006 for the US and some lucky countries (I think Canada was one of them). However, Apple decided to include some of the unlucky countries that missed out on the sale. So, on the 1st December (this Friday), Apple will again hold a sale, for Australia only (I lied, and UK as well).

Unlike the US sale which happened at both retail stores and online, the Australia sale seems to be online only and UK seems to be focused more on retail stores.

So, browse the Apple Store now to have a look what are available and get ready for next Friday. The sale in US include discounts for ipods (not the shuffle), macs and some accessories. We can only hope that it will be the same here.

Check out www.apple.com.au and click on store for further details.

Getamac campaign

Also, if you're a fan of the Get a Mac campaign (the commercial with PC and Mac), you might want to check out the US site for 3 new commercials. As always, the commercial is hilarious.

The new ones are,

• Gift exchange - PC and Mac exchange gifts
• Sales Pitch - PC is trying to sell itself with subliminal messages
• Meant for Work - PC is exhausted of too much work

Check out http://www.apple.com/getamac/.

Chadstone Summer VIP night [updated]

I just went pass Chadstone (Chaddy) and I saw the announcements for another VIP night. It is going to be on Wednesday, 22nd of November 2006. I guess the time would be after 6pm as usual, I didn't manage to look at the time. There are no details on the website yet but will keep you all updated when more news come.

Update:
It has been confirmed that the VIP night will be held on Wednesday. The sale will start from 5.30 pm until 12 am (yes midnight). There is also free shuttle bus to and from Chadstone every hour on the night.

For all the special offers on the night, please click here (pdf file).

Some of the highlights (from Chadstone's website):

• Enjoy exclusive one night only discounts of up to 60% off at selected stores
• Savour complimentary wine & Mainland cheese on arrival
• See 3 star Michelin Chef, Marc Brown cooking up Christmas storms at Chadstone Corner
• Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, Cadbury chocolates & Christmas cake sampling
• Great door prizes including a getaway to The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley Wellness Retreat and a weekend golfing package up for grabs
• The Sebel Heritage Yarra Valley will be conducting spa treatments and massages to rejuvenate tired shoppers and a mini golf putting green to keep shopping buddies entertained
• You could be in the running to WIN a Summer South African Safari valued at almost $20,000
• Purchase a Variety Heart for the Chadstone Christmas Tree from the Customer Service Desk, located at the Jag entry

Offers from Microsoft

PC

Currently Microsoft is running a few promo for its products. As we know, next year Microsoft will revamp its product line by introducing the new OS, Microsoft Windows Vista and the new office applications, Microsoft Office 2007.

So, if you buy the current version of Windows XP or Microsoft Office that is specially marked, Microsoft will give you an upgrade to next version for $27. So if you buy Windows XP, you'll get Windows Vista for $27 (although it's not really that simple).

The version you buy now will determine the version you'll get later. So for example,

• Microsoft Office Professional 2003 Academic > Microsoft Office Professional 2007 Academic
• Microsoft Office Standard 2003 > Microsoft Office Standard 2007 Version Upgrade
• Windows XP Home Edition > Windows Vista Home Basic Upgrade
• Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade > Windows Vista Home Basic Upgrade
• Windows XP Professional > Windows Vista Business Upgrade
• Windows XP Professional Upgrade > Windows Vista Business Upgrade

For a full list of what software, you'll receive check this website. http://www.microsoft.com/australia/windows/terms.mspx

If you bought it already, you can redeem the offer here,
http://www.microsoft.com/australia/windows/upgradeguarantee.mspx


To bad the XP Pro doesn't upgrade to Vista Ultimate. I'm not sure though who wants to buy Vista Ultimate considering the price is going to be AU$751. Nice.

Note though that these products (Office 2007 and Vista) have yet to have a launch date. I just read that Office 2007 is completed and MS will begin shipping to business customers this month. But for common users like us, expect the products to launch early 2007 (Feb/Mar if MS doesn't delay anymore).

MAC

Anyway for Mac users, Microsoft has a deal going on as well. If you buy the Office 2004 for Mac (any versions - including the Student and Teacher edition), you can get a Microsoft Laser Wireless Mouse or $50 cashback. The mouse has an RRP of $99.


Purchase must be done at qualifying retailer then you can download the coupon and send it to Microsoft.


Further details here, http://www.microsoft.com/australia/office/mac/holidayoffer.aspx

New Macbook just released !!!

After releasing the new Macbook Pro line a couple of weeks ago, only the Macbook line is left with the Core Duo processors. Update by Apple was predicted by everybody before Christmas and it's finally here.

The new Macbook line still has 3 different models to choose from, two of them are white and one is black. The upgrade includes the processor, RAM and hard drive. The processor is now 1.83GHz or 2.0GHz Intel Core 2 Duo.

In Australia, the prices are $1749, $2099 and $2399 for the 1.83GHz White, 2.0GHz White and 2.0GHz Black respectively. All has 13.3 inch glossy screen.
The cheapest version only has a Combo Drive (no DVD burner) and 512MB RAM whilst the
rest comes standard with a Super Drive and 1GB RAM. Hard disks vary according to the model.

Unlike its predecessor, the difference between the white and the black now is only around $50 (if you upgrade the hard drive and have the same spec). So, basically you're buying the black paint for $50. Last time, you basically bought the paint for around $200.

I don't think that the changes are really significant except of course the processor. So I guess if you have been waiting to buy a Macbook, this is the perfect time. But if you're upgrading, maybe I'd wait until it comes with the Leopard (OS 10.5) at least.

Domestic airfare ON SALE NOW

Jetstar and Virgin Blue are doing it again. They are on a price war. Their latest sale will end at 6th of November 2006. So, grab it soon. Unlike previous 'wars', now Virgin and Jetstar are completely different sale.

Virgin has the normal, price cut sale. Travel is between 16 Jan 07 - 29 Mar 07. Some of the specials from Melbourne are as follows,

• Melbourne to and from Sydney: $79
• Melbourne to and from Gold Coast: $69
• Melbourne to and from Hobart: $55

Full details check out www.virginblue.com.au

Jetstar has two sale, one for domestic and one for international.

The domestic one is a bit different. You must travel in twos to take advantage of the offer. Travel is between 01 Feb 07 - 31 Mar 07. Some of the specials,

• Melbourne to and from Hamilton Island: $169 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Sunshine Coast: $109 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Gold Coast: $109 for 2
• Melbourne to and from Hobart: $79 for 2

For weekend dates, I think there's only a few left but there's still plenty on the weekday.

For the international fare (note: Jetstar will start flying international end of November), the travel must be done between 22 Jan 07 - 31 Mar 07.

• Melbourne to and from Christchurch: $199
• Melbourne to and from Bali: $299
• Melbourne to and from Bangkok: $329
• Melbourne to and from Honolulu: $429

For full details, check out www.jetstar.com.au

Qantas has a sale as well but obviously it will be a bit pricy as compared to Jetstar and Virgin Blue.

what is rule 72 ?

Do you know about rule 72 ? I recently came across the term when I was reading a book about investment property. If you're in accounting, the term would be familiar to you.

It's a simple way to count how long your money will double in value given the current interest. It's not a sure answer but gives a very good approximation.

So, if you want to know when that $100 in your bank account is going to be $200, then you will use this formula. It's just simply,

72
number of years needed = --------
interest

And for your $100, with the current interest of around 6%, it will be 12 years before your money double up.

This can also work with inflation, I think currently the inflation is around 3% (I THINK). That means your $100 in 24 years (72/3%) will only be worth $50. This concept is a bit harder to understand because the value of money decreases overtime.

So that's just a short lesson in Rule 72.

bring on the fat

I'd say thank God that I don't live in the States. Just have a look at what they've got on the menu.

This is from KFC. They called it the Famous Bowls. The content: a tub of mashed potatoes or rice, with yellow corn, fried chicken nuggets, gravy and three types of cheese.

This one belongs to Burger King (Hungry Jack's here in Oz). It's called a Quad Stacker. The content: four beef patties, cheese and bacon (NO vegetables or salad) squeezed into a bun.

Last but not least, who could resist two of your favourites....PANCAKES AND SAUSAGE ON A STICK. Very nice indeed and to top it all off, some cholocate chip. If you don't like the chocolate chip, I think they've got one with berries.

change of look

As you can see, it's a new design.....it's Blogger Beta and I'm still learning so please be patient with me if you see any hiccups here and there.

another store in VIC

Krispy Kreme has done it again. After opening a store in the city (Melbourne), they are now going to open the third store in Victoria and take a guess where are they going to open it........it's at Chaddy (Chadstone). Yes, that's right.....the shopping centre. Here is the news that came on my email today.

Big news for our Friends in Victoria! We're excited to announce that our third store is set to open at Chadstone Shopping Centre this November. Chadstone – the fashion capital has just become Chadstone – the Krispy Kapital

You'll be able to meet the Store Manager, Kylie and her team for a fresh espresso coffee and doughnut from 7:30am on Thursday 2 November. Don't forget, it's Spring Carnival time and the weather and the fashions are hotting up in Melbourne – call in for a Krispy Kreme Ice Kreme while you're shopping for your Melbourne Cup outfit. See you at Chadstone!

Chadstone Shopping Centre, 1341 Dandenong Road (Warrigal Rd entrance, located near bus stops)

red ipod nano

Apple has released a red iPod nano. They name is (PRODUCT) RED, don't know why. I am not sure whether it will be available in Australia, so far there is no word about it. It's the 4GB model and it's the same price with other 4GB model, US$199.

For every red nano that they sell, they will give $10 to the Global Fund to fight AIDS in Africa.

So, let's just hope that it will come to Australia soon. That way you can have another excuse to buy an ipod, charity (or you can persuade your parents with this excuse as well).

Jobs on Zune

This is what Apple's CEO got to say about Zune (the new Microsoft media player to compete with iPod).

- Are you worried about Zune ?

In a word, no. I've seen the demonstrations on the Internet about how you can find another person using a Zune and give them a song they can play three times. It takes forever. By the time you've gone through all that, the girl's got up and left! You're much better off to take one of your earbuds out and put it in her ear. Then you're connected with about two feet of headphone cable.

no more student discount on ipod

How sad.....

Final Fever

It's next week, the final battle between West Coast Eagles and Sydney Swans. It's AFL of course. It's a repeat final battlle between the two. The pair met last year and Sydney won it. So let's see who'll win it this year.

There's going to be the usual show (the parade, etc) during the week ahead. And I think there will be free concert on Federation Square by the Australian Idol 06 finalist and Marcia Hines, Young Divas (if I'm not mistaken). Just check with the website, www.thatsmelbourne.com.au

And also coming next week is the opening of Krispy Kreme store in city, right at the end of Collins St. (not the Paris end). It's near Spencer St. It's opening on Tuesday, 26th of September. They are opening accross the street from Fitness First Collins St. I hope the gym junkies don't turn into sugar junkies. :)

I think the Royal Melbourne Show is still on. I'm not sure.....hmmm..no...yes...no...YES, it's still open, I just saw a pig fly.

summer in september

Look at that. This is the temperature for Tuesday, 19 of September 2006. And I thought, summer is a still a couple of months away.

Picture taken from The Age.

Wii is coming...

Newsflash,word just come for the release of Nintendo Wii. I had just received an sms from Nintendo Australia.

"As a nintendo.com.au member, we thought you'll want to be the 1st to know the Wii will arrive in Aus on Dec 7th for SRP AU$399.95. Unsubscribe at nintendo.com.au"

This is cool stuff. US will get it sooner though, on the 19th of November 2006. More news just check out www.nintendo.com.au for local news.

i'm a married man

I can't believe it. For you people that don't know, I got married last Wednesday with a nice little ceremony at the Cathedral and a nice little dinner somewhere in Kew.

It was a really special day for me because not only that I got married but I've got family and friends celebrating it with me. It was a really wonderful day

I (and my wife) just like to thank everybody who helped me (I mean us) with the wedding. I'll try and get some photos up on the web.

new iMac

WOW, after checking the Apple's website for a couple of weeks, finally, the new iMac is released. And they added a new 24 inch model.


They are loaded with the new Intel Core 2 Duo and the 24 inch model uses nVidia 7300GT. Prices start at AU$1599 for the 17 inch model and goes up to $2999 for the 24 inch model.

A new line up is also released for the mac Mini. Apple discontinued the Intel Core Solo and used Intel Core Duo for both models.

This is so exciting. I'm going to the stores to check out the 24 inch screen. Nice!!!

do not laugh!!!

Japanese and their creative minds.

Steve Irwin: A Wildlife Warrior

Yesterday, I opened a newspaper website and found out that Steve Irwin has died. He died in an accident while filming a documentary.

I am deeply saddened by the news. I think Steve Irwin is a great guy. He is so passionate on what he does. His family is great as well. It's just a terrible terrible news.

My thoughts and prayers goes to the family he left behind. You're a great man, mate. You're a legend. We will all miss you.

computer update

Today, we mark the end of August. Tomorrow, it will be September and officially the start of spring. Since yesterday, Melbourne temperature is hovering around the 20s. Nice....I only hope that it will stay that way until mid-September (so selfish of me)....ok until the grand final then.

A couple of days ago, I messed up my computer. Tried to install a new RAM and a new USB 2.0 expansion slot but ended up destroying it. Lesson to be learnt, never fix your computer while it is still in standby mode, plug the damn cord first. But, I think my computer's time is up. This baby has been serving me for nearly 6 years. I think it's time to go dual core.....terabyte......

I always like Mac but I'm the kind of people that still hesitated on getting one because of this and that (well, mainly about software wise). But now, I'm seriously thinking of getting one. I've been researching the Apple range, from iMac, Mac Mini, and Macbook. I was deciding between a 20-inch iMac


or 13-inch black Macbook.


The iMac was the first to use Intel processors and it's been there for a while. Macbook however, was just released as the iBook G4 replacement.

Then, I just thought to myself. Maybe I should just get a new PC with the Intel Core 2 Duo alias Conroe. But I decided not to because Vista's release is still uncertain. I think if I do get a PC, I would want to wait until the Vista is launched and ready to go.

But the same problem comes with Mac. The new OS, Leopard, is going to be released in 2007. So, it'll be nicer if you get the Mac with the new OS as well.
On top of that, there is rumour going on that Apple will launch their new range by using the Intel Core 2 Duo. It is rumoured to come up around September. But the rumour was for Mac mini. I don't know.

Confusing.

Maybe I'm not destined to change computer after all :(

Anways, in the meantime, check out Apple's new commercial about PC vs Mac here.

busy busy busy....

Fiuhhhh....

again the promise of keeping the blog updated is not kept.
Well, this month and the next is going to pretty busy for me.

Beginning of the month, my brother graduated from uni. Yayyy...
He's preparing to end his life in Melbourne and start anew back home.

Anyways, I've just read news that Krispy Kreme is opening in Indonesia.
Ok, I know you're probably bored to death with Krispy Kreme again and again.
I'm not trying to promote them at all.

I'm just rambling here, don't know what I'm really going to talk about.
I am actually busy with my master project and the wedding. I can't believe
that you need to think about so many things for just a wedding, my GOD.
Once this is all over, I'll tell you my wedding story from the beginning.

For now, I'm just going to stop writing. Nothing is making sense (sorry people).
Oooo, a few days ago I just found YouTube....ok I know, it's not new and it's been
there all this time. It is cool that you can share video from other people. I guess
the time is already upon us where everybody has a broadband connection.

Also, Intel just released their Intel Core 2 Duo, imagine saying this to the sales guy
to buy. It's easier to say 'the new Intel processor'. Apparantly they are going to stop
Pentium and Core Duo chips eventually because this baby can deliver 40% more power
with 40% less power (???) .

Ok ok I'll stop, I really don't know what I'm taking about, better get back to my chair.
Ciao.

touch down at krispy kreme

Today, I managed to get myself INSIDE Krispy Kreme store in Fountain Gate. I went through pass the door after 40 minutes of standing outside in the cold.

The store fairly big. Once you go in through the doors, you'll see the toilet on your left. The toilet has a baby change facility BUT only one at a time, which can be a bit hard after drinking lots of water to wash down the sugar from the doughnuts (or donuts, the way they say in the states).

Alrighty back to the store. Once you pass the toilet and the rubbish bin. Trust me, this is the worst place to queue - the door to the toilet is very big and swing outwards, i.e. towards you, so make sure you stick to the right.

After that, you'll be entertain with the process of "making the original glazed". They have explanation for each step of the way but it's a bit hard to read considering that people are still queuing there. Well basically the donuts are rollep up and down, up and down, up and down and then fried on the oil, flipped, glazed and cooled down (just to keep things short).

Passing the donut-making-demo, I was greeted with a donut - I should say it's FRESH from the conveyor belt. It was a sample that was given to everybody. But somehow after eating that donut, I don't feel like ordering anymore donuts. I don't know why. Maybe the blood sugar is talking.....I don't know. But the donut is soft, warm, and totally sugar loaded......yummm.

Ok, then when you finish the 'charade of donuts', you actually get to ORDER. Then you pay for it. You can pay by cash (of course), eftpos and credit card (Amex not yet - according to the staff, Amex is still working on it but it's been more than a month and they still haven't fixed it).

Well, my trip this Sunday took 67 minutes from the outside until I received the donuts in my hand. The total was under $60 for 2 sampler and 2 bottles of Mt. Franklin. This does not include the travel time and petrol etc etc. Was it worthed ? I don't know. Frankly, I can't answer that question. One side you know that queuing for donuts is stupid but on the other side, well let's just say you need the sugar.

Don't know whether I'll be back pretty soon though. Although maybe I just might......

so out of date

I have been visiting my own blog these couple of weeks and noticed how out-dated everything is. I kept thinking that I should update and put in a couple of entries for the the blog but I never get around to do it. Everytime I have an idea or thought to put in my blog, I'm always away from the computer. And if I am in front of the computer, it will be a public computer (like in state library, been going there these couple of weeks) or a uni computer, where they can track what I do.

Well, now finally I am able to put something down. Not a lot happened since the Aussie went out of the world cup. That is if you exclude the war in Lebanon, more tsunami in Indonesia, North Korea testing its missile that can reach Australia, Italy won the World Cup, etc, etc. Other than that, it's same old.

Anyways, I will update my blog link. Apparantly, a lot more of my frens are interested in blogging. I will try to update my blog every day. My passion to actually make a website like aerowalk's has not come true. I still need some guidance from him :) So, just wait and see.

Ok, will post some new topics soon. Please check again. And thanks to everybody that has been patient with me and my blog.

aussie out of world cup

I have no idea how many Australians who actually watch the game live, must have been plenty, but unfortunatly they lost. A bitter lost, I might add. 90 minutes of fighting and it was ended by a penalty kick.

So with the final score of 1-0 favouring Italy, Aussie is now out of the World Cup. Well the good news is we will be able to sleep like we used too.

a stupid bird

Please turn on your speaker for the bird.


Want one? Go to www.geocities.com/testiflash

don't worry...

I like this,

The future is unclear. Instead of hoping for what it could be, just wait and see.

krispy kreme in VIC (not melbourne)

Yes, it is TRUE. Krispy Kreme, the famous American donuts (or doughnuts, whatever), is coming to Victoria. So far, they've only open stores in NSW.
Well, everybody knows this. But now there is a definite date on the store launch. It's 4 MORE DAYS. The 22nd of June (correct me if I'm wrong but that Jakarta's birthday right ?) is the date when the only Victorian store will open. The fun starts at 6.30am.


As you are all aware, the store is located in Narre Warren, exactly it's on Fountain Gate Shopping Centre. If you have the VIC map, Narre Warren is south-east of Melbourne. It's pretty easy to go there. You can just take Princess Highway and after a series of traffic lights, you'll reach there. Ok, I don't want to mislead you, it is quite far. I think it's about 1.5-2 hours drive from Melbourne (or maybe more). So make sure when you go there, you fill up the car's boot with donuts, about 10-15 dozen maybe ?


They're saying that the store will open 24 hours and provide a drive in service, you know....like McDonalds. For the opening, there will be performances, bands, etc and I think they're going to continue for 4 days. For more information, go to http://www.krispykreme.com.au. Over there as well, you can join to be a FRIEND of KRISPY KREME. But, there is one condition; you must be obese or at least fat. Ok, just joking. Everybody can sign up and receive news about the upcoming store.

Well, before I finish. I have one more thing to say. Just something to remember when you're eating that mouth-watering tempting enticing alluring original glazed donut.....mmm..... To burn 1 donut, an average person of 75kg need to walk for 30 minutes.

cheap petrol

Everybody wants cheap petrol these days. When I first came to Melbourne, petrol was around 70-80 cents a litre. Apparantly a couple of years before, it was only about 50-60 cents a litre. In the recent months, the price of petrol has jumped so high, it's leaving us with a big hole in our wallet. So, we want something to stitch back our wallet.

Firstly, the supermarket docket. Spend $30 or so dollars and they'll give you a coupon to save on petrol. Savings vary but normally it is 4 cents, some supermarket has 30 cents discount but there is a lot of conditions (only 30 litres, spend more than $50, fill up at independent petrol kiosk, etc). But I seriously don't understand why the supermarkets are still giving discounts at 4 cents a litre. They're giving 4 cents discounts when fuel was 70 cents a litre and now when it's nearly $1.50 a litre. Ok, just imagine with 4 cents discount coupon, you will save:

• small car: 4 cents x 30 litres = $1.20 savings per fill
• medium car: 4 cents x 50 litres = $2 savings per fill
• large car : 4 cents x 60 litres = $2.40 savings per fill

That's not a lot, not a lot AT ALL. Last time, to fill up a tank of petrol, I need to fork out around $40-50 but now, I'm spending $60-70 on petrol. That's about $20 difference and the docket is only helping me with $2, nice....

But, if you do shop at supermarket and get the docket anyway, just use it. As my mom always say, $999 is not $1000 without the dollar, every dollar (and cents) count.

Another way to get cheap petrol is by regularly checking websites like this one, http://au.maps.yahoo.com/fuelwatch/. Yes, I know that there is a lot out there but I think this one is kind of cool. You search by suburb or postcode and it will then give you a map of the suburb. You can zoom in or zoom out, but the nearest petrol stations are displayed. This includes, the cheapest petrol station, the most expensive one and average. They label this with stars, green for cheapest, red for most expensive and yellow for in between.

Then, you can click on the start and find out the price for unleaded petrol, the address and the petrol kiosk operator (Coles Express, Mobil, Caltex, etc etc). Nice. I haven't actually checked whether the price on the website match the real one but I guess it should be pretty acurate cause Yahoo is doing it with Motormouth (which is a website that looks at petrol prices and stuff).

Ok, it doesn't actually let you save money like the docket but it's a great tool to find where's the cheapest fuel around.

Another tip is to follow the petrol price dynamics, the cycle, when it goes up and when it goes down. It always goes like this, slowly going down until it reaches the minimum point then sharp and sudden rise (about 10 cents rise), and then it slowly goes down again. The cycle normally repeats itself every week. Currently, the price always goes up every Wednesday and the lowest point is around Monday-Tuesday. It used to go up on Thursday so they're always changing so keep your eyes open.

Some other people has resort to something more dramatic like stealing petrol, not paying for it, putting another person's plate, etc etc.

Or you could always switch to public transport or cycling or motorcycling. I want to switch to motocycling but I don't have the dough to get a bike (and the helmet, jacket, gloves, and so on). But seriously, for long term I am considering motorcycle. They're saying that the petrol price could reach $2/litre by the end of this year. Imagina how hard would life be if that happens. That's another $20 extra per fill and not including the price increase on goods.

So that's why, bring on the next generation in transport: fuel-cell car, hydrogen powered car. But in the meantime, let's try and save up for every fill.

dion (in memory)

a good friend....

it has been 2 long years.....

rest in peace my friend.....

will always remember you....

God, please take care of him.....

Pam's Blog

Wow, I didn't realise that it's been a couple of months since I put an entry to my blog. I guess after a while, it's kind of hard to get a topic going. And when you do get one (or a few), you just have absolutely no time.

Anyways, the reason I'm adding an entry today is I have just seen Pam's blog. Well if you don't know, Pam is one of my friend who's been with me since the beginning of time...haha, I meant my time in Melbourne. She is a very funky girl and if you do know her, I think you will agree.

Well, here is the link to her blog. She's a really good writer and have very interesting topics/things that you might not even think at all. Her blog is http://itspams.blogspot.com/. I will add the link to my Links section as well.

Go Pam, we'll be waiting for your next blog.

save the environment

Hey people, this is something that we can all do to save the earth.

TAKE YOUR CANVAS BAG WHEN YOU GO TO THE SUPERMARKET.

This is a message that I got from the Royal Gala of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. This comedian managed to create a song for the canvas bag and in the whole song, the lyrics are

"take your canvas bag, take you canvas bag when you go to the supermarket..." (repeat 50 times)

Well, actually he did rap a bit in the middle of the song but that's not the point.

So, take your CANVAS BAG or GREEN BAG or ENVIRONMENTAL BAG or whatever you call it next time you go the supermarket. CONDEMN PLASTIC BAG.

even more things

Adding to the list of events.

Next Thursday, 30th of March, the AFL season is going to start. Yup, it's that time of the year again, footy.......
It won't play in Melbourne though. The MCG will be back for footy action on Anzac day, 25th April (I THINK - but it's definitely in April). They have to clean up the tracks from the Commonwealth Games.

And tomorrow (or today), Monday, there is going to be a parade for the Australian athletes. It will start at noon from the Arts Centre to Swanston St. and then Collins St.
I can't find more info on the route or anything else so I guess if you want to see the parade, just follow the crowd.

That's it for now.

more things to come

I wrote this yesterday but when I was trying to upload it to blogger, the server went down. Hence, some info is outdated but I'll just leave it here so you know what you miss

If you read my previous post, you'll know that Melbourne is going to host several big events. I'm just going to add some more events to the list.

Currently, there is still the Commonwealth games, where Australia has basically taken all the medals. The last time I checked it was 54 gold medals. Commonwealth games will end on Sunday 26th of March with a closing ceremony in the MCG.Check out www.melbourne2006.com.au for details.

I think the tally now has gone up to 57 gold medals for Aussie.

Today, the 23rd of March, xbox360 is being launched. If you're a games freak and you have $1000 to spend. Go and get one. The best deal is on Big, the complete system for $628 instead of $649 and the games are $75 each for TODAY only.Kmart has a sale also 15% off storewide for today and tomorrow but it doesn't include the console, damn.

A little comment on the xbox360. The games in BigW was practically sold out. So, if you didn't know about this yesterday, then tough luck yeah ?

Next Thursday, there will be the Grand Prix, the Foster's Australian Grand Prix. Shifted from being the first GP to start the year because of the Commonwealth Games. It will be on from the 30th of March until the 2nd of April. Who will win it this year? Renault again? What do you reckon?For info check out http://cars.grandprix.com.au/.

The after that, there will be the annual flower and garden show in Carlton gardens. This will be on from the 5th of April until the 9th of April. Check here for tickets, http://www.melbflowershow.com.au/.

The following week will be Easter holiday I think.

Fiuh, if I know more events, I'll let you know. Of course in a couple of months there will be FIFA World Cup 2006 in Germany.

Have fun.

banana alert

Danger for you banana lovers in Australia. If you haven't been following the news, there will be a shortage of bananas because of the storm.

A couple of days ago, there was a hurricane that hits northern part of Queensland. The hurricane was hurricane Larry. I wonder who named all these hurricane, Katrina, etc. Was there a papa hurricane and mama hurricane ?

Anyways, the storm hits Queensland quite hard and as a results, all the crops there are vanished (well, they didn't actually vanish). And that part of Queensland is the part where they grew fruits for all of Australia, especially bananas.

The farmers estimated that it will take at least 9 months to recover supply of bananas and to get back the their previous condition would take them years. SO, there will be a shortage of bananas for at least a year. Australia cannot import bananas because of strict import rules. Yesterday, in some places, bananas have already hit $6/kg. They normally sell for $2-3/kg. It is estimated that it will go to $9/kg. Amazing.

So if you really like bananas, better get them while it's still somewhat affordable and reasonable before it's too late.

Do you know that 70% of people buys bananas from impulse ? As in, they didn't planned to buy bananas but when they see it, they'll buy it.

stupid chain letter

Somebody send me this so called "chain letter". Frankly, I don't understand it (AT ALL). Maybe because it's in SINGLISH (Singapore English - casual way of speaking by mixing a few different languages in Singapore).

INSTANT NOODLES
Dear instant noodle lovers, make sure you break for at least 3 days after one session of instant noodles before you eat your next packet! Please read the info shared to me by a doctor. My family stopped eating instant noodles more than 5 years ago after hearing about the wax coating the noodles - the wax is not just in the styrofoam containers but it coats the noodles. This is why the instant noodles do not stick to each other when cooking. If one were to examine the ordinary Chinese yellow noodles in the market, one will notice that, in their uncooked state the noodles are oily. This layer of oil prevents the noodles from sticking together.
Wantan noodles in their uncooked state have been dusted with flour to prevent them sticking together. When the hawker cooks the noodles, notice he cooks them in hot water and then rinses them in cold water before cooking them in hot water again. This process is repeated several times before the noodles are ready to be served. The cooking and rinsing process prevents noodles from sticking together. The hawker then "lowers" the noodles in oil and sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking if they are to be served dry.
Cooking instructions for spaghetti require oil or butter to be added in the water when boiling the spaghetti to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Otherwise, one gets a big clump of spaghetti!
There was an SBC (now TCS) actor some years ago, who at a busy time of his career had no time to cook, resorted to eating instant noodles everyday. He got cancer later on. His doctor told him about the wax in instant noodles. The doctor told him that our body will need up to 2 days to clear the wax.
There was also an SIA steward who after moving out from his mother's house into his own house, did not cook but ate instant noodles almost every meal. He had cancer, and has since died from it. Nowadays the instant noodles are referred as "cancer noodles".

Ok, I don't understand what you mean to break. I just don't get it. Is it me or the languange or the people who actually uses this languange in the first place ? It's a puzzle.

it's already MARCH

Yo, haven't updated the blog in a while. This is because I didn't have internet for a few days (and also somebody from Singapore came to disturb my life here).

Do you realise that it is now MARCH ? It's the 3rd month of the year, soon....in 9 months, 2006 is going to end (okay, I might be exaggerating a bit). Aren't we all screwed ? Time flows faster when you're older.

For the people of Melbourne, March is a month that they can be proud of (or not). This month the city of Melbourne will be hosting a lot of events. Starting next week, the 13th of March, there will be the annual Moomba Festival.

Following that, the highly unanticipated Commonwealth Games. This will go on from the 15th until the 26th of March. Then finally, the Australian Grand Prix.

A crazy month huh ?

Stokers Pancake

Do you know about Stokers ? It's a pancake restaurant up in Heidelberg. Some people told me that it was a really nice place. They've got nice pancakes but a creepy toilet, that's what they told me.

Today, I tried it for myself and I can tell you, the toilet IS creepy. It's more like the walk to the toilet that is creepy not the toilet itself. The place is really...really...dark. The whole room is only powered by a few lights (2 or 3) except the kitchen.

They basically got 2 types of pancakes, the savoury one and the sweet ones. Average pancake price is around $9-$11. They've got a lot of different menus but none really catches my attention except chicken mornay and rum banana.

Anyways, I tried it and the portion was REALLY small for 10 bucks. And it's not even pancakes, it's more like crepes cause it's so thin. It's really nothing compared to Pancake Parlour. I think it's not really worthed to eat there. If you have a spare 10 bucks to spend on 2 small crepes with fillings then go ahead. The chicken mornay was not bad. Really think that they should do something with their price.

I still think Pancake Parlour has an advantage for pancakes. The pancakes there are delicious BUT you cannot eat too many of them. Pancakes are one of those things that make you full really fast.

Just have a look at THAT.


Watch that drool....., but realistically, you could only eat about this much.


Well, stop licking at your monitor already.

let's talk about love

Somebody on my MSN list has the following as his nick, Two words a guy never want to hear: JUST FRIENDS or I love you....like a brother.

Is that true guys ? Interesting isn't it ? So girls, I think you should find a better things to say if you want to reject guys...hehehe.

new nam loong

If you're a resident of Melbourne, you would know the restaurant Nam Loong. It's a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown that was hit with a few scandal a few years ago. It was something that they used in their cooking, a special recipe (hehehe....). However, let's not look and dig up the past. The fact is now Nam Loong is cleaner than ever and their food is still freat (especially the buns).

Nam Loong has opened a new branch after successfully opening Nam Loong 1 (original) and Wing Loong (Nam Loong 2). The new restaurant is called Nam Loong Seafood Restaurant. I haven't tried it personnally so I don't know what's on the menu but I think it'll be more of a dish type.

It's located in the same street as Nam Loong 1, Russel St. I think it's next to the Amusement or Asian Grocery there.

Anyway, it's worth a look at and give it a go.

happy valentine's day

valentine's day........

it's all about the flowers....


it's all about the chocolate....


it's all about loveeee.....


happy valentine's day everybody

good on ya iinet

Wuhuuuu...finally my exchange is going to be DSLAM enabled soon. Estimate is second quarter of 2006, then I can experience lightning fast broadband up to 24000 kpbs.

I highly recommend iinet and not because I'm using it. Because it's the best deal there is for internet (broadband).

The bad thing about iinet is you've got to connect your home phone with them and their rate is quite high (I think it's $29.95 + $3.41, the $3.41 is because of that bloody Tesltra). But then again, you could get a VOIP from them. VOIP is basically telephone using the internet instead of a normal phone line. Because it's using the internet, they can significantly reduce the cost.
So just use your VOIP, it's 10c per call.

PLUS, if you actually in the DSLAM area, your internet speed will be 24000 kpbs (depending on how far you are from the exchange). Ok, with that speed your download speed will be around 2.4 MB/s....FULLY SICK. Ok, reality is you will not get a speed that fast but it's still a good deal.

I'm not trying to promote iinet, just want to share my happiness that my exchange will soon be DSLAM enabled, that means I can enjoy FAST broadband. Huhuiiii.

For more info on internet provider in Australia, check Whirlpool. It's a good website to compare providers and while you're at it check the forum, see what other people think and what problems do they have.

dancing with the stars

You should all know about dancing with the stars, the TV show where celebrity dances and try impress the judges and audiences at the same time.

Well, for this season (2006), the Australian version of the show will put some of the best celebrity, including former Miss Universe, Jennifer Hawkins. YEAH!!!

Other names that will be on the show, includes

• Alicia Molik - Australian tennis superstar (I think she's suppose to be injured that's why she didn't go for Australian Open 2006)

• Simone Warne - Shane Warne's ex wife (the cricketer who has been involved with a lot of SMS scandal)

• Molly Meldrum - Australian icon (the man who lives in a cowboy world of his own)

• Kostya Tszyu - Australian boxer (I hope he doesn't punch his dance partner outside the ring...I mean, dance floor)
• Kate Langbroek - Australian radio presenter (I think she does morning show with Nova FM in Melbourne)

Well, if you want to bet on them, the current favourite is Jen, with $3.50...hehehe. I think she'll win. She's just gorgeous.......ok stop drooling guys...hehehe. Will it be worth a watch now ?

another CRAZY stuff

TWO GIRLS, 14 years old, have been charged with the murder of a cabbie (taxi driver) that happened a few days ago. For you guys who doesn't know about the story, here is how it goes. A taxi driver has been bashed and was left to die in the early morning. He was left on a street and finally died during the journey to hospital.

And now, 2 girls are charged with the murder. AMAZING yet again. What sick person will do such a thing ? Remember, we're talking about Sydney here. I expect the people there to be more civilised and educated. Yet, the behaviour of some people are worse than they who are in a third world country.

What were the girls thinking ? I don't think they should be tried in a children's court. I think they should be tried in adult's court. Prison for at least a few decades won't be enough.

I really don't understand what is going on their mind. SICK, truly sick.

ridiculous

AMAZING. Australia continues to amuse me. A man, 45 years old, has been charged for ASSAULTING a KITTEN. Can you believe that ? A kitten. Read the full news here.

I am no cat-lover so I don't really agree with the charge. Cats can sometime be quite annoying and frustrating. I don't know why people like cats. I am more of a dog-lover. I think cats are quite self-centered and selfish, whereas a dog is more loyal, obidient and fun (this may or may not include such breed as american pit bull, etc).

I just don't understand how the law works here. A man who bashed his wife and daugther (nearly killed the daugther by choking her with a cable, imagine that?) can be released on bail. WTF ? How is that possible ? And don't tell me that it is the law. That's stupid. The man could just go to the wife and kill her. And then what ? The man gets 20 years behind bars ? But the bloody wife is DEAD.

It's strange how laws are written. I think somebody should re-write the law book in a programming language, in if...then....else....statement. So it will be simple. IF a person robs your house THEN he is guilty. IF he is a murderer THEN kick him out (don't want to start a deabte about corporal punishment or maybe I'll write about it next time).

And he can't counter sue because you leave your knife lying around somewhere. If you don't know, in the US, a thief that failed to rob a house counter sue the owner for leaving the knife outside and the thief actually cut himself because of the knife. And guess what ? The thief won. He got compensation because the owner failed to have a safe house.

Ok, back to the kitten. Back a couple of months ago, there was another case of abuse. A man burn a kitten...hehehe. That's not sick, that's just simply crazy and that's just plain wrong.

Ok, just trying to write up something cause I haven't been adding anything to the blog.
I'm gonna try to make a website that will integrate the blog and will have other stuff. I hope I will have the time and ability to do it. Of course with the help of Mr. Aerowalk.

In the meantime, be safe. If you see a kitten, kick it.....no, I mean leave it alone, OK ?

did you know ?

In ancient Rome, women were told to spit three times into the mouth of a frog to prevent pregnancy...

the weather

The weather is UNBELIEVABLE. Now it's sunny and hot, then it will be sunny and raining. Yesterday I went to Box Hill and there was a STORM. Like you see in TV. It was really really scary. You cannot see anything. You can only see about 5 meters in front of you, nothing else but rain.

Apparantly it only went on for 5 minutes and then that's it. And, the other weird thing was that the rain only occur in the area. Cause when I went back home, there is absolutely no drop of rain in my house at all.

I think they should change the sign on the number plate. Currently, it says Victoria - Garden State. It should change to Victoria - Four Seasons (in a day) State. Brace yourself for some more weird weather in the coming days.

memoirs of a geisha

Ok, by now everybody should know about the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. The bestseller novel turn movie with the help from the old folks in Hollywood. I haven't watched the movie nor read the book so I can't comment on both.

BUT, I would like to comment on the casts. As far as I recall, this Geisha thing happened in JAPAN, the land of the rising sun. Now, let's see the casts.

1. Zhang Zi Yi
2. Michelle Yeoh
3. Gong Li

You see any problem ? They're all CHINESE people (that includes Hong Kong, etc) or at least people with Chinese background, heritage.

Isn't it bizzare ? I'm an Asian so I can see the difference between a Chinese and a Japanese. They are really different. Japanese has bigger this and that, Chinese has smaller this and that, such as the eyes. If one of the cast is Chinese, that's fine. But the main character are all Chinese. How could Hollywood miss this ?

Do you think that they're still angry with Japan from WW2 ? or maybe because Japan doesn't import US beef ? (If you don't know, Japan is currently imposing a ban on US beef in a bid to prevent the mad cow disease, so if you eat McDonalds there, it's 100% NOT American beef).

"Hmmm...let's make a movie that is based from a Japanese culture BUT we don't want to star any Japanese cause we don't like them. Aha! We'll just use Chinese instead, nobody would be able to tell the difference. Great idea."

Anyways, there are Japanese casts as well. One lady that played Mother, another Pumpkin and Ken Watanabe as the leading actor.

I just don't get it. Japanese actresses are HOT. You've got.....let me see....hmpph......hmmmm....can't remember any. Maybe it's a good idea to use Chinese after all.

the case of the missing sex scene

Have you heard of the movie titled, Thank You For Not Smoking ? Well, it's a new movie coming out soon (I think, if it was not out already) and it starred Aaron Eckhart, Robert Duvall, Katie Holmes, etc, etc.

I don't think it's showing in US cinemas yet but it was played on the Toronto Film Festival (last year) and Sundance Film Festival. Apparantly when the movie was playing in the Sundance Film Festival, a part of the movie was gone. To be exact, 12 seconds of the movie just disappear.

Why are we fussing about 12 seconds in a movie ? What could happen in 12 seconds ? Well, a LOT. The missing scene was a steamy sex scene between the character played by Katie Holmes and the character played by Aaron Eckhart. Yeah Katie Holmes, that's right. The one that played in Dawson's Creek, do you remember (hehehe) ? What's going on ? What do you think went on ?

I bet that everybody is thinking that this is Tom's fault (Katie's over protective and over caring soon to be husband). Am I right ? Aren't you thinking that Tom did that and cut the sex scene out of the movie ? HAHAHA.......It turns out that everybody in the world think alike, at least for this matter.

Some rumours are spreading that Tom thinks the scene is too hot and some say this and that. But who knows.

Well, I don't exactly know what happened but the 12 seconds is gone and we WANT IT BACK. Come on Tom, don't be greedy...hehehe.

Anyhow, the filmmaker has assured us that he's going to PUT back the scene and said that what happen in Sundance was an accident (problem with the cutting and stuff). Maybe he's doing this to save Tom's ass or maybe he wants all of us to be happy. Nice.

When the movie comes out and I've watched it. I'll let you know whether this 12-second scene was worth fighting for.

waiting and waiting and waiting

Isn't it suck to wait ? I reckon we spent a quarter of our life waiting (or maybe our whole life).

• waiting to get a job
• waiting to pay the groceries
• waiting to get paid
• waiting to hear some news about your application
• waiting to die ?

sigh.....and I'm still waiting.

staircase, the series

If you were like me, has nothing to do, you would be flicking the TV channels, trying to find a good show. Of course, there is tennis but I'm not interested in that. I seriously can't watch a whole game of sports, I can only last a few minutes at most.

Then, there is SBS who always have interesting shows (not that kind of show!!). I find SBS shows are interesting, because it shows movies from all over the world. You can learn a lot from it.
Well, tonight (Tuesday night) there is a show called "Death on the Staircase". It is like a real-life Law and Order. They follow the trial of this man Michael Peterson who is being tried for the murder of his wife.



I didn't watch this series from the beginning so I'm not exactly sure what happened. But after some researching on the internet, I found out the story.

On December 9, 2001 at 2:41 a.m. the rescue squad of the city of Durham, North Carolina got an urgent call from a man who had a hard time explaining that his wife had fallen down a flight of stairs. He said she was bleeding profusely but still breathing. When the medical team arrived five minutes later, it was too late. The victim was dead. Her husband had traces of blood on his hands and face. For the inspector in charge of the inquiry, the facts spoke for themselves: there was too much blood and too many wounds on the victim. It was not an accident, but a murder. A week later Michael Peterson was arrested.



So the series is about the whole murder trial. The picture above shows Michael Peterson (on the right) and one of his lawyer on the left.

After watching just 2 episodes, you just feel weird. The whole court room drama, the family involved, the defence, the prosecution, they were all shown. I just don't understand how the family could deal with it, especially the daughters. I mean, the prosecutors are trying to dig up every single bad thing about your dad (I'm not sure whether he is their real dad) and making him look bad. If it was me, I wouldn't know how I can cope with it.

It's really an interesting insight into the court room without the touch of Hollywood. And, the case is REAL. Somebody died and there was an investigation, experts, etc, etc. It can really creep you out.

The series hasn't ended on SBS but the verdict is out and you can find out about it here. I don't want to let you know about it. But you should watch the series from the beginning and decide for yourself, what would be your verdict, an accident or murder ? I think the director really made the series to be as unbiased as possible, and trying to be really objective.

travel warnings

I think the Australian government is really nice by providing their citizen with a dedicated website just for travelling. If you guys (and girls) don't know, the website is http://www.smartraveller.gov.au. And basically you can research on a country or two over there. It will tell you the latest threats, dangers in a particular country and even, in some cases, intel reports. In RARE cases (like Indonesia), the government even puts in rumour threat because they want Australian citizen to be careful.

This website is constantly updated and you can even subscribe to their newsletter that will tell you if there is an update on your favourite country (or all countries).

Anyways, today the government (Australian) has updated its travel warnings to Indonesia (AGAIN). It was updated with the situation in Sulawesi. Also, it is advising Australians to be careful with petty crimes in Indonesia.

Isn't that amazing ? Another country finally recognize that Indonesia has this STUPID problems with crimes. Just read the official statement from the website.

Petty crime is common and robberies are increasing. Credit card and ATM fraud is on the increase. In some cases, violence has been used. Thieves on motorcycles commit 'snatch theft' where they speed to a victim from behind and snatch their handbag. Thefts and robberies from cars stopped at traffic lights are increasing.

There have been reports of tourists being robbed after bringing back visitors to their hotel rooms. In some cases, the victims' drinks were spiked.

In and around Jakarta tourists have been robbed when they have stopped to repair car tyres that have been deliberately punctured by criminals.

Only use official taxi companies in Indonesia as foreigners travelling with unreputable taxi companies have been threatened and assaulted. Reputable taxi companies have counters inside the airport and can be booked by phone or from stands at major hotels.

If you are an Indonesian and you're reading this, you will want to laugh and be sad at the same time. Isn't this pathetic ? How would you expect people to come to Indonesia if they read this ?

Mr. President please read this and FIX IT. Bring some goddamn army and start the 'cleaning up' process. As I always say, Indonesia has more than 200 million people. If 10 thousand dumb, stupid people are gone, it wouldn't hurt the population at all....(relax...stay calm....breathe..calm down).

Ok, that's a bit mean but what I'm trying to say is that these kind of crimes have been going on for too long. It has been like that ever since I was in high school. And now, 10 years later, it's getting worse.

When my dad was here a few weeks ago, he brought this book from Jakarta. The titled was "A collection of fraud cases". Basically, the book collects all the fraud crimes that are known. Imagine that, the author can make a book that is as thick as a Harry Potter's first book but the content is all CRIMES. Have we got that many crimes ? Isn't that revolting ?

Yesterday, I was just telling my Australian friends about this and they just cannot believe it. It seemed like I was telling them the story of some movie or something. Well, I wouldn't blame them. Coming from a nice and safe country, who would believe that people can be hypnotised (like everybody's David Copperfield), cars vandalised, lottery scam, etc, etc. The list just goes on.

So, I can only say to all of you foreigners that are going to Indonesia, please be careful and stay alert. And for you who is thinking of going to Indonesia, think again.

change of gender.....

Ok, first of all I'm not going to change my gender. I just find the following amusing.

To all of you license holder in Victoria. If you decide to change your gender, you must notify VicRoads. However, you need to bring proof. This is what the official VicRoads website says:

To notify VicRoads of a change of gender, you must provide a medical report indicating that:
* a course of treatment is being undertaken in preparation for gender re-assignment, or
* surgical re-assignment has taken place

That's all folks. I just thought you want to know, cause you don't know what's gonna happen in the future. One day, you might wake up and you don't feel like a boy/girl anymore and you decide to switch sides, who knows ?.

Well, if you do decide to change your gender, you'll have one less thing to think about. You don't need to worry about changing you gender in VicRoads cause I've already told you know what to do (see above - in RED). You don't need to thank me as I might not recognise you with your new gender :)

a frickin HOT day

Helloooo summer. I think today mark the start of the summer here in Aussie. Yeah, we had a couple of hot days in December but nothing compared to the heat today. It was predicted to be 41 degrees (Celcius of course) but guess what, it went to more than that.

I left for Yum Cha around 1.30 pm and found no life outside. I was guessing that everybody just stayed indoors. There were only several cars around and even the shopping centres are a bit quiet than usual. It was like Christmas day, nobody is outside the house. Even the shops looked like they're closed. Unbelievable.

Along the journey, I was observing the temperature gauge in the car. It started from 29 degrees when I left. Then it slowly creeps to the mid 30s and then high 30s. Halfway along the journey, it hits 40. WOW...this is hot stuff. 5 minutes later, it was 44 degrees. Amazing.

I got back from lunch and guess what......the temperature was 45 degrees. HAHAHA, the sun has taken over the planet.


Amazing huh ? I think this is the first time that the first digit hits 4. Would you think that they actually limit the display of the first digit to maybe 4 or 5 ? Is it programmed to display temperature above 60 ? As a designer, you should think about this. Realistically, temperature above 60 is just not gonna happen. If it does happen, we would be dead anyway and if the display doesn't show it, nobody's gonna sue cause we'll all be fried. Interesting.....

Ok, back to the topic, hot hot hot. 4 o'clock in the afternoon and it's still hanging around 44 degrees.



What'd you reckon we should do in a hot day like that ? Staying indoors wouldn't help much unless you've got stacks of movies at home and a few air-conditioner. I think the best thing is to go to the supermarket and stay in the freezer section, buy a tub of ice cream and maybe bring your PSP and watch movie on it. Of course, you gotta bring a chair as well. Hahaha....that's ridiculous. But seriously, stay indoors. Cause if you went outside today, you'd know what I'm talking about.

And then, the unthinkable happened. The 'late change' happened. Within one hour, the temperature went DOWN 20 degrees and currently is sitting around 20-22 degrees. WTF ? Well, that's Melbourne for you.

Enjoy the cold while you still can and prepare yourself for a HOT Australia day. Maybe then, you don't have to use a gas or coal for your barbie (translation: BBQ), just stick em in the grill and let the sun do the rest. Good on ya mate.

graffiti

Did I spell it right ? Should it have one t or two ? (Checked the dictionary, it's all correct). Ok, so graffiti. In the papers the other day, there was news that one of the biggest ringleader in graffiti has been captured. It is part of a $1 million clean-up in Melbourne.

The gang allegedly has 2 leaders. One is captured and another one is believed to have left Australia (not sure for hiding or just for holiday). The name of the gang is 70K (or something like that) because all the members were born in the 70s.

Back when I was in Indo, I used to frickin hate grafitti. They just can't see a clean gate or wall. After my dad painted our gate door, the following day there's already grafitti. "BOENTOE "or "BOEDOET" or some other writing that I don't understand (I think they didn't go to a graffiti school, that explains the bad graffiti-writing) . So the best thing was to let the writing be there and forget about it.

But here in Oz, the graffiti is much more different. It is cool. I have no idea how people can do such a thing with just a few cans of spray paint. Look at this stuff,



Isn't that cool ? There is another nice one in the coty as well. It's located in an alley between Flinders Lane and Collins St. Fully sick, I say.

I think this is a form of art. They are so talented.

BUT, the people that annoys me is the one that just writes anything anywhere.Well, maybe for them it has a meaning but for normal people, it's just crap. Like the people who did the graffiti on Sydney's opera house. Total IDIOTS. Ok, you want to protest and stuff but don't vandalise.



If you don't know, there were 2 people that climbed up Sydney's Opera House and spray painted the top with NO WAR. That is just dumb, don't you think? And, the weirdest thing is, they escaped any sentenced (I think they're sentenced were like a few hundred hours of community service). If I was an Australian, I'd be frickin angry. To have your national icon be mocked like that. That is embarassing.



Take this sign for example, what the hell are you trying to say mate ? Is that a D or S or what ? I just don't understand this people.

I really think that graffiti should be divided into sub-categories, there is the art graffiti that is all nice and creative and there is the DUMB graffiti that needs to be removed from the face of the earth....arghhhh,,,,Relax, stay calm, take a deep breath......hmmm...I'm calm now.

some problems with the blog

You might be experiencing difficulties with the site (the layout's gotten all over the place), the server for the counter is having problems. Apologies for that.

some facts...

Do you know that Calcutta (a part or province of India, where Mother Theresa did her work) has changed its name to Kolkatta? They changed it quite a long ago, in 2001. Why didn't anybody tell me ? But does that make a difference ? Why don't they change it to Bombay or Bonsoy or Raptor ? It will make more impact, right ? Calcutta -> Kolkatta, that's not a change. Changes should be big, different, shouldn't it ?

Another thing, do you know that the people from Southern part of India does not speak Hindi (their national language) ? The speak English instead.

Why is all this about India ? Why am I talking about it in the first place ? Hmmm....who started this ? Weird. Well, this is Ivan signing off with the 10.30 news. I'll see you again tomorrow, same time, same channel.

blogging, blogging and blogging

Ok, I started this blog purely for fun. My dream (on of it at least) is to my make own personal website that is cool, sleek, informative, etc, etc. BUT, I'm not so good on design. I like simple designs, just words and lines but that's not attractive. Who the hell wants to look at that kinda website ? So boring. I guess I just don't have an arty side in my brain, it's all technical.

Anyways, I'll try and learn all the stuff to make a nice, descent looking website (and I don't mean HTML), you know the other stuff, the stuff that are 'in', 'hip' and 'ccol' in the website industry...hehehe.

Once I get that done, maybe (and maybe) I will undertake this HUGE job in making my own website. First, it will be a list of restaurants and their ratings all over the place. Places that I've been and what I think of it. Then, Sasa (my friend who is currently confused looking for a 3-bedroom apartment around Melb Uni) suggested I make some kinda of survival kit for international student in Melbourne (not a bad idea...hahaha). We'll see in due time, all I need is a free server with unlimited everything (except pop-ups, banners, etc) and a domain name, www.ivanpedia.com sounds cools (don't try to check it out cause I don't think there is anything).

Ok, gotta bathe now and become a fresh food people for another 9 hours. Ciao

return of the condor heroes....andy lau

Do you know the movie ? Well, it's not a movie. It's a TV series. This particular series that I love is playes by Andy Lau and Idy Chan. I think it was made in 1982. Based on some legend (or it could be completely fictious - novel), the story is about a young boy having a relationship with an older lady (could it be sum up to that ? hahaha). Along the way, of course, there are other interesting stories.

This series is actually the second part of the whole 'saga'. There is another series, titled "Legend of the Condor Heroes" which tells the story of the previous generation (the dad of character played by Andy Lau). That itself is another interesting story. But you can get away not watching that and just start on this series.

A lot of filmmakers have made this series. I think there's an anime for it as well. It was just released not too long ago, about 2/3 years ago ? But I think, this is the best one so far. Well, the special effect is not great and the locations can be a little dodgy sometimes but hey, it's the 80s.

Anyways, the DVD is now available with ENGLISH subtitle. Previously, they only have it with Chinese subtitle. The price is a bit expensive (US$120) but you are actually getting tons of episodes. I remember my uncle had this series on VHS and there were at least 25 tapes. So you're actually getting a fair bit of DVDs. If you want to check it out, just search for it in the yesasia box on the left toolbar. They've got any Chinese, Japanese, Korean stuff. They ship to anywhere around the world for FREE. So, if you order now, you can get a second set free, it can cut, chop ..... (oops, I got to carried away).

PS: This is not a promotion, I really love this show and want to share it with all of you :) I think the story is great. I'm gonna get it myself once I have collected enough cash. Yeah. Picture are copyright from YesAsia.com use solemnly for illustration.

scary movie stuff...

Have you watched Scary Movie ? I'm watching the third one of the whole series. I can't believe that it's actually funny. Go and watch it.

Oh, I want to get one of those Mother Theresa's statue. The statue can move it's head around like an Indian (people from India not the native American....hahaha) when they're dancing. Hehehe....it's really cute.

But something in the movie should be followed by everyone (by everyone I mean every girls and some guys). There is this scene where Tabitha (a.k.a. Sadako) comes out from the TV to kill the dark-coloured girl. Instead of running around, going through doors after doors, rooms after rooms. She actually punch that son of a b****. How brave. I just don't understand when watching horror movies. It's their fault that they die because they're asking for IT. They should be brave and get a baseball bat......and SWING AWAY.
So, my message is BE BRAVE, hehehe.....

introduction...

I've been writing this blog for several days but I haven't really introduce myself. Well, my name is Ivan, currently residing in Melbourne, Australia. I have two younger brothers, on here with me and the other one in Indonesia. As you can predict, I am Indonesian. I was 'forced' to come to Australia (hahaha...). Whilst I'm in Melbourne, I met with a girl who now become my girlfriend, hehehe. By the way, she's Singaporean (just in case you're wandering).

Oh, she will also co-write this blog with me. This is her own blog, http://faithilda.blogspot.com/.

What else whould I say ? I guess that's pretty much it. Have fun reading my blog.

24 season 5...go Jack Bauer

For all of you fans of 24, the new season has just begun in the US. The first four hours of the season is out (as in shown) and in the first 5 minutes, you'll be left shocked. Anyways, I'm a big fan of 24 so it's time to be thrilled again with Jack Bauer and friends.

is ipod ripping our wallet ?

I don't know why everyone's so crazy about ipod. I think ipod is nice but not THAT nice. Anyways, I bought an ipod nano for my dad cause he wants to listen to something on his journey (cool eh, a 53 year old man wants a nano...hehehe). So, I bought it in a duty free shop at the airport cause he's gonna take it home (to Indonesia) anyway and you can save on the GST which is quite a lot for nanos, around AU$30.

Because I bought it at the airport, I can't really check whether it's working or not, or even put some songs there and test drive it (nanos are famous for their easy-to-break-LCD, apparantly). Then, back in Indonesia, my brother smsed me asking whether the ipod can be charged without a computer. I said (confidently) OF COURSE, why not ? Just find the adaptor inside the box and plug it to the wall. That's a silly question I thought, but it got me thinking, my brother is dumb but not that dumb (hehehe...).

Then, I went to check the apple's website to find the content of the box. Found it, but I can't really understand which one refers to which so I refer to the online manual. I looked for 'Charging your ipod' or something along the line and I found it. "To charge the ipod, plug the cable to the ipod on one side and to your computer on the other side" (I paraphrase a bit..hehehe). OK, fair enough. Moving along, "Optional, you can charge your ipod anywhere by the USB power adapter" (again, paraphrase). I was like WHAT ?? OPTIONAL ?? since when does recharging needs a computer ??

I looked on the website again and went to accessories for the ipod. To my dismay, there it is, a USB power adapter for AU$48 listed as an accessory. I was shocked, 50 bucks for another adapter, which should be included with the ipod in the first place. I think somebody in the US should sue Apple. I don't think that Apple mentioned that you need a computer (mandatory) if you want to buy an ipod. I don't understand why Apple can be so greedy. I think it's a PATHETIC marketing strategy. To think that a big company such as Apple can think of a strategy like that, it's quite REVOLTING. Is Apple competing with Microsoft in who's-the-lousiest-company awards or something ?

And just recently, I read a PC magazine that says Apple is going to introduce an 'ipod tax' as a way to earn more money with ipod. So, basically every other third party company that wants to make an accessory for the ipod must pay Apple a percentage. In return, the company can put a sign on the product, MADE FOR IPOD. What a joke.

Unbelievable. So, I had no choice but to buy the adapter. Which sane person would turn on their computer for 3 hours only to charge their ipods ? Apparantly, the adapter USED to be included in the first generation of ipod but it's not anymore. So people, realise that when you are buying an ipod, the price you pay is not just $299 or $499 but it's more. Don't forget to add $50 for the adapter, another $50 for the stand (or dock or whatever), $50 for the remote, $30 for the skin (or cover), $70 for the FM transmitter, and so on and so on (and don't forget that the battery only lasts for a few years).

I'm not trying to put ipod sales down or anything (hey, I also bought the ipod remember). I just want to say to Apple, COME ON...

Privacy...is it that important ?

Just a few hours ago, I went to a police station in Malvern. I went there to get some documents certified. For people who don't know, in Australia (and maybe everywhere else around the world except Indonesia) when you photocopy a document, it must be certified by somebody (police officer, lawyer, etc). I guess it's to prevent people 'modifying' the photocopy so that it's a true copy (what else could it be for ?).

Anyways, back to the story. When I went into the police station, there was this old lady in front of me who was apparantly lost her suitcase or bag or whatever and she was making a report for it. I did not listen in detail cause I don't want to be intrusive. Anyways, so I waited there and couldn't help hearing what this old lady was saying. She had lost her bag last week, during her bus ride home (or was it a train ride ? - not important). The police officer asked her several questions regarding the incident. And then the police officer asked, "What is you telephone number mam ?"....silent.....I thought that she was giving him her phone number cause old people might have a weak voice. But I was wrong, she did not say anything and the police officer was as confused as me.

Then, she breaks her silence, she said, "I'm trying to avoid the telemarketers". I was like WTF, you're trying to ask the police to help you find something and you can't even supply him with your telephone number.....(feeling like taking a chair and throwing it to her...like what they do in cartoons). The policeman was totally CONFUSED, I could just see it in his face. He raised his voice a little bit and said, "...how are we going to contact you then ? if we do find your items". She's still not assured. It was not until a few minutes later that she finally give her number and she insisted on writing the number herself onto the form.

I am just amazed on how Australians value their privacy. I really don't understand why she would think that the police will give out telephone numbers to telemarketers. I mean you could at least trust them right ? I know that telemarketers are really annoying but which one is more important, a few telemarketers calling you or your item retrieved ?

When the policeman asked of the content of her missing bag, she mentioned prescription sunglasses. She thinks that the thief knows that the sunglasses' frame are expensive and stole it. But I have never even heard of the brand and by the look at the policeman's face, he didn't know about it either. Along with the sunglasses, there was a big plate that she wants to return (to her friends maybe) and some Christmas decorations. I am just wandering whether that deserves to be reported, waste of police resources ? But hey, it's not my place to say that cause maybe the bag has a sentimental value or something like that.

Anyways, I hope that the lady get all her stuff back cause I know the feeling of losing something is crap (I just lost my friend's keys) and maybe we can be a have little bit more common sense in handling things. Privacy is important but we live in the world with other people and we should be aware of other people as well and not only think about ourselves.

I did it....

Yeah, I did it. I managed to create a blog for myself (how pathetic). Well, you see I am a newbie in this kind of stuff. I had some help from Gerald in understanding all these stuff, you can check out his blog at www.aerowalk.co.nr. Anyways, I named the page ivanpedia because my friends think that I know everything and but in fact, i know NOTHING. But then, the name is a bit catchy so I thought that I'll just use it rather than calling it sapiterbang (translation: flying cow), which is already outdated and probably nobody understand it.

Ok, I will try and put up a lot of posts, at least once a day (yeah right) and I'll share with all of you guys what I know so hopefully you know it too. Peace and enjoy the blog.