FLYING & BEING A 'TOUR GUIDE'

I have been blessed with a trip to Penang and Singapore last week.

It's almost an all-expense paid trip by the client and so, basically, I just get to mingle and mix with people and make some new friends along the way, while experiencing a whole lot of stuff.

Though super tiring because it is still work, but it is no doubt super fun!

Last Tuesday brought me to Penang. It was my first time traveling by plane to Penang, because for typical students like us, we would usually travel 5 hours by bus rather than splurge on air tickets that, although save 4 hours of our life, cost a fortune (well at least to our student pockets, it does burn a lot).

Anyway it was an uber cool experience to board a plane for 50 minutes and arriving up North to another part of Malaysia.

However, the air-sickness is really killing me. The whole flying experience sadly reminded me of my first real flight to Liverpool, in which I traveled more than 20 hours across the globe to a wonderful place I learned to love.

So ya, I was flying in Mid-air and thinking about Liverpool as I tried to bear the dizziness. I mean this is not the kinda flight that I can actually knock myself out with alcohol, although with 20-hour flight, I was stupid to not have knock myself out with gulps of Bacardi! 

And so ya, it was really hard not to think of Liverpool at this time of the year, since it is actually our first anniversary since our experience last year in Liverpool. And it made it worst for me as I'm actually on the flights...traveling, made me miss Liverpool even more! I remembered last year that when I was air-sick, I was attended to by a hot steward named Francis. Oh how I wish I could go back then...

Anyway!!!

Back to my trip last week.

Once we touchdown, we headed straight for G Hotel, next to Gurney Plaza.

This could be shocking but I don't think I've ever set foot in Gurney Plaza before. Gurney Drive for a taste of delicious Laksa, yes, but not really Gurney Plaza. So this is officially, kinda like my first time visiting Gurney Plaza but seriously, when you are acting like a tour guide, minus the guiding, you basically don't have the chance to sight-see at all.

And this is the only Penang trip in which I did not go to Gurney Drive for Laksa! This is also the only Penang trip in which I did not hit the beach. But I experienced an alternate Penang - cool 5 star hotels and super awesome designed lounges. 

G-Hotel is really super awesome! I think the lounge looks freaking cool and beautiful. Sadly, I did not capture the awesomeness =(

Sorry la! But next time, you can treat me to a night at G-Hotel again and I'll make sure I snap a million pics for you!

I managed to cam-whore a little lar.

Forgive me but I was super ecstatic to find a bathrobe!

But then I dunno why these robes have to come in giant size....

What about Mini-me like me??

I also managed to meet up with one of my bestest buddies in Penang this time around. Although our meeting only lasted merely one hour, since it was pretty late and I was super tired (thanks Yean Fun for taking the time to see me by the way), but it was great to see my friend again. 

Yean Fun was my partner back then in Diploma; I'm not bragging but we were like the Dynamic Duo...any assignments done together with Yean Fun is a good assignment, assignments that gave me a sense of satisfactory. I mean, we do not necessarily score the highest, but those were some of the bestest times because we knew we've done our best.

So after spending a night in G-Hotel, we flew off to Singapore.

I think it's been easily 7 years since I last saw Singapore. Honestly, I don't even know if anything has changed because the last memory of Singapore is a total blur for me, and so, I can't even compare. Dad is surely going to kill me. After spending $$ on holiday trips to Singapore, I dare say I have vague memories of Singapore.

But of course I know that Singapore had welcomed a fair share of newbies - the Casino and also Clarke Quay has basically transformed into a whole new place altogether (not that I remember how it was previously, but I know it has transformed). 

My first night of tour in Singapore brought me to Clarke Quay. Seriously, Clarke Quay is amazing! The concept of each shop is so unique and different that each and every one of them captured my attention. 

There is one by the name of 'Clinic' in which they bar adopts a concept of the clinic. Imagine dining on wheelchairs and hospital benches and have drinks served in blood packets ...cool right? Oh well, maybe not. I keep picturing my grandma in my head, complaining about such "seating arrangements" when I pass by that shop. I mean, some people can be very superstitious about things like that, can't blame them.

Although the place is filled with wonders and colours, being a 'tour-guide' means that I have the unfortunate honour of doing more of counting heads rather than exploring pubs and bars haha. But Clarke Quay is the only place where I can't help but divert my attention a little.

That night also introduced me to a unique taste of Persian food and the delightful Persian belly-dance. Oh well, delightful more for the lucky guys I guess muahaha! 

How was Persian food? 

Okay let me be honest, it wasn't that bad but then, it definitely won't be my first choice for dining. 

I am however very grateful for the chance to savour such a unique dinner because obviously, even if I am rich, the last thing I'd think of spending my moo is on a Persian diner (no offense, it's just that I'm not adventurous when it comes to food). So I'm glad that I'm indirectly ushered into a Persian restaurant and was taught how to eat those meals.

The next day sees me touring ION Orchard, a high-end shopping mall in Singapore. Seriously, I am not very inclined to shopping malls because I'm not a shopper lar. But high-end shopping malls apparently caters to those who splurges on Gucci and Prada and the oh-so-expensive international brands whose names that one can hardly pronounce...so ya, that's basically what high-end malls means. For me, any malls in which I can watch a good movie and eat at the food court is a good mall. =D

After ION Orchard, we toured Raffles City and that wraps up our 3 day tour.

My 2 nights in Singapore had granted me the honour of sleeping in Swissotel, one of the top hotels in Singapore. Oh well, it is beautiful but call me crazy, but I still think the lobby of G-Hotel looks much more awesome lar haha. And G-Hotel grants us super high-speed Internet connection (though I didn't even get the chance to enjoy), while Swissotel charges us for Internet service, which, by the way, doesn't work.

The first day in Swissotel also sees a clueless me calling the operator on how to get the shower running.

But excuse me, it's not my fault that they tightened the shower valves so that only muscular hunks can loosen them. The most embarrassing thing is, I had to invite the mechanic up to my room to do the honours of officiating my bath.

So sadly, I'm giving G-Hotel a higher rating in terms of bathroom haha.

But the view from my hotel room is FANTASTIC and it made up for all the negatives!!!!!

I don't know what these hotel people did to the beds but the 3 nights I spent in the hotels, I slept like a baby. Seriously, the beds were so comfortable that when I woke up, I just felt energized, though I practically had less than 8 hours of sleep. I mean, it's nothing like home with mama and papa, but hotels are really coming close in competition.

I didn't have time and the money to buy souvenirs for my bosses and colleagues so I had to get creative.

It involves being super 'kiasu', while not come across as stealing.

Oh okay! What I did was ask the room-service lady if I can have more slippers and bathroom utilities. And the lady gave me basically a tonne of everything.

So basically, it is not stealing if those shampoo, lotion, body wash, coffee, creamer, sugar and tea are given to you right?

I am so happy with my pile of products and today, I gave them all away in the office. MUAHAHA!

Sorry, I mean call me cheapskate but I believe the right term is smart, innovative or creative - take your pick! haha

Anyway, it was a wonderful trip that got me flying the most times in my life within one week.

Never before had I traveled by plane 3 times in a week..Bravo!!

Got me really light-headed and spinning but I wouldn't complain. It is a fantastic experience.

I better get some rest. Shouldn't have stayed up so late since I'm not really in my top form, but I owe it to myself to update my blog with my first business/work-related travel trip. 

ps: Sigh...I still miss Liverpool okay. 

With Lotsa Love,

TammyC

THE LONGEST POST EVER

These few days are really going to be tough on all of us. 
My blog post yesterday was on Liverpool and I can't help that my post today is also about Liverpool.


It's hard to believe that one year has passed. I'm still very much missing what I had last year. 


I really love my life last year - for three months, though loaded with assignments and stress, I'm generally very very very happy.
I have great company in the form of great friends...whom we strove hard together when it comes to our studies. I miss doing group discussions with them, as we try to bully our brains into being critical and analytical for the assignment's sake.


As a tribute to my Liverpool adventure, I'm posting here the blog posts I wrote in Liverpool, about my experiences...once again.
I realized that I had many ups and downs even then, but generally, I only remember the good, which is a good thing.


P/s: I miss blogging about my experiences abroad. 

1st day in Liverpool, UK.
Loads to tell and share.

BEFORE THE JOURNEY

Mum doing her final checking on the luggage....

Looks like mum's all set for Liverpool...;P

Me & Mum hanging out in KLIA

Me & Dad before the flight...

After minutes of posing, I checked-in my luggage and then dad showed me around KLIA and offered some useful tips (thanks, Dad!).

Then, the whole family went for burgers. My last meal in KL before leaving for Liverpool.

Everything went on smoothly after that. Greeted by a really good-looking steward at the entrance. "I know I'm gonna enjoy the trip! ;P"

ON BOARD FLIGHT EY 411

Me & Lydia posing for the camera before taking off

Looks like each one of us is getting our own personal TV

Later I found out that when you are plane sick (or air sick?), you won't enjoy any of these facilities anyway.

Well, at least other people did enjoy their ride.

FEELING ABU DHABI'S AIR

Managed to quickly take a picture of Abu Dhabi's airport

Hung out for a few minutes there and then we proceeded to gate 35

On the way, saw this cute little kid with his cute little luggage...

Walking towards the airplane...

THE JOURNEY FROM MANCHESTER TO LIVERPOOL

A coach was waiting for us at the Manchester Airport.

MANCHESTER Airport's Parking lots (Took these pics on the coach)

Slant shot: The roads in Manchester...not much different from Malaysia's but CLEANER & the cars are all very nice...

Notice all the houses have chimneys....

No idea what this is but the paintings on the windows look interesting.

FINALLY - LIVERPOOL
The main entrance of Atlantic Point - our new home for 3 months

There's a convenient shop on the right..and the blocks are straight ahead (See how amazingly clean the roads are)


The main office....

Laundry room....(featuring Lydia)



OFF TO THE CITY-CENTER AND SOME SIGHT-SEEING

The view and buildings here are magnificent. I'm like in a completely different world.

I forgot the name of this hall...but it is near the municipal buildings...

The municipal buildings...

Queens No. 23, Richmond Road - where I had my dinner
It's like a bar and I feel so out of place when I entered. They serve beer, not like in clubs, but like in those traditional, old English cottages. Very cool.

Alcohol is every where and the soft drinks are so expensive. Can you imagine that? - We ended up drinking our own mineral water, because we don't want to end up drunk in the middle of no where. There don't serve alcohol in baby cups, but LARGE, I mean SUPER LARGE cups. Alcohol is like their life.

These really cool volkswagen look-a-likes are actually Taxis...really nice.

Matthew Street - Birthplace of the Beatles!

The City centre - full of human beings & no cars

That was DAY 1 in Liverpool...many more tomorrow...


LotSa Lurve,
TammyC

p/s: 8PM & there's still sun!

Day 2 in UK

More things to see, More Sight-Seeing

Day 2 started off with Subway - FREE FOOD!

Subway in UK - small. Only 4 tables - around 10 chairs. Usually Liverpool citizens grab their meals and off they go. But we Malaysians love to hang around and chat. Very different. Didn't really took a pic of Subway, but here are some shots from inside Subway.

Looking out from Subway (the restaurant)

My friend, Chian Lue, sitting by the windows inside Subway.

Day 2 was dedicated to shopping for utilities.

I had a list of things to buy, but when I reach the shops, I found myself lost in the middle of confusion. I mean, I am not used to shop for towels and pillows and mats, so I just do not know where to get those stuff.

So here is what I bought from Marks & Spencer.

Floor mat a.k.a towel

Floor mats are super expensive there. So, as students, we always improvised. We bought cheaper towels instead that can be used as floor mats. Smart?

Raspberry

Very sour, not my kinda fruit. I mean, it is not lousy, but it is not nice. I still think our watermelons are better :P

I seldom shop for food also. So, I don't know what I want to buy...Plus, it's UK and the food here are different. Western food doesn't seem so complicated in Malaysia. It's hard to make decisions here.

And don't even talk about cooking. I don't know why, but I feel like it's not in my blood to cook. I don't feel a connection with raw ingredients. It's not even something I enjoy doing. Some people find cooking relaxing, a form of art. For me, it's a burden that gives me headache.

Cooking means you'll have to set up the kitchen, pots & pans, knife, get various types of ingredients, do the cooking, and after that - the CLEANING! I'd rather eat something that is fast and easy to clean up. You see, I really admire people who cook. I can't see myself doing that. Everyone is born to do something. At this moment in my life, I don't feel that cooking is my thing YET.

Maybe the best is to survive on microwave food. You get so many different types of microwave food here - you know, the ones you put in your microwave and then after 5-10 minutes, you can eat. It's simple, fast and easy to dispose ;P - and I'll say it's a form of cooking also hehe. A good place to start.

Anywayz, when it comes to FRUITS, I can make up my mind easily because it's something I can relate to haha. The fruits here are really cheap, but after converting to Malaysian Ringgit, it's not that cheap anymore.

What I bought from Tesco:

Cherry Tomatoes - these are great snacks. Healthy & delicious. Gonna buy more...

A lot more sight-seeing done later on...but didn't manage to snap much photos, since we were loaded with stuff...

Here is what I got.

Radio City Tower - the landmark of the city centre

Clayton Square

Walking around Liverpool...Heading towards the City Centre

Apparently there's a football match today...CHELSEA vs. EVERTON

See the two guys there with a board inviting guests to their bar?

The people gathered around the bar for the live match. Many were drunk, even in the afternoon. I guess it's because it's Saturday and they don't have to work.

(Everton lost by the way)

That's all for now. Have to run...

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

Finally, day 2 (Saturday - 30 May), we ventured out into the dark side of Liverpool.

I mean, it's usually bright here and somehow or rather, I feel that there is no dark in Liverpool. Like I always say, "It's 8pm and it's still BRIGHT!" But, I'm not complaining. The good thing is, you feel like you really have more time, even though I love night time in Malaysia.

We went out to 'collect' a friend from the bus stop, near the Empire Theatre. (Again, I forgot the road, but it's near Norton Street)

On the way back, me & some of my friends managed to do some 'snapping' and crazy, silly acts.

(I have to apologize for my really bad camera skills. Also, I was half walking while taking the pics, so the quality suffers)

Managed to snap some pics of The Liverpool Museum on the way

I feel so proud of this pic...I actually captured the movement of a bus!

The Empire Theater - the have live theatrical performances here every night. I am really interested to make this place part of my visit soon. I love theatres, especially musicals!

The Liverpool Art Gallery, another place I'm looking forward to visiting one day

Me & Lydia in front of the Art Gallery

See, I'm not the only one busy with my camera. Everyone is hoping to get their best shot.

Derique - posing in front of a lion. The lion should mean something. I don't know...

We are posing with the statue of some man, I do not know...maybe the Mayor of Liverpool? Nah!

After a couple of 'shots', JT & Derique went crazy & took pictures half naked, under the painfully cold weather of around 10 degree Celsius.

Well, they really are trying hard to fit in.

Me & JT, before he went crazy...

Liverpool is BEAUTIFUL at night. It's just that we are quite worried to walk around town at night since we are still not familiar with the roads and the security. We don't know where is safe and where is not.

Plus, there are so many bars, and so many drunk *ahem* bastards around. Even in the day, some of them are hanging around town. So I'm speculating that they'll be even more of them at night.

Overall, I think the best is to go in HUGE groups and follow the crowd. Always work!

Till next time~

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

Hari Ketiga di Liverpool (Day 3 in Liverpool - 31st May 2009)

First, I SHALL PRESENT YOU WITH....

THE MAIN COURSE:

Pasta/Helix-Fusilli - the Flat 113 style

Price: £ 1.61 @ RM 9.66 (inclusive of a Campbell soup & Mash potatoes & Orange Juice) 
To ORDER: Call me....

WARNING: The pic looks better than it tastes.

Remember how I say I don't cook?

Well, I finally find the inspiration to yesterday. So, we pulled a team together and started a kitchen disaster.

So, we bought necessary ingredients...and WOA~LA~We're COOKING!

But it was fun messing around, as if we KNOW how to cook. It was really trial and error, guessing and estimating. I mean, it's fun that way, rather than doing REAL cooking. Of course, if you really want REAL FOOD, I'd advise you to NOT invest in our block. WE REALLY DON'T KNOW HOW TO COOK! The final product says it all haha...

But I always believe in SHARING.

So, since I have a one-day cooking experience, let me offer you guys some cooking 101

Flat 113: The Cook Book

PART 1: Problem solving

Problem #1:

Not enough sauce?
Solution:

Use some Campbell soup as sauce

Problem #2:

Not enough cooking utencils?

Solution:

Have someone ready to run round the whole hostel, trying to get someone who is willing to spare some utencils - make sure it's someone with either good manners, good looks or has good connection ;P

Problem #3:

My food sucks...

Solution:

Well at this point, there is really nothing much you can do, except eat the food.

Therefore, it is always advisable to prepare different types of food, and make sure that at least ONE IS CANNED FOOD! So at least if you're cooking is that BAD, you still can fall-back to something safe and tested.

Flat 113 is smart because we prepared LUNCHEON MEAT & CAMPBELL SOUP as back up. The luncheon meat REALLY save our pasta.

Part 2: Questions & Answers

Question 1:

How do I know when the Pasta is cooked?

Answer: When everyone in the team has tasted it, and have approved it...

Question 2:

How do I make mashed potato, Flat 113 style?

Solution: Boil potato, smash potato, add some butter, smash potato again, add some Campbell soup, smashed potato again!

Part 3: Demo & Other things that you might need to know

First, BOIL PASTA

Please make sure it's soft. I learned that it has to be soft, and not just 'edible'.

I also learned that I have no standards when it comes to food.

But thank God my brother is worst. He'll eat something rotten and still say it tastes GOOD ;P

(A tribute to my bro by mentioning him in my blog)

Remember how I love to share?

After cooking the pasta, spread it out and leave it unattended in the living room for flies to have their share...

Always remember to bring a can opener. It might come in handy, especially when you need to attack a stalker or robber.

But really, it is MOST useful when you have 3 cans of soups and have nothing to open it.

Guys...why should you listen to your parents and eat healthy good food like your parents asked you to?

So that you won't be 'physically challenged' by a can of Campbell soup next time.

After a few minutes of handing the soup can, FINALLY, I see soup!

JT has the honour of cooking it.

In the mist of the food craze, make sure there is someone in-charged of smashing the potatoes. Well, my advice is, next time, FORGET THE MASHED POTATOES.

In this time of an economic crisis, do provide some business for KFC; buy their mashed potatoes!

Finally, the sauce! Wrong sauce. I missed Prego. This sauce tastes really weird. It kinda ruined the pasta for us. Plus, we do not have enough sauce for ten people. Should have bought 2 bottles. But I don't think it will help the sauce taste any better

Again as MALAYSIANS, we improvised *light bulb*

(Please refer to the COOK BOOK above)

DINNER IS SERVED!~

Some of the chefs at work.

Final advice: Cooking is like going to a war. Be prepared!

ALSO: Make sure no one runs away from the food! We are all entitled to being food-poisoned. 

Don't worry. In the end, it's still a HAPPY MEAL, even though it doesn't taste as 'happy'

Credits: Cooks: JT - Soup Derique, Lydia - Luncheon Meat Nic, Lydia, Me - Pasta Lydia, Me, Lace, Fei Lin - Mashed Potato Nic - Sauce 
Lydia, Me - Carrots & Mushrooms 
Helpers: YY & Eugene
Pictures: Courtesy of Lace & Nic

Til next time ~
Lurve, TammyC 

Day 4 in Liverpool - 1 June 2009

Today is officially the beginning of our LJMU chapter.

The first 3 days were all centered around getting to know Liverpool, having fun and fitting in. Today, finally, the words 'university', 'working hard', 'graduate' and 'study' are heard and we hear the chimes of our reminders, alerting us of our main purpose here in Liverpool in the first place - to study a DEGREE course.

Morning - we gathered at Adelphi Hotel for our Induction.

This interesting building is right opposite Adelphi Hotel...

Outside Adelphi Hotel

An Irish bar to the right of Adelphi. Very beautiful ancient building.

We had so much time, we HAD to pose and snap some pictures. Here is Lydia, YY & me!

Then Adelphi Hotel greets us....

The induction was really brief. Just 6 presentations in like 3 hours, with breaks in between.

My whole lot of friends before the start of the presentations

What I found out during induction?

1. More about Atlantic Point, the place we are residing in

2. Student union trips

3. The Alumni Club

4. Safety in Liverpool

5. Counseling & Help by Liverpool University

6. Fire safety measures

The chandeliers in Adelphi. Thought you should know ;P

Then, we got FREE lunch! Stew lamb - many dislike the taste. I think it was okay. Not delicious, but not bad either.

After lunch, we continue our venture. And today, we decided to visit Chinatown. Everyone told us that Chinatown is nearby...

If anyone residing in UK say a place is near, it means, it is far. There is no such thing as NEAR in Liverpool, at least by Malaysian standards.

WALKING TOWARDS THE "CHINESE"

There's a Japanese restaurant too on the way....

And apparently my cousin, Mei Mei opened a restaurant in Liverpool...

"Mei Mei" = 美味"

Along the way to China Town, we see more Chinese/Asian shops

And we also saw a fake human being along the way...

Chinatown is like 30 - 40 minutes walk away from our residence. Well, not that bad, if you just wanna go there for a relaxing stroll. But if you plan on stocking food, imagine yourself loaded with 'taufu', 'siu pak choi', 'hou yau' (Oyster sauce), pak you (soy sauce), etc etc and walking the same 30 - 40 minutes distance home. No kidding...it might cause you your life. If you have shorter legs, like me, God knows when you'll reach home.

The infamous Arch of Chinatown (in Liverpool only, among us TARCians)

When we saw the Chinese Arch & all the Mandarin words, we were all EXCITED! I don't know why.

In Malaysia, everywhere we go, we see Chinese or Asians. We get fed up of looking at them. Here, we get super duper excited when we see a local Chinese. And we feel even more estatic when we hear them speak Cantonese. "Tong yan ah!!" (Look, there's a Chinese)

So, basically, Chinatown was empty when we went there. All the shops were closed. I imagined Chinatown to be like Petaling Street. I guess I was wrong. It's more like...hmm...no place I know of in Malaysia that is that quiet, except the narrow lanes.

Chinatown was PEACEFUL. I bet you can hear a fly passing by. (Later I found out that the shops are only opened after 4pm)

Everyone of us were picturing an array of Oyster sauce and other 'sauce-related' product when people mention Chinatown. What I found out is, Chinatown is not a center for buying Chinese ingredients, but a place to get Chinese food - like Dim Sum, sweet sour Chicken etc. etc. And, they are EXPENSIVE!

Well, thank God there was also a shop that sells Lee Kum Kee oyster sauce etc. etc.

Check out Hsien doing her shopping

I will definitely not dine there. I mean, why would I pay £10 for something I eat everyday back home in Malaysia? Hmm...maybe I can even start a Chinese business here and suck up all their money hehe...Well, I'll consider that option when I improve my cooking skills, which is now still...'undescribable'.

Some of the shop lots along the streets of China Town

The 'Chinese' Neighbourhood in China Town

Though there were more Chinese here, I see a lot of Whites here too

The Liverpool Chinese Gospel Church

Suddenly, everything is Chinese.

Dustbins...

...even parking meters...

Besides the Chinese city, I also managed to walk around.

Here are some shots. Let them do the talking.

A few different shots of St. Luke's church, designed by John Foster.

It is known as the 'bombed/bombed-out church' here. Well, obviously it has been bombed before.

A lot of people hang out on these stair ways of the St. Luke's church.

p/s: No time yet to explore the St. Luke's church's park. More pictures to come.

Til next time

LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

DAY 5 - VISITING THE DEAN WALTERS BUILDING

So, Dean Walters Building is where we are going to have our lectures.

Today, we finally set foot on this 'infamous' place (infamous, as least for all of us doing Mass Communications.

Most buildings in Liverpool are breathtakingly beautiful, so Dean Walters is no exception.

Dean Walters building

Lecture Hall featuring Hui Hsien

Lecture Hall take 2

(More Dean Walter pictures to come when I actually study there. More picture taking!)

After Dean Walters, we went to the David Foster building to pass up our assignments.

(I don't know why they have to name buildings, because it is very hard to remember)

We also got our student handbooks and textbooks. We found out who our thesis supervisor is and also our time tables. Part of me can't wait for lessons to start, even though I know it's gonna be really stressful and it'll mark the end of these few carefree days.

Walking towards David Foster building.

I must admit though, all the scenery around that area is phenomenal. So bewitching. It's like a wonder to your eyes. It gives you such a peaceful feeling just to be there.

You know how you see those handsome white houses in those Western movies? You see those houses a lot here. It's such a surreal feeling. It's so beautiful here that I feel that my camera can't capture enough of the beauty.

The entrance itself is invitingly charming and beautiful.

Walking by these houses makes you feel like you're in a romantic movie. And there are REAL people staying here. Makes you wonder what it'll be like to stay in these lovely homes...

Beneath the houses

My next venture was really interesting.

We had to wait for our buffet lunch behind the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral. So, while waiting, some of us explored the Cathedral.

LIVERPOOL CATHEDRAL

Liverpool Cathedral

The entrance of the Liverpool Cathedral

As I enter, the beautiful West Window greeted me.

The beauty of the architecture

The multiple staircase inside the Cathedral

There is a convenient shop inside the Cathedral. On top of it is a beautiful cafe.

The Central Bell-tower

THE REFLECTION ZONE

Water

"To the Ancient, Water meant evil and chaos, as well as cleansing and life.

Where in your own life do you long for cleansing and life in place of destruction and chaos?

Dip your fingers in the water and put few drops on yourself as a prayer, on your head for your thoughts, your mouth for your words, on your hand for your actions."

Seashells

"Look closely at one of the seashells. Each one is unique.

The hard shell protects the creature inside from danger.

But when the tide comes in, they open up to the giving sea and feed on the goodness around them.

Is your outer a hard shell?

This is a safe place. Take some time to open up your inner self.

Dare to be honest to yourself and God.

Discover life as you are fed."

Mirror -yourself

"When you look into the mirror, what do you see? Someone who is 'wonderfully made'?

Stop to feel your pulse. Life is running through you. Life is a gift of God.

You are made in God's image.

You are loved by the Creator who is proud of you.

Look again at the mirror.

Ask God to show the real you. The you that God sees."

(God sees me taking a picture, holding a frying pan...;P)

Seeds

Hold a seed in the palm of your hand and look at it closely.

Jesus used seeds as a picture of God's word planted in our hearts.

Will you let God plant a seed in your heart today?

Will you nurture it, so that it can grow and flower?

Feel free to take your seed with you, in your pocket or purse.

(Since I'm not the gardening type, I left my seed in the bowl)

Then we made some candle donations. Not much, but we just want to play with candles. Malaysians...we get excited over the simplest things.

One interesting sculpture inside the Cathedral.

The baby should be baby Jesus.

Sadly, we do not have enough time for the whole Cathedral before we had to rush for lunch.

Other sightings near China town.

THE BLACKIE

I have no idea why this building is called "the Blackie". All I know is it is the Great Georges Community Cultural project and this project is supposed to be under re-development.

Well, an interesting building that looks like our own Malaysian mosque.

LUNCH TIME~

Finally, 1 and a half hour after passing up our assignment, we had FOOD! All of us were starving. And boy were we happy to see the multi-coloured food displayed on the tables at the entrance. I thought to myself, "Finally, some REAL FOOD!"

There were about 7 types of sandwiches (though we were only allowed to pick a maximum of 3), chicken, wedges, pizza bread, salad and fruit pie. Yummy~!

A happy girl, after getting her food

Salad

My lunch!

After lunch, it was back to Atlantic Point.

After some rest, it was time for dinner. Tonight, it's Lydia and Victoria's turn to cook. After 2 days of not-so-friendly-to-your-taste-buds-food, we are really not expecting much.

Surprisingly, the food today was really not that bad. At least it has taste. In fact, we were all really satisfied with the meal. I think it also had to do with the newly bought Lee Kum Kee oyster sauce and the soy sauce. SAUCES ROCK!

Lydia & Vic's cooking

Menu: Chicken Rice & Red Beans

Derique & his satisfied look, approving the food

What's left of the chicken that day...

Thanks to Derique

After dinner, we decided that it's time to do some laundry. So, we tried out the washing machines & dryers.

Me, waiting at the Laundry room for my friends. I felt so bored I had to take stupid pictures of the surroundings.

That was basically my day five in Liverpool. Another fun day, with new insights (and good food).

Tomorrow, I'll be setting foot in Chester. Heard it is a beautiful place. Can't wait to see what awaits me there. Should involve a lot of picture taking as well.

For now, it's goodbye...and Goodnight!

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

DAY 6 - CHESTER!

At 8.15am in the morning, tonnes of us gathered at the Atlantic Point (Hostel) entrance, FREEZE almost to death, waiting for the bus that will take us to Chester

It is officially the coldest day since we've been in Liverpool.

Double-decker Double-decker....

Then the red double-decker bus greets us with a warm hello. Everyone was vying for seats upstairs, me and my friend lost and we settled for the seats downstairs. It doesn't really matter to me since I've experience riding on a double decker before. At least when we were on the bus, we felt warm.

Lace & I getting cozy inside the bus

The others still waiting for the next ride. Pity them. But most of them wants to wait for the next ride so that they can experience the upper part of the bus.

The journey on the bus was TERRIBLE. The bus driver thought that he is an F1 racer, competing against Michael Schumacher or something. The bus driver looks really good (quite young), I'd say better than an average 'uncled-big-stomached' bus driver, but his driving skills are really...bad is not even the right word to describe how terrible it was.

On the way, even though we were 'overpowered' by our dizziness, we still managed to check out some scenery and take some pictures.

The toll stations in UK.
You can't really see it here in the picture but they are almost the same in Malaysia.
However, instead of "Tunai/Cash" and "Touch n' Go", they have "Staffed" and "Automatic" counters.

Check out their fields.

Instead of cows, they have horses.

I missed out on many other cool things since I was really feeling nausea. Thanks to the bus driver again.
For example - Horses wearing clothes, Farm houses, the flowers here, the meadows with beautiful yellow flowers.

Most of our heads were spinning by the time our foot landed on Chester. Good news? Our worries of the bus toppling over is gone. If I spend any minute longer on the bus, I'll puke.

MAN, IT'S CHESTER!

I feel that this word is overused but I can't think of another word to describe the places in England - BEAUTIFUL~!

Chester is BEAUTIFUL~!
The buildings here are all ancient and the preserved the ancient dungeons, bridges and even a hospital (Blue Coat Hospital)

Underground walk-ways, so that you can cross the roads safely

Blue Coat Hospital for the soldiers at war last time.

It was originally a charity school in 1717.

Me & YY in front of the City Gaol

Staircase leading up to the City Gaol

The views bequeathed upon those on top of the City Goal

As you can see, the above is the Bridge of Sighs and beneath it are the dungeons in which prisoners were imprisoned last time.

A bit of 'boring' history for some: The bridge of Sighs is a stone footbridge built in 1793 to link the City Gaol with a Chapel in the Blue Coat Hospital.

Why is it called "The Bridge of Sighs"? - Because condemned prisoners used this bridge too cross over to the chapel to receive their last rights before execution.

Honestly, after reading the history of the dungeons and bridges and the hospital, I find the place slightly eerie. Try looking into the hospital entrance. It feels like someone is watching you....scary~
I mean, anything to do with PRISONERS, DUNGEONS and HOSPITALS gives me creeps!~ But it is really interesting.

With so many beautiful buildings and things around, our natural instincts propelled us to do one very important thing - POSE FOR THE CAMERA!!! *Snap* Snap*

YY & Me on top of the City Gaol

YY, Lace & Me - on my left is an office which doesn't look like an office

Just me ;P

"Hello! Hello!"

Trying to call back to Malaysia

We brought our Malaysian culture here...

We posed with almost anything and everything.

Here we are posing with The Pose (I mean, Post) Office?

More posing...

I believe I can Fly...

OTHER INTERESTING SIGHTINGS

Indian Food

"Swadish"

(Delicious in Hindi)

Grand, "French-looking" restaurants

Stylish hair salons

Romantic Alleyways

Some sort of underpass....

Various other shops

The houses are lovely

And even the police station looks historical and unique

The very cute kids posed for us. He is so adorable!!

Beautiful buildings, beautiful people..

BUT UGLY DOGS!

They have different flowers than in Malaysia

Strawberries & Cherries are available EVERYWHERE!

But they really are too expensive

Then there is also the Chester Library - which we enter just to warm ourselves...

But they really have a wide range of books & DVDS!!!

Too bad we can't borrow them.

The Town Council is one heck of a building.

Magnificent~

The Chester Cathedral

Sadly, we have to pay to walk around the Cathedral and therefore, we decided that Liverpool Cathedral is BETTER haha....

Not so welcoming when we have to pay...

We only manage to enter the gift shop inside the Cathedral.

"The siting of this column and these Roman bases commemorates the award to Chester by the FVS foundation of Hamburg of the European Prize for the Preservation of Historic Monument in 1981"

"What the Hell is this?"

If this is what you are thinking right now, let me assure you that you are normal.

That was what we are all thinking when we saw this monument in the middle of Chester.

Well, apparently this monument represents something special.

It is a celebration of Chester, whose city walls make secure the freedom to work and worship.

When you are in Chester, you see how laid back the people are. Not in a bad way though. Life is like so relaxing here. It's like these people have no worries in life. They just sit on the benches, with their dogs, or friends, under the trees, just people-watching or reading.

The air is fresh (cold) and free from pollution. It's such a nice place to be, especially when you just need to free your mind and feel the calmness.

Honestly, picture yourself in paradise - quiet, beautiful, refreshing, coo...and peaceful.

The drivers in England are all polite. Unlike Malaysia, the drivers ALL stop for pedestrians to cross, sometimes even when it is their right of way. There are NO HONKING heard on the streets. Seriously, NO!

The noisiest vehicles are the police cars and when you hear that, you know really it is an emergency. In Malaysia, we hear most sirens during lunch time and after work. Is it a coincidence that emergencies occurred mostly during lunch time and after work?

WHAT I BOUGHT IN CHESTER?

Okay forgive me. Sometimes it is REALLY HARD to resist the temptations to spend on things you like.

Unfortunately, there are too many things that I like.

Got this Sweat shirt in the Hospice Shop.

These are shops selling second hand stuff at really low prices and the profits go to charity.

So I'd like to think that I'm killing 2 birds with one stone.

;P

PRICE: £2.00 @ RM 12.00 (OUCH!)

BOOKS!!!

I don't buy books in Malaysia because they are expensive.

But these are SO SO CHEAP!!

One book cost only 50p....50p!!!!!

So I'm like getting 3 books for £1.50 @ RM9.00Where can you find good books at this price in Malaysia?
Sorry..HAVE TO BUY

So basically that was my trip to Chester.
Harvested a lot from the visit.
Really a memorable trip.
Thank God the bus driver WOKE UP FROM HIS F1 FANTASY.
The ride home was much much much more comfortable and safe.
That's all for now.
Tomorrow, it's me and YY cooking. I know my mum can't wait for the pictures already.
Tune in to see what we got installed for the whole Motley Crew hehe...

Just a reminder that I had indeed set foot on Chester.

I'm making a mark. :P

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

DAY 7 - COOKING

Thursday is finally here and it is me and YY in-charged of the stove today.

Morning however we had to go for a library (or Resource Centre) tour in the morning. So Class 1 (my class) were scheduled for the tour at 9.30pm. Hui Hsien, Bopet & me were early (as usual).

When everyone arrived, we were briefed on the Avril Robarts Resource Centre. There was a large array of books there. And more importantly, to Malaysians, DVDs!!!! After the briefing, you find all students gathered around the DVDs corner, selecting movies. Well, at least the students visit the Resource Centre.

Then, the hungry trio went for breakfast at Olivia's.

Well, for a person who like salt, like me, I still find the food too salty. I think it wasn't the best breakfast I've had. Come to think of it, maybe Dim Sum is still better.

Hui Hsien & Bopet ordering

"Belly Buster"

Our breakfast

French toast

Then, we had a trip down to St. Nicholas church. It was wonderful laying down on the grass under the sun, in front of St. Nicholas church. If you do that in Malaysia, you're crazy. Here, it's normal and in fact, you feel so much warmer and more comfortable sunning yourself. (Watch out for bird's dropping though)

The beauty of St. Nicholas Church

It was lunch time and you see all these people sitting on the grass, chatting, eating lunch, reading etc. etc.

Me capturing myself capturing myself on Bopet's glasses

Again, I made a mark.

OTHER SIGHTINGS

If I'm not wrong, this should be the Town Council

Then came evening. Time for some cooking!

We derived a system whereby we cook in pairs, and each pair is responsible for dinner for one particular day of the week.

Thursday, like I said, was my day.

So, YY has been very excited about cooking since Monday, and has been talking about what to cook ever since. (She even researched on the cooking methods I heard)

I, on the other hand asked me mum and of course mum enlightened me on how to cook (Thanks Mum). But translating it into action is my main problem. But I usually follow this philosophy - Go with the flow. Cooking is an art, am I not right? Haha...so it's about being FREE and messing up stuff to come out with something that is hopefully edible. (Kids, don't ever listen to my advice!)

But I believe that order is also vital in the kitchen. (in some ways) So, thank God YY has done the research and at least, we have some basics on COOKING. Our outcome is surprisingly good. For 2 very disorganized human beings, we were very good at the allocation of time. I honestly think that it's because of those time management cooking games I play online. Seriously, never underestimate computer games.

So to cut a long story short...The meal of the day!

I shall leave you guys here.

Till next time

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

DAY 8 - ANOTHER DAY IN PARADISE

So, things are getting more and more repetitious in Liverpool I guess. Even though the environment is still new, the people are different, the culture and language are different (and difficult to decipher), I think that we all are beginning to settle down to the the life here in Liverpool. Cooking while watching TV, shopping and sight-seeing are now part and parcel of our lives here. Honestly, I'm starting to feel a little boring with this mundane, normal routine. Like I said before, part of me can't wait for classes to start because I needed something new. However, I am also not wanting to start the classes for I know once the classes commence, I'll be stressed up with tonnes of WORK!!

Today was another day. Today was chilly...the weather has been unamiable for the past few days, starting from Chester. And the wind is really our biggest enemy here. I miss the sun really. I don't know why I'm saying this. In Liverpool, I LOVE THE SUN! It feels good to be sunned and not sweat ;P. (I could use a little tan)

So, no classes or any activities today. Naturally, being the 'sleeper', I woke up pretty ahem...late, at around 12.30 pm. After freshening up, I did what a 'good' daughter should do - call my parents via MSN messenger. I think I'm probably the only person who still call the parents practically everyday. I am not ashamed of that. I mean, it's better than those who didn't even try to call at all I guess.

After chatting for a while, we're off. Then, I had to make some plans for the day.

Now when you are in Liverpool, you have that guilt if you don't go out for the day. It's like, you have to see the outside of Liverpool at least once a day. You feel that it's not right to keep yourself in the room and not go out. So, I've decided to go the the Resource Centre, Avril Robarts. We had a tour yesterday and was exposed to the array of DVDs there and today, we decided to really explore and check them out.

Lydia decided to be my company for the day. Both of us, joined by Alric and Yoke Man went to the library to borrow, not BOOKS, but a load of DVDs. Well, we have the whole weekend ahead of us.

After browsing through so many different DVDs, I find that these movies aren't really pleasurable and entertaining movies. They are more like classicals, film noir, cultural and artistic movies. Only few among the vast stack are actually popular movies, and even so, these popular movies are known for their cinematographic aspects and meaningful themes. So I guess if you want to look for the movie "Bolt" or "Don't Mess With the Zohan", I don't think you can find it here. But it is really a good thing because here, I get to select movies that are not easily available in Malaysia.

In college, our lecturers have taught us about the different cinema styles of different countries - eg. the French cinema, the Hollywood etc. etc. We never really had the chance of exposing ourselves to these Here, there are so many types of movies in various languages. and it is an opportunity for me to really see how other movies

My DVD selection of the day - "Devdas" (a Bollywood movie), "The Butterfly's Tongue" (a Spanish movie) and another one which I completely forgot the title. I wouldn't say both are great movies for leisure, as it is not really entertaining, but if you are looking at the different themes, portrayals of culture and the cinematographic aspects, I think you'd find them quite interesting.

That was my Friday. Tomorrow, my friends have plans to shop at Cheshire Oaks. Should I or should I not go?

With LotSa Lurve,

TammyC

WHEN THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS FAIR

Have you ever encountered a situation whereby you just feel that your hard work doesn't pay off?

"Fairness" - why does this word even exist? Maybe it is to describe an ideal, somethings that we can't have all the time.

So, before I start my tale of disappointment, I'd like to shove off those people who thinks that this 3-month program in Liverpool is just a ride in the park. Seriously, I am fed-up. You go through it! And you will know what it's like doing 120 credits in 3 months plus the need to adapt with new rules and new marking systems.

I guess getting a third class for the first assignment isn't that bad. But, thinking about the fact that you've put in so much effort in it and then getting this kind of results, while those who practically just scratch something out passed with better results is the thing that kills me. I know I shouldn't be comparing, but how can I not? I'm still human with feelings and irrationality.

My new found PHILOSOPHY:

"Work Hard, Mark Stinks, Huge Disappointments and land yourself in misery; Work Less, Average or Good Marks, No Disappointments and STAY HAPPY =)"

Looking on the positive side, I guess it's time to learn something new. Different lecturers have different 'needs' and now I have to fulfill the 'needs' of a balding Singaporean PHD holder, who, unfortunately happens to be my lecturer and the key person who marks our work.

I don't like him but I won't say that I hate him (the lecturer), but he's just... different. Sadly, I don't respect him enough to trust his marking & judgments, but I guess, like my dad say, I will have to keep an open mind in order to learn. I'm still a bit unreceptive to this lecturer, mainly because I find most of his saying cliche, repetitive and is something that WE ALL KNOW. Tell me, WHY CAN'T I HAVE THE OTHER LECTURERS MARKING MY WORK?

Anyway, life does have to go on.

Today, I thank my flat mates, See Wei, Ai Yin, Pui Yee, Pai Wah and Poh Yee for they really helped cheer me up by just help diverting my attention to something else.

Hopefully, my next assignment will be better. Today is dedicated to doing nothing!

Ways to HEAL A SHATTERED HEART:

1. Watch A Great Movie

2. Listen to some great music

3. Sleep

4. Cry your heart out

5. Take a hot bath

TammyC

THE UNTOLD STORY OF DAY 9 - CHESHIRE OAKS

So, apparently it is a shopping heaven here in Cheshire Oaks. If you mention Cheshire Oaks, everyone goes hyper because this is the place where you can get, well, I wouldn't say cheap, I'd say, this is a place where you can get branded stuff at a lower price. For a girl like me, who doesn't really go for branded stuff, Cheshire Oaks is not really that significant. Maybe if someone tell me where I can get like super duper cheap DVDs, I'll be more ecstatic. After some 'serious' thinking, I decided to go since I want to learn how to take a bus. Besides, why would I want to trap myself in a room again right? Thought I'd just go check out some new places. Plus, I heard I can get some cheap sports stuff there - so, I was hoping to get my 2 annoying siblings back home some 'original' Nike stuff. The bus ride from Liverpool to Cheshire Oaks costs us £4.20 (2-way) and was one and a half hour long. It was a chilly day since it was drizzling. For the first time I saw rain in UK (I didn't know there were more to come then) and it was so different from rain in Malaysia. Well, for one thing, no one seems to need an umbrella here. I know I didn't. And also, in Malaysia, I'm really happy when it rains, it cools the day. Here, you beg that the rain would stop and that the wind would actually stop the torture. Like I said before, we had to take shelter in those warm shops. But once we're out, we're iced again. Anyway, the first thing I saw was the Nike shop. The infamous Nike 'check' symbol was flashing in our eyes. But that wasn't our first shop. We went to various shops, in hopes to get something warm. And all of us found a really cheap jacket worth only £5 pounds. I mean, yeah it's expensive when you convert it to RM but it's extremely cheap if you compare to those worth like over £20. We're all happy and now we all have a jacket that look like the characters in Star Trek. Hehe.

Again to cut a long story short, I shall just show you some pictures. I didn't really take many pictures though. But here are some to give you an idea of Cheshire Oaks.

Me and Yoke Man posing at the bus-stop, waiting for our ride to Cheshire Oaks

Finally! Our DESTINATION - Cheshire Oaks!

Inside Cheshire Oaks

Inside Nike Sports Shop

The Food Court

Check it out! There's a ship inside the Food Court

OUR harvest for the day.

Before you start thinking how super duper rich I am, let me remind you not all of these are mine ok.

I tried really hard to restrain myself from spending on some stuff that I really really wanted but know would be a waste of money.

My new Star Trek Jacket hehe.

That's all about Cheshire Oaks.

Class has started, and as you might already guessed, it's as stressful as hell.

I've no mood to eat, no mood to take pictures, no time to blog and no time for the things I enjoy. Sigh. That's life I guess. Til next time!

With Lotsa Lurve,

TammyC

LAKE DISTRICT - 11 JULY 2009

Today I went to Lake District.

"The Lake District, also known as The Lakes or Lakeland, is a rural area in North West England. A popular holiday destination, it is famous for its lakes and its mountains (or fells), and its associations with the early 19th century poetry and writings of William Wordsworth and the Lake Poets."

(I so copied this from Wikipedia ;P)

Our first destination - Easedale Tarn located in the small town of Grasmere (part of Lake District).

I was again hesitant to go yesterday because I was like so exhausted since I've been working on my assignments for one whole week. So, I wasn't really looking forward to do 3 hours of climbing just to see a lake (or a tarn = a small area of water)?

Well, again I managed to convince myself that I should not just waste my 12 pounds. Besides, I really need some exercise and work my lazy bump.

Guess what? It was really fun. I really can't believe that hiking is that fun. Plus you get that sense of accomplishment when you actually reach the peak. It was really steep but I am so glad that I manage to climb those rocky, steep hills. It wasn't really hard...but one thing is for sure, you need really good shoes and a good grip. I think it was easy for me also because I've done something like this before. I did stream-trotting before and thus I have experience with rocks hehe. Surprisingly, my legs didn't hurt at all after all those walking! I really think Liverpool had train my two 'walking sticks' well.

The bus ride however was terrible. I was really going to puke and had this plastic bag ready. The only thing that kept me from vomiting was my empty stomach. I guess I had nothing to throw out except air. The bus ride WAS REALLY KILLING ME! Imagine I still have to tip the bus driver at the end. It's a custom here to tip the driver. So, in order to not look ahem...stingy I had to chip in. I feel stupid.

So, pictures?

YESH!!

This was where our coach dropped us.

The first sight of Grasmere.

An introduction of Grasmere before we step into the town itself.

It is a really small town, with lots of cottages.

It's like the typical English village, like those you read in books.

Lots of greens, beautiful flowers, cozy cafes...

Grasmere welcomes us...

And on and on and on we walked....

Passed the shops, the cottages and admiring nature and experiencing the peace of a small but breathtakingly beautiful English town

Look! A wishing well.

Make a wish...

Wish...wish...wish...

Inside the wishing well.

The one and only Church here.

There's a graveyard next to it by the way. Thought you guys should know ;P

So we continued walking...

This is the road leading to Easedale Tarn

Cottage #1

Cottage #2

Cottage #3

Cottage #4

These cottages are actually open for rent.

It's like their culture here that the whole family drive down to Grasmere for a vacation and stay in these cottages.

Somewhat like our family trips to Telok Batik I guess.

It makes me think about how different our cultures are but yet, we are in some ways the same.

You know what's so amazing about walking pass these cottages?

It's like you are in those storybooks or fables; the feel of really being in a small town with cottages, the feel of really being in England I guess. You watch those movies about how lovely and romantic these places are and it's so surreal when you are here. It's like, you feel it...like you are in the setting of a fairy tale....

So, here is where our adventure began.

The foot of the hill that we are going to embrace.

Rocks and steeps await us.

(I forgot, along the way, there are a variety of droppings - sheep, dogs...I don't know what else. Not to mention the SMELL...eww!)

Green green grass of Grasmere....

Everyone is busy taking their best shots

And I had to leave a 'mark'

My eyes are thanking me today for giving them a feast of 'greens'.

Do you know that the colour green is good for the eyes?

The picture is fit for a postcard ;P

(even with my kinda photography skills)

Up...Up...and Up we go.

All the way to the top.

At this point, I really doubt my ability to actually move any further.

I mean, THE TOP???

But my ego is too big. I have to move on! Hehe....

The rocks!

I love maneuvering my way through them.

Look at my friends climbing up the hill.

The waterfall! I thought we were there!

I was wrong.

But we manage to take some pictures here.

The gang!

Me by the waterfall.

Ya...don't ask me where is the waterfall. Ask the photographer.

So as I was saying, I thought we had reach the peak.

Apparently I was wrong.

And WE HAD TO GO ON!

And I thought we were HIGH enough.

Thank God I'm not Acrophobic (Fear of Heights)

After what seems like another hour (which in fact was just maybe 20 minutes), WE MADE IT!!!

Easedale Tarn!

Beautiful, isn't it? Duh...

I made it all the way here. It has to be.

So there were ducks and small fishes.

You can feed ducks here too.

Most of my friends feed themselves here though - lunchtime!

I don't do much mountain climbing or hill climbing (whatever it is you call it) in Malaysia, but I notice here that the people here are really amazing.

1st: DOGS CAN SWIM and DOGS CAN CLIMB THESE ROCKY TRAILS!

The dogs here are energetic and they seem nicer than Malaysian dogs for some reason. I'm not really scared of the dogs here. It's like they are so properly trained and they just don't come to you. The people here really train their dogs well and the dogs listen to their masters. In Malaysia, every time the master say "DON'T GO"...the dog will still go towards me. Here, no such thing! It makes me feel so safe because I'm convinced that these dogs won't bite.

I'm not a dog-lover. I don't hate dogs. I'm afraid of dogs.

But here, I might be starting to actually LIKE DOGS!

2nd: PARENTS BRING THEIR LITTLE KIDS HIKING

I think the parents here are really daring. I mean, in some ways, they train their kids to be adventurous I guess. I don't think personally, where I come from, parents would bring their 6-year-olds hiking like this. It's too dangerous. It's cool to see young kids braving the stones and the steepy hills. Maybe that is something that Malaysian should start doing. Get our kids to be active and close to nature. Well, I guess those kids who play in the waterfalls back in Malaysia are considered adventurous too? What do I know, I'm born and raised in the city...hehe

3rd: ELDERLY CAN ALSO BE ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN HIKING

I can't imagine my grandmother climbing those hills. But, I saw 3 ladies today- an old woman, her daughter and her granddaughter (3 generations) hiking. HOW COOL IS THAT? I mean, at that age, the old lady can still be so active and agile? I must really train myself to be like that when I'm older!

Okay...Enough with my observations. Back to the lenses....

What goes up, must come down, right?

Forgive me for forgetting my Year 4 science, is this the Newton law or something?

Anyway, I'm just saying that after 120 minutes (2hours) of ascending, 20 minutes of relaxing, it's time to descend.

The path still remains steepy. DANGEROUS or CHALLENGING?

You decide!

But I really thought it was FUN!

Still going downhill...

And finally, the green fields greet us again.

Since me and Lydia were the first 2 to touchdown, we had to take a picture ;P

While waiting for the others, we lay down on the fields, like what a typical Brit will do hehe

Excuse these pics if you hate my face

Try focusing on the background

And finally, the WHOLE MOTLEY CREW

BYE GRASMERE!

HELLO BOWNESS!

Bowness is another town in the Lake District in which the LARGEST LAKE IN UK is located.

A "I-THOUGHT-YOU MIGHT-BE-INTERESTED-TO-KNOW" FACT:

The LARGEST LAKE IN UK = Windermere Lake

Anyway, this is our next stop - Bowness. A town known for the lake and also the writer, Beatrix Potter who wrote the Peter Rabbit books. Me, being me, doesn't know who she is until today. I mean, come on I don't grow up reading Peter Rabbit books, even though I think I might have one or two of those books. Excuse me for being 'illiterate' in English Literature.

But this town is FULL of Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit stuff - Peter Rabbit Garden, The World of Beatrix Potter Attraction etc. I only managed to visit the gift shop. We didn't have much time there.

My friends went on a boat ride while I decided to just lay on the grass and read my storybook. I just think that it would be more comfortable to relax rather than go for a boat ride and risk being well, 'lake-sick'?

Anywayz, here are the pictures I took while I was relaxing....

Bowness

Pier 2: Where my friends embarked on their lake quest

The Peter Rabbit Gift Shop

I shall leave you here now.

Supposed to sleep early but again, I overstep my bedtime.

I'm normal again in Malaysia! 9am in the morning (2am in UK) and I'm awake!

Take care folks

I just realized that I have so many un-uploaded pics.

Well, what to do...those PHD holders called LECTURERS are holding me, taking up my time hehe.

Anyway, till next time.

Like they always say here in Liverpool, Ta...

With Lotsa Love,

TammyC

THE "PESSIMIST" TAM-METHE "PESSIMIST" TAM-ME

"What is life all about?"

Stressful days always make me think about this question.

We work so hard, stress so much...for what?

So that 80 years from now, we can look back, ponder on it and die?

Sometimes, I just feel that I need a real purpose in life.

I've wanted to do so many things in my life and sometimes, I ask...are these things even achievable. Or am I just dreaming that I can actually achieve those things?

I have so many things I want to do after graduation and honestly, I just have no idea where to start, and which direction to go.

Some people, it's like they have everything mapped out for them, even though you know it's not true. You choose to believe that they have it easy - so that you can continue finding an excuse for yourself when you fail.

Am I like that? Maybe I really am!

I think many times I blame things on circumstances, fate or bad luck...

Many times, I search for excuses, in order to lie to myself. Maybe just so I can continue moving onto a next day, optimistically. At some point, I just don't even know what I'm doing; I can't tell what are lies that I tell myself, what are the truths. I can only keep on making up stuff, stories, to make myself feel better. I'm too idealistic - a dreamer, a liar to myself. I know that's wrong...but how can I stop?

I want to be successful. I want to be great in what I do. I want to be happy.

Then I ask myself..."Why is everything you want to do all about YOU? Why not do it for others?"

At times, I just feel like I'm a person who only cares about myself and nobody else. I want to be able to inspire and help and not just be such a selfish b****, but why am I that way - selfish? Why can't I put others first?

I admire people who can selflessly sacrifice for others, care for others because they really do. They are the kind-hearted souls. They are the ones who should grace the planet. Not people like me. I guess there are many times I care for others, maybe because I have to, and not because I want to. I have to because I want people to like me. I don't want to be hated. AGAIN - it's all because of ME.

It's ironic. Once, a friend asked me: "What's the purpose in life?"

I told him - there are so many things that we can do in life. We have so many things that we can try out, experience...

I told him - I feel like I don't have enough time to do everything I want to do and what do you mean what's the purpose in life...There's always going to be a purpose in life.

Now, at this moment, I really don't know....Maybe again, it's another made up ideal that I have in me.

I wished that I have a more meaningful purpose in life.

I wished that I can do something fulfilling, something that I look forward to doing...something that not only fulfills me, BUT others.

I don't know how to....

The "Other" side of TammyC

The Pessimist

The Optimist shall be writing again soon....hopefully

MY LIFE IN POLITICS & SELFISHNESS

I'm so sick of politics happening around me.

I mean, I guess I'm very selfish. I just hate to get involved in things that to me, really doesn't matter to me, things that really doesn't have any effect on me.

I have a story to tell.

A story I have to tell because it is bugging me. I don't know why. I know I shouldn't be even thinking of this. I have better things to work on but I have it so embedded in my mind that releasing it is the only way to free my mind.

I think a huge part of this is my fault.

And at this point, I hate myself and I just feel that once again. I think it ALL STARTED BECAUSE I'M SELFISH!

I shouldn't have changed room with my friend in the first place.

I guess because I prefer to stay alone in another flat, away from my friends just so I can have my alone time and also, to avoid people politics. Even among friends, you have all these things going on and it's really a complete waste of time thinking about it. Plus, at that time, I thought since my friend's room is near my class leader's, it would be better for me if I take her room instead. Besides, I thought that she would like that room better since it is opposite her bf's room. Win-win. I was wrong. Again, it all boils down to my selfishness. And I guess switching room is better for me than for her.

Under certain circumstances, I then moved to another block to join another bunch of coursemates, who I know better than the previous housemates. Less politics here since I don't really am in their gang. The good thing is, I have company and time alone. Things are getting better for me, and sadly, worst for my friend. Apparently, her flat mates (which are originally mine) are difficult to live with.

Honestly, I guess I haven't been a good enough friend. I don't understand her situation. All I can think of is, everytime there is a problem there, I just don't know what to say except ask her to just "DON'T CARE". Maybe it's easy for me to say.

The housemates there do not do the dishes, do not wash the pots - basically, they aren't really responsible. My friend, pity her, has to clean up after them because she is responsible. You see, I guess I'm too laidback to care about these things. I mean, I do help with the dishes and clean up after things and I know it is really bad that those people doesn't, but I really don't know what to say to my friend. But honestly though, what I did is not even half as much as what my friend has done. I know because she stays there, she has more things to take care of. It's like the whole kitchen is practically her responsibility.

I know my friend has really ruined her reputation by being the 'evil' person who has to scold those people, and maybe I should bear that responsibility too...I don't know. I mean, I have done it once and ...I didn't even scold. I just told them, though not friendlily. Again maybe I am selfish and want to be the 'nice' one. And maybe because I don't feel the stress my friend is feeling and thus, I just can't find urge to really scold those irresponsible people.

I feel that my friend is mad at me in some ways, maybe for not standing by her. But, I just really don't understand why she let these things get to her and stress her out so much. See again I feel either I'm really a lousy friend for not understanding her situation, or second, maybe I ought not to be involved in all these politics because I'm here to study? But I guess, life is about learning people skills right? How to deal with situations like this? If you ask me, I'm always trying to evade situations like this, UNLESS if that person bugs me. And even if a person annoys me, I chose usually to not talk to that person and stay out of conflict. WHAT AM I?

I feel that best friend of mine has changed in certain ways. Maybe I also have changed in certain ways. My friend used to be cheerful...now she's all stressed up. I guess I know the pressure she's facing - assignments, housemates...and I know I should be a tad more understanding. If I could, I would just switch rooms with her. Maybe then there would be lesser problems. That way, I could experience what she is dealing with. But I guess I won't feel it that much because I am not so attached to the kitchen haha. I don't cook so I won't be like all stressed out when the pots and pans aren't cleaned. I know...I'm messy and quite dirty. My friends say that I won't make a good housewife, and I think I can live with that 'for now'.

I honestly wouldn't care how those irresponsible people live their lives. I'll just make sure I do my part, that's all.

In some ways, I think me and my friend have different thinkings. She likes cooking I guess, even though she say she doesn't. I, on the other hand, am SO SO LAZY TO COOK. And sometimes I think I'm so evil because everytime we cook, I'll be giving suggestions that we should cook something simple. I just want to get it done quick so that I can rush back to my room and do my stuff. So cooking, eating and cleaning must be done FAST!

That day, a misunderstanding happened. I was telling my friend about someone and she thought I was talking about someone else. Long story which I can't share. It's like, she told a misinterpretated version of my story and now she feels that my other friends think that she is exaggerating and telling a false story. I guess that she's mad at me because she feels that I ruined her reputation because I changed the original story.

Honestly, I am also half angry at her because now I know that everytime I talk, she doesn't really listen. That's exactly how I feel most of the time. It's like, most of the time, it's all about her stories and even when I talk, I feel like she never really listens whole-heartedly. Maybe this again proves it. Again...if she had listened to me, she'd know who I'm talking about and that whole misunderstanding wouldn't have happened.

And to make things worst, just now I went to collect my laundry and didn't collect my friend's. Usually, we collect our own laundry. I went early, without waiting for them, as usual, but today, after I collected my clothes...I didn't know that the guards would close the laundry room so early and my friends' clothes were trapped in there. Again, here, it highlights my selfishness. SIGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I SHOULD HAVE COLLECTED THEIR LAUNDRY AS WELL!!!

OMG!

Why am I even writing this right?

I know!

But I can't get my frustration off and I needed to write this. ARGH!

I have been like keeping this feeling like all this while...trying to be patient with the whole situation really. I really hate politics like this. I really just want to talk about interesting stuff like movies, music or even GOD, the READINGS maybe and not this.

HELP!

Sigh..what kinda freak friend am I? I don't know.

Sorry

My friend had been there for me and I guess tomorrow, I'll have to be there for her.

Now, let's just hope that things would be better...

TammyC

and a night of DRAMA!

THIS IS A PUBLIC SPHERE

This is a public sphere.

My mind has been overloaded with terms like 'public sphere', 'democracy', 'Habermas', 'McRobbie', 'media', 'citizens', 'public debate'...so argh!

The above is not Earth. It's a depiction of the term 'public sphere'.

Just so you know...

This blog is a public sphere where I can share my ideas/opinions and get feedback from anyone of you that bothers to give any feedback. So we can also enter a debate or discussion here. And when we are engaged in a debate or discussion in a public sphere (such as this blog), we become citizens and there is a democratic process going on here. So yes, a blog is a public sphere and with public sphere there's democracy. Well, some may argue that... (go figure your own argument - Be critical. (Iqbal - makes some people laugh) It's a degree (Andrew - blue-eyed, adorable and intelligent dude)...It's meant to be hard (Eve - organized, strict but nice lady who always wants us to be happy but somehow stresses us out) ...Don't worry, you'll be fine (Alan - sanguine, happy, cheerful and kind man who have the energy of a 12-year-old )...2.1 is considered good, 1st class means your work can be published (Zoe - too high expectations? - she's pretty))

I was thinking, since I have to write one thousand words on this for 'that' lecturer of mine - I might as well do it for fun here.

Talking about 'that' lecturer, OMG! Today I did this stupid mistake.

I had let 'that' lecturer of mine checked my plan for the assignment.

'That' lecturer refers to the one who propagates...

Anyway so as usual, he checked.

The thing with this lecturer of mine is, even if he says your work is good, you can't be certain. That's the problem. I mean, I feel bad with or without his comments.

With his comments = Redo everything and pray to God that this time you nail it. Because he might change his mind and do a complete 180 degree turn on what he advised you anyway - really depends on his mood.

Without his comments = Wonder if you really are on the right track and you have no idea what to improve on and so you AGAIN PRAY to God that he really meant what he said. And even though he did meant what he said at the time he said it, so? I quote from the above: "he might change his mind and do a complete 180 degree turn on what he advised you anyway - really depends on his mood."

I have no expectations what-so-ever for this one even though he gave me some mere 'goods' and 'ok'. Like I say - ibid.

Which leads me to the story of my mistake.

The unconvinced me went to another lecturer, Alan the great - who I really like even though I have zero seminar under him. I turned to this sanguine lecturer of mine who is the lecturer for the subject, even though he doesn't conduct my seminars/tutorials.

At that moment, just as Alan say - "Good, no problem", behind him emerged a man...a man I call 'that' lecturer. Oh darn! They say, he is not happy when his students go to other lecturers for consultation, especially on something that he has already consulted on. GREAT!!

I mean, I really didn't know that 'that' lecturer would be down so soon.

One of my friend say he didn't see me asking Alan though. So, now I'm counting on the idea that 'that' lecturer didn't see me (well, I'm kinda short) or that 'that' lecturer thinks that I am consulting Alan on something else. I REALLY REALLY HOPE IT DOESN'T AFFECT MY MARKS. Well, you know how 'that' lecturer has his own personal marking style - he grades students according to their 'names' sometimes. I say sometimes. Sometimes...

So Alan say, "good plan" - hopefully so. I mean, it was really a super duper fast scanning of my work. And I again am counting on that. Well, I do take comfort that Alan say it's good. Because at least I have a second opinion. Sadly, I really don't trust the marks 'that' lecturer give. Sad sad sad...You see what I mean when I say, you don't really know what standards you are at because of 'that' lecturer? Sometimes biasness and favouring students do get in the way.

Okay...now I'm heading back to terms like 'public sphere', 'democracy', 'Habermas', 'McRobbie', 'media', 'citizens', 'public debate'.

Ta~

Cheers,

TammyC

TC-MY BIRTHDAY IN LIVERPOOL

Words can't express how I feel really...

Today (or rather, yesterday, Malaysian time) I turned 22.

It's a great feeling that it's your birthday and all but I think what makes this day even more special are the people closest to you - your friends and family.

This year is really special because I celebrated it in Liverpool. I guess I'm one of those lucky ones who gets to celebrate their birthdays in Liverpool. Prior to this, I'm already really ecstatic about the fact that I get this chance to spend it here, in Liverpool. But I think the MOST MEMORABLE part of the whole experience is definitely having my bunch of friends (the whole Broadcast folks) bursting into my room, surprising me with a birthday song and a lovely cake.

Again..THANK YOU SO SO MUCH GUYS! I really am caught off-guard and I was too 'red' and I forgot to say "All of you have a nice voice" haha.

Really embarrassed because as usual, my room is in this really PATHETIC, MESSY, DIRTY condition and everyone was practically stuffed because I on-ed the heater. My God! How embarrassing...If I had known, I would have really do some tidying beforehand.

Seriously, I'm REALLY REALLY TOUCHED and REALLY REALLY HAPPY because my friend really provided me the warmth that anyone would dream of and more on a special day such as a birthday. I was unable to really give a speech because, seriously, I'm too happy and too grateful - I was really speechless. I wanted to give this touching and emotional speech but can't do it...I can't think when put on the spot.

I was already really really happy when all my friends wished me Happy Birthday on my Facebook. I mean, I've received so many wishes and I'm so so happy & grateful that everyone took the trouble to actually send me some message on Facebook. I mean, I really ought to reflect on myself, I don't really sometimes wishing long lost friends on Facebook when it's their birthday...BUT THEY ALL DID. And honestly, I think I shall really start doing it. And my college buddies and classmates that I just met from here...all were so nice and did leave me Birthday wishes. I was really happy...REALLY REALLY OUT-OF-MY-MIND HAPPY.

Then while I was busy writing all those thank you notes, Ai Yin (my next door mate/flat mate/the girl who I will kacau on MSN during really stressful times or when I have nothing better to do) came in with Szetoo, the pretty reknown photographer of our class. So we started chatting and chatting...Very brilliant distracting plan. Very brilliant indeed!

And out of nowhere, my door burst open...BAM! My God! The WHOLE CLASS...At that point, I was TOO HAPPY TO REALLY SAY ANYTHING and I am so so embarrassed...ARGH!

I really considered myself sensitive, like I can sense it when something ought to happen ...and I don't know why this time I just couldn't sense anything. They are so GOOD! They even know my room would creak when people enter the flat so all of them waited outside and not enter the flat before everyone was here..AWW..with the cold and all...So So Sweet of them.

I think every year, I somehow know either my family or friends would have dinner planned for me but this year ...I really am caught - could have wore nicer ma haha...I think maybe it's because that my friend had called to ask me out, so half my mind thought that that was the celebration.

So, AGAIN....THANKS GUYS ...ALL OF YOU MADE IT HAPPEN AND I REALLY CAN'T THANK ALL OF YOU ENOUGH.

Ai Yin, Pui Yee, Poh Yi, Pai Wah, See Wei & YC (my flatmates whom I spend most of the sleepless nitez with during assignments) - Thanks for the blue cardigan. Absolutely love it. It's so my kinda outfit! Actually, it's not only that, but also for being there and helping me a lot a lot a lot through some of the toughest times and assignments. I don't think they know how much they have done for me...I think they keep thinking that I helped them alot but the truth is, without them I think I'm really nothing. I have a lot to learn from them and they are so so much fun to be with! So thank you...

Ah Luk - Thanks so so much for the hairclip. It's a very beautiful butterfly~ Love it...I'm really thankful that you actually got me something...REALLY thank you man!

Farah - OMG! Farah's gift was like totally UNEXPECTED but TOUCHED ME like so so much. I mean, I just knew Farah here in class and Farah and I were the ones who would really 'pay attention' in Andrew's class. Haha...well Farah is one of the most charismatic student in class that I know I have to get to know and learn from. She's a FANTASTIC student who is so opinionated and confident in class and one of the students that I so admire! And I am really glad to have known her. But it was totally out of the blue that she called me and gave me such a BEAUTIFUL CHOCOLATE. Really beautiful chocolate shaped like a cat! Thanks so so much Farah!

Wei Sin & JT - THANKS SO SO SO MUCH FOR THE BAG! I mean, temaning me out for lunch today made me really happy and somemore you guys took out some of your precious assignment time to go all the way to Primark to get me a gift! Thanks so so much! Can't describe my gratefulness. Wei Sin & JT are the ones who have been through a lot with me through this 3 months. This 3 months I think really helped me know them better, especially wei sin. Found out that she's so so supportive and nice...I many times she has been really caring, not only to me I think. Thanks so so so much Wei Sin & JT! Really am grateful!

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST...

YY, Lydia & Eugene - Thanks for EVERY EVERY THING...I mean it's not just my birthday that you guys are there. I think practically during Advanced Diploma onwards you guys were already ALWAYS THERE FOR ME...So, thanks so so so much for going through everything for me. I know YY, your leg is like not in really great shape at the moment, but still managed to wade through the cold to my room haha..thanks Lydia for always teman-ing me in everything. Can't thank you guys enough!

Not to mention also - EVERYONE in ABC 1 not mentioned above (Alric, Hui Hsien, Bopet, JC, Chien Yi, Tracy, Lie Chin, Kah Kei, Derique, SeeYeong, Lace, Nic, Sze2, Wei Xiang, Chian Lue, Yoke Man, Fang Jing, Victoria) for the great surprise! Had a really great time folks...really really do. If I could cry, I would...haha but I'm too happy haha...

ABC - the Broadcasters...TARC & LJMU won't be the same without this bunch of cheery gang..Hey that includes me okay! ;P

Thanks to all my ex-classmates back in MGS for wishing me! Great to hear from you guys.

Thanks to all my current classmates who wished me...THANKS SO MUCH..glad to know you guys. It's a pleasure being in Class one with all of you!

MOST IMPORTANTLY - I thank my parents for everything they've given me. I think the people who has done the most for me are my mum and dad. Without them really, they won't be me and who I am today. I think they are the greatest and the best parents any girl can hope for. Their sacrifice for me, I can never really compare it to anything bigger. So thanks mum and dad FOR ALL THE MAJOR AND MINOR THINGS THAT YOU HAVE BLESSED ME WITH. Thanks a million zillion gazzillion!

I think overall, it's really the little little things that everyone did for me that really touched my heart. I really don't know what more to say ...A BIG BIG THANK YOU is not even enough to express my feelings.

Love you guys and hopefully there are many many more happy times to come for ALL OF US! YAY!

Before the invasion, at the corridor. I didn't know it was that packed until I saw these pictures on my friend's facebook haha

With Love & a huge smily face,
TammyC

p/s: I fell down today...sigh..have to screw up on my birthday to make it 'me'!

BREAK

12 more days in Liverpool. Can you believe it? (I'm supposed to be doing my assignments right now) - 7 assignments, 1 test in 12 days! I know. LJMU has somehow made us all Superhumans.

It has been a wonderful wonderful 2 months ++ and honestly, if not for the assignments and hectic schedule, the stay here the perfect experience anyone can have.

I am definitely going to miss the walks to class. I know when I'm back in Malaysia, I'll be back to the 'clutch' the car gives me. But I mean, who can blame us for wanting to travel in cars or any vehicle for that matter. I mean, putting the weather aside, we still have the fact that walking the streets is so unsafe. I feel too safe here that it's dangerous. Ahem a couple of times I left some of my things behind, and I feel not worried at all because when I got back, every time my belonging is safely in the hands of the shopkeeper. My friend left phones, PHONES, and it was still in place, left untouched when he got back. If you were in Malaysia, sadly, that won't be the case anymore.

I'm definitely going to miss some of the people here. I'm definitely going to miss the summer here and the loads of fun I had here.

What I am not missing is the loads of work and readings that I have to do...

Okay...

Back to "Ethnography" and the gay McLelland!

Love,

TammyC

p/s: taking a break...

THE LAST OF LIVERPOOL LECTURE

Time really does fly

I remember the day when I anxiously arrived at KLIA, trying to figure out the 'adventures' that lies ahead of me in Liverpool.

I remember the first few days here - the cooking, the excitement of attending lectures and seminars, the beautiful buildings, the walks and wonderful people.

Now, in a blink of the eye, it is about time to bid our goodbyes to Liverpool.

3 months is not a short period of time, yet it is definitely not long.

I know I am going to miss this place A LOT A LOT A LOT.

Today is our final lecture.

The highlilght of today?

Andrew's lecture - It's his last. Of course we are gonna miss him right?

Iqbal's speech. I thought that it was his best speech so far. (If you know what I mean)

It was touching to hear his speech. I mean, I believe it is true that all of us should be proud of ourselves for accomplishing that much in just 3 months. It is a really stressful and intensive course that we are doing. No one knows it because, Mass Communication is the only course doing 120 credits in 3 months. The rest of the courses are practically here for a few assignments. Without sounding pompous, I think that this Degree in Mass Comm is really not easy if compared to those technology students, whom we always see barbecuing, going for trips, shopping and making a lot of noise, attractive security guards to their dorms and not to mention, humiliating the 'Summer Programme' students' image. Mass Comm students on the other hand are experiencing lack of sleep, stressful hours, and some of us even have this tendency to lock ourselves in the room the whole day just to study.

Personally, I see a lot of changes in all my friends. EVERYONE seemed SO MUCH MORE HARDWORKING. I think it is true that this 3 months had pushed everyone to their maximum limits. I guess back in Malaysia, we somehow take the course for granted, because even if we failed, it's like, we can just resit. Here, you know your parents have funded you all the way to Liverpool, with maybe their life-time savings, loans and all...you really know you ought to at least try get something more than a 3rd class.

I hope I have also changed for the better. I guess I have changed in someways. I think everyone feels the same. I think deep down, whether or not we've accomplished our first class or not, we all should feel proud that we have made it this far. I think in some ways, these assessments have definitely made us stronger. I know they are stressful...but undeniable, it had changed us A LOT! (At least I know I have lost more than a few strands of hair)

Iqbal did mention how hard the other lecturers have worked for us. Personally, I think so too. I really see that they tried hard to help us in so many ways. I mean, I guess some of us might not agree with their marking styles, but I think we can't deny the fact that they did do their part for us. I heard Andrew, Alan, Eve and Zoe - all worked extra hours just to mark our assignments and prepare lectures...I am really touched. It was a really sincere feeling back then in the lecture hall when I gave them the standing ovation.

So, ALAN, ANDREW, EVE, ZOE & IQBAL THANKS SO SO MUCH!

And the TARC lecturers. Who are we if it wasn't for them? I remember some of the best lecturers from TARC who have made me who I am today and I guess I really can't thank all of them enough. TARC has provided me with some of the best years of my life and seriously, looking back, maybe TARC years were the best! I've met a bunch of cool friends and built up a certain amount of confidence. I think TARC had trained me in certain ways that my alma mater had not.

Eve also gave a short speech. I don't know why but hearing her words nearly tear me up. Even though what she said was similar to Iqbal, it had a great impact on me. I guess since she is such a strict and hardworking lecturer, hearing that we are all very great students and that she is proud of us makes me feel that WE, as a whole group of Mass Comm students must have definitely done something great. I think if someone knew the amount of stress and the amount of work and the pressure we are going through everyday, today, the last day, would have definitely mean a lot.

I think it also tears me up a little because I know that in some ways, we are not going to see all of them again. I never really cry during farewell sessions, unless I know that chances of meeting up agan will be slim. I know, that chances of all of us being here in Liverpool again, together with our cool bunch of lecturers won't happen again. It will all be just a memory. A bittersweet one.

Then was the group photo-taking session. I'm so happy to be in it. It will definitely make me smile one day when I look back at those pictures. After that, it was another photo taking session with our lecturers. All the girls were swooning over Andrew (as usual) and Alan was another popular figure whom everyone seem to want to take pictures with. I mean, of course! Alan is super nice! Andrew is the super-star and Iqbal is "THE" Iqbal. Wonder why Eve and Zoe left so early?

This is a moment that I shall cherish forever in my life!

Group picture outside Atlantic Point

Group picture after our last lecture...

Try locating me ;P

Me & my flatmates - Ai Yin, See Wei, Pai Wah, Poh Yi and Pui Yee in the lecture hall.

Our last day

We had loads of great times together in Flat 83.3

So gonna miss them

This is me & Eve, my thesis Supervisor.

The kind but strict one.

But in some ways, she's really artistic...

She acts!

ANDREW & Me

One of my favourite tutors. ;P

He's charming (especially when he talks), intelligent & deep

Always keeps us thinking.

Oh and he makes me look forward to Mondays so no Monday blues for me..

Friends - remember my theory??

Alan & the gang.

I have still yet to locate my personal pic with Alan, I don't know which camera it is in.

So this group pic with Alan will have to do.

Alan - what more can I say...

He is by far the NICEST, KINDEST & most UNDERSTANDING LECTURER I've ever had.

He is diligent and is always there to help and answer our questions.

So sad I don't have any class with him

Me with some of my classmates.

These are some of the girls I hang out with sometimes in class.

We just can't get enough of Andrew right?

Me, Farah & Eve

Farah is one of the most intelligent girls around. Even the lecturers notice that.

Love her confidence! Great girl.

Has always been really sweet and nice to me.

And we always have 'fun' and 'serious' conversations in class sometimes. Haha.

Gonna miss those times.

Selamat Berpuasa Farah!

Love,

TammyC

I LOVE LIVERPOOL & NO, NOT THE FOOTBALL CLUB

I knew 3 months would pass in a flash. I was right. In a blink of the eye, I'm back in Malaysia after my 3-month degree program in Liverpool. I miss it so so so much.

Liverpool is such a nice city. Nice walks, nice people, nice buildings. And another very significant thing that will be a miss will be my flatmates whom I've shared my past 3 months with. I think I'll always remember those times we struggle through our assignments. I think every single one of them had helped me through the assignments - providing me advice and support and just being there to keep me company. What would I be without them? I don't know. In some ways, we've bonded really well together and I'm really happy to have gotten to know them.

Tonight is my first night back in Malaysia, and honestly, I miss Liverpool so so much. I do not want to change the time on my phone and watch because I still want to know what time it is in Liverpool. I NEED TO FEEL THE CONNECTION...I don't know why.

I still wish that my friends would go online, even though I know they are happily on their Euro trips right now.

The memories of Liverpool:

1. Walking down the streets of Liverpool - afternoon or at night, just being on the streets, looking at the people, admiring the architecture and the beautiful houses while listening to Gavin DeGraw, Amos Lee, Justin Nozuka, Taylor Swift

2. Laying on the green grasses while feeling the sunshine or reading a book

3. Fooling around the flat with my flatmates - visiting their rooms and messing with them during stressful assignment times

4. Watching Big Brother with my flatmates - laughing at some of the contestants' antics and actually chatting more often than watching

5. Shopping in Primark, eating out at bars & pubs

6. Attending seminars and lectures

7. Walking down West Kirby Beach

8. Calling King Kong King Kong, making fun of Pui Yee calling her Mrs. Chee on FB, Pai Wah's gentleness, Poh Yi's sweetness and G.A.Y.'s craziness

9. Having supper with my flatmates halfway through those crazy assignments

10. Not having to drive - you depend only on your feet and the efficient public transport available

Overall, there's too much to miss over there...

I really do love Liverpool. =)

Love,

tammyc