rough

I'm feeling awfully rough today.

And it is just morning.

Last night was our monthly guys get together.

We started with a drink at O'Neills before moving on to dinner at The Italian Caffe.

Italian Caffe serves dishes of Italian tapas. Small dinky plates of tapas to share. Had to delete dinky as it isn't as small and dinky that one would think.

Since there were nine of us, we ordered a few dishes of a kind and one or two dishes that anyone of us like to try.

BigGuyJim did the ordering since he has been there before. Some of the food we had were seafood casserole, some italian bread and olives, braised venison, and I think there must be a couple more dishes but I can't remember now.

I ordered the finely sliced raw beef with lemon dressing and rocket.

It was really really good. It was gone in seconds while the plate was being passed around the table.

The Italian Caffe is the perfect place to go if there is a group of you as you can ordered all kinds and share.

The price of the food is quite good actually. However we spent about £30 each inclusive of tips because we ordered quite a lot to drink.

You can check out some amazing pics of TIC here.

Then we moved on the a modernised traditional pub just round the corner from the Italian Caffe. Can't remember the name. But I can bring you there...

Next we headed off to a simple student-ny looking pub situated at one of the corners. Didn't really take note of the name of the place. The music was really good. Apparently over the weekend, there are live music in the basement.

The highlight of the night was foosball!

We had so much fun at foosball. There was none of those spin-like-mad-and-hope-to-score playing. All proper playing. Serious stuff maaan!

After a few more drinks here, we then headed off to another pub, which was the main reason for the gathering: to listen to a live band. Unfortunately when we arrived the band was just about to have their break.

A few of the guys decided to go elsewhere, and I went off with them. We started off at Kushion which unfortunately were closed to us because we were not students! -_-"

Honestly!

But it didn't stop there... We headed on to Sauchiehall Street to a few more places and were continuously turned away due to most of those places were having Student's Nights!

Maan, they do take their student business seriously!

In the end we ended up in The Garage. Call me gripy but it's been a long time since I paid to go into a club. Was a bit painful parting with money at the entrance.

Anyways, Garage was really big. We stayed here until about midnight. By that time, I was too tired, my feet was killing me and I had quite a bit to drink.

Somehow the clumsy me had to appear while we were leaving Garage. After going down the many flights of stairs I was fine until I trip on a small step just at the entrance of Garage. Now my left knee is aching like mad!

Went home and had another glass of red wine with Iain before calling it a night.

Guys night out are good as always.

Kevin at work always wonder how I get into work the next day after a night out like that!

Drinks log: Pint of Guiness Extra cold, glass of Pinot Grigio, glass of Red, eight G&T, one apple sourz.

comedy.crawl

Last night was a good night out.

We gathered at Oran Mor’s bar for a drink before dinner at The Brasserie.

Dinner was amazing! I had:
- Shetland Salmon and Smoked Trout Rillette with a Lemon Caper Dressing
- Fillets of Sea Bass served with Rosti Potato, Tiger Prawns and a Herb Salad with a Cointreau Dressing
- Raspberry Crème Brulee with Scottish Shortbread

The food was really yummy. So so good... Almost heavenly, and all for only £15!!!

The Stand Up! Drink Up! West End Comedy Crawl was good as well.



The comedies were held at five different venues with five different comedians.
The Viper
Coopers
The Lansdowne Bar
Uisge Beatha Bar
Bar Bola (Should’ve been decorated with lots of balls [bola = ball])

My favourite was the compere Alan Anderson.

You've got to be really open minded going for a comedy. I think some of the older folks were not too impress with the excessive swearing and cussing.

Call it Scottish culture or Weegie culture. As entertaining and bearable (to a point) it was, after awhile, it got stale. Stale because every comedian did it.

*sigh...*

Someone said that if comedies or comedian(s) resort to foul language all the way, does speak quite a bit about them.

Culture?

Some cussing is ok. Excessive?

Well, each for their own I supposed.

Nonetheless it was a really good experience.

Would like to do it again. Will bring a bigger open mind.

On another note...

Alcohol will definitely give people courage to speak or do what they want.

Honestly, what gives?!

Drinks log: One Kronenberg blanc, a glass of white wine, a cup of cappuccino, and six glasses of G&T.

guys

Last night I went out with the troops from the delivery partner (contractor).

Although different roles, we all worked in the same office. Since I don’t do much on my own, I took up the invitation of joining the guys for dinner and drinks.

Dinner was at Partick’s Roastit Bubbly Jocks. Apparently, ‘Roastit Bubbly Jocks’ means ‘roasted turkey’. Interesting...

The meal was great. We had the pre-theatre menu, two courses for less than £13! I started with the seafood chowder and for mains, I had the roast lamb. Bread was provided (which by now, I think it is a very western thing) before the meal and we had more bread to go with our soup. A large platter of veges to go with our main course was provided as well.

Roastit Bubbly Jocks, I was told, serves Scottish food. From what I had, it was fresh produce prepared and presented like fine dinning. The restaurant was very warm and cosy. Perhaps it was the candle lights flickering. Perhaps it was how close the tables are. Possibly the company was good as well.

The guys didn’t want any puddings so I gave it a miss. By that time I was quite stuffed anyways, to have pudding is almost, yes almost, being glutton.

Dinner was kinda awkward at first as out of the nine of us, I only knew two. Luckily, at the end of the night we all became friends.

Hanging out with the guys is rather interesting. Honestly, I do think that guys gossip a lot!!!

We then headed off on a pub crawl of sorts.

I prefer pub crawl compared to clubbing. At least you get to chat and get to know one another. All in all we went to three pubs: Fiddler’s Bar, The Lismore, Jinty McGuinty’s and ended up in Oran Mor’s The Venue for dancing.

By the time we were at Lismore, I was bequeath as ‘one of the guys’.

I think it was prolly a sight to see one girl with eight men, some of them is as old as my dad but don’t look as old as they said they were! Need to find out their secret to looking young.

We shared banters, or more like, I listened intently to all the gossips! Most importantly a good night was had. I was even invited to the next night out, or as the guys put it ‘team building’.

Looking forward to it already!

Drinks log: One glass of Sauvignon Blanc, eight glasses of G&T

aftermath

I.Am.Not.Bringing.TOH.To.
House.Parties.Again. (perhaps)

Last night's party at Tracy's was good as usual.

We went there about 9ish. It had a slow-ish start. Perhaps it was a matter of not sure where to start. Perhaps we were entertained by little Aidan running up and down the room. Perhaps we didn't have enough to drink (see earlier post on drinking happy).

Eventually, it seemed more fun when the girls started dancing madly - the wifies vs. the young girls dancing competition. TOH met a few familiar faces and catch up too.

Andy took some pics and gave me two A4 prints. I was impressed that the prints dried so fast. Mine takes a few days to dry out properly. Maybe I printed them on best quality. Hmmm...

We had the opportunity to try out some Ninetendo gadgets too - mainly the DS Lite and Wii. TOH and I have been thinking for a while of getting either one.

DS Lite
The DS Lite had 'Dr Kawashima's Brain Training: How Old Is Your Brain?' game in its slot. It is quite an interesting and addictive game.

Wii
After watching the children/youngsters playing the Wii, TOH and I later had a try at it. We first try out Wii Sports. Amongst the games on Wii Sports were tennis, baseball, bowling, golf and boxing. We tried all of the games except for boxing. I liked this package. The games mimic real life swinging, batting and bowling! TOH and I had great fun playing it together since there were two remote controls.

I was actually sweating from playing the games and my arm ached from swinging the bat!

We later put on Wario Ware: Smooth Moves. It wasn't as staright forward and simple as Wii Sports. I think you need to read the booklet to understand the game before you can play it with ease. So we moved back to playing Wii Sports.

Many hours later we decided to go home. TOH didn't look very well either. I'm sure he thinks I didn't notice it but I did know very well he was pissed when he started ignoring my instructions telling him what to do with the Wii remote. @_@

Instead of calling for a taxi home, we decided to walk. I didn't really mind walking since I love walking. I didn't mind paying for the ride home either. But since we decided to walk, so walk it was.

Coming out of Tracy's block the rain was pelting down on our faces. Since her block is not far from the beach, the wind was strong from the sea. I was lucky enough that my Nike long jacket kept me warm. TOH was not so fortunate and moaned all the way home about the rain and cold.

In his pissedness, TOH kept asking me if I was embarrassed by him. It wasn't so much of whether I was embarrassed by him or not but I was getting annoyed with his antics. To think about it I wasn't embarrassed in any way, honest. Just annoyed.

The state of pissedness or getting tipsy is just part and parcel of drinking.

I didn't even mind walking in the rain. I wasn't even fazed by the rain. I don't deny when we first left Tracy's the rain pelted down with the strong gales making it seemed to be hailing rather than raining, it did bothered a bit because it was painful.

But I was so annoyed. At the same time I was worried about him. I was worried that he will fall ill from the rain and possibly from the drinking. More so, I was worried if anything happens on our way home.

Tracy said to Andy last night that since they haven't started arguing that means that she wasn't pissed - enough.

It got me thinking on our way home, 'are we going to argue on the streets?' It wasn't even worth arguing in TOH's state of mind.

Still I was annoyed.

But for every annoyance he caused I think it was paid back with him falling ill from the drinking.

As cruel as it sounds, I am still concerned about him. And as sappy as it sounds, I still love him to bits. My poor baby!

And as they say, 'self inflicted pain/illness does not deserve sympathy'. Thank goodness we were mature enough on that and TOH has to admit defeat to it. I'm sure he will recover soon, just as we all do from an excellent night of drinking.

We both drank the same amount last night, he had vodka Cokes and I had G&Ts, and I even had a shot of Apple Sourz. But in all fairness I think he had about half a glass more than me.

I just hope he learnt his lesson. And as much as AD always say to me that 'eating is cheating', I stand firm on having food and drinking.

As for the the Nintendos, I'm contemplating which one to get. I'm just afraid I might go for both.

Watch this space!

schoolnightout

Met up with TS last night.

It is always good to see him.

Reminds me of all the great times we had together. Good and bad.

Reminds me of how good a friend he is to me.

Reminds me of how good our friendship is.

Was annoyed that I got caught in the traffic to meet TS. We were supposed to meet at Borders. It didn’t help that it was peak hour, plus since it was late night shopping Thursday and it is reaching up to Christmas, the traffic was heavier than usual. The bus was sitting in the traffic for quite a while.

I finally gave up waiting, got off the bus and walked to Borders.

When I arrived at Borders, it was interesting to know there were quite a number of people waiting outside in front of Borders for their friends/someone.

We had our little walkie around Glasgow. And boy, do I miss our walkies.

TS always amaze me with his vast knowledge of buildings in a city. He knows so much about the space, the architect, the history, what it looks like how many years ago, etc etc.

It was a great night of catching up.

After our wee walk, we had a nice meal at Mings in Princes Square. We thoroughly enjoyed the meal. We had the Special Combination Platter for starter, I had the Thai Seafood Combination Green Curry with boiled rice, and he had the Coconut Black Pepper Crispy King Prawn with fried rice.

We later headed back towards the Merchant City to the Beer Café as there was a jazz band performing.

It was really nice. Haven’t really been to anything like this for a long time. Or as long as I can remember.

We were both very tired but sitting there listening to the good music and just relaxing there, it was just so good.

I was sitting there reflecting on a lot of things that has happened in my life. Thinking about the past, present and future.

Being one who doesn’t drink beer very often I had a pint of Kirin beer, a glass of G&T and tried half a pint of cheery beer. The Kirin beer was very refreshing. I thought I wanted another pint when I first had a sip of it but then a pint was quite a lot when you have it with a meal. The cherry beer was something new. It has a little cherry tardiness to the taste but very unique, fragrant and refreshing. I would definitely have it again.

When the performance was over, we headed up to George Square to catch the bus home. George Square is beautifully lighted up with its flickering Christmas lights.

After packing up for the trip up the road today, I went to bed at 1am.

It was very naughty of me. Going out and coming back late on what TOH calls, a ‘school night’.

I didn’t want to get up this morning and had to take the later train to work. And since it is a Friday, I will be going off early before 4pm to catch the train up north. What a skivey day!

Looking forward to a fantastic weekend.

shattered

It is rather interesting after travelling for the past two and a half hour on the train and head straight to a pub all dressed up for a night out.

Seems as though Glasgow has no pubs?

No. In fact there were two drinky poos that I was invited for. But since it was my weekend up so I had to turn down the guys at work for a team drinky poo. Sorry guys.

Instead, I travelled north 150 miles for TOH's colleague's farewell do.

Again, it is very interesting, a sad interesting note that people always get together for drinks and fellowship when someone is leaving.

But hey, again these nights can be one of the few really cool and fantastic nights.

Being one who like to meet people (can be after some persuasion at times) I had a wonderful time meeting TOH's colleagues. They are a really nice bunch of people. And I'm happy that TOH is working (or had worked, those who had left the company but was there for the night out) with really nice people.

All the best to NG. It was a great night out!

Drinks log: A number of pints of Guiness Extra Cold, a handful glasses of G&T (didn't keep count)

I am so tired having not sleep properly this whole week. Of course I only have myself to blame. Late to bed, around 1am every night and waking up at 6am. But because I've been sleeping late and my workplace is not very strict about times, I have been waking up anytime between 7:30am to 8:20am. Very bad considering I start work at 8:30am and then trains are every half hour plus travelling and walking time is about 20 minutes to half an hour!

I'm just so shattered. I should really just head to bed early.

races

It was good to come back to a relaxing work day after three days of leave. The only work part of the day was to check emails.

We were then off on our way to Perth for the Centennial Horse Race and last race day of the season.

Not having any experience at the races, it was an eye opening experience. There were quite a big group of us from various client sites in Scotland. It was a team away day.

We first had lunch: three course affair. After not being fed properly for the last few days, this was a feast for my tummy.

During lunch, we discussed and decide what horses we are going to place our bets on. After lunch, everyone just goes off to place their bets.

There were the normal on street bookmakers and there were the bookmakers on site. It was very interesting to learn all about betting on horses. Terms like ‘one-way’, ‘both-ways’, ‘to win’, and ‘placing’ are among some of the terms used.

Then there were the odds against each horse as well to understand of. These number fractions highlight the amount of pay outs and are influenced by the amount of bets punters place.

There were seven races yesterday. Each of varying categories and includes ‘Steeplechase’, ‘Hurdles’, ‘Handicaps’ as well as novices/amateurs.

I think a lot of us were amazed how the horses seems to be slower than what you see on telly. I do admit I was expecting them to travel faster and maybe just zoom by in a flash. But horses are not light (whichever meaning you are thinking of) so they don’t zoom by.

The atmosphere at the racecourse was a relaxed one. Most of the race goers were dressed warmly and there were some who dressed… not so warmly. It was a rather cold day for September. I wished I brought my gloves with me. At least it was dry.

There were many people there and one can’t help wondering how many of these people don’t need to go to work.

All in all, it was a good day. A very good experience. I only lost £4. Maybe I will win more the next time, if there is ever one.

Pictures to follow.

Drinks log: three glasses white wine (sauvignon blanc), two G&T

socialite

Six weeks into the job and I’ve been invited to various social events.

There was the BBQ on Loch Lomond, then we had karting last week (which I will blog about it, hopefully not long from now), and last night there was a drinks event.

I guess one thing that helps is that I’m working for so many people (in a way).

Last night’s event was an interesting one. The event was to celebrate the acquisition of companies by our mother company. We had colleagues from other companies, working in various locations; and we had clients as well at the event.

It was held at the trendy November Café in Princess Square. It is indeed a really nice shopping centre. Really reminded me of Starhill (which I didn't know has now been rename as Starhill Gallery. The website has this really nice French song I heard on YouTube) in Bukit Bintang, KL. Saw some really good artworks at a stall in the centre. Might just start my collection of Glasgow art.

I must have heard wrongly the week before that we will be served dinner, since it was a restaurant. Anyways, on the way there, I said to AD ‘I hope they serve proper food. Finger food is not food. It is just snacks.’

Both of us were hungry. Me as usual, have this fuss about drinking and food.

It was pouring (in Scottish standards). I was moaning that the water was getting into my shoes. Goodness! What’s new?!

As much as I like socialising, there is something about being in a room with people you hardly know of. My Boss asked us to mingle. He did try to get the ball rolling though. Not easy as not sure what to talk about.

But after some silly conversations, moving around and chatting with people, we ended up in a group of us, who clearly actually work for the company to chat about almost everything.

It was interesting to see that there were more men than women.

It was interesting to see that there were so many men that were dressed up in their suits, clearly coming after work.

Who would imagine that I would be attending after work events such as this?

My image of work life was go to work, slave slave slave, work work work, go home and then the routine start again the next morning, everyday for five days a week.

Oh well. It may be a one off. But I know that there are quite a few events coming up. So it’s good.

Unfortunately, when food was served, it was finger food! Thank havens food was served instead of us diving into it. One thing we can’t stand was that the waiting staff kept asking us ‘would you like some this and some that?’ The obvious answer was ‘yes, we want everything and more than just one piece!!!’ but we can’t, we have to be considerate and we have to behave. ;P Food was nice but not enough.

Drinks log: Four glasses of white wine (don’t even know what type).

AD drop me at my nice guest house, waited for TOH to finish his chore, because I wanted to call him and have a chat. Didn’t realise that I fell asleep waiting for his text. The next thing I knew, there was a text on my phone and it was already one in the morning!

So I went back to sleep. Having drinking so much, so fast and hardly much food in my tummy, it was only natural to wake up rough. Luckily that was four in the morning. Had quite a few cups of water and then went back to bed. Come six in the morning, I’m happy and hunky dory!

Shouldn’t really disclose my little secret on how to have loads to drink the night before and going to work without a hangover. Now TOH knows and he will not be as impressed as before.

The finger food for dinner didn’t really help so I’m so so hungry now. Where is the Nasi Lemak? Mee goreng? Hmmm…

Next week would be an amazing week. Even though it is holiday Monday, it’s not holiday for us but I have Monday to Wednesday off as the big move is happening on Monday. Just need to start packing when I get home tonight, no, I will start packing tomorrow. Full on packing.

Fingers crossed.

Then Thursday, the client’s Commercial and Planning team are going to Perth for the Horse Races. How cool is that?! Whole day event. I’m still wondering what to wear. I just need to know what the winning horse is and bet on it. Any ideas?

Then Friday to catch up on my work and before you know it, it’s the weekend. TOH will be here and it IS going to be an amazing week!

the morning after

The office looked rather quiet this morning. It took about an hour or so before the rest of the people turned up.

It was indeed a great night.

The evening sun was beating down. People mingled. The free bar helps. It was quite a few drinks before folks get fed. By then everyone was in a really good mood.

Yes, the weather did play a big role. Those who were there looked tanned this morning.

The location was beautiful. Mesmerising. The BBQ was on the docked Maid of the Loch. Everyone was relaxed. There were 230 of us. Wow! It was a feat feeding us all. The girl who was doing the BBQ must be commended on her efforts but there should have been more people helping her and there should have been more food.

I need a good helping of food if I’m drinking!

Oh well, it was a really good night no doubt about it. There were so many names to remember. So many Johns until I was confused. Maybe I should start calling every guy John. ;P Not a good idea I think.

Drink log: four bottles of Magners, two bottles of Corona, one glass of Bucks Fizz, a wee dram of whisky on rocks

Today, another desk. After so many times sitting at desk with the mouse on my left, it was really weird having to reach out my left hand to nothing.

Desk log for this week: three
Desk log for last week: four

Can't wait to get my own desk.

Funny this morning, when I tried to zip up my bag it was easy to zip compared to last Sunday. Was rather perplexed.

I dropped my iPod in the kitchen today. Felt a tug and then in my mind was like ‘oh nooo…’. Everything seemed in slow motion. The iPod flew across from the breakfast stool. It yanked off from the headphones. Next thing I heard was this loud smack on the floor. My heart just ached, so badly. Oh my poor iPod! My aching heart… Now it has a chip. So sad. It’s not even a month old I think.

Catching up on Kenny Sia’s blog, he was reviewing the iPhone. It looks really fine. Should I get one? Hmmm…

This weekend is the opening of new Apple Store on Buchanan Street and I’m away! Free shirts giveaway to first 1,500. I think I will try to get my Tuesdays occupied with free live concerts at the store.

p.s.: Posting #100. Yaay!!!

maaan can we talk!

It was a gweed movie

There were a few profound lines

A.R.K.

One Act of Random Kindness at a time

We hid so much tae drink

I love ma gift

A ye were chuffed with yirs

We talked the night awaa

Had cheps a cheese tucked awaa

We love tae argy-bargy

We drank so much tea

I remembered melk this time

And then mair yapping

'Are ye asleep?'

Mair chatting

Ye left me with a silly grin es mornin

Foo much mair can we talk

Faa kens

Only God ken

Drink log: six Gin & Tonic, two pints of Guiness Extra Cold

moving on

There comes a point in life you just bite the bullet and take on whatever that comes to you. You know that it is about time. You trust that it better be good. And you just earnestly hope that it will be.

Last night was TS's leaving do.

While sitting at Wild Boar with TS, his beautiful other half, and our friends, I can't help reminising the times we all spent together. Since most of us worked together or used to worked together, it was nice to think about the banters and gossips we shared, the annoying customers we had, the times we had been spending together, and so on so forth.

But it does come to a point that we all have to move on. Me going to a new city, a new job, a new exciting phase of my life. TS moving home, to a better life, to be closer to his dreams. Mrs. T-to-be is engaged. And the others in their own time, going on to better things in their life, more exciting experience that each of them will savour.

I grinned at myself, for not wanting to move away from my comfort zone. All the cool people have move on. Some of them also move away from the city. It is just inevitable. Sometimes it is just better to leave the familiarity to something more exciting and pleasing.

I know I will miss the city that I have called home. And I will miss my friends, close friends and those whom I call family.

But it is a step that I must take. It is a step that eventually all of us will take.

Drink log: six Gin & Tonic (one was spilled by the clumsy cow!)

guitar day

Am so shattered!


Last night's David Buckingham's guitar performance was really good, in fact it was excellent! The opening performer, talented Ian Watt who is from The Broch (Fraserburgh) entertained the crowd sitting in the candle lit club.

Both performers had the crowd thirsting for more of their music.

At the last minute I managed to get KW to come along with me. We had so much fun at the concert and a good chat the whole night.

I only went to bed around 3am!

Drink log: 3 bottles of Magners, 3 Gin & Tonic


This morning's guitar workship with David Buckingham was ace!

No one turned up for the workshop except for me. So I had a private lesson from a professional. How priviliged is that!

David was very patient. I haven't played classical guitar for years and after two hours of lesson I left with a strained wrist, stretched and numb fingers. David was very encouraging and I learnt to play the Soleá. Now all I need is lots and lots of practice! It is a really good piece.

Anyways, if you are interested to listen to David's music, click on his name to his website.

It has been a glorious summer day. Came home from the workshop, quick vegetation at the computer and then out for some sun before meeting up for lunch (or in my case brunch) with AZ. Which in the end turned out to brunchner or breakfastlunchdinner. Man I'm so stuffed.

Being stuffed and shattered, the only way to end the day is to vegetate in front of the idiot box watching Heroes. Bliss!

sundays are made like this

I survived the farewell.

It's not as dramatic as I hope it would have been. Probably my fault for not making a big announcement. But hey, small fry, small goodbye?

That's just life.

After all I'm a drama princess and I crave for attention(?!).

I had a great night out. Great location: Prince of Wales. Great people: Surrounded by my best friend and closest friends. Man! I'm gonna miss those people. But as good friends go, I do hope that we keep in touch. It's not really easy but an effort definitely well worth it.

Somehow, again, it's funny that you become close to people when you are leaving. Sigh...

Why?

Anyways, waking up today I realised and was kicking meself to no end, that I didn't took any pics last night. Urrrggghh.. SO TYPICAL!!!

*kick kick kick...*
*kick kick kick...*

Sigh...

There is this weird feeling. What is going to happen now? What am I going to do from now? The feeling of lost and fear somehow was slowly sinking in.

But...

In the mean time, let me enjoy this Sunday.

After falling in and out of sleep, chasing various dreams, I finally opened my eyes, snuggling in bed, texting. Yup, what a way to spend Sunday mornings.

Took me a while to decide what to do. But I'm glad, I finally(!) got my hair coloured, had a bit of facial, cooked my version of stovies, cleaned the flat a bit and then vegetate in front of the computer.

Sundays should definitely be made like this. Bliss!

Of course, how can I deny myself some fine retail therapy? Damn internet shopping! Must. Control. I'm so needing to control myself.

Still kicking...

american chris

Time flies when you are having fun. This is the summer of departures.

We all knew AC was leaving soon. But you never imagine how soon someone is going away until the air tickets are bought and leaving do is confirmed. So after work on Friday I went to meet up with AC and his friends.

We started off at Braided Figs on Summer Street, then moved on to dinner at Filling Station. After that, more drinks in Under the Hammer, Monkey House and then to Priory and Espionage for dancing.

It was a night of many firsts: my first trip to Braided Figs and Under the Hammer. Haven't been to Priory and Espionage for eons.

AC's ex-colleagues were a really nice bunch of people. I told him I hope my future work colleagues will be as cool and friendly as them. It was nice to go out and just enjoy oneself. I had too many drinks that night, ten to be exact: six bottles of Magners and four G&T.

By the end of the night, there were five of us left. I danced so much, had so much drinks spilt on me (grumble grumble). While dancing with AC, he fell and brought me down with him. It wasn't until morning that I realised how dirty I looked! Such a minker!

After the clubs close and everyone left, I went back to AC's to help him pack the rest of his stuff. We planned to go watch sunrise down at the beach and have greasy breakfast, I mean proper Scottish breakfast. However, that didn't materialised after I said I need a lie down.

The next thing we knew, it was time to go to the train station. Sadly, AC unceremoniously or ceremoniously, depending how you see it, missed his train. So I waited with him for the next train. It was a sad goodbye but I was quite numbed by the experience. Probably I was too tired.

Looking back at AC's time in Aberdeen, I have learnt quite a lot from him, enjoyed good conversations with him and enjoyed his company. He is one guy that I know talks a lot! I'm not complaining because I know I am going to miss that, a lot!

Other than TS, AC is the other person responsible for my increased drinking and tummy from the alcohol. Well, besides the fact that I should drink less, I am so going to miss all those good times.

I'm looking forward to my trip to Boston to see AC when the time comes. Oh yes, I will remember to bring your beloved books with me.

In the meantime, this song is for you, AC!

But then last night was so much fun
The streets are dirty too but
You never look back over what you've done
Remember when you were young
You'd lose yourself
In the morning, you know you won't remember a thing
In the morning, you know it's gonna be alright

Thanks for a great night, I had a wonderful time. Thank you for your friendship and many words of wisdom you had left me with, I will miss you so much! All the best in your final year and I look forward to seeing you soon! xoxox

p.s.: I am so gutted that I lost my favourite bangle. It was irreplacable... *sob sob*

birthdays

Had a somewhat hectic day. Somewhat.

After work I was going to Jen's birthday meal and then to Tracy's for her birthday celebration as well.

Honestly, I like the busyness of this. The flaffing and fretting going about it. On top of that the part that I didn't like was a minor crisis.

Crisis. Huh?!

Anyways, the meal at Jewel in the Crown was good (check out the website!). My first time there and the food was really nice. I had the prawn briyani, which was just nice for me. It was a big portion but I managed to finish. More importantly it was not very spicy. Just nice.

There were twenty of us and I know probably a handful. Made new friends as well. Most of those who were there were church members from Jen and James's church. It was good to hang out with young people. Bring back some memories. ;) Great fellowship.

After the meal I went off to Tracy's. Tracy has a very nice duplex (if that is how you call it). Double storey flat in a masonette. Each flat in the block are double storey. Anyways we catch up, played drinking games, chatted and just enjoy each other's company.

It was one of the nights that I stayed out real late. Probably the first time I stayed out so late. I only got home to bed around 5:30am! Its great that I didn't really have much to do this morning, so I can just lie in without the alarm. But then of course, I managed to wake up early. Somehow. Even I wanted to lie in. Oh well...

To Jen and Tracy, thanks for having me as part of your birthday celebrations. Best wishes for the year and love always. xx

Drink log: one vodka orange, one apple sourz, numerous gin and tonic (couldn't be bothered with counting... possibly between 5-7 or more... hmm...)

Now what shall I do for my birthday in 20 days time? Hmmm....

(un)healthy meals

After having one of the best burgers on Tuesday, plus with the surplus of some food from the barbie, I planned to have some more burgers on Wednesday.

So I asked The Shrink what is he doing after work on Wednesday. He said...
'Going to the pub with YOU. Having a few drinks. Have dinner with YOU. More drinks with YOU and going home late.'

Gosh! I somehow gave him the impression that I'm that kind of person. In such a sorry state that all we ever do is go to the pub.

Weelll.... sadly the reality is that I'm in such a sorry state. And needed my therapy sessions. I don't think any other psychiatrist out there is as awsome as the one I have! hahahaa.. I'm so blessed!

Anyways, I was in a sort of mood to drown my sorrows... Hmm.. but after all the recent binge drinking and me being me, its not necessary the want will often become the action.

Back to the burgers story, so I said we'll have burgers tonight instead. While waiting for The Shrink to finish work, I managed to get hold of those yummy M&S burgers. So those non M&S standard burgers were chucked into the freezer.

We had a good dinner: burgers with potato salad and santini tomatoes, whole punnet of strawberries and finished half the bottle of gin that I had. Note to self: gin shopping. I had been encouraged lately to have more healthy meals and this was one that was really healthy, minus the gin.

Sadly, at the same time I purchased the M&S burgers I also picked up some other M&S BBQ food. So last night, I had beef kebabs with potato salad and santini tomatoes. And earlier in the day I cooked lamb shish skewers for lunch.

Cooking the food on the grill pan does give you some form of satisfaction because you see the fats coming out of the meat. However, having a kitchen without windows and an extractor fan that is not the strongest, leaves you with a flat full of food smell.

Which can be quite sickening.

Which makes you do all sorts to try to get rid of the food smell.

Which can be quite futile at times.

Which probably leaves you with more smells, a concoction of smells in the flat.

%@$*&

Not only that, having the fats splatter everywhere means more cleaning for me. I finally had my kitchen cleaned today from the fats but realised that I may just be cooking more burgers tonight. hmmm... Must cook (eat) healthy food.

At least I have the consolation that I will be having lovely king strawberries after meal tonight. Yummy!!!


Updated: Luckily I had salads for dinner and strawberries. I can sleep peacefully tonight knowing consciously I have eaten healthily. hehehe...

best ever pub crawl!!!

Take two person.
Need good legs and stomach.
Spontaneity helps a lot!
Aim to go and enjoy.
Have fun.
You'll get a great pub crawl.

What started as a drink after work then lead to a stop for food.

Which later lead to 'Why not lets do a pub crawl? I've never really done a proper one before.'

'Yeah, why not?'

The plan: go down one way of Union Street and come back up the other way.

So we started out from:
1. The College. 1 pint of San Miguel.
2. Justice Mill. 1 bottle of Magners. Nachos and chips to share.
3. The Howff. 1 bottle of Magners.
4. Soul Bar. 1 double Gin and Tonic.
5. Archibalds Simpson. 1 double Gin and Tonic. (Girl who made the G&T claimed that she makes the best one around.)
6. Illicit Still. 1 double Gin and Tonic.

Sadly it was too late, so we didn't get to go to RGU:Union (cheap drinks!) and Prince of Wales.

We had so much fun. It was the best time I ever had for in a while now.

We drank. We ate.
We laugh. I teared.
He listened. I talked.
He talked. I try not to interrupt.
Above all the noise we were shouting at each other!

On top of it all I was carrying fish and chips since lunch in my handbag! Mental!!!

He walked me home. How sweet!!! Awww...

Only to realised that why didn't we pick up food along the way?

Rummaged through the cupboards and heat up some soup and frozen pitta bread.

We chatted more. I poured more. He critised more. I mean, he gave his opinions.

Until we can't chat no more. And fell asleep, snoring like nobody's business because of the booze.

We are so lucky that after the concoction of drinks. We didn't have any hangover.

The process of walking home when day break has to be done.

And me? I just crawl into bed. For another 4 hours of slumber with Horace.

Thank you so much, my BFF!!! xx

wrap up (prologue)

Yesterday we had our last Rotaract meeting proper for the year.

It was good as we summed up our weekend activities.

At the Pub Quiz we raised £120 which was a good achievement.

A group of us went to Edinburgh as a club for the Rotaract Club of Edinburgh's Charter Night.

Felix did a presentation on the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship.

We will be having a social BBQ to mark the end of year, celebrating our year's achievement, dismissing the current board and welcoming our new board. Should be a good event. It's in two weeks time! Yaaay!!!

After the meeting, we went together as a group for dinner at Slain's Castle and then to James's to watch DVD.

Good choice of movie though. For his birthday James received the Déjà Vu DVD as his present. I didn't know what we were watching so it was good to watch a movie without much expectation.

Déjà Vu is a really good movie and I'm so glad that we watch it in a group. Yeah, those who know me knows that I don't really a. go watch movie in a group and b. discuss a movie in mid-screening. Nontheless it was really good. Am so pleased. And as usual Danzel Washington was excellent as the lead actor. Val Kilmer had so much weight on him.

Go watch the movie if you have not! HURRY!!!

Drinks log: I've been good, so its just one pint of Guiness Extra Cold

edinburgher

Pronounced as eh-din-bur-ger, is someone from Edinburgh. I've always wanted to know that and I finally found out. So chuffed!

Aberdeen = Aberdonian
Glasgow = Glaswegien
Inverness = Invernesian
Orkney = Orcadian

Last weekend was a really nice and busy one.

Friday. Rotaract Club of Aberdeen's 2nd Charity Pub Quiz. We were raising funds for James's Rwanda missions development trip and Emma's Spring Valley school in Kenya. Where both of them are going out to this summer respectively.

And as usual something has to go 'wrong'. Sort of...

The day before...
ennazus: Don't forget to prepare the answer sheets for the pub quiz ok?
James: Yup I remember that.

On the night...
ennazus: Where's the answer sheets?
James: Oh ****! I thought so I forgotten something!
ennazus: ...

But then a really nice guy, Iain came to our rescue! We are so ever thankful!!!

One thing I was pleased with, was my team wasn't last place. Well, we were scraping last almost two-thirds of the way but redeemed ourselves and got... second last place.. hahahahaha... at least we were not last! Too bad SH was not feeling well, otherwise I would think we will be at a higher position. -_-

I won two raffle prizes which I was the raffles draw-er. So what else would there be said? 'FIXED!'

Hey I can't help it if I was lucky eh?

After the quiz, some of us stayed back for a few drinks. Not long after that...
ennazus: Is that the fire alarm?
Barry: Hmm... sounds like it.

And yes indeed it was the fire alarm. So...

Grab belongings. Check.

Grab drinks. Check.

ennazus: I wasn't sure if that was the fire alarm.
Barry: Yeah, I thought it was part of the music.
ennazus: Yeah, me too.

hahaha... of course it was illegal to drink on the roadside. So the Union guys were there collecting everyone's glasses. Luckily we didn't have much left though...

I had two members of the Edinburgh club staying over at my flat. They were really nice, Julia and Barry. There was supposed to be four of them but Claire couldn't make it last minute and someone missed the train. And as always it is good to have people staying over. We stayed up chatting until 3am and then went to bed as most of us were tired.

Drink log: two pints of Strongbow and two pints of Guiness Extra Cold

Saturday. Woke up and chatted with Julia in bed. How cool is that? The three of us then chatted more whilst getting ready. It was funny watching Barry contemplating to shower/shave his head/shave his face. Again, great company for the morning.

We then went to the train station as both of them have to catch the train back to Edinburgh to prepare for their club's charter night. I then went shopping for a pair of shoes for the function as the two pairs of shoes I bought online still have not arrived!

Just my luck when I reached home there was a calling card telling me that the people did try to deliver my parcel but no one was home. Great! Just great! But then no regrets about the shoe. Will tell more about it later.

So hang around my computer, chatted with American Chris about the night before and what time the gang was meeting up with James. Packed, got ready and go to our rendezvous for our journey to Edinburgh.

We then finally left Aberdeen almost 6pm for our drive down to Edinburgh. Five of us (James, Chris, Jennifer, Felix and I) in James's little blue Peugeot which by the way I have a great respect for. We arrived at the venue in Edinburgh at 8pm. The function was supposed to be 7:30pm for 8pm.

As we get on the motorway...
James: Do you know where the place is?
ennazus: I asked you the other day if you needed the directions and you said you were going to sort it out. So I didn't find it.
James: I had too much to do and I forgotten.

Once again, the mobile internet came to our rescue! Quick text to Barry for the address and upon 'Googling' it, there was the option of downloading Google Mobile Map for Nokia N70. Ooooh... The program is just so ace! We used it to find our way to Merchants of Edinburgh Golf Club and then later to Claire's beautiful huge flat where many of us crashed at.

On the way to the venue...
James: Where now?
ennazus: Take the third exit at the roundabout.
James: The what?!
ennzaus: Third exit.
James: The THIRD exit?! It sounds like something else.
ennazus: Turd?
James: You are not allowed to say third anymore. Say 'exit three'.
ennazus: ...

As it was a black tie event, guys were preferbly dressed in kilts and Chris refused to sit in the car for two hours in his smart clothes. So he has to change on the street just in front of someone's house! Well, I don't care if you are reading this Chris... But what an exhibitionist! hahahaha... No worries, there was nothing indecent about it.

Barry called my phone and check where we were and I said 'we were just outside'. Nonetheless we were the last to arrive but not least. Many episodes unfolds. As serious as I am a person, I am so glad we are a fun bunch. The Aberdeen club brought some secret humour (where only the four of us shares - sorry Felix) to the event.

So after some speeches, fancy dinner and event proper, the best part starts: the céilidh! It is one of my favourite Scottish 'invention' ever! Too bad it was quite short. -_¬

On the way I had a brief discussion with Jen on certain steps for a certain dance and I was so pleased that I got it right when the time comes. Anyways, I am so proud of my pretty and comfortable shoes. Even though I only did two dances *sad*sad* I was wearing my shoes the whole time and it didn't 'bite' me!

Even after the wandering about almost half of Edinburgh after the event looking for a club that was decent, my feet didn't blister. How great is that?! And still my shoes looked good, besides a few diamante missing. Of course, sadly I think I will be remembered as the one kept moaning about going to the toilet... And dropping the pizza on the sidewalk after Chris and I took a slice each from the eight slices. Whoops!

We also saw some firemen in action after someone decided to put a ciggie in a bin... Jen said the bin was melted.

Then it was back to the flat. We were so tired. As everyone fell asleep Chris and I were whispering there about... (I'm so going to be strangled!!!) I counted there were eight of us in the bedroom! And easily there were twenty of us in the flat. What would health and safety compliance say about this? Hey! but it was really fun.

Morning was a ruckus. Everyone going for the toilet. We later received great hospitality from Claire's parent's at their house and a good breakfast.

After breakfast we left Felix in Edinburgh and headed up the road. We stopped by at James's parent's home in Kinross, where we met his parents and sister. They were such nice people! Of course their home and garden was lovely as well.

Not long it was home time. Reached home, had a nap before going to James's and Jen's church just at the back of my flat for their first youth service.

All in all it was great weekend!

Saturday and Sunday's drink log: one dodgy glass of red sparkling wine (eewww - don't ever try that), glass of white wine, three bottles of Magners, too many cups of tea and a few cups of coffee.

After so many cups of tea and coffee, I can't stop having the feeling that I need to constantly brush my teeth.

all in a week

Recent events had made me lazy to blog.

Maybe it was because I was just too tired.

Maybe it was because I couldn't be bothered.

Maybe it was because I had too much on my mind.

All the more reasons for me to blog!

So what did I do for my week? hmm...

Sunday

Went to church. Did a little shopping. Prepared for sushi dinner. Had a great time with Chic Chick, her other half and The Shrink. We were stuffed and the gang had a good time. Served them grass jelly for dessert (more jelly!). Luckily they liked it. Can't believed we went through 3 bottles of bucks fizz in a really short time. Sadly I didn't have more (bottles). And we also went through a bottle of Cava.

Too bad didn't take any pics. Should be more spontanous in taking pics. The spread was just ace!

Since I don't have a proper dinning table, we had our meals on the picnic blanket in the middle of the living room.

Monday

Beautiful day. Work early morning 8am. Only went to bed at 2am the night before. Was a little zombied. Finish work at 2pm. Came home from work and curled in bed reading my new book 'God on Mute' until I cannot read no more and then sleep. What a sad way to spend a lovely day in bed. But what to do, I was so knackered.

So I sleep and sleep and sleep - okie, I actually sleep and wake up, look at the time, go back to sleep and wake up, look at the time, repeating the cycle until it was morning the next day!

Waaahahahaahahaha... tell me how many of you ever did that! Okie I know it was just pure indulgence.

Tuesday

Hang out at home. Online, what else?! Chatting and catch up on stuff. Went to see the doctor. Went shopping. Then to Rotaract meeting.

What else to expect, the usual fellowship and catching up after meetings, which includes drinks. Four vodka coke and one pint Kronenberg blanc. Went home late.

Wednesday

Work. How colourful!

Thursday

Work. Early morning again. 8am to 5pm. Hang out with The Shrink. Had a bottle of Magners. My first Baskin Robbins in UK. Good walk around the West End. Me breaking the silence of the quiet evening.

Online. By 11pm I had to turn in to bed. I just couldn't go on anymore.

Friday

Bought my big gurl investment. I need to wait for 13 weeks. Why is life all about waiting???!!! Work. Home. Online.


Going to bed now... had enough!