Life is a Choice

龍年 2012

2012-01-29T23:14:00.000+08:00

新年寒流襲港，被困於家中，瑟縮於被窩中看戲渡日，《Downton Abbey》、《金雞》及《失戀33天》以《唐頓莊園》最好看，其英文對白的精練傳神，堪映出我對語言運用的膚淺，更不用說其中口音的堅持，實是英國廿世紀初階級社會的一面反映──高雅、講究和尊貴。若然再配合BBC Comic Relief Night的《Uptown Downstairs Abbey》，對原劇的揶揄嘲諷，把人從華麗的虛幻拉回現實的商業計算。身於香港看到英國本土劇集受歡迎，終能從排山倒海的美劇中透一口氣。

初五到Salon One找Roy剪頭髮，拖拉到新年期間剪的好處是，我們有足夠的時光聊天。每次的相聚都很愉快，其說話的一步到位，深入淺出的傳譯，一詞「要面」要比《講東講西》說的「驕虛自大」，直接傳神多了。

初六走了去行雞公嶺，不明顯路徑就是山上遊人很少，我們只遇上四人，真的可以遠離繁嚣，好好享受大自然的時間。站在最高處，除了有大刀屻當前，大帽山在後的氣派，四處平原的開揚外，也感嘆香港空氣污濁(當然也有霧在甚中)，使大陽高照的一天還是迷濛一片。能於山野中遊走的自由，得來不易，謝謝楊明老師！Thanks, Philip.

快樂的生活，當然建基於穩定的工作、舒適的住所和温暖的家，基本滿足後，需要的，可能是暢所欲言的朋友、能出一身汗的體動和陶冶性情的嗜好，心靈也充實了，視野也豁然開闊起來。

這個「龍頭」起得真好！

林若寧──「十字街口你我踏出的每步」

2011-12-29T21:30:00.000+08:00

看了《天與地》，沒有很深，那份說話背後的思考，辦公室的政治和晚上的多愁善感，你可以擁有一個伴侶、可以擁有一個家庭，又或擁有親密的好友，但心底裡最盼望的，卻是那個不能得到的。

追求曖昧後，還是現實的問題，The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1的Bella，與Edward「最終」都歡愉有孕，忽然間，甜蜜的空氣變成灰灰白白，身體的承受力、胎兒應否來臨等，關係由單純的你我我你，變成很多的計算。

享受著眾人的愛的阿Yan，應付游刃有餘，但她就是不開心，已死的家明是死結的；黑仔的魅力沒法擋，能幹的Choris及天真爛漫的Emma情不自禁，但他由此至終只愛阿Yan。

特別喜歡這兩個角色，他們拿得起，放得下。說愛的可以結婚，也可以偷食；說憎惡，可以一刀捅下去；說細水長流，接近Hazel的前夫亦無不可；說個人堅持，電台節目就是只播腳步聲也可以。能忠於自己情感，義無反顧，很難。

二零一一年的十二月，對於我有很多意義，兩個中學時期，對我很重要的朋友結婚了。看著穿起新郎服的他們，回想從前的種種，想不到呢！聯絡沒有很多，但拜Facebook，近年還是有伴著成長。那些年沒有想到的，原來是可以發生的。他們的選擇，我寄語深深的祝福。

嘆息的是，不知從何時開始，我們已經無話可說。

給自己一星期的假

2011-12-25T23:20:00.000+08:00

我的手錶報的不止是時間，常扣的孔悄悄進了點。

離開香港的崗位有三年了：都柏林的開放式咖啡店，冬天很冷很冷；黑琴的學校，八點半回校三點半放學；北島桔場打工，夜夜吹水遲睡早起。

香港教師是訓輔合一，對學生恩威並施，傳統的尊師重道加上現代的亦師亦友，老師在學生的心中，可以是很親近的，縱使表達不一，但我還是能感覺到的。我的學生很疼我，說 “I love you” 的每天也有男有女，非華語的情感很外露的。互動下我對他們甚有期望，卻基於各自的故事，總有揠苗助長之誤，也教我壓力倍增。現有的教育制度，除了填鴨式，也少有教授情愛，青少年在這縱慾的社會，能集中學業已很不錯，更枉論畸愛溺情，究竟，如我堅持只教好數學，任社工或輔導組跟進，我算是教好他們嗎？

教師在學務及籌備學校活動下，備課及改簿的時間枉枉被犠牲，牙膏確實只管要擠，虛弱的身體戴個口罩就好，我們每天的筋疲力盡是做給誰看？越忙越勤力，思考的空間變成奢侈品，其實我們一點也不開心，買很多東西討自己歡喜，時刻把玩著各種gadget，心靈有踏實點嗎？什麼都不用做、不用理的日子，是多久前了？

給自己一星期的假。

Stressful teaching life

2011-11-13T10:47:00.000+08:00

My teaching life starts again in a remote town in Hong Kong. The school is surrounded by hills and is located right next to a pond. It is a beautiful place to live and work.

Living on my own should be pleasant with freedom and privacy. However, most people in Hong Kong are workaholic and some of my colleagues would stay until eleven at night. It is stressful at work and more than that, there are on average two staff meetings after school per week! My brain cannot stop functioning even when I am sleeping. No wonder I am exhausted and emotional during the day.

On weekends, I am back to my parents’ home and just relax. Socializing with my friends and hiking are my greatest joy of the week. We have a good laugh about silly jokes and show concerns if needed. In Hong Kong, the weather is now cooler for hikers and I feel refreshed after exercises. The best thing is to look at the pictures afterwards on Facebook and be surprised how difference a good camera can make.

I have made several mistakes this week which upset me too much. I always take them too personal and should have moved on. Next week will be a better week.

大澳行山

2011-11-13T10:45:00.000+08:00

第一次面試，大澳予人的感覺是很遠。這天然的「優勢」，使她沒有過度發展，還是遍地棚屋、樓上住宅地鋪家族經營的旅遊區，很有人的氣息。八月中，我已然找到租處，實在喜歡踏單車上班，不禁想起愛爾蘭人在單車上的專業整裝的堅持、於英國時與接送學生的私家車「鬥快」的情形，大澳的單車可都走得悠閒。

「生活是自己選擇的」，幸好還有大澳這個地方，一千六月租百五呎的單位，就可擁有自己的空閒，在紐茜蘭十人房裡除了床能佔的是床下底，也過得不差，享受還是用錢買的。大澳風景優美，紅樹林、魚兒、雀鳥、蜜蜂隨便可見，特別是三面環山，藍天白雲故然美不勝收，日落映照大澳的海面上，真是「無限好」。

昨日，登上大澳449米的象山，連地圖都沒有顯示的山徑，今天我卻走了一遍，很感謝這幾年來多個不同單位給我的山藝上的提升，這個cross-country實在暢快，教我在個半月沉了半個肩的壓力消去了一大半。

比較

2011-08-18T11:36:00.000+08:00

「隔離飯香」，不多不少總存在我們心裡。

年輕親友在快餐店工作，自不然為他們擔心，奉上各種意見。職業真的是無分貴賤嗎？能在社會找到自己的崗位，養活自己，繼而追求精神上的生活，關心社會，不就好的嗎？

父母們總盼兒女有份專業，買上一個單位，結婚，建立家庭，有工人。這樣的畫面，代表的就是幸福。生了兒子，沒有女兒，還是不完整。當親友都能滿足這定義後，又再比賽誰的上班時間更有彈性，誰的第二份工發展如何，兒女的興趣班芸芸種種。

歐洲的人文精神令人神往、美國的自由多元氣息最重、中國的進步一日千里、日本的嚴謹紀律見於品牌、南韓的軟硬實力冒起……外國的月亮真圓。

還有，我更忙，我更叻，我更有道理，我更有錢，我更大聲，我更……

快樂建立在成為第一，實在必須警惕──接受自己，欣賞別人。

我的香港暑假

2011-08-15T17:46:00.000+08:00

踏出升降機大門，保安看著一身悠閒服的我，寒喧著「去街呀？」、「唔洗番工咩？」、「做老師真好」，回家於大堂亦不忙提醒我「你爸媽番左黎啦！」、「爸媽買了餸煮飯」、「你真係好幸福！」。

我放了暑假有五個星期。

沒參加「鬧忙」運動的我，與同村師奶們常有短暫對話，內容同上。近年全港人口老化，家住的地區亦喜見轉變，早上很多爸媽輩在海上游泳，小小的身軀與停泊在船廠的大船形成有趣的對比；下午陰涼處最受伯伯嬸嬸的歡迎，捉棋小賭談天各取所需；黃昏就終見年青人在跑步，大家都更注意個人健康，再忙也要運動。

每天九小時的睡眠，足夠不打瞌睡或眼乾。平日寧靜的家裡，認真處理長久擱下的事情，計劃一週的行程，清潔執拾家居，再不然，看齣電影，閱報，讀書。

滿足感來於對自己的管理，感覺真好。

七一遊行與《人民力量》

2011-07-02T13:51:00.002+08:00

二零一一年七月一日，我聽著網台、看著twitter，再搜尋著新聞，看著無線台及互動新聞台，再加now新聞台，看著facebook參與者的現場更新，實在驚訝中國近年滲透的程度。

2007起，每次回港的日子都感到香港的變化。香港人的執行力很強，但很羊群，明白「槍打出頭鳥」，很大部份選擇認命、妥協。反對或不同的聲音，他們聽到，有些可能理解，但更多選擇怕麻煩、怕用腦，反正事不關己，安安靜靜過日子就好了。

你必定比我清楚，我們的政府已經變質，看不到香港問題，只看到上意；我們的傳媒已然看著最大的市場──中國，自我審查及適時製造輿論；我們的警方對待遊行、反對聲音的態度，想想今年六四、七一的人流安排，對比零三的流暢，又如用重案組對付塗鴉，警權過大……

香港的主流，是知道香港已然沒有希望，有能力有機會移民去也。

昨晚八點半，我離開家門，往灣仔修頓加入人民力量。我不喜歡，坐以待斃。

第三次遊行：爭普選　「我們有向前邁進了嗎?」
第四次遊行：教協　「香港人喜歡講道理, 亦相信處事者如是。只是, 層次還不高, 流於鬥咀, 於事無補。」

Post Production Office Limited

2011-06-18T08:26:00.002+08:00

Post Production Office Limited

謝霆鋒近月的新聞不斷，這位我表弟崇拜的藝人。他於2003年所開的此公司，提供高質素數碼後期製作服務，很佩服他當年的遠見及果斷。

國家法定節假日制度調整方案

2011-06-17T23:03:00.002+08:00

「清明、端午、中秋增設為國家法定節假日，各放假1天」

閱讀《南方都市報》，才赫然發現原來中國自1912年《臨時大總統歷書令》後，中國人已經沒有這三日假。突然，明白多了為什麼人們會說香港還保留著傳統中國文化，因着歷史因由，因着我們的堅持，我有幸還能經歷煲蠟的晚上、保在電視機前看賽龍舟......終於在2008年，多了十三億的人民與我們一起放假，更多時間空間參與中國的傳統節日。

延伸閱讀：http://shs.ndrc.gov.cn/surveys/foreword.jsp

Reviews on political talents training courses held by Sun Yat-Sen University

2011-06-09T18:01:00.001+08:00

The five-session courses were about the crisis management and media strategy, public speaking skills and election debate, social mobilization, Hong Kong’s district council election analysis and China’s political system. They were specially designed for young Hong Kong adults who may actively contribute to our society.

As I had been away for three years, it was an excellent opportunity to have a well-organized summaries and first-hand information, together with structural framework of essential skills concerning the politics. The four-day courses were intensive enough to help us focus on studies. We had direct transport between hotels, restaurants and the school which saved time for us to reflect and consolidate what we had learnt. Our different backgrounds brought the discussion with different points of view and sometimes, it could be challenging to convince others. We had a great time in our group.

It was my pleasure to know Mr. Jerry Gao, who was our guide and organize our accommodation and food. On the coach, he never missed one chance to introduce the history of Guangzhou, the recent development and discuss the social issues with detailed figures and background. Our friendship started from Southern Metropolis Daily, which were frequently read through Wisenews. When I asked help from Jerry, he suggested me to read the weekend version which targets the middle-class readers. On the following days, he always gave his newspapers to me once he finished reading. Somehow I didn’t have much time to go through them but I sincerely appreciate his kindness and his consideration for others. We came across different topics which did not only happen in Hong Kong or in China but also in UK! He had studied in Manchester, UK for a year and I had worked there for a year too. It was great fun to talk with him in English.

I was surprised by the large number of undergraduates from different universities. Most of them study the subject which is more or less related to politics. On the other hand, there are not many working adults who age around thirty. I must admit that I need more sleep than them and had to escape to my room on the last night.

After the lesson of crisis management, Calvin and I were very serious to check the fire exit route and the safety measures while other group mates were indifferent to our precautions. On the night we had the group sharing, I raised my concern about their reaction. We were supposed to be more cautious towards any potential problem which could turn into a crisis but that was not the case. They didn’t take it serious and they were convinced that the probability of being trapped by fire was nearly zero. If it did happen, they knew they could rely on us rather than themselves! Haven’t they listened to Professor Liu that there was 70% of chance to avoid the crisis with advanced measures? We may learn a lot by the end of the day but we never apply it to our daily lives and stay at the theoretical level.

We should think more about our next step.

Gear List for Working Holiday Visa Holders

2011-04-26T19:01:00.002+08:00

General
========
A Pair Of Chopsticks
A Pair Of Ear Plugs
Address Book
Aid Bag(Disinfected, Cold, Heat)
Bank Account Login Details
Bank Code Card
Discount Cards
Driving License
Fancy Scandals
Foldable Umbrella
Goggle
Half A Dozen Of Passport Photos
Identity Cards
Keys
Laundry Bags
Laundry Powder
Library Cards
Lonely Planet
Membership Cards
Memo Pada
Money
Pairs Of Contact Lens
Passport
Plaster
Plastic Microwavable Seal Food Container
Reusable Shopping Bag
Rubber Bands
Safety Pins
Sanitary Tampons/Pads
Slippers
Small Handbag
Spoons
Sports Shoes
Stomache Pills
Suncream(Spf 30+)
Sunglasses(Dark And With Prescription)
Sunny Hut
Swimming Hat
Swimming Suit
Swiss Army Knife
Travel Iternary
Travel Plug Adaptor
Wallet
Watch
Wind Up Torch

Clothes
Bra X 6
Cardigan
Disposable Razor
Dress
Fashion Straps X 2
Jeans
Leggings (Medium Or Long)
Nightwear Summer
Nightwear Winter
Scarf
Shorts X 3
Short-Sleeved T Shirts X 4
Socks (Short) X 2
Vest X 2

Bath
=====
Bath Towel
Body Lotion(Thick And Thin)
Conditioner
Facial Foam
Facial Scrub
Foot Scrub
Shampoo
Shower Cap
Soap
Straps/Jersey Tops X 5
Tooth Brush
Toothpaste

Beauty
=======
Bracelet
Comb
Dental Floss
Eye Lotion
Facial Cotton
Flannel
Glass Cloth
Hair Band
Hair Clip(Front And Back)
Handcream(Thick And Thin)
Hi-Shine Lip Treatment On Lips
Lip Balm
Nail Clip
Needles And Thread
Oil Paper
Toning Water

Electronic Devices
==================
Camera
Camera Charger
Gps
Hair Dryer
Headphones
Hsbc Security Device
Ipod Touch
Ipod Touch Charger
Mic
Multi Adapter
Phone Charger
Usb Memory Stick

Stationery
==========
Ball Pen
Blank Paper
Blue Tag
Colour Pencils
Correctional Fluid Pen
Envelopes
Glue Pen
Highlight Pens
Markers
Mechanical Pencil
Paper Clips
Pencil
Pencil Lead
Pencil Sharpener
Pens(Black And Blue)
Rubber
Ruler

Hiking
=======
Backpack Seal Bag
Compass
Compeed
Dry Bag(Medium And Small, Water Proof)
Gaitors
Gloves(Thick And Thin)
Hiking Boots
Hiking Fliece
Hiking Scandals
Hiking Socks (X 2 Thin & X 1 Thick)
Hiking Sunny Hut
Hiking Tee
Hiking Tee Long
Hiking Trousers X 2
Hiking Vest X 2
Knee Protectors
Mask
Rain Proof Jacket (Gortex)
Rain Trousers
Shoe Polish And Cloth
Sports Bra X 2
Thermal Jersey Tee Long
Walking Sticks
Water Bag(3l)
Whistle
Wind Proof Jacket (Can Keep Warm)
Wind Proof Jacket (Small, Thin & Breatheable)
Woolly Beanie

Make Up
=========
All-In-One Face Base
Blusher Brush
Cheek Colour
Cleanser For Makeup
Concealer
Earings
Eye Colour
Eye Definer
Eye Makeup Remover
Eye Shadow Brush
Eyelash Curler
Eyes Brow & Liner Kit
Lip Colour
Perfume
Rain Cover
Rings
Smudger Brush
Tweezers

Working Holiday in New Zealand (June-August)

2011-03-19T10:42:00.000+08:00

I left Warkworth with Kaiyang to work for accommodation in a farm at Hawera. Finally we left the tough work behind and started a peaceful life in front of the beautiful Mount Taranaki. We only worked in the mornings like mending holes, raking, feeding cows...etc. The winter had come but we managed to keep each other warm and happy. We were so green to hitch-hike and our first catch was an hour after! Nothing was more important than enjoying the company. Ten days later, we hired a car to have a short travel around Mount Taranaki. With his encouragement, I could drive the automatic without any damage.

Afterwards, I got a housekeeping job in Wellington for a week and then was fired. The host had mental problems and I was more than happy to leave the horrible place. Can you imagine that my job was to sit for eight hours without talking? At the capital of New Zealand, I seek advice from the Citizen Advice Bereau and wrote two complaint letters to the Department of Labour about my last two jobs. At least, I have tried to voice out how the backpackers were abused in this country.

My Dark Age in New Zealand was also in Wellington for two weeks. I didn't know what I was waiting for. There was no good/professional opportunities for a foreign traveller. Even though I avoided so hard to go to further south in winter, it seemed that I had no choice.

Picton, where was a small town across the sea, had a great BBH hostel called Sequoia Lodge. It provided free internet, free ice cream and puddings, free pick-up and drop off, free hot tub...I love it. A British couple(Ashley and Gareth), a taiwanese couple(Emily and Vincent) and I all worked for accommodation every morning with one day off per week. As we were such a great team, we always finished early and enjoyed our tea for hours. Nice people and nice host. You cannot ask for more!

I made good friends with the Taiwanese couple. They were great I learnt different recipes from the Taiwanese couple like sweet and sour pork, sweet corn soup...etc. Vincent introduced the books of 倪匡to me and I recommended 九把刀. I think he likes the series of 獵命師傳奇most. When the weather was good, we went walking/hiking or collected mussels. If it rained, Vincent read the e-books and Emily and I played jigsaws. When they knew that Kaiyang had bought a manual car for me, they were all worried except Vincent. He said, “Nice to meet you“ instead.

Working Holiday in New Zealand (April - June)

2011-03-16T05:47:00.002+08:00

On the sixth day I arrived in New Zealand, I started picking at a Mandarin Orchard at Warkworth. It was the most terrible job I have ever done. You needed to work fast and picked as much as you could. For each kilogram we picked, we earned NZD 0.17. In the name of “self-employed“, we tried to save as much time as we could to pick more. We drank less or even not drinking as the loo was far away. Instead of having break, we ate but our hands kept picking. Still, the fastest could get slightly higher than the minimum pay. For the rest of us, we were underpaid (The minimum pay was NZD 12.75 per hour) as roughly NZD 8.50 hourly.

Coins always have two sides. I have made heaps of Asian friends and several Moari friends there. I was promoted to be a Quality Controller after a week and my job was to walk around and check (or chat?) if the pickers cut off the branches, leave a long stalk on the fruit or picked the green ones. You should not be surprised that I got on well with most of them with my lovely characters.

Singaporean: Kaiyang;
Chinese: 周超, 老呂;
Hong Kong people: 李秀群, Kennis, Gideon;
Malaysian: Cassie, Lee Heong, Gan, Jia Er, An;
Taiwanese: Incole, ??, ??;
Korean: Na;
Japanese: Chihiro, Aiya;
Moari: Montz, Joe.

Early in the morning, the rain was pouring. Workers came to knock my door and asked if they still needed to work. That was the reason for Akira/John to employ Asians only. We obeyed, we tolerated and we worked hard.

“You don't need to ask me. It was your choice to work or not.“
「自己決定」

People were exhausted from all the hard work, long working hours, harsh conditions and wanted to finish early.

“Be determined no matter who stopped you.“
「立場堅定」

Pickers at my end would give me a shout if they needed help. We could be quite noisy.

“Ying...“ (Pickers at the other lanes may need to pass on calling as I could be far away.)
“Who's talking?“
“It's me.“
“Who are you???...“

「瑩呀~」
「誰呀?」
「我呀!」
「你是誰呀?」
「...」

Montz, who was a Moari truck driver, and I worked as a great team. We helped the pickers(especially girls) picking, moved their pilates to make their lives easier and sometimes made fun with each other, e.g. peeping continuously on walkie talkie, throwing Mandarin at each other, hiding to be lazy...

We went through the hard time and supported each other. On our day off, our drivers would give us a lift to town or sightseeing. On the last Friday night out, we had three cars driving to the pub at Warkworth. We were not fooled and we would quit more or less the same time. Goodbye Akira! Goodbye John Lee! Goodbye Jactive Pacific Limited!

Those six weeks were crazily busy for me. Life was new. Work was hard. Fantasy was attractive. By the time I left, I only weighed 45 kg which was the lowest in my life.

2010.11.22 The fourth flight@Christchurch Airport

2011-01-06T03:05:00.001+08:00

In August, Philip told me he would come to New Zealand in November which meant I needed to earn enough money for the travel in three-month time. As a motel receptionist and bakery assistant, the pay rates were not too bad if we took the bakery leftover into account. Muffins, chocolate custard buns, apricot/apple Danish were my breakfast. Thai Curry Chicken pie, Satay Chicken pie, Steak pie...were my lunch. Ham, cucumber, tomato, prawns toaster was my afternoon tea. Raspberry bun, Lolly cake, Custard Square were my dessert. I still made my dinner if I wanted to. At the same time, I drove to work everyday to practise my skills, especially parallel parking. It took time to get ready.

On the 22nd of November, after having the blessings from my old colleagues and friends, I HAD to drive slowly from Hanmer Springs to Christchurch airport. It was not difficult until I reach the city which had numerous traffic lights and busy roundabouts. Aggressive drivers beeped noisily behind me and my car would stall in return. By the time I reached the airport, I needed to run to the arrival terminal to pick up Philip who had never told me his exact arrival time and the airline he flew with.

When I eventually figured it out, his fourth flight was delayed for four hours. He started from Dublin(Ireland), London Healthrow(UK), Kuala Lumpur(Malaysia), Auckland(New Zealand) and lastly Christchurch(New Zealand). I could imagine he must be exhausted. After having a good time with my Malaysian friends nearby, I was back to the airport with their fresh asparagus. Plane was delayed AGAIN for another two hours. The airport authority should have waived us the expensive parking fee. I just wanted to wait and read.

At eight o'clock, six hours later, I saw the skinny one with a big smile waving his hands at me. "You lose weight." was my first greetings. We were all delighted to see each other after one and a half year. When I was hurried to move his lugguages to avoid paying the parking bill, he ran back from the gents and said, "I won't let you wait anymore.".

We talked endlessly on the way to the Marine, which is located at Sunmer. No more time difference on Skype. No more expense on the overseas phone bill. We were here to enjoy our holiday!

蘭地回望

2010-12-27T06:26:00.001+08:00

既然妹妹寫了一篇《回望》，我也來湊熱鬧一下吧。

自2007年離開香港到愛爾蘭、英國各一年後，2010再接再厲，來到南半球的紐莤蘭，當初的決定，跟自己在歐洲獲益良多，有感應趁青春時多接觸不同文化，亦趕著三十歲前申請工作假期簽証，換來自由的時間，體驗不停搬家打工的旅行方式，適應早上不知晚上會在何處的隨意生活。

文化的衝擊沒有在歐洲時那樣深，只是遊歷的方法不一樣。愛爾蘭是先工作十個月，才旅行；英國是一放假就去旅行；紐莤蘭是工作短時間，就旅行。有感越來越能獨立、照顧自己，面對變數都可以處之泰然，由以前非訂好交通旅館不可，到最近晚上七點半才找旅館，是有點成長了。

當然不可不提榮升車主的事實，經過Kaiyang及Philip的用力指導，我確實毫髮無損的繞了一圈紐莤蘭，現在在市中心駕駛還是會六神無主，但信心還是一點點建立起來，這方面，其實都挺自傲。

然後，更了解自己。我確實有不少優點：幽默、好動、獨立和挺聰明，缺點也有不少：胡思亂想、情緒化、無知和一身牛氣。因著自己的個性來計劃自己的人生，會知道什麼才適合自己。

長大了一點吧。

地產盛世 Property Names in Hong Kong

2010-03-31T21:30:00.004+08:00

崇洋到骨子裡的香港人，儘管口舌上不承認，尾巴還是藏不了。近幾年的樓盤，充份表現出地產發展商的外語能力加強不少。Hong Kong is such an international city that residential buildings were named in foreign languages.

Afrikaans
天壐 The Cullinan

French
城中駅 Le Point
昇悅居 liberté

Italian
影岸•紅 La Rossa
翠擁華庭 Monte Vista
擎天半島 Sorrento
宇晴軒 The Pacifica
灝景灣 Villa Esplanada (?)
凱琴居 Villa Rhapsody

Japanese?
城中駅 Le Point
都會駅 Metrotown

Latin?
富豪海灣 Regalia Bay

Spanish
盈翠半島 Tierra Verde

還有一大堆消費美景良辰、滿足高高在上的渴望，縱使名不副實，也總算上了樓，數面的升值才是最重要。As Hong Kong doesn't have outstanding natural assets, our property businessmen comfort us with either picturesque or royal names and make us feel superior. Of course, only the rise in property prices can keep the owners happy.

碧海藍天 Aqua Marine
鯉灣天下 Canaryside
藍天海岸 Coastal Skyline
翠景臺 Gardenview Terrace
爵悅庭 Harmony Garden
銀湖•天峰 Lake Silver
名逸居 New Haven
皇府山 Noble Hill
一號銀海 One Silver Sea
藍澄灣 Rambler Crest
韻濤居 Serende Cove
帝琴灣 Symphony Bay
凱旋門 The Arch
比華利山別墅 The Beverly Hills
御凱 The Dynasty
君臨天下 The HarbourSide
傲庭峰 The top
萬景峰 Vision City
御海峰 Vistacove

保守的我，還是喜歡平實的公屋，空氣流通的公共空間和設計合理的間隔，心理上總覺得她們的牆就是厚了那麼一點點，不大容易招來鄰居的噪音投訴，而且，那裡的三十五樓就是第三十五層，沒花沒假！I am used to the public rental housing which has good ventilation in the pubilc areas and practical living designs. The walls of the flats should have been a little bit thicker to resist the noise pollution. And for sure the 35th floor does mean the 35th level from the ground! (4 means death to the Chinese and they avoid naming the floors with 4 as digit(s), like 4, 14, 24, 34, 41, 42,...)

"Happy Birthday to G" to my old Inchicore housemates

2010-03-31T21:28:00.000+08:00

When I was 12, I thought I would have no secret to my parents.
When I was 14, I thought I would have got married and children at 20.
When I was 16, I thought I would wear no skirts.
When I was 18, I believed friendship stayed forever.
When I was 20, I thought love is the biggest thing to learn.
When I was 22, I thought $9000 monthly wage was all I needed.
When I was 24, I thought I would never open my eyes again from the ovarial cyst removal surgery.
When I was 26, I thought my daily life would be 7-hour sleep and 17-hour work.
When I was 28, I thought my heart was broken forever.

Now I am 29.5, I am single. The guy who broke my heart has fixed it. My parents will not agree that I should have left Hong Kong. I have made many new friends of different nationalities but need time to pick up my Hong Kong old friends. The supply teacher job has paid me enough to work eight hours ONLY. In return, I must wear skirt at work.

I supppose my 30th birthday will be in the middle of nowhere alone. My face will have more winkle and my waist is still breaking the record. These can't stop the fuckers but they will not have a chance. I will still fight for my dreams with all my might.

When I am 32...probably I will be still on the Earth, being the Queen of Mountains, or high hills, if they will not have become the Islands yet.

錢，真的很重要。

2010-01-16T21:24:00.007+08:00

香港是一個經濟城市。

尤其隻身異地，錢是赤裸裸的重要，交通、住宿和飲食，「衣」食住行，就是你滿背包衣物，另外的總要解決。一份能養活自己的工作，是多麼逼在眼簾的事。沒有錢，住不了最便宜的一房多鋪旅舍，租不了沒有厠所的studio，更談不上雅緻的house和講究園藝的花園；沒有錢，只能吃沒有營養的炸物，天天吃廉價的麵包，間或拿到工作地方棄置的食物，那能享用有格調的西餐，配來綻放味蕾的紅酒；沒有錢，三公里路還是要摸黑捱凍用腳走，使用須補價的巴士車票提心吊膽遭司機揭發，然後置單車上山下山半小時任由風吹雨打，根本沒法使用屋後免費泊車的空地；沒有錢，說什麼旅遊看世界，說什麼興趣班發展啫好，說什麼購各式保險保障自己，說什麼人文精神看書看電影看話劇遊博物館……說什麼關心社會。

錢，真的很重要。

錢。所以我們不明白，外國的父母為什麼要立遺囑不留下一代一分一亳、飛到中國領養一個沒血緣關係的兒童、為自己鍾愛的大自然甘冒被猛獸咬死的危險做研究、買下一幅自己喜愛(但作者本人並不出名)的畫作、補償自己所耗費的碳排放量……

這兩年，有些事我改變了。

電視不再是我生活的一部份。電視是奢侈品，我和房友沒錢買，到有人送，我們沒錢交牌費(外國沒有免費電視)。手提電腦加上網絡無限大，劇集和短片要什麼能看到什麼，反而學會選擇，拒絕被餵，知道英國專輯的專業深入、歐洲電影的細膩、台灣不同個人風格的綜藝節目、中國電影和劇集的真實反映、鳳凰衞視在內地的成功等，無線劇集的不濟、與歌手們的千絲萬縷、獎門人不同版本，人人口舌上唾棄，卻不見用行動說不。

重新運用時間。從前我在香港，每天放工趕著不同的課、與朋友玩樂，一上巴士就小睡，連走路的時間也在聽iPod、坐地鐵閱讀，靜不下來，就是沒有時間休息，和思考。

新聞不再是每天看，而是一籃子看。多謝WiseNews的一站式提供中港澳台資訊新聞，比較一下報導水準，多角度的比較，搜尋舊文的功能讓我更清楚事情的來龍去脈，關心時事是要付出時間閱讀和思考，南方都市報的評論很有深度。

廿四小時除工作外，不是買股票兼職找更多的錢，就是購物遊玩吃喝享樂，當然家庭事務也會很繁忙，管教子女也很傷神，進修維持競爭力要很努力讀書，朋友聯誼還是要去，睡覺也沒有時間。

昨日收到電話，朋友扭傷了，床也下不來，告知我的朋友也坦言，我一星期的運動量可能是她兩年的總和；婚宴遇上的友人，都訴說腰部脂肪的囤積；從前毅行者的戰友，已用盡他們一生行山的限額。真的很忙，忙得連照顧自己的健康也做得不好。反而，用金錢換來的美容健身的商品大行其道，吃了能解肥、躺著也能燒脂、搽了能抹去年月的痕跡，金錢是時間，買時間。

學校推行中英文早讀、閱讀計劃，培養學生有良好的閱讀習慣，謝絕漫畫、雜誌和報紙。你最近看的中文書是哪一本？英文書呢？社會要求學生有深度的閱讀，但最暢銷的報章、雜誌和工具書中，是「吸睛」的疑似色情和暴力相片，用「超」、「激」、「爆」、「喪」為標題的浮誇情緒字眼，大眾的閱讀是「流」過雙眼，享受觀能刺激，有爆點，能「吹得兩咀」就好，膚淺不是問題，不知道卻是落伍。思考很累，將達至成功、修心靈的途徑列出十大廿大方法就最簡單，人云亦云最好，總不會錯吧！

今天的高鐵問題，我高興它引來的社會關注，因為，無論立法會外有多少人集會，港人的大多數，還是不關心。不關心的人，不覺得這是切身的事，不覺得能改變什麼，對高鐵沒什麼大意見，可對反對的議員、示烕集會的群眾意見卻多的是。為了簡化事情，「八十後」、「拉布」、「苦行」、「襲警」、「衝擊」、「包圍」……想起高鐵，就只能想起這些名詞。很明顯，沒有深究的大多數，只會覺得，「反高鐵」的人被利用了。

錢，真的很重要，而且沒有「搵夠」的一天。如果你已脫離了赤貧階層，解決了最基本的「生存」需要，會向「生活」邁進嗎？我們是有選擇的。

「人生沒有多少個機會，人生沒有多少個十年」

2009-12-11T14:52:00.002+08:00

不經不覺，我的專業已變成教師，我的一生，好像已經看到怎樣走下去。

找工找了一個月，暫時成績是代課兩天。香港教師的流動性主要出現在九月，而招聘工作主要由四月至六月為高峰，嗯，解釋了我還是失業的原因。

其實也有好幾次非教藉的面試機會，究竟僱主尋找的是怎樣的人呢？要有相關的經驗，擁有大學學歷，看不上只要求中五的工作，又攀不上要碩士或海外留學經驗的專業工作，要找過一萬元的工作很難。

我有點不知所措，身邊的人每天辛勤，約飯聚有說過年前的空檔已滿，近月趕project抖不過氣，工餘修讀碩士的逢週末在趕功課，專業人士要溫書考牌，要結婚的全積在這個年頭，靜靜地待在家的我，好像不屬於這裡。

機會不是沒有，但不是自己那杯茶。想誠實地面對欣賞我的學校，想追尋世界其他的可能性，還未到山窮水盡，我還是想堅持自己的目標和價值。

這幾個月，才發現，我是很介意別人用什麼眼光看自己。我的自信建立於別人的評價、欣羨或貶踏，要改之。

「人生沒有多少個機會，人生沒有多少個十年」，《巾幗梟雄》裡柴九拼命護送米糧上山時說的，山路很斜，雨下得很大，山賊洗劫後，他還沒有放棄，前後三次的游說才換得陸路運糧的開通。頒獎前後才把此劇看畢，內裡包含的訊息很豐富，發人深省。

我人生的三十年，挺滿意。那四十年、五十年......？

出走後的回來

2009-11-23T14:54:00.002+08:00

沒有寫blog好一段日子，只是把私人感受用筆桿搖在紙上，享受寫字的感覺，看著自己的筆跡，感謝母親給我報讀的書法班。

回到香港，過去在外的生活好像不存在，那兩年的時間，時間過得很慢，每天都很不一樣。

慶幸能有抽離的機會，本錢來自我的爸爸媽媽，沒欠政府分毫，還錢的負擔，我不知道。離家獨立生活，首站愛爾蘭工作假期，家人牽腸掛肚，救援物資應有盡有。大男人的爸爸也放下身段，訴說很是掛念、快點回來。受盡更年期困擾的母親，自學倉頡，每天與在英國的我電郵。弟弟婚後搬往粉嶺，妹妹出走加拿大，兩老忽然發現，家原來可以這麼冷清。

九月以來，重整從前的一切。手執往日好友的書信，羞愧言詞的露骨，嘆息此情不再，往事如煙，卻又是瀝瀝在目。看著10多GB的數碼相，每一張都有的笑臉，髮型在變，穿衣的品味在變，眼鏡由圓變方再歸於無，才發現什麼最適合自己。

曾經很珍重的禮物，消失的不覺可惜，完整的記不起誰送，殘舊的忍痛捨棄。物件代表的意義重於價值：中大畢業收的喇叭，多出的一套終於開封；意大利朋友聖誕交換禮物的睡衣，全粉紅的也不嫌穿在身；一把傘的方便得來的蚊香娃，伴在多國的床頭。大家的心意，很溫暖。

朋友的支持，是我能走到今天的原因。大家姐是家庭的開荒牛，行山、旅行、打扮……衝擊著兩老的城牆。中學時海傍胡鬧、大學拖友縱容照顧、毅行者培養出的友誼、教書同事的融洽包容、香港朋友空運生活物資、愛爾蘭山友的接納和視野、咖啡店同事的多元國藉，我很幸運，擁有很多，珍惜。

尚在待業的我，心情起伏不定。怕找不工作，經濟緊絀，怕別人作出分較，兩年「玩」的時間是有代價的，密友卻比我更深信我會找到工作，自己太高估在別人心中的地位，徒添無形壓力。投放更多時間在家，溝通不止重量更重質，指導兩老學習打字、倉頡、上網，晚飯談笑聲已盡蓋電視節目的吵鬧。家庭角色扮演越見重要的同時，間有力有不遞，密友肯定我的付出，帶出嶄新視野，亦讓情緒有所宣泄。

世界很大，人生有很多可能性。快要三十又怎樣？年青的歲月我輕狂過，進入三字頭，我期望，思想更趨成熟，發展自己的專業，承擔更多的責任。關心社會，想想我能做到什麼令大環境更好，要有自己的政治獨覺、社會的看法，不再以專欄和陶傑的聲音作己見。知識上的追求，以蔡元培的「博覽而無系統，散漫而無中心」作警惕，記好時地人，別籠統帶過。Girl的光環對我已然失效，Lady的頭銜更為吸引，感謝年歲帶來的經驗的累積，呂大樂的《四代香港人》，不正是說著第二代終要退下來，第四代的我們準備好了沒有？

我的學生根本不會想起我。

2009-05-15T04:44:00.001+08:00

教得多資質差的學生，人會變得悲觀，對將來失去希望。

懶的學生到處都是，香港的英國的，原來分別也不大。

上課從來沒有文具，一枝能寫的筆也沒有，更何況數學堂要用的計算機和間尺。然後，他們之間把文具拋來搶去，再懶一點的索性動也不動，「沒有筆」是硬道理。縱使有齊文具，要從筆袋拿出來也是很費力氣的。

進課室直至要他們抄筆記的一刻，枱面一本書都沒有，你不派簿我就坐著等。

抄筆記是很累的，約五十字的英文每堂也叫苦連天，”It really hurts.” 還要做堂課我的手還能用嗎？

抄不代表入腦，眼也不代表會閱讀，簡單的句子如 “Find the midpoint by dividing the sum of end values by two.”也要你面對面讀出來才明白，理解句子很累的。

對答案也很不容易，剛做完Ex.24E Q.1，你沒給頁數我就是找不到。

然後，懶的學生變成無賴。

校規說明上課不能去厠所，Jordan就整整一小時站在你面前，「我要在這裡尿了」、「我媽說尿急就要去厠所，誰也阻止不了」。

C君轉身九次跟後面的傾計，我警告他九次，懲罰升至放學留堂，他還是跟你說「你根本沒給我警告」、「我忘記了」和「我不在乎」。

E小姐吃香口糖給發現，馬上吐在右手，再藏在椅背，然後傳到左手，我什麼都看在眼裡，她還是會說「我口中沒香口糖」。

給發現吃糖果或是薯片，你叫我吐他們跟你吞，然後說「我吐不出來」。

還有四天會考，終於溫書，三位學生氣沖沖的說「你一直教我們的都是錯的」、「你上課教的跟精讀的完全不同」、「你教的根本不到要考的一半」，他們的例子是三角形面積，精讀說是底乘高乘二份一，我教的是底乘高除二。一群不自量力的會考生，妄想自己能及格，未出兵先告訴全級，「是我班的教師教所不善，幸好我看一看精讀，我勤力。」Grade E的問題如”Find the first five terms by substituting n=1,2,3,4,5 into 3n+2 .”，也理解不到為何3n+2裡的3n是指3xn，那怎麼做Grade C 問題如”Find the general term of the sequence 3,8,13,18,23,28...”他們有本事學，難道我會不想教嗎？我想看我花了一年心機的學生到頭來只能考得到F嗎？

電腦堂把鍵盤老鼠左拔右插，鄰座對面的一覺不留神，拔了鍵盤打不了字事少，重新啟動檔案盡失就欲哭無淚，要追查誰幹的？前後左右全都不是盲、啞就是聾，什麼都不知道。「我就是不知道為什麼右邊多了一隻老鼠，我傳給他是想他放在一邊，但為什麼在地上我就是不知道！」

點名喊到震天也不回應一句的O小姐，躲在桌下死不出來，找來當值老師，她又忽然在另一端走出來，「我聽不到她喊我，我一直在課堂呢！」

一直以來我硬食了很多，教數教電腦教科學教公民，每傳堂我就抱著一部一小時電量的電腦電線教具到處走，好不容易回到所謂我的課室，收拾完上節或午膳的亂象，學生一進來不是喊頭痛，班房小加十五部電腦，又熱又焗又嘈可想而知。一個月總有不下三五日有考試、面試、高層會議在一玻璃之隔的圖書館裡進行，明明在教書卻要較低聲量來控制那班憤青或憤童。

學校如能支持我，事情可能還好過一點，學生回家加醬加辣，懶學生當然有保護十足的家長，打到學校找科主任找中高層討公道，然後，我三星期內被觀課五次，兩次事前無通知，觀課報告一致好評後，才不得不承認，我的學生是很difficult。

是怎樣的安排才能編出一張時間表，只有一班教得兩小時的好班，四小時的攝教班(即其他老師撞時間，單一堂由我教) 其餘卅二小時都是底班或特殊教育需要的學生，這樣對待新上任教師的學校，留一年足已。

唉聲嘆氣有何用？此刻，我的學生，根本不會想起我。

港英教育制度 UK VS HK Edcuation System ~1~

2009-02-06T05:08:00.004+08:00

快在這裡打了五個月的工，算是累積了「相當」的履歷，試撰文比較一下英國跟香港教育制度！

I have been working for nearly five months. Maybe it is time to compare UK and HK education systems.

一、教室　與　課室
英國教師有屬於自己的教室，學生自會按著時間表報到，教室會按教師個人喜好佈置成所教科目的環境，學生的書本、功課本亦安放室內，方便取用。教師十分熟悉自己的工作環境，運用的教材亦會較多。

(喝罵學生最厲害的招數：「li度係我地方，再嘈同我出去！」。)

遇上不大有條理的教師，課室垃圾處處，坐椅書桌東歪西倒，做清潔的滿肚子牢騷，其名字傳遍校園清潔界，間或遇上小人物如我，亦會略知一二。

我這個新報到的東方人氏，被分派到雞肋般的教室，不！不能稱教室，稱電腦室也嫌太少，只得十六部電腦。勉強放得下十二張書椅，三張拼成一行才能有空間兩邊走動，中間的學生要協助，真的要身型細小如我才能擠進行與行間的空隙。在早上、小息、放學後或任何空堂，只要學生有需要，他們都能在我教室內使用電腦，人數一多聲浪自然擾人，課堂外還要動氣喊停很麻煩。午膳時，學習資源中心更全面接管，對學生完全開放，對於慢食的我並不是很大影響，但學生每天留下的爛攤子，看著中心人員一臉賠不是一邊收拾，其實我也不是很慘吧！

轉堂的秩序很一般，主要視乎下一課節的教師嚴厲與否，追逐、推撞和喧鬧多不勝數，教師做了鴕鳥，在自己的空間準備下一課節，混亂全由「維持秩序工友」監察，有效與否見仁見智。寒冷的冬天裡，文靜的學生躲在樓梯角也會被趕走，學習資源中心(等於圖書館)額滿即止，逼得全部學生也要嬉戲取暖，於是，不同班不同年級的學生很容易聚在一起，成績好的、頑皮的、胡鬧的、負責的、友善的……「近朱者赤，近墨者黑」，一點也沒錯。

香港的學生有自己課室，轉堂教師環抱著教材、咪、學生習作珊珊來遲，學生也樂得享受幾分鐘的放肆。要到特別室如電腦房，也要教師帶領往返，學生一刻不能放鬆。課室會按各班的合作性，壁佈上出現有其特色的設計，學生也喜歡在課室流連、聊天和做功課，歸屬感較強。

a) Teacher’s room VS Classroom
UK teachers have their own rooms. Students check their timetable and move rooms to attend different lessons. Teachers decorate the rooms according to their teaching subjects. Textbooks and exercise books can be left in the room. The longer the teachers have their rooms, the more teaching materials they collect.

(Indeed, the best way to stop the students from messing is to say, “This is my room. Behave yourself.”)

There are some rooms full of rubbish, chairs lying on the floor and desks in zig-zag rows. Our cleaning staff complain about those messy teachers who don’t care about their rooms. They gossip and I learn about teachers, though only their bad habits.

My room is not designed to be a formal teaching classroom. It is small and has only sixteen computers. However, I only use it to teach computer once every two weeks. The other 13 computer lessons take place in other computer rooms. My biggest Math class has 24 students and needs 12 desks and 24 chairs. Because the room is so small, desks must be pushed together and we can hardly walk between the seats. Luckily, I am skinny enough to squeeze into the gaps and talk to the students and answer their questions. Whenever the students need to and my room is free, they can ask to come in and use the computers. They can mess about and I get annoyed during my FREE lesson. During lunch time, Learning Resources Center(LRC) can take over and open my room to all the students. I have accepted the arrangement and I spend my lunchtime in the staff room instead. When I come back, the LRC staff clear the mess left by the students. They want to keep me happy. I appreciate this very much.

Once the bell rings, students leave one classroom and go to the next one. They rush, mess and scream but the teachers stay in their own classrooms. Supervisors monitor the students discipline instead.

On freezing cold days, students must stay out in the cold corridor, outdoor or playgound at breaktime and lunchtime. The only warm place is the LRC and it can only hold forty students. Why can’t they be running and messing about to keep themselves warm? They split into groups with similar characteristics, e.g. quiet, good academic results, naughty, disruptive, responsible, well behaved…etc. Safe in their group, students of each type develop their characteristics to extremes.

In Hong Kong, students stay in their own classrooms and teachers come to them. They send students to Staff Room(Teachers' office) to get exercise books or teaching materials. In between lessons, students do enjoy the few minutes free time before teachers arrive. To go to special rooms, like computer room, teachers need to lead them quietly in order. The students spend their free time in their classroom and become more united. They like to stay in school to play, talk and even do their homework. They can develop the sense of belonging to their class group more.

2008 Review and 2009 Resolution

2009-01-05T04:19:00.003+08:00

Last year, my resolutions included buying a bike and joining a hiking club. I joined the An Oige hill walking club.

I remembered on the first day of 2008, Peter and I drove to Parnell Street in Dublin and paid 40 euros for a second hand bicycle. Peter helped me adjust it to my height and greased the chain. Although I had an accident several days later, it did not stop me from cycling to and from work. Even with my poor sense of direction, I managed to cycle everywhere within an hour’s cycling distance. I was told that my bike was heavy and it was damaged a bit from the accident. Because of this it made me very fit!

I started hiking with An Oige on 6th January 2008 with Wendy, who was one of my Hong Kong housemates. It was an easy hike and the group took a rest every 15 minutes. I moved up to the moderate hike the week after and joined the hard hike a few months later.

I met a lovely old hiker named Brendan Dempsey who is 80 years young. I drew him a Chinese painting for his 80th birthday. I made friends with Angela and moved to her and her boyfriend's house in late June. Around the same time I met Philip, with whom I fell in love.

I tried my best to save money from the moment I arrived in Ireland. My housemates and I did not even use the heating system and took as much as we could from work. Still, I was happy because the job was simple and I had plenty of time to develop my hobbies. However, from July I was becoming stressed about my U.K. work permit application, undesirable working conditions at Butlers, my living conditions and my love relationship. Things were going in directions I did not want and I felt I had no control over them. I was disappointed and complained a lot, even when I went travelling in Italy for three weeks.

Maybe you are aware that my U.K. teaching job is not going well. I only learned I was being kept on the 16th of December. Also, after going through Philip’s birthday, my birthday and our first holiday together, we finished our romantic relationship. I can’t believe I have been going through on disappointment after another for half a year. That is too long for me. It is time for change.

My 2009 New Year’s resolutions are to buy another bicycle, join a cycling club, become friends with Philip and integrate into the U.K. lifestyle.

I spent my Christmas holidays with Adrian, a classmate from University living in Paris. We planned the holiday through email and gTalk. He bought a microphone especially for chatting. Finally he bought a train ticket one week before our holiday. On the holiday we talked a lot and had a good time. There are plenty of places to visit around England, places I wanted to see.

081220_27-England_West

I spent my New Year’s with my Irish hiking friends in the Peak District in the north of England. Angela told me about the hiking trip and I was very keen to join them. I could not get a booking for the first night and kept ringing the hostel to see if there were any cancellations. Finally I rang that morning. I was lucky, there was a cancellation and I set out on the seven hour journey to get there. We hiked for three days and I shared my experiences since I had left Ireland for the U.K.

081228_090101-Peak_District

Not everyone has the opportunities I have. I had refused to see them and had confined myself to my little flat. I am not strong enough in myself. It was unhealthy to hurt myself to get attention. I was lost and forgot what is important to me.

But, I know I will be ok.

《Share》Short Films

2008-12-20T23:43:00.004+08:00

My UK life should not only be school and my flat. I collected information from the library and decided to watch the Award winning short films shown by Hitchin Film Club. Among seven watched, I would like to share the following two with you.

Goodbye to the Normals
Director: Jim Field Smith
Writer: George Kay
Release Date: 5 December 2006 (UK)

I was surprised that the parents did not stop him. The kid was full of confidence and believed he knew the way of their world. Like travelling to America by boat, no need for school......etc. Parents protect their kids so much from difficulties and sadness that children think no harm exists outside their home. We will see how they survive in ten years time.

Hibernation
Director: John Williams
Writer: John Williams (writer)
Release Date: 2005 (UK)

When death becomes hibernation forever, would it be easier to accept? The kids were so sincere and would do anything to bring their friend back. It was sad to know the truth.

漫畫分享《星光墜在希伯來》

2008-12-08T04:05:00.001+08:00

從《IGT偵探趣味》看到這套還在連載中的小品漫畫，說的時空是德國納粹屠殺猶太人，故事不太複雜，看起來很舒服，跟日本每每感到的大格局、華麗的電影分鏡和伏線處處比起來，當然不及人家工業級規範，但我就是佩服台灣人能在日本動漫霸權下仍有這份勇氣去開創市場，也來這裡轉貼支持一下。

《星光墜在希伯來》

第1曲-上帝的靈藥
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=249

第2曲-奧斯威辛
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=321

第3曲-灰色賦格曲
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=371

第4曲-薩米耶的子彈
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=392

第5曲-復活
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=433

第6曲-競爭對手
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=476

第7曲-逾越節
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=534

第8曲-救贖
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=568

第9曲-追憶
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=594

第10曲-相對位置
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=644

第11曲-接近
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=662

第12曲-陰影
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=176

第13曲-曙光微亮
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=174

第14曲-泛聲流轉
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=175

第15曲-發端
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=177

第16曲-異同
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=718

第17曲-價值
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=734

第18曲-集合
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=757

第19曲-破碎
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=760

第20曲-武器
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=787

第21曲-音樂盒
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=788

第22曲-杜蘭朵
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=807

第23曲-波紋
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=815

第24曲-共鳴
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=383

第25曲-脫出
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=633

第26曲-交錯
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=784

第27曲-和弦
http://www.comibook.com/read.php?art_id=837

在博客來能買到的簡嘉誠作品

http://tinyurl.com/66659b

出版：全力出版

我已成年吧！

2008-11-29T19:41:00.002+08:00

良久沒有一篇認真的中文文章，愧慚。

想來這裡發佈頻繁之時，不是感情遇上挫折，就是工作上不如意，簡而言之，肯定是遇上麻煩事。然後，自命清高無人能理解，卻在這塊耕作了數年的地方，留下煩惱絲。

事情，走錯第一步，還一頭栽進去，犯賤的是自己。

明知道要離開，還開始一段感情，以為能抽身，以為有更好的選擇，怎料他斬情絲更快更狠。然後胡胡塗塗的投入另一段更複雜的關係，以為學乖了，卻被徹底利用了，離場身段極為醜陋，掙來的經驗值根本不值一晒。唯一的理智，是投入另一段時限更緊迫的感情，以填補破碎的心，但被情感牽著走，最後還是捧著傷痕疊疊的心。

痛，只令我跌得更痛。

十月前的我，其實一點也不想在英國教書。我只想在華人以外的地方，找一份專業，體驗一下外國另一個階層的文化。幾個機緣巧合，外加前愛爾蘭男友的關係，勉為其難接下這份工作。

開工前兩日，即生日後一天，二零零八年八月三十日，前男友提出第一次分手。那一刻，天崩了，聲淚俱下，我究竟為什麼要在英國教書呢？

然後，關係苟延殘喘。

參與了細佬的婚禮(九月廿七日)，由香港搬來一大堆東西，準備重整旗鼓，「我會做好呢份工」。才兩天(十月八日)，校長直說我的表現不符他期望，三星期沒改善，會登廣告另聘高明。開學才教了三星期，香港土薯還在想Fish and Chips 的薯條為何不像麥當勞的那般粗！經過半小時的討論，換多個半月的觀察，一年的合約代表什麼？舟車勞頓到地球的另一邊換不來一個月的試用期。

學期中一星期的假期，前男友好不容易安排了到馬德里島散心，事後九天(十一月十一日)，他再提出分手。這次天沒崩，心碎滿地。心情起伏太大，一次又一次。

孤身在英國，學校同事各忙各，各人有自己課室，各自為政，平時以電郵溝通，五時學校早已人去樓空。全校教師只我一人來自地球的另一半，有苦自己知。人事複雜，人心惶惶，各人神經繃得緊緊。

三個月以來，波折重重，身心俱疲。

人越想就越容易走進牛角。坊間這麼多情歌、愛情小品、偶像劇……處處營造沒有愛不能活得完滿的氛圍，是的，我是嚮往的一份子。

這幾年，台劇《王子變青蛙》、《愛情魔法師》、《天使情人》、《剪刀石頭布》、《命中注定我愛你》，因網絡的發達，我竟然全部收看完畢，越發把愛情浪漫化，視為生命中最為重要的事。

其實，像賞畫一樣，退後一步，才能看到大局。

廿八歲，我終於認真反思「專業」和「成人」的真義。教師作為一份專業，究竟要達到什麼的水平？知識、手段和幽默，遊走每一個課室都應付自如吧！成年有十的我，應該知道現實的殘酷，負起每個決定的後果，恰當地處理自己的情緒吧！

我對愛情的態度是工具性的，一種情感上的倚賴，希望自己受重視、被理解，再而把對方神化，成為自己生活的全部。

我的愛情，一直都不成熟。

我很幸運，有很多朋友。他們都很關心我，在香港，有廿七年交來的親友；在愛爾蘭，有同居同路人、熱心熱情的同事和「健康」的行山友；在英國，沒有。原來，一份穩定的工作，是生活的基本，沒有足夠的收入，連發展自己興趣、社交圈子的動力也欠奉。

我認識的自己：
不輕言放棄，智慧肯定有，能力多元化，體能中上，外表看心情。

我可以的，愛自己多一點，珍惜自己所有多一點。回看年半前的我，瘦得我也嚇一跳；今天的一兩公斤，應留來保暖。別瞎眼，世界那樣大。

My students

2008-11-21T05:18:00.003+08:00

We have an enterprise Math lesson. I got the teaching materials and lesson plan yesterday. It took me an hour to modify the lesson plan for my Year 9 set 6 students(中三底班). Instead of knitting on soft A4 papers, I printed the design on the harder cards. I cut the thread into suitable length to avoid the mess. I left school at eight but it worth once you saw their smiles.

We had a wonderful time together. Using straight lines to build parabola, design a Christmas Card or others for sales. Be careful. Needles could be dangerous and the long threads would easily get into knots. They focused very well and made the card very nice with the computers. Even my head of Math department needed to take two samples from my class to show others.

What a big encouragement and satisfaction to them! I can only keep three cards for display as they all wanted to give their parents or friends.

不悔

2008-11-16T04:10:00.003+08:00

回復單身了。

約年半前的一個早上，單身了好一陣子的我看罷《生日快樂》:

「我曾經說過：愛情的意義就像義無反顧的赴死，你是否願意被完全覆蓋或者“任人宰割”。沒有奉獻的愛情永遠只是一時快樂的激情。」

不過是幾句戲評。然後，我決定了。

「到手了便不會珍惜。」
「送花有得屌，送！」
「大家各取所需，開心就好。」
「最深的愛是遠遠祝福你。」
「……」

回首沒有遺憾，淚痕早被抹去，要分手有著許多疑似理由。然後，我明白了多一些。

張小嫻說過，要忘記失戀的痛，藥方是時間及新歡。

說起來，我不能老是掉進這個循環。

The show must go on

2008-11-10T07:07:00.000+08:00

My boyfriend wanted to cheer me up with a lovely half-term holiday. We spent a week in Madeira, Portugal. The weather was not always great but still we had a good time. My first time to walk along the Levada what people used to irrigate the farms in the old times. The island was hilly but people lived everywhere. Usually the countryside people stayed uphill and farmed. They were nice and knew the bus timetable very well. The rich people lived in the touristic area/coast/towns which were very well developed. There were high building, new apartments, modern shopping centre and late night life.

The only tragedy happened when we tried to cross a river. I could not convince myself to jump across the fast flowing river and instead, made a very bad suggestion. We put a long log to be the bridge so that I could step on it. Philip was worried and tried it himself even though he could jump across. I was stunned when I heard the cracking from the log and he fell into the river. He managed to jump a little upwards to the other side. His hip hit the stone badly under water but he got safely across. He was angry that I did not listen to his advice and he said it would have be en me if he did not try first. I felt very sorry. He jumped back to my side and we crossed the river at the shallow part of the river. It's better you get across safely with wet feet, rather than risk breaking your neck and keeping your feet dry.

After that, we could not do hard hikes anymore. He found it painful even sleeping. SORRY.

Overall, it was very relaxing to sleep nine hours every day. We made seafood dinner together and enjoyed the company. I knew he was depressed after the accident but I believed he would recover very soon.

After the holiday, the school days were quite busy. My department head, EB, was leaving. My broadband got connected after TWO months. I am not certain with my future because of the job situation.

That is life. Nothing is easy.

回港行程(更新中)

2008-09-15T00:49:00.010+08:00

PLEASE EMAIL ME FOR ARRANGEMENT. I CANNOT USE MSN OR ICQ.

08.09.26(五) 15:50 抵赤蠟角機場，爸爸接機。18:00 髮廊
08.09.27(六) 弟弟結婚大日子
08.09.28(日) 晚:女班長動議4D聚
08.09.29(一)
08.09.30(二) 午：回覺光跟舊同事午餐(LKH召集)、學生聚舊。晚：跟y99莊員吃飯(蛇主召集)
08.10.01(三) 午:小黃動議中同聚
08.10.02(四) 回大嶼山探婆婆
08.10.03(五) 午：與前同屋吃飯(BenBen召集)。晚：y98,y00(Annie's web召集)
08.10.04(六) 晚:跟家人吃飯
08.10.05(日) 08:45 啟程回英國黑琴(Hitchin)

小女子十分想念大家，奈何匆匆九日，能做的有限，請儘力把我的行程填滿，好讓我帶著滿滿的親情、友情、師生情回英國，在外再多戰一年。

九月一日　英國重執教鞭

2008-09-15T00:47:00.000+08:00

九月一日，不是學生的開學日，是教師的專業發展日，簡單來說是新人第一日上班，舊人也是暑假後第一天回來準備開學「必然」的混亂。很難想像，去年七月隻身到愛爾蘭，找屋租、打理水電雜費、照顧自己一日三餐……竟然一年後再來一次。完全陌生的角度，口音。文化。教育制度。人事。學生。開始有了想安定下來的念頭。

學生對新教師必然留難，尤其亞洲面孔看上去更年輕，我的英文雖不差但也未能字字硃磯，教學生啞口無言。但他們的口音比我想像中容易聽，亦對不同種族的教師有著開放的態度，同事等亦絕無歧視，大出意料所外。

只是我的工作簽程曾經引起一場小風波。猶記得過關時被拘留半小時，逐向學校查詢要求重發正常工作簽証，怎知辦事處姐姐發現信中提及Further Leave to Remain，言之鑿鑿說我置學校於不顧，負上聘請非法勞工的罪名。可憐我雖非英文人，但信中明明寫著不須入境批准者才須申請，不適用於要申請的我。幾經節煞，終接通當局電話，再三核實我的理解是為正確才作罷，箇中無助可想而知。如非她一再引證同校澳洲藉教師及加拿大執工作假期簽証教師均需申請，我也不會輕易動搖。但當我得知申請需時，最快四星期最長九星期，我回港在即，不能重演沒護照出境的鬧劇，把心一橫，逆水行舟，堅持引證自己是對的，才省下三百五十英磅的申請費及除去非法工作的污名。

教學上跟香港的不同，將來另造文章。

今年我沒有擔任班主任，主教數學及電腦，也兼教公民及科學。公立中學，學生家庭支援健全，壞不到那裡去。我家距學校只有廿五分鐘腳程，黑琴大街(Hitchin Main Street)雖少卻樣樣皆全，交通費全省，自己煮食便宜，出外用膳也有不少選擇，是很不錯的小鎮。距盧頓機場(Luton Airport)巴士車程半小時，距坦斯特德機場(Stansted Airport)乘國家快綫車程一小時五分鐘，距倫敦國王十字(King’s Cross)約火車車程半小時，很是方便。

還有兩個星期，我的心早已飛回香港。香港之好在離港後一一浮現，不好的亦越加清晰。但香港有我的家、朋友和一切熟悉的事，短短九天，實在太短了。明年暑假吧！

漂泊的歐遊

2008-09-15T00:31:00.002+08:00

08.07.24
在愛爾蘭跟Philip的最後一晚，送上幾經波折才埗、由CWK代買及寄的後備電池及叉電座，象徵意義的禮物是不能馬虎的。兩地情不容易維繫，那晚心情可想而知。

08.07.25
千盼萬盼，才從郵差手上接過護照掛號郵件，馬上訂機票參加翌日波蘭朋友Jakub在波蘭Ostrow──新娘Pauline的出生地舉行的婚禮。

百忙中我竟還能擠出時間，往公民權益處向前租主追討拖欠一個月多的訂金1500歐元，無良的業主中介人Michael狡辯百出──未能上網難以聯絡(但承認收到我發出的短訊)、未知賠償費(自然耗損與我何干?)、俗事纏身(拖至我等全員離開愛爾蘭為止，萬想不到我臨時有變)……在該處女士熟鍊的四襾撥千斤後，他答應馬上在Botanic Garden會面付支票。

一直看不起我們幾個小鬼的他，也太小看我了。金額他留空，然後裝出一副做莊的氣勢，把事情的始末娓娓道來。早前的電郵他提出先退1000歐，因他的說項改為1250歐，本來我們應全數支付損壞的厠板、後門柱樑鬆脫、洗衣機去水喉漏水、浴室開關吊繩折斷、睡房衣櫃門脫軌，現只須支付全新睡房衣櫃的一小部份。我對此表不滿，衣櫃門過重的設計失當，導致時日損耗，我堅持只需扣除大半年來的垃圾處理費、厠板及承擔部份後門維修費用，200歐有多無少。面對一無所懼的我，他按捺不住露出原形，說我意氣用事、耍孩子氣，浪費大家時間，現在拿錢走人不好，偏要對薄公堂，拖它三年半載？我表示兩個月歐遊後，身在英國的我有一年的時間跟他好好算賬，我起步就走。本應理虧的他根本不想事情鬥大，憤而答允在支票上填上1300歐的銀碼，揮酒自如屋主名字的簽名Adrian Michael FXXXX，最後證明了我的推測──訛稱中介人的Michael，根本就是業主Adrian。假身份用以拖延時間，使一直以來我們所要求的維修事宜都困難重重，口口聲聲是向上轉達。最後一戰，總算教他一臉不滿，我的氣才消了點。

08.07.26-31
在波蘭參加Jakub的婚禮，歷經萬難到臨的我受到貴賓的代遇，伴郎pjeps的悉心照顧及之後五日的結伴同遊，生活簡單、開心、難忘。第一次旅行我的照片佔多數、第一次去湖游水……一洗我對波蘭貧窮荒蕪的印象，久遺的炎熱喚回我對夏天的感覺。

08.08.01-07
飛往同是夏天的蘇格蘭Scotland，換上厚衣的我因飛機延飛兩小時，差點被拒諸宿舍門外。第二早與AnOige的愛爾蘭行山友匯合，開始七日六夜的行山渡假(訓練營?)。

大家都為Isle of Skye而來，奈何五天中，頭三天都又濕又冷，雨下個不停，成千上萬的蚊滋毫不揀擇，頭面頸手手掌腳踭絕不放過，須出動類似綠色絲襪笠頭，有圖為証；第四天藍天白雲；第五天高處白茫茫一片，體能是提升了不少，卻不大像渡假。

最後一天，團中身體有殘疾的獨行俠Don走失，因他持有同車瑣匙而同被滯留的我、Philip、Chris，擔心了一個晚上，看著拯救隊的直升機升了又降、隊員的討論和匯報，才等到他十二時多安然坐直升機回來。失去聯絡的原因竟然是電話忘了增值！求救電話是免費的，別跟我開玩笑吧。跟六個壯男共處一室，睡在宿舍的閱讀室，醒後癲波勞碌的趕到阿伯丁機場(Aberdeen Airport)，送別他們後，正式開始我漂泊之旅，不同的是，頸上多了一條心型頸鍊。

08.08.08-25
兩星期多意大利之旅。一人行，挺孤單，但絕對體現自由行的精髓──迷路。我每一天迷路最少一次，最長的一次是在威尼斯的小島上，趕上最後一班開往不知何處的船巴士，兩小時後才回到巴士站。總的來說，不建議暑假去意大利，特色小鋪八月大多關門，意大利人寥寥可數，出遊去也，餘下跨國名牌大店商業味濃，碰口碰面的各國遊客，教你不知身在何處。炎炎夏日也教人受不了，難怪當地人一點半至三點半都關門抖暑。

途上遇到的年青面孔，大多朝氣勃勃，相互分享旅行心得，什麼Euro Pass還是Inter Pass，根本及不上本地人所搭的Regionale火車，時間可能不大理想，太早又或烈日正午又或太晚，車程可能多乘大半小時，但費用卻超值，十多歐就能從威尼斯到佛羅倫斯，不用預早訂票，前一天往車站查查自劲售票機顯示的時間表都可，自由、方便。

米蘭(Milan)
重點景點只有大教堂，非高級購物狂勿往。

維羅納(Verona)
美麗的小鎮，但博物館大都不值一去，尤以羅密歐與朱麗葉博物館為甚。

威尼斯(Vernice)
高度商業化，店鋪處處，價格高昂。上網一小時八歐，上厠所每次一歐。水路的確有特色，Murano的玻璃很美，其他的恕我負擔不起。

佛羅倫斯(Florence)
第二次的到來，大教堂依然美麗，只是腳底生了大水泡，行動困難。最喜歡小街小店，絕不令人失望。

博洛尼亞(Bologna)
美食沒想像中美好，可能太熱，也可能一人獨酌，食之無味。

比薩(Pisa)
比薩斜塔不是浪得虛名，場面很震憾，但該城亦只此而已。

西恩納(Siena)
碰上鬥馬日，好不熱鬧，只是太陽底下乾等幾近四小時，難怪賽完秩序大亂，沒發生人踏人算是萬幸。

那不勒斯(Naples)
宿舍Welcome Inn感覺超好，睡了大半天才到樓下的博物館逛逛，搭上路人甲小酌一杯談天說地，待腳傷康復。

龐貝(Pompei)
被火山灰淹沒，城中人被毒氣毒死，卻因此保留得極為完整的龐貝，很大。考古遺跡的資料很豐富，看著走著聽著感受很深，古文明，與今相比，技術雖然落後，但模式顯然相差不遠。

羅馬(Rome)
最後的幾天，心情不大好，主要是未知前路、孤獨、腳傷未癒、思鄉情重，迷路依然，但羅馬之美是每每轉角處都是遺跡，有的宏偉得教人讚嘆不已，有的美得令人著迷，我慶幸羅馬是最後一站，不然，其他的都看不上眼。

08.08.26
飛往斯坦斯特德機場(Stansted Airport)的Ryanair是為六時多，本打算睡在羅馬查皮諾機場(Rome-Ciampino)大堂的我在十一時被告之機場將會關門，四時才重開。機場外早已有三十多名天涯淪落人在各個角落睡著，我跟巧遇的同機兩位中國女孩聊著聊著，三時才倦極睡了一個小時。抵英國斯坦斯特德卻被入境官拘留了半小時，原因是我的工作簽証格式不正常！一輪虛驚趕上巴士快綫往新住處去！

New Life in Hitchin, London

2008-08-27T20:11:00.002+08:00

One year ago, I arrived Dublin on 25th July, 2007. Break from teaching two years, went aboard to work and enjoy with an Ireland Working Holiday Visa.

Yesterday, I moved in Hitchin, London on 26th August, 2008. Finished travelling in Northern Ireland, Ireland, Poland, Scotland and Italy, will be a Mathematics teacher in secondary state school .

A bit nervous but more excited. Open a HSBC passport bank account, enquire for the broadband details, make a Hertfordshire library card, household and food shopping......everything familiar but new. I know this will be another challenging year.

Philip will come tomorrow with my gear and birthday present. We will have a good time.

最後兩個月在愛爾蘭的日子

2008-07-24T06:53:00.006+08:00

五月後我的感覺很凌碎，趁這多出來的時間，讓我好好用久違了的中文為這最後兩個月作出一點回顧及總結。一如以往，每天都很充實，分手、新歡、搬家、追訂金、找工、申請工作簽証......這一年，可以大聲說：「沒有白過！」，當然，是自己的選擇，不是嗎？

27.05.08
跟前男友分手，分得很爛，老死不相往來，是來到愛爾蘭後的一個重要轉捩點。心情七上八落，我們有過算是快樂的日子，他是我經歷過的最intelligent，沒有一個強大的support，忽然陷入迷霧。

28.05.08
回公司收拾一切，Peter McGarry這個律師樓，工作了快十個月，由自己一手一腳搭建出來的公司網絡、網頁和系統，落得連對同事說一句再見也沒機會更離開，要做到公私分明，談何容易。

31.05.08
跟Michael及Eisha詳談，上了他們家吃飯。他們是成功的過來人，但也支持我的決定。

080531-Michael_home

01.06.08
然後跟Brendan Dempsey去行山，他老頑童般的索吻略嫌過了火位，還是保持一點距離。

080601-Crone

02.06.08
Philip鍾情Pizza，多得Martino的成全，加上令自己也驚嘆的心思，才學會了home-made的Italian pizza，難得。

04.06.08
約在pub中分享Philip去Galway的相片，我沒能參與，只能望梅止渴。

06.06.08
安排了Philip的神祕晚餐，跟他的好友們(Warren, Trish, Brendan, Angela, Stephen and Mark)悉心安排，恰到好處的驚喜，他感動得掩不住對我的愛惜，那天，我們的關係明朗他。我的心情，很難言喻，能公佈天下的戀情，說怎麼也是一個好開始。

080606-Philip_secret_dinner

08.06.08
星期日如是跟An Oige去行山，我被故意前來的Peter著實嚇了一跳，只是一整天的扮作陌路人，大家相互都明白，完結了。

080608-Lugduff

11.06.08
是People’s College Creative Writing的”Write Away” Book Launch的大日子。有人借酒賣醉索吻，只是，我已學會怎樣應付，是因為Philip。

080611-Book_Launch

12.06.08
補祝六月十一日生日的，由早上九時開始準備，到他六點九珊珊來遲，湯水加上兩個Pizza，還有十四條手帕，加上親繪生日卡，應該很開心吧！

14.06.08-15.06.08
BBQ Weekend，兩天都是Philip領隊行山，很盡興，最重要當然是我們大晒恩愛，我受到前所未有的重視，在其他人面前的被肯定，很窩心。但亦得知一星期後的行山馬拉松，很想報名呢！

080614_15-Ballinclea Hostel BBQ Weekend

18.06.08
Philip的生日弄至一個雪櫃也是食物之後，要在搬家前獨力完成根本無可能，只好找出主兇前來借肚協助。

21.06.08
幾經波折終算報了名的行山賽事，當天天氣奇差，雨全程幾乎下個不停，加上臨時的組合相當可怕，在公路上也迷路！快去到Wicklow最高的山Lugnaquillia，卻看不到守在山頂的Philip，原來我們緣慳一面，他已從另一路下山接走我們跟在後頭所救的兩位女子，天啊！幸好有電話，他著我馬上跟電訊員下山會合，擦身而過的巧合，教我們細味。

晚上，還去了Petya的歡送會，Philip也有前來當攝影師，我也把他介紹給眾人，意外地他毫不害羞，驚喜之餘，當晚亦倦極入睡。

080621-Petya_Farewell

22.06.08
天氣仍然很差，原訂當天搬進Stephen家暫借住一個月，受大風大雨的影響，船期延後一天，於是我跟Philip去了教堂做禮拜，他比我想像中還要誠心，然後我們到了市中心看戲，沒怎睡過的他看得鼻鼾聲不斷，再吃過飯才依依不捨離開。

23.06.08
終於搬進新居了，Butlers的工作請假一個星期。新居常有Angela在左右，適應需時。

28.06.08
跟Philip去了Knockree做清潔，為綠茵處處的營地清出十多袋黑膠袋！精力旺盛的我倆接著去了Knocksink行山，很盡興！

29.06.08
還了去Croke Park欣賞Gaelic Football，支持Dublin的Angela可是叫得聲嘶力竭，Philip作勢要落場作秘密武器，加上全場人士的齊場歡呼，Irish對Gaelic Football的狂熱實在不能少看。

02.07.08
最後一個星期在Butlers工作，沒什麼大感覺，可能期待太久了。

06.07.08
行山眾人中，我已經榮升為最fit的女子，都拜幾近每天踏著那重型單車個多小時之功，希望不變象腿就好。

08.07.08-12.07.08
按捺不住計劃在愛爾蘭旅行。第一天跟Martino同行，其後有Angela陪同，去了一轉北愛，他們的巴士系統比起Dublin Bus好得太多，準時、親切、有效率，哈，亦因為我的安排得宜，我去了不少地方(Belfast, Bushmill, Giant’s Causeway, White Park Bay, Carrick-a-rede Bridge, Rathin Island, Portrush, NewCastle)呢。

080708_12-northIreland

14.07.08-20.07.08
Philip請了一個星期假，租輛車去南面的Kerry一轉，風光明媚，除第一天的大霧之外，每天的天氣都很幸運，地頭蟲的他常憂心我能否好好看清楚Kerry這地方，不停為我進補歷史、地理、生物的知識，獲益良多。

080714_20-Kerry

21.07.08
去了英國大使館做簽証，意外地他們收了我的Passport，被逼留在愛爾蘭！星期三一早買好的機票亦遭放棄，錢花了卻走不了，唉，嗚乎哀哉！

晚上是我在Butlers的farewell，誠邀這年內我用心交過的好友，星期一的大家都很累，但大家都不忘送了一件行山fliece作禮物，我會帶著她去旅行。

22.07.08
唯一沒來的Martino補請我吃午飯，是個很完滿的歡送吧。

23.07.08
託CWK寄過來的禮物，還沒收到，拿著CWK給的號碼到郵局查詢，不知什麼原因，今早才送到愛爾蘭，明天應該能收到吧！

下午四時收到英國大使館的電郵，我的英國工作簽証已經完成，也希望明天能收到吧！

然後，我的歐遊就要開始了！

Nassau Butlers and Me

2008-07-22T17:50:00.000+08:00

Christian, Petya, Geri, Arissa, David, Ying, Fabio, Lenka, Ann, Philip

They give me valuable memories in Dublin 07-08.

Explore. Just protect yourself

2008-07-03T20:16:00.002+08:00

Don't bother to use condom. Important to protect yourself from the attractive but dangerous world.

Source: Cannes Lions 2008, 潛泳在性愛海洋世界的女孩

童言無忌

2008-07-03T19:58:00.001+08:00

說實在，我也想不起鴕鳥政策，滿腦子只有「八萬五」。

想不到，董建華夫婦留下了不少集體回憶給香港。

Bad ending

2008-06-04T06:49:00.001+08:00

I do whatever I can to love you. I cannot wait. No regret.

Live better without me. I tried my very best.

Love or Hurt? Love and get hurt. So what? I still believe.

Brendan Dempsey 80th Birthday Party

2008-05-24T21:52:00.002+08:00

080523-Brendan_Dempsey_80th_Bparty

He is one of my hiking friends from An Oige Club. Cheerful. Optimistic. Thoughtful. I am lucky to meet him in my life. Cannot stop giving him hugs.

Thanks for Mr. Chiu and Fun Fun. I kept practices Chinese Painting and at least, I had one to give Brendan as his birthday present. Everyone in the party was delighted by this meaningful and handmade present.

I know my painting still had a long way to go but feel so good to give my friends special present!

Monolgue: To be a Queen

2008-05-24T21:45:00.003+08:00

It would not be an easy job to marry a man with a girl. A step-mother is always jealous. It is a cliché, a kind of prejudice, no matter what and no matter how good is the step-mother.

I was a servant, one of the hundreds. It was a lovely family-intelligent parents with beautiful baby girl. My madam had a soft and gentle heart. Every guy would like to protect her from stress and complicated life, so did her husband. My master loved her deeply. But in my opinion, it was in a very destructive way.

My master was a very strong minded person. That the way he was trained and used to be. He always needed to make wise decisions in politics, finance, army, food supply...when things involved lives, for the sake of everyone’s benefits, he would push himself too much. It was very dangerous. He put himself in a tiny little box. He soon lost all capacity for self criticism and self-contentment. He was not only controlling the country but also his family. He believed that was the best way to work and live. He knew his wife more than she thought. She was such an attractive woman that every man would like to have her, please her and love her. He secured her by making her pregnant. Her eyes would not leave him or their child. He would not be betrayed and could concentrate on the government affair without worries. A perfect plan, he thought.

The time he finished daily routine, it was already mid-night. His lovely wife, my madam, was still awake in bed to wait for him. Before we left the room, we could hear his snoring. I could imagine how lonely my madam was.

She spent most of her time on gardening, surrounded by servants, plants and animals. My job was to bring up the baby girl. I experienced what she felt: Her mother was sad, without enough attention from her father. But what could a 3-year-old kid do? She always got terribly sick. No sooner, ironically, she got a fairy name-SNOW WHITE.

It was no surprise that my madam did not get pregnant afterwards. My master made his time schedule completely full. There was even not a gap for having lunch together. I could see not only my madam but also my little master, Snow White, suffered. Why was there no subject in school teaching how to love? I had to do something.

I tried my very best to arrange a horse riding activity for the whole family. It was such a big task that every servant helped. Of course, we all loved to help and see them happy. They would appreciate it afterwards. A wonderful day the King finally could take a break from work. Everyone was excited. Snow White could not stop laughing and make jokes with me. How long hadn’t she had such a pinky face? We left the King and the Queen alone to enjoy their intimate time.

We went into forest to pick the colorful flowers for decoration. Snow White was born with a gift to sing and talk with animals. Our peaceful time was interrupted by dreadful screaming. The time when we ran back, the Queen was dead. She fell off from the horse.

I did not remember what happened afterwards. We had a grand funeral for our Queen. The whole country was covered with black. That made Snow White more awkwardly white. She did not look like a human being at all. She was only 16 years old. Her life had never been easy.

The King could not believe the fact that she was dead. He loved her. Although he was very cautious about their relation, he loved her. He missed her smiles. He could not stop himself walking in the garden, where his wife spent most of her time.

Snow White got seriously sick after that. I thought she did not want to be healthy again. She lost all her positive energy. I hardly brought her out to the garden to enjoy the sun and flowers. We met the King there.

The King could not believe his eyes. His wife was just in front of him-young, beautiful and sensitive. He could not stop himself hugging and kissing Snow White. I hardly separated them and found Snow White was very nervous with his father's sudden passion. Her father had lost his mind. He needed someone to take care of his empty heart. She said quietly to her father- she wanted me to be her new mother-the new Queen. The King agreed.

Can I choose? The deepest of my heart protested but I would obey my masters’ order.

The wedding was simple. I knew. I was only a substitute. I was not the one the King loved. He loved the old Queen. He loved Snow White but not me.

Time was always the best medicine to forget, especially the teenagers. Snow White was absolutely perfect. Too many princes had sent their wishes asking for marriage. The King rejected. She was his. He could not concentrate his work anymore. He had lost once and no more. He devoted all his time and love to Snow White, as if she was his wife.

Snow White got everything she wanted even had me as her new mother. She was not happy. She did not have freedom, the freedom of love. She fell in love with the huntsman. She knew that her father would go crazy if he knew. She shared all of these with her friends, animals in the forest. Animals got an apple from the cleverest dwarfs living in the center of forest. The one who ate this apple, even only a little bite, would fall into deep sleep immediately. Only the true love's kiss could restore him/her to life.

When she told me all these, her eyes were full of tears. She did not deserve to be trapped in the castle for her whole life. She did not need the distorted love from her father, who was the most powerful man in the country. No matter where they went, they would be caught and the huntsman would be killed.

On her 17-year-old birthday, the King held her a fabulous party. However, no one was dared to invite Snow White to dance. The King was always watching. When the time came, she jumped on the table and told all guests the story of the magic apple. After giving me last glance, she took a bite out of the apple and fell to the floor, seemingly dead.

The King could not believe his eyes. Everything happened all in sudden. He kissed her lips again and again but there was no miracle. He could not afford the second time he lost his love. I told him that the only way was to find out Snow White's true love. He ordered all the guys in the country to come and kiss Snow White, including the huntsman. Before everyone started, he picked up the apple and took another bite. I knew. He would not want to see who Snow White loved. Everyone in hall was shocked. Their King left his country and beloved citizens went into deep sleep forever. The Queen and Snow White were not able to kiss him and bring him back. Fear spread over everyone who forgot to start kissing Snow White.

I was the omniscient behind. What should I do? My little devil inside suggested I could be the first Queen to rule the country. I was too kind and honest to defy power and wealth. I love my masters and want them back. Once I cleared my head, huntsman was already kissing his Snow White back. He was too passionate to see her dance and sing for him again. Her first sight was HIM-her love-huntsman. They hug each other tightly no matter how surprised the crowd was. But the crowd learnt the way. “Our Queen can kiss our King back!”. What?

Only Snow White could see my fright. It would be sensational that King and Queen did not love each other. (That was how fairies worked.) I meant nothing to him. How could I tell these? Anyway, one kiss cost me nothing. Sigh…

He looked miserable lying there. The years with the old Queen, he ignored her, put her into cage. Once she left forever, he was deeply regretful. He should have done more for her. But it was too late. I looked pity on him and kissed him.

Maybe you know what happened next. Imagine God played a little trick and gave you second chance, would you still make the same mistakes? My Love would not.

---------------------------------------------------

It was written as my Creative Writing Class Writing Weekend homework. Peter helped to amend some of my grammatical mistakes. Susan, my teacher, said it was the best homework I have even handed.

Olympics with Tibet voice in Hong Kong

2008-05-05T18:44:00.003+08:00

What is going on in Hong Kong?

My colleague, David, from Czech Republic, asked about my views towards Tibet. Apart from any media distortion, I answered that I respected Tibet's culture. We should try our best to stop/slow down the flattening of the world. They may not need to be independent but China government should preserve their own language, religion and life style.

He was amazed. He asked some of his Chinese friends but they supported the viewpoints of China government anyway. He said:

I know the difference between Hong Kong and China now.

Time to review

2008-04-25T02:22:00.001+08:00

From April, I only work four days a week. I earn less but more time.

To find out the REAL Westerners' life, I came to Dublin, Ireland. They were written on my dairy:

a) Live long enough time to understand
Eight months passed. Although Ireland is not a well-developed country as other European countries, some cliches are not true. Europeans are not always taller than Asian. They are not always slow in working. They find that China is somehow better.

b) Work in countryside
I am looking forward to work in farm. However, working in tertiary sector is also on my list. Being a barista did change my altitude towards tidiness a lot. The hygiene standard is so high that we need to clean all the time. The best way to organize stuff is to fix their positions. Everytime when finished using it, put it back immediately. Therefore, even if the blind can know so that save time to find. Now, I make coffee even faster than the machine. I need to slow down to wait for enough pressure to heat the milk and the espresso to finish.

The ones working in service industry are all respectable. If they keep smiling and serve you very well, show your appreciation with tips. It is not easy to repeat the physically tiring job but still with good serving manner. As if they are in bad mood, please be patient, smile to them and order politely. This can keep you safe and be served in TRULY well. You never know what they did to your order. Please don't imagine what I have done to my customers.

In the law firm, I modernize their work flow with my computer knowledge. I learnt by myself though it is slow and difficult. After half year try and error, I have managed more and better. I hope.
Scanner. Wireless modoem. LAN network. File sharing. Login interface. Logmein. LanToucher. WireNotes. Label all files. Balances. Calendar. Cleaning schedule. Shopping list. Cheque re-organize.

c) Learn roller
Climate in Ireland is too bad. Sun can be out just after two-minute heavy rain. Planes sometimes get difficulties to land when the wind speed is over 120km/hr, so as cycling home. Irish are very strong towards their climate. Umbrellas are useless if there is strong wind with rain. They walk as usual or just stand under cover a while and wait it stop. They know that hard time always passes.

Anyway, it would be too dangerous to play roller on the street and also, expensive and bulky to carry back.

d) Learn any special cultural events
I would look for Irish Dancing details after I finished my painting class(Monday) and English class(Tuesday) next week.

e) Enjoy myself in pub
Going to pub is no longer a big matter to me. Just enjoy a scoop(SLANG: Take alcohol) and talk with my Butlers colleagues. Sometimes, we would have house warming party first and then drink in pub. I only take taxi home for one time in eight months. Mostly I cycled.

f) Make friends
It takes time to build close relations. After working together for six months, Lenka, from Czech, and Martino, Italian, are the ones who we usually meet and plan something to do. Jou, Chinese friend, always gives me free dinner and have me to repair her boyfriend's laptop. Petya, from Bulgary, cut my hair for free and loved music so much. Of course, there are more. That's why I still work in Butlers. I meet many different nationalities there and new faces. We all enjoy having fun together.

Frozen Times@Hong Kong

2008-04-12T14:52:00.000+08:00

FMTP organizes through FaceBook. This also helps to deepen the discussion of public space. We play but we think.

唐詩分享《春夜喜雨》

2008-04-10T01:05:00.001+08:00

好雨知時節，當春乃發生。
隨風潛入夜，潤物細無聲。
野徑雲俱黑，江船火獨明。
曉看紅濕處，花重錦官城。

—— 杜甫《春夜喜雨》

Karen's Wedding

2008-04-02T18:04:00.002+08:00

My best junior secondary friend, Karen.

Our days were simple but under pressure. She had a kind of family problem. I could not spend on any comics. Her academics were not good. I was not patient to teach her...

Karen was kind and easy-going. Thanks Facebook! We found each other and knew that she got married in March. It was a pity that I could not take part in it. I got her agreement to post the photo.

Hope you have a fantastic life with your love.

文章分享　《乜№食經﹕手機美食終極煞星》

2008-03-24T23:08:00.001+08:00

(明報) 02月 24日星期日

文﹕趙來發
編輯：翁昕歆
策劃：趙來發

【明報專訊】後現代的城市生活，總是這樣：一群朋友相約去吃一餐好的，目的是什麼無所謂，不外乎是為某人慶祝生日，某人剛轉了工，有時找不覑藉口，索性說「大家很久沒有聚過，不如聚聚吧！」

於是大家你電郵來，我電郵去；你SMS來，我SMS去；夾時間、選菜式、揀食肆、訂菜單，似乎十分重視，十分投入。

然而，到了聚會當日，卻發覺阿乜水臨時有事不來，阿乜姐公司要開會要遲點來，阿乜哥因阿媽八十大壽來Say Hello便要走，阿乜妹因接男朋友機八點便要走，阿乜仔遲大到八點幾才大模大樣的到來，阿乜№最終沒有出現又Call極唔覆。

一餐飯，本來好好地，卻因為大家遲到早退快閃甩底來去無蹤無心戀戰，結果變得支離破碎，叫早來的少數，不知如何點菜，也覺得非常冇癮。

這種虎頭蛇尾的飯局聚會，是我們的集體日常經驗。

現代城市人──或香港人不知何故，總是終日忙碌，或裝扮得非常忙碌，要一班舊雨新知／豬朋狗友／江湖兄弟／一夜情人，坐埋吃一頓飯，也要吃得如此「後現代」與「張愛玲」，怎叫人不情緒低落？

......

就算沒人遲到早退，只要有3個人同䒷，則任何時候，都必有一人在講手機，或用手機接收與發送SMS，就算不講手機也收發SMS。

......

另一種社交失儀，是在一頓飯兩三個小時中，卻眼不離手機。似乎人生苦短，不死盯著手機，便會錯失人生一個最重要的黃金機會。

其實，真正的背後心理只是害怕被遺棄的恐懼，在一炷香與一頓飯的時間內，如果你的手機沒有響過，便有如給世界遺棄。許多人不停地按弄手機，惶惶不可終日，就只是因為手機半天沒有來電。

......

用舊式新左派的術語，這種現象正好反映了現代人雖然忙於與別人保持聯絡，保持自己上網與能被Stay connected的狀態，卻與身邊的人非常疏離，缺乏話題，互不尊重，以至互相傷害的時代特性。

40年前，當免費電視啟播，徹底改變了香港人的家庭生活文化，在整個70年代，我們都是以電視送飯。

40年後，管他免費與收費，我們已不看電視，我們轉而以手機送飯。

......

面對這種世態炎涼，我最怕在跟人飯局聚會中，扮演統籌角色，因為充滿挫折感，費了九牛二虎之力，結果可能得個桔。

有朋友的父親80歲大壽，一眾兒孫要為老人家擺大壽。老人家卻有一項出乎大家意料之外的要求，否則便不要多此一舉。要求是擺酒當晚，大家要關掉手機，連轉震機也不行。

大抵，在過往許多次的家庭飯局中，大家不是忙於講手機，便是因為等候電話，弄至眼神空洞、心情抑鬱、披頭散髮、自言自語、問非所答、手忙腳亂。

老人家看在心裏，覺得落泊淒涼，才有這個卑微的要求，希望一家人能坐下來，專心吃一頓飯。

我不知道朋友的家人能否應許老人家的要求，朋友只是苦笑地說：「有點難度。」

全文轉載在此

每天，最心急的事情莫過於檢查電話的訊息，啟動電腦連上ICQ和MSN，發現根本沒有人留言給自己，卻還是頑固地不斷重覆每天的指定動作，有時會打破悶局，作為打開話題的一方，卻無奈被對方言之無味的回應報以沉默的落幕，究竟我們還懂溝通嗎？

Countrymen tease Townsmen about 16 things

2008-03-24T19:51:00.001+08:00

1. Drive car to go everywhere and take lift to 7th floor GYM Room to RUN on the treadmill.
2. Spend the sleeping nights in pub/bar and dancing club. Not surprised to get sleeping pills for insomnia after.
3. Son is (called) rabbit. Pet dog is son.
4. Choose a lovely restaurant to enjoy delicate food and talk about the harm of OBESITY.

5. Remove trees to build house but buy POT PLANTS for home.
6. Unknown if parents are sick or not in countryside. Bring the pet dog to veterinary hospital even a sneeze.
7. Ladies use clean napkins to remove mud on shoes but enjoy the barbecued chicken flesh from the hawker.
8. Among two or three hundreds numbers in mobile phone, there is none of the neighbours.
9. When drinking too much, take espresso to keep awake. When no drinking out, call friends out by giving free drinks.
10. The more the restaurants is, the fewer the toilets. In fact, they are under the signal “No pissing”.
11. Students are more fashionable nowadays. Dressed like after school at school and vice versa.
12. Love is inside the laptop. Wife is in other’s.
13. Locks work perfect on doors and windows. Locksmith is called to break them when keys are lost.
14.
15. High standard of living. Senior position. GUCCI suits. Broadview house. Mercedes-Benz car. Top restaurant. Together with. High blood lipid ratio. High blood pressure.
16. Feed dogs with bones. Eat the vegetables eaten by field chickens.

「鄉下人嘲笑城市人的16件事」：
1. 出門「taxi」，乘電梯上七樓的健身房，然後在跑步機上揮汗如雨。
2. 半夜上網，去歌廳、舞廳，困了不睡覺。之後失眠，再吃安眠藥。
3. 管兒子叫「小兔崽子」，管寵物狗叫兒子。
4. 挑最有特色的飯店吃飯，吃最可口的美食，在酒桌上大談肥胖之害。
5. 把路邊上植樹的地方用來蓋樓，在家裡栽盆景。
6. 鄉下的爹娘哪不舒服不知道，家裡的小狗打了個噴嚏趕緊去寵物醫院。
7. 漂亮的MM們，鞋上有一個小泥點子，一定要用高級的餐巾紙小心地揩掉；口紅淡了一定要補妝，很淑女；可是路邊燒烤攤上從俺農村老家販來的死雞崽子，都賣給了她們。
8. 手機裡存了二、三百個電話號碼，沒有一個是鄰居的。
9. 酒局多時作無可奈何狀，吃完「酒神」、「力克」等解酒藥，慷慨赴宴如赴死。沒酒喝時打電話：「哎，哥們兒，過來啊，整點兒，我請客……」
10. 飯店越來越多，廁所越來越少。廁所的標誌是「此地禁止便溺」。
11. 學生們穿得越來越時尚，上學像放學，放學像上學。
12. 愛情在自己的電腦裡，老婆在別人的電腦裡。
13. 家裡安了防盜門、防盜窗，卻總是丟鑰匙，然後請開鎖高手撬自己家裡的門。
14. 建廣場時，把大樹砍掉，再立 12 根水泥柱子，建一片水泥的「小木屋」和「樹墩子」。
15. 追求越來越高：謀高級職位、穿高級服裝、住高級住宅、坐高級轎車、吃高級飯店，患高血脂、高血壓。
16. 用排骨餵狗，吃鄉下喂雞的野菜。

在《大雄網站》看到《鄉下人嘲笑城市人的16件事》，為何眾多電話中一個鄰居也沒有呢？挺可笑。

Frozen Grand Central

2008-03-24T00:43:00.002+08:00

I believed it is one of the Performance art. Reading description before youTube, I hardly imagined it would happen in Hong Kong Time Square (in fact, I was right). How can people think something crazy and really take action?

I admit that I admire.

If it's not broken, don't fix it.

2008-02-22T05:40:00.002+08:00

Heart boxes crowded on shelves after Christmas. Misers complained about price rise.

Same customers ordered same drinks at the same time. Finally one day, GUYS rushed to shops for chocolates boxes. Three MEN were back and questioned why boxes were empty. What can they expect more from the Valentine's decoration?

Life in Dublin

2008-02-22T05:29:00.002+08:00

It was a HOUSE. Hong Kong is a tiny spot on map with seven million people. My family of five can only live in a flat of 500 square feets. After living in Dublin for three months, I moved into a house with other four Hong Kong young adults. Out of imagination, two-floor house with Garden! Can’t stop sharing with my parents on phone.

It is always windy in Inchicore Terrace. If the weather forcast showed the wind speed as 30km/h, it must be 40km/h outside. If cycling, I have to resist falling either left or right. If walking, you have to bow under hood protection.

“Wake up early for three mornings can have one more daytime”, said Dad. I always work early and will be the first one to be back. For sure, letters are on the floor. Nine out of ten are sent to the old tenant. My posts from my friends, family or students are buried but I won’t miss them.

If I came home late, I could smell what my housemate was cooking. Our weak ventilator keeps the grease everywhere. No matter how chilly was, windows must be opened to help. Though, smell would stay.

It is not easy to make meals after my housemates. We are new to cooking and always make mess. Dirty dishes were all around so as rubbish. No one care them before feeling satisfied in stomach. I do agree with my empty belly. I would feel much better if they can share their meals.

Just besides the rubbish bin, a pot of parsley was on the floor. It flavored my last soup very well by taking off all its leaves. Instead of being planted in the garden, it was dying in the middle of the kitchen. Time passed quickly without giving you notice. I have been in Ireland for six months.

Feeling like home, loosen clothes are the best choices. I wore far too much than in Hong Kong. Six layers of clothes, two pants, two socks, scarf, hat and glove added tones to my body. Although it would be a bad decision to take off without turning on heater, I like to feel relaxed and comfortable. You rarely find homes with heater in Hong Kong.

There was always one little thing with me aboard which is a doll-Pokemon Monster. My secondary best friend gave me as birthday present. It is small and light so that easy to be carried. It recalled our old good days beside the sea.

I am new to this country. We are saving money for travel after finished one-year working holiday visa. During work, we experience different ways of live and work-improving English and making friends. Every day, we share and learn from each other in our language-Cantonese. This help to ease the bad feeling of missing home. One day, we will be back and make effort with all the unforgettable experience.

My Favourite Food

2008-02-01T05:02:00.000+08:00

I love seafood, especially the one made by my dad. Among his specials, the crabs were the best.

Once he found crabs were fresh(that means alive for Chinese), fat and the most important-cheap, he would buy at least four for each, which was more than three kilograms. With the best ingredients, you could imagine how they taste hot and spicy by adding ginger, spring onions, chilly red peppers and oyster sauce. Crabs changed to red gradually in the hot wok. To increase their flavor, dad suddenly took out the rice wine. Once poured, crabs were on fire! I could smell the sea indeed.

I had to eat them with hands. The scissors, shell cover, body and legs of the crabs were cut into pieces. Dad would break their shells by beating hard with big knife. Everytime when I finished them, my tongue and the linings inside my mouth had to be hurt as I hurried to finish my FAVOURITE FOOD.

《席慕蓉詩選》

2008-01-21T03:43:00.000+08:00

看小楊的日記，知道了席慕蓉的詩，抽了其中三首，很美。

請翻看。

暮歌

作者: 席慕蓉
　
我喜歡將暮未暮的原野
在這時候
所有的顏色都已沉靜
而黑暗尚未來臨
在山岡上那叢鬱綠裡
還有著最後一筆的激情
　
我也喜歡將暮未暮的人生
在這時候
所有的故事都已成型
而結局尚未來臨
　
我微笑地再作一次回首
尋我那顆曾彷徨悽楚的心

已經預知的結局。

戲子

作者: 席慕蓉
　
請不要相信我的美麗
也不要相信我的愛情
在塗滿了油彩的面容之下
我有的是顆戲子的心
　
所以　請千萬不要
不要把我的悲哀當真
也別隨著我的表演心碎
親愛的朋友　今生今世
我只是個戲子
永遠在別人的故事裡
流著自己的淚

你的故事裡，有我嗎？

渡口

作者: 席慕蓉
　
讓我與你握別
再輕輕抽出我的手
知道思念從此生根
浮雲白日　山川莊嚴溫柔
　
讓我與你握別
再輕輕抽出我的手
年華從此停頓
熱淚在心中匯成河流
　
是那樣萬般無奈的凝視
渡口旁找不到一朵可以相送的花
就把祝福別在襟上吧
而明日
明日又隔天涯

心照。

短聚

2008-01-21T03:14:00.000+08:00

小錦來了又走了。
辛苦了，我的郵差 =p

我的路如何走下去？

My 5D students & colleagues

2008-01-11T05:15:00.000+08:00

Although it was a bit late for Christmas, I was amazed to receive presents!

What a nice Fucking Class Shirt! Long-forgotten names were signed with good/tricky greetings. Very warm in heart.

I have more than 10 Hi-tech 0.5 Black pen now! And also Instant Noodles! How rich I am!

Two Jay Chow CDs have revealed how I like him and so as my students like me. I have to tell that my every Jay Chow CDs were bought by the one who cared me.

CD Album is specially made by Teresa. I can't stop hearing them now! I will play them in Butlers shop...hehe......

I loved the letters most! They were from Teresa and Siu Yiu. They recalled my lovely memories. Thanks!

Crash

2008-01-06T08:18:00.002+08:00

When I cycled home, I crashed with a car.

Luckily, after repairing, my bicycle could nearly be back to its original state. My right shank was hurt-cuts, bruises and some swollen ligaments. Nothing special. I will recover in a week.

I have thought hundreds of crashes before I bought a second-handed bicycle. My sense of balance is not good enough to ride in straight line. I usually dont pay attention to traffic lights and car directions. The first time I rode, I was sweating.

Today, I was a bit lost-minded. It was so cold (3 degree Celcius) and even worse when you rode. On the way from city centre to my home(Inchicore), it was up-hilled. I cycled very hard by counting numbers because my related muscles were not strong enough. After finished one part, I needed to cross the road. The traffic light for cars and pedestrians were both red. I could see cars come from another direction crossing the road. I expected that car would not move even the light changed so I started.

Of course, I was wrong.

At the same time traffic light changed too! The car started its engine immediately and crashed with my bicycle.

I did admit that the handle bar saved my life/body. It was lopsided seriously. The front brakes were broken. The left derailleur controller was loosen out. Once crashed, I found that the power of car was really strong. The force was applied to the falldown of the bicycle. That was why my left shrank was only hurt but not broken.

The driver got down and wanted to blame me hardly. I was so sorry. He asked if I wanted to go to police station. It was all my fault. How can I act unreasonably to ask for anything. He did care very much to help me return the handle bar nearly back to normal and would like to give me a free drive to home. I was ashamed to accept his kindness. I promised to myself not to let avoidable accidents happen again.

I was lucky to have such a lesson without much loss.

Happy Christmas

2008-01-01T15:55:00.001+08:00

"Happy Christmas" but not "Merry Christams". That is the Irish's way.

Christmas is as important as our Lunar New Year. Starting from 17 Dec, Butlers rarely made 4-week roster. In such a small shop like Nassau street, the Peak hour there would have six people working. Everyone was crazy with buying presents for family members and friends. Chocolates were considered as popular presents. Customers always bought more than four boxes at the same time. Sometimes, they spent more than 100 EUR which is about 1000 HKD on chocolates. Really crazy, wasn't it? We were so busy and nearly all staff needed to work six days during the Xmas week. I worked 49 hours which was ten hours overtime.

In joining the nice Christmas atmosphere, Nassau Butlers staff played Secret Angle just like my housemates. When our master was not in the shop, we would discuss what to buy and others shared their ideas. This helped making presents more personal and suitable. Martino, who was my secret angle, gave me a bottle and pyjamas. I lost my bottle (Ernest's present) on my birthday date and I really wanted to have another one! Pyjamas were absolutely surprised but I liked them very much. I had too much hiking clothes so that I didn't have enough formal dressings or comfortable casual clothes. No more tight running pants at night!

Christian, my very good climbing/hiking/sports partner, bought me BODY SHOP shower gel and body lotion. Indeed, I liked the compliment Bath Lily more. He explained I had everything for outdoor activities. When he walked pass BODY SHOP, he recalled how I admired its altitude-environmental friendly. He did listened, didn't he?

Vincent, my housemate/son-in-law, gave me an electric heater. In the house, I always support turning on the heating system. If it was five degree Celsius, my body temperature would be two degree lower. With my professional hiking suits, I still can't keep my feet warm. Although it
would spend quite amount of electricity, he has tried his best to cater for my need.

Peter, my law firm boss, surprised me with a Digital Camera. He did not wrap the present and at the time that I just started to complain, I cannot stop screaming. This week, my old camera performed badly, like the shutter could not close properly. The battery door has broken for three years. I asked my sister(CWK) to buy me a new one two days before. Instead of taking out the new DC, I rang CWK immediately. I was relieved when I read her offlined message telling me she had not bought it yet.

On the Christmas Eve, our house family(Ben, G, Wendy, Vincent and I) went to church to join the mass. Everyone even the bus drivers stayed at home on the Christmas Day. NO BUS AT ALL! European would prepare a rich dinner including turkey for the whole family. However, my dear housemates were so busy to buy food for dayoffs. We could only prepare dinner just for stuffing up bellies. I had to say that we enjoyed so much to be together-preparing meals, chatting, exchanging presents...Very Very Warm!

On boxing day, I went to Co. Kilkenny and had relaxed so well overnight.

Other than above, I also received presents overseas (from Hong Kong).

My lovely sister sent me a Monkey phone bag.

PC Dog Notebook and card from my long-missed junior secondary schoolmates, 黃怡香.

Yip sir sent me card and fiction. It was so nice to read Chinese book!

Undoubtedly, this was my happiest and the most unforgetable Christmas! In Dublin!

Love

2007-12-23T22:44:00.000+08:00

Can you see LOVE?

I can.

Seriousness

2007-12-17T00:07:00.000+08:00

Have you seen such a sad face?

I should not miss it.

If I can, I would not show my broken heart. The time when I guided the school tour, although I would sigh and look absent-minded, I could still work perfectly. Tears would drop only without others.

Starting from this week, people in Dublin were crazy in shopping for Christmas. Hardly believed that Grafton Street was as crowded as Mongkok. My shop, Nassau Street, was also busy. We had five people working at the same time but still a long long queue. Pressure always drove people mad, so as our assistant manager, Lenka. She sent me out in urgent for buying cream. I took 20 EUR from the till and nearly ran to SPAR which had no stock at that moment. On the way to another option, Dunne Stores, I asked help from Wicklow manager, Veronica. They did not have spare cream and milk, too. After Lenka discussed with Veronica on phone, Kotaro and I needed to buy 18 2-litre fresh milk and cream with trolley. Milk and four 750g Chocolate boxes were very heavy and we could not find the cream there. On the way back to Nassau Street, we stopped at every convenient shop(CENTRA, SPAR…) until the one near Molly Mahone. It took us one hour to finish the tasks.

The cream was DAMN important. “Ying, don’t worry about the boxes. You can bring them after your break. I need the CREAM NOW!”, said Lenka. Come on, without cream, we can still sell hot chocolate. When other busy shops could fight for a better balance by selling lots of chocolate boxes, she just cared for CREAM! Kotaro had run twice for bringing boxes and rubbishes but still was in good mood. We asked Dunne Stores’ sales if we could return the plastic basket later because 18 bottles of milk were impossible to be brought back through a crowded and rough street separatedly. Kotaro insisted to buy the blue-cap fresh cream which had no additional flavor in it. We had tried our best to fulfill her order but still were blamed for coming late. I had not argued about her inaccuracy of time (one hour instead of one and a half) immediately. I could comprehend how busy the shop was but please, relaxed. Not only Lenka, but also Veronica and many others.

I was upset because Lenka did not trust me. I did know I had a funny face. I was a cheerful person with a big smile. I didn't care to be silly and childish to make jokes. But, it didn't mean I was not conscientious. I COULD MAKE right decisions with confidence.

That’s why I called Christian out. I did know I went mad when I told him what had happened. I was noisy and could not control my limbs hitting him and temper(just like Lenka) UNTIL he told me……

I shut up immediately and felt regret of my behaviors. I was not mature to convince others I could be trusted. His voice was gentle in quiet mood. That was my vital weakness.

A painful lesson—I should be more serious, at least, look like.

What a sad day

2007-11-20T07:52:00.002+08:00

I should have been happy these two days.

After 7-day sick leave, I worked for 13 days continuously. Finally, I got a day off on Sunday. I went to University College Dublin (UCD) for sports climbing with Christian. I haven't climbed for at least one year and really hungered for it. Christian, who is a Brazilian, is a seriously sports/rocks climbing addict. Haven't been treated as a student for a long long time, he was a strict trainer. He would instruct me how to climb and checked me every time before he climbed. He had to be serious because his life was in my hands. Every step should be made sure to be safe. I was not serious enough.

Today, when I was trying to backup PC01, I told Peter exactly the sentence before. He answered that not trying but you had to backup before reinstalling. I always used pompous words to have the dramatic effect. I forgot that I had to show my seriousness in some circumstances.

I was sad. Peter and Jack were so busy that they were late to leave. What have I done all time long? Getting something not directly related to be done. Everyone is under pressure but you can help nothing. It was really a bad feeling.

Dad was very angry that I asked my mum to send me belongings. He even did not say a word to me.

Together with Jay Chow's latest released album, my tears fell down again.

Good (New House) and Bad (Shingles)

2007-10-30T19:10:00.001+08:00

I have moved to the southern Dublin. Please send to my new address instead. (password: my HK mobile phone number)

It is amazing to live in a house. It is much bigger than my old living place, or in Hong Kong. Ground floor includes living room, dining room, kitchen and toilet. Two twin bedrooms are on the second floor. And, we have a GARDEN which is the same size as the house. We share the monthly rent (300 EUR) which is cheaper than my old one (320 EUR). Home is no more a flat/room/studio/apartment. My home is a HOUSE.

Living Room: TV is given by Butlers' old customer. He is so kind.

Dining Table: Place to work and draw. Of course, dinner.

Kitchen: Refrigerator which is taller than me is on the left.

Hanging Area: Sunny in the morning. Raining in the afternoon. Wash again at night :P

Garden: Plan to plant something can be eaten.

Toilet: One day, I would take a bath.

Hallway: Notice, letters, bus schedule.

Bedroom: Wendy and I share. Sometimes inside. Sometimes outside.

Our family has five members who are Ben, G, Vincent, Wendy and me. Ben, Wendy and G are fresh CUHK graduates and good friends. Vincent, who is F.5 graduate and same age as them, comes here to study English and learn to be more mature, for his ex-girlfriend. As you may know, after teaching in a Band 2 school for two years, I has nearly lost all my hope in Hong Kong future. However, they have projected a distinct image.

They love to read, both Chinese and English. Even teachers (my colleaues) did not read many (no time?), they read a lot everyday, through internet or newspapers. G starts to learn French himself and different kinds of wine with books. I help Vincent to revise English and he also reads e-fiction. What a good atmosphere at home!

In building a lovely home, we have had held two meetings to set up rules and discuss responsibilities. It is as serious as organizing an O-camp in CUHK. I am the secretary and for details, please have a look to the minutes.

There are always good and bad news. I am infected with virus which is called shingles. There are a band of painful spots on my waist. I ignored them on the first five days but was shocked to find a swollen gland at the joint position of right legs. I still remembered the time when I found a big cyst inside my belly two years ago. I could not wait any long and went to the Accidents and Emergency Departments at the St. James Hospital even it was Bank Holiday. The fee is 60 EUR. I arrived at 10:15 and was isolated within ten minutes. I waited for five hours without food or drinks. I had asked the nurse whether I can go to restaurant to buy some foods at half past two. They told me to stay at the isolation room and a nurse brought me tea and sandwiches at about four. After meal, a female doctor came. She checked the spots and tested my urine. She explained in detail and answered my questions politely. If I can see a doctor in the first two days, I can recover completely.

At my waist.

Now, even the shingles gone, my nerves may be hurt and may be painful
afterwards. To me, I was relieved that nothing went wrong with my ovary or kidney. I cannot work in Butlers for seven days as it is related to foods and may easily infect others who haven't got before. Time to rest, isn't it? After taking pills, I would be more tired and should recover in seven-day time.

I would take good care of myself, at least finish all the pills. Peter did help a lot in providing information (fees, departments...etc) on the way to hospital. Y00 Hey was very helpful. I bought insurance from him. He answered my enquiries with patience and I no need worried with the medical expense. Thanks a lot!

My Life is Always Busy

2007-10-24T22:18:00.001+08:00

Haven't updated for a month. Sorry.

I was very busy and tired.

Having worked as Barista for nearly two months, I am good enough to work efficiently. I am chosen to stay at Nassau Street Caf? whose staff are all very nice and helpful. Everyday, I learn more and at the same time, develop my way of making coffee.

As it is a small shop, one would work at till and other at coffee machine. If with old staff, I would be the till. As it is the third week to be there, I am confident enough even there is queue of customers. Although sometimes it is still messy around and coffee is not served in good appearance, I find myself starting to play a better role in the shop. I have 39 hours per week and earn 9 EUR per hour. When someone is sick or the shop is busy, I would be asked to stay longer and work overtime (13.5 EUR per hour).

The cost to be fast would be harm to my wrists and knees. My wrists keep twisting and I stand too long. After taking a bath at home, I would not move anymore. I have bought gel to relieve my pain. I hope they do help and later, I can get used to the physical works.

As you can read from the web, I am the technical support of the law firm. I love to work here. Peter said I would be full-time starting from January. Let's see. I would like to learn something new.

On Mondays night, I can have one hour and more to draw during the water and oil painting lesson. It was totally different teaching style from my Chinese painting teacher, Mr. Chiu Wai Ling. A paper of figures is given and we start to work on it without detailed explanations and methods. Teacher would go around and give comments personally. We can work on our own ways but at the same time, learn something new. The first lesson, teacher asked us to compare our paintings and masterpieces upside down. It was the first time I found that we always have subjective points of view even on figures. In the second lesson, I learnt to use rubber in shiny surface to create the texture of smoothness. We started to work on color in the third lesson. Unlike the Chinese one, the color dried very fast. I kept testing their natures in the right part but teacher told me to paint all the parts in the same tones of colors at the same time. One main difference between paintings and other art forms is that people grasp on the whole. We need to create sense of harmony on the whole. That's what Mr. Chiu did. It is not because of saving time from mixing but giving the same tone of colors.

On Tuesdays, I can get some exercises in Salsa Dancing lesson. Teacher is still young and keeps changing her approach in teaching. In one hour and 15 minutes, we dance with different partners. It is the easiest way in making friends happily.

I would live with four Hong Kong people later. We have rent a house with two levels and a garden. Tell you more next time.

Law Firm Website (Draft)

2007-09-30T02:30:00.000+08:00

http://bkkss.com/cwy/peter/peter.html

Please leave me comments on my first webpage design.

Coffee Training

2007-09-24T17:21:00.002+08:00

Life is not easy at all.

I have worked for Butlers Chocolates Cafe for four weeks. This week, it arranged three-day training to me.

Mon 09:00 - 12:00 Coffee Training
Butlers Coffee beans are manufactured by Bewley. Four fresh baristas including me went there by taxi and had training with Anna, our instructor. She told us there were four large coffee providing countries ( I only remembered Brazil). Butlers mixed these four in its own special recipe. Coffee beans were baked to melt their sugar inside which would be the coffee oil later and gave flavour. They smelt good and were in first-class qualities.

20 pounds of force should be applied to the fresh grinded coffee powder. I needed to put on my weight to meet this requirement. My right hand was not strong enough. Once the bean bag was opened and the beans were put in the bean hopper, they could be fresh for two days and four minutes if grounded.

I thought the skillful part was heating up the milk. With the steam, the fresh/low fat milk would be turned into texture milk which looked silky and had foam on top. Pour milk into a jug until half full and heat up with the steam. It brought in air and melt the protein and fat in the milk. Let it rotate clockwisely or anti-clockwisely. If the milk boiled, it smelt bad. About 65 degrees celsius was enough. Until that moment, I knew why I always got diarrhoea.

In Butlers, cappucino and latte were mostly the same. The only difference was cappucino with more foam on top by pouring milk out slowly and shaked it to make lovely pattern on top. I tasted my first cappucino and latte. Weak caramel machiato was my favourite. I can make coffee now!

Tue 10:30 - 12:30 Customer Service Training
Wed 09:00 - 12:00 Customer Service Training

It talked about history and products of Butlers Chocolate. It is 100% Irish products and at the same time, Butlers would expand globally, especially New Zealand, whose people love Butlers Chocolate. There were different types of boxes to choose from. They were embossed, giftwrapped and ballotin. We studies the numbers of chocolates insides and the prices. Different kinds of chocolates products included truffles(soft inside), toffees, fudge, bars and organic bars. All of these were packed in different weights and tastes. We tasted them and learnt their differences. It sounded good but was too informative! I did remember all the names but not the ingredients.

On the first working day after training, Lana, who is the training manager, came to the shop where I was working. Nassau Street Butlers had never been that busy before she wanted to train me in real situation. I worked under pressure because I nearly forgot all! Which buttons in the coffee machine went with which drinks? Proper ingredients and procedures in making them... etc. Lana was dissatisfied with my slowness. She wondered why I spent twenty seconds on pushing the coffee powder, cleaning the handles, heating up them milks each (She exaggerated 100 times!). "Fast, fast, fast" all the time. God! If I could work like her, she should be fired!

However, after that brain-lost intensive training, I got used to the flow and knew the clues to save time. I learn quickly as she gave clear instructions and corrected my mistakes. Lana was not bad at all. It was better to tell nothing but blame you behind.

Having worked for one month, I nearly know all the stuff in sales. I hoped I could know more about management afterwards. Butlers staff only knew their next-week roster every Friday evening. It was not good because they could not work at regular hours and every week, they may have different hours and place of work. They had to be flexible enough but somehow, we were more or less like modern slaves. Even if it was off, manager might call you to work as someone was sick or absent misteriously. Suddenly, you would be asked to work longer when the day was busy but leave early if not. We were paid at the lowest wage which was 8.65 EUR per hour and did not have much choice. This was why staff would be considered as OLD if he/she had worked for only three months.

Is it wise to manage staff like this? New staff always made mistakes and worked slowly. Managers and old staff would lose temper easily as they needed to train new people all the time. These lowered the quality of serving customers. Who is the loser?

I have worked in two shops and there are only one people who said he liked to work in Butlers. Others worked unhappily and would leave once they had found a new one. There were few that they could not leave at all. Butlers made their work permit. If they quit, they would be sent back home country. They have worked years and felt very bored. They were poor though.

Freedom to choose a job. Are you qualified to have that bargaining power?

Tag

2007-09-18T23:25:00.002+08:00

寫出填寫日期: 九月十七日
愛的食物: 海鮮
愛的顏色: 綠
愛的休閒: 運動、畫畫、看書
愛的科目: 數學
愛的老師: 陳熾洪老師
愛的口頭襌: 「XXX爛左...」、「唔小心...」
愛的小動作: 跳跳跑跑
愛的習慣: 在網上到處瀏覽，試用新軟件
愛的人[女] : 婆婆、媽媽、妹妹、蛇主們、學生們
愛的人[男] : 爸爸、師兄們、小應、學生們
愛的運動: 行山、跑步、壁球、游水
愛我的人: 家人、CSers、學生們
愛的季節:夏天

如果有機會可以讓你重回一個時間，你會選擇回到那個時間？
大學一年級

如果唔駛返學/返工你會點呢？
探婆婆

如果中500萬獎金，你會怎麼花？
跟家人、朋友一起吃大餐，然後跟家人或自己去旅行，再留一點投資

你覺得邊件事係令你最難忘既?
中六當社長時，陸運會兩天拼命得暈倒場上

這輩子最想去的地方?
能自給自足，有我愛及愛我的人的地方

最開心的事: 親朋好友對我的愛
喜歡的地方: 海邊

當你好沮喪的時候，你會選擇做D咩?
喝悶酒

最想過一個甚樣的生日?
我珍惜的人記得我生日，祝一句「生日快樂」

呢一刻最愛geh歌?
Secret

Account Data Loss at Law Firm

2007-09-13T16:24:00.001+08:00

After teaching for two years, I know how to motivate people to work.

Appreciation and Trust.

Leo, who never passed in Mathematics and played for half year during lessons, finally made friends with me and got his first pass. He was impressed when he handed in worksheets to me after school. I gave him a candy in return. It made him feel good to be praised. He changed gradually and somehow, it is miracle to teachers in school.

The same principle can be applied in work. This time, it is my law firm boss, Peter.

He praised me in different ways.

Here is one of the SMSs he sent to me:
Thank you for being so patient in the office, you make the whole place better.

Every time when I left the office, he would give me salary in cash and thank for my great work. He even apologized at the first time because of the low wage he could only afford. Weeks later, he asked me to take the money myself from the drawer.

He would try his best to co-operate with my suggestion. He asked me to make a balance sheet in every consultation time of client and stick it to the inside cover of the corresponding file. I proposed to have e-files instead. It would be better in calculating the fee time and charging clients. He accepted.

As I have another job, I can work whenever I am free. The café’s working hours are not fixed every week. It is finalized on Saturday afternoons. I would then text Peter about my next week working hours.

He always gives me surprises. Hong Kong-Shenzhen Technology Roadshow to Dublin, my birthday presents and, the Christmas Trip(in advanced) to ITALY!!! He has an apartment there and will bring all the colleagues (Andy, Jack, Dario and ME) to have a three-day short trip at the end of November. It is FREE and Andy told me that not every company in Ireland would have this kind of benefits. Woo!

I hope to have good performance in the firm. After they left on Thursday, I configured on every computer so that they would not be disturbed anymore. I installed the antivirus software, removed unnecessary softwares, re-arranged the folder permissions and mapped the drives. I made everything work well before I left at eight. They may not know the differences but I have stopped the insecure holes.

However, I would ask myself not to work after five ANYMORE. I have REMOVED the accounting software accidentally.

On Friday, after working from eight to four at café, I read from Andy’s SMS and knew how big the fault I made. I hurried back office and heard from Jack about the situation. I did remove the software but the data should be here. But they are gone! From the remaining folder, I knew they must have tried hard throughout the day. They have copied files to and from the remaining folder. Actually, this only worsen the situation but I did initiate it. How silly I am! I always make troubles to myself and spend double or more times to fix them. SHIT!

I make use of every measure but it took time.

1) Re-installed the software, Lex. but FAILED.
Visual Basic 5.0 error. One dll file and ocx file installed failure.

2) System Restore. FAILED.
Please ask Bill Gates.

3) Recovered from backup. FAILED.
They did not backup the Lex folder in the program files.

4) Disk recovery software, R-studio. FAILED.
It took me four hours in scanning the harddisk completely. Due to keep writing data into the harddisk, I cannot find the deleted files in the folder. Jesus…

5) Re-installed the software, Lex. SUCCEED.
I learnt the Lex by reading the CD. It was designed by a small software house. They should not robust enough to handle worst cases. I manually copied the files back to the program directory. It worked again.

6) Another disk recovery software, Easy Recovery Professional.
There are four different kinds of recovery. I tried them one by one and each took me one and a half hour to scan: data recovery, advanced files recovery, raw recovery and finally format recovery. For the first three, I found nothing. I don’t know why. It was so abnormal. When it was performing format recovery, I was desperate and tired enough to fell into sleep on the sofa for two hours. At six in the next morning, I searched on the results and finally got the lost files, bookman.mdb. It was last updated at 4th Sep. It should be the one.

7) Upgrade the software, Lex. HALFLY SUCCEED.
The upgrade CD actually overwrote the existing old-version files. It stopped in the midway and I copied manually. Hope it can work well on Monday when Jack tested it. I do know there is still something wrong in generating report.

At half past eight, I left the office. I did not go out for dinner but ate up all the bread in the fridge. It was lucky that someone opened the door for me but they were surprised to see me like ghost. It was better to know that I was locked at that moment or I would find myself extremely poor! 15 hours!

Please work well on Monday or I would not forgive myself.

Chocolate Cafe Waitress

2007-09-05T01:22:00.001+08:00

It was not easy to be a waitress.

I loved Chinese Culture and so do my body. As I had written, I did not like coffee, butter, cheese and some kinds of milk. I even found the western cooking methods which were mostly frying unhealthy. I knew nothing about common foreign foods. Say, using sandwich cooker to heat up sandwiches and making salad.

Now, I learnt different names of coffee, chocolates and foods at one time. A pregnant woman, Jolanta, found hard to believe my confusion in yohurt and milkshake. For the muffins, I mixed up the blueberry and lemon pecan taste until there was one customer corrected me.

I behaved like a country girl.

Barbara, who is a Polish, is helpful to teach me from the very beginning. She made notes for me in remembering different coffees went with specific chocolates and plates.

CHOOSE CHOCOLATE
cappucino, latte, americano, white americano, double espresso, double espresso macchiato, tea, herbal tea

HANDMADE CHOCOLATE
caramel macchiato, chai latte, chai tea, mocha, white mocha, hot chocolates, iced coffees, milkshakes, affogato, chocolate affogato

MILK CHOCOLATE
espresso, espresso macchiato

SMALL PLATE WITHOUT TISSUE AND SPOON
espresso, espresso macchiato

REGULAR PLATE WITH TISSUE ONLY
latte, mocha, hot chocolate, chai latte, chai tea

REGULAR PLATE WITH TISSUE AND SPOON
cappucino, double espresso, double espresso macchiato, tea, herbal tea, caramel macchiato, white mocha, iced coffees, milkshakes, affogato, chocolate affogato

LARGE PLATE WITH TISSUE AND SPOON
americano, white americano, large cappucino

For the first week, I worked as cashier. Make clear customers' order, type into the computer, get the changes, place the right plate if sit in and ask for his/her favourite chocolate. Customers spoke their own favour quickly. For example, low fat latte, cappucino with soya milk, strong americano extra hot. When they ordered more than one, I could not remember at all. At first, I needed to type in one by one, repeated myself word by word, like dictation. Together with different kinds of foods which were in different tabs in computer, I can only work slowly to avoid mistakes. Then, the queue became longer and longer. Practise make perfect. I know it would be better at the end of this week.

I like to be busy. This helps time to pass by easily. In the cafe, I cannot stop myself in working. I want to learn as fast as possible. I had to recite all the chocolate names so that customers would find me professional in picking up the right chocolates with names only. Next week, I should learn how to make drinks. Although I don't drink them except hot chocolate, I hope I can make good coffee in returning Hong Kong.

Experience something new is good to broaden one's horizon, isn't it?

My birthday (27-31/08/07)

2007-09-01T23:46:00.002+08:00

Having passed my birthday, I was reborn.

No more unrealistic expectation. Love is all around.

Two days before my birthday, I had my birthday cake with my two new Malaysian friends. Under a clear sky, sitting on the steps along the street, a cake with two candles, I made my wish. It should be the first delicious cheese cake I had had.

Thanks! Foon and Eric!

The day before my birthday, I had Whiskey and Guinness with my two new Hong Kong friends. One had decided to quit his current demanding job and one had just lost his life direction. They respected me as if I were their teacher. I hoped my advice did help them.

Mixing two kinds of alcoholic drinks would surely lead you dizzy. I know. Someone had already given a lesson on me. Anyway, I'd like to.

Ten minutes before the date, I told GMax what I was waiting for. Within the following two hours, I was waken up by the nice greetings from GMax, Vincent and Wendy. Was it what I needed? Was I drunk?

It sounded a bit sad, right?

Not at all.

Out of my expectation, Chicken rang to test my phone number. I could not stop myself from sharing happiness with Peter. Peter immediately sent Jack to buy a birthday card and gave me 30 EUR more as the birthday present. I had bought a warm douvet, bath towel and face towel later.

In the afternoon, Horse Dad and Pig Mum told me they had received the letter. Mouse Sister sent me an email from Japan. Dog Brother sent me an ICQ message. My family never left me alone.

Through the Internet, my students and friends sang birthday songs to me in words. My lovely sister, Teresa, had tried her best to celebrate with me. Blog, email, cards...

My oldest friend, Yuen, also sent me an email. Thanks.

Please forgive me from taking a break in writing blogs. I am much better now.

Happy Birthday to ME! (29/08/07)

2007-08-29T22:27:00.001+08:00

Glendalough (26/08/07)

2007-08-27T23:43:00.000+08:00

As Wendy urged to have fun together, I suggested to go hiking in Glendalough where I have hungered for long time. It was the first time we left Dublin and went to Country Wicklow. We could take a short break from the city life. St. Kelvin bus left at 11:30 in Dublin and it would leave at 17:30 in Glendalough. There would be four hours for us to visit.

We took photos at the monastic settlement and the splendid scenery. Take consideration of our physical fitness(Wendy wore sports scandals and Vincent were lazy-bones) and lack of preparation(no food and water), we chose the hillwalk (Spink 380 m) instead of climbing up the Camaderry Mountain(700 m).

Lower Lake. The kids were strong enough to swim in autumn-like weather.

Wendy and Vincent were enjoying the strong cool wind after a long gentle walk. They were stunned by the valley and lake.

How romantic to enjoy chatting with the view of Upper Lack!

When we were back to City Centre, we joined the chat of a Japanese Professor and a street artist. The artist were drawing on the ground with a Polish girl. The artist insisted to finish the painting even it was smashed again and again by the police or rain.

I invited the Japanese Professor to have dinner with us. He said I behaved like his granddaughter. I could read from his eyes that his four offsprings always left him alone. He was lonely.

Working Machines (25/08/07)

2007-08-27T23:23:00.001+08:00

Abbie, Wendy and I went to Dublin 22 to visit GMax.

I was told that the restaurant was one of the first five Chinese restaurant in Dublin. The decoration and the furniture were the Chinese first class. I was impressed at the front door gate. It was a big grand woodcarving bought from Hong Chau. You would think you were in China when you was having meals there. As we were poor enough, we ordered the main course(鬼頭餐) (14 EUR) instead of Dim Sum (6.5 EUR for each). I appreciated the good quality of beef but on the whole, I found the main course food was only average.

We talked with the boss. He shared his manage experience with me. There were big car parking beside, two highways and four Chinese Markets nearby. Customers can drive from anywhere conveniently and meanwhile, the local Chinese market was large enough to support. With the food quality and traditional Chinese settings, he believed that it was wise to open it in Dublin 22.

He suggested us to get the EU passport. It would then be easier in working in any European countries. Together with 回鄉証, he can visit most world countries without visas. We were still young and it was worth spending time in getting the identities.

Abbie had found jobs, one part time and one full time. She has worked the part-time one for two nights and started the full-time one on Monday. I hope she can work happily. For GMax and Wendy, they were getting worse. Although the living and dining expenses are included, they worked overnight, too long and too hard. They became working machines. Wendy got hurt on her back and feet as she stood too much. GMax's face was even swellen. They have good personalities and altitudes of working but are exploited by the demanding Hong Kong bosses. Everytime when they are blamed or teased, they would put more effort to do better. The cycle does not end.

It would be good that they are finding jobs. I hope they can escape soon.

I am a lucky woman (24/08/07)

2007-08-25T18:03:00.001+08:00

I am lucky.

I would start working as a part-time Butlers Chocolate Cafe waitress from next Monday. (Reference: My First Tear Droplet (15/08/07)) Actually, they did forget to contact me. I was eager enough to dial them again and again. It is a famous chocolate brand name in Dublin. They opened two new cafe these days and the HR (人力資源) manager might be too busy to arrange my schedule. It was worth working there. Ma Li said it was hard and busy shop. I liked that.

Ma Li was a kind woman. Before I was called by Butlers, she sent me message and was concerned my working status. How can one care you so much even you had done nothing good to them? WHY?

During these two years, I always chatted with Nitrogen through icq. We were tired in protecting ourselves to new comers and colleagues. Every time when we helped others, they were expected to repay for our kindness. It could be a free drink or lunch. No one would give you a FREE hand. I got used to it already.

Then, I was always shocked by everyone's kindness in Dublin. As I was poor and hungry all the time, people always paid for me. Ma Li helped me to rent a cheap and convenient flat and find a well-paid waitress job. Pavel and Wendy taught me every aspect of living. My boss and colleagues were helpful, gave me chances to learn and believed my abilities. I could do nothing in repaying. Maybe it was not worth haggling over a few pence. I should open my mind.

I worked the second half day at the law firm today. I sat in Peter's room instead of Andrew's. This helped me easier to ask questions and make clear his instructions. He was really a GOOD BOSS. He persuaded me to ask whenever I had questions, took initiative in teaching me legal terms and even spelling to me letter by letter, and even he felt sorry to pay me less for my excellent performance. WHY?

Peter was different from others. He enjoyed nature and was cheerful all the time. He knew the way to work. He comprehended the power of IT and tried hard to simplify the work procedure with it. He welcomed new ideas and was curious to new knowledge. Making use of my tri-lingual ability, he grabs the chance to join "Hong Kong-Shenzhen Technology Roadshow to Dublin" held at 17 September, 2007 with ME!! WHAT!? I never imagine about that! A PRECIOUS experience! See what I can do for the company.

I changed my altitude in helping people. In the library, there was a Chinese woman asking me about the hospital letter. In the past, I would imagine she wanted to distract me and steal my belongings. This time, I sat down, took out my electronic dictionary, checked with her one by one. After that, we even chatted more about our background. She seemed to be lonely. She could not get used to Irish life but she would not go back to have harsh life. She even taught me how to immigrate to Ireland. Just as Jill's blog written, everyone striked to his/her own goal but we are totally different!

Today, I went home early. I was busy enough for this week. I do admit that I was not as productive as before. I am trying to finish tasks one by one instead of parallel processing(as they are not urgent). I would wake up two hours earlier to make breakfast and lunch box myself. Read newspaper and dress up myself slowly. I found I can do better in this way. I would not overlook the details.

It was the first time I cooked rice in Dublin. Gradually, I found that foreign food was not that good. It was all well-cooked/well-cleaned/well-canned. It would be simple and easy to make meals but this destroys the original food taste. Say, the rice looked nice but did not smell good. You have to make use of the Mayonnaise, Pasta sauce and ketchup. My dad cooked most of the dishes with salt and garlic only. This can keep the raw sweetness of the food. Absolutely, my dad's dishes are healthy and delicious. I love them very much!

This week, I can earn my rent.
Maybe next week, I can earn my living.
And one day, I can even earn my learning!

Care Giver and Cooking (22, 23/08/07)

2007-08-24T19:08:00.001+08:00

My second part time job will be a Care Giver. I will go to the clients' home and provide services which include grooming, bathing/showering/washing, cooking, feeding...etc. As I had no experience at all, I joined the 2-day training which started at 9:15 and ended at 16:00.

Is it possible to learn from nothing to be professional in two-day time? DON'T BE SILLY. The training was informative, hurried in time and lack of practices. I will work ALONE in the clients' home. I know nothing about the safety measures, protective equipments and tasks procedures. I tried my best to imagine but there was still a long way to go. Say for cleaning the commode, using one drop of bleach is enough. I had never used it before! The trainers were patient enough to answer me from the very basic point of view. They were helpful, weren't they? I learnt so much!

From the training course, I made my first Irish female friend, Clare. She was amazing! At the end of the first-day course, she thanked me for asking good questions and she gained a lot. She appreciated them instead of being annoyed with my ignorance. After we finished the lesson on the second day, she even went to Tesco(=中檔City Super) and guided me around to introduce different kinds of ingredients in making Irish food. It took her nearly two hours. She was so kind!

During the tour, we kept talking and finding the related things. They could be smashing tools, stew powder, Chinese leaves(Pavel had mentioned last time)...before we started to find their location, people nearby always took initiative to give us clues. There was one even praised Clare to be an excellent tour guide! They were so nice! Clare said that this often happened. I hardly imagined it would happen in Hong Kong.

Pavel did change my altitude towards cooking. Last three weeks, I spent fifteen minutes in cooking and another fifteen in eating. I was always in hurry. Pavel said that it took him an hour to prepare and cook but maybe fifteen minutes to eat. I should enjoy the process but not rush. In preparing the pork, he made use of egg, flour and golden crumbs. In preparing salad, he mixed Mayonnaise with Mustard and little water, cut the cucumber, pepper, lettuce, tomatoes into pieces. It took time but it was enjoyable. I have practised the dishes of salad and baby potatoes throughout this week. The details of cooking was important. I first designed the dishes, thought about how to make them delicious, do them step by step and be patient to cook them thoroughly. It got better in the third try. My birthday is coming but it seems that I was still a baby who know nothing in the world. What a shame! I borrowed the cookery book suggested by Clare in the library. I needed to learn hard.

There are tones of stuffs waiting for me to learn and try. Thanks for the guides!

Why am I here? (20, 21/08/07)

2007-08-22T20:20:00.001+08:00

GMax was off.

As Peter (my law firm boss) wanted to see me suddenly at noon, I was late for the air crew interview. It was re-scheduled to next Monday. I joined GMax, Wendy and Andy(GMax's colleagues, Working Holiday Holders) to have lunch together instead. They seemed to be serious. Wendy told what she heard from the old Working Holiday Holders last Saturday. She was persuaded to quit the Chinese Restaurant waitress soon as it was meaningless to work for Chinese here.

I could feel their uncertainty. It was not easy to find jobs which they could work with foreigners. Andy studied hard for his lover. Wendy was busy with her beloved one. GMax was tired from work and did not find the way out. They were so heavy that we could not enjoy ourselves happily.

Once finished, we all left on our own business. Andy and Wendy were back to work. I left GMax alone and went shopping for the formal clothes for three hours (sigh...). After that, I joined GMax for dinner. Although I would be under starvation for the following month, we did enjoy ourselves. No one could acquired much wisdom in a few days. He put too much pressure on himself. He followed up the history of the statues we found last time. He worked too hard to learn quicker as a bartender. His hands were hurt and he slept late. He lost his energy and the sense of humor. I was worried.

After that, I was hurried home to sleep earlier. My first working day was coming.

In the office, there were only men. My boss, Peter was the solicitor. Andrew was helpful to guide me to the Four Courts and set up my computer. He would leave to continue his study from the 7th of September. Jack seemed to be serious and silent. I hadn't talked with him yet. Dongal was an Italian and new to office, too.

Anyway, I was back to the paper work again.

Question Time
==========
When the baby potatoes grow up, what will they be?

I wonder:
======
Will they become bigger? Will they be named as Father or Mother potatoes?

Well, is it funny? I had been teased for the whole morning. (Moaning...)

Guided Tour and Cooking Lesson, by Pavel (19/08/07)

2007-08-22T00:49:00.000+08:00

Pavel and I went to take photos at several places. After that, he gave me a great cooking lesson. He was the guide and I was a tourist. What a nice day!

It was the Irish National War Memorial Park. The sky was grey and so did I feel in the Park. Pavel told me about the First World War and Second World War.

Can you see the words on the wall? It commemorated the 49,500 Irish soldiers who died in the First World War. It was bloomy when I was standing there.

We followed the guide to walk around inside the Kilmainham Gaol. It was a new jail design at that time. There were cells all around and the guard patrolled on the bridge.

I went into one cell and tried to feel the coldness and loneliness but failed. The wall was newly painted because the jail would be closed later for movie to take scenes.

I closed the cell door and pretended to be locked. Pavel took photo through the little hole. This looked like I was framed.

After, we went to the Irish Museum of Modern Art. We found the designs rather confusing but the statues outside were amazing. The rabbit was energetic indeed.

Can you guess what they were? BABY POTATOES.
I always saw them in the markets but I did not know how to cook with it. In Hong Kong, the potatoes were big in size and had brown skins. Actually, it was easy to cook. Peel them(optional), boil them in water with lots of salt(Pavel's choice) but remembered, leave the pot open(by Pavel's laboratory). They were delicious and you would be full. YUMMY!

A Happy Day (19/08/07)

2007-08-22T00:30:00.001+08:00

From the Travellife, there was a Working Holiday Day/Hong Kong people gathering at three o'clock. Here were the programme details:

15:00 Chatting in a cafe at the St. Stephen Green Shopping Center
18:00 Dinner at Boccaccio Italian Restaurant
21:00 Drinking at a Bar near Dame Street

I met at least over twenty Hong Kong people. We shared our experience happily. I had spent eight hours with them! A new way of relaxing, TALK and TALK!

I found hard to remember all their names. But there were still two I wanted to mention.

Iris, who is an elegant girl, is a Poly U Fashion graduate. She has friends all over Europe and plans to work as H&M sale for three months only in Ireland. She would continue travelling to join her friends. She got the job with delivering nine CVs only. She has rich well-known brand sales working experience. When she was still a University student, her friends were foreign students or American-born Chinese. She usually enjoyed herself at 蘭桂芳. Maybe she spoke English more than Cantonese!

The time when I was studying in CUHK CSC, the exchange students were mainly from mainland China. In the campus, I could only see one or two foreign students. CUHK seemed to be less international than Poly U in this area. We usually had a drink at Tai Po/Shatin/Fo Tan 大排檔. We lived with nature which was big and quiet. We felt comfortable with casual wear. I found another ways of studying from her.

Wendy, who is GMax's classmate, is cheerful all the time. It was the first time that GMax was absent between us. It seemed that we talked even more and deeper. We talked about the emotions and plans as if we were old friends. Others and I persuaded her to quit the Chinese Restaurant job as soon as possible. It would be better to work with foreigners. We came here for live experience!

There were some who had finished their working holiday already but still stayed here. They might enroll a master course to get student visa, work or enter a professional stream and got work permit. They found that living here was better than in Hong Kong. You can only be a working machine in Hong Kong but you can also enjoy life in Dublin. In Hong Kong, people always work over-time and finished at high speed. They worked under high pressure but there were only few bosses would appreciate. Are they(you) happy?

If it will take three months for me to pick up the law firm clerk, I would tell you that I took seven months to feel comfortable to be a teacher last year. I always adapt to new environment easily but not being a teacher. If you devoted to it wholeheartedly, it was exhausting. You needed to be an all-rounded superman/superwoman. You acted as a counsellor when you were convincing the demanding parents. You acted as parent when you were teaching problematic students. You wanted to behave well between colleagues by good manner, efficiency and good examination results. Together with the administrative works, extra-curricular actvities and heavy marking classworks, you can sleep in three seconds once you lied on bed.

After job hunting for nearly one month, everything settled. I can earn my living and start to enjoy my Irish life.

However, I miss everyone I love in Hong Kong. I have bought 100 envelopes! Send a letter (not email) to me if I do not have your address!

Final stage, Fingerprint, Cooking (17/08/07)

2007-08-18T18:28:00.000+08:00

I checked email in Drumcondra library at half past ten. I took a deep breath before opening the email sent by the law firm. I had entered the final stage and they would like to see me at once. I hurried home to get my profolio and then their office.

The interviewer checked my qualification and reference letter carefully. He seemed to have a bone in the throat. He concerned about my two weakness, I had no official/legal experience and my English level was not good enough. However, he needed someone to pick up the job immediately. I wondered he wanted to lower the salary or simply explained that I failed to get the job.

He wanted me to be part-time, two days a week. I can be trained to meet the standard and eventually employed me as full-time. Woo...what a GREAT idea! He gave me chance to work here even I was not qualified yet. Once I had passed the first interview, I did know that my English was ok but not excellent. I tried to borrow DVDs and CDs to listen more. He just told me the best way to improve is SPEAK more. It would be more enjoyable! I'd love to work with him.

I met another net friend, Abbie, in the afternoon. She arrived two weeks later than me. She was kind and walked around with me to ask for the certificate of fingerprint. I asked by phone and in person at the Garda(=警局). I was passed around and nearly annoyed. For the Hong Kong Overseas Citizen in applying the No Criminal Conviction, I needed the certificate of fingerprint taken by the local police. In Ireland, they called it certificate of character reference. At last, I was told to write a letter to the Garda Central Vetting Office and asked them to release my information. It took two weeks. Together with the postal time to and from Hong Kong Police and the Airport Authority, I thought I could start my Coffee Shop work two months later. God!

Then, we went shopping together. Let this be the lesson, women should not go shopping together. They would buy more. Well, I spent 17 EUR on buying food, can opener and saving box. It was so heavy to bring them back home. A long long way!

I spent more time on preparing dinner. I wanted to try all the food once in the supermarket. This time, it was the Irish sausages. I fried them long or wbc would tease me again. I might buy an apron soon. The boiling oil always hurt me. I had two dishes for my dinner. After listening to Gmax's advice, I cooked the pasta/noodles longer. He was right. They were more delicious now.

Second Interview, Malaysian friends and Mr. Chiu (16/08/07)

2007-08-17T19:43:00.000+08:00

For the law clerk, I had the second interview at twelve. I was eager to get the job and spent the whole morning in preparing the script.

The interviewer said I could be a Mathematics teacher which can earn 40 EURO per hour. I may be over-qualified for this job. Well, I should hide my qualification and experience next time.

There were three left in the second round interview. There was still one to go. He admitted that I had all the abilities needed. But still, he needed to consider. I answered his worries one by one. I repeated that I did not care about the salary. I chose to work in office because most Irish worked like this. At the same time, working in a legal environment, I could know more about their complaints and arguements. It was exactly what I wanted to experience in Ireland. This job was challenging because I had no experience in this field at all. He agreed that it would take about three months for me to feel comfortable.

Before, I did not like this job nature. I have no formal dressing and I needed to buy all if I got the job. However, I knew that he must be a good boss. He admired my wide range of interests including calligraphy, Chinese paintings, marathon and hiking. For the last law clerk, he trained him/her well. He/She left after 17 months and became other company wanted to hire him/her at once. When I asked about the need of over time, he said it would not happen here. He said people lost their creativity and energy if they did not have time to relax and enjoy.(If the Hong Kong boss comprehended this, there would be fewer mental sufferers) He was enthusiastic to work, too. He shared cases with me. There was a phone call at four about his client being arrested. He was under high pressure in dealing with it properly and giving help to him/her. It would be a pleasant journey to work with him.

Anyway, I waited for the good new and reflected what I have said. I had four interviews and learnt a lot from them. GREAT!

As I had received the employment letter from the elderly one, Comfort Keepers, I went to get my PPS number. It helped me to cut the tax rate from 42% to 20% and I could get back money quicker once I left Ireland. It was like our MPF system (強積金). I made friends with a Malaysian boy, Foon, there. I needed the signature of witness. In Hong Kong, you just needed to ask the one nearby to sign for you. I was only brave enough to ask the Asian people around. I tried to ask him and we started the one-hour conversation.

He worked as a kitchen chef in the country Dublin, and at the same time, he studied English in college. We had lunch together at FOUR o'clock. He would like to give me a free lunch and I would give him back when I got salary. He brought me to the Malaysian Restaurant at the O'Connell Street where his "brother", Eric, was working there. I was excited and screamed softly that I hadn't had rice for three weeks! Every time when I had my meals, I gulped them like a bird. Eric gave me another bowl of rice and one more Sprite. He even paid the bill himself. WHAT? I was satisfied and I did not think I need to have my dinner.

Foon, Eric and I talked happily about our background and life experience. It was no doubt that I would return here. I would pay back his kindness. After that, Foon and I went around to look for hair dryer which I had found long. At last, I bought it at the Argos, where you screened through a book of catalogue and paid with the product number. New experience! He taught me how to buy a Luas ticket (=輕鐵) and I saw him off at the Jervis Station. He was energetic and always ready to help.

At night, I worked hard about the F.2 Mathematics Workbook as the deadline was approaching. I fall into sleep immediately. I tried my best to keep myself warm because it was so cold that I could not sleep well. Before that happened, I woke up at three.

The phone call was from Chinese Paintings teacher, Mr. Chiu Wai Ling(趙維靈). He cared me so much. Once he remembered, he dialled to me. He got my number with the help of my classmates(師姐). We talked for nearly half an hour. Even for my parents, we always ended the conversation in hurry to save money. I shared my happiness and difficulties with him. Once I had the pigments, I had to practise more. Mr. Chiu, please take care of your stomach. I will be back.

Time passes by before you notice. Keep a close eye on how I grow up.

My First Tear Droplet (15/08/07)

2007-08-17T19:40:00.000+08:00

The Chinese Woman, Ma Li, played a key role in my Ireland's life.

She helped me to rent a flat which was cheap and convenient to City Centre and got me an interview from where she had just resigned. Her sister taught me to buy the Rambler tickets which would be cheaper if I took bus several times a day. They told me how to get there for nearly an hour. Although I still got lost and had been late for 20 minutes, I got the job.

Beforehand, I needed my police clearance in Hong Kong. I will work at the airport where I needed the original of my "No Criminal Conviction". I asked help from my parents whom I should not ask for.

I phoned my dad about the progress of application after the interview. My dad lost his temper. He complained about my unreachable mobile phone and was discontented about the difficulties of the application. Dad and Mum were busy person and could use only the old method of gathering information which was telephone. They tried to inform me that I had to apply in person but failed. He had dialled my number hundreds times. I was condemned to be "free" enough to do it myself. If I could, I swore not to bother anyone, even my family members. I was upset.

In facing my loneliness, my 25kg luaggages, my insecure home and unstability, I can stand strong. Having cut the call, I dropped my first tear in Ireland. I loved them even if they had not supported most of my life decisions. I should not bother them due to my wilfulness. I was not INDEPENDENT enough.

I went home immediately and carried my notebook back to hostel with the power cord. Fine, I searched myself. It would not the only way and, I got it. At the same time, my brother sent me messages and told that my mobile phone was out of service again. Dad lost his temper AGAIN. I sent him the link which Dad and he just found. Finally, I asked them to send two cheque to me and that was all.

Is there any lesson teaching people how to love and be loved? We always get lost in communication.

I love my family and they love me, too. I know.

Get a job? (14/08/07)

2007-08-15T21:39:00.000+08:00

It was another job interview, about a profession of care.

I arrived on time and filled in pages of personal information including my criminal and medical records. They seemed to screen my background seriously. In this case, I knew that I would not get this job. My proofs are in Hong Kong. I asked my dad to help but it takes time.

When I finished the form, the interview was free, too. Once he knew that I was from Hong Kong, he asked for my work permit immediately. What a conscientious interviewer! He read my working experience and we started the conversation.

Interviewer: CV has shown that you are a well-educated woman.
yingyinglok: Yes.
Interviewer: This job salary will be too low for you.
yingyinglok: If I care about money, I won't quit the job which Teachers in Hong Kong are well paid.
Interviewer: You finish the job?
yingyinglok: I quitted it.
Interviewer: Woo......Why do you want to get this job?
yingyinglok: It is meaningful and at the same time, I can meet different kinds of people and know their ways of lives, which is one of the reasons for me to be here in Ireland.

Then, he filled the evaluation form which I saw him putting two "7" and one "2" on it. He asked me to join the two-day training which cost 100 EUR. He made clear that I did not pay the fee but it would be deducted from my salary. The regulation was used to prevent the employees quitting the job after training immediately. He analysed my situation in patience. My challenge would be cleaning the elderlies' body and changing their napkins. I should prepare myself for that. As there were interviews on the following two days, I would join the next week training which will be on Wednesday and Thursday.

I left with doubts. As he said it was low-paid, I hadn't asked about the salary. He asked me for training but hadn't said they would employ me.

When I was waiting for the lift, a black woman talked with me. She relieved me and answered my concern immediately. They wanted to employ me so gave me training. The hour rate would be 11 EUR for the weekdays and 13 EUR for weekends. Worked more and gained more. As I live in Dublin 9, she said there were plenty of jobs for me to do if I work well. What? I got a job!?

Day Tour (13/08/07)

2007-08-14T19:42:00.000+08:00

GMax worked in Dublin 22 and he was off today. We spent whole day together.

We went to Social Welfare Local Office to obtain PPS number but failed to submit the proof of address. I needed to wait for the electricity bill. We shopped around for the household products. And the most important one, we bought four chicken legs for 3 EUR and cooked the lunch at my home. We cooked the chicken legs in grill and it retained their freshness. Yummy!

We met Wendy at James Joyce Statue and had Guinness at the Temple Bar. GMax worked as a bartender and lived with the Malaysians. He was always blamed by the Hong Kong boss and isolated by other bartenders. Wendy worked as waitress at a Chinese restaurant. She had her room at the restaurant's hostel. They talked a lot about their new jobs. I listened and shared their happiness. Wendy went back work at five. GMax and I went around in Dublin 1 and 2 to look for the landmarks of statues. They were Parnell Monument 1911, Molly Malone, Philip P Lynott, Hags with the Bags...etc. We shopped again and had a petite dinner at Quiznos Sub.

I talked a lot and somehow, I talked myself hoarse. For the statues, GMax could tell their stories. For the Irish Songs, he could name the famous ones. For the books, he read a lot. It was amusing to see Hong Kong's future. I hoped he was not one of the minorities at his ages. He had prepared his trip for one month by reading books.

There was a Chinese idiom, "If three of us are walking together, at least one of the other two is good enough to be my teacher.". I learnt a lot. Thank you!

Weekend life (11, 12/08/07)

2007-08-14T19:20:00.000+08:00

At he Drumcondra Library, I always finished my tasks in two and a half hours due to running out of battery supply. I needed more time to access the websites obtained from GMax. So, I brought along with my power cord to the Central Library at iLac Center. I had prepared myself to sit from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (which is the opening hour) with 2 bananas. What a crazy idea! I hadn't gone to toilet, stood up, drunk water for six hours. Just as my expectation, I was early enough to choose a big table and occupy one of the four plugs. In half an hour, four plugs were fully used and the latecomers can do nothing but asked for an hour for charging. It was really troublesome.

The time when I asked CCH whether I should buy a notebook, he said I could not survive without a computer. He was correct. It was too easy for me to spend six hours online.

I spent three hours in sending CVs and then gathered information to live here. I knew more about the PPS number which can help me to save tax from 42% to 20%, the household waste tag label system, lovely wild sights in Ireland and others' travel experience. At the same time, I read news worldwide and about Hong Kong, blogs through Google Reader. It was busy enough.

I left library at half past four. Shops will be closed early on Saturdays. I went to buy food for weekends. I paid one EUR for six oranges. I hadn't eaten orange for more than two weeks! There was no snacks but fruits in my Hong Kong home. At least three kinds of fruits lied on the baskets. I would have one after lunch and dinner. My dear old friends are back!

Library was a real treasure trove. I learnt from Jill and borrowed DVDs which were musicals and operas. I listened to Pavel's advice and borrowed CDs for the Irish Songs. I started to get rid of my usual Hong Kong entertainments and consumed my Hong Kong food.

Ming's, Ka Leung's and Yiu's candies (Digested and eliminated)
Emergency food, 辛辣麵 (Eaten)
Chinese tea (Enjoying, good with biscuits)
Hong Kong pop songs (10 GB will be deleted...maybe :P)
Japanese comics: Section Chief Kosaku Shima (read twice), Minister Kosaku Shima (in progress) and Chairman Kosaku Shima (within this month), Option D (to be continued).
Adventure King, Ming Dao (A long way to go)
Movies: Confession of Pain (finished in horror after bulgary), Schindler's List (not brave enough to start at night)
BKKSS F.2 Mathematics Workbook (Wait until the last moment 17/08/07)

I had configured my notebook for three days in Hong Kong. It was well prepared for me not walking out of the front door for weeks. I don't know whether I have done a good job or not. At least, there were songs playing throughout the day to dispel my fear.

Every weekends, Croke Park would have races. I loved to join one when I got salary. When I was running along Royal Canal, I could see crowds of people and hear the thundering cheers. It was still too luxurious for me. GMax spent 15 EUR a day but I spend 20 EUR. I ate too much. I spend 1.81 for each meal and 5.43 a day!

After cooking myself for 2 weeks, I have developed my set menu.

Breakfast: Milk with chocolate wholegrain
Lunch: 4 slices of white bread with hams/egg/thousand-island tuna/tomato
Dinner: Pasta with sauce/mashed potato/Soup with white bread, lettuce/mushrooms/mixed pepper/meat

Dessert/Fruits: Yogurt/plum/banana/orange
Drink: Apple Juice/Orange Juice
Snacks: Profiteroles/Digestive biscuits/Chewing gums

It was rich, right? No more starvation I am always full if I eat at home. I will be fat later. I decided to cut the drinks and snacks. I hope this help.

I liked to write Chinese words on my sketchbook and Teresa's book. This prevented me from forgetting how to write in Chinese. I hoped I can be an excellent bilingual person.

ALL OF ABOVE KEEP ME AT HOME ALL THE TIME.

Cantonese in Dublin (10/08/07)

2007-08-11T17:20:00.001+08:00

I always slept for nine hours and woke up late in living here. There was a bit difference this morning. I woke up at half past seven to prepare interview(9:30 a.m.). On my way, I was told that interview was delayed to next Tuesday morning. I went straight to my old hostel instead to use the WIFI service stealthily which was a critical decision.

I met a CUHK Journal fresh graduate, GMax. I used BENQ computer which was easily recognised by Hong Kong people. He started the conversation and I was delighted to speak Cantonese again! I haven't spoken for two weeks (except with my parents). We exchanged our information gathered. He inspired me a lot.

The gang of three first travelled in England and France for one month. GMax got a train pass in fortune and travelled to Swiss. Girls arrived at Dublin on 24 July. One of them got job offer the day followed. She said she was lucky because the first phone call was picked by a Hong Kong employer. She got the job immediately and also referred a job to GMax later. Woo...they got jobs much faster than me! I was jealous of them but still, I wanted to find in my way. I knew it would be easier to get a job in Chinese Resturant. But, as WooWhyWhy said, I should try something exotic.

Then, I received email from the law firm that I got second interview. GREAT! I had never thought of that. Although I did not think they would employ me, it was still a good new in comparing with my new friends.

GMax sent me some useful websites including job hunting and Working Holiday/Hong Kongers discuss board. I would try to send out more emails and join the activities. Every week, I met new people and got inspiration. That's really good.

I hope I can get a job soon.

Interview (08, 09/08/07)

2007-08-10T17:06:00.001+08:00

In preparing Thursday interview, I went shopping for "formal" dressing.

All my clothes were light, warm enough, sportive and multi-purposing. I did bring some smart casual but not formal. I had never thought about in having interview for a law firm clerk. I did not believe I could get this job. Why did I spend time and money on something impossible?

However, Teresa advised me to buy. She said there would be interviews afterwards. It was not convincing in wearing hiking sets. Fine.

I hated shopping, especially overseas. Last year in Paris, I went shopping for night life. I could not find my size or my taste. I got them hardly at the last moment. Therefore, I bought everything to avoid the nightmare. Apparently, I failed.

I spent whole afternoon in buying pants and shoes. I got the smallest size but the pants were still long. The shoes were cheap enough though I knew they would hurt my feet later.

In Hong Kong, I would finish shopping in one stop. I would spend thousands in buying body treatment bottles at Body Shop, mountain crafts at Ice Shing...etc. Sales would choose for me. They were experts in the branded products! I just put them on to test and make decision. That was good.

Here, I needed to choose and found my size myself. At the same time, they had to be cheap and light enough. It was really tiring and exhausting.

I had had my interview. It was not as bad as I thought. The employer found my CV lovely. Well, it was rather astonishing. I just targeted for sales, receptionists or any kind of assistants. My friend had told me that my Hong Kong educational background and academic levels would not be considered. I had prepared myself for low-skilled jobs here. Why?

The foreigner seemed like calligraphy very much. Both Pavel and the employer was surprised when they get known to my interests. I wrote one sheet several days ago. It was about 牡丹亭(行書). I could not draw due to loss of pigments. Fire Lighter said I might sell them instead of finding jobs. My teacher, Mr. Chiu, must tease me if I did so.

Every day, I went to library sending CV, buying food and cooking meals. Other than Dunnes Store(=百佳), I found LIDL(=華潤) and ALDI(=惠康). Foods was cheaper and in greater diversities. I could make rich meals and try to get fat later! Somehow, I thought I would become a vegetarian. There were fruits, tomatoes, lettuce and mushroom in my fridge. Meat was very expensive. Two packs of ham cost EUR 4.99.

I had to cook myself. I hated coffee, butter, cheese and some kinds of milk. I did not have much choice if I ate out.

Hard Time (07/08/07)

2007-08-08T17:48:00.001+08:00

In 2002, it was the first time for University Students getting average salaries below HKD 10 000. My first job salary was more or less the same as my summer job, HKD 8125. My second job salary was even less, HKD 7500. I had worked like that for two years. So did my classmates.

I changed my career to education by studying one-year diploma in HKIEd. By reading 「找到教席」, you would know that I had sent out 130 letters to get 15 interviews. Only one employed me. I had got pass these hard times.

I still remembered the time that I could just sit at home and doing nothing. My brother had said that I was a big worm which only ate and played. I hated that. My parents did not talked much but I knew they were worried.

I talked with my brother in ICQ. He asked whether I stayed here by using up all my savings. I hated that.

I had sent out 23 emails from last Thursday. I got two interviews.

Friend (06/08/07)

2007-08-07T20:42:00.001+08:00

Several years ago, I knew that my cousin sister would meet the net friends. Her parents, my parents and I found that she was too brave. Who knows? They may be bad guys.

Then, it is now my turn.

I do enjoy visiting alone. I can do whatever I want. I can stop and walk on my own way.

If you don't have a lover, it seems that you lose a default partner. It would be hard to date a friend. There were friends who would phone you at the last moment to cancel the activities. I have been deeply hurted. I would be rather alone than being left alone.

Of course, I still have good friends but most of them have lovers. They are someones' default partners. I started to get used to being alone. I watched movies and dramas alone. I went hiking alone. I took courses alone. I travelled alone.

It is not bad. I made some new friends. I could make decision at the last momemnt. It is much better than being abandoned.

I went to take photos with Pavel. He brought me to Trinity College. We queued up to enter Book of Kells. I was amazed with the Long Room, where there was old books library. We had Chickens and Chips at Supermac's. We visited Dublin Castle for the sand sculptures making. We sat on the grass near the Chester Beatty Library Galleries. I had my first Irish Coffee and Guiness at the Temple Bar. I was happy.

I hope I can get a job soon.

Reflection (05/08/07)

2007-08-07T20:39:00.001+08:00

Siu Kam has said that it was good to record the feelings in Chinese which he could not handle. Together with the lyrics of 李香琴的《三千年後》：「時間耐咗，難免知道　人總會慢慢咁將過去淡忘，又會睇住D嘢　無聲無息咁樣消失」

I read my past blog these days.

I was new to my old feelings. Just like 「文章分享　《何必「自尋煩惱」？》」, it has claimed that we always worried about matters that never happened.

After the burglary, wherever I was, I was afraid to be robbed. Up till now, nothing has happened but I lost 20 EURs in Dunnes Store. I thought I dropped it when I got changes.

I walked to City Centre everyday and cooked myself to save money. What's the point to be hungry and tired due to my carelessness? I was so angry that I nearly ate up all the food I could find at home that day.

Another old passage 「文章分享　《離家出走以後 ……》」, it talked about a sense of security. I found this flat because I did not feel safe at hostel. (I still feel unsecure now) To be safe, I cannot make friends from hostels and find funs together. Where is my courage to adventure?

Although it was raining and cool, I went running. It is time to reflect.

Howth (04/08/07)

2007-08-07T20:29:00.001+08:00

I had visited Howth, where there are some cliffs, is such a refreshing place.

I had forgotten two important things, compass and poles to bring along with me to Ireland. How can I go hiking without them? I took a photo of the map and started my journey.

Compared with the hiking route with Hong Kong, there would be clear sign of entrance but not in Howth. I followed my sense of direction and chose to follow the road where I walked alone. At last, I joined the transmit path and reached Summit(171 m). Passing it, I walked along the Cliff Path North.

I was shocked by the 180 degree seaview. The horizon is clear with only birds, rocks and one or two yachts. No fences were built at the edges. You can jump whatever you want. I tried to take photo but it was not the same as you watched it with your eyes. I sat down to draw and feel.

After, I went to some popular sights-seeing but got lost. I was back home at eight thirty. The public railway DART was really unstable. Trains were not on time, stopped long unexpectedly, waited for 40 minutes at the junction that it was enough for me to walk back home! I took half an hour to Howth but back in two hours. How come!?

The Chinese women would like to move out. The elder one asked if I wanted so. We can live together to share the expensive rent in City Centre. I am considering.

Safe or not? (03/08/07)

2007-08-07T20:28:00.001+08:00

"The most dangerous place is the safest place." I have told myself hundreds times.

I lied on bed nearly midnight. I sent out "SOS" signals by two SMSs and rang to my Dad. As you might know, no one replied. I was alone.

Throughout the daytime, I knew I was safe at home. The Chinese women were both at home to wait for the police and the owner for the new lock. After back from library and lunch at home, I went to Botanic Garden. It was a big garden with glasshouses and flowers. I spent three hours to walk around and draw. I felt safe there.

At six, I was back home. The owner was sitting with the Chinese women to supervise the installation of new door lock. I suggested that the owner must install a new front door lock, too. I could comprehend it was impossible to change my door lock but the front door one was important. How can the burglar enter the house with keys?

The owner comforted me that once there was a burglary, it won't be twice. I do believe this but what if the second time happens to me?

Finally, I found my dad as he could not read my blog in English. I described the scenario in three minutes and cut the phone. Ha...I just expressed my worries. Hours later, my dad phoned me and said that my mum suggested me to go back Hong Kong if I was frightened. Well, I would consider to move out instead of returning. This burglary made me clear that my Hong Kong home is SAFE, warm, efficient and helpful. My parents served me as Princess but I knew nothing about it. Sorry, Dad and Mum.

I would continue to find job in a month. If there was nothing happened, I would live until I started to travel. But not and with no job, I would move to another city directly.

I believed in FORTUNE. My blog named 「天生天養」. This started when I got the ovarian cyst two years ago. There are something unavoidable no matter what you have done.

During the library time, I cannot open MSN. I was upset that nobody would comfort me.

My decision led to all these uncertainties and bad feelings. I should be strong enough to endure.

Of course, parents' and friends' wordings are still powerful. I feel better now.

Burglary (02/08/07)

2007-08-03T17:38:00.001+08:00

I was so close to the burglary.

The Chinese woman's flat was broken in yesterday night. Two laptops and crystals were lost. She and her sister came back at about nine and found that their flat door left opened.

I came back home at six something. I was hungry and made myself a full meal. After washed the dishes, I heard the opening noise from their flat door as usual. At half past eight, I went down to take a bath. I found their door halfly opened. They are careful person but why. I passed their flat and went to the ground floor. The front door was left opened widely, too!

I looked out but saw nothing as I hadn't worn my glasses. I thought the younger sister might go out to throw rubbish(?) without keys. I closed the front door left with a narrow gap and took a bath at the end of the corridor. When I was bathing, I wondered if the burglary had just happened. How can I leave both doors unlocked? If there was somebody who would like to rob, it would be a good chance!

Anyway, just when I finished bathing and went out, there was a guy shutting the front door. I could not see his face clearly without glasses. He greet me and so did I. He lived in my next flat. The Chinese woman's flat door was still left opened. I put my stuff down and knocked their half-open door. There was no reply. I was so afraid to go into it and rushed back my home. I would like to phone them but I did not have their numbers.

About fifteen minutes later, they came back. I heard their noise and just prepared to open and ask. The elder one locked my door to check my safety. She asked when I came back and called the police immediately. They suspected the burglar would be the one who lived my flat before. The front door lock was not broken. This meant the burglar had a key! Oh, if it was the case, I was in danger! He/She could open my door and do whatever he/she wanted.

I cannot sleep until midnight. I was too scared. It happened so close that I would not imagine before. For all my belongings, the most expensive one is my notebook. It was still the cheapest model which was made in Taiwan. But I did not want to lose anything. Please!

First Try (01/08/07)

2007-08-02T21:01:00.001+08:00

14:00

The National Gallery of Ireland

In the three-hour visit, I am impressed by Daniel O'Neil: Scarecrows at Newtownards. It talked about poverty. Through the faces and bodies of scarecrows, I can imagine how seriously undernourished the people were.

There is a shop in Debenhams which employs Sales Assistant. I visited there twice. For the first time, I cannot start the conversation as I was too nervous. I get used to find jobs passively. Send emails with CV and wait for the phone calls. I have never applied for a job like this.

Three years ago, I have tried once in giving promotion sheets on the street. I spent nearly an hour to prepare myself to give the first one. I am not as strong and brave as I imagine.

After visiting the Gallery, I returned again and inquired the sale girl directly. She led me to Jane(?) and Jane asked me for a CV. It is ridiculous that I haven't brought it! How silly I am!

Today I met several people who were nice to answer me patiently. Only a few know that I was afraid of SALES. Once they approached me, I would leave the shop immediately. If there is no other customer in the shop, I won't go in to visit.

From the Music Library of the Central Library, which is located in ILAC centre, I borrow a Music CD. Together with an Audio Book CD from Drumcondra Library, I build myself the English atmosphere.

My Time and My Home (31/7/07)

2007-08-01T17:58:00.001+08:00

08:20

Wake up early enough to get the free newspaper Herald around the DAFT (=地鐵) Drumcondra Station
After six, I cannot sleep well. I would wake up automatically for sleeping seven hours. Herald is just like our 都市日報 but people can get it outside the stations. I find the weather forecast very useful. In Ireland, weather varies all day long.

10:00
Go to Jervis Shopping Centre to buy the Chinese Paintings Pigments but fail. Shopping (Dunnes Stores(=百佳) all sale items half price)
After married, I should a good housewife. I hate fashion shopping but I love household one.

In Hong Kong, I never have my own room. Graduated from University and be back from hostel, I even lost my desk. Everyday back from work, I used my computer which was just beside the dining table. When I drew, I needed to grasp the time between meals. My stuff were spread everywhere in the living room. I shared my room with my younger sister but she always locked the door. What I can do in so-called MY room is sleeping.

Now, I enjoy I have my own place. I have my single bed, my working table and my full-size wardrobe. I try my best to make it my sweet home. And, it is quiet. I won't be disturbed by television and factories noise.

13:00
Back home. Loading down. Petite Lunch.
I bought all the needed sale items. I want to save money by eating a cup of Yogurt and three plums. Then, it's time to find a nearby library, Drumcondra Library.

Opening Hours
=============
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: 10.00am - 1.00pm and 2.00pm - 5.00pm
Tuesday, Thursday: 12.45pm - 4.00pm and 4.45pm - 8.00pm
Sunday: Closed

What a strange arrangement!

13:40
Drumcondra Library and get online to find jobs
I am lazy to find jobs. I feel so FREE. I want to read books (Lonely Planet, Mastering Family Therapy, my old written pieces), write (Teresa's book, postcards, Ming's Clear File, blogs), draw (Chinese paintings and calligraphy), work (BKKSS math. workbook), travel (numerous sceneries to visit) and learn (English, Putonghua and French). I enjoy my time which I never had in Hong Kong.

However, I would like to be Irish as soon as possible. The best way is to work with them. I would send out CV tomorrow.

16:00
Back home. Night routine.
Can you believe? I read Lonely Planet--Ireland for two hours without listening with musics and walking around. I can concentrate for each long. Good!

I get stunned by the words and pictures in the book. Get a job and earn money. Then, TRAVEL! GREAT!

I will be an Irish (30/7/07)

2007-07-31T21:14:00.002+08:00

08:45
Wake up and make breakfast (White bread with hams and thousand-islands tuna)
In Hong Kong, my mother will prepare my breakfast everyday but not in Dublin. The ham which I bought on 27 Jul gets expired today. I have treasured them so much that I ate little before. Now I can eat as much as I want. I hope it is not too late.

It is troubled to cook three times a day and it is impossible for me to rush back home to cook for lunch. In addition to saving money, I plan to have two meals instead of three a day.

10:30
Library (for the library card and online)
Y98 Ada has suggested me to use the library facilities which are FREE and easy to access. I make myself to be member and gain access for the Internet for nearly four hours. To become Irish, I want to act whatever they live. Maybe I need to borrow some music CDs first.

15:00
FAS (Irish National Training and Employment Authority)
Mantou's friend has advised me to make use of FAS to find a job. It is available and easy to use but I think it would be convenient for me to browse on web. That's why I buy the BENQ computer.

16:00
GNIB (report my new address)
In presence of the Rent Book (which is given by my flat owner), I update with the official in 3 minutes. Compare with 2 hours last time, I suggest the afternoon session. People always arrive as early as possible.

16:45
Parnell Street (find Chinese paintings pigments)
Chinatown is located here. I cannot find the Chinese Arts Shop but there are all kinds of common foods in Hong Kong (李錦記蠔油、辛辣麵等). I buy nothing because I am Irish now. What's the point to behave exactly the same in Hong Kong? Therefore, I would start to write my blog in English. For my students, it is good for your English. Please look up the dictionary if needed. In an English-speaking country, I want to improve my English, too.

18:15
Home (Tidying, cooking, eating, washing dishes, bathing, washing underwears, reading and writing)
They become my night's routine. It really takes time in doing houseworks. Now I know why my dad said he worked to eat and my mum washed clothes everyday night. To survive on a tight budget, cooking and DIY is the only way out. My parent has shown me a good example and somehow, I behaved the same. It is not bad, right?

Now, I usually sleep for ten hours. It is luxurious to Hong Kong people. Don't forget! I am enjoying my long working holiday.

尋尋覓覓(26/7/07)

2007-07-30T20:11:00.001+08:00

06:40

翻來覆去也再睡不了。

07:30
吃過硬乾乾的麵包果醬、香蕉、蘋果和橙汁後，再花了兩小時拿工作証(綠卡)，那裡的水機很不錯，免費水任裝。

11:00
三小時上網，跟學生們聊個不停，重點其實是於http://daft.ie尋覓我的新家，沒有打印機只好小心抄寫以免錯灟，為免我的英文跟他們的口音溝通不來，更有四位我寄了電郵呢！

15:30
往電話鋪問出電話卡詳情，他竟然給了我一張免費的Meteor SIM卡，左問右問後，我決定按說明書打電話去增值20歐羅，我有愛爾蘭的電話號碼了。

16:45
另外兩個由於沒有電郵地址，我硬著頭皮致電，Mr. Seamus Fallon馬上約了六時看房。

迷路大王如我當然準備出發，待得五時廚房清潔完畢裝得足夠水後，我便出發去了！Dublin Bus詢問處職員態度真好，跟我比較了兩處地方的遠近，找出了位置、所需乘搭號碼、時間和地點，出發了。

偷看過地圖，我蠻有信心的數著第三個車站下車，不是塞車五分鐘就能到。剛好另外兩個想租住的女孩也跟我一樣守在門口，她們是學生，正想找住處呢！我心想著是同屋住，作為伴兒也不錯呢。天開始下著毛毛雨，一個染了藍綠色頭髮的亞洲女子回來，我給她的外表嚇著，心想，東方人到了外地可真不一樣。她進去後，其中一個女孩致電給屋主問他在那裡，還要十分鐘才到。突然，門一看，那個女子竟開口問我是否中國人，我回說是後便跟她說著普通話，原來她不想我在下雨天還在門口乾等，邀我到她家邊坐邊等。

18:00
第一次覺得身為一個中國人也是一件光榮的事。我故意選愛爾蘭是因為相比澳洲及新西蘭，遇上華人的機會應當較少，卻想不到，因她的關係，屋主故意讓其他七個競爭者落空，留著單位給我，也不過口頭要我承諾租住六個月，沒有要求簽合約，十分幸運。一星期交租一次80歐羅，連同按金320歐羅，我一次過給他400歐羅！嚇得他及中國女人一大跳，在香港，銀包內有400元是等閒事，但換上是歐羅似乎很不一樣。填過一本Rent Book及電費申請資料後，我由屋主手上接過鎖匙，我的新家，就此落定了，第一次看樓，就定音了。

這裡最大的好處是近市區，乘搭巴士要約1歐羅，步行約廿分鐘就到了，對於走慣家到青衣站十五分鐘腳程的我，簡直綽綽有餘。省卻的交通費，又可以多遊都柏林市的眾多博物館、圖書館、店鋪......等，十分化算。

缺點就是不包括上網，申請無線上網多要簽約半年，而且還諸多限制費用昂貴。速度只有56Kbps，每個月只能下載10GB，別說笑吧！租用或購置Modoem要約69歐羅，月費則最少20歐羅，怎麼辦？故意攜那幾達2kg的手提電腦，難道得物無所用？最後，當然給我想到辦法，就是偷偷回去原來居住的Hostel上網，不知道他們多久換一次密碼，但在換之前，我應該都會這樣子上網吧！

回到宿舍，心情十分雀躍，終於能離開這個地方了！不是說這個地方不好，只是出外住慣酒店的我，對Hostel真的一點安全感也沒有，雖然眾人都用有鎖的儲物櫃，但那些鐵枝的空間總使我覺得在引人犯罪，鎖也好像不穩固，賊人好像總守在那裡，趁我收拾時搜掠一番。當然，住到第二天，也開始有點適應，學著他們把私人物品散落一地慢慢收拾，東西用完買後隨意放進locker就走，也不大在意亂不亂。

同房的女孩，有些很大膽，所有個人物品都散在各處，出外也不收拾不怕失竊；有些則不知道來旅行還是看書，躺在床上看哈利波特，好不逍遙；有些更拼命，到pub跳舞至四時才回來，無懼夜鬼酒鬼的騷擾。什麼時候我才能這樣從容不逼，氣定神閒呢？我想，如果我的行李小一點(約40L)輕一點(約15kg)，身上的現金少一半(約500歐羅)，手提電腦也不是全新的而是用上好半年，我相信，我會不在乎一點。

收拾時遇上一個日本女子，我們結伴晚飯，那是她留在愛爾蘭的最後一晚，我是找到新家的第一天，很值得大吃一頓。她預算花上十多歐羅，我卻只想喝點什麼，我們談個天南地北，她一個人旅行了九天，太無聊時會自己跟自己說話。英文十分流利，聽讀寫完全沒問題，日本人來說很難得了！她曾居住德國一年，去過不少地方旅行，回到日本是個建築師，這次是她五年來的第一次放假，每天九至十一是等閒事，遇上繁重的日子就回不了家，當天，她才一個人按遊客中心的資料往Blendalough觀光及行了四小時的山，一個人！

我這個人，聽多了大家的擔心，也變得藏頭畏尾，昌哥的「放開心懷接受」，要好好記在心。世界這麼大，沒有闖過，那算來到這個世界呢？她也分享了好多小故事，最吸引莫過於她在意大利遇上假警察，警察卻驚訝她身上只有15歐羅現金而沒什麼行動，信用卡她也訛稱忘了PIN而沒更大損失，臨危不亂，好厲害，「浸過咸水確係唔同Ｄ」。

23:30
回到宿舍已很累，肚子兩天沒填滿過、行動不斷、休息不夠，手指的小倒刺全都跑出來，雙手間不時會在抖，心也跳得像要跑出來，我知道我要什麼！我要安全感，我要營養，我要休息！好像是第一次，我可以這麼清楚我自己想要什麼！

說起過勞過累了，根本整個七月，由決定七月廿五日出發後就沒有停過，不是跟大家吃飯，就是補課、改卷，收拾，十公里賽我也跑了兩次，相信我，每天我雖然在大家面前生龍活虎，但其實那間或一兩句的訴累是心底話。但我不能病呀！病了要錢，而且身在異鄉，會很難煞。

說了這麼多，也不過想為自己沒洗澡解說，洗過臉便倒頭便睡，很壞呢！

有家了，安全感回來了，是時候闖一下！

我在愛爾蘭出了電話卡也有地方住了，詳情請往http://bkkss.com/cwy/contact.doc 查看，密碼是我在香港的電話號碼。

如果你沒有我的香港電話號碼，那煩請你發一個電郵給我，我會儘快回覆你的！

差點忘了，那裡還沒法上網，我可能要銷聲一段時間了，請耐心等待吧！

愛爾蘭的第一天

2007-07-26T03:48:00.000+08:00

全人類，我到了愛爾蘭，亦在酒店安頓好了，不過只BOOK了兩晚，明天找不到地方住我可要露宿街頭了。

由於時差嚴重的關係，我不知道何時才能在MSN遇上各位！電話亦未有本事問到點打回來，請稍候。

來到這裡，我已經失掉了好幾件物品，萬用刀、洗面膏、破了的寄倉袋和最重要的國畫顏料！天啊！他們說什麼油制的，不能帶上機，沒有顏料何來畫畫，我全副武裝要一天畫一幅畫的，可惡！

Teresa，別太傷心和擔心，我會照顧自己了。

背囊等都沒有超重，非常好，但都實在太大，而且兩個這麼多，很難背住移動，明天找不到長住地方，我就可能要住貴酒店，因為星期六日都比較貴。

已經吃了兩餐麵包了，可憐。

可以的話，找人告訴我老豆和老媽子我已安全到步，及叫他還書，總共十本，八月四前要還，不然會被罰款，拖欠一年可不是小數目。

一整天都很擔心被別人偷東西，收拾時又不敢太張揚，用電腦又怕給別人看到後會偷走，又怕電池無電，又怕電壓不對一插就爆，唉，好煩，我要快點找到地方住，但可能不太容易，要便宜，又近市中心，還要能上網，努力！

我新的家在那裡？

飛出香港

2007-07-24T18:37:00.000+08:00

好了！是時候要走了！I believe I can fly!

終於做到了，要出發了！

香港有很多人也放不下，也不過是一年，一定要身體健康、幸福快樂。

簽証落實後，我就開始跟不少人聚舊吃飯，收到眾多的祝福及叮囑。

對我的老師，你們的支持，你們的教導，我不會忘記。
對學生，我會給予臨別贈言，希望他們能各自鞭策。你們坦率的情意，最直接感人。
對朋友，我感受著他們的關心，盡能力表達我的謝意。
對藍顏(小楊教我的)，我帶著他們的厚愛去，答允你們，我會安全回來。
對家人，我明白你們還是接受不了我出走的事實，我會證明給你們看，那是值得的。

對你，雖然沒能收到片言隻字，我明白的，讓我們在彼此的心中徹底趕走。我知道你會變得成熟，希望你快樂。

愛，很厚、很濃，很突然、很細心，很細水長流、很含蓄浪漫。

我記住你們每一個，一年後，成為一個更值得你們愛的人。

洪湖公園的寫生、釣魚的《陰道獨白》、兩次的十公里賽、無聲的綠社戲劇、校長的Porter筆和推薦信、昆明小分隊的PSP聚餐、一日遊、見紅的壁球、靚媽的小菜、六天九至一的補課、請學生食飯、看保險醫生、撤退時學生的衷力合作、跟同事大同中同食飯、青衣島的遊逛、在荃灣看到IFC、入布袋澳食大大隻海鮮及上飛鵝山、趙維靈國畫老師擁抱送別、學生請食Pizza及即晒相片......很美的回憶。

謝謝您們。

再見了！我的中四丁班！

2007-07-20T16:18:00.000+08:00

昨天終於離開教了兩年的中學，在往婆婆j家的路上，第一次眼睛濕濕的。

我想起我的魯莽，因為我的中四學生，令問題得以順利解決。

沒有肥江、煌、OKam和麒的嚴謹流程，改了一個下午卷還改個不停的我，相信不能六點半離校。
沒有秘書Teresa和苦力白生，兩小時那能整理清光我的佔用物？
沒有小妖和熾昌，跟車上落，憑我不足一一零的身軀，相信未出發，先拗柴。還有教我的防狼術，即晚對中學同學試用，攻擊力十足！

還有太多吧！

沒有全班中四丁班的協助，我不能六天早上就能教完一課半數學，上課氣氛比平常還好。(雖然作業欠交很令人失望)

他們沒有抱怨我的離開，反而認同我去完成理想，這是我意想不到的。

必須鄭重道謝，Teresa緊急調動他父親大人的私家車，先送我回家再去葵芳。車上她對我的教訓，我很開心，一向發呆的她，對看不過眼的事發聲，成長了點呢！

為何我有這福份使他們對我這麼好？

晚上，獨處時，想到，有一年的時間，看不到這些淘氣的小鬼，這些珍惜我的學生，我只能說，我很幸福！

謝謝你們！緊記我昨天的話語，祝你們能找到你們人生的意義，健康快樂！