Poptart

Hot and hotter

2010-12-04T02:11:00.003+13:00

I'm here...

Hot, humid, busy Singapore. The Christmas decorations are so impressive! Love it. I also love the new Marina Bay Sands casino complex, really impressive driving past it, might go check it out tomorrow.

Then on Sunday I am heading up to Seoul. Where it's freezing. Snow. Great. Just great. As much as I bitch about the humidity of Singapore, I much prefer it to the cold and snow!

So, apart from this trip I've had an incredibly hectic and stressful few weeks, lots of dramas in my personal life, combined with one of the busiest weeks at work all year. I'm very much looking forward to my Christmas holiday and break.

The blokes are fine. I saw bloke #1 on Thursday, first time since we had a rather heated argument and I told him to fuck off and leave me alone (it was during my hell week so I wasn't really myself). Thankfully we ended up in a better place and had a really fun Thursday night out. He really is lovely. And he's grown a beard and oh my god, hotness. Like seriously, never thought I was a fan of the beard but on him, totally works. Think Shayne Ward in his "Gotta Be Somebody" video. Hubba hubba (not a fan of his music, but he sure is pretty to look at!).

Right, I better go - it's 2.29am in NZ, only 9.29pm local time and feeling quite knackered.

House guest

2010-11-18T23:30:00.001+13:00

So there's a house guest currently staying here.

He's visiting from Spain (but is originally from New Zealand), and is a family friend of a friend. He works on super yachts and is waiting until the yacht arrives in NZ later this week before he joins the crew. Sounds like an incredible job, crewing around the med and the greek islands, the bahamas and other tropical destinations, surrounded by sun, sand and sea, impossible luxury. But really, that's not why I'm writing about him.

I'm writing about him because he's causing me to drool over my toast in the morning! Very good looking. Tall and tanned, fit (runs and surfs every morning), shares my love of Pics Really Good Peanut Butter (which is really good LOL, the only peanut butter I can eat as the rest is disgusting) and Kings of Leon.

Since he's been here, not surprisingly, I've been up early in the morning to catch him just as he arrives back from his surf; all wet, sandy and salt-smelly (heaven). As tonight is his last night with us, we went down to our local pub for a few drinks. It'll be sad to see the house guest go, I did like to have a pretty face to look at over the cornflakes and coffee!

Hello!

2010-11-16T22:38:00.003+13:00

Hello out there. It is I, your absentee blogger.

I didn't anticipate not updating this thing for nearly 8 months, doesn't seem like 8 months since my last post.

So, what's been happening since March? Well, I got myself knocked up.

Kidding. Just wanted to check if you were still reading.

Things haven't actually changed that much. I'm currently 6 months into living with my parents and that has been an interesting time. Rather difficult adjustment at the start but now we've found our groove. My mum is bonkers (she narrates her life, seriously, she is constantly talking about what she's doing) and my Dad is a grumpy old man (despite only recently turning 56). The upside to this living arrangement is that I'm saving a lot of money, all going into the "Get me the hell out of here and into my own home" bank account.

I'm also on Twitter. Although not very prolific at the moment, follow me here: http://twitter.com/poptartnz. If I ever get to 100 followers I'm doing a nudie run down Lambton Quay!

The one (or should I say two) most interesting things happening of late is that I am spending time with a couple of new men in my life. Why yes, two of them!

#1 is a opinionated, argumentative, confident, sexy landscape gardener. Lovely body, pretty eyes and a tendency to annoy me. A lot. We have great chemistry and despite the fact that he says the most outrageous things (more often that not to get a reaction out of me, because he likes it when I "take the bait"), I like spending time with him. Although not overnight, as his bed is terribly uncomfortable and I need my beauty sleep.

#2 is a quiet creative with a wicked sense of humour web developer. He's sensitive and calm. Great artist. Very handsome. I like him. A lot. But it's not going exactly where I thought it would (ahem, the bedroom LOL). Still, I like that he is interested in similar things (art galleries, museums; only under duress would #1 visit City Gallery for any reason).

I've had a trip to the US mid-year, which was a lot of fun. Was primarily for work but managed to squeeze in some sight seeing and shopping (so cheap, it was kind of obscene the amount of stuff I bought back).

Now I'm gearing up for a trip to Southeast and North Asia. Only away for 3 weeks, but back in time for Christmas.

Then in January, I'm on road trip up north, Bay of Islands I think. I haven't actually planned anything, but thought I'd just grab a few friends, hire a car and take off. I've never been north of Auckland so I'm really keen to see more of our gorgeous north.

Right, that's the brief recap since March. I'm forgetting lots, but gave you the edited highlights package.

Right. I'm done.

This calls for urgent list making

2010-03-22T21:28:00.000+13:00

In less than 10 days I'll be leaving my little flat and *pause for dramatic effect* moving back in with my parents.

On one hand, I think it's a smart move (rent free for 12 months means a decent deposit for a house), on the other hand I worry about how I can actually live with my mum for 12 months.

But before I even get through the door, I have to pack up the flat. Which means some serious list making. I have yet to actually start any packing (first thing on the 'to do' list is get boxes and packing materials) and I'm procrastinating a lot. I have no motivation at all, also no help that I'm away for work three days this week and two days next week. I wish someone would just come into the flat and pack everything for me.

In totally unrelated packing/moving news, I met an "interesting" guy on Friday night. Friend of a friend deal. We did NOT get on at all. Oil and water. I have never encountered such an arrogant, frustrating person. I tend to be quite even-tempered, hate confrontation, get on well with people, but this guy was so difficult. We disagreed about everything and got into heated discussions which were, apparently, quite entertaining for the other people around us. I left feeling really annoyed because he got the last word and I spent all weekend trying to think of witty and sarcastic put downs that I should've said.

Right. I just remembered something else that needs to go on the to do list.

Poptart out.

On my mind

2010-03-01T21:44:00.001+13:00

1. Why do some really nice guys (you know, the funny, cute, smart ones) go out with drop-kick women with no personalities and no conversation skills?

2. Those new Vodafone characters creep me out.

3. I really hate it when people wear white sports socks with black dress shoes.

4. I probably won't go see Alice in Wonderland because Johnny Depp doesn't look that hot in it.

5. I am moving in with my parents (probably in late March, early April) to save $$ to buy a house and I'm concerned that my parents will realise what a pathetic social life their daughter has.

6. My vege garden has been a success! I "harvested" green beans, lettuce, courgettes and beetroot today and had a really lovely salad for dinner tonight.

7. Why hasn't someone streamlined the design of ice-skates? They look so clunky and uncomfortable.

8. I'm not going to the Lady Gaga concert in Auckland on 13 March and I'm really miffed. Work schedule means I can't go (despite having tickets and telling my boss weeks ago). Have sold the ticket to a friend and will go buy some shoes this week to make me feel better.

9. I haven't bought any tickets to any of the NZ International Arts Festival shows but I'm hoping I'll somehow get some freebies.

10. I made some lemon cupcakes tonight, with the idea of taking them into work tomorrow, but I've eaten 4 and decided they're too good to share!

11. I have a new cellphone and I love it... sadly, I'm in love with it because I can get work emails and sync it with my Outlook calendar. I have got to get a life LOL.

12. I really wish Sephora would open here in NZ.

13. Ditto IKEA.

14. I could quite happily exist on crusty bread and good cheese for dinner for weeks (not sure my flabby arse would appreciate it though).

15. I've spent a lot of time looking at these, all because if I vote, I want to make an informed choice. They're all very young but I'm leaning towards Phillipp Spahn, who's quite dishy.

Barney is a Dinosaur

2010-02-18T20:22:00.001+13:00

and apparently Barney is also a 35 year old Wellingtonian.

Today I wore a maxi dress - purple/cerise colour. Really flattering and easy to wear. I thought I looked quite foxy. Teamed with chunky wedges, stacked bangles and a Meadowlark necklace. Kind of a 70s vibe. So I was feeling cute and happy.

Then a smartarse coworker said I looked like Barney. The Dinosaur. Well, thank you very much. Bitch LOL.

Actually, being told I look liked Barney reminded me of my cousin, who when he was 3 was a huge Barney fan. He especially loved the theme music and would sing quite loudly:

Barney is a dinosaur

Murray is an Asian

This confused our family for awhile. Perhaps there was a little Chinese boy in the TV show called Murray? It wasn't until a few months later, that we learned the theme music was:

Barney is a dinosaur

From our imagination

I think I prefer the first version, haha.

Avian Affection

2010-01-25T20:02:00.000+13:00

When I think of our feathered friends, this is my reaction:

I hate them. I hate their wings. Their feathers. That they fly. The smell. Their beady eyes. Everything about them. Euw. I feel weird just thinking about them flying around *shudder*.

However, because I'm very contrary (just call me Mary!) I adore anything with a bird motif. I've got t-shirts with bird prints on them. I've got vintage bird prints on the wall. Necklaces and rings with birds (Meadowlark Swallow necklace is my current fave). Feather earrings. Anything birdie, I love it.

Just not an actual real one.

Funny Face

2010-01-19T21:15:00.002+13:00

As I mentioned recently, I lost my make up bag travelling. Talk about pain in the arse.

I spent some time (and considerable money) replacing the items I lost. I know I haven't got everything, but I'm slowly getting there. Thankfully, my travel insurance will cover the costs of the replacement items.

Yesterday I picked up some stuff by Chi Chi, which is a brand of make up I have seen (in Farmers) but not used. I thought the names were cute, so picked up "Maneater" (cheek colour) and "Major Hissy Fit" (eye shadow) LOL. I also like that the products are "only tested on family and friends"

The Chi Chi cosmetics remind me of Benefit, which I really like (and wish you could get here in NZ!). I especially like Benetint, Dr Feelgood and High Beam (but think BadGal mascara is a waste of time LOL). I knew I should've stocked up when I was in Singapore. Oh well. Next time.

The best damn cupcake

2010-01-17T19:45:00.001+13:00

It has been such crap weather the past few days that I decided I needed cheering up. So I baked some chocolate cupcakes.

These are fantastic cupcakes, I can't remember where I got the recipe (somewhere from the internet) but these are really moist, not crumbly and so choco-lovely! I get many compliments on these (and many requests to make them, in fact, have an "order" for next week, for my friends son's 2nd birthday party).

They're easy to make and because I like to spread the love, below is the recipe.

Chocolate Cupcakes

¾ c cocoa
1 ½ c plain flour
1 ½ c suga
1 ½ teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon baking powder
¾ teaspoon salt
2 eggs
¾ c warm water
¾ c milk
3 tablespoons safflower oil (or canola)
1 teaspoon vanilla essence

Heat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line muffin trays with paper patty cups.

In one large bowl, sift cocoa, flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

Add eggs, warm water, milk, oil and vanilla essence.

Mix until smooth.

Fill patty cups (not quite to the top) and bake for about 15 minutes.

Cool on wire rack and then ice with chocolate butter icing.

Scoff.

Should make about 18 medium-sized cupcakes.

Luggage

2010-01-14T21:51:00.002+13:00

Today I had lunch with some of my favourite people... and their mums.

I met up with a few girlfriends who have all had babies in the past year. It wasn't like the lunches we used to have (booze, ciggies and more booze) but it was still fun and great to see some gorgeous wee faces.

However, I was mocked by my friends who seemed to think the bag I carried (my good old faithful Calvin Klein) contained more than their handbags and baby bags combined. I beg to differ. Take a look.

The bag is about 30cm across, so not a huge bag. But manages to fit everything I need on a daily basis.

Here's what I carried in it today (from top): notebook (new purchase, from Wanda Harland, a great new store only a few hundred metres from my house), diary, two pens, bus timetable, business card holder, Summer City programme, small notebook, USB, purse, pair of earrings, OPI nail polish "I'm Not Really a Waitress", Clarins 3-in-1 creme colour, Prada glasses, Prada sunglasses, iPod, keys, cellphone, sunblock, hair tie, lip balm, liquid eyeliner, tweezers, three lipglosses, mascara, another lipgloss, FACE Stockholm blush.

Just the essentials folks. Okay, that's quite a lot of shit to carry around. I didn't photograph all the junk either (receipts, bus passes, random coins and keys LOL). And to think this is my "holiday" bag, wait till you see my "work" one (which always includes another pair of shoes LOL).

My patch

2010-01-13T18:51:00.000+13:00

I planted a small vege garden yesterday.

I'm so proud of my patch of dirt. It's a small garden with only a few plants. I want to see how I go with these before I add any more. If I manage not to kill anything, I'm going to plant potatoes (but not until October), rocket, tomato, chilli, aubergines. Basically anything I like to eat, I'm going to try and grow.

I won't bore you with lots of updates, but I hope to take a picture each month of my "babies" to chart my progress.

Sweet William

2010-01-11T20:28:00.001+13:00

So I’m sure you don’t want to hear much about my beach holiday with Will. There was sun, sand, BBQs and beaches. Not a great deal else to report LOL. Reading, chilling out and trying to relax, although kind of difficult when you have about 28 people staying with you!

My sister and her tribe came for a few days too (they were in Auckland visiting her partners family). Great seeing my family again (especially as I wasn't with them for Christmas or New Year) and they got to meet Will.

My sister told me that I am again "keeping to type" LOL. I guess she means that I am attracted to sporty, intelligent, blonde men (which as I type this I realised could also describe my father, euw LOL).

What I like about Will is:

He looks unbearably sexy with stubble
He is an enthusiastic and very good cook
He didn’t complain when I insisted on playing a Dolly Parton CD I found repeatedly for two days
He can do the crossword… in pen! (Unlike me who needs pencil because of all the mistakes)
His smile
He was very good with my 3 nieces and nephew who followed him everywhere
He doesn’t care that I don’t like to surf, kayak, dive, fish or have anything remotely to do with the water (except look at it or lie near it reading LOL)
His hands
His back (and the nice bum attached to it)
He didn’t seem to mind that my idea of “strenuous exercise” was walking from the deck to the refrigerator to get a drink
He didn't put any pressure on me or us to define what we are together
He let me drive his car
He is cute and grumpy in the mornings (just like me, well, the grumpy part anyway)
He likes to read books (this is a first, I have never been with a guy who liked to read before LOL)
He can filet a fish
And cook it perfectly
He seems to like me
He looks good in a towel
And out of one
He is sweet and thoughtful

Okay, that's enough. I'm making myself barf LOL.

In unrelated news, I got a haircut today, it's shorter and asymmetrical curly do. I like it. Very sassy.

Tomorrow I am going to plant a vege garden! I'm terribly excited and nervous about it. I hope I don't kill them and I hope that in about 2 months time I'll be able to eat something from my very own city garden. Will keep you updated on this riveting project of mine LOL.

Hello

2010-01-10T22:57:00.005+13:00

Hello. Tap. Tap. Is this thing on? Hi.

I'm back, not sure if anyone even realised I was gone LOL.

I'm on holiday at the moment, I was in Vietnam/Cambodia for all of December and had a great time (apart from the 5 days in hospital in Cambodia).

Highlights of the trip were:

wandering around the quaint, quiet streets of Hoi An
getting two gorgeous dresses, two jackets, two leather bags and two pairs of shoes made for $250
catching up with awesome friends in Phnom Penh and their incredible hospitality
doing a cooking class in Hoi An
jumping on the back of motorcycle taxis and zooming around Ho Chi Minh City
air conditioning
amazing food (I kid you not, not one dud meal the entire time)

Some lowlights of the trip were:

spending 5 days in hospital in Cambodia
losing my camera in Ho Chi Minh City
constantly getting ripped off in HCMC (exaggerated tourist prices in the markets were the worst)
leaving my make up bag and other stuff on the plane

Once back in NZ, my sweet new man picked me up and whisked me away for a week at the beach at his parents beach house. I had thought it was going to be relaxing and quiet, but after one day together, we had visitors for the remainder of our time there. For 3 days we had 28 people stay! Thankfully, the house was large enough to cope with the numbers. Actually, the beach house was amazing, gorgeous views, great furniture and art work. But also very comfortable (so I didn't feel so bad when I tracked in sand or put my feet on the sofas).

We came back from the beach yesterday and spent today just mooching around Auckland and catching up with some friends. Tomorrow I'm flying back to Wellington. Can't wait to get home. Hopefully Wellington weather will be good. I've got a week hanging around before I get back to work on Jan 18. It's not going to be easy, sitting behind a desk for 8 hours after I haven't been working for over 6 weeks.

Ugh. And now I just imagined the number of emails I'll have.

Slackarse

2009-11-10T20:09:00.002+13:00

Hello, it's me, your recalcitrant blogger.

If you were hoping for interesting, funny updates, I'm afraid you've come to the wrong place. My life is incredibly boring at the moment... bland, uneventful, small.

Work is keeping me busy, I've got so many events coming up before the end of the year, including this big 7 day event I organise. All I'm really thinking about though, is my holiday in December.

All the travel has been organised, same for accommodation, now I'm researching tailors in Hoi An (they're meant to be really good). I'm planning on getting a coat, a jacket and a summery maxi-dress - although I'm still not sure if a short, dumpy chick like myself can wear a maxi-dress LOL.

2009-10-26T22:04:00.001+13:00

It’s been a really nice Labour Weekend, great weather and time spent with the new guy (Will, I met him about a month ago), who came down to Wellington for the weekend.

I was nervous and excited before he arrived…but he was just as funny, smart and cute as I remembered LOL.

I also discovered he has great hands; slightly scarred and nicked, sexy. He also has nice shoulders; broad, well defined and strong. He’s intelligent, funny and down to earth. Smells great and totally rocked my metaphorical socks off in bed.... mmm, give me a moment to just savour that now LOL.

I got to show him around Wellington (he recently returned to NZ after several years living abroad) and meet some of his friends, who were really lovely (and in typical Wellington fashion, I knew several of them, not by name, but I've just seen them around the city). Thankfully the weather was great, so we managed to walk along the beach, have a few drinks at a favourite bar and brunch at my local cafe. Oh and I got to see the inside of a hotel room at the Museum Hotel, which has had a refurb since the last time I was there (for a work famil).

Not quite sure what's going to happen now he's gone back home, I guess we'll take it one email or one text message at a time. I'm pretty relaxed about it.

I also got started on my Christmas shopping (bought my three nieces their gifts) and went to see "Julie & Julia" which I really enjoyed. Meryl Streep is a fantastic actor.

Now I'm just psyching myself up to go to work tomorrow. The weekend just goes too quickly really, but I suppose it's a short week so that's something to look forward to.

Lecture

2009-10-12T20:37:00.002+13:00

What is it with some people who think they have every right to lecture you about your life?

Yesterday I had to endure a 45 minute lecture from a relative (not my mum or dad, they know better LOL) about how my life must be so empty and without purpose because I'm not married or have kids. This is almost an annual lecture from this particular relative, who just can't seem to get it through her thick skull that I am perfectly happy, content and loving the life I have. I also don't understand what business this is of hers? Why really, is she concerned? How does my apparent spinsterhood affect her personally? I just don't get it.

Two months

2009-10-08T20:31:00.003+13:00

Two months from now (give a few days), I'm going to be here:

That's a beach in Nah Trang, Vietnam.

I can't wait to get there. As well as beach hopping in central Vietnam, I'm travelling down to Ho Chi Minh City, heading along the Mekong Delta into Cambodia (and to stay with a friend who works in Phnom Penh), then onto Siem Reap and then flying to Vientiane (and staying with another friend who works for World Vision in Laos).

But before I get there, I have two major events to organise, two international visits to organise and facilitate, one marketing campaign to start, one project proposal to write, and a bunch of other stuff. All I'm picturing is that beach in Nah Trang, me, a book and a drink LOL.

Apart from work, I'm also looking forward to seeing the Auckland guy I met a few weeks ago. He's coming down here for Labour Weekend, so that'll be cool to hang out with him for a few days.

Now, what isn't cool, is the news about a missing 2 year old girl, Aisling Syme. Please send your thoughts, prayers and white light to this missing girl and her family. So sad.

2009-09-28T20:53:00.003+13:00

Where has September gone? This month has just flown by. I've had a really busy work schedule, lots of flying around the place, which sounds fun, but soon loses it's allure very early on. I had something like 12 flights in 5 days.

This past weekend I was in Auckland for work. I did manage to get some free time though, which turned out to be really good! I met someone. Really clicked and got on well. He's blonde, brown eyes, tanned and handsome. Into running and cycling. Travelled a lot and has worked in Paris and Tokyo over the years. Intelligent and funny. I'm not sure if it's going to lead any where (seeing as he's in Auckland and I'm here in Wellington) but it was fun to know that there still some decent single men out there!

In other news, I went to the City Gallery yesterday, it was their reopening after nearly a year of renovations. You should've seen the queues! I guess you can definitely say that Wellington is the arts capital of New Zealand.

The outside of the gallery was covered in spots. Visiting artist Yayoi Kusama is exhibiting until February 2010. It's a little bit mad and I love it.

Hopefully now I'm back at work with no expected travel until December I'll be able to update this blog more often.

10 plus 1 Things

2009-09-08T20:40:00.001+12:00

Things I have always wanted to do:

Be in a music video
Sail a boat along the Adriatic
Create a signature perfume
Own a couture garment
Learn to knit and sew
Sit front row at Paris Fashion Week
Produce a full length feature film
Paint an oil painting
Drive a fantastically fast car on the Nuremberg Track
Learn to play the guitar
Speak another language fluently

Nothing too outrageous there. I suppose I could actually do some of these things (knit, sew, learn another language). Just seems a little like too much hard work LOL.

Pregnant or Freshly F&#$

2009-09-03T20:18:00.002+12:00

I had two colleagues, at two different times, make a comment about how I was looking today.

Apparently, I had a "glow" about me.

One thought that perhaps I might be pregnant. The other thought I had a new bloke and we were shagging like rabbits. Hahahahaha.

Neither of course. I had to tell them the "glow" was thanks to Napoleon Perdis, M.A.C and FACE Stockholm.

It's all about bronzer and blush ladies. And blending. Blending is key.

I would of course, give up the face paint for the opportunity to get the "glow" from being shagged senseless LOL.

Random Sunday

2009-08-30T16:27:00.002+12:00

Being a Wellington Lions supporter is not for the fainthearted. Last night's loss to Canterbury was awful. Actually, being a Wellington rugby supporter is a lot like Wellington weather. Moments of brilliance followed by crap. With just enough greatness to get your hopes up then it turns LOL. Totally inconsistent.

I met my friend's nephew last night. He's lovely, tall, dark, handsome. 22. We got on really well, major flirting from both of us LOL. I got his number and we have been texting a bit today (he's gone back to Christchurch). This is driving my friend CRAZY! I got a huge lecture from her about how it is totally irresponsible of me, that I'm too old to act like this and I should try finding a "man my own age, not a kid"! Ouch. I guess it's okay for me to have fun with other young guys who aren't her family members though, because I remember talking to her about that young guy I shagged earlier this year. She certainly didn't think I was acting inappropriately then (in fact, thought it was funny and entertaining). It pisses me off actually. Wish she'd butt out!

Speaking of cute young men, I was browsing through a trashy magazine at the supermarket today and came across this picture...

What a cutie! Apparently he's a Jonas Brother. I know my 9 year old niece loves them LOL, now I might be more inclined to watch their music vids. I just did a Google search... he's only 16! Eek. I feel slightly disturbed about that LOL.

How old is too old to enjoy "teen" TV shows? I'm worried that I like Gossip Girl too much. Surely I should be enjoying BBC dramas?

I am obsessed with my eyebrows. I go to a lovely Indian lady who only charges $6 to thread them into the perfect shape (she really is great) but I've been trying to find the right products to fill and shape them.

I'm also a huge fan of the website Primped, great blogs, tips and hints and how to videos, very cool.

It appears that Hollywood is running out of ideas for movies, they've remade Melrose Place and Fame. I loved the original Fame TV series, especially Leroy and the cute wee man who taught the music... and wasn't there that curly haired piano player guy? I must find the series on DVD and watch it. It will no doubt bring back memories of my leg warmer wearing days LOL. And I don't know if the new MP will be any good. I mean nothing can top this piece of TV gold! And this is classic television LOL.

Classics

2009-08-26T21:14:00.003+12:00

I'm currently watching "Sixteen Candles" on TV.

I'm a huge John Hughes fan (so sad to hear about his recent death) and have probably seen "Sixteen Candles" about 30 times. I love Jake Ryan. Didn't every girl wish for a Jake Ryan?

Watching this movie made me think of all the other movies I think are classics and love to watch again. Not a huge list. Quite a few John Hughes films feature too.

1. Grease

2. Ferris Bueller's Day Off

3. Best in Show

4. 10 Things I Hate About You

5. Some Kind of Wonderful

6. Say Anything

7. Dirty Dancing

8. Fargo

9. The Shawshank Redemption

10. Clueless

11. The Princess Bride

12. Bull Durham

You'll notice that not many of these films are dramatic types of films. Although I enjoy a lot of dramatic, dark films, they're not necessarily the type of films I want to watch again and again.

Right, back to Jake Ryan. Sigh.

Sometimes I wonder

2009-08-20T20:36:00.001+12:00

If my interest in clothes, shoes, food and gossip, fashion magazines and shirtless men portrays me as shallow, self obsessed and stupid.

I don't tend to talk a lot about politics on this blog. Or current events. Or social issues. It's not that I'm not interested in those things, I am. Often very passionately. But I'm surrounded by politics daily, I work in the capital city and for a organisation with very close links to the government.

And really, who would want to read about me whining about my work. Or if parents should immunize their children. Or the referendum on smacking. Yeah. I'm depressed already.

I guess I'm feeling a little sorry for myself lately, a little down. It's winter. I'm bored. I've started on another new diet. I need a shag LOL.

Don't mind me...

Another year older

2009-08-16T21:56:00.001+12:00

Had a really lovely birthday week involving lots of good food and good wine and, good pressies.

I don't feel another year older, although my body does. A sore knee and some back pain this week. Great, I'll have to start taking joint care pills soon or buy one of those Magna-Sleep things LOL.

One thing I've become quite a bit obsessive about lately is skin care and make up. I have been pretty lax through out my teens, 20s and early 30s about skin care but have decided I need to make a concerted effort now I'm in my mid-30s (*sob*) lest I end up looking like this woman...

I got given this book for Christmas it and has made for interesting bedtime reading (yes, really LOL). I've started being regimented with skin care (e.g. actually cleaning my face more than once a day) and have been spending an inordinate amount of time at the cosmetics counters at Kirkcaldie & Stains and Farmers. I've tried several different skin care ranges since December and so far, it's the cheapy Olay that works wonders for me. As Paula says, don't be sucked into thinking expensive=better.

I have also started Jenny Craig. Yep. Decided I need to get serious about shifting this weight and seeing as I really hate to cook for myself (but love to cook for others), the fact that JC provides the food, all packaged and ready to go was a positive. Also, I can take the food with me when I travel, which is one of the big trouble spots for me, eating out or at hotels isn't ideal when you're trying to watch what you eat. The thing with JC I've found (today is my third day) is that the food is nice and there's lots of it. I guess throughout my dieting history (which is long and varied), I always thought I should eat small amounts and only three meals a day. On JC I get to have snacks. Like real snacks, chocolate fudge cookie type snacks. Yum.

I hope to shift this weight by Christmas, but will take it slow and steady. And with the view that I will not gain it all back (as is my pattern).

Back from my mini-break

2009-08-10T23:17:00.001+12:00

I'm back from five days in Vanuatu.

It was lovely to get away for a few days. Even if it did rain for three of the five days I was there.

I went for walks, went kayaking, hired a car and drove around the island, went swimming, saw stunning scenery, shopped at the local market, ate lovely fresh fish, drank a lot of vodka, danced in my undies, sat on the balcony of my hotel room, read books, listened to my iPod and enjoyed a bit of solitude.

I was staying in a very swanky hotel (no kids under 12) which had amazing views, really lovely staff, great food and the pool and gardens were so lush and tropical. And even better, I paid a fraction of the usual rate (thanks global recession!)

I did however, get a bit bored by the fourth day LOL. And I dropped my camera in the lagoon when I went kayaking, it's a Canon SLR (film) so I'm hoping it can be fixed. (The film was ruined).

This week is my birthday week, so I'm celebrating every day. Today I bought two pairs of shoes (come on you knew I would LOL), tomorrow I'm going out for lunch with colleagues, Wednesday dinner with friends, Thursday night family birthday dinner and Friday drinks with friends. I'm hoping both my liver and wallet are up for it.

Inundated

2009-07-28T21:27:00.000+12:00

I've been inundated with emails from friends today.

It seems they've taken it upon themselves to find a man for me. And rather gleefully. Email after email with names, personal info and assessments LOL.

While it is amusing, I don't actually want a guy. (Okay, that's not strictly true... the guy I want is not an option, he's married. And the only reason I would want one is for a shag now and again LOL). And unfortunately, the type of guy I would be interested doesn't seem to be in the emails my friends are sending.

I mean, is this too hard to ask for?

Or this?

I never said I was easy to please LOL.

Sunday rants and raves

2009-07-26T17:52:00.000+12:00

As regular readers of the blog (all five of you... "Hi!") will know, I'm very fond of lists.

Today's cover all the things that piss me off and all things that don't. Let's start with the things that piss me off, so we finish on a high note.

Rants

Parents who take their screaming obnoxious children out to nice cafes. I don't begrudge them wanting to get out, but please make sure the kids behave themselves. Today I witnessed the WORST behaviour from a pair of precocious obnoxious little people (Tallulah and Hugo, the little shits and don't get me started on their pretentious names, ugh), who ran riot around the cafe, got in the way of the waiting staff, yelled and screamed. Really irritating for the rest of the cafe patrons. The parents were oblivious, smiling away, like this was acceptable behaviour! Now, it wasn't me being all bitchy and nasty against kids. There were two other families in the cafe at the time and those kids were really great. It really spoiled it for everyone and I left with a twitchy eye from all the noise and chaos LOL.

You know those small, delicate, lady-like sneezes some people do? Yeah. Well. I'm not one of those people. You can hear my sneezes from space. So loud. I can't stop them either, or try and not make a noise (also afraid if I do try and stop them the pressure would be so great the sneeze would somehow make my brain explode). Today I sneezed as I was leaving the dairy across the road and scared a small dog that a guy was walking. Talk about embarrassing.

Raves

This song, has been played over and over on my iPod for weeks now. La Roux, "In for the Kill". Love it. Love her hair. And her red lips. I want that exact red shade.

I love the website The Sartorialist and came across this photo.

I want her shoes. Desperately want them. Even if they'd make me look extra stumpy. I can only dream that if I owned them I'd suddenly be 7 inches taller and 3 dress sizes smaller and as stunning as this woman.

It's a red letter day

2009-07-23T21:55:00.002+12:00

I am going out tomorrow night (Friday).

It'll be the first time I've been out for weeks, if not months. I'm hoping this will be the start of a social life, I desperately need a fun night of drinking, flirting and dancing. Which reminds me, I must shave my legs LOL.

Recent highs and lows

2009-07-09T21:42:00.000+12:00

Highs

I'm going on holiday for the next six days
I've got a big bonus coming my way
I just made the most kick ass lemon drizzle cake (looks and tastes amazing, couldn't help myself, just had to have some)
I've booked a holiday to Vanuatu for early August

Lows

Working 80 hour weeks for the past 3 weeks
Sore, irritable dry eyes (thankfully I got a free sample of eye drops from the optometrist)
Recent weight gain and inability to motivate myself to get to the gym
I've killed all my houseplants (thanks black thumbs of death!)

Looking back

2009-06-25T20:52:00.001+12:00

You know in TV sitcoms where they have that episode where the "gang" reminisces about previous fun times and they show the flashbacks?

Well, I'm doing the same thing here, looking back at some of my previous blog posts for the month of June over the past 4 years.

Here's me moaning about a 3-day hangover, drooling over Italian football players, talking about the types of men I've dated, going to an exhibition displaying some very moving and harrowing images, sharing my fave SATC quotes, happy about finding a new flat and pondering child beauty pageants.

My neighbour

2009-06-21T18:54:00.004+12:00

About three or so weeks ago, new neighbours moved into the house next door. I haven't until now, met them (I've never met the downstairs neighbours, and I've lived here 11 months LOL).

But this morning I was standing outside the neighbours house, waiting for a bus (I live, very handily, right on a bus stop) to take me to Hataitai and the neighbour came out and walked past me.

Holy shit.

Gorgeous! He looked a little like Henry Simmons or Blair Underwood, but with chin-length dreads. Hot.

I need to think of a reason to go next door and introduce myself. I can't use the "I've run out of [insert grocery item]" as a great little mini-supermarket is right opposite my house LOL. I could throw a ball over the fence to their garden and go over to get it. Lost cat? (I don't have one, but I can improvise LOL). I'll think more on this while I'm away for the next three days for work - I will be in Christchurch and Dunedin this week, am totally ill-prepared, I can't find my favourite pair of gloves or my nice hat. I guess I'll just have to go and buy some. What a shame.

Speaking of shopping, today I got some great bargains at Country Road, Kimberleys and Farmers. I love this recession, heaps of sales on LOL. I got a lovely fine knit cardigan for $35 (down from $149), a pair of grey light herringbone pattern wool trousers for $49 (down from $229) and this really lovely crop black satin-esque jacket, which was only $35 from Farmers (and doesn't look like it came from Farmers, totally has a Zambesi feel to it!). All I need now is shoes for work (a pair of heels and a pair of flats), a winter coat (waterproof with a hood, not a puffer or a wool one) and a chocolate brown handbag.

Tui Billboard

2009-06-17T21:31:00.001+12:00

It's a Tui billboard waiting to happen...

Anyone believe the Belgian teen? I don't believe she could've slept through that, especially not 56 tattoos. When I got tattooed, it wasn't really painful, but it did hurt. So yeah, I think she knew what was happening and now has tattoo remorse LOL.

In totally unrelated news, I'm working hard on getting swine flu. I've decided that a week of quarantine (or, "splendid isolation" as I call it) wouldn't be that bad. I could get groceries delivered via online shopping at Woolworths, I've got lots of DVDs to watch, I've got internet and TV. I'd be perfectly happy LOL. So I'm the weirdo sitting next to the guy sneezing on the bus (when all seats surrounding him are empty), touching all the communal door handles in the office and not using hand sanitizer. I bet I don't get it LOL.

I saw the trailer for Public Enemies the other day, looks really good. Johnny Depp and Christian Bale, that's definitely worth the $16 ticket. I also saw the trailer for The Ugly Truth, which looks really bad. Not worth the $16 ticket, but maybe $2 DVD rental LOL.

You're invited!

2009-06-15T21:06:00.000+12:00

To a great, big pity party! Bring Vodka. I've got the chips.

I've been so grumpy lately, stressed and tired with work commitments, as well as some family issues (and I won't mention the married man cos that just makes me feel worse LOL).

I need more support at work, but that's looking very unlikely. Unfortunately I can't delegate any project work because everyone else is crazy busy as well. No budget for a temp either. So 10 hour days are a common occurrence for me. Sucks arse.

Familial issues are ongoing... my mother is menopausal and loopy and I'm annoyed with her and my Dad for the way the treat me and my sister (very differently, not difficult to work out who's the favourite... it's not me LOL). It's also impacting on my relationship with my sister. I don't want it to, but I can't help but feel slightly resentful. I sound like such a drama queen.

Anyway, I don't want to go into details because a) it'd bore you and b) it'd make me grumpier.

So, to help ease the pitifulness... I have these... I call it "Mantitty Monday".

Enjoy!

Rituals

2009-06-07T13:58:00.000+12:00

There's probably one ritual that I miss the most since breaking up with the ex. The Sunday morning ritual.

He'd go and get the paper, coffee and bread from Le Moulin, I'd make breakfast and we'd just chill out for the morning and then meet up with friends or family for lunch or dinner. I miss that.

But I've started my very own Sunday ritual. It is now coffee while shopping at the vege market (Chaffers/Te Papa market) then home to watch the Home & Away omnibus while I munch on pain au chocolate purchased from Pandoro. Doesn't that just sound ever so exciting...

Tomorrow and Tuesday I'm away, working at a conference that I've helped to organise. Should go well, I'm looking forward to getting out of Wellington for a few days. Ideally I'd like to take a week off soon but it's just June and July are crazy busy at work. So fingers crossed I'll get some time off in August. Really should make the most of the cheap flights and go somewhere fun.

Ode to cheese

2009-06-03T22:53:00.002+12:00

I love Cheese. I've loved it for a long time. But not all kinds of cheese (can't eat any blue vein) but if it's stinky, pongy and ripe, I'm all over it. When I used to go to France on holiday, I would eat my own weight in the stuff - all that un-pasteurised stinky Gallic goodness. When I lived in London, I would visit Neal's Yard Dairy every week, they knew me by first name and I practically had frequent buyer points. I'm just drooling now thinking about all those fantastic cheeses... Stinking Bishop, Lincolnshire Poacher, Wensleydale.

Over the weekend, I bought this very nice sheep's milk washed rind soft cheese made by a Hawke's Bay cheesemaker. It smelt like cat pee combined with toe jams but tasted so lovely, especially smeared over a cracker. One good thing about liking stinky cheese, is that I don't have to share it with many people. The smell of it usually puts them off.

In completely non-Cheese related matters (but keeping to the food theme), my latest batch of chocolate cupcakes aren't that nice. I tried a new recipe and they're very dense and slightly dry. I think I'll stick to the Martha Stewart one that is really nice. I'll take this lot of cupcakes to work, colleagues are not that fussy LOL.

A couple of other random things, I wish BNZ hadn't used Tiki Taane's Always on my Mind as the song in their new ad. I quite liked that song and album and now I can see I'm going to get sick of it. Also, in that new Telecom XT ad, the one with the short guy from Top Gear, they put Zoe Bell in that shipping container and drop her off in the ocean. How on earth did she get out of the container? The doors aren't open and it hasn't sunk, so how did she get out? Or am I being too pedantic about that?

I'm debating over whether or not to go see Terminator: Salvation.

Pros: Christian Bale, Sam Worthington (who I've liked since I saw him in that Australian TV series Love My Way)

Cons: Poor reviews

Maybe I'll wait until it's on DVD.

Random stuff

2009-06-02T22:30:00.001+12:00

I really hope that Wolf is going to be in this latest series of Outrageous Fortune. I love Wolf, but looking at the line up on the main page of the official website, I don't see any Wolf. Bummer. Won't be the same without Wolf.

I'm addicted to making cupcakes at the moment. I'm trying out various recipes, so far they've all been yummy LOL. I'm sticking to the basics, vanilla or chocolate. I did add some raspberries to one of the chocolate recipes, and passionfruit to the icing of some vanilla ones. Not terribly adventurous.

Am I tragic for enjoying reality TV shows like I Love New York? It's crap but so addictive. The guys are such douchebags... so greasy looking, like they've bathed in some sort of oil. And let's not talk about their hair. And they all seem to walk like their balls are 2 feet wide LOL.

How insane is that Cadbury's TV ad (the new one, with the kids and the eyebrows). So random LOL.

Anyone seen any good movies lately? I've seen Bottle Shock, Last Chance Harvey and The Class which I enjoyed. Still haven't seen Star Trek. Not that keen to see Angels & Demons, doesn't seem like my kind of film. I saw the trailer for Sunshine Cleaning, which looked very funny, quirky and offbeat.

I'm thinking Laura is going to win New Zealand's Next Top Model. Although Christobelle is pretty and has lovely long legs, something not quite right about her face (it's kind of all pushed into the centre, weird). Hosanna is attractive, but too short. So Laura is my pick.

I've fielded quite a few phone calls and texts the past few days. A guy was killed surfing at Lyall Bay. Name hasn't been released (or not that I know of) and it was reported he was 33. So, my ex is a surfer and a similar age, so I had quite a few texts from people asking about it. To my knowledge it isn't him.

I've eaten 4 cupcakes in the time it's taken to write this blog post. They were yum.

I've come very close

2009-06-01T13:30:00.000+12:00

to buying:

Pro-Activ

Youthful Essence

Sheer Cover

Malibu Pilates Chair

Barefoot Orthotics

So many bloody infomercials. And they are so convincing. I'm pretty sure I need Sheer Cover. I mean, if Alyssa Milano says it's changed her life, then maybe I should give it a try.

The arctic weather has meant that I've spent some of this Queens Birthday weekend watching TV. It's all shit though, nothing decent really screens over the weekend. It doesn't help that I only get good reception for 4 channels. Though I am not getting SkyTV installed, I don't need 100 more channels screening crap.

I haven't spent all weekend watching TV, I have ventured into the kitchen to make cupcakes, soups (Thai Pumpkin and Minestrone), bread and white bean pate. I've read two books and done some housework. I had lunch with a friend on Saturday, drank lots of lovely red wine. Lovely wine. Mmmmm. Wine. Oohhh, I think I've got a bottle of white in my fridge. I'll be right back.

If I was on Survivor

2009-05-28T21:01:00.000+12:00

So I'm watching Survivor (nothing else on TV, so Survivor it is) and you know, if I was on Survivor here's what I'd do.

I'd take sports underwear (bras, undies). There's women there wearing lace bras that offer no support. You've got to think about life at camp, challenges etc. A sports bra is a must. Especially for us big boobed ladies.

I'd also take a sarong/pashmina. It does double, if not triple duty. Blanket or wrap, clothing, headgear etc.

I'd also wear practical clothing on the first day (cotton stuff, stretchy, several layers). One lady is wearing this full length dress. Can you say impractical? I mean, you could walk too close to an open fire, catch the hem and poof. Burning.

Also, I'm curious how the men grow facial hair (so obviously no razors), but not one woman has any under arm hair or wayward bikini pubes (so obviously they use razors). Unless they all went and got laser hair removal or something...

Rules of attraction

2009-05-20T20:49:00.001+12:00

I have a crush. I'm too bloody old to have a crush on a guy. And this guy is so not whom I need to be attracted too.

He's married.

I've known him for a number of years, am good friends with both him and his wife. We do things together (went to KOL concert with him) and I often catch up with him for a drink or we go out for dinner, or a movie. We've been on a holiday together with other friends etc. We get on really well. I like his wife, she's really lovely. And I like him too. Argh!

I'm going to have to distance myself from him/them for awhile. My head needs to be more involved. I don't want to be attracted to a married man. Why can't I be attracted to some hot single guy? I guess first I need to meet a hot single guy. Which means I need to get a social life. Which just seems too much like hard work LOL.

What $700,000 will get me

2009-05-17T16:50:00.002+12:00

I went to a few open homes today. Just interested to see what the market is like and what my (hypothetical) money would get me.

Even for $700,000 it wouldn't go far. I saw 4 apartments in the city today. Two must have all been done by the same developer because they had the exact same layout, decor, bathrooms etc. Exhibit A and Exhibit B. I found them okay but the living areas were small (considering each was a 3 bedroom apartment). Plus the layout was a little hotel like. Anything with a harbour view and a central location seems to automatically mean a price over $700,000.

I really like the look of this apartment (I bet that one goes for over $2mil), or some of the ones in the Hannah's Building. Would need to win Lotto to afford one of those though.

Of course, if I looked further out of the city, $700,000 would go quite a way. But I'm a snob when it comes to suburbs (yes, I bet I surprised you with that revelation LOL). I wouldn't live anywhere like Crofton Downs, Newlands or Tawa (totally soulless suburbs to me). I guess I'm spoiled in that I live central city and have got used to being in walking distance to everything. I've never actually owned a car, as I can walk everywhere (or get taxis). When the ex lived here, he had a car and it was a constant battle to get a park (as we'd be competing with other neighbours for on-street parking, and never seemed to get a park outside our place LOL).

In other riveting news, I made some chocolate cupcakes this afternoon. I'm waiting for them to cool before I ice them (and eat them!). I made up the recipe so hopefully they taste okay (if not, I'll just smother them in buttercream icing, everything tastes good with icing LOL).

Last night I was inspired to make a Spicy Prawn Pilaf (a Gordon Ramsey recipe), it was nice but not spicy enough! It was tasty but needed more heat. Of course, I made enough for four people so I have it in my freezer and no doubt will be eating it for dinner for the next few days. I can tell I'll be over pilaf by Tuesday LOL.

New Zealand Music Month

2009-05-10T18:42:00.001+12:00

May is New Zealand Music Month. I'm a huge fan of NZ music and think we have quite a unique sound.

Some of the songs that get heavy play on my iPod include

Crawl by Atlas

One Day by OpShop

My Delirium by Ladyhawke

Fade Away by Che Fu

Long White Cross by Pluto

The Letter by Midnight Youth

Always on My Mind by Tiki Taane

Stand Up by The Feelers

Indulge Me by Dave Dallas

I also like Savage "Wild Out".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V1Trxr2Dzfg

And "Brother" by Smashproof (excpet that stupid Gin Wigmore's voice drives me nuts - she sounds like a Tibetan throat singer! LOL).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yooqIsQnjME

Young, too young

2009-04-27T20:56:00.002+12:00

I've been hanging around the hospital this past week (quick recap: my nephew was admitted, had surgery and is on the road to recovery) and one thing I noticed was how young the doctors were! So baby faced, it was frightening. I'm not particularly agist, but honestly, we all felt more comfortable with an older looking doctor around. Some of those doctors look about 15.

I cleaned out a few old boxes in the spare room the other day, came across a journal I wrote in 1997, when I first moved overseas to live in Japan. Hilarious. I was such a dork. The inane ramblings and dramas make for fun reading. I should post excerpts and give you all a laugh.

Random stuff

2009-04-15T21:47:00.001+12:00

Do you know what I hate? People who tattoo their own names on themselves? Why? In case you forget? Seems totally douche-y... like this guy. Tool.

I hate bananas. Yuck. The texture of the fruit makes me gag. But I love banana milkshakes (it's the fake banana taste). I also dislike peanut butter but will eagerly eat peanuts. And satay sauce LOL.

My mother is slowly driving me insane. She's become mean, nasty, rude and impossible to deal with so I've been distancing myself. Still doesn't stop the passive-aggressive (and sometimes just aggressive) emails and texts.

I totally overdid the Lindt bunny's at Easter - I hate three (one was a mini one though LOL).

I'm looking after four kids next week. Taking a few days off work while it's the school holidays to look after my nieces and nephew. I'm looking forward to it. And also stocking up on Berocca.

I will admit to watching crap TV. Rock of Love, Charm School, Wife Swap, 90210. I love it all. Looking forward to the Amazing Race starting next week.

This week

2009-04-02T21:35:00.000+13:00

got hair extensions to cover up my terrible haircut
spent $169 on a top, $150 on a pair of trousers and $350 on a dress without batting an eyelash
moaned about the price of a $4 coffee
organised one cocktail function, two two-hour presentation meetings, one luncheon and one birthday party
baked cupcakes and gave them to my colleagues
worked 12 hours three days in a row
watched trashy TV (Rock of Love, Charm School, 90210) to unwind
accidently deleted my iTunes library (not happy)

I am looking forward to doing nothing on the weekend that's for sure.

The drought has broken

2009-03-29T12:20:00.000+13:00

It's been a long four months and thanks to a lovely cute guy called Jamie, the sex drought is finally over LOL.

I met him on Friday night after the Kings of Leon concert. Dark hair, green eyes, sweet smile. Obviously drunk enough to overlook my terrible haircut LOL. Probably in his 20s (judging from the decor in his flat/room).

I doubt I'll be seeing him again (it was a one night deal LOL) but it was a fun night.

Hair Don't

2009-03-26T21:52:00.002+13:00

So, I drunk cut my hair last night... as you do LOL.

It seemed like a great idea at the time, I was on a scissor high. Snip, snip.

Now I have this weird, chunky bowl cut. I look like Jim Carrey in "Dumb and Dumber".

No luck getting to see my hairdresser to fix it, so I'll go see someone tomorrow to see if they can do anything with it. I think I'll have to have a crop or something, seeing as the longest layer is about level with my ears. Ugh.

New laptop and more additions to the Fuckit List

2009-03-18T22:25:00.003+13:00

I finally got my new laptop - yay.

I've purchased a MacBook and it's so pretty. I'm relatively familiar with Macs (the ex-BF had a fancy shmancy one) so it's not too much of a learning curve. It sure is pretty though. And it doesn't disconnect me from the internet for no reason like my old laptop. And it's so light (not the MacBook Air) but pretty skinny. And so pretty LOL.

Now some further additions to my Fuckit List (this is ongoing LOL).

Date a guy who wears white sport socks with black trousers
Watch a fishing TV show
Grow a garden
Play Monopoly

Laptop woes and Fuckit List

2009-03-17T21:00:00.002+13:00

My current laptop is on its last legs. I've spent the better part of two weeks doing research about what kind of laptops/notebooks are out there. I was all set to go buy one but am completely turned off my the dipshit nerds at several major electronics retailers. They are so condescening (so I don't know what dual core is, nor do I give a crap about blue ray LOL).

I've got one more retailer that I'm going to see tomorrow, so hopefully this time tomorrow I'll be typing away on my new laptop.

Some dude (google search tells me Michael Ian Black, don't know who he is) started this Twitter list. The Fuckit List is the opposite of a bucket list, things that you don't really care about doing before you die. Some of the lists are quite funny,

So, here's the start of my Fuckit List (it's going to be ongoing LOL).

Learn to sew
Get up early on a week day
Eat mushrooms
Read Harry Potter or the Twilight books
Go into Starbucks or Gloria Jeans
Visit LA

2009-03-07T21:38:00.005+13:00

I'm on Twitter, at the moment it's quicker to update that this blog, so you can follow me here: www.twitter.com/poptartnz

This week

2009-02-17T23:08:00.002+13:00

With apologies to Jesse from The Fast Show.

"This week I 'ave mostly been... "

Bumping into my ex-boyfriend. Crap!

I've moaned about this to a few friends; on Sunday I was shopping and walked into the Adidas store, only to walk out again as my ex and his new girlfriend were shopping in there. I just wasn't in the mood to deal with that.

Tonight after work I walked down to St John's Bar to have a drink with a friend (it was a gorgeous sunny evening) and who should come stand next to me at the bar, but my ex! We did the "hey" platitude but that was it. I was quite happy to get back to my friend and catch up on her social life (she's signed up with an online dating site and has been on a few dates, she's been regaling me with the horror stories LOL).

Honestly! It's some kind of karmic joke, all I need know is to bump into Tattoo Freaky Boy or Josh and I'd hit the ex jackpot LOL.

Sometimes this town is just too bloody small.

2009-02-09T21:35:00.002+13:00

The following was sent to me today (click to enlarge).

I can honestly say that a hand held mixer or tea towels are really stretching it as gifts for Valentine's Day. "I love you honey, here's a Le Creuset pot".

Actually, now that I think about it, I wouldn't have minded a Le Creuset pan. In red. LOL. Would've been more use that the kayak I got one year for Valentine's Day (I used that 4 times).

Le Creuset pans in red will have to wait though, I need a new laptop, this one is on the fritz. Likes to disconnect my internet connection whenever it feels like it, won't load my email programme, won't burn or read CDs/DVDs and the "e" key is stuck (I have to bash it twice to get it to work). So this week I'll get shopping around for a laptop. And I'll admit that I will probably buy one that is cool looking and stylish as a first priority LOL.

Awkward

2009-02-02T23:50:00.001+13:00

Definition

1 obsolete : perverse

2 archaic : unfavorable, adverse

3 a: lacking dexterity or skill (as in the use of hands) b: showing the result of a lack of expertness

4 a: lacking ease or grace (as of movement or expression) b: lacking the right proportions, size, or harmony of parts : ungainly

5 a: lacking social grace and assurance b: causing embarrassment

6: not easy to handle or deal with : requiring great skill, ingenuity, or care.

(From Merriam Webster online).

7: A feeling that Poptart felt this evening, when she hosted a social networking event in which a guest introduced herself and her boyfriend to Tart. The boyfriend is Poptart's ex-boyfriend, the guest had no idea and Poptart didn't feel the need to mention anything and so felt awkward. The ex's new girlfriend is gorgeous, incredibly smart, young, interesting and so bloody nice.

So, to make Poptart feel less awkward and weird, pictures of David Beckham and expensive shoes are required:

Remember

2009-01-29T22:37:00.018+13:00

Remember when Mickey Rourke looked like this?

Why he thought he needed plastic surgery I don't know.

He is getting rave reviews (and a Golden Globe) for his performance in "The Wrestler". I'll try check out the movie when it's released here (not until April apparently) as I am *whispering* a fan of wrestling. Seriously. Chris Jericho could totally pin me to the floor anyday.

Single girl seeks girl for fun

2009-01-28T22:02:00.004+13:00

I am a: Woman

Looking for a: Woman

Age range: 20 to 100

Location: Wellington

Talkative, fun, outgoing Wellington single girl seeks similar for fun social nights out. Must like Thai food, going to the movies, drinking mojitos, dancing to 80s music and think Johnny Depp is sexier than Hugh Jackman.

I'm going to have to advertise for friends. Although I've got a group of fabulous fantastic girlfriends, they've all slowly but surely stopped any socialising. Most are married, some with kids but all are too tired to do anything with me.

Last night I called a few friends to see if they wanted to go out with me to the movies next Tuesday... well, what a waste of time that was LOL. Even with a week's notice (to arrange babysitters or whatever) none wanted to come out. Boring! It's like pulling teeth these days.

So, I'm going to try and pick up women for purely platonic relationships. Where does one meet straight women? Supermarket? Gym? Shoe shop? This is going to take some time and investigation.

Hello 2009

2009-01-22T17:35:00.002+13:00

I have neglected this blog something chronic the past couple of months. Amazing how quickly time goes.

So, here I am and it's 2009 and sadly, not much has changed. Although I am browner since my last post. Yay. I know tans are given a bad rap, but I look so much better with a bit of colour on me. While I'll never be a bronzed goddess, I'm a lovely caramel colour and it looks good.

I'm on holiday at the moment.... have been since 22 December. I have done nothing but work on my tan, read books, eat and relax. I could've gone away somewhere, but I just wanted to stay around here. It's been great, I've enjoyed hanging out with friends, doing around the home projects. I have even planted herbs! I've been to the beach everyday - unfortunately rather disappointing people watching, but suberb gelato from Kaffee Eis on Oriental Parade. I have one everyday and now the lovely people in the cafe know me and know my flavour (passionfruit).

The only pressing thing at the moment is that I need a pedicure LOL. I think I'll do it tomorrow. Don't want to do too much in each day.

Sex on Fire

2008-11-29T19:47:00.002+13:00

Today has been a stunner. I love Wellington when it's like this. Hot and sunny, cool breeze and blue blue skies. I spent most of it at Waitangi Park, people watching, reading the weekend paper and listening to Kings of Leon ("Sex on Fire" is on repeat, I love this song, thought probably not one to sing along to loudly on the bus LOL).

Tomorrow, if it's nice weather, I'm going to attempt a 12km walk with a friend, you know, just a gentle stroll LOL. I think we'll aim to go out early before it gets too warm and so I'm back home in time to go to lunch with some friends.

Then I'm packing and getting organised for my trip. And then the weekend is over. Two days is just not long enough.

A few new things

2008-11-27T21:05:00.003+13:00

A lot has happened since my last blog post. Where to start? I guess the biggest piece of news is that I am officially a single girl. My relationship ended earlier this month, he's moved out and I'm in the flat on my own. It's been okay actually. I'm very happy and getting on with life (which at the moment seems to involve working long hours and not doing much else in order the pay the extra rent I have to cover). I think my Dad took the break up worse than me LOL, seriously went into mourning over the fact that he's lost a golfing buddy LOL.

I've been really busy at work, chaotic really. I love it though, keeping busy and rushing around. I'll no doubt crash when it's all over LOL.

I'm off here...

next week. It's for work but I'm staying on for a few days longer to do some Christmas shopping. And non-Christmas shopping. I'm treating myself to two luxury items. I'm thinking an Hermes scarf and maybe a bag of some type (I'd like the Jimmy Choo "Ramona"). Not sure, we'll see how the credit card goes at Takashimaya LOL. I'm also wanting to check out Ikea! I miss Ikea LOL. Someone needs to petition Sweden to get them to open a franchise in Wellington.

I've got a decent break coming up over Christmas and I plan on doing nothing more strenuous than reading and working on my tan (it'll be a fake one, I don't tan very easily LOL). Can't wait.

Miracle product

2008-10-29T21:58:00.002+13:00

Sorry about the lack of regular posts, I've got a heavy workload and it's getting busier as we get closer to Christmas. Most people start to slow down about this time of year, not me. Sigh. But I just had to mention that I have found the best fake tan. I've tried a lot of fake tan products - gels, sprays and lotions (with bad results). I've had spray tans done at the salons which were good but never seemed to last. Now I've discovered St Tropez Everyday and it's the best fake tan I've used. Easy, simple, no streaking and it gives a really natural looking tan. Like I've spent two weeks in Rarotonga.

Health issues update: cystitis has gone (yippee), foot is better but not 100%. Physio is helping (wearing high heels to work is not) LOL.

Election update: I'm so bloody over the election. I just want it to be over. I met John Key on Sunday. He's just as shifty and slimy looking as I thought he'd be. Guess that tells you I'm not a National party supporter LOL, and no, I don't base my voting decisions on personal dislikes of individual candidates (but in this case I will, I just don't trust Key).

Bag update: My bag from Loan Me or Own Me arrived. I love it! I don't want to give it back in two weeks. It's just so gorgeous, I can't stop staring at it LOL.

Vege-pushing update: Introducing veges to the BF has been a huge success (sounds like I'm talking about a baby LOL). I've managed to make on average 2-3 vegetarian meals per week. And even better, the BF has started to cook more too (more for necessity, as I'm working quite long hours and often don't get home until after 8pm each night). Tonight I came home after the gym to find a very tasty meal of grilled asparagus and salmon fillets. Yum.

Pee and Politics

2008-10-14T20:12:00.001+13:00

You probably don't want to know this, but it's my blog and I can whine if I want to, but I've got cystitis (also known as a urinary tract infection). Argh. I've had cystitis before, usually because I've had too much sex. It's not called the "honeymooners disease" for nothing LOL. I have been having quite a bit of sex lately (honestly, it's like someone flicked the "horny switch", I cannot get enough, the BF thinks it's great LOL). So I'm on antibiotics and drinking lots of cranberry juice (pity I can't add vodka and grapefruit juice and make sea breezes). Now before you think I must be some dirty skank with poor hygiene, can I just point out that I am FASTIDIOUS about the ahem, clean up, so this cystitis really sucks.

In totally unrelated (but just as painful) is that we are nearing a general election here. So the party political broadcasts and advertising and leaders debates have started. I've pretty much decided which party will get my vote, but I still cringe at all the ads. I love the billboard mashups that people have created here. I think my fave is the Hidehi one (see here on NZ Herald website), that bloody yellow jacket so looks like what they wore in the TV show, Hi-De-Hi LOL.

I went to a cocktail function tonight, it was the launch of a new programme that one of the universities has initiated. The guest speaker was a politician. With 6 weeks to the election, you can probably guess that he used this speech as a platform to preach from. A few minutes on the programme itself and why it was important and then 10-15 minutes on what great things the Labour government has done. Oh well. At least he was articulate, interesting and engaging.

Updates

2008-10-13T19:50:00.001+13:00

A few updates from moi.

Vege-pusher

I've been quite successful in cooking vegetarian meals for the BF (and him actually eating and enjoying them). I even got him eating tofu! Ha. He had no idea (I'd marinated it and then used it in a vege stir-fry). Tonight's meal of pasta with sundried tomato, artichoke, chargrilled red capsicums and olives went down well. Though I think the vege pizza I made on the weekend was the big winner.

Foot

I'm not limping, my foot is still a bit tender and I have two bruises which are fading nicely. I even wore heels (wedge) to work today, probably not the best idea as I'm suffering now, but I was sick of wearing flat shoes to work.

Bags

I succumbed and have hired two bags - one from Arm Candy and one from Loan Me or Own Me. I couldn't help myself! I'm hardly in the position (financial) or size wise (damn you fat arse) to wear Gucci, but I can afford and my arse doesn't need to fit the bag LOL.

Polyvore

I'm an addict. I can't stop myself!

Look what I did last night.

Purple Reign by poptartnz

It's like playing dress ups. Or with those paper dolls that you cut out and dressed up with paper clothes. I loved those. I have a magnetic one on the fridge actually LOL.

2008-10-08T20:39:00.001+13:00

As you can probably imagine, I'm not in the best of moods. My foot is still sore. I'm craving cake (chocolate or carrot, god even boring old banana, I just want cake), I'm annoyed with the BF who said he'd pick me up from work then promptly forgot (so I had to limp/hobble to the bus stop and then walk home) and then when I got home I had to fold fitted sheets. Argh!

I swear fitted sheets cannot be folded correctly after they come out of the original packaging. I cannot for the life of me get them folded to sit flat, so they end up in a rolled/folded mess shoved in the linen cupboard. And it pisses me off! LOL .

To get me out of this funk, I'm going to look at pretty shoes with outrageous prices which I can't afford and can't wear at the moment and talk to David Beckham (who's hanging on the back of my wardrobe door in his 2004 calendar... that's right, I have a 4 year old calendar of David that I stare at everyday LOL).

Sex and Killer Heels

2008-10-06T15:47:00.003+13:00

So my weekend started really fantastic. I don't talk a great deal about my sex life on this blog (because... euw, I'm sure you don't want to read about it) but I just want to mention that on Friday (and some of Saturday), I got a lot of hot wild monkey sex. Yay me.

Now, that hot monkey sex is a distant memory, because on Saturday I rolled my left foot over and two ligaments tore. Holy shit, it hurt! Luckily I didn't wreck the gorgeous killer heels I was wearing (a very expensive pair of heels that I purchased in my "I don't care how much they cost, I've got a credit card" phase).

No fracture of the ankle, but two ligaments that connect the ankle to the toes were torn. (Thanks to the diagnosis from the $93 doctor at the after hours clinic). I am to rest up, take pain relief and keep the foot strapped.

So, I'm off work today, leg up and watching rubbish daytime TV (Oprah sucked today) and surfing the net. I'm bored. And gimpy.

Sigh.

Stink

2008-10-02T21:39:00.002+13:00

Stink
Pronunciation: \ˈstiŋk\
Function: intransitive verb
Inflected Form(s): stank \ˈstaŋk\ or stunk \ˈstəŋk\ ; stunk; stink·ing
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English stincan; akin to Old High German stinkan to emit a smell
Date: before 12th century
1: to emit a strong offensive odor (stank of urine)
2: to be offensive ; also : to be in bad repute (the election stank of corruption) ; also to be in bad repute
3: to possess something to an offensive degree (stinking with wealth)
4: to be extremely bad or unpleasant (the performance stank) (that news really stank)

[From Merriam-Webster online]

5: to feel embarrassment or shame (she felt stink when she tripped and fell in front of the class)

[From NZ colloquial sayings - just ask any member of my family]

I felt really stink tonight. I was on my home from the gym, red-faced and sweaty with a ball cap shoved over greasy hair and because it was such a lovely evening (blue sky spring day) I thought I'd walk home, along the waterfront.

Along the waterfront past Wagamama, Mojo, Shed 5 and Dockside.

Along the waterfront where my boyfriend just happened to be drinking at Dockside (or as I like to call it, Wankside cos it's full of wanky types) with some of his colleagues.

I spotted him just as he happened to look my way and, shame, beckoned me over. I should've just ignored him and kept walking but I didn't. I went over to say hello.

In my ugly gym gear. Stink! Needless to say I didn't stay long, or for a drink, before I managed to make my leave. I hate to think what his colleagues thought of me. Oh double stink.

To cheer myself up, I've spent more time on Polyvore.com, my new obsession. It's a website that enables you to mix and match images from the web to create outfits etc. I'm addicted. I've done some sets (searchable if you care to look, under my blog name).

Nothing makes me happier than playing stylist. Almost makes up for feeling stink a few short hours ago.

No meat

2008-09-23T22:32:00.000+12:00

I've decided that my boyfriend needs to eat more vegetarian meals. The reason I've decided is that as the chief cook, I enjoy cooking vegetarian meals, especially as I don't like the smell of meat cooking (in particular beef or lamb, makes me gag). But I love the taste of it. I know. I'm weird.

So last night I made this really scrumming couscous and chick pea salad. It was very tasty and moorish. Tonight I made a spanish fritatta (teamed with a rocket salad), it was so nice. The boyfriend wolfed it down. His only complaint was that the fritatta would've been better with some chicken in it LOL.

I'm going to try and cook two non-meat meals each week. Any helpful suggestions, tips or recipes for vegetarian meals that appeal to meat loving men?

I have stumbled across the NZ version of Bag, Borrow or Steal, it's called Loan Me or Own Me. I've already got plans to rent three bags - the Jimmy Choo Nude Biker, Chloe Saskia and maybe the Gucci Pop Bamboo. I'm going to a party at a very hip bar soon (my friend is turning 50, she co-owns a designer clothing boutique so everyone will be very well dressed) so the Chloe Saskia might just work and make everyone think I'm part of the "it" crowd (instead of "cousin it"). I think the only problem I'll have is giving the bags back, I'll probably want to own them all LOL.

Indulge Me

2008-09-19T23:38:00.002+12:00

Today was the last day of NZ Fashion Week.

I've been following online and reading blogs. I won't bore you with all my thoughts LOL, but some highlights...

Loved some of the patterns and fabrics used by Cybele. Sophisticated and very wearable.

World made a return to fashion week after a few years absense and I thought it was a very well constructed show. Intelligent. Loved this dress.

Australian designer, Kirrily Johnston sent out a very wearable collection which I think will be pretty popular with NZ buyers. I liked these two.

Juliette Hogan also did some nice prints, this dress stood out for me.

In unrelated news, my boyfriend arrived back from his holiday to the US yesterday. From all accounts he had a great time. He did quite a bit of shopping, for someone who professes to hate it, he certainly managed to grab some good stuff. He picked up heaps for the kids (his two nephews and my three nieces and nephew). I hope to pursuade him to put somethings away for Christmas! The kids don't need all that stuff at once LOL. I also came out quite well, I got perfume, several Jo Malone candles, a really nice necklace (very Marni link style, he would've had help choosing it as it's not his style, but very much mine LOL). He also took some very cool photos, some great black and white shots which I hope he will get framed as they are really well composed. He's quite talented my man LOL.

Fashion photos knicked from Runway Reporter

No surprise

2008-09-16T21:47:00.000+12:00

I suppose it comes as no surprise that a gym environment is not a habitat I am very comfortable being in.

I really don't like going. I have to force myself every day (okay, not everyday but at least 4 times a week). I hate every minute I'm there, I don't enjoy it and my favourite part of going to the gym is leaving it!

Today I decided I'd do RPM Gym Training, I thought I needed a new activity, something different. I'm pretty good on the bike when I do my own cardio workout, so thought perhaps a class environment would be fun. Well fuck me! I nearly died. Seriously. I thought my legs were going fall off. Talk about burn. I thought I was going to throw up when I left the class LOL.

You know those people who when they exercise, just glow and sweat in a nice way? They get a sheen on their skin? Yeah, well I'm not one of those people. My face goes bright red and I sweat a lot and in the most unfortunate places. Tonight I walked out with sweat patches under my butt cheeks. Ugh. Probably not the best idea to wear red tracksuit pants, no hiding those. So pretty.

In totally unrelated gym matters, Pink Floyd founder, Richard Wright died today. He was 65. I'm not an obsessive Pink Floyd fan, but I do enjoy their music and I've seen them in concert. One song I really like is "Wish You Were Here", which is a family favourite.

My Dad and two uncles perform this sometimes at family parties. They're all really good guitar players, just another thing I failed to inherit from that side of the family, along with blue eyes, a lean build and long legs!

See, if I had that lean build and long legs I wouldn't have to go to the bloody gym!

Cake Blues

2008-09-15T22:48:00.000+12:00

I really want to make a cake, chocolate preferably, but do you think I can find a recipe to inspire me? No. I want a decadent, moist and chocolatey cake. Maybe a fudgy mud cake? I've got a few recipe books to look at, and there's always google of course (though most of the recipes use american measurements which differ to NZ ones and I can't be faffed working out all the conversions LOL).

I have had to deal with an insurance company today. Sometime on Saturday someone or a group of someones vandalised my BFs car. We don't have offstreet parking (garage, car pad) so have to park on the street. When I went to drive the car on Sunday I noticed a smashed front passenger window and the side wing mirror was gone. His car wasn't the only one damaged either, I spotted about 5 or 6 other cars parked on the road with damage too. So The BF is home from his holiday in the USA on Thursday so I thought I should get onto the insurance company and get the ball rolling on fixing it.

I was away all last week, travelling around the country for work. It sounds fun but it wasn't! It was tiring and at times, boring. Being in a hotel on your own sucks. Even hip and trendy ones with tapas bars and in-room mood lighting, iPod docking stations and free wireless connection.

I'm thinking of booking a weekend holiday break away somewhere - preferably just for me, but with the current relationship woes I'm experiencing, perhaps I should organise a get away for the BF and I. Maybe a romantic, secluded bach? A luxury boutique hotel? Hmm, will have to do a bit of investigating online tomorrow.

Rude Awakenings

2008-09-07T19:01:00.003+12:00

This morning when I finally managed to drag my still hungover body out of bed (two day hangovers suck) into the shower and dressed in dorky but comfy trackies, I threw open my bedroom curtains and was assaulted by the sight of my next door neighbour, standing naked on his roof.

He got as much of a shock as I did (I let out a loud "euww" when I saw him) and scrabbled up (with his hands covering his dick) and quickly made his way over to the second storey window and out of sight.

I have no idea why he was naked. He lives next door with a group of guys, I think they're students. Maybe it was a prank? Maybe he wanted to get started on that all over tan? (cos boy, he was WHITE all over LOL).

Pop(tart) Quiz

2008-08-28T22:18:00.003+12:00

Pick the answer you think is correct.

1. Which of the following text messages did my boyfriend send me today.

a. Arrived in SF ok. No delays to NY. Hotel in great location, thanks for recommendation. Will hit a few bars tonight. Hi to X.

b. Don’t forget to put the wheely bin out on Monday. Hi to X.

c. Arrived in NY safely, hotel is awesome, trendy, you’d love it. Food pretty average, lots of chain places, haven’t found a decent coffee yet. We’re off to Little Italy for dinner and then will hit a few bars later on. Hi to X.

2. What will I be doing on Friday night?

a. Grabbing takeaway noodles and a bottle of wine and parking myself in front of the TV to watch Make Me A Supermodel, Gossip Girl and The Jacqui Brown Diaries.

b. Having a few quiet drinks at work, followed with dinner at Satay Kampong before a more drinks at Mighty Mighty.

c. Getting doled up and heading to Courtenay Place with the girls for lots of drinks, laughter and fun. Hope to meet cute boys and flirt over cocktails.

3. Which of the following articles of clothing do I hate the most?

a. Skinny jeans on men.

b. Small leather backpacks with skinny straps.

c. Dark slim leg jeans tucked into knee-length boots.

4. Which of these songs is the one I sing, drunk, at Karaoke?

a. Sweet Child of Mine, Guns 'n' Roses.

b. Fallin', Alicia Keys.

c. Angels, Robbie Williams.

5. Which of these did I ask my boyfriend to buy me while he's on holiday?

a. Chanel Chance perfume.

b. Clinique Black Honey lipgloss.

c. Jo Malone scented candles (lime blossom).

Answers coming soon.

Note to blog readers...

2008-08-27T21:01:00.002+12:00

Alone again...

2008-08-26T21:32:00.001+12:00

Doesn't time fly when you're having fun. And by having fun I mean moving into a leaky house, increased work committments and relationship woes with the boyfriend.

So yeah, the new house wasn't the Barbie Dream House I was hoping. A huge leak in the roof, combined with a hole in the ceiling (which I somehow failed to spot on two initial inspections) meant a damp wet welcome when we moved in. My sad face. Let me show you it LOL. We then spent the next 2 weeks dealing with the landlord and contractors and finally, when the weather cleared (nearly 3 weeks after we moved in) the roof was fixed. I had a phone call from the contractor this evening saying that he'd be around tomorrow to fix the ceiling (hole the size of my fist), remove damp from behind the wallpaper and replace the front door (crack in the safety glass and a broken cat flap). I just want to get this all over and done with. I haven't enjoyed living in the new place, but it is starting to feel like home.

The relationship problems, unfortunately, can't be fixed by the contractor LOL. Things haven't quite been right with us for a few months now, the move (and the associated problems), plus our busy work lives haven't helped. And now he's not here. He left today for a four week holiday. Off to San Francisco, New York and Boston with some friends. And I had to stop myself from shoving him out the door this morning LOL. I know, bad girlfriend. I think we need a break from each other, just some time apart to re-evaluate and hopefully, reinvigorate our relationship.

I was blog hopping just before and came across this picture...

I would totally hit that. And it's Kevin Federline! I know. Euww. But he's looking hot here. I bet he'd be really dirty in bed LOL.

And on that note, time to go. Outrageous Fortune is on and I need a Wolf fix.

Last Post

2008-07-17T15:30:00.002+12:00

This will be the last post on this blog for awhile.

I'm struggling to find time to blog at the moment. Big work commitments, plus I'm moving house and having relationship "issues" (the usual stuff people argue over: money, work and time) and I have blog-writers block.

Give me a few weeks and I should be revived enough to post more frequently.

It's just a little crush...

2008-07-08T22:30:00.002+12:00

My boyfriend has a man-crush.

He has a big man-crush on this guy, who has a Discovery Channel TV show "Man vs Wild" (which has been accused of faking parts of the show).

I think it's cute and I tease him about him now and again. He's away at the moment, so he texted me to record the episode of "Man vs Wild" he'll miss tonight LOL.

His other man-crush is Johnny Depp, which you know is fine because I love Johnny as well.

Oh, and his third man-crush is an Aussie surfer, Luke Egan. (Who is such a cutie).

Now my girl-crushes are another blogpost for another day LOL.

Shoes!

2008-07-07T21:53:00.012+12:00

I'm procrastinating, putting off packing. I just can't seem to get motivated or find a point to start at, it all seems too difficult.

So instead, I've been surfing the net looking at shoes. Looking, not buying. Bugger it. So many cool shoes. So little money.

I like the short boots that are around at the moment, these are some that caught my eye.

Oooh, shiny!

Love the buckle on those.

And these are very similar to the shoeties (boots+shoes=shoeties) I bought awhile back. Mine are black leather and grey wool.

My next big purchase is to find a pair of brown long flat boots. It's really difficult to find long (knee-length) boots that fit my wide calves! Good old kiwi chunky legs and European made boots do not mix!

I like the look of these two pairs, and they're in a local store so I might have some luck.

This pair might work, as it has elastic down the side so could stretch to fit my "muscley" calves. I swear some of these boots wouldn't even zip up my arms. Those European women must have puny chicken legs LOL.

And because it's Monday, and I need something else pretty to look at, what about this dude...

Happy Monday! (I nearly typed happy trail there LOL)

I have a house

2008-06-25T19:35:00.002+12:00

So, I'm about to sign for the two bedroom apartment that I saw on Monday. So very exciting!

Imagine polished wood floors, exposed bricks and floor to ceiling windows and a view of the city. High spec kitchen and a modern bathroom.

Got that?

Well, that is not my new place LOL.

It's pretty decent though, and it's 50 years newer than my current house (which was built in the early 1900s). Move in date is to be confirmed, probably mid-July. The boyfriend has yet to see it! We drove past tonight and he liked the outside, so that's a start. His one concern is parking, as there is no off-street parking (garage or carport) and on-street parking is not guaranteed. So, the next few weeks will be busy organising the move. Fun times.

House Blues

2008-06-24T17:13:00.001+12:00

This flat hunting business is so depressing.

There are some fantastic places that I just love, like this. But we can't afford to spend that much a week on rent. Actually we probably could, we're both earning good money, but I don't want to spend over $1000 a fortnight on rent while trying to save money for a deposit to buy our own place. If we spent that much money on rent, we'd have to go without certain things... like food LOL.

Then the rest of the flats available at the moment are really awful, dark, dingy and rundown. I know I'll have to compromise (perhaps a new kitchen isn't a "need to have" and is more of a "would be nice"?). I do know that I need a decent bathroom, I can't cope with mouldy manky shower stalls. Gag.

So I'll keep going on my quest to find the perfect flat. I hope it doesn't take too long. Of course, it would take less time if I had someone to help me, but that doesn't seem likely. Hopefully I'll have a place to live by the end of this week.

UPDATE, 9.20pm: Well, I may have a flat! The three people I put down as references on an application for an apartment were contacted today by the property management company! Woohoo. I liked this apartment (two bedroom, spacious, new bathroom, big kitchen) but didn't think we'd get very far as they had HEAPS of people at the viewing on the weekend. I haven't heard from the guy at the property management company yet, so fingers crossed! We could have a new flat by tomorrow.

Moody Blues

2008-06-22T16:00:00.002+12:00

Apologies for the lack of posts lately, it's been rather crazy around here with so much going on at work and home. I like being busy, I seem to get more done when I've got more to do (if that makes sense LOL).

My new project is to find a new place to live. My current flat has been sold and the new owner will take vacant possession in 6 weeks. So, I've spent the past two Saturdays trawling the to let section in the Dominion Post (and the rental property section on Trade Me) looking for a new flat/apartment. It would be easier if I had my boyfriend helping, but he's taken a total disinterest in it. Which is really frustrating. But hey, if he doesn't want any input now, then he has NO right to complain about the new place I find LOL.

I saw the new David Beckham Emporio Armani ad the other day...

Sigh, just lovely.

Speaking of lovely, I have a new All Black crush. I mean, Dan Carter and Richie McCaw will always be special to me, but Richard Kahui has knocked them down one spot. Talk about hot. Not that I watch the rugby just to perve at the men (okay, I do mostly LOL).

I finally saw the Sex and the City movie this week. I really enjoyed it. I love Samantha, she had some great scenes and quotes.

I also saw Brick Lane, which for all intents and purposes is my kind of film but I really didn't enjoy it at all (which surprised my friends that I was with as they all loved it LOL).

So this week, more house hunting (am seeing a place tomorrow) and a busy work schedule.

$680 weekend

2008-06-08T12:12:00.002+12:00

I don't know what's worse, this hangover or the fact that we (my boyfriend and I) spent nearly $700 this weekend. Ouch.

We had friends come from Ireland (for a holiday and to watch Ireland play the All Blacks) and we spent all weekend with them. Lots of laughs, lots of food and momentous amount of booze consumed.

I haven't been out drinking like that for months, in fact the last big night out was probably in 2007 LOL. Friday night we were all out until 4am, last night the rugby (where four small beers cost over $20! Talk about ripoff) then we hit the pubs and when sufficiently boozed up, we hit a few clubs. So much fun, dancing and singing on the dancefloor (we went to clubs that actually play music you can sing along and dance to, none of that stupid fucking dance music nonsense LOL). I know my boyfriend was pretty smashed, he doesn't normally drag me onto the dance floor like that LOL. We got home around 4am again. Nasty. I was so drunk that I didn't really get undressed to get in bed, just took shoes and jeans off and slept in my tops LOL.

I've just pulled out the receipts from my purse and checked our bank accounts and yeah, $600-odd bucks spent, really easy apparently. I know I drink a lot and I know my boyfriend can put back a few bevvies too, and when we get together with our friends from Dublin (who seriously, can drink like they're competing for an Olympic medal) we obviously have no impulse control LOL.

Though I suppose after the craptastic week I have had with my family dramas, we both probably needed some kind of boozy fun. So now we're both lying on the couch (he's on his watching a surfing DVD). The boyfriend didn't even get up until 10.30 or so, which is unheard of! Especially because it is a gorgeous sunny blue sky winter day out there and he always wants to go and do something outdoors on days like this. I can count on one finger the number of times he's slept in. I'm the lazy slothful one in the relationship LOL. He must be suffering. We're meant to be having lunch with the Irish friends soon, so I suppose I should drag my hungover self into the shower and get ready. Ugh.

Words escape me

2008-06-04T22:06:00.003+12:00

I'm watching a BBC documentary on television right now - Painted Babies at 17.

It's pretty horrific, I find something quite disturbing about these child pageants. Something a bit wrong with parading around these young children covered in make up (including false eyelashes and fake teeth), tacky clothes and singing songs with lyrics that are quite adult, a bit sexual. It's bizarre, freakish and weirdly patriotic.

The first documentary followed two girls aged 5, Brooke and Asia...

This follow-up film picks up 12 years later. Brooke no longer competes, Asia is still competing (accompanied by her pushy stage nana and mum). The pageants are still disturbing, tacky rhinestone-covered and funnily enough, still have the same MC singing bad "love" songs to the shellac-haired contestants. Ugh.

What's also weird about these pageants (apart from the hair, the clothes, the make up, the excessive use of fake crystals) is that the parents of these girls are completely unaware that their children have no talent! The scene with Asia singing so out of tune had me in hysterics LOL.

Thanks, Sex and the City

2008-06-02T18:35:00.005+12:00

Thanks for all the positive comments and emails, I really appreciate them. It has been a difficult few days, but we're all coping and getting on with life. I have to say I'm thankful for the three-day weekend!

I've spent the weekend just relaxing and chilling out (chillaxing?), reading, pottering around the house, eating and watching TV. I even got to use the remote control and watch the E! channel uninterrupted and I didn't once turn to a sports channel. Obviously because my boyfriend was away for the weekend LOL.

A lot of the E! channel coverage has been about the Sex and the City movie, unfortunately it'll be another week before I can see it here - I've been avoiding spoilers and reviews online because I don't want to know what happens.

I am a big Sex and the City fan, every week I would get together with my friends and we'd watch it. For the final episode, we went all out. We hired a private room at a bar, and hooked the large screen TV to watch the show. Just like you would if it was a sporting event or something. It was quite sad when it ended, but, you know, life goes on.

So, the movie picks up 4 years after the series ended, life for the four characters has moved on and changed. It made me think about my SATC watching friends and how we've changed in three/four years.

Friend 1 - got married, had two kids, is contemplating a third
Friend 2 - moved to Auckland, met a French-based Irishman, moved to Paris
Friend 3 - got married, had a baby, had an affair, got divorced
Friend 4 - moved to Sydney, made a lot of money, engaged to banker
Friend 5 - Gave up lucrative career to go back to university, just graduated with her Masters last week!

As for me? Nothing has changed. I'm still living in the same house, in a relationship with the same man. Oh, I've changed jobs, but everything else is just the same. Well, obviously the latest family drama has changed things, but not really. My life is pretty much the same. Damn, why can't I met a hunky bloke and get whisked to live in Paris? LOL

After

2008-05-29T20:45:00.002+12:00

After the emotional 24 hours our family has had, now comes the practicality LOL. All hail the power of the mighty "to do" list! (And a few vodka on the rocks).

It's still a bit raw and there's many questions to ask, but we have to deal with the here and the now. No use dwelling on the past, it happened. How do we cope and support each other.

My BF has been great actually, been pulling together information about support agencies etc. He and my Dad have kind of spearheaded the campaign.

So, we'll be okay. I'll be okay. I'm totally looking forward to the long weekend, thanks to the Queen!

Wondering

2008-05-29T01:06:00.000+12:00

Earlier I posted a bit of rant, but have deleted that post. It was an emotional overaction and I don't think I needed to subject you to all that! I've had some pretty bad news delivered today. Serious family dramas that make me question the actions of my sister and her partner. The consequences are pretty tough and it has to be honest, rocked our family to the core. My mother especially. She's is distraught, emotionally devasted. We were kept completely in the dark, in fact my sister has yet to admit any guilt or wrong doing, despite the fact that a judge and the courts today, have found her guilty. She's defiant, defensive and indignant. Which is infuriating!

Honestly, I wonder how we're related. I guess she got that bad blood LOL.

I just feel sorry for the children, innocent kids who's lives will probably change because of this. Those poor kids.

My trip

2008-05-22T20:58:00.016+12:00

Hang Bo street in the Old Quarter

I'm back! I spent most of my time in Vietnam with about 5 days in Singapore thrown in there too. I loved being back in SE Asia. I used to live in Japan and I’ve done quite a lot of travelling through the region, but not a lot recently. So I enjoyed going back.

Instead of boring you with what I did each day, I thought I’d break my holiday down into subjects, a more palatable way for you digest. I’ve got a few photos to share (none of me, seeing as I refuse to be in any), I used the work camera which was great (except when everyday around 3pm it would have a hissy fit and not work for 12 hours).

Oh, and this is going to be long...

The Shopping (come on, you knew I’d start with that one LOL).

Shopping in Singapore was great – everything and anything right there. I drooled over Hermes scarves and Chanel purses. Unfortunately I didn’t do a great deal of shopping in Singapore, I picked up a cute pair of shoes (round toe ballet flats with a round silver buckle – totally adorable), a black onyx ring (encourages good fortune - I thought I should buy one ring for every finger so that instead of drooling over that Chanel bag, I could buy it) and a leather tote (camel coloured, large with buckles, are you sensing a theme LOL). I could’ve bought a great deal more but thought that because I was heading to Vietnam, it’d be cheaper there. First bad decision!

The shopping in Vietnam was a touch disappointing. Sure it was cheap and I picked up some nice traditional stuff (lacquered bowls, bamboo platters) but I’m not really into traditional Vietnamese crafts. I was looking for nice handbags (only found tacky and bad imitation designer bags) and shoes (embroidered silk slippers not quite what I was after). I did buy stuff though, I don’t want you to think I was deprived LOL. I picked up a pair of funky, chunky dark brown Gucci specs for US$30 (with my prescription lenses in them), a couple of fake watches, artwork (including propaganda posters which were a gift for the BF), small works of art, tshirt and hat with Vietnamese star flag on it and coffee. Oh man, the coffee is so good there! Really good. Which leads onto the next topic.

The Food

I did not have one dud meal. I hate incredibly well and sampled food from street kitchens to gorgeous French cafes.

Street kitchen cafe that did really lovely deep fried bahn goi!

In Hanoi (where I based myself) the French influence was quite strong, and I had some of the best French pastries and bread! And it was cheap. Beer (Heineken) was $US1 a bottle, water 70c. Baby pineapples sold by women in Non la (traditional conical shaped hats) were 50c for 4 (and so delicious, even if they did give me massive mouth ulcers). Croissants $1. I spent one memorable morning at KOTO, eating coconut and palm sugar pancakes and talking to Tom (who plays Lou on Neighbours!). KOTO is a non-profit restaurant and training programme that takes disadvantaged kids off the streets. Really worthy cause and the food and service exceptional (so good in fact, I went back on my last night in Hanoi for dinner). I ate pho bo (beef noodle soup), stuffed banh bao, spring rolls. And I drank a lot of coffee. It’s sweet and smoky and slightly nutty. Served hot or cold and with condensed milk! Highly addictive.

On my last day in Hanoi I went to the Sofitel Metropole for afternoon drinks at the Bamboo Bar.

Bamboo Bar, Sofitel Metropole, Hanoi

Sipping a Gin and Tonic, under a fan beside the pool was a wonderful respite from the noise and chaos of busy Hanoi streets.

The Place

The first thing I noticed about Hanoi was the noise. Hundreds of vehicles (mostly scooters) on the roads, all beeping and tooting. Hanoi is bustling and loud. The old quarter is crowded with its narrow streets and houses.

Busy Hanoi street

Stores and people spill out onto the footpaths (in between all the scooters that are parked there – I don’t think I ever got to walk on the footpath in the old quarter LOL).

Scooters all in a row

The old quarter is crowded and fascinating, charming and faded. The French quarter on the other hand, is quiet with its tree lined avenues and boulevards and French colonial architecture. The area around Hoam Kiem lake is vibrant with several trendy shops and the ubiquitous hawker trying to sell you photocopies of books and postcards.

Bridge leading to a shrine in Hoam Kiem Lake

I managed to get out of Hanoi for several days, I did a trip to Ha Long Bay, stayed overnight on a Chinese junk (boat).

My "junk", taken from the kayak I was paddling

The bay wasn't exactly what I had pictured, there were so many tourist boats! It kind of spoiled it really. But, I was fascinated by the floating houses that the local fisherman live in.

Floating houses on Ha Long Bay

A few days later, I travelled to the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong). The only way to get to this shrine is by river (this is after a 2 hour drive from Hanoi). Local women paddle you up the Yen River, it's idyllic! So peaceful.

Locals on the Yen River

Rowboats on the Yen River

I met a great couple from Poland on the way to the Perfume Pagoda, we got on really well (our mutual love of vodka and travelling LOL).

The People

I met some really cool people on my travels, from young, gung-ho backpackers to older stylish French tourists. Trendy Japanese university students, public servants from the Philippines and a film crew from Korea. Local people were so friendly and thankfully, understood English (Vietnamese is a difficult language to speak, one word can mean different things just by changing the tone). Vietnamese people seemed curious about me, where I was from, why I was travelling alone and if I was married.

I definitely want to go back, this time to check out the gorgeous beaches and the south.

There's lots more, but I'll bore you another time.

Happy birthday and a fond farewell

2008-05-02T21:51:00.003+12:00

I've been really slack with this blog lately. I've had an insanely busy work schedule and lots of family stuff lately which has occupied most of my time.

But I couldn't let today go by without mentioning that it is David Beckham's birthday!

Lovely.

Today was also my last day of work for awhile. I'm jetting off soon for a few weeks jaunt around Southeast Asia. I can't wait! I hope to bore you all to death with the 100s of photos upon my return.

I love this show

2008-04-15T20:50:00.003+12:00

I'm sitting here watching "The Amazing Race" which is one of the few reality TV shows I watch.

Oh man, I love this show! I know it's edited a certain way and I know they actively cast the show (as opposed to the general public applying) but there is always a dysfunctional couple competing. This season it seems to be Nathan and Jenny. He comes across as a total douche and she's a screamy whiny moppet. Also, Ari and Stella are really obnoxious (oh, ha! they got eliminated first LOL)

I'm totally loving the goth couple (someone and Vixen). His eyebrows are fab darling! I always have a soft spot for the family pairings too, like the Dad/Daughter and Grandad/Grandson.

A friend and I have said that we'd be great at this show LOL. We're (relatively) fit, we're both experienced travellers and we'll give anything a go. Plus, we can actually pronounce the place names LOL. I get the giggles when the competitors can't pronounce place names properly. I know it's bitchy and petty, but seriously, have these people not done any research or read an atlas in preparation for going on this show? I know I would.

In completely unrelated news. I've just received a ~~missive~~ text message from my boyfriend. No greeting, no sweet talk. This is what it said (direct quote): "can u get 2doz steiny 4 thurs hve invtd boys arund 4 a fw bevs". (Translation: Can I get two dozen bottles of Steinlager Pure because he's invited his friends around for a few drinks on Thursday). Oh of course honey. I live for doing your bidding! I also don't mind that you've invited them to our place, when it's the first day of your short holiday break back home (he's back for the weekend for a quick break) and I wouldn't have minded having some time together. Oh well. It's all fun and games.

Oh, speaking of fun, listen to the my new cellphone text message tone (this is what I hear when I get a text). It's hilarious and totally obnoxious. I love it!

If you can't see the little audio player here, click here to listen.

Fond farewell to a dear friend

2008-04-09T23:21:00.002+12:00

I had to say goodbye to a dear darling friend the other night.

I've known him for at least 7 years. He's been a faithful, true friend and given me plenty of joy and comfort and good times.

Oh, I'm not talking about a pet.

Nope. I'm talking about my pocket rocket vibrator LOL (link NSFW - not safe for work). It just up and died the other night. New batteries didn't help. I don't know what's wrong and I don't think I can take it to the electronic repairs shop and ask for help either.

So, I've bid it a fond farewell. I can't bring myself to throw it in the rubbish though, seems so... undignified. But what do I do with a broken vibe? Hmm. Something to ponder while I wait for my new one to arrive (thanks D.Vice and online shopping!).

I haven't had any eye candy posts for ages, and I stumbled over this site when my awesome google-fu skills went mad over Daniel Conn (hot Aussie rugby league player and model).

Hubba hubba... I am SO watching the league now.

Whiny

2008-04-03T21:52:00.002+13:00

I'm in a whiny mood. I like life is unfair and I'm not getting what I want!

All this was brought on today when I walked passed Karen Walker and saw the sweetest dress from her new Lucky collection. It was gorgeous colour, really nice shape and fabric. Then, I walked past Kate Sylvester and saw the funkiest top and jacket that very nearly made me drool.

What's frustrating is that I'm on a savings binge (in order to have some money to take on holiday to Vietnam LOL) and I can't buy anything. I've got all this money sitting in the bank and I can't spend any of it *sob*. I've seen gorgeous clothes that I love and I can't buy them *sob*.

Life sucks. I hate saving. Saving sucks.

I told you I was in a whiny mood.

A pinch and a punch

2008-04-01T22:22:00.001+13:00

I just realised it was the 1st of April, so a pinch and a punch for the first of the month!

I had a great weekend in Sydney, it was lovely seeing the boyfriend again. Even if on Sunday afternoon he decided it the perfect time to have a in-depth discussion about our relationship. I think I am one of the few people I know whose partners are the ones who initiate "relationship" conversations (and I'm the one with the commitment-phobic tendencies LOL). We worked things out, so the weekend ended on a high note.

I think this was the first trip to Sydney where I didn't buy anything! We went shopping, but the boyfriend ended up making all the purchases (two shirts, shoes and these huge headphones which look like he could communicate with NASA LOL). We ate some great Vietnamese food (I'm getting some practice in for my trip in a few weeks) and caught up with several friends. We also mooched around the lovely apartment that he's staying in.

But the best thing about the weekend away was coming home! (Even if it took me twice as long as had anticipated LOL).

Leaving

2008-03-28T21:44:00.003+13:00

At some hideously early hour tomorrow (6.40am) I will be on my way to Sydney for a very brief weekend break. Because it is an international flight, and you need to be at the airport two hours before departure, I'm having to set my alarm for 4 fucking am in order to get to the airport around 4.3-5.00am tomorrow. Euw. Not cool.

Still, I am very much looking forward to seeing my boyfriend again, having a relaxing and chilled out weekend.

Unfortunately, progress has been slow with my 56 Things List.

This week I managed to:

5. Eat a big bag of Twisties
Two bags actually. There were yum, but I still prefer Rashuns LOL.

16. Get a bikini wax
I went to this new place (am feeling a bit disloyal, as I've been going to the same beauty therapist for years to have girlieland landscaped) and I thought that was pretty good. Proficient, professional and quick.

Wow. Talk about high achiever LOL.

Not my finest hour

2008-03-26T21:52:00.000+13:00

So the Easter break came and went rather quickly. I had a stonking headcold most of the weekend, and then I got struck with a rather virulent stomach bug. Ugh. There is nothing less lady-like than heaving like you're trying to bring up a lung. My ribs and back ache today.

I'm hoping I'll feel more chipper by Saturday, which is when I'll be heading to Sydney for a very short catch up with the boyfriend. I'm looking forward to it. I've got a hair-removal hour booked for tomorrow lunchtime. A bikini wax is very much needed, I'm rocking a very 80s bush at the moment, very retro LOL.

Other exciting news is that I'm going to Vietnam in May. A much deserved and needed holiday to a fascinating place. Everything's booked, just need to get a visa and count the weeks until I go.

I was never any good at maths

2008-03-18T19:41:00.002+13:00

Big boobs + slight push up bra x low v neck top = nice rack

The Black Harp pub x St Patrick’s Day celebrations = lots of men

Lots of men x Barmy Army + nice rack = alcoholic beverages bought for me

Alcoholic beverages bought for me x 2 x 3 x 2 + one Guinness = drunk Poptart

Drunk Poptart + beginnings of a head cold = Tired Tart

Tired Tart + busy day at work = Cranky bitch

The Past and Progress

2008-03-16T21:41:00.003+13:00

I went to an Italian Fiesta today, it was okay. Lots of food stalls but nothing outstanding. I didn't buy anything to eat, which is not like me, I only tend to go to these festivals for the food.

I saw quite a few people I knew, including my ex-boyfriend. It's the first time I've seen him in about 3 or 4 years. He looked exactly the same, except he had a small child in his arms. I'm going to assume it was his LOL. I didn't go up and talk to him, I mean, why? I really don't care what or how he's been doing LOL.

Anyway, onto the progress report on my 56 Things To Do List.

2. Grow fingernails
Yes. Though they ended up getting cut off when I had the manicure yesterday.

3. Have a manicure
And yes, I now have a very deep dark polish (OPI Lincoln Park After Dark) on short squarish nails. Very cool.

19. Rearrange the linen cupboard
It's looking great, everything folded and sorted and neat.

20. Find chocolate moulds and clean
I found them, threw most of them out, except the hollow Easter Egg one. Am going to attempt to make my own hollow eggs this year.

24. Buy:
24c. Top
A lovely black (the only colour I ever buy, apart from that white jacket) one, fits perfectly, displays quite a bit of tit, which is okay LOL.

27. Thoroughly clean the bathroom
Didn't take me as long as I thought, and the glass shower door is a bastard to clean! Now it's spotless and squeaky clean.

41. Check batteries in smoke alarms
One battery needs replacing, so I guess I'll get that next time I'm at the supermarket.

44. Use fabric dye to refresh faded black knit top
Took me fucking hours to do this! I didn't get the machine dye kind of fabric dye, so ended up having to make this dye bath. Well, nearly 4 hours hours it took me to do this and the results? Well, it hardly made a difference LOL.

51. Confirm weekend plans for travelling to Sydney
All confirmed. The boyfriend sent me an e-ticket, I'm flying out on Saturday 29 March and flying back on Monday. It's a whistle-stop trip but I am really looking forward to it. I miss my baby LOL.

52. Sleep in until double digits on a weekend
Accomplished it this weekend, 10.30 on Saturday at 10.07 today. Oh, what luxury!

Not sure how I'm getting on progress-wise on this list. I hope I manage to get everything done.

Waste a few hours with these links

2008-03-12T23:49:00.003+13:00

I've nothing to say at the moment (very rare, I hope it's not permanent LOL).

So, follow the links below and have a giggle or two.

I Can Has Cheezburger - http://icanhascheezburger.com

Cute animals, bad grammar, I should hate it but I don't... I mean, how can you hate the leetle bunny...?

Passive Aggressive Notes - http://www.passiveaggressivenotes.com

Oh, takes me back to university flatting days!

Jezebel - http://jezebel.com/

Witty, bitchy and sometimes quite spiteful. I loves it.

Pajiba - http://www.pajiba.com/

Bitchy reviews... but it's the comments I go back for.

Jennsylvania - http://www.jennsylvania.com/

She works out in pearls, I heart her so much!

Progress Report

2008-03-09T22:09:00.001+13:00

I have been working hard on my 56 Things To Do list, although I haven't done as much as I'd like, but I've given it a good old college try.

So, what have I done?

17. Go to one of the NZ International Festival of the Arts events
Saw Sacred Monsters and really enjoyed it. Incredibly talented dancers, who were riveting. I imagine though, that dance purists may not have enjoyed the show, because it wasn't all dance all the time. The dancers spoke, there was live music etc. But I enjoyed it, which is the most important thing LOL.

24. Buy:
24b. White cropped jacket
And I love it! I love that it's also a size smaller than I normally wear (and please don't burst my bubble and say "oh, they probably make them run larger" LOL). It's very funky and although I am concerned that it is white (actually, it's ivory LOL) and I'll never be able to keep it clean, I wore it out on Friday night and it seemed to survive.

28. Throw out and recycle old magazines
I hate the idea of throwing magazines out, so the ones I didn't want to keep I recycled, the rest were piled up in the lounge. I have to admit the pile in the lounge far surpassed what I put in the recycle bin.

29. Pick up drycleaning
Done!

31. Put in new contact lenses
Yep, I can see clearly now!

34. Go see The Other Boleyn Girl
34a. Try not to cringe at British accents of lead actors
34b. Try to ignore ScarJo's wooden acting
I saw this on Saturday and it was okay. It's not the worst I've movie I've seen, nor is it the best. The acting wasn't brilliant, it was passable. And the British accents weren't awful. Though Kristin Scott Thomas wasn't in it as much as I would've liked nor was Eric Bana (or his rather nice chest LOL).

37. Update my contacts list on cellphone
Done. I've even added home, business numbers, addresses etc.

39. Tidy wardrobes
One down, one to go. I have a huge pile of clothing to take to the Salvation Army Family Store. I was ruthless.

45. Clean French plimsols
All dirt and grass removed, suitable to wear in public again.

This week hope to cross a few more things off the list.

56 Things

2008-03-04T21:16:00.005+13:00

I'm on my own. Yipee. The boyfriend left this morning, won't be stepping foot in this house for another 8 weeks.

To avoid having 8 weeks of Bridget Jones type behaviour (excessive chardonnay consumption and flannel pj wearing)

I thought I'd come up with 56 things to do in the 56 days that the boyfriend will be away. Actually, I had some help with this (thanks SEP message board folks).

So, here's the list (oh, I love lists). I hope to get at least one thing done a day.

1. Sing really really loud in the house
2. Grow fingernails
3. Have a manicure
4. Clean out and organise all the plastic containers
5. Eat a big bag of Twisties
6. Buy a weeks worth of trashy magazines
7. Have a movie marathon - John Hughes classics perhaps? Or a Johnny Depp retrospective?
8. Bake my version of Magnolia Bakery cupcakes
9. Have a boozy night in with the girls
10. Have a facial at the Spa
11. Clear out the garden
12. Have a pedicure
13. Finish my flower painting
14. Clean, repair and polish all my shoes
15. Read the newspaper everyday
16. Get a bikini wax
17. Go to one of the NZ International Festival of the Arts events
18. Walk the City to Sea walk - about a 4 hour walk from Island Bay to the city
19. Rearrange the linen cupboard
20. Find chocolate moulds and clean
21. Go the gym 4 times a week
22. Reconnaissance missions:
22a. Digital camera - investigate prices, brand, specs
22b. Wristwatch - investigate prices, styles
23. Use dental floss every day
24. Buy:
24a. Black trousers
24b. White cropped jacket
24c. Top
24d. Bra and undies
25. Put photos in photo albums
26. Cook 3 dinners a week, at least one meal from a recipe in Cuisine magazine
27. Thorough clean the bathroom
28. Throw out and recycle old magazines
29. Pick up drycleaning
30. Take jeans into be taken up
31. Put in new contact lenses
32. Look at flight prices to Vietnam and San Francisco
33. Use Dermalogica products religiously
34. Go see The Other Boleyn Girl
34a. Try not to cringe at British accents of lead actors
34b. Try to ignore ScarJo's wooden acting
35. Call my Nana
36. Buy birthday presents for my uncle, my sister and my friend
37. Update my contacts list on cellphone
38. Watch the Home & Away omnibus on Sundays
39. Tidy wardrobes
40. Go to the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary
41. Check batteries in smoke alarms
42. Try and buy only organic meat, fruit and vegetables
43. Clean all silver jewellrey
44. Use fabric dye to refresh faded black knit top
45. Clean French plimsols
46. Read, sort and organise bills
47. Pay off credit card
48. Make up mirror frame with azelujo I have had since 2001
49. Clean up computer files
50. Make hair appointment
51. Confirm weekend plans for travelling to Sydney
52. Sleep in until double digits on a weekend
53. Borrow the X-Files boxed DVD set from a friend and watch uninterrupted
54. Use body lotion everyday
55. Return borrowed books to friends/family/colleagues
56. Call the boyfriend everyday just to hear his voice

I think this list is quite achievable. I will keep you updated!

Glutton

2008-03-02T20:13:00.004+13:00

Be it work, booze, food or even sex, I've been doing far too much of it lately.

Work has been frantic, I was out of the office for a week and came back to even more work (I wish they'd hire a temp, but it's not the kind of work a temp can do unfortunately). The good thing about all this work is that it makes the weeks go faster. Oh, and I got a very substantial payrise! Much deserved of course LOL.

I had a very boozy night out the other night. It wasn't a late night, but I'd started drinking at about 5pm, and by the time we got to dinner, I was shitfaced LOL. When most of the party goers left the restaurant, a few of us hardier folks kept on partying. I got home around 2am, felt very drunk but not overly ratfaced. In fact, I felt fine. Even managed to tidy up a bit (yes, I am obsessive compulsive). But about 20 minutes after getting into bed, I had to make a mad dash for the bathroom, where I proceeded to have a 45 minute puke fest. Euww. It was pretty rotten, I even fainted (much to the concern of my boyfriend who thought perhaps he should take me to A&E). I woke up the next morning with what had to be the worst hangover I've had in years. Oh, it was ugly. I didn't get out of bed until 3pm LOL. Of course it wasn't a bad enough hangover to actually put me off drinking for life. I doubt that will ever happen.

I was meant to go to a wedding on Saturday. A dear family friend. But I bailed at the last minute. I just didn't feel like driving for 4 hours to get there. Luckily, other family members were there so I felt that she wouldn't have minded. Plus my boyfriend is going away again. On Tuesday he's heading back to Sydney for several months for work. I've been trying to spend as much time with him as possible, it's been a lot of fun. As well as dragging him to the festival, I managed to get him to go shopping with me. Clothes shopping. Women's clothes shopping (oh, for me by the way LOL). He didn't grumble too much, what I thought he would grumble about (the $250 top I bought) he didn't. He did moan about one dress I tried on. Apparently showed too much boob for his liking LOL. I am a little bummed he's going away, but we've organised to meet in Sydney at Easter (or perhaps the weekend after), so that should be fun. I'm already making a list of all the shops I want to check out when I'm over there LOL. Good thing I got that payrise, huh?

I took my Dad and my boyfriend to the Newtown Festival today. So not their kind of thing to do on a Sunday. The festival itself is a lot of fun, a fairly alternative crowd with lots of craft stalls (selling the usual tat and some funky tshirts etc) and there were 7 sound stages, but the food is what I go for and this year I must have eaten my way around the entire festival. Couldn't help myself! I had a lamb roti wrap (delish, but a bit too greasy), a baguette with roast pork and onions (very succulent), mee goreng (no bean sprouts, yay, hate those), chocolate fudge (a touch too sugary LOL), a big juice from Ed's juice caravan (oh, I miss Ed's, wonder why he closed up shop on Victoria Street?), half a wood fired pizza (very tasty) and an ice cream (to cleanse the palate LOL). That is an obscene amount of food and just typing it out makes me feel a little sick. We spent about 4 hours there and despite my initial misgivings, both my Dad and my boyfriend enjoyed it. Though of course my Dad had to mention that Newtown is full of weirdo freaks with funny haircuts (it is LOL).

Meet the 8th Dwarf

2008-02-19T20:32:00.002+13:00

Her name is Cranky. Middle name Bitch.

Oh, I am feeling crap today. I've actually had a headache that's lasted for 3 days, I've taken more painkillers than Britney Spears after a custody hearing. Nothing seems to work. I blame this detox diet I'm on.

I'm going through withdrawals LOL. My body is freaking out over the lack of caffeine, sugar and alcohol, meat, dairy and basically anything resembling cake. It seems to be effecting me (affecting me? grammar gurus please help - I know affect is the verb and effect is the noun but can't remember when to use which LOL) more than my boyfriend. He seems fine. No withdrawals. Nothing. Of course, that makes me even crankier and bitchier, because if I have to suffer these horrendous headaches then I'm going to bitch and moan about them to him so HE feels like he has one LOL.

I'm also cranky because work is really busy, I've had to cover a colleagues absense for three weeks on top of my own work. Plus a big event this weekend means I'm out of the office for 5 days and the work is piling up. Argh. I wish I wasn't so conscientous and reliable. I'd love to be able to just blow off my work LOL.

Mindless Monday

2008-02-18T21:07:00.001+13:00

I've got lots of stuff whizzing around my head at the moment, I can't seem to switch off. Even when I talk/rant to friends and the boyfriend about it, I still can't turn the brain down.

I think I'm lacking the romance gene. Which is weird, I love a good romantic book and quite like a romantic movie, but romance in real life seems to leave me cold. I guess I'm too cynical. One of the girls at work got engaged over the weekend, and while I was happy for her, when she was explaining how her fiance proposed, I didn't sigh and go all dopey and talk about how romantic it was like all the others in the office did. I thought the way he proposed was a bit over the top. But hey, it was their moment, so whatever floats your boat. I've actually been proposed to three times. Okay one didn't count because it was my friends 4 year old son LOL. One even came with a lovely diamond ring. Unfortunately, the ring and proposal came from a man, who even though I'd been with for 5 years, was proposing as an ultimatum and trying to save what had become a toxic relationship. The other proposal was drunken 3am rambling, which I promptly ignored LOL.

My boyfriend is back from Sydney, which is great. I'd made a drunken phone call to him while he was in Sydney (v embarrassing LOL) and apparently he'd told me that he'd be home late on Saturday. Well, obviously I was drunk so didn't remember and so had the crap scared out of me at about 12.30pm on Saturday when I got home from a friends house and found a strange man in my bed! (I didn't have my contacts in LOL).

I think my eye colour has changed. Is that normal? I had hazel eyes, as a kid they were really amber/hazel but the other day I noticed they golden flecks have all but gone and left me with green eyes. Weird. I like the green, but all my life I've had sort of hazel eyes so now it's just a tad odd.

I've got this incredible craving for cake. I want a dark, moist and scrummy chocolate cake smothered in rich, smooth butter icing. I really want it. I can't stop thinking about it and I know I'm going to obsess about it until I can have one. Which won't be for a week because the BF and I have started this detox. No wheat, dairy, meat (including chicken and fish), no booze, no starchy stuff like pasta and potatoes. You eat quite a bit of food, which is good. Though I have to have lots of healthy snacks in the house because the BF doesn't think all the rabbit food will fil him up. Obviously cake is not allowed. I am going to be jonesing for this bloody cake for a week, I just know it!

Best of British

2008-02-15T23:20:00.000+13:00

I got an invitation to a party today. An actual paper invite, sent in the mail. Like how rare is that? I hardly get personal letters in the post these days LOL.

Good friends of mine are having a party at Easter, it's a themed costume party *groan*, the theme is Best of British. Now I'm not a really a dress up/costume party kinda girl, but I've been thinking that the BF and I could go as a well-known British couple.

So far, I've come up with:

Posh and Becks

Alice and Hugo (The Vicar of Dibley)

Ronnie Barker and Ronnie Corbett (The Two Ronnies)

Amy Winehouse and Blake Fielder-Civil

Lou and Andy (I'd be Andy!) from Little Britain

Diana and Charles (the engagement years)

Angie and Den (from Eastenders)

Lady Penelope and Parker (Thunderbirds)

Hmm, who else? Will have to keep thinking about this LOL. If I have to wear a costume then I want it to be a clever and cool one.

SAD

2008-02-13T22:57:00.002+13:00

So, tomorrow is Valentines Day. I'm not really a huge VD fan (I've blogged about it here, and here), and this year I've decided to have a boozy lunch (well, more lunch than booze, considering I actually have to work tomorrow LOL) with some single friends. We're calling it SAD - Singles Awareness Day LOL.

Have been in text contact with the BF in Sydney. The idiot wants to go surfing, he's only just started to come right after an ACL injury and now he wants to jeopardise that? Bloody moron. Will have no sympathy if he wrecks his knee again!

I might have some sympathy if he were to say... drop into Mecca Cosmetica (there's one in Bondi if he decides to head there to go surfing) to pick up some Nars make up, Kiehl's lip balm and Bumble & Bumble hair products (brands I can't get here in Wellington and I'm still trying to rebuild my lost make up bag). Though the likelihood of him going in there and purchasing said products would be quite small LOL. I don't get it. It's not like the stuff is for him LOL. I'm sure the sales assistants would know that.

Poptart

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On my mind

Barney is a Dinosaur

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Funny Face

The best damn cupcake

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It's a red letter day

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Hair Don't

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Words escape me

Thanks, Sex and the City

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Pregnant or Freshly F&#$