@rTs in wOrKpL@Ce, lE@RnINg & LiFe 人文藝術

My five fathers 我的五位慈父

2009-06-21T20:57:00.012+01:00

Today is the father's day. It let me think of all my fathers.

The first is my foster father, Cao. He is my biological father's brother-in-law and brought me up since I was three month old. He gave all his love to me. Now, he passed away in 2008 at aged of 85. I love him forever.

The second father is my first husband, Edward's father, Ting. Now he is 73 and a talk man nearly 6 ft. Although my first husband died for over 20 years, Ting still sees me as his real daughter and keeps his house for me. We keep in touch. I love him. Every time, if I see him, he always cooks a traditional dish called 素雞. It is made by hard Tufu soaked in light soy sauce, then eat in cool. It is our favourite food, particularly when we together drink local wine with it. I regret I am unable to look after him as I live in the UK, 7000 miles away from him. I love him and pray for his health and happiness.

The third father is my biological father, Sam. As for his disagreement with my first marriage, we didn't have any connection since then. He lives in Hong Kong and now aged at 81. Today, my husband convinced me to forgive him. So, I sent my forgiveness via my Hong Kong uncle. Just bless him for good health and happy.

The fourth father is my now father-in-law, Frank. He died 35 years ago. He is the most important person for my husband. Although I never see him, the family ring passed onto me with all his good wish. My husband always tells me lot of stories about him. He brought up my husband in military camp. He was a tank commander in British army and spent half of his life all around world during his military career. Finally, his leg was injured and broken during the World War II. He is my family War hero. I respect him very much. Father I love you.

The fifth father is my uncle, Xing, now 71, also the most important person in my life. He is highly educated, very kind, understanding, caring and always spot me. My uncle specifically loves me as his daughter, because he has two very good sons, Joseph and Kevin. All his family see me as part of them. I love and respect him very much indeed. My husband also loves him.

I am pride of them and luckily benefited from their love.

In Chinese, the father's words are heavier than sky. 父教勝於天.

Dear fathers, I love you all.

Happy father's day.

Love you Mum 思念母親

2009-05-31T21:37:00.005+01:00

My foster mum passed away on 12 March 2009 at age of 83. I feel extremely sad. I can't describe how pain my heart.

Every morning, when I see her face, I just want to cry. No one can understand me.
I am very down and feel my world has end. I just hopelessly live in the world.
Mum, I love you, I can't bear the pain and loss.
Buddha blesses you forever. Love you mum.

Mussels 青口

2009-05-28T21:26:00.005+01:00

In the UK, if you are not behave self like a British, you can eat all seafood in raw. Today is Chinese boat racing festival, I can't have stick dumpling in the UK, so I walked alone beach to pick up mussel from sea fence in Bacton. It is quite tough particular in all rough shell covered. After two hours 'hard working', I finally got around 2kg mussels. I am sorry for the Queen as I didn't get her permission to her sea.
My husband doesn't like any seafood. So, the only thing for me is to hidden it and eat quietly. laughing.
Be honest, this is the first raw seafood since I stayed here in 2007. I feel sad and hopeless for all food in this country. Hope this is a light for my variety.

Burying Hong Kong 沉落香港

2009-05-25T21:57:00.000+01:00

I watch and listen HK news everyday whatever I am in HK or not. However, recently, I am very disappointed with all changes in HK which result me feeling bad and I think Beijing and HK gov are destroying HK's unique and future. Just sad all HK's policies are interfered by the under table black hands -some kind of Chinese ???!!!. What can I do?
So, I decided not to listen and watch any HK news and just to bury my heart away from HK.
It will be no more HK in the world soon.
Buddha blesses HK's future. I love HK.

Fish & Chips 炸魚和薯條的歡喜

2009-01-06T15:43:00.006Z

Fish & Chips is UK's national dish since unknown age. I was refused to have it as it is junk food when I lived in the UK 8 years ago. Now, as the shortage of lovely Chinese food in this country, and also it is my husband's favourite. Every Saturdays, we travel around Norfolk to hunt for the best fish & Chips in Norfolk. So far, we have enjoyed English traditional with English ownerships as below in Norfolk,

1)the best warmly and home feeling fish & chips restaurant is in Wroxham called Ken's
2)The best fish & Chip take away shop is in Wells-next-Sea (over 60 miles from my home)
3)The best value for money Fish & Chips shop in Walcott sea front where just 10 minutes way from my home.

Those three are the most we go for the lovely food. However, except those three, the rest of fish & chips shops are not owned by English. They almost run by my foreign immigration from China, Turkey, India, Polish and so on. even it is cheaper than those English fish & chips, the feeling is different when we walk into those English and foreigner cooked fish & chips shop.

Surprisingly, now I have been converted by my English husband and enjoyed fish & chips every Saturdays although it is poisoned junk food which I never had in HK. Never mind, just be happy and enjoy the limited

New Year's Resolution 2009 新年夢

2009-01-03T15:18:00.001Z

2008 was gone badly which it gave me the worse memory about UK and English behaviour. Whatever in the past, I must keep my mind positively and cheerfully face the future also give myself revolutionary change in 2009. the meaning of change may against my Buddhist philosophy, such as zero tolerance to be bullied at workplace; have to learn drinking for the purpose of integrating with British society; part-time vegetarian when meet with friends. Hopefully, my Buddha can forgive me what I will head to in 2009.

The following is my New Year's Resolution.

1. Family:
1.1 To sincerely talk to my husband at least half hour in every evenings (Start on 7 Jan2009)
1.2 To love my husband everyday more than yesterday but not than tomorrow (Started already)
1.3 To talk to my dearest relatives twice a month
1.4 To visit my dearest family once a year with my husband

2. Health
2.1 Get up before 7am everyday excluding Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays (Started 6 Jan 2009)
2.2 Exercise with running/gym everyday at least 30 minutes (Start on 18 Jan 2009)

3. To control Bad habits
3.1 Not watch TV during 8am to 5pm on weekdays including Lunch time (Start on 8 Jan 2009)
3.2 Not watch News via either Internet or TV during 8am to 5pm during weekdays (Start on 8 Jan 2009)
3.3 Not to reply personal emails during 8am to 5pm during weekdays (Start on 8 Jan 2009)

4. Communication & integration
4.1 To know and make at least one new UK friend each month (Start in Jan 2009)
4.2 To see at least one of my UK friends each month

5. To reinforce my lifestyle
5.1 To do meditation on Saturdays at 8 to 8:15pm
5.2 To learn enjoy life and be happy always
5.3 To live in Lean philosophy

6. New tasks (Try best)
6.1 To Pass driving licence with manual gear
6.2 To find my career way to survive in the UK

Merry Xmas

2008-12-25T09:04:00.001Z

Xmas is all about love. True love is no condition and materialization. I enjoy the Xmas decoration and lights with all my husband's wish, although I am a Buddhist. Merry Xmas to all and wish every one is happy and health forever.

Dancing with National Express Coach finished 與誰共舞(5)

2008-12-06T20:24:00.001Z

As the reason for resign the job in Dorset, there will be no more Coach journey from Norfolk to Dorset every weekend after Dec. It gives me a lot of relaxation and peace of mind every weekend. I am glad I will be able to go to Car booty or look around Norfolk countryside, or hunt for the best fish & Chip in Norfolk during weekend. Thanks my Buddha for finishing the painful and stressful journey. I have learnt how to survive in this country and not expect too much on its public transportation as the National express is the best although 90% is not on time particular in Fridays and snow days. It will be my faulty to compare it with HK's transportation. I have to remind myself I am not in HK any more all the time. What can I do next? - To get my driving licence or pilot licence? Maybe. I will miss National Express. The worse will result never forgotten. Buddha Blesses British transportation!

A touch story 遙遙回家路(2)

2008-11-23T17:28:00.008Z

Today, when I took coach back to Poole, Dorset, from London Victoria coach station, surprisingly, I saw the old man again. I was existed after not seeing him with the coach journey for over half year. He holed an invalid ticket. As a result, the coach driver didn't let him get on and gave him an official note. When I was getting on the coach, I saw him reading the note. His face was disappointed. He wear a cap and nearly covered his eyes as the weather was very cold and wet. I didn't have chance to call him. When I was in the coach, I was expecting the driver finally could let him in. Sadly, he didn't. He looks like more wrinkle on his face. I thought he may travel back to Bournemouth for seeing his young son who is studying in Bournemouth university. I feel sad and wish he can go back to China and reunion with his wife asap and not need to suffer the life in this unfriendly country. Buddha blesses him.

Golden Oldies 釣金龜

2008-06-23T14:03:00.009+01:00

Unmarried wealth men or women are always attractive. People call them as Golden Oidies. Many women or men are looking them for marriage if lucky, in Cantonese, we call it as fishing the golden tortoise. After the marriage, the fishermen or fisherladies often proud to tell everybody about the story of their marriage. What is that meaning? For me, the word of Golden oldies indicates this person neither commit to marriage nor willing giving love to others nor ready to receive love. Do you want to marry to this type people for life? For me, it is NO. Money doesn't have function to indicate love. Sometime, it goes worse. It is sham, our society only focus on material and wealth rather than true love. So, be careful if you are Golden oldies, don't let fishermen or fisherladies too close you. If you have money, you can buy anything except love. if you do so, just Good Luck!

Wild China 美麗中國

2008-06-16T20:13:00.002+01:00

Wild China, the six documentary serials recently by BBC, are very good. It is unusually away from BBC's political perception and has presented all good sides about China. It is all nature beautify around China 9.6 milion square kilometers landscapes and nature and fascinate culture and tradition. Thanks BBC.

A touch story 遙遙回家路(1)

2008-06-15T20:28:00.005+01:00

I met a Chinese old man during the coach journey to Poole from London today. He sat next to me. We had talk. He comes from a village in Fu Jian prvince of China where is the famous smuggling place in China to Europe. He told me he has two sons in the UK. They all have legal passports to UK. But, he didn't. He has smuggled for over ten years across Russia, East Europe, France, and finally to the UK. He stays in the UK for years. He earns a lot money just for sending his two sons to study in the UK and to build his five layers house in his home village. Now he achieved all goals. His elder son runs Chinese take away in Edinburgh and his young son studies in Bournemouth university. We talked about the difference between UK and China. In the UK, almost Chinese are isolated and survived with small business, but never have chance to enjoy their live in this country. I agree with him totally. He regrets his decision to follow his village mates to start the smuggle journey. Now he is 50s, just wants to go home. He wonder it is worth smuggling or not. Nobody can give him an answer and also nobody will tell the truth when they return to China. People in China are still excited to go out of China. When they come to UK, first job almost in Chinese restaurant or take away. Very hard work with little incoming. No good good condition to stay, don't know outside world, no TV, not interested in listening to the local radio. just nothing knows about the country where they stay in. He has worked many different jobs during his over ten years smuggling journey. He told me he has very good skill on building, cooking, trading. Whatever he goes, he is trying to find his foot to get his talent to business. but very difficult. Now, he realised the most important is family. He has not seen his wife since he left home. I asked him why he wants to go out. He said to me in his village, all men smuggle to outside China, only left women there. Men will be no face if they stay in their home village. Now, his wife lives in the five layer house, his house cost RMB1.8m (£130K), in his home village, feels lonely and unstop waiting for his husband and sons. Many families broke as the long time separation. Many his villages mates finally get nothing, no money, no family then, turn to gamble, drug and something else. The whole life is destroyed by the smuggling.
I said to him, the family is the most important than anything else. Life is short, we have to lower our ambition and live in reality. He agreed with me. We seem friends. then, he got off at Bournemouth station and I continued my final journey to Poole. When I played my Su doku, he asked me what it was, I teached him how to play Su doku, he seems very happy.

I have a lot of thoughts. His deep wrinkle, brown coloured face, cautioned eyes show his hard life. I just pray him go home early and gather with his family soon. Buddha, please blesses them all.

Dancing with National Express Coach 與誰共舞(4)

2008-06-15T20:21:00.004+01:00

This Friday, the journey to home was as same as before. Luckily, the coach arrived 30 minutes ahead to London Victor station from Bournemouth. It gave me plenty of time to look around. One pub sells food and alcohol next to the station looks attractive, but I did go as my heavy luggage. The coach to Norwich was as usual 20 minutes late to arrive. I am still glad the 10 minutes improved journey comparing to previous experience. My leg didn't go swollen as before.

Today, the journey from Norwich back to Bournemouth was ten minutes earlier arrived to London victor and finally arrived in Poole on time. The weather is colder around 17 degree with shower rain. Everything is fine for me this weekend. I am very happy. My husband seems depressed this morning when he sent me to coach station, I feel guilty away from home. Hopefully, I can relocate back to Norfolk asap. When I arrived my home in Poole, my blood pressure is 59 lower, I need to lay down. thanks my Buddha for everything.

Birthday Queen 生日女皇

2008-06-14T20:35:00.008+01:00

Today is my lunar birthday in Chinese calender. My colleagues sent their greeting card with a young girl face on it and one box of Chocolate. I am very happy to receive it and opened the chocolate last Friday. My colleagues in the same office shared it. They said to me I have the same Birthday as their Queen and I am the queen in the office as I am the oldest person and only female there. Thank them and I have to buy Doughnuts for my colleagues next Monday. This is English way. My company has also sent a birthday card to where I stay in Poole. I feel welcome and part of in the society. thanks everyone there.

I shared the card and chocolate with my husband when I came to home. We spent whole day in Wells next to sea. My husband bought a whole crab and fish and chip for me. We are happy to walk around Wells. Thanks all. I love you my darling.

Tomorrow is my Sun Birthday, I have to travel back Bournemouth with no time spending with my husband. It is bit sad. Never mind, this is life.

Morning Hong Kong (1) 白粥+炸兩/油炸鬼+豉油皇炒麵

2008-06-14T03:34:00.010+01:00

In HK, I always have breakfast in local restaurant. The most popular breakfast includes congee, deep fired dry noodle with soy source and Deep fried flour dough wrapped in rice pancake. The breakfast set only costs HKD17 (=£1.1). Same stuff, I had once in Chinatown in Birmingham 7 years ago. I cost me HKD90 (£5.9). As the result of expensive in the UK, I just can't eat this breakfast in restaurant. Also, no Chinese restaurant open for breakfast. Maybe, I will consider to run one.

Lifetime of Trousers & shoes 長命褲與長命鞋

2008-06-13T14:15:00.006+01:00

I am short and have difficult to find right size of clothes in the UK. So, I buy my clothes almost in HK rather than in the UK. M&S is my favourite brand. They sell all my size there. Ten years ago, I bought a green trouser. I wear it non-stoply during my daily work. I ware it almost anywhere I went to. My friends asked me whether I lacked trousers. I said no. I just loved it, as it was right size, comfortable and causal. After seven years in use, a big hole occurred on back of this trouser. Same story, I had a pair of hiking shoes. it made me feel comfortable. So, I continuly ware it for 2 years. Finally, this shoes had big holes in both shoes caused my heel pain. I am always sad to redundant them. Now, I realise, the lifetime of a trousers is around seven years and of a pair of shoes is around 2 years. OK, how many clothes and shoes do we need? I counted my wardrobe, My clothes which I can wear more than ten years. Why do we need to buy clothes and shoes? For helping the environmental friendly, I stop to buy clothes and shoes many years ago until it is really necessary. I am happy for saving the world resource and being a responsible human. Thanks my Buddha to let me learn the Buddhist theory of cause and effect.

Su doku 数独すどく

2008-06-12T03:57:00.000+01:00

I love So Doku since 2001. I started to play it when I was in the UK, felt bored and stressed by my MBA study. I am slow player, Often, spend over 10 minutes to finish one easy sudoku. My husband keeps all sudoku from his newspaper for me. I can play it during my journey to go home and come back to my workplace. When I play it, I can forget my work and my study, and feel relaxed and enjoyment.

My sister in law in Canada is good at mathematics. So, the Sudoku is no challenge for her. She can finish difficult one within 5 minutes. How good she is. Whatever, slow or quick, I am happy to play it.

Lucky woman 幸運兒

2008-06-11T11:32:00.002+01:00

Today is the anniversary of meeting my husband. I sincerely thank my Buddha for letting me meet his man in my life. My husband is the best. He always cares and loves me with NO condition. What will I expect next? Life is short and simple. The rest is not important than my husband. I am lucky and feel wealth enough because him. I believe love must with NO condition since I understood the world. Now, I have my happy marriage. Thanks my Buddha and thanks my beloved darling husband. Be happy for everything.

Hong Kong sick 沉默的情懷

2008-06-10T04:46:00.001+01:00

I can't describe how much I miss Hong Kong. Every time, when I listen to HK radio, I feel lost and can't sleep overnight. Also, I have eating disorder recently which result my head dizzying as I refuse to eat English food. I know this is not good for me. but, I can‘t control myself. Hong Kong seems drug for me. What can I say? Life can't be always ideal. I have to sacrifice sometimes.

Wild love 晤野晤愛

2008-06-09T05:12:00.000+01:00

My colleague told me he has 10 girl friends at same time, all of his girl friends demand marriage, he just scare from them as he is a wealth man and has big family farmer, sheep's, holiday homes in France and Spain. He divorced for five years. I laugh at him as 'a lucky man'. He said he is unlucky. The man, in my observation, is not a such good behaved person as always rude, f* word, woman, sex, money and car in his mouth over hundred times a day in office, always arrogant, bossy, defensive and fussy to other colleagues. During working hour, he can talk to many girl friends a day. but his boss, another stranger English ex-pat, pensioner just turns a blind eyes. Nobody knows what they two do. I have observed them for the purpose of my PhD study. It gives me more data on comparing behaviours between English and Chinese. I talked to other colleagues, this man will have more other women as his behaviours are not good enough in theory but enough bad to be loved by women.

Human do love bad behaviour always. It calls love at hate. for example, beautiful women love men's pockets. Handsome men are able to womanising with beauty, sexy and don't care about women's mindset and kindness. You can find all those evidence through our society. This is animal behaviours as majority of human have no brain. for instance, if singers dress up sexy and wild, this will result more fans to follow and more sales on their albums. Paint artists, if they paint in wild behaved, it will result more consumers to love and gossip, then, the paints will become famous and high sales. Very few art works, if painted behaviour good can become famous shortly. Maybe people do feel bored if anything is ideally good. Maybe people don't really understand or care about what art is about. Maybe, the word of art is a fashion. Maybe, human is just animal. Maybe ...

The wild makes up dynamic, anger, challenge, debate, controversial and so on but all of them indicate opportunity. In the monkey world, the head of monkey is the worse behaved animal in its group. One bad behaved male monkey can have hundred female followers. Also, one bad behaviour female monkey is able to have hundred male follower. So, to love the hate is part of animal world. Human can not be distinguished from animal initial.

So, why do we need behaviours ourselves? Just relaxing and back to wild as bad behaviors as we want.

Dragon boat racing festival 粽"味"依舊

2008-06-08T05:18:00.002+01:00

Today is the traditional Chinese dragon boat racing festival in Hong Kong and China. During day time, people will often gather around river bank or sea front to watch dragon boat racing. During evening, family members will together have traditional dumpling meal. The dumpling is made by glutinous rice, pork or fruit stuffed and wrapped by bamboo leaves. This tradition has 5000-year history. My friends sent greeting to me. But I feel sad as no atmosphere in the UK to calibrate this festival. I feel home sick and dying for this lovely dumpling and watching dragon boat racing in Tolu Harbour in Tai Pu.

National Rail 正點火車

2008-06-07T00:47:00.007+01:00

Starting this weekend, the railway engineering work will finish between the lines of Poole to London, and London to Norwich. I am very happy for this news as it can reduce my journey time to go home significantly. I used to spend 10 hours more by coach to home, now I can have 5 hours by train for single journey, also, the changeover can be reduced from 7 times to 2 times by train. I know I still have to up down inside London underground, It is enough for me to delight. I work in Dorset, South England, and my home is in North Norfolk, East England. I had nearly given up the job and wanted to work anywhere closer to my home. Now I have the hope and will carry on the job in Dorset, where is 300 miles away from my home. Hopefully, I can have a little peace in my life and not bothered by anymore railway engineering work shortly. Dear Buddha, thank you.

Hypotension 低血壓

2008-06-06T20:01:00.002+01:00

Last Monday, I was diagnosed as low blood pressure at 52 which result me feel dizzying all the time if I stand. So, I was off work for days. The Doctor said it may be caused by hungry. Maybe yes. I do feel hungry almost from morning at 10 to off work at 5pm. I don't like to eat British cold lunch in office, so I nearly eat nothing at lunch for two months. Now, I must change this bad habit for my husband. I don't know what to do with the low blood pressure. just feel down. Since last week, I have dizzying everyday and have to lay in bed in order to help my brain has enough blood and Oxygen. Hopefully, everything is fine for me soon.

Maybe yes or maybe not 一心兩意

2008-06-02T14:35:00.003+01:00

During my university life, Professors warn us never to make any conclusion until we have enough evidence to proof it. So, I say any word with MAYBE instead 'YES or NO' if I don't have enough proof. When I have to comply with a degree graduation, I must write YES or NO in my conclusion.

In Reality, I have found many people like politicians, business bosses, marketing sales and use the word of MAYBE very often during election, selling, convincing or and so on. Interestingly, ordinary people are willing to listen to those MAYBERs. However, after they won election or done the deal, people start to expecting YES or NO. If the delivery is unsatisfactory, people will critics or complain. those ordinary people never win the appeal, because the word of Maybe is equal to Yes or No. So, those politician, salesmen or bosses will never graduate with a degree. I am interested in what have happened to those MAYBERs in real life. If they want to get married, can they get approval with MAYBE instead I do?

Local newspaper 天邊一只雁

2008-06-01T08:53:00.001+01:00

I have participated a supermarket survey in the UK. One question is which newspaper I read daily. It is interesting. I don't buy newspaper in either Hong Kong and UK, because too much unnecessary news & gossip made up the large portion. So, I stopped to buy newspaper in HK 10 years ago. But, I do read newspaper everyday. My husband reads local newspaper called EDP (Eastern Daily Press) which is mainly Norfolk news. I don't read it almost. Only just, when I was in Hong Kong, I read it via Internet as I was isolated from my England home and worried about my husband. Wherever I am in HK or UK, the news through http://www.google.com.hk/ and the radio from http://www.rthk.org.hk/ are always the priority for me. My friends laugh me not being a British yet and ask me why I live here. I wish I would get away from this country. I am a wild goose whatever I am, Hong Kong, always, is my beloved destination. The song of a wild goose in the sky by Alan Tam is my favourite. Every time, I hear it, I just want to fly back to HK. I am here is only for my husband and my family. Hong Kong is my local place forever.

Washing & Ironing 燙衫婆

2008-05-31T00:30:00.009+01:00

I hate washing and ironing. My husband does almost all washing and ironing at home. Now, I stay 300 miles away from home. He can't help me more. My company has a cloth code of conduct. I have to wear all ironed cloth during Mondays to Thursdays. No choice for me. So, I bought a good quality iron made in Germany. It costs me £80. Surprisingly, to use this iron, I can finish all my weekly cloth and bed linen ironing within half hour. When I use ironed bed linen and wear ironed cloth, my feeling is incredibly happy. I look like more beautiful and professional. Now, I enjoy the ironing and ask myself whether I have became a British wife. I told my husband. My husband asks me to iron his cloth. I said NO. Laughing. Of course, I am happy to iron his cloth if I use this German mader. My husband is the most brilliant man in my life. Thank you made in Germany. It has changed my life.

Mates 老友

2008-05-30T22:52:00.007+01:00

My colleagues are 5 males. When they answer or make a call to each other, always say 'hello mate', but they never say this word to me. I asked one of them why. He replied to me with smile. I like this word as it proofs they are connected well. I often say 'My Buddha!' instead 'my God'. They are very interested in knowing this new phase. Then, they start using this new Phase communicating with me instead my GOD. Later, I call them mates, they use My Buddha to other colleagues.

Dizziness 路暈

2008-05-29T19:49:00.010+01:00

I walk to office from where my stay every morning and evening with each walk 2.2 miles for 40 minuets. It is the most economic, efficient, health way to remain my daily excises. the Road which I walk along is main traffic road, uneven, mostly the road all with up-down hill 30 to 40 degree angel sometimes. The side path way is around one meter width with more uneven and odd surfaces. After one month walk, my foot starts pain and I can't walk as same speed as usual. Sometimes, the pain starts at the morning walk. This week, almost whole weekdays, the pain from the lig. plantare longum appears at mornings and evenings. I am little worried. The worse thing today, when I walked back to home, during the journey, I was fainting for over 10 seconds which resulted me certain nearly hit by running cars from the main road. When I waked up from the dizziness, I was very scare. The dizziness is the first time in my life. I am getting older and starting aging myself. I must look after myself for my husband and beloved ones. Buddha, blesses me.

Birds lover 鳥痴

2008-05-28T16:25:00.009+01:00

I love Birds since I was aged 5 or younger. I feeded Pigeons under my house roof. I installed ten boxes under the roof. One week later, those boxes would accommodate Pigeon's families. New babies would turn up after several weeks. Then, it was interesting time for me. I could climbed up to the roof, checked those boxes. two Pigeon eggs one time. I often used corn to feed them. When Pigeons heard me, they could flight back to those boxes or my house immediately. After adult Pigeons had their dinner or tea, they would feed their babies with their mouths. watching Pigeon feeding, it was the happiest time in my Childhood as I didn't have luxury toys. also I respect the parents of Pigeons, they sacrifice themselves for feeding their babies.

Now, I have a bird table and Bird feeder in my garden. Every morning, my husband puts bread or food on the table. Sooner, birds will turn up from same family and drop feces on my clothes, windows, car and garden. We enjoy watching those smart birds trying food from the bird feeder. Sometimes, the nut is bigger than the hole, the birds have to try hard to get them, It is another enjoyment for us.

Slowly 慢条斯理

2008-05-27T23:58:00.001+01:00

A friend is asking of how we can slowly do our daily thing during our group meeting. No one can answer this question. I ask myself, no answer as well. It may be the most difficult question. I am still thinking.

Dancing with National Express Coach 與誰共舞(3)

2008-05-26T20:17:00.008+01:00

Today is public holiday, but my time can only be for the journey back to Bournemouth. Last Friday, the traffic back to Norfolk was fairly good, only half hour late. My husband and I were all happy for the coach 'on time'. Although the A11 was blocked, we went through Bury St Edmunds up to Thetford. However, today has very heavy rain, water just falling down. One of two coaches from Norwich to London Victoria didn't turn up. Left many passages at Norwich station. I was luck to get on the first coach as I held a connection ticket. then, the coach was half hour late departing from Norwich. All the way to London is stressed as worrying about lossing connection in London. What can I expect? This is the best public transportation in this country. It is better than Train. If I use train service, It will take me 7 hours and 5 changeover. I wander why the Railway engineering work always hold up on Public holiday. I can't give any comment on the service in this country. If it were in Hong Kong, I would never suffer such 'brilliant' service. Just no complaint at all, as nowhere, nobody is or will listen to me. What a hell of learning CRM (customer relationship management)? the CRM definitely doesn't work in this country. Don't believe Business excellent or Best practice. It doesn't exist in this country although news, books, magazine are all talking about the business excellent. My legs were swollen again and result pain very much. I hope and pray for not having problem for my legs. My Buddha, please bless me.

Japanese Wedding 和味囍事

2008-05-24T07:01:00.005+01:00

Today is my Friend, Chiaki's Wedding in Japan. It is a wonderful day for her. Last week, I and Kabir sent Telegram to the hotel where the Wedding ceremony is held today. I know her since 2001 when she was aged of 24 and a Japanese exchange student at UEA. She is always polite and cheerful. When I visited Japan in 2004, We gathered in Tokyo. I always remember little Chiaki. Now She grows up and becomes somebody's wife today. I wish I would attend her Wedding and taste the real deep indeed Japanese Custom. Bless and love you, Chiaki.

Cheese cake 芝士蛋糕

2008-05-23T00:56:00.000+01:00

Cheesecake is irresistibly my favourite. I can have the best cheese cake in HK. Sadly, it is hardly to find it in tea house or cafe in the UK. Now, I have found most hotel restaurant can provide it with high price. I love it and miss it. I appreciate My husband try every opportunity to buy it for me. Thank you darling.

Doughnut party 糖彈計

2008-05-20T23:07:00.003+01:00

I have worked in the Aerospace company for over a month. All most male colleagues are nice to me and behaviour well. They are very much rude, always f* words if I am not there. In front of me, they are different persons and never to say this word. So, I decided to pay a snack party for rewarding them as Gentleman. They are surprised beause no one doing this before. They enjoy Chinese Spring-roll, Indian Snack, Chocolates, English doughnuts, Bananas, Apples, Clips, Tea, Coffer, Coca-cola and so on.

Ice lemon tea & HK black tea凍檸茶+絲襪奶茶

2008-05-18T12:50:00.016+01:00

When I lived in HK, I could almost have Ice Lemon Tea or HK locally brewed black tea with milk in restaurants. No Green tea will be served in restaurants. We could have Green tea in Teahouses. However, now, I live in England, none of them is available. Even, I went to China town in London, I couldn't have them. In London's Chinatown, Chinese restaurants only provide English black tea with milk and sugar. It's tasteless for me. I miss HK and miss the Ice lemon tea and thick and creamy HK black tea.

Dancing with National Express Coach 與誰共舞(2)

2008-05-06T20:07:00.008+01:00

Last Friday, I went back Norfolk from Bournemouth via London Victoria station. It was another nightmare. As the accident on A11 around Newmarket, the road of A11 was completely blocked. I was stressed by worrying not enough sleeping time for my husband as he has to get up at 4am next day morning for his work. The Bus driver was very good and made the way through Ipswich to Norfolk. No surprisingly, another three hours delay. I finally arrived home around midnight again. My legs were swollen, headache, hungry, and no food for 10 hours. I was very down during the whole journey. I wish I couldn't work in such far distance from home.

Soldiers vs Polices 軍人與差人

2008-05-02T21:01:00.001+01:00

In the UK, the BBC and ITV report Soldiers who sever in Iraq or Afghanistan are awarded with medals. I have never seen any polices are awarded by this country. Also, films and TV dramas are more about soldiers how to kill people than polices crack down crimes. I am annoyed by this type culture and society recognisation in this county. What is the purpose to being a solder? It is only to learn skills to kill people whatever who they are friends, innocent or enemies. But polices are more likely hero to protect the people but with less being recognized by this country system. Why British gov educates all citizen to call polices when they are in trouble. Why they don't call Solders? If we don't need to call solders, why we have to pay tax for solders to invade other countries? Stranger, Stranger and Stranger.

Wine boy 酒保

2008-04-25T20:42:00.002+01:00

I have great chance to stay in Hotel for one month, as I benefited from my job relocation. I have my dinner in the hotel restaurant almost weekday evenings. Interestingly, before the starter, always one experienced man or boy comes to ask all guest for wine. As I am Buddhist and not drink wine, when the wine boy approaches me, he seems disappointed and walks away for other guest. As time goes, the shift has changed and changed, none of female wine girl does same job. I am interested in why? There is many female work in Pubs. Why female don't sell wine in hotel restaurant? Good Luck. If I buy a hotel, maybe, I will create the difference. I believe female can sell more wine as their smiles are more sex than male sometimes or mostly.

Waiters vs waitress 侍男侍女？

2008-04-17T20:44:00.007+01:00

I have found interesting scenario in the UK. In the hotel restaurant, if its ranking is three stars or less, you can find almost all waitresses working in restaurant. If the hotel ranking is four stars or above, you will hardly find female waitress in hotel restaurant. I wonder the reason. Is woman less effective or classics in four star hotel? I don't think so. Or, is this scenario just to proof more female guests eating in higher classics restaurants than male? If so, probably, it is the fact.

Dancing with National Express Coach 與誰共舞(1)

2008-04-06T19:49:00.006+01:00

I have just started new job in Bournemouth, South of England, for two weeks. But my home is located in Norfolk, East of England. There are 300miles (480km) away from home. Last Friday, I went back home via Heathrow airport. When the coach departed from Bournemouth to Heathrow, already one hour late. Then, in Heathrow, no coach could arrived for Norwich as two accidents on M25. So, another one and half hours waiting in Heathrow. Luckily, I cancelled the appointment with my friend in Heathrow. Otherwise, it would be nightmare for my friend. All the journey time, I was stressed by worrying loss the connection in Heathrow and worrying about my husband. When I finally arrived home, it was next day morning at 0:30am. It took me 10 hours to go home. My husband felt tired as well. As he waited me in Coach station for over three hours. I had no complaint for this travel because it is in the UK and not anywhere else. Good Luck for next.

Being an aerospace lady 宇航超女

2008-03-30T20:27:00.004+01:00

Surprisingly and excitingly, my child dream became true now as I am an aerospace lady and contributing to UK's aircraft making, like Airbus, Boeing and other secrete devices. That is proof again that WE never know what WE go next. We should catch all opportunities around us and try our best in life.

When I studies my MBA in the UK, I was fascinated to discover the model of EFQM (European Foundation for Quality management) comparing to the traditional quality implementation in HK and China, I got distinguish mark. But, I was never thought I could join a EFQM company, even never to make aircraft in my life. Now I am here. The goal to work in either automobile or aerospace industries is achieved. Because, when I was at University for my first degree, people thought I was only an office girl and couldn't do mechanical engineering. Now, I did. I work within British white male with over 6 ft tall colleagues mostly. Who I am? I don't know. Maybe a super little lady from HK and China Shanghai.

The older is the wiser 耆英粉絲

2008-03-29T08:39:00.003Z

In my mind, always turn up an old lady's who were 88 years old from Japan. I met her in 2001 while I was studying my MBA at UEA. One day, I attended an English classroom, she was there. Suddenly, I raised my respect to all Japanese particular this lady. I asked her for the reason of her learning English. She replied me as she just wanted to learn English as second foreign language. She has many grandchildren and children all in Japan. When I asked her whether her children were worried about her. Then, she talked to me about her stories such as her health, her family, her interest in learning. She started to paint her first work at aged 68 and learnt English at 70s, but never knew what the real English is. This is why she came to England just for learning the real English and so on. She is a such wonderful Japanese lady with all learning attitude. She is my model for learning, when I feel frustrated on on learning, she is always turn up in my mind and motivate me going. Thank you, the Japanese lady.

Naturalism 自然主義者

2008-03-21T20:23:00.003Z

I am a naturalism. For work, many conflict are natural. We don't need to deliberate to interfere the action taken or decision-making, just let thing to go naturally. Some people don't understand or never taste how great from the naturalism, they often try to start politics or gossip in office and so on. But the thing only goes to its way own mostly. My colleagues always blame me not to interfere the progress of decision making. I replied with no, as I believe the best solution is towards nature. We don't need over estimated our self in a team. When my responsibility is taken, it is enough. No politics, no gossip. For family conflicts, I also act silence or walk away after ONCE I have given my opinion or comments. If people don't listen, they wont listen forever. This is human nature. To let the consequence educating them is the best way to solve family conflict. I quite enjoy my strategy on solving those problems at work and also family. As the same principle, naturalism, I pray for human not too much interfere with our living environment and resource. Whatever we did selfishly or badly on nature, human will be punished at the final. This is principle of nature. Buddhist is almostly a naturalism based on its theory of Cause and Effect. To respect the natural progress is the best for human.

Two is better than one 二個比一個好

2008-03-20T22:00:00.006Z

In modern life, many people choose to live alone, unmarried, widowed or divorced. When we do a survey and ask people to answer this question, they will simply tell you with no confidence on marriage. For me, I believe marriage and its core family value to our society. Two is better than one.

Many people in China put too much material and condition on it, this is one of reason to let people keep distance from marriage. In China, particular in rich areas like Beijing, Shanghai and eastern China , it is not only material is the core condition to marriage, but also other unhealthy revenge has involved in as well. For instance, if women divorced, they often use child as bullets to fight with ex, then, women will often block the child to see their fathers and poison their child with bad wordings on their father in order to obtain the child's loyalty to the mother. The society in China encourage those single mun to behaviour like this. The single mum struggles to survive while can'g give the best family to her kids to grow up. The revenge mindset brainstorm have poisoned the whole modern generation, as a reulst, how can expect those kids can cope with audit life positively? God knows. The single mum does know the theory of two is better than one, just she lives in China and can't spot the problem, even they are proud of what they did on their kids and ex. I only pray for people in China , please do respect yourown, your kids and your ex. When you believe it, you, your kids & ex will benefit greatly from this open mindset and positive signs. To love you, your kids and your enimies. Tomorrow's life is better than today.

Given is the true happiness 施比受樂

2008-03-19T20:10:00.004Z

I am a member of many charities in HK, UN and UK. Children is my most interested in. When I gave my donation, I feel great happiness in life. For those children live in poverty, it is not only to provide material help, but also the most important is education. I feel guilty not able to be a volunteer in those Charities so far, my English mum, Sue, is on her way in Africa to help children from 2 to 12. I hope one day, I can go with her in Africa or anywhere for helping children. Thanks for those charities and thanks my Buddha. Given is the true happiness for me.

To love vs be loved 佛說-愛

2008-03-18T20:20:00.004Z

I read what Buddha said about the human love and then have deep thinking for long while. A student of Buddhist asked Buddha what the real love is, as he gave up the one whom he loved and married to another girl whom he doesn't love, but the girl loves him. then, the student starts wander whether his decision is correct or not as he is a sincere Buddhist.
Buddha reply his wander as the following:
To marry the one you loved can lead you to the real heaven and happiness. When you love her, you have no desires on any return and are motivated to try everything for her happiness, even most time, it is painful experience, this is true love. Otherwise, when you take some one's love, you will loss you motivation forward the real happiness. Some people finally do choose taken the love after a long fighting for finding a true lover, it is not a way Buddha encouraged according to the Buddhist theory of Cause and Effect. It is just a convenience. Why do human blame sometimes never found a real lover? How can we easily identify the real love around us?
Today, people are keen on most convenience rather than put effect on what they want to, as a result they choice their marriage and love in a high demanding on material and western culture driven way, such as ordinary girls try everything to get married to wealth families; celebrities married to each other and so on, but those love often with a high divorce rate and high compensation to women ending. For middle classics whatever in HK, China and UK, they often put equal social classics marriage as the principle by culture and family seniors. Also, to marry a foreign western husband and immigrate to western countries is another love goal. Do they have real love? Maybe, just materialization and convenience. This is not a real love at all.
Buddha please blesses them all whatever they give or taken love from someone. Here is some Buddha's theory for you learning. Learning it and enjoying it, I guarantee you will have lot of relaxation and peace in mind.

No YouTube 遠離管子

2008-03-17T22:21:00.005Z

Many people start to use the fashion video publisher. For me, I am not a Youtube lover. Because, I think this technology is even more damaging human natural communication and have significant impact on face to face and human touch. Most people use the YouTube to express themselves, often have physiological & psychological weakness, such as shame personality, lack confidence to face human challenge, not sociable and so on. Politician and Hollywood star use it to give false impression to sustain their political survival and film or song sales. The biggest disagreement for me is the Youtube foster people's laziness and impact on writing skill rapidly. So, I would perfect the writing to express my feeling, just simple none-value added a video. Youtube is just a dead device for record human laziness.

Will 遺屬の語

2008-03-16T22:07:00.004Z

In Hong Kong and some western countries, People are encouraged to make Will when they age reached 40. The reason for it is to protect your beloved one(s). In mainland China, to make Will is a untalkable cultural things for 5ooo years. Chinese often think making Will will cause unlucky and predict death. When you talk about death in China, you have to hide. In HK and Western, it is just a normal arrangement. I made my first Will in front of solicitors when I was 40 in HK. After I got married in England, my single Will expired immediately. I have to revise it as a married Will. In England, it is quite simply and cheap. I wish I can be buried in sea closer to my husband and my assets can leave for my beloved ones or childen charities. When I made Will, I feel peace and relaxed. Life is just simply and simply. The simpler will result happier. That is all.

Family woman 家庭是地

2008-03-14T14:18:00.001Z

I am a family woman, my family is my earth. I and my husband, Peter, live between the sky and the earth. The sky is my career which is the most important for me, a female workaholic. But I still try my best to be a good family woman for my husband and maybe my child late. From Chinese eyes, I am not good at cooking Chinese food. They wont appreciate if I only throw everything into the wok. But from my husband's eyes, I am good. So, we decide to arrange our daily life as Mondays to Fridays, it is time for me to cook evening meal; On Saturdays, it my husband's turn to cook oven Fish and Chip; on Sundays, he will cook his best Sunday Roast for tea. I love cooking, when I cook, I can put all my creative idea into the wok. So far, I have managed not to repeat my receipt as long as possible and also cooked well with some Indian meal. The most important is my husband enjoys it and get health diet as long as we together. So, this is my earth life where I love to be

Career vs job 事業是天

2008-03-13T20:18:00.000Z

When I was an interviewer have many chance to meet interviewees from HongKongers and mainland Chinese which benefit to my PhD research on study on workplace human attitude and behaviour. I often asked them one question why they came for this interview. Some people answered as need a job, or need an opportunity. Then, I asked them what the difference between them. Most interviewees appeared confusion or never think about it before. Recently or mostly, in the UK and HK, employers wont hire any extra people in their business whatever its economic is good or not. Employees have to demonstrate their own value. So, that is core difference. When you want to demonstrate your own value, you see the job as your career and will fully engaged and contribute more extra than demanding. If you see it as just a job, you can hardly enjoy it and obtain your own benefit. So, do and choose what you love rather than just survive for a job.

Bone vs Boneless 晤骨不歡

2008-03-11T09:22:00.002Z

In England, it is difficult to buy meat and seafood with bone. Boneless labelled on almost packages with extreme higher price comparing with Hong Kong's. After eight years in this country, finally I realise that British or Westerns don't eat boned meat and seafood. I started my research for this subject. I found the reason of the price impact. According to Finance Times, most Scotland seafood is routinely sent to Asia countries like China, Philippine, Thailand, and so on for proceeding boneless treatment. After all bone removed, then those seafood will be sent back to England. This is why the price is extreme higher.

For example,

200g prawn will cost
£0.98 with shell on, but without shell prawn £1.98 but same gram with boned on will cost 10 to 20p (HKD2-3) in HK.

One ordinary crab, properly 100g,
without bone will cost £2.99 to 4.99, but with bone can cost £1.99 to £2.50 comparing with HK's, it just costs HKD20 (£1.2).

One packed pork meat with 500 g weight,
boneless pork will cost £3.99, with bone will cost £2.50. In HK boned pork will cost HKD30 (£1.99)
and so on

I don't like boneless food, as it is tasteless when I having it. Based on scientific study, eating boned meat can help mouth bone and musical exercise. also good for becoming a vegetarian in this country, as the boneless meat will let me not to fancy any meat even my favourite seafood at all.

Now, as long as more Asian immigration come to this country, many supermarkets start to sell boned meat and seafood. Sometimes, I am quite excited in finding them, like pork joint with bone, it will be good for cooking pork soup. also shell on crab and prawn can let me cook better. My husband loves meat. When I use boned meat to cook, almost, he will have the whole meat and I will have the rest bone. So, if you want a healthier life style, it is better to live in West country like UK.

Bread & biscuit 麵包物語

2008-03-10T18:05:00.002Z

I do like bread & biscuit but only in Hong Kong. I hardly eat them as either in my breakfast or lunch sandwich or afternoon tea in the UK. If you think it is my excuse, maybe. but, the Bread & biscuit in the UK are too harder than they are in HK. I just simply can't swallow them without water help. In the UK, the method of made of bread is different from Hong Kong. It recalls my childhood reading, the Oliver Twist (霧都孤兒) by Charles Dickens. In his novel, Oliver counts the holes in each slide of bread and weighted the food for him. It describes the old British society 200 years ago. Can you imagine what the density & hardness is for a loaf of bread. If only a few holes in it, its hardness is increased. From British standard, the less holes will be called good quality, but from Hong Kong standard, this hardness will cause no market as HK people like soft and tender bread with variable stuffing in it such as barbecue meat, fruit, onion, garlic, herbs and so on. Also, HK people eat fresh made bread rather than left over one. As a result, am I allowed not to eat bread in the UK? A friend of my husband gave us a bread maker. it helps me to create some HK style bread. So far, I haven't succeeded it and all still in testing statue. Hopefully, I can achieve my little goal of this scientific study soon.

Blog vs Diary 博克無禮

2008-03-08T09:25:00.004Z

I started to write my blog since 2005. I find this is a wonderful way to achieve one of my dreams being a creative writer. I joined a course called Creative writing in 2001 when I was studying at UEA. I am fascinate to write my feeling about anything around me, also enjoy reading others' blog. But, as affected by my busy life between UK and HK, I feel guilty not to write as much as I could. Nevertheless, I am back again and to catch up my writing. What is the difference between a blog and a personal diary? In my mind, I can't simply give an answer. A blog, I think, is a way to express positive feeling and enjoyment on particular events; personal interests and avoiding debate if writing something controversial, but most blog writers are good at hidding their weaknesses and truth behind. A blog is not a true personality while just a certain degree of him/her. Don't mind whether the blog is true or not, at least, enjoy the most wonderful varieties and alternatives. I love to read others blogs and always give a positive comment left. Some blogs are very meaningful and have a lot of insight from other perspective. Blog can help me to widen my thinking, particular in reading non-English language blogs. The non-English blog can provide exact art image and motivate me to learn other cultures. It is really a good thing to write and read the blog. Thanks the new technology and people. Be happy and Be positive for all our life.

True smile 快樂無限

2008-03-07T20:13:00.003Z

A real smile or happy face don't need make up. Most time, people who have excellent make up will not have true happiness behind. Their make up hide a lot of secrets and awful personal stories. So, what is a real happy? No make up, being yourself, sometimes, people call you ugly, untided, or old, wrinkled, spots, mess on your face. What is wrong with those natural aging mark? Leaving them alone, we are getting old everyday, why we should make us hard just for pleasing somebody else. Being a real you is much happier and easier. So, be myself or yourself.

British English 英式英語

2008-03-06T09:21:00.008Z

I am quite disappointed with current fashion in the world for whom want to learning English as second foreign language. Here, I am trying not to criticise anyone. When I am in England home and watch CCTV 9 (China central TV), all presenters speak neither British English or standard English. Most of them speak American English nor some accent with strange voice. It is quite annoying to watch it. Other disappointment is my friends and relatives in mainland China ask me to help their children to study in the UK. When I met their children, they can speak American English with strange accent very well. I am confused and then asked them why they want to study in the UK but to learn American or other accent of English now rather than British English. They replied me simply that was just fashion in most of schools in mainland China today. I quite disappointed. People in China or probably the rest of world seem forget what the professional English language and responsibility for its schooling. Learning has to be reminded neutral rather than followed a fashion as knowledge should not have any bias. To respect the professionalization or originality is the most important for learners. To learn improper English language may cause to the integration problem. Many Chinese when they moved to UK, face difficulty to survive and wrote on their blog to blame someone else. I don't think those foreigners, non-English speakers, have right to blame anyone on discriminating them in the UK. The core problem is caused by themselves. I believe what Cause and effect theory said by Buddhism. I wish Buddha to bless them to get things easier. Also of course, those foreigners have to be professional and respective to the English language in this original country!

3 biggest killers 三大殺手

2008-03-04T19:24:00.003Z

The three damage killers for human recently are high blood pressure, high blood sugar level and high cholesterols. What I can do for it? Hope my Buddha helps me to get away from those three illness forever.

House to home 屋簷下

2008-03-04T10:51:00.003Z

The keys of my first house in the UK were finally in hand on 26 March 2007 after having 6 month proceeding with all awful experience in this 'beloved' country. Forgotten all unhappy occasions, after 10 month self-renovation, so called DIY, the house now has been turned into likely home with livable feeling inside. Still got a lot to do such as replace bathroom, kitchen, conservatory, fences, front exterior door and back door and windows. Look! such a big project for me! I am a DIY lover, full of enthusiasm about doing most them by myself, a tiny but super Chinese lady. The house is just located 200 steps away from coastline. Whenever I open window, stronge song of sea wavies and seuols will immediately catch my ears. I intend living in this seafront tiny space for a couple of years, then move onto some bungalow, parkhome, or whatever any type of property where should close to public transportation, town shops, library, surgery, pubs and so on. I am looking forward to my ideal home.

My inspirational radio 我的營養素

2008-03-03T15:54:00.002Z

What I can write here? I don't know. At least, the Hong Kong radio is my most favourite and always go with me anywhere in the world. Specially, when I am in the UK, the radio 1& 2 in Cantonese let me eliminate mood imaging I were closing to HK in real. The radio 3 in English let me feel relived from working stresses and thinking I were in my Norfolk home as the DJs are mostly spoken Norfolk accent like BBC Norfolk. How wonderful RTHK is! Without it, I would be unable to stay in either mainland China or UK. Now, I have tried to convince my husband to listen the RTHK when I am away for working in HK and mainland China. I love RTHK. Thank you RTHK for rescuing me. Otherwise, I will be in deep depression. Welcome to HK Radio and TV http://www.rthk.org.hk/index_eng.htm

Looking for VW camper Van 尋找過去

2008-02-22T18:30:00.003Z

What I can write here? Definitely I lost this beloved VW camper van and the funny Simpson in front of the Van. I have so much memories with it particular in cross of this country 3200 miles journey full of enjoyment from England, Wales up to Scotland highland in 2001. Love it, enjoy it.

Father's Teachings 親父の小言

2008-02-20T13:46:00.002Z

Ten years ago, a friend from Japan gave me a packed cake (草餅). When I opened the gift box, a tiny piece of paper floating on my eyes. The word of 親父の小言 occurred me lot of thinking. I put it into my wallet since then. It is quite meaningful and let me always think of what a father should be like. I respect Japanese culture and this father's value which this value has deeply embedded in Japanese philosophy for over centuries. You can easily find it in lots of business activities such as mugs, cakes, restaurants, plates, towels and so on. Japan is a super nation in the world, although some Chinese disagree. I learn Japanese from 1982 to 1984, but now forgot most of them. Now I have picked up it and hopefully, next time, when I meet my Japanese friends, Mr Honda, a very good friend of mine, I can speak Japanese with him. This is my promise 8 years ago in the UK.

Father's shade 紀念爸爸

2008-02-09T21:47:00.002Z

My foster father died on 9 Feb 2008 in Shanghai at 6:30am aged 84. He brought me up until my aged 10 in Shanghai and gave me all his fathering care and kindness. He always bought a lot of crabs if he knew I came back.then, we mostly had little white wine during dinner together. I can't drink wine, just for being happy with him. We didn't have a lots deep talks, I know he loves me. I love and respect him very much. His every single movement is all in my memories. I recalled an article in school text book called the shade 背影 by China's famous writer ZQ Zhu 朱自清(1898-1948). Last time I saw him in nursing home that was on 19 May 2007. He was crying when he saw me. I am sad for not being able to attend his funeral on 12 Feb 2008. I love him deeply with my heart. Dear father, please rest in peace. I love you.

Green tea lover 茶癡

2008-02-03T16:38:00.003Z

My favourite drink is green tea, particularly loving any tea produced from Hongzhou region and Huang mountain where both 300 to 400 km from Shanghai. Last May, I travelled back to Shanghai and Huangzhou, I tasted the real good green tea and also bought 2000 kg to bring back UK home. Now, I spot Japanese tea powder which is made from the Huangzhou tea even more wonderful than the real leave tea. I can only drink green tea with no food for whole day at all. Sometime, I do it during my intensive work. I love it all.

Hong Kong passion 香港情結

2008-01-27T13:17:00.002Z

Whatever I go anywhere in the world, Hong Kong is the place which always drives me back. I miss Cantonese noisy, terms and customs. Although Hong Kong Radio can be with me via Internet, my stomach, my soul and my thinking are never left there. I love Hong Kong and miss Hong Kong where the best place for me-a Chinese.

Sincerely Buddhist 一心向佛

2008-01-12T18:56:00.002Z

I regret to write here so late. Since my Nana died in 1990, I promised to her as a Buddhist forever. Since then, I have tried everything to become a real Buddhist by my soul and heart. I also intend to be a vegetarian. However, it is not easy to get it at all the time. Hope so, I can try my best to server my dream. Luckily, I have some free gifts such as tapes, Cd's, DVDs about all lessons of Buddhism. Now, I must sincerely from my souls to learn the philosophy of Buddhism. My Buddha!

Reunion with my old friends 真朋友

2007-12-28T10:14:00.002Z

Classmates are always truly connectible in the world anywhere. I met my primary school friends after 26 years departure. I was completely overwhelmed by their kindess and accommodating. Many friends are maturally changed, but from their heart still remind childhood recall in every details. Thank you for all, and will see you soon

Health is the most important 健康禁語

2007-10-14T14:34:00.002+01:00

One-day morning, I was unable to manage get-up, as my back nerves extremely pain. It took two weeks for me to lay in bed 24 hours per day, I couldn’t wash my face, shower, eating and so on. I hated this time and got a lot bad thought from this illness. I wish it were not me to lay down first, as my husband is older than me. I should look after him rather than he does. In the UK, my GP just kept giving me painkiller until one day the British lady prescribed Morphine to me. When I checked dictionary, I was shocked by UK’s GP. In my life, I have never had such drug. When I came HK for work, I got Chinese message treatment by a blind specialist. It was very helpful. I took the 20-hours message treatment. Now my back was completely recovered. I am glad to have learnt the message skill and theory at this time. Now I can carry on the message skill on my husband’s back. Thanks my Buddha doesn’t let me lay in bed for my rest life.

Married to Yallop family 嫁入愛門

2006-10-20T14:06:00.003+01:00

Since Edward died in 1990, I determined not to get married to anybody and not expressing my emotion during my career always. It was very hard period for me to survive in the men dominated world. Surprisingly and unbelievably, I met my current husband, Peter. we fell in love in a very unusual occasion. We love each other and decided to get married just one day in 2006. None of my friends and relatives understood us. Now, we are very happy with our life which just SIMPLE and PEACEFUL enough to be happy and health, although we don’t have much materiel stuff. My husband gives me all his heart and kindness. We do have some difference between our two culture, such as I am good at businesse sence, he is a good gardener. we love each other. We both wish married twenty years ago, then, we could have dozen of kids around. Is this a real life? Maybe. Thanks my Buddha for giving me a peaceful home and the place to belong.

Wedding invitation from my friend 印度婚貼

2006-05-16T12:39:00.001+01:00

A unforgettable Indian wedding for my best friend, a Londoner

Never been to a pub there 蘭桂芳

2005-12-31T12:30:00.001Z

Lan Kwai Fong, a place full of pubs in Central of Hong Kong. Everytime, when I was there, I intended to have drink. However, I never walked in. hopefully, I can replace this picture soon.

Edwards’ birthday memory懷念德華

2005-10-03T08:01:00.001+01:00

My beloved husband, Edward, was born in 1964 and died in 1990. Today is his birthday. I am bit down and emotion whole day. I restrict myself as eating vegetarian food for memorising him. This man changed my whole life.

In Sept of 1986, my classmates and I graduated from my university to a company. Before that, no university graduate was willing to join this company. So, we were treated as privilege and lived in luxury dormitories where located in the city town, 100 miles from Shanghai. My husband came from other university at same year. He was a local guy and did not need to stay in company dormitory. In addition, as we came from two different universities, we had no contact until summer in 1987.

One day, in the summer of 1987, he had his nose operation and stayed in hospital where was 5-minute walk from my dormitory in the city town. Suddenly, he knocked my door and asked a bowl for his meal in the company canteen. I gave him an empty bowl, then, he left for the canteen. Few minutes late, I realised I didn’t give him a spoon or a pair of chopsticks which he may not have been able to eat. So, I picked one pair of chopsticks quickly and rushed into the canteen and looked for him. He was in a queue. I called him and he looked at me. I gave him the pair of chopsticks. He asked me why to give him the chopsticks. I replied that I thought he needed it for eating. Then, I disappeared from the canteen. Probably one month late, he returned my bowl and sat in my dormitory for half day. I couldn’t remember what we talked about. But, definitely, I had no sense of what would happen in my life. Then, late, every weekend, he came to my dormitory, sitting and chatting.

Six months late, I sensed something would have been happening. My classmates, Paul and Jiang, stayed next to my dormitory. They also sensed same. One day, Paul and Jiang together came to my dormitory and asked me about this. I replied to them with not sure. Paul and Jiang said to me not to worry about, they would help me to solve any problem. Paul and Jiang are my classmates. We have known each other since we joined the same university and have maintained good relationship so far. They are very good at protecting my interests and like brothers to me. They commit to my grandmother to take responsibility for me in a rural small town from Shanghai. So, without my knowing, Paul and Jiang talked to my husband seriously with mass questions, including my husband’s family history, habits, how many girls felt in love with and who they were and so on. Also, Paul and Jiang found excuses to visit my husband’s family and talked to my husband’s parents and tried to develop friendship with my husband’s parents in order to detect something several times. Paul and Jiang did success to build good relationship with my husband’s parents until now. After Paul and Jiang did so much for me, they told me not to go further with my husband, as my husband’s family had heart-attack illness record. I was young and ignored their warning completely.

I felt in love with my husband in late 1987. I asked my husband about what the reason for him to chase me, as I am not a beauty looking girl, he replied me because the bowl and the pair of chopsticks. He said to me when I gave him the pair of chopsticks, he felt my kindness and warm-hearted. The bowl and the chopsticks were the media of our marriage and also changed my life completely.

When my family in Shanghai knew about my thing in early 1988, my parents and my relatives were all angry with me except my old grandmother. From their eyes I should fall in love with a guy who has peer, a bit rich family background with my family, as I am the first grandchild in the third generation of my family and the apple of my grandmother's eyes. I had to go back to Shanghai where my family is every weekend. Since I felt in love with my husband, I tried to find any excuses and went back shanghai biweekly instead. I couldn’t tell my family about the illness history of my husband’ family.

The things went wrong with my family. My parents, uncles and aunts tried everything to stop me to love with this guy who was from a working-class family. In 1988, the Chinese New Year, my husband brought a lot of gift and went to Shanghai to see my parents. My parents didn’t let him in my family’s door. That was very much hurt my heart and gave him very much pressure. My husband never talked to me about this incident. After that, I didn’t go back to see my parents. I only went back to see my grandmother. In July of 1988, I went to see my aunts and uncles in Hong Kong for three months. During my visiting in HK, my aunts and uncles tried to introduce 8 men who were HongKongers to me in order to attract me by one of those men and result to stop the relationship with my husband. I refused to meet them all. When I came back to Shanghai in Oct 1988 from HK, my husband refused to see me in Shanghai, as he felt I would go with someone else already. After my grandmother called him, he finally came to Shanghai to see me when it was three days late. I understood my trip to HK gave him great deep pressure. He had prepared to give up and faced anything. He never told me that. For solving out our security, we decided to get register ASAP. I only consulated with my grandmother about the registation, she nodded and gave a ring to me for showing her support. Then, we registered as an official couple in late of Oct 1988. We planned to go wedding in Oct 1990 when we had our saving over HKD5000 for paying for our wedding by ourselves. In fact, we never had such amount of saving in our life.

As helped by my aunts, my husband and I were allocated to work in a company where closed to HK and while my grandmother lived in HK. We had a quite peaceful time and forgot all family conflict shortly, only hardworking instead all family pressure.

In May 1990, he had had three-day headache and high fever; we misunderstood as he caught a flu. In the fourth day morning at 2:30am, he waked me up and called for hospital. I saw he was extreme painful and black eyes around him. I called the factory manager immediately and other friends in the company. Then, my colleagues helped me to get a vehicle while he was already fainted. My colleague tried to give him heart-beating during the whole journey to hospital. When we arrived hospital, the doctor announced his death by heart attack. Only two and half hours time when I knew this. I couldn’t believe that and then unable to give my signature on the death certificate. The factory manager, on behalf of me, got all processes through.

The company called for two family gathering to the funeral. There was the first time for the two family’s seniors meeting together. My Canada uncle was great worried about my parents’ behaviour during the funeral, he came to be the family top senior to balance the two family’s meeting. As my uncle's help, the funeral was conduced smoothly. According to Chinese customs, I couldn’t go anywhere within those 49 days from my husband’s death. People believe if I went somebody’s home within the 49 days, I would bring bad luck to them. As a result, I was only way to my husband’s home for installation him ashes in his hometown and stayed until the 49 days over. My classmates, Paul and Jiang, came to see me every week. I spent two months life with my husband’s parents. They are very good parents, understandable, good listeners, and kindness. So far, I remain good relationship with them. As I live in HK, my classmates, Paul and Jiang, on behalf of me, look after them and also look after the grave of my husband.

I regret to have given my husband such huge family pressure which was one of reason resulted his death, but not regret not listening to Paul and Jiang’s warning on the illness record in my husband’s family. However, I great thank Paul and Jiang like my real brothers to look after me and my husband’s parents. They are my best friends in my life.

My husband has become my Buddha for 15 years. I know he is looking after me in the sky and in my soul. Whatever, any life I have to face, I know he is there to protect me forever.

Rest in peace, my beloved husband.

Good Girl 好孩子

2005-06-26T09:34:00.001+01:00

Ciyin is my beloved Canadian niece and is learning how to brush her tooth, just aged under 2

A little Dr 小博士

2005-06-26T09:28:00.001+01:00

My niece, the little bean is called by her parents. For me, Elizabeth is the given English name, the charming and smiling little girl, aged 1 year enjoys reading, may become my successor of learning.

Biggles 懷念

2005-06-26T09:25:00.002+01:00

The Biggles, a pet dog of Sue, died in 2002 with aged 17.
Every morning, I got up and walked to downstairs, he waved at me with his eyes and tail. I opened door for him to go out for his number 1 or number 2. My friend, Sue, gave this key holder as a Christmas gift to let me memory Biggles. Biggles is still alive in my world. I love him and miss him very much. He helped me overcome many difficult or boring situations, particular in my studying periods at university or schools in England.

The Robin 我的最愛

2005-06-26T09:17:00.002+01:00

I never saw a Robin until one day I received a Christmas card from my boyfriend. A lovely robin was printed on the card. Since then, I started to search what the little bird is about. When I sat in front of window for my study, sometimes, real robins would stand on the bird-table in my garden. I was excited to see them and not to study anymore and enjoyed watching their every movement, particularly interested in their red breasts. In legend, the robin so ‘loves mankind both live and dead’ that it can never leave a corpse unburied. This idea is echoed in the lyrics of an old English ballad, the babes in the wood.

The Barn Owl 我的最愛

2005-06-26T09:13:00.002+01:00

The Blue Tit 我的最愛

2005-06-26T09:10:00.002+01:00

The Kingfisher 我的最愛

2005-06-26T09:05:00.001+01:00

Early Bird 手快有，手慢晤

2005-06-26T09:00:00.002+01:00

In English legend, only early bird will catch worm. A Japanese artist made this picture. When I first saw it, immediately loved it. This bird is struggling for survival on the withered tree, maybe early or late. It may be myths of my life, as I do everything for myself is late. For example, when I realised my life had to go on, I was 33 after 8 years depression from my husband death. When I realised I had to get a master, I was 38 when most people said to me not to quit my career for learn overseas; When I realised I need to plan for savings, I was 40 and unemployed; When I realised I need a stable my own space, I was not enough money to afford it. When I realised I need a medical insurance for my elderly life, but nowhere to get one in HK. When I face this late situation, I seem as same as this bird. So, I give myself an another name, the late bird. Whatever early or late, the spirit for making life excellent can’t be ignored. Learning from own realisation is never too late.

Curtain 窗簾

2005-06-26T08:50:00.001+01:00

the Scottish tea towel has another meaning in my room

Great team! 心有靈犀

2005-06-25T18:04:00.002+01:00

China, 2002
A lot of management books talk about to build a good team. In reality, it is not such brilliant to most origination's. Why? In China, most people live in a hypocritical world, Chinese are often hidden their emotion. If people are not shown their faces or intention clearly, how they can build a real good team? A team needs understanding, compromise, creative and so on. Don't believe those books, but you can try to communicate others by heart by heart, maybe the team will get there. Never give up to build a team whatever you are.

My favourite, Dim Sum港式早茶

2005-06-25T18:01:00.001+01:00

Hong Kong
According to most health warnings, Dim Sum has high fat and cholesterol. But, I love them and often have them once a month.

Snow White on roof 一塵不染

2005-06-25T17:56:00.001+01:00

Stowmarket, England
In a morning of England winter, the roof of my shed was covered by such beaitiful white.

Edward's home town 小城故事

2005-06-25T17:50:00.003+01:00

China, 2003

If I can, I will always go back to my husband’s hometown to see his parents, although my husband died for over 15 years. In 2003, I came back the town. My friend Paul took me to the houses. Grandparents died some years ago. Aunts and Uncles still live in their houses. Now, the houses, small streets around the livingly river are protected by the local ACT as the its heritage. The local government paid all renovations. The grandparents’ house is just opposite the flagged house in the picture. The flagged house is a Chinese pub selling Chinese wine and snacks. My husband spent his childhood there. I went to this house with him when the family had some big events. Many times, I saw over 30 family members together.

Octopus ladies 八爪魚太太趕集

2005-06-25T17:49:00.001+01:00

Japan, 2005

Baby care robot 豆豆的新保母

2005-06-25T17:47:00.001+01:00

Japan 2005
my niece, the little bean, is asking me to buy one for her, but it is not for sales

Rice Wine Wall 酒逢知己,千杯少

2005-06-25T17:45:00.001+01:00

Japan 2005
Respect to the creative Japanese winery

Green Wall 綠色屏障

2005-06-25T17:44:00.001+01:00

Japan 2005

Wine & Beers 開心酒窖

2005-06-25T15:13:00.001+01:00

France, 2003

Tiles to Disneyland 老鼠過街，人人踩

2005-06-25T15:12:00.002+01:00

France
I am confused by people who are willing to pay for one tile at HKD3000 more to allow other people walk on their names

Street school 人之初,性本善/惡?

2005-06-25T15:05:00.001+01:00

Old Hong Kong

When I was a child, teachers always taught me as human was born for good. In reality, I am always told to protect for some reasons. Then, I decided to study this theory and tried to find out what it is. However, so far, I still can't work out it. But I always teach my nieces as same according to philosophy of Buddhism.

A boy小放牛

2005-06-25T15:04:00.001+01:00

Hong Kong
In Chinese legend, the best enjoyable time for a farming boy is to flute on the back of the cow.

Car park 上班族

2005-06-25T14:35:00.001+01:00

England

The clock 夠鐘返工

2005-06-25T14:24:00.001+01:00

busy life never ended

Blue 一只獨秀

2005-06-25T14:22:00.002+01:00

Ocean Park, Hong Kong

Birds 鳥語花香

2005-06-25T14:21:00.001+01:00

Ocean park, Hong Kong

Backyard 後院

2005-06-25T14:16:00.001+01:00

England

Italian Art 義大利藝術

2005-06-25T14:11:00.001+01:00

Japan 2005

Spanish Tiles Wall 西班牙經典

2005-06-25T14:09:00.001+01:00

Japan

Pot World 園藝坊

2005-06-25T14:03:00.001+01:00

England

He is ...教授的一生

2005-06-25T14:02:00.000+01:00

England, my favourite professor, Prof. Les Tickle, this is our drawing at him