一期一会

A simple New Year eve dinner at Ravensbourne

2012-01-26T07:25:00.004+08:00

It's raining cats and dogs...

I'm at Changi Airport again transiting to Fukuoka

2011-07-15T22:35:00.002+08:00

This is the second time in 2011 that I have mee rebus at Ah Wang stall inside Changi Airport.

I brought my parents to Japan last November, we met up at Changi Airport. They flew from KL, I flew from Perth. It's a meaningful trip for me as that was the first time for me to bring my parents to Japan, a place I call second furusato.

That was also the first time for my parents to travel overseas alone, and Singapore Airline did a great job looking after them. After staying one month in Japan, they returned home via Singapore, again with great care by Singapore Airline.

It's great to be able to look after my parents and showing them around Japan.
I returned to Perth via Singapore in February this year alone.

Now I am transiting again at Changi Airport, flying to Fukuoka again.

So again took a mee rebus snack at Ah Wang, and recalling the time I spent with my parents at Changi Airport.

End of the year, we'll fly to the land of white clouds!

Transitting at Changi Airport

2011-02-20T17:28:00.002+08:00

This morning was really early.
Slept at 3:10 am and woke up at 4 am.
Went out of the apartment at 5:05 am, arrived at the Bus center at 5:15 am.

Arrived at Fukuoka International airport at 0745, checked in and was told I need a re-entry visa. So was brought to the immigration to fill up forms and paid 3k yen as stamp duty. I was actually being given a "Professor" class visa entitled for multiple entry - so obviously the ground staff had misinterpreted the information. Anyway, good intention should be appreciated.

Arrived Singapore at 1515.
Took Nasi Bryani (how to spell?) and a bowl of laksa. Satisfied.

It's 1734 now, I am at gate 21 of terminal 3.
Quite hot and as a result I sweated a lot - hopefully nobody will sit next to me, I'm taking seat 47H.

Well, tomorrow will back to work after a few hours sleep.

Dewa, kiai wo irete atarashii suta-to wo gambarou!

あっていう間に３ヶ月がすぎてしまった。。。

2011-02-19T23:43:00.003+08:00

トイレの神様／植村花菜

2011-01-11T19:47:00.000+08:00

ただいま。熊本。

2010-11-23T20:24:00.006+08:00

今朝は両親と福岡国際空港に着いた。
順調に熊本に戻った。

ずっと前に熊本で留学したころ、両親に来てもらうことを考えないことはなかったけど、今回はようやく夢を叶った。

日本で最初の食事は長崎ちゃんぽんだった。

そして、今夜は両親と一緒に桜町のマンスリーマンションで両親にとって初めての日本だった夜を過ごした。

よかった。

本当によかった。

またね、日本。。。

2010-08-14T08:35:00.003+08:00

もうちょい１１時発のスーパーカムイ２０号で新千歳国際空港へ。

お世話になりました、札幌、旭川、北海道！！！

旭川はとてもいいところだ

2010-08-14T07:07:00.003+08:00

自然豊か、緑いっぱい、青空広い。

初めての旭川、住み心地のいいところだ。

考えてみれば、今は人生初地球の最北端の町にいる。

互いに頑張ってる友達との再会により、一人旅の疲れを癒された。

初めての香港、初めての北海道、初めての札幌

2010-08-12T15:17:00.003+08:00

８月１０日の朝７：３０、香港国際空港に着いた。

香港での初めての食事は空港第一ターミナルの７階のレストラン街で済ました。

長い行列並んでちょっと予想外でびっくり。

チャオ麺とコーヒーを注文した。

そして７時間後、初めての北海道。

はじめての札幌で野菜スープカレーを食べた。

ばたばたして学会はおわって、明日は初めての旭川を楽しみにしています。

オールドフレンドとの再会を楽しみにしています。

鬼迷心竅

2010-07-06T23:06:00.003+08:00

很久都没写部落客。理由很简单，懒惰。

借用张艾嘉的名句：生活是平淡得没什么好报告。。。

但是，每当听到这首令人回想起与好友在大学生活的一点一滴的歌，却总是让人忍不住动起笔来写下此刻的心情。

这鬼迷心竅的心情。

人的一生

2010-04-15T18:48:00.001+08:00

唯忍能止諍，無怨能勝怨

2010-02-24T13:06:00.001+08:00

若愛生時，便生愁慼、啼哭、憂苦、煩惋、懊惱。

また家を後にするときが近づいてくる。。。

2010-01-08T01:13:00.004+08:00

いよいよ今週の週末は最後の土日となる。

来週の水曜日の夜はパースへ戻らなくてはならない。

戻らざる得ない、なんともいえない複雑な気持ち。。。

明けましておめでとうございます！

2010-01-01T00:02:00.002+08:00

明けましておめでとうございます！

今年もよろしくお願い申し上げます！

Happy New Year!!!

よいお年を！

2009-12-31T22:40:00.002+08:00

今年のお正月はマレーシアで過ごします。

２００９年はもうすぐ終わろうとするところです。

この一年間いろんなひとから助けてもらったり、お世話になったりして、心から御礼申し上げます。

ゆく年来る年の鐘はテレビで鳴ってます。

２０１０年が皆様にとって良い年でありますように！

Equal opportunity laws in Western Australia

2009-12-04T10:18:00.000+08:00

The Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth) makes it unlawful to refuse or fail to employ a person, refuse or fail to offer a person the same terms of employment, conditions of work and opportunities for training and promotion or to dismiss a person by reason of race, colour, national or ethnic origin.

The Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth) prohibits discrimination on the grounds of sex, marital status or pregnancy, prohibits sexual harassment and promotes recognition of the principles of the equality of women and men.

The Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA) prohibits discrimination on the grounds of including sex, marital status, pregnancy, race, age, religious or political conviction, impairment, family responsibilities or family status, prohibits sexual and racial harassment and promotes recognition and acceptance of the equality of all people.

The Disability Services Act 1992 (WA) promotes the furtherance of principles applicable to people with disabilities.

The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) prohibits discrimination on the grounds of disability, ensures that persons with disabilities have the same rights before the law as the rest of the community, and promotes recognition of the principle that persons with disabilities have the same fundamental rights as the rest of the community.

The Racial Hatred Act 1995 (Cth) prohibits the certain conduct involving the hatred of other people on the ground of race, colour, national or ethnic origin.

The Workplace Relations Act 1996 (Cth) prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, colour, sex, sexual preference, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, religion, political opinion, national extraction or social origin.

The Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Act 1999 (Cth) promotes:

· The principle that employment for women should be dealt with on the basis of merit; and

· The elimination of discrimination against, and the provision of equal opportunity for, women in relation to employment matters; and

· Workplace consultation between employers and employees on issues concerning equal opportunity for women in relation to employment.

もうすぐ師走

2009-11-30T09:35:00.001+08:00

バタバタしていた一年、あっという間に明日から師走なのだ。

たいぎゃはやか〜。。。

At Changi Airport again

2009-10-18T22:59:00.002+08:00

This morning, had breakfast with the team at Fukuoka Regalo hotel.

This evening, had dinner at cousin Kek's residence in Singapore.

Tomorrow morning will be having breakfast in Perth.

I hope I will ultimately find a place that I can call home.

I'm at Changi Airport transit to Fukuoka

2009-10-05T23:58:00.002+08:00

Attended two presentations at Tech Park Function Centre this morning, caught Transperth 100 at 10 to 10 am, arrived at Canning Bridge Station at 5 past 10 am. Thought that 150 will go straight to just before Ardross street, instead need to get off the bus half way and walk home.

It's a good break from the routine, need to reconcile what I am heading for and when and why and where...

Will arrive in Fukuoka tomorrow morning, returning to Kumamoto by noon!

Tadaima!!!

我要甲你攬牢牢

2009-08-15T10:36:00.003+08:00

關懷莫拉克颱風水患

台湾、台風の犠牲者５００人超へ　各地で生き埋め

'Devil' typhoon leaves Taiwan reeling

甲你攬牢牢

作詞：江蕙作曲：江蕙

我欲甲你攬牢牢因為驚你半暝啊爬起來哭
甲你攬塊心肝頭乎你對人生袂擱茫渺渺

我欲甲你攬牢牢不免驚驚驚見笑
世事乎人想袂曉需要一個肩甲頭

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎我陪你唱同調
分擔你的憂你的愁甲你的哭哭完心事著無了了

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎你袂驚袂擱號
往事放乎空人生啊才有望乎我陪你渡難關

我欲甲你攬牢牢不免驚驚驚見笑
世事乎人想袂曉你需要一個肩甲頭

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎我陪你唱同調
分擔你的憂你的愁甲你的哭哭完心事著無了了

我欲甲你攬牢牢乎你袂驚袂擱號
往事放乎空人生啊才有望乎我陪你渡難關

往事放乎空人生啊才有望乎我甲你攬緊緊

UFO visits Perth? UFOがパースに訪れた？

2009-08-09T12:25:00.003+08:00

我能做些什么？What can I do?

2009-08-05T23:55:00.004+08:00

摘自世卫组织

Taken from WHO

厚生労働省・新型インフルエンザ対策関連情報

怎样才能保护自己免于感染甲型H1N1流感？
新的甲型H1N1流感病毒的主要传播途径似乎与季节性流感相似，讲话、打喷嚏或咳嗽时产生的飞沫即可传播病毒。要防止受到感染，应避免与有流感样症状的人密切接触（尽可能与之保持大约1米的距离），并采取下列措施：

•避免触摸口鼻；
•用肥皂和水彻底清洗双手，或者定期使用含酒精的手擦清结双手（触摸口鼻或接触有可能污染的表面时尤其予以注意）；
•避免密切接触可能生病的人；
•尽量减少在人多的地方逗留的时间；
•开窗通风，增加室内空气流动；
•保持良好的卫生习惯，包括睡眠充足，膳食营养和坚持锻炼。
如何使用口罩？世卫组织的建议是什么？
没有生病就不用戴口罩。

如果是在照顾病人，在与病人密切接触时可戴上口罩，尔后应立即处理口罩，并彻底清洗双手。

使用口罩的建议

如果已经生病，但必须外出旅行或与其他人接触，应掩住口鼻。

在各种情况下正确使用口罩至关重要。使用不当可增加传播感染的机会。

怎样才知道自己患上了甲型H1N1流感？
没有医生的帮助，很难判断季节性流感与甲型H1N1流感有何不同。要注意的典型症状与季节性病毒相似，包括发热、咳嗽、头痛、全身酸痛、喉咙痛和流鼻涕。只有医生和当地卫生部门才能确认甲型H1N1流感病例。

如果认为自己已患上甲型H1N1流感，应该怎么办？
如果你感觉不适，发高烧，咳嗽和（或）喉咙痛：

•尽可能呆在家中，不要上班、上学或去人多的地方。
•休息并大量饮水。
•咳嗽和打喷嚏时用一次性纸巾掩住口鼻，并适当处理用过的纸巾。
•经常和彻底地用肥皂和水清洗双手，特别是在咳嗽或打喷嚏之后。
•将你的病情告诉家人和朋友，并寻求他人帮助来处理需要与其它人接触的家务活，比如采购东西。

我现在是否应该服用抗病毒药物来预防这一新病毒？
不应该。只有在卫生人员建议下，才应服用奥司他韦和扎那米韦等抗病毒药物。个人不应在无医生处方的情况下自行购买药物以预防或对付这一新流感，此外，还应谨慎对待通过因特网购买抗病毒药物。

用抗病毒药物治疗甲型H1N1流感

母乳喂养受影响吗？如果患病，是否应当停止？
不要停止，除非卫生保健提供者建议停止。有关其它流感感染的研究显示，母乳喂养很可能对婴儿有保护作用——可将母亲有益的免疫力传给婴儿，并可减少患呼吸道疾病的危险。母乳喂养为婴儿提供了最佳的全面营养，并可加强抵抗疾病的防御能力。

什么时候应当求医？
如果出现呼吸短促或呼吸困难，或者发热持续三天以上，就应求医。如果幼儿出现呼吸急促或困难、持续发热或惊厥（抽搐），患儿家长就应求医

家中的支持性护理，即休息，多喝水和使用止疼药缓解疼痛，在多数情况下就足以可康复。（因为有出现瑞氏综合征的风险，所以儿童和年轻成人应服用非阿司匹林类止疼药。）

如果患有流感但感觉还好，是否应该去上班？
不应该上班。无论是否患有甲型H1N1流感或季节性流感，都应当呆在家里，不去上班，直到流感症状消失。这是一种预防措施，可保护同事和他人不受感染。

我可以旅行吗？
如果感觉不适或有流感症状，就不应当旅行。如果对自己的健康有任何疑问，应该去卫生保健机构就医。

What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A(H1N1)?
The main route of transmission of the new influenza A(H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 metre if possible) and taking the following measures:

•avoid touching your mouth and nose;
•clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);
•avoid close contact with people who might be ill;
•reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;
•improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;
•practise good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

What about using a mask? What does WHO recommend?If you are not sick you do not have to wear a mask.

If you are caring for a sick person, you can wear a mask when you are in close contact with the ill person and dispose of it immediately after contact, and cleanse your hands thoroughly afterwards.

When and how to use a mask?

If you are sick and must travel or be around others, cover your mouth and nose.

Using a mask correctly in all situations is essential. Incorrect use actually increases the chance of spreading infection.

How do I know if I have influenza A(H1N1)?
You will not be able to tell the difference between seasonal flu and influenza A(H1N1) without medical help. Typical symptoms to watch for are similar to seasonal viruses and include fever, cough, headache, body aches, sore throat and runny nose. Only your medical practitioner and local health authority can confirm a case of influenza A(H1N1).

What should I do if I think I have the illness?
If you feel unwell, have high fever, cough or sore throat:

•stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds;
•rest and take plenty of fluids;
•cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing and, if using tissues, make sure you dispose of them carefully. Clean your hands immediately after with soap and water or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub;
•if you do not have a tissue close by when you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth as much as possible with the crook of your elbow;
•use a mask to help you contain the spread of droplets when you are around others, but be sure to do so correctly;
•inform family and friends about your illness and try to avoid contact with other people;
•If possible, contact a health professional before traveling to a health facility to discuss whether a medical examination is necessary.
Should I take an antiviral now just in case I catch the new virus?
No. You should only take an antiviral, such as oseltamivir or zanamivir, if your health care provider advises you to do so. Individuals should not buy medicines to prevent or fight this new influenza without a prescription, and they should exercise caution in buying antivirals over the Internet.

Warning on purchase of antivirals without a prescription [pdf 35kb]

What about breastfeeding? Should I stop if I am ill?
No, not unless your health care provider advises it. Studies on other influenza infections show that breastfeeding is most likely protective for babies - it passes on helpful maternal immunities and lowers the risk of respiratory disease. Breastfeeding provides the best overall nutrition for babies and increases their defense factors to fight illness.

When should someone seek medical care?
A person should seek medical care if they experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days. For parents with a young child who is ill, seek medical care if a child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures).

Supportive care at home - resting, drinking plenty of fluids and using a pain reliever for aches - is adequate for recovery in most cases. (A non-aspirin pain reliever should be used by children and young adults because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.)

Should I go to work if I have the flu but am feeling OK?
No. Whether you have influenza A(H1N1) or a seasonal influenza, you should stay home and away from work through the duration of your symptoms. This is a precaution that can protect your work colleagues and others.

Can I travel?
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel. If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider.

Why DIY is so popular here....

2009-07-01T18:29:00.002+08:00

I called up the realestate agent office to inform them about the faulty water heater.

The receptionist asked if I had tried to reignite the pilot flame as the water heater operates on gas. She then told me that she could telephone the plumber to come and have a look, but if the issue can be solved by just pushing the correct button then I will need to pay for the call out fee. The landlord will only pay the cost of repair if the heater was proven to be faulty.

I told her that I had tried to do so for almost two hours last night, so I don't think I could revive the heater. I asked her if I were to pay the cost, how much would it be.

"80 dollars." She answered.

冬天也有成就感

2009-06-30T19:54:00.003+08:00

拜昨晚的强风所赐今早没热水冲凉。

冬天的冰冷让我放弃与冷水搏斗。

腐朽的热水器让我失望。

可是下班后无论如何都得洗头。

洗掉尘垢后剩下的竟是冬天洗冷水澡的成就感。

Winter storm in Perth

2009-06-29T19:16:00.004+08:00

Perth could be hit with wind gusts of 120km/h and hail as more bad weather is forecast to hit this evening.

今夜は暴風雨の警報が出された。

停電しないように。。。

Swine Flu 新型インフルエンザ

2009-06-01T21:43:00.005+08:00

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
http://www.cdc.gov/CDCTV/SwineFlu

厚生労働省・新型インフルエンザ対策関連情報
http://www.mhlw.go.jp/bunya/kenkou/kekkaku-kansenshou04/

落雨聲

2009-03-21T01:46:00.008+09:00

落雨聲
專輯：世紀紅歌演唱：江蕙
詞：方文山曲：周杰倫

落雨聲哪親像一條歌
誰知影阮越頭嘸敢聽
異鄉的我一個人起畏寒
寂寞的雨聲捶阮心肝

人孤單像斷翅的鳥隻
飛袂行咁講是阮的命
故鄉的山永遠攏企置遐
阮的心晟只有講乎山來聽

來到故鄉的海岸景色猶原攏總無變化
當初離開是為啥你若問阮阮心肝著疼

你若欲友孝世大嘸免等好額
世間有阿母惜的囝仔尚好命
嘸通等成功欲來接阿母住
阿母啊已經無置遐

人孤單像斷翅的鳥隻
飛袂行咁講是阮的命
故鄉的山永遠攏企置遐
阮的心晟只有講乎山來聽

來到故鄉的海岸景色猶原攏總無變化
當初離開是為啥你若問阮阮心肝著疼

你若欲友孝世大嘸免等好額
世間有阿母惜的囝仔尚好命
出社會走闖塊甲人拼輸贏
為著啥家己嘸知影

你若欲友孝世大嘸免等好額
世間有阿母惜的囝仔尚好命
嘸通等成功欲來接阿母住
阿母啊已經無置遐

哭出聲無人惜命命

**********************

在空蕩蕩的公寓裡，對著這段MV放聲大哭。

為著啥家己嘸知影

哭出聲無人惜命命

心安就有平安

2009-02-24T18:39:00.004+09:00

Sayangilah Ibu Bapa Anda Sebagaimana Mereka Menyayangi Anda Waktu Kecil

2009-02-02T22:23:00.006+09:00

今朝通勤中同僚のマイクさんとバス停で遭遇した。雑談の間、マイクさんは自分の両親が去年他界し、二人とも八十歳を超えたから意外なことではないだろうと、淡々として語った。

話を聞いてて、なぜか先週旧お正月のころUSJ　Subang Jayaの街で撮った看板の写真を脳裏に浮かべた：

Adore your parents the way they adored you when you were small

子供のころ両親に可愛がられたように両親を可愛がれ。

正如儿稚时你被父母疼爱一样的疼爱你的父母。

牛轉乾坤除舊歲：请对对下联

2009-01-26T11:31:00.004+09:00

新年进步！万事如意！

Happy 牛 Year!

Vinyard at Margaret River　マーガレット・リヴァーのワイン畑

2009-01-03T22:14:00.004+09:00

明けましておめでとうございます Happy New Year

2009-01-02T20:38:00.003+09:00

Transperth Ferry from Mend Street jetty.

From Canning Bridge

From Ardross Street jetty

ブッセルトン Busselton, Western Australia

2009-01-01T13:14:00.004+09:00

羽田空港にて定番のおそば Japanese Soba at Haneda Airport

2008-11-23T21:59:00.006+09:00

成田国際空港に到着したら早速羽田空港へ国内線を乗り換えます。搭乗手続きを済ましたらいつも一階のカレーライスを食べます。しかし最近海外でもカレーの素を買えるようになったから、やはり日本ならではの麺類：おそばは日本でしか食べられないのだろう。

I need to transfer to Haneda Airport from Narita Airport to continue taking my domestic flight. After checked in, I always have a plate of curry rice at a shop on the ground floor of the airport. However, recently the essence for curry rice is also available overseas, so I think the only authentic Japanese food that is available only in Japan is the Japanese Soba.

７番搭乗口の近くお蕎麦屋さんがある。そちらで日本に着いた後最初の食事をとりました。秋限定のきのこそばといなり、満腹に幸せいっぱい。

Gate 4 to fly back to Kumamoto.

そして、日本航空の定番：ゆずジュース！

世界ウルルン滞在記　さよなら大感謝スペシャル

2008-09-10T21:06:00.004+08:00

『世界ウルルン滞在記さよなら大感謝スペシャル』
2008年9月14日日曜日よる9:00から

“1995年4月に放送をスタート以来、13年半にわたり104の国と地域にのべ688人の旅人たちが旅したウルルン。"ウルルン"のタイトルに込められた「出会ウ・泊まル・見ル・体験（たいけン）」をキーワードに、ホームステイを通して世界の人々の暮らしやそこにある文化を伝えてきた。今回のスペシャルは、惜しまれながらも幕を下ろすことになったウルルンの大フィナーレ。これまでの名場面を一挙網羅！！スタジオには旅人たちが一同に介し、思い出に残る名場面とともに13年半の歴史を振り返る2時間だ。”

世界ウルルン滞在記は僕にとって思い出の深い番組です。熊本に居たころ、毎週日曜日の夜１０時に必ずウルルンを見てた。

今週全問正解者が出ましたから、視聴者の皆様にプレゼントがあります。旅先で持って帰ったお土産。。。

大好きな番組は最終回を迎えるなんて、寂しすぎるよ。。。

あぁ～、めっちゃ凹んでる。。。（涙）

家の近くに川がある。There's a river near my home.

2008-08-21T21:00:00.004+08:00

通勤の風景 Scenes on my way to work

2008-08-21T20:36:00.004+08:00

A junction just before my flat. Photo taken from the bus stop just in front of my flat.

change bus at this bus station

Perth CBD can be seen.

Take a bus to work here. The road continues to a bridge. The left side of the bridge from the bus station:

The right side of the bridge:

Moving tomorrow... Again...

2008-07-26T23:08:00.003+08:00

I have been moving house every year since 2006.
April 2006, Kuala Lumpur to Auckland.
June 2007, Auckland to Perth.
July 2008, B suburb to A suburb in Perth.

It's 11 pm now, and tomorrow the mover will come at around 8:30 am.

I am still packing the kitchen stuff, after which I need to clean the stove, mop the floor, wash the bathtub, clean the toilet bowl, then clean the sand at the entrance brought in by my shoes.

Tonight is the last night staying here.

Tomorrow a new chapter at a new place.

I couldn't help wondering what is going to happen in August 2009??!!!

I am yawning now... Yabai!!!

Carpet and 土足厳禁 (no shoes allowed)

2008-07-26T22:38:00.005+08:00

It's quite common to leave shoes at the entrance before entering the house for Asians.

In fact, it'd be unrespectful to the host if you didn't show sign of taking off your shoes at the entrance until you are told no need to do so when visiting someone.

This is a social etiquette in Japan, and an accepted practice in Malaysia too. For houses that allow shoes, I haven't found one that has carpet through out. It make sense to me because without a carpet makes it easier to sweep and mop the floor in order to remove the dirt brought in by the shoes.

What I find interesting, but yet to understand the reason, is that my Kiwi friends did not take off their shoes when they walked into my house in Auckland.

Before vacating my current rented property, I need to engage a professional carpet cleaner nominated by the realestate agency to clean the carpet in the living hall and all the rooms. Yesterday, when the carpet cleaner, a friendly white middle age lady, came over to clean the carpet, she too did not take off her shoes even though I took off mine before her while entering the dwelling.

Interesting cultural difference eh?

是非以不辩为解脱，烦恼以忍辱为智慧

2008-07-25T08:38:00.003+08:00

Sometimes, life is not as straight forward as what we were taught at school. Didn't all of us learn at school that if we don't do our work assigned to us by our boss we will be scolded?

How many of you actually got yourself scolded by your superior because you have done your job and be responsible?

It's a funny world isn't it?

Property inspection

2008-07-24T22:17:00.008+08:00

There is a term in the property lease contract that I find quite unique. Six weeks after you moved into a rental property, the realestate company will send a property inspector to check on the property, and thereafter every quaterly.

Despite the fact that you have stayed awake the whole night doing cleaning, it's quite intimidating when you get such comments as "Floor dusty", "Windows need cleaning" etc, in the inspection report.

Any comment about this?

東京タワー〜オカンとボクと、時々、オトン〜 Tokyo Tower: Mom and I and sometimes Dad

2008-07-18T19:23:00.010+08:00

先週の週末に久々映画を観た。

オダギリジョーと樹木希林の主演「東京タワー〜オカンとボクと、時々、オトン〜」。

Last weekend, I watched a movie.

It's "Tokyo Tower: Mom and I and sometimes Dad", starring Odagiri Jyo and Kiki Kirin.

ごく普通の親子の話だけど、なぜか心を打たれた。

聞きなれた九州弁での会話、いまでも響いている。

いまでも優しい気持ちのまま。

It's just a simple story about a mother and her son, but I was touched.

The conversations between them conducted in Kyushu dialect, left quite an impact on me as I lived in Kyushu for a long time before.

Until now I am still feeling affectionate.

暖かい気持ちのまま。

And warmth.

Stressful

2008-06-27T17:32:00.005+08:00

Haven't been able to post anything lately because the lease contract of my house will expire end of July. I need to give 3 weeks notice hence need to find a place to move before end of June.

The main reason I want to move is because the present suburb is a notorious area for house break-in, robbery and theft, and the rental for my present 3LDK property will increase from AUD 290 per week to AUD 330 per week. The owners only want to have a lease term of 6 months, after which the rental is expected to increase further.

AUD 330 is about 33700 yen or 1035 ringgit. It is a good 134800 yen (salary of an office lady in Japan?) and almost 4140 ringgit (enough to employ a pharmacist in Malaysia?) for just one month rent in Perth!!!

Anyone wants to share a house? Anyone???

生离死别：中国四川省５１２大地震 Earthquake in Sichuan Province of China, May 12.

2008-05-17T15:37:00.012+08:00

日本の援助隊３１人は、四川省北部・青川の病院宿舎で救出活動を続けています。倒壊した６階建ての建物では１２人が生き埋めとなり、これまでに９人の遺体が中国の救援隊によって収容されました。残る３人は赤ちゃんとその母親らで、日本の援助隊は持ち込んだハイテク機器を駆使して懸命に捜索を続けました。そして１７日午前８時半ごろ、現場で２７歳の母親と生後７５日の赤ちゃんの２人の遺体を見つけたということです。母親は右手で子どもを抱え、覆いかぶさるような姿勢で発見されたということです。
The first contingent of an emergency relief team from Japan began rescue work here Friday, 16 May. The team is the first that Chinese authorities have allowed from abroad since Monday's magnitude 7.8 earthquake hit. Team members eventually began work in Qiaozhuang, searching for three people believed trapped in a collapsed six-storied hospital dorm. Among those believed trapped are a 28-year-old woman and her 70-day-old daughter.
5月16日上午9点45分，首批31名日本专业救援人员抵达距成都近400公里的青川县关庄镇。由于距离山体滑坡搜救地点5公里处道路没有打通，搜救人员只能暂时原地待命。日本救援人员表示：“只要有一线希望，我们就会努力到最后一刻。”

亡くなった母親とあかちゃんに黙祷をささげる日本の援助隊。。。
The rescue team of Japan offering a silent prayer for the mother and her baby who passed away...
5月17日，日本搜救人员向遇难者遗体默哀。当日7时25分，日本救援人员历经16个小时的搜救，在四川青川县乔庄镇一处倒塌的六层楼房废墟中挖出两具遇难者遗体。

帰らぬ人となった妻と子供に最後の言葉を掛ける夫。。。
The husband saying goodbye to his deceased wife and child...
遇难者的丈夫在向遇难者遗体告别。。。

写真：新华社记者李涛
Photograph: Li Tao
新华社记者李涛摄

資料１　CCTV, China
資料２　TBS, Japan
資料３　Herald-Asahi
資料４　CNN

別哭。別哭。這是一場災難，你們倖存活下去，就好好活下去。。。
Don't cry. Don't cry. This is a disaster, you've survived, live well...
泣かないで。泣かないで。これは災害だよ。生き延びることができたから、これからは強くなって生きていこう

パース　Perth

2008-04-19T18:48:00.010+08:00

First night in Perth, I stayed at YMCA. パースでの最初の夜はYMCAで過ごした。

Looking out of the window from the room on the 9th floor of YMCA, the street lights were shining quietly. All of a sudden, I felt lonely for leaving my friends and colleagues in Auckland. Yes, I missed them.....
YMCAの九階の部屋の窓から外へ眺めて、街の光が静かに光った。オークランドの友達と同僚との別れを思い出し寂しくなった。

ビルの後ろはスワン川（Swan　River）だ。Swan River is just at the back of the buildings.

Starting from scratch again, what have I done to my own life?

また一からやり直しなきゃ、これから先の自分の人生は一体どうなっていくのだろうか？

朋友别哭 Don't cry my friend 友よ泣かないで

2008-04-15T15:39:00.030+08:00

朋友别哭 Don't cry my friend 友よ泣かないで
吕方
曲：莫凡词：陈乐融

有没有一扇窗能让你不绝望 yǒu méi yǒu yī shān chuāng néng ràng nǐ bù jué wàng
Is there a window that will save you from despair
絶望のさせない窓があるのだろうか　
看一看花花世界原来象梦一场 kān yī kān huā huā shì jiè yuán lái xiàng mèng yī chǎng
So that you can take a look at this world that's just like a dream
この夢のような世の中をよく見てよ
有人哭有人笑 yǒu rén kū yǒu rén xiào
There are people crying and laughing
泣いてる人もいれば笑ってる人もいる
有人输有人老 yǒu rén shū yǒu rén lǎo
There are people losing and aging
負けてる人も老いてる人もいる
到结局还不是一样 dào jié jú hái bú shì yí yàng
Everybody comes to the same at the end
結局みんな最後同じ結末になる

有没有一种爱能让你不受伤 yǒu méi yǒu yī zhǒng ài néng ràng nǐ bù shòu shāng

Is there a love that will prevent you from getting hurt

傷のつけられない愛があるのだろうか

这些年堆积多少对你的知心话 zhè xie nián duī jī duō shao duì nǐ de zhī xīn huà

Over all these years a lot of true words have been kept in heart

心のそこからの話が長い間に貯まり続けている
什么酒醒不了 shén me jiǔ xǐng bù liǎo

What kind of liquer will not allow one to become sober?

どんなお酒は人を酔わせたままなのだろうか
什么痛忘不掉 shén me tòng wàng bù diào

What kind of pain is unforgettable?

どんな痛みがずっと忘れないのだろうか

向前走就不可能回头望 xiàng qián zǒu jiù bù kě néng huí tóu wàng

It's not possible to go backward after you move on

一歩前を踏み出したら後ろへ振り向かれない

朋友别哭 péng you bié kū
Don't cry my friend
友よ泣かないで
我依然是你心灵的归宿 wǒ yī rán shì nǐ xīn ling de guī sù
I am still a place for you to come home
心の故郷がいつも待っている
朋友别哭 péng you bié kū
Don't cry my friend
友よ泣かないで
要相信自己的路 yāo xiāng xìn zì jǐ de lù
You must have confidence in your own journey
自分の道を信じて
红尘中有太多茫然痴心的追逐 hóng chén zhōng yǒu tài duō máng rán chī xīn de zhuī zhú
There are far too many people that lost their directions and pursuing endlessly in this bustling world
忙しい世の中で、茫然として目標を追いかけ続けるの人が多すぎるよ
你的苦我也有感触 nǐ de kǔ wǒ yě yǒu gǎn chù
I can feel your pain too
君の苦痛は私も共感する

有没有一种爱
能让你不受伤
这些年堆积多少
对你的知心话
什么酒醒不了
什么痛忘不掉
向前走就不可能回头望

朋友别哭
我依然是你心灵的归宿
朋友别哭
要相信自己的路
红尘中有太多茫然痴心的追逐
你的苦我也有感触

朋友别哭 péng you bié kū
Don't cry my friend
友よ泣かないで
我一直在你心灵最深处 wǒ yì zhí zài nǐ xīn ling zuì shēn chù
I am always in your deepest heart
君の心のそこにずっと居るよ
朋友别哭 péng you bié kū
Don't cry my friend
友よ泣かないで
我陪你就不孤独 wǒ péi nǐ jiù bù gū dú
I will accompay you so that you won't feel lonely
傍に居て一人ぼっちにさせないよ
人海中 rén hǎi zhōng
Among so many people aroud us
周りの人々の中に
难得有几个真正的朋友 nán dé yǒu jǐ ge zhēn zhèng de péng you
It is difficult to have a few true friends
簡単に本当の友達ができるわけではない
这份情 zhè fèn qíng
This friendship
この友情を
请你不要不在乎 qǐng nǐ bù yào bù zài hū
Please don't take it for granted
大切にしてください

人海中
Among so many people aroud us
周りの人々の中に
难得有几个真正的朋友
It is difficult to have a few true friends
簡単に本当の友達ができるわけではない
这份情
This friendship
この友情を
请你不要不在乎
Please don't take it for granted
大切にしてください

九品寺2丁目　Kuhonji ni chome

2008-04-11T18:07:00.021+08:00

I lived in Japan for almost 7 years. This period of time is long when you compare with just a short stay of one week for traveling, it is short when compare with a lifetime. It was a time not long after graduation from the university, when my contemporaries were establishing their careers and families back home. I have chosen to walk a different path to start a new chapter of my life in Japan. I guess it's my karmic force that led me back to Japan, to reunite with my friends in Japan that I met in my past life. 約7年間日本で暮らした。この期間は1週の旅行に比べてみれば長いだろうけど、一生の時間となら短いだろう。その時は大学から卒業してまもなく、同期生たちがキャリアと家庭を築いていたに対して違う道を選んで、日本で人生の新しい章を始めた。日本に戻ったのが、前世に知り合った日本の友人たちと再会するためかもね。

Room 403, Morinaga apartment, the place that I spent my golden years... 森永アパート403室、人生一番輝いてる時期はここで過ごした。。。

アパートのすぐ近くローソンがあり、よくここで黒ゴマと抹茶アイスとバナナオレを買った。ちょーうめ～～～。あとこち亀のマンガも。There is a convenient store Lawson just opposite the apartment. Used to buy ice cream of black sesame and japanese green tea flavors and banana milk. Kochikame comics too.

Always took this route, walked pass a high school, この道を通って、鎮西高校の前通過し、
then turn right to this lane towards the lab in the campus. そして研究室へ。

Is it only me that will feel nostalgia for the sights along the road that I took everyday to work ?
普段通っていた道を懐かしく思うのが私だけ？

オークランド Auckland

2008-04-09T12:19:00.018+08:00

Auckland is the first western country city that I live in. I spent my first night in New Zealand at Domain Lodge. オークランドは僕にとって初めて生活する西洋都市だ。ニュージーランドでの最初の夜はドメイン・ロッジで過ごした。時差ぼけのため、なかなか眠れなかった。

Then I rented a granny flat at Newmarket, where I met my landlord and his wife. Both of them came from south China. They were growing vegetables at Pukekohe at southern Auckland to raise their children. その後、ニューマーケットっていう町でお婆ちゃんフラット（親戚の家と連接するお年寄りの暮らす部屋）を賃貸し、大家さんご夫妻と出会いました。お二人は南中国の広東省から来ました。オークランドの南部にあるプケコヘっていうところで農業をして子供たちを育った。

Granny flat at the backyard of the house. 家の後ろにあるお婆ちゃんフラットだ。

A photo taken just before I went to the airport. This is the first and the last photo I've ever taken with my landlord. He passed away three weeks later after I arrived in Perth. He's always been very kind to me when I was staying in Auckland, felt very sad for not being able to see him again. 空港へ向かう前に大家さんと撮った写真だ。これは最初で最後だ。パースに着いて約三週間後、オークランドにいる友人から大家さんの訃報を知らされた。まさに青天の霹靂だった。異国で心細かった時期にいつも親切な言葉をかけてくださったりして、オークランドへ戻ってももう会えないと思うと、本当に寂しくて悲しかった。ご冥福をお祈り申し上げます。（涙）

Hanami 花見

2008-04-08T13:18:00.007+08:00

Every year the Otagiri lab mates will go to Kumamoto Castle to do Hanami, the sakura is just absolutely gorgeous! Night sakura (夜桜yozakura) is breathtaking isnt it?

写真：田口和明

春の桜、夏の山鹿千人灯篭踊り、秋の紅葉＋金木犀の香り、冬の阿蘇、愛しくて懐かしい～！

Starting a blog

2008-04-08T09:48:00.000+08:00

Really, I have nothing to write at the moment.
Let's see how it goes...