tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73299002768583230802024-03-05T10:59:14.292+01:00Four Leaves to a CloverHope. Faith. Love. Luck.Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.comBlogger529125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-1446902081716889662013-01-16T22:19:00.001+01:002013-01-16T22:19:02.970+01:00Next Chapter Begins ElsewhereThis is it. I'm letting go. It's tough but it has to be done.<br />
<br />
Perhaps it'll become a secret garden from now on, even though it isn't much of a secret when everything is online. Perhaps somebody will stumble upon this and scoff at the old me. Or I'll look back and laugh at how sentimental this sounds.<br />
<br />
Oh well.<br />
<br />
The new blog is already up and running. If you like you may join me on the other side. Come on, this isn't goodbye. I'll be right <a href="http://tellerofhertales.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>
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<br />
I am in the UK, well and absolutely enjoying myself. So happy that sometimes it makes me sad to think that I'll graduate next year. But (shhh...) let's not talk about that.<br />
<br />
At the moment, my life revolves around Concrete, the student newspaper, consuming chocolate while doing coursework, finding some spare time to read and making loads of online accounts when procrastinating.<br />
<br />
I'm not even joking. I now have a <a href="https://twitter.com/RachaelLum" target="_blank">Twitter</a> account, a new <a href="http://rachaellum.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Portfolio</a>, <a href="http://uk.linkedin.com/in/rachaellum" target="_blank">Linkedin</a> account, <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/14881900-rachael-lum" target="_blank">Goodreads</a> account and am seriously contemplating a new blog to replace this, even after I once promised myself that this one won't be abandoned. Sometimes it just has to be that way.<br />
<br />
Part of it is due to my inability to make the layout look as good as I want it to be. And I already have a general idea. It just wouldn't work. More importantly, I've looked through all the posts I'd written, blushing at how I used to fiddle with fonts and colours. And the content. I had a different style of writing then. Not that it's any less me; it's just a different version.<br />
<br />
I don't want to stop blogging, 'cause I love it. I can't bring myself to update this particular site, yet I have no intention of deleting this. Too many memories.<br />
<br />
You can probably tell where this is going. I'm going to tie up the loose bits here (because I can't leave things hanging or it will bother me), pack up and head off to a whole new blogging adventure. It'll be a fresh new start. I'll be happy and contented. And you'll be glad that I'm that way too, I hope.<br />
<br />
Until then.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-80579133615624452022012-09-10T12:50:00.001+02:002012-09-10T12:51:16.450+02:00Lasagna. And updates.Apologies for the hiatus. My bad.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7956520406/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1000429 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1000429" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8444/7956520406_8bfc804ffb.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lasagna for family</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It's been quite a busy month, much busier than I expected, and I realised how incredibly soft the couch was each time I sat myself down after a long day.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I'm back and ready to start updating everything again!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are some of the highlights for now (as I am sure you are busy too):</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. I've completed my internship at The Star! It was a really an enriching experience, and I learnt a lot from it. I met a lot of different people from all over PJ and KL whom I wouldn't have met otherwise.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
2. I've completed 30-hours of Basic Sign Language class. It's unfortunate that I can't continue with the next level. Hopefully I'll be able to keep up with what I've been taught and progress with it after my studies.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
3. I missed the Camp Nanowrimo target by 16,100 words, sadly. Time did not allow for too much to be done within a short period of time. I think I did pretty well for my first try though. Next time it'd be better.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, today is my last day in Malaysia and in less than 24 hours I will be flying off to UK again. Once I settle in, I'll write out some longer posts. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Till then, say cheese (with tomato and beef; I made lasagna)!</div>
<div>
<br />
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Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-65983361273318215482012-07-30T10:05:00.001+02:002012-07-30T10:57:49.062+02:00Busy month ahead<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7675083444/" title="Oreo Cheesecake"><img alt="Oreo Cheesecake by rachlyf" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7268/7675083444_7746f31527.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7675083444/">Oreo Cheesecake</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span><br />
<span style="margin: 0px;">PS. Baked this for Joyce's birthday.</span></div>
August is looking like a busy month but that makes it all the more exciting. Better to be out there doing stimulating things than to be talking to voices in your head. Especially if those voices love cake. But I digress.<br />
<br />
1. I'm going to be an intern at <i>The Star</i>, an English-language tabloid newspaper in Malaysia.<br />
<br />
2. I've planned out most of what I want to write for my first attempt at Camp NaNoWriMo. Half-expecting to break down mid-way (as seemed the common case) but those voices in my head are still convincing me otherwise.<br />
<br />
3. I've been taking classes for Basic Sign Language with Mei Shan. I jumped at the opportunity the moment she asked. Why? (Popular question) It's something I've wanted to check off my list for a long time. Learning languages is an absolute joy and it's fascinating when people communicate in signs and gestures that make all the sense in the world once you understand them.<br />
<br />
That's all in the meantime. Now for a Snickers bar.Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-34819623624676504162012-07-23T19:51:00.001+02:002012-07-23T19:56:55.723+02:00Leaning<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7238071504/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Leaning Tower of Pisa by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="Leaning Tower of Pisa" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7099/7238071504_4863cbdfe1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaning Tower of Pisa, taken in January 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lately I've been trying to keep myself occupied. It's my natural defence against things that annoy or upset me. It's something I realized last year when there were a lot of <i>news</i> to deal with and half the time I thought about what I needed to do so that my work won't be affected. In other words, working to avoid not working.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Some people tell me it's good being productive under unfortunate circumstances. Some people say it's strength. I sense that it is a little unhealthy to treat certain emotions like brats, shut them out and tell them, "Not now. I've got work to do." </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Things don't work out the way you want them to. I understand that. Doesn't mean I approve of it. Over the last few days the world slapped me in the face several times, which got me working on certain things in a mildly obsessive fashion. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It really is about time I slap back.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>
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<br />
People ask me why anyone would inflict it on themselves. I admit that being someone who had always been daunted by the idea of writing 1667 words a day, I'd imagine getting through NaNoWriMo would feel pretty awesome.<br />
<br />
Plus, it will be my first time in August. When I first heard about it, it only ran in November. That is without doubt the worst time for university students to be thinking about writing novels. I wasn't keen on adding 50,000 more words on top of what I already had to write for my degree. I would have had to give up on one eventually and it would never have been the latter. <span style="background-color: white;">Earlier last month, I was told that there are now NaNoWriMos in June and August. How could I refuse!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Also, today I did more research for my project. One of the documentaries on it made me tear up. Got me both horrified and excited. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It's a good thing.</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>
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<br />
Before I go on, you should know that I'm not good with flights. It seems to worsen each time, as if it's this dark passenger that ages with me. Symptoms include migraines, being incapable of proper speech, lack of sleep and a facial expression that says, <i>"Please don't ask me to direct you to your transfer terminal in an airport I've never even seen."</i><br />
<br />
Well, no one catches the last symptom, really. I still help them whilst in my stupor.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgvTqgKxA5RbYJn_pgnZiiFTjwLlB8t95Gfa8wz1a721tPy1eWSaJz4irPNyYkfMK0U18aWDHnEkjMCuQkEexZulEd2Qs_-sBBGp9IHnSvOJ1-1_7zgeldV2D4CiOfU3f_UJHMsBJb9yu/s1600/airsick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlgvTqgKxA5RbYJn_pgnZiiFTjwLlB8t95Gfa8wz1a721tPy1eWSaJz4irPNyYkfMK0U18aWDHnEkjMCuQkEexZulEd2Qs_-sBBGp9IHnSvOJ1-1_7zgeldV2D4CiOfU3f_UJHMsBJb9yu/s320/airsick.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disclaimer: This photo does not belong to me, </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first flight to Dubai was uneventful, which was good news for me. And the service was great. I remember thinking, "Well it's worth it I guess." (Famous last words.) The second flight home was not as pleasant. It's probably because the flight's terribly long, although I don't quite understand why last year's 20-hour flight wasn't as bad as this 16-hour flight.<br />
<br />
Upon reaching KLIA, I approached the payphones to make a call; all were out of order. I walked around to check the rest. After inspecting 3 rows of unfixed payphones, I found 2 phones that worked. Got my bags, got outside and totally emptied my insides out. Way to detox, eh?<br />
<br />
At least my jetlag's gone. No more staring at blank walls at 4am, or having no appetite until 2am or having a facial expression in the morning that says,<i> "Please don't ask me to 'just force yourself to sleep'. It doesn't work that way."</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-59140777022759332472012-07-02T13:16:00.001+02:002012-07-02T13:18:33.326+02:00No oneOver the few weeks leading up to the 30th of June, I have been packing up my things and storing them in the houses of several friends all over Norwich. And of course my housemates and I had to do a huge clean up on the final few days. <span style="background-color: white;">After it was all over, we wondered whether the house is way cleaner than when we first moved in. It certainly looked that way. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I am bunking with a friend until tomorrow, which is when I will be going down to London and back to Malaysia on two 8-hour flights. I'll have a book of short stories, a writing pad, air sick pills and lots of in-flight movies to accompany me.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">No one enjoys being locked in a pressurized container for extended periods of time.</span><br />
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-25940212105289032762012-06-29T10:41:00.002+02:002012-06-29T10:45:49.554+02:0021I turned 21 on Monday. I'm not sure how I feel about that. 21 - it's one of those much celebrated years signifying freedom. Or responsibility. Somewhere in between. To be honest, turning 21 feels like turning 20. It hasn't kicked in yet. I didn't initially have plans but a friend convinced me to make some.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7464021298/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050970 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050970" height="300" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/7464021298_a19739a00b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frankie and Benny's</td></tr>
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The day before, we had our first and final restaurant meal as housemates (admittedly without Ezra who had already left) at Frankie and Benny's. Jess also made me a cake before she left that day. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7464022462/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050978 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050978" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7111/7464022462_3f84f75d57.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mambo Jambo</td></tr>
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Went for a Mexican meal with Malaysian friends on the 25th of June. I had my first taste of jalapeños and they were surprisingly not as hot as I imagined them to be. There was a lot of ice cream too.</div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">At the end of it all, all I can say to those who sent a wish my way or celebrated my 21st with me is I really appreciate it, guys. Thank you. It'll be a fantastic year. Now that... I can feel.</span></div>
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</script></div>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-69440294299917261472012-06-23T05:06:00.001+02:002012-06-23T05:06:57.028+02:00The Many Masks<div style="margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7238114806/" title="The Many Masks"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7088/7238114806_5a74613da3.jpg" alt="The Many Masks by rachlyf" /></a><br/><span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7238114806/">The Many Masks</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span></div><p>One of the essays I wrote about in my Shakespeare exam was on festivity. It was a concept we studied about in class, one that explored how carnivals were associated to general disorderliness.<br /><br />While I was reading up on it, many times I associated it to a prominent aspect of Italy - the Venetian masks. Made from paper mache, beautifully crafted, decked in stalls and sold in the markets of Florence.<br /><br />During the 12th century, masquerades were a part of the festive culture of Venice. People dressed up in disguises and wore masks during Carnival or other holidays. Social ranks dissolved, hidden, equalized during that period of Carnival. Only during that period. Otherwise people must act normal, look normal, and adhere to law and order.<br /><br />I have one. Haven't found a reason to wear it yet but it'd be nice to have one when I do. <br /><br />Florence was lovely. I want to go travelling again.</p>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-41872856396907039862012-06-22T04:28:00.001+02:002012-06-22T04:28:18.675+02:00Westlife ConcertWestlife is one of my favourite bands. Watched the <i>Uptown Girl </i>video when it first started playing on the telly as a child; now when their songs are on, I'm actually bopping to the tunes in my head. It'd been a dream to watch their concert.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melissa and I at the 02 arena</td></tr>
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They are retiring later this month and this was their final concert tour ever. Am I using this as an opportunity? Of course. Hey, what can you expect from a student? Last year they went to UEA a few days after my flight was due. It bugged me that I could have met them earlier. But I digress.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7403529278/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="IMG_4045 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4045" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7087/7403529278_e9232821fb.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Singing <i>Seasons in the Sun</i></td></tr>
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At least it worked out in the end. I do so enjoy most of their songs, but I was happy that they sang <i>World of Our Own</i>.<br />
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That's another thing off my list. </div>
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Credits to Melissa Ling for allowing me to use her photos. </div>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-76110187032604391062012-06-15T22:58:00.001+02:002012-06-15T22:58:56.640+02:00Naturally<div style="margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7282058368/" title="Natural History Musuem"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7241/7282058368_f472f832b7.jpg" alt="Natural History Musuem by rachlyf" /></a><br/><span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7282058368/">Natural History Musuem</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span></div><p>I'm done with my exams and hopefully that will be the last of it. The sensation of never having enough time doesn't really sit well with me. <br /><br />At the moment I'm spending time with people in Norwich, enjoying my final weeks under this roof, applying for internships, settling bills and packing up. Oh how I despise packing up - but at least half of it is gone.<br /><br />I'm also watching a number of TV series, including Game of Thrones and Revenge. Will finish the former quite soon. <br /><br />Next plan: Play the theme song on the piano. Fingers crossed.</p>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-2686339288572791362012-06-02T02:45:00.001+02:002012-06-02T02:45:16.391+02:00Almost at the End of Year Two<div style="margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0; font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7293881070/" title="Justice League Monopoly"><img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7293881070_8914bbb9e2.jpg" alt="Justice League Monopoly by rachlyf" /></a><br/><span style="margin: 0;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7293881070/">Justice League Monopoly</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span></div><p>Most friends are done with their exams. Some lazing about. Some leaving. Some left. It's the end of the year for them. It's not officially over for me until next Friday. <br /><br />And because I'm feeling more and more guilty with each word I type, I'll list this down and make this as quick as possible.<br /><br />1. I'll be going home this summer. As in, Malaysian home. <br />2. I'm feeling good about my second Creative Writing piece.<br />3. I am determined to get an internship. By hook, crook but most probably by the book. Cringe-worthy? I'm a little tired.<br />4. TV Sitcoms are the bane of my life. <br />5. Our Monopoly Game lasted 6 hours.</p>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-81048075950714627342012-05-28T01:55:00.001+02:002012-05-28T02:01:13.808+02:00Malaysian Meal<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7281999816/" title="Malaysian Meal"><img alt="Malaysian Meal by rachlyf" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7221/7281999816_e0b89e9aca.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="margin: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7281999816/">Malaysian Meal</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
International student away from home? Bet you have a stash of food packets or spice mixes tucked away somewhere. Little reminders of home that usually end up unused for months. No? You're probably not too fond of cooking, are you?<br /><br />It had been a while since I last cooked Malaysian food. I have lots of spice mixes, but the only time I seem to be able to find any use for them is if (a) I have the same dishes for the next few days; perfect for exam period, or (b) I cook for a big group of people. <br /><br />When Charlene, John, Michael and Derald came over the other day, we had chicken curry (spicy as spicy should be), fried long beans with carrots, stir-fry beef and "bak kut teh" (also known as pork ribs and tea soup). All served with rice. Also, John baked a raspberry cheesecake for dessert.<br /><br />Speaking of Malaysian food, I've decided to fly back for the summer. There will be a lot of that when I'm home.Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-56286930063365844702012-05-22T02:45:00.002+02:002012-05-22T02:45:58.969+02:00Spring, at last<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7237928896/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Spring at UEA by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="Spring at UEA" height="400" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8146/7237928896_ca6810e9c1.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spring at UEA</td></tr>
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It's a lovely, warm day outside. The area by the lake is carpeted by greens and dotted with yellows. There is an indistinct pathway around the field in which I cannot, for the life of me, seem to find. So I must wobble through the tall grasses until the cleared pathway inadvertently appears. Beautiful weather all prepared for students to have barbecues (which has been ticked off the list), walks and picnics. </div>
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As friends start and finish their exams, those taking the second-year Shakespeare module purse their lips and wonder whether it is worth having over a month's break in between exams. Since, you know, we <i>clearly </i>use that whole time to study.</div>
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Besides, it's a lovely, warm day outside. Too inviting. Too tempting. </div>
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When I read that Brighton is nicknamed London-by-the-Sea, I wasn't sure what to make of it. Surely not <i>like</i> London? Still, I've gotten nothing but good reviews on the place and that's why Rachel and I chose to go there for our Easter break.</div>
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Yes, this is another Easter adventure. Don't worry, it'll be the last of it. </div>
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Brighton is beautiful in its own way. It's probably called London-by-the-Sea because of how close it is to London...and the sea. That aside, it wasn't too "London-y". Lots of restaurants which become bars by the evening (finding dinner was slightly difficult) and there are many odd shops that sell antiques, vintage goods and unique trinkets. </div>
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It must be the sea breeze that renders it different from other cities. You know that scent you can't seem to dissect yet lets you know you're definitely near the shore? It has that tangy, fishy smell laced between particles of fresh air and salt. A faint stink of decay that evokes the pleasure of aquatic life. A paradox I can't explain.<br />
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Fish and chip bars, ice cream stalls, candy shops, and a funfair make up Brighton Pier. It even has the token ferris wheel.</div>
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Of course, we didn't just stay on the beach. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An artist at work</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pan out</td></tr>
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The ice cream in here is delicious. The place looks like somewhere people would hang out with their friends.</div>
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We spotted the casino above in Brighton. I was pleasantly surprised. Thought it was a coincidence at first but I'd recognize that logo anywhere. </div>
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For those who don't know, and to put it simply, Genting is the only Malaysian-based company with a license to run a casino in the country and owns a chain of resorts, a commercial theme park and one of the few proper arenas to house concerts. </div>
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It's one of those places schools would annually, without fail, organize school trips for; the place people go for entertainment purposes. And you can never be sure if you're bored of it even after years.</div>
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I digress.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6988936118/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050565 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050565" height="297" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6988936118_0c09f8155a.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7135018349/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050551 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050551" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7277/7135018349_f1b163b131.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7135018823/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050553 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050553" height="299" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8013/7135018823_d0b0342572.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6988935572/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050558 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050558" height="297" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8162/6988935572_8c795fee78.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Above: my favourite beach side scene of the lot.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7135020429/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050567 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050567" height="297" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/7135020429_65a31539a7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Royal Pavilion</td></tr>
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The following day we visited the Royal Pavilion. If you remember my Harry Potter Studio Tour post, there is a picture of an ice sculpture prop made for the Yule ball, which happened to have been inspired by this exact architecture. Coincidence that we visited Brighton right before the tour?</div>
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The interior design inside is quite remarkable. King George VI, who oversaw the building of his palace, had the most unconventional ideas with the designs. He was very interested in the oriental, and it's quite a grand palace. I love the exhibition dedicated to Princess Charlotte, the forgotten almost-queen. Imagine - had she not died, Queen Victoria would never have been born. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7135026777/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050596 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050596" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/7135026777_a49696e676.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Laines</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6988943626/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050598 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050598" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7211/6988943626_f55a977213.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
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One of the curiouser and curiouser shops in Brighton. There are lots of Wonderland-related shops here (we actually walked pass a Mad Hatter's Hat Shop). Recently found out that it's because Lewis Carroll used to visit his sister regularly in Brighton.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7135028139/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050604 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050604" height="297" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8159/7135028139_fcbe80ac21.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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Down by the beach there is the Artists' Quarter where artists sell their paintings, as well as where fortune tellers offered their service. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6988945760/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050611 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050611" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7038/6988945760_935e81ea98.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pebble Beach</td></tr>
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We eventually ended up on the Pebble Beach anyway. It was all serene and peaceful, not too crowded since it wasn't summer yet, the air punctuated by that curious seaside pot-pourri.</div>
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-34189802616597771342012-05-16T01:12:00.002+02:002012-05-20T18:31:00.358+02:00A New Issue<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Long days in the office with the senior editors and section editors finally paid off. It was a lot of fun.</div>
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Another reason to pick up a copy of <i>Concrete,</i> UEA's Independent Student Newspaper.</div>
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And don't forget to check out <i>Venue</i>, the cultural pull-out. </div>
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Or you can check it out <a href="http://issuu.com/concreteuea/docs/issue_270" target="_blank">here</a>. Enjoy.</div>
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Looking forward to future issues!</div>
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-78030885984878770262012-05-01T23:57:00.002+02:002012-05-20T18:31:16.569+02:00Sweeter Side of Life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Oh. My..." That was my reaction when CSI and Rachel resolved to bring me to places in London that I supposedly could not afford to miss. Where now you say? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithHkmWlD9g4ECNNKeEhWAt2Lo-7lu_kIYdgKX37Fzcc3ohicapE5hLKjm-nHpbVdQgYoMG2Eu96U_zXSsqElhHGQjOhwh9hSl_0pmTiIeAFyVZ0r7fOqgp6ODhx-c834ve_B2-BHsjMMP/s1600/P1050849.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEithHkmWlD9g4ECNNKeEhWAt2Lo-7lu_kIYdgKX37Fzcc3ohicapE5hLKjm-nHpbVdQgYoMG2Eu96U_zXSsqElhHGQjOhwh9hSl_0pmTiIeAFyVZ0r7fOqgp6ODhx-c834ve_B2-BHsjMMP/s320/P1050849.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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A place choked full of chocolate. M&M's World. M&M's. Hardened droplets of happiness. Tasty rainbows. In one shop. With four levels. Full of sugary goodness. </div>
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Did I mention the chocolate?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIzabuh-isYD_WxqfssmwomUQJYTXjpRmIRj7xZI3lGitcw0Ke8kkdGOzS-CD0kZgVncfdd-fwbZDHFwhl2lY7Aj4qxUzgDXx2j6K5isvloS8vh8nYU9Sl0NwX1P1ZT7CWIGeM40UiD9r/s1600/P1050850.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIzabuh-isYD_WxqfssmwomUQJYTXjpRmIRj7xZI3lGitcw0Ke8kkdGOzS-CD0kZgVncfdd-fwbZDHFwhl2lY7Aj4qxUzgDXx2j6K5isvloS8vh8nYU9Sl0NwX1P1ZT7CWIGeM40UiD9r/s320/P1050850.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Joyce, you would love this place. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLCtFKln4WfWTF94hxIcLrzN0bQpPwOwqal8d9nW24iTE8GMq6l0jlDFfAuNJveDSrhrtAjcPInIFlef3vIlzrXAX4sVLgnhw43PTMS70AH5o-1NFqJUzPpH44ZUQDkW1b5y1lNt7Q1ed/s1600/P1050851.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggLCtFKln4WfWTF94hxIcLrzN0bQpPwOwqal8d9nW24iTE8GMq6l0jlDFfAuNJveDSrhrtAjcPInIFlef3vIlzrXAX4sVLgnhw43PTMS70AH5o-1NFqJUzPpH44ZUQDkW1b5y1lNt7Q1ed/s320/P1050851.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdTionceyHDshfjZP46eeMbDGNMJFI6vdEBKgFztX_5py2PA2ndL6zR_x-e6A-2lIIODOegL9KivxQpCOpIeM7_xO9xkXnVJIArjwNDcnF5snI3nvPHs_e9p6SSeYNYWC-O8uUJfVxxNZ/s1600/P1050853.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivdTionceyHDshfjZP46eeMbDGNMJFI6vdEBKgFztX_5py2PA2ndL6zR_x-e6A-2lIIODOegL9KivxQpCOpIeM7_xO9xkXnVJIArjwNDcnF5snI3nvPHs_e9p6SSeYNYWC-O8uUJfVxxNZ/s320/P1050853.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are two levels worth of these. </td></tr>
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Anyone reminded of <i>Charlie and the Chocolate Factory</i>?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqassKQHVVvdGoUnFOgO_8EIWhEDq12an0uE0tlJUs3QncSQVJ1XMZZJU8mKou1wLQCEyyIHLekp1_F_8YHsPDkMKyoo5zh8MAt9H8_DSEPJxMtuuFShW4D1evEQXIgPCMIldIOb3yARXg/s1600/P1050857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqassKQHVVvdGoUnFOgO_8EIWhEDq12an0uE0tlJUs3QncSQVJ1XMZZJU8mKou1wLQCEyyIHLekp1_F_8YHsPDkMKyoo5zh8MAt9H8_DSEPJxMtuuFShW4D1evEQXIgPCMIldIOb3yARXg/s320/P1050857.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So that's how you read it.</td></tr>
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So I indulged in some desserts. My sweet tooth needed to be satisfied one way or another, and frankly given that it was the holidays, I couldn't find an excuse not to. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1jlZIRpGdazfmo7S-Br4SH6NMGNerX4G9m3LAo3NNnB1MhohHa8JIenEXi23IGtHTXdH_EIa97nYgUrY0gTgn_8FwA9wBtcoiuHEhXJUJSTNXhbr59FFBpyHXdSb3INYJBwXveYOWkQuc/s1600/P1050860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1jlZIRpGdazfmo7S-Br4SH6NMGNerX4G9m3LAo3NNnB1MhohHa8JIenEXi23IGtHTXdH_EIa97nYgUrY0gTgn_8FwA9wBtcoiuHEhXJUJSTNXhbr59FFBpyHXdSb3INYJBwXveYOWkQuc/s320/P1050860.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Macaron Ice Cream</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had my first taste of macarons too. On rose flavoured ice cream. Meringue. Ganache. Melted in the mouth. Like M&M's. Retreated into that happy place in my head whenever I have my sugar fix. Well, for a little while.<br />
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Did I mention the ice cream?<br />
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I leave you to drool in peace.<br />
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PS. My first paper is on this Friday and it's making my head turn into slush. I think a dessert should cure this. I ought to stop my rambling. And waffling. Mmm... Belgian waffles. Should be doing work. And revision. And having some sleep.<br />
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Did I mention that I want a dessert?<br />
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-15894489066947378522012-04-29T23:01:00.000+02:002012-05-20T18:31:31.416+02:00A Mysterious Day<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm not done with my Easter holiday tales, so here's my account of what we did while in London. This was the day after the Harry Potter Studio tour and we thought it's our chance to explore a little bit (more) of London. What struck us odd was how the day worked out in the end.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6933355010/" title="221b Baker Street"><img alt="221b Baker Street by rachlyf" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7053/6933355010_00697f1fd1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6933355010/">221b Baker Street</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr</span>.</span></div>
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At the start of the day, we went to the Sherlock Holmes Museum at 221b Baker Street. To be honest, I've not properly read the Sherlock Holmes series, which I really must do!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6933356628/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050830 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050830" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7222/6933356628_bbcb4e1d07.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sherlock's Bedroom</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7079432047/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050831 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050831" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7072/7079432047_db750b99e0.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Book on Bees</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7079434093/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050833 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050833" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7220/7079434093_c3b3306067.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Desk in Mr Watson's Room</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7079435785/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050834 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050834" height="300" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5442/7079435785_c299f50b9b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6933364500/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050838 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050838" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7211/6933364500_025af46328.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diaries</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7079439779/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050840 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050840" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7252/7079439779_164b4288c4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Later in the evening, we decided to watch a West End play and it was quite a coincidence that we bought tickets for an Agatha Christie play at the St. Martin's Theatre. <i>The Mousetrap </i>is the longest-running play, one of the detective writer's amazing whodunnit story. I won't ruin the ending for you as I've been sworn to secrecy. I can only say that if you watch it, you can be sure that you won't regret it.</div>
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That being said, I've only ever read one or two of Agatha Christie's stories. It's on my list along with Arthur Canon Doyle.</div>
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Visiting a fictional detective's house and watching a detective play. It's pretty mysterious. I can't fathom it.</div>
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</div>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-52661413178458094242012-04-23T22:12:00.000+02:002012-05-20T18:31:51.635+02:00World Book Night 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today is William Shakespeare's birthday. It is also World Book Night. As part of the initiative, volunteers will hand out books to a number of readers. These readers would then read the books, then share them with another new reader. Check out the website if you want to know more about it.<br />
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I've been given a book titled<i> The Road </i>by Cormac McCarthy. I've started a bit of it. Don't think I have time to read much until I've handed in my assignment and I'm done revising.<br />
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And well, it doesn't really matter if you don't have one of the books on the list, reading is the nectar of life. Reading feeds and fuels imagination, uses words as the building blocks for worlds, and the good ones stick with you and change your life.<br />
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Pick a book up today. Have a good night :)<br />
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-34485660019602789962012-04-19T13:02:00.000+02:002012-05-20T18:32:22.108+02:00Harry Potter WB Studio Tour: Where the Magic was MadeI remember the hype of The Boy Who Lived feverishly taking over the school, with classmates asking me whether I've read the first book and how they could not wait for the film to be released. I was one of those kids who was already on the third.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088841657/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050620 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050620" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/7088841657_5ab8c5cbf4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cupboard Beneath the Stairs</td></tr>
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Seven books and eight films later, I would not have thought I'd be at the Warner Bros Studio in Leavesden where the Harry Potter films were produced. Chiah and I booked our tickets way in advance at the start of our second year. Could you imagine our excitement the time drew near?<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942772714/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050621 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050621" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7122/6942772714_26a40b0825.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Voila!</td></tr>
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We also got a digital guide with the voice of Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) guiding us along the way. It's perfectly okay to go about without one but we thought we might as well experience all that the tour had to offer.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942773590/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050629 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050629" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6942773590_e0ebdd470b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Great Hall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088843839/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050627 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050627" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5080/7088843839_7977820025.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Where the Teachers First Appear</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088844453/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050636 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050636" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5280/7088844453_997c9d2996.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Levitating Candles</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088845015/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050639 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050639" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7216/7088845015_dc33c66b22.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yule Ball</td></tr>
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You might want to note the ice sculpture. I'll let you know why in my next post on Brighton. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942776150/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050651 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050651" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5036/6942776150_76d5958416.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hogwarts Gate</td></tr>
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Knock, knock, knocking on Hogwart's Door...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942776828/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050657 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050657" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7233/6942776828_09ae6f613f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gryffindor Boys' Dorm</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088847057/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050660 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050660" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5456/7088847057_426cf866e1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wands</td></tr>
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The wands were designed individually to fit the wizard or witch.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088847623/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050664 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050664" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7277/7088847623_2fb9755eea.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gryffindor Common Room</td></tr>
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Apparently the Common Room was a favourite on the set because of how cosy it felt.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942779530/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050662 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050662" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5034/6942779530_692b36ce50.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mirror of Erised</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942778952/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050661 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050661" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5342/6942778952_cf39f93642.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Engravings</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942780722/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050667 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050667" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7218/6942780722_7d4a54656f.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cloak of Invisibility<br />
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If you look closely, the patterns on the cloak are quite beautiful. The green surface was where the special effects team would superimpose the background on it to make it seem invisible.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942781300/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050674 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050674" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5192/6942781300_a0c2a73e5d.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golden Egg</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088851773/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050675 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050675" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5160/7088851773_2d4b190e0a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More Props</td></tr>
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The red one at the bottom right corner is the Philosopher's Stone. There's also Neville's Remembrall, Rita Skeeter's Notebook and Hermione's Time Turner.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088852185/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050673 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050673" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/7088852185_a070a4496b.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stairway to Dumbledore's Office</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942783136/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050694 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050694" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5444/6942783136_b5e33bfa70.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dumbledore's Office</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088855235/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050699 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050699" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5455/7088855235_74e6e6426a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horcruxes</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088854489/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050698 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050698" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7092/7088854489_3895a17863.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom Riddle's Diary</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942789088/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050714 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050714" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5450/6942789088_09e4f4683f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Weasley's home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942789668/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050717 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050717" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5465/6942789668_d39afecc87.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Clock that shows where the Weasleys are.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="P1050703" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5275/6942786946_82732f0531.jpg" width="240" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Animal Actors</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942783786/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050704 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050704" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7273/6942783786_5268539d50.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hedwig Animal Actors</td></tr>
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Owls are awesome creatures. I'm not saying this because of the franchise, although I would imagine that owls must have become popular after the books were published. On a related note, I was pretty upset when Hedwig died.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088855921/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050701 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050701" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/7088855921_7122160ef6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Moving Portraits</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Well, they don't move until the guys behind the scenes work the magic. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942787678/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050708 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050708" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7076/6942787678_67c585ffe9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrance to the Chamber of Secrets</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088857999/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050712 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050712" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/7088857999_86351d788b.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quidditch</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942790228/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050720 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050720" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5118/6942790228_4210f852a1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Death Eater Costumes</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088860661/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050728 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050728" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7117/7088860661_0b6eb2752f.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ministry of Magic</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This is the statue Voldemort placed in the Ministry of Magic after taking over it.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942791688/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050730 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050730" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6942791688_85db9c4203.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Professor Umbridge's Office</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With the adorable moving cat pictures!</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088862219/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050734 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050734" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5316/7088862219_10d69a2c88.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marauder's Map</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I solemnly swear I am up to no good.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942793296/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050736 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050736" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7136/6942793296_1d2011b020.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Letters</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088863821/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050741 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050741" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5350/7088863821_c550d69be5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Black Family Tapestry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088864457/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050744 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050744" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7089/7088864457_139ed078f3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Butterbeer</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942795370/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050748 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050748" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7084/6942795370_8bf6ee6a84.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh yes, I drank Butterbeer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
What did it taste like? Root beer, but with a buttery froth. It is quite delicious. I can see why the characters in the book love it so much.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088866117/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050751 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050751" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5327/7088866117_520a09370f.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guess where we are</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088866851/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050749 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050749" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7110/7088866851_3cc0051a90.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Riddle Family Tombstone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942797424/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050750 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050750" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5031/6942797424_751ef592bc.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Knight Bus</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088867973/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050753 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050753" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5152/7088867973_45f513e990.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Weasley's Flying Car</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Make it FLY!</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942798764/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050756 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050756" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7267/6942798764_0148166f77.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chess Pieces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942799700/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050754 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050754" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5116/6942799700_0de9c81813.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hogwarts Bridge</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088870357/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050764 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050764" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7267/7088870357_2d75c246fb.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fawkes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942801564/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050777 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050777" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5071/6942801564_a458f93d5f.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dobby</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088871085/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050774 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050774" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5232/7088871085_6570e00a91.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Monster Book of Monsters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942801976/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050783 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050783" height="240" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5335/6942801976_128f41e59e.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basilisk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The highlight of the tour that got us jumping (okay it could have been just me) - Diagon Alley. The scenes with it in the first movie were simply awe-inspiring.<br />
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<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942802600/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Diagon Alley"><img alt="Diagon Alley by rachlyf" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7101/6942802600_8d7a7976fd.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diagon Alley</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942803246/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050791 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050791" height="320" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5339/6942803246_5bbba29674.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ollivander's</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088873779/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050797 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050797" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7087/7088873779_9f681e0bd3.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Weasley's Wizard Wheezes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The crew even designed all the candy boxes and joke items in the shop. </div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942804576/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050796 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050796" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7100/6942804576_91a05f648d.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flourish and Blotts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088875151/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050803 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050803" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/7088875151_3c166f7a94.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Concept Art</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
The concept art on the walls are really fantastic. This is where art makes reality magical while science puts magic into reality.</div>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088875761/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050810 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050810" height="320" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7215/7088875761_2313abb5bb.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favourite one</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6942806172/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050820 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050820" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7136/6942806172_31550dbab6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The huge model of the castle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7088876885/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050821 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050821" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7231/7088876885_fc968c0ecf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's a great feeling to be in the place where characters who grew up with you on the pages on a book were brought to life. These are merely some of the many photos taken in the studio. To see the rest, go onto my Facebook profile. It might take some time to upload them, so please be patient. Have a good and magical day!</div>
</div>
</div>
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</script>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-22390789261947075182012-04-18T01:44:00.000+02:002012-04-18T01:45:01.000+02:00Go Global Party 2012Go Global Party, formerly known as International Night, is the time we cook large amounts of food, hand out samples to hundreds of students, have cultural performances and generally introduce the many different cultures to the student community. This happened a while ago, by the way, two weeks before Easter. I need to catch up.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7013610277/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050427 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050427" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7213/7013610277_5b8c751f60.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Performance Group</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;">So yea, our society had three performances - a trio did 'Tong Hua' and 'Kau Ilhamku'. The rest of us came out later to perform AMP's 'Satu Malaysia'. Sounded cool with four languages in one song and I thought we impressed the crowd.<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7013585279/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="global1 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="global1" height="266" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7185/7013585279_4d43df62a5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our performance - Credits to Veronice Chung for photo</td></tr>
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Let's not forget our forte. Charlene, Marissa and I made the Kuih Bakar. There's Chicken Rice and Teh Tarik too - we did good!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6867476064/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050417 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050417" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6867476064_ff5f2c8dba.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kuih Bakar</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/7013602391/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="global4 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="global4" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7240/7013602391_dc7eebdbbe.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credits to Charlene Ting for photo</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6867491122/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="global5 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="global5" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7037/6867491122_a727b8a459.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Credits to Charlene Ting for photo</td></tr>
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I am fully aware that there has been a severely long break from when I last posted. But I promise that I will make up for it with the next post. It's brilliant!<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a></div>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-11154863369654734022012-03-12T15:44:00.002+01:002012-03-12T15:44:34.719+01:00In a Little Town Called CambridgeI ought to have visited Cambridge sooner but it doesn't matter now. Last Saturday, a group of us from the Malaysian Society went there for a day trip, seeing as it is about an hour away by train (give or take a few minutes) Everything is located in the heart of the city, with a multitude of universities within walking distance of each other.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975673155/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050354 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050354" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7040/6975673155_77c691b5ba.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reminds me of Norwich</td></tr>
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Much of it reminds me of Norwich - especially the market on the street above, which sort of resembles the Norwich market. I quite like the place, it isn't busy and the area looks gorgeous.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829550044/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050357 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050357" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6829550044_c38baae022.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975675789/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050359 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050359" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7196/6975675789_b64b054eb2.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Billy's Restaurant</td></tr>
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Through the recommendation of my friend, we went to Bill's restaurant, which many Cambridge locals supposedly know about. Their interior design is really creative and the queue, long as it may be, didn't take too long to dissipate. The food was alright; heard the desserts are good but the meals are filling.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975677689/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050360 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050360" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6975677689_78bbf22948.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The atmosphere is brilliant</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829555018/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050364 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050364" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6829555018_8e00e55039.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burger</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829557236/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050367 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050367" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7042/6829557236_a155bc186e.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Punting down the River Cam</td></tr>
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Everywhere we went, there were people (mostly students) asking us if we wanted a good punting deal. Punting means rowing a boat down a punt, usually with a long pole. No Cambridge trip is complete without punting. We managed to get a good deal - 30 pounds for the six of us. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829559666/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050374 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050374" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6829559666_9533eb0922.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">King's College Chapel</td></tr>
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It mostly introduced us to the 16th-century architecture down the river particularly the universities.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975685067/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050377 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050377" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6975685067_db25cbf97b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mathematical Bridge</td></tr>
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The Mathematical Bridge is rumoured to have been designed by Isaac Newton although the scientist actually died 22 years before the bridge was built. At the time, it used no nut or bolt to hold it together. Cynical scientists have dismantled it once to prove it wrong, After they realized that it didn't use any nut or bolt, they could not put it back together and resorted to nuts and bolts to hold it together again.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975686257/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050378 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050378" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/6975686257_071c186faa.jpg" width="299" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Library shaped like a boat</td></tr>
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Most of the facilities in Cambridge cater to students, which I find delightful. We were told that to get the university accommodation, grades for second year are taken into consideration and students will be put into different rooms according to these grades. Pretty much sounds like public display of results. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975687081/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050381 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050381" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7190/6975687081_1af13b8c42.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975688471/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050382 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050382" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7055/6975688471_46f0bd526f.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Bridge of Sighs</td></tr>
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This Bridge of Sighs is modelled from the one in Venice, and holds no terrible historical past.<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6975689783/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050383 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050383" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6975689783_4e7caed57d.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prank Door</td></tr>
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The doors at the side were used to transport goods into the kitchen or storage room in the past. Now it is used to play pranks on first years. They would place an Exit side on the inside, set the fire alarm off and make the poor first years run out the door.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829566912/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050386 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050386" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6829566912_07ab455311.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829558568/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050368 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050368" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7045/6829558568_45f4e25c75.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Round Church</td></tr>
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There are quite a number of old buildings and churches as well as curious-looking shops as well.It didn't take us long to visit what the town had to offer. </div>
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<tr><td><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6829567980/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="P1050387 by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="P1050387" height="299" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7054/6829567980_9bcf5b08c4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption">Sun Dial from any angle</td></tr>
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As time ticked away and the sun strolled off the sun dial, our day came to an end. That night we attended the Malaysian Night held there, and ran around train stations in order to get back on time. Pretty eventful day it was. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a></div>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-49517752230918859782012-03-05T04:29:00.000+01:002012-03-05T04:29:35.988+01:00My Online PortfolioI have been spending some time working on my other blog for a while, deciding what to put into it and figuring out how to change the html (and I conclude that my knowledge of html is rather transient). But it's taken quite a long time to put together and I thought it would be good to get it going.<br />
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Without further ado, I introduce my online portfolio, which you can find if you click <a href="http://rachaellumportfolio.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6768432817/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="books! by rachlyf, on Flickr"><img alt="books!" height="400" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6768432817_3b2b196377.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bookshop in Florence. </td></tr>
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There are still some things that I need to do to enhance the features of the blog, especially where all the confusing codes are concerned (oh no, I won't give up).<br />
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But if anyone would like to help me with this, I'd be very happy! Till then. Have a good day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s1600/cloversignature.bmp"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" /></a>Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7329900276858323080.post-77763880180360560892012-03-03T19:49:00.001+01:002012-03-04T23:48:28.835+01:00Les Misérables in London<div style="font-size: 0.8em; line-height: 1.6em; margin: 0 0 10px 0; padding: 0;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6803555816/" title="Queen's Theatre in London"><img alt="Queen's Theatre in London by rachlyf" height="300" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7199/6803555816_50c33f4bbf.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/6803555816/">Queen's Theatre in London</a>, a photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rachaellum/">rachlyf</a> on Flickr.</span></div>
Another one of my goals achieved: Watched a West-End performance in London.<br />
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Charlene and I watched Les Misérables in Queen's Theatre, London last night. A story about an ex-convict's road to redemption amidst a student rebellion and the love between his adopted daughter and a man beautifully bound up in an operatic rendition of Victor Hugo's novel. The tragic Jean Valjean was played by Ramin Karimloo.<br />
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Two words: Loved it. The familiar songs that I only ever heard on separate occasions suddenly weaved into the tapestry of a tale. The context of the song made all the sense in the world. It was sad and emotional, tugging the heart strings and stitching them together in the end. There were people casually "wiping-that-little-dust-that-flew-in-the-eye". There was a man sitting further up front sobbing.<br />
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But in a way, you got to expect that from such a musical. Let's you know you've truly experienced it.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464808664944660386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgISplMYHC7-mTYjv8RG4FQuj6ygsEJGHUwo7a8yquwgy5YOty6zlAnd61xlJYQQSc0ulFZaTcjjsCeYCOdsh_2yf2xCSFvES_xIAIDak6pxx08yTL8969TGyKAZnHd62IBA4SRcihsW9ew/s320/cloversignature.bmp" style="cursor: hand; float: right; height: 60px; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 115px;" />Rachael Lumhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13974140231566362836noreply@blogger.com1