...precisely because he is not required to spend most of his time sitting on it." (Lord Simmonds)
Came across this quote as I was reading McLachlin's J's judgment in Peter v Beblow. This is meant to illustrate that there is no logical reason to distinguish domestic services from other contributions. The services and contributions by a spouse in the house is not only of great value to the family, but to the other spouse.
Think it is interesting how unjust enrichment can interact with family law in constructive trust cases. But as is conceded, such a conclusion is invariably based on "value judgments" and not pure reasoning. I think this is a sound value judgment, which L Simmonds was apparently enlightened enough to make more than 40 years ago
Side Note:
I am in the library now, with Orla and Carlet, trying to prepare for my motions assessment tomorrow. Don't really know how to prepare for it since the factums are already given to us and it seems the best thing is to reproduce the whole factum, haha.
Anyways, my cold symptoms have reincarnated into runny rose and a slight cough. Boo. It must be because of the fluctuating weather. (btw the snow returned today!)
After an emotional low point yesterday and the day before cos of the booking disaster, I am feeling better and at least am in the right frame of mind. I think I'll be a free (wo)man after tomorrow, as then I would be only left with LP casework, PLT paper and 2 more MAW assignments before term ends on April 16!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Cold
Had a cold the last two days. I think it was because of the swim I had on Wednesday combined with the mild trauma from losing my favourite pair of gloves (haha..). I'm still harbouring glimmering hopes of finding it at the london transit office.
I was glad that I woke up feeling good this morning. Had a nice talk with Orla last night, who noticed that I looked sad-not much because of anything else but because of the cold I had. I was probably a little sad too because of Mf's promotion problem. Anyways, it's a blessing to have a good roommate who shows care and concern and talks to you.
I was glad that I woke up feeling good this morning. Had a nice talk with Orla last night, who noticed that I looked sad-not much because of anything else but because of the cold I had. I was probably a little sad too because of Mf's promotion problem. Anyways, it's a blessing to have a good roommate who shows care and concern and talks to you.
Mid-April Plans
Yay, I've settled my mid-april plans- Chicago> Vancouver. Nick offered me a room to stay in UBC! So nice of him. Excited now!
Next week
It's another busy tuesday next week: Motions assessment and IPIP assignment due. Talking about IPIP, I think the episode with MAW is the most unpleasant and unneccessary thing that happened so far in my exchange. We all knew when we talked to her that it's not going to change anything. This shouldn't have gone so far anyway- it was due to an unfortunate twist that the feedback did not go through the right channel. I hope MAW will take it in her stride and that this has not generated a big storm at the adminstrative level.
Pilates
Went for pilates just now. It's been some time since my last pilates class!
I like the instructor. She has such flair and enthusiasm in her trade. Yoga and Pilates always end with something that creates internal peace and inspiration. I like one of the lines, "Exhale the stress that you brought into the room...be like a lion, fearless and true".
At that moment I wish I were a lioness-fearless and true! Fearless of all difficulties and own shortcomings, and true to myself and others.
Hmm. Got to go back to work. It's another clueless IPIP assignment and endless preparation for motions assessment!
It's another busy tuesday next week: Motions assessment and IPIP assignment due. Talking about IPIP, I think the episode with MAW is the most unpleasant and unneccessary thing that happened so far in my exchange. We all knew when we talked to her that it's not going to change anything. This shouldn't have gone so far anyway- it was due to an unfortunate twist that the feedback did not go through the right channel. I hope MAW will take it in her stride and that this has not generated a big storm at the adminstrative level.
Pilates
Went for pilates just now. It's been some time since my last pilates class!
I like the instructor. She has such flair and enthusiasm in her trade. Yoga and Pilates always end with something that creates internal peace and inspiration. I like one of the lines, "Exhale the stress that you brought into the room...be like a lion, fearless and true".
At that moment I wish I were a lioness-fearless and true! Fearless of all difficulties and own shortcomings, and true to myself and others.
Hmm. Got to go back to work. It's another clueless IPIP assignment and endless preparation for motions assessment!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Postcards, 'Money' biscuits and Gran Torino
Postcards
I received two messages from Yvonne and Gwen today thanking me for the (belated) birthday cards I sent them :D They really sounded like they appreciated the cards alot! It makes me happy to read their messages telling me the cards have made them happy :) Especially for Gwen, who is facing quite a bit of pressure at work. It's so good to be able to able to make a little difference to another's life, even momentarily.
Funnily, I also received a postcard from Lioness Jas today! Haha, today is a postcard day for me.
'Money' biscuits
I bought a pack of Marie biscuits from Zellers on Sunday. I'm munching on them now. I knew I had to buy the pack when I saw it. The familiar taste of milk and butter..mmmm...somehow reminds me of those foregone, hazy afternoons at home when there was nothing to eat and we'd find comfort in the 'money biscuits as afternoon snacks. It's always complemented by coffee or tea. And it's Dajie's favourite biscuit, I remember. I don't know why tasting the biscuit in my mouth reminds me of my childhood days in the house and evokes memory of it as Dajie's favourite biscuit. I forgot how we come to call it 'money' biscuits...probably a mixed result of mis-pronounciation and its round shape resembling that of an enlarged coin.
Gran Torino
Met Barbara and her two other French friends at Weldon Starbucks this evening and ended up going to the movies with them. Shauna and Lucy are really pleasant French girls.
It was a rather spontaneous decision on the spot! I don't regret it though, because it was a movie worth watching. It was about how an apparently weird-tempered but innately good-natured old man in a remote US suburb overcame his prejudices to befriend his Asian (Vietnamese) immigrant neighbours. He was even willing to sacrifice his life, which was at a terminal stage as he was suffering from lung cancer (I suppose), to deliver them from the attacks and humiliation by a bunch of gangsters.
"What does a 27 year old overeducated virgin know about life and death?", he said condescendingly to the young priest who was trying to counsel him back into the way of god.
What is life really? What is life besides breathing, thinking and working? It's also about love, happiness and fulfillment. Fulfillment of what? Fulfillment of unattained goals, dreams, unsatiable desires and emotional voids. Being able to 'feel' for the present, make sense of everyday work and rejoice in the love and concern of loved ones are about the best that we can do as human beings to appreciate mortality, I think.
To me death just means the end of life. It does not seem to have any meaning and even if it has, it has no significance to the living who will never know what happens after death nor will be comforted by any knowledge of such because the fact is that they remain bereaved.
This discussion is getting a little morbid, especially at this hour. On a lighter note, just want to mention one last thing about yesterday night's party at Rebecca's. It was great! Got to know Shu Fang whom I clicked with immediately. She's having so much fun with the company of so many other Singaporeans in Waterloo and the extent that they went to to plan for their travels (excel sheets, daily programmes, driving schedules...etc) is so amazing to me. Quite jealous of the company, I would admit!
Anyways very tired now, going to sleep. Agenda tmr: IPIP comment, PLT weekly comment, PLT research, CLS followup and Corp Finance Readings. Phew.....
I received two messages from Yvonne and Gwen today thanking me for the (belated) birthday cards I sent them :D They really sounded like they appreciated the cards alot! It makes me happy to read their messages telling me the cards have made them happy :) Especially for Gwen, who is facing quite a bit of pressure at work. It's so good to be able to able to make a little difference to another's life, even momentarily.
Funnily, I also received a postcard from Lioness Jas today! Haha, today is a postcard day for me.
'Money' biscuits
I bought a pack of Marie biscuits from Zellers on Sunday. I'm munching on them now. I knew I had to buy the pack when I saw it. The familiar taste of milk and butter..mmmm...somehow reminds me of those foregone, hazy afternoons at home when there was nothing to eat and we'd find comfort in the 'money biscuits as afternoon snacks. It's always complemented by coffee or tea. And it's Dajie's favourite biscuit, I remember. I don't know why tasting the biscuit in my mouth reminds me of my childhood days in the house and evokes memory of it as Dajie's favourite biscuit. I forgot how we come to call it 'money' biscuits...probably a mixed result of mis-pronounciation and its round shape resembling that of an enlarged coin.
Gran Torino
Met Barbara and her two other French friends at Weldon Starbucks this evening and ended up going to the movies with them. Shauna and Lucy are really pleasant French girls.
It was a rather spontaneous decision on the spot! I don't regret it though, because it was a movie worth watching. It was about how an apparently weird-tempered but innately good-natured old man in a remote US suburb overcame his prejudices to befriend his Asian (Vietnamese) immigrant neighbours. He was even willing to sacrifice his life, which was at a terminal stage as he was suffering from lung cancer (I suppose), to deliver them from the attacks and humiliation by a bunch of gangsters.
"What does a 27 year old overeducated virgin know about life and death?", he said condescendingly to the young priest who was trying to counsel him back into the way of god.
What is life really? What is life besides breathing, thinking and working? It's also about love, happiness and fulfillment. Fulfillment of what? Fulfillment of unattained goals, dreams, unsatiable desires and emotional voids. Being able to 'feel' for the present, make sense of everyday work and rejoice in the love and concern of loved ones are about the best that we can do as human beings to appreciate mortality, I think.
To me death just means the end of life. It does not seem to have any meaning and even if it has, it has no significance to the living who will never know what happens after death nor will be comforted by any knowledge of such because the fact is that they remain bereaved.
This discussion is getting a little morbid, especially at this hour. On a lighter note, just want to mention one last thing about yesterday night's party at Rebecca's. It was great! Got to know Shu Fang whom I clicked with immediately. She's having so much fun with the company of so many other Singaporeans in Waterloo and the extent that they went to to plan for their travels (excel sheets, daily programmes, driving schedules...etc) is so amazing to me. Quite jealous of the company, I would admit!
Anyways very tired now, going to sleep. Agenda tmr: IPIP comment, PLT weekly comment, PLT research, CLS followup and Corp Finance Readings. Phew.....
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Get Well Soon, YY!
Heard from Von today that Yiyun has been checked into A&E for food poisoning. They were supposed to celebrate Von and YY's birthday together today!
Luckily Von said YY seems fine. Hope all will be well.
Luckily Von said YY seems fine. Hope all will be well.
Sugar Bush (Maple syrup) Trip
Sugar Bush
Glad that I signed up for this trip! At least I could tell people that I've done something really 'Canadian'. Come on, even the maple leaf is on the country's national flag!
I learnt quite alot about the history, extraction and health benefits of maple syrup. The maple sap is only extracted only between the end of february and end of march period every year, when the trees' leaves are gone, because the taste of the sap changes to bitter when the leaves come back. The preparation is just basically evaporation to slightly above melting point. And one serving of maple syrup actually has more antioxidant benefits than 2 servings of broccoli (according to the guide)!
The pancake breakfast with sausage was fine- though could have been better I thought. Everyone at the table thought that having sausage with pancake and maple syrup is very strange. Then it made me recall that there is actually such a combination in McDonald's breakfast in Singapore!
Mandy
Really happy to make friend with Mandy at Suagar Bush! We've met twice before actually-at the ISC potluck and the ethnic dinner-but we never really got to speak to each other much. So I'm glad we got the chance to talk more today!She was very nice to reply to my fb status yesterday night about Chicago. And I didn't know that Jonna stays in London Hall or that she is from Sweden. Jonna and Mandy are going to Chicago in April.
Mandy is such a gem of a friend - genuine, bubbly, natural, always cheerful and has an impeccable sense of humour. She is from Germany and speaks Spanish, Latin and another language (I have forgotten which) on top of German! She actually went to a Spanish summer school to learn the language. I think the good thing about living in Europe that you'd normally know more than 2 languages. I was so excited after speaking to her that I considered signing up for the Munich summer programme! But I came back, checked and was quite disappointed that the applications have closed. (Footnote: I said "quite" because at the same time I was struggling to come to terms with the idea that I'd be away from home again shortly after returning to SG).
We were so funny- we went back to get a second round of maple syrup souvenirs and became the last 2 'sheep' to board the bus. Ar...so embarrassing. But Mandy took it quite easy and so did I, ha!
Why no more 93.8 fm internet streaming?
Mediacorp has stopped all internet streaming for its fm radios!! Hmmph. So mean. I thought I could tune in to 93.8 fm and 'hear' Singapore news but not anymore. It'd be so much better to listent to news from back home rather than listen to mp3 all the time.
Well, what to do.
I didn't realise how tired the maple syrup trip made me. I came back, made lunch, fell asleep at 4pm and woke up at 7pm! Now I'm trying very hard to recall what I'm supposed to do...PLT paper? I'll take a shower first, I guess ;)
Glad that I signed up for this trip! At least I could tell people that I've done something really 'Canadian'. Come on, even the maple leaf is on the country's national flag!
I learnt quite alot about the history, extraction and health benefits of maple syrup. The maple sap is only extracted only between the end of february and end of march period every year, when the trees' leaves are gone, because the taste of the sap changes to bitter when the leaves come back. The preparation is just basically evaporation to slightly above melting point. And one serving of maple syrup actually has more antioxidant benefits than 2 servings of broccoli (according to the guide)!
The pancake breakfast with sausage was fine- though could have been better I thought. Everyone at the table thought that having sausage with pancake and maple syrup is very strange. Then it made me recall that there is actually such a combination in McDonald's breakfast in Singapore!
Mandy
Really happy to make friend with Mandy at Suagar Bush! We've met twice before actually-at the ISC potluck and the ethnic dinner-but we never really got to speak to each other much. So I'm glad we got the chance to talk more today!She was very nice to reply to my fb status yesterday night about Chicago. And I didn't know that Jonna stays in London Hall or that she is from Sweden. Jonna and Mandy are going to Chicago in April.
Mandy is such a gem of a friend - genuine, bubbly, natural, always cheerful and has an impeccable sense of humour. She is from Germany and speaks Spanish, Latin and another language (I have forgotten which) on top of German! She actually went to a Spanish summer school to learn the language. I think the good thing about living in Europe that you'd normally know more than 2 languages. I was so excited after speaking to her that I considered signing up for the Munich summer programme! But I came back, checked and was quite disappointed that the applications have closed. (Footnote: I said "quite" because at the same time I was struggling to come to terms with the idea that I'd be away from home again shortly after returning to SG).
We were so funny- we went back to get a second round of maple syrup souvenirs and became the last 2 'sheep' to board the bus. Ar...so embarrassing. But Mandy took it quite easy and so did I, ha!
Why no more 93.8 fm internet streaming?
Mediacorp has stopped all internet streaming for its fm radios!! Hmmph. So mean. I thought I could tune in to 93.8 fm and 'hear' Singapore news but not anymore. It'd be so much better to listent to news from back home rather than listen to mp3 all the time.
Well, what to do.
I didn't realise how tired the maple syrup trip made me. I came back, made lunch, fell asleep at 4pm and woke up at 7pm! Now I'm trying very hard to recall what I'm supposed to do...PLT paper? I'll take a shower first, I guess ;)
Friday, March 20, 2009
2.05am
It's 2.05am now. Ah gui would send me a howler if she could had she known that I'm still awake at this hour!
I've just finished (minus citation) the 2 memos and opinion letters-Yay! Experiencing a wave of triumphant feeling derived from a sense of accomplishment now. Small accomplishments can have a big impact my mood :)
I'll be able to play with a relative ease of mind tomorrow. Going to the Sugar Bush maple syrup farm tomorrow! and planning my vancouver trip with Hina in the evening :) I'm still figuring out how I can squeeze in Chicago-before or after April 16th?
I've just finished (minus citation) the 2 memos and opinion letters-Yay! Experiencing a wave of triumphant feeling derived from a sense of accomplishment now. Small accomplishments can have a big impact my mood :)
I'll be able to play with a relative ease of mind tomorrow. Going to the Sugar Bush maple syrup farm tomorrow! and planning my vancouver trip with Hina in the evening :) I'm still figuring out how I can squeeze in Chicago-before or after April 16th?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Benjamin Button
Went to watch Benjamin Button alone at the UCC tonight. I think I prefer Marley & Me, which I think was overall more genuine and closer to life (although it had a simpler storyline and wasn't really the calibre for a multi-million box office result or multiple Academy Awards nominations.)
I liked only one scene, that was when the old Benjamin's elderly friend was helping him cut his hair and casually made him realise the meaning of deaths. She comforted him by saying (to the extent of) "well, u'd never know how important these people are to you otherwise". Hmmm, but it's such a painful way to realise and unlike other pains which would perhaps fortify you for future problems, this kind of pain would do no good to a person at all, I think. It's so inevitable and yet so futile.
The last part is nice too..."Everyone does different things: some swim, some are mothers..." So everyone has a role to play in life and perhaps the key to happiness lies in the old adage, "be content" and be happy for who you are.
I liked only one scene, that was when the old Benjamin's elderly friend was helping him cut his hair and casually made him realise the meaning of deaths. She comforted him by saying (to the extent of) "well, u'd never know how important these people are to you otherwise". Hmmm, but it's such a painful way to realise and unlike other pains which would perhaps fortify you for future problems, this kind of pain would do no good to a person at all, I think. It's so inevitable and yet so futile.
The last part is nice too..."Everyone does different things: some swim, some are mothers..." So everyone has a role to play in life and perhaps the key to happiness lies in the old adage, "be content" and be happy for who you are.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
The Barking Frog
Barking Frog
Just got back from the Barking Frog, a club downtown. Rashmi had asked me to go earlier and I thought that since it'd be probably the only time that I would meet her in person, I'll go even though I don't really like clubs. Apparently people don't show up on time in clubs too. The 'bash' was supposed to start at 10 but I got a shock when I reached at 10.20pm and found the bar/club virtually empty except for some people dining. I then went for a walk-realised The Keg, Dmetre's and TJ's are actually just a stone's throw away. But the streets are so deserted it felt quite pathetic. The cabdriver told me that tonight is quiet because everyone partied very hard last night on St Patrick's day. Well...But I still think Canada is such a thinly populated and quiet place. Sometimes I almost feel sorry for the shops and businesses that seem to struggle to run on economy of scale.
Rashmi is quite a different person from what I imagine her to be-a lot more body language and twist to her personality. I can't believe she is leaving for Singapore again in a few hours.
The 'bash' wasn't as exciting as it sounded in the email though, but anyway it was good that I managed to meet and know more about Melissa, who is in my IPIP class. Melissa is such a nice lady- genuine and kind. I was being upfront when I told her I could not understand why she chose to do an independent research paper with MAW. And she said wistfully, "I know"...haha.
St Patrick's Day
We celebrated St Patrick's Day for Orla on Sunday by springing a surprise on her. It was a nice cosy pizza party with some semblance of the St patty spirit here and there, mostly due to the green. Btw honestly I've never heard of this festival before I came. I wish that there is a big parade here that I could watch.
This reminds me that Orla will be in NY until Sunday...so it'll be home alone for the next few days :)
CLS
More work from CLS! I have to do fee waiver for Mr L, apply for a garnishment hearing, write memos and letters for two files. And I just received one more file today! I have to check out the small claims court rules for Mr L's case...ar, so many things that I'm not familiar with!
*cool down. It'll be fine. It's late now and I just need a rest and wake up refreshed to put everything in place tomorrow.
Just got back from the Barking Frog, a club downtown. Rashmi had asked me to go earlier and I thought that since it'd be probably the only time that I would meet her in person, I'll go even though I don't really like clubs. Apparently people don't show up on time in clubs too. The 'bash' was supposed to start at 10 but I got a shock when I reached at 10.20pm and found the bar/club virtually empty except for some people dining. I then went for a walk-realised The Keg, Dmetre's and TJ's are actually just a stone's throw away. But the streets are so deserted it felt quite pathetic. The cabdriver told me that tonight is quiet because everyone partied very hard last night on St Patrick's day. Well...But I still think Canada is such a thinly populated and quiet place. Sometimes I almost feel sorry for the shops and businesses that seem to struggle to run on economy of scale.
Rashmi is quite a different person from what I imagine her to be-a lot more body language and twist to her personality. I can't believe she is leaving for Singapore again in a few hours.
The 'bash' wasn't as exciting as it sounded in the email though, but anyway it was good that I managed to meet and know more about Melissa, who is in my IPIP class. Melissa is such a nice lady- genuine and kind. I was being upfront when I told her I could not understand why she chose to do an independent research paper with MAW. And she said wistfully, "I know"...haha.
St Patrick's Day
We celebrated St Patrick's Day for Orla on Sunday by springing a surprise on her. It was a nice cosy pizza party with some semblance of the St patty spirit here and there, mostly due to the green. Btw honestly I've never heard of this festival before I came. I wish that there is a big parade here that I could watch.
This reminds me that Orla will be in NY until Sunday...so it'll be home alone for the next few days :)
CLS
More work from CLS! I have to do fee waiver for Mr L, apply for a garnishment hearing, write memos and letters for two files. And I just received one more file today! I have to check out the small claims court rules for Mr L's case...ar, so many things that I'm not familiar with!
*cool down. It'll be fine. It's late now and I just need a rest and wake up refreshed to put everything in place tomorrow.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
A Beautiful Day
It is a beautiful day today-sunny, warm, with light breeze. The space along the way to school looks especially beautiful today against the azure blue sky.
Video Call home
I video called home twice within a span of 12 hours, haha. When I called last night at 10pm (10am in SG), Taiqi and Ah gui were still in the park. After they came back, Ah gui fed Taiqi and praised her for improvising a bucket and a spade as cooking utensils and crockery (she even put mini toy fish into the 'wok'). It was quite amazing that when I video called again at 9am today, a toy cooking stove complete with an oven had appeared in the home! Dajie, indulging Taiqi as usual, had bought it for her earlier in the day. It was sponsored by Ah gong with his lottery money. Taiqi is so adorable, calling me 'jeh jeh' over the video and had wanted to feed me with her 'cooking'! Of course, Joey would say that I would be in a totally different frame of mind once I go back, haha! Joey was mopping the floor and erjie just came back. It was another ordinarily happy saturday at home.
CLS client
I met up with my client for the first time. I have called her the 'vacuum cleaner' client in my mind to distinguish her from the other client, which also has a consumer protection problem. VC client is a neat, nice-mannered and very polite lady. And for some reason I think she reminds me of Mrs morrison, probably because I guess she was from Spain.
She was roped in by her friend in a pyramid selling or a similar scheme. It is really unfortunate that people run into legal problems out of encounters with friends who do not have their best interest at heart. And the worst thing is that it is so easy to fall into this trap under the persuasive power of a hardcore salesman. I felt for VC client because all she had wanted to do was to sell those machines to make some money to supplement her dwindling income during a certain down period of the year. It is quite despicable for those people not to let her pull out after she realised the insensible way the whole thing operates.
I hope to get down to doing the memo next week soon.
Groceries and good samaritans
Did groceries for the second time at Value Mart at Richmond Oxford. On the way back, met Gustav who was on his way to the recreation centre. He was so funny when he said that he need to go to the gym to feel that he is 'still alive' from all the work...haha...He helped me carry half of the bulging bags that I was carrying. Apparently I looked quite overwhelmed with all the bags (I was trying very hard not to) because one of three girls I met at the London Hall door offered to help me hold the doors and subsequently her friends offered to help me carry some of the bags to the lift. Such good-spirited people! They stay on the 4th floor. I wish they stay on the 5th so that we can know each other more, haha!
Last Thoughts
Went for a relaxing swim just now and feeling good now! Anways, I should try to finish up my remoteness presentation real soon so that I have time for everything else. But since I'm going for dinner with the SaW members later, I figure that I'd not do much later today. Yay, hotpot!
Video Call home
I video called home twice within a span of 12 hours, haha. When I called last night at 10pm (10am in SG), Taiqi and Ah gui were still in the park. After they came back, Ah gui fed Taiqi and praised her for improvising a bucket and a spade as cooking utensils and crockery (she even put mini toy fish into the 'wok'). It was quite amazing that when I video called again at 9am today, a toy cooking stove complete with an oven had appeared in the home! Dajie, indulging Taiqi as usual, had bought it for her earlier in the day. It was sponsored by Ah gong with his lottery money. Taiqi is so adorable, calling me 'jeh jeh' over the video and had wanted to feed me with her 'cooking'! Of course, Joey would say that I would be in a totally different frame of mind once I go back, haha! Joey was mopping the floor and erjie just came back. It was another ordinarily happy saturday at home.
CLS client
I met up with my client for the first time. I have called her the 'vacuum cleaner' client in my mind to distinguish her from the other client, which also has a consumer protection problem. VC client is a neat, nice-mannered and very polite lady. And for some reason I think she reminds me of Mrs morrison, probably because I guess she was from Spain.
She was roped in by her friend in a pyramid selling or a similar scheme. It is really unfortunate that people run into legal problems out of encounters with friends who do not have their best interest at heart. And the worst thing is that it is so easy to fall into this trap under the persuasive power of a hardcore salesman. I felt for VC client because all she had wanted to do was to sell those machines to make some money to supplement her dwindling income during a certain down period of the year. It is quite despicable for those people not to let her pull out after she realised the insensible way the whole thing operates.
I hope to get down to doing the memo next week soon.
Groceries and good samaritans
Did groceries for the second time at Value Mart at Richmond Oxford. On the way back, met Gustav who was on his way to the recreation centre. He was so funny when he said that he need to go to the gym to feel that he is 'still alive' from all the work...haha...He helped me carry half of the bulging bags that I was carrying. Apparently I looked quite overwhelmed with all the bags (I was trying very hard not to) because one of three girls I met at the London Hall door offered to help me hold the doors and subsequently her friends offered to help me carry some of the bags to the lift. Such good-spirited people! They stay on the 4th floor. I wish they stay on the 5th so that we can know each other more, haha!
Last Thoughts
Went for a relaxing swim just now and feeling good now! Anways, I should try to finish up my remoteness presentation real soon so that I have time for everything else. But since I'm going for dinner with the SaW members later, I figure that I'd not do much later today. Yay, hotpot!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Incredible MAW
It is incredible that MAW has set a question that is so unrelated to international IP!!! It looks more like an international trade law question.
I take my hat off to MAW in salutation of her ability to go off-tangent. At the same time I'll try to console myself for having to figure out NAFTA provisons that I have not a single clue about.
Thanks, MAW.
I take my hat off to MAW in salutation of her ability to go off-tangent. At the same time I'll try to console myself for having to figure out NAFTA provisons that I have not a single clue about.
Thanks, MAW.
The snow is back!
I am such a contradictory person. Just yesterday night, as we were walking back from the movie (we watched Marley & Me), I was telling Elian that I hate the snow when it snowed but now that the snow is gone, I'm missing it. And this morning, Orla pointed out at the window and told me that the snow has come back! I was so excited as I walked to the windows that I found myself clasping my cheeks when I saw the snow-covered carpark, walkway and rooftops. Everything seems to look more romantic in again in a way.
Just had another nonsensical IPIP lesson. Stefy hit the nail on the head when she said to me: 每个星期听她说四小时的废话,好难受啊！Haha...and the second module question is out! I guess I should try to get it done by tomorrow latest, so that I have time for LP casework and Private Law Theory presentation. Okie, I think everything should be a breeze after 16th.
Just had another nonsensical IPIP lesson. Stefy hit the nail on the head when she said to me: 每个星期听她说四小时的废话,好难受啊！Haha...and the second module question is out! I guess I should try to get it done by tomorrow latest, so that I have time for LP casework and Private Law Theory presentation. Okie, I think everything should be a breeze after 16th.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The day I've been looking forward to (but...)
A Short Note
I just passed up 3 assignments (1 is a small one, 250 words) and feeling a little relieved, but not quite as relieved as I thought I would be. I still have LP case file work, another IPIP assignment today and a presentation next week. This always happens.
Went for a swim just now. It was quite scary cos it was the first time that I swam the full long course in the swimming pool. I think I swam too fast and experienced chest pain for a few minutes after I came back.
Oh yes, I have to got to UCC tomorrow to post cards!! *reminder.
I just passed up 3 assignments (1 is a small one, 250 words) and feeling a little relieved, but not quite as relieved as I thought I would be. I still have LP case file work, another IPIP assignment today and a presentation next week. This always happens.
Went for a swim just now. It was quite scary cos it was the first time that I swam the full long course in the swimming pool. I think I swam too fast and experienced chest pain for a few minutes after I came back.
Oh yes, I have to got to UCC tomorrow to post cards!! *reminder.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Jessup and Hicks Morley
This week has been a week of some mooting experience, both as a volunteer and as a participant!
Jessup Volunteer
We had to go for a compulosry briefing session on last tuesday and the session was kind of lame, as we just went through general instructions and checked out how the timer works. We had a free 'goodie bag', individually tagged with our names! I did not expect them to go to this extent of preparation. It is the first time that Western is hosting the competition and it was held at the Lamplighter Inn Convention Centre. It wasn't a bad place, with the covered shelter pool area which was pretty cool.
Volunteering on Friday was tiring, but we were quite well-fed! We had to be there by 8am. The first session that I volunteered for was better than the first, I thought. One of the speakers, whom I think is from Calgary, was excellent. I think to a large extent it was due to his poise, style and disposition. He just commanded a dignified presence and had good articulation and a good pace. One of the judges reflected my sentiment when she said that he looked 'trustworthy' overall. I guess advocates, besides being strong in the law and having good oralist skills, also have to have a trustworthy and dignified presence, so that people will want to listen to you.
The final banquet was quite okie, with good food. We were there a little bit too early and I felt a little awkward standing around and not knowing who to talk to. Most of the people at the cocktail were participants and coaches...but I was pleasantly surprised when one of the speakers in the round I volunteered for recognised me and actually spoke to me :) I also saw Justice Binnie from the Supreme Court of Canada. I also had a good talk with Carey, who is part of what I would call a rare breed that likes legal research! She has been a research assistance for 2 summers and will be clerking for a federal court judge next year.
After the banquet, as Carlet, Anne-Sofie and I were walking back to London Hall from Delaware Hall, Carlet lamented that she was surprised that Jamie the organiser did not thank the volunteers at the final banquet in her thank you speech. Indeed, it has never crossed my mind that I should be thanked as a volunteer! I guess this is the kind of the 'cultural gap' between western and asian mindsets. We are always sort of hesitant to accept praise, do not expect something in return for contribution, and to some degree not as quite cognizant of our rights to deserve something.
Hicks Morley Arbitration Moot
I said 'yes' to this competition 3 weeks ago and it took a fair bit of courage for me to do so. Although I did not go to the finals and did not win anything, it was a good chance for me to overcome my fear of moots and public speaking. I think I'd give myself a 80 marks for my performance today as I think I managed to answer questions quite ok, and generally maintained some composure and clarity.
I got some good feedback from Paul, one of the judges- but none from the other judge, Barry!!! Did he find my performance unworthy of comments or is it because there was nothing wrong about that he felt he should point out?
At dinner, I met James, one of the opponents from the other side and he said to me, "you were good...I'm surprised". I didn't know whether I should feel happy or insulted.
Anyway, I feel that I've done a reasonably good job and things should get on better from here.
Work!!
I still havent touched my IPIP comments and I still have my memo and opinion letter to clean up. Ar...But my head is swirling and my eyes shutting already. ..
Jessup Volunteer
We had to go for a compulosry briefing session on last tuesday and the session was kind of lame, as we just went through general instructions and checked out how the timer works. We had a free 'goodie bag', individually tagged with our names! I did not expect them to go to this extent of preparation. It is the first time that Western is hosting the competition and it was held at the Lamplighter Inn Convention Centre. It wasn't a bad place, with the covered shelter pool area which was pretty cool.
Volunteering on Friday was tiring, but we were quite well-fed! We had to be there by 8am. The first session that I volunteered for was better than the first, I thought. One of the speakers, whom I think is from Calgary, was excellent. I think to a large extent it was due to his poise, style and disposition. He just commanded a dignified presence and had good articulation and a good pace. One of the judges reflected my sentiment when she said that he looked 'trustworthy' overall. I guess advocates, besides being strong in the law and having good oralist skills, also have to have a trustworthy and dignified presence, so that people will want to listen to you.
The final banquet was quite okie, with good food. We were there a little bit too early and I felt a little awkward standing around and not knowing who to talk to. Most of the people at the cocktail were participants and coaches...but I was pleasantly surprised when one of the speakers in the round I volunteered for recognised me and actually spoke to me :) I also saw Justice Binnie from the Supreme Court of Canada. I also had a good talk with Carey, who is part of what I would call a rare breed that likes legal research! She has been a research assistance for 2 summers and will be clerking for a federal court judge next year.
After the banquet, as Carlet, Anne-Sofie and I were walking back to London Hall from Delaware Hall, Carlet lamented that she was surprised that Jamie the organiser did not thank the volunteers at the final banquet in her thank you speech. Indeed, it has never crossed my mind that I should be thanked as a volunteer! I guess this is the kind of the 'cultural gap' between western and asian mindsets. We are always sort of hesitant to accept praise, do not expect something in return for contribution, and to some degree not as quite cognizant of our rights to deserve something.
Hicks Morley Arbitration Moot
I said 'yes' to this competition 3 weeks ago and it took a fair bit of courage for me to do so. Although I did not go to the finals and did not win anything, it was a good chance for me to overcome my fear of moots and public speaking. I think I'd give myself a 80 marks for my performance today as I think I managed to answer questions quite ok, and generally maintained some composure and clarity.
I got some good feedback from Paul, one of the judges- but none from the other judge, Barry!!! Did he find my performance unworthy of comments or is it because there was nothing wrong about that he felt he should point out?
At dinner, I met James, one of the opponents from the other side and he said to me, "you were good...I'm surprised". I didn't know whether I should feel happy or insulted.
Anyway, I feel that I've done a reasonably good job and things should get on better from here.
Work!!
I still havent touched my IPIP comments and I still have my memo and opinion letter to clean up. Ar...But my head is swirling and my eyes shutting already. ..
Thursday, March 5, 2009
A Day of (trivial) Firsts
First Call Home
Today is the first time that I called home since I got here slightly more than 2 months ago! I have some credit left over on my monthly account which would expire tomorrow. Being smarter from the last experience where my credit got swallowed up, I decided to call home. I had thought that msn video call home once every week should be sufficient, but I guess it still can't beat talking and listening closely to a voice on the other end (sans the poor quality video and other distractions). All ah gui talked about was the vitamins, haha expected! I'm contemplating getting an international calling card now so that I can call home more regularly.
First Swim at Recreation Centre
I had my first swim at recreation centre this evening! Everything at the RC operates at clockwork precision and adheres strictly to a schedule. The lanes are not open all the time to people who just want to do laps, as they have other aquatic activities going on as well. So although I reached at 6.30pm today, I had to wait till 7.30pm before I could use the pool. This was not necessarily a bad thing though, cos interestingly, I was very productive during the one hour and finished a main part of the opinion letter. The swim was so relaxing, but it was soo cold once I got into the toilet. The swim was supposed to help with my sore shoulders, but unfortunately I still have a medical plaster slapped over them now.
Joey just reminded that I should go swim everyday (quoting me in my own words)...erhem...
Lastly
I have started to think that my blog is quite shallow and superficial in content. Does anyone think so too? Cos comparing with those people who write blogs about recent legal issues, reflections on readings or insights about certain topical subjects, my blog seems like a dull chronology of events in my little world written in crude and unimpressive language. Oh well...maybe I should start to write more "substantive" content to hone my literary ability to express opinions?
Ok, whatever. I know I'm still going to be myself and write the way I like.
Today is the first time that I called home since I got here slightly more than 2 months ago! I have some credit left over on my monthly account which would expire tomorrow. Being smarter from the last experience where my credit got swallowed up, I decided to call home. I had thought that msn video call home once every week should be sufficient, but I guess it still can't beat talking and listening closely to a voice on the other end (sans the poor quality video and other distractions). All ah gui talked about was the vitamins, haha expected! I'm contemplating getting an international calling card now so that I can call home more regularly.
First Swim at Recreation Centre
I had my first swim at recreation centre this evening! Everything at the RC operates at clockwork precision and adheres strictly to a schedule. The lanes are not open all the time to people who just want to do laps, as they have other aquatic activities going on as well. So although I reached at 6.30pm today, I had to wait till 7.30pm before I could use the pool. This was not necessarily a bad thing though, cos interestingly, I was very productive during the one hour and finished a main part of the opinion letter. The swim was so relaxing, but it was soo cold once I got into the toilet. The swim was supposed to help with my sore shoulders, but unfortunately I still have a medical plaster slapped over them now.
Joey just reminded that I should go swim everyday (quoting me in my own words)...erhem...
Lastly
I have started to think that my blog is quite shallow and superficial in content. Does anyone think so too? Cos comparing with those people who write blogs about recent legal issues, reflections on readings or insights about certain topical subjects, my blog seems like a dull chronology of events in my little world written in crude and unimpressive language. Oh well...maybe I should start to write more "substantive" content to hone my literary ability to express opinions?
Ok, whatever. I know I'm still going to be myself and write the way I like.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
An Entry During a Break
10 min Break
I'm writing this during the IPIP break. IPIP classes are soooo....my head just became heavier as the hour went by. Why is it that I even have difficulty understanding MAW's sentences?! This whole 'conversation' (her favourite word) is not a conversation at all! And the word 'conversation' is still getting on my nerves.
All-Singaporeans Dinner!
I had a dinner with fellow Singaporeans at Western (SaW) (yes, Justin set up a facebook group) last Sunday at Moxie's. It really cheered me up just to be able to speak to Singaporeans! And speaking to JW felt like I am back in Singapore again- speaking singlish is so fun. JW is a maths/econs student from NTU, really nice to meet up with someone on exchange from Singapore too! He's such a foodie, telling us all about the places with great food-XO mifen, dou jiang you tiao... Tessa and Liying are so typical Singaporeans too, down-to-earth and on the same 'frequency' as me :) Justin gave up his Singapore PR status-what a shame-but he went to Maris Stellar in SG and surprisingly, I found that he still keeps abreast with many of the current issues in SG.
Becky is as usual, bubbly, chatty, funny and a live-wire in the group. We have officially appointed her the 'dear leader' in our cosy little "SaW" group. She even brought a bus schedule to refer to and did a 50metres sprint in her high-heel boots to make sure that we did not miss the 1030 bus, haha!
It was a very relaxed dinner...where everyone was totally at ease in the presence of everyone else. Interestingly but not surprisingly, all of them look forward to going back to Singapore for the summer.
We've fixed our next outing --Hong Ping for hotpot! Looking forward to it.
Parcel
I received the parcel that Joey sent me! YAY, so happy!
I had wanted to go swim this evening, but I guess I won't have time as I need to go for the jessup volunteer briefing at 8pm and my lesson ends somewhere 5.30-6pm.
Lesson has started 5 min ago.
Shall be back.
I'm writing this during the IPIP break. IPIP classes are soooo....my head just became heavier as the hour went by. Why is it that I even have difficulty understanding MAW's sentences?! This whole 'conversation' (her favourite word) is not a conversation at all! And the word 'conversation' is still getting on my nerves.
All-Singaporeans Dinner!
I had a dinner with fellow Singaporeans at Western (SaW) (yes, Justin set up a facebook group) last Sunday at Moxie's. It really cheered me up just to be able to speak to Singaporeans! And speaking to JW felt like I am back in Singapore again- speaking singlish is so fun. JW is a maths/econs student from NTU, really nice to meet up with someone on exchange from Singapore too! He's such a foodie, telling us all about the places with great food-XO mifen, dou jiang you tiao... Tessa and Liying are so typical Singaporeans too, down-to-earth and on the same 'frequency' as me :) Justin gave up his Singapore PR status-what a shame-but he went to Maris Stellar in SG and surprisingly, I found that he still keeps abreast with many of the current issues in SG.
Becky is as usual, bubbly, chatty, funny and a live-wire in the group. We have officially appointed her the 'dear leader' in our cosy little "SaW" group. She even brought a bus schedule to refer to and did a 50metres sprint in her high-heel boots to make sure that we did not miss the 1030 bus, haha!
It was a very relaxed dinner...where everyone was totally at ease in the presence of everyone else. Interestingly but not surprisingly, all of them look forward to going back to Singapore for the summer.
We've fixed our next outing --Hong Ping for hotpot! Looking forward to it.
Parcel
I received the parcel that Joey sent me! YAY, so happy!
I had wanted to go swim this evening, but I guess I won't have time as I need to go for the jessup volunteer briefing at 8pm and my lesson ends somewhere 5.30-6pm.
Lesson has started 5 min ago.
Shall be back.
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