Ingredients
1 breast and 3 thigh fillets of chicken
300ml tin coconut milk
2 tbsp peanut oil
1/2 onion, very finely chopped
6 green shallots, chopped
1 stalk lemon grass
1 clove garlic
2 tspn green curry paste
2cm piece fresh ginger
2 kaffir lime leaves
1 can straw mushrooms, with half the juice from the tin
3 small branches fresh green peppercorns
50ml Thai fish sauce
2 red chillies
Garnish
1 cup fresh coriander
5 tbsp peanuts1/2 small cucumber, diced
Method
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces
Do not shake the coconut milk, instead carefully spoon 2 tbsp of the the thicker part into the bottom of a saucepan and heat along with 2 tbsp peanut oil.
Saute the onion, lemon grass and garlic for a minute, then stir in curry paste.
Add the ginger, lime leaves and then the straw mushrooms, cover with remaining coconut milk and half can of mushroom brine.
Simmer 3-4 minutes, then season to taste with the fish sauce.
Stir in the peppercorns and shredded chillies and simmer just below boiling point until chicken is cooked (about 8 mins).
Spoon over cooked rice in wide soup bowls and top with garnish.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
Monday, June 18, 2007
Sydney grabs 'expensive' title
(http://www.news.com.au/)
From correspondents in London
June 18, 2007 10:31am
Article from: Agence France-Presse
MOSCOW remains the most expensive city in the world for expatriate staff, while Sydney is only slightly less expensive than New York, according to a survey by British human resources firm Mercer HR.
But London leapt three places from fifth to second in the last 12 months, with Seoul in third, followed by Tokyo and Hong Kong.
The cheapest city was Paraguay's Asuncion for the fifth year running.
The findings use the United States' most expensive city, New York, as a benchmark and compare the cost in 143 cities of more than 200 items, like housing, transport, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment.
Expats face higher living costs in Australia than New Zealand. Sydney maintains high positionSydney is the most expensive city in the region (21st, 5.1 per cent less expensive than New York); Wellington is the cheapest in the region at minus-28.2 per cent (111th).
Moscow was 34.4 per cent more expensive, up just under 11 per cent on last year. Mercer said the rise was due to the appreciation of the rouble against the US dollar which with soaring rents had driven up the cost for expats.
London saw an even bigger leap - just under 16 per cent - making it now 26.3 per cent more expensive than the US city with which it is often compared because of rent hikes, a strong pound and weak US dollar.
Seoul was 22.4 per cent more expensive, Tokyo 22.1 per cent and Hong Kong 19.4 per cent.
European cities rank highEuropean cities featured prominently in the top 10: Copenhagen was the sixth most expensive at plus-10.2 per cent, Geneva seventh at plus-9.8 per cent, Zurich ninth at plus-7.6 per cent and Oslo 10th at plus-5.8 per cent.
The Japanese city of Osaka was eighth at plus-8.4 per cent.
Others more expensive than New York were Milan (11th at plus-4.4 per cent); Saint Petersburg (12th at plus-3 per cent); Paris (13th at plus 1.4 per cent); and Singapore (14th at plus-0.4 per cent).
This year's list showed significant changes in rankings, particularly in Europe due to a strengthened euro and weak US dollar, Mercer said.
In turn, US cities and those in countries whose currency is pegged to the dollar, fell down the list. The least expensive city in Europe for expats is Sofia in Bulgaria.
Sao Paolo and Rio de Janeiro are the most expensive cities in South America.
Chinese cities moved down the ranking. Beijing was 20th (4.1 per cent less expensive than New York), Shanghai 26th (minus-7.9 per cent)
Mercer attributed this to a decrease in the value of the Chinese yuan against the euro.
Rising property prices caused Indian cities like Mumbai - up to 52 from 68 last year - to move up the ranking, it said.
From correspondents in London
June 18, 2007 10:31am
Article from: Agence France-Presse
MOSCOW remains the most expensive city in the world for expatriate staff, while Sydney is only slightly less expensive than New York, according to a survey by British human resources firm Mercer HR.
But London leapt three places from fifth to second in the last 12 months, with Seoul in third, followed by Tokyo and Hong Kong.
The cheapest city was Paraguay's Asuncion for the fifth year running.
The findings use the United States' most expensive city, New York, as a benchmark and compare the cost in 143 cities of more than 200 items, like housing, transport, food, clothing, household goods and entertainment.
Expats face higher living costs in Australia than New Zealand. Sydney maintains high positionSydney is the most expensive city in the region (21st, 5.1 per cent less expensive than New York); Wellington is the cheapest in the region at minus-28.2 per cent (111th).
Moscow was 34.4 per cent more expensive, up just under 11 per cent on last year. Mercer said the rise was due to the appreciation of the rouble against the US dollar which with soaring rents had driven up the cost for expats.
London saw an even bigger leap - just under 16 per cent - making it now 26.3 per cent more expensive than the US city with which it is often compared because of rent hikes, a strong pound and weak US dollar.
Seoul was 22.4 per cent more expensive, Tokyo 22.1 per cent and Hong Kong 19.4 per cent.
European cities rank highEuropean cities featured prominently in the top 10: Copenhagen was the sixth most expensive at plus-10.2 per cent, Geneva seventh at plus-9.8 per cent, Zurich ninth at plus-7.6 per cent and Oslo 10th at plus-5.8 per cent.
The Japanese city of Osaka was eighth at plus-8.4 per cent.
Others more expensive than New York were Milan (11th at plus-4.4 per cent); Saint Petersburg (12th at plus-3 per cent); Paris (13th at plus 1.4 per cent); and Singapore (14th at plus-0.4 per cent).
This year's list showed significant changes in rankings, particularly in Europe due to a strengthened euro and weak US dollar, Mercer said.
In turn, US cities and those in countries whose currency is pegged to the dollar, fell down the list. The least expensive city in Europe for expats is Sofia in Bulgaria.
Sao Paolo and Rio de Janeiro are the most expensive cities in South America.
Chinese cities moved down the ranking. Beijing was 20th (4.1 per cent less expensive than New York), Shanghai 26th (minus-7.9 per cent)
Mercer attributed this to a decrease in the value of the Chinese yuan against the euro.
Rising property prices caused Indian cities like Mumbai - up to 52 from 68 last year - to move up the ranking, it said.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Public Holidays of Australian
Today is Anzac holdiay, another day I can get up as late as I like.
April is a good month as there are altogether 3 public holdiays: Good Friday, Easter, and Anzac Day.
In Australia, public holidays are varied from state to state.
In NSW, we have the following public holidays:
January:
1st-New Year's Day
26th-Australia Day
April:
Good Friday (the Friday before Easter) (Sometimes in March)
Easter Monday (Sometimes in March)
25th-Anzac Day
June:
11st-Queen's Birthday
October:
First Monday-Labour Day
December:
25th-Christmas Day
26th-Boxing Day
I didn't include the Easter Saturday and Banking Holiday in above as Saturday itself is a holiday and my work place doesn't have the banking holiday :(
So you can see there are not so many public holidays (only 9) as you expect in Australia.
Public Holidays of other states in Australia can be found through:
http://www.australia.gov.au/302
April is a good month as there are altogether 3 public holdiays: Good Friday, Easter, and Anzac Day.
In Australia, public holidays are varied from state to state.
In NSW, we have the following public holidays:
January:
1st-New Year's Day
26th-Australia Day
April:
Good Friday (the Friday before Easter) (Sometimes in March)
Easter Monday (Sometimes in March)
25th-Anzac Day
June:
11st-Queen's Birthday
October:
First Monday-Labour Day
December:
25th-Christmas Day
26th-Boxing Day
I didn't include the Easter Saturday and Banking Holiday in above as Saturday itself is a holiday and my work place doesn't have the banking holiday :(
So you can see there are not so many public holidays (only 9) as you expect in Australia.
Public Holidays of other states in Australia can be found through:
http://www.australia.gov.au/302
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Yamaha piano serial number
I'm currently looking forward to buying a used piano.
It's said Yamaha is one of the best brands to buy.
By searching Google, I found the following link can tell when was the Yamaha made by checking the serial number of the piano:
http://www.yamaha.co.jp/english/product/piano/about/s_num/s_num.html
It's said Yamaha is one of the best brands to buy.
By searching Google, I found the following link can tell when was the Yamaha made by checking the serial number of the piano:
http://www.yamaha.co.jp/english/product/piano/about/s_num/s_num.html
Monday, March 26, 2007
FW: Gender bender
Male or Female?
You might not have known this, but a lot of non-living objects are actually either male or female. Here are some examples:
FREEZER BAGS: They are male, because they hold everything in, but you can see right through them.
PHOTOCOPIERS: These are female, because once turned off; it takes a while to warm them up again. They are an effective reproductive device if the right buttons are pushed, but can also wreak havoc if you push the wrong Buttons.
TIRES: Tires are male, because they go bald easily and are often over inflated.
HOT AIR BALLOONS: Also a male object, because to get them to go any where, you have to light a fire under their butt.
SPONGES: These are female, because they are soft, squeezable and retain water.
WEB PAGES: Female, because they're constantly being looked at and frequently getting hit on.
TRAINS: Definitely male, because they always use the same old lines for picking up people.
EGG TIMERS: Egg timers are female because, over time, all the weight shifts to the bottom.
HAMMERS: Male, because in the last 5000 years, they've hardly changed at all, and are occasionally handy to have around.
THE REMOTE CONTROL: Female. Ha! You probably thought it would be male, but consider this: It easily gives a man pleasure, he'd be lost without it, and while he doesn't always know which buttons to push, he just keeps trying.
You might not have known this, but a lot of non-living objects are actually either male or female. Here are some examples:
FREEZER BAGS: They are male, because they hold everything in, but you can see right through them.
PHOTOCOPIERS: These are female, because once turned off; it takes a while to warm them up again. They are an effective reproductive device if the right buttons are pushed, but can also wreak havoc if you push the wrong Buttons.
TIRES: Tires are male, because they go bald easily and are often over inflated.
HOT AIR BALLOONS: Also a male object, because to get them to go any where, you have to light a fire under their butt.
SPONGES: These are female, because they are soft, squeezable and retain water.
WEB PAGES: Female, because they're constantly being looked at and frequently getting hit on.
TRAINS: Definitely male, because they always use the same old lines for picking up people.
EGG TIMERS: Egg timers are female because, over time, all the weight shifts to the bottom.
HAMMERS: Male, because in the last 5000 years, they've hardly changed at all, and are occasionally handy to have around.
THE REMOTE CONTROL: Female. Ha! You probably thought it would be male, but consider this: It easily gives a man pleasure, he'd be lost without it, and while he doesn't always know which buttons to push, he just keeps trying.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
Vehicles excluded from second-hand warranty
Commercial
Commercial vehicles are excluded from the statutory warranty. Basically, a commercial vehicle is a motor vehicle constructed or adapted principally:
to carry goods
to carry 10 or more adults
for industrial or agricultural use.
‘Dual-cab’ or ‘crew-cab’ vehicles are commercial vehicles.
Note: The following are not commercial vehicles, and (subject to age, distance and price) will be covered by warranty.
1.A utility, station wagon or panel van: that is the same make as the factory-produced motor car; in which the part of the body form, forward of the windscreen and the greater part of the mechanical equipment are the same, or substantially the same, as in the motor car.(Holden Commodore or Ford Falcon station wagon or utility).
2.A motor vehicle that is adapted for camping use (for example, a campervan).
3.A four-wheel drive with at least one forward-facing rear passenger seat ie. most of the normal long wheel base four-wheel drive passenger vehicles (apart from dual and crew cabs which have been excluded).
The definition of commercial vehicle does not apply to the Suzuki Hatch and Mighty Boy because their cargo space is not considered to be constructed or adapted principally to carry goods.
These and similar vehicles are considered to be covered by warranty if the criteria of distance travelled, age and price (luxury vehicle) applies. The fact that a vehicle may be used for 'commercial' purposes (courier, taxi, etc) after purchase does not void the statutory warranty.
Luxury vehicles
A luxury motor vehicle is a vehicle where the cash price exceeds a prescribed amount. The prescribed amount is the motor vehicle depreciation limit under the Income Tax Assessment Act and is set in the annual Federal Budget.
For the purpose of the Motor Dealers Act the figure effective as at 1st July 2002 was set at $57,009. Vehicles sold above this price are not covered by a Statutory Warranty or the Motor Dealers Compensation Fund.
Other vehicles not covered by statutory warranty
These are:
A trailer (which includes a caravan).
A motor vehicle or a second hand motor cycle that cannot be registered on New South Wales roads.
A substantially demolished or substantially dismantled motor vehicle.
A four wheel drive vehicle that has no forward facing rear passenger seat.
(Source: Office of Fair Trading NSW)
Fwd: Letter to my husband
To my darling husband,
Before you return from your overseas trip I just want to let you knowabout the small accident I had with the pick up truck when I turned intothe driveway. Fortunately I really didn't get hurt, so please don't worry too much about me.
Before you return from your overseas trip I just want to let you knowabout the small accident I had with the pick up truck when I turned intothe driveway. Fortunately I really didn't get hurt, so please don't worry too much about me.
I was coming home from shopping, and when I turned into the driveway I accidentally pushed down on the accelerator instead of the brake. The garage door is slightly bent but the pickup fortunately came to a halt when it bumped into your car.
I am really sorry, but I know with your kind-hearted personality youwill forgive me. You know how much I love you and care for you mysweetheart. I am enclosing a picture for you. I cannot wait to hold youin my arms again.
Your loving wife.
P.S. Your girlfriend called.
Friday, March 23, 2007
CANCER UPDATE FROM JOHN HOPKINS HOSPITAL, US (1)——A Must Read One!!!
Useful Information on one of the deadliest diseases of our time: CANCER
(PLEASE READ AND FORWARD IT TO PEOPLE YOU CARE ABOUT)
1. Every person has cancer cells in the body. These cancer cells do notshow up in the standard tests until they have multiplied to a fewbillion.When doctors tell cancer patients that there are no more cancer cells in their bodies after treatment, it just means the tests are unable todetectthe cancer cells because they have not reached the detectable size.
2. Cancer cells occur between 6 to more than 10 times in a person's lifetime.
3. When the person's immune system is strong the cancer cells will bedestroyed and prevented from multiplying and forming tumours.
4. When a person has cancer it indicates the person has multiplenutritional deficiencies. These could be due to genetic, environmental,food and lifestyle factors.
5. To overcome the multiple nutritional deficiencies, changing diet andincluding supplements will strengthen the immune system.
6. Chemotherapy involves poisoning the rapidly-growing cancer cells andalso destroys rapidly-growing healthy cells in the bonemarrow,gastro-intestinal tract etc, and can cause organ damage, likeliver,kidneys, heart, lungs etc.
7. Radiation while destroying cancer cells also burns, scars and damageshealthy cells, tissues and organs.
8. Initial treatment with chemotherapy and radiation will often reducetumor size. However prolonged use of chemotherapy and radiation do not result in more tumor destruction.
9. When the body has too much toxic burden from chemotherapy andradiationthe immune system is either compromised or destroyed, hence the personcansuccumb to various kinds of infections and complications.
10. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause cancer cells to mutate andbecomeresistant and difficult to destroy. Surgery can also cause cancer cellstospread to other sites.
11. An effective way to battle cancer is to starve the cancer cells by notfeeding it with the foods it needs to multiply.
CANCER CELLS FEED ON:
a. Sugar is a cancer-feeder. By cutting off sugar it cuts off one important food supply to the cancer cells. Sugar substitutes like NutraSweet, Equal,Spoonful, etc are made with Aspartame and it is harmful. A better natural substitute would be Manuka honey or molasses but only in very small amounts. Table salt has a chemical added to make it white in colour. Better alternative is Bragg's aminos or sea salt.
b. Milk causes the body to produce mucus, especially in the gastro-intestinal tract. Cancer feeds on mucus. By cutting off milk and substituting with unsweetened soya milk cancer cells are being starved.
c. Cancer cells thrive in an acid environment. A meat-based diet is acidic and it is best to eat fish, and a little chicken rather than beef or pork. Meat also contains livestock antibiotics, growth hormones and parasites, which are all harmful, especially to people with cancer.
d. A diet made of 80% fresh vegetables and juice, whole grains,seeds, nuts and a little fruits help put the body into an alkaline environment. About 20% can be from cooked food including beans. Fresh vegetable juices provide live enzymes that are easily absorbed and reach down to cellular levels within 15 minutes to nourish and enhance growth of healthy cells. To obtain live enzymes for building healthy cells try and drink fresh vegetable juice (most vegetables including bean sprouts) and eat some raw vegetables 2 or 3 times a day. Enzymes are destroyed at temperatures of 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).
e. Avoid coffee, tea, and chocolate, which have high caffeine.Green tea is a better alternative and has cancer-fighting properties. Water-best to drink purified water, or filtered, to avoid known toxins and heavy metals in tap water. Distilled water is acidic, avoid it.
12. Meat protein is difficult to digest and requires a lot of digestiveenzymes. Undigested meat remaining in the intestines become putrefiedandleads to more toxic buildup.
13. Cancer cell walls have a tough protein covering. By refraining fromoreating less meat it frees more enzymes to attack the protein walls of cancer cells and allows the body's killer cells to destroy the cancercells.
14. Some supplements build up the immune system (IP6,Flor-ssence,Essiac,anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, EFAs etc.) to enable the body's own killer cells to destroy cancer cells. Other supplements like vitamin Eareknown to cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, the body's normalmethod of disposing of damaged, unwanted, or unneeded cells.
15. Cancer is a disease of the mind, body, and spirit. A proactive andpositive spirit will help the cancer warrior be a survivor. Anger,unforgiveness and bitterness put the body into a stressful and acid ic environment. Learn to have a loving and forgiving spirit. Learn torelax and enjoy life.
16. Cancer cells cannot thrive in an oxygenated environment. Exercisingdaily, and deep breathing help to get more oxygen down to the cellular level. Oxygen therapy is another means employed to destroy cancercells.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Rental Dispute
A man met a beautiful girl and she agreed to spend the night with him for $500.00. So they spent the night together. In the morning, before he left, he told the girl that he did not have any cash with him, but that he would have his secretary write a cheque and mail it to her, calling the payment "Rent for Apartment."
On the way to the office, he regretted what he had done, realizing that the whole event was not worth the price. So, he sent a cheque for $250.00 and enclosed a note:
Dear Madam,
Enclosed find a cheque in the amount of $250.00 for rent of your apartment. I am not sending the amount agreed upon because when I rented the apartment I was under the impression that:
1. It had never been occupied.
2. There was plenty of heat.
3. It was small enough to make me cosy and at home.
Last night, however, I found out that it had been previously occupied,that there wasn't any heat, and that it was entirely too large.
Upon receipt of the note, the girl immediately sent back the Following reply...
Dear Sir,
First of all, I cannot understand how you expect such a beautiful apartment to remain unoccupied indefinitely. As for the heat, there is plenty of it, if you know how to turn it on. Regarding the space, the apartment is indeed of regular size, but if you don't have enough furniture to fill it, please don't blame the Landlord.
I will expect full payment due immediately or I will be forced to hire
someone to remove your furniture.
On the way to the office, he regretted what he had done, realizing that the whole event was not worth the price. So, he sent a cheque for $250.00 and enclosed a note:
Dear Madam,
Enclosed find a cheque in the amount of $250.00 for rent of your apartment. I am not sending the amount agreed upon because when I rented the apartment I was under the impression that:
1. It had never been occupied.
2. There was plenty of heat.
3. It was small enough to make me cosy and at home.
Last night, however, I found out that it had been previously occupied,that there wasn't any heat, and that it was entirely too large.
Upon receipt of the note, the girl immediately sent back the Following reply...
Dear Sir,
First of all, I cannot understand how you expect such a beautiful apartment to remain unoccupied indefinitely. As for the heat, there is plenty of it, if you know how to turn it on. Regarding the space, the apartment is indeed of regular size, but if you don't have enough furniture to fill it, please don't blame the Landlord.
I will expect full payment due immediately or I will be forced to hire
someone to remove your furniture.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Chinese Call Centre - Good Wan
Good Wan! (Good One!)
Caller: Hello, can I speak to Annie Wan ?
Operator: Yes, you can speak to me.
Caller : No, I want to speak to Annie Wan!
Operator: Yes I understand you want to speak to anyone. You can speak to me. Who is this?
Caller : I'm Sam Wan. And I need to talk to Annie Wan! It's urgent.
Operator: I know you are someone and you want to talk to anyone! But what's this urgent matter about?
Caller: Well... just tell my sister Annie Wan that our brother Noe Wan was involved in an accident. Noe Wan got injured and now Noe Wan is being sent to the hospital. Right now, Avery Wan is on his way to the hospital.
Operator : Look, if no one was injured and no one was sent to the hospital, then the accident isn't an urgent matter! You may find this hilarious but I don't have time for this!
Caller : You are so rude! Who are you?
Operator: I'm Saw Ree.
Caller: Yes! You should be sorry . Now give me your name!!
Operator: That's what I said. I'm Saw Ree .....
Caller: Oh .........God!!!!
Caller: Hello, can I speak to Annie Wan ?
Operator: Yes, you can speak to me.
Caller : No, I want to speak to Annie Wan!
Operator: Yes I understand you want to speak to anyone. You can speak to me. Who is this?
Caller : I'm Sam Wan. And I need to talk to Annie Wan! It's urgent.
Operator: I know you are someone and you want to talk to anyone! But what's this urgent matter about?
Caller: Well... just tell my sister Annie Wan that our brother Noe Wan was involved in an accident. Noe Wan got injured and now Noe Wan is being sent to the hospital. Right now, Avery Wan is on his way to the hospital.
Operator : Look, if no one was injured and no one was sent to the hospital, then the accident isn't an urgent matter! You may find this hilarious but I don't have time for this!
Caller : You are so rude! Who are you?
Operator: I'm Saw Ree.
Caller: Yes! You should be sorry . Now give me your name!!
Operator: That's what I said. I'm Saw Ree .....
Caller: Oh .........God!!!!
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
World-wide quality of living survey
(London, 10 April 2006)
> Zurich scores highest for quality of living, Baghdad ranks lowest
> Cities in Canada, Europe and Australia dominate the top of the rankings
> Honolulu is the highest ranking city in the US; Houston is the lowest
> Honolulu is the highest ranking city in the US; Houston is the lowest
> London remains at position 39; Birmingham and Glasgow both climb one place to joint 55th position
Zurich ranks as the world's top city for quality of living, according to a survey by Mercer Human Resource Consulting. The city scores 108.2 and is only marginally ahead of Geneva, which scores 108.1, while Vancouver follows in third place with a score of 107.7. In contrast, Baghdad is the lowest ranking city in the survey, scoring just 14.5.
The analysis is part of an annual World-wide Quality of Living Survey, covering more than 350 cities, to help governments and multinational companies place employees on international assignments. Each city is based on an evaluation of 39 criteria, including political, social, economic and environmental factors, personal safety and health, education, transport, and other public services. Cities are ranked against New York as the base city, which has an index score of 100.
“When multinational companies set up expatriate assignments they have to provide attractive reward packages to compensate employees for any negative changes to their quality of living,” Yvonne Sonsino, Principal at Mercer, commented. “Moving abroad can be a big upheaval for expatriates and their families, so international assignments tend to carry large price tags, particularly if they are in cities with low living standards facing political unrest or terrorist threats.” She added: “Many companies use benchmark data to help them structure pay deals at the right level.”
Europe and the Middle East
Almost half the top 30 scoring cities are in Western Europe. In this region, Vienna follows Zurich and Geneva in 4th position with a score of 107.5. Other highly-rated cities include Düsseldorf (107.2), Frankfurt (107.0) and Munich (106.8) in positions 6, 7 and 8 respectively. Athens remains the lowest scoring city in Western Europe, scoring 86.8 at position 79.
London is the UK’s highest ranking city and is stable at position 39 (score 101.2). The two other UK cities covered in the survey are Birmingham and Glasgow, which both score 98.3 and climb one place to joint 55th position. Dublin has dropped two places to 24th position, scoring 103.8, mainly due to increased traffic congestion.
As predicted, cities in Eastern Europe such as Budapest, Ljubljana, Prague, Vilnius, Tallinn and Warsaw continue to benefit from incremental score increases and are gradually climbing the rankings.
“The standard of living in many Eastern European cities is gradually improving, as the countries that most recently joined the EU attract greater investment,” commented Slagin Parakatil, Senior Researcher at Mercer. “Yet cities such as Dubai may still offer a wider variety of facilities demanded by expatriates – for example, well-connected international airports and better opportunities for recreation and leisure activities – compared to many Eastern European cities.”
Positions for most cities in Europe and the Middle East are generally unchanged, with the exception of Cairo which has tumbled nine places to position 131 and scores 71.2 due to the political turmoil and terrorist attacks in the city and surrounding area.
Baghdad ranks as the least attractive city for expatriates for a third consecutive year, with a score of 14.5.
Americas
Honolulu, the highest ranking city in the U.S., drops two positions to 27th with a score of 103.3. San Francisco remains at 28th position and scores 103.2. Boston, Washington, Chicago and Portland follow in positions 36, 41, 41 and 43 respectively (scores 101.9, 100.4, 100.4 and 100.3) while Houston remains the lowest ranking city in the U.S. at position 68 (score 95.4).
Overall, U.S. cities continue to slip slightly or remain stable in the rankings, except Chicago which has moved up 11 places due to decreased crime rates.
“Economies in the developed world tend to be relatively stable overall. Fluctuations in the quality of living in these regions are usually driven by factors such as increased air pollution, crime rates and traffic congestion, or external events like terrorism, disease outbreaks or natural disasters,” said Mr. Parakatil.
In South America, scores vary considerably due to differences in economic and political stability. “Argentina’s steady economic recovery is likely to push its cities up in the rankings in the next few years,” commented Mr. Parakatil.
Asia-Pacific
Auckland and Wellington have both moved up the rankings from 8th to 5th and 14th to 12th places respectively, mainly due to strong internal stability relative to other cities, while Sydney remains at position 9 with a score of 106.5.
In Asia, Singapore ranks 34th (score 102.5) followed by Tokyo, Japan’s highest scoring city, at position 35 (score 102.3). Hong Kong’s modern and efficient infrastructure, including its airport (which is considered one of best in the world), has pushed it up from 70th to 68th position with a score of 95.4.
The top-ranking city in China is Shanghai in 103rd place (score 80.1). “Beijing and Shanghai are on the rise and should experience rapid improvements in quality of living in the coming years. This is mainly due to greater international investment driven by the availability and lower cost of labour and manufacturing expertise,” explained Mr. Parakatil.
Though cities in India generally rank lower than their Chinese counterparts, they are also showing signs of development in the region.
“The quality of living in Indian cites such as Mumbai and Bangalore is increasing slowly but steadily, primarily due to India’s improved political relationships with other countries,” said Mr. Parakatil. “Investment from multinationals setting up operations in India may prompt further improvements, boost economic growth and contribute to economic stability. In turn, this will encourage the local authorities to focus on improving quality of living standards.”
Other low-ranking cities for overall quality of living include Congo in Brazzaville (score 30.3) and Bangui in the Central African Republic and Khartoum in Sudan (30.6 and 31.7).
(Source: www.mercerhr.com)
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Cooling off periods when buying cars
From 28 January 2003 a one day, waivable cooling off period applies to purchases of new and used cars where the purchase is financed by a linked credit arrangement. Linked credit is where finance for the purchase is provided by or facilitated by the motor dealer selling the vehicle.
A purchaser may terminate the contract by giving written notice to the dealer during the cooling off period. The notice of termination must be signed, either by the purchaser or the purchaser’s solicitor or barrister. The right to terminate a contract may be exercised even though the purchaser has taken delivery of the motor vehicle concerned.
On termination of the contract the purchaser is liable to pay the dealer $250 or 2% of the purchase price, whichever is the lesser. (This means 2% of the purchase price for cars priced $12,500 or lower and $250 for all cars over $12,500).
There is NO cooling off period for sales:
1) of motor vehicles other than cars (eg motor bikes, farm equipment);
2) of commercial vehicles;
3) at an auction;
4) paid for by cash;
5) on credit other than linked credit. (The cooling off period does not apply where credit is provided by a finance institution contacted directly by the purchaser, that is, where the dealer does not provide, arrange or facilitate the credit);
6) where credit is provided by a linked credit provider of the dealer but the provision of credit is not arranged or facilitated by the dealer;
7) made by a motor dealer to a trade owner.
The cooling off period begins when the contract is signed (entered into) and ends at 5pm on the next day on which the dealer carries on business with the public. However, if the dealer closes for business before 5pm on that day, the cooling off period ends at the close of business on the next day the dealer is open for business following that day.
Example A: a dealer is open for business 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 3pm on Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Friday the cooling off period would end at 5pm on Saturday.
Example B: a dealer is open for business 10am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm on Saturday and closed Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Friday the cooling off period would end at 7pm on Monday.
Example C: a dealer is open for business 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm on Saturday and closed Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Saturday the cooling off period would end at 4pm on Tuesday.
The cooling off period may be extended by a provision in the contract of sale or by agreement with the dealer.
The cooling off period can only be waived by the purchaser signing the prescribed form. The prescribed form is Form 21 in the Motor Dealers Regulation 1999.
(Source: Office of Fair Trading NSW)
A purchaser may terminate the contract by giving written notice to the dealer during the cooling off period. The notice of termination must be signed, either by the purchaser or the purchaser’s solicitor or barrister. The right to terminate a contract may be exercised even though the purchaser has taken delivery of the motor vehicle concerned.
On termination of the contract the purchaser is liable to pay the dealer $250 or 2% of the purchase price, whichever is the lesser. (This means 2% of the purchase price for cars priced $12,500 or lower and $250 for all cars over $12,500).
There is NO cooling off period for sales:
1) of motor vehicles other than cars (eg motor bikes, farm equipment);
2) of commercial vehicles;
3) at an auction;
4) paid for by cash;
5) on credit other than linked credit. (The cooling off period does not apply where credit is provided by a finance institution contacted directly by the purchaser, that is, where the dealer does not provide, arrange or facilitate the credit);
6) where credit is provided by a linked credit provider of the dealer but the provision of credit is not arranged or facilitated by the dealer;
7) made by a motor dealer to a trade owner.
The cooling off period begins when the contract is signed (entered into) and ends at 5pm on the next day on which the dealer carries on business with the public. However, if the dealer closes for business before 5pm on that day, the cooling off period ends at the close of business on the next day the dealer is open for business following that day.
Example A: a dealer is open for business 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 11am to 3pm on Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Friday the cooling off period would end at 5pm on Saturday.
Example B: a dealer is open for business 10am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 3pm on Saturday and closed Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Friday the cooling off period would end at 7pm on Monday.
Example C: a dealer is open for business 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm on Saturday and closed Sunday. If a contract to purchase was signed on Saturday the cooling off period would end at 4pm on Tuesday.
The cooling off period may be extended by a provision in the contract of sale or by agreement with the dealer.
The cooling off period can only be waived by the purchaser signing the prescribed form. The prescribed form is Form 21 in the Motor Dealers Regulation 1999.
(Source: Office of Fair Trading NSW)
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Suburb Report - Carlingford 2118
Address Date Type Beds Showert Result Price
18 Barellan Av Jan-07 house 4 0 Private Treaty - Sold $800,000
2 Baker St Jan-07 house 3 1 Private Treaty - Sold $455,000
13 Metcalf Av Jan-07 house 3 2 Private Treaty - Sold $529,000
State Local government
New South Wales Parramatta
Public transport
Carlingford - train, RTA bus, private bus
Surrounding locations
Dundas Dundas Valley Oatlands Telopea Beecroft Epping West Pennant Hills Sydney Markets North Parramatta North Rocks
Property prices - 12 months to February 2007
HOUSES UNITS
Carlingford Region Carlingford Region
Median Prices $570,000 $642,000 $388,000 $390,000
Long Term Trend 9.4% 8.0% 7.5% 6.8%
Auction clearance rates 45% 49% SNR 44%
Days on Market 96 108 114 96
Discounting 8% 8% 8% 7%
(SNR = Statistically Not Reliable.*Based on sales reported to Australian Property Monitors)
Demographics
PopulationSize 2118 Sydney
All People 20384 3997337
Country of Origin 2118 Sydney
Australian Born 62% 61%
Born Overseas - Top 5 2118 Sydney
China 6% 2%
Hong Kong 6% 1%
United Kingdom 4% 5%
Korea 3% 1%
India 2% 1%
Age Statistics 2118 Sydney
40 to 59 29% 28%
20 to 39 25% 33%
5 to 19 23% 14%
60+ 18% 17%
0 to 4 6% 7%
Family Statistics - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Married 59% 51%
Never Married 29% 33%
Widowed 5% 6%
Divorced 4% 7%
Separated 2% 3%
Religion - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Catholic 28% 34%
Anglican 21% 23%
No Religion 17% 13%
Uniting Church 8% 4%
Presbyterian and Reformed 5% 3%
Occupation - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Professionals 13% 9%
Intermediate Clerical/Sales/Service 9% 8%
Associate Professional 6% 5%
Managers and Administrators 5% 4%
Tradespersons and Related Workers 5% 5%
Education - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Not Attending (Working) 69% 73%
Secondary Education 10% 7%
Infants/Primary 9% 9%
University or other Tertiary Institution 6% 5%
Technical or Further Education 3% 3%
Transport to Work - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Car (driver) 31% 24%
Train & Other 4% 2%
Car (passenger) 3% 3%
Train Only 2% 3%
Worked at home 2% 2%
Type of Dwelling - Top 3 2118 Sydney
Separate house 85% 64%
Semi/Terrace 7% 10%
Flat 6% 22%
Nature of Occupancy - Top 3 2118 Sydney
Fully Owned 58% 41%
Purchasing 21% 23%
Rented 15% 30%
Monthly Loan Repayment - Top 5 2118 Sydney
$1,500+ 30% 21%
$1,000-$1,199 12% 15%
$400-$599 11% 11%
18 Barellan Av Jan-07 house 4 0 Private Treaty - Sold $800,000
2 Baker St Jan-07 house 3 1 Private Treaty - Sold $455,000
13 Metcalf Av Jan-07 house 3 2 Private Treaty - Sold $529,000
State Local government
New South Wales Parramatta
Public transport
Carlingford - train, RTA bus, private bus
Surrounding locations
Dundas Dundas Valley Oatlands Telopea Beecroft Epping West Pennant Hills Sydney Markets North Parramatta North Rocks
Property prices - 12 months to February 2007
HOUSES UNITS
Carlingford Region Carlingford Region
Median Prices $570,000 $642,000 $388,000 $390,000
Long Term Trend 9.4% 8.0% 7.5% 6.8%
Auction clearance rates 45% 49% SNR 44%
Days on Market 96 108 114 96
Discounting 8% 8% 8% 7%
(SNR = Statistically Not Reliable.*Based on sales reported to Australian Property Monitors)
Demographics
PopulationSize 2118 Sydney
All People 20384 3997337
Country of Origin 2118 Sydney
Australian Born 62% 61%
Born Overseas - Top 5 2118 Sydney
China 6% 2%
Hong Kong 6% 1%
United Kingdom 4% 5%
Korea 3% 1%
India 2% 1%
Age Statistics 2118 Sydney
40 to 59 29% 28%
20 to 39 25% 33%
5 to 19 23% 14%
60+ 18% 17%
0 to 4 6% 7%
Family Statistics - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Married 59% 51%
Never Married 29% 33%
Widowed 5% 6%
Divorced 4% 7%
Separated 2% 3%
Religion - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Catholic 28% 34%
Anglican 21% 23%
No Religion 17% 13%
Uniting Church 8% 4%
Presbyterian and Reformed 5% 3%
Occupation - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Professionals 13% 9%
Intermediate Clerical/Sales/Service 9% 8%
Associate Professional 6% 5%
Managers and Administrators 5% 4%
Tradespersons and Related Workers 5% 5%
Education - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Not Attending (Working) 69% 73%
Secondary Education 10% 7%
Infants/Primary 9% 9%
University or other Tertiary Institution 6% 5%
Technical or Further Education 3% 3%
Transport to Work - Top 5 2118 Sydney
Car (driver) 31% 24%
Train & Other 4% 2%
Car (passenger) 3% 3%
Train Only 2% 3%
Worked at home 2% 2%
Type of Dwelling - Top 3 2118 Sydney
Separate house 85% 64%
Semi/Terrace 7% 10%
Flat 6% 22%
Nature of Occupancy - Top 3 2118 Sydney
Fully Owned 58% 41%
Purchasing 21% 23%
Rented 15% 30%
Monthly Loan Repayment - Top 5 2118 Sydney
$1,500+ 30% 21%
$1,000-$1,199 12% 15%
$400-$599 11% 11%
Monday, February 12, 2007
Did you jump??? ---- Super Fun
A young man joined the army and signed up with the paratroopers.He went through the standard training, completed the practice jumps from higher and higher structures, and finally went to take his first jump from an airplane.
The next day, he called home to tell his father the news.
"So, did you jump?" asked the father.
"Well, let me tell you what happened," the son said. "We got up in the plane, and the sergeant opened up the door and asked for volunteers. About a dozen men got up and just walked out of the plane.
"Is that when you jumped?" asked his father.
"Uh, no. The sergeant started to grab the other men one at a time and throw them out the door."
"Did you jump then?" asked his father.
"I'm getting to that. Everyone else had jumped, and I was the last man left on the plane. I told the sergeant that I was too scared to jump.He told me to get off the plane or he'd kick my butt.
"So, did you jump?"
"No. He tried to push me out of the plane, but I grabbed onto the doorand refused to go. Finally he called over the Jump Master. The Jump Master is this great big guy, about six-foot five, and 250 pounds. He said to me, 'Are you gonna jump or not?'""I said, 'No sir, I'm too scared." So the Jump Master pulled down his zipper and took out his you-know-what. I swear, dad, it was about ten inches long and big around as a baseball bat! He said, 'Either you jump out that door, or I'm sticking this little baby up your ass.'"
"So, did you jump?" asked his father.
"Well, a little, at first."
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Two Glasses of Wine
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 glassesof wine...
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items infront of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golfballs.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jarwas full.
They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into thejar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else He asked once more if thejar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous "yes".
The professor then produced two glasses of wine from under the tableand poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling theempty space between the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you torecognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things; your family, your children, your health, your friends, and your favorite passions things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, and your car. The sand is everything else; the small stuff.
If you put the sand into the jar first, " he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you.
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical check ups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first; the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the wine represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of glasses of wine with a friend."
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items infront of him. When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golfballs.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jarwas full.
They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into thejar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else He asked once more if thejar was full.
The students responded with a unanimous "yes".
The professor then produced two glasses of wine from under the tableand poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling theempty space between the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided, "I want you torecognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things; your family, your children, your health, your friends, and your favorite passions things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house, and your car. The sand is everything else; the small stuff.
If you put the sand into the jar first, " he continued, "there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff, you will never have room for the things that are important to you.
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical check ups. Take your partner out to dinner. Play another 18. There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first; the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the wine represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there's always room for a couple of glasses of wine with a friend."
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Which baby are you?
Jan Pretty/handsome. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Sensitive. Down-to-Earth. Stubborn.
Feb
Abstract thoughts. Loves reality and abstract. Intelligent and clever. Changing personality. Attractive. Sexiest out of everyone. Temperamental. Quiet, shy and humble. Honest And loyal. Determined to reach goals. Loves freedom. Rebellious when restricted. Loves aggressiveness. Too sensitive and easily hurt. Gets angry really easily but does not show it. Dislikes unnecessary things. Loves making friends but rarely shows it. Horny. Daring and stubborn. Ambitious. Realizing dreams and hopes. Sharp. Loves entertainment and leisure. Romantic on the inside not outside. Superstitious and ludicrous. Spendthrift. Tries to learn to show emotions.
MarAttractive personality. Sexy. Affectionate Shy and reserved. Secretive. Naturally honest, generous and sympathetic. Loves peace and serenity. Sensitive to others. Great kisser. Easily angered. Trustworthy. Appreciative and returns kindness. Hardly shows emotions. Tends to bottle up feelings. Observant and assesses others.
AprSuave and compromising. Funny and humorous. Stubborn. Very talkative. Calm and cool. Kind and sympathetic. Concerned and detailed. Loyal. Does work well with others. Very confidant. Sensitive. Positive Attitude. Thinking generous. Good memory. Clever and knowledgeable. Loves to look for information. Able to cheer everyone up and/or make them laugh. Able to motivate oneself and others. Understanding. Fun to be around. Outgoing. Hyper. Bubbly personality. Secretive. Boy/girl crazy. Loves sports, music, leisure and traveling. Systematic. Hot but has brains.
MayStubborn and hard-hearted. Strong-willed and highly motivated. Sharp thoughts. Easily angered. Attracts others and loves attention. Deep feelings. Beautiful physically and mentally. Firm Standpoint. Needs no motivation. Shy towards opposite sex. Easily consoled. Systematic (left brain). Loves to dream. Strong clairvoyance. Understanding. Sickness usually in the ear and neck. Good imagination. Good physical. Weak breathing. Loves literature and the arts. Loves traveling. Dislike being at home. Restless. Not having many children. Hardworking. High-spirited.
JunYou've got the best personality and are an absolute pleasure to be around. You love to make new friends and be outgoing. You are a great flirt and more than likely have an a very attractive partner. a wicked hottie. It is also more than likely that you have a massive record collection. You have a great choice in films, and may one day become a famous actor/actress yourself - heck, you've got the looks for it!!!
Jul Fun to be with. Secretive. Difficult to fathom and to be understood. Quiet unless excited or tensed. Takes pride in oneself. Has reputation. Easily consoled. Honest. Concerned about people's feelings. Tactful. Friendly. Approachable. Emotional temperamental and unpredictable. Moody and easily hurt. Witty and sparkly. spazzy at times. Not revengeful. Forgiving but never forgets. dislikes nonsensical and unnecessary things. Guides others physically and mentally. Sensitive and forms impressions carefully. Caring and loving. Treats others equally. Strong sense of sympathy. Wary and sharp. Judges people through observations. Hardworking. No difficulties in studying. Loves to be alone. Always broods about the past and the old friends. Waits for friends. Never looks for friends. Not aggressive unless provoked. Loves to be loved. Easily hurt but takes long to recover.
AugOutgoing personality. takes risks. feeds on attention. No self-control. Kind hearted. Self-confident. Loud and boisterous. VERY revengeful. Easy to get along with and talk to. Has an "every thing's peachy" attitude. Likes talking and singing. Loves music. Daydreamer. Easily distracted. Hates not being trusted. BIG imagination. Loves to be loved. Hates studying. in need of "that someone". Longs for freedom. Rebellious when withheld or restricted. Lives by "no pain no gain" caring. Always a suspect. Playful. Mysterious. "charming" or "beautiful" to everyone. stubborn. curious. Independent. Strong willed. A fighter.
SeptActive and dynamic. Decisive and haste but tends to regret. Attractive and affectionate to oneself. Strong mentality. Loves attention. Diplomatic. Consoling, friendly and solves people's problems. Brave and fearless. Adventurous. Loving and caring. Suave and generous. Usually you have many friends. Enjoys to make love. Emotional. Stubborn. Hasty. Good memory. Moving, motivates oneself and others. Loves to travel and explore. Sometimes sexy in a way that only their lover can understand.
OctLoves to chat. Loves those who love them. Loves to takes things at the center. Inner and physical beauty. Lies but doesn't pretend. Gets angry often. Treats friends importantly. Brave and fearless. Always making friends. Easily hurt but recovers easily. Daydreamer. Opinionated. Does not care to control emotions. Unpredictable. Extremely smart, but definitely the hottest AND sexiest of them all.
NovTrustworthy and loyal. Very passionate and dangerous. Wild at times. Knows how to have fun. Sexy and mysterious. Everyone is drawn towards your inner and outer beauty and independent personality. Playful, but secretive. Very emotional and temperamental sometimes. Meets new people easily and very social in a group. Fearless and independent. Can hold their own. Stands out in a crowd. Essentially very smart. Usually, the greatest men are born in this month. If you ever begin a relationship with someone from this month, hold on to them because their one of a kind.
Dec This straight-up means you are the most good-looking person possible... Better than all of these other months! Loyal and generous. Patriotic. Competitive in everything. Active in games and interactions. Impatient and hasty. Ambitious. Influential in organizations. Fun to be with. Easy to talk to, though hard to understand. Thinks far with vision, yet complicated to know. Easily influenced by kindness. Polite and soft-spoken. Having lots of ideas. Sensitive. Active mind. Hesitating tends to delay. Choosy and always wants the best. Temperamental. Funny and humorous. Loves to joke. Good debating skills. Has that someone always on his/her mind. Talkative. Daydreamer. Friendly. Knows how to make friends. Abiding. Able to show character. One guy/girl kind of person. Loveable. Easily hurt. Prone to getting colds. Loves music. Pretty/handsome. Loves to dress up. Easily bored. Fussy. Seldom shows emotions. Takes time to recover when hurt. Sensitive.
Monday, February 05, 2007
The Wife From Hell
A police officer pulls over a speeding car. The officer says, "I clocked you at 80 miles per hour, sir."
The driver says, "Gee, officer I had it on cruise control at 60,perhaps your radar gun needs calibrating."
Not looking up from her knitting, the wife says: "Now don't be silly,Dear, you know that this car doesn't have cruise control."
As the officer writes out the ticket, the driver looks over at his wife and growls , "Can't you please keep you mouth shut for once?!"
The wife smiles demurely and says, "You should be thankful your radar detector went off when it did, Dear."
As the officer makes out the second ticket for the illegal radar detector unit, the man glowers at his wife and says through clenched teeth, "Darn it, woman, can't-you-keep-your-mouth-shut?"
The officer frowns and says, "And I notice that you're not wearing your seat belt, sir. That's an automatic $75 fine."
The driver says, "Yeah, well, you see officer, I had it on; but took itoff when you pulled me over ~ so that I could get my license out of my back pocket."
The wife says, "Now, Dear, you know very well that you didn't have your seat belt on. You never wear your seat belt when you're driving."
And as the police officer is writing out the third ticket the driverturns to his wife and barks, "WHY DON'T YOU PLEASE SHUT UP??!!!"
The officer looks over at the woman and asks, "Does you husband alwaystalk to you this way, Ma'am?"
(scroll down )
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"Only when he's been drinking."
The driver says, "Gee, officer I had it on cruise control at 60,perhaps your radar gun needs calibrating."
Not looking up from her knitting, the wife says: "Now don't be silly,Dear, you know that this car doesn't have cruise control."
As the officer writes out the ticket, the driver looks over at his wife and growls , "Can't you please keep you mouth shut for once?!"
The wife smiles demurely and says, "You should be thankful your radar detector went off when it did, Dear."
As the officer makes out the second ticket for the illegal radar detector unit, the man glowers at his wife and says through clenched teeth, "Darn it, woman, can't-you-keep-your-mouth-shut?"
The officer frowns and says, "And I notice that you're not wearing your seat belt, sir. That's an automatic $75 fine."
The driver says, "Yeah, well, you see officer, I had it on; but took itoff when you pulled me over ~ so that I could get my license out of my back pocket."
The wife says, "Now, Dear, you know very well that you didn't have your seat belt on. You never wear your seat belt when you're driving."
And as the police officer is writing out the third ticket the driverturns to his wife and barks, "WHY DON'T YOU PLEASE SHUT UP??!!!"
The officer looks over at the woman and asks, "Does you husband alwaystalk to you this way, Ma'am?"
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"Only when he's been drinking."
Friday, February 02, 2007
Brain Test - Where is the coffee-bean-man?
This is bizarre - after you find the guy - it's so obvious. Once you find him - it's embarrassing, and you think, Why didn't I see him immediately?
Doctors have concluded that if you find the man in the coffee beans in 3 seconds, your right half of your brain is better developed than most people. If you find the man between 3 seconds and 1 minute, your right half of the brain is developed normally. If you find the man between 1 minute and 3 minutes, then the right half of your brain is functioning slowly and you need to eat more protein. If you have not found the man after 3 minutes, the advice is to look for more of this type of exercise to make that part of the brain stronger!!! And, yes, the man is really there!!!
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Dr Phil's test
Below is Dr. Phil's test. (Dr. Phil scored 55; he did this test onOprah - she got a 38.) Some folks pay a lot of money to find this stuffout!
Don't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself and send it to yourfriends.
Don't peek, but begin the test as youscroll down and answer. Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready. This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and prospective employees.
It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question. Ready??
Begin.
1. When do you feel your best?
a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon & and early evening
c) late at night
2. You usually walk...
a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast,head down
e) very slowly
3. When talking to people you...
a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair
4. When relaxing, you sit with...
a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) your legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you
5. When something really amuses you, you react with...
a) big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile
6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...
a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed
7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're
interrupted...
a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes
8. Which of the following colors do you like most?
a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray
9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before goingto sleep you are...
a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers
10. You often dream that you are...
a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for something or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant
POINTS:
1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 ( c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1
Now add up the total number of points.
OVER 60 POINTS: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care." You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you,but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involvedwith you.
51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile,rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.
41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing,practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.
31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.
21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.
UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive,someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don'texist. Some peopl e think you' re boring. Only those who know you wellknow that you aren't.
Don't be overly sensitive! The following is pretty accurate and it only takes 2 minutes. Take this test for yourself and send it to yourfriends.
Don't peek, but begin the test as youscroll down and answer. Answers are for who you are now --- not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil and paper ready. This is a real test given by the Human Relations Dept. at many of the major corporations today. It helps them get better insight concerning their employees and prospective employees.
It's only 10 Simple questions, so grab a pencil and paper, keeping track of your letter answers to each question. Ready??
Begin.
1. When do you feel your best?
a) in the morning
b) during the afternoon & and early evening
c) late at night
2. You usually walk...
a) fairly fast, with long steps
b) fairly fast, with little steps
c) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
d) less fast,head down
e) very slowly
3. When talking to people you...
a) stand with your arms folded
b) have your hands clasped
c) have one or both your hands on your hips
d) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
e) play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair
4. When relaxing, you sit with...
a) your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
b) your legs crossed
c) your legs stretched out or straight
d) one leg curled under you
5. When something really amuses you, you react with...
a) big appreciated laugh
b) a laugh, but not a loud one
c) a quiet chuckle
d) a sheepish smile
6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...
a) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
b) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
c) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed
7. You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're
interrupted...
a) welcome the break
b) feel extremely irritated
c) vary between these two extremes
8. Which of the following colors do you like most?
a) Red or orange
b) black
c) yellow or light blue
d) green
e) dark blue or purple
f) white
g) brown or gray
9. When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before goingto sleep you are...
a) stretched out on your back
b) stretched out face down on your stomach
c) on your side, slightly curled
d) with your head on one arm
e) with your head under the covers
10. You often dream that you are...
a) falling
b) fighting or struggling
c) searching for something or somebody
d) flying or floating
e) you usually have dreamless sleep
f) your dreams are always pleasant
POINTS:
1. (a) 2 (b) 4 (c) 6
2. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 7 (d) 2 (e) 1
3. (a) 4 (b) 2 (c) 5 (d) 7 (e) 6
4. (a) 4 (b) 6 (c) 2 (d) 1
5. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 2
6. (a) 6 (b) 4 (c) 2
7. (a) 6 (b) 2 (c) 4
8. (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 5 (d) 4 (e) 3 (f) 2 (g) 1
9. (a) 7 (b) 6 (c) 4 (d) 2 (e) 1
10. (a) 4 (b) 2 ( c) 3 (d) 5 (e) 6 (f) 1
Now add up the total number of points.
OVER 60 POINTS: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care." You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant. Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you,but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involvedwith you.
51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile,rather impulsive personality; a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once; someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.
41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing,practical, and always interesting; someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well-balanced not to let it go to their head. They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding; someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.
31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.
21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.
UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive,someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions & who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don'texist. Some peopl e think you' re boring. Only those who know you wellknow that you aren't.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Suburb Report - Parramatta
Wanna know more about the area you are living or your're going to live? The following report is interesting and useful.
Area Profile
The size of Parramatta is approximately 6 km². It has 18 parks covering nearly 23% of the total area. There are 8 schools and 5 childcare centres located in Parramatta. The population of Parramatta in 1996 was 16,841 people. By 2001 the population was 19,187 showing a population growth of 14% in the area during that time. The predominant age group in Parramatta is 20 - 29 years.
Households in Parramatta are primarily couples with children and are likely to be repaying between $800.00 - $1000.00 per month on mortgage repayments. In general, people in Parramatta work in a professional occupation. In 1996, 28% of the homes in Parramatta were owner-occupied compared with 30% in 2001.
Currently the median sale price of houses in the area is $437,500.
(Source: realestate.com.au)
PopulationSize 2150 Sydney
All People 22809 3997337
Country of Origin 2150 Sydney
Australian Born 41% 61%
Born Overseas-Top5 2150 Sydney
China 10% 2%
India 8% 1%
Lebanon 3% 1%
New Zealand 3% 2%
Philippines 3% 1%
(Source: domain.com.au)
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