Thursday, August 30, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
The new Digital SLR research...
I have been going through a lot of reviews to find out what I can get for less than $2K. The camera that I am looking for will need to have ISO 100-1600 or more + up to F22. I will also need to ensure that the noise reduction is at its optimum + anti-shake (either built into the lens or the camera). If I can get 2400 and with a lens of 35-200 then that would also be a great help.
The contenders at this stage are:
Canon EOS400D - I like how it feels when you hold it. But the trouble is that you will need to get extra lenses if you need anti-shake. It has all the ISO I need. (ISO 1600)
Nikon D40X - Has 2 options of lenses 18-55 and 55-200. This looks enticing but I am not convinced with its metering system. Will need to learn more. (ISO 1600)
Nikon D80 - If only for its metering and the fact that the ergomics are excellent. Only comes with standard 18-135 but might need to find a place that bundles it with 18-200 if available. The trouble is that it is not anti-dust technology. Need to ensure anti-shake as well. (ISO 2400)
Sony Alpha 100 - Apparently this has most of the things I need. 10 Mega Pixel with anti-shake built into the body and anti-dust. There is a rumour that Sony might be putting out a 12.1 MP camera so that might be the way to go. It has also 9 points, cross hair sensors! (ISO 1600)
I am still undecided but have been going out to check prices and such including Ebay for comparison. I am trying desperately to take night shots of places or images where light sources are poor ...most of the places we visit tend to be cloudy and with what I got I tend to miss alot of really good pics. Then there is also the additional battery pack that I will need and a slave flash if I can afford it.
Hello Helpdesk? Whinge...
OK I work for a big Euro Company with the moral ethics of a cow in heat and all IT helpdesk is now being routed to Kuala Lumpur (Level1) or Bangalore (Level2). My IT issue has been hanging around since last Thursday and I am still unable to access applications through my Intranet. Not that it matter much but trust me after 10 calls and being routed to morons, you get a little short. I am still calm though... I guess it is Karma!
The trouble with IT people like everyone else within their own comfort zone is that they don't like people self-diagnosing their own problems. They work to some supposed script and if it is not within their scope, they just want to close the ticket. I was told to use a colleagues machine instead...so I should kick someone out of their space so that I can do my work? You feel that you've just got on the phone with the telephone company and being put on hold for eons with some cute answer from tecko-moron super-dickhead man ala Stan Lee. Why Stan Lee Why!!??
So every single time you call the helpdesk, you're back to square one. I've had IE installed for the 5th time and my machine re-image as it so happens to a lower version plus to add to the headache, a desktop ID instead of a laptop ID. I think it is a firewall issue either not recognising my machine or my ID to that particular server or something similar since it only affected me after server migration of the application. Why me? Why not?
After 5 days, I am still not able to log on with my super duper machine. Thank you Euro stinko cheap bastards... we are still on Windows 2000 and to compound it all, we have a swish machine and you can't even put your foot on the breaks without Big Brother knowing.
Hopefully they get my message that this is getting a little ridikulus!
The trouble with IT people like everyone else within their own comfort zone is that they don't like people self-diagnosing their own problems. They work to some supposed script and if it is not within their scope, they just want to close the ticket. I was told to use a colleagues machine instead...so I should kick someone out of their space so that I can do my work? You feel that you've just got on the phone with the telephone company and being put on hold for eons with some cute answer from tecko-moron super-dickhead man ala Stan Lee. Why Stan Lee Why!!??
So every single time you call the helpdesk, you're back to square one. I've had IE installed for the 5th time and my machine re-image as it so happens to a lower version plus to add to the headache, a desktop ID instead of a laptop ID. I think it is a firewall issue either not recognising my machine or my ID to that particular server or something similar since it only affected me after server migration of the application. Why me? Why not?
After 5 days, I am still not able to log on with my super duper machine. Thank you Euro stinko cheap bastards... we are still on Windows 2000 and to compound it all, we have a swish machine and you can't even put your foot on the breaks without Big Brother knowing.
Hopefully they get my message that this is getting a little ridikulus!
Going out to look for a CD
My friend Kevin has drawn my attention back to Billy Porter and therefore I am eager to go to the CD store tonight and find the "At the Corner of Broadway & Soul" Album though it was done in 2005. I am excited - I don't why but I think it gives me a reason for distraction.
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Björk - I have never been a fan... but
I have always considered Björk more of a deconstructionist diva ala Phillip Glass because the voice as instrument is rather rare. This album though ... I suppose is more mainstream and you can almost catch a glimpse of some pop influence which for me, makes it less of a chore to listen to. Not something I might suggest that one run out to purchase out of curiosity but if you want to be surprised at how far she has evolved, this is a good start.
VOLTA....
VOLTA....
My Music for Sept..Graded!? Get Luciana Souza
What I think (1 out 5) : 2 What I think (1 out 5) : 2
What I think (1 out 5) : 2 What I think (1 out 5) : 3
What I think (1 out 5) : 2 What I think (1 out 5) : 1
What I think (1 out 5) : 2 What I think (1 out 5) : 2
What I think (1 out 5) : 4
My sad attempt @ Lunar gazing....
I need to get a better digital SLR with a reasonable zoom lens. This was done on my 8 megapixel Canon Pro1 @ the Backyard + 3x telephoto lens on 22x digital zoom + tripod. It takes excellent pics when set on auto but when you start fiddling, it seems to hate it. The noise levels are just atrocious .... the Pro1 is not meant to take such pictures but it always good to know its limits.
It was also a cloudy night and the light sources were a little scattered especially coming from the neighbours....oh well. ISO is only up to 400 on this camera and aperture couldn't go any lower to to let more light in with a clearer exposure. Nevermind!
It was also a cloudy night and the light sources were a little scattered especially coming from the neighbours....oh well. ISO is only up to 400 on this camera and aperture couldn't go any lower to to let more light in with a clearer exposure. Nevermind!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Lunar Eclipse Tonight
There's a lunar eclipse tonight that will start from 6.15 with a full eclipse by 7.20pm. I am excited so will try and get some pictures.
I remember a long time ago, this is very aligned with mystic beliefs that prayers can be made during the lunar eclipse and your wish will come through. What a load of bull crap!!
I'm not planning to go all moon-worshipping but hopefully the pictures will be just as good. I can't wait.
Vietnam Mar 2008
So the Vietnam trip is all booked on SQ with an overnight in Singapore but just a walkthrough on the route back. If we wanted a stopover, SQ was going to charge us for 2 sectors which will bump up the price considerably. At least it is a direct flight and the only thing we have to decide are the hotels, bike rentals and an internal trip of 150kms from Hue to Hoi An by car. There are also guides etc. that we need to decide but it seems that everything that we want to do can be done on bikes and on a shoestring. 10 days all in all covering major sites - it should be fine. Another Asian destination to strike off the list.
Not my type - some random thoughts?
I have often wondered why I am so fascinated by the human affliction called pairing. It is not that the local pubs are not filled with people expecting to get lucky over the weekend that bothers me but the stereotypical attitudes people have about being different and their need to find perfection in others. I do hate to admit it but some people can be frighteningly insensitive about being type-cast but have no reservations about 'casting' others.
On a recent podcast that I came across, the broadcasters were concerned how the evolution of a 'caste' system is getting more and more apparent within the gay community. There are the muscle marys, the femmebots, the bears, the moles, the rats, the cows, the pigs (swines), the beavers and the tamarinds (not a food source) etc. It seems that the community is filled with farm animals these days from your downright carnivores to your nimble, preppy-looking 'Herbies'. So how would one, single and available, embark on this quest of compatibility?
I can't speak for others but I can about myself and like many people have a memory to share.
It was Friday night and I was tired, having worked the night shift at the restaurant the day before I was ready for some R&R over a G&T. I stepped into the bar and made my way to the usual corner to order my drink. We were groupies and like any other groupies had a designated area. It was called the high visibility corner. The dimly lit environ was bustling with activity and the amount of people spilled over the entrance. This was not surprising - beer was cheap here and the crowd of mixed aged individuals made it more enticing.
B let me call him B because I think he reads the blog.... was sitting at the far corner too - it was a good place to sit as it had a panoramic view of people coming in and out of the establishment. I had grabbed my drink from the front bar and brushed against B's thighs accidentally - trust me this place was packed and because the gay scene was minute, it was the norm. I apologised so that it was not misunderstood as a pick-up strategy. I said ' Sorry, I didn't mean to" and B replied, "It was my pleasure". B was well-read but had just arrived in Singapore after a break-up in Jakarta. This I gathered later on. We became buddies. I was 23-24 and B was 40.
I think my attraction is defined by the first impression I have of that person. I like my partners to be well-mannered, gentle in demeanour but strong in character. When I was much younger, copulation was also a priority - sexual rigour a must. This has somewhat changed with age - tenderness is more fulfilling. The only qualm I guess is that most anglo-saxons or westerners for that matter arriving in Singapore come with their own personal baggage and being of tender age, I guess I was abit naive at that time. They on the other hand have suddenly arrived at Le Carnivale - with locals treating the situation like a bloody circus. So begin the cleansing process...they revert back to the same animal instinct that made them leave their country of origin in the first place and history repeats itself.
Type is therefore an evolution in itself. I find more and more pleasure in conversing with individuals from many backgrounds these days in all shape and sizes. My attraction are no longer wedged by lust but a sincere and honest need to connect. I admit that I am not immune to the brawn effect but I have learnt to look beyond the flesh and I expect there to be more. Often I am left wanting but I never let that stop me. There should not be a limit to brotherly love and love like good friendship endures.
I am cautiously sensitive with the words I use in my conversations - never to insult or worse patronise. The birth right of being Asian have not clouded my views that being an individual is a human right and not race-specific. There is nothing exotic about me apart from the way I look and the fact that I am not your stereotypical hairless chick from Bangkok should not be my misgivings. I am tri-lingual - which does not mean I try, try and try again. I can hike for 3 hours, abseil from steep hilltops but yet sit comfortably through 3 hours of luxurious pampering at the spa.
I am neither ABs Fab nor a huge lump of droopy flesh. I like my Nikes as much as my Zegnas. I prefer Prada to Vuitton but can survive on a shoestring with my hessian man-bag at a local market. I like my men in various shades of colour and have no defined rules to what makes anyone a complete bastard. I prefer Puccini as much as Paulini - music is also integral as is poetry. I prefer colour which is not restricted to language alone - primary more so than secondary. There are many blues as there are greens and reds. I cut my hair twice a month, leave the beard, shaves the beard, leaves the goatee, shaves the goatee etc.
My only weakness I guess is that I am attracted to kind people and I hope that kind people are attracted to me because I try. I can see kindness - a gentleness that others hide and I hope I share the same affliation when I am introduced to others. My greatest sorrow is not being able to eradicate loneliness as my greatest joy is to see people who are close to me be happy. I do prefer a double shot latte as much as a good cup of chamomile tea and do not care much for people who have no opinions vs the annoyance of people who are excessively opinionated, I abhor.
So really what is my type? I don't mind them bald, I don't mind them pierced, I don't mind them hairy, I don't mind them smooth. I don't mind them large or larger than life, I don't mind them petite but not tres petite, I don't mind them tall or short, jeans or suited, I don't mind them with a smile or two, the fresh scent of one just out of a shower or after a long strenuous run; that manly musky smell. So what is wrong with my type if I like them all as long as they are respectful....and maybe that is the key to my dilemma - disrespect is a common human trait that is so often a inbred gay culture...juvenile but still a process that one has to go through. I guess what I am saying is never let the culture define you or the way you see the world. Just be yourself and you will be naturally attractive - in more ways than one.
The gay culture can be an addiction that always require re-definition, re-assessment and prioritising. Never let the culture define your being or fail yourself by randomly defining others.
On a recent podcast that I came across, the broadcasters were concerned how the evolution of a 'caste' system is getting more and more apparent within the gay community. There are the muscle marys, the femmebots, the bears, the moles, the rats, the cows, the pigs (swines), the beavers and the tamarinds (not a food source) etc. It seems that the community is filled with farm animals these days from your downright carnivores to your nimble, preppy-looking 'Herbies'. So how would one, single and available, embark on this quest of compatibility?
I can't speak for others but I can about myself and like many people have a memory to share.
It was Friday night and I was tired, having worked the night shift at the restaurant the day before I was ready for some R&R over a G&T. I stepped into the bar and made my way to the usual corner to order my drink. We were groupies and like any other groupies had a designated area. It was called the high visibility corner. The dimly lit environ was bustling with activity and the amount of people spilled over the entrance. This was not surprising - beer was cheap here and the crowd of mixed aged individuals made it more enticing.
B let me call him B because I think he reads the blog.... was sitting at the far corner too - it was a good place to sit as it had a panoramic view of people coming in and out of the establishment. I had grabbed my drink from the front bar and brushed against B's thighs accidentally - trust me this place was packed and because the gay scene was minute, it was the norm. I apologised so that it was not misunderstood as a pick-up strategy. I said ' Sorry, I didn't mean to" and B replied, "It was my pleasure". B was well-read but had just arrived in Singapore after a break-up in Jakarta. This I gathered later on. We became buddies. I was 23-24 and B was 40.
I think my attraction is defined by the first impression I have of that person. I like my partners to be well-mannered, gentle in demeanour but strong in character. When I was much younger, copulation was also a priority - sexual rigour a must. This has somewhat changed with age - tenderness is more fulfilling. The only qualm I guess is that most anglo-saxons or westerners for that matter arriving in Singapore come with their own personal baggage and being of tender age, I guess I was abit naive at that time. They on the other hand have suddenly arrived at Le Carnivale - with locals treating the situation like a bloody circus. So begin the cleansing process...they revert back to the same animal instinct that made them leave their country of origin in the first place and history repeats itself.
Type is therefore an evolution in itself. I find more and more pleasure in conversing with individuals from many backgrounds these days in all shape and sizes. My attraction are no longer wedged by lust but a sincere and honest need to connect. I admit that I am not immune to the brawn effect but I have learnt to look beyond the flesh and I expect there to be more. Often I am left wanting but I never let that stop me. There should not be a limit to brotherly love and love like good friendship endures.
I am cautiously sensitive with the words I use in my conversations - never to insult or worse patronise. The birth right of being Asian have not clouded my views that being an individual is a human right and not race-specific. There is nothing exotic about me apart from the way I look and the fact that I am not your stereotypical hairless chick from Bangkok should not be my misgivings. I am tri-lingual - which does not mean I try, try and try again. I can hike for 3 hours, abseil from steep hilltops but yet sit comfortably through 3 hours of luxurious pampering at the spa.
I am neither ABs Fab nor a huge lump of droopy flesh. I like my Nikes as much as my Zegnas. I prefer Prada to Vuitton but can survive on a shoestring with my hessian man-bag at a local market. I like my men in various shades of colour and have no defined rules to what makes anyone a complete bastard. I prefer Puccini as much as Paulini - music is also integral as is poetry. I prefer colour which is not restricted to language alone - primary more so than secondary. There are many blues as there are greens and reds. I cut my hair twice a month, leave the beard, shaves the beard, leaves the goatee, shaves the goatee etc.
My only weakness I guess is that I am attracted to kind people and I hope that kind people are attracted to me because I try. I can see kindness - a gentleness that others hide and I hope I share the same affliation when I am introduced to others. My greatest sorrow is not being able to eradicate loneliness as my greatest joy is to see people who are close to me be happy. I do prefer a double shot latte as much as a good cup of chamomile tea and do not care much for people who have no opinions vs the annoyance of people who are excessively opinionated, I abhor.
So really what is my type? I don't mind them bald, I don't mind them pierced, I don't mind them hairy, I don't mind them smooth. I don't mind them large or larger than life, I don't mind them petite but not tres petite, I don't mind them tall or short, jeans or suited, I don't mind them with a smile or two, the fresh scent of one just out of a shower or after a long strenuous run; that manly musky smell. So what is wrong with my type if I like them all as long as they are respectful....and maybe that is the key to my dilemma - disrespect is a common human trait that is so often a inbred gay culture...juvenile but still a process that one has to go through. I guess what I am saying is never let the culture define you or the way you see the world. Just be yourself and you will be naturally attractive - in more ways than one.
The gay culture can be an addiction that always require re-definition, re-assessment and prioritising. Never let the culture define your being or fail yourself by randomly defining others.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
WWII Planes... Remember those trading cards?
Hawker Hurricane I
Type: Single-seater fighter plane, fighter-bomber.
Maximum speed: 511 kph.
Size: Wingspan 12.19 m, length 9.58 m, height 4.0 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 2,118 kg.
Guns: Eight .303'' Browning machine guns, 333 cartridges each, the Belgium model: four .53'' FN-Browning machine guns.
Manufacturer: Hawker Aircraft Ltd., built by Gloster Aircraft, SABCA and Canadian Car & Foundry Inc.
History: first prototype flight - November 6, 1936, lot production - October 12, 1937.
Mitchell B-25
Type: Medium-sized bomber and battle aircraft, 4-6 crew members.
Maximum speed: 504 kph.
Size: Wingspan 20.6 m, length 16.46 m, height 4.8 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 9,580 kg.
Guns: Manual .5'' machine gun in the rear area, manual .3'' machine gun in the windows and a bomb cartridge for 1,361 kg of bombs.
Manufacturer: North American Aviation Inc.
History: First prototype flight - January 1939, lot production - August 1940.
Messerschmitt Bf 109 E
Type: Single-seater fighter plane and fighter bomber.
Maximum speed: 570 kph.
Size: Wingspan 9.87 m, length 8.64 m, height 2.28 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 1,900 kg.
Guns: Two MG 17 on the top side of the engine cover, 1,000 cartridges each (or two MG 17, 500 cartridges each and 20 mm MG FF cannon firing through the propeller shaft) and two 20 mm MG FF cannons in wings, 60 cartridges each.
Manufacturer: Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, renamed Messerschmitt AG later on, under licence in the Swiss Dornier-Werke and the Spanish Hispano Aviación, Czechoslovak Avia after the war.
History: First prototype flight - September 1935, lot production - January 1939.
Heinkel He 111
Type: Four- or five-seater medium-sized bomber.
Maximum speed: 415 kph (330 kph at the maximum load.)
Size: Wingspan 22.6 m, length 16.4 m, height 4.0 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 7,720 kg.
Guns: Three manual 7.92 mm Rheinmental MG 15, bomb cartridge for 2,000 kg of bombs.
Manufacturer: Ernst Heinkel AG.
History: First prototype flight - February 24, 1935, lot production - January 1938.
Messerschmitt Bf 110C
Type: Two-seater, daytime and night-time fighter plane (occasionally also used as a reconnaissance and battle aircraft).
Maximum speed: 562 kph.
Size: Wingspan 16.25 m, length 12.1 m, height 3.5 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 4,500 kg.
Guns: Front: two fixed 20 mm Oerlikon MG FF cannons and four 7.92 mm Rheinmetall MG17 machine guns. Back: one manual 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun.
Manufacturer: Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, renamed Messerschmitt AG later on.
History: First Bf 110V-1 prototype flight - May 12, 1936, used from April 1936, production terminated in February 1945.
Type: Single-seater fighter plane, fighter-bomber.
Maximum speed: 511 kph.
Size: Wingspan 12.19 m, length 9.58 m, height 4.0 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 2,118 kg.
Guns: Eight .303'' Browning machine guns, 333 cartridges each, the Belgium model: four .53'' FN-Browning machine guns.
Manufacturer: Hawker Aircraft Ltd., built by Gloster Aircraft, SABCA and Canadian Car & Foundry Inc.
History: first prototype flight - November 6, 1936, lot production - October 12, 1937.
Supermarine Spitfire Mk I
Type: Single-seater fighter plane.
Maximum speed: 560 kph.
Size: Wingspan 11.23 m, length 9.12 m, height 3.48 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 2,182 kg.
Guns: Eight .303'' Browning machine guns, IB version: two 20 mm Hispano canons and four .303'' machine guns.
Manufacturer: Supermarine Aviation Works (Vickers) Ltd., built by Vickers-Armstrongs, Castle Bromwich, Westland Aircraft.
History: First prototype flight - March 5, 1936, lot production - July 1938.
Mitchell B-25
Type: Medium-sized bomber and battle aircraft, 4-6 crew members.
Maximum speed: 504 kph.
Size: Wingspan 20.6 m, length 16.46 m, height 4.8 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 9,580 kg.
Guns: Manual .5'' machine gun in the rear area, manual .3'' machine gun in the windows and a bomb cartridge for 1,361 kg of bombs.
Manufacturer: North American Aviation Inc.
History: First prototype flight - January 1939, lot production - August 1940.
Messerschmitt Bf 109 E
Type: Single-seater fighter plane and fighter bomber.
Maximum speed: 570 kph.
Size: Wingspan 9.87 m, length 8.64 m, height 2.28 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 1,900 kg.
Guns: Two MG 17 on the top side of the engine cover, 1,000 cartridges each (or two MG 17, 500 cartridges each and 20 mm MG FF cannon firing through the propeller shaft) and two 20 mm MG FF cannons in wings, 60 cartridges each.
Manufacturer: Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, renamed Messerschmitt AG later on, under licence in the Swiss Dornier-Werke and the Spanish Hispano Aviación, Czechoslovak Avia after the war.
History: First prototype flight - September 1935, lot production - January 1939.
Heinkel He 111
Type: Four- or five-seater medium-sized bomber.
Maximum speed: 415 kph (330 kph at the maximum load.)
Size: Wingspan 22.6 m, length 16.4 m, height 4.0 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 7,720 kg.
Guns: Three manual 7.92 mm Rheinmental MG 15, bomb cartridge for 2,000 kg of bombs.
Manufacturer: Ernst Heinkel AG.
History: First prototype flight - February 24, 1935, lot production - January 1938.
Messerschmitt Bf 110C
Type: Two-seater, daytime and night-time fighter plane (occasionally also used as a reconnaissance and battle aircraft).
Maximum speed: 562 kph.
Size: Wingspan 16.25 m, length 12.1 m, height 3.5 m.
Weight: (empty aircraft) 4,500 kg.
Guns: Front: two fixed 20 mm Oerlikon MG FF cannons and four 7.92 mm Rheinmetall MG17 machine guns. Back: one manual 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun.
Manufacturer: Bayerische Flugzeugwerke, renamed Messerschmitt AG later on.
History: First Bf 110V-1 prototype flight - May 12, 1936, used from April 1936, production terminated in February 1945.
The Weekend...
The weekend was rather uneventful. Both of us were down at one point in time with the bug. I took Saturday and other half Sunday. Still not so flash but at least I don't feel like a wreck. Ended up watching DEATH NOTE, Read or Die and Funny Lady with Barbara Streisand on cable and amazingly Australian idol. The talent pool is depressing.
Watched a very moving Czech movie on SBS on Friday night - about Czech airforce pilot seconded into the British Royal Air Force during the 2nd world war, internment, falling in love and loosing good friends. Can't remember what its called.....but it was beautifully shot - RAW. I think its Tmavomodrý svět (Dark Blue World)?
Spring have arrived early this year and my roses are budding. I am waiting for the Golden Elm at the back to do the same. That is when my hayfever will start acting up but I can't live without the shade from that glorious 20 metres tall canopy. The other half was busy putting in a dripper system out the front...we are expecting a hot summer this year - the weather have been quite erratic so not too sure what to expect. I took in some sun yesterday which did me good and the boys had a great time at the park.
The new roses put in 8 weeks ago are also budding. I am hoping that they live through the heat this year. Also in small plastic pots are seed from the yellow cliveas mineata and we have around 20 of those. I can't wait for them to grow as well - it will take a long time. Ours are about 6 years old and they just started flowering last year.
So tonight is Yum Nuea time....a Vietnamese beef salad and Chicken and Corn soup.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
No Go for the Phantom this time around
The Melbourne trip had to be cancelled. I had infact made plans to go the Royal Adelaide Show with the hubby a couple of weeks back and tickets were already hanging on the fridge door. He was already sulking when I told him that I was heading to Melbourne but he kept his mouth shut and the usual emotional extortionist that he is, laid out plans to go on his own. Sometimes I think I inherited a child so I caved in. Its alright - in a strange but small way I think he is far too possessive but someone has to take the lead. This time though I did tell him to grow up a little and be less suffocating as it was stressing me out while trying to get over the influenza bug.Called the guys up and told them that I wasn't coming. This would be the 4th time that I am seeing Phantom but it was just good to get away on my own once awhile but alas it was not meant to be. The boys/girls were not disappointed and was infact surprised that he'd let me go in the first place but they too have not booked flights and accommodations being the lazy homosexuelles that they are!! Sometimes I think the reason why they annoy me so much these homosexuelles is that they all seem to take time for granted when I seem to have very little time of my own.
This is a picture of what they would look like as baby pups...the same size when we got ours! Like little black bears and they still are such sweethearts . I think I would go insane if I had to deal with the other half 24 x7.
That is what happens when you reach semi-retirement I guess. Oh well c'est la vie!
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Off Sick Yesterday...planning a trip to Melbourne.
I have been ill with the flu...I am still ill. Slept the whole day and the hubby stayed home too which was good coz I needed some pampering. He is not so flash either as the owner of this resilient bug. But did I sleep yesterday - like 6 hours during the day...the flu this year is really bad.
So the plan is to go to Melbourne from the 7th - 9th September to catch Phamtom with some friends from Sydney. Will probably book airline tickets once everyone is sure that they are heading up - they're so disorganised!! The theatre tickets have already been purchased, at least that is confirmed.
More later ...time to relax a little, this headache is killing me.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
There's is just something about Driving home...
This is the usual routine - I drive into the city with my 4x4 tank to pick up the other half. Midway through, the sun would begin to set and then without a doubt will get caught in this stretch of road leading to his office. The worst bit is that it takes about 15-30 minutes to get through - I really hate driving!
Cleaning out the Filters ...
So each time, two guys would come in...a Supervisor and his henchman (apprentice). I sit right underneath the air intake the reason why I have suggested that all the valves blowing air into my area gets shut off. The guys are also perturbed at the amount of cement that is getting caught in the filters - the reason why they too are not thrilled when they get here.
These are the guys... not bad for a little distraction when you're down with the flu! OK they're hot...
I'll Spin...Can I buy a pole dancer?
Kevin Rudd, Labour opposition leader is your average Joe. He likes a little skin, a little gin and a little amnesia pill but all in all he has come out looking like he always has...somewhat androgynous in his approach towards real policies preferring the political roulette or as Shakespeare once referred to as a time-pleaser while his escapades are made public from inside-out. The approach may or may not work for his image...making him more human to your average Joe, because everyone in public office goes to a strip club after work and - what would the Christian voters say? Is confession enough this time around mate?
Alas U.S style politics have finally arrived in Australia. For those expecting that no more dirt will be flung onto the idiot box will be extremely disappointed. I believe both parties have opted to organise a focus group to do just that - just watch the antics as we get closer to November. So begins the real biatch-smacking, crotch-grabbing and hair-pulling we can expect out of our very own Big Brother of an election year. Put up a good fight everyone and may the best man win!!
I have to say that I have a soft spot for Joe Hockey.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
I still love my RUGBY!
Friends Lost : David Lu & Iain Shepherd
I was going through a pile of CDs today and saw one of my older albums...I think 99-00 from ULTRA NATE. David had bought this for me while visiting us in Sydney - he currently lives with his partner in the UK Stockton-On-Tees. The sad thing is that I have been sending them Christmas cards each year but seem to have not had any reply.
David got into an accident last year that was quite bad - he was in the ICU for a couple of weeks and I remembered Iain calling me up 3 months later to say what had happened. I have decided that I should call them this week. It is plus 3 and a half hours minus 1 day (day is night and night is day) so I might be able to give them a ring in a couple of hour's time.
I hope that they are going well. We met our partners the same time...and David was a room-mate for a couple of months thereafter. It will be good to speak to them soon and see how things are progressing. I do miss them sometimes.
My new headphones.
So I decided to buy 3 headphones. 2 for me and 1 for the hubby. Sennheiser street wear...I know I shouldn't but then again I cannot live with the bass-less headphones I have now.
CX300B - One in Black and One in White
MX-55V Street - Something cheaper that I can throw around and not worry about them.
So they should be here Tuesday if I am lucky... will miss my PXC250 dearly coz it was a gift but then again if its broken its broken. En route...Rome was not built in a day!
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
My old Diary....
I grew into my sexuality rather meticulously. Every emotion was noted down equated by the circumstance, the surrounding, the scent, the colour and even a description of the person that I was with... his whole entire life within the confines of our conversation during that moment as we grew closer, etched onto paper and ink. I needed to understand my emotions and somehow rationalise its affects on my psyche... to know the science somehow of my own frailties I guess. Attraction needed to be defined - the curse and willfulness of youth combined with the inquisitiveness of pleasure sought.
Everything went into my little diary cum sketchbook complete with little anecdotes, hellos and goodbyes. I was listening to a podcast yesterday in which gay-minded individuals seem to bind themselves to the fact that there is no love @ first sight just lust. I have to agree that there are many out there afflicted by this dilemma. I call it dilemma because deep down inside all of us is that flicker of hope to somehow love for love sake. It is etched in their voices though they do not speak it; to transcend beyond the bodily function and grow old with someone complete. To find your soulmate - imperfect that they might be but your own.
So if you are looking for red meat, then you shouldn't be at the green grocer's. Because the 'city' is a big place, we often find ourselves lost in all the noise & hype. Follow the yellow brick road and you will find your way home.
I wrote to the only one in the group - the only one whom still believe in holding true to this ideal. As I see it, beaten but not broken. Admirable indeed - pure of heart. And because I may sometimes be too forward with what I think, I hope it is not misunderstood. There is little that we share which is good and I think we should all make an effort in connecting with one another in a positive way. Loving someone and not being in love with them is nothing to be ashamed of once you've reached a maturity in your relationship. Maturity is key and not everyone can bear the burden of unrequited love without flinching.
There is something about people that I know may seem a little spiritual but each and everyone of the people that I have been with have left an indelible mark on how I see the world. I take it to a good place no matter how mentally brutal some of them were in the end. I've kept a little compartment in my heart free so that my love have options. Most of them sadly are still single after a long but sustained sexual escapade after me, I have become an extra shoulder for them to cry on in their new found travels.
Somehow I think they are a little embarrassed to look me in the eye, averting contact that might belie their guilt. There should never ever be guilt over broken paths...it is what it is. We mend it together and we go on our separate journeys. I am no longer bitter and I do not pity them either for they should be encouraged to pick themselves up and move forward. There is no beginning as there is no end.
If there is one wish I could wish on all the people that I have grown to know is never give up on love. It is wondrous beyond words and it heals many things but most of all the indecision which shackles us to misery, will somehow become insignificant to the schema of that new found world. Hope is what makes humanity strong. I hope HE is listening today!
Everything went into my little diary cum sketchbook complete with little anecdotes, hellos and goodbyes. I was listening to a podcast yesterday in which gay-minded individuals seem to bind themselves to the fact that there is no love @ first sight just lust. I have to agree that there are many out there afflicted by this dilemma. I call it dilemma because deep down inside all of us is that flicker of hope to somehow love for love sake. It is etched in their voices though they do not speak it; to transcend beyond the bodily function and grow old with someone complete. To find your soulmate - imperfect that they might be but your own.
So if you are looking for red meat, then you shouldn't be at the green grocer's. Because the 'city' is a big place, we often find ourselves lost in all the noise & hype. Follow the yellow brick road and you will find your way home.
I wrote to the only one in the group - the only one whom still believe in holding true to this ideal. As I see it, beaten but not broken. Admirable indeed - pure of heart. And because I may sometimes be too forward with what I think, I hope it is not misunderstood. There is little that we share which is good and I think we should all make an effort in connecting with one another in a positive way. Loving someone and not being in love with them is nothing to be ashamed of once you've reached a maturity in your relationship. Maturity is key and not everyone can bear the burden of unrequited love without flinching.
There is something about people that I know may seem a little spiritual but each and everyone of the people that I have been with have left an indelible mark on how I see the world. I take it to a good place no matter how mentally brutal some of them were in the end. I've kept a little compartment in my heart free so that my love have options. Most of them sadly are still single after a long but sustained sexual escapade after me, I have become an extra shoulder for them to cry on in their new found travels.
Somehow I think they are a little embarrassed to look me in the eye, averting contact that might belie their guilt. There should never ever be guilt over broken paths...it is what it is. We mend it together and we go on our separate journeys. I am no longer bitter and I do not pity them either for they should be encouraged to pick themselves up and move forward. There is no beginning as there is no end.
If there is one wish I could wish on all the people that I have grown to know is never give up on love. It is wondrous beyond words and it heals many things but most of all the indecision which shackles us to misery, will somehow become insignificant to the schema of that new found world. Hope is what makes humanity strong. I hope HE is listening today!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
This week so far...
The other half has been home sick...and amazingly I have been cooking dinner. Last night was whiting with combination greens + crispy pumpkin. The night before was quiche night( caramelised onion, fetta, spinach & pumpkin) + balsamic/seeded mustard dressing salads. The day before was Steak/Corn on the Cob BBQ + Mixed Berry Salad. Tonight I am planning beef schnitzel coated with mashed anchovies for taste and another hearty salad or maybe Chicken soup? The only downside is that I have not had a good night's rest for 3 days - I'm living off adrenaline.
I'm a clean as you go type of person when I'm in the kitchen so by the end of it all, the plates and dishes are all done; just needing a wipe down. Weekday dinners need to be quick and easy or I'll go insane. Have also been making special Chai Lattes and Lattes in general with good ole fashion froth etc. I think I should have been a nurse or a barrista.
Still scouring the net for reviews on digital cameras...contemplating either a Nikon d40/d70, Sony Alpha (apparently there is a rumour of a 12Mega pixel coming out real soon) and a Canon Rebel XTi. Hopefully the Japan trip will bring to closure this wanting.
Still headphoneless...had to rummage the 'old crap' box at home for a temporary one until such time I get off my feet. Sometimes I am a little reluctant to purchase something of significant value...I am always breaking them. I have this gift since young - nothing ever survived in my hands. The time limit is 24 hours, and if it has made it that long, I give it 3 months.
Work has been very busy. Easy but busy so that is keeping me out of mischief.
I have the wardrobe painters today and the Chiro. Am looking forward to seeing "The PAULA" to complain about my body not coping without treatment but I think it is more of an addiction on my part. She goes on maternity at the end of the month and I'm not planning to go until she comes back.
Just finished Studio Ghibli's Earthsea and have just started on Trinity Blood. The latter is very gruesome. It is quite graphic for an anime - the Vatican vs. The Vampires and technology/robots all thrown in.
So that is about it, I shaved with a blade today instead of using the electric shaver and put on my favourite cologne. Certain scents are quite arousal to me and today I've decided to feel good about dressing up and smelling extra nice. I say bring SEXYBack...I wish. I should make an effort to feel good about myself and not let things cloud my vision.
Till then.....
I'm a clean as you go type of person when I'm in the kitchen so by the end of it all, the plates and dishes are all done; just needing a wipe down. Weekday dinners need to be quick and easy or I'll go insane. Have also been making special Chai Lattes and Lattes in general with good ole fashion froth etc. I think I should have been a nurse or a barrista.
Still scouring the net for reviews on digital cameras...contemplating either a Nikon d40/d70, Sony Alpha (apparently there is a rumour of a 12Mega pixel coming out real soon) and a Canon Rebel XTi. Hopefully the Japan trip will bring to closure this wanting.
Still headphoneless...had to rummage the 'old crap' box at home for a temporary one until such time I get off my feet. Sometimes I am a little reluctant to purchase something of significant value...I am always breaking them. I have this gift since young - nothing ever survived in my hands. The time limit is 24 hours, and if it has made it that long, I give it 3 months.
Work has been very busy. Easy but busy so that is keeping me out of mischief.
I have the wardrobe painters today and the Chiro. Am looking forward to seeing "The PAULA" to complain about my body not coping without treatment but I think it is more of an addiction on my part. She goes on maternity at the end of the month and I'm not planning to go until she comes back.
Just finished Studio Ghibli's Earthsea and have just started on Trinity Blood. The latter is very gruesome. It is quite graphic for an anime - the Vatican vs. The Vampires and technology/robots all thrown in.
So that is about it, I shaved with a blade today instead of using the electric shaver and put on my favourite cologne. Certain scents are quite arousal to me and today I've decided to feel good about dressing up and smelling extra nice. I say bring SEXYBack...I wish. I should make an effort to feel good about myself and not let things cloud my vision.
Till then.....
Monday, August 13, 2007
A song that made me cry!
over the cloud in the dusk
the hawk is flying always alone
he might surely be sorrowful
any sound was ceased in the wind
his wings takes the air
he can't rest his wings
how I express my mind
my mind like hawk
how I express my mind
my sadness like flying in the sky
the path in a field, nobody has passed
walking on there with me
you are surely lonely
on a grassy plain that insects has been chirping
we are making journey together
but we haven't been talking
how I express my mind
my mind that goes alone
how I express my mind
my loneliness that are alone
Sunday, August 12, 2007
I have just killed my Sennheisers!
Okay so this the 3rd headphones in a year. I know I am bad but yesterday I was annoyed and tugged really hard on the Sennheisers that it tore the wires from the mains and have left one of the headsets dead. I think I am getting more tantrums this year than I ever did so need to watch that temper.
Thank God it wasn't the ipod but this will be my 3rd Sennheisers this year. The last one was bought in Singapore just in April so I have no excuse....maybe I should be adventurous and find another pair of dead headphones and crosswire that but I am too lazy. It will positively work but finding headphones in the house will be hard since I always chuck things out when they don't work. I don't believe in hording!!
So today I am off to the shops and have been eyeing some headphones on Ebay. Have not decided whether I should stick with Sennheisers because I love them for their sound quality or convert to SHURE purely for vanity sake? Lets see what the day brings!!
Thank God it wasn't the ipod but this will be my 3rd Sennheisers this year. The last one was bought in Singapore just in April so I have no excuse....maybe I should be adventurous and find another pair of dead headphones and crosswire that but I am too lazy. It will positively work but finding headphones in the house will be hard since I always chuck things out when they don't work. I don't believe in hording!!
So today I am off to the shops and have been eyeing some headphones on Ebay. Have not decided whether I should stick with Sennheisers because I love them for their sound quality or convert to SHURE purely for vanity sake? Lets see what the day brings!!
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
You don't need Idol when you've got it...
Lisa Lavie will be big I predict in 2007! Giving Joss Stone/Amy Winehouse a run for their money...And she's Canadian!! The only glitch is that Bruce was Mariah's producer and it looks like the sound is going to be a wee bit familiar!
Tuesday, August 07, 2007
Amy Winehouse - Stronger than me...
So much better when she's not on crack!
Even better live...KEVIN!
More distraction for my ipod...
Pink Martini - Hey Eugene
Yes...I'm feeling a little soulful this week!
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