I am still at awe how people light up when you have something to gossip about with them? In my office, where the most exciting thing that will ever happen is when someone doesn't show up for work, gossipping is the ice-breaker. It basically takes away all the numbness of the mundane nature of crunching numbers. So today I acquiesced and did the thing that I've always avoided all these years ... I spoke ill of a colleague in the most 'congenial' way I could.
"The Bitch has no morals I tell you. As long as she gets what she wants, she will probably forget that it was you whom got her the job in the first place. And on top of that, she'd probably forget to thank you for the reference you gave her!"
So that was me being bitchy - not very flash I have to say. There were other words that flew across the room but I am too embarrassed to have it etched across the blog. Dreadful I know! So today I have decided to repent a little by reflecting on the nasty things that I have said and hopefully put the restraint back on for good. Someone needs to bitch-smack me sometimes! I blame it on reality TV...I don't watch reality TV!*sigh*
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
2 more dreadful days!!
YAY! Just 2 more days to go before I'm off on my vacation. It is getting very exciting...the hubby has been waking up early and making me send him to work 1/2 hour than usual. Well, he is not suppose to be excited but I think he is - last night he was still busy fussing around with the dilly bag! It is like 6 months since our last vacation so I can imagine what he is feeling. We both really need this.
Yesterday's course was really boring and the trainer dodgy! For Advanced, I think he knew very little than mere basic stuff but it was a day out of the office anyway so why not. I had so much coffee I was practically bouncing off the wall. Had a huge headache when I got home as well so ended up taking a short nap for around 1/2 hour to recover + asprin.
So today is the final day at work and I will be off early. Tomorrow is lunch with the in-laws to thank them for agreeing to look after the boys and the garden while we are away.
I can't wait to get my new camera....and hopefully be able to blog somehow while I am there. Not forgetting how I will miss reading Kevin, Andrew, Bents and listening to John, Peter&Pinoyboy and Brad. Be thinking of you all while I am there!!
Yesterday's course was really boring and the trainer dodgy! For Advanced, I think he knew very little than mere basic stuff but it was a day out of the office anyway so why not. I had so much coffee I was practically bouncing off the wall. Had a huge headache when I got home as well so ended up taking a short nap for around 1/2 hour to recover + asprin.
So today is the final day at work and I will be off early. Tomorrow is lunch with the in-laws to thank them for agreeing to look after the boys and the garden while we are away.
I can't wait to get my new camera....and hopefully be able to blog somehow while I am there. Not forgetting how I will miss reading Kevin, Andrew, Bents and listening to John, Peter&Pinoyboy and Brad. Be thinking of you all while I am there!!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Advanced Excel....what the?
So here I am at the Advanced Excel course on hump day. 3 more days to Japan and have been waking up early for God knows why? Hi to Kevin...hopefully November will be good for you in NY notwithstanding the Wintery weather. Don't bite too many people for Halloween - you might never know what you might catch.
Have yet to listen to the latest podcast on Ohmypod but it looks like I am suppose to get an ASUS in Tokyo. I've been eyeing a new laptop so that might be an icing on the cake for Christmas.
Have not heard a word from Andrew - he is probably in some remote area in Tibet...galavanting or chanting mantras!!
Till later...coffee break.
Have yet to listen to the latest podcast on Ohmypod but it looks like I am suppose to get an ASUS in Tokyo. I've been eyeing a new laptop so that might be an icing on the cake for Christmas.
Have not heard a word from Andrew - he is probably in some remote area in Tibet...galavanting or chanting mantras!!
Till later...coffee break.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Would you like some...
What if everything we're desperately looking for is the same thing for everyone else? Don't be afraid...here! You can have my dreams for the day and maybe you'll see what I mean. Here! Come let me caress you and embrace you with Hope for we are all on a quest - different but yet similar; satiate your thirst for the exotic and feel nourished.
A great saying....
MOUTH IN GEAR
BRAIN IN NEUTRAL....
Some people need to be more sensitive these days.
BRAIN IN NEUTRAL....
Some people need to be more sensitive these days.
Today I feel a little mellow....
Maybe because the Spring weather is somewhat dreary and the Monday blues are just too close to ignore. I wish I was in Europe with my friends...I miss them sometimes! Toujours! Mes amis...de tout mon couer.
She was no older than 5...standing at the edge of the train platform
The train was leaving the station and she stood at the edge of the platform looking intensely into the cabin; catching a direct glance into my cart. I saw her eyes and there was a wanting that we both knew was now lost - our tears giving way to the true nature of our being; damaged! It was fleeting but seemed a lifetime lost.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
So what are you up to?
Well I've been busy planning the cocktail cum Christmas lunch do on the 23rd of Nov. This is right after I come back from Japan which is 'very convenient'. It will also be month-end and lots of processing to be done prior to close off.
8 more days to Japan and I have also been checking out the Clothing wear site that Pinoyboy had on his blog. It is interesting and not too badly priced - around AUD$100 for Cashmere pullovers. No wonder those Japanese boys always look so skinny!! I like my boys with a little meat around the edges.
Heading to the hotel that we will be having the luncheon to place a deposit so that we can get the ball rolling this afternoon. The have excellent beer on tap as well. So its POET'S Friday...PISS OFF EARLY TODAY!
So far I've had everyone in the Adelaide office confirm their orders and am waiting for those in Melbourne to come back as to whether they're coming at all. It looks like we only have one person so far which is good since everyone in Adelaide is not looking forward to mingling with the bosses and feeding those that have recently made them redundant.Oh well....my thoughts are there shouldn't be any restrictions if you are in the spirit of giving. That's just childish! Each to their own I guess.
The weekend will see us "passing the keys" to the in-laws. We're heading to their place for afternoon tea (early) so that we can escape before evening starts creeping in. It gets a little colder being up close to the hills where they are. Pretty but cold. Spring is a little wierd this year and the change has been quite erratic and unpredictable.
Have a good weekend guys....it is Halloween in the States. Remember that sugar is bad for your teeth and only naughty boys get bitten by Vampires.
Ciao Guys!
8 more days to Japan and I have also been checking out the Clothing wear site that Pinoyboy had on his blog. It is interesting and not too badly priced - around AUD$100 for Cashmere pullovers. No wonder those Japanese boys always look so skinny!! I like my boys with a little meat around the edges.
Heading to the hotel that we will be having the luncheon to place a deposit so that we can get the ball rolling this afternoon. The have excellent beer on tap as well. So its POET'S Friday...PISS OFF EARLY TODAY!
So far I've had everyone in the Adelaide office confirm their orders and am waiting for those in Melbourne to come back as to whether they're coming at all. It looks like we only have one person so far which is good since everyone in Adelaide is not looking forward to mingling with the bosses and feeding those that have recently made them redundant.Oh well....my thoughts are there shouldn't be any restrictions if you are in the spirit of giving. That's just childish! Each to their own I guess.
The weekend will see us "passing the keys" to the in-laws. We're heading to their place for afternoon tea (early) so that we can escape before evening starts creeping in. It gets a little colder being up close to the hills where they are. Pretty but cold. Spring is a little wierd this year and the change has been quite erratic and unpredictable.
Have a good weekend guys....it is Halloween in the States. Remember that sugar is bad for your teeth and only naughty boys get bitten by Vampires.
Ciao Guys!
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Monday, October 22, 2007
My iPod Distraction ....
Kitaro - 2 out of 5
Josh Pyke - 3 out of 5
KT Tunstall - 2 out of 5
Kate Nash - 3 out of 5
Random thoughts....
Must pack less so that the Samsonite....
So many music - which to bring?
Lightroom is fantastic! Thanks Peter/Pinoyboy.
My neck is killing me - must have pulled a muscle.
Tom Ford new scent/parfum is intoxicating!
Andrew Faith is having fun in Tibet!
I want a holiday.
I am hungry.
Hubby wants Diablo and Doom.
I want a 60GB PS3.
John Ong can count.
Asian Asian Asian - bloody bad drivers.
Kevin likes Horror Movies and Vampires.
Tech boys circle jerk with their toys.
I think I am no use today at work!
So many music - which to bring?
Lightroom is fantastic! Thanks Peter/Pinoyboy.
My neck is killing me - must have pulled a muscle.
Tom Ford new scent/parfum is intoxicating!
Andrew Faith is having fun in Tibet!
I want a holiday.
I am hungry.
Hubby wants Diablo and Doom.
I want a 60GB PS3.
John Ong can count.
Asian Asian Asian - bloody bad drivers.
Kevin likes Horror Movies and Vampires.
Tech boys circle jerk with their toys.
I think I am no use today at work!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Why are my dreams so intense...
The kids were presumed dead as their Parents cradled them in their arms. In the moment of pure panic there was no time to shed a tear. Dad was frantically rushing through the traffic when one of the kids stirred followed by the other. It was hard to make out where they were but I stood among them looking in and speechless.
"I feel tired mum", said the older kid face covered with soot.
"Just let go darling. We are alright. You don't have to fight anymore. Mommy love you sweetheart. It will be alright."
A sense of hopelessness filled the air. The sadness was overwhelming - searing almost; it washed over me with such a rush that it felt like something had given way.I sense life draining away and I can't seem to help them. My view switched from being the observer to that of the caring Parent.
"Are you OK?", said Mum No.2.
"How are you feeling? Just hang on!"
The other kid was in no better shape. His limbs were lifeless yet the twitching of the eye was constant and somehow became less and less as the truck made its way in urgency towards an unknown destination.
With Hope then came the Silence.
I woke up in the night to some blistering twilight as my vision came around to embrace the darkness tears abundant. Something was lost?
I always tell the hubby that I have a very sad soul. Often I find myself in tears in the middle of the night and sometimes I wake up devastated by what has transpired in my psyche. I realise that my connection to the things around me are heightened because I embrace all things living - the reason why the News often throws me into such woes that I prefer to think about the positives of the world; often in self-denial.
I know when someone is sad and when someone is not - loneliness is deafening; happiness fills me up with delight that I feel energised.
Today was one of those days where I felt as if something was taken away from me and my sadness have no name nor will it.
"I feel tired mum", said the older kid face covered with soot.
"Just let go darling. We are alright. You don't have to fight anymore. Mommy love you sweetheart. It will be alright."
A sense of hopelessness filled the air. The sadness was overwhelming - searing almost; it washed over me with such a rush that it felt like something had given way.I sense life draining away and I can't seem to help them. My view switched from being the observer to that of the caring Parent.
"Are you OK?", said Mum No.2.
"How are you feeling? Just hang on!"
The other kid was in no better shape. His limbs were lifeless yet the twitching of the eye was constant and somehow became less and less as the truck made its way in urgency towards an unknown destination.
With Hope then came the Silence.
I woke up in the night to some blistering twilight as my vision came around to embrace the darkness tears abundant. Something was lost?
I always tell the hubby that I have a very sad soul. Often I find myself in tears in the middle of the night and sometimes I wake up devastated by what has transpired in my psyche. I realise that my connection to the things around me are heightened because I embrace all things living - the reason why the News often throws me into such woes that I prefer to think about the positives of the world; often in self-denial.
I know when someone is sad and when someone is not - loneliness is deafening; happiness fills me up with delight that I feel energised.
Today was one of those days where I felt as if something was taken away from me and my sadness have no name nor will it.
Say No to drugs....Time to hang the boots Ben!
Football Clubs need to get their act together. Just because a player is gifted, it doesn't mean that you can bend the rules and make things go away. I am a firm believer that drugs are bad for you - no matter what the excuse is and have little tolerance on such issues. Too many lives are lost through such irresponsible acts and it is time for people to say "No".
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
The Sony Alpha 700
I know some people will just drool over the 12.2MP camera and at AUD$2.3K, this may seem a little exhorbitant for the amateur photographer but if you know what you like....
A recent article carried by WHAT DIGITAL CAMERA for its Nov print has a 2-page spread of the Alpha 700 - pointing out that the great innovation coming from Sony is that images go through what it calls an Exmor sensor reducing the noise level at its source resulting in a clearer image. It then passes through 2 more stages of noise reduction and a higher ISO NR is applied when shooting at ISO 1600 or 3200. On top of that, it offers 11 point AF with a centre dual-cross for faster performance apparently 5fps!
A rival to the Canon 40D and D300 but somewhat pricey to buy in Australia.
The Dec 07 of the Magazine will see it tested.
Here's a link to read on : http://www.dpreview.com/previews/SonyDSLRA700/
The Dec 07 of the Magazine will see it tested.
Here's a link to read on : http://www.dpreview.com/previews/SonyDSLRA700/
The City new Tramline...
It has taken the State a load of cash to get this organised + congestion causing roadworks for more than 6 months but finally we can take the tram all the way into the city...so very convenient although we have been walking quite often. Our bit to keep fit rather than just walk 5 minutes to the station and another 15 into the city and voila!
So here are a couple of picks taken from my Nokia 6280 while driving...not really driving but while waiting for the lights to change. Gives you an impression of what Adelaideans look like...oh how depressing!!!
The plan is if I do get a job in the city, then there will be no need for driving which is great coz the Diesel Monster Guzzler can remain in the garage...I do hate driving - it is just that the flow of traffic is so bad and the road transport authority has in place such an aged system that 'intelligence' is not part of the criteria. They need some lessons in Quantum Mechanics!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Nano'd Out!
So what am I up to? Well I have been loading up new music into my iPod so that I can listen to it when I am on the Hikari Trains! Also loaded up are Evan Almighty and Hot Fuzz...I think I will rip some more movies just in case the flight entertainment is lame - I'm flying Qantas; okay maybe I need more than 2 less than 10. Under-statements and Qantas?!
I am currently listening to Feist, Raconteurs, Pink Martini, Mahya, The Editors, James Morrison and back to nostalgia...Sinead, Alanis and Cocteau Twins + loads of Drum and Bass+ Hotel Costes I to X!
I have to say that although Coverflow is such a gimmick, I have fallen in love with it. The other half thinks that I am mad (totally). The annoying bit is that I have to manually cut and paste the images on iTunes especially when I have real old albums. My iPod is set on manual which I am more confortable with. Oh well can't have everything can you?
So what is planned for tonight. I am making my famous Thai Beef Salad...so I will need coriander and mint. Hopefully the local grocers will have fresh ones. A pot of low GI rice to boot. I totally recommend going low GI for those trying to loose weight coz it is very effective. Cut down on Carbs as well if you're not heading to the Gym enough because Carb and Sugar in various combination does equate to more body weight. Look who's talking...
To Kevin/Keiran - Thank you for your lovely notes. I know sometimes Life takes you on an unpredictable ride but your little gestures have made me a little happier and the journey less cumbersome! Counting my blessings as I write......
Ciao guys and catch you tomorrow....
PS: Take care Andrew - be good in Bangkok or NOT!
I am currently listening to Feist, Raconteurs, Pink Martini, Mahya, The Editors, James Morrison and back to nostalgia...Sinead, Alanis and Cocteau Twins + loads of Drum and Bass+ Hotel Costes I to X!
I have to say that although Coverflow is such a gimmick, I have fallen in love with it. The other half thinks that I am mad (totally). The annoying bit is that I have to manually cut and paste the images on iTunes especially when I have real old albums. My iPod is set on manual which I am more confortable with. Oh well can't have everything can you?
So what is planned for tonight. I am making my famous Thai Beef Salad...so I will need coriander and mint. Hopefully the local grocers will have fresh ones. A pot of low GI rice to boot. I totally recommend going low GI for those trying to loose weight coz it is very effective. Cut down on Carbs as well if you're not heading to the Gym enough because Carb and Sugar in various combination does equate to more body weight. Look who's talking...
To Kevin/Keiran - Thank you for your lovely notes. I know sometimes Life takes you on an unpredictable ride but your little gestures have made me a little happier and the journey less cumbersome! Counting my blessings as I write......
Ciao guys and catch you tomorrow....
PS: Take care Andrew - be good in Bangkok or NOT!
Singapore Airlines A380 Arrives
The A380 has finally arrived and the Singapore - Sydney route will see its first run today. I am excited coz we will be on it in March 2008 when we do our Vietnam Trip's return flight. Not too sure whether the brother in-law will be on it as he does the Singapore-Sydney route quite often and have been training new SQ recruits on how to work the plane and the service. More pictures soon!!
Something else to look forward to on my final month at work next year in Q1/08.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
The weekend that was III
So here are a couple of shots...just to show you what I mean and my other distractions...iced coffee and the boys!
OK so what happened over the weekend? Nothing much really...we were pretty lazy. Headed off to see PA to congratulate him on a be-early birthday and long drive up the Adelaide Hills.
OK so what happened over the weekend? Nothing much really...we were pretty lazy. Headed off to see PA to congratulate him on a be-early birthday and long drive up the Adelaide Hills.
The hubby was very sweet and got me my very own 8GB nano to cheer me up with the surprises this week at work. I am still trying to figure out how to dump some videos in there out of curiosity but have been busy loading new music instead. Taken out from its pristine box is the Sennheisers CX300 which sounds great.
Lots of shootings in the city - Adelaide is too quiet so any sort of shooting causes the city to shut down and of course the election has been called with voting to take place on the 24th of November. Alas it is Monday and I am enthused to say the least to do anything....
Lots of shootings in the city - Adelaide is too quiet so any sort of shooting causes the city to shut down and of course the election has been called with voting to take place on the 24th of November. Alas it is Monday and I am enthused to say the least to do anything....
Thursday, October 11, 2007
A brand new day...
I've always held a strong belief that when Life throws you a curve ball, you return the favour. I have started to work through the emotions and draft an action plan. November will see the holidays and Dec, being close to Christmas, spending time at the holiday house with family and year's end financial obligation. I will try to enjoy myself but I know there will be moments.
January will be busy with the decommissioning of an application with the migration of data into SAP (Global) for the current business that I am employed with. Feb is the time when everyone is back from School holidays and the employment market is more buoyant. Resumes will then be sent out to prospective employers. It will be a busy few months I guess and I am trying not to make the situation worse by imposing on the hubby too much during this period.
We are still heading off to Vietnam in March so that will be the last run for me and then I should be 'unemployed' by the time I come back from my vacation. All is good though as long as I keep the panic monster in check.
January will be busy with the decommissioning of an application with the migration of data into SAP (Global) for the current business that I am employed with. Feb is the time when everyone is back from School holidays and the employment market is more buoyant. Resumes will then be sent out to prospective employers. It will be a busy few months I guess and I am trying not to make the situation worse by imposing on the hubby too much during this period.
We are still heading off to Vietnam in March so that will be the last run for me and then I should be 'unemployed' by the time I come back from my vacation. All is good though as long as I keep the panic monster in check.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Murphy's Law - Hello Mr. Redundancy!
Yesterday turned out to be quite horrid at work. Everyone was told that by end of Q1 2008 they're jobs are being re-routed to KL/Melbourne and redundancies are coming our way. I knew that this was coming and I am neither surprised nor angry. So I have 5 months of employment and 3 months payout totalling 8 months before I have to find another job. I think I will start looking in Feb since I am still heading to Vietnam in March.
I am not too perturbed though and am looking forward to my vacation in a fortnight's time. To keep spirits high in the office, I am also trying to organise our last Christmas dinner. Hoping to make it a blast with a trip to a cocktail bar thereafter.
This will be my first time being made redundant though as I have never stayed in a job for 5 years before. It is usually 2-3 years and I'm out of the door. Working for this company has been challenging to say the least especially when things are so badly 'broken'. I suppose I drove myself out of a job for being too proactive but that is what I do best - fix things. Odd but so true.
I've met some interesting people along the way and have learnt to truly appreciate the nature of being Australian. It is about jobs and job satisfaction but if you are not proactive then you risk loosing it. Personal responsibility is good for the soul - the fact that you're not constantly improving yourself in your role, is a good indication that it is time to go.
So today, I am taking out a piece of 'goodness' from my bag of positives so that I can get through the day without feeling depressed. No matter how strong I am, we are all human afterall and I will miss my job dearly as mindless as it may be.
I am not too perturbed though and am looking forward to my vacation in a fortnight's time. To keep spirits high in the office, I am also trying to organise our last Christmas dinner. Hoping to make it a blast with a trip to a cocktail bar thereafter.
This will be my first time being made redundant though as I have never stayed in a job for 5 years before. It is usually 2-3 years and I'm out of the door. Working for this company has been challenging to say the least especially when things are so badly 'broken'. I suppose I drove myself out of a job for being too proactive but that is what I do best - fix things. Odd but so true.
I've met some interesting people along the way and have learnt to truly appreciate the nature of being Australian. It is about jobs and job satisfaction but if you are not proactive then you risk loosing it. Personal responsibility is good for the soul - the fact that you're not constantly improving yourself in your role, is a good indication that it is time to go.
So today, I am taking out a piece of 'goodness' from my bag of positives so that I can get through the day without feeling depressed. No matter how strong I am, we are all human afterall and I will miss my job dearly as mindless as it may be.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Salutations to Friends!
- Kevin - hope the week have been good for you! Jamba...can I have some? (see Hadi break into a dance...)
- Andrew - Can I come? I have thermals...
- Peter - Don't forget to Blog. I like the new pics. Goatees are hot!
- John - I love your Flickr pics. Not so much the Pork vids!
- Pinoyboy - Godot is a bad read! Bad read! Thanks for Jhumpa...I'm bringing "Maladies" to Japan with me.
- Kathy - Found some nice boys in Prague yet? Don't ask Don't tell.
- Kim - Happy Birthday! I won't publicise the age thing I promise...
- Lee - Its not like Burma does not have internet! Write me you snob! LOL.
- Jimi - How can everything rhyme with complicated?
- Carson - Canadians and red cheeks? HUH?
- Brad - Ah so sweet! Unpack the iMac already!
- Wella - Why is everyone having babies?
- Bents - OK I want another European vacation + 1 good looking Spanish porter please.
- Keiran - I have loincloths for Womadelaide but nothing matches! Am I in trouble?
I wish you all good fortune and "Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir & Batin"....meaning have a great New Year and I beg forgiveness for all the things that I may have said or done to you from the bottom of my heart and soul. How can 7 words carry so much weight!
God Bless - even for you agnostics!
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Politically Correct Horoscopes!!
Talk about inciting hate-crimes!!
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
You have an inventive mind and are inclined to be progressive. You lie a great deal. On the other hand, you are inclined to be careless and impractical, causing you to make the same mistakes repeatedly. Everyone thinks you're a fucking jerk.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
You have a vivid imagination and often think you are being followed by the FBI or CIA. You have minor influence over your friends and people resent you for flaunting your power. You lack confidence and are generally a coward. Pisces pick their nose alot.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
You are the pioneer type and hold most people in contempt. You are quick tempered, impatient, and scornful of advice. YOU ARE A PRICK.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You are practical and persistent. You have a dogged determination and work like hell. Most people think you are stubborn and bull-headed. YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A GODDAMN COMMUNIST.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You are a quick and intelligent thinker. People like you because you are a bisexual. However, you are inclined to expect too much for too little. This means you are a cheap bastard. Gemini are notorious for thriving on incest.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
You are sympathetic and understanding to other people's problems. They think you are a sucker. You are always putting things off. That is why you will always be on welfare and won't be worth a shit.
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
You consider yourself a born leader. Others think you are pushy. Most Leo's are bullies. You are vain and cannot tolerate honest criticism. Your arrogance is disgusting. Leo's are thieving bastards and kiss mirrors alot.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You are the logical type and hate disorder. This nit-picking is sickening to your friends. You are cold and unemotional and often fall asleep while screwing. Virgos make good bus drivers or pimps.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
You are the artistic type and have a difficult time with reality. If you are a male, you are probably queer. Chances for employment and monetary gain are excellent. Most Libra women are whores. All Librans die of venerial disease.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
You are shrewd in business and cannot be trusted. You shall achieve the pinnacle of success because of your total lack of ethics. You are a perfect son-of-a-bitch. Most Scorpios are murdered.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
You are optimistic and enthusiastic. You have a reckless tendency to rely on luck since you have no talent. The majority of Sagittarians are drunks or pot heads. People laugh at you alot because you are always getting fucked.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
You are conservative and afraid of taking risks. You are basically a chicken-shit. There has never been a Capricorn of importance. You should kill yourself.
Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)
You have an inventive mind and are inclined to be progressive. You lie a great deal. On the other hand, you are inclined to be careless and impractical, causing you to make the same mistakes repeatedly. Everyone thinks you're a fucking jerk.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20)
You have a vivid imagination and often think you are being followed by the FBI or CIA. You have minor influence over your friends and people resent you for flaunting your power. You lack confidence and are generally a coward. Pisces pick their nose alot.
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
You are the pioneer type and hold most people in contempt. You are quick tempered, impatient, and scornful of advice. YOU ARE A PRICK.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
You are practical and persistent. You have a dogged determination and work like hell. Most people think you are stubborn and bull-headed. YOU ARE NOTHING BUT A GODDAMN COMMUNIST.
Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
You are a quick and intelligent thinker. People like you because you are a bisexual. However, you are inclined to expect too much for too little. This means you are a cheap bastard. Gemini are notorious for thriving on incest.
Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
You are sympathetic and understanding to other people's problems. They think you are a sucker. You are always putting things off. That is why you will always be on welfare and won't be worth a shit.
Leo (July 23 - August 22)
You consider yourself a born leader. Others think you are pushy. Most Leo's are bullies. You are vain and cannot tolerate honest criticism. Your arrogance is disgusting. Leo's are thieving bastards and kiss mirrors alot.
Virgo (August 23 - September 22)
You are the logical type and hate disorder. This nit-picking is sickening to your friends. You are cold and unemotional and often fall asleep while screwing. Virgos make good bus drivers or pimps.
Libra (September 23 - October 22)
You are the artistic type and have a difficult time with reality. If you are a male, you are probably queer. Chances for employment and monetary gain are excellent. Most Libra women are whores. All Librans die of venerial disease.
Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)
You are shrewd in business and cannot be trusted. You shall achieve the pinnacle of success because of your total lack of ethics. You are a perfect son-of-a-bitch. Most Scorpios are murdered.
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)
You are optimistic and enthusiastic. You have a reckless tendency to rely on luck since you have no talent. The majority of Sagittarians are drunks or pot heads. People laugh at you alot because you are always getting fucked.
Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)
You are conservative and afraid of taking risks. You are basically a chicken-shit. There has never been a Capricorn of importance. You should kill yourself.
What does ND filter do?
I really hate reading about camera jargons but this one I had to try. Remember all those great pics with waterfalls looking like they're in motion while the background is set to 'do not bugde' mode?
Well ND filter does the same thing on DSLRs...it slows down your shutter speed, I think, without compromising your aperture (clarity) i.e. you will therefore need a tripod for this to make the experiment work...I chose otherwise.
The Pro 1 has this function built-in on P setting but this was taken without a tripod. Silly I know but doesn't the washing machine look all Dr Who to you? Is that the Tardus?
Inspired by John Ong...from my garden.
Blue image Canon Pro1 with WB Tungsten effect with no added zoom attachment. The Pro 1 is OK and you have to be really careful with the Super Macro option. The good thing is that I am using it more now then ever.
The 'Bokeh' is not to bad either - that blurred effect at the back as long you can hold your camera steady without a need for either a monopod or tripod.
The 'Bokeh' is not to bad either - that blurred effect at the back as long you can hold your camera steady without a need for either a monopod or tripod.
These bearded Irises are just so sensuous. I am waiting for the other colours to start flowering. Have been busy fertilising the rest since last year's bloom so hopefully this year, the bulbs would have saved enough 'energy' to give the garden a spectacular makeover.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
I use to walk these streets....
I came across a picture of Koon Seng Rd in Singapore where I use to walk to school and not forgetting the corner store that touted a rather delicious popsicle for just 10cents at that time. You can almost see it...the one with the striped canopy.
Living away from home sometimes can be a very lonely affair but imagine living in one of those pre-war houses now- decadent! It takes alot to pack your life into a suitcase and move...but once awhile it is also heartwarming to be able to reminisce.
I went to an 'all boys' Presbyterian School for the very reason that they offered better than average education in the early 80s. A little Muslim boy attending Friday Mass was the talk of the town and I had to be counciled by one of the teachers for my curiosity. How odd I thought? The trouble with the whole setup was that most of the students were God-fearing Presbyterians and mostly spoke Mandarin or other Chinese derivative languages.
It was fine by me because I had an inclination to languages but the high-school experience was nothing to brag about apart from my many juvenile crushes over the Soccer team and in particular a straight classmate whom once told me 'not to indulge' in flight of fancies. I think I was intimidating as a teenager to some, I guess with my unorthodox approach to rules and regulations - they just could not understand why I was such a handful.
Mom...Dad...this is...
Vince came from a large family surrounded by Aunties, Uncles and Cousins. The introduction was going to be difficult not only for him but his partner especially when it was obvious that Ming was from an entirely foreign culture. This was either going to work or they will have to start their own lives without family. The thought never really crossed Vince's mind but Ming on the other hand, retracted into the comfort of selflessness and acquiesced. He loved Vince dearly.
Ming waited for the moment to arrive; after hours of preparation he was ready to face what was to come. He felt all jittery as if this was a momentous interview on a planetary scale. He sat waiting in Vince's old bed, the bed he grew up in and the room that still remained unpainted and untouched all these years. The wallpaper still had crayon scribbles and patches of colour where a child had unwittingly tried to hide his indiscretions.
The tallboy was all decked with pictures of summer vacations, Vince's first tricycle and graduation shots intensifying the moment even further. He dreaded what was to come and could feel an overwhelming sensation of grief that poured from every corner of the house. Coming out was to be a celebration but in this family, it was as if someone had died. But Vince had other ideas; his love was untainted by hope.
"Don't worry love, they'll understand because they know that I love them as much as I love you." The gravity of those words resonated in Ming's cavernous mind like an unanswered echo. All good intentions aside, Ming could not understand the pang of guilt that came over him that day. Vince was a wondrous man but moments like these makes it much worse - Ming just wasn't strong enough to take on such a responsibility for circumstances that are about to take shape that he had no control over. He had never let anyone assume the role of dictating outcomes that included him in the scenario.
The entire Russo clan was coming together this afternoon to be part of the formal introductions. It had to be an event in itself - the Russo way of life. The morning was thus spend grooming, working out topics of conversation and hopefully some humorous lines about the weather, work and awkward social events that everyone could unwittingly shake their head to and giggle mindlessly - Ming was spent and it was still a quarter to 12. He still had at least another hour before the house starts pouring in with guests.
"Hopefully it won't be such a disappointing experiment", Ming exhaled as he made his way to the family room almost resolute to feeling a wee bit intimidated by all the attention that he was about to get.
Within minutes, the hugging and hellos died down and a line was made. "Strange? Why are all this people lining up for like waiting to buy tickets for a show or something?" Ming's psyche was hard at work rationalising sequences after sequences.
Vince began the introduction, the shaking of hands, the flying daggers and looks of resentment that Ming had always had an answer for when he was in control of situations. He felt vulnerable and bereaved by the whole thing. "How can the man I love not know how this whole experience is affecting me?" Ming sighed. He had never sighed for an hour before till today. It was draining and he was so very sad.
It was evening; Ming packed his bag and made his way downtown. He had left a nice note on the dresser for Vince. It was not a goodbye note but more like 'I need my own space and I'll see you tomorrow". Ming counted himself lucky for Vince was perfect; well brought up, responsible and such a warm person that his caresses could melt any diehard ice-queen into jello. His physical stature alone dictated a sense of security. With such great positives, Ming could not understand what went wrong today.
Hadi's dream continues...
Ming waited for the moment to arrive; after hours of preparation he was ready to face what was to come. He felt all jittery as if this was a momentous interview on a planetary scale. He sat waiting in Vince's old bed, the bed he grew up in and the room that still remained unpainted and untouched all these years. The wallpaper still had crayon scribbles and patches of colour where a child had unwittingly tried to hide his indiscretions.
The tallboy was all decked with pictures of summer vacations, Vince's first tricycle and graduation shots intensifying the moment even further. He dreaded what was to come and could feel an overwhelming sensation of grief that poured from every corner of the house. Coming out was to be a celebration but in this family, it was as if someone had died. But Vince had other ideas; his love was untainted by hope.
"Don't worry love, they'll understand because they know that I love them as much as I love you." The gravity of those words resonated in Ming's cavernous mind like an unanswered echo. All good intentions aside, Ming could not understand the pang of guilt that came over him that day. Vince was a wondrous man but moments like these makes it much worse - Ming just wasn't strong enough to take on such a responsibility for circumstances that are about to take shape that he had no control over. He had never let anyone assume the role of dictating outcomes that included him in the scenario.
The entire Russo clan was coming together this afternoon to be part of the formal introductions. It had to be an event in itself - the Russo way of life. The morning was thus spend grooming, working out topics of conversation and hopefully some humorous lines about the weather, work and awkward social events that everyone could unwittingly shake their head to and giggle mindlessly - Ming was spent and it was still a quarter to 12. He still had at least another hour before the house starts pouring in with guests.
"Hopefully it won't be such a disappointing experiment", Ming exhaled as he made his way to the family room almost resolute to feeling a wee bit intimidated by all the attention that he was about to get.
Within minutes, the hugging and hellos died down and a line was made. "Strange? Why are all this people lining up for like waiting to buy tickets for a show or something?" Ming's psyche was hard at work rationalising sequences after sequences.
Vince began the introduction, the shaking of hands, the flying daggers and looks of resentment that Ming had always had an answer for when he was in control of situations. He felt vulnerable and bereaved by the whole thing. "How can the man I love not know how this whole experience is affecting me?" Ming sighed. He had never sighed for an hour before till today. It was draining and he was so very sad.
It was evening; Ming packed his bag and made his way downtown. He had left a nice note on the dresser for Vince. It was not a goodbye note but more like 'I need my own space and I'll see you tomorrow". Ming counted himself lucky for Vince was perfect; well brought up, responsible and such a warm person that his caresses could melt any diehard ice-queen into jello. His physical stature alone dictated a sense of security. With such great positives, Ming could not understand what went wrong today.
Hadi's dream continues...
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Akihabara - Yodobashi AKIBA!!
OMG...iMacs, Powerbooks and a whole load of crap that I WILL need!
NANI? I feel giddy....
NANI? I feel giddy....
His apartment overlooked the river....
His apartment overlooked the river with large tinted windows - you could peer out into the horizon for hours on end. It was a fair way from the elevator and you had to meander along narrow passages to get to his front door on the 17th floor but the view was spectacular and worth the effort.
Wayne worked as a consultant, never really ventured to explain what he does to anyone but he was definitely divorced and had a wonderful teenage daughter whom now resides in the UK. Being English with a rather peculiar inclination to fine whiskey, he also loved having a bath in the midst of a long hot summer's night.
The apartment had a small white-washed galley kitchen but it sufficed for a single person that was as transient as a shadow needed no more. He also liked his omelet and potatoes; not one to entertain so a full set of crockery was deemed frivilous. I reckon he would be in his mid to late 50s now- no commitment apart from the past and living a rather mundane cycle of hellos and goodbyes; adding to the list of intended near misses with no intentions of long walks by the beach was inadvertently crucial to his own sanity. I suppose he was complex and unforgivingly selfish.
Nonetheless he always had his best chum with him though like a fly on the wall; a mysterious 'fag-hag' of a man but a wonderful human-being that watched over him like a hawk. He used to tell the boys that Wayne would date that what they expect can never be fulfilled and that they should start looking elsewhere to avoid getting hurt in the long-run. All good intentions aside, the relationship they had was one filled with mystery but a confidence that only a past encounter could bind.
Sometimes I sit down and wonder why people go through all that trouble?
Wayne worked as a consultant, never really ventured to explain what he does to anyone but he was definitely divorced and had a wonderful teenage daughter whom now resides in the UK. Being English with a rather peculiar inclination to fine whiskey, he also loved having a bath in the midst of a long hot summer's night.
The apartment had a small white-washed galley kitchen but it sufficed for a single person that was as transient as a shadow needed no more. He also liked his omelet and potatoes; not one to entertain so a full set of crockery was deemed frivilous. I reckon he would be in his mid to late 50s now- no commitment apart from the past and living a rather mundane cycle of hellos and goodbyes; adding to the list of intended near misses with no intentions of long walks by the beach was inadvertently crucial to his own sanity. I suppose he was complex and unforgivingly selfish.
Nonetheless he always had his best chum with him though like a fly on the wall; a mysterious 'fag-hag' of a man but a wonderful human-being that watched over him like a hawk. He used to tell the boys that Wayne would date that what they expect can never be fulfilled and that they should start looking elsewhere to avoid getting hurt in the long-run. All good intentions aside, the relationship they had was one filled with mystery but a confidence that only a past encounter could bind.
Sometimes I sit down and wonder why people go through all that trouble?
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Blogging in Japan...Options?
So I'm not planning to bring my laptop... as I have always left techology behind when I go away - so that work will leave me alone. The other alternative is to see whether there is a live blogger section that I can link to my phone. On a bright day, the 2MP doesn't do too badly so that you can see a trail of images when I am there.
Lets see what happens next....there is no plan to hang around the hotel for hours when I could be venturing out, hunting for that elusive Kaiseki meal.
I think I desperately need a holiday!
Lets see what happens next....there is no plan to hang around the hotel for hours when I could be venturing out, hunting for that elusive Kaiseki meal.
I think I desperately need a holiday!
When Generosity can be insulting!
You see I consider myself pretty considerate and have always churn-out scenarios in my head before deciding on anything critical especially sensitive situations like weddings, funerals, birthdays, anniversaries etc.
Last night Pa (the other half's grandpa) sent him a birthday card. Attached to it was a $5/- note. I think the other half was rather upset by this as it was also Pa's birthday this month. He would rather that no money was sent across - it cheapened the whole idea of birthdays. I suppose the fact that $100/- were already in Pa's card didn't help the situation.
The trouble with old people is that they are afraid of dying poor even though their perception of wealth is only driven by their insecurities. Pa is not poor as his kids are millionaires. His net value will see him through another 15 years and he is already in his 90s. He could be holidaying in Spain if he wanted to but I guess his world is what he makes of it. Honestly, I think he grew up selfish and therefore can never change. The other half is well aware of my view on things. But I couldn't help seeing how sad he was at such a thoughtless act.
When Grandma was ill, he was quick to relinquish her to the home for he knew he could not cope. We were always very supportive of home care and have made an effort to ensure that the transition will not be a shock but always keeping home care as an option. We also offered to be a crutch throughout this process if Pa needed us.
For us, if we grew old we would want to be together and not separated by such human afflictions. I guess grandchildren are perceived differently than the assurances of your own kids. Families can be manipulative at times. The reason why having children can be a burden in itself. Too many sensitivities to consider rather than your own.
So today I am taking the other half shopping. Maybe some nice shirts for the trip might distract him from the nastiness of the world. Can money buy you happiness? Since Happiness is relative...you might have to dig deep to understand your need!
Last night Pa (the other half's grandpa) sent him a birthday card. Attached to it was a $5/- note. I think the other half was rather upset by this as it was also Pa's birthday this month. He would rather that no money was sent across - it cheapened the whole idea of birthdays. I suppose the fact that $100/- were already in Pa's card didn't help the situation.
The trouble with old people is that they are afraid of dying poor even though their perception of wealth is only driven by their insecurities. Pa is not poor as his kids are millionaires. His net value will see him through another 15 years and he is already in his 90s. He could be holidaying in Spain if he wanted to but I guess his world is what he makes of it. Honestly, I think he grew up selfish and therefore can never change. The other half is well aware of my view on things. But I couldn't help seeing how sad he was at such a thoughtless act.
When Grandma was ill, he was quick to relinquish her to the home for he knew he could not cope. We were always very supportive of home care and have made an effort to ensure that the transition will not be a shock but always keeping home care as an option. We also offered to be a crutch throughout this process if Pa needed us.
For us, if we grew old we would want to be together and not separated by such human afflictions. I guess grandchildren are perceived differently than the assurances of your own kids. Families can be manipulative at times. The reason why having children can be a burden in itself. Too many sensitivities to consider rather than your own.
So today I am taking the other half shopping. Maybe some nice shirts for the trip might distract him from the nastiness of the world. Can money buy you happiness? Since Happiness is relative...you might have to dig deep to understand your need!
Monday, October 01, 2007
Also Listening to Joni Mitchell - Shine
Tell you later...still trying to slow my brains down! Maybe I was just attracted by the hot flying buns...
The Long Weekend...
It was pleasant this long weekend which saw us celebrating a birthday, packing for the trip which has become a ritual and taking long drives to the country. The garden is also looking rather grand....especially the roses.
With all the trips, I do the folding and ironing for both parties. It's a numbers thing and I prefer all my shirts pressed so that I know exactly how many pieces we've got for the trip. The only thing I am missing right now are cushioned socks - I will need 10 of those.
My pile...together with my man bag. I know!!
My hubby's pile...
OK I am a little anal.
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