Syafeeq's ramblings

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2006-11-26T19:52:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

A lot has happened and I would rather let it resides in my memory rather than in this blog.

Life has moved on and filled with work, gym and friends.

Gym is now a familiar place, the staff & trainers recognises me. The usually full class is not much more manageable and at last, yoga class is a bit more challenging. I think the trainers realised that some people in the class would need more challenge. Which i gladly accepted. We are now doing this with another advance option. I am absolutely loving it, except for hand stands. I can't really do it properly yet.

I can do head stands!

2006-08-03T22:58:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Woohoo!

I have been attending yoga classes for almost about a year now to balance off my bodypump and combat classes. One needs to be buff, athletic and limber to score in such highly competitive scenes nowadays.

I am naturally flexible, so i can do my forward bends, inversions, splits etc quite ok. So I would try my best not to be smug when other people in the classes are struggling to do the poses. What I neeeded work on was headstands and the crane poses. Well, I was bored in the hotel room today and decided to try my headstand.

Which at long last, I managed to perform.

now to master "The Crane"

Post

2006-08-02T12:42:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

My dad was sick few weeks back, fortunately, he managed to pull through. This is his 3rd time in the hospital. It gives me the feeling that the duty has come full circle. Your parents looked after you when you were a child and now, you have to be the filial son and look after them. It seems, that I need to go back home more often on the weekends instead of cruising in sauna. hehe.

It seems that my gym work do pay off. People complimented me that I look slimmer. But when I weigh myself, am still 65 kg heavy. I don't loose weight but I do loose the inches. The problem is, when I go online chatting and the inevitable "stat?" line come out, and I replied with "27 165 65", they are not interested anymore. It seems that if your are over 60kg online, your are either chubby or morbidly obese. I am very much tempted to get my body fat percentage calculated at the gym and have that as part of my stat. But then, that would be sooo vain and I hate vain people.

Fish Bone

2006-07-04T23:34:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I had lunch alone today, as I was a bit focused on a couple of sudoku game on my personalised google homepage. So by the time I was done, everybody was gone. Anyway, I had fish and in my hurry to finish lunch, I thought I could swallow a fish bone. Alas, it was stuck in my throat.
You know the feeling when a fish bone is stuck to your throat? It is very damn well annoying, have tried swallowing my food, drinking lots of water and gargling, but it did not work. In the end, I decided to get it out manually. I washed my hand, opened my mouth wide and then stick my finger in to extricate the offending bone out. As I managed to control my gag reflexes, ahem, I have successfully removed the bone quite easily.

That is it for today hehe

hmmm donut

2006-06-20T19:03:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Your IQ Is 115

Your Logical Intelligence is Below Average

Your Verbal Intelligence is Exceptional

Your Mathematical Intelligence is Exceptional

Your General Knowledge is Exceptional

A Quick and Dirty IQ Test

Passion

2006-06-06T18:41:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

Wow no coffee today. Mostly due to the fact that I have ulcer in my mouth and I can't really eat anything hot or spicy. Have been eating very little for the past few days. I think this is one way to get shed weight fast.

Anyhoo, back to the subject at hand. I was in Singapore a couple of weeks ago for a course. Was there for 2 nights and I managed to get some fun while I was there. Hehe. I was trawling gaydar and saw a guy I met before in KL, he played hosted at his hotel room. So in Singapore I returned the favour by being the host.

The thing is I never really knew his name. It was pretty much knock on the door and wham! Straight to action. Then some idle chit chat then we parted ways. The thing is the sex was totally hot. I think the fact that I don't know his name and we might never see each other again made the session so much intense. Suffice to say that we both went away satisfied albeit a bit tired the next day :p.

Then there is this other guy I am seeing. He wanted to go steady but I have not really made that commitment yet. He is nice, caring, nice bod, basically everything I am looking for, but I find that I am pushing him away. The sex is just so-so. It was very hot the first time we met in the sauna, but not anymore. I guess I thrive on anonymous sex and really not ready for commitment...

Sunshine

2006-04-27T08:48:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Last of the series on love

I thought I could not get over you,
I think of you all the time,
I try to convince myself to hate you,
But it is a tough mountain to climb.

I thought the separation help,
“I wish I know how to quit you”
From the crevices of my mind I hope you withdrew,
Seem like I have an issue,
I need to resolve before I go cuckoo.

Then I saw you,
In your sweatpants and thinning hair,
Didn’t talk much, we just exchange hot air,
Then I wonder, why did I go through such despair,
When I should have looked elsewhere.

Now am at peace,
The memory of us I am released.

Perhentian

2006-04-12T23:07:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Two words

Fucking great!

No I did not get any but it was great. Now I need to get my PADI certificate

Things

2006-03-31T08:39:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: X

E-mails
Coffe
Nasi Lemak
Blogs
Work
Green tea
Meetings
Body Pump/Combat/Balance
Yoga
Sandwich
Friends
Family
Books
Sleep

Weeks goes by

2006-03-25T09:33:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

I have't had breakfast yet, at the service centre, waiting for my number to come up...

Bagan Lalang
It was late afternoon, and we had dinner during sunset. Friends, couples, singles catching up after a busy week at work.

Cherating
It was the school holiday, dad, family, grandparents, single uncle, barbecue by the beach, having fun in the waves and ATV

Penang
A day trip to Penang, giving last respect to the GM's father that passed away

Pink Triangle
Can 2 tops or 2 bottoms never make it as a couple?

HKL
Going back and forth every day for the past week, visiting dad in the hospital.

Perhentian
Holiday planned, can't wait to get some action...

I need a break

2006-03-08T17:25:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I need a break...

I am going over to Cherating with family for a holiday.

Why is it that I am always unlucky in love, while others seems to not have any problem at all?

I See You In Everything

2006-01-11T13:50:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I see you on the homepage,
Of the website that brought us together,
The one that I check to see if you are around,

I see you in all the Perdana,
The one you drove on our trip first trip together,
Where we talked about things and enjoying the cool fresh air,

I see you at the bowling alley,
Where we finally got a chance to play together,
You teach me how to bowl properly,
Which I forgot by the 2nd game,

I see you at the stalls,
That you bring me to,
The ones on the road side,
Where we meet to eat and talk,

I see you on the logo,
Of the company you worked with,
Which now, takes up all your time...

I see you on everything,
I hope I will see you again,
And not things that reminds me of you.

Obfuscated

2005-12-19T08:11:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

Woe upon me,
As I cut the rope that held you dear,
Kept it in a box,
If you came back near,

I pass my days with longing,
Wondering, If we ever know,
If we ever will,
Be a couple befitting...

MyKad blues

2005-12-01T09:49:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

Wandering aimlessly,
Watching TV,
Maju Junction is where I'll be,
To get MyKad done for free...

Dear Proton

2005-11-27T20:53:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

An email I sent to i.care@proton.com

Dear Proton,

I am writing to share with you the experience I had at your Platinum centre at Mutiara Damansara.

I sent my car for its 10,000km service on Saturday, 11am. I have frequented the service centre for every service since I bought my car (Gen 2, HL) from that centre. The following were the incidents that marred the whole experience at your centre:

Incident 1
Since i was informed that it would be a while till the service finishes, I decided to go to the nearest shopping mall until the car has been serviced. I asked from your reception for a shuttle service and he said that i just missed the ride. I decided to wait. After a while, I asked again from your reception (different person) and he told me that there was no driver for that day, so there is no shuttle service. I told him that previously a staff told me that there is a service. He said he will check.There was no real effort to help me get a shuttle car. In the end, I waited near the shuttle car and asked somebody to send me to the shopping centre.

Incident 2
Around 2 PM i called the general line to inquire whether my car has been serviced. The person answering told me that if I have not get any SMS, then the car is not ready yet. He told it in such a way that was not friendly at all, it was borderline condescending.

When I got back at the centre about 4pm, I checked with the service counter if my car has been serviced. When I asked what time was the car service has finished, it was done lat 12:47pm!

Incident 3
After about an hour, i decided to go back to your centre and waited there. I called the general line to ask for a shuttle service back from the shopping centre back to the service centre. The person answering told me that they only send people, not picking up! it was in the same condescending tone.

Luckily the person that sent me, gave me his business card. I called him up asking if he could help me. He obliged and picked me up and sent me to the centre. I would want to acknowledge Mr Joey Lin Chok Yik for a job well done with his customer first attitude.

The whole experience leaves a bad impression on the level of service offered by your Platinum centre.

To sum up, the level of service offered by the centre in general and the general line in particular is unbefitting of the platinum level accorded to the centre. I would appreciate if you could investigate and rectify the low level of service offered by the centre. In the meantime, i will take my business elsewhere.

Thank you for your time.

2005-11-26T12:43:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xX

I could not think of a suitable title for the post. I find that I became somewhat less opinionated or when I do have something to say, I tend to check myself and keep quiet. It seems like that most of the time, people only talk and nothing much has been done to change things.

The state of driving manners, civic mindedness, respecting the rights of people are among the things that will be the topic of discussion on the mainstream media which will fade slowly to the back pages of newspaper and eventually forgotten by all.

I guess I became frustrated with the state of things around me that I just gave up. Living in my own little world of friends and family. I hope there are others that have not given up yet, because I know I can't be bothered anymore.

Post Travel Post

2005-11-20T11:37:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxX

The big X is for the Venti Cappucinno that is besides me at the moment.

Last week was a blast, I was in Bangkok for a few days for a training and then continued with a meeting at the lion city for another few days for a meeting.

Of course the trips are not purely for business. I have not traveled for quite a while and this has presented me with a chance to get to know the things that Bangkok and Singapore could offer. Suffice to say that I came back to KL a satiated person. KL, Bangkok and Singapore all has their different characteristics and nuances. Bangkok being laid back and carefree and Singapore orderly but devoid of character. I iwould love to stay a year or two at the two cities but I reckon that I will long for KL if I stayed longer.

Question?

2005-11-11T08:37:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

How do you ask a question whether we are just friends or are we more than that? Or as a friend once said, how we interact with each other is enough of an indication of the status of your relationship. Hindi movies do do give practical tips on relationship how to.

So do I just let things as it is or do I pop the question?

Aidil Fitri

2005-11-02T20:59:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Salam Aidil Fitri, Maaf Zahir & Batin

The L Word

2005-10-25T16:59:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Do I like you,
or do I love you?
It is hard to choose,
I dont know,

Let things be,
Right now, I am happy,
Wish it could last,
Hope you feel the same way too.

I'm Baaack

2005-09-30T11:57:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

hehe

Goodbye

2005-06-30T17:54:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Goodbye for now...

One week

2005-06-03T15:42:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

It has been one week since I moved to KL. things are looking good. I am just a bit worried with my finances. I have to spend a lot on rent and the car now. Need to cut down of food la after this, sure can slim down again. :)

Moving

2005-05-22T19:17:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Things are now really near to my move to KL and I have settled some of the big tickets items that needed to be done. I have confirmed the house that I will be staying for the next one year. I will be meeting the agent tomorrow to pay the deposit. I have also booked the car and hopefully I will get it delivered before 1st June.

This is quite a move as I will be moving to a more desktop work rather than doing site visits. I think all that travelling finally has taken its toll with the pain that it has iflicted on my feet. I woke up this morning with this pain in my right foot and i thought it was gout, but it usually happens at my left ankle. It turned out to be something else. It is all the same, as now booth my feet are in pain.

Hmm yes, the move. I will be living somewhere in Old Klang Road area, alone, hehe. I don't think I can share a house with anyone just yet. I could do what ever I want, and if the house is a mess, it is my mess, not someone else. Can't wait to get back to KL, live on my own and drive my own car...

Wish me luck.

ps: I am writing this at KLIA, while wating to send off my parents for Umrah.

Kisses

2005-05-18T17:45:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

An off the cuff request by a friend on this subject, one which I will acquiesce.

What is the point of a kiss?

While you are making love/having sex what does it mean, what is the function of a kiss?

I would be the last person to actually give an opinion on this as I have never made love before but I do have notches on my bedpost on the latter.

A kiss could be with passion and means a whole lot when both of them have strong emotional link between them (love?). It is a sign of commitment, a seal to make the love making complete

A kiss could just be a kiss, part of the love making/sex having process. It is what people do, what is expected of you, part of the procedure, the norm

So a kiss can mean different things to different people. It is up to you to know which is which

xx

Dream

2005-05-17T15:26:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

I thought I was over you,
Emotional fences I built just to forget you,
I thought I hated you,
But last night I slept,
It was you I dreamt

Hope is a waking dream

Speech by Pak Lah

2005-05-07T11:00:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I was going through PPS and read this post. Then there is the link to the speech itself, it is enlightening and gives me a little bit of hope that we are in the right direction, amin.

Getting out

2005-05-06T23:18:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

At last, I have managed to get out from this job. I have been doing it for 3 years and frankly, I can't stand it any longer. I am not that kind of person that could just talk to people and be all friendly and stuff. I will start the new job in June and I still have a lot to look in to. First I need to tie up all the loose ends at my current job and then move to the new job seamlessly.

I have not found a place to stay yet and I need to think about maybe getting a car (the new job does not come with company car). I think I would be living on my own but I still have no idea wehre I would be staying. Somewhere near Damansara is ok, near LRT is much better.

Talking about cars, hmmm.... cars.....

I am thinking of getting a second hand car, preferably a hot hatch like Satria GTI. I like hot hatches, unfortunately in Malaysia, this is the only one that I can afford. If I have my way, I would have got the Golf GTI.It is quite a coincidence that when I am looking for a car, these people have started distributing Volkswagen car including the Golf and its go faster brethren, the GTI. It is bloody expensive, I think I just buy the second hand car first, save up to buy a better car later. That is the reality that I have to face, I would prefer the Golf or an Alfa 147 but can realistically afford a Proton.

I will be house hunting this coming weeks. Any tips are greatfully welcomed.

Maybe I could actually buy the Alfa but then I would probably eat sand for the next 5 years.

Cameron

2005-05-04T13:02:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Somebody said that, shit happens. Of course the shit could be a good thing. So last Sunday, shit happened. Things just happened quickly that it went uphill (literally) afterwards.
He called me up asking if I wanted to go and coincidentally I was on the way to KL as well.

Me, him, him, him, him and his other half went up Cameron Highlands on Sunday afternoon. We drove to Tapah and went up to Cameron. We got there about 4p.m. We wander about Cameron admiring the views, the backpackers and the garden as well. There were a lot of photo op moments there.

We had a late lunch at this really bad food-court, the service was terrible and slow that we decided we needed to stay the night just to see the sights properly. We browsed through the tourist map trying to find a decent, cheap apartment to stay the night. The thing was so impromptu that we didn't pack for a night stay. No PJs, no toothbrush, no extra underwear.

At long last we settled for a decent apartment that would sit the six of us comfortably. The apartment was nice, except for the bed bugs and the stale sofa. After browsing through the night market and the local store for our PJs and toiletries, we went out for dinner at another place and the service was just equally slow. It took ages for the food to arrive and so as usual we came up with our own entertainment to pass the time and "Pecah Lubang" in Cameron.

The next day started with us preparing breakfast and then getting ready for the day ahead. I think that was the first time any of us woke up early on a holiday. We did the normal tourist route; ye olde smoke houses,strawberry farm, cactus valley and orchid garden. There were a lot of beautiful and unusual plants we encounter that it reminds us again on the wonders of creation and the greatness of god.

We went back via the other route through Simpang Pulai, checking out the road. I think that using the Cameron - Simpang Pulai road is a short cut from Gua Musang to Ipoh. The traffic jam towards KL was expected, people were coming back to KL after the long weekend. You get the usual queue jumper along the highway. I find it better just to ignore them, if you get their behaviour gets to you, Things just gets worse for you, not for them.

Anyway, the trip was great, I would do it again if the opportunity arises again. Maybe next time i had more time to book the company bungalow. Of course if it was planned, I don't think it will happen

Cultured

2005-04-26T20:33:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

My weekend was quite a succcess. It was filled with activities ranging from clubbing to movie watching. The weekend was spent with him, him and him. The clubbing part was more of standing around looking at people dancing. We only danced for a bit as the music selection was not really to my liking. Then the night was spent at a "Malibu" and then "Lost World", checking out people milling about the lake.

Sunday was then spent trying to get some culture. We first planned to try and see this but the afternoon show was sold out and the night show is just too late for a sunday night. I looked through the cinema listing and I noticed this movie. I read it in the paper before and the story promised to be interesting. With Sylvia Chang and Martin Yan (of Wok With Yan) in the movie, it should be interesting. Actually the plot about the gay sons that really grabbed my attention. But the movie was, in the end quite good. There is no real sense of drama, just a a good story told with a dash of humour. The movie is shown on GSC international screen, watch it before it is gone...

Then there was the interview, all I can say is I now have one foot in KL already.

Gout

2005-04-21T22:51:00.005+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I had the worst day of my life yesterday. I had a severe case of gout, its at my left ankle. I can barely walk and it hurts like hell. To make things worse, I left the medicine in the car at the parking bay 3 floors down. The whole day was spent lying on the sofa bed watchig TV in the hope that the pain will slowly go away. It didn't, as it became worse, I had to call somebody to get my medicine in the car. I managed to get hold of some one from work to help me out and was thankful. I did not have anything to eat in the house except for maggi, I decided to call pizza hut instead.

After popping the pills, at 10 I decided to sleep early, the pain is excruciating everytime I tried to move my body. Slight movement causes pain, I was sweating just trying to get some sleep. I finally decided to wake up and just let it runs it course. I will sleep when my body is sleepy. So I popped another painkiller and watched Mystic River. It was a very sad movie, when it ended at 3 am, the pain receeded a bit and I managed to get some sleep.

Thursday was a bit better as I woke up with a better feeling at my ankle. I woke up at nearly noon and was planning to just laze around also see the doctors. So after lunch, I visited the doctor. Just my luck that the doctor is having a group of medical student from the nearby university(USM) there for some sort of practical. The session was then became a question/answer session for the med students on diagnosing my illness. They did ok, I know there were fibbing at some point and the doctor in charge know about it too, but hey not everyone can remember everything. Things are now much better and hopefully I will fully recover for my interview trip this weekend.

Interview

2005-04-16T08:59:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Life has been very busy the past few weeks. Have been travelling for 2 weeks straight. Meetings, courses, meetings and more meetings. I am ok with the travelling, living in a hotel room, properly sanitized from the person before you, all traces of that person's history wiped clean. Of course when the cleaners came in to clean the room after a night of debauchery, I was trying to keep a straight face all the while the cleaner was there.

I am going for an interview for the job in KL on the 25th. I need to get ready with some research and most probably getting ready for the move as well. Now I have to start looking for a place to live if I managed to get the new job. Finggers crossed and wish me luck.

Moving?

2005-04-09T23:21:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

I have been looking forward to this and finally I hope it is happening. Have sent my application and now hopefully I will ace the interview. The good thing is, the boss and his boss is very supportive of this. It is either he wants me out from his sight or he thinks I deserves the chance to move on.

Finally after nearly 3 years living in the nether region of the country, I've got the chance to move back to the hustle and bustle that is KL. hmmm, I am not sure if I can handle the traffic jam anymore... Living in KB do have its perks. Now I have to think about where to stay and transportation. This job, unfortunately will not come with a company car :(

I have been very very busy for the last month, traveling and meetings. I still have meetings to attend to next week and most probably the interview as well. Hmm I need to get laid, it has been a week

At last

2005-03-28T19:11:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

At last common sense prevails. All these discussions on the supposedly racist ad has got many people voicing their opinions against the remark made by a certain MP in parliament that the ad potrays young professional malays as rude/selfish (take your pick).

I could go on and on about this, but it is obvious that the shallow mindedness of such people are luckily few and far in between and fortunately the silent majority in Malaysia has finally spoken up. Hopefully we will see more of us that practices common sense and civility in our daily lives will step up to the plate and not become pushovers.

bloggers take on the issue

awan
tv smith
pok ku
she

I would love to write more, but lately works has been piling up.

Music

2005-03-16T18:30:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

lagu.mp3

Music

2005-03-15T23:06:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxxxx

I really need to cut down on my coffee. I was travelling today, all the way from KB to Kuantan. So I need the coffee to keep myself up while driving.

Anyway, I have at last found another use for my iBook. hehe. Garageband is quite a piece of software. It lets me make music without knowing a single note! hehe. I think I am in this phase of trying new stuff. At the moment, I have managed to create 3 songs, actually it is more of a cut and paste job. I just arranged all the sampled sounds together into a track.

I will put up a sample when a good one is done

New wheels

2005-03-11T09:30:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

The past 2 months have been bloody busy. Hence the static update. At least I've got a new company car to start the year with. Hehe. A brand spanking new and enhanced Waja. Its a Proton, can't really complain since I got to use it for free. The thing is they really need to watch their QC. Within a week of getting the car, the front light has blown out, the panel behind the drive seat partially came off and yesterday, came off completely.

My 2 cents worth is that Proton should really look into their manpower skills as well as motivation. If a worker only works just to make ends meet, with no pride for what he is doing, they won't really go the extra distance to make sure that it is perfect.

Hehe, of course the guy at the service centre is totally cute and has a taut bubbly butt. Can't wait to get the seat fixed. hehe

...

2005-02-26T15:50:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Warning: Self doubt and pity ahead, read at your own risk.

I could not think of a suitable title for this entry, so I am jest letting it be. This is the state of my existence at the moment. I am lacking in direction, I am trying to explore new frontiers but I am afraid to take that leap forward. I really need to think about things very carefully from now on.

On a lighter note, I have put on weight and that is worrying. All these outstation traveling is taking its toll. I have not been able to gym regularly and I have been indulging on my food as well. My pants are getting tight around the waist and people have been commenting. Oh my god, oh my god. Sheesh.

Groupie

2005-02-17T16:36:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I have been doing this for nearly 2 years already. I can't believe that I lasted this long. The thing is with websites are that they usually don't have a long life span. Some of the blogs that I read, has already stopped blogging. Most of the time the reason is personal or maybe it just dies naturally.

Blog has became a place for millions of people to express their feelings and opinions. Some are very well written and thought off, while others are just ramblings of their sorry life. Some bloggers have managed to garner quite large reader base and hence became "famous" in the blogging circle. The reasons are aplenty, a good blog to read, sexual, funny, controversial and many more.

The point I am trying to get is, for some people who reads blogs by all this "famous" bloggers, the opinions that they write in their blog are just that, Opinions. Some people just jumped on the bandwagon and supported whatever that is written in the blog and some even elaborated further on the point in order to look intellectual by other readers and the writer as well.

So please, next time you read a blog, a newspaper or listening to the news, think first before you form your opinion. Talking about things without thinking about it just makes you look like an idiot.

This post was inspired by this

Shadow

2005-02-16T17:15:00.000+08:00

Ramblings

2005-02-13T18:48:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

It was a long weekend. I was worried that I would end up bored, doing nothing but watching TV. Fortunately, it was not to be. I had a fun filled week off.

I went clubbing with a couple of friends after not doing so for ages. We've heard that the place was recently renovated and the drag show is supposed to be good as well. Actually that was just all propaganda. Now I know why we have not been going to clubs anymore. A lot went through my mind in the club, and a conversation about the merits of clubbing was the topic during the post clubbing drink at the mamak. We've met a couple of old friends at the club as well.

A gathering was done the next night at a friend's house. The 8 of us managed to catch up, reminiscing old times, catching up with news and having few laughs.

I am dreading Monday... A long week off just makes you lazy.

Makeovers

2005-02-02T15:43:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

My voice is now hoarse because I had to do a presentation in a meeting for half a day. I did not use a microphone because it cramps my style. hehe.

On another note, A friend from KL is staying with me for a few days because he had to visit some clients in KB. His presence is a welcome change to my otherwise quiet night at home. No, nothing sexciting happened as we bat for the same team.

Of course I managed to at last put up the curtains that I bought 3 months ago in KL. I got it cheap, RM10 per piece and I bought 5 of them. The living room was without curtains (only grey blinds) for nearly a year I was there and I thought it needs some soft touches.

We scoured the whole of KB to find a suitable railing for the curtains and found it at the shopping mall besides the gym that I frequent. A call to my contractor for a loan for a drill and I am off for a home makeover!

And this is the result.

Tennis

2005-01-27T21:56:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

I don't usually come off as a sports fan, people usually takes me as a someone that mostly cares about computers and gadgets. I do love my gadgets but I have other interests as well. One of them is watching TV, I mean watching sports on TV. I love tennis and Formula 1. I don't play tennis or even ever went karting, but these two sports fascinates me.

Currently Australian open is on and what a cracking it has been. It shows determination, discipline and mental will of the players. Imagine having to play day in day out in the hot sweltering Australian sun with pressure to succeed. The two men's quarter finals so far, has proven to be a very entertaining (for lack of a better word) affair.

I admire these people because of their determination to win, not faltering in the face of defeat and keeping your cool.

I am watching the Federer-Safin match as I am writing this, they are playing for FOUR hours now, both of them are winners as far as I am concerned. Watching them slugging it out on the court is akin to gladiators battling in the coliseum. I think I understand now why the Romans enjoys the battles.

The match has just finished and Safin managed to beat Federer after five epic sets to book his place in the final. Now for Hewitt (cute) and Roddick (even cuter) match. Hehe.

The Apprentice

2005-01-23T23:47:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Of all the reality shows that has been flooding the telly recently, I think The Apprentice piqued my interest. I think the projects, the politics, the board room drama and even the back stabbing are the things that I can relate to, and things that I can actually learn from. It is not every day you could watch TV and actually learn something useful from it. It is actually an urban version of survivor, I think after a few season, people will get bored with it. Meanwhile it is quite enjoyable. Have a look and see for yourself.

Money

2005-01-18T10:52:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Money, it is everything, to some people. Yes it is important but is it the be all and end all of things?

I had the chance to attend this one convention by this company while I was in KL last week, courtesy of him. He was also invited by someone, *cough* *cough* and since the function was held at the hotel I was staying, I thought why not.

There were about at least 200 people that attended the convention, mostly are potential recruits to the scheme. I am always skeptical and stayed on to see what it is all about. First of all, the place was swarming with good looking people in their suits and shirts, the women power dressed while I was in my casuals. I clinged closed to awan since I don't know anyone else and I am not the type that strikes up a conversation with strangers about the weather.

What strike me was the presentation done by the speakers. They were outgoing, the presentation was minimal but the message delivered was maximised. The presenters was very good, they stick to the message(you can earn cash loads) and getting the hall full of audience engaged through out the presentation.

I have done quite a few presentations and my style are numbers and figures put in tastefully in the slides. And people are easily bored with it. I got the feedback from my boss as well, so now I need to change my presentation to be simpler with lots of pictures.

The thing is with the message from the convention was, the pursuit of wealth. Basically, if you can sell their product, in 3 years you could be driving an expensive car with loads of money to spend. Having money does not hurt, but is life really just about the pursuit of wealth, is that really your objective in life, what is your objective in life?

I need to think about it as well...

By the way, Selamat Hari Raya

Experience

2005-01-14T08:33:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

When it rains, it pours. That was how my week was in summary. Both in work and in bed hehe.

I think with all that introverted exterior I project to the outside world, there lies a more outgoing me that wants to get out. It do get out sometimes and would do things that is a little bit daring. In short he will try anything once.

This short post is a filler till I have more time for a longer one.

Vain

2005-01-10T15:10:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Humans are vain creatures. It is in our genes to be vain. To look good to attract potential partners for that one intense moment of satisfaction. In nature, it is the male of the species that is more beautiful than the female. If you look at birds, the peacocks, the roosters are more colourful than their female species.

But to us humans, things are the other way around. Women tend to be all dressed up as if they are the ones that are doing the pick ups. This is due to, in my opinion, after centuries of male domination of women. Men tend to ignore their appearance because appearance is not the main factor in getting laid. That was years ago...

Now, men are also feeling the pressure of looking good in order to get laid. Visit any gym and you will find most of its members lifting weights, running the treadmill are males. I think the gay factor do skew the gym example a bit.

People are going to extreme lengths to look good. Some will do it the old fashion way through exercise and diet, while some will try a faster way through surgeries and injections.

The pressure to look good will never let up. How do you quantify good looking? When you have achieved that body fat percentage you have been aiming for, what then? The need to have flawless skin, that six pack abs? What ever it is, it will never stop.

So that is why I am not going to do all those things that I did last year to look good. Going to the gym to be healthy and basic skin cleaning regime is all I need. I save a lot of money as well

Changed

2005-01-06T15:27:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

So I have finally changed to a new template. A new year a new look. I am not having any new year resolution but more of an objective in life. To be a better person, to be fit and healthy and to stand up more for myself.

Things have been pretty busy lately and actually it is still busy today. I need to do something else in order to recharge. That is all from me today. Meanwhile, do contribute if you can.

Maybank Tsunami Relief Fund

Change

2005-01-05T14:35:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Change is hopefully good... so stay tune

2005

2005-01-01T00:00:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Things were quite busy lately and I don't have the time nor mood to write. For what its worth, Happy New Year...

Season's Greetings

2004-12-25T00:01:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

Merry Christmas and A Happy New Year!

Time

2004-12-24T13:52:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:xx

Time has passed away quietly. Without you realising it, it will be a week when a brand new year arrives. Time for new resolutions, for new beginnings. I think I only manage to keep my resolution. I managed to shed some weight and had a change in my job. I didn't get the dream job, but at least a change.

The past week has been busy with endless meetings. I don't really enjoy meetings, but I don't hate it either. In my situation, meetings are some of the chances I could get to get out from KB, meet people from work and lepak in KL.

This meeting I attended was held in PD at this hotel. It is quite a relaxing place to have a meeting. The only pressure was in the meeting room. I have been here before, but the previous meeting was so packed that I did not have time to enjoy the facilities there. This time around, I made sure that at least I managed to swim in the pool. Of course nothing exciting happened, the crowd was mostly family with kids.

Pictures will come soon, but don't hold your breath.

Weekend & Governance

2004-12-20T13:26:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

I had the most boring weekend ever. The weekend was spent at home doing nothing. I was in a state of ennui lounging at home, reading the paper and watching TV. I intended to read a book, but of course that never happened. I tend to be so lazy on weekends. I just sit around doing nothing all day and at 7 PM I get my lazy ass to the gym for a work out.

I need to finish that book to see what is the hoopla is all about. I am also keeping a close watch this time on how Bush is doing in his second term as president. Bill's biography has got me interested in governance and public policy and how it is influenced by certain parties. It makes me appreciate the kind of crap Abdullah is facing in steering Malaysia towards hopefully a better future.

I talk about all these but I don't vote. Hmmm

13

2004-12-16T18:21:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

If not for this post, today would have just been another day at the office. Now it marks one of the most important days in my life. This was the day that my life really began, friendships made, forged and broken. Learning how to live life, how to honour friendship and loyalty. This was the day that sets me up to what I am today. For better or for worse.

Cheers

Flood II

2004-12-14T18:01:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Thank god, the nightmare is nearly over. The water has subsided and the car managed to start. The interiors are wet and smelly but at least the car can start. Now I have to get the car cleaned inside out. I have not done that for quite a while hehe. So for the moment, I will have to walk to work while the car gets cleaned.

I am hoping when I am back at the house, electricity and water supply is back. I can't really stand staying alone in the dark with nothing much to do anymore.

I am amazed at how most people in KB handle the flood. They treat it as if there is a festival going on. Out came the floaters and banana trunk raft and even sampan! Some of the more enterprising among them, sets up snack stall selling nuggets and goreng pisang to sell.

Here is a picture to for you to see

Flood

2004-12-12T22:00:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Sunday, December 12, 2004

There was 4 missed calls on Sunday morning when I woke up. After shower and breakfast, I managed to return the call. To my horror I found out that KB is flooded. I looked outside my window and true enough the whole apartment block is now covered in "Teh Tarik" coloured water!! The water was at my calves high and I moved the car to a higher ground where the water was about ankle high and thought by afternoon, the flood will subsided. About 5ish the electricity was out, my mobile phone battery is low, the flood is rising and I am stuck in the house indefinitely.
The night was spent in darkness and listening to my iPod, I had an early night since there is nothing much for me to do.

Monday, December 13, 2004

I hate Monday,

0630 that was when I woke up to my alarm clock as well the alarm of a car blazing in the morning. I looked outside and found that my car has set off the alarm. I have been dreading this for the whole night as I thought that the flood water would short circuit the wiring somehow and set off the alarm. I had to get down and to turn off the alarm. When I got to the car and tried to open the hood, I found that the car has been flooded as well. I opened the hood and tried to disconnect the battery to shut off the alarm. Imagine doing all this at 6.30 in the morning, with cold water up to your thigh with alarms blazing in your ear. After managing that, I can't go back to sleep. So instead I read a book to pass away the time.

At about 11, I found out that the water supply is also out. Damn... I've managed to do some cleaning to pass away time after I finished reading. The isolation is too much for me, so I braved the waist high water and walked a kilometer to the office. I need to recharge my phone, checked some email and of course tell all of you about this. I need to buy some provisions as well. My only ration at home was pasta and instant noodle.

Stay tune...

Swooned!

2004-12-11T11:02:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

Do you know that feeling when you are about to unwrap a present that you have been waiting for so long? Everyday you pass by the shop, you will stop and stare, admiring that object you long for ever since you set your eyes on it?

Hehe, last night that present was delivered to my house. God I was overjoyed, ecstatic and filled with euphoria. Chances like this, does not come along my way that often. A bit of preseverance and patience does paid off.

I was speaking in metaphors.

It is about this guy that I have been eyeing for so long since I met him at the gym. Last night I managed to go out for a drink with him. Actually he asked me out, I just asked him what is he doing after gym and he asked me out. I managed to let him know, during the conversation we had that I am staying alone and I am pretty much a loner. And would'nt you believe it, he asked me if he could come and see my apartment!! OMG, OMG, OMG.

Of course nothing exciting happened at the house, we just talked and gazed deeply into each others eyes. No groping or feeling was involved. I was very nervous and I dont know what was on his mind. I dont want to be seen as desperate now do I?

Of course when he told me he had to go, I was in a bit of a panic, nothing had happened yet! I was ready to pounce on him and ripped his clothes off when I thought I should take it one step at a time. I have to win the battle first before I can win the war.

We have agreed to meet up again on Saturday evening at the gym. hehe. Now to get ready for another battle.

Cloning

2004-12-08T16:22:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxxxx

I was at a course about the new EMV compliant credit cards when I got the call. A girl from MBF Card called me asking whether I was in Kedah the day before, I said I was traveling to KL from KB. Then she told me that my card is probably cloned and somebody is using it to purchase petrol in Kedah. They had blocked the card and will send me a replacement soon. It is quite ironic that the course I am attending is about the very solution to the problem I am facing. That was last Friday.

Today, I got another call from Citibank telling me that my card has been cloned. Somebody has tried to use it in Kuching, but they have managed to blocked it. So I have 2 cards that has been cloned in a matter of days!! They have blocked my card and will send a replacement too. I thought it would never happened to me, but it did. I only used my card to pay for my petrol and my hotel bills.

I don't think it is a coincidence that my card has been cloned after I used my card to settle my hotel bills at this hotel. I may be jumping to conclusions, but that was the only place that I have used both my MBF and Citibank card before it got cloned.

This cloning thing is getting out of hand. It is embarrassing to know that card frauds in Malaysia is among the highest in the world. I wonder why does the bank is so slow in rolling out the EMV cards?

Two of my credit cards are now blocked and I have to wait for the replacements. Good thing I have another spare card.

Now you know the reason for the 5 cups of coffee.

links

credit card conundrum
Credit card fraud level still high
One way to fight credit card fraud
Financial cards in Malaysia

Tak nak

2004-12-04T07:23:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

In the spirit of worlds aids day.

Sex is a risky affair. You have to make choices in throes of passion/lust/horniness to either practice safe sex and insists on protection, or think that this just one time it is ok.
I was naughty last night, Moi visited a certain health spa in attempt to unload some stress. After some strategic eye contacts, I got my mark. We were having a good time, and when it gets more intimate, he doesn't seem to care that he is not protected. I insisted on protection, which after he went out was the last time I saw him. It was time to move on. This happened again with another guy. I should have packed for the trip, but I went straight from work. You don't bring "supplies" to work do you? But the situation as I read it, is that people are very carefree about being safe. This is worrying.

so people, say "Tak nak" to unprotected sex...

Remember

2004-12-01T22:56:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xxx

Sometimes, you have to stop and count your blessings. Some people are not as lucky.

World Aids Day

Freedom

2004-12-01T17:42:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

I have got myself some gadgets. An iTrip for that long trip I usually take to KL and an airport extreme card for my iBook. Now I can hang out at Starbucks the whole day surfing,chatting, cruising while getting a caffeine overdose.

Now to find a Starbucks in KB...

I am going to KL tomorrow, can't wait to test the wi-fi at Starbucks

Away

2004-11-28T13:42:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: x

I went away for the weekend, trying the secluded life for a change. Not that my life is actually glamorous to start of with. I brought a book, the iPod, iBook and a VCD on this little outing. So then I went hunting for a nice beach chalet that I could put up a night with. A friend recommended a chalet some where near Melawi beach in Bachok. I spent an hour trying to find the Chalet when it should have taken me 30 minutes if I asked around hehe.

Since this is the rainy season, the waves were treacherous and the water at the beach front was all muddy. I was not looking for a swim anyway so it wasn't a big deal. The sound of waves crashing got me to sleep for the whole afternoon. At night, the place is so quiet, nothing but the sounds of waves and the wind and the eerie glow of the full moon illumined the beach. I spent the night with reading and no TV.

Alas, the whole thing was too quiet for me. I woke up early (for Sunday), checked out and drove back to civilization. hehe. I think my next get away would be a hotel in KB with a hot tub.

Nausea

2004-11-24T13:36:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

I don't really like the feeling. That knot in your stomach when things don't really go according to plan. You started thinking of things that you should have done different in the past. It is no use thinking about it now, I need to think of how to rectify things while there is still time.

When things go pear shaped, you need to find something to take your mind off it. To get that sick feeling out from the system and to let you take a step back and consider the options available. I am thinking of going away this weekend. Just me, the iPod and a book that I needed to finish. Hopefully this break will get me back on the right track.

Family

2004-11-16T13:51:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

I am still in holiday mood that I am not in any mood to post any postings for raya. As you get older, raya brings a different meaning, a different cause to celebrate. So this year it was very clear to me that it was a cause to celebrate the family. It is not easy to get everybody home together to celebrate raya. After about 10 years of having at least one member of the family absent during raya, it is a nice change to have the whole family together again.

It is not just about mom and dad, brothers and sisters it is also about the extended family. It is quite funny looking at people trying to figure out who that little kid is, which one is the cousin, which ones the uncle. My sisters kid are about the same age as some of my cousins, it would be weird to call your playmate uncle or aunty innit?

I am glad that my family is pretty well together and lead a a happy life. That is one reason to be thankful and to celebrate.

Selamat Hari Raya!!

nothing

2004-11-10T01:12:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

nothing really. On my way to KL today from KB, I saw at least 5 cars with broken windshield. I don't know what to make of it. One thing for sure, it was raining heavily on the way to KL and I could not really see the road. It was more of a gamble driving in these horrid conditions. I hope it wouldn't rain when I am trying to find my way to Cyberjaya. I am not really good with roads. I don't think of directions like most people do. I remember them like pictures, landmarks, sights and scenes. Not in terms of vectors, left or right, that road and this junction. It is confusing sometimes when people ask me for directions or i asked people for it. I need to install a GPS navigator in the car.

Reflections

2004-11-07T10:27:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: xx

A follow up from a previous post. This fasting month has given me the chance to contemplate on life and on the choices I made. Suddenly the lack of food made your thoughts clear and the pace of life in this already sedate town of Kota Bharu seems to become even slower.

One good thing that comes out from the fasting is that I managed to shed some weight even though I have not been going to the gym for the whole month. The trick is not to over indulge during "buka". I think "sahur" is equally important, don't eat rice, cereals or fruits is enough.

I am trying to finish all of my works before I go off for Raya, hence working on a Sunday. Since everybody works on Sunday here, it is not that awkward. I will be having a meeting in KL on the 10th, so conveniently i will just start my Raya holiday from there. About the meeting in KL, I will be meeting the HR GM for the IT arm of the company, this will hopefully be a step closer to my return to my IT roots.

Now, I need to sit down and think of the possible questions and some good answers to reply back to make an impression.

Geniuses

2004-11-03T08:44:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

Does everyone wanted to be geniuses? Do you really want to win that Nobel prize in physics? Why is this obsessions with parents wanting their child to be geniuses? This obsession in turn is being used by marketers to sell their wares. Have you noticed all those baby milk adverts that supposedly stimulate/increase your child's IQ. And then there is this advert that claims a child of only 9, has already mastered algebra (speaking in an English accent no less).

I think most people will go through this phase of thinking that they could be geniuses, trying out for Mensa, those online IQ questionnaires and the like. I guess it is a bit of an ego boost of knowing that you are much more intelligent then the others around you. "My IQ is 165, while yours is only 100" or "Mine is bigger than yours" statements would come out. hehe.

I think being a genius is a gift, not really a state that you can achieve through diet or endless tuition class. Those things can make you smarter but not necessarily a genius.

On a side note, I spent my whole Sunday/Halloween watching the Simpsons for 7 hours. Aah, the joy of living alone

Stepped toes

2004-10-26T21:38:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: X

In the vigour of pursuing the path of choice for my career I have stepped on some people's toes. Sending an email in fits of rage(ok, I exaggerated) is not really the best thing you can do for your career. It is something that you might regret later. In retrospect, it does seem foolish of me to do such thing. Reading the email again, I can see the point that the manager in her slightly crass tone tried to convey to me. Since it is already done, some damage control needed to be done. An apology was sent and hopefully it managed to get me in the good book again.

Wish I didn't screw it up that bad...

Outside looking in

2004-10-20T23:26:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: X

I wonder why is the polls for the US presidential election is still neck to neck? I thought after all the mess that Bush has managed to create, Americans would be voting for Kerry in droves. I guess there is a lot of things that is on American minds rather than world peace

Cooking

2004-10-18T16:59:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

I used to love cooking. The fact that the cost of eating out in London regularly would be prohibitively expensive that I would have to sell myself to dirty old men by the end of the month just to make ends meet.

After a while, things got pretty boring and I started to get adventurous with my cooking. The whole process of cooking is therapeutic, to me at least. Peeling, cutting, frying, mixing, stirring, tasting and in the end, eating it. You are focused on the task at hand and knowing that you will enjoy (or suffer if things goes wrong) what you cooked.

I had to cook once a week for my housemates. So sometimes I wanted to do something special for them as a treat. The satisfaction in cooking is knowing that people eat your food and enjoyed it. You got this sense of satisfaction when the pot is empty.

I am now trying to cook again. In part because I was inspired by this lady with her cooking. I am now browsing the supermarket for cooking utensils and surveying the fresh produce as well.

I can't wait to get my own TV show, hehe.

Searching for a meaning

2004-10-15T10:03:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

It is the first day of Ramadan, so no coffee. For some it is a month of contemplation and to increase their ibadat and for others, a month to indulge on buka puasa buffet until they forgot to perform maghrib. Where is the meaning in that?

I am trying to turn over a new leaf this month. I for too long have neglected my duties as a muslim. To be grateful and mindful of what I have. Hopefully this will be a whole new beginning.

On another note

There is this new mall that opened in KB recently. It is actually partly opened as only the tenant anchor has started operations. Since this is the largest mall in KB, people can't seem to wait for it to open properly. The mall is still largely under final stages of completion.
Recently the food court has been opened, from afar the place looks inviting. The food court looked bright and fancy from the car when I stopped at the junction directly opposite the mall. I decided to give it a try on Wednesday night. What I found there was appalling. The place was dirty. The floor was dirty with foot and mud prints, the tables was not cleared and a lot of other things that was basically, hygienically wrong. So much for a brand new mall.
We are still trapped in this 1st world infrastructure with 3rd world mentality. No meaning isn't it?

World on fire

2004-10-12T09:12:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I was moved to tears after watching the video. Go here to watch/save it.

Dial up users, move to broadband already! hehe

A quarter of a century later

2004-10-11T01:00:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

The day has come and gone,
I wonder, why I am alone?
Have I achieved much?
Have I changed the world?
Or have I been out of touch?

What have I learned,
Does it always be trial and error?
Is that how wisdom is earned?
Will it be like this forever?

Am I at a cross road?
Deciding where to go,
Life is not always a bed of roses,
There are times of highs and lows,

Nothing is certain,
Two things to agree,
Live the moment,
And happy birthday to me

Hehe...

Mind, body & soul

2004-10-08T17:22:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I am on leave today, hence the barrage of posts.

I have been listening to Joss Stone, Mind Body & Soul for about a week now. I have to say it is a very good album. At first I cant help but made a comparison to her first(?) album, Soul sessions, but after a few listen, it grows on you.

I am not going to write a review, but i will say it again that it is a very good album.

...

2004-10-08T15:25:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I am lost for words, that is why I can't think of any suitable title for this post.

I was watching the news yesterday and one of the more interesting news after the countless reports of minors being raped were the trial of 2 Umno Women division head in Raub for allegations of bribery involving the misappropriation of funds amounting to about RM 2000. That was the amount of purchasing a grass cutter that was never bought.

It is funny how the sytem works. stamp out all the ants but leave the hyenas alone.

I do wish that whoever is responsible for the MRR2 flyover, Sultan Ismail Hospital is brought to justice quickly.

Alas, I think it will just remain that, a wish...

I think I have thought of a title:
Gone to the dogs

Bigger things

2004-10-06T18:10:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

Sometimes, in chasing your own petty needs, you tend to forget there are bigger things than you. Spare a thought.

Change

2004-10-01T20:43:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I was a bit preoccupied lately with change. Not change per se but thinking about it. News of a friend that did a 180 turn to what he is doing encourages me to really seriously think about change. It is more about being happy and fullfilled with your life and what you do. All those bucket loads of money is not really the answer to all ones problem. I don't want to elaborate more as I don't want to jinx it.

Invites

2004-09-27T09:25:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I have 6, yes SIX gmail invites to give out to. So send me an email at syafeeq dot alias @ gmail dot com and I will be happy to spread the joy around.

Hello world

2004-09-24T16:12:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXXX

I had a nice little chat with The Guy last night sans the "friend". There was only the two of us in the gym and after a short work out, we managed to talk at the waiting area. I was browsing through the NST when he came over and sat across me.

We got to talking, asked me where I studied and stuff. And he proceeded to gave me some advises on career choices. That was very nice of him, but I was actually concentrating more on his body, and features while trying to stole a glimpse at the comics section throughout the conversation. I was mentally undressing him but I manage to hold my composure.

Then he asked me to go to the showers. I was jumping for joy but I don't think I cant go through with it, so I had a quick cold shower and he was only about to change for shower when I finished.

I actually remembered his advice. To apply my expertise and be content and happy with what I do. Good thing that my iBook has Mac OS X which is based on Unix. I manage to recall my inner geekines to be able to write, compile and run a simple Java program. I wrote it using emacs too!

Happy, happy, joy, joy

2004-09-22T10:59:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I was so pumped up with endorphins last night, I think I might get addicted. I was on the stairmaster for 30 minutes and I was still feeling energetic, so I then went on the treadmill for another 10 minutes. I think I could go on and on, but I don't want to burn out and I also wanted to chat with this guy I've been eyeing.

We have seen each other at the gym for 4 months at least. We haven't seen each other at the gym for quite a while and that seems to be the topic of our small talk. I can only manage small talks but no guts to ask him out. As usual after gym, I will hit the sauna and predictably (I have a penchant of stalking people) The Guy was there, as well as his "friend". His friend was friendlier and after card swapping, I got myself invited for a drink afterwards. This is an improvement, hehe.

The feel good hormone

Eating right

2004-09-20T15:24:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

To get that ideal 6 pack abs, one does not only has to hit the gym constantly doing the right workout, but one has to watch what one's eat. I think I can hit the gym but I don't think I can really watch what I eat. I find it very hard to find food low in fat in the restaurant. Curry and "masak lemak" is the preferred menu for most restaurants. There is also a very small choice of vegies as well. Try finding a decent veggie dish at a "nasi campur" restaurant and you know what I mean. We Malaysians don't eat a lot of veggies, that is why, I think the number of colon cancer patients in Malaysia is very high.

So I had to take matters to my own hand and last night I managed to make salad for dinner.

Pictures

2004-09-20T08:40:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: X

More pictures of Shanghai here

asl

2004-09-19T15:20:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

God I hate those three letters. Everytime I went into a chatroom, the first thing that will be asked is asl and stat. Can't they be more polite and ask how are you, how are you doing and the like? Why does it always has to be asl and stat. To make matters worse, my nick is always in the form TOWNguyAGE and they still ask me my asl. From there it just went downhill.

There are also those people that only know how to ask question but does not have the sense to answer back, like after asking someone their stat, after getting a reply they should mention their stat too. Is that not common sense and polite? Then there are those people that promises to trade pictures with you but never kept their end of the bargain.

I know these are the risks with chatrooms, but why do I always end up chatting with the bad ones? Why is there seem to be more jerks then there are gentlemen on the net? Where should I go to meet up with the good ones? Frankly I am tired of being alone.

How much?

2004-09-15T18:07:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

Gym membership: RM 800
Skin care: RM 500
Vitamin boost: RM 600
Total: RM1,900

That would be how much I spend to look good, and I don't think it is working. I think I need to see a therapist instead to get my self confidence up...

Shanghai

2004-09-10T11:30:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

The 6 day trip was ok. Not really a blast just ok. The trip schedule were tight and I don't really have much time to sexplore Shanghai on my own. The good thing going on a tour is most of the headaches of finding accomodations and transport is handled by the tour, but you can't do what you really want. I am now thinking of going somewhere far away next year on my own.

So this weekend I will be in KL for some much needed action. Hehe

This is me doing a dio

Merdekalah Merdeka

2004-08-31T10:06:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

Merdekalah kita dari diskriminasi,
Merdekalah kita dari rendah diri,
Merdekalah kita dari perpecahan,
Merdekalah kita dari korupsi,
Merdekalah kita dari perkauman,
Merdekalah kita dari mementingkan diri,
Merdekalah kita dari keganasan,
Merdekalah kita dari iri hati dan hasad dengki,
Merdekalah kita dari berfikiran sempit,
Merdekalah kita dari kekolotan,
Merdekalah kita dari gemilang kosong,
Merdekalah kita dari kealpaan,
Merdekalah kita dari 'tidak apa',
Merdekalah kita dari mudah terpedaya,

Merdekalah Merdeka,
Moga kita Merdeka,
Dalam erti kata sebenar.

Building bridges

2004-08-30T10:22:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I traveled for more than 10 hours yesterday for a two hour event, but it was worth the while. I attended an old friend's wedding in Kuantan yesterday. It was sort of a reunion with the old gang after 10 years of separation. There were 3 of us in the gang and yesterday one of them got married. The 3 of us would be together most of the time hanging out and stuff. We were inseparable.

Then when we got to secondary school, we went our separate ways. All of us went to a different boarding school. We kept in touch once in a while but never really got the chance to meet up and catch up. Of the 3, they said I was thinner then before, hehe, of course the vertical lines pattern shirt that I wore did help. They did not changed much and they were still the same best friends that I used to know. One the serious type and the other a joker. We reminisce about old times and it was a good time, innocent and carefree

Of course on weddings people will start to ask when will it be my turn. Its a game I played before, I usually said when the time comes I let them know or just say god willing. Then I asked them back.

I am going to Shanghai on the 3rd and will be there for 5 days. I will try to take a lot of pictures and take notes of my sexcapade there. So hold on to your seats...

Small steps

2004-08-28T14:56:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXXX

Weekends are just great. I woke up this morning thinking of waking up late and had a lazy day. The bright sun light from the bare window was just too annoying and I woke up at 8 a.m. I was lazing around in my boxers before I decided to shower. A cereal for breakfast and 2 coffees later, I am watching futurama and water polo (still in boxers). The joy of living alone.

I popped by the office to check and send some emails. I have sent the HR manager my CV/resume for her to send out to the IT department. I realised that after 3 years of working, There is nothing much I could put on my CV. Either that, or I repressed most of my working memories and remember the last 3 months only. Since I am thinking of doing IT again, I slanted the CV to highlight my rusty IT experience. God I hope this works.

On a related note. I missed this. Wish I could just pack my bags and just go.

Taking it one step at a time.

Hobby

2004-08-21T14:40:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: X

I was struggling to come up with a good title for this post, in the end a simple "Hobby" would do. I once liked to read, started from the children encylopedia, those fairy tales books, Enid Blytons, Fear Street series, John Grishams, Daniel Steele (gasp), Booker prize winners, biographies etc. I think I have covered quite a lot of books in the quarter century that I am here on earth.

When I started work, I did not have time to read as much as I liked, staying with my brothers family with a baby,home is not really a great place to read. Then I got transferred to Kota Bharu. This time I stayed on my own. There is also the transit period in KLIA when I was too tired to drive down to Kuantan for a meeting. I found that the airport cafe (Cafe Marche) is a great place to read. A cup of coffee and you are good to go. To kickstart my reading I re-read some of the books that I had in my collection. Digging through the cupboard, I found The English Patient and God of Small Things.

After that, I managed to finish Bill Bryson's A Short History of Nearly Everything. A very enlightening book and quite funny at times. It makes me thinks of why am I here in the scheme of things? Now I am reading Bill Clintons biography, My Life. God books in Malaysia are bloody expensive. The discounts that Amazon gave to its customers are amazing.

Other than books, I love listening to music as well. With my trusty iPod, it seems that I need to buy a CD every month to fill that 15 gig space in it. At the moment I only have 729 songs that takes up 4 gigs, and 2 days to listen to it all. Speaking of which, my recent CD purchases consists of Sheila Majid's Cinta Kita and Lenny Kravitz's Baptism, Katie Melua's Call Off The Search and Andrea Bocelli Sentimento. I wanted to buy Prince's Musicology but I could not find it in KB.

So that is my rant for today. Excuse me while I continue with my work...

Where to now?

2004-08-19T08:40:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

It has been a busy week for me. I had a business meeting in Langkawi, another meeting in KL and then another one in Kuantan. I only managed to get back to KB last Tuesday night.

I had a chance to meet my HR manager to discuss my career options after 3 years with the company. We had a frank discussions on my performance so far. It was not really flattering but I knew that all along. I had to admit that I am not cut for a salesman job actually. Surprisingly I have did it for about 3 years already. I have learnt a lot of people skills along the way. But still I feel that I do not belong.

So me and my HR manager has agreed to find a more suitable post for me in the IT division so I could be at my best. Now I have to wait.

Wish me luck?

Athletics

2004-08-06T17:54:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

Since the Olympic is near, this post would be somewhat related.

I am not the athletic type at school. I belong to the geek/nerd camp in school. I don't know how to play football, can't really run that fast and can't really run long distance as well. From primary all the way to high school. My lack of talent in the sports department was evident during high school.

Every year we have this sports carnival and as a member of a house (like Gryffindor in Harry Potter) you are required to go through 4 track & field discipline to collect points for the house. 100 & 200 metres, shot put and long jump. You get points if you manage to pass the minimum mark in you category. In all my 5 years in high school I never did manage to get any points at all!! It was quite depressing back then.

We also had a mini marathon every year. It is a 6 km route and you can get points for the house in this event as well. It is compulsory for everybody. Being a junior, we had to go through a month of training for the marathon. Most of us would rather be playing football, volleyball or basketball than jogging around the school 6 times. I was a bit better in this part since I managed to get some point for the house in this event, albeit the minimum.

Realising that athletics is not really my forte, I focused in my studies. Being in a boarding school, there is nothing much to do really. I represent the school in quizes and stuff, manage to get good grades and all. One thing that I was quite proud was joining the Karate club. I joined when I was in form two and managed to become president of the club when I was in form five. I am quit the karate exponent as well. Hehe, Really looked good in my resume that bit.

Now, since hitting the gym everyday (nearly) and going on the treadmill, I realised that with enough practice and being focused in it, you could run that 6km course easily or do whatever it is that you want. Which brings me to the point that the people in the Olympics must have poured their sweat, tears and heart in to their training to become the best in their chosen event. To me, that is what that makes the Olympic special.

I cant wait for the swimming event. All those lean, lithe body hmmm

Art

2004-08-02T09:36:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

Art, It was my least favourite subject in school. I went through it half heartedly knowing full well I would flunk it in my SPM. I barely pass, I got a C6. I could only draw stick figures and sometimes they don't come out right either. As I progressed through life, I met new people and learned new things. One of the things that I picked up was the appreciation of art.

Yesterday, I bought a painting in a furniture store in Kota Bharu. The last place you would expect to find a painting. I needed something to hang on the spartan wall at my place and while browsing through the the dried plants and vases, there on the wall hanged the painting. I did not know who painted it, but on the yellow price sticker it said "colouful poster". I am not sure if that is the title of the painting or the shop keepers name for the painting. I suspect the latter as there were another 2 variations of the painting also labelled "colourful posters".

The painting is acrylic on canvas, about 100cmx50cm and I got it for RM190. I consider that a bargain since some of the paintings that I looked at in KL was at least twice the price. I also had a reproduction of Van Gogh's starry night hanged at my place, but so far none of my friends were excited when they saw it.

Ode to shoe

2004-07-28T16:36:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXXX

I have this running shoe that I bought in my second year in university in 2000 when the one that I brought all the way from Malaysia had finally succumbed to the torture of Uni life. I joined the university gym that time trying to stay in shape. In retrospect i was pretty much ini shape back then. Not much money to eat and had to walk at least a mile from tube station to lecture.

Back to the shoe, it is a Nike with the USA olypmic team (1996 i think) design. One with an emblem with USA in the middle and wings at the side. That was the best value for money shoe that i got from the Nike store that time. It has been 5 years since I bought the shoe, and it still serves me well.

I wore it to lectures, clubs, paint balling (i can still remember my feet in the mud somewhere in the cold forest at the fringe of london), mardi gras, one night stands and so much more. It was a witness to a lot of things that I did and did not do back then.

Because I have been active lately at the gym and have been running vigourously, the soles have shown signs of falling apart. I think i need to buy a new one before i embarassed my self with a shoe that fell apart while jogging on the treadmill.

So long shoe, you have served me well.

Muahaha. Now I can go shop for that Adidas shoe

Tired la

2004-07-22T21:37:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

It is the most tiring week I had so far. I was traveling since last Thursday, which makes it effectively one week on the road. I am used to it already, the long hours driving, the cold lonely hotel room, chat rooms that promised a lot, but never did manage to deliver. hehe.

I was handing over the area that I cover previously to my successor. On the boss direction, we had to cover the most of Pahang (Bentong to Kuala Lipis to Jerantut to Temerloh to Jengka to Kuantan) in two days!! It was not really a direct order but he insinuated the intent anyway.

For the two days, it was a 12 hour road trip visiting dealers. As I said earlier I'm a bit pedantic with figures, so I kind of rushed things to make sure we make it on time. I turned down most makan invitations just to get to the next destination on time. It goes against my better judgment that I should actually make time for my dealers to get to know me and my successor better. What was on my mind was to get them introduced first and figure out each other later.

I am not really a social person, so watching my successor handling my ex-dealers gave me some pointer on how to handle my new ones. My successor has been doing the job for over a decade. Nothing beats watching an old hand on the job.

Hmm, I need to figure out my next career move...

Sunday

2004-07-18T10:47:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

I woke up this morning for morning prayers when my mum, as always started knocking on bedroom doors to wake everybody up. It seems that my all of us became little kids again when mum needs to wake us up for prayers.

It was a perfect Sunday morning, everybody at home, and we had breakfast together. Coffee, teh tarik, nasi goreng, roti canai was on the menu. It was certainly a break from my quiet Sunday mornings in KB.

The house is full again with screams of laughter and cries of nephew and nieces and I think my parents are happy with their presence even if they would be tired after a weekend attending to 4 grandchildren.

It has been about 2 months since I came back home after my transfer to KB. Nothing changed much at home, except for a new coat of paint in the bedrooms and a new curtain in the living room. The original plan was to go to KL on Saturday, but since my sister and her family is coming from KL as well, I think it would be better for me to stay at home. The family spent the night watching AF concert together.

All by myself part II

2004-07-15T10:26:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

From my previous posting. I do miss the company of friends but my sex life do improve a lot hehe :)

Is it justified?

2004-07-12T11:34:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XX

This issue is actually quite close to my heart. It eats me up slowly from the inside when everyone I know is doing it, regularly. My best friends, my family, my colleagues, all of them. It is clearly against the law and by some sort of rationalisation, they conclude that it is not.

I am talking about piracy, not the romantic ideas of swash buckling pirates of the sea but the VCD,DVD,CD piracy that is rampant here in Malaysia. No matter how you rationalise your purchase (so cheap, buy 3 free 1!!, the original is too expensive, what difference does it makes? Etc) it is still a crime. It is considered stealing, you are stealing the intellectual rights from the people that created the contents on that disc.

Is price really a factor? People have been whining that the originals are expensive. Would you buy an original CD at RM20 if you could get a pirated version for RM5?

I have been guilty as well in the past for purchasing pirated software, but now I have stopped buying pirated contents of any kind. It is the thought that my purchase of pirated CDs would finance an organised crime operations in Malaysia and made them ridiculously rich as well that kept me off from pirated CDs.

Some people might got the impression that I am high brow by snubbing pirated CDs,VCDs etc. But is it snobbish when you respect other peoples right to their creation and is it snobbish that you are not willing to finance an organised crime somewhere?

So the next time you wanted to buy that pirated Siti Nurhaliza CD, remember that you are robbing Siti of her rights and you are financing an organised crime somehere. Would you let that happened?

All by myself

2004-07-09T09:50:00.000+08:00

Coffee count:

All By Myself

When I was young
I never needed anyone
And making love was just for fun
Those days are gone
Livin' alone
I think of all the friends I've known
When I dial the telephone
Nobody's home

All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore

Hard to be sure
Sometimes I feel so insecure
And loves so distant and obscure
Remains the cure

All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
All by myself
Don't wanna live
All by myself
Anymore

When I was young
I never needed anyone
Making love was just for fun
Those days are gone

All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
All by myself
Don't wanna live
Oh
Don't wanna live
By myself, by myself
Anymore
By myself
Anymore
Oh
All by myself
Don't wanna live
I never, never, never
Needed anyone

Celine Dion

My kind of music

2004-07-07T23:45:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

I think I have kind of figured out the type of music that I prefer. I dont like to confine my music to one genre but you would have a type of music that you would feel most comfortable with. My recent CD spree consisted of Joni Mitchell's Song to a seagull (I wanted to know what is so great about her), Eric Clapton's The Clapton chronicles (If you want to know Eric Clapton for the first time, a greatest hit album is a safe bet) and Tracy Chapman's Collection (ditto, actually I bought her Let it rain album before this).

Numbers

2004-07-07T12:15:00.000+08:00

Coffee count: XXX

I have this thing about numbers that borders to obsessive compulsive(OC). If I jog on the treadmill, the speed must be rounded or to the half kilometer/hour mark. So I either jog at 8,8.5 or 9 km/h. The period that I jog must also be rounded, its either 20 or 30 minutes and 5 minutes of cooldown. And the total distance must be exact as well. 4 or 5 kilometer. 4.3 or 5.1 kilometer is a big sin. Of course sometimes I do bend the rules and that is why I said it was bordering on OC.
Following through with this obsession, I am thinking of getting a heart rate monitor to do just that while I am jogging. Oooh, this is going to be fun.