Harimau Juara

Memang menakjubkan! Harimau Malaysia memenangi AFF Suzuki Cup kali pertama sejak 21 tahun yang lalu.
Apabila final whistle berbunyi, ia dianggap bunyi ternyaring rakyat Malaysia. Malaysia Menang! Malaysia Boleh! Itulah saat kita sebagai rakyat Malaysia berpeluk-pelukan menyambut kejayaan yang boleh bertanding masa Malaysia memenangi Piala Thomas 1992.



Safee Sali menyambut gol sama-sama pemain Harimau lain.

Masa kita sama-sama menyaksi perlawanan ini, kita dapat rasa semangat patriotik rakyat Malaysia. Di mana-mana sahaja, tak kira stor mamak atau restoran, kita boleh lihat rakyat berbilang kaum duduk sama-sama menyokong pasukan Harimau yang bertungkus lumus di dataran tempuran yang dikelilingi penyokong lawan.
Malah memang tidak boleh dinafikan bahawa tak kira apa-apa jua kaum atau ideologi, kita tetap menyokong dan beryakinan kepada juara-juara negara kita.
Esok digelar cuti awam demi menyambut kejayaan Harimau Malaysia. Semoga kita berbangga dan Selamat Tahun Baru 2011!


(PS: First attempt on using BM for post, consider not bad already can come out with words. XD).

Tron Tube

Image via Deviantart.

How cool is that? If only all of us can travel at the speed.

Next time when there are students coming in asking about how to get around London, I shall show this map.

Oh, and we should have one for KL LRT lines.Hmm....

Eh? Somehow I never see a really organized tube map for the LRT line. Oh geez, Malaysia.

Self Control

"Self-control separates us from our ancient ancestors and the rest of the animal kingdom, thanks to our large prefrontal cortex. Rather than respond to immediate impulses, we can plan, we can evaluate alternative actions, and we can refrain from doing things we'll regret. We can also take advantage of these innately human abilities by developing wisdom and willpower."

                                                                                                            -Psychology Today

Yes, that is a motivational quote.

Thanks to this quote, I have the courage and gained control to do one hugely difficult task.

Killing off Civilization V and wiped it off from my lappie.

 I tell you this game damn addictive sial.

That is simple, kind of. The hard part is deleting the saved games.

Curbing addiction is what it is. And you need self-control. Seether sang it best in No Shelter: If we don't help ourselves, we'll fall.

I've seen many fell, first hand. WoW, Facebook games. Not to mention the typical culprits like drugs and sex.

Like any other addiction, there is always a withdrawal period, and I have taken the easy way out once by reinstalling it again. Let's wait and see if I can get through it this time.

Of Dls and Censorships

Its been awhile since I did the usual things that I did during the college years. Thus in bright sunny day gloomy silent night,I decided to reenact some of my rather unusual hobbies.

One of the biggest fan of cheapskate-ism, I browse through the charts and dl the stuff that I like. What is frustrating about the hits on radio is that they are always the same people coming up with similar bits to be the mainstream. And by definition of mainstream, Malaysia only can provide you the Gagas and the Biebers.

Sometimes, the hardworking and the best goes unnoticed. People rather go for the eccentric and girly-sounding boys. It is sad that we can't get much exposure apart from the overawed music.

Ok, I digress. Just need to rant there.

And yes, one of my unusual amusement is to dl songs that are featured in movies and series. Seriously, how many people heard of Imogen Heap or maybe Coheed and Cumbria or maybe the Lost Prophets? What about Corrine Bailey Rae or Anberlin?

And all those censored or (sometimes ridiculously)  banned movies. Oh and the TV series that unsuccessfully make it to our shore. Even for those who made it, its usually one season late. Thus, we don't really share the hype that is spread across the world.

And to think a certain ministry wants to setup the dictatorial laws of banning downloads and most ridiculously, the Facebook. Geez.

Seriously?

Ok, going back to me songs and soundtrack. Do apologize for the unorganized post (read: rant).

Carrying The Weight

The fatigue is evident. Powerful long shots are no longer the critical skill once in possession. Neither is the aerial command and the agility. The only thing left is the dedication and determination. And that is also the clouded and mimed by the dwindling stamina and the weight carried right above the crotch.

What was lacked in the technique area, it was always compensated by the aforementioned skills. So there is a sense of usefulness evident on the pitch. The largely reduced prowess is the bane to totally enjoy the game.

What is to be done is a long list of retraining and fat burning. Interestingly, determination is one trait that is largely counted on, but dedication is not. Very confusing and weird indeed. Probably that is the downfall to most of the promises made. Hmm.

All in all, I need to helluva exercise and fitness regaining.

On the Upside of a Curve

The learning curve is still on the uphill process, albeit rapidly.

Most of the time since I started, it was just e-mail. Then, when one of us shot off to Australia (how nice) for a field trip, I was left with the great power responsibility. Everything came at once. There are times when I was so muddled up, that everything seems to be wrong. I got the feeling that the bosses must have thought that they hired the wrong candidate. It was mid-week. Confidence and self-esteem can be very low.

Thankfully, I am blessed with a good support group. Me colleagues. Although not all the times they can be the knights in shining armour, they try their best in helping me adapting. Of course my bosses are not all-evil, just so you know. It is just their job to make sure everything is fine at the front line. We are the front line.

Anyways, as the week goes, my brain started to clear up the clot automatically. TGIF seems to be a more welcoming term than any other time.

Hopefully by next week, I am able to get most of things right. The two day break from all the chaos is much appreciated.

Do You Love Penang?

That question was placed upon me.

The instant answer for this question is of course: "Duh."

But that question keeps me thinking. I mean, why yes?

Is it the food, the traffic, the people or just the place? Or is it just blind loyalty? Reverse question: What I don't like about Penang? Hmmm....

Seriously, none. I really love Penang.
















Its not fair to compare KL to Penang. Yet, we got cheap food. First thing that came to mind. I mean RM2.20 for Wan Tan Mee, people (RM4 in PJ).

Traffic is not that bad, although the road surface is as shitty as KL's. Judging by the amount of traffic reports on radio, you know its going to suck driving in the KL buzz.

I got people from other busier places telling me that Penang is so much relaxing. I can't really see the difference back then, even when I am in KL for studies. Note studies and work. Really two huge difference in comparing environment and atmosphere. There is the relaxing factor here. Everything here is slower in pace (except for the cars on the road, uncivilized is a better word though). Of course depending on confounding factors, things here are less hectic and frantic.

Come mid-year next year, I would be back to where I belong (hopefully). Having said so, I think its hard to leave a city that provide me the character, opportunity and endless valuable experience in my life. Not to forget the people that I have call the best of amigos.

How Do You Want Your Beef, Boss?

One month into the job, and the grilling, barbecuing, frying and steaming are already happening.

Not that I am complaining. In fact, it is rewarding, in a way. I am finally reactivating the hippocampus and the frontal lobe, after the under-usage of these parts of the brain.

So there is the ranking, selling points, demographics, environment, financial situations, accommodation, accreditation and donowhatelsetion to deal with. Couple it with admission, application and verification, the volatile brain might be fried before it starts to function again.

Yes, it is going to be that I-know-its-for-my-own-good cliche. After all, we are the marketing team. Oh wait, we are also the admission, management, HR and advertising team too. Somehow, I always ended taking up BSBH jobs. What is BSBH you ask? Its bau sua bau hai (literally cover mountain, cover sea). You get the point.

Then again, it is challenging and exciting. Marketing is a skill, so is psychology. Applying both in motion and results can be devastating. That is probably why the boss likes the psycho people. Marketing is new to me though. I maybe a crap spreader in daily conversation, but when it comes to promoting, I will run out of manure pretty fast. Thankfully, I am promoting stuff that I believe in. Education. Not some direct sales magic product.

And can you believe that we actually have to take tests and exams? And I thought that those were things in the past after graduation.

Anyway, the beef is ready. Overly grilled here and over-fried there. Wonder how it is like to stay up late again.

Report soon (if I can come out alive lar that is)

P/S: Good luck to the peoples that will suffer the same fate. Freaky f**kin Friday awaits.

Into the New

One month into the all-new job, and I am very happy and excited. There are a lot of stuff that I can be very satisfied with and that certainly enhances the self-esteem.

I can't stop comparing to the previous job, and if so, there are so many things that can make me say: Thank goodness I left. Then again, its not fair doing such comparison between two companies as they emerge and evolve into totally different ventures. But for myself, its a huge wonderful leap.

Of course in one month, it is also unfair to say everything is pleasant and all. However, the initial signs are good. Its nice to realize that I am into something that I have passion in.

In addition, I have colleagues and even bosses who takes sarcasm to the next level. A trait that is unlikely to be liked by some, but certainly suits me well.

Oh well, I am not going to jinx it further with galore of words and song praises. Just being very appreciative to be given the chance.

Work beckons. Will mumble some other time.

Multicultural Concept

So this is what I have observed in our multicultural society.

Malay boy talking to Chinese boy about joining their team for football.

Note the language they used.

M: (Mandarin) Can I join this team?

C: (English) Sorry I don't understand what you saying?

M: (English) I mean, can I join your football team?

C: (Malay). Bolehhh.....

I am not sure whether to see the Malay boy as an eager kid or the Chinese boy as embarrassing. Do advice.

I'm On Fiiiirre

Ok, first of all, this is the best video that the EPL has produced so far. Second, Kasabian rocks. And while going through the clip, it just makes me think of one thing. That is...

I WANT TO GO TO ENGLAND AGAIN!!

Its a little bit depressing and proud at the same time to say: " Hey, I've been there." Well, mostly.

So when am I going again? I don't wish to say someday. Because usually that means forever not (I stole this line from the movie Knight and Day, pardon). Oh well, if I worked hard enough, I might get the chance in a year. I don't care if its leisure or business, I just need to breathe the English air.

Ok, enough day dreaming. Back to work.

Cos-groove

So why isit Miranda Cosgrove so contagious eh? First its Despicable Me, which I watched tirelessly for 6 times, not mentioning the countless time of trailer-repeating. Then its Kissin' U. I hit repeat 10 times and still doesn't get tired of it.

Oh well, I guess she's just sweet-looking and adorable.

Feedback

I'm not sure whether its the meant-to-leave mentality that is influencing my concept regarding what's going on here.

But I have to say opting out is a good, if not wise, choice. There is chaos everywhere in executing stuff. While we expect improvement and advancement, certain individuals preach downgrade and upheaval. It might be expanding, but the expansion do not incorporate with a better advanced system. Adding in with irrational reckless decisions, illogical thinking and a little bit of political backstabbing...........implosion I say.

Yes we have deadlines to meet. But at least some of us deserve a little bit of acknowledgment and appreciation of what we did. Oh wait, we do, in the form more work and more grinding and irrational decisions.

So you ask why not do something about it then? Oh I did. And I am going to do more. I might be straight and harsh, but what I am going to present is for the better treatment of my colleagues and the team itself. I learned first hand that suppression ain't going to get you anywhere.

And here ends my tirade rant. Maybe more soon. Kthxbye.


Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Testing Beyond PC

So now I want to blog while on the road, just in case something interesting came up while traveling around. Often, the inspiration when poof by the time I reached home tired.

That's when Mail2Blog comes in. Its a very flexible application that enables you to blog on your email and post it onto your blog by setting up a "secret" email.

Testing it out now.

Update: It works! Check this link out for assistance.
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

When It Goes Loud and Dark

This was suppose to be the thing that was centuries ago. But lately it goes hand-in-hand with my CD player in my car (read: Everyday). Since rediscovering the CD, it has been my wake-up call, breakfast, lunch and appetizer for dinner.

Catchy beats and strong expressive lyrics. That is what I need every morning. Works the sluggish morning brain. Occasionally and unbelievably, it beats coffee too.

Hope Mike and FM can petrify me with a new project.

Change I Believe In

Obama said it best during his presidential campaign. And now I am following "suit".

Changes to environment, challenges and career path are what I need. I have always been ambitious, and when I see no space for growth anymore, I moved on. I believe that being realistic is key to success. Although promises are being made of a pay rise, it will be a short-lived joy. In the long run, I don't see me enjoying job-satisfaction factors. Hence the change.

 Onto greener pastures I go.

 Nevertheless, I have endless gratitude to my current boss for taking me in during a depressing time, economically speaking. I would also do a 3-pages long thank you speech dedicated to my colleagues and my team for all they have done for me. In short, its been a pleasure.

For the next few months, I am going to prepare myself for the new challenge and also taking a much needed rest before being officially employed.

Hell, I am excited.

Getting Out and On

I just watched the film Cemetery Junction. Two hours of that show had me thinking about making big steps. I've pondered and talked about scouring for new job prospects during the weekend. The soul-searching and intellectual conversations with certain very philosophic individuals gave me some rude awakening. Last week, I got an advice from my friend's mom about getting too comfortable. I thought of what it meant, and I think I got it now.

Life here is getting way too comfortable. I need to find a new challenge. I gave a clock on the job and its almost there. A year. I've thought of prolonging it but I am starting to make sense of the phrase "getting too comfortable".

The film throws in an ancient Arab proverb that says: Throw your heart in front of you and run ahead to catch it. I am going to practice that.

Despicable..Not

When I decided to watch Despicable Me, it was only because its the only movie that was not watched by D. And oh boy, I did not expect it to be so entertaining.

And to be specific enough, the ultimate selling point of the movie is these guys.....






Oh yes, they are, personally, the perkiest thing ever made in CA movies yet. And those contagious laughs just gets to me every time. It would have been a pleasure to have these creatures as minions. But in real life, lets just say that a stuffie would be enough...heh.

And here is another one of them:

As for the movie, a recommendation.

That Place

The hectic buzzing streets. The Metro Bus conductor calls. The Two Jagungs. The distinct Roti Boy smell. The packed LRT. The Cantonese conversation. The place where (almost) everybody is working their ass off.

Hello KL! Its been a long time.

Boleh Settle Tak

They are supposed to elicit trust and respect. But instead, some of their behaviours are near disgusting. Not only are they rude, daring and inefficient, they are best at one thing.

I've heard many versions before, like "Boss, mau belanja?" "Jom, kita berbincang.." or just a simple tweak on the eyebrow signaling you to make the "right" moves. Ultimately, the most common and overused phrase is "Boss, cam ni boleh settle tak?"

*Shakes head*

Campeones 2010

Just two years after they were crowned as European champions, they proved that they are not just champions of a continent but the world.

My colleagues are, much to my amazement, dominantly joined Team Holland fan club. In fact, when we gathered around and watched the Iniesta stunner at 116th minute, I was the only soul who shouted "goal!" with both hands punching into the air. A little depressing to say the least.

Truthfully, I fancied the talented Dutch team, but I loved Spain more. The Germans impressed, but Spain is totally on another level of football. Although not as petrifying and inspiring in 2008, they duly did their job as a coherent team that played beautiful football.

Spain retained possession so much that I can emphatically feel the tell-tale anxiety of my colleagues every time Spain romped into the opposition half , which was like 65 percent of the time in the match. The Dutch threaten in counter-attacks, and Robben almost made me regret making a Japanese food bet in the 62nd minute. But St. Iker (yes the same guy which Miss D felt so disappointed with prior to that save) just, barely, diverted the ball out of danger.

Glory Robb-ed

Then after 14 yellow and 1 red card later, Iniesta swiftly got into the box and received the perfect pass from a perfect pass master in the form Xavi, to net the winner. Spain and their supporters just went into abrupt defining joy.

A compassionate Iniesta dedicating the goal to deceased friend/ footballer Dani Harque.

And so, the world champions celebrated. The World Cup came to an end. And everything have to go back to normal. Except maybe in Spain, where the celebration will go on and on.

Congrats to Spain and Viva Espana!

61st and 62nd Match

The Netherlands seemed to have the Midas touch. Peppered with shots and balls coming into the 6 yard box, they somehow got the lead, from 35 year old Giovanni Van Bronckhost. Probably a fitting farewell gift from the soon-to-be retired Holland star. Probably also the best goal of the tournament, a 35yard shot to the top right corner post where no keeper could have saved.

Diego Forlan managed to pull one back for the hardworking Uruguayans. But luck is on the Dutch side, with Sneijder and Robben's shots all struck the post and went in to claim victory.

Meanwhile, Spain made it into their first ever WC finals, beating the impressive Germans. As much as I liked this tournament's German team, the reigning champions of Europe looked the more skillful and cohesive side to go through. Carles Puyol's bullet header settled the game.

So far, a certain psychic octopus had been mysteriously accurate on its prediction. His "prophecy" says that Spain will win the WC. And I certainly hope that he is right. Viva Espana!

Quarter Final

Out of the four matches, I was looking forward to two: Brazil vs Netherlands & Argentina vs Germany. They didn't disappoint.

The unlimited flow of talents in South America put Brazil and Argentina as favourites. But in the case of BRA vs NED, Total Football reigns over Joga Bonito. 

The scoreline of 4-0 flattered the youthful Germans. Against Argentina, under eccentric coach Maradona, they took their chances despite not dominating the match. In the end, the defence just flat out after the second goal from zee Germans.

Hugs and urghs.

In the case of the dominating Latin America teams, they down to one from four. The unfancied Uruguayans survived the purge to reach the semi, beating the sole representative of Africa, Ghana, albeit in controversial and dramatic way. Spain killed  off the other Latin America team in the form of Paraguay, as expected.

P/S: Personally, national hero Luis Suarez should received a heavier penalty after his version of Hand of God.

Round of 16 Blabbings

When it comes to the 2nd round and the ball is round (in fact, rounder than most balls as claimed), we have fat chances to hold firm predictability of who's the victor and who's not. The last-16 was easier in predicting, with the likes of Brazil, Argentina, Spain and Netherlands fulfilling expectations. Personally,best match for that round goes to Germany vs. England, where the German tank flat-crushed the English lion. Although a supporter of English football, I have to admit that the Germans are way above class against their English counterpart. On a side note, Lampard can rightfully feel aggrieved that his "goal" was waved away, which is a pity and could be the turning point of the game.

Muller celebrates before even the ball hits the net.

David Villa showed that he is the right man for Spain and soon-to-be club Barcelona. Being the man almost single-handedly led Spain to progress.

Meanwhile, our ever sulking hero CR7, being the egoistic sore loser, just hate the camera for this time.






Guess the Nike version  of Ronaldo ain't gonna materialize after all, as most have predicted.

As it is, Ghana, the sole representative of Continent Africa, showed that they have the grit and strength to outplay US of A. Korea Rp and Japan unfortunately falter at this stage, but produced a competitive football against better opponents. Something Asians can be proud of.

Stay tuned for Quarter Finals.....

2010 WC Update

The group phase is over and the elimination process begins. So far the matches were mostly boring, sadly. I fell asleep halfway through England vs Algeria and Portugal vs Brazil. Thankfully, Italy vs Slovakia initiates the adrenaline flow, especially the final fifteen minutes and personally favouring the Slovaks.

Slovakia players celebrate after thumping the Italians.

As I mentioned on the previous post, I always loved to see the underdogs pawning (or at least frustrating) the favourites. Algerians holding England to draw. New Zealand keeping Italians out of bay. Swiss shocked the mighty Spaniards. I also liked to see Christiano Ronaldo falter. Too bad he got it right in the 7-0 thrashing of North Korea.

This World Cup also showed that with the globalization of football, the traditional powers of football are not guaranteed their place through. Read: Italy and the utterly disgraceful fiasco-ridden France. Finalists in 2006, they traveled back with much grimace. And while the Africans did not live up to the Waka Waka hype, they (mostly) showed that they live to fight. Thankfully, Ghana is still flying the flag for them in the knockout stages. Asians meanwhile made themselves proud, with South Korea and Japan into the last 16.

PJS lead the line for South Korea.

And then there were the frequent complains of the vuvuzela and Jabulani, especially from the European so-called big stars. They should save their breath in whining about disruptive noises and unpredictable ball flight and focus on playing.  And personally I liked the vuvuzela.

 




Jabulani ball and vuvuzela

As the competition progresses into the knockout stages, the excitement heightens to a new level. Off to watch England vs Germany.

D-Day

It was serene as usual. Little or close to no small talk or chit chats. Never mind heated discussion or debates. He and I just spend the day as usual, doing the usual stuff. In the morning, he went for his usual jogging, I was still lazing in bed. In the afternoon, he was taking his usual afternoon nap. I was surfing the internet. We had lunch together. No conversation. Then we had our durian session, with a few comments on the tastiness of the king of the fruit. In the evening, he watched the TV, I played football. We had dinner, commented on the taste of the chicken chop. The trip to and fro from Jalan Tengah was also a quiet one. Then we watched the World Cup together. Had a in sync shout of goal. Two times. Paraguay 2 Slovakia 0.

I gave him a McD glass cup as a present. Happy Father's Day, I said. Thank you, he said. That's all. Despite the sombre portrayal of our relationship, we had the deepest utmost respect for each other. Probably of this fact, we see no need of having too much conversation. Heh.

Happy Father's Day, Dad.

Cup Fever

Friggin' four years. And now time for the kick-off.

We the fans are of course thrilled. During my college years, there were two groups of people that watches the World Cup: The fanatic gender (read: Boys) and the you-make-me-go-OMG gender (read: Girls). The boys were in for the thrill (though the less fanatic ones just tag along) while the girls were there to bitch around which team has the most charming line-up.

Thanks to the abundant media coverage and promotion, there are always much hype. Its of course a different set of culture for fans from countries that do not (and don't even dare to dream to) participate in the World Cup. For us, we can simply choose to fancy a team and switch alliances when the favourite team did not go through. Which is so much unlike inhabitants in those participating nations. Imagine a German fan walking into an English pub for that matter.

And apart from the real showpiece, we have the sideline desserts to savior. The English media always like to focus on the footballer WAGs.  I still prefer the Latin America fans.

Sorry for digressing. Now come the big question: Who will you support in the World Cup?

Traditionally, I have always fancy England. This time is no exception. Yea they are overrated and all, but still. Teams that I would prefer to see winning (or at least go further than group stages) are Spain, Holland and Brazil. Meanwhile, I have always like watching David slaying Goliath, and I am expecting some surprises from the underdogs. So go North Korea! XD

And um, enjoy the football month!

Quiet Drive

I almost hate driving since working. I was largely clueless as to how contradicting it is to my previous nature of being a kaki kereta. Not until an hour ago that I realize that why it is as such.

Since taking up the job, I have been driving with purpose, destination and deadlines. The bright shiny helluva huge ass ball of fire adds in as the kick-in-the-teeth factor.

An unusual urge ushered me out tonight to JUST drive my car. And the long-gone familiar joy of driving started to reemerge. Instead of the boisterous need to rush, I am driving at the pace of my own liking. Instead of trying to reach a place safe and sound, I have no aims to achieved. Sounds very zen-ish eh?

So I also realize that although the joys of life can be easily murdered by the hectic and chaotic world of work, it can also be rediscovered. As long as we find the initiative to do so. Hmm. Ok, end of reflection period. Ciao.

Luke Fabregas

Its epic LOL-ness when the worlds of science fiction and sports can combined to give you the ultimate laugh.

Prologue: Fabregas seems to be all set for Barcelona from Arsenal, but now something seems to change his mind....

Fabregas: I'm off!

Wenger: There is no escape. Don't make me destroy you. You do not yet realize your importance. You have only begun to discover your power. Join me and I will complete your training. With our combined strength, we can end this destructive conflict and bring order to the galaxy... er... I mean football.

Fabregas: I'll never join you!

Wenger: If you only knew the power of the Arsenal. Pat Rice never told you what happened to your father.

Fabregas: He told me enough.

Wenger: I am your father.

Fabregas: No. No. That's not true! That's impossible!

Wenger: Search your feelings. You know it to be true.

Courtesy of D. Raynor from Soccernet.

Wenger: This way to the Force

Wish I

While leaving the hectic highways of the capital, my thoughts hardly strayed from the blast I had the previous night. After so many years, I still hold this company as the dearest and most influential in my life. Its always hard to leave friends behind. This one bunch being the hardest. At times like this, I wished I am Hiro Nakamura or Nightcrawler, traveling between two places frequently.

Alas, I have my obligations. Although pretty much tempted to the callings of "Come to KL lar..", I had to deploy firmly to my duties. At least for the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, I am chuffed to be at the gathering, even its four hours away from where I supposed to be. Hopefully, we will have more. And Happy Birthday to a certain Anakin fanatic. XD

Quick Babblings

Time past so effing swift that Friday comes faster than I could say TGIF. Not that I said that often. In fact, I preferred Mondays, where workload is the least. I digressed.

And its already half of 2010. Well, almost. And come to think of it, I am in the rat race for more than half a year. It didn't occur to me until I sit down at a hard cold bench outside the factory waiting for the bunch of usually hardworking minions to come out, that I was drifting within my own thoughts and suddenly: Hey, half a year liao wtf fast.

And one of my ex-school mates interning there came and said hello (and also bye as its already going-off time). Said he: This is my last day here. Asked me: What now? Said he: One week break and I am going back to study. Aahh, study. How nice. I miss those thrill-seeking days. I told him like some 55-year -old veteran worker: Enjoy school life while you can. Priceless period no kidding.

I don't know how long I can go. Work ( and life in general) is not mundane. Not at all. In fact, sometimes it dropped too many surprise-factor bombs. Then again, I will survive. How fitting to write this post while Cake was hard-covering that song.

Down and Out

The body struggle to surge forward. The brain was spanking it to move. After several nano-seconds, only the body reluctantly moved to the desired position. But by then, the ball had already pass through me. Hell, even the person that are supposed to be marked pass through. Then, the pain of changing position frustrates me. By the time it managed to twist and turn and decided to slide in, the ball had struck the net.

Gah.





















You get these when your occupation consist of 24 hour stand-by and limited movements such as walk, sit and drive. Mostly drive. There is no time for more physical stuff. And the occasional be-physical-period comes in weekends. But if it rains, then there is none.

So what leads to the fatigue and slow reaction is almost one month without exercise. God, I miss my college days. Then again, c'est la vie.

Opening Minds

Playing with psychology is fun. Of course since its not actually concrete science, there are interpretations to what should and could have happened. But that's not the point.

Its all about making hypothesis and analyzing the outcome. Initially, I find it depressing because most of the time the predictions came out wrong. Then I realized that its not always about the results. Its the process that is interesting. After all, its something that deals with human mind. Which, in my opinion, the most complicated thing ever created by nature.

There is a reason that I think I find it depressing at first. Its because I watched too much TV. Well, the psychologists that are portrayed seems to know everything. It did not occur to me that its only TV. They have to make them look super-humanly amazing and us in real life, so much inferior. Then again, its not impossible to be as accurate as them. What is needed are more experience and education.

Ironically, I got that culmination from a TV show. In Bones, when Dr. Sweets showed frustration (time and again in the show) after unable to find a logical explanation to the relationship between Booth and Brennan, it just suddenly occur to me that psychologist are not gods. We can't always be right, even in our own expertise.

Phew. What a revelation. Ok then, back to work on Monday. Out for now.

Gemma

I know it sounds cliche. But Gemma Anderton is hot. Such pretty name too. She is partly (read: mostly) the reason I watch COTT for the second and third time. And I still watch St. Trinian's occasionally. And oh, I am glad Perseus chose Io instead of Andromeda. Wise choice.





















I don't mind the spanking.

Sorry to sound a lil perv. But I think its probably the stress. But still.

Hey Saturday Night

So whassup there on Saturday night?

Used to be crazy nights of boom boom pows, or adrenaline rush at mamaks, or popcorn and movie, or maybe just one big gathering of people doing nothing.

Those days are worth reminiscing.

Now all I ever really wanted for a Saturday night is a relax atmosphere without any interference from anybody. Here I am listening to Train (most relaxing band ever), being a busybody with Facebook, reads lots of self-helps and life-hacking tips, and also a few pages of thriller later. Totally me, myself and I.

After all, I deserved that after a week's hassle. Just one night is good enough.

Telephone

Today, I got to know how important and in demand I am to the company that I am stationed at.

Based on a telephone.

Apparently, I am speed dial number one. End of story.

Clash of the Titans

I had already anticipated this movie since the dawn of its production. Greek mythology had always been a fascinating obsession since I was a kid. And a dose of these intriguing fables will make my day. Believe it when I say I watched the 1963 Jason and the Argonauts 5 times when I was seven.



























On the other hand, I was ignorant to think that the Percy Jackson series was just another Harry-Potter-ish fantasy. Don't blame me. The movie posters did look so much akin. Ok, they do have very magical elements, but I kinda anticipating the PJ series now. Why? Just because they are Greek-ish.

On an almost-unrelated note, I witness some bona fide clashes in reality. Yes its ugly at times. Sometimes down right Medusa-like sordid when scenarios get aggravated. But, you gotta say: Hey that's work, that's life. Although not experienced first-hand, its still a valuable lesson. Painful, climacteric lessons.

And truthfully I would not want to be Perseus in such circumstances.

Same Same

What are the chances that a certain person wears the same Esprit T, similar pair of adidas shoes, uses a Motorola flip-phone, similar hairstyle standing right beside you at a bus stop? Pretty much normal right? The only thing that creeps me out is that he uses the same synonymous totally exact message tone. You then ask again: Pretty much normal right? Only if its not Kim Possible's alert beep.

I really don't know if there is a term for this kind of similarity stuff. Dono what deja something i guess.

PS: The only "posession" that we don't share in common is an attractive babe (which I would have gone for) standing right beside him and holding his hand tightly. FML.

Potong-ness

*Telephone rings*

*Look at screen for 10 seconds before picking up...*

"Lo..."

"Hello, you are the agent hoh? Your worker sick ar...she say cannot work liao...can bring her to clinic or home ar?"

"Oh, ok. Er....what about the clinic within the factory?"

"That one close liao.....let me know when you reach ok? Kthxbye."

Of course this is part of the job. Been there done that several times.

The only potong steam part is it happens at 12.47am. Yes, I vividly remembered the exact time.

A bit of fml-ness.

Food For Thought

via Focus (click to enlarge)

While this does not really apply in Malaysia, it still provide a detail guideline to which course your kid should go into field you shall go for in the foreseeable future.

Meanwhile, on an almost unrelated note, I am glad to know that my boss appreciates our work. By adding perks for the team. She even decided to change our job title into something more classy and elegant. Don't know what it is that, but whoever had my previous name card can discard it. XD

Of course, with great power, comes great responsibility.....sorry, wrong context....with added incentives, comes added responsibility. But hey, I believe in what you give is what you get. So...yeah. That's that.

Misery Business

My colleague was jealous that I am holding a fort that is least invaded with issues. He can kiss that comment goodbye, and so can I. One day after the cursed conversation and I am doomed when civil war embroiled among the ranks and battlefields erupted out of nowhere. Verdict? FML, god.

Oh no I am not complaining mind you. In fact, I see this as a valuable experience for me. If not for the frail knowledge of coping, I would have committed suicide. Ok screw CS. Overkill. More like sinking into depression.

So I am still here, standing. Truth is, I am a tiny little bit impressed with me-self. And with new ammo sliding into the clips continuously, there are still 5000 waves to overcome. But with each victory, I acknowledge it. Hell, least I could do anyways.

Moral of the story: You must be strong no matter what comes and a self-pat on the shoulder after each achievement always work.



......That sounded too noble to be my MOTS. I prefer: Wei dai lou , time to change job liao lar!

XD

Keeping Up

I am trying my best to keep my parietal lobe in tact and functioning. Ever since coming out of university, that part of the brain had hardly been in use. When I started my daily grind, I promise myself to at least a few pages of a novel, but my determination and persistence had always been questioned since the dawn of my life.

But this time I am trying hard to keep it going. I try to forgo time spent on games - 2 major games left on my PC - in exchange for at least half an hour on a novel. And instead of facebooking, I am trying to read articles, posts and blogs more. And singalong helps too, with minilyrics attached to Winamp player.



















Nowadays, I also have urges to read articles and reports that I found dreadful during college and university lives. Too bad all those temporary subscriptions ended and I am still a cheapskate who is not willing to pay for memberships.

How long can this plan last remain to be seen. After all, I am still young and ambitious, with the now-elusive Masters still among my plans.

A Celebrated Milestone

It doesn't hit me as a significant achievement until the day comes and you are steps away from being congratulated, hands ready to be shaken firmly by the vice chancellor. And all the pictures that we took together with the restricting robe and mortar board remind me one thing: You have made it.




























Ok, maybe that's a little too sentimental already lar. All I want to say is : Hey there folks! I is degree holder liao. *Lansiness* XD


I don't feel like answering the question: "So what if you are a degree holder?" I just want to cherish the moment and remember all those moments where we, as college and university students, strive, grind, share, embrace, proof and enjoy together.

























After all, its a glorious moment. A celebrated milestone. And oh, by the way, thank you to all that I have crossed path with and made my 5 years of college and university life a thrilling one.

Myvi -hicle.

Supposedly a real outdated post (One month).

Simply put, I now own a car.

Say hello to me MyVi.

















I totally love Medallion Gray, but apparently Perodua kinda screw up their orders or whatever glitches in their colouring system. So here's Solid White. Oh well, I don't mind. Just that its so much easier to collect dirt.





















Got the Premium/ Full Specs package. And it added the USB port and handsfree Bluetooth function. Since I prefer USB sticks anytime to 3 piles of CDs, its very useful to have this accessory. And I totally utilize the Bluetooth device due to flooding calls while on the road.

I am not a great reviewer of cars. But I will try lar anyways. Since its the Premium model, it comes with a 1.3 litre K3-VE engine. And I don't know how significant it is to me. Just that, its, obviously, powerful than the 1.0 litre one lo. Additionally, there's the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and also the Electronic Brakforce Distribution (EBD), which deals with amount of force automatically applied on the brake. Mmm. Uh-huh. Sounds deep enough.
















Premium version also gives a cool interior look to the meter panels. A blue background coupled with red needles pretty much gets my attention, especially on the speedometer.

And since I am hard-core all-action and gaya-ness manual transition fan, I took the M/T package. Save me 4K and tons of petrol, coupled with more power and most importantly, full-fledged control of the car.

FAQ: Does it save petrol? Well, I don't really know how to relate it statistically. But my gut says its moderately fuel-saving.

So, anyone for a ride? XD

Year of the Tiger

Its the Chinese New Year. Gong Xi Fa Cai, people!

Its the only time of the year that I'm going to have a week-long holiday. And that excludes stand-by calls. Thankfully, my colleagues are very co-operative to arrange each person standing by for one day of the first four days of new year. And till now, its safe to say everything is smooth.

I haven't count the angpow money yet. But as it is for the past years, the money is all going straight to the bank. Not that I am complaining. Its just the minor "urgh" feeling that I can't put the money into use immediately. Long term planning they say.

And the year of the tiger it is. I haven't seen my zodiac prediction. Hope its a good year. Its not a smooth year last time around.

I've seen so many tiger mascots on ads. But I like Astro's one best. Can't find an image online. Really a cute one. Its the same as the movie Tiger Woohoo (unexpectedly good local film anyway).





















Anyway, do wish all of yourselves with the CNY greetings you can think of in the year of the tiger. Keong Hi Huat Zhai!

Relax

Turbulent seems to be a little bit extreme to describe working life. But hey, its the first word that comes to mind.

So with all these frantic activities commanding life, what we need is to r.e.l.a.x.

It fascinates me that I just (re)discovered that the best way to relax comes in the form of we doing almost nothing. Normally, I would wind up the speaker and double click Modern Warfare 2. The adrenaline pump seems to kick start life, especially in the morning. But the glitch is that the aftermath: the downer period.

So today I decided to take dramatic measures. I deleted MW2. Impulsively. Downloaded a few songs, sit back and listen.






















Oh yes, just like that.

And oh god, that was the most relaxing past 2 hours since forever. I can't decide whether it has a downer period but, I haven't try doing almost nothing for a long time. Its therapeutic. I also found out that selection of songs is also essential. Anberlin, Three Days Grace and Nickelback are my favourites, but they don't cater the relaxing factor. I tried "happy singers" like Archuleta, Owl City and Train to feel cheerful. As for chilling out, Leona Lewis, The Script and One Republic helps. Then of course there are the total relaxation section like the classics and new age stuff. But that's for another time. And oh next in the list would probably be meditation and yoga. Maybe.

.......

Come to think of it, I am beginning to regret deleting MW2. *Go search for the Installer.*

What Nonsense Lah

Work has taken out the large chunk of my 24 hours that I realize that I....

...haven't explored my geeky side with sites such as Lifehacker, Gizmodo and Kotaku.
...had not bought my new year's clothes yet with deadline set at 2 weeks.
...don't wish people happy birthday anymore on Facebook.
...wakes up suddenly at 4am-ish imagining my phone ringing. (Sometimes they do. Yes. 4am)
...managed to watch just one episode of any selected series per night.
...touched a football just once a week.
...haven't touched Teh O' Ais, mamak style, for one month.
...haven't downloaded music since work started.

And the list goes on of course.

At 22, the best years of my life seems to be the previous 5 years. The hangover is still evident even now. Its not a comfort thought to say its one helluva good experience. I do appreciate the experience. But sometimes it can be over-taxing.

Geez. I think I'm blabbing nonsense. Ah well, thats what blogs are for sometimes.

Me out. Poof.

Reminiscence

There are times that I still can't believe that I've been there. I guess it happened way too fast.




























I still get the shivers when I think of the breeze during the long walks to almost everywhere.




























And of course the buzzing city centre where frozen foods are always on the top of the shopping list.




























But somehow, I miss this the most. The kitchen, the pots and pans and the ting ting food.

Geez. I need a ticket now.

Jerejak

It was fitting that the trip made was on the 10-01-10. After all, its been 10 years since our graduation from the school. I haven't made a return to that school in five plus years. Shall do it one day.























Although its just a few of us. But its a milestone that we ought to celebrate. And hopefully by coming gatherings, there should be more of us.

I digress abit.

As for Jerejak, its my first time there. It's embarrassing because for 22 years as a Penangnite, I had never step foot on it. And its a shame that the government did not promote much of it or even make an effort to transform it into a much more delicate and exciting place. I saw at least a potential of Pulau Sentosa. In fact, I would be very glad if they can emulate half of Sentosa.
















Nonetheless, its a fine place to relax and a (almost) perfect getaway from the hectic life. They have a nice resort with, surprisingly, good food. Outdoor activities included archery, fire...sorry...flying fox, cycling, camping, ball games, (tedious) jungle trekking and wall-climbing. Not to forget paint-ball. Unfortunately and regrettably, no water activities.





















Wheee....

As mentioned, I was surprised that there was no, zero, zilch promotion of Pulau Jerejak as a tourist attraction for Penang. Unless I'm pretty ignorant and blind.

End word: Worth exploring if you want a getaway and to shred some flab.