Left & Right

Check out the Mercedes Benz ads. Now these...are...cool.

Via The Ads of the World

Although it is not entirely true, these just made my day everytime I stare at the mesmerizing details and soothing flows. In fact, one of them is sitting beautifully on my screen now.

And it definitely make me want to rediscover painting again.

Playbook

Testing out posting on the newest gadget acquired here. Apparently, it is just nice.

Oh, how rude of me. Here, introducing the Blackberry Playbook.

So as the story goes, this guy originated from the recent BB Dev Con. Somebody got it for free and realise that it is not much of his taste or usefulness, decided to sell it for RM800. Deal or No Deal? Deal lar of course.

As it is a developer's unit, mine came with a security swipe done and there is just one application available: Browser. After numerous painstaking forum-reading and tweaking, I finally got the developer version of the QNX OS installed. The beta 2.0 version comes with the option of developer mode, which enables you to tweak and modify further. And...you can download Android Apps. Yes, Android! I skimmed through the procedures and decided that it needs my hidden geek talent somewhere and ample of time to do this. More to come on this if I am successful.

One of the features that impresses me most is the browser. it is fast, slick and it operates just like how you would expect normal PC browsers do. Yes, they do have a Facebook for Playbook and 3rd Party Twitter apps, but nothings beat browsing it throught the browser. Videos (flash is supported, huge deal for me), links, pictures are all very eaily accessed. More apps are definitely in demand. Or they could be the ending of RIM, as this grimly prediction foresees.

The touch is great, a far-fetch from the initial Storm phones. Interactive and smooth. The playbook goes by with the most minimalist of design, with only the tiny power button and the previous, play/pause, next set of buttons. Everything else is interative within the 7-inch screen.

And the OS. Yes, it is amazingly simple and interactive. The swoosh and swipes provides easy navigation across the apps. And you can multitask. Well, most of the time that is. Avoid doing so while playing heavy games like NFS Undercover.

As there are more to discover, I shall leave it to this few first impressions for now. So far, it has never cease to impress me and hopefully there are more to come. Especially app developments.

Contact

Keeping in touch is not what I do best. Hence, lately efforts have been made.

A simple 10 minutes conversation on Windows Live is something to start with. I have seen some article about the ironic settings where with all the available social media apps we have today, we seldom keep in contact with people anymore. Yes, you might know what food they are eating or which restaurant's toilet they are using now, but there is no contact. In a way, it is just "stalking".

Personally, making contact is no easy task. Effort is needed, because of my anti-social nature. And so far, I found it rewarding to be able to get in touch once again with friends and relatives that I did not talk to in months or years. I am also taking the advantage of the transportation available and travel to places.

It is nice to be sociable once again. As we work (and depending on what field you are in), our friend circles become smaller and in the end we just stick to these few people. Network expansion goes stagnant. Not a good thing. Hence, in order to advance, taking steps back is needed, which is getting back to previous contacts.

So yea, that is the latest "discovery" of life. Till then.

Windows of Opportunity

I love sitting beside the window. If there is a preference, my desk or workstation will be next to it.

Like this window back in Liberty Living @ Liverpool.

Love the sound of rain drizzling and and tapping against the window. Love the breeze and occasionally strong wind. Sometimes it is just nice to sit by it and watch the scene outside. Relaxing moment ever.

I know the feeling of a room without windows. The previous office in PJ is one example. As my colleague like to say it, even if a T-Rex walks by, you won't know what happened. To me, it is just tragic. Thank goodness we are able to find a retail shop lot and move in.

It is nice that I got the reception desk again, which is by the glass door. Oddly, the weather always intrigued me.Rain or shine.

By chance, I have been blessed with a desk near a window/glass/visible to the outside world. Helps alot with the work efficiency.

Right. Random musings stopped here. Till then.

Comfort That Is Home

The sudden impulse of wanting to go back to Penang struck. Kinda missed the simple unnoticeable things in life.

Like:

• Those cute black cubes on curry mee.
• Those moments watching and doing Hokkien commentary for EPL matches with cousin bro.
• Those moments of binge eating on a Sunday morning that only cost RM20 and bitching about how cheap Penang food is.
• Those muddy fields and heated competition of football.
• Those simple dishes cooked by mom.
• Those cursing and showing the middle finger and asking how's your mother moments.
• Those sandy beaches.

 And to be with them.

Ah that serenity.

To The Game

After a year of hiatus, finally the prodigal son is home.

Yes, it is tormentingly lagging, but it is a renewed joy as well.

Career mode is becoming more complicated now. So tournament suits me for now. Keyboard control is still a pain in the ass as PC gamers always get the most shitty deal compared to other GCs.

Nonono. I am complaining. Just glad to be back.

Now back To The Game.

Why Always Me

You will be wondering why I am bizarrely obsess to the phrase and have posted these 3 words everywhere.

So before the explanation, here is the pic that starts all of it:

Haha. There you go. If you are not from the football fanatic kingdom, then it doesn't really make sense to you. But just in case you are interested, here is the explanation.

In fact, "Why Always Me" was trending on Twitter (#whyalwaysme) after he show it after he scored in the 22nd minute in the Manchester Derby, the one that you can think of quotes like "Six and the City" or "ManU fans please call 016-16161616 for help".

So who that, you ask? This guy who pulled this shit off is none other than, quote Kckrs, the stupid hat-wearing, iPad-toting, prison-visiting, lazy backheel-attempting, parking ticket-accumulating, inadvertant mafia-associating Manchester City striker, Mario Balotelli.

Prior to the big kick-off, Mario and group of friends was shooting fireworks off his bathroom when, according to Mario, one of his friend (not him), set the house on fire. Hence, "why always me"? If you are shaking your head because he did that, you don't know much about him. Because for everything you heard about Mario Balotelli off the pitch, people's reaction will be: Ahh, it is just Mario. For a brief list of his mischief, you can check wikipedia.

They say that every genius is flawed in some way. Mario is one of these flawed brilliant footballer. And he is only 21 years old. He was hated and loved, for being a dickhead and a genius at the same time.

And just in case, you think that is nothing to shout about that shirt, it was already printed and on sale at Umbro (ManC sponsor), among others:

Super Mario should claim some rights to that now (not that he needed the money though).. Meanwhile, we will stay tune for more entertainment from the fire-crackhead cum genius footballer.

Just Musings.

Keeping tabs on emotion is hard work. The fact that I don't put much effort on exploring them has made it more difficult to express or describe it. Ironically, my thesis was based largely on observation of emotions and behaviours. Just great.

I used to put a lot of emotions into things. I was passionate. But as life progressed, it seems like I rather take the rational and logical route of thought to explain situations and life-events. I found it easier to manage life. Easier to move along, get over and letting go. The Laissez Faire style did a lot of good to untangle the complications.

So eventually, there are certain emotions that I decided to "discard". Naturally, if you need to rediscover it, hard work is needed. Cues and hints are harder to perceive and analise. Frustrating, I know. But, it does make living everyday life more bearable. Short term at least.

I reread the post and I do know it is mostly random musings, without a direction, but that is what personal blogs are. Additionally, language and especially writing ability have dwindled. I have no idea how to proceed with my Masters if like this.

Anyway, signing off till next time.

Lift-Off

The cycle reaches the climax. The last touches and arrangements were done to make sure that the students are all set to pursue their future. Sending them off do give you the satisfaction and a pat on your shoulder.

It had been a tedious month, physically and mentally draining. Seeing them lift off and most importantly arrived safely at their destination did some spirit-lifting.

The long goodbyes are, well, touching. Some have the whole kampung to see them off, others do not have that luxury and walked through the departure gate without the need to look back and wave goodbye. This I can really empathized, for I had been there.

I tried my best to start conversations with those who will board the plane alone. It was not easy. A year or two in a foreign land. Then again, I believe that they are strong and independent enough to go through this on their own. I really admire and respect these people. For they keep their emotions in tact and accepting the challenges ahead with flair. It is of the most contradicting scenes in the airport. Those with loved ones and those without.

As they left the customs unnoticed, I wish them all the best with my utmost admiration of their character.

New Season

It's a busy few weeks as the university intakes coming to the peak period. Hence, the long hiatus.

But today, I would just like to talk about football.

As it is, it is the new season.

The wait for the start was excruciating. Transfer window has been in a slumber mode until the recent two weeks. Since then, it is been three weeks since the EPL starts. And me supporting club had been doing well, 7 points from 3 games and the new players have gelled in pretty quickly, as noted by the goals in the Bolton game. Once again, the name that popped-up as the MotM is unsurprisingly Luis Suarez. Beast, talisman and a nightmare for defenders. There is no reason why he should not wear the No.7 shirt. Of course, credit must be given to one of the greatest No.7 shirt wearer in the form of King Kenny. The ever enthusiastic manager has brought not only entertainment football but a spirit and atmosphere of optimism and joy to the team.

First goals for new signings, Adam and Henderson.

Overall, it is a good team effort. It is a far cry from the two-men team that is Gerrard and Torres.
We are at the right direction.

"At the cross-roads" was a cliche thrown around at Liverpool for the last few years of uncertainty. But this season, Arsenal are carrying the tag on their wary shoulders. Especially Arsene Wenger. You got to feel sympathy for his position. Regardless of the success and reputation he brought to Arsenal, the flak and barrage are burying him six-feet under. He was hung out to dry by both the team captain and primary playmaker. All-in-all, there must be change in his policy and we will see how he pick up from there. It would be sad to see him go after what he has done to the club.

The "It never rains but it pours" look of Mr. Wenger.


Football can be cruel. I haven't seen how my cousin, the hardcore Arsenal fan, for a long time. It's been a torturing summer transfer window there. That is understandably hair-tearing.


Till then.

Mathew Street Festival

It doesn't feel so long ago. The beats are there. A little bit of jumping and minor headbanging. Oh and the drizzle.

Welcome to Mathew Street Festival.

It's one of my fondest memories of Liverpool. Merry people, interesting bands and lots of booze!

From covers of Queen, Guns n' Roses and Liverpool's own sons, The Beatles, it is one helluva experience. Fringe Bands they are called. Several stages are set up across Liverpool's streets. Rock, pop and hip hop. You name it. And most encouragingly, all these are free. All you need is buy a carton of booze that's it.

We sang along, we danced, we drank. Under a cloudy sky, everybody is enjoying and cheering with each other. It's truly a festival.

Cheering with a local Scouse.

Eventually there is rain, but that didn't deter us. It would be a sin to miss it. And we need to release ourselves after the stressful thesis-writing.

Walking down the crowded and wet CBD.

Of course, apart from the bands, small-time musicians took advantage to promote themselves too.

James Blunt wannabes.

You will think that all the English people will be down south enjoying the sun on a sandy beach. But hey, it doesn't seem to be that way.

Waves of people thronged the streets.

And if you can't get enough of it (well, apart from affording to come every year), you can get some souvenir from the vans nearby.

So there you go, a first hand sneak preview of Mathew Street Preview, albeit 2009.

This year's will be held from 28-29th August 2011. If you are at Scouse land, this is worth your energy.

P/S: I miss Liverpool.

Evolve

Things are changing fast. I was just talking about shifting and the timing. Well, in just one day, everything seems to come into place by itself.

Getting to places is not easy. I firmly believe in the correlation of effort and reward, but once in a while I doubted its consistency. This time around it is significant.

As things change from might to affirmative, others involved need to witness and participate in the change too. Evolution is essential in growing. Slow as it is, the effects are there to see in the end.

Several loose ends needed sorting out, but it has been a great journey. Hopefully, there are brighter things to come. Till then, will salvage the current achievement.
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Shift

Once again, it's the crossroads. The choices seem easy. The only complication is time. Biding time is a monumental task. Waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

Sometimes, things must be sacrificed. Loyalty, ego, comfort and such. If the risk is not taken, the glass ceiling can never be broken. As much as I like to play things safe and hopes everything remains the same, circumstances does not allow. Yes, it's time again in play. Most of things need a huge shift. Shift from the comfort zone, shift from the conservative ideology, shift to uncharted areas, shift to new perception.

Making these decisions are paradoxically depressing and exciting. It is going to make a huge major impact. Life decisions they call it.

Am I ready? Only time will tell.

Clean

Tomorrow will be a historical day in Malaysia.

The only aim for a peaceful march was fair and clean elections.

But, they were deemed as threats to security and ridiculed.

Bluntly speaking, those with power are paranoid and nut-less. Instead of working together, they worked against the people.

So, in the end, more people decided to go against them for their arrogance and ignorance.
Really, simple logic also dono.

Are you taking the streets?

It's alright if you don't. But remember, we are all fighting for one cause:
To have a clean and fair election.

Simple as that.

Football Sites

The off-season for football is a massacre to one's soul. Repeatedly. Adding to the fact it is a year without either the Euro and World Cup, it's just pretty tormenting. Copa America and the Gold Cup are consolations though. Thank goodness.

What is especially tormenting are the transfer news. Rephrase: Transfer Gossips. It's like your partner saying that she wanted wild sex but back out last minute and she was suddenly linked to numerous other men who wanted to make love to her, and she come back and say that she wanted to have sex only to back out again....

You get the drift.

So with the hot-n-cold moments, one website is not enough to satisfy the need for football stories. Soccernet  has served me well since I started following football. But now, there aren't much articles or news that are deemed entertaining or non-speculative. What you get is always the partner-wanna-make-love metaphor. So expansion of horizon is needed.

I followed Studs-Up a while ago through recommendation. It's one of the best football humour you can get. Chris Toy rocks no kidding. But production seems not to be on time, due to, quote Chris, other projects. So you have to divert to other sides. The aforementioned project is another blog-like website called KCKRS. Fun and humourous stuff really. Technically, it is like yet another website that I recently discovered, Dirty Tackle. These are the website that provide great entertainment and punts of the football world. Both off and on the pitch.

And since it's the off-season, teams are in the transition of their kits too. Which is amusing too if you ask me. So this is the website that I go to for the latest change of kits and jersey: FootballShirtCulture.com.

And if you would like more dimensions of the more serious stuff (read: news; not rumours), Goal.com and BBC Football are good sources.

So far, these seem to satisfy my hunger. But if there are anymore good ones, do recommend.

2nd Away Kit 2011/12 for Reds

When they first announce the 2nd away kit for the 2011-12 season, I take a look at the picture......

Liverpool 2nd Away Kit 2011-12

....I actually went: "Whoa."

For two reasons. First, it is very refreshing and comes with an awesome design. Secondly, it is not the normal colours that is associated with the Reds. Especially the cyan colour.

As expected, criticism swarmed in. Fans are largely disappointed with the cyan/blue colour. It is associated with our neighbouring  rivals, Everton. The hardcore fans are even calling for a boycott.

Opinions are divided. IMO? It is a great kit. And it is not even Everton color. This is cyan, while Everton is dark blue. In fact, it is one of the earliest colours of Liverpool FC from 1892-96, before we adopted red as the primary colour.

I just think that to relate this straight to Everton is tad ridiculous. We just need to be reminded of our rich proud history, that's all.

I am sure Man United was flaked with the same criticism 2005-06 and 2008-09 kits, where blue is incorporated onto the whole kit, apparently the colour of their city rivals, Man City. But they got through and took 2nd and first place for these two seasons, and won the Carling Cups too.

Point is, it doesn't really matter. All we need to do is concentrating on the game. Who cares whether we are in Blue or Red by then. Who knows it could be a lucky charm and we can win the title this year? Heh.

Affirmation

The phrase "permanently based" seem to grab the most attention on that letter. Not even the numbers can compete with it.

When it reached my hand, the only thought on my mind was: "Oh geez, finally?! That took awhile, ain't it?"
But it is all worth it. Did not expect much on the numerical changes, but what matters most are the assurance and the security.

Major changes will be make come October, and quote : "Let's grow together" and "Keep it up" rang soundly in my head.

It has been a great journey and certainly a longer tougher road to go.

Forza Barca!

For our generation, if Barcelona isn't the greatest team ever, then I can't suggest another one.

This is a team that has provide at least 6 World Cup champions, a phenomenal football genius and the most attractive free-flowing football. The entertainers and champions at the same time.

It is going to be a normal scene for years to come.

The current team is a far-cry from the team that I started supporting in 2001-02. The likes of Kluivert, Rivaldo, de Boer, Luis Enrique and the younger Xavi and Puyol is one good cast of superstars. But nothing compares to the current crop of players.

Fittingly, their opponents are regarded as one of the best team in Europe. However, Barca teared United apart with skills, composure, talent and determination. Ferguson admitted, which is unusual for him, that they lost to the best team in the world.

With waves of talent coming in from their famed academy, Barca need not to worry about challenging for the best. As much as they have a bright future, fans will salvage the triumphs that comes within this generation and hope that it will continue. After all, they still have a football genius at the age of only 23.

On a side note, a tribute will need to be paid to a great player in the form of Edwin van der Sar, who will hang his gloves after this season. Not the ending that he has anticipated for surely, but he has been a great player to watch.

Calm in the Storm

I think I just found out why I used to camp in a crowded McD and studied for next day's exam.

Answer: It is the calm in the buzz.

It seems ridiculous and ironic. You probably think wtf does that work. To be honest, I don't have the answer. Just maybe some hypothesis.

I find that a place too silent will tend to bore you out. And in addition, a sudden change like an idiot suddenly screaming because just got owned in dota, can be very frustrating distraction. In contrast, when you are at a place filled with buzz, it tends to cancel out everything that is termed "noisy".

Got this hypo when sitting at Starbucks at QB where a band was singing to a huge crowd and the traffic buzzing at the background.
Sent from my BlackBerry® smartphone

Restructuring

When the decision is announced, there was shocked. Expected but I did not anticipate it was that fast. Previously it was scheduled for September for the analysis, but this is way too soon.

Things still need to sink in. These are major decisions. Its not like: Oh ok, I'm fine and will continue like nobody's business. My friend said, jokingly that is, that I am dubbed. Perhaps, in a way, I am. I am trying to weigh things now.

The job is fine. In fact, I find it challenging and fulfilling. But other factors need to be consider too.

Once again, I have to remind myself that its a major decision to make. Hence the break. September will be my self-set deadline.

Till then.

Me and Me Only

What is more relaxing than a day where you can wake up at 7am in the morning, do a washing, go back to sleep till 11am, play newly installed FM 11, go out for lunch, wash the car, read gizmodo and lifehacker, keh poh on other people's blog, facebook and the remnants of the royal wedding, listening to own playlist, go through FastFive OST, watch some films, ate fruit, sip a cup of tea and later go out for a hang out?

I can has a lazy day

 The Lazy Day song did not exactly describe my day, but close. This is what I call the me-myself-and-I day.

Happy Labour Day everyone! =)

Bewitching Blackpool

For all the places that I had been in England, the seaside town of Blackpool seems to implant a deep impression in my memories. It seems the most unlikely of choices, because apart from the numerous theme parks and piers there, the town looks like any other town. However, I am mysteriously deeply attracted to this small town.

Blackpool tower.

It was a random choice to select this serene town as a place to have a visit during one random weekend.
As mentioned, there were not a lot of attractions to mention. However, I am happy to go anywhere, since it was a weekend. And it was just around 30 miles from Liverpool, where we were studying.

Anyways, the journey was a blur to me. I honestly cannot remember any part of it. The memories actually started to come back when we stopped in front of Sacred Heart Church. It was showering at the time. We had no clue where we were in Blackpool and the boys decided to scout in front with the girls hugging each other at a corner, hiding from the rain. Eventually, we mapped and figured out the place, and decided to march to the promenade  , where the city centre is. The first attraction in sight was the Blackpool tower (unknowingly to us at that time). We had breakfast at McD's, before heading to the piers.

The weather was cooling at the time. Rain and drizzle took turns and it was windy with the sea breezes consistently hitting us. We stop by at one of the amusement centres to avoid a sudden heavy rain, and spent a few hours playing games there.

Coral Island, one of the amusement centres.

As the sky brighten up around 10am, we took the wet road again. Most of us split into groups. Me and my usual mates start the journey from the North Pier and headed south.

One of the things that contribute my liking to Blackpool was the beach. It easily reminded me of the beaches of Tanjung Feringhi in Penang.

Us at Centre Pier.

Heading further, we reached South Pier, where the Pleasure Beach theme park was. As the gang decided to hit the amusement machines once more, I chose to take a walk further down the seaside promenade. It was very relaxing to do so and I have the fondest memories of Blackpool during the long walk.

The calming scenes during the walk. Another reminder of Penang, where Gurney Drive is.

As evening approaches, we decided to call it time for our day trip. It was slightly a regretful decision, as later I realized that the town actually came to life during night.

I actually made it my first priority to visit Blackpool once again with the next opportunity to visit the UK. Hope it arrives sooner than later. =)

Given the Chances

When I woke up today, I did not expect to see the score 3-0 with Liverpool at the right end. The team lost to West Brom with the most boring of displays. However, they beat the crap out of the other Manchester team. In fact, it could be 5-0 had it not for a goal-post moment for Suarez and glaring miss from Kuyt with an open header.

Carroll's two goals had been two brilliant moments. Really happy to see him score for the first time. If he had come from the academy, that would have been an achievement. And speaking of the academy, that is what really impressed me actually. For the last decade, only Gerrard and Carragher had been the product of the famed Academy. Rafa Benitez multi-cultured the academy with lots of imports. But so far, only Emiliano Insua came close to be on the first-team sheet any other time. Everybody else, the club just buy buy buy. And most are either not up to standards or not given chances for a breakthrough. 

Half way through the season with Dalglish in reign, I am glad to see three players from the Academy performed. Mind you its only less than 6 months since King Kenny was in charge. First of all it was Martin Kelly. Till his recent injury, I would say he played with aplomb in every match, Man U included. Then, there is Jay Spearing. Short and stout, but his contribution on the field can be matched with Kuyt's work-horse like stamina. Two starts, and ahead of Joe Cole, it pretty much sums up how he had developed.

Then last night, it was John Flanagan's turn. Flanno, as he was affectionately known, was getting a debut in Anfield and against big spending Manchester City. Came out victor with a 3-0 score. Can't ask much more from an 18 year-old right back, ain't it?

Heck, he didn't even look 18 to me. But hell yea, he played well.

It reminds me of the days when Arsenal had an, well, arsenal of quality left-backs. Ashley Cole, Clichy and then Kieran Gibbs. We currently have Johnson, Kelly and Flanagan. Now that is depth. And two are from the Academy mind you.

Hence, the fans are hopeful that more will turn up. The likes of Pacheco, Bruna and Suso should light up Anfield in the future. Given the chance.

Like It's Her Birthday

The title is just a pick from the current song that I am listening. Coincidently, it is my birthday. Heh.

Someone reminded that I am 24. I kinda forgot about counting how many birthdays I have went through. After all, its the only thing that doesn't matter counting.

As usual, I have tons of excuses about why there aren't many posts lately. Of course, my recent marriage to my work is one of them. Not to mention the lack of dedication and commitment. A major problem that has become synonymous everything that is me. Hence, it has become a personal resolution to discard such a bad habit on me birthday.

On another note, birthdays are kinda like a longer version of 30 Seconds To Fame. My FB notifications kept beeping so frequently that I have to switch me phone into silent mode last night. No, I am not saying you guys are irritating. The notification alerts are. Anyway, thanks for the wishes.

Of course not much celebrations nowadays. Not a kid anymore you see. Plain simple dinner with family is the best I have hope for always. Birthday cakes are totally out of the equation.

And here we go, +1 to age. Till the next post, ciao.

The Blahs

Ooh, its been a long time since the last update. Pretty much due to the reason that life is a bit mundane for post-CNY. And the four letters starting with L of course.

So this post is kinda like hey-no-worries-im-still-here post. And I'm gonna talk about all those microscopic matters that has and will be happening.

First, come end of March, it is time to be back. That exotic comfy little island of the northern region. For good. That is where I am gonna develop the daunting project that the company are looking at. Such exciting challenge I say. And in addition, I am the lone-ranger that is gonna take a huge stride in making that project a success. The phrase do-or-die might sounds cliche to you. But it is surreal to me. Come September, I will know which path I am going to.

And March is going to be THE fecking busy month. The hectic fairs, the hardcore marketing and the astounding task to put the company on the map in an already competitive shore. And all the weddings. Omg. My girl-friends are already fearing they are entering mid-life crisis. Crazily paranoid these bunch, I tell you. And yes yes, the weddings. Omg again. Makes you think when is yours every time you receive the glaring red invitation cards. Heck, I need to have a girlfriend first. Hint.

So here I go, for a roller coaster ride. Hopefully by April, I will still be fine and alive. I used to worry too much when I was young and energetic. But now, I preach the laissez-faire style of doing things.

So yeap, basically that's it. And oh final point, I think Penang is more alive now, since most of my friends are back from their self-imposed exodus. Teehee. Its gonna be a good good life. Hopefully.

Looking Forward

Its still CNY mood here. And boy, Liverpool have been providing the icing on the cake for the new year.

The transfer window has been dramatic. That certain Spanish made the move to an arch rival, of all teams. Back then, I think with Owen abandoning us for Real Madrid, it was disappointing. But this is another level.

And what an irony. Raul Meireles and Co. show him which is the bigger club now on Saturday.  Torrid Torres. Not that anybody likes to see him fall. But the lack of respect (Agger, D. 2010), is certainly there.

Nice touch by the way, Agger.

And here we have Suarez and a certain 35mil player with us. Optimism is coming back to Anfield. The Dalgish revolution is ongoing. Everything seems to be set straight. Hope it goes on.

Come Saturday, we are looking forward to a fifth straight win. Not a streak we have seen often in Liverpool these days. And certainly we want to see more of Suarez and Carroll, hope they are up for the next few matches.

YNWA.

The Year of the Rabbit

This year, I anticipate CNY more than ever. I am still wondering why.

Maybe because I was away and I longed to go home. The friends and family gatherings seems very enticing. I got this wanna-be-connected feeling. Maybe its because of the small office environment. Maybe its just the angpows. Heh.

Coming up, there will be lots of Gong Xi Fa Chai greetings to be made. Lots of ang pows to be received (hopefully). And this year the Reunion dinner is going to be different. Instead of the usual steamboat, which has been the family tradition for the past...hmm...forever, we decided this time we go for the restaurant package. Guess everybody is becoming either too ancient or too busy to prepare the steamboat. Good thing is we can still eat it as 1Family. (Sorry Najib, have to steal your 1M idea.)

So yeah, another year gone, another year coming. Hmm..

Have you seen an unorganized CNY rant before? Well, you just did.

Happy Chinese New Year! Keong Hee Huat Chai!

A New Hope

Liverpool fans will always be accused of harbouring high hopes, even when the reality doesn't permit it. Me included.

But come today (Wednesday), we will be against a team with an eccentric manager and an industrial-like team that had, most of the time, defied odds of going down straight away after one season. Meet Ian Hollaway and his unfancied Blackpool team.

Last time around, the "mighty" Red Pool actually lost to the Orange Pool. Disgrace.

As aforementioned, we have hopes. This time, it's newly found.

Meet King Kenny

Kenny Dalglish, the legendary one. And whatever titiles that can be bestowed upon him. This guy is in charge to at least guide Liverpool from a great slump.

The buid-up to today's match has been positive. We saw a gritty performance from the team that was a goal and a man down at Old Trafford maintaining the score at one-nil. That was the first match the King was at the helm. And at press-conferences, KD has been very positive about the club and the players. What he said about Fernando Torres is especially encouraging. An assurance to the fans and the star himself.

Score please.


Today, there was only one hope. And that will be: Win against Blackpool.

Like KD, we were taking things step by step. Magic wands or not, we will not walk alone.

Out and Out

Roy Hodgson is a good manager. But apparently that was not enough.

At Liverpool FC, we always have (sometimes delusional) high expectations.
He might have took Fulham to the Euro Cup final. But come to think of it, he hasn't actually won anything big.

But that is not the point, we always give people a chance to prove themselves.

However, when you took a Liverpool team out and lost to the likes of Blackpool, Blackburn and Stoke City. Sorry lar. Unacceptable.

Via Studs Up . Apparently he doesn't have the chance to do so.

Its not uncommon that we the fans have to go through the down-u-go taunts from rival fans (yes you opportunistic Mancs). But going down seems to be unforgivable if not impossible. Newcastle and Leeds comes to mind.

Now the legendary Kenny Dalglish will be leading a bunch of misfits out to salvage anything from a shitty enough half season. Come July, we should be winning the league staying in the league with a respectable position. Say 7th?

We will never walk alone. And hey, all the best Roy! I meant it.