Defining Moments

Another Nike athelete? Coincidence?

2010-08-20T15:26:00.011+10:00

I think Nike's at it again. This time, the fuss is over Roger Federer's wizardry. The clip creating all the hoo-ha was supposedly shot behind the scenes at a Gillette shoot. Here's the clip:

Now, there is no official word from Roger or any of his sponsors on whether what he did was real or not but for those of you who have not seen the other clips featuring Nike athletes that had audiences guessing its authenticity, here they are:

What's even more amazing is that the first day of polling done by the Sydney Morning Herald (link here) shows 68% of the 6780 respondents believing that it's real! The result really surprised me. Maybe they were all impressionable kids.

There is no doubting that Nike (if it was them) is a marketing genius. I have to admit that when I saw the Kobe clip when it went viral, it got me thinking if he'd really done it. However, coincidently, Nike later collaborated with Aston Martin to release limited edition pairs of Kobe's signature shoes. They have created heroes out of the elite atheletes that they endorse. A lot of their ads do provide inspiration (I have some of the older Michael Jordan and Lance Armstrong ads saved on my computer to provide me with that pick-me-up when I needed one) but do we sometimes exaggerate the capabilities of some of these athletes in our heads? As Tiger, Kobe and even Jordan have shown us, they are human and just as susceptible to desires and failures like any one of us. I think it's important to remember that. As far as their talent is concerned , whoever's doing it is really pushing into Hollywood's territory of make believe with the twist being instead of actors, they're using real athletes. AWESOME!

Thank your lucky stars!

2010-08-02T16:52:00.002+10:00

Va va voom!

2010-04-13T16:57:00.003+10:00

Wow! I never realised she was that hot. Schwinggggg indeed!

I'll take two please...

2010-04-08T13:56:00.007+10:00

Behold the Rafael Nadal x Richard Mille RM027 Tourbillon.

Now, I like watches and I like watching Rafa play. So, naturally when Richard Mille came up with a collaboration with Rafa I was like, 'Sweeeeeet! Where do I buy one?', but for a whopping US$525,000, my butt hole's spider sense started tingling furiously as if a large cylindrical object was approaching it. Yes, it was the fear of being pummelled up the ol' sewer pipe.

Ok, lets give the watch the benefit of doubt. Besides being limited to 50 pieces, what else is there? Here's the blurb:

The weight equivalent of 20 paper clips!

"Weighing under 20 grams (13g without strap), the incredibly light RM 027 has a carbon-composite case, and the manual-wind movement – itself weighing just under 4 g — is constructed titanium and LITAL ®, lithium alloy containing aluminum, copper, magnesium, zirconium. Power reserve is 48 hours. Lithium alloy is also used in many aircraft parts such as the A380, helicopters, missiles, satellites or even Formula 1 and offers extreme performance attributes. The back bezel and caseband are monobloc to ensure total lightness. The glass; the bezel and the flange in carbon have remarkable properties of stiffness and torsional rigidity."

Hmmm...ok. No diamonds, no gold, no sapphires, no rubies, just a bunch of high grade metals. So, let's say you're playing a high stakes poker game with a bunch of roughies and you're down half a mil with no cash to pay. I think you'd better pray that these guys are illegal weapons manufacturers and have a good sense of humour when you start your sales pitch.

Almost makes the Kobe Bryant x Nubeo below look cheap at US$25,000 a pop.

Ok, ok, I know I sound like a sour puss but credit must be given when credit is due. I love the watch! It's simply a work of art.

Source: perpetuelle

The Secret of Nike Air

2010-04-02T09:19:00.001+11:00

Found this to be pretty good.

The week that was.

2009-09-27T18:11:00.003+10:00

Crazy dust storm has got us thinking that the end was nigh this week. Turned everything orange. Even in the middle of the day!

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Fun Run.

Oh my creaking body.

2009-09-15T20:44:00.004+10:00

Ten years ago, I'd put on my sneakers, grab my racquet/ball and run or ride my bmx to the courts. Now, I have to pack the voltaren and depending what sport I'm playing, the ankle guard, knee guard, elbow guard, compression shorts and singlet and just for good measure, the number for the ambulance on speed dial.

Ten years ago, warm ups were a waste of time. We'd get to the courts and go all out instantly. Now, if I wanted to walk the next day, even warm downs are a must let alone warm ups.

Ten years ago, I'd come home after 4 hours of chasing a ball and go about the rest of the day with plenty of energy. Now, I have to ice the knees and elbows and stretch so that I can get out of bed without the help of a forklift the next day.

Ten years ago, rice had only one meaning and that is food. Now, rice is rest, ice, compression and elevation.

Gotta' love ageing.

Be careful what you wish for.

2009-09-03T14:27:00.003+10:00

Two-oh-oh-nine is now more than 60% lighter and it feels like only a sneeze ago that I started my new job.

They say time flies when you're having fun...or when it's so busy that you don't have time to fix a wedgie. One which I've had since January. Now, imagine my discomfort.

When I left my old job, I was looking forward to the challenges that accompanied the perquisites of my new job. In fact, I was pumped! Bigger company, nicer offices and equipment, great training and more people to interact with, what's not to look forward to right?

Well, the title of this entry probably reflects my sentiment.

The politics (BS in real speak) I've had to deal with so far is incredible. People covering their asses when things go slightly off track, the two - no, multiple faced characters that can be your best friend one minute and stab you with anything that they can grab hold off the next. There are no loyalties, it's everyone for themselves! And people gossip here like their lives depended on it. Apparently, depending on who you talk to, everyone is sleeping with somebody in the office.

Heck, I've worked in organisations that are larger than this in previous postings and I didn't have to deal with so much BS there. Personally, I find that it shows a lot about a person's character if they admit to a fuckup and fix it rather than blaming someone or everyone other than themselves and nothing gets done.

Experiences in life can open one's eyes and if one is submersed in an environment long enough, I believe it will definitely affect them somewhat if left unchecked.

The question I have been asking myself is - do I stay true to myself or do I want to play the game and be bent and molded into somebody that has so many layers that you cannot tell who you're dealing with?

There are 3 options for me. 1) Rise up and take the high road, focusing on what is right 2) Be a Swiss cheese and stay neutral or 3) Go with the flow.

I've been struggling with this question more so in the past couple of months than ever before trying to figure this out to get things done but mainly to reevaluate myself and who I want to be.

I am proud to say I've thought it through and I'm going to do what blue eyes did - I'm doing it my way.

The year that was.

2008-12-31T20:52:00.007+11:00

On the eve of a new year, it would be just plain ungrateful to let Lady 08 go without reflecting on some of the lessons learned and the fantastic moments that were experienced.

Two thousand and eight started off on an extreme high with the birth of our little girl. She has grown so much and given us so many happy and memorable moments with all her first experiences. Her first word, her first smile, her first tooth, all of which were very special to us and makes us appreciate both the simplicity of life and the fragility of it.

It was a year when the Pope rolled into town in the Pope mobile for World Youth Day, the year China wowed me with the first opening ceremony I did not fall asleep on and the year, THE man, Barack Obama, became the President of the US of A. All these events helped spice the year up and gave it the added 'oomph'.

Heading down the final stretch, things were a little disappointing for me but I think the lessons that I take away from it were more invaluable than the ill feelings that I felt.

It was of course the worst year in the history of the local stock market. A staggering 41% loss in value with more bad news ahead. It made a lot of people realise their greed and that good times always come to an end.

Career wise, my resignation brought out the true colours of some people I treated more than just my colleagues but my friends. I guess some people really do wear a mask when they go to work. Imagine asking a close colleague at work for the security pass to the wash room on your last day after you've handed in yours and his response was to ask you to use the reception's pass for fear that you might duplicate his. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Then, there were the bosses that gave me the cold shoulder after receiving my resignation letter. Communicating to me only via email instead of face-to-face. It really left a bitter taste in the mouth but I suppose the few bad apples in the barrel tend to ruin the experience of the majority good. The farewell lunches and gifts did make me think twice about leaving but in the end, it was the right decision and I look forward to starting my new job in the new year.

So, while 2008 draws closer and closer to the end, I bid her sayonara and arigato for giving me the year that was.

Here's to having a fine oh nine. Cheers!

Have yourself a very merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T21:20:00.005+11:00

Martin Place

Lebron James & Nicole Scherzinger

2008-11-02T21:01:00.002+11:00

If only my girl shares the same enthusiasm for sneakers...

Fear

2008-10-10T17:32:00.004+11:00

What a shocker of a week!

Got an email today about the craziness we're facing. I found it very amusing. I hope the meeting goes well in Washington.

OCTOBER 10th 2009 (Reuters) -- Police used tear gas and batons to break up a mob of angry unemployed stockbrokers in the heart of the financial district as the S&P/ASX 200 slumped through the 500 market to finish at 497.2.

The brokers were demonstrating outside of the Stock Exchange building in Bridge Street, demanding an audience with the recently elected chairman, Stan Wallis. When he failed to appear, the brokers began attacking the building and security staff with briefcases and what appeared to be rolled up social security forms.

With unemployment in the financial services industry hovering at nearly 90%, the Federal Government has ordered an inquiry into whether it is feasible to permanently retrain the growing army of brokers and other fallouts from the financial services industry.

"It is very difficult though," said a TAFE spokesman. "It does not appear that they have any useful skills - legal ones anyway - which may be redirected to more productive pursuits."

The government has already rejected a proposal that they be housed in the former Woomera detention centre on the grounds that they were worst behaved than the Afghan immigrants who caused so much strife around the turn of the century.

A retraining program at a farm near Cessnock in the Hunter Valley had to be abandoned after a group of jobless brokers went on a valley-wide chicken stealing spree after one broker started a market in chook feathers.

Brokers have become increasingly desperate as the equity market continues to slide and the war in Iraq enters its ninth year with little sign that US forces are making any progress. There was a brief 5-point rally in the market yesterday on news that George Bush had died, but it turned out to be George Bush Senior."

The oil price continues to hover at $US100 a barrel as Sydney motorists began to adjust to the second week of petrol rationing. Harbour commuters have also praised the introduction of oarsmen to the ferries, although some travellers on the Manly ferry are still grumbling about the 3-hour one way trip, especially during heavy swells.

Meanwhile, many online employment web sites were inundated yesterday on news that Merrill Morgan Suisse Warburg Barney, one of the three remaining brokerages, was planning to advertise for a receptionist's assistant. Bill Pettigrew at Seekjob.com said brokers swamped his site and forced it off line for an hour. MMSWB later denied the rumour, and said they intended to continue with their recently announced program of staff cuts.

Anthony Pope a former client adviser at ABNAmroMorgans said the news "perked him up even though I knew it couldn't be true."

"I've been sitting on the lounge for the last 3 months watching the telly," he said," so it was good to hear that a job might be available. It's never too late to start at the bottom."

Pope was one of thousands purged when the Dutch financial services group contracted its global operations from 3,400 branches in 60 countries to head office in Amsterdam and a single branch in Utrecht in just a week.

Yesterday's tentative market rally soon petered out and the market closed near its lows. An ASX spokesman said the reduced trading hours (10.00-10.30am) appeared to be working well. Market leader Woodside Petroleum was up $1 to $386 and the No 2 stock Metal Storm lost 1¢ to finish at a split-adjusted 45¢. Turnover was slightly higher at 15 million shares.

Macquarie Bank entitlements traded up 0.2¢ to 2.3¢ as administrators finalised plans for the refloat of the restructured bank. The new Macquarie wraps up the former bank and 26 other listed Macquarie products into a single entity. It is expected to be capitalised at $12 million upon refloat and include $2 million in cash. Administrators also confirmed that shareholders in the former Macquarie Airports vehicle would receive a one-off payment of 1¢ in 2022 and a $10 rebate on an airline ticket, as long as it was to a regional destination.

AMP was up 1¢ to 14¢ after announcing that it had insured a dinghy - the first premium received since the write-downs and restructuring which reduced its capital base by 99.9%. Coles Myer was unchanged at 6¢ after announcing its fourth successive management change this month. Solomon Lew issued his 1000th press release attacking the board and again calling for urgent action.

Rio BHP Billcrest said it would have one mine left - a small gold mine - after closing most of its global mining operations. Its iron ore mines were recently sold to China to repay debt. The stock closed 1.2¢ lower at 23¢.

In other news, accounting officials said the News Corp liquidation would take many years, and there was little hope of any meaningful return for creditors. An Interpol alert has been issued for former chairman Rupert Murdoch who he is believed to be running a local newspaper in a southern province in China.

The Nikkei descended below 100 for the second time in a fortnight, and the Bank of Japan was again the main buyer of stocks. It issued another 725 trillion yen of government bonds, with a coupon of 0.00003% per annum and maturing when the sun finally sets on the Japanese empire.

The ungrateful.

2008-10-03T17:18:00.004+10:00

Do you remember the huge favours that your family have done for you? The silent sacrifices that they’ve made to improve your life but you’re either too blind to take notice, too proud to thank them or just plain ungrateful.

If somebody recommended you a job when you couldn’t get a break, points out your weaknesses when you’re too blind to see and called in favours from their friends just for you, would you remember these deeds?

Do you remember how you got to this point in your life? Take away what we’ve done for you then, step back and tell me that you could have done better.

Now that you’ve got your life back on track, it seems that everything is forgotten. It seems that we were supposed to look out for you. Yes, you did not ask us to do anything for you but shouldn’t people that care for each other do so without being asked? Am I suppose to stand by and watch you fail when I know I can help? Am I suppose to turn a blind eye when I see you’re not doing something right? Have you ever done the same for us?

The appreciation you show your girlfriend and the willingness to please her more than anyone else in your life sickens us. You anticipate what she needs but you’ve never done so for us. You assume that we’ll always be there for you.

I’m tired. We’re tired. If you don’t know who’s got your back when you fall, you better not fall.

Phriday Photos

2008-08-08T20:08:00.005+10:00

08.08.08 @ 8.08 pm (JYEAH!) deserves some awesome pics.

Some of my favourite kicks of all time from my favourite player of all time...

Bonus pic (excuse the crappy exposure. It was taken in haste)...

All retros.

I almost missed out on the racquet cos' I did not know that they reissued the Radical in honour of Agassi's retirement last year. So, when I stumbled onto them a few weeks back and saw that they were on sale, I had to pull the trigger. Apparently, in staying true to the preference of the future Hall of Famer, it comes complete with the rubber band dampener (which I took out cos' I didn't like the feel), the blue overgrip and an added detail of all the names and years of the Grand Slams he's won with Head. However, I gotta' admit that other than nostalgia and mine being numbered 3333 out of 5000, this racquet has little going for it. I still prefer my Titanium Changs over these.

W.W.J.D?

2008-07-29T17:11:00.006+10:00

When I was a wee little rascal, I used to hope and wish that I had super powers like the heroes in my comic books. I always thought that one day, my powers might manifest itself and I would use my ability for good and save humanity from its ails.

That day is NOW!!!

Nah, just kidding, but I can imagine if that actually came true. With my life at the moment, I don’t think I can cope. It might be cool initially but with the weight of expectation and the stress of dealing with my conscience, I just don't think I'm capable.

This thought came about when I asked a friend, who’s a real talent at what he does, about his career. I asked him what he’s doing in a company like his when much bigger and reputable companies have tried to coax him to join them for better incentives. His answer was simple yet puzzling. He said that he’s not ambitious and he values lifestyle more than money. I can relate to a point and asked him whether he realised what potential he has and if he’s ever thought that he’s wasting his gift. Again, a simple answer. It’s his life.

Now, just imagine that my friend is a doctor who, if he decides to realise his talent fully, would eradicate cancer forever. Isn’t it like being a superhero and using his power to save lives?

To deny or suppress your God given talent. Is that selfish?

C.R.E.A.M

2008-07-28T17:40:00.006+10:00

Sonny Bill Williams

I think that all this animosity towards SBW is so hypocritical. SBW is a superstar of the NRL. He’s marketable and he’s good (ok, maybe a little overrated sometimes but hey, look at David Beckham). Can you blame anyone for getting their worth? I mean, if another big company thinks you’re worth more than you are currently on and are willing to give you an opportunity with them, wouldn’t you listen to what they have to offer?

Ok, so he’s still got 5 years or so left to go on his contract but what’s the fuss? Don’t tell me the club forgot to put a clause in the contract for a gazillion dollars if he decides to leave prematurely. If so, they should probably hire those lawyers that work on insurance policies. Even if the transfer fee is, say 2-3 times the current value of the player, wouldn’t the club stand to gain more by selling one good player and having enough cash to sign several cheaper stars or wait till another talent comes along? It's not like they're relying on a portion of the guy's jersey sales.

The head-honchos in the NRL need to walk into the players’ locker room after a game and take a deep breath. Hopefully that’ll knock some senses into them. As if they didn’t know that professional sports these days is a business. Look at all the major clubs or teams in professional sports. From Man U to the L.A Lakers, you pay big bucks to your stars even if you have to go into debt or pay luxury tax. Look at the current situation in Man U with another No. 7 (Ronaldo) considering a move to Madrid. I’d say 95% is motivated by moolah, the other 5% is miscellaneous and not necessary loyalty seeing that he did not come through the junior ranks. If you have a strict salary cap, you better pray that those leagues with no caps don’t come knocking. Or if they do, have a clause that reads, ‘player must watch Schindler’s List without falling asleep’ or something similar to that effect.

With agents and those standing to gain from a new deal being so close to these young athletes, they would be working overtime and using their experience to persuade them into leaving even if they’re thinking of doing otherwise.

I’m sure a lot of athletes are constantly under pressure with the possibility of being discarded like a used tampon when they’re not performing or injured when the transfer season opens. They would have heard from fellow team mates and friends of how unjust and cruel management can be sometimes in not seeking out their opinions or even informing them that they are being cut or moved. Life can be tough if you’re a has-been or a role player in professional sports. So, why not earn as much as they can in the 10 or so years they have? Who are we to say that SBW or anyone has no right in leaving a team? We drop a few coins for entry to the game and we think we own them?

Sad fact of life is Cash Rules Everything Around Me.

Phriday Photos

2008-07-18T12:27:00.004+10:00

World Youth Day: Sydney MMVIII

The vibe in the city is similar to when the Olympics was in town in 2000 only more religious. People from all over the world singing hymns in their mother tongue and plenty of smiles and greetings from strangers. It's such a pleasant change of pace from the steely blue working week.

The spectacular St. Mary's Cathedral:

The Rocks gets rocked:

The Premier of New South Wales:

Scenes from the road closures around the Central Business District:

So stoked that I caught the Pope mobile:

Phriday Photos

2008-07-11T21:05:00.004+10:00

Iphone release.

The Stand Arcade

Bummer.

2008-07-09T10:01:00.003+10:00

There's an obsession with assholes in the news at the moment. I mean, I know a lot of us think that some people are assholes figuratively speaking but claims that some assholes are interested in assholes literally? Cum on! If I had any input into this, I’d say the outcome would be shit for everyone involved. Don't these assholes know that the path less travelled doesn’t always guarantee a smooth run?

Sigh, why is it that whenever there’s a stink, they always blame the asshole.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For some reason, I cracked up laughing at this:

A terrorist runs into a pet shop...he puts a bomb on the counter and shouts "everyone has a minute to get out," A tortoise at the back shouts "You kharnt...!!"

Phriday Photos

2008-07-04T08:57:00.002+10:00

Some snaps from the week that's been...

Team USA

2008-07-02T14:58:00.004+10:00

2008 USA BASKETBALL TEAM Team USA (left to right): Coach Krzyzewski; Dwight Howard; Chris Bosh; Tayshaun Prince; Carlos Boozer; LeBron James; Carmelo Anthony; Kobe Bryant; Michael Redd; Jason Kidd; Dwyane Wade; Deron Williams and Chris Paul.

Courtesy of businesswire.com

I'm reluctant to call them yet another Dream Team after what happened to Team USA in their last few tournaments but hey, they've got KB24 this time around. It should prove interesting. I still think they're a bit small in the centre. Hopefully, they've studied the FIBA rule books cos' athleticism alone doesn't mean jack on the world stage...well, not unless you're the original Dream Team.

Wimbledon 2008

2008-06-27T08:34:00.009+10:00

She's out! Goooood riddance!

At this year's Wimbledon, she had a new outfit. Asked to comment on the new tuxedo inspired do, she said that she wanted something classy. Hello? That's like saying McEnroe collects art. Oh wait, he does! What is the world coming to?

I gotta' admit that she's a hottie. Ever since Kournikova left the tennis scene, the guys have been looking for a replacement. Along came Maria, athletic with long legs and a pretty face to match. When she first registered on my radar, I thought she was babelicious. That was until I saw her play. What a screamer! I have to say that it's more irritating than Seles (is she still around?). At least Seles wasn't out trying to prove that she's classy.

Anyway, Ana Ivanovic's my girl. Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr...

WTF! #6

2008-06-26T17:55:00.004+10:00

KOTA BARU: Muslims wearing the serban (turban) instead of crash helmets will not be booked until the Kelantan traffic police untangle a confusion over the interpretation of the related traffic regulation.

State police chief Senior Asst Commissioner (I) Datuk Abdul Rahim Hanafi said he had ordered a stop to the issuance of summonses pending a directive from Bukit Aman and possibly the Attorney-General.

He has referred the matter to Bukit Aman’s legal division to study the interpretation of serban in the current traffic ordinance.

SAC Abdul Rahim said this after handing over 102 Proton Waja vehicles to investigating officers from the narcotics, crime, commercial crime and traffic police departments.

He said the exemption was only for motorcyclists wearing the traditional serban and not other forms of headgear.

“Those wearing other than the strict version of serban will be booked,” he said.

In Ipoh, Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Musa Hassan said there should be no exceptions to the law.

Exempting those with serban from being summoned, he said, would give rise to others using it as an excuse not to wear helmets.

The confusion arose on Tuesday after Pasir Tumboh religious school student Ahmad Nasir Darus, 27, challenged a traffic summons issued for not wearing a crash helmet on Sept 20 last year in the magistrate's court.

His counsel Ahmad Rizal Effende Zainol cited a clause stating exemptions accorded to motorcyclists which covers those who are classified as “Haji, Hajjah, Lebai and Singh.”

Ahmad Rizal argued that motorcyclists wearing serban could be described as lebai (pious man). Souce:http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/6/26/nation/21657997&sec=nation

Didn't know that the matter was even debatable. They must think that 'pious men' are immortals.

I'm too young for this shit...

2008-06-19T11:05:00.003+10:00

Damn, I've been in pain for the past week. Excruciating pain. It came with no warning. Big toe's swollen and hurts whenever I move it. Docs say it might be gout. Fuck! At my age? Double damn. Waiting for my blood results to be sure but after reading up on the symptoms of gout, I think they're right. Ageing sux...

On a happier note, Tiger won in a thrilling playoff!

IV.III.MMVIII

2008-03-04T12:13:00.004+11:00

2008: PROGRESSION

Faith.

2008-03-03T16:47:00.009+11:00

This article was in the Sydney Morning Herald today.

I might have touched on the subject of my religious beliefs or lack thereof in the past. It wasn’t always the case though. I attended Sunday school at a very young age and all through until the final couple of years of high school, I was educated in Christian schools, schools that did not permit the freedom of choice in participation of their religious practices and studies. I had to attend church on Sundays (I was in boarding school) and there were masses and bible studies built into the curriculum.

I experienced a lot of things in boarding school. It probably made me think a lot about being a Christian and what it means. I got into a lot of disagreements with the teachers and some students who were brought up in the church that ran the school on why some of them rely so much on what the head preacher says. There were many instances where this preacher would determine the career paths of the kids of the teachers in that school. There was one student that I remember vividly who said that he did not need to study because God will give him everything he needs. He was dead serious too.

I guess part of me envy those people that can leave everything in the hands of another person (or being) just like that. Christians call it faith but I’m still figuring out my relationship with the Big Fella.

I know a few friends that have such a strong relationship with their church that they donate most of their salary to them. A friend’s sister even severed her relationship with her family because they did not approve of her giving everything to this ‘church’. I’ve been to the ‘church’ that she goes to and I am still undecided on how I feel. On the one hand, it’s doing a fantastic job in bringing people together and giving the people hope and joy but on the other, these very people that founded the ‘church’ owns the massive land where the ‘church’ is situated, goes around in fancy cars, wears expensive suits and have huge homes in prime locations.

Is that fair? Is that right?

Seeing practises like these, I’ve closed myself up even more for the fear of being taken for a ride. I feel like I’m being systematically manipulated and that I can’t trust or confide in people that have a strong allegiance to one of these churches because they do prey on the vulnerable more often than not. Okay, maybe prey is too strong a word but I would love to ask the head of these 'churches' whether their riches are justified.

More often than not, the most sincere and dedicated people are the followers and not the big kahunas in these ‘churches’. All that energy and passion summoned up during the sermon at 8am, 10am and 5pm on Sundays, is that real? Is it me or is it more like theatre? Am I going for a good show?

That’s the part that confuses me and it contributed in me having a stand offish attitude to the popular and rich churches. I am more comfortable in the ones that do not have state-of-the-art sound systems with comfy seats and pastors who are not as charismatic.

Sometimes I really wish that I too can trust blindly and let everything go. It seemed so simple when I was a kid in Sunday school.

The Hero and the Princess.

2008-02-07T10:17:00.001+11:00

I thought it would be fitting that my first entry for 2008 be of something significant, something extraordinary and being blessed with a baby girl certainly qualifies. To try and put into words the emotional roller coaster that I had been in during the hours leading up to her birth is something I know I cannot do justice to.

The feeling of being a father for the first time is one of those things in life which nobody can prepare you for no matter how often you see it or hear about it. I strongly feel that it’s something you have to experience first hand. Being in that room with my wife and my soon-to-be delivered daughter is something very intimate and personal. It matured me quite a bit. Those waiting moments made me put things into perspective and to reassess my priorities and my life in general. I feel sorry for those dads that missed out on the birth of their child because it’s such an enriching and empowering experience.

I also felt the terrifying grip of fear followed by immense joy and love that reduced me to fairy floss.

The fear is for the well-being of my wife who had to endure the agony of contractions while battling fatigue from not having to sleep for close to 2 days. Feeling so helpless yet trying to keep a brave face and be strong and supportive for her at the same time is one of the hardest things I have ever done in my life.

The joy comes when the little angel looked up at us right after her birth - with the umbilical cord still attached - as she gives us that curious yet loving stare with those beautiful shiny eyes as if she knows that we love her with all our heart and understands that we are now a family. It was a priceless moment. I’ll never forget that as long as I live.

The love, oh man, the love I’m feeling is a kind of love that is so raw, so powerful and overwhelming that you’d die to protect and kill to defend. When I was an armchair critic about fatherhood, I used to shake my head at those dads that pamper their children rotten by buying them whatever they want and shielding them from anything that is difficult. I now know what a grip this kind of love can do to a dad and I hope that I can be strong enough to do what is right rather than what feels good.

After witnessing what my wife has gone through, I have gained tremendous respect for her, my Hero, the Rambo of our new family. And holding my Princess in my arms for the first time knowing that she is an extension of me, us, gave me goose bumps. Instead of being the head of the family, I feel that I am but a humble and willing servant, a guardian of this family and I will serve and protect until every ounce of my being is exhausted.

That I promise.

Tis the season to be jolly.

2007-12-21T10:40:00.000+11:00

As the carol goes - "It's beginning to feel like Christmas...".

Most people are on their Christmas/New Year break now. The upcoming week and a half of rest and relaxation always put people in a good mood. Traveling to work today was a breeze. Traffic was smooth and there was not many people waiting at the bus stops along the way.

People that I meet around this time of year are usually chatty, cheery and relaxed. Even strangers. In this festive season, everybody's got something to talk about after the usual 'How are yous?'. If it wasn't for the holiday season, strangers, myself or a 'Hi-Bye' friend would comment about the weather which is usually a sign for, 'Look, I'm racking my brains trying to come up with a topic for conversation and I've got nothing.'. The question - 'What are you doing for the long break?' usually gets the banter going until it ends with a polite farewell and the season's greeting which is very pleasant.

Instead of being harassed to get a job done on an unreasonable deadline from a client or a third party, there were a few incidences this week that could only be explained as one of the many miracles of Christmas.

The usual tightly wound nutters that have my balls at the palm of their hands said with a smile and cheer in their tone of voice, 'Oh, don't worry. We'll deal with it in the new year.'. Now if it was any other month of the year, they would have squeezed.

One of them initially asked us to prepare all the information for a meeting that she wanted to have on the last day before most offices close for the year. She did this with a letter and a couple of stern phone calls. We left 3 messages with her since last week and she finally calls yesterday to say that she was going on holidays and we're postponing the meeting till next year.

If I was a newbie, I would've stressed on her unreasonable demands but knowing the organisation that she works for, I knew that there was no way she would have a meeting on the last day before we break for the holidays. In fact, they would've already been in holiday mode a whole week before the official closing date. What she said to me initially was probably right before the Christmas drug kicked in. The reason for my calls were basically to tell her that she's dreaming but she beat me to the punchline.

The feeling of Christmas for me here in Australia is very much different from Malaysia. In Malaysia, it's church service in the morning, big meals at restaurants or a party and hanging out in malls. In fact, every public holiday we get we somehow end up in malls.

Over here, everything is closed unless 7-Eleven's your dig. So, it has more of a homely and family oriented feeling to it. I'd even say it's more relaxed cos' hanging out at a beach where your eyeballs and mind get to stretch out a little and not caring about anything besides flies getting in your mouth seems pretty good to me.

Merry Christmas and stay safe on the roads.

PS: I've heard flies are a good source of protein so, don't fret too much.

PPS: *Do not open until after Christmas* I lied.

I love this game..er..no homo.

2007-11-15T16:59:00.000+11:00

Via espn.com...

HOUSTON -- Coach Phil Jackson said he deserved the reprimand he got from the NBA on Wednesday for making a sexual reference in a comment following the Los Angeles Lakers' loss in San Antonio.

The Spurs made 13 3-pointers in their 107-92 victory on Tuesday night, and Jackson was asked if too much penetration was leading to open outside shooters.

"We call this a 'Brokeback Mountain' game, because there's so much penetration and kickouts," Jackson said. "It was one of those games."

The 2005 film, which won three Oscars, depicts two cowboys who conceal their homosexual affair.

"But in retrospect, it wasn't really funny," Jackson said before the Lakers played Houston on Wednesday night. "When you take it out of context, it wasn't funny. It was a poor attempt at humor and I deserved to be reprimanded by the NBA."

Still, Jackson couldn't resist making another joke as he apologized.

"If I've offended any horses, Texans, cowboys or gays, I apologize," Jackson said.
Jackson thanked beat writers and other journalists who covered Tuesday's game for dismissing the comment as an innocent joke. He said several of them laughed when he said it.

The NBA did not.

NBA spokesman Brian McIntyre said: "The remarks are in poor taste, and the Lakers have assured us such remarks will not occur in the future."

Jackson admitted he should've known better -- that coaches can't get away with the jokes that Jay Leno and David Letterman do for a living on their late-night talk shows.

"It's societal right now," he said. "Some people can do it. Some people can't. That's something that's appropriate for certain categories."

Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) president Neil G. Giuliano issued a statement saying: "Phil Jackson's been coaching long enough that he should be able to talk about the Lakers' performance without resorting to cheap gay jokes."

Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press

Hahaha! Cheap gay jokes? I thought it was GOLD! Who says the zen master has no sense of humour? I thought Phil Jackson's comment was downright appropriate and hilarious. C'mon, thirteen 3s in a game? Were all 5 Lakers hugging Duncan in the post or what?

Okok, he got fined, which is fair enough cos' we don't want the NBA getting in trouble with the Hollywood heavyweights for NBA teams scooping up the writers on strike to write their post-game interviews.

See you in the showers.*Muaks*

Maybe the C league should have fined these guys too?

Some more funny sports quotes:

"My sister's expecting a baby,and I don't know if I'm going to be an uncle or an aunt."
Chuck Nevitt, North Carolina State basketball player, explaining to Coach Jim Valvano why he appeared nervous at practice

"I told him, 'Son, what is it with you? Is it ignorance or apathy?' He said, 'Coach, I don't know and I don't care.' "
Frank Layden, Utah Jazz president, on a former player

"Son, looks to me like you're spending too much time on one subject."
Shelby Metcalf, basketball coach at Texas A&M, recounting what he told a player who received four F's and one D

"He dribbles a lot and the opposition doesn't like it. In fact you can see it all over their faces."
Basketball analyst

"Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein."
Joe Theismann in 2002. It turns out that Joe Theismann went to high school with a Norman Einstein, who was the class valedictorian.

"Julian Dicks is everywhere. It's like they've got eleven Dicks on the field."
Metro Radio, College Football

"You guys line up alphabetically by height."
Bill Peterson, a Florida State football coach

"I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father."
Greg Norman, Pro Golfer

"One of the reasons Arnie Palmer is playing so well is that, before each final round, his wife takes out his balls and kisses them. Oh my God, what have I just said."
US Open TV Commentator

"The lead car is absolutely, truly unique, except for the one behind it which is exactly identical to the one in front of the similar one in back."
Grand Prix Race Announcer

"This is really a lovely horse and I speak from personal experience since I once mounted her mother."
Ted Walsh - Horse Racing Commentator

"This is Gregoriava from Bulgaria. I saw her snatch this morning during her warm up and it was amazing."
Weightlifting commentator at the Olympic Snatch and Jerk Event

"We're going to turn this team around 360 degrees."
Jason Kidd, upon his drafting to the Dallas Mavericks

The Beast.

2007-10-05T14:18:00.000+10:00

Looks like the Hummers have arrived Down Under. I saw the limo parked outside a hotel here in the CBD, presumably to attract attention. Well, it did just that with many stopping to have a perve.

400 pre-sold H3s are being delivered to their owners around the country this week. I like Hummers but I don't get their practicability. The interior of the H1 is top notch but with it taking close to 2 lanes on the road, it's going to be a major pain in the buttocks driving around. People will be hurling abuse and it's guaranteed to get keyed if it was to be parked in a shopping mall.

The H3 is retailing for around AU$60,000 for the luxury model. It ain't that bad but I don't even want to think about the fuel cost and maintenance for these babies.

A helping hand.

2007-09-28T15:24:00.000+10:00

There was an article in the papers last week on Chuck (Charles) Feeney, the billionaire philanthropist. Now, when somebody talks about billionaire philanthropists, Bill Gates and Warren Buffett comes to my mind. I’ve never even heard of this dude but his story is truly inspiring.

Okay, at this point, most of us are thinking that with billions, he can afford to be charitable but would you give MOST of it away? I’ve heard of Warren Buffett being thrifty but Feeney takes the cake. He’s one of those rare individuals that have their priorities so right that I can’t help but admire him. Here’s a guy that can have most material things but travels by bus (at least Buffett owns a car), flies coach, doesn't own a house and carries his documents in a plastic bag!

I find his humility and modesty very humbling, especially when we live in a world where between chasing the dollar and spending the dollar on having a good time, very little or no time is left for anything else. Sure, having a good time is everybody’s right but when we’re nearing the end of our lives, will we be happier knowing that we’ve lived a life based on indulgence or a life where we’ve helped make a difference in somebody’s life? One thing’s for sure, the memory of one of those choices lives on long after we’ve become one with the earth.

I have stopped believing that my donations to major charities would help since learning of the six figure salaries of some of the management staff of major charities and reading on how much is spent on administration. I realised how much of the donor’s money is not reaching the people that needs them most. Friends and acquaintances have defended the cause to pay top dollar to have the right people and facilities to organise initiatives but I fail to see the logic behind how more money goes into supporting the charity’s infrastructure than the cause itself. Of course, this is just me. I’m not trying to convert anyone or stir up a debate.

I now give money to my humble little church (when I attend) because they use the money to keep the place running and once in a while, I’ll send a cheque to the publishers of Our Daily Bread because I believe in their cause. When I receive gifts like chocolates from the office during Easter or Christmas, I usually give it to the homeless on my travels to and from the train station. Although these are not life changing gestures and I should really be doing much more by contributing my time towards a worthy cause, I do believe that we need to do something to help the needy. Anything.

VIOLATED!!!

2007-09-24T15:49:00.000+10:00

So, I went to the gym last Friday evening for a long overdue workout. Friday evenings at the gym is normally a quiet affair because the female gym junkies are back home picking out a push-up bra, waxing and putting on the finishing touches to that 12th layer of foundation to hide those vein popping arms from all those bicep curls in anticipation of a night of hardcore partying. They hope that by the end of all that preparation, they are able to step out looking like a WWE Diva instead of Xena, warrior princess or the She Hulk.

The male gym junkies on the other hand is home trying to make their bodies smell like a perfume counter and picking out an outfit that they recently bought from the kid’s section of a departmental store. Nothing defines a sexy man like bulging muscles ready to rip through those tight constricting clothes. A word of caution - stay clear if you see shirt buttons that are about to pop because some of these so-called shootings that you hear in clubs are actually buttons with such high velocity that it pierces through human flesh. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. One could go blind or get an instant third nostril from one of these merciless projectiles.

Anyway, after an exhausting session, I went on to hit the showers. There I was enjoying the refreshing gush of warm water massaging my face and chest while trying hard to subdue the reflex of breaking into a song to declare to the world how happy and relaxed I was when I really should’ve been thinking about investing in a pair of Speedos. After a minute or two, I turned around to let my back and my royal buns in on the hot water action. This is when I noticed a camera lens looking at my python!!! A fucking mobile phone was being pointed at me from the opening at the bottom of the shower screens. Instinctively, I stuck out my foot at the lens and shouted, ‘Oi!’, but in hindsight, I should have screamed like a schoolgirl to get some help, roundhouse kicked the doors open and jumped the guy while he’s down. Put it down to shock for the slow reaction which incidentally also reduced the python to an earthworm in a nanosecond. I hurriedly grabbed my towel and went looking for the pervert but he was no where to be found. I made a complaint to the staff, went home and crawled into a fetal position on the bed and proceeded to cry myself to sleep the next couple of days. I was, in a sense, ass-fucked by a mobile phone.

The fucking homo probably has footage of me in the shower plastered all over the www by now or worse, jacking off to a clip of me in the shower. I don’t know how long the dude was there but if I ever see that sicko again, he better be prepared to have that phone jammed up his pee hole.

So, watch your ass in the shower…literally!

No way Jose!!!

2007-09-20T13:24:00.000+10:00

Chelsea have confirmed that manager Jose Mourinho has left the Stamford Bridge club by 'mutual consent' after three trophy-laden years at the helm.

A club statement claims that the decision was reached after the launch of a new Chelsea documentary - Blue Revolution - at the Vue cinema in Fulham on Wednesday night, where an emotional Mourinho refused to talk to the press.

However, the rumours of his departure began earlier in the day and claimed that billionaire owner Roman Abramovich called crisis talks following Tuesday night's disappointing 1-1 draw with Norwegian minnows Rosenborg in the Champions League, at which the fractious duo had a furious falling out.

Mourinho is believed to have informed senior players of his departure following training on Wednesday and one of those players insists that the manager has not resigned but has been sacked by the Blues.

Mourinho's rocky relationship with Abramovich was public knowledge and despite an apparent thaw in relations last season the duo were again at odds over the role of £30million striker Andrei Shevchenko and the Blues' dour style of football even before Tuesday's result brought events to a head.

The Portuguese manager, who has won the Champions League with Porto and two Premier League titles as Chelsea manager, was the subject of continual scrutiny last season and hinted at an exit last summer when he admitted he 'was a bit fed up with certain things' at the club.

After three-years at the London club the self-styled 'Special One' is expected to attend training for the final time on Thursday, when he will say good bye to his players.

Chelsea lost their title to Manchester United last season and have started this campaign with some lacklustre displays.

Their last two Premier League games ended in a defeat at Aston Villa and a 0-0 draw at home to Blackburn Rovers, leaving them fifth in the table.

Tuesday's draw with Rosenborg Trondheim in the Champions League was watched by just 25,000 fans.

Chelsea's next match is against Premier League champions Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Jose "the madman" Mourinho getting the sack is just unbelievable. I just can't believe how quickly the decision came.

I'm not a fan of Chelsea by any means, especially when Abramovic bought the team and loaded it with a bunch of superstars. A lot of people, including me, thought that they could've won those silverware with a traffic police as a coach but Jose warmed up to me. He provided plenty of laughs with his antics and mind games both to his players and to other coaches. The comments made between Wenger and the hairdryer, Ferguson, were tame compared to the quotes that he gave us. Some were almost zen like and some were downright hilarious. I'd pay just to go to the press conference, let alone the match.

Madman or genius, what he did in Porto definitely proved his credentials as a top class coach. I can't imagine that he would quit when the going gets tough but in this age of instant everything, coaches are paid to get results. The bigger the pay packet, the more trigger happy the owners are. I just can't digest how quickly the board came to that decision. They showed no mercy to a guy that's won them every domestic trophy. I just don't see Jose going down without a fight though so the boardroom conversation must have went something like this:

Abramovic: You're fired.
Mourinho: What? You can't do that!
Abramovic: Here's $20m.
Mourinho: Ciao.

Man U better eat this team in the next fixture.

Boom! Shake, shake, shake the room.

2007-09-12T15:38:00.000+10:00

In today's paper:

Russia said today it had tested the world's most powerful vacuum bomb.

"Test results of the new airborne weapon have shown that its efficiency and power is commensurate with a nuclear weapon," Alexander Rukshin, deputy head of Russia's armed force chief of staff, told Russia's ORT First Channel television.

"You will now see it in action, the bomb which has no match in the world is being tested at a military site," the report said. It showed a Tupolev Tu-160 strategic bomber dropping the bomb over a testing ground. A large explosion followed.

A vacuum bomb, or fuel-air explosive, causes widespread devastation.

A typical bomb of that type is dropped or fired, the first explosive charge bursts open the container at a predetermined height and disperses the fuel in a cloud that mixes with oxygen.

A second charge ignites the cloud, which can engulf objects or buildings.

"At the same time, I want to stress that the action of this weapon does not contaminate the environment, in contrast to a nuclear one."

So, the Russians have developed a more environmentally friendly way of killing people.

Whoopsidoo! Somebody hand them a Nobel Green Prize already.

These military people are so thoughtful aren't they? It's like they're saying, 'Hey, look on the bright side. We kill in the thousands but we're not monsters. Those of you that were lucky enough to be alive gets to breed without having to worry about your kids turning into a teenage mutant ninja turtle or something. We've even created the hole in which you can build a lake or something. Enjoy and behave or else.'

Not to be outdone, the US is coming up with one that will be fueled entirely with the fart of it's citizens (Made in USA BIATCH!!!). Still in the testing phase, reports have confirmed that they just need to find a way to efficiently bottle the fart because current processes seem to lack the ability to filter out the occasional follow through that comes from its citizens forcing a fart too hard.

Oh well, shit happens. Hello Cold War...

APEC 2007

2007-09-06T11:51:00.000+10:00

The Ah Peks are here.

Going to and from work in the past few days have been surreal. Police everywhere, helicopters up above, high fences and barriers around the cbd area where I work, protesters getting ready to storm the streets, bodyguards with their suits, sunnies and visible earpiece (so cool) hanging outside hotels where the delegates are staying, I felt like I was in the middle of a war zone or a video game.

I've seen some cops harassing people and refraining them from taking photographs in the 'exclusion zone' but no big fights between them and the protesters yet.

Here are some pics of Dubya with the PM and all the Secret Service agents surrounding their arrival. What I wanna' know is where the US convoy get their left-hand-drive Hummers and Cadillacs because I've never seen one on the streets before. I wonder if they came in Air Force 1.

PS: I didn’t know we were being watched by snipers too. Damn, I hope they don't sneeze.

Tiger Woods does a Sir Charles

2007-09-04T13:35:00.000+10:00

You know you've made it when the best golfer ever impersonates you.

I wouldn't stand anywhere near Charles Barkley when he's teeing off though.

A second opinion.

2007-08-17T10:50:00.001+10:00

Here’s PART 1

Imagine a doctor telling you that there’s nothing he/she can do to save your father's life. How would you feel?

My colleague, Donna, was told just that. I can only imagine what she and her family must’ve felt. The helplessness and grief knowing that all they could do now is to make the remaining days as comfortable as possible for her father. But fortunately, the lack of compassion and patience showed in her doctor. If she wasn’t a total bitch, they never would have doubted her diagnosis.

Determined not to give up on her father and spurred on by the suspicion that the doctor was more interested in moving on to the next case instead of doing more tests, Donna sought a second opinion.

This very well saved her father’s life.

After running a few more tests, the other doctor was able to diagnose the problem. A course of chemotherapy ensued that got rid of the cancer. He's in recovery now.

BOOM! A new lease on life from a certain death sentence if Donna and her family had heeded the initial doctor's advice. And get this, the bitch actually had the audacity to get upset when Donna told her that she was going to get a second opinion. She went on to say that the tests the second doctor recommended was a waste of time!

Anyway, the bitch who is situated across the retirement village, which Donna’s father resides, sees a lot of patients that live in the village. In fact, when there is an emergency, the caretakers would seek the help of this doctor due to her proximity.

If the way she treated Donna’s father is anything to go by, God knows how many patients she’s murdered. Maybe she’s given up on them because they’re old, maybe she’s incompetent or maybe she’s just got an attitude problem. I don’t know but whatever it is, don’t fool yourself into thinking that every doctor is like Gregory House or the doctors in ER or Grey’s Anatomy that cries when a patient dies or stays up for days exhausting every possible option for every single patient. If you shop around to get the cheapest quote on your mobile phone, do yourself a favour and get a second opinion on a matter of life and death.

The Simpsons...

2007-08-17T10:48:00.000+10:00

Manga-fied...

I want to be the PM!!!

2007-08-10T12:53:00.000+10:00

In today's news...

Queensland Premier Peter Beattie's claim that his dog could win this year's federal election highlighted how cocky Labor was becoming, Prime Minister John Howard said.

Mr Beattie this week said his dog Rusty could lead Labor to victory, with polls showing the coalition government heading for a landslide loss later this year.

Reporter: What do you think of the Mr Beattie’s comments?

Me: Hahahaha! Bullshit! All fucking bullshit! How can that bitch win the election?

Reporter: Er, you do realise that he’s being sarcastic don’t you Mr. PM? Also, Rusty
is a male dog.

Me: I wasn’t referring to Rusty.

Reporter: So, what are your strategies to curb this freefall in voter’s sentiments?

Me: We will give the voters more money.

Reporter: Huh? What do you mean?

Me: Well, under my government, Australians have enjoyed the baby bonus, the 1st home
buyer’s grant, the entrepreneur tax offset, lower personal tax rates and higher
income thresholds. Clearly, this isn’t enough. So, we’re working on a
collaboration with several companies to provide families with white goods branded
with an “I love my government. Go Liberals! OI! OI! OI!” slogan. We’ve already
got Sony on board and we’re working hard to add to this.

Reporter: Isn’t that bribery?

Me: Bribery is illegal. Incentives are not.

Reporter: How much is this going to cost taxpayers?

Me: When you get a really expensive gift from your girlfriend, do you ask how much it
costs? Learn some manners son.

Reporter: I don’t have a girlfriend.

Me: So, you’re one of those homo……

Reporter: Excuse me?!!

Me: I was going to say homosapiens that don’t have a girlfriend.

Reporter: Oh. Sorry.

Me: No worries. I knew you’re not a poof anyway. Way too fat.

Reporter: What about healthcare, education, defence, the shortage of skilled labour,
workplace reforms and all these issues?

Me: As soon as people get their Liberals x Sony PS3 they’ll spend far less time
worrying and more time having fun. Turn that frown upside down my man.

Reporter: Good luck with your campaign Mr. PM.

Me: Hahahaha. We don’t need luck. They’re so dumb. We’re running against a dog now.
How hard can it be? It’s in the bag already.

Jackie Chan

2007-08-08T12:09:00.000+10:00

Gotta' love Jackie Chan...

Insane in the membrane.

2007-08-06T13:09:00.000+10:00

Skateboarder Jake Brown, whose 45-foot free-fall Thursday night brought a hush to the crowd at Staples Center, remains hospitalized after suffering bruises of the liver and lung, stress fractures in his vertebrae and a small fracture on the top of one hand.

Brown, 32, who was injured during the big air competition on the mega-ramp during a silver medalist performance, is expected to be released from the hospital today or Sunday and make a full recovery.

"Doctors said there was no paralysis or anything like that," said Bryce Kanights, team manager for Adidas, which is among Brown's corporate sponsors.

Kanights was critical of X Games medical personnel for not immobilizing Brown immediately and placing him in a stretcher.

A hospital spokesman refused to discuss Brown's condition.

Source: LA Times

Makes me cringe everytime I see it. He's one lucky cat though. Thank God he's fine.

WWE is for pussies...

WTF #5

2007-08-03T15:38:00.000+10:00

Ok, I understand that signing supermodels as the face of a label is so last millennium and that it's all about movie stars nowadays with the likes of John Travolta for Breitling, Nicole Kidman for Chanel and Jessica Alba for Revlon but how the hell does a politician fit into the scheme of things?

I applaud Louis Vuitton for signing the gorgeous, curvaceous, voluptuous and not to mention, delicious Scarlett Johansson as a spokesperson for their brand but Mikhail Gorbachev? Gorby?

You better believe it.

Seeing that we're being fruity here, Adidas' 'Impossible is Nothing' ad campaign is one of my favourite but I still think they should have aired this one...

Classic...

Different strokes for different folks.

2007-08-03T11:58:00.000+10:00

It’s Friday and our office has a dress-down policy on Fridays. I love this policy cos’ I feel more comfortable in sneakers and jeans but some of the things I've seen paraded around offices with this policy is downright insane!

In my first job, there was no such policy even though the practice has been adopted by many top companies with rave reviews from studies conducted that it boosted the morale of the employees. There were several requests for it but the idea was thrown out the window before the ink dried.

Today, I can understand why.

When I walked into the office, I was somewhat surprised by what one of my team members was wearing. She was supposed to be on an assignment at a client’s place but was in the office to organise her things before leaving for that assignment. I would consider the black jeans, sneakers & pullover that she was wearing inappropriate when there is a professional engagement with a valued client but I couldn’t bring myself to tell her. It was not that her attire was outrageous or anything, just untidy. The things that went through my mind were:

a) Maybe she thinks that it's appropriate. Am I going to tell her what she should and shouldn't wear?
b) Am I being too petty? Is this micro-management to the extreme?
c) The girl’s new here. Give her a break
d) Maybe I’m old and too conservative

Rightly or wrongly, I took the coward’s approach and asked HR to send a copy of the policy to all new staff. Luckily, we had 3 new employees in the last couple of months.

Here’s the gist of it -“Casual wear should be “reasonable”, i.e. no shorts, no thongs, no sandals, no singlet etc during the summer and no fancy or party clothes”.

Looking at it, I feel that it’s all about the individual’s taste and I really think that the rule is open to interpretation. One man’s MC Hammer pants could be another’s work slacks don’t you think?

But then again, if they were to cover all bases and list the ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’, they might as well come with some tips on grooming and professionally taken pictures on glossy pages as examples. The memo will probably look more like a Vogue magazine by the time it's done.

Wonder when platform shoes will come back in style? I've always wanted to be a 6 footer.

The right stuff.

2007-07-26T14:53:00.000+10:00

Sorry, I couldn't resist the NKOTB title.

Read this in The Star today:

SHAH ALAM: A government plan to teach consumerism in primary and secondary schools will ensure a wiser new generation of consumers.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry and Education Ministry were in talks to make this possible.

“It will not be a new subject but will be inserted into the present curriculum with the aim of producing a generation of wise consumers.

“We want students to be exposed to consumerism from an early stage,” he told reporters after launching Malaysia Consumers Day at the Malawati Stadium here yesterday.

As to what they would be taught, he said it would include how to act as a consumer group and individual consumers, compare prices, recognise reasonable prices and quality products, as well as consumer rights.

“When consumers act as a group by networking with consumer groups and associations, we can have a stronger consumer movement in the country,” he said.

Earlier in his speech, Najib said that awareness on consumerism needed to be enhanced to allow consumers to play a more active and effective role as an important force that shaped the country’s socio-economy.

“When consumers come together, they can become a greater force as a pressure group against ruthless traders who set cutthroat prices and profiteer,” he added.

Najib said consumers were the biggest group of people who could influence or be influenced by decisions made by the Government, more so those by traders.

“The Government is aware that there are some instances where consumer groups are not being managed well. But we recognise that consumers are the basis to any economic activity,” he said.

He urged traders to include aspects of consumerism as important elements in their companies’ business policies and strategies.

“For this purpose, the Government will support self-regulation initiatives for the benefit of consumers. This will also directly benefit traders because what is good for consumers is also good for business.

“This will also realise our aim to reduce bureaucracy, which will reduce the cost of doing business,” he said.

Najib also told traders, especially retailers, to be environment-friendly by switching to paper bags instead of using plastic ones

Well, slap me on the butt and call me your ho'!

I did not know that I had rights as a consumer in Malaysia. I mean, I know I had rights but I'm sure most of us know that when you say that word in Malaysia, you should also signal with your index and middle fingers that it should be in inverted commas.

Intrigued, I googled it and came up with myGovernment, the Malaysia Government's official portal and searched for 'consumer rights'. It had this to say:

Malaysian consumers have rights that are protected through various laws and regulations. These rights can be exercised through the Consumer Association Malaysia which is a non-governmental consumers' organization, which defends the rights and interest s of consumers.

Consumers' rights concerning food, housing, health care, sanitation, public transport, education, public policy, human rights and the environment amongst others can be brought up to the association.

Compare this with:

Australian governments share the statutory responsibility for consumer protection. The Australian Government has the primary policy setting role, while the State and Territory governments make and enforce the majority of consumer legislation.

The Australian Government agencies that look after consumer protection are the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). The consumer protection divisions of the Treasury also provide consumer policy advice to the Australian Government.

The ACCC operates within the framework of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and works with other national and international agencies to promote consumer protection, mainly at the national corporation level.

All of the ACCC’s regional offices undertake enforcement work, usually where a practice may have Australia-wide implications or a complaint relates to a national campaign.

ASIC is responsible for consumer protection in financial services and enforces consumer protection under the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001.

Enquiries and complaints about financial service providers should be referred directly to ASIC.

The Treasury's consumer affairs division gives the Australian Government consumer protection policy advice within the provisions of the Trade Practices Act.

The Treasury hosts and maintains the www.Consumer.gov.au (the Ministerial Council on Consumer Affairs) web site.

I know that it is unfair to compare the consumer policies of different countries but I am just trying to highlight an important point here.

I'm all for the DPM raising awareness but what about enforcement? Why is the group that defends the rights of consumers non-governmental? Isn't that more red tape?

When he said that the consumers can "become a greater force as a pressure group against ruthless traders who set cutthroat prices and profiteer”, does that mean that the government expects the consumers to gang-up and take the law into their own hands? It sure sounds like it because from my understanding through reading the mission statements of these associations (FOMCA & CASSA), they do not have the power to uphold or enforce the law. They're like security guards, not the police.

Awareness is one thing but it all boils down to enforcement doesn't it? No warning that the government will take swift action on those practices that violate the safety and protection of consumers' rights? I reckon the prosecution of offenders would serve as a more effective tool in raising the awareness of consumers don't you?

Oh, and the link for the Consumer Association Malaysia in myGovernment doesn't work. SHOCK! HORROR!

WTF #4

2007-07-25T16:52:00.000+10:00

I was browsing cyberspace for accommodation in Japan and came across the Dotonbori Hotel.

I'm not very fussy about Japanese Hotels because they're usually quite clean. The only things that matter to me is the size of the room and if there's a tv included. I've seen some rooms so small that it's called a closet in some countries.

So, they have a twin room with a pillar...

Here's the description:

Due to the building structure of the hotel,there is a pillar between the beds! We offer you this reasonable price to make up for the pillar. Perfect for businessmen who have to travel with your boss, or for couples who are quarrelling. Of course, it’s also for those who are attracted to the low price.

They also have a 'semi double room'...

Here's the marketing pitch...

Ideal for the active couple. Reasonal price.Both of you will feel comfortable in this room.

I like a hotel with a sense of humour. Now, let's see if they think it's funny when I check out with their tv set.

I heart sneakers.

2007-07-18T15:18:00.000+10:00

It was an eventful weekend!

I joined forces with another Sneaker Freaker forum member to set up one of the 10 tables available at Sydney’s inaugural sneaker swap meet at the Stussy store.

I’ve met 2 old acquantainces from high school on the forum. One of them from close to 2 decades back when I was in Sri Cempaka KL and another from my high school days in Sydney 13 years ago.

When I first joined the forum about 4 years ago, all we had was an online username. We were just a bunch of guys hanging out on the forum chatting away about sneakers and shit until bits and pieces of information inevitably got posted which revealed our identity and along the way, the mutual friends that we've had.

Talk about a small world...even in cyber space.

It was also great to meet a lot of the newer members and also to put faces to usernames for some of the regulars of the forum.

Throughout the day, the appreciation for sneakers instantly broke the ice and there was much to talk about, even to strangers.

The turn-out was awesome considering it was a chilly Sunday. Most came around to look at the amazing collection of sneakers we had on display but a few came by just to chill and chat.

We had a couple of custom tee shirt stands which had some original and amazing designs and even a setup which sold vinyl toys and shoe laces to complement the sneakers.

I sold a pair of my favourite Jordans. The Air Jordan 2 "Carmelo Anthony" colourway.

Ritchie always knows how to strike a pose and make a statement. He’s a talented designer whose store has made a few t-shirts in collaboration with some of the most recognisable streetwear brands on the planet. The prototype jeans that he was working on last year were really something. Too bad it didn't make it to production. Here he is showing off his new tatts that he got from his recent trip to Bali. He designed it himself too.

There were loads of rare and hot sneakers pounding the floor. We were checking out people’s feet most of the time. Even the ladies got into the action.

Free booze all day plus the Red Bull girls came through a few times with more free refreshments. What more can one ask for?

We capped off the night with a nice Italian dinner with some of the crew from the day.

All in all a fantastic day to remember.

[pictures courtesy of Iori@Sneaker Freaker]

Can you pass the salt?

2007-07-11T15:18:00.000+10:00

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is willing to review policies or regulations deemed to be hindering the distribution of equity in the most sustainable, competitive and meaningful way.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, however, said Malaysian maintained its position that the New Economic Policy (NEP) was not a cost to doing business.

“Perhaps the most difficult question we must address is to improve equity without sacrificing competitiveness. Many have come to regard Malaysia’s affirmative action policies, widely described as the NEP, as a cost to doing business.

“But many fail to appreciate the spirit behind the policy, and this is crucial in understanding Malaysia,” he said yesterday.

Abdullah said the objective to dissociate race from occupation or social standing was crucial in ensuring long-term unity for the country – given its legacy and racial structure.

“Racial-based riots raged in neighbouring countries while Malaysia was spared the experience. The expansion of an educated and multi-ethnic middle class, thanks to affirmative action policies, has mitigated the risk of mass unrest.

“But great disparities in income and social mobility still exist between ethnic groups. Whereas this may just be another issue in other countries, ethnic-based disparity strikes at the heart of national unity for Malaysia,” said Abdullah in his keynote address at a high-level dialogue with foreign investors and international business leaders.

The Prime Minister spoke at the two-day “Business Roundtable with the Government of Malaysia.” This dialogue allowed the business leaders to engage policy makers on the on-going reform process and to discuss key economic issues.

“In this 50th year of our independence, we see an improving economy and the fruits of our structural changes. The renewed interest in Malaysia is the product of this 50-year legacy as well as recent national efforts at refining our approaches,” he said.

Source: The Star

With statements like that, I hope they had great food on the buffet table cos' it looks like nothing was achieved.

Flaminglambo has needs!!!

2007-07-10T17:15:00.001+10:00

The blurb...

At present day a lot of people work in environments that are subject to intense magnetic fields. Aerospace industry, research labs, telecommunications and medical imaging are just a few examples of fields that are found under the considerable magnetic influence. Scientists, technicians, engineers and other specialists all need a reliable timepiece that would be well protected from magnetic influences and provide accurate timekeeping. Rolex developed its Oyster Perpetual Milgauss with these people in mind.

The Oyster Perpetual Milgauss bears a French name that implies that the timepiece with an inner 'Faraday cage' case will resist a magnetic flux density of one thousand gauss. The year 2007 marked a new step in evolution of the model. The first model of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Milgauss appeared back in the 1950s, having brought technological progress to focus. The movement of the watch reliably protected by the magnetic shied has been developed to provide exceptional performance even when found under the influence of strong magnetic fields.

In 2007 the Rolex vintage Milgauss celebrated its 50th anniversary. As one could have expected, prices for the extremely rare vintage models available through auction sales are amazingly high. Taking these facts into account, no wonder Rolex has decided to update its legendary Oyster model offering an advantage of anti-magnetic protection. Rolex fans will surely be pleased by the updated model's perfect execution and reasonable price- that is £3,210.

The distinctively orange sweep-seconds hand is designed to remind a lightning-bolt. The black dial features white and orange applied hour markers. The Arabic minute numerals are also in orange. The dial is covered by a green-tinted sapphire crystal that adds a slight trace of stylishness to the dial. The watch goes on a rigorous stainless steel Oyster bracelet.

Ooooh yeaaa! I’ve fallen in love with the Milgauss. It’s not as flashy as the Explorers but it does have that vintage look with the seconds hand providing a flamboyant flair. It’s humble enough to blend in with a tee shirt and jeans and stylish enough to compliment a suit. More importantly, the watch resists a magnetic flux density of one thousand gauss!!!

Ok, ok. I haven't the slightest idea what that last sentence means but it has scientific terms in it so it has to be cool.

Anyway, compared with the Explorers, the Milgauss doesn’t scream, “Look at me, I’m a wannabe diver or an underwater cave explorer” because let’s face it, how many people you know buy Explorers to go deep sea diving?

Now, the question is, where am I going to get the dough for it? It’s the middle of winter, which means man-whoring myself on a street corner is going to be tough considering the multiple layers of clothes doesn’t exactly show off the assets like He-Man or Tarzan. Furthermore, we all know what happens to the ‘package’ when it’s cold.

Anyone need a pimp?

070707

2007-07-07T23:37:00.000+10:00

So, they say that today’s supposed to be a lucky day. I don’t know about that but it’s certainly extra busy for restaurants, clubs and pubs cos’ we couldn’t get a reservation for dinner at our local restaurant and that’s never happened before. We went to another place and it was packed the whole night.

If this is bad, I wonder how it’s like next year when it’s 080808? All around Asia, people will probably have to queue to get into casinos because 1) the number ‘8’, whose Chinese name rhymes with the words for prosperity and wealth, is considered particularly auspicious and 2) Asians love to gamble.

The powerful significance of the number even influenced the Beijing Olympics to open next year at 8 p.m. on Aug. 8, 2008. I’m sure they spared no expense in winning that particular Olympic bid just so they could have a pretty sequence of the number 8 for the opening ceremony.

Flaminglambo x The Simpsons.

2007-07-05T16:56:00.000+10:00

Create your own Simpson's character at http://simpsonsmovie.com/main.html

MY PRECIOUSSSSSSSS!!!

2007-07-03T16:13:00.000+10:00

We went to our very first ultrasound last week and the experience was truly magical. Seeing our baby move and twitch is just an amazing feeling. I can't really describe it but let me just say that this would be the closest I've been to actually shedding tears of joy. I was smiling from ear to ear while my wife got all teary and giggly. I could instantly see the bond between mother and child now that she's seen a part of us growing inside her. Every move it made, my heart just melted with it. It was truly one of the most awesome moments of my life and I will always cherish it.

There was this cute little guy crawling around the waiting room who was very responsive to us. We had a blast playing with him. I can't wait till I have my own but I'm still dreading being in the delivery room. I hear of people actually filming the whole birth but I've told my wife that I don't want to be in clear view of where the action is because I get real queasy with the sight of blood, the smell of iron from blood and stuff like that.

I know, I'm a wuss.

I've also told her if she insists, she might run the risk of 1) me fainting and/or vomiting in the delivery room and stealing the thunder from our first born or 2) me turning gay because I'll never look at a woman's vagina the same again.

My wife's boss actually plans to play the tape of his daughter's birth on her 18th birthday party to humiliate her. Now, that idea is gold but when the joke died down, I thought to myself, 'Errr, wouldn't the boys go, 'Nice fanny Mrs. xxxx'?'

I cracked up laughing again. I've got to get myself invited for that party. The first prize of Australia's Funniest Home Video is so mine if I can get that footage.

Righto. Kukuciao or no kukuciao. That is the question. Stay tuned!

Exams - A love/hate relationship.

2007-06-22T16:09:00.000+10:00

Fear, anxiety, doubt and anger followed by relief, elation, joy and retail therapy.

Those are the emotions that I go through when it comes to exams. In fact, those are the emotions I went through for the past couple of weeks and I have the battle scars to prove it. I’ve put on a few kilos, stubbles on my chin, personal hygiene and fashion sense was thrown out the window, bags around my eyes, my room’s a mess (like it’s any different without exams) and I’m overdue for a facial. In short, I’m a wreck and my brain still feels like jelly from all that cramming, uploading and downoading.

Immediately after the exam, I was so tired but so awake at the same time. My body was completely screwed up and I was running on pure adrenaline. I decided to calm myself down and headed to the courts to shoot some hoops. It helped put some normalcy back into the body.

I felt the burden of the past couple of weeks being lifted from me which was great but the taste of pure and innocent happiness was even better. I reckon this brand of happiness is the most important for charging up the spirit and maintaining the well-being of the soul. It is also the hardest to find, especially in lives that have been battered down to a routine. I used to be able to find it in religion but that's probably a blog entry for another day.

Exams can spice up a life of routine and consistency by jamming itself right up your ass. Put it this way, the challenges on Fear Factor are for wusses compared to the thoughts and perceived repurcussions that go through my mind around exam time. I’d gladly chomp down a bowl of worms if you give me a hi-D on my paper anytime because the fear of failure is scarier that anything you can put before me.

I’ve heard the advice of not cramming and pacing the workload but I get too complacent when an exam is more than a month away and a lot of stuff just don’t seem to stick when there is no urgency. Plus, it’s tough to work all day, come home and hit the books. The brain just screams at you saying vulgar things along the lines of, ‘Duuuuuudde! You’re shittin’ me right?! I slog all day for you and this is how you repay me? Now, shut your trap and let me watch House bitch!’

I’m really gonna’ start my preparation a month before d-day when I do my next subject and see how I go……although that’s what I say after every test since high school.

Yoda said, "Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering."

I think Yoda was taking his Jedi exams.

Sheila Majid

2007-06-09T18:18:00.000+10:00

I used to have a huge crush on her when I was a teenager. After listening to a few of her songs recently, it brought back a lot of memories from my school days in St. Johns.

A truly talented singer.

Product placement.

2007-06-07T11:25:00.000+10:00

Ok, this beast have been parked outside one of the Macquarie Bank buildings for the past few days. Why were they there?

In case you haven't heard, news got out that Alan Moss, the boss of Mac Bank (a.k.a The Millionaires Factory) got paid AU$33.5 million for the year. A cool AU$12 million pay rise! That's $12,000,0....my finger just cramped from punching that many zeros. Just makes you think how much the bank is paying him while he takes a dump on office time.

Anyway, people are crying foul but I say good for him!

Oh, back to the Lambo. The car was parked there as part of the luxury car dealer's product placement strategy. For a car like that, I reckon the interior was a downer. Where's the bling?

Paris Hilton Inc.

What can you say? The girl's got the life. I remember asking my wife if she was an actress when she first registered on my radar.

'Socialite', was her response.

I was like, 'Ohhhhh...err, what's does a socialite do?'.

That word has Paris Hilton's picture next to it in the dictionary. Thanks to her, I now know what the word actually means...more or less. Then, I looked up the word 'slut' and lo and behold, there was Paris' picture again!

What exactly did the girl get famous for? Turning up at high-profile parties? Having a rich and famous grandad? Initially, she was just famous for being a spoilt brat but look who's laughing all the way to the bank now? She was famous for doing nothing and then probably thought, 'Oh well, might as well make money off these suckers', and launched a movie and music 'career', had a hand in internet porn and recently, sent to the slammers to seal a gangsta' reputation

Coincidences? I think not!. She's probably building her street credibility before releasing a rap album or maybe a mocktail...or two.

The girl's getting paid 6 figures to attend launches and premiers. Basically getting paid to just show up at an event! If I asked you what Brad Pitt, Michael Jordan or Madonna is famous for, you'd tell me straight away. But what is Paris famous for?

That's the GENIUS of Paris.

Now, where can I get these tees?

Fashion Police

2007-05-25T16:52:00.000+10:00

I frequent www.streething.com/forum/index.php every few days or so. It's basically a forum on the local streetwear scene in Malaysia. I might be old but I'm still young at heart ya' know?

Anyway, a member called vioxx21 who is in the UK posted this:

"I was on my way out from the underground...
Then i was pushed to the wall by the police...
My body and backpack were checked...
Fuxx them...."

"B'coz of the 'fuck' word on the tee, i was fined £80 by police....So be careful next time u wear a tee with the word..."

I wouldn't have found it surprising if it happened in a country like Malaysia but in the UK?

What next? Fines for obese women wearing a mid-rift top and a mini skirt ala Britney Spears (pre-kids) for causing mental and visual distress?

Actually, that ain't half bad but gimme a break.

This is exactly what will happen if the police gets too much power.

Maybe the cops over there are not just getting jittery over backpacks being carried by people of middle-eastern appearance in their subways but apparently their heads are so screwed up at the moment, provocative tee shirts are also a no-no too. If they're concerned about the kids, tell me, how often do we see Wayne Rooney cuss when we watch him play?

I can almost hear Tony Blair saying that the terrorists will not change their way of life like it was yesterday. The fact of the matter is, it has. People in the UK and the US don't look at people of middle-eastern appearances or people that come from a Muslim country the same anymore. The uneducated even think Islam is evil.

Just yesterday, that feral of a woman, Pauline Hanson announced that she's forming a new political party called United Australia Party in the hope to win a Senate spot at the next election. One of the policies that she is pushing - limit the immigration of Muslims into Australia.

It'll be interesting to see how she goes and it'll be interesting to see how the police handle their new found power when the APEC meeting rolls into town in a few months. I work smack-bang in the middle of the proposed restricted zone, close to where the meeting will be held and the cops will have the power to search ANYONE and refuse entry into the zone.

Hope they refuse my entry on a work day.

BUSTED!

2007-05-21T13:53:00.000+10:00

So, we were on our jolly way to work this morning when we were met with a small traffic jam heading towards the main junction joining the highway. Instinctively, the missus gave me 'the finger' - no, not that one - but one which signaled me to turn left at the next street to avoid the traffic using a shortcut that we've recently found.

Shortly after the left turn, I had to chuck a right which would put me parallel to the traffic stricken street that I was on moments ago.

Ahhhh...a free run.

About 3 seconds into it, a pig dressed as a cop hopped out of his doughnut-mobile, waddled into the middle of the road and gave me 'the finger' - no, not that one - but the one that signaled me to pull over.

I did.

The talking pig informed me that I made an illegal right turn. I told him that I didn't know because it made no sense that I couldn't turn right into a street in the middle of a housing area. He said that there was a sign and asked me for my license to which I complied.

Got done for $179. PHARK!!!

Damn pig and his sign. Why even bother giving these fools in the traffic division guns when they're not doing real police work? If the government really want to curb speeding or other petty traffic violations, they should consider arming the traffic division with a tight leather mini-skirt and a 'Stop' sign. You can be darn sure that us motorist will slow down to take a closer look.

Stupid pig deserves 'the finger' - yes, that one!

There's a bun in the oven.

2007-05-15T19:57:00.000+10:00

Just a quickie (pun fully intended)...

Weekend #17, 2007.

2007-05-02T16:23:00.000+10:00

Some snaps of the weekend. A little late but nonetheless...

Saturday morning:

Running and gunning with the boyz at 9 a.m. I felt really lethargic. I used to ball at night and I feel that my energy level's way better at night. Played ok though. At least I didn't get a black eye this time. Copped an elbow right in the left eye socket a few weeks back. By Tuesday, it was a real shiner. It looked like I got into a bar fight or something. I told my wife that if anybody asked, I was gonna' tell them I'm a victim of domestic abuse.

Saturday arvo:

Walked passed a pet shop and saw some Pugs! We used to own one until somebody dog-napped Happy. They're a cute breed. Clumsy and silly but that's part of their charm. The black one looked really purrrrty.

How much is that doggy in the window?

AU$2,000 (RM$5,700)!!!

Nuts, considering Happy only cost us like RM$800 (AU$280). Their lame ass reason - it's a pure breed.

What are they? Nazis?

Sunday:

Went to my first baptism. My cousin was getting baptised and I am honoured that she invited us.

The first thing that struck my wife and I were the colour of the gowns they(the people that were to be baptised) were wearing. We thought that black doesn't quite reflect the mood of joy or celebration and my wife was telling me that the ones that she's been to, they were all wearing white. Then, I saw this...

Ok, maybe black is the most appropriate colour seeing that Asians are more conservative. Don't want it looking like a wet tee shirt contest now do we?

May Day mayday.

2007-05-01T13:33:00.000+10:00

I like to drive bare-footed. Ok, maybe not bare-footed, but without shoes.

I did the same things I normally do on a work morning. Get dressed and drive to work. But today, when I got to the car park at my wife's workplace, I realised I forgot to put my shoes in the car!

To find that out after driving 40 minutes in peak hour traffic really pissed me off. At first, the feeling of disbelief came over me. "Did I really? I couldn't have", I thought to myself over and over again. I searched the whole car for them but nothing. The doofus that I am really did forget them this morning. I contemplated buying another pair close-by but the shops wouldn't be open for at least another couple of hours.

Feeling dejected, I had no choice but to go home and get the blasted shoes. I wouldn't have made a big fuss about it if I didn't have to endure a round trip of peak hour traffic!

2 hours folks. 2 friggin' hours in peak hour traffic this morning!

To the environmentally conscious, I drive a Low Emission Vehicle so, I don't think I contributed to any spike in the pollution index this morning but the amount of profanities emitted made DMX look like a choir boy.

What a morning...

The week of movies.

2007-04-27T13:03:00.000+10:00

So the missus and I went to see 300 last weekend. To be honest, I caved into the hype. I wasn’t really interested in it after watching the preview but after reading the rave reviews and constant recommendations by friends, I decided to give it a go. I think the thing that finally convinced me was that it is a movie adaptation of a comic book that won the Eisner Award, which is the comic book industry equivalent of the Oscar.

I thought the cinematography was awesome. Even though 90% of it was CGI, it was an enjoyable movie experience because of its life-likeness. The acting was a little full-on and the dialogue too zen-like but it’s forgivable since my brain has already digested the fact that it’s based on a comic book. I’d give it a 7/10. The second best movie I’ve watched this year behind Casino Royale.

A passing comment made by my wife after the movie was how great the Spartan army’s bodies were. She was all, ‘Gosh! What nice bods’, and I’m like, ‘Huh?’, while slamming down a thick shake filled with whipped cream. Wasn’t exactly doing my self esteem any good with a comment like that.

BLAST YOU C.G.I!!!

Those bulging pecks and biceps were computer generated right? Right???

To my colleagues:

To the chef in my favourite Italian restaurant:

Also watched The Reaping starring Hilary Swank on tight-ass Tuesday since Wednesday was a public holiday. The preview made out like it’s good but I thought the movie was garbage. It relied too much on cheap shock tactics like somebody pouncing out of nowhere and loud sound effects.

Next up Spider Man 3!

CL: Man U v Milan

2007-04-25T18:58:00.001+10:00

I haven’t watched a full football match on tv for a while. The last time I watched Man U play a full game, van Nistelrooy was still around. SBS, a local tv station here, used to show a live Premiership game in the wee hours of Sunday which I would stay up for but ever since Pay TV won the rights to air them, I’ve lost touch with English football.

Then yesterday, I caught wind that Man U was playing Milan this morning in the Champions League semi final and seeing that today is a public holiday (ANZac Day), it got the juices firing to get up at 4.30am for it.

MANNNNN! WHAT. A. MATCH!!!

I was totally glued to the tv. Getting to see the young guns like Ronaldo, Rooney and Kaka in action was relatively new to me. The last time I watched them play was at the last World Cup. I remember Ronaldo being a ball hogger then, with people screaming, 'PASS THE FUCKING BALL!!!' when I watched Portugal play in a public arena. Now, he’s still a ball hogger but much better at it I reckon. It’s amazing to watch him blow by 3 defenders with ease but I'm sure that everytime he loses it by trying to dribble pass the entire defence and midfield line-up, somebody in the stadium would have yelled out THAT phrase. They should really make a tee shirt out of it. The thing that capped the night was seeing the players from the United of my era play. Giggs and Scholes were still doing what they do best.

The funny thing was, when the scores were locked at 2-2, I kinda’ had a feeling that Man U was going to steal it cos’ they have a knack for doing that in big games. It reminded me of the United of old when they had Sheringham, Beckham, Cole and Yorke. That team pulled off some miracle finishes. The performance this morning was certainly reminiscent of vintage United. Ferguson really is a genius and a legendary coach. He's proven time and again that he doesn't need a team full of superstars to win matches.

3-2 United. To Milan and then, the finals.

Glory, glory Man United...

Loyalty.

2007-04-15T13:35:00.000+10:00

I was sent an email today by one of the partners requesting my opinion
on a client who has hit rough times and is lagging in paying our fees.

The question of loyalty popped into my mind in varying degrees.

I remember some of the funnier times when I was a wee teen growing up
with a pretty close circle of friends. From touring around our 'hood all day in our BMXs to hanging out at each other’s place for hours on end, we had a special bond going. This probably lasted until we discovered girls.

Slowly, you’d see information about members of the group being divulged to the opposite sex. Embarrassing details being regurgitated back to us in front of other females by someone the rest of us have only met for a few minutes. Details that could send the weak scurrying back to their mama’s teat. I’m sure almost every male has encountered such betrayal to what was once a circle of trust and loyalty.

Why?

As Morgan Freeman’s character in Edison puts it ever so eloquently –
‘Pussy’.

I’m not even sure if we knew what to do with those things at that age
but the point is, the female species can break any male to male bond that
in some cases takes a lifetime to build. There is always someone in a group that will crumble at the very sight of a female looking in their direction. If the girl winked, these guys would have a total mental blackout.

Ever had a friend disappear on you for months on end? Or how about a
friend that says he’s too busy to even grab a bite with you when you guys used
to hang out every other day? Why do they do it?

That’s right. Think Morgan Freeman.

The next thing you know, the girl your good friend was seeing has somehow
downloaded all known information about you from your friend. So, when
you meet and she says, ‘I’ve heard so much about you’, trust me. She has.

As I grow older, I sometimes begin to miss that bond. That feeling of
loyalty amongst friends when we were young, single and devoid of any
female distractions.

Man, that sounded so gay!

I don't think any of us seriously blamed each other for our loose lips (some looser than others) or that we cared, but it was pretty embarrassing and sometimes shocking when people mention details about you that you thought only a select few knew.

Loyalty and trust are two elements that are important in any
relationship. But in a business relationship, I rate loyalty more important than
trust because you can have trust without loyalty but you cannot have loyalty
without trust. Obviously, this has to be done with due consideration.

Either way, it's only right to be fiercely loyal to the people that have stuck by you
through thick and thin and I believe that you don’t actually know anyone until
you need help. That is when your true friends are revealed.

Shock.

2007-04-11T16:26:00.000+10:00

One of my colleagues learned that her dad had cancer yesterday afternoon. I really feel for her. Imagine hearing the news at work? Man! She must have been devastated. Understandably, she left for the hospital immediately. The poor thing. Her dad just had a stroke and was recovering in hospital and now this. She was told that things are not looking good.

Certainly, changed the mood of my day. I'll definitely pray for her.

Holy Matrimony Batman!

2007-04-10T15:57:00.000+10:00

Ahhhh..weddings. Some people hate attending weddings but I must say that I quite like them. I am yet to see a groom cry during the ceremony but then again, I haven't seen an 'I don't' either. Maybe one day both will come at once. Hahahaha! I hope I won't see that day.

Tears of joy must be a girl thing. I've never cried on any joyous occassions no matter how great it was and I have never seen any of my friends cry when they're happy either. Where I was sitting, the bride's maid cried, the bride's mum cried, the grooms mum cried. MANNNN!

As with most diy weddings, there were little things that showed how stressful it was leading up to the big day. For example, we got the invitation after the r.s.v.p date. At first I thought that being my brother-in-law's wedding, we were given the card just as a formality since we were expected to attend. Later on, I found out that a lot of people got their invites late too.

It wasn't a restaurant reception but a location at Lane Cove where the whole place is catered for something like this. With a beautiful garden for people to mingle before dinner and a reception area to organise the guests, it was very pleasant to say the least. The 3 course meal was delicious and the string quartet provided the mood. All in all, a great night.

The most memorable event of the evening other than the Merc. with the modified doors and of course the speeches, was when my sister-in-law (who volunteered to register guests and collect gifts on that night) asked this couple if they had any presents for the bride and groom. 'No', the woman responded rather loudly. There was this weird and uncomfortable silence that ensued for what seemed like an eternity. Both the guest and my sister-in-law felt embarrassed because there were like 8 people in the line with their gifts and I'm sure most of them heard it. I suggested she change the question from, 'Do you have any gifts or presents for the bride and groom?' to a more diplomatic, 'If you have any gifts for the bride and groom, you can leave it with us', to avoid any further embarrassments. We had a good laugh though.

WTF! #3

2007-04-08T15:52:00.000+10:00

From slamxhype

Robot engineering doctor Sankai from Yamato house industrial corporation has revealed their Power Suit.

This prototype cost 2,000,000 Yen (AU$20,500) and expected to retail at 500,000 Yen (AU$5,100). Originally designed for the welfare institution this suit supports the body and helps the disable to move freely. Other application would include labour intense occupations to enhance their physical strength!

COOL!!!

Now that's what I call a Power Suit! They remind me of the Headmasters from The Transformers. I can definitely use one of these babies!

Good Friday 2007

2007-04-06T15:43:00.000+10:00

Happy Good Friday people!

Hot cross buns from Krispy Kreme. Sugar must be free nowadays cos', MAN! Were they sweet!!!

Assignment blues.

2007-04-06T14:06:00.000+10:00

Highlighter? Check.
Coffee? Check.
Jordan games for motivation? Check.
Mirror to check if bald spot's getting bigger? Check.

This is definitely one of the tougher units in the course so far. It's question based and there are no suggested texts to read (at least I don't have to blow another $100+ on a text book), just some legislations and a whole bunch of cases where I have to extract the relevant arguments and judgements to back my answer. There are 24 questions in the unit. We go through 2 questions in each lecture and there is an average of 10 cases for each question. 10 cases! 240 cases in the unit and it's a closed book exam! Maybe I should start tattooing some points on my arms like Michael Scofield in Prison Break. Anyway, a lot of the time, there are no right or wrong answers, just how strong one's argument is. Maybe that's what frustrates me so much. No wait, some of the language the 'Lords' used in like 1903 frustrates me even more! Was the word, 'fuck' invented then? Because after reading 3 pages of reasoning, I think what they're trying to say is, 'Thou art fucked'.

What looks like shit, smells like shit, tastes like shit and feels like shit should usually be shit! But if it goes to the court, shit can sometimes turn into wakami sushi.

Mmmmmm...wakami sushi...

Man! No wonder they say good lawyers are usually good bullshitters too.

One thing's for sure, I find that I've learned a lot in terms of logical thinking and deductive reasoning. Sometimes, it drives me nuts because you're in 2 minds with some questions and both arguments for and against the subject matter is concrete but you can only have 1 answer. There is no 'draw'. That's when I think I am about to develop some split personality disorder or something because one minute I might think that the decision should be this but the next minute, I'm sure that it's another. I definitely don't like it when there is no correct answer to a question. Unfortunately, that's where a lot of the world's problems lie. The grey area.

*Pic taken with Sony Ericsson K800. Not bad. Not bad at all.

Peeved.

2007-03-30T19:58:00.000+10:00

That's it!

The next person that asks me when we're gonna' have kids is getting it. I'm gonna' ask them when they're planning to have sex next and see how they like it.

Here's me being silly.

If my wife's family is my extended family and my family members are considered to be her family members and vice versa. Technically, isn't my wife like, y'know, my sister-in-law also which is like my sis?

EWWWWWWWW!

Couldn't they come up with a better word than brother-in-law, parents-in-law, etcetera?

The Venus fly trap.

2007-03-27T17:49:00.001+10:00

I was standing on the train travelling to work this morning when my eyes caught sight of this dude who was sitting down. I don’t know why I was looking at him but it’s one of those moments where you have to park your eyes somewhere and try not to make weird eye contacts while in a crowded place, especially when I was on the part of the train where the passengers sat facing each other.

Anyway, this guy looked really focused on what he was reading. It was kinda’ like he was heading to an exam or something. My mind started drifting while my eyes checked him out. I don’t know why I did it but I definitely don’t swing that way (not that there is anything wrong with that). Bear in mind that this was pre my morning caffeine hit so maybe it explains my awkward behaviour.

I noticed that he had really cool glasses on. He wasn’t wearing sunnies or anything. It was just a pair of nicely shaped rectangular spectacles. I wonder where he got those. Then, my eyes started wandering lower. He could use a workout judging from the obvious overhang of the mid-section but nothing too serious to hinder his mobility.

Then moving further south, BAM! My eyes widened and alarm bells started ringing in my head with a big neon red sign that reads, ‘SNAKE ON THA’ MOTHAF#$%ING TRAIN!!!’. The guy had the Venus fly trap manoeuvre happening. He probably couldn’t see it because his gut was in the way and if his Bruce Banner had turned into the Hulk, I would’ve had to resist the urges to pan it back down like one of those games you see at fun fairs or amusement parks.

I was a split second away from telling the poor guy but a thought flashed through my mind. What if he says, ‘Thanks for noticing’ as gratitude and somebody hears it? I don’t think I can take that kind of embarrassment. Furthermore, he would probably ask himself what I was doing looking there in the first place. I know I would. So, I left it at that. It was a windy day so he’d probably feel it sooner or later. For his sake, I hope its sooner.

NBA players cash in on daily allowance of $106 during trips

2007-03-20T14:52:00.000+11:00

I love the NBA. If I were living in the States, I'd definitely be a groupie to the players.

Here's an interesting article...

At first glance, Jamal Sampson's statistics are minimal, averaging 1.2 points and 1.6 rebounds.

But when it comes to saving money on the road, the Nuggets center might have the top numbers on the team.

"I'm the Subway king," said Sampson, prouder of that crown than some have been after being named player of the week. "I don't do room service. I'd rather walk."

Sampson, making $798,112 this season, makes hitting the pavement in an opposing city profitable. NBA players receive $106 per diem on the road for meals and incidentals.

When the Nuggets show up at the airport today to begin a five-game trip, each player will be handed an envelope by athletic trainer Jim Gillen containing $799 in crisp bills. That's for seven days and a prorated day for dinner at $57.

Players can use the money as they choose. They can order room service at a ritzy hotel, which could set them back more than $80 for a meal.

Or, like Sampson, who figures he pockets half his per diem, they can take to the streets.

Then again, it's not out of the question some players could see a large chunk of their per diem vanish before the plane lands tonight in New Jersey in preparation for the game Tuesday against the Nets.

"Man, we gamble away that money right away on the plane," said Nuggets guard DerMarr Johnson, referring to high-stakes card games. "We put it right into the gambling pot."

But Johnson, making $932,015, has his limits. He said he pulled back on a recent trip, not wanting to play for money with some of the higher-salaried players.

The average NBA salary is $5.5 million a year, and the good life doesn't stop there. The teams stay at hotels some marketers now say are six-star. The per diem is $21 more than baseball and hockey players receive.

"It's a nice little benefit," said Nuggets center Marcus Camby, whose salary this season, including bonuses, could exceed $10 million. "They take care of us. But in those fancy hotels, that per diem is probably enough for a breakfast."

Camby is exaggerating a bit. But Nuggets forward Reggie Evans recently dropped $85 for a room service afternoon steak at the swank Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco.

Portland Trail Blazers center Jamaal Magloire spent more than $80 last week for a room service steak at The Westin Tabor Center.

"It feels like free money," Nuggets guard Steve Blake said.

Sometimes it is. Meals are served on team planes and spreads often are available in the locker room after games.

The man Nuggets players love to see at the start of a trip is Gillen.

Before each month, he determines how many nights the team will be on the road and sends figures to the accounting department.

On partial days, players are paid about $57 for dinner, $30 for lunch and $19 for breakfast.

Gillen gets the envelopes for each player before a trip. With 13 on the roster, that adds up to $10,387 for this voyage.

"They put their names on (the envelopes)," Gillen said of the accounting department. "I take it to the airplane, and they have to sign for it. I give them the envelope, and away they go."

Gillen keeps two.

Forwards Kenyon Martin and Carmelo Anthony request all their per diem at the end of the season. So Gillen locks up those envelopes until the two are ready.

A Nuggets player going on each preseason and regular-season trip would finish with 26 envelopes and the total take would be about $7,500, though taxes must be paid on about 40 percent of per diem.

Martin, out for the season after undergoing right knee surgery in November, and Anthony, suspended for 15 games earlier in the season, haven't gone on all trips.

"I give them to my nieces and nephews," Martin, making $11.8 million, said of what he does with his envelopes. "They got the price on them. I take it out and count it and give it away."

Martin isn't the only high-salaried Nuggets player willing to part with his per diem. Camby gives envelopes on some trips to guard Yakhouba Diawara in exchange for certain chores performed by the team's only rookie.

Diawara, making the rookie minimum of $412,718, carries some bags and sometimes brings meals to Camby. It doesn't sound as if Diawara buys much for himself.

"There's nothing over a $10 meal for 'Kouba,' " Sampson said. " 'Kouba' will walk three miles. He'll walk around the whole city just to save some money."

Diawara scoffs at Sampson's claims. He said there are days he has only $10 remaining from per diem and spoke about having a $24 breakfast and $40 lunch on a recent trip.

Sampson, though, is proud to be regarded as the team's most frugal player.

"Subway. Quiznos, I'll go to whatever sandwich shop," he said.

Call Sampson the Subway king or the Quiznos king. It might depend on which is giving back the most change.

Per diem through a sampling of NBA players:

• Nuggets forward Carmelo Anthony felt like a kid when he joined the NBA in 2003 and was told the per diem amount. "It's kind of like allowance," he said. "One-hundred dollars a day. That's crazy."

• When guard Chucky Atkins played in the Continental Basketball Association in 1996-97, he received $25 per diem. "It was Burger King, Subway, IHOP, Waffle House, Denny's," Atkins said of his restaurants of choice. When Atkins, now with the Memphis Grizzlies, made the NBA in 1999-2000, he continued those eating habits but soon learned from veterans. "They told me you've got to fuel your body with some good food," said Atkins, saying the advice has helped, and he now uses the bulk of his $106 per diem.

• As the Nuggets' only rookie, guard Yakhouba Diawara has added duties. But don't think he's not compensated. "Sometimes I give it to 'Kouba,' " center Marcus Camby said of his per diem. "He doesn't have the big contracts like a lot of us. I take care of him. I've bought him suits, PlayStation and an iPod." For Camby's generosity, Diawara sometimes carries bags and gets food for Camby. But it doesn't sound like he's overworked. "I just help him out, nothing too much," Diawara said.

• Houston Rockets center Yao Ming is making $12.5 million this season. When he was out for 2 1/2 months earlier this season because of a broken right leg, he was asked by a Houston Chronicle reporter why he went on a certain trip. Yao quipped it was so he could get the "road trip per diem."

• Forward Eduardo Najera is perhaps the Nuggets' most energetic player. He makes sure he doesn't waste his energy on the road trying to save money on food. "In my first two years in the league, I'd go to places like (Denny's)," said Najera, who broke in with the Dallas Mavericks in 2000-01. "But I learned from the veterans it's better to get your rest rather than go walking around. It's an investment to stay off your feet and get (hotel) room service and pay the extra money so you can perform better."

• Money for food? Yes. But New Or- leans/Oklahoma City Hornets guard Devin Brown uses his per diem for a lot more. "DVDs, video games, batteries, headphones. Stuff like that," Brown said.

• A lot has changed in a year for Rockets rookie forward Steve Novak. He played last season for Mar- quette. "We got a $110 check every two weeks," he said. "That's about the same as we get in the NBA for one day."

• So do players dislike two games in two days? Not necessarily. "I love it when we have a back-to-back," Nuggets center Jamal Sampson said. "That means we get free breakfast." If the team's second game of a back-to-back is on the road, the Nuggets have a breakfast meeting at the hotel instead of a shootaround.

Source: Rocky Mountain News

Hoo boy...

2007-03-16T10:45:00.000+11:00

School's in again.

I skipped the first lecture last week because of the move thinking it was going to be the usual introductory crap but after 2 hours of - 'What the fuck is she going on about?', I don't think I'll miss anymore classes from here on in.

BY THE POWER OF GREYSKULL! I HAVE THE POWERRRRRRRR!

I don't feel any better but my Hulk is becoming incredible. Is that normal?

It's going to be a tough semester...

Dollars and sense.

2007-03-13T16:56:00.000+11:00

I went to a seminar last night. It was a presentation on the upcoming changes in the superannuation (known as employees provident fund (EPF) in Malaysia) legislation which will take effect in a few months. The speaker was talking about how much tax people are going to be saving once they hit the legal retirement age and how to take advantage of the changes.

Hey, if it’s tax we’re saving, I’m all for it but the catch is, contributions to superannuation can’t be accessed until retirement. So, all those baby boomers out there that are nearing retirement will most likely be engaging a financial planner and dumping shitloads of money into their superfunds to take advantage of the change. That’s all good and well but asking a 20 or 30 something to throw money into something they won’t see for decades just doesn’t sit well with me. Even if it means tax savings.

If I have a lazy million lying around, then I’d most definitely do it but there are a lot of ‘what-ifs’ along the way. What if I need the money now? What if I want to help out the family or friends? Does being financially prudent mean one doesn’t need to have a life or have fun? Does it mean one has to be a stingy bastardo or biatch?

I dunno. Maybe some people can do it. At this point in time, superannuation is probably the last thing I’ll think about when it comes to investments or tax savings. I’ve heard the funniest and weirdest stories about friends and relatives who go to extremes to save a buck or two. I’m not saying that being thrifty is bad. Heck! I probably have ‘complimentary’ towels, soaps, stationery, basically everything that wasn’t nailed down, from every single hotel I’ve stayed in. The point is, saving money for a rainy day is good but saving money and not being able to use it when you need it most is just silly. I probably know how those paper millionaires feel now. Having magazines quote their worth when in reality, they might be flat broke.

I keep thinking that by the time one has access to the war chest, one might feel too old to want to do anything with it. All of a sudden, that round the world trip that you planned to have 20 odd years ago just seems too difficult and tiring.

I understand that superannuation is to provide for the retirement years where we can't live from paycheque to paycheque but I just feel that there are other avenues to accumulating wealth other than super for the 'younger' people. Granted that the speaker probably had his presentation geared towards the older crowd when the majority of the audience last night was around the late 20s/early 30s, it just felt like he's saying, 'put all your savings into super otherwise you have shit for brains!'

I’ll revisit this when I’m 45. I’d probably be milking my kids to contribute to my super. Muahahahaha!

Oh! One of the 3 people from the firm that made the presentation looked like a sexier version of Christy Chung. She was in a business suit but imagine if she was in a Lara Croft outfit. HOT DAMN! No wonder we were all wide awake.

IV.III.MMVII

2007-03-04T17:58:00.000+11:00

Another milestone.

February was pretty eventful. One of my proposed resolution for MMVII was to curb my indulgence in retail therapy but it looks like that thought's been blown to smithereens.

Ok, Chinese New Year was a great excuse to dodge the guilt seeing that it's one of the things one do to usher in the new year by getting new stuff right? So, technically, even though if I didn't mean to buy them for the new year, it still passes as an excuse correct? If not, I'll just say, it's an early birthday present from me to errr...me.

Yeah. Perfectly normal.

I just couldn't resist these two pairs. They're weird and ugly but it's like they had tractor beams locked onto my wallet. Plus, throw in a 50% discount on the LBJ IVs, I'd be having sleepless nights if I let it slide. It was a darn steal!

The blue Penny Foamposites however is a monster. That's a good thing. They're so hideous, they're beautiful.

Ok, that didn't make sense.

Anyway, February was a blur. Everything came thick and fast but I don't think I'm regretting on any of the purchases. Jordan Olympic jersey's a must and I heart those J 3s long time.

Then there was the phone.

Always loved the K800i ever since I saw them. I'm not into gadgets as much as some people but I needed one because I gave my mum my Samsung E700 and have been using an old Nokia in the interim. I hate Nokias.

I managed to hustle my company to package the phone and they threw in the bluetooth handsfree thingy (notice the non-techie vocabulary)for free which was sweet.

The Mardi Gras was in town last night. We saw a few weird ladies wearing very little wandering around in preparation for the big party. My eyes were working overtime with some of the amazing costumes they cooked up. Wait, I think it was just mainly skin but nonetheless, amazing! Leaving nothing to the imagination is a good thing cos' imagination's overrated.

We were there to celebrate IV.III.MMVII in one of my favourite Japanese restaurant. Nothing fancy, just good satisfying tukka. Stuffed myself silly and was very proud of my effort. Hello toilet bowl!

Happy IV.III.MMVII.

The QM II and QE II.

2007-02-23T16:07:00.000+11:00

It was a historic event on Wednesday. The Queen Mary II and Queen Elizabeth II cruise liners pulled into Sydney Harbour.

Apparently, the Queen Mary II is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, cruise liner in the world. It was so big that it could not be moored in Cirqular Quay. This big mama costs around $1,000,000,000! That’s right. Nine zeros!

I went down on my lunch break with a few colleagues to catch a glimpse. There were so many people around trying to get to a good vantage point at Mrs. Macquarie's Chair that it created a buzz of excitement in the air.

Traffic jams went well into the evening as people from all around Sydney went down to the harbour to take in the sight. It was only there for a day which explained the frenzy.

The Queen Elizabeth II came in the evening.

As the QM II left the harbour bound for Hong Kong, people could see both cruisers side by side around 6.30 pm. I missed it but judging from the pictures in the papers, it was magnificent.

I checked out the QE II the following day on my lunch break. It was moored in Cirqular Quay which is like 5 minutes on foot from work.

I've never given it a second thought but the quay's really spectacular. On the left, there’s the bridge which I cross every working day…

To my right, there’s the ‘Toaster’ which is an expensive piece of real estate where the rich resides…

and of course, the Opera House further up…

While I was there, I can’t help but realise how fortunate I am to have such beautiful landscapes just a few minutes walk away. I’ve got to admit that I’ve been taking these incredible architectures for granted too long. Having worked in the city my entire career, I think I've only been up to the quay during lunch times like twice.

Shiiiiit!

People from all over the world would travel thousands of miles to see these structures in person and I used to be like, ‘Mehhh, boooooring’.

Maybe it's age related. Blast this growing old thing. It sucks! I think as I grow older, I get more sentimental about stuff. It's either that or my body's outta' whack and I'm pumping out estrogen instead of testosterone.

Hold me. I'm vulnerable.

Enter the Pig - Chinese New Year 2007

2007-02-19T17:51:00.000+11:00

Hmmm...somehow the catchphrase is just not as cool as 'Enter the Dragon'.

So, it was Chinese New Year yesterday. I bummed around the house, balled a little and went to my in-laws for dinner. I know, riveting stuff this so, try and keep up.

Not having my parents here makes CNY just like any other day. For one, it’s not a public holiday. There’s no big feast, no festive music blaring in the shopping centres, no nothing. The 'feel' just ain't there. Sure there’re events like lion dances, dragon boat races and fire crackers going on in Chinatown but to me, the highlight of CNY is catching up with relatives to see how their year was like while we drink and feast like there is no tomorrow. It’s an excuse to come together at least once a year so the distant relatives that we don’t normally keep in touch with know that we still exist. It’s also good to see how much the little ones have grown, the budding forth generation on my mum’s side, while they remind me of the fossil that I am.

As a kid, I used to love the gatherings at my grandmother’s(God bless her soul) place. I still do. It was always full of laughter with some larger-than-life aunties and uncles creating the atmosphere. Come to think of it, the level of happiness is always directly proportional to the amount of alcohol consumed. I’d be playing with my cousins, eating all the usual delicacies, especially the superb festive dishes that my aunties and grandmother had prepared while people shower me with ang pows. Pure bliss.

The last time I celebrated CNY in K.L was probably 2 years ago. I think it’s about time I plan for another trip back to join the festivities. In the meantime, if I can just find a decent gambling den to remind me of home during CNY, I’d be happy. HOI TOI!!!

Happy Chinese New Year and take care on the roads.

Melbourne - Australia Day long weekend

2007-02-15T18:36:00.000+11:00

I was in Melbourne for the Australia Day long weekend which was also the Aussie Open Finals weekend.

This is my second time there and I still find the city a little boring compared to Sydney.

The good:

Caught up with my buddy, his lovely wife and some friends, Nike Melbourne, the food, Maggi Assam Laksa (which I can't find in Sydney), the cafe culture, Chapel Street, Sneakers exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria, the fashionable people, won some money at the roulette table at Crown.

The bad:

The weather. Felt like friggin' winter on one of the days when we're in the middle of summer.

The ugly:

The weird sculpture that was at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Valentine's Day 2007

2007-02-14T14:08:00.000+11:00

I can't for the life of me remember the last time I celebrated Valentine's Day. It was probably in my teens. If my memory serves me well, I think it must have been at least 8 years ago that I bought some roses for my lady for Valentine's Day but I definitely know that I did not buy them on the day. Only idiots buy roses on Valentine's Day.

Generally, I don't like to buy flowers as gifts cos' I don't see the point of seeing my gift wilting away. It's too depressing. Well, not depressing but that uneasy feeling of wasting hard earned money on something that does nothing except die. I might as well tie some cash to some branches and burn it. I'd get more kick out of that and I guarantee you that it will be memorable. We'd always be like, 'remember that Valentine's Day when we torched some cash?'

What does the rose symbolise? Love and affection? So, my love and affection only lasts for about a couple of weeks? That sounds good to me if I was looking for a one night stand or maybe a fuck buddy. If I'm really serious about a relationship, I'd buy kitchenware. Nothing says, 'you're wife material' than a set of good pots and pans.

The only good thing that comes out of Valentine's Day is when one is still single. There's a lot of buzz leading up to this day. Will he/she ask me to be his/her Valentine? Y'know, all that mushy stuff. Valentine's Day is like receiving a progress report. If that girl that you've been pursuing for a few months agrees to dinner (which is basically prime time) with you then you know that you're in. You da' MAN! Lunch means that there's a chance next year that you'd be bumped to dinner so, it's basically a 'try harder' signal. If you score breakfast, you're more like the really close gay friend that she never had. So, you can pretty much forget about it. If you don't even get a slot on this day, then it's time to think of ways to get back all those expensive gifts that you've been showering her with without looking like a cheap ass.

So, to all those single people that are celebrating Valentine's Day, I wish y'all good luck and hope y'all get the dinner slot.

As you might have guessed, I'm not a romantic but Happy Valentine's Day...suckers.

Subtle racism.

2007-02-06T21:30:00.000+11:00

We had a couple of groups of people come by last weekend to inspect our humble abode that is being put up for lease.

I got a call later in the day from the agents that both of them have put in applications for the place. The applications provide some information for the agents to do background checks (current salary, occupation, current residence, etc.). It give us a rough idea of what they're like and whether they can pay their rent.

A couple of days later, I received news that one of them was a suitable candidate and wanted to sign a long term lease. I was curious to know which one so I started describing members of the parties instead of their races. Y'know, being politically correct and all that. Then, out from left field, the agent said that it wasn't the "Indian" family but the "Australian" one. It caught me by surprise but after we finished the conversation, I sat there for a few minutes thinking to myself, "why are white people automatically Australians and people of colour branded as immigrants even if they're born here?"

I mean, it must be a common assumption amongst the white community of Australia to automatically assume that they are the race that owns the right to be called Australians. From the Prime Minister of Australia (read previous post dated 30.1.07) to my dear old agent. It just goes to show what some of them are really thinking. Assimilation? Integration? Yeah, fancy words that are being bandied around by the government and "Australians". Like it's entirely the immigrant's fault. How about ACCEPTANCE?

Oh well! At least the laws aren't as discriminatory as Malaysia...

I want to be black!!! – Vol. 1/1

2007-02-02T14:21:00.000+11:00

“Once you go black, you don’t go back.”

With the rise and rise of hip-hop and the perception amongst the young and also some of us who are not so young (the word ‘old’ is now officially banned from this blog) that black American rappers, athletes, dancers, gangsters, hobos, etc. are soooooo ultra cool, I’ve decided to enlighten those of you who endeavour to join this select group of sophisticated and cultured men and women but are too nerdy or too afraid to express yourselves. No, Mario eating a floating magic mushroom and turning into a giant is not cool. Neither is getting a tattoo of a Chinese word when you don’t even speak or read Chinese. For all you know, it might say, ‘this was where my asshole used to be’. Ok, maybe it IS cool to get a tattoo of a Chinese word cos’ all the brothas and sistas are doing it.

Let’s kick start this series with the language.

Ebonics. Can’t find it in the dictionary? Google it!

Since there are those of you who are new to this phenomenon I shall not get too hardcore but as we progress, you’ll be walking and jiving down the Bronx in no time…providing you don’t get killed in a drive-by first.

Scenario: You’re supervising a bunch of early 20-somethings and they think you’re a geek or some sort of prehistoric scum that has evolved into a human being with superior knowledge along with powers that will suck the ‘coolness’ out of them if they come within a 5 metre radius of you.

Modus Operandi: You want to get their respect and their acceptance.

Target has screwed up badly in a report and you want to confront him about it.

Don’t go – Errr, excuse me, can I talk to you about this report?
Go – Yo homie! This report is totally wack man! Get yo’ ass in here!

Don’t go - I think there is a mistake here. Can you please fix it and be more careful next time? The word is ‘canal’. You’ve left out the ‘c’. It’s, ‘going up the canal’ not the ‘anal’.
Go - Da’ fuck dawg?! Stop thinkin’ bout bitches and hos man. You do the same thang again, I’ma jam this stapler up yo’ canal and start staplin’! Ya’ dig?

Don’t go – I am here to guide and help you. If there is anything you don’t understand, please let me know. My door is always open.
Go – ‘Sup nigga’? You know you my nigga’ right? I mean, you and me. We like Crockett & Tubbs right? You know I got yo’ back right? I’m there fo’ you man. I’m there fo’ you.

There. You see how the same message can be conveyed in the cool mannerisms of an American black man? Pretty soon, you’ll be banging hos every Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, bitches on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and both on Sundays. This will slowly but surely earn the respect of your peers, especially the younglings.

This community message was brought to you by the words, ‘ho’ and ‘bitch’ (also known as ‘biatch’, but you can only use it when you’ve mastered the cool speak, start levitating and have dexterity points of 9584238 and above). Now go practice it on the ladies...

Heroes - Genesis

2007-02-01T12:31:00.000+11:00

It was the premiere of 'Heroes' last night. After much anticipation thanks to the hype from an acquaintance in the US months before the series started, I thought it was nothing to shout about. They should have done a 2 hour movie-length premiere so the audience could at least relate to the characters more. I felt like they were rushing a lot of things through.

In terms of a series, it has that 'Lost' feel to it when the camera cuts to different characters to tell their stories. I'm so friggin' over 'Lost' now cos' they've been stringing me along for the past 2 seasons and I haven't seen shit yet. The directors or writers really have a knack of stretching the storyline to the max. It gets boring after a while.

Anyway, back to 'Heroes'. I am told that the series gets better after a slow start so I'm gonna' stick with it for a little while. At least there's one good reason to watch it. Her...

What can I say? I'm a sucker for blondes. Especially when they are s-s-s-smokin' hot!

Things that make you go hmmmmm...

2007-01-30T15:44:00.000+11:00

Australia Day 26 January 2007.

source: The Age

PRIME Minister John Howard blundered yesterday, wrongly assuming a high-achieving Asian Australian was born overseas.

Hosting a reception at his Canberra residence for Australian of the Year candidates, Mr Howard asked mathematician Professor Terence Tao about his origins.

"When did you come to Australia?" Mr Howard is heard to ask Professor Tao in television footage.

When his guest failed to catch the question, the Prime Minister said: "What part of the world were you born?"

"I was born in Adelaide," Professor Tao, 31, replied.

The South Australian teaches at the University of California in Los Angeles, and last year won the world's most important mathematics prize, the Fields Medal.

The son of Chinese parents who migrated from Hong Kong, Professor Tao was a child prodigy who obtained his first university degree at age 16.

The Australian of the Year Awards website says Professor Tao is "a true-blue Australian with a fondness for meat pies, football, cricket, and our easygoing, honest, and relaxed culture".

Don't you just love it? I saw this blunder on the news and it was apparent that the PM knew he'd done a boo-boo as soon as he asked the first question. It was so obvious from his body language to the 'uhmms' and the 'ahhhs' that followed that he was thinking, 'Ohhhhhhhh shit!'.

We can harp and preach about how we shouldn't stereotype or judge people from their appearances but in fact, it's much easier said than done. Sure, we can try and control these emotions but I'm sure all of us have been in situations where it happens, like reflex. We might not verbalise it but we sure think it. I know I have.

Seeing a tall black person on a basketball court, I automatically assume he's athletic and could dunk the ball on my hairy yellow ass but it's almost never the case. I remember another incident years back when I was crossing the street with my girl and a bunch of mates. There was a bunch of hoons in a pile of junk they call a car being all rowdy and probably piss-drunk at the traffic lights. As we were crossing the street, one of them yelled out to my girl asking her what she was doing hanging around with Asians saying that we have small dicks. Obviously, we ignored them but I swear, they must have gotten that perception from Japanese porn or there might be a Japanese tourist in the trunk whom they're taking turns sodomising.

Seriously, there has to be better screening for porn actors when they produce Japanese porn. Most of them are downright offensive to Asian men out there. Have you seen the guys in most of them (not that I focus too much on that gender when watching)? All you see is either a scrawny guy in sunglasses and his microrganism, or a fat dude pushing 40 with his sorry excuse for a dick buried in thick bush. I pity the chick that has to perform fellatio on that cos' she'll be choking up pubes for the rest of the day or maybe die from it.

With that said, I wonder how many males chatting on the internet got their hearts broken when they learned that their Swedish female friend, Inga, is not really a blonde with blue eyes and a hot body willing to give oil massages at a whim? DRATS!

Hear ye! Hear ye!

2007-01-15T21:39:00.000+11:00

One afternoon during my recent trip back to K.L, my mate Kelvin took me on a shortcut through a residential area. I thought I was dreaming at first but from a distance, I saw this…

As we got closer, I was like, "DAYYYUUMMMMMM!!!". This house, or should I say castle is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Definitely takes the cake if you want something different.

Some of the questions that came to mind were - why the heck would someone build a home like this? Who’d buy it if they decide to sell? Is the owner sane?

Maybe this is the residence of Walt Disney’s no.1 fan. Maybe it used to be a White Castle fast food joint before they packed up and left Malaysia or maybe he took the phrase, ‘being the king of the castle’ a little too literally.

I have to give props to whoever’s home it is. It’s really something out of the ordinary. Although, they should do away with the cars. It just kills the effect. Wonder how much is road tax for horses these days?

The Shadow.

2006-08-04T17:14:00.000+10:00

It was a friggin cold and windy winter morning. I was walking from the train station to the office with the cold wind blowing against me. My nuts were shrinking fast. Pretty soon, my face was starting to feel numb and I started to shiver. So, I decided to tail this guy about half an arm's length back so that he would act as a wind shield. I honestly didn't realise that I was that close to him but I guess I was too distracted in trying to get out of the chilly wind gusts.

After about a block, I was still behind him as we crossed a set of traffic lights and made a left turn. I was starting to feel fortunate that he was going in my direction when I noticed that he kept turning to his side. I soon realised that he was doing this to check if I was still there with his peripheral vision. He must have sensed that I was there for a while and I could see him trying to stretch his eyeballs at my direction to get a good look at me instead of turning his torso. About another half a block in, I was still shadowing him but he started to slow down, and because he was such a good shield, I didn't realise that I had slowed with him.

He must have been really nervous because after tailing him for nearly 2 blocks, he came to a complete stop and started to turn around. As he was turning, I could see him trying to bring out the words he wanted to say to me but I had already started to make my way towards the revolving door of my building. From my peripheral vision, I could make out that he was just standing there looking at me dumbfounded with his mouth opened. I resisted laughing when I realised what I'd done and how freaky it would have been if I was in his shoes. I can't believe how impeccable the timing was. Just when he had had enough and wanted to confront me, I was at my destination and moving away from him before he could even finish turning around.

The Shadow lives to strike another cold and windy winter day...

‘Hon, does my butt look big in these jeans?’

2006-08-01T17:37:00.001+10:00

‘Hon, does my butt look big in these jeans?’

I was ambushed. Nowhere to hide, too late to run.

On a normal day, the mere thought of loitering from store to store for hours trying to look interested is scary enough, but doing that when a sale is on is fucking insane! Ever seen those poor saps with faceless expressions outside a women’s store while their partners are probably enjoying their 2^nd hour in the same shop trying to decide whether to buy a white tee or a black one?

I reckon the judicial system should incorporate shopping with a woman as a community service sentence. In most cases, the man is tortured mentally, physically and financially. I say physically because when it comes to shopping, you can never out-walk a woman even if they’re wearing heels. They should really document this phenomenon in Ripley’s Believe It or Not.

When I was out there, joining the chorus line of brain dead men wishing that they could somehow conjure an out-of-body experience and be at a beach or a pub somewhere, I almost felt compelled to ask them, ‘So, what are you in for?’ but I think they’re probably so spaced out that if I kicked them in the nuts, it’ll take them 30 minutes to register the pain and another hour to come up with a spontaneous reaction.

The things we do for love.

I got restless and couldn’t wait any longer so I made my way through the war zone to find the woman that put me in this inhumane and torturous situation. When I found her in front of a mirror jostling for position like Shaq, she dropped that bomb of a question on me. I felt as if, the whole store suddenly fell silent and all eyes were on me for a response. Basically, balls shrinking stuff!

Why can’t women understand that men are simple creatures? If any of my male friends or colleagues were to ask me if they looked fat while grabbing a fist full of flab around their stomach, I’d agree in a heartbeat and mocking them for at least a month would be a prerequisite if we were to stay friends. However, with women, it’s different. When they ask a man for an opinion on their physical appearance, they basically want you to lie your ass off and be condemned to hell for all eternity.

It’s almost as if the bigger the lie, the more believable it is to them. Ever seen those grannies in their 60s walking around a shopping centre with permed red hair, make- up that could provide a serious smokescreen if they were slapped and wardrobe that made you think Gianni Versace’s alive and designing again? Heck! They’re probably wearing a g-string underneath all that. (FUCK! I visualized!). Anyway, when a bunch of these beasts have a gathering, you could be forgiven for getting your kids’ hopes up by telling them Cirque du Soleil is in town. Why do you think they dress this way? It’s all their husbands’ fault. Instead of saying, ‘For fuck’s sake, you look like Mimi from The Drew Carey Show!’ when they had a chance, they chose to lie. Each lie compounds itself to make a woman more bold with each appearance. Those beasts don't just happen overnight you know? It takes years of encouragement and compliments from men to concoct such a potent blend of courage and delusion.

You think we should be more sensitive to their feelings? HELLO?!! If women can pour hot wax on their pubes and fucking yank them out by the roots, I’d say they’re tougher and more sadistic than us don’t you think? Besides, having a woman walk out like that should be a crime. They freak the kids into inducing nightmares, put mental images into guys that cause them to turn gay, or never marrying or having a relationship, therefore reducing the birth rate and population of the country.

So, tell them what you really think.* Do it for your country!

‘No, it looks great. Did you lose weight?’, I responded.

What? You think I have a death wish or something? I was surrounded by a bunch of crazy women high on massive discounts on clothes and had no cyanide pill to make the pain easier to bear. What's a guy suppose to do?

*Due to the high risk of not having your reproductive organ ever functioning again, it is ideal that you have at least 2 litres of the little torpedos stored in a sperm bank before doing this.

WTF #1

2006-07-28T14:05:00.000+10:00

It has been a while since I've had to buy a textbook. Little did I know that these days, walking into a bookshop is like walking into a high-fashion boutique like Prada or LV. At least, when I go into these places, I am prepared to be shocked by the prices that are as long as the numbers at the bottom of their barcode. Maybe even crack a wise joke on why they insist on using the rupiah as currency. But never in my life did I think my friggin' textbook would cost $160! That's like RM$450! A whole month's wage for some people. Man! Screw wearing designer outfits to show off. Next time, just carry a few textbooks.

Debriefing.

2006-07-25T17:31:00.000+10:00

Well, lecture 1 is in the bag.

It was a pretty good lecture. The pace was manageable and the environment was, well, cold at first but it was not because it’s the middle of winter. It was more to do with the bunch of stone faced lawyers in the class coming straight from work with their power suits still dripping with blood from the day’s toil. There weren’t many full-time students seeing that the course is pretty much catered for the working crowd but I certainly didn’t expect so many lawyers.

The lecturer was a bubbly young lady probably in her early thirties. I shall call her Berlei seeing that she kept adjusting her bra strap every few minutes. Berlei kept it light with her bad jokes but it certainly bought a few laughs for being so lame. I hope the other lecturer that we’re having for the second half of the semester is as cool.

There weren’t any chicks that made me do a double-take from scanning the room so I tried to refocus and lowered my standards a notch or two. Heck! I think I must’ve lowered it so much that it sunk to Hugh Grant’s Divine Brown standard. There were a couple of knockouts (bear in mind we’re talking about a whole new standard here). There was this Asian chick which looked alright considering that I could only see her side profile (I was referring to the face) and there was this tall and slim brunette. I think she’s either from South Africa or Eastern Europe. Maybe even Germany judging from the language she was speaking in. I can’t really tell what language it was but it involved a lot of hawking (Achtung baby!). She has a nice face but a really crooked neck… like a vulture.

As predicted the nerds were at the front row. Their textbooks were out and already tagged. There was this dude, probably in his mid-thirties, with gold rimmed glasses, scruffy hair and a really red complexion like he’s about to explode. There was no mistake that he was the king nerd (Urkel). Urkel stopped Berlei explaining the definition of ‘capital’ and ‘income’ to give us the story of the ‘tree’ and the ‘fruit’. I will never look at the words ‘capital’ and ‘income’ the same again. I guess he must have warmed up after this because he was murmuring answers whenever a question was asked. This guy could be the source of entertainment with the lack of hotties around. Who knows, there might be more stories forthcoming and I might actually learn something.

I think I’m gonna’ be just fine.

School's in!

2006-07-24T16:18:00.000+10:00

Dangit! First lecture tonight and I'm already dreading it.

I remember the whole study and work routine which I had to endure years ago. I don't know how I did it the last time but it seems like it's getting harder to find the motivation to get back into the groove.

Lecture 1 is usually a reconnaissance mission. I would normally skip this but I think being out of the game for so long, it's important to get a feel for the class or at least to establish a position in the lecture theatre. The players to take into account are:

1) The lecturer
2) The nerds
3) The hotties

The lecturer should be in top form tonight seeing that we're a new bunch and should show a more human side as we all get a feel for each other. Who knows? Maybe at the end of the semester, some of us might actually need to 'feel' him/her to get a few marks on our papers. I have had my fair share of zombie lecturers in the past where they would write on the white board or talk into the projector screen as soon as they come into class while we scribble frantically into our notebooks (looking back at some of my notes, I think it can pass as Arabic). Some smartasses actually bring tape recorders in at the beginning of class and come back at the end to collect them. With lectures like this, I find that there is no time to process a thought let alone ask questions so, I need to cut out the fat and scout for the work horses/nerds.

They are usually the ones sitting at the front row with their super duper fantastico calculators, multi-coloured highlighters lined neatly on the bench, text books that are already tagged for the first 3 lectures and crowds the lecturer like a groupie at a concert after every lecture. These are the ones that you can rely on for the most concise notes. Plus, they're generally pretty cool and easy to get along with. Just ask a lot of questions.

Then there are the hotties. The hotties serve 2 functions for a man like me. With a license (more like a probationary pass) to perv only, they are a source of motivation to attend the otherwise boring sessions by zombie lecturers or to keep me awake during the lectures. It's good training for the eyes too. A game where I try not to get into any weird eye contacts with the target.

Then comes the positioning of my royal ass. You see, it's important not to be in the front row. Not because the nerds are there but it's rude and difficult to make a getaway if I need to split mid-lecture if it gets too boring. Being way down the back means I would be squinting my eyes half the time which could affect my relationship with the hotties seeing that it throws the whole cool look that I will be trying to establish. So, I shall see y'all within diving distance from the exit.

It's game time...

Officially yours.

2006-07-20T20:28:00.000+10:00

I was talking to a mate of mine recently about his progress on this girl that he fancies. He reckons that they might be an item but when it comes to relationships and paktology (slang) you either are or you aren’t. It’s like asking someone if they’re a virgin. There’s no maybe but apparently a lot of girls I know claim that they would be if it wasn’t for the darn bicycle seat or gymnastic lessons when they were young. Hmmm…

Anyway, when is a girl officially your girlfriend? When you hold her hand and she doesn’t flinch? When you kiss her and she doesn’t give you a high-five right across the cheeks and crack your balls with her knees? Maybe it’s when you put your arm around her at the movies and she doesn’t look across at you and go, ‘DA FUCK ARE YOU DOING?!’ with kuaci flying out of her mouth and right in your face.

With me, I’ve always liked confirmations or a definitive answer. That way you don’t have to second guess things all the time. When I was a teenager many moons ago when dinosaurs roamed the earth, I remember having crushes on a few girls (not at the same time la!) and dropping hints here and there but nothing really serious eventuated because either my hints weren’t obvious enough or the girls were about as smart as inventing a helicopter with ejector seats. Of course, they could be avoiding the obvious but nobody asked for your opinion smart ass! Now where was I? So, thinking back to my love life, after going out with my girl for a while and the time was right to make the move, I finally mustered up the courage to say, ‘Will you be my girl?’. I was expecting a response along the lines of, ‘You had me at hello’, like Renee Zellweger’s character in Jerry McGuire. That would be the ideal scenario but of course, I ain’t Tom Cruise. So being just your regular Brad Pitt look-alike, what happened next will be etched in my mind forever. She laughed like a crazy hyena and said, ‘What are you? A dweeb?!’. Anyway, this dweeb could proudly say he’s got a girlfriend. A done deal. That's why I wonder, how else does one do it? What if a night of passion is just a one night stand and nothing serious? What if a kiss is just a kiss and nothing more? How else can you get confirmation if you don’t ask or talk about it? If one asks? Can the question be done romantically?

Speaking to a number of friends, a lot of them can’t recall the exact moment when they could officially be deemed a couple. A few said that it just happened because after going out on a few dates, it was a natural progression. Maybe that’s the female version. The guy’s version would probably go like this - got to third base and was still safe. Called back the next day. Batter up! Okay, okay. That might be a little crude but I think if a guy does not make a move within a certain period of time, the risk of running into ‘the friendship zone’ is very real, a real bummer that is. I’ve seen this happen to one of my dearest buddies and it wasn’t pretty. The girl is now married and he is left thinking of what might have been. He’s still the perfect gentleman after what he has been through. Did I mention that he’s still single? So, if anyone is interested in a hookup, holla’. Sex is optional. You initiate. Perfect isn’t it? Females only please. Males will have to wait a little longer. He’s not desperate enough yet. I’d say give it another year.

I digressed. Where was I? I know there’s a point to be made here somewhere. Ahhhh, fuck it. Lost is starting soon so this entry has no ending or point to it. Kind of like Lost, which is really starting to get on my nerves.

Freak!

2006-07-17T21:04:00.000+10:00

FREAK

There are times in every person’s life where an event can have an impact great enough to set off a chain reaction that shapes part of who we are and why we do some of the things that we do. I’ve nailed down one of those events in my life.

June 11, 1989.

The world recognised. I recognised.

A teenager by the name of Michael Chang became the youngest Grand Slam champion the tennis world has ever seen. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches and having been on this earth for only 17 years and 3 months, he battled against the heavyweights of the game and against all odds, came out on top. Some might call it a fluke but after beating cramps and Ivan Lendl in a marathon 5 setter in the semis, and then Stefan Edberg in the finals, those that witnessed these two incredible matches knew that it was no fluke. I was in awe. Mesmerized by what he had accomplished. Like so many kids around the world that day, I wanted to be like Mike.

I wanted the same shirt that he wore, the same shoes and even the socks. I even had the exact racquet he endorsed later in life. I wasn’t alone in this. Going to tennis coaching in the afternoons, plenty of other kids were decked out in the exact gear. We fell for the marketing hook, line and sinker but hey, we were impressionable kids then. No harm being a dreamer (and a poser). It didn’t matter that we couldn’t hit the ball for peanuts but at least we looked good. I can’t help but think that this was where the seeds were sown.

1990.

The beginning of a new decade. I don’t think that the somewhat conservative world of tennis was ready for another John McEnroe, let alone a new and 'improved' version. McEnroe was still on the tour then but the last thing parents wanted to see was the 90s version of him being a role model for their sons or worse, a sex god for their teenage daughters. Andre Agassi was not a guy you wanted your daughter to date or your son to become. The long peroxide hair, the earring and the denim shorts, these were some of the signs that made a lot of people nervous. A rebel without a cause? Maybe in the early stages of his career but I think that he is genuinely expressive and he was a character that would bring excitement, flair and colour into the game. And boy, was there going to be a lot of colour.

“Did you see those shorts?!”. Everybody was talking about Andre when he unveiled the fluorescent lava red outfit. Personally, I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing those shorts but I have got to have those shoes. I don’t know what it was but those shoes had a hold on me and I couldn’t shake it. I can still remember the day I got those shoes and the feeling that it brought when I had them in my hands and on my feet for the first time. It was ecstasy. I wore those everywhere. Dinner functions, tennis, football in muddy fields, hanging out, you name it. Within a year, it was trashed. My beloved shoe had a huge hole in the soles but that didn’t stop me from wearing them or cherishing them.

1991.

Nike made the second of the Air Tech Challenge series. It was just as beautiful as the first. I’ve got to have it…again.

These babies were as hot, if not hotter than the first. I would have traded all my Transformers toys for them if someone had asked me. (Ok, so I wasn’t as cool as those GI Joe kids. You happy now?) . As luck would have it, things don’t go according to plan. My trusty chant of, ‘Mum, can I PUUUUHLLEEEEEEEEEEZZZZZZZZZZZ have them?! PUHLEEEEEEEEEEEEZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ?!’, did not work. I could put a seasoned monk to shame with my devotion to that chant. I can remember my mum laughing at me because I would be slurring those exact words even when I was so buggered and falling asleep. Mum was having none of it because another pair of expensive tennis shoes within such a short period of time just was not going to fly with her. Fortunately, my dad had a weakness. My chants. He probably wanted to save himself the public humiliation that my mum was immune to.

Since then, I have had a fascination with sneakers. I would wander into a sports store now and again to check out the latest releases and drool at the odd pair. As a kid with no job, I have missed out on my fair share on ‘must haves’. Birthdays and Christmases provided me with much joy and anticipation as they were a kid’s pay day.

That fascination has manifested itself to something pretty ugly these few years. As a grown man, with disposable income come many temptations. One of which is to feed the inner child in me. To have what I could not have when I was a kid.

The vast majority of people outside the sneaker-loving community have a hard time understanding the passion. I’ve been through my fair share of weird looks and comments. I think this is mostly due to my age and profession. I have had acquaintances from work come over to my house to chill and as soon as they see my displays, shoes and shoe boxes, they have that look. Not the, ‘Wow! That’s so cool’ look but the, ‘Why is your penis growing on your forehead?’ look. The kicker is when I tell them that a lot of them are brand new and I don’t plan to wear some of them. At this point they’re probably looking for the quickest exit and getting ready to kick me in the balls to make their getaway. That is why I would say that I’m careful in who I tell my addiction to.

I guess I can find solace from other avid collectors that I have had the privilege to meet over the years via the many forums and websites dedicated to us crazies. Just knowing the amount of sneakers I have pales in comparison to some fanatics out there makes me think that I’m not that bad but am I? All I can say is, ‘I am what I am’. Wait. I think that’s a Reebok commercial.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z726znyzHKI

Red Hot Chili Peppers - Nike Air Tech Challenge II Commercial

2006-07-14T15:08:00.000+10:00

Be afraid. Be very afraid...