Sunday, September 28, 2008
watchout Chelsea!
I thought Berbatov was excellent this weekend! Finally, we see glimpses of what he can do. I thought his partnership with Rooney was awesome although the latter was a late sub. But I have no doubts in my mind that if he continues playing the way he played against Bolton, he will soon open his ManU account. We are now being compared as to how symmetrical our start is this season and last season. 8 points from 5 games. Exactly the same as last season. So, meaning we will do the double again this year! =D
And that admin guy from my uni must be so ecstatic that Hull beat Arsenal 2-1 away! And they weren't just lucky. They played superbly, with lots of guts to comeback from a goal down and plenty of discipline to shut out the Gunner's attack. He must be overjoyed I bet. No one expected this result. Some say it's definitely shock result of the season.
week 1
On Tuesday, we went to the lab. There were so many instructions and rules that we must obey that I got a little pening (headache). One which I remembered is that we can't bring our handphones to the lab for fear that there would be interferences with the lab machinery. If that ought to happen, we could create sparks somewhere and the whole lab could explode! And another thing, if in any case chemicals spill on ourselves, they will strip us and bring us to this decontamination room where we would be dumped with buckets of cold water (I think from the water tank above)! I still shudder with apprehensiveness. I used to be really clumsy in the lab back in high school. So anyway, we got our lab coats and goggles/safety spectacles. I had my friend write my initials on the back of my collar. And I can't help but draw Nike signs on my goggles to stamp my 'trademark'.
The next day, classes only started at 3.00pm. However, I decided to go early to attend this Library Tour - to explain how to borrow books; how to use the pc to look up for journals; etc. Then, I went to the gym for the next 90 minutes. I was all alone! Just the way I like it. I did meet Ali from Pakistan there though. He gave me a few pointers on how to build my shoulders.
After all that, I jumped into the pool; of course after cooling down and showering my perspiration away. I could only swim so far continuously. Lactose was building up in my arms even before I got into the pool. I couldn't even make 1 lap without feeling so drained. I was again the only one there till I met Mike from London. He is a Chelsea fan. Then, we talked a bit about the game last weekend. I thought ManU started well. And Mike added that Chelsea finished the better team. He thought there would be a winner in the game. I was actually quite disappointed with how Berbatov played. He looked like he was too lazy to even chase down loose balls let alone pressure the opponents. Anyway, it was a fair 1-1 draw. Mike added that he was enjoying studying in Malaysia albeit the heat. I also asked him how far is London from Nottingham. He said about 2 hours; which he explained isn't that far.
I excused myself and showered quickly so that I could go for lunch before classes started.
On Friday, PharmNotts (Pharmacy Society of Nottingham) had an AGM. After starting off with a speech, the president asked us 1st year undergrads to nominate each other for some of the posts on the EXCO board. Like an auction, she announced assistant secretary. Suddenly, some of the seniors shouted for my name. I was like, "What the...!". And so I got nominated and had to give an impromptu speech. All the candidates had to leave momentarily while the votes were being counted. I lost... to the class rep! Ish! But actually I wasn't too frust. So I went back to my seat. But then, a senior told me to just stand. He wanted to nominate me for assistant treasurer this time. I was actually flattered I got the seniors' backing. However, once again, I lost... to this girl who had a perfect resume to even be the treasurer of a major corporate company.
This time my friends told me they will make sure I get the next one - Assistant Event Manager. Something which I don't have a lot of experience in. So, I felt like it wasn't my comfort zone. But I still gave a speech to convince everyone that I was up to the task; honouring my other fellow candidates at the same time. I also told everyone that I don't intend to get any sympathy votes for being an assistant secretary and assistant treasurer reject. Anyway, I got it; third time lucky. Haha! I will do my best; looking forward to the challenges; and gather experiences at the same time.
paleontology
I had no idea prehistoric creatures still roam the streets of KL. I thought the Minicus Basasourus were long extinct. I wonder whether Prehistoric Museums around the world will pay me for this shot. Hmm..
Anyway, the bus really look like pieces of metal hanging on together with duck tape. The bumper looked like it was about to fall off. The roof looked like it could peel back like a can of sardine at any moment. And the driver has to carefully drive this antique as though the road is covered with a layer of eggs.
Nice to see this Mercedes Bus still doing its age old business picking up and dropping off passengers though.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Good Saturday!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
family affairs
... or playing with lanterns to be happy.
The past week, Aunt Fook See and Swee Jin have been busily furnishing their new apartment as it was to be rented out by the weekend to a Japanese family. I took some pics. They did an awesome job in 5 days alone! However, I should have taken some pics of the outside, because they had an awesome view. Unfortunately it was already dark that time. Anyway...
Yesterday, we went to visit Uncle Sain and Trina, his fiance. Uncle Sain invited us to his house.
Mom: Is the house clean?? We don't want to faint there!
Little did we know, Uncle Sain played with his words! Apparently, he moved into a new house since the beginning of the year! He surprised us all! Even our dear Ah Ma was oblivious. Lol! Can't imagine that during CNY, he and Trina had to suppress their urge to reveal this secret even after being bombarded with loads of comments.
But anyway, the rest of the adults then shot lots of question at him. Like when he got it, why weren't we told earlier, how much is the house, what happened to the old apartment, etc.
The place looks fine. It will look a whole lot homier when the boxes are cleared out. Sorry no pics! But will be back there again in two months ;) Wedding beckons!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
4 killed in SC plane crash; drummer, DJ injured
WEST COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Hours after performing for thousands of South Carolina college students, former Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker and celebrity DJ AM were critically injured in a fiery Learjet crash that killed four people, authorities said Saturday.
OMG... I really hope they are alright... not just a cover-up :'(
induction
Firstly, I have to apologise to my dear readers for my mini hiatus. Sorry people! I think I will probably be posting about three times a week from now on; depending on my timetable. I currently just started my undergraduate course at Nottingham University at Semenyih. And well, things are going ok so far. We just finished our induction on Friday.
Last I heard, 89 are studying Pharmacy; including myself. On the first day (Thursday), you could say I was disorientated. At the Kajang KTM station in the morning, I just realised I didn't know where the feeder bus was supposed to pick us up. So, I ranged Chai. He dutifully told me just to wait opposite the station; just in front of the Kajang primary school. Not long after, I got on the bus. It was just a regular school bus -_-" I thought Nottingham could afford to buy at least a Nottingham Bus! I wasn't expecting a bona fide red double decker lar. But I thought a bus, proudly donning the colours of Nottingham would be our bus; just like the one we had at VI :D Anyway, that was the least of my concerns. I was late! On my first day! OMG! And I wasn't sure where to gather at! However... I wasn't too worried. It wasn't class I was missing. Just a few welcoming speeches. But, got to be more punctual next time! Oh yeah... thank goodness for the signs. Otherwise I would be much later. However, I just realised the signs made me go in circles! There is a much shorter way! Bleh.
Anywho... malas to talk about the welcoming. Only that this guy from the admin (I forgot his name) was quite a funny guy! He's a Hull supporter! XD 5 years ago, he said they were in the 3rd division; the lowest league in England and I quote "Hull were rubbish and full of disappointments. They bring more agony than joy". His wish, as well as that of other Hull supporters, was to see Hull in the Premiership before they died. They really take their football seriously. I mean they could have a genie grant any of the wishes of the world! Ans they wanted that. So, he concluded, before this weekend, they were 5th in the Premiership. It was a darn inspiring talk, man!
Oh. And I better lookout for a Hull jersey if I want to get an extra 5% in my next exam :D
The next day was a little more livelier. We had the 'amazing race' in the morning at 10. We knew we would get wet; but I guess I thought better of the seniors. Anyway, we got splashed with bucket and buckets of water at each station. We even received a bucket-full from the seniors on the second floor while we were lying down on the pavement below! We could have drowned! But what got me so cranky was when a senior dragged me into the pool; with my shoes still on! Bugger! I could have withstand his strength but he ended up using his body weight to finally get me drenched. However, after that, swimming in the pool did wake me up a little. I was pretty sleepy actually. And most of us got in the pool after that; including the seniors.
Lucky I brought an extra pair of clothings (but no shoes). Sen Loong was great to invite me back to Edu Square (his err... room) and we each took a quick shower before heading back to campus for lunch. During lunch, we (group members of Vitamin V (Viagra)) also talked about our sketch (topic: weather forecast) we were to do after our break. We made plenty of last minute props and changed the plot as many times as Rafa Benitez changes his Liverpool team selection. And even finally while waiting for our turns to present our sketch, last minute changes to the casts and the plot were made! We inculcated a 'Romeo and Juliet' element into the sketch. I was Romeo, and another guy, Juliet. Oh yea... and all of us had to use balloons to get extra marks. So, 'Juliet' agreed to boobs augmentation that any girl or guy would be envy of.
We killed the crowd with our sketch! We were so surprised we managed to pull of an impromptu and spontaneous piece of acting. We had zero preparations, we didn't even plan what to say; nothing was scripted. We made them smile, we made them cry, and we especially made them laugh till they cry! My hats off to the narrators, Chia Yee and Kai Yee. Without them, our acting wouldn't make sense! Apparently it was so good enough (even though we got the lowest marks in the other games) to see us as the winning team overall! Haha! We won a huge box of candy. Good to satisfy my sweet tooth ;)
Oh and before the day ended we evaluated each other (within our groups). I got commented as sporting, active, outgoing, friendly 2X, kind, nice to talk to, my Romeo I *heart* u, easy-going, very funny! I dunno how much are those true :P But that's how they judged me. Haha!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
lego
1. Denial
First, we deny everyone's accusations and remarks including that of our own. We claim everybody is wrong and curse ourselves for believing what they may say. We will hide from the world; shut our ears; cringe at our weakness; but this only means we became more stubborn. Remember, denial is just a river in Africa.
2. Anger
This is the point when we start blaming everyone; including those who stood by our side. Worst is when we start blaming ourselves no matter how ridiculous it may be or sound. We must learn to overcome this resentment, lest hatred may consume our soul.
3. Bargaining
I say this is the hardest stage to escape. During this stage, we begin to wonder all the what ifs and what could haves. We begin to pray or seek divine intervention; to make promises for that ONE more time to undo what was already done. This negative energy could instead be used for more proactive stuffs.
4. Depression
We begin to realise that perhaps nothing left could be done. We swell up inside; emotions gravitate to our very core of our soul. We begin to crave attention; to be comforted; but we end up storing all the feelings and thoughts inside till all our visceras feel as though they may crumble or implode from the inward pressure.
5. Acceptance
Finally but not without a fight, we succumb. It's the most energy-sapping stage. We realise that fate is no more in our hands. It was probably meant to be so; written in the stars; planned by God... but still without a good reason why it happened at all. This is letting go; moving on. It will all get better in time...
Monday, September 15, 2008
swagged
Then, I thought of having some fun screwing my caller with my broken Chinese tongue, like ni de au yun hen piao liang... or something like that, out of my head. Before I had the chance to be some-what irksome, she congratulated me in English! Immediately, I got excited! She told me I won blah blah blah from MTV Swag! (I only heard 'Swag'. At that time I didn't know what I won :P) Right then, I knew the call was from Singapore. She asked for my e-mail.
So, I have been waiting for the e-mail ever since. Bleh. A bit disappointed till I got another call today (Not a private number this time). Yay! She said the e-mail bounced back. So I reconfirmed the address (I left out a number).
Finally, I know what I will be winning. Apparently I swagged this Meet Dave Goodie Bag!
I have never seen the movie, but the prizes sounds pretty cool; considering I sent only a few texts worth RM0.50 each. They include...
- Headphones
- USB
- Pencil Case
- Baseball Cap
- T-shirt
what's your stand?
Cool song right? Listen to the lyrics...
Pierre, the vocalist, wrote this song from his heart, dedicated to his brother who was diagnosed with lymphoma cancer...
In two minutes, you can help save a life. In two minutes, you can change the world.
Oh and by the way... Pierre's brother has since gone into remission :)
The end of cancer begins here.
Friday, September 12, 2008
super footballers
Usain Bolt, who swept the sprint titles at last month's Beijing Olympics in world-record time, will train with Spanish soccer champion Real Madrid.
The 22-year-old Jamaican, who claimed gold medals and world records in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 400-meter relay in Beijing, said Real had invited him to train with players including Raul Gonzalez and Ruud Van Nistelrooy.
- Bloomberg -
If footballers were to train with other Olympians...
1. There could be more flying tackles in the game... clean lar...Irving Saladino
2. There could be fitter footballers in the game who can run for 26 miles 385 yards or 42.195km in a single game - that's about quad the average player
Samuel Wanjiru
3. There could be more players who can skip challenges or tackles - prevents unnecessary injuries... or just scratch idea 1
Dayron Robles
4. There could be more overhead kicks in the game - that's what we want to see right?
Andrey Silnov
And of course, goalkeepers can't be spared from this training...
5. They could improve their ball distributions or throws - to initiate counter attacks; which ever style they prefer, shot-put style or hammer throw style
Tomasz Majewski
Primoz Kozmus
Thursday, September 11, 2008
we will live... right?
You may all know about the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN doing it's first test yesterday, 10th September 2008, which will lead up to conducting its first atom smashing experiment on 21st October 2008. Whether you read it in the papers, or heard of its doomsday properties on tv, or like me from Dan Brown's Angels and Demons, you cant help but be slightly worried about the caliber of this gargantuous 'experiment' if it goes horribly wrong.
'Innocuous' as it may sound, the behemoth of a machine (pic above) lies underneath the Franco-Swiss border near Geneva, Switzerland in a circular tunnel with a circumference of 27km in a depth ranging 50-175 meters! (Guess you can't dig your way to China from there)
The LHC is the worlds most powerful atom smasher, that will accelerate a proton and an electron to 7 TeV energies near to the speed of light (99.999999% of light speed). The collision is expected to produce a plethora of exotic subatomic particles (which includes - see paragraph below).
You may ask what's all this crap for? Well scientists or specifically physicists around the world will attempt to hunt for the existence of the Higgs Boson which has been dubbed as the "God particle". If the Higgs Boson is discovered it will be a massive feat of Humankind, having predicted the most fundamental particle in nature decades before it would be discovered.
So where's the drama you asked? Well, this experiment will create conditions similar to those existing just after Big Bang (similar means exactly but under controlled conditions). And conducting such a simulation requires use of at least ten dimensions, far beyond the three spatial dimensions we are accustomed to. Layman like mua don't get 10 dimensions -.- ??
There has been a lot of speculation about this experiment that it might lead creation of Black Holes on Earth, which would engulf it. It will actually, but they said they know what they are doing. And these possibilities - even as minuscule as 50 million to 1 - scare the heck out of people. It's only 6.8 billion peoples' lives are at risk.
This Large Hadron rap could clear things out...
But personally I don't think it's going to blow up and implode the Earth. It's exciting times for science! Brings out the geek and evil genius in all of us! Anyway, if global catastrophe has to happen, this will be a cool way to perish together right? Rather than war or famine. Just imagine the Eiffel Tower going up like a rocket! Mama-mia! Au secours!! Au revoir cruel world!
What would you do if you knew today was your last day on Earth? The question seems less rhetoric now huh?
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
football apocalypto?
The Ali Babas of Manchester City's takeover was certainly the biggest coup of the summer as they hope to 'sheikh' the Premiership's Big Four domination by signing the World XI; which probably includes many of yours, mine and our favourites Tom, Dick and Harry set of players. I am saying they are ready to write as many zeroes as possible on their cheque books to get the ultimate dream team. But history as proven that money can't buy success. But what about money x billions?? That's a scary fact for any rivals; for within a day of the new owners' arrival, they have shown their intentions by signing Robinho for a whopping £32m! Mark Hughes is probably excited with the prospect of flexing his new bosses' money muscles and finally get who he wants! Not that Thaksin didn't provide him with his huge piggy bank before. But the Swiss Bank account of these Ali Babasians are so big that it makes Roman Abramovish's account look like that of a vagabond. Or you could say they have plenty of arms and legs to spare. Hmm. Why can't a green mutated multiple-legged octopus with regenerative properties be assosiated with a rich football club owner? They are puppeting the whole board, transfer policies, etc, anyway.
But I digress. Ok so why did they choose Manchester City?? Is the BPL really that profitable? If I were a Sheikh, I would think so. Hmm. In my opinion, the Premiership is the most watched league in the world. Of course it would be an enticing prospect for any megabuckians to market their brand globally through the English game. Who wouldn't do that right if they have the cash right?? Ok back to the question... why Manchester City??? Why didn't they proceed to get Arsenal?? That's a bigger club right? Perhaps Arsenal are already sponsored by Emirates? But I dunno... Maybe they just want a bigger challenge - to turn a cili padi club into a Juggernaut! Or maybe Manchester City realised that Thaksin wouldn't be there much longer, so better get the 'next big thing'.
Their arrival could really justify that all the big players want to play in the BPL. We could see an exodus from the Milans and Real Madrids when the transfer window reopens. Although it may be a good thing to freshen up the league, I can't help but feel that they could murder the game. You might say that I am a worried Devil now. Well wrong! In fact, we Devils are still calm bothering on Devil-may-care. Though I do wonder why didn't they get Manchester United. Not that we have any grievances about the Glazers. Just curious. Hmm.
Anyway, folks, for the good of the nature and the sport, please don't contribute to Ali Baba anymore. Please seize to replenish their endless, limitless and unmeasurable wealth! Please stop purchasing fuel!
And remember to only buy AIG Insurance :)
a truly remarkable journey
When the Boston Sunday Globe said, "Should be read by every person alive", they weren't just saying it. This is truly one of the best books I have ever read!
As a young man, Mandela was timid; just like any young man from the kampung. As he grew up studying, reading and practising law, he began to understand the predicaments and plights of his family and his people around him; he became a bold freedom fighter. What started off as a fight for his own freedom to stay up late at night in his school's dormitory, he ended up desiring to free his siblings (couldn't receive education). He then realised that everyone who looks like him also suffered this similar fate. And with that hunger for freedom, it culminates to his long arduous journey as a freedom fighter to liberate his people from apartheid.
Nelson Mandela is one of the great moral and political leaders of our time: an international hero whose lifelong dedication to the fight against racial oppression in South Africa won him the Nobel Peace Prize and the presidency of his country in 1993 and 1994 respectively.
The text describes his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison. The last chapters of the book describe his political ascension, and his belief that the struggle continues against apartheid in South Africa.
Simply moving, irresistable, emotional... a wonderful memoir. Definitely a must read!
batman 3
Honours:-
- Nominated for 3 Academy Awards (Pirates of the Caribbean - The Curse of the Black Pearl - 2004; Finding Neverland - 2005, Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street - 2007)
Honours:-
- Ahh! Too many! He practically won every award there is for Best Actor in the movie Capote - including Academy Awards; Golden Globe, BAFTA, etc - 2005
Need I say more?? Gear up your bat mobiles cuz' this will surely be ride!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
goodbye
Make me a promise, no ifs, no buts, no maybes, just say you won't get homesick.
I wish you good luck, and always be in the best of health and happiness.
Bon voyage and take care!
Monday, September 8, 2008
in the office...
Sunday, September 7, 2008
red stuff
Things just worth forgetting...
Things worth looking forward to...