I squeezed my way through the throngs of people and stretch my arms upwards wielding the camera in my hands to capture this shot.

That's where Her Majesty will appear when she walks out from the right side of the picture. It was a windy day 

At the University of Saskatchewan's Synchrotron facility with the crowd behind me anticipating for the Queen of England to make her way out. There were at least a thousand people present during this bright blue skied day. Eddy, whose from Indonesia is a common friend of my brother, was with me and he shot this photo for me. 

My biggest fan, who waved both her limbs sideways as though instructing the Jazzy big bird to dock for passengers to disembark. I'd recommend her Poison. ;) hehe 

Landed on the very familiar John Diefenbaker airport (YXE) from Calgary (YYC). 

Dedications

Nota Bene: Pseudonyms or nicknames have been coined herein and does not necessarily represents the the true and genuine character of the person in reference. The use of such pseudonyms or nicknames so coined is solely and mainly for the purpose of silly reminiscences that the author wishes to "remember as". In no such way within the paragraphs henceforth are to be interpreted as ostructive, insulting, derogative, and suspicious of the said or the like in quality. These has been written with clear consciences and with good intention. Enjoy.

I have had a long break since I left for Canada. I returned earlier than I expected as there were many other commitments to satisfy and errands to runs. Commitments like looking for summer employment whether temporary or permanent positions which will, hopefully, carry through during academic year. In that way, I wouldn't have to worry too much about cash shortages on affording some or little amenities. Maybe treating myself to a nice meal as a reward after having completed or accomplished something important (i.e. assignments/projects). Looking for a new place to move in is another commitment. The place I am living right now is not permanent. The Accomodation Office issued a notice some time ago that the place I'm living right now is going to be demolished by end of this year making way to erect another building on campus.

Well, that's that in summary briefly. My trip in Canada was a pleasant one, besides meeting the Queen of England at the Synchrotron of the University of Saskatchewan. I don't even get to see her in Buckingham Palace which is like four hours away from me. I was seated with her on First Class Air Canada AC001 May 18 LHR-YYC.
I have not actually told many people that I will be returning to Saskatoon May of this year. For that reason, I had the privilege to enjoy meeting friends and familiar faces again when they put on a face as though she/he is sensing a choke or respiratory failure gasping for air desperate upon the sight of me. I know, I was not suppose to be "there", like, right in front of (usually) her eyes. Keeping my cool, in my own ways I was calming them down saying stuffs like "hey, I'm real. you're not dreaming. I'm here in flesh and blood. Breathe... breathe in... breathe out... ."

Marzi, was one person particularly that has probably demonstrated most dramatically... because she is dramatic. and uh, very sensible. I was out on afternoon, it was miserably cloudy, on my in-line skates trying "walk" down memory lane as fast as I could. I tried to be as clumsy as much as I could NOT be and when I was on Cumberland Ave and almost to College Dr and still managing not to fall on the sidewalks nearest to the fields, I noticed a pair of arms waving sideways repetitively from the patio of Alexander's. Maybe, I said, Maybe (with full amount of truth) Marzi's face was too small in perspective-wise compared to where I was, I failed to realize who was waving at me. But I knew that person was some lass... "wooah, some girl noticed me? who is that? did I skate good? etc." were my thoughts. I crossed the road and suddenly there was no more perspective. It became clear to me who was "dat crazy girl who might be my biggest fan waving at me". She was like "Oh my god! Oh my gawd!" many many times. nah, just exaggerating. but, still.. a few times. Like, hello?? Thanks for the unassuming exhilaration. It was real fun.

Next was Jill M, at a bar called 'something' and Yard on Broadway (Was it Lanigan and Yard??). I was with Matt (rocket scientist) and my biggest fan. I met Matt from AIESEC like two years ago. Met Jill M three years ago in Sutherland bar where the pub crawl ended. She was with her friends Kate (Korean) and Kurt F. That night would seemed like a long night for Kurt F when he got into a pub brawl. Sobering Kurt F and this other drunk idiot were trying to trade punches but held back by people. I dont know how it all got started out but Jill got in the way in her attempt to stop the senseless brawl by trying to negotiate? What's she thinking? But I have to give her credits for her bravery and her actions. Unfortunately, when in between the two parties, the other person with barbaric behavior kicked Jill and she probably tripped and fell on to the ground. Kate and I was there witnessing everything from how it started to the end. Kate couldn't do anything as she cried immediately. Poor her. It must definitely been very frightening and I would not disagree. I had to do something. Stop Kate from crying or pull Jill out from danger. I chose the latter. We lost Kurt F. The last thing we heard of him was that the bar had called the cabs and sent them (the trouble-makers) home.
So, Jill M, gave me her yardstick... never to go bar again. Lets call her Sniffer. poop!
OK. OK. I walked past her table and I heard somebody called my name. A very familiar unerring voice -- soft-spoken, silly or rather clumsy. I turned to look over my left shoulder and I noticed medussa hair style. Then... a face that tells me a name... Sniffer. That was really a pleasant surprise.

Next was Kurt F, at the main library, with his ladyfriend Stacey. I gave myself a heart-attack when I saw him... not him to me. He either went bald (as in making a fashion statement) or balding. O, right... it's was just his unambiguous hair-lining..."that seems to be re-ce-ding". This was the trouble-maker guy that I exchanged roles with as I went like "iz zhat you, kurt??" However, in reality he doesn't make troubles at all. it's me. ;)

As for Kate, we arranged a meet-up at Alexander's. We became very good friends because of troublemaker's brawl that night that year. Kate is always seen happy and all smiling excitedly about something, if there was, but otherwise about you... being the person she's happy to see. Lets call her Ecstacy. Sniffer and Ecstacy are best of friends. I am Poop to Sniffer. I guess it wouldn't take a "Rocket Scientist" to know that the combination of these three elements spells out trouble with a capitalized "t". It's true, when Poop is around Sniffer and Ecstacy, there are just more oozes in our jokes and we sometimes are just troublemakers to other "industrious" students at the library, eh?
Well, naturally, I'm always glad to see Ecstacy. She should be a dosage for life. "Twice daily, before/after meal. No prescription needed. In case of emergency, dunk 'em down yer throat" *winks* I can't publicly annouce in details our special connection.

Friends I have have ran into and have shared their moments perpetuated with me are, not in order, Reza, troublemaker, Daniel Cheung, Poh K.H., Kate, Sally Zhao, Jill M, Marzi, Vincent, Tianni, Francesca Wang Yajun, Cindy (China), Korean Ricky Martin (nicknamed by his peers during ESL at William's Building 2-3 years ago), Eric Hoole, Mohamed the Yemeni who ran into me in Arts 143 computer lab, Professor Bishopp, Professor Huq, Scott, The Queen of England, and 5-7 more whose name have regretably sank into the abyss of my head.

Throughout my little adventures of walking down memory lane reminiscing the events that happened as I trail forward and
onwards, I soon realise that I am extending this very lane with little surprises that makes my visit even more memorable.

A very important note to you, my friends, is that my so-called 'memorable visit' would not have been able to afford itself the worthy and glamor, the sweetness and the perpetuity of these shimmering words...without you. Just you... the person you are.

*there are most to write. give me time*

Serenity rules here

The eight and half hours of the flight journey from London Heathrow to Calgary was a smoth and uninterrupted one. I had my iPod on (a loan from cousin KW) when I got on the aircraft and was listening for at least a good 3/4 of the journey. Reading the newspaper and a magazine seem to be the thing most, if not everybody, can do while being glued to their seat.

will be back.

LBR LHR YYC YXE

Leeds Bradford, London Heathrow, Calgary International Airport, and Saskatoon Airport represents the three letter airport codes respectively. That will be my flight path, except that I travelled on ground (bus) from Leeds to London.

Currently, I'm putting up a night at my cousin's place, which is situated on the east side of Thames river on their apartment suite is on the bank of the river. The view from their balcony on the second floor overlooking a smaller part of greater London is such a peaceful and pleasant one especially when the skies are clear blue with little or no clouds. Skies like this would has the capacity to liberate any enslaved minds from work-related stress. This, I believe, is one of nature's healing powers.

My three younger cousins, KW, KY, and KJ, have warmly welcomed me into their home, where the three brother and sisters lived together for the first time outside hometown. I am very pleased, also, because I finally have a chance to be with them, even though for a short while, and to get to know them better as it has been many years since we last met or saw each other. Five years ago, we were too busy with our own schedules. Later, I heard all of them were sent abroad for tertiary education. It was my turn soon. Before we all realize we've been missing the good ol'times growing up together play and all the like, it's been almost seven years.

I remember KY, when she was only fourteen, probably the cutest KY at this age. Very active, timid, soft-spoken, and very meticulous. She likes doing house chores and this memory still stands clearly in my mind to this date. It puzzles me sometimes that a young teenage girl likes doing the dishes, hang around the kitchen... as opposed to uhh... non-kitchen stuffs? I dont think I'm even talking about cullinary interests. She's now all grown up and looking sweet and pretty. I thought that she'll really turn out to be an extraordinary and fine woman.

As for KW, I couldn't help asking myself if it was age that caught up with her because she's so laid back with life in the sense that she's very relax and it is this that sparks that little essence of envy in me. *sniggers* But perhaps, I have chosen my life to be such. She's grown up a lot too but not a lot different such that she's beyond recognition in style, behavior, looks, etc. She's still very much the KW I knew when she was in her sweet sixteen. I'm sure she'll be okay. Nevertheless, I'm sure we will all get along fine even after time has estranged our relation a little but thankfully did not affect us too much.

I'll be heading out to Canada at 13:00 from Heathrow International Airport. Mom, my brother and I will be having our 2nd non-plennary International Summit in Saskatoon (I'd like to think of it that way). Unfortunately, dad is has other more important priorities but that's excusable.

My heart feels excited and yet at the same time, uneasy. The reason for the latter part is simply because I won't be there for my girlfriend, HF. I wish I can be in two places at the same time but, while I know there is no such possible miracle, I can only try to console the already-worrying-heart of HF and mend my own. To leave her alone feels so wrong. Hopefully, this temporary retreat will serve a good purpose to our relationship. To miss somebody and know that the other person can't do much without you... hurts. Although not deliberately done, I think it is the good side of a bad coin.

Good night.

Finally...

... the pressures of exams quickly vanished at 18:40 when the head of department announced to us that time is up and to put down our pens. I did all I could there although I have to admit some parts I wrote are not the best. Nevertheless, all the exams were open book exams and that we're allowed to have a statute book with us -- unmarked in any ways.

Tort law was a little more difficult that I thought it be easier than the rest. It turns out that European Union Law was the easiest even though, admittedly, I have had no idea about the subject after having sit through lectures and seminars (hardly). We had the most boring & eccentric EU law instructor/lecturer who often fancies the soliloque method of teaching. His voice is like a sleeping spell to those who hears him, and even worst to those who listens to him. I spent just two weeks revising on EU law, something I had no idea on, by myself and soon I did not find it difficult at all. A lot of people could be better off this way, I thought for a moment.

Now that my worse period is over, I will be packing up some of my stuffs and will be looking forward to move. Meanwhile, I will be heading off to Canada... back to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, to participate in my brother's convocation ceremony.

The maple leaf trees outside my windows are priding about about and reminds me, truely, of Canada.

A day of blessing of luckiness

In no sense by the title is to be construed as having to do with any gamble or any games of chance. However, it was by chance that we were blessed greatly by, as we would like to believe, Him, the Almighty Lord. It was yesterday that this paragraph refers to.

I was in the Canadian High Commission,London, with the purpose of applying for a Temporary Resident Visa, TRV, as I will be heading off to Canada in the second week of May. I had every necessary documents with me to proceed with the application without any difficulities. There was a long queue outside the entrance and some of us have waited in the rain. Soon, we (other applicants) entered the building and had to go through airport-type security check. When in the queue again I realised that I was without the letter of invitation my aunt had personally signed for. All hopes of getting the TRV on this day almost diminished, as the letter is a necessary part of the application. The other thing is that the visa officers behind the window do not provide change for applicants. We have to provide "EXACT" change of £35. There is a notice pinned up saying "... we are not a bank that will break change for you. If you did not bring the exact amount, please do not waste your time in the queue..." I managed to quickly ask around to break my £10 bank notes.

I waited for almost 80 minutes in the waiting hall as I hear the numbers of early-bird applicant being called up for interview. The interview process on average takes 15-40 minutes each. I was my turn then. I sat down and the Visa Officer asked me two question:
"...So, you have been a student in Canada... you have an aunty in Montreal... what's your purpose of visiting this time?"
To which I replied "..to participate my brother's graduation"

The other question was, "... where is your brother studying?"
Without even a second of hessitation or doubt, I replied "University of Saskatchewan, that's where I attended university too"

Then, he responded "Thank you. please take a seat back there and in 5 minutes time you'll be called to collect your passport and your visa".

I was really surprised and listened in disbelief. The interview process couldn't have lasted only minutes for me when others have been much longer... probably thoroughtly interogated.

And it was true, 5 minutes later my number was called and my passport was handed back to me. As I opened to the page where i should expect a TRV sticker, the visa is adhered to a page in my passport. Whew! I sighed a breath of relief and disbelief!

Met up with cousin for lunch later that afternoon, and then rushed to Victoria Coach Station to just made it in time to catch the 2:30pm bus back to Leeds. I was 1 minute late.

HF picked me up at the bus station in Leeds. After our dinner, we headed back. I found an unwanted refridgerator discarded just behind the main library on campus. I have been 'clamoring' about wanting to get a new fridge to HF for 2 months but did not get one as it was too expensive. One's expected to pay about £40-£90 for a used one for a 3 feet in height. We didn't think it was really worth the money.

Imagine the excitement and happiness at that moment. We were confronted with stark reality of elations as we examine inside out of the refridgerator ensuring it was worth carrying it back and that it was in working condition. Well, apparently, we wouldn't know if it was in working condition until we plug it into a power source. I pulled out the freezer's tray that was inside and noticed there was still a thin piece of ice. That was enough to indicate to me the refridgerator was and is, in fact and by common sense, in good working condition. We were laughing and cheering and teasing each other silly and praising Him as we lifted the treasure up and carried it back.

I plugged it into a power source and heard the fridge's motor roared into life! That's a piece of treasure there! Nothing was broken. We stared at each other then burst out laughing still wondering why was the fridge discarded and that how silly it was for the person(s) to discard a still working refridgerator.

There may be, however, a problem which lead the previous owner of the fridge to discard it. But until we find out what might that problem be, the fridge now has its new owner and it shall now be kept in our hands.

Lucky, no? That's a day of blessing.

Who Controls Europe?

It has been 48 years since the founding members of The European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) grew and expanded, attracted and formed other European nations to what we today know as The European Communitiesn (EC) as intended by the Maastrict Treaty in 1957.

Presently the EC consists of 25 members, each is called a Member State, with 2-3 other pending to join the European Union on 2007.

Attempting to be a the little ambitious devil, this will be the topic of my little essay I will try to work on to publish within these pages. Given by fact and by law that The Community is primarily instituted by four (4) institutions:
1. The European Parliament (by Article 189 EC)
2. The Council (Article 201 EC)
3. The Commission (Article 211 EC)
4. The Court of Justice (Article 220 EC)

details will soon be published. i will need time to work this out.

More reasons to have Firefox

Everybody knows their brand new PC's or laptop (computer systems) come with pre-installed IE as their web browser provided that Windows is the primary Operating System, which is the case for all 96% of brand new PCs in the world. But does anybody knows that IE is also the most exploited source among hackers for their malicious plundering of security issues? Does anybody knows that IE is among the worst in managing system's resources (e.g. in Task Manager, under Memory Usage) especially when you have at least 3 IE windows opened simultaneously?

If you have answered a 'yes' to any one of the questions above, then you should seriously reconsider the safety of your computer system, if not already yourself. These security threats, you may think, do not involve/concern you in any ways; but lo, allow me to say you are so wrong. Taking into consideration that we are especially involve with how information is conveyed from one place to another and that we are constantly fishing out these information from our computers. When you fish, you just want to fish the fish out of their life then BBQ or grill them delicious! You dont want to fish out an old stinky boot, used rubber tyre, or an advertisement poster of some local club. The very same way, large firms and hackers alike have breached and exploited security holes found in IE and have 'tamed' IE to work for them. It affects you in a way that cause you to see unwanted and involuntary behaviors in your computer, forcing you addition clicks of the mouse to shut that goddam-windows displaying offensive adverts, making you pay for transportation or other additional costs to send your computer for repairs because your computer has recently broke down and you have no idea what causes it (maybe viruses, or just needs a reformatting of the HDD).

The reasons of how security threats affects you is a never-ending list. You had better start thinking before you click to execute IE in your computer. It's not safe! Internet Explorer is not safe!

Then I mentioned about System Resources. When you hit the three (3) magic keys in Windows, click on the 'Task Manager" button and you'll see a window pops up showing you a list of processes running in the background of Windows. IE does the worst such that it uses the most system's resource (which is the primary reason for system lag OR simply Your computer slowed dowm suddenly), Netscape 8 Beta Version does better, and Firefox is 65-70% more efficient than IE.
Verify this fact by Google search "netscape firefox internet explorer comparison" (without quotes)

In Firefox, you don't need to download additional software or tools to block those irritating pop-ups like you have to when using IE.
Tab-browsing, a wonderful feature of Firefox (and soon Netscape 8), has made life for websurfers so much easier. There are other 'Extensions' where Firefoxers can use to make life so much more easier than it is, and that includes, mouse-gestures (a feature first introduced by Opera Browsers), auto-copy, live dictionary or references, XML feeds or RSS for Real Simple Syndication, and many more.

I really want to convince you to have Firefox as the only web browser to use. Click on the Firefox image above or below to GET FIREFOX NOW.



Don't you wait!
Always Protect yourself!
Use Firefox! (current version 1.0.3)

A new Question in Profile

You moved the pot before the coffee stopped brewing. Do you smell the mountains or the burro?

My senses at this time would be caught by the escalating rush of boiling blood craving for the rich hot black java bean juices that when I bring them near my lips, my nose knows how to give me ropes of mountaineous ecstacy-cal orgasm with very strong multiple climaxes preceeding it.

If you're a bloody [English] tea drinker (no offense; just a matter of opinion), then I assure you will smell the dung of burros and climax there and then within seconds!

The ultimatum

This browser is what I'd recommend as Res ipsa loquitur, which simply means the thing speaks for itself. Although the three foreign terms has nothing to do with legal letters, the 'thing' here refers to the Firefox browser, and you just have to use it to know what is true sense of security in web surfing today.

NB.

You should already have a basic knowledge of managing web cookies in which a lot of websites take advantage of to exploit web users like you and me.

Who needs Internet Explorer anyway? It's weak at handling security issues not just limiting to adwares and spywares. All IE engines including that of Safari in Mac OS machines are equally vulnerable to security threats.

Click on the banner above to get Firefox now. Don't wait!

Street Map here

Ariel view of Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds, United Kingdom. This is where I am doing my law at the moment. The large field in which they call it 'The Acreage' with obvious trees on it resembles 'The Bowl' of the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.

The little area that is marked by the red circle is where the halls of residences are on campus. 

Recommending Firefox

It's been seven months now since I have been using Firefox, an open source software for an alternative web browser, and I have no regrets. There are a lot more things you can do and expect from this new generation web browser. It's fast, secure, innovative, creative, and most of all user-friendly! To add further, it is also one of the few web browsers that supports RSS (Real Simple Syndication) websites, which essentially makes your life ten folds easier by not having you to scrutinize through hundreds of paragraphs of articles or stories (if you're an avid online news or blog reader).

Simply, I would definitely recommend you to download Firefox, if you don't already have one. The rest of the details are better left for you to discover.

Time has folded

Unbelievably a year has passed by so quickly as though an eye never blinked when the fact is it has. My fellow mates are writing their final exams during this period. This time last year, I remember struggling for Econometrics, Portfolio Investment, Managerial Accounting, and Environmental Economics. I almost had a nervous breakdown after making my way out of the exam hall for Econometrics. This fear still is vivid as I can feel even if I have to watch myself as a third person. It's now April, a year later. What did I do that time has folded into half like folding a piece of paper to meet two points.

In May to July of last year, I think I have spent the most time doing nothing really constructive. I convocated in May. We went camping in Waskesiu twice when we had hail storms as big as golf balls in the latter trip. I shop for a lot of electronic stuffs on EBay with an ambition to build a desktop PC from scratch, which I have successfully assembled in the UK (although dad gave his [better] laptop to me in exchange for mine).

I was in Malaysia for a good five weeks from August. There was nothing much to do back there except meeting up and being with family and relatives. It was good to see everyone back there in good health and ever so busy with work/job. I assumed myself to be a temporary site supervisor who, oddly, often have a SLR camera wielded in my hands when visiting construction sites on which my dad's company has a building project.

From September till December, I was still "lost" not only in the college of law at the Leeds Metropolitan University, but also in the city where customs, tradition, and cultures were the issues. The road systems over there are terrible, well, relatively terrible especially considering that I have been accustomed to 'grid' or 'block' systems that US & Canada utilizes. If I had somebody blind-folded me and dropped me off somewhere in the city here, I would not have been able to find my way home without less difficulties.
There were assignments to be completed over the Christmas break and I have struggled to complete my first law assignments. It was also during this time I met a girl whom I have always wanted to know and today, I'm happy to have realize my hopes and dreams that I'm with her.

Before time folds into another half, I had better set my hopes and dreams straight--get a law degree! Whether or not I decided to become a lawyer in which a CLP examination precedes, that will depends on how well I manage time before one end point meets the other, which will only mean another new folding will soon commence.

It was April 2nd that Pope John Paul II (85) has passed away, and today, three weeks later, we have Pope Benedict XVI (Ratzinger, 79) heading 1.1 billion Catholics of the world. Have we been doped by a time catalyse?

Did a "Personality Test" in which I deem rather private. Now that I decided to post it up here, what is private again?? *grins*

Your Seduction Style: The Charmer

You're a master at intimate conversation and verbal enticement. You seduce with words, by getting people to open up to you. By establishing this deep connection quickly, people feel under your power. And then you've got them exactly where you want them!

What Is Your Seduction Style?

Time for a break

Among other things, being able to travel in and about Europe is undoubtly one of the best thing anyone can ask for when living in within the European Community. That is just part of the fun because the other half, which I am about to reveal to you, is the prices of air fare. When you conduct a proper and more thorough search for the places that interests you, you will not be disappointed. This I guarantee.

Once I thought flying with Tango Air, Zip, and other discount flights (mostly subsidiaries of Air Canada) were the cheapest flight I've ever got. I purchased a return ticket to Rome for only £0.99. Now, I don't think AC can ever hammer their fares any lower than CAD90.00 (1 CAD = 2.37033 GBP).

Rome... ah, I'm coming to see thee! The wishing well beautifully decorated with brass, bronze, and gold furnished with sapien figure statues young and mature, angels and cupids, food and cultures, et cetera. It's the home of lagsagna (mmm-mmmmh!!), pizza, rotisserie, pasta,... the list goes on.

I will make sure I will be well fed, not just by the variety of food they offer but also by its rich culture and history. There's much to learn or I'd prefer to use the word 'appreciate' in Rome than in Paris, where the Eiffel Tower is probably the only place they boast about. Have you heard of where French wines are made? ... where there's a vast fields of lavender meeting the horizon even when you're hundreds of meters away you'll be hypnotized and charmed by a sense of fragrance that will pull you to it and you will totally lose yourself and surrender to the fragrance and just follow till you lie on its soil and dream away under a sunny day with clear blue sky and cotton candy clouds? I heard, I heard of this place. I heard this place is called Florence.

It will be the third week of June when I will realize the amazing Rome. It's summer break and it sure is time for a break for me. I will be visiting Saskatoon, Canada, next month May 18 for about 2-3 weeks. Initially, I almost lost my breath to actually remember that I'll be spending my summer vacation in at least 3 different places (more like countries) in the world.

Actually, and finally, thank to Jason S for refering and recommending my site.

[...] I miss my dog, Whisky. If this cutie was brown, it would have looked almost identicle to Whisky. 

Photos collage from last weekend in London attending a [mundane] Libya party. 

With a Japanese mate sporting what looks like a farmer's hat but because of its size and weight, we got curious and asked and only to learn that they are bowls with a cover. It was really funny! 

Posing with the ambassador of Libya to the UK along with his two body guards in Libya's Jamarihiya School, London. They are there for a little party in conjunction with the 7th April [political] ceremony. We were the only East Asians in the midst of the crowd. 

Weekend

Had thought of going to London for a long time but cost of transportation and time always does seem to be a hinder. However, we had our chance to do that for free when our of our flatmates got fundings from his country's embassy that has apparently invited him to London to attend a what-seemed-to-be-a-political party. He rented 2 Vauxhall cars, tiny ones, and drove about 4 hours to and another 4.5 back. We were in town for only 4 hours and did not do anything else. it was a real bore and tiresome especially the journey being all cramped up in the back seat with tiny leg room space and uncomfortable seating position. Was suppose to meet up with cousin in London but they had to go back... all our hopes of touring and visiting the metropolitan were put off completely. sigh!

We have, however, met the ambassador of Libya in that party. I don't really know how to appreciate this moment.

I'll have to go back to London again for a more proper visit.

that's what i have in my mind right now.

Frolicking about during an Intercession or recess 

"So, that's not really what it is because..." 

The Big Appetite 

The Observer 

The sofa we found and picked up then pushed it back home for more than 300m.

Shot using Sony Ericsson's S700i cellphone. 

The sofa we found and picked up then pushed it back home for more than 300m. 

Both of us, HF and I, getting RC's autograph. I think he's in his fiftys already but still very agile and talented. 

Shot by: HF -- RC advancing to audiences receiving gifts from them as well as giving them gifts like his music scores. JSH got his "Un verre terre" score and autographed. Lucky him. 

Shot by: JSH -- In the auditorium during a 15-min intercession.

On the stage, 2 violin players, a drummer, 2 keyboardists, 1 bassist, 1 guitarist, and a percussionist. And of course, Richard Clayderman the pianist on his grand piano. 

Shot by: XBW -- We definitely don't look like students here. A young millionaire with the city high-street honey perhaps? What's under the clothes is more important when comes to telling a person's character, not what s/he dresses. 

Shot by: XBW -- At the grand entrance of the Leeds Grand Theater. One of our favorite photo. Click on picture for a larger print. 

JSH, meeh, and XBW all suited up waiting for our cab to take us to the grand theater for Richard Clayderman's concert. 

Problems with me

Just last afternoon I visited a chiropractic regarding a discomfort in and around my neck that has been going on for at least 4 years now. I was thoroughly checked and nothing seems to be wrong else where except for the top portion of my spine (neck area) and the lower back. Segments #2-4 seems to be rotated more towards the right side resulting in reduced angle when turning my head from side to side (a normal person can should turn up to 90 degrees; mine is around 70 deg to left and 80 to right)

Next Friday's session, I believe, will be the treatment session and the aim of this treatment is to correct whatever displacement from normality.

I have a very flat back (spine) as oppose to a normal curve in the spine where the general majority of people should have. Perhaps I was born like this? I have flat feet too, which causes tireness on my legs. But it's not a major problem because it's not hindering me doing things normally.

My eyes. I have floaters in my eyes since I was either 15 or 16. And up to today, I have noticed a slight gain in floaters in my eyes. I have normal visions and most of my days go by without any annoyances or irritations from these floaters that's floating in and around my eyes. Was I born with these?

Neck pain and floaters are, as I have read, usually minor problems old people get. I was told that my neck pain could possibly and unusually be called the degeneration of the neck, which people of my age do not or at least not commonly get. Even floaters.

The worst I've read about floaters is that if left untreated and if there's an indication of floaters gaining in amount, it will lead to blindness. omg! I remember i've seen a doctor once and he advised me not to worry about it. Should I or should I not?

Richard Clayderman Live in Leeds

We attended Clayderman's concert yesterday and it turned out to be absolutely breath-taking for the entire part of his performance. I just knew he's French apart from knowing him for many many years already, well, more like knowing his songs more than himself per se.

The concert was held in Leeds Grand Theatre downtown and we got a 12.50 quids ticket but sat on the stage's floor (GBP 24.50) instead of supposedly furthest back from the stage because it's the cheapest ticket. The show was comical in a few parts as he tries to feed his audiences with a couple of dosages of jokes to relax us from thinking that his show is strictly musical and boring. The entire 2 hours performance was, indeed, a phenomena one.

Pictures are coming.

At the Bourbon Bar in the city in conjunction with Liyat's bday. 

A bloody maroon velvet sofa jackpot

Sometime early last week, HF and I talked about getting a sofa and budgetted about 50 quids top. Allders Store, which is currently going through liquidation and hence a change in management, is having its last days of sale of up to 85% is a good place to check out for such furnitures. She checked out and found a one seater sofa that has been reduced from GBP389.00 to GBP50.00 and home delivery only. Good deal but that's not what we're looking for. A two seater one would probably cost double that amount which would have shot past the ceiling of our budget.

We didn't talk about it since.

Last night, while we're on our way to a nearby grocery store (Somerfields) on Shaw Lane, we spotted a 3 seater and 2 seater couches placed around a pile up of garbage bags. It didn't take too long for common sense to walk into our minds interpreting to us that those couches are unwanted. There were people about that house and it seems like they were the ones who put (or should I say dumped) those beautiful wooden couches out there. When asked, one elderly man replied that they were moving house and these, he pointed to the couches and the garbage bags, are the things he's not taking with.

HF and I looked at each other and then looked back at the elderly man and,
"Can we take them home?", we simultaneously asked him. It was funny that we had the same thoughts at the moment.

He utterly agreed by expressing a loud and affirming "sure!"

I felt embarrassed and offered to pay him a few quids for it to reassure.

"Don't bother with that, love" he replied.

HF and I pushed the bloody still wet two seater maroon velvet sofa all the way to home, about 600m and up slope. Tireness and hefty pantings did not stop us at all as we were pushing while feeling a mixture of happiness and humors and laughters. We have truly found what we were looking for--our treasure.

Finally when we've put it in the room, rearranged some of the existing furnitures to accomodate the sofa, dried and cleaned it, etc. we just fell back or rather drop dead on the sofa totally satisfied. Still looking at each other, we laughed about it.

What I meant was...

...although seemingly and truly she live to abide sets of rules and regulations set by herself and probably developed over the years of growing up, her intentions which are oftenly manifested by her actions are undoubtedly and unsuspiciously good. If I admit that there is nothing good about her I am willing to turn myself in to "Life Enforcers" and be convicted for lying and scarring an innocent face and heart bad.

On another matter, I remember some 2 weekends ago I was down with flu. It's not that I was totally helpless (not hopeless) to be poorly sick with such a minor and common flu, but what she did was totally out of my expectation. I had myself a personal nurse working full-time on me. What I mean was that she took care of me for 3-4 days till I was well. I was even happier that her immune system is good that she did not even catch my flu till today.

At this point of my life it all seems that I am not ready for anything big. Well, big as in matters or issues that carry big responsibilities with it like getting married, having a family, be an entrepreneur of my own corporate empire, and the like. These are the things I wish for as well as the dreams I want to see myself accomplish. I had done things rashly before and I have, because of that, forever regretted and have learnt from that mistake. Getting into a relationship and being serious about it is nothing, if not at all, something overly rash about. There are always risks attached to anything we do and getting into a relationship is not excluded from that risk. If ever there is such a risk, I would have known about it and would already have taken steps to minimize that risks so I still maintain my goals. I am, however, a satisficing creature--so are you.

What i meant was, considering the time that past us and the many incidences as well as events and signs, that while all that has happened and until today there are things that remain unexplained, perhaps a mystery, there may be reasons to believe that, if ever "destiny" is true, we were meant to be... found. I am not under any duress or mental or emotional stress to have said such, but am very clear minded. I have thought deeply about all the aforesaid statements and decided to pen them down here. Because you are reading my thoughts on this website, which usually comes uncensored, please do not take offense if I am rebuking/dissenting or assenting to your ideas.

Got a new Cellphone

Sony-Ericsson S700i
Verdict: Absolutely love it!

I have been harping about to get a new phone ever since I arrived primarily to get on a contract phone as opposed to buying credits (Pay As You Go, PAYG) frequently. I have been on PAYG for already half a year and been spending on average about £30 a month with much less minutes. Alas, although I will be paying £35 (plus VAT) I'd get more out of this.

It was a tough decision for me as I have been a loyal Nokia user for past many years. To move to another brand maker like Motorola (initially i was contemplating for a Motorola V3 Razr, the world's slimmest and lightest phone) and Sony-Ericsson was definitely a hard choice to make. The former cellphone (V3) is not recommended to me by my friends saying that it's functionalities and user-friendliness is not as good as the phone(s) they were using previously even though V3 is light and looks very elegant.

You and I

[Post entitled: The value of scarce resource -- deleted]

Although sometimes arbitrary feelings and emotions are not the best to rely on when making important decisions, these invisible soul-filled can be so sentimentally right even though when circumstances seem to be the most awkward and your consciousness and consciences are against you. This is when you would heard "I have a gut feeling on this!" in a movie probably when a person who is trying his/her luck by repeatedly pulling down the lever on the slot machine.

Some time last week (Monday), HF made a statement of fact that she is finding out if she have a chance to be with me. Essentially, I am also doing exactly the same. However, there is a humongous problem of trusts that's hindering us from growing. Right now things seem to be peaceful and okay. But no ships have sailed without going through rough waters and consequently navigate across on calmness, yet what lies ahead, even though on charted waters, is full of uncertainties.

When I said I was also finding out if she is the right partner for me, I also meant to say that I will, with my full interests and efforts, make her mine. This latter part carries a hefty load of responsibilities and difficulities but I am prepared to face them all primarily because, among other things, I am tried of looking. She is the furthest I've looked. I hope my wants and wishes are supported by my family members and relatives and adopt the believe that it is their best interest to see me happy and also trust my discretions, especially to those who know about the two of us.

Suddenly nothing...

Love must kiss that mortal's eyes
Who hopes to see fair Arcady.
No gold can but you entrace there;
But beggared Love may go all bare
No wisdom won with weariness;
But Love goes in with Folly's dress
No fame that wit could ever win;
But only Love may lead Love in.

Henry Cuyler Bunner (1855-1896)

Last night, I totally felt like I was literally living in or passing through hell, if not already put there deliberately.

{...suddenly nothing}*

I don't quite understand the differences between the realm of bf-gf relationship and us being that "special friend". It seems that she is the only one who knows where to draw that crystal clear line that distinguishes the two realms. Because I know I don't. The things that we do, say, talk, speak, feel, etc. are not entirely different to what couples who calls themselves bf-gf would do.

*The rest of the story is ONLY available by request. Email me.

Conviction of my foolishness

What happenned on Monday noon now has a bigger impact on me as people has been spreading "the news". The more I hear about this news the more I begin to feel the gravity of my foolishness of my action and consequently the heavier the feelings of guilt that entails. What I did was really and totally inappropriate. I was all in a state of confusion and did not, as far as I can remember, have a clear mind to reason things out reasonably and was also filled with angry feelings and guilt of being violent towards HF whether or not intentional, therefore, I was unconsciously impelled to protest my own guilts in sheer desperation to exonerate myself from the chaotic thoughts that has apparently dominated my very mind. Even after I have explained why I did it, I still do not think it is sufficient to justify my cause of foolish act. Perhaps no explanations could ever justify. Perhaps it is time that I stay put and solve any problems that comes to me instead of repeatedly running away from them.

Such gravity of guilt is collaterally building me up a new character with new insights that I should have adopted a long time ago but did not evaluate the importance of it. It is really difficult to face the reality of such bitter[-sweet] consequences of my actions although I averred I take all responsibilities of it. I am however, thankful and give credits to my family for establishing in me successfully a firm foundation of 'looking on the bright side' or simply 'optimistic beliefs' in life; for without this establishment I do not think think I could have move on with life, if already impossible, especially with the consideration of the beastly violentful act.

I vowed to myself never ever to do that ever again.

Thoughts of Theodore Roosevelt

It is not the critic who counts. Not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valantly, who errs and comes short again and again; who knowns the great devotion who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at best knows in the end the high achievements of triumph; and who at worst, if he fails daring greatly knows his place shall never be with those timid and cold souls who known neither victory nor defeat.

We confronted each other today and discussed a lot of issues...
we are officially kicking-in a relationship. HF is now my girlfriend and I'm her boyfriend. Today marks the first day.

Anger

Most of my life, if not all, I see myself sitting on anger rather than the reverse. Maybe it is too late to appreciate what a small dosage of anger can do to one's life. Maybe it is not too late. Anger was never part of me when I was growing up and it carried through till this day.

When I come home from school with my grades to present to my parents, I only feel extremely embarrassed at how badly I did. The next year it was the same embarrassment that sat on my head even after my mother would sound at me. I failed a few classes and did badly during high school years. I was never the top student. I only feel embarrassed at myself. I was told to do better next time as they (my parents) will hope for the best of me. Most of the time they were quite lenient but sometimes I did get some lashes from either of them. It could have been their leniency that I have learnt to adopt and made it the maxim of my life that my outlook towards life has always been that of mediocrity or average inclination or not highly driven for excellence. Never was there once I felt really angry at myself apart from feeling embarrassed. However, I now believe the combination of those two elements can be a life changing catalyst or a turning point in one's life, hopefully for the better.

It's totally alright to console yourself to do better next time if you did not this time. But with anger, something that is so emotionally powerful, as a driving force for determination and motivation perhaps one can be more reassured that s/he will do better. A bull pulling a plow to plough the fields for the farmer will only plough further as the farmer continually whips it. Each lash causes pain and other emotions. The bull will soon know that as long as it keeps at it constantly it will not be whipped. OR, the farmer pushing the plow to plough his land. The plow, to me, are the determination and motivation elements because they 'do' things or can get things done. The driving force is actually the farmer himself who will push with all his might and strength and probably a small dosage of anger when he knows he has to finish the job before the rain comes.

I have never felt so angry at myself for already 3 days, and worsened by yesterday's foolish act in the lecture theater. //*just got a call from her, she said she just talked to one of her friend (Torstein) and have wants to talk with me*// I had a long talk/discussion with her last night and I just could no longer utter out any more words after she made me realize about my own life. Even though both of us have a share of guilts, I'm only interested on my half as I am always in the process of seeking my own soul.

All these years I thought I am an experienced [life] problems-solver. For those that I thought I have solved only turned out or appeared to me as being left ignored because I was too busy consoling myself that 'everything will be okay'. Now, it is more like "here is your problem (piece of shit), deal with it... and DON'T leave until it's clean". Angry. Desperate to get out of "this shit". Trapped. Shackled. In the movie "The Shawshank Redemption" (one of the greatest movie of our time), those in desperate need will do anything to get it. It took him 16 years to escape from the highest security level prison by digging a tunnel from his prison wall big enough to fit him and crawled through a fouled-smelling sewerage pipe the length of 4 football fields full of human wastes. Sheer desperation and anger of not wanting to live in the prison for the rest of his life as he was convicted by mistake and had no chance for another trial.

For that, I am ready to discard my old self and adopt something new in which I will find useful in my life. I am not advocating anger nor am I strongly opposing although I do recognise anger is a negative emotion. To know happiness is to know pain. Similarly, to appreciate the quality of calmness in life is NOT to ignore it's opposing force, which is this element of Anger. There will, however, still exist some leniency in my blood as that is my inheritance from my family. I still lead a peaceful life. Some things are not meant to be taken lightly. Some things or person... like me.

I give myself a toast to a better man in a better future.