The one with the fun christmas

Merry Christmas to all. Had great fun today. Even though it left me tired, breathless and with no voice to work tomorrow.
First of all, went to Kaleon's housewarming bash in Kemuning Utama. Well these events are suppose to be simple. But the highlight of the event was his 'fan boys' room. A room dedicated for his comics and action figures. He has a massive collection of them and even set themes for them. Among my favourites was his Batman and Ironman themes. His 'batcave' even had the t-rex and joker card. All that was missing from his batcave was the giant coin. Also on display in the room was his Star Wars helmets. Among them was Darth Vader, Boba Fett, Jango Fett and various stormtrooper helmets. I spent quite some time in that room, trying to take it all in. I would have love to take photos and share with my fellow readers, but I didn't out of respect to the owner.
Next up was Christmas lunch at Mark's (finally). Since he changed his nation of employment we have been missing his mum's Christmas cooking. But before I had the chance to eat, I had to somehow 'earn' my lunch. Well, Mark owns a PS3, and he recently purchased the game Singstar. Simple explanation for the game, its karaoke PS3 style. Started the gig off with the Abba collection and then the compilation cds. Oh well, did my best to entertain even though I wasn't much of the high scorers. Never karaoked with a score before. Had great fun with the game, and was still at it after all the guests left. Good thing he didn't have Guitar Hero or Rock Band, or not we will still be at it.
A fun filled day and I really need to get me a PS3.

The one with the karaoke video

Amryl finally finish editing the footage from the last karaoke session. He posted it on his blog here. Enjoy.

The one with two karaoke sessions in one day

Managed to pull of another landmark for myself. Think once I pulled off more sessions than footballers play in a week. This time was two in the same day.
First session was during lunch with my office colleagues. It was an impromptu session. So when I came in I thought of performing at a minimal and voice conserving level. Knowing me, I still rocked out as usual. In my mind I was wondering how to rock later that night.
The night session was the main event for the entourage. One last session before the fasting month kicks off. Then again, as if we wouldn't be going then. I believe they do have buka puasa packages as they did last year. So attendees include the newly weds Farrish-Ida, Shah-Faizah, Amry-Mimi, Elina, Suraya and yours truly. We were missing one member Shahreza. I believe it was due to the fact that it was his mum's birthday and we probably were not invited for this year. Refer to last year's merdeka post here.
The session had a different twist in it. First we were given a room right in front of the waiting area. So we were visible to those waiting outside. But for us, audience or not, we will still rock on. Also, Amryl-Mimi bought along their new hobby to the fore, photography. They had a nice camera too, Nikon D40 (if I'm not mistaken). I had a hand in taking some shots. Felt like Peter Parker for once. Amryl also bought along his camcorder which surprisingly enough no one knew about it except me. I do hope we get to see the pictures on Facebook soon. As for the videos, I do hope we get to see the final cut.
As for the karaoke session, well lets just say we had a great time. Probably had more fun than going to Avril's concert which was held at the Merdeka Stadium. We sang almost every genre of music. I even had my hand at rapping due to the absence of Shahreza, the house Timbaland. I had to pull of both Justin and T.I. for the song My Love. Also we now have a new song to add to the list of 'must sing' which is Here In My Home.
After another sounding performance, I have no voice.

The one with the long overdue karaoke

Finally managed to pull off another rock concert. With the usual suspects minus the newly weds who are on their honeymoon. For us within the Klang Valley radius, we decided to have a session, simply due to the fact everyone wanted it.
I think it's been around a month and a half since we last rocked. So last nights session was mainly to get it out of our system. All-out rocking. As well as the boyband and bubblegum-pop princess's songs. We even went through a Black Eyed Peas medley.
However, not a lot of new songs. Only one which we all really enjoyed (we sang it twice) and one I believe all karaoke-ers should sing. The song Malaysian Artists For Unity's Here In My Home.
Also, encore performance scheduled for next week.

The one with the triple-8 events

An overdue post. Being 3 days late. But triple-8 was a great day for two of my friends. Congratulations to Farrish-Ida who are now husband and wife. Also congratulations to Kaleon on the birth of your baby girl.
Will Kaleon's daughter was born 8 minutes into triple-8. So time of birth 0008 on 080808. First girl for him after he was blessed with 3 boys. Guess it was a relief for his wife also. So the girl was named Eisya Sueraya. And I thought he was going for a comic based named after he named his third son Kalel. Anyways the birth was subject for media coverage and think made the front page of a local daily publication. Congrats again.
Next up, my best friend Farrish got married. Triple-8 was the night of the akad nikah. On the night of the opening ceremony of the Olympics which resulted in a massive jam around Klang Valley. We were all actually late due to the traffic. Myself and some friends arrived first to ensure Ida's family that all is okay. So the proceedings went quickly, as it was a long day for the Tok Kadi, where Farrish-Ida's nikah was the 12th he had to perform for the day. Well Farrish got it right in one shot. And then after that was photo session. Except that the guys (Shah, Reza, Eddy, Sadique, Affandi and myself) were very hungry. Also I had to send the groom back home later that night. And I thought he'll be sleeping over at Ida's place.
Also last night was the wedding reception for Ida's side. I was invited for that dinner also. Very casual laid back dinner. They even had a karaoke session (okay not really but there was singing and dancing). Ida wanted me to go up on stage and sing, but Farrish gave the "for-the-love-of-God-please-don't" look. Was very tempted to sing though as part of the karaoke stars (Amryl and Shah-Faizah) were there to back me up.
Farrish's sides wedding reception dinner will be next week. And for that one I has been appointed best man which in this part of the world means kipas boy.

The one where I turn 29 on the 29th

Happy birthday to me!!! Well yesterday officially was my birthday. And as pointed out, I turn 29 on the 29th. Only happens once in a lifetime.
Anyways I didn't do anything. Mainly due to the weather where it rained the whole day. Just chilled at home surfing, PSP-ing, reading and sleeping.
Anyways, had dinner with Farrish the night before. We tried out one of my colleagues mum's restaurant in 32 Square in PJ opposite the Toyota showroom. The restaurant is named Tram Car and the food was quite good.
So Farrish explained to me how they planned it. Which was well thought off and really needed some element of luck. And also how to make me go to the Curve post-movie, especially when all the shops are closed. Besides I was dead beat and wanted to get my beauty sleep.
First of all they all, they wanted to change the venue to watching the movie at Cinepleasure. But since I'm more comfortable with GSC they had to think of plan B. I didn't suspect anything even after Friday prayers when I asked where to meet up for dinner pre-movie and all came up with 'something up' lines. So that meant I can kill time at the gym and get a shower at the same time. Apparently at that time they were buying cupcakes at the Curve.
Next up was after the movie, which was trying to get me to go to the Curve. That's where they suggested to meet at the teh tarik place. Now that they got me to go there, next was to get there before me. Knowing that I probably be there first, they needed to speed there first. They were lucky as I parked my car, I was held up for a while. I was sms-ing a friend who thought she saw me at the gym. So we were exchanging sms-es for a while. The rest is as the previous post. Again, thanks.
Now I'm definitely on the wrong side on 20.

The one with Farrish-Ida's engagement

First of all, Selamat Hari Raya Aidiladha. Its pretty much a festive season and I believe no one is really up for work. Guess everyone is winding down and maybe start again come 2008.
Well as the title suggests, my best friend Farrish got engaged to his girlfriend Nurida Salwa, but we call her Ida for short. Actually it was more of a family gig, but Farrish did ask for me to be there and hang with him while the proceedings went on. So while the family discussed the details me and Farrish went to hang at a Starbucks. And it was a first for me, hanging at Starbucks in a full baju melayu outfit. So there you had two guys in full set baju melayu chilling. I bet those who were on IM had plenty to chat about.
We hang for about half-an-hour while waiting for the call from the family that all is well. So then we made our way there and Farrish was being introduced to the family, while I stuffed myself to the spread of food. I was very hungry and was saving my stomach since Farrish mention there was food. So was hanging, drinking teh tarik and making small talk with the other guests.
When the guests left, myself and Farrish and Ida and her friend Suraya was hanging around the hantarans. However, as they all found out my mind does not function after 11pm. So probably their discussions lost me at hello. So now that the engagement is all said and done, next thing for Farrish-Ida will be their nikah night, dated for triple 8.
Again, congrats to Farrish-Ida. All the best with the preparations and the entourage will probably plan the bachelor party (and I have some cool interesting ideas).

The one with niece's brithday bash, her first adidas and Natalie Portman

My niece turn 1 on October 6, but we held her super-belated-birthday-bash yesterday (25th November). Reason being since her birthday fell during fasting month, then we had Eid and my little sister was going through her finals.

A small gathering of family and friends. I myself invited the entourage and some of my office colleagues (thanks for coming). It was a tea-time event so we had simple dishes and snacks. We also had door gifts, but you have to be a kid to get one. Her birthday cake had an icing of Elmo. Don't know how we are suppose to eat Elmo, but the cake was chocolaty good.

And what did I get my niece. After all the suggestions I received on my Facebook, I went with my original idea. A pair of adidas shoes (which I know she'll outgrow in 6 months). I didn't want to get her a toy because most of the toys are unsuitable for her age and most of them were made in China. Still it was cute, her first adidas.
Took the Monday off to send my car for servicing. Found out I need to change my timing belt, and that would cost me an arm and a leg. Good thing I (almost) cleared my credit card balance.
After that I went to catch a couple of movies. Went back-to-back today. Watched Hitman and Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium. Both were watchable and movies to just kill time. I don't recall ever finishing a Hitman game though. As for Mr Magorium's Wonder Emporium, I just went for it for Natalie Portman. Its one of those movies you'll fall in love with Natalie (again). Yes, I'm a big Natalie Portman fan.
And I've just became Natalie Portman's fan in Facebook.

The one with the post in tribute to Hazran's late brother

A different type of post today, but it feel a tribute is needed. One of my friends and futsal Tuesday teammate, Hazran (we call him Aaron) brother passed away this morning due to esophagus cancer. He passed away in Birmingham where he was seeking treatment while pursuing a doctorate in English literature.
Even though I have not met Aaron's brother at all or known him at all, I feel the pain that my friend is going through. He should be leaving the country as I post this to help his sister-in-law with the funeral arrangements. Even before today's futsal session kicked off we had a minute's silence and Al-Fatihah for Aaron's brother, which by the way is named Hazlishah.
Aaron sent me a link of a blog written by Hazlishah's wife, and I guess the last few post must have been hard to post, and especially the post where his passing will be posted. Feel free to read it (I haven't started reading it yet) and maybe we can learn a few things. The link to the post is here. Also I'll add it to my alternative reading list.
Al-Fatihah.

The one with Madden 08 and barbecue at Rafiq's

Last weekend was me back in my element. Its the season where a lot of new games will be released soon. Games which I am a fan of. Mostly sport games and racing games. After all the RPGs and adventure games I've been playing, its back to the sports. Especially with the NFL and NBA season around the corner.
Bought Madden 08 on Flyday. Which means I get the whole weekend to play Madden. As much as I enjoy Madden, I'm still not ready to enter the Madden Challenge. Still need to get used to the playbook and also need to learn how to read plays like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady. I play on the fly, just call a pass play or running play without seeing what the defence is giving me. But think got the hang of defence, since all I know is to blitz the opposing quarterback all game long. Anyways started a franchise in the franchise mode. Took charge of the New York Giants and after 3 games I'm unbeaten. Good start.
Saturday night we had a barbecue for Wak. Small gathering of friends and a mini-bachelor party minus the strippers. The bbq was held at Rafiq's crib in Puchong (which is very far) and other carnivores included Farrish, Shahreza and Amryl. The only thing not meat was the pasta I brought and the drinks. The rest was a raptors delight. It was good to just hang with the guys and chill. Also heard the fireworks from Putrajaya, sadly we couldn't see the lights.
Other than that, it was pretty much gaming weekend for me.

The one with ergonomics

After the last post which could have been mistaken for an episode of Smallville, I should have put disclaimer which is better said in the Malaysian language 'kisah ini tiada kaitan dengan yang hidup ataupun yang mati' or the term 'bukan nama sebenar'.
Anyways back to the topic at hand. I am not going to go detail or scientific here. Just a general explanation. I admit I spend way too much time in front of my computer or which I once dubbed 'the ultimate gaming machine'. Not anymore dude to hardware advances and no significant upgrades.
I have been having this nagging 'discomfort' on my right wrist since like forever. Only recently the discomfort is beginning to get to me. It is said its the way one positions his hand when using ones mouse and keyboard. In my case its always been about the mouse. I believe my mouse at home is ergonomically correct, but the same can't be said for the one in the office. Then again office equipment is very much standard and I don't think they would want to cater to individual needs.
Well its a good thing I'm no longer active in basketball as I want to. If not, my shooting would be way off and I more likely to make a lefty-scoop-layup then the usual money shots I used to make (keyword USED TO).
And why am I posting about my wrist pains I have no idea. By the way, football update, Becks scores his first goal for LA Galaxy, makes his first assist and picks up his first yellow card earlier today. And last I check, my beloved Spurs still suck with a capital S.
Almost forgot, last night had drinks with Amryl, Farrish and Rafiq (semua nama sebenar). Amryl left early to pick up his wife from the airport. Then the three of us began doing flashbacks of our carefree time back after we finish school. Don't know how we suddenly got to talking about that, but it was nice to reminisce about the good old days. Come to think about it, it was ten years ago. Events that shaped what we became today.
Well I don't plan to go flashback here, but one thing I know has change is now I'm relatively larger than life (and not in a good way).

The one Clark and Chloe's discussion (summarized version)

Once upon a time, OK just a couple of hours ago two friends were having dinner while catching up on each others happenings. Lets just name them Clark and Chloe, two best friends from Smallville.
Clark and Chloe were having dinner at a Swedish furniture store's hot dog cafe. Its been some time since they both hang out so it was a good opportunity to catch up on each others lives. Chloe highlighted why Clark always seems to be in relationships which are doom to fail. An interesting thought, which probably requires Clark to do some soul-searching. But Clark had a rough day at the Daily Planet, so wasn't really in the think deep mode. But Chloe insists on an explanation.
So sadly one common reason was Clark gets bored easily. Chloe notices this disturbing trend which makes Clark dangerous and fragile at the same time. Every time Clark meets someone, the rush and excitement is there. After a while, the 'fire' begins to fade away. Maybe after realizing that somehow it would not work or both don't feel the same way or one doesn't dig the other. Then again Clark is tired to really think deep on the whys.
Chloe also notices that recently Clark was very happy with Lois. She asked what happened there? Then Clark begins to display one of his special talents, which is the art of changing the subject stealthily.
Clark realizes he was happy then and wonders what happened? If anything did happen.

The one with the Japanese buffet and karaoke

Well last Friday was one of those days I really need. Just hanging, chilling and joking around with my friends. Due to every ones suddenly busy schedule, we all don't really hang as much as we use too.
The newly weds ShahFaizah suggested a get-together dinner. I thought they wanted to show their wedding photos, but it still wasn't ready. So in the end we went for a Japanese buffet dinner at Shogun, One Utama. Farrish-Ida also join for dinner and I came after a short futsal Friday game. Short because they had more than enough players and my presence wouldn't be missed.
So five of us had a good dinner with a wide variety of Japanese food. But we were missing two other friends in Shah (performing at some gig) and Farah (other dinner plans). Still food awaits. I think I sampled most of the meats on display. Was in carnivorous mood similar to a raptor.
Since its been a while since we hanged together, everyone was wondering whats up with the new look. I told them I'm going for the messy scruffy look. Realize the clean cut good boy image was beginning to get boring and was losing its appeal anyway.
During the dinner, the subject of karaoke came about. Since it has been a while also we all decided to go for it. Ended up in Red Box Sogo and we were joined later by Farah and a friend of Ida's, Suraya. The staff at Red Box still recognize me and asked how come I haven't been around. Its been a month since we last rocked the joint. Anyways my performance that night was pretty much of a letdown. Wasn't really energetic as I used too. Still manage to perform at a standard level, but guess it was either the heavy dinner or my mind was partially elsewhere. But figured it was both. Still managed to have great fun and that's what is important.
Well the weekend went by so fast and another rough week awaits.

The one with Broadway Parodies Lah

After the events on Friday it left me pretty much drained and dazed as I couldn't get over the fact that 3 hours were wasted in that cinema hall. At least I had futsal Saturday and a play to look forward too.
I'm playing futsal again, as I'm beginning to enjoy the game again. Having fun and bringing sexy-futsal-back. Yesterday's game was very sexy. Nice fluid passing, movement and some brilliant goals and some Inzaghi-like flukes. I myself set the table by laying the assists and defense splitting passes. Didn't score though but had some misses which if went in would be on ESPN's Top Ten Plays of The Day. Was denied by the crossbar after some balancing the ball act. Great game overall and I hope everyone had fun themselves.
Later went for a play at Actors Studio Bangsar titled Broadway Parodies Lah with Hafizah and Jiji. Now that was a whole lot entertaining than that movie which shall not be named. Well its a parody of Broadway hits with a twist of Malaysia. Songs sung on Broadway with altered lyrics in Malaysian flavour. Also one of Hafizah and Jiji's friend was also in the play, Kyra Dani. The show was a barrel of laughs and good fun. The show ends next Sunday so for more info check out http://www.theactorsstudio.com.my/2007/04/18/broadway-prodies-lah/. Also check their blog on the link provided.
Anyways, despite the cultural influence (???) I've been exposed to (art shows, dances, theaters), I'm still the same rockstar.

The one where one weeks worth of material is cramped into one post

Been a while since my last blog. Been meaning to post something about events since Saturday but time has not permitted me the luxury of blogging. Among the reasons include 2 straight nights of blackout and post-work activities.
So lets begin from last Saturday, 12 May 2007. Went to Seremban in the morning to visit my former boss during my Affin Discount days. She invited all her ex-staff for lunch. I was first to arrive as I drove faster than a speeding bullet. She cooked some Indonesian dish called rawan. First time trying out that dish. It was nice to see everyone again as its been a while since we got together. We shared a bond in the department and there was a lot of love. Its where I started work and Kak Yam (as well as Mr Mokhtar) gave me the chance and opportunity to work. Among those who came was Yusof and family, Marziah and family, Hafizan and family as well as Liz with Aaron and her future in-laws. Also they wanted to know how I was doing at my new gig.
Later rushed off like a speeding bullet to Petaling Jaya for my futsal Saturday session. Tested out my new boots I bought on ebay which arrived earlier in the week. Managed a hat-trick but still haven't broken into the new pair.
Then at night join Hafizah, Jiji, Kevin and Vincent to Rimbun Dahan for an art exhibition. Went there for dinner, view artwork, hang and snap photos. I believe Kevin posted some pictures in his blog. We came in Vincent's car and I drove the car back as he had a little too much to drink. Then Jiji and Kevin suggested for karaoke at Bangsar and the time was already 1am! I was OK with going home but since the rocker in me had one more song to rock to I thought why not. Apparently everyone was tired so I spent most of the session hogging the mic. Finally manage to sing my theme song, Radiohead's Creep. Lenny joined us for karaoke also so had a buddy to help rock the joint.
Sunday I went for Spiderman 3 again. Hafizah had two free tickets from her office colleague. She tried to sell / give to her friends but no luck. So she decided to watch it again and I thought why not join. The tickets were free and I was really bored at home even though sleeping wouldn't have hurt. Then we had dinner with Farrish and Manhattan Fish Market.
Monday night had dinner at Coffee Hut with Farrish and Farah. Coincidently they both texted me at the same time. Pretty much hang and chill as well as Farrish missing his girlfriend who is currently on holiday in the States.
Tuesday night, the highlight of the week for me. Went to MPO for Tango Fire with Hafizah and Jiji. Actually they had an extra ticket since one of their friends couldn't make it. Since I'm on a break from futsal Tuesday I thought why not. It was a dance show, tango fired up with a more upbeat feel. The cast was from Argentina and after watching the show, felt like I wanted to learn how to dance. For more info check http://www.tango-fire.com/.
Wednesday went for My Fair Lady and this was an office event. They bought tickets and invited our valued customers. It was good show (think you all know the story) but it was long and it was a work night. Still an enjoyable experience. But think my mind was still on Tango Fire as the dances were still in my head. Help send a colleague back and reached home almost 1am. And boy did I really need sleep. I realized I went to two performing arts show and an art exhibition. Damn, from rock star to a more cultured rocker. Guess the variety is good.
Thursday was a struggle at work because I was really trying to stay awake. Met up with Liz and Shem for lunch. Later and night me and Hafizah made last minute decision to watch Blades of Glory. Another funny movie and we were laughing throughout the whole movie. Catch it if you need to have a barrel of laughs.
Well a lot had happen and I know I could have elaborated better. Realize a break from futsal so far has done me some good. I now have the opportunity to try new things and experiences as I've never been to MPO and Planery Hall at KL Convention Centre. So there's a first.

The one with 23

Went for the movie Number 23 starring Jim Carrey. A thriller flick. After watching the movie I started my own set of 23s. My birth date 29 June, 29-6=23. My time of birth was 1.10pm, convert to 24-hour clock is 1310, 13+10=23. The movie seats were B11 & B12, 11+12=23. The date I watched the movie, 23rd. The first visible plate number I saw at Coffee Hut is 977, 9+7+7 is 23. I counted the number of bracelets I own, I have 23. My car plate number has the numbers 2 and 3. Honestly I can go on but think you get the point. Don't want you all to think I have this obsessive compulsive behaviour.
Earlier in the day had lunch with Farrish and Hafizah. I figured since I'm on a long break might as well have lunch with friends who are not based around my office. We had chicken rice somewhere in Uptown. Then Hafizah showed me the koi fish pond behind her building. From my observation, the fish there are well fed.
Well I'm off to sleep now, hopefully no nightmares about 23.

The one where I will be leaving the building

Think this will be a long post. Have 4 days worth of stories to post besides the one I've been saving. As the title says, I've finally tendered my resignation and like Elvis, I will be leaving the building. A huge relief for me as a huge boulder has finally been lifted off my shoulders. Hopefully I can get my career back on track.
Well, where do I begin. Maybe I should go day-by-day from Thursday. So the 'sack-the-bank' story will be elaborated after the Thursday story.
On Thursday I met up with some friends at Bangsar Village. Met up with my friend Shakirah and two of her friends from Bank Negara, Julinda and Alma. They just join the market and we just chill and had coffee at Starbuccaneers...I mean Starbucks. For those wondering Starbuccaneers is from one of my favourite games, Monkey Island. Well the 3 ladies have to sit for an exam. The 'Persatuan Kewangan Malaysia Certificate' exams for dealing license. I passed the exams already and they were asking for any tips. I told them honestly that my passes were all flukes and if you ask me to do the exam again most probably flunk in flying colours. Honestly I have no idea how I passed. As for the company Julinda also a sporty girl. She plays tennis, futsal and also basketball. Not many girls I know shoot hoops (meaning basketball not netball). Later that night I began to draft my exit letter and plot the exit.
Friday morning which coincidentally is Friday the 13Th I tendered my resignation with my boss. He asked where I was headed, just told him I be around the area. Then I went off for breakfast. Around 0930 he called me in and ask when I want to leave. I told him I wanted to leave immediately. The nature of my job allows me to leave on 24-notice as once I tender I am no longer authorize to transact any deals for the bank. Then went to Human Resources and filled in the 'exit interview form'. Among the questions asked was if there was any condition I would stay, I filled in 'none'. Then HRD mention Monday 16 April would be my last day with the bank. Finally I would make my exit. Even got my acceptance of resignation letter. Hopefully my new gig will help put my career back on track. Speaking of which, I will start on 3 May 2007 at my new gig.
Later that evening, join for futsal Friday since my ankle was feeling fine after Wednesday. Had fun and banged in 5 goals for good measure and to make up for Wednesday.
Then Shahfaizah called me up and join them for a movie. Went to watch Shooter starring Mark Wahlberg. Cool movie about sniper action.
After movie I join Hafizah and friends at Somo for a friends birthday party. I believe the birthday girl's name was Joyce. Met up with Hafizah's friends (let me see if I can remember all of them) Eke, Nana, Jijie, Nadia and Amu. Found out Nana and Jijie share the same birthday as me. Probably should start a club as I also know some other friends who share the same birthday. Spent most of the night on the comfy chairs with Hafizah and Jijie chatting away since most of the crowd was drunk. Filled them in on my resignation from the bank. Jijie also planning to resign and Hafizah mention one of her staff just tendered. Guess the season where everyone wants to change office address.
Saturday's futsal was fun also. It was raining cats and dogs which created a cooling atmosphere at the futsal court. It allowed me to run like a headless chicken without getting tired. My team made a comeback from being God knows how many goals down.
Then had dinner with Lai Leng. She wanted to buy me a farewell dinner at Chilli's. But something is wrong with me. For the first time I was unable to finish my food. I was shocked when I couldn't finish the remaining quarter of my dish. I take pride in finishing my meals as I don't like to waste food as I know there are people around the world who need food, so we should be grateful for the meal presented to us and finish it. For the past few days I've been suffering an upset stomach resulting a sudden loss of appetite. Very unlike me, but hopefully its not permanent.
After dinner met up with Farah for Starbucking. Yes suddenly it became a verb. Just chat the night away and filled her in on my exit.
Finally Sunday was chilling at home. Watch dvds the whole day. Met up with Hafizah for another Starbucking session in the evening.
Well a long post and a lot of friends mention. Finally tomorrow I will be leaving the building.

The one with the 4Fs and coffee

Went for another karaoke session on Thursday night. Small group as it was a last minute arrangement. Went to RedBox at The Curve. Rockstars for the night include Farrish, Farah, Fizah and yours truly. Pretty much summed up as the 4Fs.
Started the night going 80s and boybands, which was something different for me. As usual the songs collection hasn't been up to date. But still had fun and well needed 'blow-off-steam' session for all of us. Besides the singing we were jumping around and dancing. Guess the showmanship in all of us just wanted to come out. Shows how stressed out we all were. As for the small group, lets just say its a lot easier to manage as all of us are 'mic-hoggers'.
The following night, the 'original Coffee Hut gang' met up at Coffee Hut for dinner and drinks. Its been a while since we all hang out together and we were missing one friend as he was tied up with something, Shahreza. The others Farah, Farrish and Shahrizan were present and Shahrizan brought along his fiance Faizah (I know you wondering why I hang with Fs and Shahs, but it just a coincidence). Spent most of the night just chatting and catching up on whats new and such. Shahfaizah (going Hollywood couples here) updated us on their wedding arrangements. Their wedding is scheduled for the triple-7s, the same date as Toneva (Tony Parker & Eva Longoria). Speaking of wedding dates, I believe that triple-8s next year will also be popular.
As for Saturday, played futsal in the afternoon. Good game, good workout and good fun. Guess I made a real intense week of futsal. Had 3 intense all-out games in one week. And proffesional footballers complain they play too many games (then again I don't get paid mega bucks to play). Met up with Hafizah later at night. She just came back from some eco-extreme challenge in Kuala Kubu Baru. She was one the the race marshall as a niggling ankle injury prevented her from participating. She mention she would have loved to be part of the challenge as it was fun and challenging. As for me, if I do ever participate I probably be the most out of shape participant.
As for Sunday, lets just say it was lazy Sunday for me. Slept the whole afternoon and it was F1 Race Day. It was well needed rest and an oppurtunity to recharge. One last thing, bought some new graphic novels on Saturday, Superman For Tomorrow Volume 1 & 2 and Batman Year 1.
Now to continue with some reading.

The one with the origami and no voice

Well yesterday (Saturday 10 March 2007) was a long day for me. As posted earlier I went for 300 and also the drama at A&W. Then got home, posted the blog and only manage 2 hours of sleep. Woke up played with my niece for a while who has a penchant for playing with my clorets like a rattle. Then later help out parents in the garden by mowing the lawn.

Headed to Mid Valley for lunch and also to check out the MAPEX fair with my friend. She was intent to buy property as she longed for a place of her own. She had quite a number of pre-requisites for her crib. Since you going to be tied with the long-term commitment, you should find one that fits all to make the investment worth while. As for me, I too would love a pad of my own, only unable to afford it at the moment. Hopefully something will pop up in the distant future, insyaallah. Well hope my friend finds a place soon with everything she wants with cherry on top.
Later had lunch at Manhattan Fish Market, ordered the usual Manhattan Seafood Platter for 2. It's the only thing I know to order there. Then bump into a junior of mine from SMTTDI and honestly I can't remember him. But hey guess SMTTDI-lians would know a fellow SMTTDI-lians when they see one. He too went to the property fair. He too said something which best is only known to the people at the table.
Headed off for my futsal Saturday after lunch. Still pretty much full, but eager to run wild. Good game, good work out, very sexy football also.
After futsal headed to the Curve for dinner and karaoke. Both ideas were decided at the 11th hour. Had dinner at Fridays. Just ordered the appetizers as me and my friends were pretty much full. Then while waiting for our food, the 5 of us decided to fill the time with origami. My mobile battery was low so I couldn't take pictures of our work. A friend said she will email it to me soon. As she didn't have GPRS and I couldn't figure out her bluetooth options. Well Rafiq made a boat, Fidah made a jet, Eke made a 'don't-know-what-you-call-it-thing-but-remember-playing-it-in-school, Hafizah the creative one made the box tray and also a shirt and me just wanting to spread the love made a giant heart. Will post the picture once I get the email.
Then went for another vocal-exercise session. Me still suffering from sore throat still went all out to rock the joint. I sang my usual numbers as they still not updated on the latest hits and also they don't have my theme song, Radiohead's Creep. Well I was pretty much out of it in the after the first 2 hours. Was back-up for the rest of the session and my voice is lets just say 'talk show on mute'.
It all ended early Sunday morning. Well that sums up my Saturday and early Sunday. Did I mention I only had 2 hours of sleep?

300 and the aftermath

Went to watch 300 12.00 am show at GSC OU. It was pretty good. I've read some books about Spartans. So the beginning of the show wasn't all that Greek to me. The special effects and graphics were top-notch. The movie was based on Frank Miller's graphic novel on Battle of Thermopylae. I haven't read it yet, but if the directors kept in line with Mr Miller's writing, then they shouldn't go wrong.
The movie was about how 300 Spartans defended their country against 1million Persians. Pretty much a battle of tactical wits and blood, gore and violence. Lead by King Leonidas the Spartans manage to hold their own against whatever the Persians threw at them. The strategy was quite simple. Draw the large Persian armies to a narrow canyon where they can't take advantage of their numbers.
Overall it's a great movie and i highly recommend it to anyone in search of an entertaining history lesson.
After the movie, on our way to pay for parking, one of my friends got hit by a car. My friend unhappy that the driver was un-pedestrian-friendly gave the passengers a piece of her mind. Then again guess they don't take bruised ego's well and retaliated with words I don't think I want to write here (my blog is PG rated..I think). Another friend came in, and brought my friend away from the scene to prevent from matters getting worse.
After all that, we all decided to meet up at the 24-hour A&W in Petaling Jaya. Me and my friend were first to arrive, so we ordered first. At one counter two men were arguing about God knows what, and suddenly began throwing punches. Since no one was doing anything about it, I decided to intervene (which sadly I regret so doing) to calm things down. One of the guys had a cut at his lip and pushed me away with blood on his hands. Let's just say it was a bad day to be wearing white. Then one of the men left, so everybody went on their business. I went back to queuing to order my drink. Suddenly the man with the cut lip came charging in again after the other man. I intervened again (stupid) but at least a big guy came in to help calm the situation. That's when I decided I should just walk out and leave. Apparently one of the guys was drunk. I then called my friends and suggest change of plan. A&W was not safe. Then went to my car, change my t-shirt and wore back my office shirt from earlier in the day. We ended up going to Maju Curry House for drinks.
The sad part of this whole thing is that no one from A&W management or staff did anything to help. At least call the cops or something. They decided to ignore the safety of their patrons. Unless they call the cops later I wouldn't know. It's safe to say I wouldn't be dining there for a period of time.
Lesson learnt today, I now know the meaning of innocent bystander.