Infinity plus -one-

It's good to be back.

2009-02-04T00:19:00.003+02:00

I had three epiphanies today:

1. It is generally hopeless to be responsible 'for' somebody else's happiness, rather be responsible 'to' them to help them be happy. I'm very grateful that that 'somebody else' gets it too.

2. It is generally untrue that 'if I/you were/were not this/that', then I/you would be happy. We're just kidding ourselves with silly conditions.

3. It is nice to write my first blog entry in over a year.

101 reasons why I need a vacation...

2007-12-05T16:20:00.000+02:00

1. I'm tired of working my ass off and the sh*t that comes with it.
2. I'm tired of working my ass off and the sh*t that comes with it.
3. I'm tired of working my ass off and the sh*t that comes with it.
..
..
..
101. I'm tired of working my ass off and the sh*t that comes with it.

Enough said.

Life is indeed fragile.

2007-09-11T18:07:00.000+02:00

I wish I would take better care of myself (and my family).

I've been struggling to shake this middle ear virus for about 3 to 4 weeks now and its showing no signs of abating. More sleep, more exercise and a better diet supplemented by a multi-vitamin is the way I hope to clear it up. Here's to that.

Today I also found out that my father, who up to now has enjoyed superbly good value for his 77 years, may have suffered a minor stroke. Doctor's appointment is tomorrow morning. Needless to say this has all come as a bit of a shock. I hope Pop's gonna be okay. I must make an effort to see my parent's more often.

This all goes to show that we all invariably take our health and our families for granted. We need to cherish these gifts.

Want what you can't have?

2007-09-01T23:54:00.000+02:00

From the first moment you lay eyes on her you are mesmerised.

A blinding light just illuminated the whole room, yet somehow everyone else is still stumbling around in the darkness, oblivious. You are the only one that is drawn in, powerless to stop it. Stopped dead. Obliterated. It's magnetic and visceral and you instantly know this moment will be imprinted in your memory for the remainder of your life. Your benchmark.

This is a response you just can't describe to anyone else unless they too have experienced it. Nobody can tell you how a serendipitous collection of circumstances coupled with a person's physical and personality qualities can produce such a vivid response. Until it finally does so for you.

You secretly marvel at the way she lightly squeezes your arm in conversation or tilts her head back when she laughs. Ordinary perhaps, but it's the way that she does it that stays with you. Extraordinary, with every time deliciously like the first. In time, even her idiosyncrasies become endearing. As they should. You can't imagine her without them. The way she tries to cram too much into her day or how she always manages to arrives ten minutes late. All of this is somehow forgivable.

I can recall this happening only twice in my life. The first time it happened she walked up, smiled at me and that was it. Radiant. Instantaneous. Fatal. That moment produced two fantastic years and significantly my own benchmark for both love and heartbreak.

The second time produced the same response but not the same result. Sometimes I catch myself looking at her in that way and wonder how she would react if I told her my thoughts.

It's all in the details. In the end I think that's all that matters.

Insomnimania...

2007-08-31T03:28:00.000+02:00

Damn it to hell.

It's 4AM and once again I can't sleep. I am so going to feel like CRAP tomorrow morning. This is generally not a new development for me, but definitely a recurring one. I blame it squarely on the fact that I am overworked and as a direct result: overtired.

What's a seasonal insomniac to do? I generally make mental lists of stuff. Any list will probably do, but I have been formulating one for some time now so why not put it down on paper (so to speak).

1. Investigate the possibility of becoming a mentor/big brother for an underprivileged kid. Rationale: Well because a wise person or wise persons have told me that to give of your time is rewarding for both parties. I don't have kids, am not married, and so I should theoretically have time to give. Right?

2. Start a new photography project. This is the part I actually get off my ass, dust off the old camera and go and actually shoot something. My idea is to do black and white portraits of some of my closest friends. That should be pretty interesting to see who would agree.

3. Take a minimum 2 week vacation. I plan to go snowboarding in March next year in Europe - probably France or Italy with one of my best friends and his new wife. Which brings me to the next item.

4. Write a best man speech that friend who is getting married in 2 months. I'm thinking go with the heart. Trying to make some amusing anecdote seem interesting to a bunch of wedding guests does not sound appealing at this point.

5. Go to sleep.

6. Go to sleep again.

Let's not even start on the list of work items or personal "must do's". I'll leave that for another night of juicy inviting sleeplessness. On a more positive note I think my balance disorder is starting to subside. Great news indeed, although I'm going to miss my morning dizzy slaloms.

One last thing. If a work colleague addresses you online as "dude" but spells it "dud", does that constitute a Freudian slip? Sadly, I think so. Maybe I'll make a list of those.

Where are those sheep when you need them? Hell, probably sleeping.

I have had an ear full...literally.

2007-08-28T18:34:00.000+02:00

Okay, so after ANOTHER month's hiatus.... this is still not getting any easier.

*THUD*

That was the sound of me falling over. This is because the only vaguely interesting news is I have contracted a rather irritating little bug which affects my middle ear. Some sort of vestibular infection probably caused by an upper respiratory ailment. Something I've been led to believe is common and recurs.

Delightfully, this causes me to struggle with dizziness and balance especially in the mornings. The trips from my bedroom to the kitchen or bathroom have taken on Olympian proportions over the last 2 weeks. Every time I tackle this obstacle course I measure my performance on how few times I have to prop myself up against passing furniture, walls, doors and so on.

This is of course all very annoying especially since all this stumbling about can not even be justified as a result of the consumption of alcohol. The accompanying thick head, light sensitive eyes, tight chest and nausea is quite frankly highly overrated.

The doctor says its basically stress, fatigue, diet, exercise etc. The usual suspects. This of course lowers the immune system, which leads to blah blah...... bit of a catch 22 actually since the pressure does not look like abating on the work front. Please dear lord, I just hope this (health and professional) clears up pretty soon.

Please excuse me while I fall over again.

*THUD*

(ah, so that's where the remote is.....)

WARNING: Introspective narrative. Reader discretion is strongly advised.

2007-07-12T17:54:00.000+02:00

Okay so after a month's hiatus (which involved a few sheepish late night checks to see if anybody had actually left a comment), I thought it's high time I actually contribute something of my own again.

[silence]

So as I was saying, in order to get my brain focusing on something other than work I chose a word randomly and I came up with this (yes I know this is geeky):

demarche (day-MARSH) noun

A course of action, especially a diplomatic petition or protest.

I think the idea worked, because I immediately picked up on the words 'protest' and 'diplomatic' - but for very different reasons. Over the last couple of months I've once again allowed myself to focus solely on my work. This pattern seems to perennially repeat itself and it took a recent relationship for the point to be driven home. Again.

She said that my life was routine bound and lacking in variety (you can see however where the diplomacy came in handy). She was right. I am leading a rather dull life right now. I can't really argue with that, even though I'm actually not the routine type - except of course when I focus on one thing only: work.

Don't get me wrong, There is plenty of socialising, sport, and of course work but not much else. I think I can make more of a difference in my and other people's lives in many ways.

I have a number of ideas, but that's for the next post. That does not mean that I won't take the opportunity to trash talk my neighbours who insist on moving furniture or redecorating their apartment at 2am in the morning. WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE?

Misery loves company... oh yeah?

2007-05-14T19:06:00.000+02:00

"If misery loves company, misery has company enough. "
Henry David Thoreau

Psychologically speaking, the widely understood definition of this popular phrase is probably true. It is said that people who are unhappy may get some consolation from knowing that others are unhappy too.

Oh really? So at what point were 'others' consulted on this arrangement? Can those 'others' who enjoy a bit of NEGATIVITY splashed over them like gasoline, please step forward? I thought not.

It's not that I don't understand why people (including myself) do this, it's just negativity begets... wait for it folks... more negativity. We can generally handle this in our personal lives, but this is especially irritating in the workplace. That said, I have to take my hat off to certain individuals who despite dealing with a stressful situation that they did not bring upon themselves, still manage to stay positive and professional and above all, not overbearing to 'others'.

Yeah, I know its not easy, but let's give it a try.

Two is better than one...

2007-05-11T16:03:00.000+02:00

Annie asked me to write about Marsupials. Huh? Well, I guess its as good a topic as anything.

I found an interesting piece on Wikipedia which was pretty informative. I was happily reading some interesting facts about these delightful little critters when I stumbled upon the following (forgive the paraphrasing):

...The female has two vaginas, both of which open externally through one orifice... ...Males usually have a two-pronged penis which corresponds to the females' two vaginas...

WTF?

As far as I am aware the only animals that procreate for recreational purposes are dolphins and humans. So my thinking is these poor animals (like Kangaroos) have been blessed with two of everything and they don't even know what they are missing out on!

Hell, what if we had similar anatomical dimensions? I can only imagine the pillowtalk.
"Hey honey, that not good enough for ya? Try this one."

I'll leave the rest to your imagination. Okay, my mind's out of the gutter again. It is Friday after all.

The truth about paintstrippers and other similar devices.

2007-05-10T23:22:00.000+02:00

No folks, just a weak metaphor. There's nothing about DIY to be found here... ok so maybe in future when I actually have the cash for real renovations. Anyway, moving on.

The events of the last few weeks have left me somewhat bewildered. Why you may ask? These events will have to remain unknown for the time being, since there's a small part of me that still clings to the notion of 'bad karma'. You know: that too much elaboration now might somehow have a negative affect on my good fortunes. Annoyingly cryptic I know, but suffice to say that these events have rather successfully managed to strip away several stubborn layers of ingrained cynicism with surprising ease. I will say this: the windfall is largely due to one person in particular - and a very pretty one at that.

I hope it stays that way for a good long while.

Self-absorbtion at its best...

2007-04-16T17:54:00.000+02:00

Okay so not particularly original (thanks Annie) but because its been sometime since my last post here goes. I'll be adding to the answers as I go along. K bye.

My favorite day of the year is… my birthday. Duh.
Holidays are… way too infrequent for my liking.
Mornings are… largely a mystery to me because I end up sleeping through most of them.
My dreams are… unfathomable most of the time.
Where I live is… not necessarily where I spend all of my time.
My job is… about to get interesting again.
I believe in… the inherent goodness of people.. *snore* No, actually I do.
People think I am… confident and happy all the time.
I won’t eat… guavas. I'd last about 1 millisecond in FearFactor. I just don't have the stomach.
I can make… people laugh.
I’m wearing… a striped sweater, blue jeans and sneakers, minus the heart on the sleave.
To amuse myself I… watch people.
I can’t… wait for my next holiday.
I miss my… good friends who live abroad.
I cry when… I least expect it.
I’m trying to… finish this survey.
I found out…nothing new or interesting today, hence this blog post.

Sometimes things are just evil.

2007-03-31T01:11:00.000+02:00

Ah hell, just got in after consuming too many cocktails and shots of tequila. *groan*

To date or not to date....

2007-03-29T18:04:00.000+02:00

That is the question.

Ok, so last Monday was my birthday. A very happy occasion I might add. The preceeding evening I invited a few people to a local bar and had a few drinks to celebrate the successful completion of my 36th year on this here plane of existence. Kudos to me. Equally amazing is the day after my birthday I managed to enjoy a most pleasant dinner with my entire immediate family. Not once did I wipe a nervously cold bead of clammy sweat from my brow and think: "Who the f*ck are these people?" swiftly followed by "Where is the nearest exit?". Ok a bit of melodramatic licence, I actually do care about my family, but you get the point.

I digress. Again. All the talk of birthdays and age this week inevitably gave rise to discussions around the fact that I am currently sans girlfriend. Then a friend (actually friends) mentioned something about internet dating and so it's as good a topic as anything.

So here I am looking for an interesting quote. During the course of my 'research' - a trusty old Google search of course, I stumbled across a sponsored (no surprises there) link. Ignore the nausiating pink design and advertisement-ridden candyfloss content just long enough to read the article entitled Dispelling Internet Dating Myths. Despite the fact that it is clearly plugging the merits of internet dating, there are some valid points.

For me? I guess I'm an old fashioned type of guy. Most people I know that have tried it have said that they only really get a feel for the person once they have met in person. Duh! What this tells me is that most of us still trust our instincts best when there is physical interaction. Hell, if it aint broke, don't fix it. And so it should be. Right?

Look, I agree that today's fast paced lifetyles mean that its hard to find the time to 'make that initial connection'. This surely takes care of the introduction but then it's up to you and Mother Nature. My issue is that if people are replacing normal social behaviour in favour of the internet entirely, then we are surely heading for disaster. People should meet and get to know each other in person without the pressure of a relationship or even the promise of one. At the end of the day, it really comes down to the individual.

Just a thought. Any others?

Balancing act...

2007-03-28T13:26:00.000+02:00

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving”
Albert Einstein.

Ok, so I THOUGHT I was back.

I managed to take some time off work. In 2 days, despite many well-intentioned plans I basically did virtually nothing constructive with that time. You know you're nearing that mythical place known as 'rock bottom for lazy asses' when your only achievement for a day is managing to feverishly drag yourself from the bed to the sofa and summon your last reserves of energy to flick the remote on the television.

Even more alarming is that some variation of this activity (for want of a better word) has been the pattern for the last few weekends too.

Heroic stuff.

Of course it's not as bad as you may think folks. It's just that when we get tired from one activity (like excessive amounts of work) you really run out of energy for everything else. I guess my body was telling me something at the time. Things are naturally a little better now. What's the lesson to be learnt? No matter how busy or stressed you get, you must have the discipline to make time to create a work/life balance. Keep on making social plans, call your family, go for that run.

You get the picture.

Look master, it's alive!

2007-02-27T13:07:00.000+02:00

"All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy."

Wise words indeed. Yes folks, these things do happen. Whatever the phrase implies, there certainly was not a dull moment to be found anywhere. It's actually amazing what you can do with a little adrenaline. As you may have guessed I was forced to take a very long hiatus due to some very hectic work commitments. Try averaging 12 hour days for 4 weeks - not pretty. I'll be back in the blogging saddle very shortly, so more on that later.

The only major news is that I have become the proud owner of a piece of real estate. I'm also now the proud owner of a very large 'PIECE OF DEBT'. Consequently I'll be saying goodbye to my good friend 'disposable income'. The property, being only marginally bigger than a large cardboard box (only made with bricks) will be officially mine in the next few days. One of the good things about the deal is that it is in fact the apartment that I have been renting for the past 2 years so no major logistical upheavals expected. Actually this is a good move for me as you really can't go wrong when it comes to an investment and I've postponed it for way too long now.

Strike one resolution off my list.

Amazingly, despite the limited time I even managed to go on a date or two (not Valentine's Day), but nothing serious at the moment. This last set of scenarios begs a few questions, but I'll also leave that for another time.

I'm back.

Analyse this... again.

2007-01-18T23:55:00.001+02:00

Let's recap, no rather revise.

In the matter of yours truely versus people who like to stereotype behaviour: I was caught unawares on a bad day. On reflection I say screw it. I can't change my nature or anybody else's for that matter.

With regard to necks being extended: The knowledge that these doors have been closed once again has not disappointed me as much as I thought it might do. I see this as a definite positive.

This revelation leads me directly to the third issue at hand: The jury has deliberated and it's in my favour. This week will end well.

Analyse this.

2007-01-14T01:39:00.000+02:00

Firstly, why is it that people get labeled 'sensitive' or 'analytical' when they simply are more verbal by nature. If something occurs to me or bothers me, I usually need to articulate it. Granted you have to choose your audience carefully, but hell, I'm only saying what we all think about anyway. This really PISSES ME OFF.

Secondly, since when is an existing friendship NOT good grounds for a relationship? Despite the risks, isn't this what it's all about? I think I might stick my neck out a second time.

Finally, hypothetically speaking of course: if somebody texts to postpone the date by a week, is it such a bad thing? My jury is still out.

Ok folks, nothing to over analyse here, keep moving on. Enough said... this time.

2007-01-02T00:28:00.000+02:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR.
May we endeavour to actually follow through with our resolutions this time around.

In the absence of all else, there's always music.

2006-12-28T10:54:00.000+02:00

It's amazing what you stumble upon sometimes. A couple of years ago I made a compilation of my favourite music of that time for my girlfriend of that time. She really was a gorgeous creature. Leggy and statuesque; with long dark auburn hair, kind eyes, an intoxicating smile, and a wit, spirit, and intellect to match. Sadly, time, place, and my own insecurities conspired against me. Oh boy, the things we do for love or at least the promise of it. Here's what I wrote:

Like most things in life that are born of passion, music evokes something from within. The sweet caress of a voice, the poignancy of a lyric, or perhaps an exquisite melody or sound has the power to conjure up a memory of a place, a time, an emotion, even a person. Like somebody kissing you gently in the neck, sending shivers down your spine, awakening your senses. Music is all of these things to me. It will always be a trusted source of inspiration. A day does not go by without music. It would simply be unfinished. Meaningless like a film without a soundtrack.

Rock
1. U2 - Electric Storm
“The sea it swells like a sore head and the night it is aching. "
2. Audioslave - I Am The Highway
“I am not your rolling wheels, I am the highway.
I am not your carpet ride, I am the sky.
I am not your blowing wind, I am the lightning.
I am not your autumn moon, I am the night.”
3. Hooberstank - Disappear
“There’s a pain that sleeps inside.
It sleeps with just one eye and awakens the moment that you leave.
Though I try to look away, the pain it still remains.
Only leaving when you’re next to me.”
4. Arno Carstens - Another Universe
“From a galaxy of blues, to a universe we choose.
No more crying and just maybe somebody to hold.”
5. Limp Bizkit - Behind Blue Eyes
6. Puddle of Mudd - Blurry
7. Seether - Broken
8. Coldplay - Warning Sign
“You were an island to discover.”
9. Roxy Music - Avalon
“Now the party’s over, I’m so tired, then I see you coming out of nowhere.
Much communication in emotion, without conversation or a notion.”
10. Norah Jones - Come Away With Me

Ambient
11. Peace Orchestra - Who Am I
12. Groove Armada - Edge Hill
13. Orbital - Halycon & On
14. Delirium - Terra Firma
15. William Orbit - Water From A Vine Leaf
16. Leftfield - Original
17. Moby - Porcelain
18. Faithless - Evergreen
“All the leaves I’ve loved have fallen, you know that breaks my heart.”
19. Massive Attack - Teardrop
20. Chicane – Low Sun

"I dream of white beaches, of sun dancing off the surface of the water, and of soft light on your face. "

Ah, ain't that nice, folks? Good memories though. Anyway, before you all go running for cover, maybe some of you like the music too. Comments welcome.

Counting to 10...

2006-12-27T16:14:00.000+02:00

“In each family a story is playing itself out, and each family's story embodies its hope and despair.” Auguste Napier

This is no more true than at this time of year. Those of us still blessed with immediate family - parents, grandparents, siblings, and of course blacksheep, will understand what an interesting (and trying) time this is.

State of my nation.

2006-12-17T18:54:00.000+02:00

Okay, it's been way too long since I posted anything so I'm takin' a leaf outa Annie's book... so to speak. Score ZERO for originality... sorry guys.

Here goes.

My first love was: Tonia

I am baffled by: The way we are ruled by our emotions.

The last person I spoke to on the phone was: A work colleague... about work (duh). I cannot even begin to describe how sad that is.

I cry when: Nobody is watching.

The last friend I saw was: Sam

My favorite song is: One of too many to mention.

My best friend is: Me

My worst enemy is: Unwanted negativity.

When I get home I: Always turn on my tv (one of my really bad habits).

My favorite state is: Being in control - whatever that means.

My sex life is: In hibernation (did I mention I cry sometimes? lol)

My parents are: Missing me.

I dream about: Just about anything.

I don’t have: Enough focus.

I kissed: A good friend (a couple of times) , we decided to keep it that way, and now I hope it's not awkward.

At work I: Work between bouts of talking.

Tomorrow I want to: Wake up earlier.

In high school I was: Timid.

In university I was: Not timid.

Right now I: Need to disconnect.

When enough is perhaps too little.

2006-11-30T00:56:00.000+02:00

In the next few days I hope to practice what I preach. Honesty. Taking
a step back and observing her response has been revealing. The choice
is simple: Cards on the table and move on.

Exotic locations.

2006-11-28T02:53:00.000+02:00

I thought since M expressed interest in AngKor Wat and the country of Cambodia, I would post a few more images.

Storms in a teacup.

2006-11-28T01:44:00.000+02:00

Sadly this weekend once again proved to me how petty and childish some people can be. Yes folks, we're actually talking about adults here. Grown ups. Not pimply-faced, insecure, awkward teenagers plotting and scheming against each other in one corner of the playground. I was once the 'uncool' kid who bore the brunt of those nasty little games and I swore I would never stoop to those depths - certainly not as an adult.

Without going into detail, my argument is simply this: In larger circles of friends it is very probable that some people may not get along with others. There are always ego and personality clashes. Hell, we live in a world of diversity and this being a microcosm, should be no different. I GET IT. What really makes my blood boil is when people try to insidiously 'influence' others with their opinions and then expect some kind of invisible line of loyalty to drawn. I refuse to buy into that rubbish. I won't pander to it. Can't we all just be adults about it and be just a little more tolerant, and just a little less prescriptive? This is NOT a popularity contest or a friendship timeshare, guys.

I pride myself on generally getting along with most people, but I guess not everybody shares my philosophy. This has also made me very greatful for having a number of frienship circles. I've always enjoyed the luxury of being able to go and spend some time with other people - especially those who don't place a price on your time or friendship.

My new blog title kind of esoterically sums up how I feel about my life at the moment: It's just me and a wealth of possibilities.

A thousand words retold.

2006-11-26T03:23:00.000+02:00

I came across this image of a stone mural at Angkor Wat taken by me in Cambodia a couple of years ago. It told me two things: I must start taking pictures again and how much I loved that place.

All things full circle.

2006-11-20T22:01:00.000+02:00

People are fickle creatures.

It's just a simple fact of life. Fame and popularity is fleeting. As sure as the sun will rise again tomorrow morning and a product sells more after we slap the words "new and improved" on the box. This is no more evident than in the way people choose their restaurants, their music and perhaps their relationships.

Anyway, before I spiral downward into the self-medicated narcissism of the previous two posts, let's focus on music for a while.

I have a theory that we work in twenty year popularity cycles. It's therefore no surprise to me that in an attempt to break from the endless barrage of R&B and hip hop, people are listening to music from the 80s again. Mercifully minus the mullets and leg warmers of course, thank God.

Two things occurred to me, here. Firstly, how often people attempt to come up with something new or different and end up rehashing the past, and secondly that I'm getting old because I actually was a kid in the 80s, and it's really fun hearing all the old stuff again.

Perhaps we're simply just nostalgic creatures after all.

Damned if you do, damned if you don't.

2006-11-19T21:41:00.000+02:00

“Lost causes are the only ones worth fighting for.” Clarence Darrow.

Debatable.

I've come to the conclusion that outside of general compatibility and chemistry, when it comes to whether a relationship succeeds or fails in it's infancy, it all boils down to timing. In situations like these do we just shrug our shoulders and walk away? Do we wait and see how the chips fall? Or do we risk it all?

I've always been a realist and if I was a betting man - certainly for today, then I'd say the house is winning.

Risky business.

2006-11-19T13:21:00.000+02:00

It's been an interesting week and a half.

I had the pleasure of taking a very interesting, independant and sexy women to dinner and I thought (and so did she) that the evening was very successful. However, here is the complication folks: she is somebody I've been friends with for quite some time now.

The mutual attraction between us has been there for a while, but the timing has not always been right. It's clear that while we've always enjoyed a flirtatious relationship and kissed on a number of occasions, the dynamic between us is now somehow different.

She has expressed her reservations about taking it further, and at this point it's anyone's guess as to what will transpire. I do understand and share her fears and concerns, but I suspect that at this point, I'm probably more prepared to take a risk. I am aware that we share many close friends (with their own 'special' opinions) and that if this turned out to be a bad idea, could our frienship survive?

Does anyone have any thoughts, experiences to share? Of course you do... so c'mon lets hear it.

Prodigal returns, chemistry and technology.

2006-11-10T03:25:00.000+02:00

I know I have been very quite of late. No excuses really except
perhaps just a bit of a break. Thanks Annie and M for your 'gentle'
enquiries. I have a dinner date with kissing buddy tomorrow and I'm still in
two minds as to my approach. There is definite chemistry
here, all that's left is to figure out which kind.

I do love technology sometimes though: I posted this via an email from
my phone.

My life the past few weeks.

2006-10-25T23:26:00.000+02:00

Isn't it just typical that no matter how hard you work, you never seem to escape the feeling some days, that you don't add as much value as you would like. *sigh* Enough said.

Oh yeah, I will be making more of an effort to write about a few more 'personal' issues in the coming weeks. Names and places will be changed of course. Until then, I'll be catching up on some sleep and R&R.

It's 5am and all is NOT well.

2006-10-22T05:58:00.000+02:00

Just finished work. It's Sunday morning. This is just too sad...

There's a ninja in all of us...

2006-10-20T14:10:00.000+02:00

Ah, my high school year book photo and hell, look at the wacky things I used to get up to as a kid. You gotta love home movies.

Everybody excepting Dorothy: Just don't even ask.

Rocking chairs and that little yellow brick road.

2006-10-19T00:58:00.000+02:00

Damned if I know why I chose this title except that I've been given a subtle, but timeous hint from 'Dorothy' to start writing again. It just kind of popped in there.

While I'm on the subject, can I just say that I can't believe there is a site dedicated to the history of rocking chairs! For crying out loud, people. My hypothesis would simply have been that the idea was born, not out of some deep need to be lulled to sleep on a sunny porch somewhere, but from the sloppy work of some poor visually challenged carpenter who was no doubt dreaming of a more exciting life in accounting - which for all intents and purposes would have produced the exact same result: putting us all to sleep.

Correction, make that a mild coma.

Now with that completely irrelevant, self-indulgent, yet strangely therapeutic tirade safely out of the way, let's move swiftly along. Since I've been working pretty hard the last week or so, inspiration has been in short supply, so I think I'll conduct a poll of my own. What should the topic of my next post be? Here are the options:

1. Hey, write something personal. Get off the fence and dig that dirt boy.
2. No, tell us a few more things you can do without.
3. Oh Hell no, I'll choose a topic! Post or dare.... chicken!
4. A social or political issue. (just kidding folks, no Sociology 101 here... move away from the 'next blog' button, real slow...)

Anyone? Anyone? (carpenters and accountants need not reply)

Watch this space.

2006-10-12T23:09:00.000+02:00

To my vast reader base (er, that would be a handful of very kind people who humour me from time to time) : I've been working like a demon all week so no new material as yet. Soon, I promise.

All things universal.

2006-10-08T23:14:00.000+02:00

It’s amazing what you dig up from the past sometimes.

A friend recently complimented me on my writing style (thanks Red, I think...). Anyway, it got me thinking. I came across something I wrote six years ago shortly before returning home, and after reading it again it occurred to me that its basic premise still holds true after all these years. The only question that remains is: Was I voicing a universal truth of life, or is this proof that I have really not moved on at all? It think I have odds on the former rather than the latter, but some days... who knows?

“August 2000: It's a very strange feeling to be caught between two worlds. The trip back has come with a mixed bag of emotions. On the one hand, I am experiencing a good deal of excitement at the prospect of returning home. After all, it is the country of my birth, nationality, and indeed my culture. It would be fantastic to see my family after all this time. However, on the other hand, I cannot escape the feeling that my return is somewhat premature. I mean, my family is not going anywhere soon. Why hurry?

It could be said that this feeling is perfectly natural. By that I mean, the way people perceive big changes in their lives. They fear a change, since it implies a step (or several steps) outside their 'comfort zone'. Any experience outside this realm of familiarity is essentially an unknown. Consequently people paint a very rosy picture of what has gone before, and in my case: dwell on it, instead of appreciating the possibilities that lie ahead.”

Hey, I thought these were for real... NOT.

2006-10-06T16:24:00.000+02:00

After another week from hell, nothing brightens up my day than a chance encounter with something worth chuckling over. I like a bit of a laugh on a Friday afternoon.

I found this piece of useless real estate on the net today. It's amazing what kind of auto generated advertisements find their way on to legitimate (and free) news websites and yet PEOPLE STILL CLICK ON 'EM! Heck, stranger things have happened I know, but I'll go out on a limb here and suggest that they have a word with the computer guy about the random age generator thingy... Ah bless. Look, I've even gone to the trouble of protecting the identity of the poor unfortunate girl whose picture was selected. Proud of me?

To be honest, I've never really understood the whole "cover the eyes to protect the identity" thing. I'm sure the people that matter would know who the hell it is anyway. All I can think is "What would her grandparents think?". Tsk. Tsk.

Good weekend y'all.

What lies beneath.

2006-10-02T18:18:00.000+02:00

This weekend it was again blatantly clear to me (on three occasions, no less) how strong some undercurrents tend to run in certain frienship circles. I may be making a sweeping (also perhaps life threatening) statement here, but I really think most men (read:me) are oblivious to these goings on, unless directly involved of course. This is where I have to shrug my shoulders and cry "I just don't get women."

Now I'm a pretty perceptive guy, but it's almost like this type of stuff transmits at a frequency too high for mere mortal men to pick up. Hell, on reflection, this is probably a good thing.

Oh and another thing, I've always disliked the term "group", when referring to a circle of friends. I think its sounds exclusive and insular. Those of us who enjoy mingling with several (sometimes diverse) circles will know what I mean.

If you're wondering what the hell the picture is, it's an eel. I could not think what to use to go with the today's topic: things under the surface. Too sinister perhaps but definitely freaky.

Lastly, something that I think my fellow locals can identify with: In this city there are three things that are certain in this life. Death, taxes, and CAR GUARDS. More about that later when my blood pressure returns to normal.

Celebrity lookalikes.

2006-09-28T14:10:00.000+02:00

Okay, as promised something a little "lighter". Ah, the things we do after a drink or two. I'll bet people were not nearly as funny before the advent of VERY SMALL digital cameras. Go figure. I'm the guy on the left, by the way.

Anyone for some soup?

2006-09-27T22:18:00.000+02:00

Okay, I think I finally understand the appeal of a blog.

Somebody asked me the other day why I don't write about something important. "What about the problems we face in the Middle East?" she said, "I'm sure you will get some comments on that. Or perhaps the mounting Third World debt, or even the genocide being committed in Sudan."

She has a good point. Perhaps I should discuss some of the problems closer to home. I could of course comment on the fact that our former deputy president can get charged with rape and fraud, get found not guilty and have the fraud case dismissed, and still be hailed by some people in the community as a hero - simply because of the struggle. I am all for democracy and freedom of speech, but what I really have a problem with is the apparant total disregard for what I believe to be the cornerstone of public office: integrity. These people embody the trust placed in them by the electorate and should be beyond reproach and dare I say it, not beyond the law. The old addage "Where there is smoke, there is fire" comes to mind, but I not sure any of us will ever really know what goes on sometimes.

The truth of the matter is we get bombarded with so much information these days, both foreign and domestic, that I can understand why people find it such a release to just talk about everyday things in their own lives, and here's the kicker folks: to be the star of their own show and have an audience - however small. So with that bit of rationalization under my belt, be sure to tune in next time and enjoy an amusing(?) anecdote, mindless rant, belligerent bitch, or simply a new addition to my list of things to do without. I'll give it my best shot and keep it deliciously shallow.

I believe Warhol was right. Sanity will prevail. Hell yes.

Oh and something else...

2006-09-26T21:10:00.000+02:00

Things I can do without today:

1. Outbursts in public places.
2. Excessive profanity.
3. Having to experience both of the above simultaneously and at high volume.

Enough said.

Variety is the spice of life. Oh really?

2006-09-25T20:34:00.000+02:00

All one can do is shrug one's shoulders and chuckle. After enjoying a much deserved long weekend break away with some close friends, I have again come to appreciate just how impossibly difficult it is to shove a group of very different individuals into a confined space for any length of time without incident - a sort of ‘big brother’ dynamic if you will, but without the cameras.

Of course all of us are great friends (some for many years) and will remain so, but the spawn of familiarity, the insipid little runt known to you all as contempt, soon rears its mean little head. Being the people that we are, and living the busy lives that we do, we inevitably pack in our emotional baggage along with the toothbrush (and a bottle of whatever we feel takes the edge off), and we all begin our merry little dance.

For the most part, we get along. Of course. We are considerate and helpful but soon personality quirks, behavioral idiosyncrasies, sensitivity, insensitivity, and the absence of tact, all start creeping in. Add chronic doses of whatever’s in the aforementioned bottle and before you know it feathers are ruffled, noses are out of joint, and the music begins in earnest. You can guess the rest. Suffice to say that there were probably plenty of hushed "he said, she said" moments.

If you think that this is all a little melodramatic, you would be correct in that observation. Naturally we all experience this phenomenon. I’m just trying to emphasize my point. I'm pretty sure all of us are happy to be back in our own spaces and already planning the next holiday together.

My only advice to people (some more than others, and I sincerely hope they know who they are) is best summed up with the idiom: Discretion is the better part of valour.

Just a thought.

A road well travelled.

2006-09-22T00:12:00.000+02:00

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes." Marcel Proust.

Today it occurred to me that the road that winds it's way through the expanse that is the blue nowhere, is paved with countless souls whose peregrinations pander to their curious and vicarious natures.

I know this for I am just one among many.

Déjà vu anyone?

2006-09-19T23:13:00.000+02:00

"The term déjà vu is French and means, literally, "already seen." Those who have experienced the feeling describe it as an overwhelming sense of familiarity with something that shouldn't be familiar at all."

What the...? I'm at work again. This seems strangely familiar. Like... I was here the day before, and the day before that. Oh yeah, that's because I WAS. Hell, this project is simultaneously killing my social life and a few million more brain cells than I'm willing to consciously part with at my tender age. The fuzzy feeling in my head just about sums it all up. I'm seriously considering having business cards specially made for people that I've known for years.

Come on now, if I am going to be sans said grey matter, it had better be in the pursuit of traditional idle pleasures like a quiet drinking binge, smoke, or even a nice hole in the head. I'd even settle for the masochism of the home shopping network. I hate to buck popular trends, but sleep deprivation is seriously OVERRATED.

The term déjà vu is French and.... oh geez, didn't I just do this?

Enjoy the silence.

2006-09-18T23:47:00.000+02:00

"The ideal man is his own best friend and takes delight in privacy."

Aristotle (384-322 BCE). Greek philosopher.

There is something to be said for the power of silence and solitude. Even as I sit here at work at around midnight, the value is still not lost to me. Hell, at the very least, the absolute lack of the day's distractions allows me to finish the tasks I set out to complete in the first place. I'm sure most of the world's professional workforce can identify with this experience. It is a bit irritating though when you have to sacrifice your private time in this manner. Sadly, if you don't put in the effort you will never succeed at anything - or get anything done.

I was at Ankhor Wat, in Cambodia in 2000 and while wondering through the temple ruins, I spotted this man sitting quitely by himself. There was a calmness and serenity about him that you rarely see in the modern world these days. I am lucky that I was able to capture the image without disturbing him.

Take time for yourself. Appreciate the luxury of it. It may well save you (read:me) from being prosecuted for multiple homicide, aggravated assualt, or something worse.

Just a thought.

Dark, dark my light, and darker my desire.

2006-09-17T02:25:00.000+02:00

Dark, dark my light, and darker my desire
My soul, like some heat-maddened summer fly,
Keeps buzzing at the sill.

Theodore Roethke (1908-1963) U.S. poet.

It's interesting when you can take an everyday object and put a dark, even sinister twist on it. Edison would be proud... I think. Okay enough of this... I'm going to bed.

What words cannot describe.

2006-09-16T18:04:00.000+02:00

Sometimes an image does not need any lengthy explanations. No symbolism, metaphors, satire, or subtext. It simply just is what it is. Pleasing. Well, perhaps to some.

Darker still, alas no respite.

2006-09-13T00:39:00.000+02:00

Damned if I know why I posted this arbitrary picture of mine. I do kind of like it though. Nice organic balance and colour tone.

Hey I have an idea, let's ask my good friend in-som-ni-a what it thinks. No? I say it closely resembles spaces in my head that should be filled with, oh I don't know... SLEEP? Luckily I have the whole night to debate it's artistic merits along with why post offices don't stay open for longer.

Things that you could do without today:

1. Pointless blog posts.

It's getting darker already.

2006-09-12T23:09:00.000+02:00

Things I can do without tonight:

1. Cold coffee.
2. Insomnia.
3. Contradicting statements.
4. Redundancy.
5. Redundancy.
6. Another hole in the head.

From dusk till dawn.

2006-09-12T20:33:00.000+02:00

I'm feeling surprisingly (disappointing for some) upbeat today despite the fact that I still find myself at the office after 9pm. I can happily report that I experienced no enraged or murderous impulses today. I can almost hear the relieved sighs of postal workers countrywide. Guys, don't get too comfortable just yet, it's only Tuesday and I'm convinced I'll still have many 'letters to post'.

On days like these, I usually suppliment my obvious lack of aggression by taking the liberty of listening to the musical equivalent of a sledgehammer to the head, just to get into the mood. Hell, there's nothing like a goodly dose of metal to get the senses going. It's like wafting some smelling salts under your nose - which usually accompanies the blow to the head anyway.

Soon I'm ready to spew forth "F--- this!" and "Screw you!", or "You looking at me, huh? You want some of this?", in all directions and at the drop of a hat (or stupid question). This would no doubt be much to the amusement of my colleagues. One of the side affects of being the office clown is that people are never quite sure when to take you seriously, so they never do. When you really do mean business your affectiveness is largely negated. Mental note: Perhaps a sewn off 12 guage shotgun might be more pursuasive when accompanying these outbursts. I think so. But how to get it past the metal detectors? Oops, did I just write that? *grin*

Truth be told, some of the tracks by KoRn are rather good. I particularly like the one called "Right Now". There is just nothing like a slamming base, killer guitar riff and raging PG rated lyrics that just compliments the right mood perfectly.

Ironically for me, I enjoy this type of music best when I'm in a good mood, which I guess is the point of this post. Oh well, back to the proverbial square one.

I like the following quote. Very apt. I'm thinking it's particularly poignant for a certain somebody right about now.

"In a real dark night of the soul it is always three o'clock in the morning, day after day."
(F. Scott Fitzgerald (1896-1940), U.S. author.

Just a thought.

It's the little things...

2006-09-11T07:48:00.000+02:00

After the last working week I've had, you too would understand the radio silence.

This past weekend's rest and relaxation out of town was just what the doctor ordered. Well, strictly speaking the doctor also ordered a complete psyche evaluation of me, but let's not get into that right now. Suffice to say that I'm seriously considering a second opinion... or at least an opinion from the people whose voices I hear but never seem to see. My doctor will be the poorer for my lack of patronage. *chuckle*

But seriously, one cannot emphasise enough how important some things are in life. Like the crashing hissing sound of the ocean, the crackling of a roaring fire or, even NO sounds at all. Or a pitch black sky, devoid of all light pollution, puntuated by a billion lights - from horizon to horizon, in every direction. The night sky so big and beautiful it crushes down on you taking your breath away and making you realise simultaneously that you are a very small player in a very big game, and that this is somehow a comfort. Like a barbecue or home cooked meal with close friends who don't mind seeing you talk with your mouth full of food, or an afternoon nap on the sofa with the sun on your face.

Yes, its the little things. Never underestimate the power of these unexpected pleasures. Embrace them. Savour them. It's what keeps us all from taking a semi automatic and shooting some poor unsuspecting Joe standing in line at the post office.

Just a thought.

Hydrotherapy anyone? I wish...

2006-08-29T22:30:00.000+02:00

I can see it now: all over the city people are returning home exhausted but secure in the knowledge that they can soak the trials and tribulations of the day away with some soft music, candles, a glass of wine and a nice cold bath. What's wrong with this picture? Need I ask? I've come to the startling realization that plumbers really believe we enjoy a dearth of hot water during winter.

So, here are a few things I can do without today.

1. Incompetent water and sanitation engineers. Answer the phone damnit!
2. Flimsy excuses that insult my intelligence.
3. Funerals. Enough said - that's a comment for another day.
4. Wasting time away from work.
5. A hole in the head.

Eureka! I've found it! .... with Google.

2006-08-28T16:42:00.000+02:00

I am finally online at home. The PC is sleek and fast, minus the dialup interent connection of course... we wont go there. It'll take toooooo long. This is most definitely the best news I've had in days. It puts a sunny side on amongst other things: My hot water cylinder not working, my car requiring a service, and of course me being ill with a cold and falling behind on my work. Yippee.

All my consultants are busy at the moment...

2006-08-23T08:27:00.000+02:00

Nothing of huge importance today. Granted it's only 8am...

Oh yes, one thing is certain: telephone company service hotlines make me want to repeatedly smash the handset into somebody's head. But the only thing that prevents me from doing that is that I will be forced to make another service call for that problem - in addition to the call to the hospital of course. The annoying on-hold music alone, is enough to make me have a seizure of some kind.

"All our consultants are busy at the moment. Please be patient, your call with be anwered. While you are waiting have you considered:

1. Our new internet rates package? Press 1.
2. Payment options for account holders? Press 2.
3. Smashing this telephone handset repeatedly against somebody's head?
4. Flinging yourself off a cliff?
5. Entertaining the notion that we actually give sh*t about customer service?
6. Flinging yourself off a cliff again?

Your call is appreciated."

Okay speaking of music, my favourite song a this moment is a track called "Never Leave" by Seether. Fantastic 'rock anthem' type sound. A little known fact is that they are a South African band. I'm feeling patriotic already. Pity about the whole drug rehab thingy.

Thank you for small mercies.

Back to work.

Pesky little adaptive behaviours...

2006-08-22T10:58:00.000+02:00

Technology tsk tsk. I posted something yesterday morning but somehow it did not get uploaded. Should have realised this when I did not get the email confirmation.

Annie: Good insights as always. No nerves hit, pinched, stretched or twinged - miraculously even the feathers have remained unruffled. I'm comfortable with my age - I even get mistaken for a 27 year old sometimes. :-P

What I said was that the whole age thing is partially relevant in the sense that with age comes a degree of pragmatism (and adaptive behaviour) due largely to the experiences we have had in our lives. The downside to this is it makes us a little defensive and conservative when faced with change and/or commitment. Well, that's just me I guess. After a couple of long term relationships, you tend to pick up a few scrapes (and bad habits) here and there.

Having said that, I'm not giving up on the idea completely, but I guess I'm in need of a bit of dazzling myself. I just love the freedom I have right now, so sitting on the fence is not chewing into my butt just yet. Just another thought.

The good news is within a few days I'll once again have a computer at home. Hallelujah to that.

Hindsight is 20/20

2006-08-18T07:52:00.000+02:00

I'm having one of those "could of, would of, should of" moments this morning.

Don't ask why. Let's just put it this way: Why is it that people (read: I) are so comfortable committing themselves to romantic situations knowing full well that there is no real future given the timeframe? Yet, when more logistically and circumstantially viable oppurtunities present themselves, we shy away from them. For clarity, I'll refer to the former option as door 1, and the latter (amazingly enough) as door 2.

I know what you're thinking. More banal rhetoric. Guilty as charged.

Look, you don't have to be a psychology major to realise that people are simply fearful of exposing ourselves and getting hurt. Thrown in a healthy(?) dose of commitment phobia for good measure. I'm no stranger to THAT. After a few scrapes, I've realised that the irony of this is that we are quite prepared to take this risk simply because there is an end, an out. An emotional back door, if you will. But in doing so, we drop our guard and then actually start to care. Once that happens, we then still have to let go.

So, my point is this. With all the risks being what they are, why don't we just keep on walking, and put all the effort into door 2 and be done with it.

I know the right answers, it's just a thought.

2006-08-16T14:50:00.000+02:00

Adumski's law of logistics (okay maybe Murphy) : If there are two unrelated but equally important appointments happening on a particular day, they will ALWAYS end up clashing. *groan*

Hypothetical situation (is it EVER really...?)

2006-08-14T18:45:00.000+02:00

Boy meets girl, has a fun time. Boy meets girl again, this time with two friends. Two friends (unbeknownst to each other, and of previous fun time) ask boy for girl's number. Boy likes girl and wants more time to decide, so he asks girl on a date. Girl accepts. What to tell the friends? Discuss.

Don't get me started...

2006-08-14T10:30:00.000+02:00

First things first: Welcome back Annie. Your unique view on the world at large has been sorely missed. It seems that you have the ability to spark dialogue with relative ease. That's a good skill to possess.

After reading about your pet hates, three things are apparent to me at this point. 1. You are prone to impatience. 2. You do not suffer fools gladly and 3. You do not like Motley Crue. I would have to agree whole heartedly with you on this last point. Nobody could be faulted on that. Oh yeah, and if one more stupid Tommy Lee 'home video' gets leaked onto the internet..... etc. You get the picture. So, here are some of the recent things that make the vein in my forehead pulsate.

People who get upset if you forget their name or make them repeat themselves.
People who dont wash after using the bathroom.
People who their cellphones in cimemas.
People who get upset if they know you have screened their call.

And... my favourite at the moment (and this really drives me to distraction):

People who leave voicemail messages saying "When you get this message, call me." WHAT MESSAGE? There's no message! Only the promise of one - if it ever existed at all! If you have something to say, then go ahead and say it. Isn't the point of voicemail to leave a message? I ask this with tears streaming down my face. Under redundant, see redundant...

Okay now that my blood pressure has returned to normal, that is all.

Where in the world is Annie?

2006-08-08T07:44:00.000+02:00

Enough said.

Sweet sanctuary...

2006-08-06T19:23:00.000+02:00

Okay so tonight I'm feeling a little like this (left) right now. Grumpy to say the least. Perhaps some of you can relate. Don't you just love the way your head throbs after a night out and one too many drinks or when you've been working feverishly all Sunday? The sensation of feeling like your head is being squeezed in a vice. What remains is to retreat to the sanctity of my apartment.

Not really sure why I posted this image except that maybe its the only picture I ever took with my phone that actually turned out vaguely interesting. It's of my home city and always reminds me of an album cover or something. Worryingly, I'm starting to ramble on about largely nothing - no feeble philosophical attempts; biting sarcasm, cold cynicism, other any other isms for that matter. Perhaps only exhausted 'idioticisms'. Just maybe. Think happy thoughts. HAPPY THOUGHTS..... oh screw it.

All quiet on the western front?

2006-08-06T14:10:00.000+02:00

Well, its Sunday afternoon and like millions of other professionals do around the world, I am sitting at the office. No, I don't work from home or even run my own business (which could imply that since its your own company, therefore the involvement is 24/7). I am the employed, not the employer.

Okay so one of three things is happening here: 1. I am blessed with a most wonderful drive, enthusiasm and work ethic, instilled in me by my parents and role models. 2. I have no social life and trips to the office on weekends and holidays break the long hours of boredom and depression. 3. I am just not getting through all of my work during the week and now am obliged to give up my free time to catch up. Let's hope its a healthy combination of 1 and 3... but moving swiftly along. I'll have to start working smarter, not harder.

On to a completeley different topic. I might be a bit pedantic about this but don't you just HATE people that insist on spitting in public? Do they feel they owe it to the world to show us the general contents of their mouths, throats, or God knows where else? Almost like a human hairball if you will. "Ghhhhhhggghhh.... Whoa hey guys, look what I just coughed up. Neat huh?". Real smooth.

I understand if you are participating in sport, but just walking down the street? Come on now. Am I crazy or just sounding prudish?

Let's have some pet hates please.

Time for a postmortem...

2006-08-03T18:01:00.000+02:00

This image kind of sums up my week and the kind of carnage (in a passive aggressive sort of way) that transpires at the workplace. Specifically, it's all in the implication. I call it the 'Stephen King cover'. Very dark, brooding, sinister, and yes, somewhat cliched.

I was in Stanley Park, Vancouver, Canada in 2000 and was photographing some American Indian totem poles when I came across this disembodied doll's head lying next to a dark deserted corner of the park. Pure fluke. It's one of those once-off shots where you cant help feeling that it's been staged. I particularly like the little daisy flowers, so often a positive symbol, that feel so out of place here.

A view from the top...

2006-08-03T09:06:00.000+02:00

Today is a good day. I keep telling myself that. Granted, its only been 2 hours. At least the view of downtown from the office is good. Small mercies.

Sorry Annie, not much of interest today - too busy with work. I'll write about that fanfair in due course.

Life's little stories...

2006-07-31T17:16:00.000+02:00

Princess Chaos (I like that name) has asked me to write about my life story. Not a topic I would have chosen myself.

I'm already having visons of people stumbling upon my blog by pure accident and after some minutes of excrutiating pain resulting from reading my tender account of my 5th birthday when my mother (bless her) baked me a cake that looked like a house and nobody arrived at my party; or when I kissed a girl for the first time and she dumped me the next day. I'm certain this will have them diving for the corner of the room to do one or both of two things: ripping the electrical cable from the wallsocket and hanging themselves with it. A bit melodramatic but you get the point.

Ok, I'll think about it.

But the whole kissing thing has got me wondering. Here's another universal rhetorical thought: How times can one get away with kissing a 'platonic' female friend before you run out of shall we say... 'free kiss vouchers'? You know, like food stamps or something.

Thoughts please.

My objective for this week...

2006-07-31T12:56:00.000+02:00

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Mercifully (unlike this little fella), I will be fully clothed. As I write this I can see my colleagues slumping back in their seats in relief with little beads of sweat running down their faces.

Anonymous vs Annie: What the...?

2006-07-28T09:07:00.000+02:00

Keep your guard up, no hitting below the belt, and obey my commands at all time.

Adumski vs Annie: Redirect, your Honour?

2006-07-27T12:08:00.000+02:00

For the record, I have no intention of writing about how and when my underware rides up - much less how it makes me or anyone else feel. The world can do without THAT bit of needless information.

Lets pretend for a moment that I hibernated through the first part of this century. Can you tell me what pop-n-lock is?

Debate is encouraged. Arguing is encouraged. Harrassment is not.

Abba. Toto. Whatever. My musical tastes, although eclectic in nature, do not include the likes of Swedish pop from the 70s. I'd opt for several hours of root canal instead. Somebody once said that sarcasm, sinicism et al is a cheap defense mechanism. I say: WHO CARES?

As for healthy narcisism? Some might argue that's a contradiction in terms - a paradox. I'll admit, this blog business can be mildly entertaining - dare I say inspiring? Time will only tell.

I'll note that you're sticking with honest and vulgar. Brave decision.

Not stoned? You should try it. It may help with the insomnia. Failing that, read my blog.

2006-07-27T08:10:00.000+02:00

I arrived late at work today wondering just how many more times it will take for me to stop mixing late nights and alcohol (expensive food and wine to be precise), and expect to get away with it the next day. Kind of a universal problem for people I guess. (Sorry Annie, bit more rhetoric, but at least its not in the form of a question...)

Having a close friend who is a chef and owns a restaurant is a recipe (no pun intended... okay maybe a little one) for disaster especially on school nights.

Now I realise this is not the most interesting thought. I can almost hear the thud as you crash to the floor after lapsing into a mild coma from boredom. Sadly, its the way I feel right now and its about as good as its going to get today. *groan*

2006-07-26T11:51:00.000+02:00

A friend has asked me why I've not yet posted an proper blog content. Well, I have now.

Okay, okay kind of a stupid response, so as soon as I can think of something insightful or interesting to say or comment on, I'll be sure to jump on the cyber-exhibitionism bandwagon. Yeehaa.

Until then, as one fellow blogger very correctly pointed out: I'll have to stick to rhetoric.

2006-07-21T08:40:00.000+02:00

Why is it so effortless to offer other people good advice about their lives, but so incredibly difficult to apply those same insights in your own?