My Guitar has Wings

Best of Both Worlds

2010-08-18T22:16:00.000+08:00

Ramadhan month is here and the fasting month can bring some latent cravings... I mean, latent interests. I'm talking about food. Cooking food. Or meals that can be experimented on. And I love to experiment to achieve some of those 'best-of-both-worlds' feeling. Here's an example.

A six hour trip to Japan can be uncomfortable if you don't do it right. Somewhere in the 4th hour a nasty cramp took over and pretty much the most unpleasant moment in my plane experience.

It was finally morning and the first thing I ordered was a can of Coca Cola but left it to enter the bathroom. A Stewardess came up to me when she noticed how messed up I look I guess before I entered the bathroom. Then I came out and she appeared with a warm cup of lemonade to ease the dizziness. How thoughtful!

So I sat at my seat with warm lemonade and cold coca cola on my tray. I drank both separately in turns.

The result. Pure happiness. Heaven. Like lemons fell and burst to fill the world with its aroma.

Thank you Singapore Airlines :)

Work Attachment Begins

2010-08-02T22:41:00.000+08:00

It's Semester 3 and it's the time for Student Work Experience where each student is given work placement in select areas in need of specialists looking to improve their skill set. My work attachment? JABATAN PERIKANAN.

First day is doing well. It took some quick understanding of the system and the people who work there. If you have a dad who works in the same ministry but in different departments that pretty much compliment each other (Dad is in Pertanian while I'm in Perikanan, both under Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources), here's the trick: Imagine you are your father. And everything went real smooth.

The funky part is that almost everyone in Fisheries knows my dad. The FUNKIEST part is that I FEEL like my dad.

Hope this goes well. Good luck to the freshies in ITB and the buddies at work attachment this year!

Life in your dreams

2010-07-30T17:41:00.000+08:00

Have you ever felt that during the your last 10 hours of sleep, it felt as if you spent a long period in life? If you've seen Inception, you get the idea. Every time we sleep we, feel as if we endured, felt, and experienced lives we couldn't feel otherwise while awake.

Then you realize how your dreams feel more real?

At times, I want to keep dreaming. Despite what the whole 'The Matrix' concept explains, you have no control of your dreams. I once had dreams of a pack of dogs hacking all over my flesh (of which the phenomenon is explained to be due to the stress accumulated from handling the ITB orientation).

Last night's dream, it was like sitting in the cinema and watching stories unfold that span in periods longer than the 3 hours that you sit in. And you tend to find things that you try hard to capture.

But what I dreamt that night it was beyond anything I could explain. It was by one act that made me remember all of it, and by that one act it was followed by a string of events that would last a lifetime.

THE ACT...

It isn't what you do that makes it memorable, it was the person, that projection of a person in your life, that you shared in your dream.

WAS A KISS.

You wake up and wonder,
did the other dream the same and can dreams be connected?
Why did it have to end?
How can it be real if it never happened.

I'M NOT SAYING WHO...

You know you can never dream it again. You can't have the same dream twice.
Maybe someday I'll sleep forever and I will keep dreaming lifetimes.
In the mean time, I'll live in reality to make dreams come true.

Code 99

2010-07-02T03:33:00.000+08:00

Rugby term to remember: Code 99. Scary when you know it. Scarier if you've seen it. Much scarier if you're in it.

Article from Wikipedia.org:

"In rugby union, the "99" call was a policy of simultaneous attack by the Lions during their 1974 tour to South Africa. The tour was marred by on-pitch violence, which rugby historians partly blame on the tensions of the era which included violence in Vietnam, Ireland, England and Apartheid era South Africa.

Lions' captain Willie John McBride instigated a policy of "one in, all in" - that is, when one Lion attacked, all other Lions were expected to join in the melee or hit the nearest Springbok. By doing so, the referee would be unable to identify any single instigator and so would be left with the choice of sending off all or none of the team. In this respect, the "99" call was extremely successful, as no Lions player was sent off during the tour.

Many players involved in this match called the 'Battle of the Boet' (named after the venue - the Boet Erasmus Stadium in Port Elizabeth, South Africa) have since admitted this was a regrettable 'lowlight' in their careers. Dr Hannes Marais, the captain of the Springbok side has stated the misrepresentation and vilification of South Africans of the time was unfortunate although understandable and had little factual basis on a player to player level. Many critics refer to this match as the dirtiest game in the history of rugby union while it also marks the beginning of ostracism of Apartheid on the sportsfield internationally.

Some argue the Battle of Boet Erasmus Stadium was a precursor to the sentiments that boiled over on the 1981 New Zealand tour. There is famous video footage of J.P.R. Williams running over half of the pitch and launching himself at Johannes van Heerden after such a call, something that Williams says he is not proud of."

So far, I use Code 99 to describe wide scale violence on the pitch. It happens at times and not always pretty to look at. Especially when it goes like the one below.

The Body Remembers

2010-07-02T02:44:00.000+08:00

The mind forgets but the body remembers, I keep telling my comrades.
So it doesn't matter if you lost one year of rugby or more, it always comes back to you.
All that is needed is a bit of hard work, and faith.

The Field

2010-06-25T15:45:00.000+08:00

Fifteen men for the glory of battle

Each wanting their bones to shatter

Eyes alit, sweat drops in rains

The sun blinds us extending our pain.

Brotherhood is a binding contract

Shirts are pulled among their acts

A common cause is what they fight for

The free eight men who struggles ashore.

The other seven wait their turn

Seeing their brothers ready to earn

Their feet in leap ready to fly

Reminding them they're not there to die

The sea of blood, the sea of tears

The fiery landscape of our fears

Bodies burn, hearts afire

All the reason to take me higher.

The field is where I long to be

With my brothers in arms eventually

Let ten or fifty years go past

As long as I am on that field at last.

Names I use for Rugby

2010-06-17T18:21:00.000+08:00

PSYCHOLOGICAL WARFARE
A tactic where the opposition is ridiculed into getting them hot tempered. They either lose focus, or gain yellow card.

TABLE
A straight spear that will knock the flying sh*t out of you.

GANGBANG
It's when three or more tackle one player. HARD.

T-REX TACKLE
Otherwise known as the Dive Tackle. Done in surprise.

HAMMERED
A consecutive number of hits done by the forward pack NON-STOP.

PICK & MIX
Where Backs and Forwards mix up in the defense line.

SKIING
Pulling a shirt and getting dragged by the opposition.

Sarah in Comic Land

2010-06-11T01:56:00.001+08:00

Dear Sarah

Hey honey :) Since you haven't been checking out the blog (although I don't update much hehehe), I'd thought your first reading would be on what you asked me just now in Twitter. That's right: Graphic Novels. I don't have a wide collection but I know some I can recommend for your fun reading :)

Let's begin with my favorites. :D

Dark Knight Returns

The comic narrative style is classic. Doesn't matter if you are lost in the current Batman universe, this book is a worthwhile read. If Batman ever disappeared, this is how he should return: With a Bang. Also, it has an in depth look of what might the world look like in the future of the DC universe.

Dark Knight Strikes Back (aka DK2)

It's a sequel but it doesn't strike much with the first comic. It's colors are blinding and bit of lazy and scattered. Yet, the story itself is epic in proportion. If you've seen how Batman handled the future, what about the other superheroes? Comic Geek Love.

300

If you've seen the movie, why not read the original comic that inspired the film. The colors, the characters, the story, the action... all unaffected by movie censorship standards, in a big book. Plus, it's like carrying a sketch pad in your hands. You'll be amazed at the amount of detail and it's original portrayal.

Watchmen

It's deep with philosophical statements, a satirical novel, a political statement, and a reality check. If superheroes ever existed, is it really good for the world? Why do people where costumes and become vigilantes? Are superheroes really perfect role models. I bet if you saw the film after reading it, you'll fall asleep. Watchmen is a true graphic novel.

Blankets

This is my absolute favorite. Reading it is like reading it for Literature class. The book makes use of a lot of symbolisms, and reading it several times you'll still find some hidden meanings in the images. A love story in connection with religious faith, about growing up and about family. I can write essays about how the characters are similar yet complete opposites to each other. It's a really big book, this is how I like my comic books. Just a relaxing read yet a serious statement.

V for Vendetta

The movie has little to offer compared to this comic when it comes to bringing out the true intentions of the villain named V. Another political satire from the writer of Watchmen and another impressive display of writing skill. If England were to become a Fascist state where citizens are monitored their whole lives, how would one change the country? The movie brought a message of Liberty over Control. The graphic novel explains deeply that it is not just that. It is about ending Order with Chaos.

That is all for now. There are other titles like Bone, Scott Pilgrim, Kick Ass, and more but I'll just leave it to you to explore the great world of graphic novels. It is an adventure :)

Sincerely,

Azzi

As long as you smile, the world shines

2010-06-01T19:45:00.002+08:00

I'm officially off the braces then replaced with a retainer which I can take off anytime. This means to me so much. It's like my confidence came back and I can smile again to people without pulling my lips back. Life is awesome if you have to strength to smile. Exit Braces Enter Retainers :P

I dedicate my 500th post to the PTEB Sixers

2010-05-27T23:50:00.001+08:00

I finally reached the 500th post. Strange that I got here despite the length of updates I have been making. This post, I dedicate to my Sixers. Where Glory Days will never be forgotten.

It's been 2 years since. But you know, I remain eager and confident we'll get back to the field of battle again.

Love and Faith

2010-05-22T19:08:00.000+08:00

I've been wondering about my current stance in love's existence. Despite the number of times I've said that I gave up, it seems evident that I am still unsure of it myself. That's me. Indecisive. It just so happens that I had another of those 'dreams' that talk to me.

You see, there was this girl I met once, and I remember her eyes. It was during one of those days when I has someone else on my mind. Yet, there she was, and I forgot the problems I had then. Can you imagine seeing a glimpse of someone and all your troubles are gone?

Then today, I had this dream and she was sitting on my bed. As to the curious nature of how she got into my room even with the door locked is puzzling, yet in dreams you don't think about this a great deal. I said her name, then she turned her head with a smile on her face. Her eyes were still the same color I remember.

We talked for awhile, laughing at the fact that she was in my room which is impossible. It seemed like a long conversation. Before I could ask how did she get here, she asked me a question that I never expected.

"Do you believe in love?"

I told her I did. She asked why the past tense, of which then I replied:

"My faith in it was gone."

She sighed.

"You still have me in your mind."

How did she know that, I wondered. That was awkward.
I laughed. It was a nice thought that she knew.

"Something inside you", she said, "still believes in it, even if it hurts"
She knew everything, like she understood every part of my life. As a final word, she said:
"You haven't given up on it, even if you try. Your faith is still strong".

To have a dream tell me that was really weird.
Yet it was serious.

"I know I'll never see you again," I said. "I'll wake up and realize it's a dream. I hate that, waking up to the most special memory and forget it. In real life, I know you don't see me the same way I did. Then I will realize why do I still love? It is better if it never occurred to me at all. Yet I still does."

"I'm here right now," she said. "I know you won't forget."

I knew what she meant.
"You kept it alive didn't you."

"So did she," she said.

Hey You

2010-05-07T00:15:00.000+08:00

It’s been awhile, so here it goes…

If you’re here reading, hi.
Thanks for not forgetting me.
I hope that you checking my blog is because you’ve been wondering where I’ve gone missing.

I really want to let you know this:
My heart that day when you stopped talking to me.
That same day, something in me felt like it died.
The next day, I gave up on love, after years of believing in it.
Then I gave up on you, after all these years I thought you’ll be there.

Yesterday, I had a dream. The dream came like a flashback and then I remembered all those good times and forgot all this hate I’ve been accumulating.

It went like this: It was you and me, going down to the canteen and bought some food while I got myself some extra chips. Then after, I fell on this ditch and like, passed out for a few seconds before going noisy on how karma-ish it was. You laughed and we went on after crying for a moment for the chips I spilt.

Then we had our lunch before the next class and I saw how amusing it was seeing you chew with difficulty. We talked and ate, and then when we were finished, we talked some more. I remember you got this smile I really like. But I always remembered your hair. We talked about your hair a lot, vividly I remember how long it was.

When the dream ended, all the anger on you was still there, but this time a bit relaxed.

I thought about the difference of my life with you in it, and my life without you in it. But I get it. When this happened, it gave an opportunity for me to search myself. You know, basic ‘find whole reason to being’ stuff, what you really mean to me, and why I could never put you off my mind. I think I’m close to the answer.

I wish I could tell you about Japan. It was your dream too.

And you know, the moment I was in Japan and breathed in the spring air it was a journey start to healing. Yet, it was the flowers that helped me.

My heart healed the moment I saw the blossoms.

Wished you were there with me.

I hearts Siobhan

2010-03-20T23:03:00.002+08:00

I got 2 more days until Japan yet there are still things I'm worried about. One of them is the question whether they watch American Idol there. I thought about checking the TV schedules there but then I can't read Japanese, but at least they don't sing Japanese in Idol!

Siobhan Magnus remains hot in Idol. The Rolling Stones theme week got me excited but my most favorite performance was Siobhan's interpretation of Paint in Black. Not my particular favorite Rolling Stones song but she rocked anyway. No, better than rock. SHE WAS AWESOME.

The end caught me by surprise again like the way she did Aretha Franklin's Think. I hope she wins Idol. I don't care if people say there are certain exceptional qualities needed to win Idol. She's quirky, surprising, and has the best voice among all the finalists.

Sakura Blooming

2010-03-20T10:09:00.002+08:00

My sis sent this picture through Email. It's a picture of Sakura tree getting ready to flower.

It may not be a pretty sight, winter ended after all, but once the spring comes the flowers bloom exquisitely and you'll see that heaven fell on earth in the form of Cherry Blossoms.

Snakes

2010-03-19T08:58:00.000+08:00

This has been a stressful month for me.

Faza says its stated in the chinese horoscope, that the snake's fortune would lower in the beginning before it could rise. Stating the evidence, three of us on the table then were born in 1989, therefore are under the year of the Snake and are facing stressful situations.

I remember that Snakes were worshipped as Gods and one of the beliefs was that their long body acts as a link between heaven and earth. I thought a lot about Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec feathered snake deity. But I though most about the serpent in the bible. It's interesting how the serpent was a God of Fertility then became the symbol of temptation.

I remember reading Paradise Lost and felt sympathy for the devil.

Inspirational Quotes from a Rugby Brother

2010-03-16T19:25:00.001+08:00

"Where ever I walk, I aim for the skies"

An almost accurate translation of Saffuan Muhammad Ali's Facebook status. There can be no other true sentence to our ambitions.

"Dimana bumi ku pijak, Disitu langit ku junjung"

After all these years, I finally stopped

2010-03-14T21:47:00.000+08:00

I've been contemplating a lot about my life with you in it.

I remember you calmed me when my anger made me a beast to everyone and you were there making me human again. You leaned your head on my shoulders, you let me sift through you hair, you let me trust you infinitely. I wondered then what is life like again without you?

But you never let me say I love you, even though you knew it to be true.
I kept the feeling in my heart for years to come, waiting for the day you would accept finally what I have said to you. Even though, the hopelessness of dream prevents the day to come.

And today, I decided to stop loving you. After all these years, I finally stopped.

I find myself with deep regret and relief.

Market Cannibalization

2010-03-09T05:54:00.000+08:00

I think I just found my favorite word in Marketing yesterday. It's called Cannibalization under Market Segmentation.

It's when one segment of the market eats up all the profits made from the other profits even though money is equally spent to improve each of them, creating more liabilities than profits.
However, this is how it ended up,

Ms Dyla: "Ok, class. What is the meaning of Cannibalization?"
Me: *hand raised* "It's when you're hungry and you're desperate"

Ms Dyla: "Actually, Ziggy's analogy is correct."
Me: "WHAT??"

Lol!

Paol got a 42" LCD TV

2010-03-08T18:03:00.001+08:00

This was old news but I just checked out Ranoadidas.com and saw my uncle's picture. LOL! Maybe I should go to his house and spend hours on with the PS3 bwhahahaha. It's surprising too! He won an XBOX 360 last year I think for another quiz

"Second place winner Hj Mohd Hairol Hj Sani took home a LG 42' LCD TV, along with an exclusive Manchester United jersey signed by Ryan Giggs."

Yes, my uncle is a diehard football fan. And a wrestling fan lololol!

Thanks Rano for the coverage :)

Belait Tens, or On being 'Iron Tabled'

2010-03-07T22:39:00.000+08:00

I just got back from the Belait Tens with Sunburn, Cuts and Bruises. Today, I got tackled real hard by Eazy. I remember giving him a nickname "The Iron Table" and I only just remembered after the impact.

Khai didn't see it would lead to a hospital pass, his back was turned around then without knowing Eazy had me marked and came for me. That split second, it felt everything went slow motion. Dizzy and shaking from the tackle, unaware of my surroundings.

I got up and tried to move even while winded before I was told to leave the field to be replaced by a sub.

Saffuan pulled me up really. He reminded me to always get up, that is what heart is. Once the game ended, I walked one round the arena thinking about the moments before the tackle and what I could have done. I got back to Saffuan after relaxing my thoughts and breaths.

Me: "Three guys tried to rip the ball off my hands just now, I didn't let go"
Saffuan: "Before, it was four guys."
Me: "It was five guys then!"

Thank you Saffuan for the support and always reminding me to remain head high.

Having to have survived the massive tackle got me some praise. Especially from Coach, "What I am most impressed is Ziggy. He got tackled real hard but was still playing." Even Cliff said, "If there was a player of the day, it would be Ziggy." And my heart lifted."

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the Belait Tens. Competing with and against my rugby brothers was a great honor. I've also greatly improved my own tackling skills this year. Thank you and Congratulations Pythons, BYOB, and Miri Rhinos. You guys remain awesome. I look forward for another scrum with Pythons and Rhinos, maybe someday.

The funniest I've heard today. LOL!

Me: *stating the obvious to Lim* "You know you get sunburn when your own sweat starts stinging your face"
Referee: *aside* "I think he meant it as a philosophical statement."

Courtroom visit

2010-03-06T23:34:00.000+08:00

Thank you Mr Siva for the field trip to the Courts. It was an awesome learning experience!

Anyway, I told mom today I'm going to court because I hit a car and she was like "WHAT??" but then I was joking. It was a visit to the Magistrate's Court and the Attorney General's Chambers to understand the law system. It was great, but being in that courtroom was sublime. It kinds of make me feel like being a Criminal Lawyer LOL!

Got new boots today. Booyah!

I'm currently excited. Tomorrow is the Belait Tens which I really enjoyed last year and can't wait to come back again.

So this year, I can't wait. ITB players get their debut, UBD focusing to win, this is going to be awesome!

My allowance is out!

2010-03-05T23:16:00.001+08:00

I finally got my cash back in the bank. After waiting for a month, which felt honestly like a long time, I am now able to pay my debts, save for Japan and purchase items that I am currently planning to buy.

First of all, this month is my Rugby boots's anniversary. Surprisingly, in this month is when they break and buy new ones. My boots have a life expectancy of 1 year apparently. So yes, I'm planning to get a new pair before the Belait Tens Tournament this Sunday.

I'm also planning for a hair cut. Back to the buzz cut or to the flat top again?

There are also these videogames I want to buy but I'll have to wait until I come back to Japan to buy them. Just one, I mean, it's a difficult choice. Heavy Rain, BioShock 2, or GOW3? I can't buy all of them at once.

Charity? I treated Zani and Aira for a movie today :)

Oh, I promised Ellwyna we hang out once my allowance is out. Yay!

Pick Up the Guitar

2010-03-05T09:05:00.000+08:00

Here's to a good friend of mine, who knows me longer than most people and it's pretty much like a sister to me.

You said that you could take in what ever I said, but I do not have the stomach to say it to you, especially with people you surround with that you listen mostly than me. So I preferred a different medium to tell you how I felt, what I needed, and what I wished. I started blogging again. And so here are my thoughts:

I wished you would need not to depend on people a lot. You have your friends comfortably around you but what if there's no one to help you someday? What if you got into a state of helplessness and no one is around to help you? I mean, I can't be there for you every time. I got my own shit to think over every day, and to have to worry about you all the time is a promise I couldn't give.

But that wasn't the only reason I stayed away.

In truth, when I look at you I think of all the horrible feelings you gave me. And I hated them, I hated them to the point I would rather not see you again. I did, but would you have me regret that decision? I care dammit! It's so hard to think that you broke me even when you asked for my help, to able to reach that capability of inhumanity that you have bestowed on me. What am I to you anyway? A Pawn? A Prop? A decoration? A Wheel?

But then I do get worried for you. I don't know, the years we've known each other must be at fault. I only showed you the support you wanted, the understanding, an open ear you needed, but no. You never thought about them. Sometimes I think you're only an attention seeker but I know that you are not as worst as that. I know you are struggling between being babied and being independent and I totally understand. There's a never ending inner battle of personalities in your head but you needed someone to take the responsibility of your indecision.

Now, your asking for me. In a time where my loyalty and sacrifices will be put to the test. If you cannot respect these, then I'm sorry. You are asking for the impossible.

Pick up that guitar, go on stage alone with a mic stand while facing a crowd, and sing just for yourself, not for anybody. Because you don't really need me. You needed confidence. I believe in you and that is enough to give you the confidence you needed.

With courage and confidence, you have the ability to move forward anywhere.

Siobhan Magnus

2010-03-04T20:49:00.001+08:00

I think I'm starting to like American Idol again. Last year's American Idol didn't work for me (maybe it's because Danny Gokey didn't get at least top 2, heheheh T_T). I heard someone singing With Arms Wide Open on TV and being a fan of Creed made me run towards the living room, surprising even my mom.

I enjoyed Katelyn Epperly's The Scientist cover. I love Coldplay, and the way she sang it gave it the song's needed effect, a feeling of longing and it was perfect.

The performance that I LOVED TO DEATH was Siobhan Magnus's rendition of Aretha Franklin's Think. She just puts so much personality on her singing, I enjoyed every bit of it! Especially the part when she reached the "Freedom" then that HIGH PITCHED NOTE knocked me off my socks! GOSH you should watch the youtube video down there to better understand I mean.

ENJOY

Netball lol!

2010-03-04T11:34:00.000+08:00

I was invited to play Netball in UBD by Jal. It felt weird because I still got my rugby skills affecting the playing. Well, yeah long story short, I suck at Netball. Fun game nevertheless.

I'm a bit concerned with one of the rugby girls. I don't know what's up with her but she's been really unresponsive lately, maybe angry or sad, God knows. I believe I should take care of my club member's well-being. I guess that's the responsibilities of a club president I guess.

Take care you, when you need something to get off your chest, I'm all ears.

Sunshine School 2001 Graduates

2010-03-02T21:24:00.000+08:00

I'm currently hunting down my old batch mates during Primary School. It was a favor from Teacher Ramchan for Sunshine School's 25th Anniversary reunion. Since we all didn't have a proper reunion yet, I guess this is one chance to bring everyone back together after 9 years.

Any friends from Sunshine School reading this, I set up a group in FB. Just go to this link: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=327430497513&ref=mf

This year is Sunshine School's 25th Anniversary and they plan to celebrate it by having all the students in 1985-2010 for a reunion. So my job is to get as many of them from Facebook and bring them together again.

Check this Link:
http://news.brunei.fm/2010/02/13/sunshine-school-turns-25/

I met some old faces, some of them I remember while some remembered me. Faces changed over the years but we could still recognize each other. When Teacher Ramchan gave me the list of names, it gave me a sense of nostalgia.

So readers, help me out if you know them I shortened their names to make it easier.

I'm missing:
Ahmad Firdaus
Azim Othman
Rahimuddin
Amirul fadeli
Afiq Hj Masmin
Kasyfi Hj Zaharuddin
Arifullah Hj Abd Ghani
Ha'adi Hj Mhd. Fadillah
Omar Qayyum
Adib Junaidi
Azmi Nasir
Fadhil Mat Salleh
Hakiim PA Badiodzaman
Richard Godfrey F. Ret
Dylz Aiuddin
Afifah Atikah Pg Hj Ismail
Afifah Hanisah Pg Ismail
Lea S. Genelsa
Miss Tan Mui Kim
Asmah Basir
Afiqah Harun
Afiqah Latip
Ainulhakimah Awang Mahmud
Azimah Zahari
Azimah Hamid
Hazwani Ahmad
Fitri Nadiah Abd Rajak
Haziqah Hanapi
Kamilah
Qomariyah Sibah
Sally Isal
Amalina Zainal abidin
Hamizah Husin
Mar Atussholiha Mohd. Hisa
Afiqah Aminin
Zeshelie Ann L. Chi

But in the group there is already:
Atiqah Ismail
Atiqah Rahman
Shahrizan
Rina Kassim
Mimiet Zabidi
Fydah Junaidi
Haziq Jezta
Syara Don
Raihana HMD
Yusri HBB
Nadirah Noordin
Rafaa Nur Ranie
Max Latif (Zani apparently)
Dee Ismail
Asymawi Ibrahim
Nabilah D Alias
Aqidah

Those who haven't joined yet:
Jannah
Izzati Hj Omar
'Ainaa Hamid
Aimi Jeffry
Terence Sea
Fadzli HS
Hafiz Abdullah
Raheem Sofrey
Dini Hanani
Lynn
Farha'an Sidek
Arif Ebil
Amal Nabilla
Lala Yussof

Those who I found but hasn't joined the group at the moment:
Fakrurazi Hj Hidup
Tajul Ariffin
Dominic Chong

The Meaning of Rugby

2010-03-02T01:39:00.000+08:00

Someone asked me today, "What is the meaning of Rugby?"
"It's about respect," I said. "Discipline, Competition, Willpower, Brotherhood, Fun..."
"I can put as many words on what Rugby means, but I would say Rugby is Life."
"Why?", He said.
"I don't know. It's hard to explain Rugby. You get hurt and it's ok. You get up and you keep running. It's that very idea that every action you do in Rugby is symbolic in some way. I've played it for four years. I guess, Rugby gave me a special meaning."
"What is it like getting tackled?", he made his final inquiry.
I said, "It's like getting your first breath of fresh air."

I believe when you get tackled you get reborn. You win, you become immortal.

Massive Headaches

2010-03-01T22:55:00.001+08:00

I'm back again. I spent so much mini-blogging in Twitter, I came back to Blogger after a few months.

Today I finished my Business Computing 2 Test. I am now officially in Semester Break.
But I can't seem to get rid of the functions of excel out of my head.

Like the formula using IF Function
=IF(E25="A",F25*12.00,IF(E25="B",F25*10.00,F25*8.50))
I can't believe I could remember all that 12 hours later!

I got hit in the neck during rugby training, which left me with a headache after. Always warm up your neck thoroughly before any contact.

There was this big public marital argument while I was at the gerai. It's best not to stare at these situations but we had to hear all of it. There was a lot of screaming and it was disheartening to listening. Even the Nasi Katok I ate didn't taste as great as I wanted it to.

Life is ugly at times. There are times where we couldn't do anything. We sit and watch and only sympathize. Its the honest truth, even if we stood up and tried to stop the fighting, we can't do anything about it. It'll only make things worst.

I just wished they didn't do it in public.

Today, Yean sent a heartfelt message in FB of which I didn't know how to reply. It was tough because it was a question about friendship and commitment. I'm now writing a song with my spanish guitar which I named Mephistopheles just so I could find an answer.

Music helps in many ways. It could even save a life.

"Masih Cinta" by Kotak

2009-11-09T21:22:00.003+08:00

When Yean sang this song during the gig I attended, it made me watch teary eyed because it reminded me of how I felt years before. Until now, I've been listening to Bon Jovi's Always but this reflected most on my what I'm most sad about. All because of a dream I had. But it wasn't just tears of sadness, it was also of how proud I am of Yean. She delivered the song with emotion and it filled the theatre with feelings of love and the reminder of loss.

What better way to explain a song than listening to it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdym2AAmOqs

Tik tik tik waktu berdetik 
Tak mungkin bisa kuhentikan 
Maumu jadi mauku 
Pahit pun itu ku tersenyum

Kamu tak tahu rasanya hatiku
Saat berhadapan kamu

Tik tik tik air mataku 
Biar terjatuh dalam hati 
Mauku tak penting lagi 
Biar kubuat bahagiamu

Kamu tak tahu rasanya hatiku
Saat berhadapan kamu 
Kamu tak bisa bayangkan rasanya 
Jadi diriku yang masih cinta

Kamu tak tahu hancurnya hatiku 
Saat berhadapan kamu 
Kamu tak bisa bayangkan rasanya 
Jadi diriku yang masih cinta

Update:
I forgot the Translation. Here we go.

Tik Tik Tik time ticks
Impossible for me to stop
What you want becomes what I want
Even bitter ones I'll still smile

You don't know what my heart feels
The moment I'm standing in front of you

Tik Tik Tears from my eyes
Let it fall in my heart
What I want doesn't matter
Let me make you happy

You don't know what my heart feels
The moment I'm standing in front of you
You couldn't imagine the feeling
Like myself while I'm still in love

You don't know my heart broke
The moment I'm standing in front of you
You couldn't imagine the feeling
Like myself while I'm still in love

A Letter from Myself

2009-11-05T23:05:00.000+08:00

I received a letter from myself. I wrote it during the ITB orientation where I listed some goals then kept with Ckg Azizah for safe keeping. Now I have it in my hands after a difficult six months I am happy to find I have fulfilled most of them.

One of them I wrote: Draw a Map so that no one would get lost like you did.

Hallway looked like another hallway during my first day however eventually you do tend to get comfortable with the place and find that it is easy to know where you are. Another I wrote: Get a Distinction or two of which I have for my Communication Presentation. But the jewel of these goals is Start a Rugby Team and I did. The ITB Silverbolts Rugby Football Club who are already gaining some popularity among the departments and ready to conquer in the next year.

Now I have a new goal to add in my list: Pass my Exam and move to Semester 2. It'll be a hell lot of practice, at least it's for the sake of success. Then the next year, my goal would be to bring The Silverbolts to bring the blaze of glory.

Bon Jovi 'Always'

2009-11-01T23:34:00.001+08:00

This Romeo is bleeding
But you can't see his blood
It's nothing but some feelings
That this old dog kicked up.

It's been raining since you left me
Now I'm drowning in the flood
You see I've always been a fighter
But without you I give up.

Now I can't sing a love song
Like the way it's ment to be
Well I guess I'm not that good anymore
But baby that's just me.

And I will love you baby always
And I'll be there forever and a day always
I'll be there till the stars don't shine
Till the heavens burst and the words don't rhyme
And I know when I die you'll be on my mind
And I'll love you always.

Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some that made us laugh
Some that made us cry
One that made you have to say good bye.

What I'd give to run my fingers through your hair
To touch your lips to hold you near
When you say your prayers try to understand
I've made mistakes I'm just a man.

When he holds you close
When he pulls you near
When he says the words
You've been needing to hear
I'll wish I was him, that his words were mine
To say to you till the end of time.

That I will love you baby always
And I'll be there forever and a day always
If you told me to cry for you I could
If you told me to die for you I would
Take a look at my face
There's no price I won't pay
To say these words to you.

Well there ain't no luck in these loaded dice
But baby if you give me just one more try
We can pack up our old dreams and our old lives
We'll find a place where the sun still shines.

And I will love you baby always
And I'll be there forever and a day always
I'll be there till the stars don't shine
Till the heavens burst and the words don't rhyme
And I know when I die you'll be on my mind
And I'll love you always.

Emotional Playlist

2009-11-01T22:34:00.000+08:00

I categorized my songs into moods in my iPod and one of them I called the Emotional playlist. The Playlist contains only songs that in some way have affected me emotionally and I would have categorized them mostly into the relaxing music playlists if it were not for the baggage the music carries. I see music as a form of communication to the listener in manipulating their sense. I believe that songs that make you 'feel' are the best songs, but that is dependent on the special meaning to the listener themselves individually.

Here is the list of some songs that I have placed in the Emotional Playlists.

Bon Jovi
Always
"I will love you baby always and I'll be there forever and a day"

Bon Jovi are pioneers in Rock Ballads. Their lyrics on romance are sweeter than any rock cupid can deliver. 'Always' has a special place in many hearts for the heart wrenching tear shedding chorus, especially to those could not stop loving.

Best time to listen: When you feel down and thinking of that special person.

Bruce Springsteen
The Wrestler
"Have you ever seen a one trick pony in the field so happy and free?"

It's a tribute to those people who dangers their lives for the sake of others but are unnoticed, burnt out and exhausted. It was played after the ending of The Wrestler and those who understood the protagonist would have felt the same as I did. That is when the screen went black and the song played, once the credits start rolling you shed tears for The Wrestler.
Best time to listen: After watching The Wrestler.

Danny Gokey
You are so Beautiful to me
"Can't you see you're everything I need"

The most perfect simple ballad to the person you are in love with. Can you imagine yourself sitting down as you stare into her eyes and sang this song the way Danny did? To carry the heavy load of your love and release it into a powerful voice full of energy.

Best time to listen: When you are in love and you find yourself sitting down outside as the cool breeze engulfs you in emotions.

Dewa 19
Dewi
"Dewi, kaulah hidup ku. Aku cinta pada mu sampai mati."

One of the two malay songs in the playlist. 'Dewi' was popular for its jazzy tune mixed in as a rock ballad. Dewi in English means Goddess and the song, like 'Always' is for those who can't stop loving.

Best time to listen: On your bed trying to catch some sleep.

Ella
Demi
"Didalam bagaikan benih yang belum bernyawa"

It's about a woman in love. She describes her feelings in an ovarian reference, giving in some way a sense of feminism of which relates perfectly with Ella. The lyrics above is translated as "Inside is like a seed waiting for life".

Best time to listen: If you want to listen to songs with lyrics that are unusual but unique in a special way.

Lia
Feel like Girl
"Do you remember what you said to me, it's been ringing in my heart"
Sang by a Japanese singer with some really good English. The words deliver and in somewhat a tribute to the Anime of which it is played in, you do feel like a child again. Ironically, it was played during the famous survival game, a gun battle on school campus.
Best time to listen: When you feel like a girl. Or better yet, when you watch the second season of School Rumble.

Oasis
Stop Crying your Heart out
"'Cause all of the stars are fading away. Just try not to worry. You'll see them someday"
It's meant to cheer you up when you are in great loss. It tells you not to worry and that someday you'll try again. When you have friends crying, give them a hug and sing in a whisper to their ear. Tell them all will be fine.
Best time to listen: When you feel sad and are unsure on what to do. In some way, the song gives you an answer.

Paramore
The Only Exception
"When I was younger I saw my daddy cry and curse at the wind."
It's about finding faith in love again. The song instantly gains your focus from creating sympathy in the beginning of the song but the hook of the song is the sweet and honest chorus. In my opinion the song is amazingly honest, has the perfect song structure and is one of the great examples of impressive songwriting. A good song to listen to for ages.
Best time to listen: When you are enjoying the rain. The ambience is perfect.

I said in my previous post that I enjoy listening to my iPod when it is raining at daytime. So when it starts pouring and the cool comforting breeze starts blowing, have a listen to some of the songs and maybe you'll enjoy it the way I do.

The Nonexistent Simple life

2009-11-01T10:22:00.000+08:00

I wonder why people view other people simple? Is it our natural behavior to generalize everyone so we find ways to treat them accordingly, regardless of the individual differences? For example, if a person cares less in sharing certain interests, you treat the person as an outcast therefore hostile.

Life is not that simple and people tend to forget.

We are not exactly the most pure beings in the universe despite our ability to advance in record time. I once met a girl whose attitude towards religion has been conservative but of course temptation does seem to have a powerful affect on people and pregnancy seemed to her as her own armageddon. She kept her faith up but why do people lose theirs towards her?

Remember readers, next time you see a person who for some reason you have expressed a kind of dislike towards him or her just by looking, put yourself in their shoes and see the world the way they see it. Keep an open mind but retain your dignity. You must not forget that you are different but no different to the people around you. Stereotyping is disgusting.

Thank you for reading.

Blood and Rain

2009-10-31T18:06:00.000+08:00

It was raining heavily today. Hours ago I was standing with my arms crossed and my earphones on as I listened to the amplitude of the rain complimenting the music I had played on my iPod. My iPod was on shuffle when it played by chance Paramore's The Only Exception of which was perfect to match the cool relaxing breeze of the air then.

Arms up, I remember the scene in Shawshank Redemption when Tim Robbin's character emerges from the dreadful sewers from the prison he escaped from. He shapes himself in a cross like form as he embraces the cold rain and his freedom.

I enjoy reliving classic movie moments. A bad habit caused by the uncontrolled imagination housed in my head.

Today people came to donate blood. Despite it's frequent gruesome use in the media, blood is life in a way that you give and take. Donating blood clears a conscience from the knowledge that through the act of giving your own blood will or may save another's life.

I couldn't because with all the stress I've accumulated the previous week, my blood pressure was higher than normal. Therefore, ineligible.

Which is true. It comes with acceptance of being able to study for an High National Diploma. Stressful days are common in ITB and if you find yourself free from assignments and other tedious work then it is considered a luxury and you are fortunate.

I've got one more homework to do.

Thank you for reading.

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-10-31T03:29:00.000+08:00

It's mom's birthday today so we ate dinner at The Airport Restaurant to celebrate. Did I mention it was also my parents' wedding anniversary yesterday? In any case it is an inevitable fact that we came home with full stomachs and the urgency to run straight to the toilets to flush out the food excessively eaten to make room for a possible midnight snack.

Another inevitable fact is that people ask me how old my mom is, of which I always reply how seriously I lost count. Truthfully, I do remember her age but her closest friends will tell you she doesn't look her age. Let's lay it to rest and use that explanation, yes?

Happy Birthday mom. Have a good one.

Rot

2009-10-30T14:41:00.000+08:00

I have this overwhelming anger clouding my mind. I'm quickly losing concentration and school hasn't been the most friendliest of places. Mostly it's because of the people I'm surrounded with, a couple of children who can't do things themselves and always dependent on the sufferings of people.

I should have turned my back on them instead of bowing to their needs.

Let them all rot if I care.

Presentations, Legends and Silverbolts.

2009-10-30T09:28:00.000+08:00

I'm now done with my two presentations for CO and BC1. I now have a week of tranquility and peace. I had this tremendous migraine during my presentation on Subliminal Messages in Advertising of which is caused unknown.

BC1 presentation on How Technology helps with Business Operations, however, I delivered with a clear head but an unexpected event where my foot had struck a cable connected to the computer monitor had short circuited the projector and the splitter connected to it, forcing the rest of groups presenting to move to the other computer lab.

Why of all people who had stepped on that platform where the cable protrudes I have to be the unlucky one to break it? The heaviest maybe. In the end a burnt mark where the cable formerly resides is now a reminder to everyone to look where you are walking.

It is the best of times, it is the worst of times.

In any case, I've been Tweeting my outbursts and everyday stories in Twitter.com of which now I believe is very addictive.

Other than that, I can now sit down in front of the television with the PS3 controller in my hand and play Brutal Legend. It's a rock ballad for all the heavy metal fans who can't shake the metal out of their blood. Yes, the metal will remain in our blood for the years to come.

Speaking of blood. The Silverbolts have been getting quite a turnout from those registered and the curious ones. I believe we now have 14 men and 16 women in our team and from those I got to know recently had already developed a kind of love for Rugby. I've also been elected president for the newly formed club. We'll see how the team will survive in the coming harsh years of assessments, assignments, group studies, research and other tough loving courseworks given to us in ITB.

But then, the thing about Rugby is it lets you forget all the stress and pressures of school. More like curl it into a ball and releasing it in the form of athletics and determination to play the most intense sport in the world.

As an ending note, if you want to make a good presentation please refrain yourself from reading cards or paper where your notes are scribbles. You can't make a good presentation from just reading. It involves engaging the people listening to you and watching as you make your point. Therefore engage the audience, not the paper. At least keep a small piece from your notepad in case you forget what to say. Luckily I have my trusty iPod in case anything gets too dull.

Thank you for reading.

PSP go

2009-10-16T01:07:00.000+08:00

Caught the dudes in the Computing Dept. playing their PSPs. Cool part is one of them had the latest PSPgo in his hands playing PixelJunk Monsters in Multiplayer. It looks really small, can connect to the PSN to download games, no UMD and looks wickedly good.

I have no plan to get one. Instead I am devoting myself to getting an iPod Nano so I can spend all the stressful wasteful times listening to music. PSP and NDS war still goes on here. lol! Seriously though, it's as small as Dad's handphone :)

Form 3's Last Tuition Class

2009-10-11T23:38:00.001+08:00

This morning I gave the Form 3 some more practice before their English Language exams tomorrow. Still playful but improving. I can only pray that they'll do well in their exams. LOL! They even asked if they could join my rugby team after the exams. Pass first!

Good luck and don't forget your tenses, good handwriting, structure, grammar, punctuation etc etc. In a Saffuan-ish voice: Become a pilot. LOL!

IMTS Farewell Gig

2009-10-11T23:34:00.000+08:00

Dan texted me about the IMTS farewell gig last night. I really like the Snakes. Their music is always inspiring and impressive, especially live. I guess I still feel sad since most of the people I know left for the UK. I'm looking forward for their Album if they release it.

Also met Keem, Fae and Nisa surprisingly along with her friend Arni is it? Anyway, good to be back with my old friends after being holed up in ITB. Yes, assignments to do and exams to revise.

Neon Love...

Peaceful Saturdays and After School Lectures

2009-10-11T22:18:00.000+08:00

It was a quiet Saturday in the morning. Everyone is discussing their tutorials and lectures and the presentation assignments they are effortly trying to finish on time. Saturdays are always peaceful in school for me. That day I came to school and realized everyone is wearing their malay clothes and I thought they held the Raya celebration early. My mistake, I forgot that for this lecture you had to wear smart. So Blue Cards in the ready and my handphone camera in hand, here are some pictures on the seemingly festive atmosphere despite the lecture being of serious matter. At least the meals were great.

For some reason Blogger is working on the Internet Explorer but not Mozilla Firefox and Safari. Why?!

Wassup with my Blogger?

2009-10-11T02:53:00.000+08:00

Testing Testing one two three. Please tell me my Blogger wasn't Hacked! I can't post any pics now. :(

Snow Leopard

2009-10-08T14:25:00.002+08:00

I upgraded my Mac OS X last month just in time for my birthday. You can find it Av Electronics by now, but last time I was there it sold out. The Snow Leopard (or the Mac OS X 10.6 ) is no different than its Operating System predecessor (The Leopard OS X) but many who passionately bought it will tell you that it is worth its money (quoting from Naddy here).

Well, first of all it is faster. I mean really fast. It loads pretty quickly, something to do with accessing the processor I think, and it also upgrades all the other applications (excluding the ILife that is already installed) such as the Quicktime, Safari and the ITunes. The new Quicktime is wicked and Safari is lightning fast with its new features too. I don't think have any words in mind to describe it, sometimes you've got to see it for yourself.

I'm already attached to the Macbook so I added some applications like the flash game Flow, a Twitter app, the videogame Spore and last but not least Skype of which looks really amazing on the Macbook.

Now the WiFi is fixed, I can now blog away anywhere at home with my handy macbook under my fingertips.

IPod Nano

2009-10-07T21:45:00.003+08:00

I've been thinking about these really thin aluminum pieces a lot lately. Every time I enter AV Electronics my focus tends to wander at the IPods since I got the Macbook. Actually, even before the thought of owning a laptop, my mind was already spinning through the rainbow of Nanos.

What pulls a person to the IPod? Is it its sleek design, the futuristic look, the numerous features, the amazing sound, the clear screen, the large number of songs, its internet capabilities, the personality of its colors, the earphones, the small pocket size, the mobility, and so on?

There will be a day. What I can only do is pray. What more I can say. Except Rhyme away.

Ping.fm

2009-10-06T18:26:00.002+08:00

I signed up in this website called Ping.fm and I really like it. It's neat because how it works is it updates your blogger, Tweets and Facebook status in one single website, even simultaneously. I recommend you give it a try at http://ping.fm/ then add up the networks you want to update. It kind of helps in removing the tediousness of visiting each website just to updates your statuses.

The fun part? I typed up this post in Ping.fm :)
The not-so-fun? I had to post the image in Blogger again. But good things come to those who wait right? I'm sure it's possible some day. It's the future anyway.

2009-10-06T17:52:00.001+08:00

Trying out Ping.fm to see if its awesome as they say.

20th Birthday Cake

2009-10-04T01:21:00.001+08:00

There were two chocolate cakes during my 20th Birthday, both with mine and Zani's names on delicious chocolate. We started on the first cake when Saffuan T-Rex arrived with candles lit up and brought to Zani much to his surprise. We sang the Birthday song but the candles were already blown off by the air conditioner. It's not so bad because the chocolate cake was delicious enough to die for.

We were already munching half of the cake when we forgot to take the picture. You could see part of the flat chocolate bitten off by moi. Happy Birthday to Zani and I even though its already a week. I'm thinking of getting myself a birthday gift once my allowance arrives. An IPod would be nice unless there's somebody being generous *hint*

Khairul Cut his Hair

2009-10-03T14:13:00.000+08:00

Anyone who misses Khairul's signature hair and his obsession in getting in right (joking dude!) will have to wait for it to grow back. What a way to liven the mood before our Business Statistics test. Anyone notice how much he looks like Zani?

LOL!

An Eagle at my Window

2009-10-03T07:19:00.000+08:00

In one cool sunny afternoon, the heat had already died down from the light refreshing rain. Once the rain had stopped, the sun begins to show itself again. Revealing a wondrous creature outside my window.

It was difficult to classify whether it was some pigeon that decided to hang around at my house. I looked at it with great admiration before it flew away. It's white crown, and its sharp claws had given it the majesty of its appearance. However, once it spread its wings and flew I know what I saw.

An eagle. A symbol of power.
I take this as a sign for all great things to come.

Hello again

2009-10-01T20:38:00.000+08:00

Now that I changed my address, I can now stop worrying about my outdated blog address. I mean, seriously. The Zeolot Diary was some thing I came up with in Form 3. It'd be a pretty awkward name now that I am studying HND.

It's like a breath of fresh air I guess now that I'm blogging again. A lot has happened between my last post and today. First of all, I turned 20 last Saturday. ^^ The big 2-0 is not as scary like what people say. I do look forward to 21 though, just hope it's not crazy. We celebrated by holding an open house during Raya, so its alot of work. Alot of our friends came along and we had all this food that when the day ended we got to enjoy it while it lasts.

Paramore's new album came out a few days ago. I got to listen to it on my macbook and I love it. You could see the change. If Riot is all energy, then Brand New Eyes is all emotion. I won't forget All we know is Falling, that's still a kick-ass awesome first album. I can already imagine myself in a Paramore concert joining in voice with the rest of the audience singing to The Only Exception.

Also, there's the blackouts. I haven't had this much sweat since I played rugby. Three days straight, even in school I was sweating a lot. Especially on Tuesday. You could feel all the perspiration steam all over the roof in the lecture room (air-con's busted, been like that since we arrived). Poor Maya, pray she'll be alright.

Spore is now on my mac. I'm going crazy on it but once I reached the space age, it's way out of my league. However, I still get to make my creature look badass. Named it after the one-hundred armed giants in greek mythology, but that doesn't mean I gave it a hundred arms!

And finally, its the first of October. How many friends have left? I do feel guilty not seeing them off but I do get really upset with all those goodbyes. So I apologize, but let me know when you come back. We'll go have some fun.

Oh and yes, I'm waiting for my allowance so I can quit my job and get myself something nice. See you everybody!

It's a Celebration that happens every year

2009-09-19T05:22:00.000+08:00

I've already submitted my PO report and today, my CO report so it is already a cause for celebration. Raya is in a few days and it's already semester break. Well, a one week holiday. In any case, my KB colleagues went home and maybe some decorating the tutorial room will bring up the festive spirit once they come back.

Yipeee!

Sent the flier to Hjh Halimah and will start posting them today and during Raya. It's time to impress people with the kind of Marketing Campaign I did when I was in PTEB. Surely, everyone was pulled into the Comic Contest, so it's time to grab warriors for next year's PSK and other tournaments.

Afraid of the Darkness

2009-09-13T01:48:00.000+08:00

Major blackout in two days straight. Interesting fact is that it is now one week till Raya starts. Sometimes I wonder is someone is messing with the power cables like some terrorist who is bent on destroying the week's festive spirit. It's be funny, if you think about it, with nearly everyone rushing to the shops to buy big bulks that will last the month just to find that the power went out and all the cashier queues are stretched long because the cash register is out of order.

To tell you truth, I dread the darkness even though I depend on it to catch sleep. It reminds me how you can get lost easily if you can't see whatever is in front of you. Some like myself would feel all claustrophobic for a moment but try not to break down from the anxiety. Imagine if you're a blind man but you can't hear whatever is around you. Believe it or not, I'd purposefully tap the metal railings of the staircase at home just so that anyone would know where I was or ensure myself I know where I was.

I haven't told anyone yet, but during that training scheme the seniors held for us in the beginning of the year where they blindfolded us so that we could communicate scared the hell out of me. It felt like I was walking in circles while everyone was calling me out. I froze a few times with my hands feeling the edges of the tables surround us guiding me where I was going.

I still keep the blindfold just to remind myself how lost I felt. When I think about it, I wonder why I was afraid of the darkness in the first place. I guess it reminded me what it feels to be lifeless.

Hakim Cherry leaves for Cardiff

2009-09-08T21:40:00.000+08:00

Everyone will miss the Cherry Bomb because he's a great friend to everyone and well, I really respect Cherry (despite the funny nickname, long story). He's one of those irreplaceable friends in a group with a funny jamaican accent lol. Let's say he's a cool friend and I doubt anyone could be like Cherry.

You could see it from the doors of hello to the doors of goodbye, it's like we were eager to not let Cherry leave yet, a march of friendship. The most emotional for me I guess is when Cherry, Saffuan T-rex, Arif and myself scrum bind (because Dibs asked for a rugby pose) for a photo. I know Cherry as a great team mate and someone, how you put this, who doesn't leave anyone behind. Respect. Good luck Cherry and Godspeed.

With Zym leaving on Sunday, Zaty next week and Zul on my birthday, September is definitely going to be emotional.

Polar girl

2009-09-06T19:57:00.000+08:00

Walking in The Mall, I met Kak Fae (Kak Naj's friend) on this booth for donations for the Polar Girl. There she explained about the Polar Girl, a woman named Era who will go on the Commonwealth Women's Antartic Expedition. Must have been a great honor, being one of the first few women and the first Bruneian to explore the Antartic.

I remember I dreamt of exploring the South Pole too, traveling the pure white desert of ice on my skis. Although a dream like this is almost impossible for me to realize, it's amazing to know that there is someone in Brunei who will be doing such a task. How it will fare for her with the weight of history on her shoulders. I salute you.

In any case, try dropping by The Mall on Monday and donate as little as one dollar. If that's not motivating, what about a bookmark and a free session in Rock Climbing? I promised Kak Fae I'd let all my Rugby mates now (lol!).

Guess who blocked my Hyundai T_T

2009-09-05T21:43:00.000+08:00

After buying some DVDs and pick up Aira from Contessa, some car blocked us at our parking spot and well, apparently if you want to go home at 6.00pm hoping to reach home and smell the home cooked feast, then someone's got a problem. Luckily however there was someone in the car, which turned out to be Kak Siti my cousin's fiance. My cousin blocked us while he went to buy food... GAAAHHHH!!!

But considerning that his car is a beautiful new Lexus, I didn't mind waiting at the driver's seat hehehe. It's such an admirable machine, I could feel power and love when I caressed the steering wheel.. lol. We even suggested to Kak Siti we switch cars hahaha.

On the phone with Bang Ah Ping:

Azzi

"No problem plg, kami dalam krita kita. Nyaman steering wheel kita ani."

(Got no problem, we're in your car though. Your steering wheel feels so good.)

Bang Ahping

"Eh antah kau"

(Whatever)

Happy Birthday Jessica

2009-09-03T07:53:00.000+08:00

A big birthday greet to my best friend. It's been awhile since I made a birthday greeting on my blog, but to make up for mixing up her birthday last year (3rd with 23rd, sadly mistaken) I thought I'd post this greet here on my blog, and maybe talk about Jessie for a bit.

Jessica turns 20 today

Jessie is apparently really sociable and isn't afraid to get to know people as weird as they are. Her hobbies include drawing but she's currently taking up writing stories like I did. She is studying in UBD and has just taken up Japanese classes. We share a common interest for manga and we would always create commentaries and discussions on the Japanese culture. I think what makes her a special friend is her ability to listen to anybody, a gift that not many people have.

Best friends for seven years. A friendship that survived being rocky in many occasions. The kind Jessie would call a Cat and Mouse friendship where I'm the cat with the goatee. Here's to turning 20, Jesse.

Bon Voyage Hidayat, Nabil and Faizul

2009-09-02T23:28:00.000+08:00

It's not easy to see your friends off. Some do find it ridiculous though to cry over them who may return a year or so. I guess the reason why friends see each other off when one of them leaves the country is not for the sake of those staying, but for those leaving. We don't realize it but there is a part of us that pulls us into that airport for that person just so they could remember us the way we are before he sees the way we will be a year later. And only God knows what will change.

Here's to Hidayat, Nabil and Faizul who just so happens to share the same flight to the UK. It is definitely not easy to see three of your friends leave at the same time. May the world stay the way it is and if it is allowed to change, let it be a bright one.

My recent Tweet:
Hard to see some friends go. Bon Voyage @hayat1811, Faizul and Nabil. Maybe someday I'll be on a plane, far from here too. Someday.

ITB Rugby

2009-09-01T22:30:00.000+08:00

I did promise Gmiee I'd take over the rugby team in ITB. Originally, it was meant for them to play for the UBD Sharks but seeing how the Head Lecturer of the club is hoping ITB would be recognized by the BRFU, much effort is needed. Yesterday, I went to meet Hjh Halimah who, surprisingly was already familiar with the Rugby culture. Even more so when I realized she played Touch Rugby with us a few months back. It is a small world after all.

I'm currently typing up fliers for both the Rugby team and and Women's Touch Rugby Team while inviting anyone interested to join. The women especially, I almost got a few interested. In any case, once I'm done with these fliers (now in the stage of picking out photos from this year's rugby season), I'll present them to Hjh Halimah before putting them up the notice board. You see, this is where the Mac comes in. A perfect advertising tool.

Last night, my Sixers Captain and rugby buddy texted:
"Bro, itb rugby, I'm in. All the pain and joy, I'll take it with you... all the way to the try line"

And just like that Saffuan 'T-Rex' brought back the spirit of Rugby. How he knew my intentions is a mystery but that's what I like about Saffuan. He has the heart of a Rugby player, something I've been trying to reacquire. I sense our Glory Days returning, like a flock of birds signaling the coming of Spring or like old veteran soldiers ready to share the battlefield again.

Walking in UBD with Jesse as a guide

2009-08-31T21:47:00.000+08:00

I was at the UBD library looking to open my resources widely. It's definitely bigger and more high tech than ITB (and the wifi works on my macbook) but I'm not saying we should all go there. Most people appreciate the homely feeling of the library in ITB. In any case, walking in there is like entering Singapore's International Airport. The security guard helped me around to find the information desk so I can get a layout of the place but I guess without any help, I might get lost again. Fortunately, and it is inevitable, the people I know in PTEB were excited to see me there. In turn I was happy to see some familiar faces.

But I needed help from my close friend. Who else than my best friend, Jesse? Sent her a text and next thing you know we both went around the campus with Jesse as a guide. I was lucky enough to have Fakhrul days ago to show me around but I'm afraid if I arrived there alone, again I'd get lost. You're seeing now a person with no sense of directions. As theorized and proven true by my big sister.

We went to FASS, SHBIE, the Canteen (which is surprisingly called Taman Selera, "Garden of Delicacies"?) then ending up in the Language Centre where Jessie's Japanese class starts at 2pm. I stayed for awhile chatting about Japan, my trip there and her experiences in her Japanese Club (can't remember the abbreviation). Ka, if you're reading this, Jesse finds you an inspiration :) She's going to Japan sometime and might like to meet you once.

Oh, while at the language center, who's name did I find on one of the doors? My cousin, Kaka Suci ^^

So we ended our stop at her Japanese class an hour before it starts. She with her lunch and myself with the macbook showing pics of my trip to Japan last year, we discussed what'll it be like living there and how much food you can take in and still lose weight. Just like old times.

Here are some pics of the people I met in the library. Oh, to explain the hat, I'm currently bald :D

Azizi my home boy. Always a laugh!

Met Fifah and her gang. I really miss them PTEB people.

Forgot to take a picture with Jesse. Next time then. I'm happy and fortunate enough though to see Jesse. Someone asked us if I'm a new student there. "No," said Jesse. "He's my best friend since how long? Since Form 3 right?"

"Form 2, we've been friends for seven years."
Amazing how old friends bond.

Why do we need heroes if we can save ourselves?

2009-08-30T15:55:00.000+08:00

I'm currently experiencing a drawback. I cannot shake this sense of paranoia, something I acquired during my unsettling years in SMJA, in which I think had caused a lot of people harm and myself especially. Sometimes I tend to damn people in my mind, but at the same time I feel great sadness and pain inside. After that, I stop being sad and feel pity with a big sense of longing.

Why do people act the way they do? How come there are people who can't get rid of being spoon-fed, always wanting someone to depend on or blame on. Why do we need heroes if we can save ourselves?

I'm sorry. Someone told me how to do my job and I feel upset. Upset of feeling betrayed or feeling wrong, or hating myself. Eventually, I stop being sad and feel only pity. Pity towards whoever doubted me and those who can't appreciate faith in a person. No, I shall not change for anybody or else we lose ourselves. I shall never be insecure for your petty needs.

Don't think me wrong. I don't hate anybody, I learned that lesson. Sometimes you do feel like you want someone to burn and die, but then when you play with fire you get burned. And then it becomes a cycle, a forest fire, all from your own doing.

This is my first depressing note after a long time. Hopefully, it'll be my last.

I used to be in place where the best way to help pain is hugs, chocolate, cake, funny conversations, lent ears, and soft speech. Now, I am in a place where nobody would do any of them. I miss the people then, whose smiles were free.

Twitter

2009-08-28T22:40:00.000+08:00

I've only started Twitter-ing recently. Now I'm updating it every hour. I can see now it's addictiveness. From what I know about about Twitter is that it's like those status updates in Facebook, but you update them anytime, anywhere using your phone or on the computer.

Here's something I read. Twitter is an application for microblogging, like blogging here only in a few words, built to ask you the simple question, "What are you doing now?". In turn, you can follow your friend's 'Tweets' or follow your favorite media personality. Then it brings you up-to-date information on who you are following, written by the people themselves. You can see it's impact on the media culture today, it's arms stretching across many topics from politics to education to business to entertainment news.

It's neat. If you're looking for me, go type in Ziggy Latif. I'll be tweeting :D

MIcrosoft Office 2008 for Mac

2009-08-27T18:12:00.000+08:00

Software suites, what a coincidence. I was studying about them for a quiz in Business Computing 1. Passed it too, I will have to thank my curiosity on the workings that differ a Mac and a PC as well as waiting for the MS Office for Mac software that was recently purchased. A student discount too, getting into ITB does have its benefits.

Most of the work and data I acquired for assignments and lecture notes required MS Word, MS Excel and MS PowerPoint. Luckily, the MS Office 08 for Mac had all three. I installed them as soon as I got it and tested out the notes and assignments that couldn't be opened in the Macbook. I was excited! Just in time for the PowerPoint assignment next week.

Next to the three, it had MS Entourage. It looks neat then I realized it was in fact MS Outlook Express. Why the name, I don't know. But it did give me a sense of Computer Wizardry now that I have a Personal Information Manager. And surprisingly, it also installed Microsoft Messenger. Now I'm torn between that and Adium. Wicked.

Next on my to-do list is to figure the MS Word out so I can do all my BC1 Tutorials. In the mean time, see you everybody!

Computer Genius

2009-08-26T17:40:00.000+08:00

It was one of the activities in Business Computing 1 today. We had to login and play these games that test our knowledge. Knowledge meaning to see if we studied Discovering Computers 2010 Chapter 3. And yes, I studied! (*thumps fist on chest with pride*). So we partnered up into two and played Who Want's to be a Computer Genius? A kind of mock Millionaire game with a button that says "Final Answer" every time you click an answer. Then you gain money and so on.

High Score and the Wall of Fame! Woot!

We got the highest score in the class, well until Khairul's group grrr... We were waving our hands calling for the Lecturer to see our answer. 15 out of 17 right answers. Even got in the Wall of Fame hahaha. To the surprise of the Accounting group whose BC1 tutorial was after us. It's all thanks to Han though, my partner in the activity. Whenever I'm in a rut with the answer, he always got the answer. Man, the way we held our breaths when we are not sure of the answer! Eventually, we get it correct usually ^^

And turns out the games were revision for the quiz after that. Simple Multiple Choice Questions, True or False, and Fill in the Blanks. And what do you know, 22 out of 30, a good start ^^

Is a man not entitled?

2009-08-25T21:40:00.000+08:00

"Is a man not entitled to the sweat of his brow?" The words echo from Andrew Ryan's mouth. I may have quote this from Bioshock (one of my favorite PS3 game riddled with objective philosophy set in a dystopian world where Orwell meets 20,000 leagues under the Sea) but I'm really serious about it.

I think the quote stuck while I was studying People in Organizations on Monday how motivation is factorized by the equity of the individual's work. Equity meaning the share but mostly referring to the fairness of their work.

I'm thinking about sacrifices. If a man sacrifices for the sake of everyone, will anyone look up to him? Well, it's either no or yes but there is always that self satisfaction. The idea that you just saved some lives changes everything. You're just happy that you helped.

A man is entitled to the sweat of his brow.

But only the man can taste it.

Don't go Ewww on me! O_O

The Long Patience to get there

2009-08-24T16:31:00.000+08:00

Changed my blog template. Hope you guys like it. It's kind of fitting at the moment, I'm now blogging with the macbook on my lap. And I pretty have gotten used to this thing. I got all my homework in here, downloaded some comic books, typed in here for notes and refer to the teacher's presentations right in here. Yes, ITB life is all busy.

I must not forget my goals though. In fact my intentions have all been written in BIG, BOLD CAPITAL LETTERS somewhere in my head. Won't reveal it, but it's got to do with family and spring. Yes, spring. Just so happens I heard my cousin is going there.

Only God can tell how my trail leads. But I've got to see it through with an open heart and a head of steel. Here's to the future, and the long patience to get there.

Happy Fasting

2009-08-21T20:57:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow the fasting month starts. It's funny we don't have any change of schedules for ITB yet. Imagine if we don't have any changes and we still have to go home at 3.40pm? erk. Anyway, that means no more morning coffee and any slipping of dirty words until the next month. That's alright, I mean we go through this every year, why worry? I remember I spent most of my time in school last year playing Basketball with Amirul and Caesar, and if I feel extremely hungry, some sit-ups would do the trick. Eventually, I will faint on the couch and wake up on time for sungkai.

I shaved again, starting a tradition every fasting month. I leave it clean on the first day then leave it unshaved until raya. Usually it won't last.

Anyway, on the latest news of my life. I've been completing my homework and assignments, some easy some not, and this kept me busy pretty much the whole week. In school, the lecturers helped me a lot whenever I don't understand. Now, I pretty much understand most of the business concept. In any case, everything is all so familiar. It's like studying English, Sociology, Statistics, Accounting, and Computing. Computing is a lot of fun, I enjoy the learning experience. Most of the time, I'd be sitting down and scribbling notes in every lesson, but now with the macbook I can always type it down . Well, that is if the lecturer allows it.

For my macbook developments. I can now easily blog in my room and listen to music on it whenever I feel tired. Just recently I purchased Microsoft Office 2008 for Mac for a discount. I thought the low price was hard to believe but it turns out the MOE is paying for the rest, thus the Student discount. With Business Computing requiring Microsoft Office 2007 in its assignments, how can I resist?

In other news, as a Group Representative for Marketing, I have to provide some easy way to spread updates and information to my other mates. So I made a blog, because it is easier and more familiar to me. Have a check, see how much stuff we have to handle.

My ITB Blog for my course mates:
http://itbbmk2509.blogspot.com/

Winning Days

2009-08-17T18:34:00.000+08:00

It's the last game of the season for the Black Yachties. Never thought new jerseys was fitting to end the season. Light weight and sweat absorbent. Perfect. Third place isn't so bad. Some who haven't came to see the game and the finals might feel bad. What's great is it isn't really about winning or losing, it's about surviving. But to quote last year's Bandar Black cheer: "Do we like winnning? YES!"

There's always a valuable lesson in things like these. I'm not going to touch on them here because I've been talking about it every rugby post. But to me, the best part will always be after the game. It's like a movie with a cliffhanger (no pun attended Clifford!) every time. And you will always want to play more.

Thanks Lisa for the shots. I have immortalised your photos in my blog hahaha.

I was really nervous at first, I never thought I'd play. Since ITB and the sprain foot I thought I lost my chance for the final game, but thankfully the front rows got rolling substitutes and I got the first 15 minutes. Real proud boys. Real proud and grinding myself to play much better again.

You Gotta Have Somebody

2009-08-14T15:18:00.000+08:00

The important part of being in a University, as well as College is working with your peers. I mean, sure there are 100+ people in the same department split to five groups. But then assessments involves group work. It's scary at first. The lecturer is right, we've been working our way to the top individually that we never got to learn to work in a group. Before this, its almost always a rivalry between all of us. Now to gain marks is a group effort.

I make friends easily, it's how I am. Some needed a little push just to get to know each other. Others tend to be a bit withdrawn. Thank God none of them came at me with a knife. Sometimes you need someone to be, let's say, a mediator for everyone. It's like a job you know, getting everyone to be really confident and to not panic whenever time is of the essence. I got to know nearly everyone and I'm thankful that I got 60% of their names (hehehe sorry!). Anyway, it's already the second week and already we are fooling around together on the Macbook. Here are some jewels featuring Mawi, Abby, Alicecia, and Cdah.

Did I mention I am a Group Leader representing Marketing? That reminds me. I've got to meet the Student Liaison Officer concerning the Textbooks. Then there's the notes needed to be printed and the money needs to be collected.. business is good.

3B Reunion 2009

2009-08-12T17:36:00.000+08:00

The last time I remembered during last year's reunion is that I was bald and beardless. How did that happen? Anyway, before Hidayat and the others leave the country to study, I think it was Irma who suggested we'd go bowling during the weekends. Some who didn't come last year came today while there are others who are still incommunicado.

Fae stole my phone and locked the car door. Not only she took my mobile, she took Dzafiran's car keys as well hahah

I think the most surprising part is Saufan, sporting long hair and a beard after 5 years we haven't seen each other. We had lots of fun, driving around and talking about new stories and old stories, about love and heart break, about growing up and changing etc. Yes, old friends do tend to have lasting bonds ^^

Macbook

2009-08-10T22:58:00.000+08:00

I never thought buying a computer would be this epic. Not only it speaks to you, it plays this real cool welcome video making you feel special just for getting a macbook. Well congratulations Ziggy, now you have no worries to do all those assignments right? Erk. But then you can't help admire its Polycarbonate beauty.

The moment it wakes from its slumber

*Beowulf growl* It speaks!

*Epic music plays*

Welcome in many languages. Dad went: "No Selamat Datang? Salam Sejahtera?"

No fun and games this week (though I am typing this blog post). Maybe I'll put some songs in there and a few movies LOL. Anyway, big hugs to my mom for making it happen and Zani for being a lucky charm (seriously! Why is it whenever he's around something great happens?). Here's to Zani: I swear dude, one of the voiceovers in here sounds straight from RTS videogames!

And to Milla. Shuck-it.

Happy Birthday Safrizan

2009-08-09T20:54:00.000+08:00

Well we did have that "surprise" birthday party at Capers. And we did give a big "FUDGE YOU" for coming in late. But tell you what Saf, it's not one of those stories you put in FML.com. Turning 20 is not that scary (unlike some people who still think life ends at 20). We both understand that turning 20 can be fun. I mean like it's still one year before legal age right?

Pastas, Pizzas and Cake. Oh yeah!

Wondering if you're treating everyone at some fancy restaurant somewhere. That you can put in FML.com. Have fun and stay cool, cheers buddy and Happy Birthday.

Connectivity Everywhere

2009-08-07T19:50:00.000+08:00

I'm trying out this Zoom Broadband (and for security purposes, I'm not saying whose heheheh it's not mine...). Initially, it's working quite well and so far, no problems. It's pretty fast, well fast enough to match the house's e-speed connection and I'm writing this in the Mall.

I talked to my Dad whether if I could get one myself. You know, when I get that "Computer" *hint hint* It's a good idea too. The WiFi in school is impossible at times and since I am now in a learning environment that DEMANDS internet connectivity, wireless broadband connection with a carry-around USB modem seems to be the most appropriate now. Especially with its Student Promo hehehe.

I had another weird dream today. At first it was Macbooks and Rugby, then I dreamt I was Cobra Commander?? Maybe it's my body saying "Go watch the GI Joe film Dammit!". I awkwardly woke up that afternoon blurting out "COBRAAAAAA" out loud. (...)

Taboo

2009-08-06T13:48:00.000+08:00

Who would have thought Taboo, that board game where you have to guess the word by having your friend describe it without using any banned words or actions and sound affects to hint it, affects the overall grade for the semester.

No, seriously!

Turns out the whole idea of this class is verbal creativity, a key aspect on Communication in Organisation, a unit in my course.

Most of the descriptions I did I had to reference movies (of which I knew the most) like Fuzz: "The sequel to that Simon Pegg movie, Shaun of The Dead? Hot?". Surprisingly the lecturer was waving her hands, excited that she knew the answer while nobody else did. Skipped to the next question. How to say Woody without referencing Buzz Lightyear, Toy Story, or Tim Allen? Easy. Think the 1st 3D movie, Two main characters, and one of them is Tom Hanks. Hahaha.

If only exams were easy as this ^^

Oh, and I got electrocuted just now while trying to fix my guitar. The adapter had a blown wire and while trying to figure out why the pedal connected to it wasn't on, a surge of electricity almost burned my fingers.

Bummer.

Sleeping Disorders

2009-08-05T21:23:00.000+08:00

What's the thing about school and sleeping disorders? Was it really about when you wake up in the middle of the night just to go back to a dream that kept repeating every time you shut your eyes? Like a fever, images keep haunting you every time you sleep.

And I don't even have homework yet.

But all of this is familiar to me. I mean, I had them before last year in Form 6. Maybe it's my body trying to adjust myself to the early sleeping and waking hours and six months of late sleep and waking up late is one routine that is hard to shake. I remember someone said If the mind forgets, The body remembers.

But I did shake it off anyway.
Best cure? Fruit juice.
Apple. Orange. Grape.

Cheers, and have a lovely night.

Schedules, Laptops, and Birthdays

2009-08-03T12:53:00.000+08:00

Today I came home to surrender the car to my brother because honestly seeing from the schedule I received recently, it looks like there might not be any time for me to get my sister from school.

Now I am blogging in the span of 15 minutes before my brother sends me to ITB again. This way I can finish the library assignment with my other course mates who sadly some of them had to stay in school, away from KB, for 2 hours before the next class starts. Maybe it's time to figure out where Giant Hypermart is?

Ok, next story. I booked for a laptop along with a 'special discount form' and by one or two weeks I'll have my first taste of my very own laptop. The one word to express it: Woot!

Also yesterday I went to Capers to celebrate Safrizan's 20th and let me give you advice. Don't order Spaghetti if you're gonna go on a pasta overload. Try this combination.. Futteceini , Ravioli, Penne and a Slice of Pizza. Heck yes, you will get a tummy ache but then you wouldn't mind if you get that much pasta right? Pictures come later ^^

Happy Birthday Safrizan.
And Damn you Faizul for not telling me you came back.

Fudge My Life

2009-07-31T23:13:00.000+08:00

I stayed up for awhile to blog some stuff up. I wish I could write about the art in the act of blogging but then my thoughts on most things end up as endless ranting so I'll spare you from boredom, yes?

I thought I'd be posting stories in my blog once I'd get a laptop for myself which was meant to be this week. If you heard of my love for the Macbook you will understand my obsession with it. Anyway, my plan was to have it last Wednesday.

However, you see ladies and gentlemen, fate has this way of trying to screw you in many directions. My excitement for it burned to cinder when they told me there wasn't any in stock, leaving me to wait for it for a much longer period of time. Like how I told Naddy, only ONE word could describe how I felt then.

(wait for it..)

(Ok, here goes. *inhales*)

GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Phewh!

So anyway.
I'm reaching the end of my ITB orientation week tomorrow. I'll have to remind myself tomorrow about bringing the passport photo in a digital copy. But who knows what'll happen tomorrow? Maybe some more exciting games to play or some more valiant stories to be told. Looks like we are already eager to get in the classroom studying. I know I am.

Good night everybody. Please pray I'll do these 2 and a 1/2 years alright.

Will update soon!

2009-07-28T18:49:00.000+08:00

I'm really occupied with ITB so you guys will just have to wait until I find enough time to blog stuff again. So please wait for me?

Anyway, ITB orientation kind of absorbed all my energy, maybe it's how moving to University is like. There was more talk on rules and regulations and reminding everyone how tough the courses are. I guess UBD is also having their orientation as well. I'm wondering if their briefing is religious to an extent?

I'll post up some pictures on my MGS4 craze but the truth is set, I finished it and there is nothing that can bring it back... except loading the previous save data and replaying it bwhahahah.

MGS4: Dreaming of Crying Wolf

2009-07-25T13:26:00.000+08:00

This game brings back memories. It reminded me of the great battles I had in the first and third game, namely the sniper battles. It's one of those awesome boss fights in the game that encourages you not to charge at the enemy, but try to think like a sniper. Use your tracking skills, use absolute concentration and keep your finger on the trigger.

Crying Wolf has elements of Sniper Wolf and The Sorrow and carries Fortune's Railgun

Wait a minute. You don't need a sniper battle for this fight. You can always try your best and charge at the snow. Tell you what, the longer you stay in the snow your psyche will drop. So why not stay under the warm and comfy truck away from danger. Surely, you'll get bombed and shot at if you're not careful but with your psyche all the way up, you'll heal eventually.

Here's a tip: If you are willing to spend some time waiting, go wait under the first truck you see. Depend on your Solid Eye and your Sniper Rifle.

Where are you mangy d... D'OH!

The map is really wide but to me it is the most exciting battle I've had since The End in MGS3. It's interesting really, it's a combination of both Sniper Wolf from MGS1 and The End's boss fight. In fact, I'm in the same place where I fought Sniper Wolf but I fight it the same way I did with The End. Minus the Kojima Code (Those who played MGS3 would be familiar with this. In fact it's like cheating heheh).

With a little patience you might spot her from the distance. The best thing to remember is that you're the hunted. Take advantage of that.

Disadvantage? She'll be THIS CLOSE if she doesn't come out her shell.

The best moment to shoot her is when she's trying to shoot at you. She'll come out her shell then readies her Rail Gun while looking for you eager to take you out with a single powerful laser blast.

Once she comes out of her shell, behold! Another Beauty! Mieko Rye stands in as Crying Wolf inside her quadruped shell. Debra Wilson Skelton and again, Fred Tatasciore voices the creepy double voice of the beasts. I got really hooked when she said, "Show me tears, let them flow!".

The beautiful Mieko Rye lends her face for the grief stricken wolf whose overwhelming guilt cries for release.

From what I know about Mieko Rye is she's a swimsuit model and has had photos in Maxim (I shall not post the photos. So unfortunately for you guys, you have to google the images yourself hahah) and the only American from all four beauties. An interesting roster to though. Japanese, American, South African and Slovakian. For information on the other girls, read the last post on Raging Raven for links on the Beauty and Beast Featurette.

More photo opportunities for you!

Lady, I'm ready for my HP absorbing massage.

Very realistic design, she breathes air vapor out of her mouth. They said it's colder in Shadow Moses due to global warming.

Before I overheat the PS3, you guys have to wait for Screaming Mantis and Laughing Octopus. Two more beauties. Definitely means that I will play this game endlessly. See you again! Cheers.

The time I took this shot was when I borrowed Faizul's MGS4 and even know, I'm still impressed with wolf's detailed design.

Thanks to Zani for taking the helm on the second controller for that action shot of Wolf (the 3rd Picture from the top) ^^

MGS4: Dreaming of Raging Raven

2009-07-23T13:47:00.000+08:00

There are moments in videogaming where defeating a heavily frustrating boss would reward you with halcyon. Complete peace and relaxation. Let it be super long cutscenes or a very satisfying ending. In Metal Gear Solid 4's case, however, can be both another problem and at the same time the best part of the fight. I'm talking about the BB corp: The Beauty and The Beast. Here's the story. Once you beat these bosses, they come out of their terrifying (yet full of *new word* Super Awesome) suits and reveal REALLY SEXY BEAUTIFUL women. (I would like to thank God and Kojima).

Behind Raging Raven's infinite rage is a woman of vanity. I am thankful for it.

The worst part is that when they come near you, they suck the life out of snake and you'll be screwed if you don't get her off (please, not that kind of thinking). So don't take out your camera or else you might find yourself in the corner with the beauty walking ghost-like towards your doom (a real graceful serene ghost-like walk.. *slap myself*).

Snake: Ms. Raven, you are trying to seduce me! Raven: No I am not. *Absorbs HP*

It was freaky at first but if you wait for awhile before you shoot her to sleep (or death if you use lethal force. Why would you do it, I don't know unless you're crazy or you're a gamer girl taking the controller from your boyfriend while he unrolls his tongue) you'll enter this dream like sequence where the surrounding turns all white, like the Matrix if you get what I mean. Best photo opportunity! Take your camera and they start posing for you only for awhile before they start chasing you again. Best advice is to ZOOM IN, don't walk closer!

Japanese Model Yumi Kikuchi is a personal friend to Kojima and was given the honor to be immortalized as the beauty behind the beast.

Yumi Kikuchi though not voice acting of which the honor goes to Nika Futterman and Fred Tatasciore (a scary combination..) lends her face for one of the beauties. What I am amazed about is how they beautifully rendered her in 3D. Try comparing the photos and you can see why MGS4 is a technical achievement without flaw.

Kojima is well known for placing sexual images in the MGS series. Be it Meryl in her underwear, hidden posters of Japanese models, EVA, and finally the Beasts.

I guess I am lucky today. Apparently you can export the photos to your PS3 hardrive then you can transfer them to your USB and blog it up on the computer. It's great because it's all in HD quality. So here's what I'm going to do:

I'm going to blog up every fight with the beasts then post it up here. Let's say it is my gaming blog section. So I only have Crying Wolf and Screaming Mantis left and as for Laughing Octopus, since I found the camera in Act 3 I'll save her best for last.

In the mean time, here are some more photos of my encounter of the angry beauty known as the voluptuous Raging Raven. Cheers.

Unforgettable.. that's what you are...

Unforgettable... though near or far...

Similar posts:
[Tuesday, August 28, 2007] http://thezeolotdiary.blogspot.com/2007/08/beauty-and-beast-unit-bosses-of-metal.html
[Thursday, August 30, 2007] http://thezeolotdiary.blogspot.com/2007/08/models-for-beauty-and-beast-unit.html

5000

2009-07-22T18:51:00.000+08:00

So I reached Five Hundred page views on my blog. I'm glad because it's like I finally reached something. Apparently, if I had been updating my blog like I did months ago, I would have reached 5000 earlier and maybe by now I would have 9000 (just a theory!).

Thank you everyone for reading my blog. I am know hoping you guys would come back and start trashing my tagboard with messages. Always fun to read and always a pleasure to hear from all of you.

Cheers.

I Dreamed a Dream a Time Gone By

2009-07-20T20:30:00.000+08:00

Originally titled "J'avais rêvé d'une autre vie". I dreamed of another life. The song belongs to Fantine, a factory worker who secretly sends money to her illegitimate child but is then caught in a conflict which causes her dismissal then forces her to prostitution. In the musical "Les Miserables", she sings about a dream of her former years when love was thought to conquer all before the man she loves abandoned her.

[Les Miserables] 10th anniversary - I Dreamed a Dream
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yt-IBJpEMzA

I dreamed a dream of time gone by
When hope was high and life worth living,
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving.

Then I was young and unafraid,
And dreams were made and used and wasted.
There was no ransom to be paid,
No song unsung, no wine untasted.

But the tigers come at night,
With their voices soft as thunder,
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame.

He slept a summer by my side.
He filled my days with endless wonder,
He took my childhood in his stride,
But he was gone when autumn came.

And still I dream he'll come to me
That we will live the years together!
But there are dreams that cannot be
And there are storms we cannot weather.

I had a dream my life would be
So different from this hell I'm living
So different now from what it seemed
Now life has killed the dream I dreamed.

Most of you would know this song to be the one song sang by the incredible Susan Boyle, a woman in her 40s who hasn't been kissed before but still dreams of stardom. The power of her singing combined with the equally powerful lyrics are a strong inspiration for those who still aspire for love and chasing dreams.

Dream Machine

2009-07-19T08:06:00.000+08:00

White polycarbonate shell. The word swirls repeatedly in my mind floating in the sea of dreams. *sigh* Good things come to those who wait but you can't help but think of those good things while waiting.

13-inch
2.13GHz Intel Core 2 Duo
2GB DDR2 Memory
160GB Hard Drive
NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics
Standard Keyboard
White polycarbonate shell

Yes, I'm talking about the Macbook!

I remember Cikgu Rahmah, my Form 5 Geography teacher and serial movie spoilering favorite (Thank you Teacher for telling me who dies in whatever film that I plan to watch. ARGH), recommended to me time and time again to get a Macbook as a first choice in computers. Well, I always take Cikgu Rahmah's advice at heart (and your movie spoilers. ARGH) but I already made my decision earlier.

First of all I remember the Windows Vista being a big disappointment and how people tend to stick to the XP most of the time. Then there was this rage for laptops and people are clawing their heads for either a DELL, or an ASUS, or an HP etc. Most of the time its for its gaming capabilities (graphic card, processor, RAM, space).
However, the thing about me wanting macbooks is not for the games (did I hear someone say liar?). It's true. In fact I'm really in it for its publishing aspects.

Nowadays all the creative stuff gets done with the Apple Mac, like Garage Band! Imogen Heap uses a macbook on live shows and there are cartoonists using macbooks to complete their works. Plus, there are programs for webpages. Maybe someday I'll start blogging on the thing.

I'm going to fall asleep now and start dreaming a macbook and hopefully I won't drool over the pillow. See you dudes!

Institute Technology Brunei

2009-07-18T16:03:00.000+08:00

So I got up this morning, and I realize I'm suppose to be heading off to ITB for registration. I did the whole familiar routine: shower, shave, epically wear every piece of clothing, then my favorite part: staring at the mirror for 5 minutes before leaving (hahaha jk). During moments like these, you've got to dress to impress. You'll meet some people you're not familiar with and may come across some of your old ones. Trouble is, it is really hard to smile if you got a metal fence as teeth (not to worry, my braces will be gone soon!).

MIB. Not Melayu Islam Beraja. Men in Blue.

Here's the story. All I had to do is fill out another form complete with copies of my IC, passport photos and Bank book then complete it with a receipt for insurance. Funny thing though. TAIB, IBB and BIBD were all there like its another expo going on, this time excepting customers straight away. But it also looks like BIBD is introducing student accounts that might be linked to computer loans. I guess I didn't need one since I already have an account.

So we are only inside 1/4 of the whole place?!

So after all that, it was time to leave but I wanted to see around what the campus is like. I didn't tread far but looking from a scale model of the place, it looks like the small building was only a tip of the iceberg. Maybe once I start for real, I'll go look around and maybe see the sports field and other things (like that shop inside campus. They sell newspapers and shampoo, can you believe it?).

ooo, vending machine! Finally a real emergency box!

Old or new, it's still sweet!

Well, it looks like there is no rugby in the list of ECAs but I can change that. My team mates are in the Uni so maybe looks like we're going to have to mix with the UBD Sharks (yes, Miza! I'm also considering it!). Better yet, maybe start my own team ^^.

No uniforms, just yourself.

2009-07-17T19:30:00.000+08:00

I'm off to school. I'm not going go over dramatic on this and say "Tomorrow is a New Day" (in which technically I already said it). It's great that I get to go back to school (Ziggy! What are you saying?!). I miss the life and these eight months do seem unforgiving at times. Now it's time to hit books again.

Congratulations to everyone who got into UBD and ITB. It looks like we just made a big leap from college there. But what will expect? New life, new culture, new stories to tell. And how about your other friends who may not be by your side? We get these break away from our friends alot, and it's always sad. I tell you what, don't forget us. Keep that image of you and your friends together in your head, especially the best memories you had together.

Yes, it is very emotional for me. There aren't many people I know getting into ITB but I can only hope and stay optimistic that I will definitely see my old friends, and maybe make new ones. I guess there is always a time when you get to share stories like before another day.

Well, looks like there are somethings I need to do before the actual studying begins. Clean my room, it's a mess ^^

Have fun, enjoy like always.

Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince: Review

2009-07-16T19:22:00.000+08:00

I haven't done a movie review for a long time so bear with me.

The film is really about growing up. Six films is really a long way for the cast, that is why you can see much of its maturity in the film. The film forces you to reconnect with the previous movies (particularly the first and second)so as to remind you how the series had evolved since its beginnings. As if it had been done deliberately to prepare you for the final chapter, The Deathly Hallows coming out the next year.

They said the book was the darkest and most emotional of all seven books. The film is no exception to that.

First of all, it's the acting that surprises you. Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy) sheds his bully persona as we normally see in the previous films to reveal a tortured soul that is clearly showing personal conflict between life and duty inside. What else can we say about Bonnie Wright (Ginny Weasley), finally gained more screen time than the earlier films, is now a powerful character that forces its way into the roster of main characters. I don't know if this is just me, but why do I sense a bit of the late Richard Harris in Dumbledore? I'm not saying Michael Gambon didn't make an original portrayal. Maybe it is the direction where we are treated to the spirit of the former Dumbledore for nostalgic effect.

The film really captured the different genres that surrounds this film. But what most people did not expect is its horror aspect. Terrifying in fact it is surprising that it is in a PG film. However, the romance plays its powerful part in the film. Yes, romance is the driving plot of the film.

Warming up, are we?

My favorite part of the review: the direction. David Yates's induction into the roster of Harry Potter directors makes him the perfect choice. In fact, maybe agree that Yates's style in his direction (as seen in Order of the Phoenix, remember that final battle? Woosh!) makes him the most prominent director in the series and of course, we want to see more of his work in the next addition, The Deathly Hallows.

What about the writing? Steve Kloves returns in the writers helm, creating a screenplay that pretty much sticks out from his earlier Harry Potter films, introducing a more thematic and emotional screenplay. Even in the beginning we are already treated with an idea of what the film will be like, like for example the film begins with Harry leaving the Ministry of Magic after the tragic loss of his godfather which introduces the emotional aspect of the film while later the scene where Harry is first seen in a Cafe talking to a waitress introduces the romance and adolescent aspects. Ok, you might think this is a pretty heavy movie. Well the comedic scenes tend to lighten up the emotional load. It does not forget the fact that this is meant to be a film enjoyed by all ages.

It was Luna Lovegood, not Tonks that saves Harry in the train.

For the pessimistic film-goers, if you had the read the book you might feel some of it should have been included into the film. But I tell you what, only if you are a diehard, must be true to the book, fanatic then I guess you might feel disappointed (in fact, you shouldn't start on watching the films if you're like that). I guess that scenes from the book missing in the film are, how do you say this.. fleshed out in new ways. Although, there are some aspects that tend to leave you questioning if you had not read the book. In my opinion, I hope when the DVD gets out they'd fill it with deleted scenes that might help a bit.

Some flashbacks of Tom Riddle were omitted, so you get the important bits only. "Dumbledore: Did I know that I just met the most dangerous dark wizard of all time? No." Aww, come on! That's Ralph Fiennes's nephew there! Don't you think he looks creepy enough??

Overall, the theme of romance and adolescence along with magic and fantasy created this film the most exciting in the series. The film is written and directed expertly which may well be the best Harry Potter film in the series.

My rating: 4.5 out of 5

Oh yes, Quidditch returns. How can not forget the intensity and the sportsmanship of Quidditch? But I have to be sorry, Harry, your time to shine really flew with the snitch. Ron is now the blazing Quidditch player.

Oh gee, Harry. I never thought I'd be here like this if it weren't for wizard sidekick gym. (Well, he does look muscular.)

Stetch Always!

2009-07-16T12:59:00.000+08:00

I decided to pop by UBD when I heard they were going to play touch rugby. It's not really nice to just stay home feeling flabbier than you normally feel. So a bit of running might help. And it's cool, I got a couple of tries, my second being awesome (I dived to try and ended up having grass and weeds pocketed inside my socks, yikes!).

Remember, stretching is important to prevent injury (I learned that the hard way. Hint: my foot) so take enough time to warm up then stretch. You wouldn't want to end up having cramps.

And no, looking like a Spartan does not make you any cooler when you stretch.

Amir, being thorough in his stretching (fingers might count?)

Joan Jett

2009-07-14T13:20:00.000+08:00

Most of you listened to "I love Rock and Roll", that punk rock song with the woman and her hoarse voice. If you don't know what I mean, it's in Guitar Hero (the first). But what I love about Joan Jett is that you rarely find a female punk rocker as a legend. That's right, Joan Jett is to punk rock as Madonna is to Pop. Even now she still looks gorgeous.

The video I put up is one of her cover songs, Androgynous originally by the The Replacements. Not a punk rock song, a bit mellow but hella catchy in my opinion. The country sound matches with the children's library setting where she tells a story about an unconventional love story to a group of youngsters, ending the session with a sing-a-long. Go ahead, give a listen.

Joan Jett - Androgynous
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Bs6QT82Tu4

Here comes Dick
He's wearing a skirt
Here comes Jane
You know she's sporting a chain
Same hair revolution
Same build evolution
Tomorrow who's going to fuss

And they love each other so
Androgynous
Closer than you know
Love each other so
Androgynous

Well don't get him wrong
And don't get him mad
He might be a father
But he sure ain't a dad
She don't need
Advice that they send to her
She's happy with the way she looks
She's happy with her gender

And they love each other so
Androgynous
Closer than you know
Love each other so
Androgynous

Mirror image see no damage
See no evil at all
Cupie dolls and urine stalls
Will be laughed at the way
You're laughed at now

Now something meets boy
And something meets girl
They both are the same
They're overjoyed in this world
Same hair revolution, unisex, evolution
Tomorrow who's gonna fuss

And tomorrow Dick is wearing pants
Tomorrow Jane's wearing a dress
Future outcasts and a they don't last
And a today the people dress the way
That they please
The way they tried to do in the last century

And they love each other so
Androgynous
Closer than you know
Love each other so
Androgynous
Androgynous
Androgynous
Don't you get it
Androgynous

Here's an interesting fact. There is a Runaways movie in the works with Kristen Stewart playing as Joan Jett. Go google it and you might find her new look surprising.

We Love You Baby

2009-07-14T11:55:00.000+08:00

I haven't got to posting this video. It was recorded after the first Knights game. Everyone just gathered, put there hands in the center and started singing "I love you Baby". That is why I love this team. We are all crazy at heart. (Thank you Lisa for recording it ^^)

I love you Baby
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5L5wBf2RexE
Warning! Bare chested men. Ladies, don't faint.

With rugby put on hold with the flu going around, only God knows when we'll finish the finals. Maybe once the puasa month ends or before the end of this year. Worst, maybe we'll move on to the next year without the finals game and never know who wins.

Darn.

I'm at home right now and since there is no training, I have to sit my butt here until I start my semester in ITB. I think it's better this way, it may give my foot some more time to heal and rethink all those rugby skills I had for the next game. But you know what I have? Great memories.

Hey Yat, thanks for coming by my house!

2009-07-14T09:05:00.000+08:00

Yes, you guys too (Abu, Fakhrul, Ali, Kelvin, Nadz and Kay). Till next time, once Tekken 6 is in the market ^^.

Back for the holidays. Hair!

District 9

2009-07-13T09:20:00.000+08:00

Aliens and Genocide, in some way does fit well with each other. But what if Aliens came to our planet and, while we wait for technological advancement or interplanetary war, they are confined to slum-like conditions, and worst of all, are not welcome? A story with a message obviously. Apartheid with a twist.

'District 9' Trailer HD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x8y2H8tcASA

What got me pulled to the film is the documentary style in its portrayal. The setting is also one to pull people. Not many get to see how life is like in Johannesburg, South Africa on screen so I think this is one good opportunity to catch an awesome sci-fi action film and consider a new place to explore.

'District 9' Trailer 2 HD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VjihaK7HfGs

I heard this film started off with a short film called 'Alive in Joberg' by the same director, which I guess impressed Peter Jackson so much to produce it. You know, comparing both the short film and trailer 2, it looks as if it got a pretty badass makeover. So definitely, I'm catching this one on August 14th this year.

Alive in Joberg by Neill Blomkamp Spyfilms (Halo director)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNReejO7Zu8

Catch some more interesting movie news and other random tidbits at http://thezeolotdiary.blogspot.com/

Frozen in time (5mins really) in Mall Gadong

2009-07-12T21:25:00.000+08:00

This was Sunday two weeks ago I think. So I heard this group was planning to do something, well, what we don't normally do: Surprise people publicly. I thought what the hell (I believe everyone else thought so too), and joined up anyway. It's a beautiful Sunday and hundreds of people will show up (I mean it seriously, parking in Gadong is an almost impossible task). It was easy enough to join, met alot of people I know then who also took part in the Freezing. Yes, it's great if you are not alone.

Video popped up in youtube recently. Can you believe it? 178 people joined up?

Frozen At The Mall Gadong (Official Video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vki5PeqOUPg

Frozen At The Mall Gadong (Credits Video)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jD63mXR3ELk
Want proof I was there? 1:56 there's my name!

Some more vids on that day. The freeze covered all four floors (to some going huh?! it includes the ground floor). First floor was packed but that did not stop us when the horn blew. Some were oblivious, hahahah!

Frozen @ The Mall ft KBrockers [BRU]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFFGMPoysgU

Freeze @ The Mall
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwA9ZVLEcrI

Where am I at?

2009-07-11T18:07:00.000+08:00

I'm guilty, sorry everyone! Yes, I have not been updating, but face it. There is always a period where everything is put on hold, like the years between Star Wars films Return of the Jedi and Phantom Menace (using this reference because Empire Strikes Back on HDTV brought back my Star Wars Fanaticism. Fanboy at heart^^)

Most of the time, a period of absence mostly ends with a big comeback. Since you guys know me so much, I do like to make a big spectacle of myself. But no, not today. I just want to let everyone know I'm back writing. Only God knows if I'll keep updating but you know what? I love blogging so yes, I'm sticking by it.

One wasn't fortunate though. With Michael Jackson gone, all that hoping for Michael to make that big comeback is now forever impossible. I grew up listening to Michael, even attended both concerts when he came to Brunei and I remember vividly the stage where he danced in the distance from where I sat. Electrifying, Colorful, Amazing. Pretty much he's one of the few great memories of my childhood in the once flourishing amusement park where the show was held. Even now I still can't do the moonwalk.

Let's all stop this grieving, because Michael lived to make the world smile.

My foot healed but I still limp from time to time. Gloriously I got back to training and real eager to get my ass back on to the field for some blood letting, but with the H1N1 flu going around this weeks training and maybe leading to Puasa, looks like every team is on hold. $4!+!

Anyway, more good news. I got admitted to ITB (Institute of Technology Brunei) under Business Marketing. It's a long shot from the actual subjects that I'm really good at, but you know.. you must always keep your arm up and your hand reaching for the sky. Best part? 13 out of 15 in my course are women. ^_^

Sprain foot

2009-06-04T10:42:00.000+08:00

I thought I'd post this up to relieve boredom. Just two days ago when I thought Rugby training was at Kebajikan (instead it was at JIS) so I stayed around to play with the junior team when unexpectedly while trying to make a big run for it, felt a sudden pang (or pop?) of pain in the left foot. So yeah, it was excruciating and it was the first time I had it (just like that concussion last year, erk).

So most of the afternoon yesterday was spent on walking with a cane in a hand and an elastic bandage around my foot to limit the swelling. Gladly enough, there was no bone injury so all I need was to heal in 1 or 2 weeks then I'm free back to the gym and go for Rugby training. I think today, the junior team will be glad to know that they injured a senior, despite not applying the injury. They deserve it. In the meantime, I should try to find some stretch exercises for my foot just in case it won't happen again. Yikes!

Final Fantasy XIII

2009-06-03T19:22:00.000+08:00

You know how crazy we are when it comes to Final Fantasy. Just so happens that the 13th game in the franchise looks gorgeous and awesome. It's like Metal Gear Solid 4 was a really delicious appetizer while we wait for the next meal to come ever since the FFXIII trailer came out way before we had the PS3.

E3 09: Final Fantasy XIII Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naUSBEVRLng
You look at one perspective, you'll tend to notice some similarities between XIII and VII. An endangered race, a rebel group, a futuristic setting, underground residences, a giant scorpion boss fight and a neat looking protagonist that looks pretty much like Cloud minus the Buster Sword. Plus it's a gun blade (smiles).

Most of these vids come from E3, of which most gamers know it is the glorified event of which most games are introduced and reintroduced. You might want to have some time to look for the latest God of War III demo, the two latest Metal Gear Solid titles, and the new online Final Fantasy, FFXIV. Enjoy watching, I went overjoyed when watching the FFXIII demo below. The first introduction of one of my favorite Summon Magic.

E3 09: Final Fantasy XIII Demo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MI7jHUNwAJ8

BYOB vs KB Pythons

2009-05-25T23:02:00.000+08:00

Apologies for being outdated. My post on the Pythons game.

Will one game decide the season? Never. In one of the long rivalries between the Pythons and the Blacks, will one excruciating loss ruin destroy a team? Never. We wear our hearts proud like a roman cape. It glows and shines, the fire of passion. No, it will not ruin our morale. Do you know why? Because we are never alone. We go together, we ride together, we will win together when the day arrives.

Discussing games over Nasi Katok. Things we like to do after the game. I guess after some real hard matched you do feel like some smoked fish or something with sweet red chili sauce.

Remember the flying squirrel? Here's a couple of photos of the animal that cheered us up ^^ Courtesy to Lisa Omarali for the awesome pics. More of them you can find in Dragonbond.com.

Nacho Libre

2009-05-24T14:29:00.000+08:00

Went through youtube looking for some inspirational music. That's right, like the Rocky theme. It always highlights my imagination when running on a flight of stairs. Then I remembered Nacho Libre, a good film but real silly, and the theme song went on replay in my head.

Maybe what really touched me about this song is that it played at the right moment of the film. I mean, at first it was really annoying throughout the film and that time I thought it sucked. I guess what really gave it its magic was the end of the final wrestling match when after all the losses Nacho went through, he actually won against the best wrestler in Mexico. The song had no value until that very moment. It felt like Rocky really did win the boxing match (No, Sly stallone is not in the film). The song was the perfect victory song for Nacho Libre.

Nacho Libre Tribute
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hBv9lXOiBw

I am I am, I am I am
I think I am I think I am
I'm glad I am
I'm proud I am
A real religious man

As I realized
The mightiest friend
Can separate
A chance from fate
Cause you have all I need to take
That's why I think I am I am
(whoa)

Cause I have prayed I just behave
Cause saints and sinners
Are quite the same
Cause it's my temple
The whole wide world
That's why I think I am I am

I am I am, I am I am
Think I am
I think I am
I'm proud I am
A real religious man

I am I am
I am I am
I pray I am
I feel I am
Oh Lord I am
God knows I am
A real religious man

I am I am,
I am I am
I pray I am
I feel I am
Oh lord I am
God knows I am
A real religious man

Post-Game Fun

2009-05-23T23:19:00.000+08:00

We settled down on a Gerai on-route from KB, eating Nasi Katok and smoked fish as we (my team mates) discuss about the earlier game. All of a sudden, constant croaking turned our curious eyes to an unlikely creature taking refuge in a man's pocket. At first we thought it was a parrot, we saw one in a cage, of which we thought it must be a parrot talented in ventriloquism (That is impressive!). However, there was really an animal hiding in the guys pocket where it is being fed to. As the curiousity intensifies, the most unlikely creature that we ever saw in that gerai was a Flying Squirrel.

Alai with the squirrel on her shoulder.

Can't see it? Here's another image.

The squirrel and its penetrating eyes.
I'm really thankful for the squirrel. Next to the meal it kind of cheered us up after the Pythons game. Don't misunderstand. We did great, the Pythons were great sport during and after the game. Now we can only see if the next game will be amazing. Anyway, it's great to feel at one with the team outside the rugby field.

Restaurant City

2009-05-18T01:40:00.000+08:00

Dreamt it once, my own restaurant. But never turned out this way. I blame Jessica for mentioning it now I got the rest of the family addicted, Namely, Mom and Aira who have restaurants of their own. After some new arrangements on decorations (both interior and exterior) and changing Cafe name. I finally settled down on Azure Sky Cafe, not just to remind everyone how great picnics are under the sun and atleast its better than the earlier title: "Cafe o' War".

Azure Sky Cafe
With only a few tables in the ready and with the most impatient customers in the world wide web, the restaurant is gaining popularity as I write this. Just leave them with 100% stamina then do whatever you want. But rearranging the tables and chairs to better match the popularity is really difficult. Especially if all you're doing is trying to rake some cash.

My avatar. The shirt is like the one I used for the prom, minus the suit. But the scar? Hahaha
Anyway, getting your restaurant in order is tough. Unlike real restaurants, however, you have to get up a few levels to get bigger restaurants (and employees T_T). Fun part? You get to employ your friends even if they are not playing. Dress them up if you want, but sometimes they're in the game already and they already look fabulous (Got Danial cooking, check out his restaurant ^^).

Here's some screenshots or my restaurant as well as Mom's and Aira's.
Blackforest chocolate cake design, just to make you hungry.

Sushi freak, but really effective.

Mom likes to employ family ^^

Felt real guilty recently for not checking Pet Society in a while. So I went to check on my pet WAR to see how he's doing. Predicting he's be hungry, depressed and in serious need of hygiene; surprisingly I think I left the application too.... long. It's a bigger surpride WAR didn't get real pissed off (refer to http://thezeolotdiary.blogspot.com/2009/01/internets-working-great.html and you'll get what I mean T_T)

Sorry for the absence but thanks for all the gifts you all gave ^^

Squeeze. Knees. Drive.

2009-05-18T01:17:00.000+08:00

This season is Rugby Season and the Black Yachties are now in full play. Winning our first game on Saturday, against the Army whose front row is surprisingly heavy, the Bandar Blacks and Royal Brunei Yacht Club collaboration will be blowing up minds, taking hard tackles and cause injuries in 2009, and like what Cliff said, "The rest is history."

I didn't get to play that day, not the right day to take the uniform on. But I was honored enough to cheer them on at the sidelines, even running in to pass water around.

However, my eyes look towards the benches overlooking the field. A team so powerful even thinking their name can cause a shiver of fear in our spines. But it was team that I endlessly pray that I will gain the glory of victory from. I can only hope that I will be in the league long enough to face my rivals again.

Here are some pictures from Carter.
Tladi arm-locking on Carter. "There, this is how we play Rugby. Better than 'Professional Wrestling' if you still call it 'Professional'!"

My Team mates and Myself. ("So uh.. can we eat?")

"You did great Gentlemen! Show off your muscles!"

Dinny in pants pulling action!

Official B.Black Stickers held up by Carter. Thanks to Aaron! Now waiting for shirts!

Training again on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Hoping my scrums this year are more effective than last year, especially with my early absence. Thanks to Harris for giving really helpful tips for Scrummaging and I'm really eager now to go at them.

SQUEEZE. KNEES. DRIVE!

ITB Interview

2009-05-04T17:59:00.000+08:00

Some of you might have heard (or read). I got shortlisted for an interview at ITB for Business Marketing. It was a surprise though, Zani just found my name on a list in their website. So I had to prepare all my certificates and stuff. I got everything prepared and looks like I did ok with my interview.

They were asking me a lot about my hobbies and why my graded subjects should benefit Marketing. I gave my answers with confidence and, as I told my friends after the interview, with Rugby spirit! They said they enjoyed the interview maybe due to my opinions on teamwork and competition. I told them, in response to the question "If there is a problem during a project, and it's one person's fault, what would you do?", "If its one man's fault, then it breaks the team. It's better to accept responsibilty together then to let one person take the blame."

So any of you going for that interview in ITB, remember to breathe, be confident with yourself and my best advice? Be passionate. And overall...

DO YOUR BEST!