Sunday, December 31, 2006

Lower Road Tax


New year brings new tidings and this certainly is good news for vehicle owners to start the new year. Road tax for all privately-owned cars would be reduced by between 4% and 33%, effective tomorrow, January 1, 2007.

Read article from The Star

Furnaces

Here in Malaysia, we do not need heating systems as the sun shines the whole year round. If anything, we need electric fans and air-conditioners. Well, that's for another story.

If you're in a temperate climate with extreme Winters, Furnaces would be the thing you would need to keep you warm and comfortable during those cold Winter months. If you're looking for good articles and news about furnaces, why not visit 123furnace.com. It is a site about furnaces and alternative furnace/heating methods available, to provide you enough information to make an informed choice. It also has news on furnace filters and advice on the do's and don'ts.

The "Eye on Malaysia" Ferris Wheel


I was downtown last night and noticed a giant Ferris wheel in the distance against the dark blue sky and the backdrop of the Petronas Twin Towers in the distance. What an awesome sight!

This giant Ferris wheel named "Eye on Malaysia" is installed in anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year 2007 (VMY2007) I'm so looking forward to riding it when it opens.

Choosing Baby Names

Some of my friends who are mothers swore that one of the most daunting tasks as a parent is picking a name for their new-born. As traditional Chinese, the names would need to have a meaning, a positive meaning, that is. Some of them are lucky in that they have parents and parents-in-law to help suggest names. As Chinese, we have to consider the name in Chinese characters as well as the romanised name. Also, some Chinese families still maintain the tradition of keeping to a set of names for each generation. This has been going on for generations per clan rules. Chinese maintains a family or surname or what is known in the West as last name.

Indian names and Muslim names are different from Chinese names. They honour their father as opposed to Chinese honouring the family clan. Both have their own merits.

I noticed of late, Muslim names have become quite elaborate and some even have a beautiful ring to it. My colleagues and friends took painstaking efforts in finding the desirable Baby Names for their new additions to the family. I believe, names make a person so no effort is to be spared in getting the right baby name for your child.

If you are a Muslim and are looking for a baby name for your newborn, you may want to visit this UK site for baby names. They have baby names for boys and girls as well as popular names for both genders. If you'd like to name your child after a prophet, you can choose from their list of names of prophets. Do visit the site. You won't regret it.

Saturday, December 30, 2006

Fireworks and countdown parties

So what's your plan for New Year's eve countdown? Wondering where you could party? Here's a list of party venues in the Klang Valley and Genting Highlands. Check it out.

BEST WISHES FOR A HAPPY NEW YEAR. MAY IT BE BETTER THAN THE LAST.

PETALING JAYA: There will be no countdown party at KLCC but revellers will be treated to a breathtaking fireworks display at the park at midnight on Sunday.

Petronas Nasional Bhd said in a statement that there would be no party or concerts at KLCC out of respect for Hari Raya Haji but the fireworks display would be held to usher in the New Year.

It said visitors would be able to catch a six-minute fireworks display and there would also be a countdown display at the site.

The statement was made to clarify reports that there would be no New Year countdown or spectacular fireworks display at KLCC.

However, celebrations and accompanying fireworks are expected to go on as usual in most places in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and Genting Highlands.


Where the countdown parties will be:

Genting Highlands
Local Chinese guest artistes will perform until a massive fireworks show takes place just before the countdown at the First World Plaza. Party starts from 9.30pm till late. Entry is free.

The Curve in Mutiara Damansara
The carnival includes a concert featuring Jaclyn Victor, Reshmonu and other artistes that will last till the New Year. Celebrations begin from 6pm. No entry fee required.

Bintang Walk
Street party and concert featuring local Chinese singers with fireworks display at the stroke of midnight. Party begins from 7pm onwards. Entry is free.

Sunway Lagoon Theme Park
Splash Surf Beach Party with a special appearance by 45 finalists of the Miss World Tourism contest and performances by local bands. A spectacular fireworks display is set to light up the sky at midnight. Doors open at 7pm. Adults – RM88 nett and children – RM55 nett. Cover charge after 10pm – RM50.

One Utama Shopping Complex
Countdown street party at Central Park Avenue (main entrance of new wing). Party begins from 6.30pm. International artistes like Australian band North, Genie Chuo (Taiwan) and local artiste Nicholas Teo to perform along with Myfm deejays. Expect incredible fireworks to light up the celebrations. Entry is free.

News Update by The Star Newsdesk

All Work or All Drink?

Couldn't help taking note of this quote that keeps popping up at the corner of my PC notifying of someone signing in on MSN. It says

"Work is the curse of the drinking man." Who said that?! 'Twas Oscar Wilde.

Do you agree with Mr Wilde? Should we have to work? Silly question. Don't answer that.

All work and no drink makes Oscar a dull man; while all work and no drink makes Oscar.....Wilde (wild), naturally!

Now, get back to work - and a drink later, perhaps.

Credit Cards

Yes, Christmas may be over but for many people, it still has to be paid for. Did you overspend this Christmas? For those who did their shopping with credit cards, it could be worrisome as January's credit card statement is coming in.

The use of credit cards to pay for purchases is now the popular method of consumer spending. This is enhanced with credit card issuers offering attractive loyalty programs and establishments offering great discounts. There'll be further spending with school re-opening next week. School textbooks, uniforms, school shoes, stationery will all be needed.

With the 0% balance transfer credit card facility available, many people are now applying for this type of credit card to transfer their existing credit balance. 0% balance transfers do help save substantially on interests.

As there are so many credit cards to choose from, how do we know which credit card is the best. Which gives the best deal? It is therefore important to compare credit cards so that you get the best credit card available.

Orlando Citrus Parade - TONIGHT Malaysia time

Calling all parade-lovers...boys and girls

Don't miss the live telecast of the annual Orlando Citrus Parade that starts at 11 AM, Orlando/Florida time - that's around midnight Malaysian time and a little earlier Tokyo time, I think. Please work it out yourself, the time difference, I mean. PPP, that's PayPerPost, and the Big Blue Monster will be in the Parade too.

Log on to: www.OrlandoCitrusParade.com

Scottsdale Real Estate

At a recent Asset Managers meeting I went to, one of the asset managers touched on the local real estate investment outlook and that the 'A' list properties are being snapped up the minute they're launched. The 'B' list and others down the road, are not so hot, however. There's actually a glut on properties in this region. That explains why my friends are finding it difficult getting their properties sold or rented out. I hear Scottsdale Condos are selling like hot cakes. Would Scottsdale real estate be able to help my friends then?

Friday, December 29, 2006

Why We Love Children

Yes, why do we love children? Those of us who do not have children would love to have them (no?) while those who have them would love to give them away, well, sometimes (no again?). Anyway, I think generally children are great fun to have around, i.e., if you discount their crankiness and their incessant whys and wherefores. Enough said, just enjoy these jokes about children.






Source unknown

Window-cleaning

The other day, I watched an episode on the travel channel where they showcased the most expensive hotel in the world, the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. They showed how their windows were cleaned, the care they put to the job which reminded me of the care put to cleaning windows of the bulletproof glass type, especially if they are the acrylic type.

Acrylic bulletprrof windows need to be cleaned with non-ammonia-based cleaners and wiped with clean lint-free cloth or 100% cotton diaper material. Using ammonia-based cleaners will damage the acrylic and using dirty lint-free material will cause scratches.

The Christmas Spirit


I was at the Palace of the Golden Horses hotel the other day when I saw this tree (in fact, a few of them) at the lobby. What caught my attention was the stars dangling from the branches. On closer inspection, I saw that they were golden stars with details of name and address of a person on one side and on the reverse was written "Wish Upon A Star Christmas Charity". This must have been a Christmas Charity Drive and donors get to hand a star on the tree. How sweet! The hotel gets to use them as decorations too.

Thursday, December 28, 2006

2006 Photograph of the Year Contest


Hey, you guys take great pictures. I know. I love the pictures you put up on your blog. Why not put that photography to good use and take your photography to a higher level as well as win some prizes in the process. Enter the PhotographyCorner.com 2006 Photograph of the Year contest.

It should be an easy opportunity for anyone who has a camera. Anyone can enter and any photograph submitted will stand a chance to win. Prices worth $14,000 are waiting to be won, proudly sponsored by:

- ImageAlign.com
- Proimageguide.com
- www.BibbleLabs.com
- and many more.

Entries are due in no later than midnight, GMT on Friday, January 12, 2007 and voting begins on January 15, 2007. So hurry, get those pictures taken and submitted.

Find out more and how the contest works. Before submitting a photograph, you may want to make sure you are aware of what information is required with your submission (check out the How to Submit a Photograph page), as well as what limitations there are.

Rules of the contest can be found here. Best to go through and understand them. Knowing the timeline is important. If there is any specifics you would like to find out about the contest, you can go to the Photograph of the Year forum.

Finally, wouldn't you like to know the kind of prizes you can win?

Good luck!

The Hunger Site













I have to remind myself once in awhile how fortunate I am. I have nice, hot meals daily and lovely clothes and lots of other 'want-to-have' stuff (versus 'need-to-have'). Millions of people (actually estimated one billion) suffer from hunger and malnutrition. Below are some stark facts from the Hunger Site, fyi.


ABOUT THE HUNGER SITE

Your click on the "Give Free Food" button funds food for the hungry, paid for by site sponsors whose ads appear after you click and provided to people in need around the world through the efforts of Mercy Corps and America's Second Harvest.


HUNGER: DO YOU KNOW THE FACTS?

It is estimated that one billion people in the world suffer from hunger and malnutrition. That's roughly 100 times as many as those who actually die from these causes each year.

About 24,000 people die every day from hunger or hunger-related causes. This is down from 35,000 ten years ago, and 41,000 twenty years ago. Three-fourths of the deaths are children under the age of five.

Famine and wars cause about 10% of hunger deaths, although these tend to be the ones you hear about most often. The majority of hunger deaths are caused by chronic malnutrition. Families facing extreme poverty are simply unable to get enough food to eat.

In 1999, a year marked by good economic news, 31 million Americans were food insecure, meaning they were either hungry or unsure of where their next meal would come from. Of these Americans, 12 million were children. The Hunger Site began on June 1, 1999.

Please remember to click every day to give help and hope to those with nowhere to turn. Every click counts in the life of a hungry person. You can click from the sidebar on this blog, just below the clock. You are welcome to come back daily to click it.

Internet service disrupted

I thought I was having a problem with my system until I read the news that the two earthquakes in Taiwan caused damage to submarine cables. Getting to websites overseas especially US sites took like forever. It was frustrating finding the sites still trying to open after tending to other tasks. Am glad connectivity is back to normal today.

Russian Brides

Of late, there is a trend in Malaysia of men taking foreign brides. It was highlighted in the local dailies some weeks back. These brides are mainly from nearby countries of Vietnam and China. I hear russian brides are coming into the picture.

I was told Russian brides prefer to get to know a person before creating a more serious bond or marriage. For majority of Russian women, their priority is family and career and others come after. Needless to say, a relationship with a Russian bride is likely to be different from any local dating experience. If your priority is appearance or looks, Russian brides would meet your requirement as they are known for their beauty (see these Moscow brides or these St. Petersburg brides). They also become warm-hearted loving wives! If you are looking for a relationship with a Russian bride check out Loversplanet.com!

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Passports in a jiffy

Good news for Sabahans. Getting an international passport in Sabah will soon be a breeze. Come next year, Sabahans can apply for or renew their travelling documents in just two hours once the digital printing machines to generate the high-tech passport are installed. More..The Star

Not Another Tsunami



What do you think these are? They are cocoon-shaped organisms mysteriously appearing on the riverbanks in Penang two weeks ago which gave villagers a fright. It was two years ago in December that they observed strange signs such as receding seawater and abundant marine life. Two years ago yesterday, December 26, giant waves wreaked havoc and caused great devastation in countries bordering the Indian Ocean. The villagers named the organism 'ubi air' or 'water potato' in English though they are known as 'bronong'.
More..The Star



While on the east coast, there is a bountiful supply of cockles. These cockles have been swept ashore by the waves. They are being collected by the sackfuls. Read story.

What could all this mean? An impending disaster? There was no tsunami reported though two major earthquakes struck southern Taiwan on Tuesday, triggering fears of destructive waves as Asia marked the second anniversary of the Indian Ocean tsunami. More..The Star

Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Computer Tracking Tools

Ever wondered what your children are viewing on the Internet or who they chat with? Or if you are an employer, would you want to know your employees activities online?

Now there are softwares that track computer activities from email to chats to website visits to P2P activity and more. Parents can use such tools to monitor what their children are viewing and the sites they visit. They are also able to know who their children chat with online - whether they are with the right company. Safety of their children is the parents main concern.

In the office, employers will be able to monitor the employees online activities to ensure that they stay within the companies Internet Acceptable Use policy.

Whether it's for the home or office environment, netbus.org would be able to provide you the right keystroke logger to suit your need.

Honeywell Humidifiers


Low humidity can cause dry skin and other discomfort conditions such as dry skin, cracked lips, itchy eyes, sore throat and sinus headaches. Even though humidity is high here, the hot weather can sometimes cause the above conditions when one does not have adequate intake of water losing bodily fluids through perspiration.

A humidifier could solve my problem. The Honeywell warm mist and cool mist humidifiers are suitable for both home and office use. Most models have a built-in humidity meter to ensure that your room stays at peak humidity at all times plus they also have an auto-shutoff feature for when they run out of water. I like this feature.

If you'd like to get one or would like to know more about humidifiers, visit HumidifierInformation.com to find out which type of humidifiers will suit your need.

The Underwear Oracle

The Chinese have a saying that a person's dressing tells a lot about him. What about our underwear, I wonder, but I don't think the Chinese elders had that in mind when they coined that saying. Found this cute little test - for some laughter and good fun. Find out what your undies tell about you. Oops!




What Your Underwear Says About You



You like to think of yourself as innocent, even though you're not!



You're comfortable in your own skin - and don't care to impress anyone.

Personal Loans

We all sign up for loans one time or another, either to buy properties, vehicles or even take our personal loans. If you are in the UK and are wondering as to where to go for the best rates, you may want to check out this site, http://www.selectloans.co.uk/

And if you are looking for a personal loan, there is no better place. They would be able to help you find the loan that suits your need best. You would be able to make your own comparisons from the information on the types of personal loans available. Whether it is unsecured personal loans, or secured loans or even a guaranteed car loan, they will be able to help you determine the type of personal loan that works for you.

Second wave of floods hits JB

JB (Johor Bahru) residents are not getting any reprieve yet from the weather as the city has been hit by a second wave of floods from the heavy rain in the last 24 hours. Three relief centres have been set up to cater to more evacuees.

JB is a city at the southernmost tip of Peninsula Malaysia and is the gateway to Malaysia from Singapore by road. The causeway links both countries and a second link was opened a few years ago to ease traffic which builds up especially during holiday seasons.

Cost of living has gone up drastically in JB. This is due to Singaporeans doing their shopping in JB taking advantage of the positive currency exchange in their (Singaporeans) favour. The rate is S$1.00 = RM2.3 approximately.

Monday, December 25, 2006

Bones of dead whale preserved

Do you remember the Bryde's whale, the one that was stranded, rescued and put back to sea and eventually died? Well, its skeletal remains have been salvaged and will be preserved in the museum.
More..The Star

Sunday, December 24, 2006

What Do People Envy About You?

Do you sometimes feel good about yourself and that you are being envied? If so, what do you think people would envy about you? Nah! I don't think for a minute anyone would envy me. Oh well...




People Envy Your Compassion



You have a kind heart and an unusual empathy for all living creatures. You tend to absorb others' happiness and pain.

People envy your compassion, and more importantly, the connections it helps you build. And compassionate as you are, you feel for them.



Don't envy me. I could have fooled you. Now read the one below.




Your Quirk Factor: 42%



You're a pretty quirky person, but you're just normal enough to hide it.

Congratulations - you've fooled other people into thinking you're just like them!



See what I mean? Now you know! LOL

Are You a Control Freak?

Now here's an interesting test. Find out if you are one who likes to take control of things to the extent of being a control freak or are you like me. Check it out.




You Are 24% Control Freak



You have achieved the perfect balance of control and letting go.

You tend to roll with whatever life brings, but you never get complacent.

Saturday, December 23, 2006

Guts and Balls

My male chauvinistic friend sent me this. I wonder whether he's got the former or the latter.

Guts and Balls - what have you got?

We've all heard about people having guts or balls. But do you really know the difference between them? In an effort to keep you informed, the definition for each is listed below...

GUTS - is arriving home late after a night out with the guys, being met by your wife with a broom, and having the guts to ask: "Are you still cleaning, or are you flying somewhere?"

BALLS - is coming home late after a night out with the guys, smelling of perfume and beer, ipstick on your collar, slapping your wife on the butt and saying: "You're next."

I hope this clears up any confusion on the definitions. Medically speaking, there is no difference in the outcome since both ultimately result in death.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Merry Christmas Everyone



My Dear Friends, time really flies. Seems like it was only yesterday that we exchanged greetings. It's time again for another round of warm wishes. My best wishes to you and your loved ones for A Very Merry Christmas and May All Your Dreams Come True.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way !

Santa Claus is coming to town.

Snow is falling, all around us
Children playing, having fun
Tis the season,
For love and understanding
Merry Christmas, Everyone!

Digesthelp (IBS Remedy)

Oh, I'm so looking forward to the holidays this Christmas season. I'll be attending lots of gatherings with friends, colleagues and family. No matter where these get-togethers are held, there's always food, lots of them. I hope I won't be going through indigestion with all that good food.

I hear there's a remedy for indigestion called Digesthelp IBS Remedy. It's an all-natural remedy clinically proven to be 99% effective and works very quickly too. Within 3 to 5 days, I'd be feeling relieved and happy. It's got a 365-day guarantee too.

I know I'd be safe to have Digesthelp close at hand so this holiday season will be a most enjoyable one. Happy holidays to all.

Do's and don'ts during floods

With the flood situation getting more severe, here are some do's and don'ts as issued by The Star to help those in affected areas.

Do's and don'ts during floods

DO'S

1. Think of safety first during a flood.

2. Take care when walking through shallow water.

3. Turn off electricity and gas supply when evacuating.


DON'TS

1. Don’t try to walk or drive through floodwater.

2. Don’t walk across bridges as they may collapse.

3. Never swim through fast flowing water.

4. Avoid contact with floodwater as it may be contaminated.

Source: The Star

Finding the Right Office Desks

My office is thinking of replacing the current set of office furniture which we have been having for many years now. These days, great emphasis is being placed on getting the right type of furniture such as office desks, chairs and filing cabinets.

Ergonomics is one of the deciding factors when ordering furniture. This is to ensure better safety and health for the employees. The guidelines as issued by DOSH (Department of Safety & Health) help companies order the right type of furniture for its employees.

The furniture stocked by Great Priced Furniture would be what my company needs. Their home office furniture is made of good, high quality durable materials that last and at great prices too.

With such a good range, it's difficult to decide on what to get for our office so our buyer would need to contact their sales representatives to help out. With their expertise and years of experience, they will be able to help our buyer find the perfect furniture for our office.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Use internship to get hired, graduates urged

Our Deputy Prime Minister is encouraging students to get into internships so that it will be easier for them when they graduate as they will have some working knowledge which makes it easier for employers to hire them later on.


SHAH ALAM: Get real. Getting good academic results is not good enough if students want to get suitable jobs after graduation, said Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Khir Toyo.

While they are still in university, they should try to get some hands-on experience by offering to do their practical training or internship in reputable companies, he said.

“We have a lot of graduates with high academic qualifications but very little ‘real world’ experience for the job market.”
More..The Star

Financial Aid for Students in the US (FAFSA)

Students in the US who need financial aid to further their studies can turn to FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for help. You can find FAFSA on the Web.

FAFSA Online, provides you with information and assistance you will need. Get the FAFSA form online today. FAFSA assistance is free. Their comprehensive tutorials and guides will help you along.

Though not required, FAFSA recommends that all college-bound students complete one. I am sure you would want to qualify for the maximum amount of federal financial aid each year, so do complete and submit the form annually.

Folks stranded by floods



It's not the whale this time being stranded but it's people being stranded by floods. I've not seen anything like this occuring in the southern region of Peninsula Malaysia. To be exact, the places hit are Kota Tinggi and Segamat in Johor and they are being cut off by rising waters.

More than people in Johor, Malacca, Negri Sembilan and Pahang have been evacuated. Electriciy substations in Johor have been shut down leaving more than three thousand premises without electricity.

Railway services to the south have been cancelled until further notice and certain areas in Segamat had their water supply cut off after three treatment plants were closed.

More downpours are expected over the next few days, according to the Meteorological Department.

Source: The Star

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

The Stranded Whale

Remember I posted the story of the stranded whale? I am sorry to have to update you that it did not survive the ordeal and was found dead at almost the same spot where it was trapped earlier. Villagers spotted the whale lying on its side with the waters around the carcass turning dark red as blood began flowing out from the carcass and it was already emitting a foul odour.

Full story here.

Rick Price


Remember the song "Heaven Knows"? Well, the singer who had so many people feeling romantic over that song and probably swooning over him back then will be here in KL for Christmas gigs. Yes, Rick Price will be here in town and he will be at The Ascott and Souled Out.

Check out details here...The Star

New Dating Site

Just Say Hi! Exactly. It is that easy to get a date on this site, JustSayHi.com. I know, there are lots of other sites out there but this site has a difference. Registration is totally FREE.

You'll get to meet thousands of fun, attractive, men and women in your area. Make friends. Who knows you might find your life-partner here. Why wait? Join now. Just say hi.

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Goutinol for Gout Sufferers

I have a cousin who used to suffer from Gout. Gout, also called metabolic arthritis, is a disease due to an inborn uric acid metabolism. In this condition monosodium urate crystals are deposited on the articular cartilage of joints and in the particular tissue like tendons. This provokes an inflammatory reaction of these tissues and can be painful to the sufferer.

My cousin discovered Goutinol and it completely made him a much happier person. Goutinol works fast, even within 2 to 3 days and has no side effects. All his pains vanished making him more active and smiling again. Goutinol, a pharmaceutical-grade product, was formulated using the latest nanotechnology to ensure effectiveness. It is the best all-natural Gout remedy on the market today and used over 3 to 6 months, Gout can be completely reversed. That's how potent Goutinol is.

Internships

University graduates pass out with increasing numbers year after year. However, some companies are still finding it difficult to get their vacancies filled. This has resulted in them employing interns to fill the posts and the trend is fast catching on.

If your company is facing the same situation, why not turn to offering internships instead? There is this company that is able to find interns all over the world and able to fulfill internships abroad.

InternTown is a UK-based company and enjoys strong links with universities in many countries which in turn guarantees a high level of quality of interns available.

For a minimal fee and with minimal administration, employers can directly access the CVs of tens of thousands of future interns and make contact with them in a hassle free way.

For future interns, sign up for free to be listed in finding challenging positions worldwide.

Monday, December 18, 2006

New Office Guideline

As a norm, the F-word is not used in where I work but occasionally it does get some air-time. Enjoy the following. Unfortunately, source is unknown.


It has been brought to management's attention that some individuals throughout the company have been using foul language during the course of normal conversation with their colleagues.

Due to complaints received from some employees who may be easily offended, this type of language will no longer be tolerated.

We do, however, realise the critical importance of being able to accurately express your feelings when communicating with colleagues.

Therefore, a list of 13 New and Innovative "TRY SAYING" phrases have been provided so that proper exchange of ideas and information can continue in an effective manner.

1.
Try Saying:
I think you could do with more training
Instead Of:
You don't have a f*cking clue, do you?

2.
Try Saying:
She's an aggressive go-getter.
Instead Of:
She's a f*cking power-crazy b*tch

3.
Try Saying:
Perhaps I can work late
Instead Of:
And when the f*ck do you expect me to do this?

4.
Try Saying:
I'm certain that isn't feasible
Instead Of:
F*ck off a*se-wipe

5.
Try Saying:
Really?
Instead Of:
Well f*ck me backwards with a telegraph pole

6.
Try Saying:
Perhaps you should check with...
Instead Of:
Tell someone who gives a f*ck.

7.
Try Saying:
I wasn't involved in the project.
Instead Of:
Not my f*cking problem, mate.

8.
Try Saying:
That's interesting.
Instead Of:
What the f*ck?

9.
Try Saying:
I'm not sure this can be implemented within the given timescale.
Instead Of:
No f*cking chance mate.

10.
Try Saying:
It will be tight, but I'll try to schedule it in
Instead Of:
Why the f*ck didn't you tell me that yesterday?

11.
Try Saying:
He's not familiar with the issues
Instead Of:
He's got his head up his f*cking a*se.

12.
Try Saying:
Excuse me, sir?
Instead Of:
Oi, f*ck face.

13.
Try Saying:
Of course, I was only going to be at home anyway
Instead Of:
Yeah, who needs f*cking holidays anyway.


Thank You,

Human Resources

Wedding Favors



Here in Malaysia, at Malay weddings, guests are normally given wedding favors. They used to be in the form of a hard-boiled egg encased in a small receptacle which could be a nice little box or other pretty containers either hand-made or ordered from wedding favor outlets. These days, chocolates have replaced the eggs. Other items have also come into the picture.

In the Chinese community however, presenting wedding favors was not practised but of late it has become popular.

If you're looking to buy cheap wedding favors, Giftsandotherwise.com is the place you should check out. You'll love their enormous selection of inexpensive favors - Wedding Bubbles, Placecard Holders, Coasters, Candles and even Candy. They have tons of wedding favors under $3!! You won't find a better bargain or cheaper prices anywhere.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

HotelReservations.com

Everyone has a holiday story to tell. Whether one returns home happy or otherwise is in part attributable to the planning before the trip. Accommodation tops my priority list to ensure an enjoyable vacation.

HotelReservations.com would be the site I would use as it has a wide range of accommodations - hotels, motels, resorts, vacation rentals and others. Their rates are really competitive for the quality accommodations they offer. They even offer discounts as much as 70% on worldwide destinations.

For that great holiday, why not visit HotelReservations.com

Install a Retail Software



Many small business owners are still running their business using manual methods. With technology available in this time and age, it would be to their advantage to use technology to make their job easier as well as keep up with progress. I have family friends in various small businesses so perhaps I need to introduce them to the MerchantOS retail software.

MerchantOS, a point of sale software, is for businesses with one or more retail locations. The software is able to track and organize sales, manage inventory, maintain customer records among others. Businesses that use MerchantOS have increased efficiency and experience less computer system downtime. All that's needed is a computer and an Internet connection.

Pass The Class

This story is truly inspirational, a life's lesson here perhaps.

I Made A 41
===========
Perhaps the only test score that I remember is the 41. I was in high school. The class was taught by one of the two teachers that impacted me most, Mr. Bales. The other teacher was Mrs. Drew from the seventh grade. It's amazing how I can remember from over 30 years ago my two most impacting teachers.

The eighth grade. It was a time when I, like most, didn't know what I was to be in life. The drama of that time of youth was simply get through school and make the long walk home.

There are some things that will still be like the eighth grade when you get to be eighty.

The test was the final for the class. I remember anxiously waiting as Mr. Bales passed out test after test. It was a rather difficult test. I didn't know how well I had done but I knew there were things on it that I didn't know.

The air whooshed around the pages as it made a gentle sound plopping down. It was a rhythm as each student received their test - plop, plop, plop.

I heard groan after groan that accompanied the plops. I could tell by the groans that the grades weren't looking good.

Mr. Bales dropped the stapled pages on my desk.

There in big red numbers, circled to draw attention, was my grade.

41

Groan!!!

I moved my paper where it wasn't in plain view, a 41 is not something that you wanted your classmates to see.

After the final plop, Mr. Bales stood behind the worn desk that had stood guard over countless students before me. He addressed the none too jubilant class.

"The grades were not very good, none of you passed, so I will have to consider grading on a scale," Mr. Bales announced.

"The highest grade in the class was a 41, so all of you flunked," were the final words that I remember.

A 41. That's me.

Suddenly my dismal looking final didn't look quite so bad. There were at least 30 students in the class. I had the highest grade. I felt a whole lot better.

I walked home that day with the low but high grade safely tucked away in my book satchel. My mother knew that I had a big test that day and asked me as soon as I got home, "how did you do on your test."

"I made a 41," I said.

My mother's expression changed. A frown now stood where a smile was a few seconds earlier. I knew that I had to explain and explain fast. "But mother, I had the highest grade in the class," I proudly stated.

I knew that statement would change things. I had the highest grade in the class, that made a difference.

My mother said, "You flunked."

"But I had the highest grade in the class!" I replied.

"I don't care what everyone else had, you flunked. It doesn't matter if everyone else flunked too, what matters is what you do," my mother firmly answered.

For years, I thought that was a harsh judgment. My mother was always that way. It didn't matter what the other kids did, it only mattered what I did and that I did it excellently.

We often don't understand the wisdom of good parents until we ourselves stand in the parenting shoes. My mother's philosophy has carried me throughout life. Don't worry about what the crowd does.

The crowd often goes the wrong way.

If you follow the crowd, you will go to the same destination as the crowd. The path of the crowd is wide and it is crowded. The path to pass the tests of life is narrow and there are very few people on it.

The path up the mountain is narrow; it is not crowded.

The path to health is narrow; it is not crowded.

The path to harmony, peace and happiness with your spouse is narrow; it is not crowded.

The path to peace with yourself and the world is narrow; it is not crowded.

I made a 41 and was proud of it, but it would not have gotten me through the real tests.

The majority of spouses are not faithful, it's the crowd, and even though you may be the smoothest deceiver of the group, you are on the road to failure; it's not a passing grade.

The crowd eats fattening unhealthy fast food. That food sends you to an early appointment with the doctor and the funeral director. It's the food of the crowd.

The crowd spends no special time in prayer and meditation each day. That leads to an unhealthy spirit. It's the way of the crowd.

Thirty years after my mother said that she didn't care if I was the best failure in the class, I understand why.

"Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."

That's a quote that my mother lives by.

We often take comfort in the crowd; the only problem is that the crowd is not comfortable.

PASS the class!


~A MountainWings Original~

Astronomy and Telescopes

If you've been reading my blog far back enough you would have read that I saw a UFO sometime back one morning. It would have been awesome if I had a telescope on hand to see it better.

Perhaps I should get one for another of such an occasion. You never know and with eclipses happening rather often, a telescope would come in handy.

I'm not an expert on astronomy so I guess a used telescope would suit my need. I found this site AstroAds and they've got a good range of telescopes and such on their telescope classifieds.

Good Clean Jokes

Let's take a breather for some lighter moments. I apologise I've been bombarding you, my patient and supportive blog-friends, with some dry material although some of it may be good reading and informative. To tell you the truth, I've learnt quite a bit from all this blog advertising. Have you decided to join in yet? The PayPerPost icon on the sidebar is waiting for your click.

Enjoy these in the meantime.

Teacher: "Simon, your composition on "My Dog" is exactly the same as your brother's. Did you copy his?"
Simon: "No, teacher, it's the same dog!"

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Teacher: "Your hair is very untidy. Why did you not comb it before coming to school?"
Boy: "No comb, Sir."
Teacher: "Use your dad's then."
Boy: "No hair, Sir."

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Teacher: "Where were you born?"
Student: "Singapore, Sir."
Teacher: "Which part?"
Student: "All of me, Sir."

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Teacher: "Chong, you missed school last Friday."
Chong : "You're wrong, Sir."
Teacher: "Wrong, how is that?"
Chong : "I was absent, yes but I certainly didn't miss it!"

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Father: "Your teacher says she finds it impossible to teach you anything!"
Son: "That's why I say she's no good!"

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Teacher: "Class, what is the difference between 'unlawful' and 'illegal'?"
Joan: " 'Unlawful' is when you do something the law doesn't allow and 'illegal" is a sick eagle."

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Doctor: "I have some bad news and some very bad news."
Patient: "Well, might as well give me the bad news first."
Doctor: "The lab called with your test results. They said you have 24 hours to live."
Patient: "24 hours! That's terrible!! What could be worse? What's the very bad news?"
Doctor : "I've been trying to reach you since yesterday."

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Patient: "How much to have this tooth pulled?"
Dentist: "$90.00."
Patient: "$90.00 for just a few minutes work???"
Dentist: "I can extract it very slowly if you like."

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1st thief : "Oh! The police is here. Quick! Jump out of the window"
2nd thief : "But this is the 13th floor."
1st thief : "Hurry! This is no time for superstitions."

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Wife: "Do you love me?"
Husband: "Yes, dear."
Wife: "Would you die for me?"
Husband: "No, dear. Mine is undying love."

Saturday, December 16, 2006

Stranded Whale Saved

Once in a while, we get animals being trapped in our shallow waters. This time, it's a whale and I'm glad the stranded whale has been helped out to sea and I hope it's doing fine. Poor thing. See below for the full story.














FREEING LUULUMBO: Tourists, rescuers and Pulau Gaya villagers trying to free a Bryde's whale, known to Kadazans as Luulumbo, that was trapped in shallow waters between Pulau Gaya and Pulau Sapi off Kota Kinabalu on Friday. After numerous attempts, divers and a tugboat managed to set it free. It was towed to deeper waters at 7.45pm.
More...The Star

Buying Property Overseas

















There's so much to see and experience in life and there are so many places to visit and soak up the local culture. Joining tour packages only allow one to just pass through or stay for just a day or two which does not allow one to really enjoy and appreciate the place and its people.

That's why I think to be able to enjoy a place and its people, one has to stay there for sometime perhaps months on end and if the place is really nice, stay on indefinitely, who knows. I've always been fascinated by Europe particularly Spain with its rich history. And if I were to be looking for a property in Spain, this would be the website I'd go to.

The site has a wide variety of properties as well as a comprehensive property buying guide not only for Spain but for many other countries.

Garfield on Being Fat

Some people are very lucky to be able to eat anything and at any amount without adding an ounce to their weight while others just add on even on a diet. I have friends who keep buying new clothes to suit their new body instead of maintaining their body to fit their current clothes. And then there are others who make excuses for their wideness. They sure have a good friend in Garfield.

Money Saving Advice

Proper financial control does wonders to our bank accounts. Get some advice from The Thrifty Scot which offers advice and tips on how to save money using credit cards, loans, mortgages, bank accounts and insurance.

Credit cards
Not all credit cards are the same. Now is the best time to compare credit cards that will suit your finances. There is the balance transfer credit card, the cash back credit card and there's also one that offers 0% on purchases for a limited time.

Caution should be used when using a credit card as the ability to find yourself in serious debt can occur. One of the biggest mistakes that can be made is by keeping to the credit card minimum payment. This can be devastating to your finances and should be avoided at all costs. By simply paying an extra few dollars or pounds each month to your balance, the interest payment period can be reduced by years.

Secured Loans
Everyone needs to borrow money at some stage in their life, so why not do it sensibly. Many people waste money on not searching for a loan that offers the lowest interest or they don’t take enough care in making sure they can afford the repayments.

There are various loans one can raise money such as secured loans, unsecured loans, debt consolidation loans and even poor credit loans for people with a poor credit rating.

Mortgages
Many homeowners are unaware how much they could save by simply switching their mortgage for a better deal. Remortgages are popular and it is possible to save thousands by remortgaging.

Savings accounts
Banking and savings are what we all use but more often than not we do not seek out the best buys. By simply changing to a new savings or current account your finances could be given a much welcome boost.

Online banking has boomed in recent years and to get the best bank account try to compare offers online.

Home insurance
There are still too many people that use one insurance company and do not shop around. These people lose hundreds of dollars each year on expensive insurance policies. Make sure you are not one of them. You can shop around for the best car insurance quote, life insurance, home insurance or cheap travel insurance.

When choosing home and contents insurance make sure you do not under insure your property and contents to get a lower premium as this can backfire when you come to make a claim.

Visit the Thrifty Scot for more information on how you can save more money. Their latest financial news is updated daily as well as comments and opinions on events in the financial marketplace and how these affect the consumer.

Haircut

Read this. See if you know anyone like this hairdresser. No matter, have a good laugh.

A New York woman was at her East Side hairdresser getting her hair styled prior to a trip to Rome with her boyfriend. She mentioned the trip to the hairdresser, who responded, "Rome? Why would anyone want to go Rome? It's crowded and dirty and worse yet, full of Italians. You're crazy to go to Rome."
"So, how are you getting there"?

"We're flying on Continental," was the reply. "We got a great rate!"

"Continental"? exclaimed the hairdresser. "That's a terrible airline. Their planes are old, their flight attendants are ugly and they're always late."
"So, where are you staying in Rome"?

"We'll be at this exclusive little place over on Rome's left side called Trieste..."
"Don't go any further. I know that place. Everybody thinks it's gonna be something special and exclusive. But it's really a dump. The worst hotel in the whole city!The rooms are small, the service is surly and they're way overpriced."
"So, whatcha doing when you get there"?

"We're going to go to see the Vatican and we hope to see the Pope." "That's rich," laughed the hairdresser. "You and a million other people trying to see him. He'll look the size of an ant. Boy, good luck on this lousy trip of yours. You're sure going to need it."

A month later, the woman, all smiling, came in for her hair appointment. The hairdresser asked her about her trip to Rome.

"It was absolutely wonderful," explained the woman. "Not only did we arrive on time in one of Continental's brand new jets, but it was overbooked and they bumped us up to first class. The food and wine were wonderful and I had a handsome 28-year-old steward who waited on me hand and foot. And the hotel. It was fabulous! They'd just finished a $5 million remodeling job and now it's just a jewel, the finest hotel in the city. They, too, were overbooked, so they apologized and gave us their owner's suite at no extra charge!"

"Well," muttered the hairdresser. "I know you didn't get to see the Pope."

"Actually, we were quite lucky. As we toured the Vatican, a Swiss Guard tapped me on the shoulder and explained that the Pope likes to personally meet some of the visitors and if I'd be so kind as to step into his private room and wait, the Pope would personally greet me. Sure enough, five minutes later, the Holy Father walked through the door and shook my hand! I knelt down and he spoke a few words to me."

"Really"? asked the hairdresser. "What'd he say"?

He said, "Where did you get that horrible haircut"?

Christmas Online Games

I'm really looking forward to the Christmas holidays. It's a gazetted holiday here plus I'm taking some extra time bank hours so there'll be plenty of free time on my hands. This will allow me more time to blog and play some online games.

Found out that Blue Mountain now has a variety of Christmas online games that also double as eCards that you can send out to family and friends. They are all Flash-based, pretty interactive and are very entertaining. Here are a few that I enjoy playing:

Elf Toss Game
This is one of Blue Mountain’s newest Christmas online games. This is a great game. The objective of the game is to see how far you can have a team of two elves launch a third elf across a frozen pond.

Mistletoe Tag
Here's a game of luck to see how many kisses you can steal under the mistletoe.

And here's one for the kids, Christmas Matchup. The aim is to match up a pair of dalmatians.

Another easy one is Catch a Snowflake. Ever tried catching snowflakes on your tongue? In this game, just use your mouse to move the guy left or right to catch the snowflakes as they tumble down.

These eCards are all great Christmas online games that you can share with your friends, coworkers and family. You can also play them yourself before you send them out!

In addition to playing the games for free, you can also sign up for a free 30-day trial to send unlimited eCards and a yearly eCards subscription is only $13.99. Isn't this a much cheaper alternative to sending paper cards especially when you are running out of time to go shopping for them? Membership to Blue Mountain allows users to schedule eCards to arrive on a specific date, so you can personalize a Christmas eCard now and schedule it to be sent out instantly or on Christmas Day. Neat, eh?

Flying in Class

Weekends always bring forth the lighter side of life where we can put the stress of worklife behind us and take time to do some of the things we love, such as meeting up with friends for brunch or lunch, whichever suits our fancy and time. Came back home to find this little joke in my mailbox.

An airplane is flying over the United States at night. The pilot says:
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the plane is losing altitude and all the baggage must be thrown out."

A little later, the pilot says "We're still losing altitude,we must throw everything out that is in the cabin".

The plane continues its descent despite more things being thrown out.
Pilot: "Still going down - we must throw out some people".

There's a big gasp from the passengers!
Pilot: "But to make this fair, passengers will be thrown out in alphabetical order.

So... A... any Africans on board?" No one moves.

"B... any Blacks on board?" No one moves.

"C... any Caribbeans on board?" Still, no one moves.

A little black boy - asks his dad: "Dad,...what are we?
Dad: " Tonight son, we are Zulus!"

Free Christmas ecards

I still do send out paper Christmas cards but I also send our ecards. This year, I found more choices from eGreetings. Most of their Christmas cards are free for a limited time. However, there are free ecards too and these are my favourite:

Merry and Bright


What is Christmas without lights, right? And reindeers too.

Leslie And The LY's Christmas Rap!

I can't imagine Christmas without a song. Can you?



Drunken Santa and Cocktail Party


Tis the time of the year to hang loose and celebrate another good year and Santa is only human too.

Besides the free eCards, you can also take up their free 30-day trial to send unlimited eCards and a yearly eCards subscription is only $13.99. It's a much cheaper alternative to sending paper cards. You can also schedule eCards to arrive on a specific date.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Advertising Ingenuity

Advertising is big-time these days as corporations spend millions trying to promote their products; actually trying to entice us to part with our money. Of course it's working and how not to when advertising has become so sophisticated. The thinking that goes into these is remarkable. I mean look at the pictures below. Who would have thought of these in the old days? They are commendable.







Friday, December 15, 2006

Man of the House

The husband had just finished reading a new book entitled "You Can Be The Man of Your House".

He stormed into the kitchen and walked directly up to his wife. Pointing a finger in her face, he said sternly, "From now on,you need to know that I am the man of this house and my word is law!
You will prepare me a gourmet meal tonight, and when I'm finished eating my meal, you will serve me a sumptuous dessert. After dinner you are going to go up stairs with me,and we will have the kind of s..e..x that I want.After that, you are going to draw me my bath so I can relax. You will wash my back and towel me dry and bring me my robe. Then you will massage my feet and hands.
Then after that's done, guess who's going to dress me and comb my hair?"

His wife replied, "The damn Funeral Director would be my first guess."

Real Estate Investment



If I were looking for real estate investment in the US, I would strongly consider the new Cave Creek Resort & Casitas.

Spread over 20 acres in the heart of Arizona's Sonora Desert, with spectacular mountain views and great golf just minutes away, this new development, Cave Creek Resort & Casitas is a place where relaxation comes naturally. I believe lots of memories will be made there.

I can buy a condo and rent it out as a hotel when I am not there or I could use it as a family vacation home and live my dream. Wow!

If you are interested, visit the Cave Creek Resort Casitas Website today for more information.

Father Knows Best

Here's a clean joke.

A young boy had just gotten his driver's license and inquired of his father, if they could discuss his use of the car. His father said he'd make a deal with his son. "You bring your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible a little, get your hair cut and we'll talk about the car."

The boy thought about that for a moment, decided he'd settle for the offer and they agreed on it.

After about six weeks his father said, "Son, I've been real proud. You brought your grades up and I've observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I'm real disappointed you haven't gotten your hair cut."

The young man paused a moment then said, "You know, Dad, I've been thinking about that, and I've noticed in my studies of the Bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair and there's even a strong argument that Jesus had long hair."

To this his father replied, "Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?"

Source unknown

A Holiday in the U.S.



A colleague and his family are planning a a trip to the States. They do not plan on joining any tour group but prefer the flexibility and freedom of being on their own. They were asking around for suggestions for accommodations. I think Southwest Inn at Sedona, combination bed and breakfast / Small luxury hotel, may be what they are looking for.

The Southwest Inn is a unique combination of a small luxury hotel and a top quality bed and breakfast, with large beautiful rooms and fantastic customer service. They have been voted "the best place to stay in Sedona" three years in a row. That should say something about the inn.


The entire property is non-smoking, with 28 King, Dual Queen and 2-room suites. All rooms are equipped with 25" TVs, DVD/CD players, refrigerators, FREE high speed wireless internet access and their special "Sedona Dream" pillow top mattresses plus coffee makers and 2 telephones. There's even a fireplace in each room.

A deluxe continental breakfast is included in the room-rates. Other amenities include an outdoor spa and pool as well as an exercise room. A concierge is on hand to help plan your activities and make your reservations for dinners and tours.

For meetings, the inn has a private meeting room and an interent cafe with high speed internet access.

Southwest Inn is located near varied activities such as horseback riding, hiking, jeep rentals & tours, ballooning, restaurants, and theaters & galleries.

Room-rates are between $99 - $239 depending on room type and season. Visit their website for Internet special rates.

Stress Test

Look at these three pictures one at a time.




The patterns are used to test the level of stress a person can handle.

The slower the pictures move, the better your ability of handling stress.

Alleged criminals that were tested see them spinning around madly.

However, senior citizens and kids see them standing still.

None of these images are animated - they are perfectly still.

How did you do with the test??


Source unknown

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Window Film



Window tinting is becoming more popular these days. My car windows are tinted mainly to prevent glare and keep out the sun thus reducing UV exposure.



Some car and home window tinting kits are made easy to install as they are pre-cut to the precise measurements. They can be installed in just one afternoon. SnapTint.com offers these.

At SnapTint.com, they help consumers appreciate window tint not only from the aesthetic perspective, but also practical perspective.

Window film comes in many colors and varieties. It not only enhances the look of a car or home, but also provides many practical benefits such as reducing glare, providing UV protection and heat rejection thus lowering cooling bills as well as enhancing privasy.

Unfortunately, there are cheap low-quality window films in the market, so avoid being disappointed, buy from SnapTint.