Sunday, December 31, 2006

New Beginnings

As the year comes to an end, it forces me to take a look back at 2006. The year started off on a negative note when a dear friendship came to an abrupt, but not sudden, hault. While I understand the reason I was given for it ending, I just can't seem to accept it being over! :/

There were some misunderstandings with other friends, met some amazing and wonderful new ones, and lived through life changing and shattering experiences with some loved ones. The year witnessed weddings, births, deaths, divorces and heart breaks.

I guess life's all about recycling! You meet people, you get close, some disappear, some survive the test of time.. but in the end, it's not about them. It's about what you learn from them and from that experience.

3eedkom Embarak.. kil 3am winto ibkhair.

As for 2007, may you smile a million smiles. May you never shed a sad tear. May you be surrounded by love and wonderful people. May you be blessed with the wisdom that life is not about eternity. It's about those moments that make it all worth while.

Everything will one day come to an end. May we all be prepared for that. Allah Ya7fethkom.

Friday, December 22, 2006

Déjà Vu

I don't feel like writing a new post, but for some reason, I'd like to repost an old one. I wrote the below post on December 30, 2005.

-----------------

The Re-birth – Part IV

"و أذن في الناس بالحج يأتوك رجالا..."


3arafa:
I have never in my life felt as safe as I did as when I was at 3arafa. There are no words that I can put together that would truly be reflective of my feelings then. 3arafa, the day you feel all your sins are washed off; you are reborn.

You literally feel the presence of Angels around you. No one will be able to truly appreciate what I mean other than those who have actually been there. Had I not already put on the 7ejab prior to leaving home, there was no way I was going to walk out of 3arafa not met7ajba.

"God is so merciful that He is willing to forgive me for ALL my sins, and I can’t put a piece of cloth on my head? I can’t cover my hair? 3aib 3lay ibsara7a."

There will never be another wagfa ib 3arafa again where I will not recall all the feelings of that day and lower my head thanking Allah for His Greatness.

"اللهم اعوذ بك من الفقر و من شتات الامر و من شر ما يحدث بالليل و النهار أمسي ظلمي مستجيرا بعفوك و أمسي خوفي مستجيرا بأمانك .."


Mozdalefa:
This is where a huge dose of reality was handed to me. Looking around, you see many different people from all parts of the world and all parts of life. You see poverty in its rawest form, yet poverty moved by faith! Simply unreal.

This is where I felt how weak I was as a mortal. This is where it became clear that at the end, it doesn’t matter what educational degree I hold, what job title I carry, how much money I make.. it doesn’t matter what country I was born in and if I can speak languages or not. What matters is how my actions will have earned me a place in Heaven or not. Looking around, I realize those who have lived much more humble lives were on the same level as me standing there, possibly even higher when it came to what really matters!

Road to Mina:
Heading to Mina, anything that can go wrong went wrong. Our bus got lost in the midst of the human oceans of people walking around. It was barely moving as a result and what should’ve taken us 1 hour, at most, took us 9 hours! During that ride some people started to whine and complain that we were late, that we were on the bus too long, etc.

Somehow, I felt completely calm and serene. My mother looked at me and asked if I was ok. I replied, “Never been better. We’re going to narjim el shay6an. He’s trying to mess things up for us. La etkhaloneh yaghlebkom. Don’t sit here and whine. Read Quran, read du3a2, do anything constructive. Complaining will just give el shay6an what he wants.”

So we, as a group, started reading Du3a2 and the more we read, the faster the bus was able to move. The minute we all said out loud “Allahuma Salleee wa Sallim 3ala Mohammed, wa 2al Mohammed”, the bus moved and kept on moving. Sub7anak ya Rab!

Ramee El-Jamarat:
So many people gathered around, throwing pebbles (rajm el shay6an.) We decided to split up. Three of my aunts and I decided to battle this together. We held on to each other like a train. I lead the pack and walked into the crowd. Again, sub7an Allah, somehow the path opens up and we find ourselves against the railing, right in front of the wall. I grabbed my seven pebbles. As I looked up and aimed to throw, I saw many other pebbles flying in the same direction.

Somehow, as the pebble leaves your hand, your eyes follow it and you know EXACTLY which one your’s is and you see where it hits. You know right there and then whether you’ve hit it right or not. As each pebble leaves your hand you get more and more upset with el shay6an and you throw the next one even harder. You realize all those times el shay6an managed to convince you to sleep a little longer till salat el fajr passed you. You remember all those times el shay6an waswas lek and you realize how silly it was to not see it and stop el shay6an from having an effect on you!

Final 6awaf:
Right before we began our final 6awaf, it started to drizzle lightly. Smiling, we all looked up to the sky. El mo6ar khair, abwab el sama maftoo7ah! Then, it poured down!! Rain completely washed us. But that didn’t bother us, on the contrary, we were smiling like we’d never smiled before! Does this mean that Allah teqabal minna and is washing our sins?

Although we were worn out by all the events over the past few days, the harder it rained the more energy we had. We finished el 6awaf with greater ease than our first 6awaf when we arrived. Then, it happened. During our 7th and final sho6 around el Ka3ba, the rain stopped. I looked up and there it was. The most beautiful, huge, colorful rainbow right above el Ka3ba and the sky was orange.

Aneh 7ajjiya. How great it feels to actually BE one. It’s not just a word people use anymore. It’s a title I have earned proudly.

"لا اله الا أنت سبحانك اني كنت من الظالمين"

Wednesday, December 20, 2006

Angel Face

Look in the mirror. No, REALLY look in the mirror. What do you see? No, I don't think so. How can you see others so clearly but not see yourself?

Look at your eyes. Look deep inside. Yes, I see the saddness too. I see the disappointment and frustration. But don't you see the rest?

You are an amazing person.. a wonderful soul.. you touch every person you meet. Your sparkle brings an instant joy to those around you. You rush to help everyone, forgetting the most important one, yourself!

You're strong beyond your imagination. Look at what you've gone through and you still manage to put a smile on your face. I know, it may not be a genuine smile. But just the fact that you put one on, and walk with your head up high, is enough to show what you're made of deep down.

Stop worrying about other people, about whether they're happy or upset. You've spent your whole life giving. I think it's time you stepped back, relaxed and let others take care of you. You know why? Because you're worth it. And I refuse to stop until you believe it.

Monday, December 18, 2006

Disappointments



"When people disappoint you, forget about them.. and do something for yourself !"

Sunday, December 17, 2006

To You

Everytime I think of my future life, I see you in it. Whenever I think of happy moments I think of you being there to share that with me. I can't imagine anything new or happy in my life without you being there to witness it.

Your smile just makes me feel at instant peace. Your eyes make me want to run and give you a hug. Your hug makes me feel like I'm safer than safe and no one can touch me.

You've been the source of a lot of inspiration.. the source of a lot of prayers.. and the foundation of all that there is. I love you and will forever dedicate my all to you.

May God keep you healthy and strong, my beloved grandmother.

Friday, December 15, 2006

Simple, right?

Coke or diet coke? Steak or salad? Bora Bora or Las Vegas?

Why is it that some decisions are so easy to make while others are impossible? For the past few months I've been stuck. I have 2 doors in front of me and I have no idea which is best.

One day door #1 seems like the perfect one to open. I can sit and give you all the reasons why THAT should be my choice. Two weeks later, I can't find one reason why I should open door #1! It's door #2 of course!

I hate this indecisiveness.. and I'm running out of time! :/

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Fallen in Love!

Once again I've fallen in love. It's been so long. You know how they always tell you that sometimes something is right there in front of your eyes, but you just don't see it? Well, it's true!

Right there in front of my eyes the whole time, but I've been too blind to see, too stubborn to notice or give in. I've ignored it forever, but last night, I couldn't resist anymore. The temptation was too great and I finally took the dive. Let me tell you, it was definitely worth it.

Sleep! I'm in love with sleep! I finally went to bed early last night and wow does it make a difference. Cold weather makes me want to hibernate!


* the sheep are just for YOU! (you know yourself, kharoofa!)

Saturday, December 09, 2006

Life


"You're either part of a team or you play alone the rest of your life."

Friday, December 08, 2006

Explanation Needed

Will someone please explain to a friend of mine the difference between "affection" and "attention"?


Thanks!

Monday, December 04, 2006

It isn't?


Have you ever noticed how, most of the time, when someone says, "It's not personal!", it IS !

Saturday, December 02, 2006

Friendships

The best friends are those who pop out of nowhere at the exact moment you need them. Even more so, when they appear while you haven't even realized yet how bad you need them to be there. And just as you're being stubborn pretending you don't need help, they force you to shut up and let them take care of you!

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Casino Royale

I just watched 007's latest movie. While it wasn't your typical James Bond flick (no gadgets, no gizmos, no Q!!!), I still liked it! Don't know what it is. It was a nice change to see Bond in a different light.

I'm sure die hard Bond fans are annoyed with this change. I, on the other hand, enjoyed it!

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

¿Habla Español?

"Yo soy un alumna de español. Yo hablo árabe, inglés, francés y un poco de español."

I started Spanish classes on November 6th. It's something I've been wanting to do for years. I love the language!

We're taught conversational Spanish, i.e. we dove right into conversation as opposed to learning all the verbs and their conjugations first. I have to admit that this is a much faster way to learn and it's quite useful!

Once I'm done with this, Italian sounds good!! ;)

Sunday, November 26, 2006

Look At Me!

So for the past 5 years, work has been telling me that I am entitled to a free full medical check up. Like the lazy person I am, I just ignored that.

After many attempted scheduled appointments, followed by many cancellations, I finally did it!!! The outcome? Well, you are now the lucky recipient of at least another couple posts dedicated towards my adventure today.

I'll start with the eye exam this morning. How bad can that be, right? After all, I did lasik a few years back so all should be A-OK. Ha, right!

First set of tests went well. The minute I saw them writing 6/6 on the paper, I breathed a sigh of relief. Within 7 minutes I was done. The doctor told me the results were excellent. I grinned to myself like an idiot thinking 'yay I passed.'

She was just about to walk out the door to tell the nurse we're done, when she suddenly stops. I flinched. One of my eyebrows went flying up. She turns around and comes back, holds my chin, tells me to look down, then proceeds to POKE my eyes with her fingers.

Ok, no biggie. It doesn't hurt. I'm just concerned that if she keeps that up, my eyeballs will pop out.. but hey, whatever makes her happy!

She then gets this 'concerned' look on her face. I suddenly am fully alert and while I think I still have that "one eyebrow raised" look on my face, I believe I actually had "both eyebrows up deer in a headlights" stare.

She calls the nurse and suddenly they start putting some drops in my eyes. Mind you, I'd only gotten about 3 hours of sleep the night before, and it was still before 9 am! So, of course, it burned like anything! Next thing I know, she pushes my head back, the nurse puts a finger out on top of me and instructs me to keep staring at it. How? My eyes burn now, thanks to you, and you want me to stare at your finger when there's a BRIGHT LIGHT behind it!

Then the doctor starts moving this black object towards my eyes. I didn't even see what it was nor where it came from! Obviously, I looked away. She tells me not to blink. Yeah! Right! She asks me to continue looking at the nurse's finger. How am I supposed to do that when you've got what looks like a hole puncher coming at my pupil?!?!

Well, to make a long story short, in case you weren't sure, I survived. She suspects that my right eye has "high pressure". Who knew?! I didn't even know that was possible. She says based on today's tests it's borderline. So I get to go again next week to see Dr. Scissorhands for a second check on my right eye. Wheeeeeeee!!

Friday, November 24, 2006

Benefits

the benefits of being sick:

* It's the best way to lose weight! (Lost 2 kgs in 24 hours!)

* It's an excellent work out (All that coughing is about to give me a six pack)

* You get spoiled (Thanks to all those who called, sms'ed, and commented)

* You get to skip work (I finally called in sick today)

* You can get some alone time (Locked myself up in my room & no one complained about that)

* You catch up on some well needed sleep (I think I'm good for the next month!)

* You can be legitimately lazy (& everyone expects that anyway)

* You get some mommy TLC (love you mama!)

If I think of more benefits, will keep you posted ;)

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Bleh!

I feel as good as that giraffe does! :/

Although I'm happy the weather changed, it was like someone had pushed a button and it suddenly changed overnight! Oh well, I'm not complaining. It's been a while since I got sick, so I guess I'm overdue.

I SHALL PREVAIL!

Monday, November 20, 2006

My Treasures

It was an interesting weekend in the world of NFL. The Chargers beat the Broncos, Kansas City beat Oakland, and the Niners beat the Seahawks. The biggest disappointment for me, comes from the Cowboys.

We all knew that the Colts' undefeated status was going to be wiped out sooner or later. I had accepted the Chargers handing us that loss last year. But for it to come from the Cowboys this year was heartbreaking for me!

This post, and the below bit, will be of no value to most of you.. but for the 'some' of you who will appreciate the value of this, voila - for your viewing pleasure:

Joe Montana signed Jersey. I got this as a gift during December of 1997. I had thought this was the best gift ever.. That is, until I got the following:








A personalized/signed Montana football. My name was written on the left side, but I photoshopped it out for blogging purposes. I received this football as a birthday gift, June 4, 1998.

Sunday, November 19, 2006

Glutton for Punishment

Thoughts of you have been floating around in my head. The funny thing is, I recall the last time I saw you.. the last time I spent time with you. It was so frustrating. You drove me crazy.

I kept thinking to myself "what did I do to get myself in this mess?" You annoyed me so much, all I could think of was trying to get away from you. I couldn't believe that I had been counting the minutes to see you, only to find out what a big mistake it was to be around you. You made me miserable.

So explain this to me. Why is it that now I stare at my phone, hoping that you would contact me again? Why is it that I miss you so much?

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Silence

"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends."

- MLK, Jr

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Enough Already!

I started work again on Sunday after being off for 2 weeks. It's been hectic since.

This was the first vacation I take and actually stay in Bahrain as opposed to travel. It's amazing what I've discovered. There are SO many hours in the day to do SO many things! I used to get up, run errands, pamper myself, meet up with friends.. and then when it felt like it was getting late, I'd look at the time and realize that people were STILL at work! It shocked me.

It was such a wake up call! I don't want to waste my life at the office or with work. It's not worth it that work gets thebetter part of me and my life/time!

Don't get me wrong, I'm an ambitious person, always got good grades in school/college, career oriented, etc. You know what that translates into in my head now? "blah blah blah"

Who cares what GPA I graduated with? Ok, it got me the job. Now what? Ok, so I got the title? And then? While all those things were important to get me where I am today, it's time for me to make a turn in my life and re-focus on other more important things.

I think a lot of us get caught up in our careers and in proving ourselves, that we sometimes don't realize that once we've accomplished that, it's time to reap the rewards.. it's time to LIVE our lives.

Friday, November 10, 2006

Travel Update (UK & EU)

For those of you who haven't heard, as of 6-Nov-06, there's been an update in the travel "carry-on" policy that had been implemented recently with regards to what you can and cannot carry on flights to/from the UK & EU.

Most carriers have posted their new policies on their official websites. Below is part of Lufthansa's now allowed list:

"Liquid and gel products, e.g. toiletries and cosmetics, are permitted in hand luggage, provided they conform to the following regulations:

* Containers with liquids and similar products may hold up to 100 ml (i.e. the maximum capacity when full as printed on the container)

* All individual containers must be carried together in a transparent, re-sealable (e.g. "Ziploc") plastic bag, with a maximum capacity of one litre


* Only one bag is permitted per person

* The bag must be shown separately at the Security Control

Medicines and special food (e.g. liquid baby food) required during the flight do not need to be carried in the plastic bag. However these items must also be presented at Security.

Items and bags which do not meet these criteria may not be taken on board the plane and will be discarded by security personnel. A similar regulation has been in force since 29 September 2006 on flights and connecting flights in the USA.

Duty free items, purchased at airports within the European Union or on board an EU-registered airline, e.g. on a Lufthansa flight, may be carried on board in a sealed bag, with accompanying proof of purchase dated the same day (not applicable on code share flights). The bag is sealed at the point of purchase at the EU duty free outlet."

Thursday, November 09, 2006

Spring Fever

The weather has FINALLY turned to nice Spring weather here (hope I didn't just jinx it.) This evening I was driving home with the windows rolled down, sunroof pulled back, enjoying the drive. I was driving so slow to get it all in, it actually made me sleepy!

It's amazing how the weather completely changed my mood! I was tired and cranky, but the minute I stepped out and felt the weather, an instant smile crossed my face. Now it all makes sense. See, people who live in nice weather areas - such as California - are generally more pleasant people, more friendly.

No wonder we're so cranky in the Gulf. The weather just sucks the life out of us!!

For now, and for the next few months, roll the window down, take in the beautiful weather, and enjoy!

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

Lost & Found

Think of the most important person on Earth to you. Think of those you love dearly. Think of the people who make you smile. Think of the first person you would call when you're feeling down or are in trouble. Think of those you miss when you don't see them. Think of those who love you unconditionally.

Now think of how you would feel if they were taken away from you forever.

God Forbid, and may your loved ones be kept safe and surround you always. However, let's take a step back. How often do you actually give those people you thought of, when you read those questions, the attention they deserve? When's the last time you told them how much value they add to your life?

Everything can change in an instant, in a blink of an eye. Don't wait till it's too late.

Monday, November 06, 2006

Friendships

Throughout our lives, we meet many different types of people. Some, we hold on to and form friendships with. Some of those friendships are seasonal, while others are lifetime ones.

I have a friend I've known my whole life. I don't talk to her on a regular basis, maybe once every few weeks or so. Yet, she's probably the one person who knows the most about my life. I have other friends I haven't known as long, yet they're ones I talk to on a daily basis. And then , there are some friends I haven't known as long, don't talk to as often, yet I love them dearly and would do anything for them.

There are people who prefer having a lot of friends and others who have a few limited number of people they consider close friends. Regardless though, what makes you consider a person a close friend? And do you have different categories of friendships?

Home Again

I'm back! Kuwait was nice. The weather was beautiful and overall it was a quiet trip. Didn't do much except relax and spend time with friends.

For those friends I saw and spent time with, thank you for everything! Ma gassartaw.. I had a great time =)

Thursday, November 02, 2006

Kuwait

I'm off to Kuwait for a couple days. Leaving Bahrain Friday and returning Sunday inshAllah.

Adios Amigos! (et2amroon 3ala shay?)

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Welcome

They say that people enter our lives for a reason. I've tried to sort through the different people who have come in and out of my life. To an extent, I can actually figure out some of the reasons why certain people came in.. and why departed. I can see the effects they've had on me, both positive and negative. I can see how that's molded me into the person I am today.

But you.. I wonder what purpose you served walking into my life.. And I wonder if there's a purpose behind you leaving it.

Monday, October 30, 2006

Finally


My sister ROCKS! She just got me this today. Yay me! Now, I just need to find the Pyramix and I'll be set! =))))

Love you sis! Thanks!!

Sunday, October 29, 2006

College Football Upset!

The undefeated OSU (Ohio State Univ) Buckeyes might be ranked #1 in the polls right now, but it's another OSU (Oregon State Univ) that caused the uproar today. Oregon pulled a great upset by handing the #3 ranked USC Trojans their first loss!

Trichotillomania

When I was younger, I used to play with my eyelashes. My mom kept telling me to stop, so I finally did. My hand just moved from my eyelashes to my hair though. I started to play with my hair, cutting it from its split ends, or sometimes from the roots. I never really understood why I did it. Didn't even notice that I was. Somehow, my hand just found its way and started on its own.

It's digusting. It's a nasty habit. But it's just that, a habit! Something that happens automatically, without me even realizing that I was doing it. It took me years to try to get past it. Al7mdl'Allah, since I put on the 7ejab, it's a lot easier now. I don't have access to my hair most of the day. That managed to curb the temptation.

I just discovered today that it's an actual 'disorder'! It's called Trichotillomania. Here's the definition according to Wikipedia:

Trichotillomania (TTM) or "trich" is an impulse control disorder characterized by the repeated urge to pull out scalp hair, eyelashes, beard hair, nose hair, pubic hair, eyebrows or other body hair. It may be distantly related to obsessive-compulsive disorder, with which it shares some similarities.

80% of those afflicted are female.

Saturday, October 28, 2006

Sleep Deprivation

Will someone please tell my body that sleep is our friend? I love sleep. I enjoy sleeping just as much as everyone else. I had finally managed to fix my sleeping pattern before Ramadan, only to get it messed up again.

Now, instead of it getting better.. it is getting worse! I sit there chatting to family and friends in the US & UK until THEY tell me that they're going to bed. Do I take that as a sign and get myself to bed?? Nope. I just look for something else to do to kill time.

It is now 9 am. I am still awake. I will go pass out for a few hours. Hope to resolve this matter tonight when I will ATTEMPT to go to bed early!

Wish me luck.

*update: ok so I have some good news and some bad news. The good news is, checking the aggregator, I discovered that I'm not the only one who couldn't sleep tonight. Shakl el meshkila 3aweesa with others as well. The bad news? =) It's now 10 am and see, I found another way to stay awake longer. Khallas I promise I'm going to bed now.

Mirai

I'm not a fan of Japanese (or Thai) food, but I finally caved in and went with a friend to Mirai tonight. I think I was the only person in Bahrain to not have tried it yet!

Starters: Edamame & Shrimp Popcorn.. those were yummy!

Main
: I ordered the Chicken Teppanyaki (it wasn't that great) and she ordered Maki - California & Tempura (that was actually good.)

Dessert
: I ordered the Chocolate Explosion & she had the Crisp Apple Strudel. They looked AWESOME, but didn't taste good at all :(

The decor was warm. The atmosphere was nice, mainly dependent on whether you're lucky enough to have a good crowd turn out the day you go or not. All in all, it wasn't bad.

Friday, October 27, 2006

Solutions

"The shortest distance between a problem and its solution, is the distance between your knees and the floor. The one who kneels to Allah can stand up to anything."

If A Man..

This applies to both genders.. just replace man with woman where appropriate:

* If a man wants you, nothing can keep him away.

* If he doesn't want you, nothing can make him stay.

* Stop making excuses for a man and his behavior.

* Allow your intuition to save you from heartache.

* Stop trying to change yourself for a relationship that's not meant to be.

* If a relationship ends because the man was not treating you as you deserve then heck no, you can't "be friends". A friend wouldn't mistreat a friend.

* Don't settle. If you feel like he is stringing you along, then he probably is.

* Don't stay because you think "it will get better." You'll be mad at yourself a year later for staying when things are not better.

* The only person you can control in a relationship is you.

* Always have your own set of friends separate from his.

* Maintain boundaries in how a guy treats you. If something bothers you, speak up.

* Never let a man know everything. He will use it against you later.

* You cannot change a man's behavior. Change comes from within.

* Don't EVER make him feel he is more important than you are...even if he has more education or in a better job.

* He is a man, nothing more nothing less.

* Never let a man define who you are.

* Never borrow someone else's man.

* If he cheated with you, he'll cheat on you.

* A man will only treat you the way you ALLOW him to treat you.

* You should not be the one doing all the bending...compromise is a two way street.

* A relationship consists of two WHOLE individuals...look for someone complimentary... not supplementary.

* Make him miss you sometimes...when a man always know where you are, and you're always readily available to him - he takes it for granted.

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Epiphany

"In this age of mobility emotions are expressed for the moment, and just that moment, because in an instant you'll find yourself somewhere where that emotion is no longer applicable. "*

* Waterlilie

External Hard Disk

I'd like to buy an external hard disk. Any recommendations? I'd like something in the 200+ GB range.

Find Time

We're in the 43rd week of this year. That means, there's only 9 more weeks left to 2007. Yes, 2007?!?! Where did time go? Last I checked, people were still freaking out over the Y2K "crisis"!

Can someone please tell me where the last 7 years went?

Tuesday, October 24, 2006

I'm Fine.. Everything is Fine

When something goes wrong, there's bound to be someone who says to you, 'Don't worry; everything will be fine.' That sentence is said so often, that you find yourself start using it, 'Yeah, I'm fine.'

When you get hurt, or when you lose someone, someone tells you, 'It's ok, everything will be fine. Don't worry, life goes on.'

Yes, life does go on.. for others.. for everyone else. But what if for you, it stops at that moment. You try to move on, but nothing makes sense. It all goes back to that one moment.

Everything is not fine.

Monday, October 23, 2006

Miss Me?

Yes, I'm back. It's nice to see that people whom I didn't even know read my blog leave me comments!

Here's what I did, for those of you wondering. I turned off my laptop.. for days! Ok, so it was only like 3 days, but you have to understand that to me, that's like eternity. I used the computer at work only. Even there, I didn't really have time to mess around on the net.

Once I got home, I looked at my laptop, but resisted the urge to turn it on, knowing that the minute I turned it on, it'll be over for me. The result? I slept more. I spent more time with family and friends. I read more Quran. I had more time for prayers. And best of all, I proved to myself that I can do it.

I've got a vacation from work coming up.. so now I know that I can go without wasting my whole time on the computer/the net. I can actually enjoy my life like a "normal" human being again. Addictions; can't live with them, can't live without them. I just love to hate them! :)

I was gone for a week.. but ready or not, I'm back!

Sunday, October 15, 2006

Till Next Time

I keep telling my brother to get offline and go out, live his life. I think it's time I took my own advice. My laptop has me sucked in! If I'm not online, I'm playing some new game trying to get the highest score possible. If not a game, then I'm watching episodes of one of the many shows I'm hooked on. I am glued to my laptop. No wonder it's been acting weird. Even IT is telling me to leave it alone! :/

I've got a list of things I've been wanting to do. I keep complaining that I don't have time. I do! I have just been wasting it. So, no more!

What does this mean? Goodbye for now. I'm not quitting and I'm not going to delete my blog. I'm taking a much needed and overdue break. Should you miss me, feel free to contact me through the other 'normal' means! :)

College Ball

Ahh, a nice day for college football. Some potentially good games ahead. Boy do I miss the days when I'd be on my couch right now, watching game after game, ordering pizza for lunch cuz I'm too lazy to go outside. Besides, who needs to go out when there are great games to watch indoors? The only reason to go out, is if I'm actually going to attend one of those games.

For now, I'll have to settle with my newly found best friend, the AFN.

(Would've loved to post some pics for you, but Blogger isn't cooperating!)

Laptop or Blogger?

I've been experiencing some problems recently when I try to add pictures to my posts. I click on browse, select the image, click ok, and then everything freezes and my browser decides not to respond anymore.

This happened last week (Wed & Thurs), worked fine yesterday, and it's back on the fritz again. Is it my laptop that's the source of this problem, or is anyone else experiencing similar problems with Blogger?

:(

Saturday, October 14, 2006

Yehya's First Appearance


I'd seen the second episode with Diane Lane, but this is the first time I see this one. This guy is just naturally funny! Ye7ya, or as they call him, YAYA!

Template Change

I couldn't fix the FireFox problem with my template, so I had to grudgingly change it now! :(

** Update: I have found a way to fix it and my old template is BACK!

So for those of you using FF 1.5, please let me know if you can view my template now (with the blue background/title showing, as opposed to the white one that used to appear). Thanks.

Friday, October 13, 2006

FireFox Help!

I just upgraded my FireFox last night to version 1.5.0.7. I used to be able to view my blog's template just fine. Now, after the upgrade, I don't see any of the blue in the background nor the header! I do see them when I use IE though, but I refuse to go from FireFox to IE.

Does anyone know what the problem could be or how I can go about fixing it? I can view all other blogs are fine, except those using the same template as mine! :/

An Ooopsie

There's a colleague who's hated me from the minute I joined the company. He's made it clear on more than one occassion, in more than one form. Today, was his biggest OOPSIE though!

He meant to send an email to another coworker saying bad stuff about me. You guessed it! He accidentally sent it to me. Of course, the minute he did that, he immediately tried to recall the message a few times, unsuccessfully!

I'm sure his first heart attack was when he realized he accidentally sent me the email; his second, when he got my read receipt.

Have a good weekend. Last 10 days of Ramadan. Use them wisely.

Benitez's Boys

Bahrain Backing for Benitez's Boys

"As everyone knows, being a Liverpool fan is neither a hobby nor a part-time activity but an all consuming passion and a way of life – supporters come in every shade and colour but the bond that ties those wearing red can never be rivalled."

Thursday, October 12, 2006

Series Junkie

Last night was Prison Break, tonight was Grey's Anatomy, Season 3 - first 3 episodes. What I love about Grey's Anatomy is that it covers everything. You've got your drama, your comedy, your tragedy, your failures, your successes... a bit of everything really. It's real, and the morals behind their stories apply to most of us, in one sense or another.

Season 3 looks good so far. Nice to know at least one of these shows is starting off the season on the right foot.

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Prison Break - Season 2

**NO SPOILER**

While Prison Break's first season had me glued to the screen, I was disappointed with the first 4 episodes of Season 2. It just didn't have the same level of excitement and suspense as the first season.

That is, until I just watched episodes 5 & 6. All I can say is, YIKES! Action is back on! Now I need more.. I'm not used to this watching a few episodes at a time business. I'm used to watching a whole season at a time :/

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Gemini

Being a Gemini isn't the easiest task in the world. We're two in one, which confuses a lot of people - ourselves included.

SO, to all you Geminis out there who've had to deal with it, and for all of you non-Geminis who have had to deal with us, welcome to a new blog: The Twins of the Zodiac

Check it out.

Shadows

"To the untrue man, the whole universe is false-- it is impalpable--it shrinks to nothing within his grasp. And he himself in so far as he shows himself in a false light, becomes a shadow, or, indeed, ceases to exist."

- Hawthorne, "The Scarlet Letter"


Monday, October 09, 2006

V for Vendetta

Although this was originally a movie I wasn't looking forward to watching, many people told me that I should. I finally got around to watching it last night, and I'm glad that I did. I'm impressed that they actually made a movie about this and even more impressed that Natalie Portman was a part of it! The movie brings up a lot of current day issues in a futuristic approach and offers a light of 'hope' for those who still believe that there is some to be passed around.

MashAllah




I got this in an email and I'm speechless. Check out this link of a young boy reading Quran. His voice is absoultely amazing, mashAllah.

Sunday, October 08, 2006

My New Best Friend

I was trying to switch between MBC1 (channel 6) and LBC (channel 10) tonight, and accidentally clicked channel 80. How? No clue. It must've been fate though, because the result is my new best friend!!

Turns out that channel 80 is the AFN (American Forces Network) and right now "The NFL Today" is on. I'm in HEAVEN! I can finally watch my NFL and get my fix.

Do you know what this means? It means I can watch as much American Football as my eyes will allow me! THANK YOU TV MASTERS!! Bills vs Bears game is about to start :D WOHOOOOO!! I want to be there!!

Saturday, October 07, 2006

As Always

As I lay in bed, my mind drifts. I think of how we met.. how our friendship developed over time. Amazing how not long ago you were a stranger. I had no idea you existed in the world. Then suddenly, not only did you enter into my life, but you became a cherished close dear friend.. one who occupied a big part of it.

We just clicked. Sounds so cliche, but that's what happened. We got along, shared laughs, tears, problems, frustrations. It was nice because I knew that I could always be myself around you.. my good self and my bad self.

I close my eyes and wonder what happened to you. Why do I suddenly feel that you've changed? Why has my sixth sense been acting up lately warning me about you? Have you indeed changed? Or worst yet, have you always been this way?

Sometimes, people exit our lives, just as quickly as they entered into them. That's not necessarily a bad thing. Not everyone is here to stay. Time has a funny way of revealing things.. the truths we hide today, eventually surface. Until then, I remain, the same friend I promised to be.

Thursday, October 05, 2006

Memory Lane

A few posts ago I wrote that one of my favorite 15 things is: memories. Apparently, when I wrote that, it must've triggered something in my brain because ever since then I've been having extreme flashbacks!

You're sitting there one minute, the next your mind takes you back 15 years. You smile at the memory and move on. I can't even remember what I ate two days ago.. but some memories, even a lifetime can't erase. Somehow, your brain stores it, and throws it back at you years later!

Last night I had a flashback of something that happened back in 1991. So I went ahead and emailed the person involved in that memory. Ironically, today, I get an email from another friend with regards to a memory that occurred back in 1992!

Most of the time though, the memory remains as that.. just a memory. You remember someone, you think about it for a minute, and that's the end of that. Doesn't it make you wonder sometimes, if there are other people who remember you and you don't know about it?

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

Commitment

Last year I fell in love. I couldn't get him out of my head. I had to go see him every day. He was so good looking. So simple. So powerful. So slick. So.... so beautiful!

Everyday I would look at him tenderly and whisper "I Love You." I know he felt the same way too. He just looked at me in a way that made me speechless. It was mutual. It was strong. It was real. BUT, I couldn't commit. At the end, I walked away, empty handed and broken hearted.

I never forgot about him. I've just been delaying the inevitable. Latley, he's been on my mind a lot and I finally think it's time. Time for me to buy a new laptop! =)

The one I fell in love with last year was the Vaio FJ270. Now I'm thinking of getting either a Vaio (FJ series) , Dell or Toshiba. Any users out there with some good recommendations?


Tuesday, October 03, 2006

It's All About Preparation

You want to buy a new car, you save up. You want to buy that new dress, you save up. You want to go on that long awaited vacation... you save up!

You want that promotion you've had your eye on, you work really hard for it. You want to graduate with a high GPA, you study your brains out. You want that business of your's to bring in high profit... so you work really hard to earn it!

You want to have fun, to hang out with your friends, to go to a movie... so you clear your schedule and enjoy yourself!

What about judgement day? What have you done to prepare for that?

Monday, October 02, 2006

Moment of Change

One of the interesting things is that we never know what tomorrow holds. We could be happy one minute, not realizing that in a moment our whole life could be turned upside down. Or vice versa, we may feel hopeless only to wake up the next day to find that our life has taken the happiest unanticipated turn.

Thing is, you never know when that moment of change will hit you. You never know when you turn that corner, if there's good or bad news waiting for you. You won't know till you actually get there. But don't rush things. In order to 'get there', you sometimes have to cross a few bridges, a few rivers, and even a few mountains.

Do you ever wonder if you had turned a different corner, how your life would be different today? This reminds me of the movie 'Sliding Doors'. Do you believe that eventually, you'll still end up in the same destination, but the journey would be different? Or do you believe that your destination changes based on the decisions you make on a daily basis?

Sunday, October 01, 2006

15 Favorites

Istas has tagged me. Although I'm not a tag fan, I couldn't say no to her. So here are 15 of my favorite things. They are not my top 15 necessarily. As you know, I'm a Gemini so nothing is constant! ;)

1. Cotton Candy
2. The complete insanity in our family gatherings
3. The feeling I get after completing Al 3esha prayer
4. Getting a gift from someone close that shows how much they know me
5. Ramadan
6. A young kid's hug as he/she wraps his/her arms tight around my neck
7. The smell of fresh cut grass
8. Seeing someone go out of their way to pray on time
9. Going away on vacation
10. Seeing someone close after a long time apart
11. Getting a phone call you've been praying to get
12. AlWeqoob bi 3arafa
13. Freshly baked anything (cookies, brownies, bread)
14. The sound of a rainy night (+ thunderstorms + lightening!)
15. Memories

I tag anyone who wishes to be tagged =)

Saturday, September 30, 2006

Healing Therapy

It's something so simple, so basic, yet its effect is magnanimous. It can give someone well needed support, it can uplift their spirits, or it can show them just how you feel. It's a hello. It's a goodbye. It's an I'm Sorry. It's an I love you.

It's a hug. A simple, hug!

Isn't it just amazing how good one feels when you get it at the exact moment you need it?


Friday, September 29, 2006

Bush-whacked

Not sure how many of you have actually seen this. It's an old site, but I figured I'd share anyway.

Those of you who wonder how Bush came to power, you need to check this out.


Wanted




If anyone knows where I can get a hold of Rubik's Pyramix and Rubik's Cube, please let me know.

Thursday, September 28, 2006

Haunting Memories

I lay in bed sometimes, thinking of you. I catch my mind drifting to you.. remembering what you meant to me, what effect you had on me.. *laugh* what effect you still have on me. I stare at my phone wondering why you don't message me. Do you ever wonder about me?

As the questions increase, the silence gets unbearably louder. I force you out of my head, and fall asleep. By the time daylight breaks, reality sets in. It reminds me of why you're so far away. I smile a goodbye to you, in my head, and walk away confidently.. *smile* I know you'll come back again at night to haunt me.. because that's when I lay in bed sometimes, thinking of you.

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

It's My Life

So much drama in one week. Forget the Ramadan programs, come see my work life! One of the senior managers is leaving and all hell is breaking loose. All the rumors, all the predictions on what's going to happen next, all the drama.

People come, people go, life goes on, roll with the punches. Any more cliche lines you'd like for me to add?

I'm so amused at how people love to come up with stories and make up their own soap opera. Today one of my staff members came and told me 'we heard you've been upset the last couple days cuz of xyz and that's why you've been spending more time in your office than usual.'

Umm, last couple days = since the beginning of Ramadan! I'm tired, I'm perserving energy, I don't go to the kitchen since we're fasting, AND working 5 hour days means you really need to buckle down to get things done. BUT if you want to come up with your own interpretation, be my guest. I'm not gonna stop you from your fun and enjoyment. Please excuse me from partaking in the games though. Keep me out of it!

When will people just grow up? When will they just mind their own business? It's Ramadan for Heaven's sake. Do something more productive with your time folks! (Reminds me of
June's post, and our vow to CTC!)

*stepping off the soap dish*

Monday, September 25, 2006

Reminders

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم

وَاسْتَعِينُواْ بِالصَّبْرِ وَالصَّلاَةِ وَإِنَّهَا لَكَبِيرَةٌ إِلاَّ عَلَى الْخَاشِعِينَ

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ اسْتَعِينُواْ بِالصَّبْرِ وَالصَّلاَةِ إِنَّ اللّهَ مَعَ الصَّابِرِينَ


صدق الله العظيم

Sunday, September 24, 2006

Road Rage

To begin with, driving during rush hour traffic is not recommended. Now add to it Ramadan, and I'm not sure what happens to people. Someone please explain this to me!

It's the first official working day of Ramadan (the holy month of peace and restraint!) and people already have a bad case of road rage?! This morning I almost got sandwiched between 2 cars because the one car to my right (entering from an exit) decided that he doesn't want to yield to on coming traffic (me), while the guy to my left decided to continue going at the exact same speed at me, while the guy behind me was not about to slow down. My only option was to floor it.

Seriously, people, SERIOUSLY?!

Friday, September 22, 2006

Free Falling

It was something I always wanted to do. Something I thought I'd never have the guts to do. So when the opportunity presented itself, I got in touch with the chicken in me!!

For 24 hours I contemplated the point of doing it. Why? Why jump out of a perfectly operational plane? When I got to the site, I looked around and continued asking myself the same questions. The odd thing is, it was like I was a zombie. I was moving, walking, talking, without really thinking.

I was presented with a waiver that pretty much said that if I die, or sustain any serious injuries, EVEN if it's due to negligence, that I (or my next of kin) will not sue. I actually signed!

As I walked towards the plane, the question marks increased in my head. As we elevated to 15,000 feet, I pretended to be fine - yet my brain was on freeze! As I yelled, 'no no no, it's ok I changed my mind', I was ignored and pushed out of the plane.

I was falling to the ground at a speed of 130 mph! For a fraction of a second, I think my heart stopped. Then, adrenaline kicked in! The wind was slapping my face and I couldn't stop smiling (just like those guys in the pic!).

At about 5,000 feet, I pulled the cord and got yanked back. Suddenly, all that loud noise stopped. It was the most peaceful and serene feeling ever. I felt like a bird slowly gliding towards the earth.


The landing wasn't that smooth, but the minute I stood up, my whole body was shaking. What a rush!!!

Seriously?!

My current favorite word is "Seriously". It's great. It's perfect for all occassions! I love it!

"You look great today!" "*blushing* Seriously?"

You're going 120 kph and an idiot pulls out in front of u going 65 kph. You yell, "SERIOUSLY??? I mean, SERIOUSLY?!!"

What's your current favorite word?

Thursday, September 21, 2006

Shotgun Syndrome

There are times when I'm sitting at the dinner table and there are people who eat SO fast, that subconsciously I automatically start to speed up. It's as if there's this hidden feeling that unless I rush, I won't have any food to eat as they'll have wolfed it all up. I actually sometimes stop and think to myself "What am I doing? Why am I rushing to grab stuff and put it on my plate as if it were a race?!"

Similarly, this whole "SHOTGUN" syndrome when commenting on posts is driving me nuts. What's up with that? Who started it? And who cares if you're the first or 47th person to comment? Your comment will still be read! The problem is, as more and more people started doing it, I found myself rushing in this shotgun race and I'm totally out of control now! :/

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

Wait a Second!

You know that moment of hesitation, that fraction of a second where you think "Should I, or shouldn't I?" That moment as you're coming out of that exit and you wonder whether you have enough time to get out before the oncoming car gets too close or not? That moment where you look at your phone wondering whether you should make that call or not? That instant where you think whether you should apologize first or not?

When presented with that moment, with that fraction of a second.. would you go for it, or not?

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

3abayat AlSayed

الجميع يذكر تلك السيدة التي أجرت معها قناة ‏المنار مقابلة في شارع الحمرا في بيروت و التي طلبت فيها من سماحة السيد دام حفظه ‏أن يعطيها عباءته الشريفة التي كان يرتديها. ‏و قد اذيع مؤخرا في نشرة أخبار المنار ‏المسائية عن إن سماحة السيد أرسل عباءته إلى السيدة ريم حيدر كما طلبت ولم ينس ‏طلبها رغم متابعته و انشغاله بإدارة الحرب و ما بعدها وما يحصل على الساحة السياسية ‏في لبنان. ‏وقد أعلنت السيدة حيدر إن بيتها مفتوح لمن يريد أن يرى فقط ‏العباءة وقالت حرفيا أنا لم أجرؤ على لمسها حتى الآن ولن اسمح لأحد أن يلمسها بعدما ‏ارتداها سماحة السيد حفظه الله والذي يريد أن يأتي يمكنه أن يتبارك برؤيتها فقط

شاهد ‏ريم حيدر

Monday, September 18, 2006

Where Art Thou?

Winter, o winter, where art thou?? I don't remember the last time you came by! Last year, you forgot us!

Seriously folks, when are we going to get some nice winter weather? I know that summer lasts for most of the year, spring pops in for about a week, and fall.. hmmm *scratching head* do we even get fall? We don't have much greenery for us to see it change to orange and red! But winter?! We used to get at least 2 good months of winter!

Mind you, the minute it rains for 5 minutes, accidents start piling up because some people don't realize that driving on wet ground is not the same as driving on dry ground!! But still, I hope you come by this year!

Leaving on a Jet Plane..

You're at the airport now, getting ready to embark on a journey that will change your life, in one way or another. I'm going to miss your giggles, your sporadic moments of crisis, and your urgent need for an outing!

I'm proud of you. You're a wonderful person, a caring friend, and a loving daughter/sister. Your soul twin will be waiting for you, cheering you on every step of the way.


Go get 'em June ;)

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Do You Mind?

Isn't it amazing how the human mind can play tricks on us? One thought ripples it to think of another and another, creating a human popcorn machine effect in our head. This process can result in a person feeling paranoid, tense, stressed, troubled, etc. And, it shows. It shows in our eyes, in the way we walk, the way we talk, the way we argue, and the way we carry on our daily business.

Being able to control your mind, stopping it at one thought at a time, crossing each bridge as you get to it, not only eases your tension, it also gives you an air of confidence that helps you see things more clearly. Only problem is, easier said than done!

Saturday, September 16, 2006

Define Love

Is it that "breathless-ness" feeling you get when you see them? That loud beating in your heart when they look at you? That instant smile that flashes across your face when you see their number on your phone? That glow in your eyes when you hear someone mention their name? Or is it knowing how bad they are for you and yet not being able to shake them out of your system?

Friday, September 15, 2006

Baby Talk


Ok, so when did baby talk make a come back?! I've noticed several people lately using baby talk in communicating.. whether it be in real life or online. Last I checked, Samantha ("Sex & The City") was going crazy when her mate of the moment used baby talk in bed =)

Here's my survey question: Baby Talk.. yay or nay?

Wednesday, September 13, 2006

Survival of the Fittest!

Dealing with morning traffic has turned into a game of Russian Roulette!

I can't believe how congested our streets have become. It is getting worse day by day. I attributed last week's chaos to people's return from vacation and schools starting up again. But the last couple days have been horrendeous.

Sad thing is, it doesn't matter what time I leave home. If I leave 5 minutes before or after, it's just as bad. I take this short cut or that short cut, I'm still stuck playing the 'THIS IS MY LANE.. BACK OFF' game. And we all take it personally! I get annoyed when someone tries to cut in front of me. They get annoyed when I don't let them cut in front of me. And then, of course, you have your odd person on crack who's driving slower than he could walk!

I give up.. I honestly, give up. No science, no math, no luck, no nothing seems to help in solving this problem.

So, anyone know how much a helicopter costs these days?!

Friday, September 08, 2006

Shahr El Khair

My favorite time of year is almost upon us. Approximately 15 days till Ramadan! Can't wait.

There's something so amazing about how that month feels. I'm not talking about the tv programs, tent outtings and night programs people go out to. I'm talking about the spirituality of that month and the peace that one feels when he/she immerses his/herself into the true meanings behind that month.

Embarak 3laikom el shahar, moqadaman!!

Thursday, September 07, 2006

To Quit or Not to Quit

Got this test from Fractal's blog. Definitely had to take it, even though I already knew the answer.

Your Job Dissatisfaction Level is 83%

Your job is a disaster - it's surprising you've lasted this long. You need to quit if you can, even if you don't have another job lined up.
As far as stressful work situations go, yours is off the scale brutal. Almost any job would be better than what you've got!
Hope to be able to quit by early next year. Prayers welcomed!

Saturday, September 02, 2006

Past Tense

Phone rings.
I hear your voice.
Throws me back in time.
An immediate smile spreads across my face.

Then it hits me.
It's not you.
It's where your voice
Takes me.

A decade and a half ago.
Back to a time when I was young,
When I was carefree,
When life seemed so much bigger.

It was so much easier then,
Yet so much harder to deal with.
I hang up the phone
And smile again.

I wonder
Another decade and a half from now
What I would say about how things seemed
Today.

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Black or White

Certain events and how we respond/react to them define our character. Others, define our moral fiber. While it may be easy to look the other way in the first instance, it is very difficult with the latter.

Who we are is one thing. What we stand for, what we believe in, what we would die for, is another story all together. At the end of the day, not everything has a gray area. Some things are purely black or white.

June: I'm going to miss you and miss our conversations. Remember, I'll always be merely one thought away! Take good care of yourself! Be good! =)

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Work It

I had tried many different ways to lose weight. None of which were very effective. Finally, a few months back, I tried calorie counting. That worked! I lost over 11 kgs.

I used to tell my family/friends that the more sleep you get, the better your chances of maintaining/losing weight. No one believed me. Well, I finally got them the proof!!

For those of you interested, or those bored, Click Here! It's a link to a calorie calculator for over 70 activities! Enjoy..

Monday, August 28, 2006

Wanted


ITEM: baseball bat
TYPE: titanium (or whatever the heaviest is!)
REASON: whiney people at work.. (strike at work, insert in general)

really, i'm not an aggressive person! now, come here.. let's talk ;)

Saturday, August 26, 2006

Blast from the Past

For some odd reason, I've been getting a lot of flashes from the past lately. A friend and I were discussing a few of those things, so I thought I'd share some of that with the rest of you:

* Remember one of the best arcade games, ever? PACMAN! Click on the link. LOVE the sounds!
* How about Asteroids?
* Rubik's Cube anyone?

*sigh* at least the internet can bring those memories back!