From Kazakhstan to New York for an untimely death

Its very sad when you see someone who is so beautiful- and has apparently everything going for them - and they just throw it all away. This girl plucked from a Kazakhstan  and placed inton Haute Coutre Central- had the life a lot of girls dream about. She was young and beautiful and had a great job. Wearing new pretty clothes everyday, being photographed and preened over - going to glamorous parties - appearing on the cover of the top Fashion magazines and living in an apartment in New York. Yet, she (apparently) suicided.

Depression, Anxiety, Stress, are all common place but can be hightened by a necklace of bad events. Things can become really fcuked up at times - and taking that bottle of cough medicine and a mouthful of assorted pills has just made it worse. Best thing to do is to call a good friend and talk about it. Or just go out take a walk, get a breathe of fresh air, (stay out of balconies or cliffs and don't go gun shooting) - you just need to detach and unwind.

Model's death in New York 'suicide'

By AP

The death of a fashion model who plunged from the ninth floor of a Manhattan building has been ruled a suicide.

The medical examiner's office said that Ruslana Korshunova died in the fall the afternoon before.

Korshunova fell from her apartment in the Financial District. The 20-year-old was a native of Kazakhstan who graced the covers of top fashion magazines.

Korshunova appeared in advertisements and on runways for such designers as Marc Jacobs, Nina Ricci and DKNY. British Vogue hailed her as "a face to be excited about" in 2005. Her break came when modeling booker Debbie Jones noticed her while perusing an in-flight magazine article about Korushnova's hometown of Almaty, according to the Vogue report. "She looked like something out of a fairytale!" Jones told the magazine. "We had to find her and we searched high and low until we did!"

From Kazakhstan to New York for an untimely death

Its very sad when you see someone who is so beautiful- and has apparently everything going for them - and they just throw it all away. This girl plucked from (Kazakhstan) and placed into Haute Coutre Central- had the life a lot of girls dream about. She was young and beautiful and had a great job. Wearing new pretty clothes everyday, being photographed and preened over - going to glamorous parties - appearing on the cover of the top Fashion magazines and living in an apartment in New York. Yet, she (apparently) suicided.

Depression, Anxiety, Stress, are all common place but can be hightened by a necklace of bad events. Things can become really fcuked up at times - and taking that bottle of cough medicine and a mouthful of assorted pills has just made it worse. Best thing to do is to call a good friend and talk about it. Or just go out take a walk, get a breathe of fresh air, (stay out of balconies or cliffs and don't go gun shooting) - you just need to detach and unwind.

Model's death in New York 'suicide'

By AP

The death of a fashion model who plunged from the ninth floor of a Manhattan building has been ruled a suicide.

The medical examiner's office said that Ruslana Korshunova died in the fall the afternoon before.

Korshunova fell from her apartment in the Financial District. The 20-year-old was a native of Kazakhstan who graced the covers of top fashion magazines.

Korshunova appeared in advertisements and on runways for such designers as Marc Jacobs, Nina Ricci and DKNY. British Vogue hailed her as "a face to be excited about" in 2005. Her break came when modeling booker Debbie Jones noticed her while perusing an in-flight magazine article about Korushnova's hometown of Almaty, according to the Vogue report. "She looked like something out of a fairytale!" Jones told the magazine. "We had to find her and we searched high and low until we did!"

Mugabe and the Africa problem

I used to think that giving money for food and aid for Africa would help that continent. I still remember that feel good atmosphere from the Band Aid concert where millions of dollars were raised for the starving people of Ethiopia and Sudan.

At that time, whilst we were congratulating ourselves for helping out. One of my teachers pointed out - yeah then what? The problems that caused the crisis will still exist. You feed 30 million people - what happens when that population is doubled to 60 then 120... are you still going to keep on sending them money?

In effect, the problem was staring at us in the face - its Band Aid. A short term fix. Won't do bugger all for the patient who is dying from cancer.

But what if the patient refuses treatment?

The problems of Africa and most third-world countries is simply thus: corrupt leaders who will do their utmost to maintain their strongarm grip on their nation - and keep the rest of the populace in poverty. And a populace who are easily misled by demagogues. Its not the modern world - its not even medieval - its a feudal or a tribal mindset - hence you have genocidal massacres like in Rwanda.

Giving aid to these nations inevitably enriches the pockets of the same bastards who are the cause of the problem. And that's the dilemma - you send $100 worth of aid. $1 goes to the receipt ant - the rest goes to the people in charge. Its a vile and corrupt way of making money.

The leaders of Africa and the rest of the 3rd world nations - should simply admit that they are totally inept or worse, intelligently maintaining their powerbase at the entire expense of the rest of their people. Who gives a damn? I'm rich and powerful, and I like it that way. But whatever else, I'd rather not see (the other person) succeed and do well. It was this ethos that kept China from progressing for 500 years.

The only solution for African nations is to just give up, go back to school - and ask other people to help them run their nation. Re-colonialism. Get the US or some other benign power to help run their civilian bureaucracy and military. Send their children and Young people to get educated. Remove all the tribal distinction that caused the terrible genocides in the past. And this is the punch, end democracy for the masses. Voting should only be allowed if the people were employed and owned property. But regulating this would be a big mess. Hence they need to have a colonial administrator to be in power.

Democracy is a great idea- but it only really works if the people who voted were educated, intelligent, or were willing to work together for the common good. Remember how democracy was formed - in the ranks of the ancient Greek phalanx. They all had to work together - rich or poor - otherwise the phalanx would fall apart and the battle was lost.

In societies which are fractured by tribal or racial jealousies - democracy does not work - period. Once one group gets into power - it immediately sets about trying to persecute and oppress the other groups, or the other groups would try and wack the winner of the election.

People forget that it has taken centuries (and bloodshed) for a Western style democracy and civil society to form - and even then considering how screwed up some of the Western governments are - you really have to wonder.

The trick is to be able to pass from a colonial nation to one where there is a civil society and govt. I'm talking about one where there is no corruption, the trains run on time, the infrastructure is maintained, the bureaucrats are competent and the leaders are good administrators and not fucking Nelson Mandela - plenty of rhetoric, fine speeches, and do bugger all. If you don't believe me - look at South Africa. Its about 100 times worse since Apartheid fell out.

I don't believe this sort of process can be achieved in a lifetime - a strong vibrant middle class progressive society has to evolve. Then its got to take at least three generations who are well educated and trained - plus a civilian and military bureaucracy and system of government that prevents any one group from seizing violent power whilst allowing the competent to progress. That would take a good 100 years to achieve. But for that - they need an overseer to see it through.

And no, the UN would do a shit job of doing this.

Beneath London a city of skeletons

Nope. Not a horror movie. Underneath the city of London, lies a great number of skeletons. All cities which have been inhabited for centuries would also have similar hordes of the deceased buried benath.

The dead bodies are often uncovered when excavation work is being done. What I found disturbing was that some of the viruses which killed the ancients are still ... alive.

“At Christchurch in Spitalfields they found someone with smallpox scars in soft tissue. They dropped it and ran away. They sent it to one of the two laboratories in the world that can deal with smallpox.”

Smallpox is a highly infectious disease that has killed millions of people.

It is now routine to rebury unbreached lead-lined coffins without opening them in case the disease that killed the occupant is still a threat.

Lovely. I'm going to buy some oranges now.

Scuba Diver Ear problems explained and solved

A lot of divers have problem with their ears not equalizing and hurting when they go diving.

Dr Edmund Kay - an ear and nose specialist and diver for over 20 years - discusses the problem and the different ways to overcome it. He also warns why trying to equalize, when you're below 10m - by vigorously blowing your nose, is a bad idea.

See the video here:

http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/

A bit from the site:

For individuals who have difficulty pressurizing ears, the position in the water column is extremely important. It is well known that the head-down position during descent can make middle ear equalization more difficult. Less well understood is the reason for this effect. There are soft tissues in the nasopharynx which surround the membranous Eustachian Tube, and no doubt gravity plays a role in there normal functioning. The most likely candidate for positional obstruction is this soft tissue. A sub-optimal position can compromise marginally patent Eustachian Tube. For this reason it is advisable for students to begin descent slowly, and always in the head up position. Divers with prior ear problems, timid divers and those who are not sure whether middle ears will equalize should also assume this position. Half of the Eustachian Tube is surrounded by bone but the other half is open to the pressure changes of the respiratory system (ambient pressure). This membranous later half is partially surrounded by a "C" shaped cartilage and during swallowing, muscles of the soft palate pull on the Eustachian Tube. This traction opens the tube while closing the nasopharynx. The act of swallowing often causes a clicking or crackling sound to be heard and this sound is the noise made when the moist tissues of the Eustachian Tube pop open. You can hear this sound for yourself in a fellow diver or student by applying a stethoscope in the area around the ear. If the student swallows and the crackling sound is heard, the listener can verify that the Eustachian tube has opened. This technique was first described by Joseph Toynbee in the 1800's, and will be described later.


Thanks to Bianca for listing this video on her site!! Thanks Bianca!!

Mugabe and the Africa problem

I used to think that giving money for food and aid for Africa would help that continent. I still remember that feel good atmosphere from the Band Aid concert where millions of dollars were raised for the starving people of Ethiopia and Sudan.

At that time, whilst we were congratulating ourselves for helping out. One of my teachers pointed out - yeah then what? The problems that caused the crisis will still exist. You feed 30 million people - what happens when that population is doubled to 60 then 120... are you still going to keep on sending them money?

In effect, the problem was staring at us in the face - its Band Aid. A short term fix. Won't do bugger all for the patient who is dying from cancer.

But what if the patient refuses treatment?

The problems of Africa and most third-world countries is simply thus: corrupt leaders who will do their utmost to maintain their strongarm grip on their nation - and keep the rest of the populace in poverty. And a populace who are easily misled by demagogues. Its not the modern world - its not even medieval - its a feudal or a tribal mindset - hence you have genocidal massacres like in Rwanda.

Giving aid to these nations inevitably enriches the pockets of the same bastards who are the cause of the problem. And that's the dilemma - you send $100 worth of aid. $1 goes to the receipt ant - the rest goes to the people in charge. Its a vile and corrupt way of making money.

The leaders of Africa and the rest of the 3rd world nations - should simply admit that they are totally inept or worse, intelligently maintaining their powerbase at the entire expense of the rest of their people. Who gives a damn? I'm rich and powerful, and I like it that way. But whatever else, I'd rather not see (the other person) succeed and do well. It was this ethos that kept China from progressing for 500 years.

The only solution for African nations is to just give up, go back to school - and ask other people to help them run their nation. Re-colonialism. Get the US or some other benign power to help run their civilian bureaucracy and military. Send their children and Young people to get educated. Remove all the tribal distinction that caused the terrible genocides in the past. And this is the punch, end democracy for the masses. Voting should only be allowed if the people were employed and owned property. But regulating this would be a big mess. Hence they need to have a colonial administrator to be in power.

Democracy is a great idea- but it only really works if the people who voted were educated, intelligent, or were willing to work together for the common good. Remember how democracy was formed - in the ranks of the ancient Greek phalanx. They all had to work together - rich or poor - otherwise the phalanx would fall apart and the battle was lost.

In societies which are fractured by tribal or racial jealousies - democracy does not work - period. Once one group gets into power - it immediately sets about trying to persecute and oppress the other groups, or the other groups would try and wack the winner of the election.

People forget that it has taken centuries (and bloodshed) for a Western style democracy and civil society to form - and even then considering how screwed up some of the Western governments are - you really have to wonder.

The trick is to be able to pass from a colonial nation to one where there is a civil society and govt. I'm talking about one where there is no corruption, the trains run on time, the infrastructure is maintained, the bureaucrats are competent and the leaders are good administrators and not fucking Nelson Mandela - plenty of rhetoric, fine speeches, and do bugger all. I mean look at South Africa. Its about 100 times worse since Apartheid fell out.

I don't believe this sort of process can be achieved in a lifetime. Its got to take at least three generations who are well educated and trained - plus a military and civilian bureaucracy and system of government that prevents any one group from seizing violent power whilst allowing the competent to progress. And a strong vibrant middle class and a social mobile society has to evolve. That would take a good 100 years to achieve. But for that  - they need an overseer to  see it through, i.e., a foreign power.

And no, the UN would be a shit job of doing this.

Scuba Diver Ear problems explained and solved

A lot of divers have problem with their ears not equalizing and hurting when they go diving.

Dr Edmund Kay - a doctor and diver for over 20 years - explains the problem and the different ways to overcome it. He also explains why trying to equalize - when you're below 10m - by vigorously blowing your nose is a bad idea.

See the video here: http://faculty.washington.edu/ekay/

Thanks to Bianca for listing this video on her site!! Thanks Bianca!!

Mugabe and the Africa problem

I used to think that giving money for food and aid for Africa would help that continent. I still remember that feel good atmosphere from the Band Aid concert where millions of dollars were raised for the starving people of Ethiopia and Sudan.

At that time, whilst we were congratulating ourselves for helping out. One of my teachers pointed out - yeah then what? The problems that caused the crisis will still exist. You feed 30 million people - what happens when that population is doubled to 60 then 120... are you still going to keep on sending them money?

In effect, the problem was staring at us in the face - its Band Aid. A short term fix. Won't do bugger all for the patient who is dying from cancer.

But what if the patient refuses treatment?

The problems of Africa and most third-world countries is simply thus: corrupt leaders who will do their utmost to maintain their strongarm grip on their nation - and keep the rest of the populace in poverty. And a populace who are easily misled by demagogues. Its not the modern world - its not even medieval - its a feudal or a tribal mindset - hence you have genocidal massacres like in Rwanda.

Giving aid to these nations inevitably enriches the pockets of the same bastards who are the cause of the problem. And that's the dilemma - you send $100 worth of aid. $1 goes to the receipt ant - the rest goes to the people in charge. Its a vile and corrupt way of making money.

The leaders of Africa and the rest of the 3rd world nations - should simply admit that they are totally inept or worse, intelligently maintaining their powerbase at the entire expense of the rest of their people. Who gives a damn? I'm rich and powerful, and I like it that way. But whatever else, I'd rather not see (the other person) succeed and do well. It was this ethos that kept China from progressing for 500 years.

The only solution for African nations is to just give up, go back to school - and ask other people to help them run their nation. Re-colonialism. Get the US or some other benign power to help run their civilian bureaucracy and military. Send their children and Young people to get educated. Remove all the tribal distinction that caused the terrible genocides in the past. And this is the punch, end democracy for the masses. Voting should only be allowed if the people were employed and owned property. But regulating this would be a big mess. Hence they need to have a colonial administrator to be in power.

Democracy is a great idea- but it only really works if the people who voted were educated, intelligent, or were willing to work together for the common good. Remember how democracy was formed - in the ranks of the ancient Greek phalanx. They all had to work together - rich or poor - otherwise the phalanx would fall apart and the battle was lost.

In societies which are fractured by tribal or racial jealousies - democracy does not work - period. Once one group gets into power - it immediately sets about trying to persecute and oppress the other groups, or the other groups would try and wack the winner of the election.

People forget that it has taken centuries (and bloodshed) for a Western style democracy and civil society to form - and even then considering how screwed up some of the Western governments are - you really have to wonder.

The trick is to be able to pass from a colonial nation to one where there is a civil society and govt. I'm talking about one where there is no corruption, the trains run on time, the infrastructure is maintained, the bureaucrats are competent and the leaders are good administrators and not fucking Nelson Mandela - plenty of rhetoric, fine speeches, and do bugger all. If you don't believe me - look at South Africa. Its about 100 times worse since Apartheid fell out.

I don't believe this sort of process can be achieved in a lifetime - a strong vibrant middle class progressive society has to evolve. Then its got to take at least three generations who are well educated and trained - plus a civilian and military bureaucracy and system of government that prevents any one group from seizing violent power whilst allowing the competent to progress. That would take a good 100 years to achieve. But for that - they need an overseer to see it through.

And no, the UN would do a shit job of doing this.

John William Waterhouse

I love classic art. And John William Waterhouse is certainly one of my most favourite artists. His paintings are beautiful - extraordinarily painted - simply mesmerizing. I especially like Hylas the the Nymphs. Alluring, evocative, sensual, captivating and oh so magnificently painted.

From the John William Waterhouse site:
http://www.jwwaterhouse.com/

John William Waterhouse (1849-1917), affectionately known as Nino in his younger days, was born in Rome on the 6th of April, 1849. Both of his parents were English painters who moved to Italy in pursuit of art. Waterhouse and his parents eventually moved back to England some time in the late 1850's. While growing up, Waterhouse assisted his father in art studio where the young Waterhouse developed his talents for sculpting and painting. In England, after several attempts at admission to the Royal Academy, he finally succeeded entrance in 1870. In 1885, Waterhouse became an Associate of the Royal Academy, and then a full member, Royal Academician, in 1895.

John Waterhouse: Art Studio Although often classified as a Pre-raphaelite for his style and themes, Waterhouse is truly a Neo-Classic painter. Some of Waterhouse's earlier works were focused on Italian themes and scenery, reflecting his love for his birth place. Later on, his works picked up the styles and classical themes of Pre-raphaelites such as Alma-Tadema and Frederick Leighton. Waterhouse went on to paint well over 200 paintings depicting classical mythogolgy, historical and literary subjects, particularly those of Roman mythology and classic English poets such as Keats and Tennyson. Femme fatale is a common theme in his works, as most are of beautiful elegaic women and of many men are victims.

Waterhouse is one of the rare artists who became popular and relatively well-off financially when he was alive. He continued to paint until his death on the 10th of February, 1917 after a long illness. His style became a major influence on many of the later Pre-raphaelites including Frank Dicksee and Herber James Draper.

Today, many of his works are in private collections or somewhere unknown; however, most of his famous paintings can be found scattered all over England. Among these is "The Lady of Shalott" - 1888, which can be found in London; "Hylas and the Nymphs" - 1896, at Manchester City Art Gallery, and "Echo and Narcissus" - 18xx, at the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool. His other famous works can be found around the world including Germany (La Belle Dame Sans Merci), Scotland (Penelope and the Suitors), and Australia (Circe Invidiosa).

Seahorses... in the River Thames - yes that one!!

OMG. Seahorses have been found in the River Thames. Yes, that one which was declared biologicaly dead in the 1950s.

Apparently they are attracted by the high levels of planketon and the rise in global warming. Lol.

Who would have guessed? Click here for more.

Beneath London a city of skeletons

Nope. Not a horror movie. Underneath the city of London, lies a great number of skeletons. All cities which have been inhabited for centuries would also have similar hordes of the deceased buried benath.

The dead bodies are often uncovered when excavation work is being done. What I found disturbing was that some of the viruses which killed the ancients are still ... alive.

“At Christchurch in Spitalfields they found someone with smallpox scars in soft tissue. They dropped it and ran away. They sent it to one of the two laboratories in the world that can deal with smallpox.”

Smallpox is a highly infectious disease that has killed millions of people.

It is now routine to rebury unbreached lead-lined coffins without opening them in case the disease that killed the occupant is still a threat.

Lovely. I'm going to buy some oranges now.

Seahorses... in the River Thames - yes that one!!

OMG. Seahorses have been found in the River Thames. Yes, that one which was declared biologicaly dead in the 1950s.

Apparently they are attracted by the high levels of planketon and the rise in global warming. Lol.

Who would have guessed? Click here for more.

Beneath London a city of skeletons

Nope. Not a horror movie. Underneath the city of London, lies a great number of skeletons. All cities which have been inhabited for centuries would also have similar hordes of the deceased buried benath.

The dead bodies are often uncovered when excavation work is being done. What I found disturbing was that some of the viruses which killed the ancients are still ... alive.

“At Christchurch in Spitalfields they found someone with smallpox scars in soft tissue. They dropped it and ran away. They sent it to one of the two laboratories in the world that can deal with smallpox.”

Smallpox is a highly infectious disease that has killed millions of people.

It is now routine to rebury unbreached lead-lined coffins without opening them in case the disease that killed the occupant is still a threat.

Lovely. I'm going to buy some oranges now.

We're winning the war in Iraq - let's retreat now!!!

For some reason even though the West won WW2 - defeated Nazi Germany and Japan - knocked back North Korea and helped to make South Korea the rich society it is now - there are a lot of "intellectuals" who want the West to crumble.

Basically they remind me of the geeks who won't even join debating team and are hoping that their school would lose the football match because they can't stand to see the rest of the school happy. And besides they'd look decidely out of place in the victory party.

They are people who can see the the twig but miss the forest. They harp on and on about how a US soldier defiled a book - which may or may not have happened - and close their ears to the atrocities which are common place - things like female genital mutilation and worse, even defend such barbarity.

They are heirs of the Vietnam protestor generation who protested about the massacre at My Lai by a US platoon and refused to report about the wholesale slaughter of the City of Hue by the communist army nor of the common atrocities committed by the Vietcong.

Anyways, read this article: "We're winning the war against Terror." I just hope that the new US President will carry on assisting the new Iraq govt and prevent it from being toppled over like the Saigon Govt - that would really be a great disaster.

We're winning the war in Iraq - let's retreat now!!!

For some reason even though the West won WW2 - defeated Nazi Germany and Japan - knocked back North Korea and helped to make South Korea the rich society it is now - there are a lot of "intellectuals" who want the West to crumble.

Basically they remind me of the geeks who won't even join debating team and are hoping that their school would lose the football match because they can't stand to see the rest of the school happy. And besides they'd look decidely out of place in the victory party.

They are people who can see the the twig but miss the forest. They harp on and on about how a US soldier defiled a book - which may or may not have happened - and close their ears to the atrocities which are common place - things like female genital mutilation and worse, even defend such barbarity.

They are heirs of the Vietnam protestor generation who protested about the massacre at My Lai by a US platoon and refused to report about the wholesale slaughter of the City of Hue by the communist army nor of the common atrocities committed by the Vietcong.

Anyways, read this article: "We're winning the war against Terror." I just hope that the new US President will carry on assisting the new Iraq govt and prevent it from being toppled over like the Saigon Govt - that would really be a great disaster.

We're winning the war in Iraq - let's retreat now!!!

For some reason even though the West won WW2 - defeated Nazi Germany and Japan - knocked back North Korea and helped to make South Korea the rich society it is now - there are a lot of "intellectuals" who want the West to crumble.

Basically they remind me of the geeks who won't even join debating team and are hoping that their school would lose the football match because they can't stand to see the rest of the school happy. And besides they'd look decidely out of place in the victory party.

They are people who can see the the twig but miss the forest. They harp on and on about how a US soldier defiled a book - which may or may not have happened - and close their ears to the atrocities which are common place - things like female genital mutilation and worse, even defend such barbarity.

They are heirs of the Vietnam protestor generation who protested about the massacre at My Lai by a US platoon and refused to report about the wholesale slaughter of the City of Hue by the communist army nor of the common atrocities committed by the Vietcong.

Anyways, read this article: "We're winning the war against Terror." I just hope that the new US President will carry on assisting the new Iraq govt and prevent it from being toppled over like the Saigon Govt - that would really be a great disaster.

Omega Watch 50th anniversary badge set

The Omega pins were obtained at the Omega 50th anniversary launch. Part of a private collection.

I took some photos of the badges but I am afraid my photographic skills need some improvement here.

Total of 8 badges. I wrote down the inscriptions. They all have the Omega logo and Speedmaster inscribed on them.

1. Countdown to Mars
2. From the Moon to the Sun (2011)
3. 50th anniversary Speedmaster 1957
4. The First and Only Watch on the Moon Apollo 11 1969
5. Unchanged since 1957
6. Two Superpowers Synchronised Apollo Soyuz 1978
7. Houston We have a Solution Apollo XIII 1970
8. 1968 The Watch that found TRUE NORTH

For details on related items and better looking photos go here:

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=360044767978&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=023

Check out this photography piece on the Omega Launch. Scroll down to the end and you will see extremely well taken photos of the Omega Speedmaster badges and watches.
Click herehttp://omega.watchprosite.com/?show=forumpostf&fi=677&pi=2278967&ti=374907&s=0

http://omega.watchprosite.com/?show=forumpostf&fi=677&pi=2336751&ti=389776&s=0

How to share trading effectively and find the meaning of life in short

There are different ways to share trade. Share Trading by definition is not investing. If you are going to be an investor, you need to do a lot of research in the company/ property. And when you plunk the money down - you are going to sit in it for ... ten years or twenty. Its an investment. You sit on it - and let it grow.

Share trade is more like gambling. It really is. You are putting money in companies - and hoping for a quick return in a short frame of time - 1 week to 3 months to 12 months, depending on the risk.

Bottom line for a share trader is risk management. This is an important skill to have. Too many people have no concept of risk management. Yet, its something most people take part on a daily basis. We drive cars on roads with thousand of other drivers - and we trust them to do the right thing - ie. that they know how to drive properly, they won't speed through a red light, they have maintained their cars - esp. the brakes - and they don't drive whilst on drugs or alcohol.

You could boil down risk management to a few simple maxims.

1. The greater the return - the higher the risk. Its a simple fact of life. This doesn't mean you hide all your money under the bed and spend all your life watching TV at home.

2. New things/inventions usually involve great risk but can offer high return. Think of how many aircraft manufacturers or car makers that were around 100 years ago - or for that matter- how many Telecom and internet companies there were around.

3. "There is a time for everything under the sun". Do yourself a big favor- go and read the Book of Eccelesiastes in the Bible. Its quite short- only a few pages - but its written by one of the richest men in the whole world who had it all women, palaces, riches, political social power, more women, monopoly on trade routes, God's favor, even more women. He was bigger than Hugh Hefner, Donald Trump, George Soros or Li-Kah Shing.

You'll find that there are seaons in life when commodities, property, gold, banks, internet resource stocks all shine. The trick is to know the right season - and put your bets carefully. For the moment things look rosy but only for this moment. Know what sector investing is all about.

4. Don't be greedy. Share Trading is like fishing. You go - fish - catch a big haul. But you don't need to do it everyday. There are times when its too dangerous to go fish - storms can really wreck your boat and put you out of business indefinately.

5. Risk management- never put all your eggs - or the majority of your eggs in one basket. To a certain extent, you really ought to know what the companies are doing. If they are just flip-flam penny stocks - you shouldn't be putting more than 1% of your capital into them.

6. Never fall in love with a stock. Remember that. You form relationships with people - but when you buy shares in the company - its only just that. The CEO, directors, workers don't give a damn about you. They may say they care - but that's just pure propaganda. You put some money in it - you make 100% in one month. You move on. Don't get emotionally attached.

7. Trading has no place for emotions. Its not Superbowl. Its not the Grand Final. You shouldn't be looking for someone to high 5 when you make $10,000 in one successful day trade. Zero marks for the Proud.

Why? Because emotions cloud your brain. You need to have a clear cold hard analytical mindset to make the right decisions. This is serious. One really bad horrible decision can destroy you. Its like driving - are you going to ram the @#$ tailgater who cut in front of you and gave you the finger - and endanger your life and those you love? No, you get his car number down, go home, and call Ah Seng and his friends to go to the @#$er's house at night ... to give him a good counsel.

8. Charting. Technical Analysis. It works. But it ain't the crystal ball. So adopt good risk management strategies. Get out at 5% minimum. You've got to set a limit somewhere.

9. Know the times - usually a good market known as a Bull market - most stuff goes up eventually. If you are holding onto a good stock and it goes down - you can afford to keep it for awhile.

10. Avoid doubling up on your position. This can be a classic death trap. You've already put in 10% of your cash in the stock. Its just fallen 10%. What happens if you buy another 10% more and the stock falls 20%?? Its like buying seats on the Titanic as its sinking - OH LOOK 90% discount!! Buy morel!!

Once you've put more than 50% of your capital into a position (shares in a company) - and its fallen over 50% - you're gonna develop tunnel vision. You're going to look for any kind of good news that vindicates your crappy decision. You're not going to listen to any advice or news that tells you - you've probably made one of the worse decisions in your life. And deep down, you're reaching for your wallet to go buy more. Better idea- go pay someone to give you a good slap in the face. Wake up you moron. At this stage, you are really in a pickle. Who knows maybe in 5 years time, the stupid share price will go up 10 times in price. (Its happened to me before- ask me one day about Lihir Gold). But a good risk manager, will - most definately avoid throwing more good money in. See Rule 5 and 6.

Managing Risk. Its quite simple really. Takes a lot of maturity to handle it though.

How to share trading effectively and find the meaning of life in short

There are different ways to share trade. Share Trading by definition is not investing. If you are going to be an investor, you need to do a lot of research in the company/ property. And when you plunk the money down - you are going to sit in it for ... five, ten years or twenty. Its an investment. You sit on it - and let it grow. Nothing wrong about that. Ask Warren Buffett.

Share trade involves higher risk and is more like gambling. It really is. You are putting money in companies - and hoping for a quick return in a short frame of time - 1 week to 3 months to 12 months, depending on the risk.

Bottom line for a share trader  is risk management. This is an important skill to have. Too many people have no concept of risk management. Yet, its something most people take part on a daily basis. We drive cars on roads with thousand of other drivers - and we trust them to do the right thing - ie. that they know how to drive properly, they won't speed through a red light, they have maintained their cars - esp. the brakes - and they don't drive whilst on drugs or alcohol.

You could boil down risk management to a few simple maxims.

1. The greater the return - the higher the risk. Its a simple fact of life. This doesn't mean you hide all your money under the bed and spend all your life watching TV at home.

2. New things/inventions usually involve great risk but can offer high return. Think of how many aircraft manufacturers or car makers that were around 100 years ago - or for that matter- how many Telecom and internet companies there were around.

3. "There is a time for everything under the sun". Do yourself a big favor- go and read the Book of Eccelesiastes in the Bible. Its quite short- only a few pages - but its written by one of the richest men in the whole world who had it all women, palaces, riches, political social power, more women, monopoly on trade routes, God's favor, even more women. He was bigger than Hugh Hefner, Donald Trump, George Soros or Li-Kah Shing.

You'll find that there are seaons in life when commodities, property, gold, banks, internet resource stocks all shine. The trick is to know the right season - and put your bets carefully. For the moment things look rosy but only for this moment. Know what sector investing is all about.

4. Don't be greedy. Share Trading is like fishing. You go - fish - catch a big haul. But you don't need to do it everyday. There are times when its too dangerous to go fish - storms can really wreck your boat and put you out of business indefinately.

5. Risk management- never put all your eggs - or the majority of your eggs in one basket. To a certain extent, you really ought to know what the companies are doing. If they are just flip-flam penny stocks - you shouldn't be putting more than 1% of your capital into them.

6. Never fall in love with a stock. Remember that. You form relationships with people - but when you buy shares in the company - its only just that. The CEO, directors, workers don't give a damn about you. They may say they care - but that's just pure propaganda. You put some money in it - you make 100% in one month. You move on. Don't get emotionally attached.

7. Trading has no place for emotions. Its not Superbowl. Its not the Grand Final. You shouldn't be looking for someone to high 5 when you make $10,000 in one successful day trade. Zero marks for the Proud.

Why? Because emotions cloud your brain. You need to have a clear cold hard analytical mindset to make the right decisions. This is serious. One really bad horrible decision can destroy you. Its like driving - are you going to ram the @#$ tailgater who cut in front of you and gave you the finger - and endanger your life and those you love? No, you get his car number down, go home, and call Ah Seng and his friends to go to the @#$er's house at night ... to give him a good counsel.

8. Charting. Technical Analysis. It works. But it ain't the crystal ball. So adopt good risk management strategies. Get out at 5% minimum. You've got to set a limit somewhere.

9. Know the times - usually a good market known as a Bull market - most stuff goes up eventually. If you are holding onto a good stock and it goes down - you can afford to keep it for awhile.

10. Avoid doubling up on your position. This can be a classic death trap. You've already put in 10% of your cash in the stock. Its just fallen 10%. What happens if you buy another 10% more and the stock falls 20%?? Its like buying seats on the Titanic as its sinking - OH LOOK 90% discount!! Buy morel!!

Once you've put more than 50% of your capital into a position (shares in a company) - and its fallen over 50% - you're gonna develop tunnel vision. You're going to look for any kind of news that vindicates your crappy decision. You're going to avoid listening to any advice or news that tells you you've probably made one of the worse decisions in your life. And deep down, you're reaching for your wallet to go buy more. Its just human.

Better idea- go pay someone to give you a good slap in the face. Wake up you moron. At this stage, you are really in a pickle. You plunkled down a whole lot of your cash into a company thats going nowhere. Who knows maybe in 5 years time, the stupid share price will go up 10 times in price. (Its happened to me before- ask me one day about Lihir Gold). But a good risk manager, will - most definately avoid throwing more good money in. See Rule 5 and 6.

11. Remember that you are just human. People make mistakes. Don't expect to keep on making tons of money consistently share trading. Once you've made a good pile of money - you should consider putting it away in the bank or buy a good property with it. Whatever you do, don't keep putting all your money on the table. You're eventually bound to have a losing streak one day. No point in winining 9 out of 10 times if on the last time you lose it all. Everyone is fallible. Don't ever forget that. Get out while you are ahead.

12. Get out while you are ahead. Yes, good one. Nothing wrong about taking profit. Maybe you can leave some money in there. But try and get some money out - especially in a volatile market (like now). But if its a bull market - then hey, let it ride and keep it in there. But don't be greedy. Take some profit!!! This is a fine art though. And study the charts.

13. One last thing. Never trade after you had an argument with your wife, girlfriend, etc.. or when you are not feeling well or on medication. You never can make rational decisions at that stage.

Managing Risk. Its quite simple really. Takes a lot of maturity to handle it though.

How to share trading effectively and find the meaning of life in short

There are different ways to share trade. Share Trading by definition is not investing. If you are going to be an investor, you need to do a lot of research in the company/ property. And when you plunk the money down - you are going to sit in it for ... ten years or twenty. Its an investment. You sit on it - and let it grow.

Share trade is more like gambling. It really is. You are putting money in companies - and hoping for a quick return in a short frame of time - 1 week to 3 months to 12 months, depending on the risk.

Bottom line for a share trader is risk management. This is an important skill to have. Too many people have no concept of risk management. Yet, its something most people take part on a daily basis. We drive cars on roads with thousand of other drivers - and we trust them to do the right thing - ie. that they know how to drive properly, they won't speed through a red light, they have maintained their cars - esp. the brakes - and they don't drive whilst on drugs or alcohol.

You could boil down risk management to a few simple maxims.

1. The greater the return - the higher the risk. Its a simple fact of life. This doesn't mean you hide all your money under the bed and spend all your life watching TV at home.

2. New things/inventions usually involve great risk but can offer high return. Think of how many aircraft manufacturers or car makers that were around 100 years ago - or for that matter- how many Telecom and internet companies there were around.

3. "There is a time for everything under the sun". Do yourself a big favor- go and read the Book of Eccelesiastes in the Bible. Its quite short- only a few pages - but its written by one of the richest men in the whole world who had it all women, palaces, riches, political social power, more women, monopoly on trade routes, God's favor, even more women. He was bigger than Hugh Hefner, Donald Trump, George Soros or Li-Kah Shing.

You'll find that there are seaons in life when commodities, property, gold, banks, internet resource stocks all shine. The trick is to know the right season - and put your bets carefully. For the moment things look rosy but only for this moment. Know what sector investing is all about.

4. Don't be greedy. Share Trading is like fishing. You go - fish - catch a big haul. But you don't need to do it everyday. There are times when its too dangerous to go fish - storms can really wreck your boat and put you out of business indefinately.

5. Risk management- never put all your eggs - or the majority of your eggs in one basket. To a certain extent, you really ought to know what the companies are doing. If they are just flip-flam penny stocks - you shouldn't be putting more than 1% of your capital into them.

6. Never fall in love with a stock. Remember that. You form relationships with people - but when you buy shares in the company - its only just that. The CEO, directors, workers don't give a damn about you. They may say they care - but that's just pure propaganda. You put some money in it - you make 100% in one month. You move on. Don't get emotionally attached.

7. Trading has no place for emotions. Its not Superbowl. Its not the Grand Final. You shouldn't be looking for someone to high 5 when you make $10,000 in one successful day trade. Zero marks for the Proud.

Why? Because emotions cloud your brain. You need to have a clear cold hard analytical mindset to make the right decisions. This is serious. One really bad horrible decision can destroy you. Its like driving - are you going to ram the @#$ tailgater who cut in front of you and gave you the finger - and endanger your life and those you love? No, you get his car number down, go home, and call Ah Seng and his friends to go to the @#$er's house at night ... to give him a good counsel.

8. Charting. Technical Analysis. It works. But it ain't the crystal ball. So adopt good risk management strategies. Get out at 5% minimum. You've got to set a limit somewhere.

9. Know the times - usually a good market known as a Bull market - most stuff goes up eventually. If you are holding onto a good stock and it goes down - you can afford to keep it for awhile.

10. Avoid doubling up on your position. This can be a classic death trap. You've already put in 10% of your cash in the stock. Its just fallen 10%. What happens if you buy another 10% more and the stock falls 20%?? Its like buying seats on the Titanic as its sinking - OH LOOK 90% discount!! Buy morel!!

Once you've put more than 50% of your capital into a position (shares in a company) - and its fallen over 50% - you're gonna develop tunnel vision. You're going to look for any kind of good news that vindicates your crappy decision. You're not going to listen to any advice or news that tells you - you've probably made one of the worse decisions in your life. And deep down, you're reaching for your wallet to go buy more. Better idea- go pay someone to give you a good slap in the face. Wake up you moron. At this stage, you are really in a pickle. Who knows maybe in 5 years time, the stupid share price will go up 10 times in price. (Its happened to me before- ask me one day about Lihir Gold). But a good risk manager, will - most definately avoid throwing more good money in. See Rule 5 and 6.

Managing Risk. Its quite simple really. Takes a lot of maturity to handle it though.

Just great I dreamt of Conan O'Brien today

No, I seriously did.

No, not gay.
e were staying in an apartment block. All of us. Conan O'Brien came over and wanted to know where the Pilates class was being held.

The first thing I said was - "First off, you're incredibly tall." In this dream he was scary tall - and he had the reddest hair. "Second, I love your show but I don't know where the pilates class is".

Then we had a big discussion over his aquarium and went looking for the pilates class. Bizarre.

I dreamt of my father today

One problem I have waking up here in Australia - which I don't in Singpore - is the lack of sunlight in the early morning.

In Singapore- my room is bathed with sunlight at 7am every morning. The sun causes me to wake up naturally - you wake up feeling fresh. Natural is always better. Its estimated that millions of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)- caused by the lack of sunlight in the morning.

See here for more details : Finally a healthy solution to SAD and here.

Anyways, 8am Melbourne time and my room is still dark. It doesn't help that my room faces West. I've woken up though. But its too cold to get up. So I go back to sleep. And I get weird dreams not pleasent ones with cute chicks, sadly. Hence the term - SAD :)

This time I dreamt I was fixing something or going on a trip with someone. All so ordinary. Just my brain doddling. Then the person - changed into my father - who died many years ago.  It took me a long time to register it. I kept on looking at him, I just couldn't believe it nor was I conscious that it was a dream.

Dad was smiling. He looked younger and healthier - in his early 40s when he was uber strong and fit. He could outrun men half his age. Heck, even when he was in his 60s just before he got the cancer - he looked like he was in his 30s.

He didn't say anything to me. Just smiled in his unassuming way. But I got a feeling that he was pleased with me for some reason. Not that I've done anything fantastic or anything. And in fact he was rather disappointed with me when he passed away over ten years ago. But it was good seeing dad again. He looked wonderful. It felt like he never died.

How strange to feel his presence again. It felt comforting.

I dreamt of my father today

One problem I have waking up here in Australia - which I don't in Singpore - is the lack of sunlight.

In Singapore- my room is bathed with sunlight at 7am every morning. The sun causes me to wake up naturally. Natural is always better. Its estimated that millions of people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder - caused by the lack of sunlight in the morning.

See here for more details : Finally a healthy solution to SAD and here.

Anyways, 8am and my room is still dark. I've woken up though. But its too cold to get up. So I go back to sleep. And I get weird dreams. Not erotic ones, sadly. Hence the term SAD :)

This time I dreamt I was fixing something or going on a trip with someone and that person - changed into my father - who died many years ago.

He was smiling. He looked younger and healthier - in his early 40s when he was strong and fit.

He didn't say anything to me. But I got a feeling that he was pleased with me for some reason. Not that I've done anything fantastic or anything. And in fact he was rather disappointed with me when he passed away. But it was good seeing dad again. He looked wonderful.

Scuba Diving Tip - drying your booties

I found that the booties have got a lot of moisture trapped in them - even after letting them dry for several days - they are still wet. And if they are wet - and humid - mould, fungus, and bacteria will start to form - and they will stink.

One great way is to place old black/white newspaper (not glossy paper) - into the boot after you've dried them for awhile. And when you dry the boots - don't put them out in the sun (for too long) - because direct sunlight will damage the rubber.

The old newspaper will help to absorb the moisture in the booties. Pull it out the next day - and you'll find its damp. Throw it away and put in another one. Repeat until the newspaper is dry.

Then to store = I'd put in a 3rd set of "fresh" old newspapers - and throw in some cheap sodium bi-carb powder too - great stuff.

Its worth doing - if not, the bad smell in your booties will transfer the bacteria and germs to your feet the next time you put them on.

Hotham Ski Trip

Start:	Jul 11, '08 07:00a
End:	Jul 13, '08
Location:	Mt Hotham, Victoria

Fabian's group. Friend of a friend. I don't know them. A bit apprehensive. But skiing is skiing. I hope that we can get a nice chalet. Put me in front of a handbuilt stone firewall with a view of the snow capped alps - and I can die happy.

Napoleon Wrasse Pointblank

One of the tamed Napoleon Wrasse that we encountered at the Maldives. It was large - over a metre long and the body was as large as a sheep.

Pamela's album Maldives Dive Trip 2008

Pamela, Qiao Ling and Tania onboard the MV Eagle Ray. Happy days.

Pamela was one of the divers on the Maldives dive trip. She's an editor from Singapore Cleo magazine. These are her photos take of the trip - mostly of MV Eagle Ray our Live on Board (LoB). She didn't have an underwater housing for her camera, thus no undersea photos. Trust a woman to take photos of the the toilet. lol.

All taken in our dive trip to the Maldives May 23rd - June 2nd 2008.

Great time spent with them. Hope to do it again. :)

Hopefully we won't indulge in a group discussion on the Back Street Boys and Justin Timberlake... haha.

Jason@ Maldives 5/08

Some of Jason's photos from the dive trip to the Maldives, MV Eagle Ray, May June 2008. He's got really great photos there, including some close ups of the Whale Shark.

who wants to live forever

who wants to live forever beneath this great shining sea
to swim with dolphins in luminous waters
to hunt with sharks in bloody waters
to descend to the great abyss

YMC 2008
(work still in progress...)

who wants to live forever

who wants to live forever beneath this great shining sea
to swim with dolphins in luminous waters
to hunt with sharks in bloody waters
to descend to the great abyss

YMC 2008
(work still in progress...)

One woman making a big difference to orphans

In 1993 Didi Kalika, an Australian kindergarten and yoga teacher in Ulaanbaatar, was shocked by the plight of so many kids living on the streets. She started to help the kids by providing food and shelter and soon realized that there was a need for more.

In 1995, with the help of some friends, she started the Lotus Centre: a place that provides children who come from some of the most terrible backgrounds; abandonment, sexual abuse, malnutrition and domestic violence; a chance to change their lives for the better.

Through quality education, meaningful activities and by creating small family groups (10 children to one housemother), the Lotus Centre tries to give children a chance to make a positive future. Today 148 children call the Lotus Centre their home.

Read the rest here! Click here Its a beautiful story and they deserve our support.

One woman making a big difference to orphans

In 1993 Didi Kalika, an Australian kindergarten and yoga teacher in Ulaanbaatar, was shocked by the plight of so many kids living on the streets. She started to help the kids by providing food and shelter and soon realized that there was a need for more.

In 1995, with the help of some friends, she started the Lotus Centre: a place that provides children who come from some of the most terrible backgrounds; abandonment, sexual abuse, malnutrition and domestic violence; a chance to change their lives for the better.

Through quality education, meaningful activities and by creating small family groups (10 children to one housemother), the Lotus Centre tries to give children a chance to make a positive future. Today 148 children call the Lotus Centre their home.

Read the rest here! Click here Its a beautiful story and they deserve our support.

One woman making a big difference to orphans

In 1993 Didi Kalika, an Australian kindergarten and yoga teacher in Ulaanbaatar, was shocked by the plight of so many kids living on the streets. She started to help the kids by providing food and shelter and soon realized that there was a need for more.

In 1995, with the help of some friends, she started the Lotus Centre: a place that provides children who come from some of the most terrible backgrounds; abandonment, sexual abuse, malnutrition and domestic violence; a chance to change their lives for the better.

Through quality education, meaningful activities and by creating small family groups (10 children to one housemother), the Lotus Centre tries to give children a chance to make a positive future. Today 148 children call the Lotus Centre their home.

Read the rest here! Click here Its a beautiful story and they deserve our support.

A sad story? Sex and the City

I haven't watched the movie. yet. I didn't really follow the series either. It seemed too introspective and anyway, I'm a guy. I like to watch great period "chick flic" movies like BBC's Pride and Prejudice - but following the emasculating antics of Carrie and friends is akin to a bull watching a bull-fight. Not pretty Jan.

Anyways here's a review that seems ... truthful yet a bit saddening. Click here or the photo.

I certainly hope they don't have Sex and the City when Carrie et al are in their 50s.

And for the record - I think that flower hat on Carrie looks like bizarre, its not working. And what was Cynthia Nixon thinking when she wore that submariner cleavage dress? At 42 you need all the support you can get!!! Horrendous, girlfriend!

TeamFortress2 Meet TheSniper

Awesome video. And yes, he's an Aussie!

A sad story? Sex and the City

I haven't watched the movie. yet. I didn't really follow the series either. It seemed too introspective and anyway, I'm a guy. I like to watch great period "chick flic" movies like BBC's Pride and Prejudice - but following the emasculating antics of Carrie and friends is akin to a bull watching a bull-fight. Not pretty Jan.

Anyways here's a review that seems ... truthful yet a bit saddening. Click here or the photo.

I certainly hope they don't have Sex and the City when Carrie et al are in their 50s.

And for the record - I think that lime green flower hat on Parker looks like bizarre, its not working. And what was Cynthia Nixon thinking when she wore that submariner cleavage dress? At 42 you need all the support you can get!!! Horrendous, girlfriend! Usually I like to see the valley, but this one makes me shudder and look away.

Coming home to Singapore Friday

Start:	Nov 7, '08 5:00p
End:	Nov 8, '08 3:30p
Location:	Singapore

Coming back in November to Singapore. Lets see whether I can finish all the junk I have to accomplish in Australia, notably my company tax; the tax laws here are vastly more complicated than Singapore. Then hopefully we can do some scuba diving in Thailand or one more at Dayang.

A sad story? Sex and the City

I haven't watched the movie. yet. I didn't really follow the series either. It seemed too introspective and anyway, I'm a guy. I like to watch great period "chick flic" movies like BBC's Pride and Prejudice - but following the emasculating antics of Carrie and friends is akin to a bull watching a bull-fight. Not pretty Jan.

Anyways here's a review that seems ... truthful yet a bit saddening. Click here or the photo.

I certainly hope they don't have Sex and the City when Carrie et al are in their 50s.

And for the record - I think that flower hat on Carrie looks like bizarre, its not working. And what was Cynthia Nixon thinking when she wore that submariner cleavage dress? At 42 you need all the support you can get!!! Horrendous, girlfriend!

The day ahead

1. Collect documents from bookkeeper

2. Go see accountant and discuss accounts.

3. Avoid tearing my hair out as I go through the accounts - wtf did the money go???

4. Check share portfolio. Oh look - Intermet Resources ITT has gone up 100%. I didn't realize I was still carrying that baby. Pity I only have 11,000 shares@13cents to begin with. Still made over a grand.

5. Go online and check for ski lodges in Mt Hotham. Crystal Lodges look good.

6. Try and go running in 10C temperature. Bleh.

7. I need a good snuggle.

7.5. No snuggle. So a mindless game of Team Fortress II has to suffice. Barely.

8. Dinner. Make your own. ....

To J (2007)

I wrote this 12 months ago after the Sipadan trip. I still like it.


To J

She charms me so...
How?

Is it her scent?
Perhaps.

The nearness of her fine tanned body?
Could be.

Her presence as she is next to me?
Quite likely.

Her walk as her sarong embraces her graceful hips?
Hmm... Probably.

Her smile when she looks at me playfully?
Yes, indeed Most definitely.

(The painting is courtesy of John William Waterhouse, its entitled Hylas and the Nymphs.)

Under Raja Ampat: Dec 15 - Dec 24, 07

Link

Apparently a great place to go scuba diving.

Looks very good. Check it out.

UPDATE: Click on the pic for the link.

She looks at me with sideway glances

I wrote this 12 months ago after the Sipadan trip. I still like it. (I added this in cos I couldn't stand that photo of that stupid ugly terrorist woman in the previous blog post)


To J

She charms me so...
How?

Is it her scent?
Perhaps.

Her smooth skin? Her fine tanned body?
Could be...

Her presence as she is next to me?
Quite likely.

Her walk as her sarong graces her gentle hips?
Haha... not exactly.

Her smile when she looks at me playfully?
Yes, indeed Most definitely.

Absolutely.

(The painting is courtesy of the 19th century pre-Raphelite painter, John William Waterhouse, its entitled Hylas and the Nymphs.)

Al Qaida brings glass ceiling, house, roof building, patio and all on women's rights

According to an Al Qaida leader, Ayman Al-Zawahri, they have no use for women as fighters or suicide bombers in their organization. Instead they prefer them to stay at home and look after the kids.

The response from some extremist muslim women:

"I felt that my heart was about to explode in my chest..." says a woman who listened to Zawahri's statement.

I thought that was the whole point? No?

Click on the Associated Press photo for details.

Funniest Wedding proposal this month

http://diveabout.multiply.com/journal/item/13/The_Proposal_co_Neil_Gaiman

Click on the link for details. Click on the picture below for what happened. Her OMG is soooo funny... and romantic.

To J (2007)

I wrote this 12 months ago after the Sipadan trip. I still like it.


To J

She charms me so...
How?

Is it her scent?
Perhaps.

The nearness of her fine tanned body?
Could be.

Her presence as she is next to me?
Quite likely.

Her walk as her sarong embraces her graceful hips?
Hmm... Probably.

Her smile when she looks at me playfully?
Yes, indeed Most definitely.

(The painting is courtesy of John William Waterhouse, its entitled Hylas and the Nymphs.)

Melbourne Breakfast

Requirement:

Two large sunny side up eggs - fried - with the egg yolk still fluid and not plastic.

Bacon Rashers - fried - big and tasty.

Baked Beans - good quality, slightly sweet, beans not hard, not metallic tasting - Edgells used to have the best.

White Penny Mushrooms - best to not fry them for more than 6 seconds otherwise they soak up the oil and turn into lardballs!

Ripe Tomatoes - I think tomatos anywhere else apart from Singapore - taste sweet and juicy.

Black aromantic arabica coffee - to balance off the sweet taste of the egg and to wake up the brain.

Fresh made bread - a rye and a sour dough - with some butter on top.

Round it off with fresh orange juice.

Oh bliss!!!

And the best part - to have a partner to savor the morning fragrance of the meal, esp. the coffee, and to have a pleasant conversation with.

To J (2007)

I wrote this 12 months ago after the Sipadan trip. I still like it.


To J

She charms me so...
How?

Is it her scent?
Perhaps.

The nearness of her fine tanned body?
Could be.

Her presence as she is next to me?
Quite likely.

Her walk as her sarong embraces her graceful hips?
Hmm... Probably.

Her smile when she looks at me playfully?
Yes, indeed Most definitely.

(The painting is courtesy of John William Waterhouse, its entitled Hylas and the Nymphs.)

Al Qaida brings glass ceiling, house, roof building, patio and all on women's rights

According to an Al Qaida leader, Ayman Al-Zawahri, they have no use for women as fighters or suicide bombers in their organization. Instead they prefer them to stay at home and look after the kids.

The response from some extremist muslim women:

"I felt that my heart was about to explode in my chest..." says a woman who listened to Zawahri's statement.

I thought that was the whole point? No?

Click on the Associated Press photo for details.

I will refrain from commenting on the photo... suffice to say, that suicide bomb pack looks just perfect on her and matches with her black cotton burqua. Don't you agree daaaahrling.... xxx

How Neil Gaiman helped one of his fans to proposal to his girlfriend

http://diveabout.multiply.com/journal/item/13/The_Proposal_co_Neil_Gaiman

Click on the link for details. Click on the picture below for what happened. Her OMG is soooo funny... and sweet.

lol. kiss Neil Gaiman - and get proposed by her boyfriend. And she entitled her blog entry:

"How my boyfriend ruined my Neil Gaiman experience."

lol women.

Melbourne Breakfast

Requirement:

Two large sunny side up eggs - fried - with the egg yolk still fluid and not plastic.

Bacon Rashers - fried - big and tasty.

Baked Beans - good quality, slightly sweet, beans not hard, not metallic tasting - Edgells used to have the best.

White Penny Mushrooms - best to not fry them for more than 6 seconds otherwise they soak up the oil and turn into lardballs!

Ripe Tomatoes - I think tomatos anywhere else apart from Singapore - taste sweet and juicy.

Black aromantic arabica coffee - to balance off the sweet taste of the egg and to wake up the brain.

Fresh made bread - a rye and a sour dough - with some butter on top.

Round it off with fresh orange juice.

Oh bliss!!!

And the best part - to have a partner to savor the morning fragrance of the meal, esp. the coffee, and to have a pleasant conversation with.





 

Al Qaida brings glass ceiling, house, roof building, patio and all on women's rights

According to an Al Qaida leader, Ayman Al-Zawahri, they have no use for women as fighters or suicide bombers in their organization. Instead they prefer them to stay at home and look after the kids.

The response from some extremist muslim women:

"I felt that my heart was about to explode in my chest..." says a woman who listened to Zawahri's statement.

I thought that was the whole point? No?

Click on the Associated Press photo for details.

Funniest Wedding proposal this month

http://diveabout.multiply.com/journal/item/13/The_Proposal_co_Neil_Gaiman

Click on the link for details. Click on the picture below for what happened. Her OMG is soooo funny... and romantic.

Melbourne Breakfast

Requirement:

Two large sunny side up eggs - fried - with the egg yolk still fluid and not plastic.

Bacon Rashers - fried - big and tasty.

Baked Beans - good quality, slightly sweet, beans not hard, not metallic tasting - Edgells used to have the best.

White Penny Mushrooms - best to not fry them for more than 6 seconds otherwise they soak up the oil and turn into lardballs!

Ripe Tomatoes - I think tomatos anywhere else apart from Singapore - taste sweet and juicy.

Black aromantic arabica coffee - to balance off the sweet taste of the egg and to wake up the brain.

Fresh made bread - a rye and a sour dough - with some butter on top.

Round it off with fresh orange juice.

Oh bliss!!!

And the best part - to have a partner to savor the morning fragrance of the meal, esp. the coffee, and to have a pleasant conversation with.

13 degrees Celsius on a cold Melbourne night

Man, it was positively chilly willy in Melbourne - 13C - nothing of course compared to North Hemphishere freezing temperatures. But for a Singaporean thats really very cold.

6pm. And the sky is already black like raven's back.

So whats a guy to do? Why break out a bottle of red wine - a nice Cab Sab (Cabernet Sauvignon) and enjoy the pleasures of a few drinks- something that can not be fully appreciated in warm weather, oh no.

Wine is rather heaty- makes you flush red - it feels odd if you are in a place where its usually 30C. But when its cold - its just nice.

And of course, start my fireplace. Hmmm... took me awhile, as I didn't have any old newspapers - so I had to resort to junk mail as kindling. Stored over a ton of red gum firewood in my garage - its about time I used them.

Nice warm fireplace, red wine, cool jazz music in the background... very nice. Hmm... whats missing??? Thats right! Some cheddar cheese! Found some in my fridge - of unknown vintage. lol. Taste just right though - with crackers.

The winter evening settles down
With smell of steaks in passageways.
Six o'clock.
The burnt-out ends of smoky days.
Preludes: T.S. Eilot

13 degrees Celsius on a cold Melbourne night

Man, it was positively chilly willy in Melbourne - 13C - nothing of course compared to North Hemphishere freezing temperatures. But for a Singaporean thats really very cold.

6pm. And the sky is already black like raven's back.

So whats a guy to do? Why break out a bottle of red wine - a nice Cab Sab (Cabernet Sauvignon) and enjoy the pleasures of a few drinks-  something that can not be fully appreciated in warm weather, oh no.

Wine is rather heaty- makes you flush red - it feels odd if you are in a place where its usually 30C. But when its cold - its just nice.

And of course, start my fireplace. Hmmm... took me awhile, as I didn't have any old newspapers - so I had to resort to junk mail as kindling. Stored over a ton of red gum firewood in my garage -  its about time I used them.

Nice warm fireplace, red wine, cool jazz music in the background... very nice. Hmm... whats missing??? Thats right! Some cheddar cheese! Found some in my fridge - of unknown vintage. lol. Taste just right though - with crackers.

A quiet evening. Serene.

The winter evening settles down
With smell of steaks in passageways.
Six o'clock.
The burnt-out ends of smoky days.
Preludes: T.S. Eilot

13 degrees Celsius on a cold Melbourne night

Man, it was positively chilly willy in Melbourne - 13C - nothing of course compared to North Hemphishere freezing temperatures. But for a Singaporean thats really very cold.

6pm. And the sky is already black like raven's back.

So whats a guy to do? Why break out a bottle of red wine - a nice Cab Sab (Cabernet Sauvignon) and enjoy the pleasures of a few drinks- something that can not be fully appreciated in warm weather, oh no.

Wine is rather heaty- makes you flush red - it feels odd if you are in a place where its usually 30C. But when its cold - its just nice.

And of course, start my fireplace. Hmmm... took me awhile, as I didn't have any old newspapers - so I had to resort to junk mail as kindling. Stored over a ton of red gum firewood in my garage - its about time I used them.

Nice warm fireplace, red wine, cool jazz music in the background... very nice. Hmm... whats missing??? Thats right! Some cheddar cheese! Found some in my fridge - of unknown vintage. lol. Taste just right though - with crackers.

The winter evening settles down
With smell of steaks in passageways.
Six o'clock.
The burnt-out ends of smoky days.
Preludes: T.S. Eilot

Psalm 118

The Lord is my companion; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
The Lord is with me; I will look in triumph over my enemies.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

Bible Psalm 118: 6 - 9

Psalm 118

The Lord is my companion; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
The Lord is with me; I will look in triumph over my enemies.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

Bible Psalm 118: 6 - 9

Hmmm.... he must have made an impression on her.

This English woman met this guy - they connected it seems. Well, he got invited over to her place for drinks.

Now she wants to meet him again. Either she really likes him a lot or he left something behind.

And I thought guys have the problem remembering names.

Psalm 118

The Lord is my companion; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
The Lord is with me; I will look in triumph over my enemies.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

Bible Psalm 118: 6 - 9

Psalm 118

The Lord is my companion; I will not be afraid.
What can man do to me?
The Lord is with me; I will look in triumph over my enemies.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man.
It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in princes.

Bible Psalm 118: 6 - 9

Hmmm.... he must have made an impression on her.

This Australian woman met this guy - they connected it seems. Well, he got invited over to her place for drinks.

Now she wants to meet him again. Either she really likes him a lot or he left something behind or borrowed one of her favourite DVDs.

And I thought guys have the problem remembering names.

Click on the photo for the actual link.