I’m being rather anti-social right now. As I write, I’ve actually snuck away from the rest of the crowd to put down my thoughts in writing.
It’s been a rather busy 24 hours, I’ve hopped from one social appointment to the next and have struggled to find any time to myself.
It all started with dinner last night, from dinner we hopped to Anton Robert’s Butterfly Studio for a rather snazzy cocktail party, after which we moved on to Chevelle put some moves down on the dance floor. This morning I was off to coffee club, and from coffee club I had an appointment with some friends on the beach.
Currently I’m at a braai, but I’ve found a nice, quiet little study….Ahhhhh do you hear that? Oh yes man! It’s the sound of silence, only the sound of my own ramblings and insanity… it’s goooood!
Anyways I better get back, before they notice that I’m missing…
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Friday, February 27, 2009
Number 300 - Wrong Side of the Bed
Wow I woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning, literally. Must have been quite some nightmare or something (I can't remember, but perhaps I was wrestling a mauling bear), because generally I tend to wake up in the exact same position that I fall asleep in: fetal.
As a result, I feel somewhat disorientated - not quite here not quite there. I should be ecstatic, it's Friday and I have next week off work, but I'm not, I'm pretty indifferent about...well, almost everything right now. The sad reality is that there is no tangible reason why I should be in this mood, I guess there is some truth in the old saying "waking up on the wrong side of the bed" with regards to ones demeanor after all.
Hold the phone! I just realized that this is my 300th note! My mood has suddenly taken a turn in the right direction: up. I recall saying at my 200th post that perhaps I would have something profound to say at my 300th...surprisingly the status of not having anything to say - has not changed. 100 notes and 100 days on, I still have not reached enlightenment. I still cannot profess to know the meaning of life. I can however sincerely say that I'm in a better place than I was 100 days ago.
I still have some issues, insecurities that have developed over the last year (I noticed a few of these creeping out recently), but in general I'm enjoying life, going with the flow not taking everything quite as seriously and at the same time discovering little things about myself that I never knew about before and maintaining my sight on longer term goals.
Gosh, I never really thought about it, but what am I going to do once I reach my year long, personal journey? I have some ideas, but my daily writing has become a big part of my life, that once I stop, it will feel like something is missing. There will be a giant hole and I'll need to find something constructive to fill it with...
At least I'm in a good mood again.
As a result, I feel somewhat disorientated - not quite here not quite there. I should be ecstatic, it's Friday and I have next week off work, but I'm not, I'm pretty indifferent about...well, almost everything right now. The sad reality is that there is no tangible reason why I should be in this mood, I guess there is some truth in the old saying "waking up on the wrong side of the bed" with regards to ones demeanor after all.
Hold the phone! I just realized that this is my 300th note! My mood has suddenly taken a turn in the right direction: up. I recall saying at my 200th post that perhaps I would have something profound to say at my 300th...surprisingly the status of not having anything to say - has not changed. 100 notes and 100 days on, I still have not reached enlightenment. I still cannot profess to know the meaning of life. I can however sincerely say that I'm in a better place than I was 100 days ago.
I still have some issues, insecurities that have developed over the last year (I noticed a few of these creeping out recently), but in general I'm enjoying life, going with the flow not taking everything quite as seriously and at the same time discovering little things about myself that I never knew about before and maintaining my sight on longer term goals.
Gosh, I never really thought about it, but what am I going to do once I reach my year long, personal journey? I have some ideas, but my daily writing has become a big part of my life, that once I stop, it will feel like something is missing. There will be a giant hole and I'll need to find something constructive to fill it with...
At least I'm in a good mood again.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
King of Risotto
Ever since meeting my friend, Alejandro, I feel like I’ve had my own personal chef. For the last few months I’ve been eating like a king, as he feels compelled to spoil us, his friends, with his delightful cakes, pastas and risottos.
Last night however, he went the extra mile and prepared us a four course tasting dinner; conjuring up two different risottos: a red wine and a pumpkin risotto as well as two different pastas: pesto and tartufo(truffle) linguine. I should add that the pesto was made by hand in a pestle and mortar and took at least 45 minutes of effort. A lot of sweat went into making that pesto; but man! The end result, was well worth the effort.
Everything was cooked to perfection and particularly delicious. I may be a little fatter ,but I’m also a little bit happier inside. To round the dinner off, Xav decided to open a fantastic 14 year old Fairview Cabernet Sauvignon, which my father insisted I give to someone who would appreciate it and to use for a special occasion. I don’t drink red wines because of the tannins and my resulting red-face-glowing-party-trick, but even I had a sip…it was superb and I imagine that’s what all red wines should taste like.
The funniest thing, I find, is that Alejandro always ends up thanking us for eating his food! I think that eating the food is the easy part. “Gracias mi hermano”, for the amazing dinners.
Last night however, he went the extra mile and prepared us a four course tasting dinner; conjuring up two different risottos: a red wine and a pumpkin risotto as well as two different pastas: pesto and tartufo(truffle) linguine. I should add that the pesto was made by hand in a pestle and mortar and took at least 45 minutes of effort. A lot of sweat went into making that pesto; but man! The end result, was well worth the effort.
Everything was cooked to perfection and particularly delicious. I may be a little fatter ,but I’m also a little bit happier inside. To round the dinner off, Xav decided to open a fantastic 14 year old Fairview Cabernet Sauvignon, which my father insisted I give to someone who would appreciate it and to use for a special occasion. I don’t drink red wines because of the tannins and my resulting red-face-glowing-party-trick, but even I had a sip…it was superb and I imagine that’s what all red wines should taste like.
The funniest thing, I find, is that Alejandro always ends up thanking us for eating his food! I think that eating the food is the easy part. “Gracias mi hermano”, for the amazing dinners.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Small Town
I'm starting to think that Cape Town may be too small. Almost everywhere I go these days I bump into someone I know. Don't get me wrong I love it, I love the sense of community and the fact that when I'm feeling lonely I can get out of my flat and potentially hangout with someone I know. But there is a flip side to it too.
It means that I can never get away with anything. The problem with small communities is that if you do something wrong, it filters through the grape vine quite quickly and before you know it - your once rock solid reputation is nothing more than a shattered porcelain vase.
I'd like to consider myself an up-standing, respectable citizen, and for that reason I always try to be cautious about the way I present myself and how I act in the company of others. This usually isn't a problem; but there are days however, where I do wish that I could - just let go, not give a damn, go for a naked run and throw a little bit of name...or do I do that already? I guess it could be pretty easy, especially since my tolerance level for alcohol is one beer.
It means that I can never get away with anything. The problem with small communities is that if you do something wrong, it filters through the grape vine quite quickly and before you know it - your once rock solid reputation is nothing more than a shattered porcelain vase.
I'd like to consider myself an up-standing, respectable citizen, and for that reason I always try to be cautious about the way I present myself and how I act in the company of others. This usually isn't a problem; but there are days however, where I do wish that I could - just let go, not give a damn, go for a naked run and throw a little bit of name...or do I do that already? I guess it could be pretty easy, especially since my tolerance level for alcohol is one beer.
My Extended Family
Friends are the family you choose, and in Cape Town I’m fortunate to have, such a tight knit group that you could indeed call us family. For most of us, our immediate family members are absent and in far away lands and thus we have banded together to form a circle that enjoys the good times together and supports one another in the tough times.
Man, we have had many highs! But god knows that we have struggled through some shit too. That’s what has made us so close. Today, we celebrated the success of two of my brothers Dan and Paul, they've managed to secure an amazing opportunity in Prague; military advising for a George Lucas film, entitled Red Tails. Red Tails is a true story based on the first African American squadron to fight in World War part deux.
Although a high, it is also sad to see two family members leaving and so a little link in our chain is broken, even if just for a little while (a couple of months).
Earlier, straight after work I attended a casting for a Millers commercial. Since the casting location was very close to where I live, I decided to walk, which could not have turned out to be a worse idea due to the unbearable heat. When I finally arrived at my casting I was sweating, festering in my own juices; hardly confident enough to look presentable for potential clients.
But to make things worse guess who the only other person there, while I was there, was: local, South African, celebrity Colin Moss. Sweaty and flustered, the chances of me making any beer money are slim…
Man, we have had many highs! But god knows that we have struggled through some shit too. That’s what has made us so close. Today, we celebrated the success of two of my brothers Dan and Paul, they've managed to secure an amazing opportunity in Prague; military advising for a George Lucas film, entitled Red Tails. Red Tails is a true story based on the first African American squadron to fight in World War part deux.
Although a high, it is also sad to see two family members leaving and so a little link in our chain is broken, even if just for a little while (a couple of months).
Earlier, straight after work I attended a casting for a Millers commercial. Since the casting location was very close to where I live, I decided to walk, which could not have turned out to be a worse idea due to the unbearable heat. When I finally arrived at my casting I was sweating, festering in my own juices; hardly confident enough to look presentable for potential clients.
But to make things worse guess who the only other person there, while I was there, was: local, South African, celebrity Colin Moss. Sweaty and flustered, the chances of me making any beer money are slim…
Monday, February 23, 2009
Online Grocery Shopping Blunder
Grocery shopping can be quite a laborious chore. I mean sure it can sometimes be fun when you're buying lots of treats like chocolates, cookies or whatever; I also like finding cool new products on the market to try out (Yip, I'm one of those impulse buyers that has to try out anything new that hits the shelves). In general, you're in the super market buying replenishables, things that you buy all the time because they just simply run out; that part of grocery shopping is the bane of my life and is about as exciting as watching paint dry.
But it's one of those things that you have to do, otherwise you go hungry and have nothing in the house to consume. I usually find myself doing groceries on the weekend, but it's always a toss up between doing that or something that I actually want to do. Most weekends I'm pretty disciplined and fit it all in; but this weekend I found myself lacking the will power to getting around to it, which leads to my current state of malnutrition.
I don't have anyone to blame but myself. With the advent of online shopping the laborious part of groceries can be done away with; one can select the items, as well as the frequency that one wants and well, the food will miraculously arrive at your door step. So apathy aside there should be no real reason for me to ever have an empty fridge or pantry. However, I've been weary to jump on to the internet grocery shopping bandwagon due to a past polony discretion that my friend committed. The illiterate oaf mistook the metric unit kilograms with that of grams and entered 200 into the text field provided; and when a massive pallet of meat mush arrived on my...I mean his doorstep. He had no choice but to eat sheets of processed pig hooves, organs ears and god knows what else; every day for weeks on end.
Ever since experiencing...I mean hearing about that experience: I've been reluctant to order any groceries online. I guess I'll just have to pop in to the store a bit later and endure the irritating queues.
But it's one of those things that you have to do, otherwise you go hungry and have nothing in the house to consume. I usually find myself doing groceries on the weekend, but it's always a toss up between doing that or something that I actually want to do. Most weekends I'm pretty disciplined and fit it all in; but this weekend I found myself lacking the will power to getting around to it, which leads to my current state of malnutrition.
I don't have anyone to blame but myself. With the advent of online shopping the laborious part of groceries can be done away with; one can select the items, as well as the frequency that one wants and well, the food will miraculously arrive at your door step. So apathy aside there should be no real reason for me to ever have an empty fridge or pantry. However, I've been weary to jump on to the internet grocery shopping bandwagon due to a past polony discretion that my friend committed. The illiterate oaf mistook the metric unit kilograms with that of grams and entered 200 into the text field provided; and when a massive pallet of meat mush arrived on my...I mean his doorstep. He had no choice but to eat sheets of processed pig hooves, organs ears and god knows what else; every day for weeks on end.
Ever since experiencing...I mean hearing about that experience: I've been reluctant to order any groceries online. I guess I'll just have to pop in to the store a bit later and endure the irritating queues.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
For Blood and Wine
The Blue Blood brand is fast gaining popularity amongst denim lovers everywhere. The brand originates from the Netherlands and their uncompromising passion to ensure that they have the best-quality, styled denims are what make them so sought after in parts of Europe, the Far East and now Cape Town, South Africa.
Blue Blood has recently partnered with my good friend JP in opening their first concept store outside of Holland. And again, I was fortunate to attend its opening. The store itself is a showcase in contemporary design; using elements of wood and copper to personify the brands image of style and quality.
The event was superb. This was owing to the right atmosphere created by food, drink, music and the Bolus hospitality that we have all become accustomed to and enjoy. Even the rain could not mar the feel good mood. If the opening is anything to base on, a lot more positive things can be expected from the brand and the store.
This morning, we ventured forth on a road trip to go wine tasting - with a difference. The difference is that no one actually partook in any tastings (which is strange since we had a French man with wine lust amongst us) but instead they all came along to experience the Stellenbosch Wine Route vibe.
The first stop in our itinerary was the cheetah sanctuary at Spier, as we wanted to give our rag tag troop of soldiers, spanning the four corners of the globe, a chance to get up close and personal with one of Africa’s big cats. Personally, I think cheetahs are really cute and would not mind keeping one around as a house pet; but I’m certain it would turn out like one of those Good Idea, Bad Idea scenarios I used to watch in a Warner Brothers cartoon called Animaniacs…since, obviously, the body corporate in my block does not allow pets.
Afterward, the plan was to spend the rest of the morning driving to various farms and taste wine; but the old apathy bug kicked in. So when we stopped off at Asara Wine Estate; the comfortable deck, beautiful views and warm sunshine bounded us to the outdoor patio furniture like super glue for a lazy lunch and civilized, relaxing afternoon banter instead.
Blue Blood has recently partnered with my good friend JP in opening their first concept store outside of Holland. And again, I was fortunate to attend its opening. The store itself is a showcase in contemporary design; using elements of wood and copper to personify the brands image of style and quality.
The event was superb. This was owing to the right atmosphere created by food, drink, music and the Bolus hospitality that we have all become accustomed to and enjoy. Even the rain could not mar the feel good mood. If the opening is anything to base on, a lot more positive things can be expected from the brand and the store.
This morning, we ventured forth on a road trip to go wine tasting - with a difference. The difference is that no one actually partook in any tastings (which is strange since we had a French man with wine lust amongst us) but instead they all came along to experience the Stellenbosch Wine Route vibe.
The first stop in our itinerary was the cheetah sanctuary at Spier, as we wanted to give our rag tag troop of soldiers, spanning the four corners of the globe, a chance to get up close and personal with one of Africa’s big cats. Personally, I think cheetahs are really cute and would not mind keeping one around as a house pet; but I’m certain it would turn out like one of those Good Idea, Bad Idea scenarios I used to watch in a Warner Brothers cartoon called Animaniacs…since, obviously, the body corporate in my block does not allow pets.
Afterward, the plan was to spend the rest of the morning driving to various farms and taste wine; but the old apathy bug kicked in. So when we stopped off at Asara Wine Estate; the comfortable deck, beautiful views and warm sunshine bounded us to the outdoor patio furniture like super glue for a lazy lunch and civilized, relaxing afternoon banter instead.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Afternoon Power Napping
A well timed afternoon power nap is the key to feeling revitalized if one feels tired and hits a brick wall. It’s a bit of a fine art though.
If you sleep for too long, you wake up groggy and disorientated and feel worse than not taking the nap. If you sleep for too little, well then you’ve just slept too little and there’s just really no point. You have to get the duration just right. There is supposedly some scientific evidence regarding states of sleep that back my theory, but for the mere reason that I don’t really know the details - I’ll spare the explanation.
My general rule of thumb is setting my alarm for 30 minutes, it seems to do the trick. I feel well rested, full of pep and am able to carry on for hours on end. Had a little power nap a bit earlier and am now feeling great – true story.
If you sleep for too long, you wake up groggy and disorientated and feel worse than not taking the nap. If you sleep for too little, well then you’ve just slept too little and there’s just really no point. You have to get the duration just right. There is supposedly some scientific evidence regarding states of sleep that back my theory, but for the mere reason that I don’t really know the details - I’ll spare the explanation.
My general rule of thumb is setting my alarm for 30 minutes, it seems to do the trick. I feel well rested, full of pep and am able to carry on for hours on end. Had a little power nap a bit earlier and am now feeling great – true story.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Head or Heart?
What type of a person are you a head person? Or a heart person? A head person is rational and is someone who makes calculations, weighing up the practical implications of all situations and then making the most logical choices. A head person never takes risks and is conservative in their approach. While a heart person operates on feelings, impulses, gut instinct; and well, can sometimes be irrational. They have a far greater risk threshold.
For the longest period of time I’ve fancied myself as a bit of a head person, but after much searching I believe that I’ve been lying to myself. I’m actually a heart person trying to be a head person. I try to use my head, think things through and it tells me to be as rational as possible, but there is always a second voice, one that is in actual fact: louder, telling me not to think too much, just do; the heart.
With simpler things the head can often win the jury. But when things become more complicated, with less tangible facts, then the heart wins; only, there is already much backing and forthing between head and heart that by the time the decision is made, it seems mistimed and leads to more complications and confusion.
In a lot of ways I wish I could be more just one or the other; either not taking any risks at all, or taking them without flinching and moving on quickly when it turns belly up. However, I tend to fall victim to my own self conflict. I am aware of this and need a way to somehow override one or the other...
For the longest period of time I’ve fancied myself as a bit of a head person, but after much searching I believe that I’ve been lying to myself. I’m actually a heart person trying to be a head person. I try to use my head, think things through and it tells me to be as rational as possible, but there is always a second voice, one that is in actual fact: louder, telling me not to think too much, just do; the heart.
With simpler things the head can often win the jury. But when things become more complicated, with less tangible facts, then the heart wins; only, there is already much backing and forthing between head and heart that by the time the decision is made, it seems mistimed and leads to more complications and confusion.
In a lot of ways I wish I could be more just one or the other; either not taking any risks at all, or taking them without flinching and moving on quickly when it turns belly up. However, I tend to fall victim to my own self conflict. I am aware of this and need a way to somehow override one or the other...
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Man Boobs
I'm not sure if I should be taking it as a compliment, but a girl commented that my boobs were bigger than hers. Thanks...I think. I tried to argue though and told her that her chest area looked bulgier than mine, but she insisted that it was the support she enjoyed from her Wonder Bra...
The statement is ambiguous, on the one hand it means that certain girls take notice that I workout, but on the other hand it means I have "man boobs" - "man boobs" - need I say more. The mere utterance of the two words together feel so damn right abominable that I think I may even vomit.
I mean the word "boobs" by themselves - "hell yeah", it kinda gets me excited; the word "man" - "meh" doesn't do much for me, but at least it doesn't sicken me; but "man boobs" - "yuck" (I haven't used that word since I was like 5) disturbs me right down to the very core...Oh no, it doesn't disturb you? Well , imagine a baby suckling on a pair of those bad boys and tell me that your breakfast didn't make a movement towards your esophagus.
"No, no, no, NO!" Men should not have boobs! "Hmmm but they are kind of firm..." NO NEVER. Okay, I'm going to go cry in the foetal position now ...maybe checkout the cost of "breast reduction" (another pair of words that seem disturbing - but perhaps not when used in conjunction with "man boobs") surgery after.
The statement is ambiguous, on the one hand it means that certain girls take notice that I workout, but on the other hand it means I have "man boobs" - "man boobs" - need I say more. The mere utterance of the two words together feel so damn right abominable that I think I may even vomit.
I mean the word "boobs" by themselves - "hell yeah", it kinda gets me excited; the word "man" - "meh" doesn't do much for me, but at least it doesn't sicken me; but "man boobs" - "yuck" (I haven't used that word since I was like 5) disturbs me right down to the very core...Oh no, it doesn't disturb you? Well , imagine a baby suckling on a pair of those bad boys and tell me that your breakfast didn't make a movement towards your esophagus.
"No, no, no, NO!" Men should not have boobs! "Hmmm but they are kind of firm..." NO NEVER. Okay, I'm going to go cry in the foetal position now ...maybe checkout the cost of "breast reduction" (another pair of words that seem disturbing - but perhaps not when used in conjunction with "man boobs") surgery after.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy theories should be taken with a pinch of salt...yet sometimes there might be some truth behind the sensationalism; as the old adage goes "Where there's smoke there is fire".
I watched Zeitgeist last night an interesting take on world religions, the war on terror, the global economy and the conspiracy that a few have used these to control the masses. While some people have started to believe the film's message to be gospel, I'd be wary of becoming overly fanatical with regards to it's factual integrity. While there were a lot of good arguments, I believe that they might still have jumped to conclusions in many areas.
I don't want to sound overly cynical, but some of the theories however, do make sense; and the measures implemented by the power hungry and greedy to control and make an extra buck would not surprise me in the least.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that we as the masses, should take cognisance of the fact that not everything propagated should be taken as is.
I watched Zeitgeist last night an interesting take on world religions, the war on terror, the global economy and the conspiracy that a few have used these to control the masses. While some people have started to believe the film's message to be gospel, I'd be wary of becoming overly fanatical with regards to it's factual integrity. While there were a lot of good arguments, I believe that they might still have jumped to conclusions in many areas.
I don't want to sound overly cynical, but some of the theories however, do make sense; and the measures implemented by the power hungry and greedy to control and make an extra buck would not surprise me in the least.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that we as the masses, should take cognisance of the fact that not everything propagated should be taken as is.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Vigilance
I'm arguably a vegetable right now. I don't think that there is much happening in the brain activity department.
Yes, that's what happens after a 6 hour handover session delving into both technical and business aspects of a software solution. I'm working tirelessly to get my peers, at DVT, up to speed with the systems I've been working on; before heading off to Global Vision. In addition to this I'm wrapping up a couple of projects.
The Human Resources department have informed me that I've accumulated quite a lot of leave days and that they want me to take before going. Meaning that I don't have too much time to finish everything up; I guess I'll just need to work extra vigilantly the next couple of weeks.
The timing for taking leave is perfect though, as it gives me an opportunity to show Josephine around and take a little break before starting a new adventure.
Yes, that's what happens after a 6 hour handover session delving into both technical and business aspects of a software solution. I'm working tirelessly to get my peers, at DVT, up to speed with the systems I've been working on; before heading off to Global Vision. In addition to this I'm wrapping up a couple of projects.
The Human Resources department have informed me that I've accumulated quite a lot of leave days and that they want me to take before going. Meaning that I don't have too much time to finish everything up; I guess I'll just need to work extra vigilantly the next couple of weeks.
The timing for taking leave is perfect though, as it gives me an opportunity to show Josephine around and take a little break before starting a new adventure.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Wanderer
I struggled to focus at work and it wasn't even because I was tired or anything, my mind simply kept wandering into another space. I blame it on being Monday, but there is probably a more reasonable explanation as to why my brain is so flaky recently.
All the same, it made even the most mundane of tasks take longer than usual. It took me more than 10 minutes to navigate from my PC's desktop to a simple file location. My thoughts bounced around like a kid who had eaten too much Tartrazine ...
Does anyone remember that stuff? When I was a kid, everyone had at least one friend who was allergic to it and he (or she) would go completely bonkers or start wheezing like crazy. I guess that's why the FDA finally decided it was not fit for ingestion and banned it from all food substances...*sigh* I miss those days, junk food and play grounds have never been the same again.
I digress, you see what I mean, my mind just seems to wander...
All the same, it made even the most mundane of tasks take longer than usual. It took me more than 10 minutes to navigate from my PC's desktop to a simple file location. My thoughts bounced around like a kid who had eaten too much Tartrazine ...
Does anyone remember that stuff? When I was a kid, everyone had at least one friend who was allergic to it and he (or she) would go completely bonkers or start wheezing like crazy. I guess that's why the FDA finally decided it was not fit for ingestion and banned it from all food substances...*sigh* I miss those days, junk food and play grounds have never been the same again.
I digress, you see what I mean, my mind just seems to wander...
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Short Days and Quick Responses
I find that I’ve been fighting the old battle: there are just not enough hours in the day.
It’s natural that as one accumulates more interests and activities that this should happen, but in my mind I figure that I can still do it all. It’s impossible, but still I try, the only problem is that I start neglecting other necessary activities…such as sleep. Well, at least I slept in this morning, after a fun night out going to DJ Sasha’s show.
On an aside, I’m really impressed with Microsoft. I’ve recently been playing around with some new technologies in the form of MVC.NET and Dynamic Data Websites and have been struggling to get them to play nicely in a deployment environment, as a result I logged a query on a forum.
Since what I’m trying to do is quite new, I’ve had no replies from the developer community, however Microsoft have been extremely responsive and have put their development team on it, in hopes to resolve my issues.
It’s natural that as one accumulates more interests and activities that this should happen, but in my mind I figure that I can still do it all. It’s impossible, but still I try, the only problem is that I start neglecting other necessary activities…such as sleep. Well, at least I slept in this morning, after a fun night out going to DJ Sasha’s show.
On an aside, I’m really impressed with Microsoft. I’ve recently been playing around with some new technologies in the form of MVC.NET and Dynamic Data Websites and have been struggling to get them to play nicely in a deployment environment, as a result I logged a query on a forum.
Since what I’m trying to do is quite new, I’ve had no replies from the developer community, however Microsoft have been extremely responsive and have put their development team on it, in hopes to resolve my issues.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Censorship
Some times it is better to hold ones tongue. I guess certain things should be left unheard, due to the impact it could have on ones personal reputation. For that reason, after some thinking I refrained from posting a particular train of thought...perhaps one day when my book (hint hint) is published I'll include it in.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday the 13th - Fact or Fiction?
Somehow, even though it usually takes me less than 2 minutes to get to work, on Friday the 13th, traffic miraculously appears so it takes me more than half an hour. Truth be told, home is only a few blocks away from work and I should probably walk and try to decrease my carbon foot print. But hey, I'm a lazy schmuck and the convenience of hopping in the car and not having to expend my own energy just seems more appealing.
Also, on Friday the 13th, somehow my medical aid gets suspended. Apparently, due to non-payment, yet according to my bank statement this has already been deducted via debit order. I had to spend some unnecessary time on the phone to sort it out, it's been resolved, but will apparently take at least 5 hours to reflect on the system. What that means is that I basically have a 5 hour window where stuff could happen to me and my medical aid will not pay out. I guess I'll just have to be more cautious with what I do until the suspension is lifted. Damn, and I so wanted to juggle those chainsaws...
Ahhh Friday the 13th an old wives tale? superstitious hogwash? Evidently not.
Also, on Friday the 13th, somehow my medical aid gets suspended. Apparently, due to non-payment, yet according to my bank statement this has already been deducted via debit order. I had to spend some unnecessary time on the phone to sort it out, it's been resolved, but will apparently take at least 5 hours to reflect on the system. What that means is that I basically have a 5 hour window where stuff could happen to me and my medical aid will not pay out. I guess I'll just have to be more cautious with what I do until the suspension is lifted. Damn, and I so wanted to juggle those chainsaws...
Ahhh Friday the 13th an old wives tale? superstitious hogwash? Evidently not.
Sun-Let-Downs
I can confirm that you can’t truly see the sun setting from Wafu or the Radisson in Moulle Point.
I know this, because I arranged for sunset drinks with Josephine and to our dismay the sun disappears behind some buildings and massively intrusive mountains before submerging into the sea. It’s not to say we didn’t have a good time, but imagine me advertising a puppy and instead turning up with a kitten. It’s still great, but not quite the same.
Oh well, these things happen. I have a few other spots for sundowners up my sleeve and at least one of them I know for sure has a proper view of the sunset. At least I convinced her that we’d have to try some more spots out to see if I’m right…
I know this, because I arranged for sunset drinks with Josephine and to our dismay the sun disappears behind some buildings and massively intrusive mountains before submerging into the sea. It’s not to say we didn’t have a good time, but imagine me advertising a puppy and instead turning up with a kitten. It’s still great, but not quite the same.
Oh well, these things happen. I have a few other spots for sundowners up my sleeve and at least one of them I know for sure has a proper view of the sunset. At least I convinced her that we’d have to try some more spots out to see if I’m right…
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Generosity
I think I’ve mentioned it before; I have a thing for watches. Sam called me earlier to tell me that he had something to drop off at my office. Too busy to be left in suspense, I carried on working without really thinking about what it could be.
To my surprise, when receiving my guest at reception, Sam had with him a cool time piece. Even more surprised was the fact that he was dropping it off for me.
“For me?” I enquired.
“Yeah, I remember you saying you appreciated watches.”
“Umm, thanks” was all I could muster.
I must admit, being broken away from my rhythm at work, I was little confused; but pleasantly so. It’s not every day that one gets given a watch and even less frequent that it happens out of the blue.
Sir, I truly appreciate your generosity and will keep your graciousness in mind. Ladies take note, I hear that the only thing that can match Sam’s generosity is his bedside manner (what?... he’s a doctor) - true story
Speaking of generosity, no longer had I mentioned the word and thinking that it would be great to go out on Friday, did Simon from Chevelle, provide me with a few free comps tickets for their Friday parties…
Gosh, I sure could use a cool new car…no?…I guess I was pushing my luck with that one.
To my surprise, when receiving my guest at reception, Sam had with him a cool time piece. Even more surprised was the fact that he was dropping it off for me.
“For me?” I enquired.
“Yeah, I remember you saying you appreciated watches.”
“Umm, thanks” was all I could muster.
I must admit, being broken away from my rhythm at work, I was little confused; but pleasantly so. It’s not every day that one gets given a watch and even less frequent that it happens out of the blue.
Sir, I truly appreciate your generosity and will keep your graciousness in mind. Ladies take note, I hear that the only thing that can match Sam’s generosity is his bedside manner (what?... he’s a doctor) - true story
Speaking of generosity, no longer had I mentioned the word and thinking that it would be great to go out on Friday, did Simon from Chevelle, provide me with a few free comps tickets for their Friday parties…
Gosh, I sure could use a cool new car…no?…I guess I was pushing my luck with that one.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Airports
I can’t say that I really like airports. All the congestion, shoving and pushing, people telling you to go this way or that, the constant sitting around: I’m just not a big fan of it. And generally, well in my experience at least, airports are a place where you say good bye.
Fortunately, today’s experience was a whole lot more pleasant and instead of saying goodbye to someone, I was able to play welcoming committee and say hello. Quite a nice change. The fact that the person I was picking up is a drop dead, gorgeous blonde might have eased my dislike for airports a little as well.
After fetching her, I had to take my guest to her modeling agency, Alfa Management, so that she could sign in; get settled and find out where she was going to based here in Cape Town. Amusingl,y while waiting for her to get things organized, one of the agency’s bookers approached me to see if I wanted to register on their books.
Apparently, us oriental folk are hard to come by here in Cape Town and are on the up as far as demand goes. Hmmm perhaps being Asian in Africa may pay off after all.
Fortunately, today’s experience was a whole lot more pleasant and instead of saying goodbye to someone, I was able to play welcoming committee and say hello. Quite a nice change. The fact that the person I was picking up is a drop dead, gorgeous blonde might have eased my dislike for airports a little as well.
After fetching her, I had to take my guest to her modeling agency, Alfa Management, so that she could sign in; get settled and find out where she was going to based here in Cape Town. Amusingl,y while waiting for her to get things organized, one of the agency’s bookers approached me to see if I wanted to register on their books.
Apparently, us oriental folk are hard to come by here in Cape Town and are on the up as far as demand goes. Hmmm perhaps being Asian in Africa may pay off after all.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Excitement in the Air
So here's the deal, I’m a little more excited than usual, for a number of reasons.
Firstly, the book which I ordered entitled My Booky Wook has finally arrived, it’s an autobiography of one of Britain's most talented stand-ups named Russel Brand and as the back cover describes, is a “Hilarious raconteur, hedonistic bon viveur, inexhaustible shaggeur, feather tongued dandy Russel Brand lives his life as if performing in a Victorian vaudeville.”
While, in all honesty, I may not understand half the words in that previous sentence; I’m pretty sure that it’s going to be impressive and will certainly not disappoint. Russel has lived an outlandish life of drink, sex, drugs and Rock n’ Roll and I’ve read that My Booky Wook is an honest and hilarious account of his experiences. I’ve also read that it is brilliantly written and he has a style of writing that commands laughter.
One of the main reasons why I bought the book, besides the entertainment value, is to help inspire and improve on my writing. I tend to pick up on habits of others who have come before me and so a lot of things, including my writing, is an amalgamation of styles from various sources. With a dash of my own brand of flavour, of course.
Secondly I’ve accepted an offer to work for a company called Global Vision. I was not really in the market for a new employer, but Global Vision head hunted me and made me an offer that was too attractive to refuse. DVT, the company that I’m currently at has been a good, stable home. I will still recommend them for development of custom software solutions to anyone who needs an outsourced IT Partner.
But a more attractive salary package, the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in some cutting edge technologies and forward-thinking business processes (namely SCRUM) were enough to help me make my decision. Most importantly it would provide me with the chance to work with one of my best friends and talented IT wunderkind: Ernst Kuschke.
I start on the 1st of April. I seriously hope it’s not some cruel April Fools joke. “Oh by the way Benny. We were just joking about the job: APRIL FOOLS!”
Lastly, and this is perhaps the reason I am most excited, is that I’m picking up the ever vivacious Josephine from the airport tomorrow. I haven’t seen her in two years and can’t wait to catch up.
Firstly, the book which I ordered entitled My Booky Wook has finally arrived, it’s an autobiography of one of Britain's most talented stand-ups named Russel Brand and as the back cover describes, is a “Hilarious raconteur, hedonistic bon viveur, inexhaustible shaggeur, feather tongued dandy Russel Brand lives his life as if performing in a Victorian vaudeville.”
While, in all honesty, I may not understand half the words in that previous sentence; I’m pretty sure that it’s going to be impressive and will certainly not disappoint. Russel has lived an outlandish life of drink, sex, drugs and Rock n’ Roll and I’ve read that My Booky Wook is an honest and hilarious account of his experiences. I’ve also read that it is brilliantly written and he has a style of writing that commands laughter.
One of the main reasons why I bought the book, besides the entertainment value, is to help inspire and improve on my writing. I tend to pick up on habits of others who have come before me and so a lot of things, including my writing, is an amalgamation of styles from various sources. With a dash of my own brand of flavour, of course.
Secondly I’ve accepted an offer to work for a company called Global Vision. I was not really in the market for a new employer, but Global Vision head hunted me and made me an offer that was too attractive to refuse. DVT, the company that I’m currently at has been a good, stable home. I will still recommend them for development of custom software solutions to anyone who needs an outsourced IT Partner.
But a more attractive salary package, the opportunity to gain invaluable experience in some cutting edge technologies and forward-thinking business processes (namely SCRUM) were enough to help me make my decision. Most importantly it would provide me with the chance to work with one of my best friends and talented IT wunderkind: Ernst Kuschke.
I start on the 1st of April. I seriously hope it’s not some cruel April Fools joke. “Oh by the way Benny. We were just joking about the job: APRIL FOOLS!”
Lastly, and this is perhaps the reason I am most excited, is that I’m picking up the ever vivacious Josephine from the airport tomorrow. I haven’t seen her in two years and can’t wait to catch up.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Hot Hot Hot
Krikey! It’s hot, it’s been like this for the entire weekend.
I went to the Pro X. The Pro X is an event which exhibits some of South Africa’s best extreme sports talents, from Motor Cross, to BMXing, to skate boarding and even wake boarding…unfortunately being as hot as it was; I lasted not more than 40 minutes as a spectator and had to get out of the sun , go for a surf and cool down.
Cool down, I did; the water at Glen Beach was in contrast, absolutely icy. The waves weren’t spectacular, but to escape from the heat was a good enough reason to go for a paddle. The refreshing Atlantic bite provided us with brief relief from the sweltering sun.
It’s day two in life without the internet, but I’ve found the new spot to get connected. S-Bar in good ol’ Wembley Square with it’s WiFi, comfortable couches, drinks and food on demand; have proven to be a great alternative… the air conditioning is a nice touch too.
I went to the Pro X. The Pro X is an event which exhibits some of South Africa’s best extreme sports talents, from Motor Cross, to BMXing, to skate boarding and even wake boarding…unfortunately being as hot as it was; I lasted not more than 40 minutes as a spectator and had to get out of the sun , go for a surf and cool down.
Cool down, I did; the water at Glen Beach was in contrast, absolutely icy. The waves weren’t spectacular, but to escape from the heat was a good enough reason to go for a paddle. The refreshing Atlantic bite provided us with brief relief from the sweltering sun.
It’s day two in life without the internet, but I’ve found the new spot to get connected. S-Bar in good ol’ Wembley Square with it’s WiFi, comfortable couches, drinks and food on demand; have proven to be a great alternative… the air conditioning is a nice touch too.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Addict
It’s the first day without internet and like a crack addict in search of a glass pipe; I fluster about in the streets, hopeful, that it will somehow miraculously materialize before me.
“One web request that’s all I need?!” I cry out desperately.
From the signs and the advertisements I see around: the internet is everywhere. I see the words “Free Internet”, “Wifi available”, “Get connected” sprawled across storefronts and brochures at every turn, and I have a reassurance that everything is going to be okay. I feel assured that I’ll find a place where I can tap in and get my fix, so to speak.
Imagine waking up to a world without the internet.
Getting connected is no longer a luxury, while it may have been the case, not more than some 10 years ago, these days it’s an absolute necessity. Without it, businesses would be dead in the water, students would be unable to get hold of information for research and blog junkies such as myself would be unable to connect to make a post.
“A world without the internet?” I can’t remember such a place, and I hope that I never find out what it was like again.
“One web request that’s all I need?!” I cry out desperately.
From the signs and the advertisements I see around: the internet is everywhere. I see the words “Free Internet”, “Wifi available”, “Get connected” sprawled across storefronts and brochures at every turn, and I have a reassurance that everything is going to be okay. I feel assured that I’ll find a place where I can tap in and get my fix, so to speak.
Imagine waking up to a world without the internet.
Getting connected is no longer a luxury, while it may have been the case, not more than some 10 years ago, these days it’s an absolute necessity. Without it, businesses would be dead in the water, students would be unable to get hold of information for research and blog junkies such as myself would be unable to connect to make a post.
“A world without the internet?” I can’t remember such a place, and I hope that I never find out what it was like again.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Internet Pirate
I've run into a bit of a dilemma with regards to the internet. It looks like I'm going to be without an internet connection at home for a little while, which will make my attempt to write a note everyday for a year, rather interesting. Up till now I've been fortunate, but I've thought about all the possible scenarios and realized that this was bound to happen at one stage or another.
So in the background, I've been devising a strategy so I could still achieve my goal, just in case I ran into a situation where I'm without an internet connection. The strategy is simple, I'll still carry on writing on a daily basis either in Microsoft Word, some other text editing tool or even in a journal that I carry around; hence fulfilling my goal of writing. The problem would just lie in the posting.
The posting of notes to the all-powerful "cloud" may no longer be a daily affair, but any opportunity that I do get to post, I will. I'll simply have to date my notes, so that they'll be in chronological order when published. I'll become a ruthless internet pirate, hijacking any chance to get online and offload. I'll have to beg, borrow maybe even steal bandwidth; from friends, family or even some random kid on the side of the street. Yes, I am determined to do this thing, yes, I am dedicated to this cause....yes, I am a little bit crazy!
So in the background, I've been devising a strategy so I could still achieve my goal, just in case I ran into a situation where I'm without an internet connection. The strategy is simple, I'll still carry on writing on a daily basis either in Microsoft Word, some other text editing tool or even in a journal that I carry around; hence fulfilling my goal of writing. The problem would just lie in the posting.
The posting of notes to the all-powerful "cloud" may no longer be a daily affair, but any opportunity that I do get to post, I will. I'll simply have to date my notes, so that they'll be in chronological order when published. I'll become a ruthless internet pirate, hijacking any chance to get online and offload. I'll have to beg, borrow maybe even steal bandwidth; from friends, family or even some random kid on the side of the street. Yes, I am determined to do this thing, yes, I am dedicated to this cause....yes, I am a little bit crazy!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Mobile Revolution
Although it's rather difficult on my Nokia 6300, isn't it fantastic that we live in an age where we can publish our thoughts from our cellular phones? As I sit here at Tank waiting for the others to arrive for sushi, I've taken a stab at writing my first note with predictive text and on an itsy bitsy screen. Welcome to the mobile revolution.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Irony
In life, there are always trade offs, at one point or another you have to make a decision that favours one thing over another. That’s just how life works.
I wanted to go to gym earlier, but got a call from Ernst seeing if I wanted to go for a surf instead. I figured that this would be a great option and rather than being stuck in doors; I could get my daily exercise whilst being one with nature. What a brilliant idea I thought.
Unfortunately, what seemed like a great idea, turned out rather poorly. Firstly, we forgot that after work, is peek traffic times; meaning that we ended up being stuck stationary on the highway leading out of town, for quite a lengthy period.
Secondly, after eventually reaching our spot, the ocean was completely blown out due to the heavy South Easterly gales. In hindsight, I guess we should have taken the hint when my hat had blown half way down the road; right before venturing off on our mission.
Feeling a little beaten, with our tails between our legs and not forgetting to mention also being extremely hungry; we seeked some solace and sustenance (quadruple, alliteration word score) at the KFC close by.
The irony of it all is that instead of being healthy and getting the initial exercise that we had initially intended, we ended up at perhaps the greasiest fast food joint imaginable.
I wanted to go to gym earlier, but got a call from Ernst seeing if I wanted to go for a surf instead. I figured that this would be a great option and rather than being stuck in doors; I could get my daily exercise whilst being one with nature. What a brilliant idea I thought.
Unfortunately, what seemed like a great idea, turned out rather poorly. Firstly, we forgot that after work, is peek traffic times; meaning that we ended up being stuck stationary on the highway leading out of town, for quite a lengthy period.
Secondly, after eventually reaching our spot, the ocean was completely blown out due to the heavy South Easterly gales. In hindsight, I guess we should have taken the hint when my hat had blown half way down the road; right before venturing off on our mission.
Feeling a little beaten, with our tails between our legs and not forgetting to mention also being extremely hungry; we seeked some solace and sustenance (quadruple, alliteration word score) at the KFC close by.
The irony of it all is that instead of being healthy and getting the initial exercise that we had initially intended, we ended up at perhaps the greasiest fast food joint imaginable.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Desk Jockey
As the day comes to a close, the only one still in the office; I'm desperately clutching at straws hoping that the repairing of some Windows updates will resolve the development bug that I've been faced with the entire day.
An application I'm developing, which was previously working without a glitch has all of a sudden developed some flaky, indeterminable errors and I've been trying my best to debug them without reprieve.
I've even tried all the suggestions from almighty Google, bar the one I'm trying now. Nothing is more scary than when Google runs out of answers. Hopefully it'll work and I'll be able to go home with a warm fuzzy feeling inside...
An application I'm developing, which was previously working without a glitch has all of a sudden developed some flaky, indeterminable errors and I've been trying my best to debug them without reprieve.
I've even tried all the suggestions from almighty Google, bar the one I'm trying now. Nothing is more scary than when Google runs out of answers. Hopefully it'll work and I'll be able to go home with a warm fuzzy feeling inside...
Monday, February 2, 2009
Guilty Pleasure
I have a confession: I’m a closet gossip magazine reader. It’s terrible I know, I hate to admit it, but I just can’t seem help myself. I have issues, issues of Heat Magazine that is.
It’s not that I go out deliberately to buy them, but when they’re lying around the house - you know - I read them. Ever since Candice temporarily moved in with us, I’ve found stacks of them strewn around the living room. I’ll tell myself I’m just going to page through one to satisfy my curiosity as to what “rubbish” is being printed in these things, but before you know it I’m engrossed and have read the whole stack from cover to cover.
By the end of satisfying my curiosity, I’m so with it; that I could tell you intimate details of Brangelina’s love life, Amy Winehouse’s rehabilitation or even Paris Hilton’s latest knickerless escapades. It’s disgusting, mindless filth; yet somehow the content just seems to grab and hold on.
What has become of me? *sigh* Have I become so desperate for entertainment that I’ve resorted to reading up on people I don’t know for pleasure. I guess at least I’m honest enough to admit that I am.
It’s not that I go out deliberately to buy them, but when they’re lying around the house - you know - I read them. Ever since Candice temporarily moved in with us, I’ve found stacks of them strewn around the living room. I’ll tell myself I’m just going to page through one to satisfy my curiosity as to what “rubbish” is being printed in these things, but before you know it I’m engrossed and have read the whole stack from cover to cover.
By the end of satisfying my curiosity, I’m so with it; that I could tell you intimate details of Brangelina’s love life, Amy Winehouse’s rehabilitation or even Paris Hilton’s latest knickerless escapades. It’s disgusting, mindless filth; yet somehow the content just seems to grab and hold on.
What has become of me? *sigh* Have I become so desperate for entertainment that I’ve resorted to reading up on people I don’t know for pleasure. I guess at least I’m honest enough to admit that I am.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Walking on Water
I’ve realized I’m not a very good surf teacher. It’s one of those things which are just very difficult to explain how to do. The best way to learn to surf is to just do it, I reckon.
Whenever I try to teach someone, I always resort to the same corny demonstration on the beach, which I’m sure you’ve all seen before. I’ll try to show them how to paddle and pop up with the surfboard on dry sand; but the feeling is so different in the water that it’s a complete waste of time.
The other problem I have is that, I usually become overwhelmed by the urge to paddle out and catch waves for myself. What this means is that the learner usually ends up in the shore break having to fend for him or herself.
Today, I learnt that to be a good surf teacher you have to be very selfless. We took some virgin surfers to Muizenberg. Muizenberg is a spot in Cape Town, traditionally for beginners, as the waves are smaller and easier to learn on.
Back in my day, there were no such things as surf schools. We learnt completely by trial and error. I remember when I first started a bunch of us equally clueless guys, who had heard about surfing from someone’s older brother; just began hitting the beach for entire days with our surfboards, in hope that we would finally figure out how to do it.
One guy would learn how to paddle, another would learn how to catch a wave and somehow via osmosis everyone would learn how to surf. The peer-pressure in a way kind of helped. No one wanted to be that guy who couldn’t pick up the next thing. “Benny’s a kook, Benny’s a kook” I would remember being ridiculed, if I were the one who failed to progress.
Learning together was fun, but that first time you stand up properly and move across the wave is like no other experience in the world. It’s indescribable, pure nirvana, you feel as though you’ve not just walked, but run across the water.
Luckily, these days there are tons of surf schools around to help get you to that point a lot quicker. We were fortunate enough to have someone who ran a surf school to help us out earlier.
The trick is to physically lead the novice into the water and help push them onto a wave. That way they are able to experience what it is actually like to catch a wave and get the feeling of how to move in the water. A great tip for next time, should I need to show someone else how to surf.
Whenever I try to teach someone, I always resort to the same corny demonstration on the beach, which I’m sure you’ve all seen before. I’ll try to show them how to paddle and pop up with the surfboard on dry sand; but the feeling is so different in the water that it’s a complete waste of time.
The other problem I have is that, I usually become overwhelmed by the urge to paddle out and catch waves for myself. What this means is that the learner usually ends up in the shore break having to fend for him or herself.
Today, I learnt that to be a good surf teacher you have to be very selfless. We took some virgin surfers to Muizenberg. Muizenberg is a spot in Cape Town, traditionally for beginners, as the waves are smaller and easier to learn on.
Back in my day, there were no such things as surf schools. We learnt completely by trial and error. I remember when I first started a bunch of us equally clueless guys, who had heard about surfing from someone’s older brother; just began hitting the beach for entire days with our surfboards, in hope that we would finally figure out how to do it.
One guy would learn how to paddle, another would learn how to catch a wave and somehow via osmosis everyone would learn how to surf. The peer-pressure in a way kind of helped. No one wanted to be that guy who couldn’t pick up the next thing. “Benny’s a kook, Benny’s a kook” I would remember being ridiculed, if I were the one who failed to progress.
Learning together was fun, but that first time you stand up properly and move across the wave is like no other experience in the world. It’s indescribable, pure nirvana, you feel as though you’ve not just walked, but run across the water.
Luckily, these days there are tons of surf schools around to help get you to that point a lot quicker. We were fortunate enough to have someone who ran a surf school to help us out earlier.
The trick is to physically lead the novice into the water and help push them onto a wave. That way they are able to experience what it is actually like to catch a wave and get the feeling of how to move in the water. A great tip for next time, should I need to show someone else how to surf.
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