Thursday, September 28, 2006
The political nonsense, and the publics opinions
For the publics opinions on Labour, check out stuff .
This should pretty much cover the reaction to what I was mentioning yesterday...
This should pretty much cover the reaction to what I was mentioning yesterday...
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
on a more serious note...
It seems that liberal, left-wing governments all over the world are pretty much doomed. This is most obvious in the UK, and is also either happening, or has already happened in Canada, NZ, Japan, Germany, France and Spain. The reasons are many, from rising religious-ness, tiredness of social engineering, or simply a desire for change.
In NZ's case, we have gone through nearly 9 years of the Helen Clark-led Labour governments agenda of feminisation, social engineering and now corruption. The dying gasps of her government are to be heard all over the country, with one issue after another coming up with un-ending regularity. I for one, am certainly relieved. She has lied, covered up, spun, decieved and coerced so many people, all for her hidden agenda of getting the top job at the UN, that the country would be in ruins, along with it's reputation, were it not for the fact that most New Zealanders are quite simply ignoring the governments plans and ideas. We know our country, and we certainly don't want a singapore-style nanny-state, with all the freedoms (sic) that that country enjoys.
The first signs of corruption under Labour occured some 2 years ago, when Helen Clark sold a painting supposedly painted by her for charity - only to find out that it was not painted by her, just signed by her. This wouldn't be too bad, as it's really a non-issue, but it was the start of a pattern of corruption by her that would give the opposition sooo much ammunition, it's actually hard to understand why they lost the election...
Hard on the heals of the painting episode, was her speeding cavalcade to a rugby match. She made her police officer drivers take the heat, getting suspended licences and such, while she lied on tv and in the other media that 'I didn't realise we were going that speed'... we clearly must be a very ignorant lot if we believe THAT.
In the following months, there followed corruption scandals which would make any Third World leader proud. MP's getting cheap illegal immigrants to do the renovation work on their houses,
false spending during an election to the tune of half a million dollars - which allegation was subsequently upheld by an independant inquiry; after which, Labour now proposes backdating legislation to make such spending LEGAL. If that isn't corruption, what is? Mis-managed public funds for a party's own benefit. Look it up.
Now, she has labelled the leader of the opposition 'cancerous' to NZ's political sphere, for calling Labour corrupt. She has lashed out so virulently, clearly the label fits. 'Methinks she doth protest too much'.
Labour has to go. I am, for one, ashamed of their antics and behaviour. I will be making efforts to help rid NZ of this corruption and arrogance any way I can. My country is too good a place to be let down by this greedy, corrupt and arrogant group of people.
In NZ's case, we have gone through nearly 9 years of the Helen Clark-led Labour governments agenda of feminisation, social engineering and now corruption. The dying gasps of her government are to be heard all over the country, with one issue after another coming up with un-ending regularity. I for one, am certainly relieved. She has lied, covered up, spun, decieved and coerced so many people, all for her hidden agenda of getting the top job at the UN, that the country would be in ruins, along with it's reputation, were it not for the fact that most New Zealanders are quite simply ignoring the governments plans and ideas. We know our country, and we certainly don't want a singapore-style nanny-state, with all the freedoms (sic) that that country enjoys.
The first signs of corruption under Labour occured some 2 years ago, when Helen Clark sold a painting supposedly painted by her for charity - only to find out that it was not painted by her, just signed by her. This wouldn't be too bad, as it's really a non-issue, but it was the start of a pattern of corruption by her that would give the opposition sooo much ammunition, it's actually hard to understand why they lost the election...
Hard on the heals of the painting episode, was her speeding cavalcade to a rugby match. She made her police officer drivers take the heat, getting suspended licences and such, while she lied on tv and in the other media that 'I didn't realise we were going that speed'... we clearly must be a very ignorant lot if we believe THAT.
In the following months, there followed corruption scandals which would make any Third World leader proud. MP's getting cheap illegal immigrants to do the renovation work on their houses,
false spending during an election to the tune of half a million dollars - which allegation was subsequently upheld by an independant inquiry; after which, Labour now proposes backdating legislation to make such spending LEGAL. If that isn't corruption, what is? Mis-managed public funds for a party's own benefit. Look it up.
Now, she has labelled the leader of the opposition 'cancerous' to NZ's political sphere, for calling Labour corrupt. She has lashed out so virulently, clearly the label fits. 'Methinks she doth protest too much'.
Labour has to go. I am, for one, ashamed of their antics and behaviour. I will be making efforts to help rid NZ of this corruption and arrogance any way I can. My country is too good a place to be let down by this greedy, corrupt and arrogant group of people.
stuff and nonsense...and a wedding to boot!
hey y'all!
Hamish, my very best mate, had his wedding on the 16th September - congratulations mate! I'm sorry I couldn't do the honour of being your best man; earning Malaysian Ringgit doesn't allow for too much overseas travel... especially to England!
I hope you had an awesome honeymoon in Spain, with heaps of crazy, dirty and shag-nasty sex you grotty monkey! Love that gorilla lovin'...
The house is coming along, but having some trouble with a 'little-napoleon' who is making things hard... this guy, a draftsman, believes HE is the architect and insists on being the decision-maker regarding all sorts of important LEGAL and FINANCIAL issues we face daily. If he could just do his job, and stop trying to extort us for more money, we'd be much further on.
Diana's parents come back soon, so the heat will again be off us, and we'll have a chance to see all our friends again as we will get out of town for a few days to shop, breathe different air, and leave work alone. Can't wait.
One last thing - if you visit my site, I would love to get a comment or two from you lot! I enjoy getting feedback - please please please comment or just say hi!
lots of manly feelings, no groins touching of course.
Hamish, my very best mate, had his wedding on the 16th September - congratulations mate! I'm sorry I couldn't do the honour of being your best man; earning Malaysian Ringgit doesn't allow for too much overseas travel... especially to England!
I hope you had an awesome honeymoon in Spain, with heaps of crazy, dirty and shag-nasty sex you grotty monkey! Love that gorilla lovin'...
The house is coming along, but having some trouble with a 'little-napoleon' who is making things hard... this guy, a draftsman, believes HE is the architect and insists on being the decision-maker regarding all sorts of important LEGAL and FINANCIAL issues we face daily. If he could just do his job, and stop trying to extort us for more money, we'd be much further on.
Diana's parents come back soon, so the heat will again be off us, and we'll have a chance to see all our friends again as we will get out of town for a few days to shop, breathe different air, and leave work alone. Can't wait.
One last thing - if you visit my site, I would love to get a comment or two from you lot! I enjoy getting feedback - please please please comment or just say hi!
lots of manly feelings, no groins touching of course.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
more thoughts...
Well, finally something financial has gone our way. The MATTA fair, which is the 'Malaysian Association of Tourism and Travel Agents' fair has come at the best time. We can now save over RM4000 on the airfares to NZ! Thank goodness, because flying to NZ from Malaysia is getting more expensive every year. This confirms our trip at the end of January, and no more worries about finding the best deals etc!
The house is now over 50% complete, with the roof being finished this week. That's a major milestone, because then the brickworks and internal finishing can begin, and the house will start to really look 'livable'...
Now's the time we start looking at IKEA and Freedom Furniture in NZ for ideas for the kids room and our bedroom... money aside, we think we know what 'look' we want - we're keen on the urban apartment image, and so we're looking at natural, modern colours etc.
Kaitlyn is now at that age where she's challenging everything, at all times. She can be a real bitch! Hahaha, she really can! The looks she's figured out, and the ways of talking back to us make us wonder WHERE she picked it up - but it's ok, we know it's just a phase she has to go thru before she learns what acceptable behaviour is. We are ok, we've got the patience. She'll find me to be very consistent on discipline and correct behaviour.
Caleb is chatting more and more, and is very persistent. He knows he's got most people wrapped around his little fingers, and is so lovable right now, it's hard to imagine him like Kaitlyn is right now..! Dee and I are loving the challenge, especially without so many other people in the house to contradict us and our methods - a lot of authority at the moment. My worry is that when Dee's parents get back, Kaitlyn will ignore us and go straight to Nanna, to get the wrong attention she craves... But for now, she's got to learn and do as she's told - Caleb too!
The house is now over 50% complete, with the roof being finished this week. That's a major milestone, because then the brickworks and internal finishing can begin, and the house will start to really look 'livable'...
Now's the time we start looking at IKEA and Freedom Furniture in NZ for ideas for the kids room and our bedroom... money aside, we think we know what 'look' we want - we're keen on the urban apartment image, and so we're looking at natural, modern colours etc.
Kaitlyn is now at that age where she's challenging everything, at all times. She can be a real bitch! Hahaha, she really can! The looks she's figured out, and the ways of talking back to us make us wonder WHERE she picked it up - but it's ok, we know it's just a phase she has to go thru before she learns what acceptable behaviour is. We are ok, we've got the patience. She'll find me to be very consistent on discipline and correct behaviour.
Caleb is chatting more and more, and is very persistent. He knows he's got most people wrapped around his little fingers, and is so lovable right now, it's hard to imagine him like Kaitlyn is right now..! Dee and I are loving the challenge, especially without so many other people in the house to contradict us and our methods - a lot of authority at the moment. My worry is that when Dee's parents get back, Kaitlyn will ignore us and go straight to Nanna, to get the wrong attention she craves... But for now, she's got to learn and do as she's told - Caleb too!
Monday, September 18, 2006
gym, sprains, backs and floors
I've been going to the gym recently, hope to make it permanent. It REALLY helps with my attitude, and gets me in the right frame of mind for work and study; plus, it allows me to release any stress in a productive way - I'm getting fitter and losing the flab around the gut - and putting on muscle.
But the other day, somehow I sprained a muscle in the middle of my back - no, not overdoing it at the gym, but at 10pm at night, cuddling the kids!
F--k it hurt! Put me out of order for a week! First 2 nights, I hardly got any sleep it was so bloody painful...
Anyway, I'm ok now and back to the gym. Worked out my legs and abs today - damn I feel gooooood.. I always do after a good workout...
The only way I could rest my back was to lie on the hard floor - it worked wonders! I always did like lying on hard floors, and this time it held another purpose.
Anyway, like I said, it's all good now, so back into it...
But the other day, somehow I sprained a muscle in the middle of my back - no, not overdoing it at the gym, but at 10pm at night, cuddling the kids!
F--k it hurt! Put me out of order for a week! First 2 nights, I hardly got any sleep it was so bloody painful...
Anyway, I'm ok now and back to the gym. Worked out my legs and abs today - damn I feel gooooood.. I always do after a good workout...
The only way I could rest my back was to lie on the hard floor - it worked wonders! I always did like lying on hard floors, and this time it held another purpose.
Anyway, like I said, it's all good now, so back into it...
Saturday, September 09, 2006
We're really looking forward to moving in here! More room, the kids will have their own room, we can decorate ourselves etc... 
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Decent Fooooood!
Hooray!
Secret Recipe has now opened in Sitiawan!
Now, finally, I can have a proper coffee, and some healthy food! That place is clean, efficient, has quality food and a really nice atmosphere. I look forward to a wonderful and long relationship with Secret Recipe!
I like the local food too, but it's just really oily and fatty - often deep-fried and has MSG covering all of it... and let's not forget the Malaysian obsession with sugar! Nice if you wanna die of diabetes, but that's not my bag baby!
Secret Recipe has now opened in Sitiawan!
Now, finally, I can have a proper coffee, and some healthy food! That place is clean, efficient, has quality food and a really nice atmosphere. I look forward to a wonderful and long relationship with Secret Recipe!
I like the local food too, but it's just really oily and fatty - often deep-fried and has MSG covering all of it... and let's not forget the Malaysian obsession with sugar! Nice if you wanna die of diabetes, but that's not my bag baby!
Je ne comprend pas...
This just in:
It is now the Police Department of Malaysia which is to fix the increasing cost of living in Malaysia. They now have the responsibility of maintaining the status quo, and fostering driving habits which will help bring down the overall cost of living to the ordinary Malaysian.
How will they achieve this never-before-seen feat? By giving all and sundry carte blanche on the roads... This in turn will allow the police to relax, knowing they won't be under pressure to accept all those bribes they get faced with every day... They can now leave the responsibility of maintaining safe roads to volunteer organisations such as Joe Bloggs who helps out during an accident, or the old man trying to cross the street during 'rush' hour.
By lowering the fines by at least 50%, Malaysians can now break the law without breaking the bank! Thank god, because the cost of living was sooo high, now, at least the cost of dying is dirt cheap!
Perhaps in their next ingenious move, the police can leave the homicide inquiries to the old-folks-home down the road to give them more to do!
OK, so apart from the obvious sarcasm, about 56% of Malaysians polled DISAGREED with the lowering of the fines. So why do it? Your average Malaysian knows that lowering fines DOESN'T encourage better driving habits. All the Malaysians I work with know what the result will be - more carnage.
Please don't break the law - that's the cheapest option!
It is now the Police Department of Malaysia which is to fix the increasing cost of living in Malaysia. They now have the responsibility of maintaining the status quo, and fostering driving habits which will help bring down the overall cost of living to the ordinary Malaysian.
How will they achieve this never-before-seen feat? By giving all and sundry carte blanche on the roads... This in turn will allow the police to relax, knowing they won't be under pressure to accept all those bribes they get faced with every day... They can now leave the responsibility of maintaining safe roads to volunteer organisations such as Joe Bloggs who helps out during an accident, or the old man trying to cross the street during 'rush' hour.
By lowering the fines by at least 50%, Malaysians can now break the law without breaking the bank! Thank god, because the cost of living was sooo high, now, at least the cost of dying is dirt cheap!
Perhaps in their next ingenious move, the police can leave the homicide inquiries to the old-folks-home down the road to give them more to do!
OK, so apart from the obvious sarcasm, about 56% of Malaysians polled DISAGREED with the lowering of the fines. So why do it? Your average Malaysian knows that lowering fines DOESN'T encourage better driving habits. All the Malaysians I work with know what the result will be - more carnage.
Please don't break the law - that's the cheapest option!
Sunday, September 03, 2006
New additions and new feelings!
1st, I want to congratulate Jordan and Leen Macvay on the arrival of Alisdair at 11.23pm on September 1st! Well done to both of you, and I hope you can get some much-needed rest after an obviously long and tiring day! Welcome to parenthood guys..!
2nd, Happy Father's day to my Dad in New Zealand! Our Father's Day is on the 1st Sunday of September, and I hope he's having a good one. Have a cold beer for me Dad!
In other news, our new house is coming along slowly but surely, and will hopefully be ready before Christmas, which would allow us to see in the new year in a new house! Building with concrete instead of wood takes much longer, and is a painstakingly slow process, but the house looks great.
Kaitlyn is a little 'Miss'. I love her to bits, but she has sooo many of my bad traits that I now understand my wife's frustrations! We are both easily distracted, short attention span, annoying habit of talking incessantly, and never listen to others! I am now determined to cease and desist my annoyances to others! I'll update this blog with my progress...
On another subject, my studies have begun, albeit slowly. I will finish 3 of 18 modules by the end of November, which will give me a great start to my Optical Dispensing Certificate. I SHOULD finish the course in about 24 months - that's the target. I don't want to spend too much time completing a Certificate...
Caleb, my son, is sure to be a sports star one day. At least I hope so... His natural skills are already evident at just 19 months of age. Everyone comments about his abilities when they see him kicking his ball around - his timing, skill and focus are amazing! I have hardly had to teach him anything - he has a natural liking for sport. I am needless to say pleased about this! Everyone knows how sports-mad kiwi's are! He's also the cheekiest little bastard I've ever met! He's very intelligent, like my daughter, and uses it to make people swoon!
My only gripe this time, is the lack of entertainment in Sitiawan. Diana's parents are in NZ, and we're here running 3 businesses, making sure the house building is going smooth, and dealing with all of life's little drama's. That in itself isn't so bad. What gets to us is that there isn't ANYTHING to do apart from work. It's driving a wedge between us. We get stressed and take it out on each other. I guess people here just aren't interested in spending time and money on entertainment... Sitiawan isn't a small town - there are over 100,000 people in the district. Perhaps to an Asian, that IS small, but to a Kiwi, that's the size of one of our cities! Where we'd have cinema's, malls, cafe's (the real one's), art galleries, sports fields and stadiums, parks, bars and pubs, restaurants of various culture's and all the other amenities, Sitiawan has almost ZILCH of these. I mean ZILCH. I suppose westerner's are 'richer', and spend more on life's luxuries, but come on, a small art gallery or park with a safe playground can't be TOO much to ask for? People's priorities here are on making money. That seems to be all. Surely there's more to life than money? There are TONNES of New Zealander's who are MUCH poorer than many of the people here, yet somehow have a higher standard of living... I should know - I'm one of them. I earn so little compared to many people here, and yet my life has more variation - as much as I can afford - because to me, relaxation and fun are not 'children's stuff'...
I will put up with it because I can't change it. But, I will also do all I can to have a FULL life here.
Once again, congratulations to Jordan and Leen, and we'll see you as soon as the time is right.
2nd, Happy Father's day to my Dad in New Zealand! Our Father's Day is on the 1st Sunday of September, and I hope he's having a good one. Have a cold beer for me Dad!
In other news, our new house is coming along slowly but surely, and will hopefully be ready before Christmas, which would allow us to see in the new year in a new house! Building with concrete instead of wood takes much longer, and is a painstakingly slow process, but the house looks great.
Kaitlyn is a little 'Miss'. I love her to bits, but she has sooo many of my bad traits that I now understand my wife's frustrations! We are both easily distracted, short attention span, annoying habit of talking incessantly, and never listen to others! I am now determined to cease and desist my annoyances to others! I'll update this blog with my progress...
On another subject, my studies have begun, albeit slowly. I will finish 3 of 18 modules by the end of November, which will give me a great start to my Optical Dispensing Certificate. I SHOULD finish the course in about 24 months - that's the target. I don't want to spend too much time completing a Certificate...
Caleb, my son, is sure to be a sports star one day. At least I hope so... His natural skills are already evident at just 19 months of age. Everyone comments about his abilities when they see him kicking his ball around - his timing, skill and focus are amazing! I have hardly had to teach him anything - he has a natural liking for sport. I am needless to say pleased about this! Everyone knows how sports-mad kiwi's are! He's also the cheekiest little bastard I've ever met! He's very intelligent, like my daughter, and uses it to make people swoon!
My only gripe this time, is the lack of entertainment in Sitiawan. Diana's parents are in NZ, and we're here running 3 businesses, making sure the house building is going smooth, and dealing with all of life's little drama's. That in itself isn't so bad. What gets to us is that there isn't ANYTHING to do apart from work. It's driving a wedge between us. We get stressed and take it out on each other. I guess people here just aren't interested in spending time and money on entertainment... Sitiawan isn't a small town - there are over 100,000 people in the district. Perhaps to an Asian, that IS small, but to a Kiwi, that's the size of one of our cities! Where we'd have cinema's, malls, cafe's (the real one's), art galleries, sports fields and stadiums, parks, bars and pubs, restaurants of various culture's and all the other amenities, Sitiawan has almost ZILCH of these. I mean ZILCH. I suppose westerner's are 'richer', and spend more on life's luxuries, but come on, a small art gallery or park with a safe playground can't be TOO much to ask for? People's priorities here are on making money. That seems to be all. Surely there's more to life than money? There are TONNES of New Zealander's who are MUCH poorer than many of the people here, yet somehow have a higher standard of living... I should know - I'm one of them. I earn so little compared to many people here, and yet my life has more variation - as much as I can afford - because to me, relaxation and fun are not 'children's stuff'...
I will put up with it because I can't change it. But, I will also do all I can to have a FULL life here.
Once again, congratulations to Jordan and Leen, and we'll see you as soon as the time is right.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
what to call this one?
I've decided to delete a few of my nastier blogs, because they have been offending and upsetting some people. I regret that, and hope I'm not perceived as a bigot.
I often blog about the negative aspects of Malaysia, due to my limited amount of patience and tolerance. Or it could be my extraordinary high standards that I set for myself and others, and when people don't (intentionally or not) live up to them, I get angry. This is my major weakness; that and my very delicate ego.
One thing I hate more than what gets me angry, is having people angry at me. This is a total oxymoron I know, and a seemingly easy thing to fix, but I struggle with my ability to 'let things go' on a hour by hour basis!
I get angry at bad driving, people who are inconsiderate, dirty and mannerless, people who litter and a whole host of other things that make everyone angry too. The trigger for me is when they get away with it. That's when I get pissed. When I see someone beat the red light or drive like a madman, and the cop RIGHT THERE doesn't do a thing! I've seen it more times than I can count, and I am more fed up with the police than the driver. Many times I've said that I'd love to be a cop here - I'd clean up the place so fast - but Dee reminds me that I'd be targetted for a hit before the end of the week. That in turn makes me think that no-one really cares! So long as they don't have to do anything...
I am the first to admit I have anger control issues. I hate my anger. I have read and thought about it for a long time. One release I have is the gym or exercise. That helps greatly. Also, focussing on something positive intensely also helps.
I am happy (to a point) to self-censor my comments about day-to-day life here, but I also need to let things out. I don't have a journal, and this blog is my outlet. I need to get the bad blood out into the air to really release things. If they offend someone, sorry. I'll delete the post after some time, when I've read it once I've cooled down and see how purile it is...
I also don't want to shy away from discussing difficult or sensitive topics - I firmly believe that's healthy. It leads to self-analysis and that's what I do often. I've had to eat humble pie so often lately, I've really taken a beating... But in the end, like I was and have been advised to do so often, I'll grow up.
Love and peace
I often blog about the negative aspects of Malaysia, due to my limited amount of patience and tolerance. Or it could be my extraordinary high standards that I set for myself and others, and when people don't (intentionally or not) live up to them, I get angry. This is my major weakness; that and my very delicate ego.
One thing I hate more than what gets me angry, is having people angry at me. This is a total oxymoron I know, and a seemingly easy thing to fix, but I struggle with my ability to 'let things go' on a hour by hour basis!
I get angry at bad driving, people who are inconsiderate, dirty and mannerless, people who litter and a whole host of other things that make everyone angry too. The trigger for me is when they get away with it. That's when I get pissed. When I see someone beat the red light or drive like a madman, and the cop RIGHT THERE doesn't do a thing! I've seen it more times than I can count, and I am more fed up with the police than the driver. Many times I've said that I'd love to be a cop here - I'd clean up the place so fast - but Dee reminds me that I'd be targetted for a hit before the end of the week. That in turn makes me think that no-one really cares! So long as they don't have to do anything...
I am the first to admit I have anger control issues. I hate my anger. I have read and thought about it for a long time. One release I have is the gym or exercise. That helps greatly. Also, focussing on something positive intensely also helps.
I am happy (to a point) to self-censor my comments about day-to-day life here, but I also need to let things out. I don't have a journal, and this blog is my outlet. I need to get the bad blood out into the air to really release things. If they offend someone, sorry. I'll delete the post after some time, when I've read it once I've cooled down and see how purile it is...
I also don't want to shy away from discussing difficult or sensitive topics - I firmly believe that's healthy. It leads to self-analysis and that's what I do often. I've had to eat humble pie so often lately, I've really taken a beating... But in the end, like I was and have been advised to do so often, I'll grow up.
Love and peace
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Our new business
We've just started a new business, divineMums, which is our clothing company which designs breastfeeding tops! We have 7 designs, of which 3 are already on the way.
Since having 2 kids, and Dee breastfeeding both, we noticed a major lack of clothing which makes breastfeeding easy and discreet. So we decided a while ago to make our own stuff!
Most mothers will tell you how hard it is to find tops which allow you to feed without flopping out the whole breast for the world to see... so we've solved that one!
If anyone wants to have a gander, go to www.divinemums.com and you'll see the designs and colours. If you want to order any, just order online through our website.
Take the time to have a look, especially if you're a mum considering breastfeeding - it IS THE MOST natural way to nourish your baby - don't believe all the advertising gimmicks for baby formula out there! Nature has had it sorted out for eons; what makes you think some chemistry nerd can do any better??????
hehehe!
Since having 2 kids, and Dee breastfeeding both, we noticed a major lack of clothing which makes breastfeeding easy and discreet. So we decided a while ago to make our own stuff!
Most mothers will tell you how hard it is to find tops which allow you to feed without flopping out the whole breast for the world to see... so we've solved that one!
If anyone wants to have a gander, go to www.divinemums.com and you'll see the designs and colours. If you want to order any, just order online through our website.
Take the time to have a look, especially if you're a mum considering breastfeeding - it IS THE MOST natural way to nourish your baby - don't believe all the advertising gimmicks for baby formula out there! Nature has had it sorted out for eons; what makes you think some chemistry nerd can do any better??????
hehehe!
Friday, August 18, 2006
and in the news...
News from home...
The Maori Queen, Dame Te Atairangikaahu, died on Monday after a short illness. She was 80 years old - I think. She was on the Maori throne for over 40 years. Her Tangi (funeral) will be held at the Turangawaewae Marae in Ngarawhahia on Saturday.
Bloke hooks 317kg Tuna off coast near Hokitika. This will get the illegal fishermen running for NZ faster than a boat full of naked blondes yelling "god I'm drunk"... The fishermans comments were as follows: "I walked around for a while like a stunned mullet, then I had a beer. I was knackered...".
Asian students in NZ turning to hard drugs.
Apparently the police in NZ are doing such a good job of stopping asian student extortion, they've given up on that idea saying it's 'no longer profitable'... These overseas students, almost entirely from either China or Malaysia, are so bored with the lack of shopping and internet cafe's, they've turned to kidnapping and extortion of other asian students to keep their minds busy.
The Asian community in NZ has to be taught that it is 'OK' to go to the police if they are the victims of crime, because the police will do their job.
WHAT ON EARTH ARE THE POLICE IN THEIR OWN COUNTRIES DOING THEN? I live in Malaysia, and I have an idea. They are often guilty of 'doing what's easy, not what's right'.
Nice wee rant!
The Maori Queen, Dame Te Atairangikaahu, died on Monday after a short illness. She was 80 years old - I think. She was on the Maori throne for over 40 years. Her Tangi (funeral) will be held at the Turangawaewae Marae in Ngarawhahia on Saturday.
Bloke hooks 317kg Tuna off coast near Hokitika. This will get the illegal fishermen running for NZ faster than a boat full of naked blondes yelling "god I'm drunk"... The fishermans comments were as follows: "I walked around for a while like a stunned mullet, then I had a beer. I was knackered...".
Asian students in NZ turning to hard drugs.
Apparently the police in NZ are doing such a good job of stopping asian student extortion, they've given up on that idea saying it's 'no longer profitable'... These overseas students, almost entirely from either China or Malaysia, are so bored with the lack of shopping and internet cafe's, they've turned to kidnapping and extortion of other asian students to keep their minds busy.
The Asian community in NZ has to be taught that it is 'OK' to go to the police if they are the victims of crime, because the police will do their job.
WHAT ON EARTH ARE THE POLICE IN THEIR OWN COUNTRIES DOING THEN? I live in Malaysia, and I have an idea. They are often guilty of 'doing what's easy, not what's right'.
Nice wee rant!
Monday, July 24, 2006
what a week
Well, a lot can happen in a week can't it?!
I've had to cancel our trip to London due to finances - earning Malaysian ringgit stiffles travel quite well! But, we can now afford to go to NZ and have a GOOD time. We're gonna stay one month, and it will be during summer!! woo hoo!
Unfortunately, this means I won't be Hamish's best man at his wedding. I am gutted to say the least about this, but there is no-one to blame but myself. If I had earned more money, or just stayed in NZ, then we'd be able to go... I know Hamish understands, but I feel like I've let my best mate down. So now I don't know whether to laugh or cry! I've made the right decision financially, but it still sucks!
I've had to cancel our trip to London due to finances - earning Malaysian ringgit stiffles travel quite well! But, we can now afford to go to NZ and have a GOOD time. We're gonna stay one month, and it will be during summer!! woo hoo!
Unfortunately, this means I won't be Hamish's best man at his wedding. I am gutted to say the least about this, but there is no-one to blame but myself. If I had earned more money, or just stayed in NZ, then we'd be able to go... I know Hamish understands, but I feel like I've let my best mate down. So now I don't know whether to laugh or cry! I've made the right decision financially, but it still sucks!
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Much ado about nothing...
Hey there everyone,
Another long break between posts, mainly because I couldn't be bothered to write anything...
Nevertheless, many things have happened since my last posting, and I shall regale you with these happenings now:
I'm 30 as of 9th July - Happy Birthday to me, etc etc etc...
Macvay is coming back to civilisation on the 14th July. Happy Bastille Day to any French readers!
My Sister is now engaged to be married - and I am stoked about this. One small problem though, it's during February, which is the busiest month of the year. But, it's the best excuse to go back to NZ and home, so we'll just have to find the money.
Hamish's wedding is coming fast, in Sept, so getting a little bit excited for that trip - childless and free to do what we want, when we want! We've had to cut about a third out of the trip to save money, but thats cool.
The All Blacks are playing again, and have so far won all 4 matches this year. Thank GOD the football World Cup is over - what a bunch of arse that was - 7 f--king channels devoted to those wimpy over-paid pansy boys running around faking penalties... no wonder I hate soccer.
Thank you for your kind attention, and have a nice day!
Jake
Another long break between posts, mainly because I couldn't be bothered to write anything...
Nevertheless, many things have happened since my last posting, and I shall regale you with these happenings now:
I'm 30 as of 9th July - Happy Birthday to me, etc etc etc...
Macvay is coming back to civilisation on the 14th July. Happy Bastille Day to any French readers!
My Sister is now engaged to be married - and I am stoked about this. One small problem though, it's during February, which is the busiest month of the year. But, it's the best excuse to go back to NZ and home, so we'll just have to find the money.
Hamish's wedding is coming fast, in Sept, so getting a little bit excited for that trip - childless and free to do what we want, when we want! We've had to cut about a third out of the trip to save money, but thats cool.
The All Blacks are playing again, and have so far won all 4 matches this year. Thank GOD the football World Cup is over - what a bunch of arse that was - 7 f--king channels devoted to those wimpy over-paid pansy boys running around faking penalties... no wonder I hate soccer.
Thank you for your kind attention, and have a nice day!
Jake
Monday, May 29, 2006
Been a while...
Hey everyone, it's been a while!
Haven't had much to say recently, so no point blogging for the hell of it right? But at least today I will update those of you interested in my life.
Have begun the enrolment process for my Optical Dispensing course and my Diploma in Business. Can't wait to start studying - looking forward to moving forward.
We have the cash for the UK trip, so thats a monkey off our back, but not all of it is savings - will be attacking the credit cards a bit for this one. We're budgeting around RM20k for it, perhaps a bit more. But we're on our way regardless, so now we're starting to get a bit excited about going.
Bought myself a new laptop computer, an Acer Aspire 5500Z, and it's goooooood. Mainly for my studies, but also to allow me to update my skills as I need to spend some quality time getting back in 'the game' so to speak...
My mum turned 50 on 28th May - Happy Birthday mum! I am sorry I couldn't be there, but we're hoping you'll be here for my 30th on 9th July... We're crossing our fingers that you'll make it!
I can't believe my mum is now 50. I was always proud to announce that my mum was still in her 40's, but thats the way it goes. I am always proud of my parents regardless of how old and dotty they get! Good filial son...
Kids are good, making us laugh and wanna kill them at the same time still. Will miss them heaps when overseas, but we definitely need an 'adult' break - time by ourselves. I'll try to bring them something back from 'Hamleys', just like my parents did with me. I think i'll get lost there...
Anyway, if I think of something I've forgotten, I'll post again.
Love to all,
Maddog
Haven't had much to say recently, so no point blogging for the hell of it right? But at least today I will update those of you interested in my life.
Have begun the enrolment process for my Optical Dispensing course and my Diploma in Business. Can't wait to start studying - looking forward to moving forward.
We have the cash for the UK trip, so thats a monkey off our back, but not all of it is savings - will be attacking the credit cards a bit for this one. We're budgeting around RM20k for it, perhaps a bit more. But we're on our way regardless, so now we're starting to get a bit excited about going.
Bought myself a new laptop computer, an Acer Aspire 5500Z, and it's goooooood. Mainly for my studies, but also to allow me to update my skills as I need to spend some quality time getting back in 'the game' so to speak...
My mum turned 50 on 28th May - Happy Birthday mum! I am sorry I couldn't be there, but we're hoping you'll be here for my 30th on 9th July... We're crossing our fingers that you'll make it!
I can't believe my mum is now 50. I was always proud to announce that my mum was still in her 40's, but thats the way it goes. I am always proud of my parents regardless of how old and dotty they get! Good filial son...
Kids are good, making us laugh and wanna kill them at the same time still. Will miss them heaps when overseas, but we definitely need an 'adult' break - time by ourselves. I'll try to bring them something back from 'Hamleys', just like my parents did with me. I think i'll get lost there...
Anyway, if I think of something I've forgotten, I'll post again.
Love to all,
Maddog
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
A new day
Time for a positive approach to things.
My parents-in-law have arrived back in Malaysia, and it's nice to have them back. For one, it takes a bit of pressure off Diana and myself, especially with the businesses! But really, having familiar faces back again is nice and refreshing - gossip to catch up on, stories to tell etc etc etc.
My information about the Degree in Business I wanted has also arrived, so now able to digest that and get some planning done! Looking forward to studying - some of you might find me a bit of a nutter - and getting some heduca-shee-oan accomplished.
I have also decided on a departure date for us to move back to Godzone. Late December 2008, in time for Xmas we will be in NZ. That is when Kaitlyn will be old enough for school, I will be nearing completion of my degree, and will have at least 4+ years of experience running businesses. It seems to all fit nicely, so no doubt will happen that way. I am happy now a date has been set, although much work needs to be done before then - but thats fine.
Last week was a miserable time. Missed out on all sorts of things, due to a heavy work load. Both of us have missed out on quality time recently with the kids, and I'm working 7 days a week, sometimes 13 hours a day. But so long as we reap the benefits, and there is a rest every so often, I can handle it. It's good for you right? What doesn't kill you... etc etc etc.
My parents seem to be set on coming in June, which is great. I also have about 150 NZ beers coming over for me to enjoy at my leisure - most of which will be my Mum's and my combined birthdays this year. Her 50th and my 30th. Big year. I am getting to understand that old saying of 'you're only as old as you feel' or the alternative saying 'you're only as old as the woman you feel'...
My best mate, Hamish, who couldn't use a computer to save his life, has yet to read my blog - so I can lambast him or praise him at will. At the moment, I have very little to say about him other than klhgljk;sdgkglfajl;dfgajghalkgdglkhg;ajdhgl;fhg;lkasjglk;jglkhprtiurrjggjfdvmcxbn,mznhlkjao.
Love to all, and remeber to comment you bastards!
Maddog
My parents-in-law have arrived back in Malaysia, and it's nice to have them back. For one, it takes a bit of pressure off Diana and myself, especially with the businesses! But really, having familiar faces back again is nice and refreshing - gossip to catch up on, stories to tell etc etc etc.
My information about the Degree in Business I wanted has also arrived, so now able to digest that and get some planning done! Looking forward to studying - some of you might find me a bit of a nutter - and getting some heduca-shee-oan accomplished.
I have also decided on a departure date for us to move back to Godzone. Late December 2008, in time for Xmas we will be in NZ. That is when Kaitlyn will be old enough for school, I will be nearing completion of my degree, and will have at least 4+ years of experience running businesses. It seems to all fit nicely, so no doubt will happen that way. I am happy now a date has been set, although much work needs to be done before then - but thats fine.
Last week was a miserable time. Missed out on all sorts of things, due to a heavy work load. Both of us have missed out on quality time recently with the kids, and I'm working 7 days a week, sometimes 13 hours a day. But so long as we reap the benefits, and there is a rest every so often, I can handle it. It's good for you right? What doesn't kill you... etc etc etc.
My parents seem to be set on coming in June, which is great. I also have about 150 NZ beers coming over for me to enjoy at my leisure - most of which will be my Mum's and my combined birthdays this year. Her 50th and my 30th. Big year. I am getting to understand that old saying of 'you're only as old as you feel' or the alternative saying 'you're only as old as the woman you feel'...
My best mate, Hamish, who couldn't use a computer to save his life, has yet to read my blog - so I can lambast him or praise him at will. At the moment, I have very little to say about him other than klhgljk;sdgkglfajl;dfgajghalkgdglkhg;ajdhgl;fhg;lkasjglk;jglkhprtiurrjggjfdvmcxbn,mznhlkjao.
Love to all, and remeber to comment you bastards!
Maddog
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
G'day everyone,
It's been a couple of days since I last blogged, AND NO-ONE IS COMMENTING! At least let me know if you've been and say hi!
I have been looking through many websites for decent images of Auckland, Newmarket or Remuera, and haven't found very many at all. If there is someone in one of these places, could you take a few photos for me and send them to me??? I am homesick again, and whether it's a good idea or not, I want photos of home!
Haven't had the energy to either complain or give my opinion on many things because of work, plus it doesn't help my mood much! I am at the point now of just going through the motions, and trying to organise a few friends to come over every so often to have a wee drink or dinner, basically to get to the end of the month when I will know about my degree. Up til then, it's a case of 'same old, same old'.
Send me something interesting or comment, and make me feel not so isolated!
Love to all,
Maddog
It's been a couple of days since I last blogged, AND NO-ONE IS COMMENTING! At least let me know if you've been and say hi!
I have been looking through many websites for decent images of Auckland, Newmarket or Remuera, and haven't found very many at all. If there is someone in one of these places, could you take a few photos for me and send them to me??? I am homesick again, and whether it's a good idea or not, I want photos of home!
Haven't had the energy to either complain or give my opinion on many things because of work, plus it doesn't help my mood much! I am at the point now of just going through the motions, and trying to organise a few friends to come over every so often to have a wee drink or dinner, basically to get to the end of the month when I will know about my degree. Up til then, it's a case of 'same old, same old'.
Send me something interesting or comment, and make me feel not so isolated!
Love to all,
Maddog
Thursday, March 30, 2006
nearly there
Gidday,
I think I know what I WANT to study, and that's a business degree or diploma online. I don't want anything too specific, because that just limits you to doing that job your whole life. I want something nice and flexible, and can be adapted to many jobs and situations around the world. When we go home to NZ, I want to get work quickly, and not spend months looking. I need a usable qualification for that, and I like business so there you go.
We went to Ipoh yesterday to see some friends and have Caleb's back looked at by them. They are both Chiropractors, and they helped him a lot. Mez gave me the once over as well, and told me all about my bent back! He kricked my neck, gave my spine a crack and generally straightened me up. Boy that felt good. He reckons I need 10 sessions to correct my twisted hips, which makes one leg shorter than the other. I don't mind!
As far as leaving Sitiawan and heading elsewhere, we really want to go, but are realistic, and need to consolidate our situation first. I have to go to the UK this year, and earning ringgit makes that a very intimidating thing financially! After that, I'll begin my degree in business, and I'm trying to get Dee to either finish her one or start another. I'm not sure I even have the school grades to qualify to enter the course! If not, I might have to wait until I go home and do some night classes to get better grades, but thats a 'worst-case' scenario. Going to Dubai or Bahrain would be nice, certainly nicer than Sitiawan, but its a big move, and we don't really want to put all our eggs into one basket. I still like my original plan of making money here, buying property to rent in NZ, and finally moving back home to live in a nice place in the suburbs!
All I have to do is make all the students in the district come to my centre and pay top dollar! Not too much to ask is it? Making Foo Chow people pay top money for top quality??? Hmmm...
My plan might take longer than I thought...
I think I know what I WANT to study, and that's a business degree or diploma online. I don't want anything too specific, because that just limits you to doing that job your whole life. I want something nice and flexible, and can be adapted to many jobs and situations around the world. When we go home to NZ, I want to get work quickly, and not spend months looking. I need a usable qualification for that, and I like business so there you go.
We went to Ipoh yesterday to see some friends and have Caleb's back looked at by them. They are both Chiropractors, and they helped him a lot. Mez gave me the once over as well, and told me all about my bent back! He kricked my neck, gave my spine a crack and generally straightened me up. Boy that felt good. He reckons I need 10 sessions to correct my twisted hips, which makes one leg shorter than the other. I don't mind!
As far as leaving Sitiawan and heading elsewhere, we really want to go, but are realistic, and need to consolidate our situation first. I have to go to the UK this year, and earning ringgit makes that a very intimidating thing financially! After that, I'll begin my degree in business, and I'm trying to get Dee to either finish her one or start another. I'm not sure I even have the school grades to qualify to enter the course! If not, I might have to wait until I go home and do some night classes to get better grades, but thats a 'worst-case' scenario. Going to Dubai or Bahrain would be nice, certainly nicer than Sitiawan, but its a big move, and we don't really want to put all our eggs into one basket. I still like my original plan of making money here, buying property to rent in NZ, and finally moving back home to live in a nice place in the suburbs!
All I have to do is make all the students in the district come to my centre and pay top dollar! Not too much to ask is it? Making Foo Chow people pay top money for top quality??? Hmmm...
My plan might take longer than I thought...
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