Better year ahead

Its strangely very quiet in the office right now. For a start, less than a quarter of the staff were working today. A few took the afternoon off. Now, many more have left the office after their working hours. Only two or three more are still working, including me. Outside, I am anxiously looking at the sky. It is getting darker by the minute, meaning the rain is coming soon. I rode the motorcycle to work so if it rains, there will be some inconvenience for sure. Not that it really matters anyway. I am going home so it doesn't matter if I get wet. I will head for the shower on reaching home. 

Tomorrow a new year will dawn. I look forward to it as I always do. Make new resolutions, hoping to have a better year than this year just as this year was better than last year in sha Allah.

Looking back

Its the last day of 2015. A year has gone. That's the way it goes. Time waits for nobody. It goes on and on. Its up to us to play catch up. Looking back, I believe I had a reasonably good year, Alhamdulillah. Work wise, it has been as good as it can be. I can't complain. Personal wise, I had a few first in 2015. For the first time, I gave a sermon, for Hari Raya Haji. For the first time also, I gave a religious 'ceramah' at a surau. I also became the unofficial Imam at the local surau. It is something I am still trying to get use to. Made many mistakes while reciting the quran when leading the prayers such that it took a toll on my confidence.  Now, I am trying to get it back which is not an easy thing to do. Verses that I can normally recite with ease suddenly becomes difficult when reciting during prayers. It is something I have to overcome!  

Today's activity

I have paid my zakat but I am thinking of paying more. Most probably today I will find the time to go to the zakat office to pay. Later in the day after work, I have to go to Cheras to meet an estate agent. She has my cheque for the rental downpayment of my house in Cheras. I have found a tenant through her. Hopefully this tenant is a good one unlike previously when my house was in tatters after he left. Apparently, he is renting it for Mcdonald staffs. His company has a contract to rent and manage houses for Mcdonald staffs. They have been set a high standard so with that I hope my house will be well kept.

No nothing

I thought Monday and Tuesday was very quiet but as it turned out, today is worse. Everybody is on leave it seems. The road was also free flowing this morning. Tomorrow I think will be the same as today. Next week we will see the full force coming back but only on Tuesday. On Monday, parents will be going back to school. As for me, I have finished all my leave so I have to work, like it or not. Anyway, I had my fair share of leave the previous week so no complain. In a way, I like the quiet atmosphere. Gives me time to reflect on my work and to plan ahead. No rushing to meet deadlines, no meetings to attend, no nothing. Its good to experience it once in a while.  

Quiet in the office

My office is still half empty. Most are still enjoying their leave. As such, it is a bit quiet now. Not many meetings, paperwork or big decisions to make. People are still on holiday. Everything will be back to normal in the new year, which is next week. Meanwhile, enjoy the relax atmosphere while I can for when the busy times come again, I will be up to my neck with work. 

2015 is ending

2015 is coming to a close. Another year is going to be over. A new year is dawning. What have I achieved in 2015? Well, I am still working at my new company. Still traveling to Bakun, Kucing and Miri every now and then. Akid is learning to talk now, little by little while Maisarah is also picking up, learning from her brother. I gave my first ceramah at the local surau while still continuing my role as the imam. In 2016, I need to save more as my working life will not last forever! I will be sixty in seven months. That's why I have to start thinking about the life after sixty when I may not be working anymore. I also need to improve my ceramah. How to connect to the audience who are mostly retirees listening while having a siesta! 

Maisarah is two years old

Maisarah is two years old

 Friends from the surau enjoying the lunch

Maisarah cutting her cake with Akid

They come back, even more

The Quran says if you give away one, Allah will give you back seven hundred. It means simply, for every one ringgit you give in the path of Allah, you will get a return of seven hundred ringgit. It's in the Quran, Al Baqarah 261. The Quran is true cause its the word of Allah but how many of us are really, really convince that that is true. If we are convince, why are we afraid to give away to the needy for example? I have read a few times of people who said, I give away my money but it keeps coming back, even more! These people are not Muslim but they experienced what the Quran says. Now I feel I am experiencing it a bit. Not that I have given much but the little that I give away, they keep coming back, even more.

Given me so much

Maisarah is two years old already. Soon she will have a younger sister, in sha Allah. Not long to go. The date is late February. After that I have to stop production. Age is the main factor. My kids will still be in their teens when I'm already eighty years old. Anyway, I am grateful to Allah for all the things that have happened to me. I have six kids. Soon it will be seven. Four have grown up and living their own lives. I miss them terribly but I console myself every time by saying this is life. Its a normal process. Sooner or later, they will grow up, leave the house and live on their own. Only for me, it happened sooner. No matter what, I am grateful to Allah for He has given me so much.

I will be working

Been enjoying the holiday break spending the time at home. Might as well as the roads leading out of KL was full of vehicles. I actually wanted to go somewhere but the hotels were fully booked. I went jogging on Thursday morning at lake Titiwangsa. Otherwise, its was just relaxing in the house, go to the surau for the prayers, watch TV, surf the net, play with the kids, read the papers, read and memorise the quran. Its a good break. This week and next week, the office will mostly be empty. Most people are on leave till the new year. I will be working.

Where?

I came to work yesterday after a few days being on leave and saw an envelope on my table. On opening it, I was pleasantly surprised. I have been given a pay rise. Something totally unexpected. Out of the blue as they say. It made my day. Immediately I thought of taking the family for a weekend break  the coming Friday to Sunday but unfortunately, all the rooms had been taken up at the place that I wanted to go. Anyway, I am still thinking of going somewhere. Not too far cause I don't want to be caught up in a traffic jam due to the long weekend. Somewhere where the kids can have fun while I can have a break! Where?  

Those days

At Surrey University

Official dinner

In Kucing

Lunch with Ex Surrey mates

In Putra Heights.

Next on the hot list

Finally Maurinho gets the sack. He had it coming for sure. It was only a matter of time. The next person on the hot list is the Man U manager. Results have not been coming lately. Losing too frequently in the Premier league, knocked out of the Champions League, I don't know how long this can be tolerated. Again its a matter of time if results continue to go the way it is going. There's a few top class managers waiting in the wings, including Maurinho, believe it or not. For that, Van Gaal better start producing results, philosophy or not.

Holiday mood

At the airport yesterday, the queue for checking in was very long. The airport was crowded as well. I guess people are in the holiday mood. Its quite normal in December. Most people are on leave. I was on leave too. Have been away from the office since last Friday except for the few hours on Tuesday when I had to attend a meeting. Otherwise, I was at home most of the time. I will be back next Monday but only for three days cause it will be public holiday again on Thursday and Friday. Real work will only start in the new year I suppose.

Tired

Came back from Kucing feeling damn tired. The dinner didn't start until 9 pm because the guest of honour came late. Then it drag on till almost 11pm. By the time I reached mack to the hotel, it was already almost midnight. There's nothing to do anymore except sleep. The next morning took the plane at 9.25 am for the flight to KL. On reaching home, all I wanted to do was sleep. There was supposed to be a wedding invitation I had to attend but I was too tired. Sent my apologies.  Only at night my body started to recover a bit. I was able to go to the surau for the maghrib and Isya prayers.

No more holidays

Suddenly, today is already the last day of my leave. Sigh...... So fast. Tomorrow its back to work although I won't be in the office as I will be going to Kucing. What have I done during the holidays? Absolutely nothing! Days fly just like that. All my ambitious plans for the holidays didn't even get off the ground. I didn't leave the house at all except for Ikea yesterday. Otherwise, its was at home most of the time. I will be working till the end of the year from now on. No more holidays for 2015. 

Continuing my leave

I was at the office for about half a day yesterday although I was on leave. I was there for one meeting but ended up having to attend another meeting. In the end, I had to excused myself otherwise I would be caught in the heavy evening traffic on the way home. I wanted to avoid that especially when I am supposed to be on leave! Anyway, today and tomorrow, I am really on leave. I won't be going to the office till next Monday as on Friday I'II be going to Kucing. Will come back on Saturday morning.

Yesterday

Alhamdulillah, I believe I did alright with the kids last night. I am satisfied although off course I could have done better. Nevertheless, I am happy. It sort of atone for the disappointment of the previous night. 

My Astro has been out of action since early morning yesterday. Calls made to Astro only resulted in a machine answering. From morning till night, I couldn't get through. Terrible!

Chelsea lose again. The way things are going, Chelsea will be fighting a relegation battle instead of fighting for the title. On the other hand, unfancied Leicester is here to stay. They will be one of the clubs fighting for the title come April 2016.

I never

So many unexpected things have happened to me in the last few years that I will not be surprised if more unexpected things happen to me in the future. Nowadays, I do not discount anything. My only hope and wish is that if anything, it would not be something that I can't handle. I never thought I would work again after retiring in 2011. I never thought I would be an imam again after my last experience more than 10 years ago. I never thought I would be asked to give ceramah at a surau! I never thought I would ride a bike to work. I never thought I would be having children again after my last one more than twenty years ago. I never......

That's real cool

Its a public holiday for Selangor today. A bonus because of the Malaysia cup win by Selangor last Saturday. Last Friday was a public holiday for Selangor because of the Sultan's birthday. Saturday, Sunday and now Monday. An unexpected four days break. As it turned out, I will be on leave Tuesday till Thursday. So, for me, a seven days break! That's real cool. 

How do I get their attention?

After my talk last night, I was very disappointed with myself. I didn't think I did myself justice nor did I do justice for the audience. I chose the wrong topic, maybe. I don't know. It was too heavy a stuff for a surau audience, maybe. I don't know but whatever it was, I couldn't engage them. They were all somewhere else, away from me. Given another chance, I will have to try another tactic. Maybe simple easy stuff, not too much facts nor too much quoting from the quran. Tonight I have another assignment. To talk to school going children, 7 to 13 years old. Now, that's another tough one. How do I get their attention?    

Holiday!

Yeah.....its a public holiday on Monday. Selangor won the Malaysia cup last night. The Menteri Besar immediately announced a public holiday for the following Monday. That is great. On one hand, I have plenty of work to be done. On the other hand, I can do with the holiday. As it is, I have taken leave on Tuesday till Thursday. Now I have Monday as well. Tuesday I have to be in the office for a short while because of a meeting. Otherwise I am free till Friday when I will be traveling to Kucing.

Do my best

I am busy preparing for my talk at my local Surau tonight. I need to come prepared. This is something new to me, giving religious talk at a surau. Something I never dream of, I never expected. One thing I know, my father would be proud if he is still alive. He will be proud that his son is an imam and also an 'ustaz'. Therefore, I will do my best. I don't want to disappoint anybody, most of all myself. There might be just a handful of people in the audience but it does not matter. What matters is I have done my best, in sha Allah.

Unforgivable

The manager of Manchester United says the club will be wining again once they understand his football philosophy. That will take some time, he said. Well, after almost two seasons and millions of dollars spent, I do not see any philosophy except for the lack of it. What philosophy is he talking about when he keep playing players out of position, keep playing a player who is past his best, when defending seem to be the order of the day. Failing to qualify for the knockout stage of the Champions league is bad enough. Losing to Bournemouth last night was unforgivable.   

Earning a living

There's so many things I want to do next week during holiday I need to list them down one by one less I forget. Its easy to forget when on holiday as I tend to lie down and do nothing. Before I know it, its already night. A day gone just like that. Don't know if I can do them all or not but I will try. Whatever it is, I look forward to it. Been a long time since I was on leave. Even when on leave, I have to come to work like last Monday. I was in the office from three till seven thirty in the evening. That's not the first time either. Many times already! Hmmm……that's the way it is now! I really have to earn for a living.

Dilemma

I have only three days leave left. Wanted to take them in the third week of December to coincide with the Maulid and Christmas holidays. That would mean 9 days away from the office altogether. Unfortunately, I couldn't as other people have taken theirs earlier. I have to cover when they are not around. Therefore I had to change the leave to next week starting Tuesday. On Friday the same week I have to go to Kucing for a black tie event. Now that is another problem because I don't have any jacket with me. I am not going to buy one just for this event. Initially I didn't want to go when told about the black tie but later was told I can wear batik. Then it is back to black tie. So, now I'm in a dilemma…...

Tired

This morning I'm feeling really sick. Its been one week bit it was not that bad previously. Just a little bit under the weather but this time I am feeling it. The body aches, the mind is tired and there's pain in the head. Maybe later in the day I have to see the doctor to get some medicine. I have a meeting this morning so I still have to work. The drive home from Kunatan yesterday was okay but after that I was back in the office till after seven. Normally after a long drive, on reaching home, I will have a good rest by sleeping. Yesterday, I was busy at work. That could be the reason why this morning I'm feeling not well.

Kuantan Holiday

Kuantan Holiday

Kuantan holiday

Enjoy

The children has a wonderful time in Kuantan. Akid now enjoys himself in the pool unlike before when he simply refused to have anything to do with the water. Now, he is not afraid anymore. As for Maisarah, for her, anything goes. Never afraid of anything. She is game for everything so there's no problem with her. I enjoyed myself too. Tried the water chute for the first time in my life. Was actually afraid in the beginning but tried anyway.

On leave but…….

Just came back from Kuantan. The company had a family day event over the weekend. The event was only for one day but we stayed another day for holiday sake. I also didn't want to get caught up in the Sunday crawl after the Genting Sempah tunnel till the Gombak toll. So I stayed another night at the hotel in Kuantan. Sure enough, those that went back yesterday were caught in a jam. This morning, the drive was smooth all the way. By about 2pm, I have reached home. Anyway, I am now at the office waiting for a meeting to start. As usual, I am on leave but work calls.

To be healthy

Come July next year, I will be looking at my second retirement. The first one was in 2011. That time I wanted to retire badly. Tired of working. This time around, I want to continue but age is not on my side. First, I need the cash. Second, I found my second wind. I sort of enjoy working. I see people who are in their sixties still actively working. Some are in their seventies. That's what I want to do. Keep working. It will keep me active, physically and mentally. I need that in order to keep myself healthy. Otherwise, I will be at home doing nothing. The body will deteriorate, the mind will stall.

Times are hard

Still have that not well feeling. As a result, I abandoned all thoughts of riding my bike to work today. Instead, I took the car. Usually, on Friday, I will ride my bike because in the afternoon, I have to go for Friday prayer. As usual, its so much easier using the bike rather than the car. Its been a few days since I sent my TV for repair. Until now, it is still not done. Maybe they are having trouble getting the spare part. Meanwhile, I am using a 16inch TV at home. It really make a difference. My house in Ceras is ready for rental. Unfortunately, until today, there is still no result despite using two estate agents. Hmmm….. times are hard I guess.  

Under the weather

Feeling a bit under the weather today. It started last night. This morning, I am still at work. Its not too bad. Maybe I'm a bit tired, mentally and physically. Last Sunday, I had already planned for my usual jog but unfortunately, it rained. Thus, I had no choice but to abort it. Yesterday, I rode the bike to work. I need to go to Bangsar South in the afternoon to change for a new Smarttac. I prefer doing so with the bike rather than the car. Its so much of a hassle with the car. Sure enough, I managed to do everything in less than an hour i.e. rode to Bangsar South, settle the problem at the Touch and Go office there and rode back.

Lets see

Its the first day of the last month of 2015. In short, its 1st December 2015. In my previous working life, this is the month when I will take long leave. Be away for two to three weeks and come back only in the new year. I can afford it as I was given 35 days annual leave. Now, its only 16 days. Plus two days off in lieu I had only 18 days. In January I was told I have 21 days but somehow in November I was told I only have 16 days. That's how I lost five days, just like that. That's also how I ended up with only 4 days left in December when I thought I still have 9 days. Anyway, I'm planning to take the 4 days towards the end of the year. Come back in the new year. In the past, many times I had to cancel my leave because of work. This time…. lets see.

Last day of November

The year is coming to an end. So soon. Days and weeks and months passed by like the air that you breathe. You don't feel it but you know its there. It moves on silently without much of a fanfare. Suddenly, its Friday once again. Then, its already middle of the year. After that, it is already coming to the end of the year. That's how it goes. Life goes on no matter what. 

This morning I was shocked by the news of the death of Pak Yus, the comedian from the Jambu group. A talented comedian, winner of the first Raja Lawak way back in 2008, I think. Only 39. Inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi Rajiun.

Can't take photos

Over the weekend, I had a haircut. I also sent my phone and TV for repair. The phone couldn't be repaired while the TV, I'm still waiting for an answer. Hope that can be repaired. Now I'm in a dilemma, should I get a new phone or not? They are expensive, no doubt about that. I can get a cheaper one but the speed will be slow, the pictures would not be beautiful and the camera would not be that good. My present handphone can still work fine but without the camera. I feel handicap without it. Can't take photos……… 

Sigh.......

I sent my handphone for repair yesterday. The camera was not working after I accidently got it in water while we were in Lumut, Perak. Akid got into difficulties while playing in the children pool. I jumped into the water to help him, with clothes on plus my handphone. Alhamdulillah, everything else about the phone was okay except the camera. Alas, the camera could not be repaired. In fact can be repaired but the cost would be like buying a new phone. Sigh........

Traveling back

The internet was out the whole of last night. There was heavy rain but I do not know if there is any connection between the two. Surprisingly, I can get the internet through my handphone using Celcom which previously, was not available here. Here means Bakun. So, I'm using this connection now. Last night, I was not aware of this possibility hence I was cut off from any connection. Its the rainy season here in Bakun. It rains everyday. Heavy at that. Last night even Astro was not available for a while because of the rain. This morning, I will be traveling back to KL, in shaa Allah. 

Never tried

If you have not failed, it only means you have never tried. Is that true? Thinking back, I think I have not  'failed' before. Does it mean I have never tried? Sure I have. I went through the exams just like everybody else. I work just like everybody else. I went through the trials and tribulations, just like everybody else. But outside of work, yes, I have not tried anything except bringing up my children. That's all. Nobody recognize me. Anonymous. Sure I was an Imam for a short while many years back. Other than that, nothing. Now however, I am an imam again. Not only that, I am ask to give religious talk. That is something totally new. So, now can I say I am trying! At almost sixty years old at that.

Tiring

In Bakun now. Arrived about 4.30pm. Just had dinner at 6pm, now in the room doing some reading and writing. The day gets dark early here, about 6.15pm. Tonight, I have one meeting. Tomorrow I have two meetings, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. On Friday, its flying back to KL. Its been a tiring day, leaving the house early in the morning to catch the LRT to KL Sentral. From there, take the Express to KLIA before catching the plane to Bintulu. Then, its a three hours drive to Bakun. Hmmm…. its been that sort of a day.

You reap what you sow

There are people who are blessed with a healthy life. They keep going strong even at an age when most people are already winding down. Sometimes I wonder how they can do it. One thing I know for sure. You are what you are now because of what you were when you were young. Lead a healthy life when you are young, in shaa Allah you will remain healthy when you grow old. Eat all the bad food in your younger days, the effect will show in your older days. In other words, you reap what you sow. Alhamdulillah, I am as healthy as can be at 59 years old. There are creeks here and there but overall, I have no complain. I hope to remain healthy for a long time, in shaa Allah.

One station

Next week I'II be going to Bakun again in shaa Allah. Its back to the routine after not going there for almost two months except for the very short trip two weeks ago. Been busy in my office here. Many things to do. Come to think of it, we are only a one station company. Yet, everybody is busy in hq such that sometimes we run out of meeting rooms. I wonder how it is like with ten stations for example.

Alhamdulillah

Alhamdulillah Akid has been sleeping well the past one or two weeks. No more the days when he sleeps during the day but wakes up at night. He will stay awake the whole night, not feeling sleepy at all. Come morning, when everybody wakes up to begin the day, he will sleep. This pattern went on for a few months. We were getting worried. The problem with him was all he needed was a short sleep during the day. For example, he sleeps at three until five in the evening. That will be enough for him. He don't need to sleep again until the next day. He won't get sleepy again. Somehow, by the grace of Allah, the pattern has now changed. He sleeps at night like everybody else and wakes up during the day, like everybody else.

Relaxing

Awesome!

Since 2004, played 157 times. Won 137 times. A strike rate of 87.3 %. From 2011, they were even better. Played 54 times. Won 49 times. 90.7%. What a great performance! No wonder they are on top of the world. Who are they? The ALL Blacks off course. From the tiny nation of New Zealand.  

A sad day

In 1995 he conquered the world. never before has the rugby world seen a player like him. Big, strong and fast. I saw the matches on TV. I saw how he trampled over the England players as he carried the ball over the line. I was captivated. What a great player he was. Alas, his playing life is short as he was carrying an illness. His life is short too. At forty years old, he is gone. A sad day for sport lovers all over the world. 

Long day

Its going to be along day today with meetings from morning till night. The last meeting for the day will start at 8pm. When it will finish, only Allah knows. Nevertheless, I have prepared myself, physically and mentally, for the long haul. This brings to mind when I was in this kind of situation before. I didn't go home after the meeting which ended almost midnight. Instead, I stayed at a hotel minutes away from the office because the next morning, I had more meetings. Anyway, this time, I am not planning to stay anywhere else except to go home. My house is not too far away unlike before. Twenty minutes drive is all it takes, provided there's no jam off course.

Flood everywhere

It was raining cats and dogs yesterday. A few places were flooded. Shah Alam receives the brunt of it. Thought they have done something about it like making the drains bigger and deeper but unfortunately, it is not enough. Come heavy rain, the place gets flooded. Alhamdulillah, my road to home yesterday wasn't affected. I manage to get home just as always, had my bath and the Maghrib prayers before heading to the surau to have my Isya' there. The kids also slept early last night. By9.30pm, they were both fast asleep.

Hello

That's me in my official uniform. It will be a sad day when I have to leave my present working place. What a contrast from before. Four years ago, I was looking forward to retirement. I was very happy when I finally retired. Now, I am feeling totally different. I want to work for as long as I can. For as long as I am wanted. For as long as my health permits me but alas……… you plan but Allah also plan and Allah plan will prevail as it is always the best. 

To be credible

On Saturday I was at home most of the time, resting and sleeping. I only venture out to go to the surau, a short walk away, for all the five daily prayers. After the Maghrib prayers, I gave my first ceramah. About ten people were in the audience but nevertheless, I gave my best. It was ok considering I'm doing it for the first time although I could have done better. Nevertheless, alhamdulillah. I thought it would my first and last but looks like its going to be a regular thing. Still, lets see. I'm open to it although I must say, I have to update my knowledge in order to be credible.

Reading up

Been reading a few books lately on the Quran, updating my knowledge. I need to prepare myself for tonight when I have to give a ceramah at the local surau. At an age when people are retired, I am going to do it for the first time in my life. It is something new. Sure, in my working life I have given presentations, chair meetings plus given a handful of speeches but never have I given a ceramah anywhere. In a way it is good because it force me to increase my knowledge. I have done a lot of readings but that was long ago. Since then, I have not updated myself. Now, I am reading again. I aim to continue reading even if tonight is my first and last ceramah. 

In life, you never know when you will need it. I learned Tajwid years ago. Now it comes in handy when I have to lead the prayers. I have been memorising the Quran for years. Although not much but it is also handy now that I am leading the prayers. I have been learning Arab for years. Now it will come in handy when I give the ceramah, in shaa Allah. My motorcycle license was obtained more than thirty years ago. Never needed it but when I decided to ride to work, it certainly helped.

Off to work

On Friday, I like to take the bike to work. That's because going for Friday prayer using the bike is more convenient.

Unanswered questions

I don't know what is happening to the world of sports. FIFA is in trouble. So is the IAAF. What will be next? It seems that most of the football world is in some kind of trouble. Even Germany, where you would least expected it to be. There seem to be some kind of bribery happening in order for Germany to secure the hosting of the 2006 World cup. So far it is still not proven but there are unanswered questions, just like what is happening with IMDB, unanswered questions.

Jogging again

The sky is clear now. No more haze. I took the opportunity to go jogging last Tuesday at Taman Titiwangsa. Been quite sometime since I last jog because of the haze. Felt really good to be jogging again. I did just one round but with burst of speed seven times in between. Now, that was really tiring but I felt light and easy after that.   

Past few days

Attended a friend's wedding do for his son on Sunday. On Monday, visited a friend who is in SJMC after suffering a stroke. He is ok now but for some lost of memory. Can't recognize me although he tried his best. Tuesday was a public holiday. I was at the house most of the time, taking a much needed rest. Yesterday I was back at work. There were plenty to do. Alhamdulillah all went well, better than expected. Nevertheless, it was about 9.30pm before I reached home. That sums up the happenings over the past few days.

I will give my best

For the first time in my life, I rode the motorbike into the heart of KL city at Jalan Masjid India. As I had expected, getting into the city was no problem at all. Parking was another no brainer. I went there to search for books on the Quran. In the end I bought five books that I intend to read or at least glance through before the end of this week. This coming Saturday is going to be a big day for me. I will give a talk/ceramah at the surau after the Maghrib prayers. At almost sixty years old, I am going to give my first talk. Hmmm…. that's how it is. This life never cease to amaze me. I never expected, never dream that one day I will be asked to give a talk at a surau. That's why I need to be well prepared, hence the books. There may be only a handful of listeners but whatever it is, I will give my best, in shaa Allah.

Its Sunday

I have been to so may wedding 'do' that sometime I lost track on them. Yesterday was one example. I thought the reception was Saturday. So we went. At the entrance I didn't see the friend who was having the reception for his son. I said to myself, maybe he is somewhere else, never mind, have the food first. We walked in, nobody stopped us. While having the food, I kept an eye for my friend but he never turn up. Until we finished the food, I didn't see him anywhere. It was only on our way out I finally asked where is he to the people standing at the entrance. They asked, who? We don't know him! Only then did I realise. I had the wrong date. Its supposed to be Sunday.

It was impossible

Yesterday we went for medical check up for the third child. Its twenty one weeks already. In shaa Allah in March 2016, we will have another baby. While at the hospital, Akid and Maisarah went out of control. They were running all over the hospital, shouting and having fun. I had a hard time trying to keep up with them. It was impossible. The noise they made cause people to turn their attention to them. Everybody had eyes on them and by extension, on me as well. Hmmm........

Enjoying the evening

The kids having fun while I keep busy with the I Pad but with one eye on them.

Cleaning up

The house is almost ready for renting. It was in such a mess after the previous occupant left, we had to do a bit of a cleaning. Alhamdulillah, it is almost ready now. Hopefully, before the end of the year, we can get it rented out again.

Sleeping time

While we were busy cleaning up the house in Ceras, the two kids found the time to sleep. In a way, it helps as we can do our work in 'peace'. Otherwise, we have to content with the two of them getting in the way, making things difficult. By the way, Akid sleeping time has changed somewhat. He sleeps during the day and wakes up at night. It has been going on for three days already. I'm worried but I am at a lost at what to do. All he needs is a short sleep during the day. Then at night he will not be sleepy. While we are sleeping, he will be with his I pad. Hmm…... 

Monday morning jot

Forgot to bring my jacket this morning. I have to find time to go back home to take it. Otherwise I will be sick by the end of the day as it is so cold in the office. I can't go back now cause the traffic is still heavy. Maybe slightly later when the traffic has lessen. I suspect at about 10 in the morning, it should be ok. 

It's a clear blue sky at the moment. Has been so since yesterday. What a changed from the hazy days. I can start my jogging again. 

On the sporting front, the All Blacks are the champion once again but the hole for Maurinho got deeper over the weekend. I wonder how can a team that were champion last season finds itself languishing at the relegation end of the table, in the very next season! It boggles me. Maurinho needs to find a way out of his predicament soon or he will face the sack. Not that its such a bad thing anyway. He will be paid millions! 

World Champion

As expected, New Zealand won the Rugby World Cup. They were coasting throughout the first half but had a bit of a scare in the second when Australia staged a fightback. They got to within four points of New Zealand when finally Dan Carter decided its too close for comfort. He produced an all important drop goal that sliced the post, calming the nerves of his colleagues. From there on, it was smooth driving till the end. What great night for the All Blacks. The dominant team for so long, finally showing the world they can do it at the highest level. There have been doubts about their mental strength after repeated failures when it matters but for now, its all in the back burner.   

Cleaning up

Yesterday we were at a wedding reception in Shah Alam. The funny thing was there were three wedding reception going on at the same time, close to each other. As a result, finding a parking space was difficult. After that, we were at the house in Cheras. The house needs cleaning up after the tenant left. Was there till about 8.30pm before leaving the house for dinner. It was raining all the time so we chose to have dinner at one of the shopping malls there. We don't want the children to get wet. By the time we reached home, it was almost 11pm. All in all, it was a tiring day. 

At my favourite place

Never get tired of blogging. Its a natural thing for me. I sit down in front of me and there I go. It may not be everyone cup of tea but it is my cup of tea. That's all that matters.

In 2015?

Today is significant because of only one thing. The Rugby World Cup final. New Zealand versus Australia. I look forward to tonight  when the game will be played. Can't wait to watch it. Who will win I? Off course I always enjoy watching New Zealand. Somehow, they have the rugby skills. The All Blacks are legendary. Whenever they play, they are expected to win. The present All Blacks team have been playing top level rugby for so many years. In 2007, they were great but pressure got to them. In 2011, they finally nailed it. In 2015?

Dead tired

Yesterday was one day when I felt really tired. At the office, it was work and more work. Non stop meetings, writing, discussions, thinking. It was from one thing to another. Back home after work, I was exhausted. Alhamdulillah last night the kids were tired too. They both slept early. By midnight, both were sound asleep. Normally Akid will only sleep at about 2am in the morning. I had a good sleep, waking up at a bit after 5 am this morning. That's my normal waking up time. 

Clear skies

Its blue skies for today. What a pleasant surprise. After living under a cloud of smoke the past two months, having clear skies is a relief. The rain has been quite consistent. That helps to clear the haze. I hear the wind is also blowing elsewhere hence the haze got blown away as well. Will it be gone for good? I don't know! I hope so. My jogging has been put on hold since the haze came. I don't want to jog in a cloud of smoke. Instead of making me healthy, it only make it worse!

A long time

This afternoon I will be traveling to Cameron Highland for a visit to a power station being built in Ulu Jelai. Its a hydro power plant, much like Bakun except it is smaller. It will be an overnight stay, coming back tomorrow. Since I started working again, I have not been to any power plant except Manjung. Those days, I used to go to almost all the power plants in the country. It was part of my work. Now its only Bakun power plant. Those days I travel to everywhere in the peninsular. Now, its Bintulu and Bakun most of the time. Occasionally, it will be Miri or Kucing. Having said that, I have not been to Bakun for almost two months now. Now, that's a long time by my standard.

Who will win?

The match between the All Blacks and South Africa wasn't really spectacular. However, it lives up to its billing in terms of the tension it created. Throughout the match, there was never more than five points that separated them. All it needed was a try and a successful conversion. That would have changed the outcome. As it was, the All Blacks came out tops. I think its a fair result given the territorial advantage they were having. So, I look forward to the final against Australia. It will be a great match as usual. The team that show up on the day of the final will win.

Never a dull day

Akid immersed in his toy trains while Maisarah is up to her antics. There's never a dull day when they are around and awake. 

One City USJ

Was there to attend a wedding reception of a friend's son.

That saves my day

Left the house at 6.15am yesterday. I wanted to be at Putrajaya before 7.30am so that I can quickly do my business and then head for the office. If everything goes well, I should be in the office before 9am, my clock in time. As it turned out, I made it just in time. However, I had a scary moment when my motorcycle almost ran out of fuel as I neared Putrajaya. I couldn't find any petrol station along the way. In the few times that I have been to Putrajaya, I have not seen any petrol station anywhere. That's why I was worried the petrol in the tank would not bring me back to my office. Alhamdulillah, when I asked around, there is actually a petrol station. That saves my day.

Hazy

I am tired of living under a cloud of haze. The sky is smoky, the air is unhealthy, the environment is hazy. It looks very much like winter but off course it is not. Don't know when it will end. From I have been reading in the papers, it looks like we are in for the long haul. Only next year the haze will go. Its that bad! people have four season but in Malaysia we have two. The hazy days and the non hazy days. That's what it is. Every year without fail, we have this problem.  I just hope the monsoon will come soon. That will drive away the haze.

A short trip

Was in Kucing for a night. Arrived evening at the hotel, attended dinner and seminar which was held the next day i.e. Tuesday. All at the hotel. As soon as the seminar ends, I was already on my way to the airport for the flight home. So, in actual fact, I was at the hotel throughout the time I was in Kucing except for the airport off course. Was worried about the haze affecting the flight but alhamdulillah, everything was ok. Reached home about 10.40pm. This morning, I am back at work in my office in PJ> 

Tiring day

Yesterday was very tiring. Morning we sent two workers to Ceras to do some cleaning up of the house there. In the evening, we picked them up and sent them back to Gombak after they had done their job. Then it was straight to a wedding reception in USJ. By the time everything was over, it was almost 11pm. Dead tired. Then the kids didn't sleep until almost one in the morning. After that Akid wanted to eat. I couldn't sleep until almost two in the morning. This morning, as usual I woke up at about 5am. Woke up, then prepare myself before going to the surau for the morning prayer. So, all in all, I slept less than 3hrs last night. Today, I must catch up on those loss sleep.

Pure black magic

It's pure black magic, that's what it was! The All Blacks finally at its best, playing rugby the way only they can. Fast, open, flowing. It just happened to be the French team they were playing against. It could have been any other team. It wouldn't have made a difference. They would all be steamrolled. Demolished. Banished. Outplayed. With this kind of display, who can offer even the slightest resistance? Only themselves.

Its inevitable

Looks like Lee Chong Wei days are numbered. Beaten in the early round for the third time in a row, father's time has finally catch up with him. There's no escaping. Its a natural thing to happen. There's no shame in it. The shame is with the country's badminton state of affair. For so long, he was the only one who can take on the world. Everyone else get beaten in the early rounds except him. He stood tall where others failed but off course it can't go on forever. There had to be a replacement which we miserably failed to find. So now, the inevitable has happened. The reality is he is not getting any younger. So, until we find a replacement, Malaysian badminton will be down in the dumps.  

That's the life

At almost sixty years old, I should be resting by the beach with my feet up, reading a book, enjoying the fruits of my hard earned labour, my mind free from worries with not a care in the world. Instead, I find myself grappling with everyday life, still waking up in the morning to go to work, still having to worry about bringing up children, still having to worry about my next meal. Hmm.....that's the life that I am going through now. Come to think of it, its a life I have chosen. Its the path I have taken. Good or bad, I will have to go through it. No matter what, as long as I remain a faithful servant of Allah and be guided by His prophet, I am happy. I pray to Allah that I am always on the straight path. That I am able to guide my family towards Him........  

Not in my lifetime

The roads are clear this morning. Yesterday evening it was the same. Perhaps most people are on leave, taking advantage of the public holiday on Wednesday. If only every week it is like this, I mean holiday on Wednesday. It will be a four day work week, every week, every month, every year! Wow…that will be wonderful. I read somewhere that a country, I can't remember which country is experimenting with a four day working week. Here and at most countries, I don't think it will happen. Not in my lifetime.  

When will it stop?

With Russia in active participation, the fighting in Syria is getting very muddle. The US and Russia may have a common enemy in ISIS but they have very different friends. The problem is that these friends are all fighting in Syria. The US supports the rebels while Russia supports the government. Then we have the ISIS that apparently have no support from anybody. On top of that, there are so many rebels groups its a wonder if they know who are their friends and who are their enemies. Its a muddle all right. I am at a loss at who is fighting who in Syria at the moment. Its sad actually. A beautiful country coming to ruins. When will all these stop?

Its a waste of money

My hand phone is hardly two years old but its vintage stuff already. New versions of the same model has been launch three times since I bought mine. Mostly, they upgrade certain features a little bit  here and there and you have it, the new model! Actually, I don't know if its worth the money to keep up with the changes. My phone can do most of the things that I want to do. In fact it can do more but I only know how to use a fraction of it. Even if I buy a new one, I will only use the applications that I am using now. So, the verdict. Keep my phone. Don't buy a new one. Its a waste of money!

Catch up on Sleep

Yesterday I spent the whole day sleeping away. Catch up on loss sleep during the weekdays. I wanted to wash my car and service my motorcycle but decided all those can wait. Sleep is more important. After all, during weekdays, I sleep four to five hours only. It all depends actually. If the babies sleep early, I can sleep early. Otherwise, I can't. By five in the morning, I am already up. At the office, I try to sleep during lunch hour but that is only for half an hour. I have to have lunch. There's also the afternoon prayers to fulfill. So, the only time I can catch up on my sleep is during weekend.    

No more pretenders

The pretenders have been shown the door. Only the real challengers are still around. That's when the tournament gets to be real interesting. I'm talking about the rugby world cup off course. Its at the quarter final stage now. Its make or break. The All Blacks are favorite as always but they can be vulnerable at this stage. Many times they have failed to deliver when all it needed was just a little bit more than walking in the park, for them. The pressure gets too much. Its affects your mind, your rhythm so much so that you are not at your best.

Absurd

The going on in FIFA is getting to be absurd. A president is suspended. A presidential hopeful is similarly suspended. Another presidential hopeful is suspended even longer. Many others are under investigation for corruption. I don't know what else is happening. Its a wonder if FIFA is even functioning at all at this moment in time. Its ridiculous!

60km/h is not so fast anymore

I had some personal thing to do at one of the government offices in Putrajaya. As I am working and always tied up with many things in the office, I decided to go early in the morning, do my thing and rush back to the office, hopefully all before 9am when my working hours start. I decided to ride my motorcycle cause I know I will have more control over the time. In other words I will not be caught in a jam, in sha Allah. So, early this morning, I left my house at 6.30am. Reached Putrajaya at about 7.30am, quickly do the things I needed to do and rode on to the office. Alhamdulillah, I reached the office at 8.30am, well before my office time starts. I even had time for a quick breakfast. 

As for the ride, it was enjoyable. One thing different this time was I was riding at about 70-80km/h, sometimes even reaching 90km/h. Suddenly, 60km/h is not so fast anymore. 

From cradle to grave

I worked for over thirty years in my previous company. Have to say I learned a lot while there, gained a lot of experienced, introduced to many things. Talk about Balanced Scorecard, I have done it. Talk about Business Plan, I have done it. Talk about ISO, about 5S, about Total Quality Management, about Strategic Planning, about procurement, about KPIs, about management breakout, about budget challenge, about presenting papers, about disciplinary action, about marketing, about business development , about regulatory relations, etc…….. I have done them all. Come to think of it, I have a lot of experience in me. But I am learning more things now in my new company. There's always something new to learn. That's why the learning never stops, from cradle to grave. 

My own pleasure

Although this is my eighth year of blogging, I would like to think I am still going strong. I am indeed still going strong. I can never get tired of blogging. I hope to carry on for as long as I live. As I have always said, one day this blog will be the grandfather stories for my grandchildren. Now I already have two grandchildren. They are still babies off course but they will grow up. I will continue blogging cause I enjoy it. It is something that I do naturally. All I need to do is sit down in front of my computer and my fingers will punch away. In a few minutes I have my story. Not that they are great stories but they are stories anyway. It is for my own pleasure. 

It has become routine

The life of a football manager is like living on edge. Getting the sack is a normal thing to happen. In fact, if you have never experienced the sack, you are the odd one out. However, on the flip side, the sack can be a good thing because the severance package is millions. I wouldn't mind getting the sack if I'm paid millions but then, who wants me in the first place? The Liverpool manager is gone. Maurinho could be next. Only Arsene Wenger goes on and on. Nineteen years already, doing the same job. Year in, year out. It has become routine. 

Really bad

There's a town in Kalimantan, Indonesia where the haze reading is 2000. Pekan Baru in Sumatra, Indonesia is having readings of more than 1000. I don't how the people in these two places are taking it but for sure, it is not a laughing matter. It is definitely bad for the health. I am already choking with readings of 200. It feels terrible. Come to think of it, it is like winter only its not.  

Troubling times

By his own admission, Maurinho but he is facing the worse period in his managerial career. Five defeats in eleven games is not what you would expect from a team build by him. If I can gauge from what I have been reading, he is taking it badly. Not surprising for a man who has never been in such a crisis before. It has been smooth sailing so far for him. Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan. He had some problem at Real Madrid but that was peanuts compare to what he is facing now. Now the path is rocky with granites thrown all over the place. It can explode anytime. Lets see if the man is made of sterner stuff! 

A brief respite

After coming back from the futsal game last night, I was feeling quite tired. Unfortunately I couldn't have the rest I needed because Maisarah would stay awake until about one in the morning. I had to look after her until she dozed off. It was almost one am before I could really rest my body and mind. Anyway, manage to wake up in time for the Subuh prayer at the surau this morning. Maybe later in the day I will try to catch some sleep. Its the weekend again after a hectic weekday. A brief respite from the office and the things that goes on in there. Come Monday it will be back to the grind.

Maintaining the fitness

I have been jogging on and off for so many years. At one time I even ran the PJ Half marathon. I received a certificate for that for completing within a certain time. After that I was contemplating running the full marathon but that didn't happened. That was off course many many years ago but I am still an avid jogger. I may not be able to complete the half marathon now but with enough practise, I might be able to. I also enjoy playing futsal or football for that matter. Because of my age, I have difficulty getting friends for a game so I play with people half my age or even less. When playing, I know my limitations. Thus, I don't run non stop like I used to. I pace myself. I have some idea of my strength and stamina. So, I try to play withint that level. Not to be led by the youngsters that I'm playing with. They run like there's no tomorrow. 

Working late

The past two days I have been leaving the office after 7pm. Normally at this time, the crawl getting out of the parking lots of my office is over. It will be a smooth ride as most of the people would have gone home by this time. However, much to my surprised, on both days, I couldn't get out of my parking lot because there's are cars in front waiting in a queue heading for the exit. I had to wait some minutes before the path is clear. Even then, to reach the exit took many more minutes. It seems that many people are working late. I used to believe that work is only for the working hours. After that, its time for the family and other personal things. However, now I am not so sure. Sometimes you have to work late. Otherwise, deadlines will not be met.

Mullings

The past two days have been a busy one. Right from morning till late in the evening, I was occupied. Suddenly its Friday already. Its going to be another busy day but at least I know for a fact that tomorrow its going to be Saturday. That means a bit of a break from the office. Tonight I hope to play Futsal with the boys from the office. Saturday and Sunday, I hope to be able to rest and recuperate. This weekend I don't have any wedding invitations so that is welcome after attending so many weekends after weekends. The anchovies we bought in Lumut is almost gone in less than a month. We thought it would last us 5 to 6 months. What terrible planning. I might have to go again to Lumut!  

Bide my time

The tenants in both my houses in Seremban as well as Cheras will be vacating the houses soon. In fact the one in Cheras has already vacated while the one in Seremban will vacate at the end of November. I will take a look at both the houses, do what is needed before finding new tenants. This time I am thinking of increasing the rental a bit. After all, rentals have increased significantly especially for landed properties. I am in no hurry. I will bide my time, wait till I get what I wanted or somewhere near. As for the third and fourth houses, that will have to wait until my financial standing is better.

A break will be good

After my latest mistake, I have now decided to stop leading the prayers for a while. Let others take the responsibility while I take a break. It has been one mistake after another. Don't know why but it started happening recently, after Aidil Adha. Everything went well during the Aidil Adha prayer but after that, it was just downhill all the way. Always, something will happen, mostly about me forgetting a sentence in a surah. Prayer after prayer after prayer, I made mistakes. So now, I need to take a break and recompose myself, until such time when I feel I am ready again. In sha Allah, if it Allah's will, I will be an imam again. Otherwise, I am just as happy following the imam. It has been a humbling experienced, nonetheless.

Sigh….

The haze is getting worse by the day. Forced me to postpone my weekend jogging activity. I worry instead of getting healthier, the haze will make me worse off. This morning especially, its terrible. Driving to work in the morning felt like driving through a smoke zone. Everything was hazy. The tragedy in Makkah still lingers in my mind. How can we make it safe in the future? There has to be a lot of thoughts put into it. Otherwise, it will keep on repeating. Having been there, I know how dangerous it can be! On the sporting front, I am missing the World Cup Rugby in England. Its shown on paid TV only. I can only read about the matches in the papers after it happened. Sigh….

The taste is different

Being quite a while since we were last at the Pasir Penambang fish market in K Selangor. I miss the fresh fishes that you can get there. They really taste different. Sweet, soft and the colour white. Nowadays I know if the fish is fresh or old just by tasting it. The taste is different.

Its understood!

I have always said life sometimes can be very unexpected. Its has happened to me so many times I am not surprised anymore if it were to happen again. And it is happening again. I never for once thought I would end up being an imam again but I am. The last time I was a regular imam was more than 10 years ago in USJ. The surau was new, there was no official imam appointed yet. Somehow I ended up taking that role. It lasted about 5 months because after that I moved to Sg Buloh. Now I am the imam at the surau in the Gombak village where I am staying. I can't be at the surau all the time cause I am working but whenever I am there, I will lead the  prayer. Its understood!

Aidil Adha

The Aidil Adha came and gone, like the blink of an eye. Alhamdulillah, I was able to lead the prayer and deliver the sermon quite comfortably. I didn't forget the 7 and 5 'takbir'. I delivered the sermon fluently. Not to compare with people who do it week in, week out off course but for a person who is doing it for the first time, I am satisfied with my performance. It was quite a busy day for me, come to think of it. After the prayer I was at the main mosque to watch the slaughtering being carried out. This year I did it for Maisarah. Later in the day my children visited me. Then at night I had to lead the prayers again before heading to a neighbour's house to lead the tahlil session. It was not until almost 10pm before everything was over.

My condolence

The tragedy in Makkah is really really sad. Its a terrible thing to happen. The Saudi authorities have done so much to make the Haj pilgrimage safe and pleasant but it happened again. They need to go back to the drawing blocks. I know how dangerous it can be especially when it comes to the throwing of stones ritual. I was there, twice. I know the danger especially in the morning after the Subuh prayer. That's when the crowd is the most because that's the most preferred (afdal) time. I was there during that time when doing the haj for the first time. The crowd was so big sometimes I was swayed, left, right, front, back by the crowd with my feet not touching the ground.

A great time

One for the memory after spending sometime at my rented house in Gombak. Its a great feeling to have your children visiting you. They are all grown up now, working and living their own life. Hanafi is married. Hakimi early next year while Hafizi in sha Allah soon as well. We missed Fatihah, who is married and living in Perth, Australia. As for Akid and Maisarah, plus one more on the way, they have a long way to go. I pray to Allah I have the chance to see them grow.

Sacrifice

This year we did one for Maryam Maisarah. Wanted to do for Akid as well but all have been taken up. So maybe next year. I was quite surprised at the cost. Its RM600 for one part. All along I was thinking it is around RM300 to RM400. Hmmm....inflation must have played a part.

Holiday mood

The mood is definitely holiday even though I am working. This is because tomorrow is Aidil Adha, festival of the feast. It will be a public holiday throughout the country. The schools are also closed for a one week holiday. Most of the people from the east coast has gone back to celebrate the festival with their parents and families. I will work today but will take leave on Friday. I planned to take leave on Monday as well but as usual, a meeting already lined up so I had to cancel the leave. Tomorrow I will lead the Aidil Adha prayer, in sha Allah. I have prepared myself as best as I can. Hopefully, every thing will turn out well.  

Maisarah and me

That's my little girl. She's full of life, very active, playful and a delight. When you are a grown up, be a faithful servant of Allah, obey his prophet and remember to always love your parents.

There's always a first time

For the first time ever, I am asked to lead the Hari Raya Aidil Adha prayer this coming Thursday. I was also asked to lead the Aidil Fitri prayer before this. I said okay but please find someone else first. If they can't find anybody, then I will do it. They managed to get someone else. This time, when asked, I just said yes. So, at almost sixty years old, I will be leading the Aidil Adha prayers plus giving the sermon   for the first time ever in my life, in sha Allah. I have been given the text. I am reading and practicing many times over. It is not something that I do regularly I need to practise. In sha Allah, I will be fluent when the day comes.

Lost

Man City lost for the first time last night. That gives other teams the chance to close the gap a bit. Arsenal failed earlier. Man U will play tonight. Can they do it? 

World Cup Rugby

Without much fanfare, the Rugby World cup has started. Already a most unexpected result happened. Japan beat South Africa. Its like Malaysia beating Brazil or Germany or even England in a football competitive match. Unfortunately, it is not shown live on TV this time. When it was held four years ago, I had a whale of a time, watching the matches, especially when the All Blacks were playing. As usual, the All Blacks are again the favourite. Will they win again? I would like to think they will. They have been outstanding the last four years, beating all other teams regularly but the World cup is something else. That's why they have only won it twice despite being perennial favourites.

Anchovies

The main reason we were in Lumut was to buy ikan bilis (anchovies). They have some real nice and tasty ones, especially those from Pangkor. I was there a few months back. Bought a packet. Turned out it was so good and tasty we just had to go back for more. This time we bought a plenty, enough to last a few months. There are all kind of ikan bilis but the famous ones are the blue eyed anchovies (ikan bilis mata biru).

In Lumut

Arrived Lumut about 5pm yesterday.The haze just as bad. I can hardly see Pangkor island from the hotel. Been to Lumut numerous times but I have never stayed at the place I'm staying now. Its an apartment with one room on Marina island, directly opposite Pangkor. Quite a nice place. Lumut town is only a few minutes away. Will be here for two nights.

Short break

The one day break yesterday was good. However, this morning I am back at the office although I am on leave. There's a meeting I have to attend. I wanted to change it to another day but there's too much of a hassle. The work would also get delayed. Like it or not, it has to be today. Anyway, its not a problem. I am already at the office and ready for the meeting. After the meeting, I will continue with my holiday.

Runaround

I was at Amcorp Mall at 7.20 this morning to pay the assessment for my house in Cheras at the post office there. It has been long outstanding because I couldn't find the time to go to Kajang to pay. However, on reaching the post office, I saw that it open only at 9am. That would be a bit late for my timing cause I have a meeting at 9.30am. While undecided wether to wait or to go, I noticed that e payment is possible. It is written in small print at the back of the bill. It was quite a surprised cause I have tried before but couldn't. It was an easy decision to make after that. If only I had known earlier. The late discovery caused me RM 5 parking fee.

Dinner time

We were at Mahbub in Bangsar for dinner last night. Somehow the wife just love the food that they serve. Its her favorite restaurant. Look at the photo above and you can see what I mean. Used to be my favorite as well but not anymore. Maybe because I have got used to it, it is normal to me now, like any other restaurant. Judging from the crowd, its a favorite of many others too. I remember one time during the fasting month, I was there at about 6.30pm. I had to forget about breaking my fast there because I couldn't find an empty seat. All have been taken up.

Looking forward

This week I'm working only for two days. After that it will be a public holiday followed by two days of leave that will carry me to the weekend. Although on leave, I have to come on Thursday for a meeting in the morning. After that I can go off. We are planning for a two nights trip to Lumut. Been quite a while since I last was there. I was there for a one day trip a few months back but many years ago, Lumut was one of the places I used to go in the course of my work. Since then, I'm sure things have changed a lot. Anyway, that's for Thursday. For now, I have to prepare for an important meeting in the afternoon. I hope everything will work out fine, in sha Allah. 

Alhamdulillah

Don't know how it came to be but its been a few months since I somehow become the Imam at the local surau. Because I am working, I can only be at the surau for the Isya prayers on weekdays. Only during weekends I can lead for all of the prayers. Even then if I am around. Otherwise, other people will take over. Since it is not something that has been officially confirmed, I don't have to commit myself, meaning if I cannot be at the surau for some reason or another, it is not a problem. I like it that way. Its a convenient arrangement. Becoming an imam has made me a better reciter of the Quran. My memorising of the Quran has also increased. It has done me a world of good. Alhamdulillah.

A game of Futsall

Last night I had a game of Futsall with office colleagues and a few others. I enjoyed it very much. Save me the jog during weekends at Lake Titiwangsa. With the haze in full bloom, its not a great idea to be jogging in the open air. At least with Futsall it is played indoors. Of course I am the oldest player on court but I would like to think I didn't embarrass myself. I held my own. Didn't push myself too much for sure. Played at my own pace. At almost sixty years old, I have to know my body. Can't play like I am twenty years old anymore! 

Resting on his laurels

What is happening to Chelsea? A nightmare start to the season is something no one could have imagine. After all, they were the champion last season. The players that led them to the title last season are still around. Most of all, they still have Maurinho! But what is happening to them. Three defeats in five matches with only one win and a draw is hardly the stuff of teams build by Maurinho. Maybe he has been resting on his laurels, thinking that the present team is good enough to defend the title. He has not bought any players of note during the close season, mostly sticking to the same players he had last season. That's where he could be making a mistake. Anyway, it is still early in the season.

Hoping for the best

Wednesday next week is a public holiday. I was planning to take leave on Monday and Tuesday. That will give me a five days break including the weekend. Unfortunately meetings have been arranged earlier on Monday so I had to abort the plan. I changed to Thursday and Friday which will also give me a five days break. Suddenly there is going to be a meeting on Thursday, which cannot be postponed and which I have to attend. Sigh………. So what am I to do? Obviously I cannot changed again. I have also booked a hotel somewhere out of KL starting Thursday where I am planning to go. At the moment I am just hoping for the best! Somehow things will work out fine. 

Sleep problem

Perhaps due to lack of sleep, almost everyday I feel extremely sleepy come about noon. That's when I keep on yawning while my eyes feels very very heavy. All I need to do is close my eyes. Definitely I will fall asleep. Unfortunately I can't cause I'm working. Sometimes I am on my computer, sometimes I'm in a meeting. I try to get a quick nap during lunch time. That helps a bit but not everyday I can have that luxury. Sometimes I might have some personal things to do. If that is the case, there goes my nap. If only I can sleep a bit earlier at night. That would help tremendously. As it is now, my sleeping time is mostly well past midnight because as long as the kids are not sleeping, I cannot sleep. In the morning, I wake up early, at 5.20am. That is my problem.

Time don't wait

I have so many things to do and so many things on my mind that sometimes I come for meetings or presentations not prepared. Not that I didn't want to prepare but with so many things coming all at once,  it makes it impossible to be prepared for all eventualities. It resulted in me sometimes unable to response to the unexpected in the way I would like to. I stutter. I failed to answer confidently. Mostly because I don't know the answer. I don't like it because it looks bad on me. I need to pay more attention to all  the things that I am involved with. I need to sit down and go through all the information. Unfortunately, the bloody meetings sometimes take up all of my time.

Dynamic

Things are so dynamic at the place I'm working now its changing by the day. Yesterday we were working on something because of something. Today we are working on another thing because of another thing. Who knows what tomorrow might bring? The so called changes are off course still in the air but if they finally happened, it will have a significant effect on many people. Meantime, we have to prepare ourselves to these dynamics by preparing our side of the story. These things takes up a lot of my time. Last week I didn't reach home on most days until 9pm. This week it looks like it will be much the same. Yesterday, the first working day of the week, it was also 9pm.

Hmm….

What is wrong with the blog today. Can't publish. I wrote something but now its gone because I couldn't publish it. What a shame. It was something that has been on my mind since last night. Something about wanting to beat the crowd at IKEA on a weekend with a plan. The plan worked until we came to the payment counter. That was where we were beaten. We gave up cause the queue at the payment counters were too long.

Haze is back

The haze is back. Its a yearly affair. Its only a little past six but it looks like it is almost 7pm. It bring back memories of winter time in my student days in England. Anyway, the same with our football. Its covered in haze that's why we are in a daze. A ten nil setback is a terrible terrible result.  

Pathetic!

Pathetic! That's the word. A 10-0 thrashing by UAE is the last straw. The coach has got to go. He is out of his depth for sure. In yesteryears, yes, we hear of this kind of scoring. Lesser teams losing heavily against better teams but in the modern game, it shouldn't happened any more. There's a thing called tactics. What kind of tactic were we playing that led us to lose 10-0. None whatsoever I believe! Or even if there were, must be schoolboys. That definitely is a no go. Haven't we studied their game? Their strength? We should have known! Then we can devise a strategy to neutralize their strength while making full use of the little strength that we have. Sigh……..

Akid and Maisarah

They will have another sibling to content with. The more the merrier. More fun and laughter for sure.

Done

Alhamdulillah, I am already at the end of the tunnel. From early morning till about noon, I was doing many things simultaneously. Slowly but surely, opening up the path ahead. By noon, I made it. Did everything I needed to do and now, I'm ready to be wronged. That I will only know come Monday when my work will be scrutinized. Every word of it. Meantime just sit back and relax for a job done. I feel exhausted. Mentally drained. Wanted to do other things but my mind just refused to function. 

In a limbo

Despite trying my best to clear up the muddle that I'm in, I'm still in a muddle. The path is still not clear. There's so many things to do, I don't know where to start. Making it even worse are the meetings that I have to attend in between. That leaves me with little time to plan and strategise. As a result, the path ahead is still unclear. Hope today, some light will get through the tunnel. Then only will I see the path ahead. Only then can I move on. As it is, I'm still in a limbo. 

Its a muddle

This week is going to be a busy week. There's so many things to do, papers to finish, decisions to make, meetings to conduct, work to complete etc. At the moment, my mind is all in a muddle. I need to list them down one by one. Then only it will become clearer. From the list, I will then prioritize. Which needs to be done first, which can delay a little bit. Hopefully, by doing that, my mind will get straighten out. Things will begin to look clearer. I will know exactly what I need to do. Then I can start doing them. By the end of the week, the muddle in my mind will have cleared. 

Back home

The flight from Miri to KL was eventful only because there was a stopover in Kucing. We had to get out and less than one hour later get in again, to the same plane. On reaching KLIA, it was already almost 10pm. By the time I reached home after the taxi ride, it will be almost midnight. So I decided to sleep overnight at the airport rather than waking up my family at so late an hour. It was not so bad. I have done it before on many occasions. The next morning, after the morning prayer, I took the taxi home.