Wireless Fun

Sometimes you are frustrated with wires all over your computer. Then you had a cool idea about going wireless with your input devices. That striked me as.... kpessh! The common wireless keyboards and mouse aren't really wireless if you think about it. You still have to connect the radio receive hub with wires to your computer. I then started thinking about using bluetooth devices. So far Logitech as a handful came up with these.

Aha!! Little did I realised that bluetooth devices comes with it set of problems. After 2 months of contant usage, it decided to give up on me. Now I am back to wired again...

Life's a spin

Just gonna take a break from all these conspiracy ideas.

I just had a hand in remodeling my starcase and work with a sander. It is not as easy to handle as I thought. I mean come on, its only a stairway, but the effort involved made it a lot harder. However, it is beginning to look much better, now that I have stripped off the ugly glue that used to hold down the carpet. The work is still amazingly well preserved. I am excited to see what the final product would be.

V for Vendetta

Has anyone seen this movie? How close does it depict the actual workings of the US government? Its rather interesting to know what the truth it and how people are going to react to that. The video that I posted, had quite a bit of repercussion and there are some that are just not willing to see that it is a possibility. How much more does the media and government has its way to continue to channel its propaganda to a country? Why are news in the US and news outside of the US different? Any thoughts?

Running after a nose

Its been 1 week since I had my run with a cold. The weather here doesn't really help, especially we had a -2F a week ago. Since then it hasn't been warm enough for me to get better. Today I felt worse than the other days. I might even take a day off tomorrow to at least recover somewhat before going into the office again. Who knows?

Christmas season

Anyone else doing things different this Christmas?? Black Friday was just nuts. People were just pushing and shoving like apes when stores open at 5:30am. When is Christmas about buying and shoving people aside while doing that.

Only in the US.

The truth about 9/11 - Conspiracy

There were talk about what actually happened during 9/11. Did the Al-Queda plan the attack? Or was it a coorperative effort with the US government to stir the US people to war against terrorism? ... just like Pearl Habour.

Just push aside what was said over the media for several months following the attack, and have see it in a different perspective. A perspective different from what was brain washed to the US. Check out this website www.st911.org. There are several video of people who were in the building before it collapsed.

Here is a 1.5 hour of video documentary.....

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8172271955308136871&q=9%2F11+mysteries

Lengua de Rosario, Argentina

Ingredientes:
1 lengua de vaca Perejil Ajos Vinagre de vino Aceite de oliva Sal y pimienta 2 claras de huevo hervidas (las que sobraron de la mayonesa) Aceto balsámico
Instruccións:
Hervir la lengua con sal el tiempo necesario para que esté bien tierna. Retirar del fuego , pelarla y dejarla enfriar envuelta en film, en la heladera. Cuando esté fría, retirarle todas las venas y cosas horribles que tiene y cortarla en rebanadas finitas. Picar 5 dientes de ajo muy requete-chiquitos, hacer lo mismo con el perejil, preparar en un bol la vinagreta con 3/4 taza de vinagre, 1 cucharadita de aceto, 1 y1/2 taza de aceite, sal y pimienta. Mezclar bien y bañar la lengua. Poner en la heladera (tapada para que no transmita el olor). Hervir las claras en agua con sal y una pizca de colorante rojo, retirarlas y picarlas. Esparcirlas sobre la lengua en el momento de servir (le da un toque original). (Buenos Aires, Argentina)

A surprise party

Lisa's surprise party was a masterpiece on my part and everyone involve. The face of horror as she walked down the stairs into our basement, screamed at the top of her lungs as everyone screamed "surprise!"

Finally it was a pay back for all the other birthdays she had schemed for me. ... you can bet that there will be a pay back...soon!

Artificial or Natural Grass

Any takes?

14 days straight

This is may be a typical lifestyle to some of you but working for 2 weeks straight is definitely not my cup of tea. I have been working since Nov 3 and finally I see the finish line. I wonder if there is a study on impaired judgement after such period of time.

what do you think? becoz I am not anymore.

Sleeping in airports

It is rather interesting to me to see people dashing from one end to the other in airports. many of times, the stresses and anxieties that they experience are cause by themselves. The simplest of tasks are somehow un-doable (i.e. standing in line). The simplest of courtesy is out the window when one is at stress. Especially "they" will pick on non-English speakers.....or so they think.

check out www.sleepinginairports.com

Who is your god now?

Distinctively churches in the US has grown to elevate their pastor as God. Somewhat that does not sit well with .... not well at all. many churches I have falling into that trend in the USm especially the ones that are politically tied in to a party or the other. Nevertheless the last scandal has not only proven the fall of men, but also that pastors are NOT God. Ted Haggard, ex-senior pastor of new Life Church in Colorado Springs was accused of having sex with a gay man in Denver. Google "ted haggrd" and you'll find 1000+ pages that is talking about this "scandal" or "truth". This is one of the pages; http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1554388,00.html

Dell E521

Finally got my new computer and everything else running as it should be. Now to accessorise it.

Charlie's BBQ

Finally we found the restaurant. Used to be on Nevada Ave. but they have moved to Manitou Springs. It's better than before and definitely a lot cleaner than they used to be. This was a good hearty lunch for only $6.99. 

Rain and Snow

Here it comes!! Rain, hail, snow, slush.... it seems like its earlier this year. Unlike the previous years our first snow is on Oct 31. As of today, we have seen 3 snow showers. Wonder how winter would look like ?

Good friends.

I just received an email from a friend in Penang with pictures of our good friend's wedding. I think good friends are hard to find. Especially those that you could connect like you have never left at all. Looking at the pictures attached on the email, bring me back good memory.

Congratulations Kenny!

Seated climb

I was part of a cycling class yesterday and the trainer had us doing a pyramid seated climb and standing climb. All this while, I was about to have a heart attack. With all the altitude adjustment and not exercising for 1 month, its taking me a while to get back in shape. Well.... at least I did not stop cycling for 1.5 hours.

Geocaching

I guess there is always the next craze. I found something that I would be interested in pursuing... Geocaching. A mini version of treasure hunt, where the treasure could potentially be located any where in the world. You just need a GPS device with Geocaching capability, lots of energy and you are good to go.

Its a Ruger

Finally I made a decision to purchase the Ruger P95 (KP95PR15 model).

Long wait, but it arrived

Today had lunch with my boss and finally told me that I will be getting my promotion. It has been a 6 months ordeal on creating this new department and job description. Well, I am glad that it is finally on paper and could freely talk about it and act in my role. I will be the Missions Program manager and will chartering the direction of the company as a whole.

Thank you God!!

Any thoughts on a 9mm handgun?

I am considering to purchase a new handgun, preferably one that shoots 9mm. (Cheaper ammo) Does anyone out there have any suggestions/recommendations? If possible, give me some pointers on their trigger pull, rounds, safety, DA or SA, etc?

I am considering either the Ruger P95, Sig 228, Beretta 92s or Walther P99.

Consider it sold!

I just posted a blog about my S&W handgun and today I just sold it for $25 more than what I paid for. I am now looking for another handgun. Possibly a Ruger P95 with a 15 round magazine, 9mm with rails for accesory attachment. There is going to be a gun show pretty soon. I might get one there.

Smith & Wesson

Yesterday was great. I had been wanting to shooting my 9mm for sometime now, but never found the time. Finally, yesterday was an awesome for shooting and went to the range. Great way to spend outdoors...killing paper targets. Here is a picture of my semi-auto.

YLG - Aftermath

The recent Younger Leaders Gathering 2006 in Port Dickson, Malaysia left me with a bitter sweet taste. My small group of 8 men was great. We had a great time bonding and allowing God to work through some of the issues in our lives. These are the kind of relationships that I hardly find in the US.

However, the gathering itself left me questioning the committee and their intentions. One thing for sure, they were not ready to address the issue on racial discrimination and prejudicism in this world. Especially that we had about 120+ nationality represented all in one place and no one address that. This question was raise during one of those "post your questions on the board" ouside the hall. I guess someone pull it down when they saw the question on prejudism.

How are Christians going to move forward when the basic reconciliation are not even tended to? Lets not talk about working together and evangelising the world, basic relationships are not mended. This is about "CHANGING LIVES" ..... just don't forget the lives of Christians.

Why so secretive?

I think it had to be said about the Younger Leaders Gathering in “Kuala Lumpur”, Malaysia 2006. I just received my final packet of information and it was mentioned quote:

“It is the desire of Lausanne to have a safe and enjoyable Gathering for the participants coming from over 100 countries. Although we do not anticipate any security problems, we do want to take some prudent cautions. The following are some security guidelines:

1. Malaysia is a Muslim country. While visiting Malaysia it is important to respect those hosting us and not engage in proselytizing. Obviously we are gathering in the name of Christ for the purpose of advancing the Kingdom. However, during this Gathering and while in Malaysia it is important that we focus on living out Christ-like lives and not criticize our Muslim neighbors. - I agree with this. The last thing I want is to have someone to have disregard all the hard work Malaysian Christians have put into gaining the confidence of the country, and jeopardise that relationship.
2. There will be those attending YLG-06 who are coming from countries that have security concerns and it would be dangerous for them if their picture was published. So, we will ask that NO pictures be taken of those that have nametags that are a certain color or have a NO-PICTURE STICKER. - I wonder which nation is that?
   
3. All those attending the Gathering will be required to wear nametags. If you notice individuals who without nametags who are hanging around, please inform the YLG conference staff. - Its a resort and a public place. If there is someone hanging around in the conference area without a name tag, I understand, but in the hotel…… this is not a country with KGB or religious police around.
4. Please do not publish information on the exact hotel or location of the Younger Leaders Gathering in your newsletter or blog. - I wonder why.
   

Again, we are not anticipating any problems, but we are taking some conservative precautions for the safety of everyone attending.”

I will be traveling to Malaysia for this gathering, and will be representing the US. The interesting thing is that I am a Malaysian and grew up there all my life as a Christian. Bottomline, Malaysia is not some middle east country with fanatic muslims. Street evangelism and freedom of religion is part of Malaysia. So don’t make up what it is not.

Let’s just enjoy the time together and keep our courtesy alive.

Rwanda - Sept 9 - 19, 2006

Most Rwandans live in round grass huts in farms scattered over the country’s many hills. Family life is central to society. Traditionally, the principal goal in life was parenthood. Women generally dress in brightly colored wraps, men in white. However, many have adopted Western clothes. The Rwandan diet consists mainly of sweet potatoes and beans, with bananas, corn, peas, millet, and fruits added in season. Beer and milk are important beverages. Protein deficiency is a serious problem. Cattle are herded as signs of wealth and status rather than for their value as food. Most Rwandans consume meat only about once or twice a month. Fish is eaten by those living near lakes. Pastimes include poetry recitation, storytelling, and mancala, a board game common throughout Africa. Soccer is also popular.

Luasanne - Younger Leaders Gathering 2006

This first time I heard about this gathering or anything about lausanne was in Feb 2006. Someone had recommended me. Later the week I received an invite to register and go through their process of selection. Due to my work with Compassion, my schedule is pretty much set for 1 year ahead. With doubt I submitted my application for the interview and was later turned down for the gathering….. so I thought!

In August, about 2 weeks ago, I got a phone call from MentorLink asking me if I had registered yet for the gathering or have I decided not to go. I was rather surprised since it was them who told me that I did not qualify.

My next obstacle was that, if Compassion could let me go and represent them under their banner. I didn’t think much of it, thought that will be a waste of time to them. Within 24 hours, I had the support of 3 VPs and an area director of Compassion, all expenses paid.

Lausanne gathering, a place to connect, inspire, mentor and develope. There are only 55 that are invited to North Americans and I got it. I am NOT even an American. I am a Malaysian. It has been a call in my life to bridge nations. And this gathering held in my birth city of Kuala Lumpur, representing the US but yet Malaysian at heart, is indeed truly a “crossing”.

Younger Leaders Gathering 2006 - Are you connected?

Around the world - One way

This September 2006 is going to be an interesting marathon of destinations for me. Sept 7th Colorado Springs to Dallas then to London. Sept 9th, London to Nairobi, Kenya then to Kigali, Rwanda.

A few days of break in Rwanda then flying back to Nairobi again on Sept 19th then on to Dubai, UAE then to Singapore. Breaking my trip in Singapore for a couple of days before flying up to KL, Malaysia for a week. Then on Oct 1st, to Hong Kong then to Los Angeles and finally home in Colorado Springs.

9 different cities in 3 weeks, in 4 different continents. So far, this is the craziest ever.

A foreigner's life

Argentina has created the new goal standard in the 2006 World Cup by scoring 6 goals to nothing against Serbia.. The next match is with Netherlands and whether Argentina wins or not, they will be in for the 2 round of elimination. Watch out Brazil!!

Lounge Music

A new winner in my book of soul & jazz music, Wendy Woo. Check out her music at www.wendywoo.com. Her perfomances are here in Colorado....most of them.

Home Alone

Lisa and Ethan went on their way to Colombia today. Within a 4-month period Ethan has travelled to 3 continents. And after 5 years Lisa returns home to the country that she loves.

Cholesterol

Pronunciation: k&-'les-t&-"rOl, -"rol
Function: noun
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary, from chol- + Greek stereos solid
: a steroid alcohol C₂₇H₄₅OH that is present in animal cells and body fluids, regulates membrane fluidity, and functions as a precursor molecule in various metabolic pathways and as a constituent of LDL may cause arteriosclerosis


My cholesterol level is at 206 and its something not to be proud of. This is the first time in my life, that I've a concern about my health. I guess its time to put on my running shoes and get back to burning that excess fat away.

Happy Easter

Happy easter to you all!! Yeah!!

Ethan's party part 2

More fun

Ethan's birthday party

They said a picture speaks a thousand words. Enjoy!


 

It's the weekend!

Finally its here. Time to finish the last bit of home renovation and get a party going this Sunday for Ethan's 1st birthday.

home makeover frustrations

I just spent 2 weeks working laying down wood floors, base boards, lighting, framing a wall and cementing it. Lisa is working on staining the stairs and our buffet cabinet. They do hype up and make it looks so easy on TV. One miscalculation, and there goes my wood floor. I have a one inch gap on the floor that I need to fix and on another room, I completely ran out of boards. Measure twice, cut once..... if you know how to measure.

Beside all this, its been fun working on the house, not to mention the appreciation in home value.

El Salvador

My recent trip to El Salvador made a difference to me. In my job, I have the pleasure of travelling internationally and get to know about new cultures and different countries.

This was my 3rd trip to El Salvador and Rosa is an unsponsored girl from Nueva Guadalupe, near San Miguel. It had never cross my mind to sponsor another child, but she is a doll. Anyways, I got to meet here while visiting her student centre and decided right then to sponsor her. Here is Rosa Lisseth Argueta Piñeda, 5 years old. 

a year has pass

They said once you have a child, and as responsibilities adds up, time just flies. Good thing is that my belly is not expanding yet. Proving to many of my friends out there, that staying lean is possible.

Well, Ethan is a year old now. It seems so fast that only a year ago we were given this task of parenthood, not knowing a single thing about it. We survived!