I have never been a person who would be OK with having medicine. I think twice...umm OK thrice....before even having Panadol. I just don't know why, as its quite the norm now to have any medicine recommended by the doctor. I was even more apprehensive after Homeopathic medicine before marriage but the expert knowledge brought in by my wife about the field of homeopathy and how it has no side-effects really did a whole lot in building a comfort zone with homeopathic medicine.
However, I am still very apprehensive about antibiotics and other medicine. I don't like anything out of nature going into my body and me having no idea what it will do. Not to mention the long list of side-effects. They are very smart in listing the side-effects in real pharmacist terms or medical/biological names. This way it doesn't make any sense to the person who is taking them. Thank you, that is so much more useful.
So yesterday when the doc gave me a long list of medicine to take for a recent sickness of mine, you can imagine how I would have felt. Its not easy to take 4 tablets at one go which includes an antibiotic as well. Its mental torture for someone like me as to what will all of these do by going inside me.
Its a 10-day dose so this will go on for a few days. I just hope I stay sane and normal as I do tend to lose my temper a lot more when on antibiotics....at least I like to sell that image...
Sania Mirza - With all the HUFF & PUFF
Sania Mirza is the Indian tennis revolution and does have the potential to be bigger than Leander Paes & Mahesh Bhupathi who weren't really great singles players. They were a marvelous doubles team but at last India do have someone who could be their singles tennis superstar.
Sania's career hasn't really got off to the start she would have dreamed but she has won some matches and does hold as respectable spot in the rankings, only improving.
Recently she was involved in a bit of controversy with disrespecting the Indian Flag. She could have been a little more careful but the way this issue was just blasted in proportions was something that didn't do much for her image. Also being a Muslim and wearing unacceptable clothes as per the religion had a few Islamic criticism following her as well.
She really needed a boost and with her recent exit from the Dubai Open Championships 2008, its going back to the drawing board for her. She lost to the No.4 seed, Jelena Jankovic, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. It wasn't exactly a roll-over and die scenario but she didn't look at her best.
She has such a big fan following in Dubai considering its not only the Indians but other Asians who look at her as the Asian revolution in a lot of ways. She did disappointed a lot of fans who will not watch any further as the spice is out of the tournament.
Saying all that, many tennis players still believe she has potential to get into the top 10. Maybe less controversy and more quality tennis is the call for the day. Otherwise, Anna Kournikova and Martina Hingis are some good examples of what could happen to a potential good career amidst controversies.
Sania's career hasn't really got off to the start she would have dreamed but she has won some matches and does hold as respectable spot in the rankings, only improving.
Recently she was involved in a bit of controversy with disrespecting the Indian Flag. She could have been a little more careful but the way this issue was just blasted in proportions was something that didn't do much for her image. Also being a Muslim and wearing unacceptable clothes as per the religion had a few Islamic criticism following her as well.
She really needed a boost and with her recent exit from the Dubai Open Championships 2008, its going back to the drawing board for her. She lost to the No.4 seed, Jelena Jankovic, 4-6, 6-3, 6-4. It wasn't exactly a roll-over and die scenario but she didn't look at her best.
She has such a big fan following in Dubai considering its not only the Indians but other Asians who look at her as the Asian revolution in a lot of ways. She did disappointed a lot of fans who will not watch any further as the spice is out of the tournament.
Saying all that, many tennis players still believe she has potential to get into the top 10. Maybe less controversy and more quality tennis is the call for the day. Otherwise, Anna Kournikova and Martina Hingis are some good examples of what could happen to a potential good career amidst controversies.
Internet Transactions - Overcoming the Fear
I have never been a person who would go and buy stuff on-line. With e-commerce developing all around us and many of us bloggers using many ways to refer people to various products to be bought on-line, I thought it was a good time to write how I overcame my fear of Internet transactions.
Getting a Credit Card
Its natural being someone with a bit of IT background to be a bit apprehensive about Credit Cards. Knowing that how easy it is to pick up a Credit Card number and (mis)use it on-line. Firstly, it's very recent that I got my first credit card. I was recommended by a good friend of mine with similar apprehensions about the Non-Islamic concept of Credit Cards. It took a long time before we both agreed that we will not live on credit and not let interest be charged to us. Pay the bills as they come or even before the due date. We will only keep it for an emergency. That got me buying a free for life credit card. I was quick to realize the benefits of it. An ease of mind that a medical emergency will not make me go around borrowing money from anybody. To-date I keep a credit card to save me from those situations.
Making my First Transaction On-line
Ok so what if I have a credit card. I am not going to give my number away on a website which could easily be mis-used by someone else. No way. Whats the safety of it? If anybody knows me a bit, I could be the most pessimistic person in the world. I spoke to my bank and how they can protect me from such situations. I had no intentions to use it on-line, just wanted to get a feeler. There were lots of options such as spending a monthly fee for insurance of any unforeseen misuse . That didn't go well with me. But they also told me that we could call you every time when you make a transaction to confirm. Now that sounded a little more comfortable. So every time my card is used on-line, somebody from the bank will call to confirm. Much much comfortable.
I made my first transaction for an on-line exam. A safe transaction and they did call to confirm. I am much at ease now. Then I made another transaction to get something else on-line and they didn't call. I got worried. Next time I used my credit card at a grocery, it didn't work. I called them to find out whats wrong. They said, we had blocked it as you made an on-line transaction. Another kind of confirmation to avoid misuse. I got back to my ease mode. They are taking care of any misuse on my card.
Most banks now also offer a limit on which they would call you, a maximum limit and anything that you can think of to make your on-line transactions safe and secure. Some banks also have a specific card only to be used for Internet Transactions. This card, you can keep at home as you cant swipe it. Low limits on these ones. No chance of someone snatching it etc.
Learning a lot more about it, I am still very careful while using my credit card on-line. You have to know where you are using it. Avoid phishing gimmicks and use your credit card on better known websites like Amazon, Ebay, etc. I don't think its as bad as it sounds and all this coming from a person who was apprehensive about the concept in the first place, I think it says a lot about the improvement in safety & security of it as of today.
Once the apprehension is gone, you suddenly realize how much ease you are at. Buy stuff, get deals, gain bonus points. The bank & credit company gains as well. Its a detailed topic which I will write on to give you an idea as to whats the benefit to them. But it is a mutual gain, I can guarantee you.
Its all about how you use it and not get dependent on it. Don't build credit on it, just gain a wider option for buying something you want.
Getting a Credit Card
Its natural being someone with a bit of IT background to be a bit apprehensive about Credit Cards. Knowing that how easy it is to pick up a Credit Card number and (mis)use it on-line. Firstly, it's very recent that I got my first credit card. I was recommended by a good friend of mine with similar apprehensions about the Non-Islamic concept of Credit Cards. It took a long time before we both agreed that we will not live on credit and not let interest be charged to us. Pay the bills as they come or even before the due date. We will only keep it for an emergency. That got me buying a free for life credit card. I was quick to realize the benefits of it. An ease of mind that a medical emergency will not make me go around borrowing money from anybody. To-date I keep a credit card to save me from those situations.
Making my First Transaction On-line
Ok so what if I have a credit card. I am not going to give my number away on a website which could easily be mis-used by someone else. No way. Whats the safety of it? If anybody knows me a bit, I could be the most pessimistic person in the world. I spoke to my bank and how they can protect me from such situations. I had no intentions to use it on-line, just wanted to get a feeler. There were lots of options such as spending a monthly fee for insurance of any unforeseen misuse . That didn't go well with me. But they also told me that we could call you every time when you make a transaction to confirm. Now that sounded a little more comfortable. So every time my card is used on-line, somebody from the bank will call to confirm. Much much comfortable.
I made my first transaction for an on-line exam. A safe transaction and they did call to confirm. I am much at ease now. Then I made another transaction to get something else on-line and they didn't call. I got worried. Next time I used my credit card at a grocery, it didn't work. I called them to find out whats wrong. They said, we had blocked it as you made an on-line transaction. Another kind of confirmation to avoid misuse. I got back to my ease mode. They are taking care of any misuse on my card.
Most banks now also offer a limit on which they would call you, a maximum limit and anything that you can think of to make your on-line transactions safe and secure. Some banks also have a specific card only to be used for Internet Transactions. This card, you can keep at home as you cant swipe it. Low limits on these ones. No chance of someone snatching it etc.
Learning a lot more about it, I am still very careful while using my credit card on-line. You have to know where you are using it. Avoid phishing gimmicks and use your credit card on better known websites like Amazon, Ebay, etc. I don't think its as bad as it sounds and all this coming from a person who was apprehensive about the concept in the first place, I think it says a lot about the improvement in safety & security of it as of today.
Once the apprehension is gone, you suddenly realize how much ease you are at. Buy stuff, get deals, gain bonus points. The bank & credit company gains as well. Its a detailed topic which I will write on to give you an idea as to whats the benefit to them. But it is a mutual gain, I can guarantee you.
Its all about how you use it and not get dependent on it. Don't build credit on it, just gain a wider option for buying something you want.
Ponting worth $400,000
In an auction where Symonds went easily above a million and Brett Less near a million, Ricky Ponting could only fetch $400,000. Yes, I am talking about the recent IPL auctions. I was wondering why the top captain in the world and definitely one of the best batsmen on the current cricket scene didn't fetch a bargain.
I believe a big reason of this might be his recent form. He hasn't been in the best of form in the last few games. It might also be because he may not bring the Indian crowds to the game as much a Symonds would. People would love to see some HUGE hitting and Ponting somehow doesn't sell that big-hitter image.
Plus he is not really an all-rounder which is an asset in 20-20. Those might be few of the reasons of his low big. A similar figure was there for Mike Hussey. I guess again, missing all-rounder characteristic might have done them there.
Saying all that, if somebody asks me my view on IPL or ICL or anything of the sort....I would say no from the start till the end. I am a true traditionalist who would enjoy a 5-day game more than any of the shorter versions. The game of cricket that was, will only loose its charm and quality with each step into commercialization.
We are already seeing the repercussions of this big money coming in. Early retirements and people just deserting home teams for more money. No patriotic spirit. Honestly, the players who are playing are only doing because of their home contracts and board regulations. Otherwise, everybody will just jump into it. Its too big an offer to leave.
Anyway, thinking positively, lets hope these new leagues help the game money-wise without losing its charm and traditions.
I believe a big reason of this might be his recent form. He hasn't been in the best of form in the last few games. It might also be because he may not bring the Indian crowds to the game as much a Symonds would. People would love to see some HUGE hitting and Ponting somehow doesn't sell that big-hitter image.
Plus he is not really an all-rounder which is an asset in 20-20. Those might be few of the reasons of his low big. A similar figure was there for Mike Hussey. I guess again, missing all-rounder characteristic might have done them there.
Saying all that, if somebody asks me my view on IPL or ICL or anything of the sort....I would say no from the start till the end. I am a true traditionalist who would enjoy a 5-day game more than any of the shorter versions. The game of cricket that was, will only loose its charm and quality with each step into commercialization.
We are already seeing the repercussions of this big money coming in. Early retirements and people just deserting home teams for more money. No patriotic spirit. Honestly, the players who are playing are only doing because of their home contracts and board regulations. Otherwise, everybody will just jump into it. Its too big an offer to leave.
Anyway, thinking positively, lets hope these new leagues help the game money-wise without losing its charm and traditions.
Remembering friends via NICKNAMES
Ever wondered how many Nicknames we had around us when we were in university or school. I don't know how many of the people who come read here have gone through the university level but I think the majority have or are going through it. For those who haven't as yet, this post is something to look forward to in your lives. Nicknames are something that become easy to remember names and you also feel cool if you have a nickname. Today, I will dedicate this post to the great nicknames of people I had around me at my university or school level. Read further and enjoy,
UTP - Of course it starts with me. Sammity Sam, Robot, Jheenga, Chitta, KK, Towel, ShamsooBaba, Kawwa, Bha (Chaddi), Qazi, Kamany, Choudhary, ZeeZee, Mama, Quetta, Chacha, AslamBhai, Baba, Ghora, BaaziKabootar, Kakajani, Bambi, Dexter, Denver, Choops, Fido, Faddo, Nikka, Kami, Etchkoobi, Fadi, Commandoo, Zubbee....
Its amazing, the names we can come up with and they stay forever. You can actually forget their real names.
It becomes embarrassing for the ones like Towel for example who I actually met in a mall while he was with some international office colleagues. The poor guy blushed when I said TOWEL...how are you man? He mumbled...use my name, use my name...and honestly it took a while to remember his real name...
Another case was when I called up Jheenga at his office and it suddenly hit me during the first ring that what if hedoesnt pick up? What would I say....I want to talk to Jheenga....heheh...thank God it was him who picked up and saved the day....
I was lucky I got a sober nickname which was actually given by a teacher & friend of mine. So UTP almost sounds like a brand name...hehehe I wish...it were....I could be making enough money....to buy that Mercedes convertible I have my eyes on hehehe....but you never know...it might just become a brand name in the future...it has the ring & rhyme to it...no lack of potential here...
UTP - Of course it starts with me. Sammity Sam, Robot, Jheenga, Chitta, KK, Towel, ShamsooBaba, Kawwa, Bha (Chaddi), Qazi, Kamany, Choudhary, ZeeZee, Mama, Quetta, Chacha, AslamBhai, Baba, Ghora, BaaziKabootar, Kakajani, Bambi, Dexter, Denver, Choops, Fido, Faddo, Nikka, Kami, Etchkoobi, Fadi, Commandoo, Zubbee....
Its amazing, the names we can come up with and they stay forever. You can actually forget their real names.
It becomes embarrassing for the ones like Towel for example who I actually met in a mall while he was with some international office colleagues. The poor guy blushed when I said TOWEL...how are you man? He mumbled...use my name, use my name...and honestly it took a while to remember his real name...
Another case was when I called up Jheenga at his office and it suddenly hit me during the first ring that what if hedoesnt pick up? What would I say....I want to talk to Jheenga....heheh...thank God it was him who picked up and saved the day....
I was lucky I got a sober nickname which was actually given by a teacher & friend of mine. So UTP almost sounds like a brand name...hehehe I wish...it were....I could be making enough money....to buy that Mercedes convertible I have my eyes on hehehe....but you never know...it might just become a brand name in the future...it has the ring & rhyme to it...no lack of potential here...
Modern Day Cricket Coaching
The role of a coach in the modern game of cricket has changed in so many ways, I think they should think about renaming that position. Today's coach is a strategist to the core and someone who runs the trainings, practices, injuries and in some countries even team selection.
From the past, this person was someone who would just be in the background and help out on the basics. The coach's role today is much better than many white-collar jobs in the market. In fact, considering the pay-check most international coaches take home today, they should mark it as a white-collar job.
A lot of it has to do with the change in the modern game itself. With so much commercialization and money getting in the game, having an expensive coach other than him being a good coach is important as well. With the introduction of former players taking up coaching roles, it has become an even more respectable and involved role.
The coach is directly involved in player nurturing, skill development, strategy and also the events off the field. So, controversies and differences are no longer restricted to the players only. Coaches have enough ways to get into news as well.
In fact its not even one coach now. There is the bowling coach, the fielding coach, the trainer and a whole team of coaching staff. An idea coming from Amercian sports I presume, NBA, NFL etc. Every role appreciated and specialized in their own way. I guess there is no harm in specialized roles only that it comes with a cost. In the old days, all those roles were associated with a single person.
Another interesting part of modern day coaching is the cultural differences that most international coaches need to adjust to when they come into a new country. This is usually a trend in the Asian teams where money is not an issue hence take examples of Greg Chappell, the late Bob Woolmer, Dav Whatmore, Tom Moody etc, all have had difficult times adjusting to a varying culture as compared to their origins and people would have mixed opinions about their success.
I wont go into details on individuals but commercialization has revolutionized the role of the modern day coach as well. I am not exactly sure if thats good or bad for the game overall, but its definitely brought in a lot more quality & professionalism into the game which is good for the future of cricket.
From the past, this person was someone who would just be in the background and help out on the basics. The coach's role today is much better than many white-collar jobs in the market. In fact, considering the pay-check most international coaches take home today, they should mark it as a white-collar job.
A lot of it has to do with the change in the modern game itself. With so much commercialization and money getting in the game, having an expensive coach other than him being a good coach is important as well. With the introduction of former players taking up coaching roles, it has become an even more respectable and involved role.
The coach is directly involved in player nurturing, skill development, strategy and also the events off the field. So, controversies and differences are no longer restricted to the players only. Coaches have enough ways to get into news as well.
In fact its not even one coach now. There is the bowling coach, the fielding coach, the trainer and a whole team of coaching staff. An idea coming from Amercian sports I presume, NBA, NFL etc. Every role appreciated and specialized in their own way. I guess there is no harm in specialized roles only that it comes with a cost. In the old days, all those roles were associated with a single person.
Another interesting part of modern day coaching is the cultural differences that most international coaches need to adjust to when they come into a new country. This is usually a trend in the Asian teams where money is not an issue hence take examples of Greg Chappell, the late Bob Woolmer, Dav Whatmore, Tom Moody etc, all have had difficult times adjusting to a varying culture as compared to their origins and people would have mixed opinions about their success.
I wont go into details on individuals but commercialization has revolutionized the role of the modern day coach as well. I am not exactly sure if thats good or bad for the game overall, but its definitely brought in a lot more quality & professionalism into the game which is good for the future of cricket.
50 Million Dirhams
I just wanted to write that out to see how big it sounds. OK no wait...let me put it in figures. 50,000,000 AED. WHOOSH!!!!
That's the big number of the day today. Some 25 year old Shaikh in Abu Dhabi bought a NUMBER PLATE...yes guys a NUMBER PLATE....with "1" written on it. Its a fad here, buying unique number plates. The less digits there are, the more expensive it is. 50 million dirhams!!! I just cant get over it.
Just to add, he broke the record of his cousin which was for 25 Million Dirhams spent on a number plate having the No. 5 on it a few months back. Where do they get this money to burn from? Then they raise our rents and make a bit more.
That was an Abu Dhabi record. Just a few weeks back the No.1 plate in Dubai went for 30 Million AED. I thought that was it, nobody could beat that. I was completely proved wrong. I should never estimate the buying power of Shaikhs.
Where I have written stuff like the 1 dollar story, I can still do a lot with a 50 million AED. I wonder whether if its even possible in this life. Hehehe...50,000,000 AED!!! Man...!!!
That's the big number of the day today. Some 25 year old Shaikh in Abu Dhabi bought a NUMBER PLATE...yes guys a NUMBER PLATE....with "1" written on it. Its a fad here, buying unique number plates. The less digits there are, the more expensive it is. 50 million dirhams!!! I just cant get over it.
Just to add, he broke the record of his cousin which was for 25 Million Dirhams spent on a number plate having the No. 5 on it a few months back. Where do they get this money to burn from? Then they raise our rents and make a bit more.
That was an Abu Dhabi record. Just a few weeks back the No.1 plate in Dubai went for 30 Million AED. I thought that was it, nobody could beat that. I was completely proved wrong. I should never estimate the buying power of Shaikhs.
Where I have written stuff like the 1 dollar story, I can still do a lot with a 50 million AED. I wonder whether if its even possible in this life. Hehehe...50,000,000 AED!!! Man...!!!
Tribute to Stephen Fleming - One of the Greatest captains of All-Time
I am a person who appreciates the great minds of the game of cricket. These are the people who have maintained the charm of this great game even amongst the commercialization of it. These people have in the past and will keep making great captains in the future as well.
When I see a captain, I want to see someone who is a leader. Not just someone who wins matches or plays well. That category is for the stars. When I want to see a captain, I want to see someone who can lead from the front, be the last man standing. Take the boos in a loss and be modest in a win. A thinker, innovation being the middle name, and fight till the last ball or wicket attitude. Make everybody play to their best. Now that is a true skipper.
Bottom-line, I want to see someone who is a complete personality and some one to look up to.
In this regard, my all-time favorite captain has been Stephen Fleming. The guy may not get credit with his modest records as others might but this guy has been there in a best possible way a guy could be for his team. With not the best players in the world around him, Fleming made sure that each player plays to his top potential. If they are able to do that then he would go home content. Winning or losing is part of the game but playing it well is what the true cricket lover wants to see. Fleming ensured that cricket watchers got their money's worth.
Its a game, one of the sides will lose. But in order to watch good cricket you would like to see someone like Fleming on the field ordering his troops around. All his career, he has been known for his creativity. Call it strange fielding positions, strange bowling changes, new ball bowling with spinners and what not. Stephen Fleming is your captain for a team that isn't filled with superstars.
When required, leading from the front, opening the innings. Top standards of fielding and then nurturing young players. Look what Vettori has become under him. He is the next captain and those are some big shoes to fill. Talent needs to be nurtured and used correctly. Fleming has made it happen for the Kiwis.
Just read that he retires after the England Series. He will be missed for his innovations and creativity in the game. Thats how I will remember him.
When I see a captain, I want to see someone who is a leader. Not just someone who wins matches or plays well. That category is for the stars. When I want to see a captain, I want to see someone who can lead from the front, be the last man standing. Take the boos in a loss and be modest in a win. A thinker, innovation being the middle name, and fight till the last ball or wicket attitude. Make everybody play to their best. Now that is a true skipper.
Bottom-line, I want to see someone who is a complete personality and some one to look up to.
In this regard, my all-time favorite captain has been Stephen Fleming. The guy may not get credit with his modest records as others might but this guy has been there in a best possible way a guy could be for his team. With not the best players in the world around him, Fleming made sure that each player plays to his top potential. If they are able to do that then he would go home content. Winning or losing is part of the game but playing it well is what the true cricket lover wants to see. Fleming ensured that cricket watchers got their money's worth.
Its a game, one of the sides will lose. But in order to watch good cricket you would like to see someone like Fleming on the field ordering his troops around. All his career, he has been known for his creativity. Call it strange fielding positions, strange bowling changes, new ball bowling with spinners and what not. Stephen Fleming is your captain for a team that isn't filled with superstars.
When required, leading from the front, opening the innings. Top standards of fielding and then nurturing young players. Look what Vettori has become under him. He is the next captain and those are some big shoes to fill. Talent needs to be nurtured and used correctly. Fleming has made it happen for the Kiwis.
Just read that he retires after the England Series. He will be missed for his innovations and creativity in the game. Thats how I will remember him.
La Makan Mein Ghar - Part One
This is by far in my top list the best piece of Sufi poetry I have read or heard in my short life. Abida Parveen brings life to it with her voice. Since it is so close to my heart, I will be using each verse as a post of mine at different times in the upcoming future. Here is the first,
Hum Ko Yahan dar dar phiraya yaar nay...
La makan mein ghar banaya yaar nay...
Translation/Explanation:
This verse can be taken into both meanings as to that of love of this world in a person or spiritual love of God. I am going to keep it Sufi and talk about love of God.
It is the lover telling the world that my Love of God has made me go from door to door in search of Him. From places to places and I have spent so much time trying to find out how He is, how He looks? What He does? Talk to Him? The secret of the unseen, my curiosity. Moreover, just out of love I want to see my Love, talk to Him. Why have I not been able to find him?
The answer to that question is that He has made His home in a place where I can never go. I am not good enough or I am just not capable enough to go there. What kind of a relationship is this? He created me and then did not make me capable of finding Him. I cannot reach up there.
UTP's Two Cents on the Thought
It is not true that God can't be found. Its only that you have to find Him in the right places. Those who try to search for Him in this way will never find Him. Its our misunderstanding that He is at a place where we can never go. Those lucky people who are able to find God, who find the answer to the question of life....will tell you that God is more closer than we could imagine. He lives within our own presence. Our own self.
Hum Ko Yahan dar dar phiraya yaar nay...
La makan mein ghar banaya yaar nay...
Translation/Explanation:
This verse can be taken into both meanings as to that of love of this world in a person or spiritual love of God. I am going to keep it Sufi and talk about love of God.
It is the lover telling the world that my Love of God has made me go from door to door in search of Him. From places to places and I have spent so much time trying to find out how He is, how He looks? What He does? Talk to Him? The secret of the unseen, my curiosity. Moreover, just out of love I want to see my Love, talk to Him. Why have I not been able to find him?
The answer to that question is that He has made His home in a place where I can never go. I am not good enough or I am just not capable enough to go there. What kind of a relationship is this? He created me and then did not make me capable of finding Him. I cannot reach up there.
UTP's Two Cents on the Thought
It is not true that God can't be found. Its only that you have to find Him in the right places. Those who try to search for Him in this way will never find Him. Its our misunderstanding that He is at a place where we can never go. Those lucky people who are able to find God, who find the answer to the question of life....will tell you that God is more closer than we could imagine. He lives within our own presence. Our own self.
Lottery
I have been thinking about how to manage my budget book and what I will do when I could save a buck and then the mind just goes on and on. I stop and rewind back and come back to reality. Then start again and nothing works out as there is somehow no chance.
Yesterday I was driving and heard some caller on an FM Station who had just won 20,000AED. hehehe....I wonder how it happens. I have never won anything of the sort, of course win something like this, one has to buy tickets as well and believe heheh...I know I sound crazy but that is the only way I can get started on my HUGE plans.
Unfortunately, I still have a faith in Allah to guide us through the hard times. I want to do so much for my family, my parents, my siblings but I can only work with what I have. I can however plan stuff for the future. So if somewhere out of nowhere, I am able to make a big buck, the ball will start rolling much quicker than how it is currently. That would do wonders.
Sometimes I wonder, who are these people who win lotteries? How are they like? I ve never heard of anyone I know win something like that. I don't even know if its real. Do they get the whole amount? Its a crazy part of life and it becomes a disease in the end. An addiction. I guess now that I think of it, I am better of in a little hard times that winning a lottery than become addicted to the idea.
I guess writing helps. Honestly, I named this post lottery because I was seriously thinking about seriously going towards it when I started writing this post. While writing the brain cells have worked and am back to my strong faith in Allah and fate. Thanks, blogosphere.
Yesterday I was driving and heard some caller on an FM Station who had just won 20,000AED. hehehe....I wonder how it happens. I have never won anything of the sort, of course win something like this, one has to buy tickets as well and believe heheh...I know I sound crazy but that is the only way I can get started on my HUGE plans.
Unfortunately, I still have a faith in Allah to guide us through the hard times. I want to do so much for my family, my parents, my siblings but I can only work with what I have. I can however plan stuff for the future. So if somewhere out of nowhere, I am able to make a big buck, the ball will start rolling much quicker than how it is currently. That would do wonders.
Sometimes I wonder, who are these people who win lotteries? How are they like? I ve never heard of anyone I know win something like that. I don't even know if its real. Do they get the whole amount? Its a crazy part of life and it becomes a disease in the end. An addiction. I guess now that I think of it, I am better of in a little hard times that winning a lottery than become addicted to the idea.
I guess writing helps. Honestly, I named this post lottery because I was seriously thinking about seriously going towards it when I started writing this post. While writing the brain cells have worked and am back to my strong faith in Allah and fate. Thanks, blogosphere.
Nathan Bracken - Brains over Brawn
Nathen Bracken showed today what a little bit of extra thought in evaluating the weather, the pitch could do. He read the pitch picture-perfect today and executed the plan to perfection. Slower balls was the call for the day and he had every Sri Lankan who took guard trying to pick up the pace of the wicket.
Overcast conditions and the pitch under covers led to a slow pace on the wicket. Where Jayasuriya failed, Gilchrist came out well. Adjusting and showing patience. But it was Bracken who played with his brains today. He made it count and worked on the batsmen, led them to mistakes and went on to his career best 5 for 47.
It was a day to celebrate the brains of cricket rather than sheer power. A day to celebrate Steve Waugh, Javed Miandad, Stephen Fleming, ...
Overcast conditions and the pitch under covers led to a slow pace on the wicket. Where Jayasuriya failed, Gilchrist came out well. Adjusting and showing patience. But it was Bracken who played with his brains today. He made it count and worked on the batsmen, led them to mistakes and went on to his career best 5 for 47.
It was a day to celebrate the brains of cricket rather than sheer power. A day to celebrate Steve Waugh, Javed Miandad, Stephen Fleming, ...
First Winter in UAE
This is our first winter in UAE. I never thought the desert could get this cold. Other than the fact that its really cold, being sick doesn't help. I have been pretty much on bed-rest for the last few days or so. I get in bed stuffed with clothes. Vest, t-shirt, long-sleeve shirt, sweater and then in a blanket. Cold for a while, cosy next and into sleep. Then wake up in the middle of the night dripping wet. That is also because I would have shot down on the fever degrees, sweating. Taking of the sweater and feeling cold in the wet clothes and back in bed.
Its been different to say the least. I am not used to being sick, Alhumdulillah. And definitely not used to taking medicine at all. This time I have had to take some severe antibiotics as well and been sick for what seems longest period in recent times. I have not been this sick to miss work but its happened this time and 3 days, whoosh. I cant imagine what my boss would be feeling and to wonder that the yearly reviews are near. I am so worried about how this might not wash away my whole year's effort.
I wish best of health to the whole world even to my enemies. May God even keep my enemies away from sickness. Its just worth it. The good news is that the rest helped. I am feeling much better now and raring to go again. Maybe a much needed break is a positive way of looking at it not to mention I was on annual leave a month ago.
I may have mentioned somewhere earlier also that I hate winters. I would rather sweat in the summers and eat mangoes than be dry and cold in the winter. Anything below 15 degrees is severe for me.
Anyway, have to put my act together now. Its been a long break considering my high standards. Have been away from serious blogging also it seems, OK no, I have been posting either here or on mayg & utp so that's OK I guess. Thanks for all the prayers, they worked.
Its been different to say the least. I am not used to being sick, Alhumdulillah. And definitely not used to taking medicine at all. This time I have had to take some severe antibiotics as well and been sick for what seems longest period in recent times. I have not been this sick to miss work but its happened this time and 3 days, whoosh. I cant imagine what my boss would be feeling and to wonder that the yearly reviews are near. I am so worried about how this might not wash away my whole year's effort.
I wish best of health to the whole world even to my enemies. May God even keep my enemies away from sickness. Its just worth it. The good news is that the rest helped. I am feeling much better now and raring to go again. Maybe a much needed break is a positive way of looking at it not to mention I was on annual leave a month ago.
I may have mentioned somewhere earlier also that I hate winters. I would rather sweat in the summers and eat mangoes than be dry and cold in the winter. Anything below 15 degrees is severe for me.
Anyway, have to put my act together now. Its been a long break considering my high standards. Have been away from serious blogging also it seems, OK no, I have been posting either here or on mayg & utp so that's OK I guess. Thanks for all the prayers, they worked.
Dravid, Ganguly - No place in Indian ODI Team
It's really strange how decisions like these made without a second thought about it. Rahul Dravid and Saurav Ganguly were recently excluded from the the ODI series for the Indian team. There is a way to bring in your youngsters not at the cost of 2 greats who are at the twilight of the career.
Indians with already a demoralizing defeat in the test series really need to pull up their socks in the ODI against the recent World Cup Finalists Australia and Sri Lankan. How do they prepare for it? Remove 2 greats from the team, make way for youngsters. I think this was the most foolish move by the Indian selectors in the recent past. Just their presence makes all the different. You do not need to move them out this way. Batting is India's strength any day. There is a process of bringing in youngsters. This would have been their last tour down under. I think deserved a little more respect.
Now you look a weaker side, hope floats as they say. It can only be the 3rd team in the ODI series. There has not been a competitive ODI series in the recent past and it would have been much more interesting getting all teams at full strength.
Saying all that, I do wish the youngsters well also. I am not being unfair to them. They have a chance to prove so they should take it with both hands but I would loved to see Dravid and Ganguly for one more time in the ODI series.
Indians with already a demoralizing defeat in the test series really need to pull up their socks in the ODI against the recent World Cup Finalists Australia and Sri Lankan. How do they prepare for it? Remove 2 greats from the team, make way for youngsters. I think this was the most foolish move by the Indian selectors in the recent past. Just their presence makes all the different. You do not need to move them out this way. Batting is India's strength any day. There is a process of bringing in youngsters. This would have been their last tour down under. I think deserved a little more respect.
Now you look a weaker side, hope floats as they say. It can only be the 3rd team in the ODI series. There has not been a competitive ODI series in the recent past and it would have been much more interesting getting all teams at full strength.
Saying all that, I do wish the youngsters well also. I am not being unfair to them. They have a chance to prove so they should take it with both hands but I would loved to see Dravid and Ganguly for one more time in the ODI series.
The "3rd" Wedding Anniversary
Before I was writing this post, I just got confused. It's been 3 years since we got married and its the 4th year starting so is it our 3rd or 4th Anniversary....how does this go about? Yes sounds stupid but its how my mind can slow down at times. Confirmed with my wife and she said "3 years, Dumbo...". I have been sick for a few days actually and quite a lot of sick. Can't go into details as its not easy to talk about. I am better now and should go back to work tomorrow. 2 days off is no joke in UAE considering you already get the 2-day weekend.
Anyway since "Mayg & UTP" is already in place, this topic really belongs there. So after reading my sob-story obviously indicating that I am dying for attention (not that I don't get enough), I am going to ask you re-direct to MAYG & UTP's 3rd Anniversary for more.
Do pray for us, Happy Anniversary to US!!! May we have many more, Aameen.
Anyway since "Mayg & UTP" is already in place, this topic really belongs there. So after reading my sob-story obviously indicating that I am dying for attention (not that I don't get enough), I am going to ask you re-direct to MAYG & UTP's 3rd Anniversary for more.
Do pray for us, Happy Anniversary to US!!! May we have many more, Aameen.
NBA Slam Dunk Contest '08
Ok its time to look into this year's Slam Dunk contest at the NBA All Star Weekend '08. The participants - Gerald Green (last year's champion), Rudy Gay, Dwight Howard & Jamario Moon. We saw a lot of Gerald Green last year and it would only be the 3rd time in history that someone wins the contest back-to-back. Jason Richardson in 2002 & 2003 and Michael Jordan in 1987 and 1988.
Honestly I don't see a repeat coming this year. With two new entrants in Gay and Moon, I think there will be enough new stuff to see amongst those 2 only. I think it would be one of them taking it away this year.
Its amazing how these guys can come up each year and raise the bar one more level. It is tough to beat previous years best but every next year we see a new dimension added. Its really unbelievable what these guys can do.
Anyway, 16th Feb is the date to note for this event. Enjoy!!!
Honestly I don't see a repeat coming this year. With two new entrants in Gay and Moon, I think there will be enough new stuff to see amongst those 2 only. I think it would be one of them taking it away this year.
Its amazing how these guys can come up each year and raise the bar one more level. It is tough to beat previous years best but every next year we see a new dimension added. Its really unbelievable what these guys can do.
Anyway, 16th Feb is the date to note for this event. Enjoy!!!
Shoaib Akhtar - Valuable Excess Baggage
Since the day he broke open onto the scene, there have been less performances than the so called "expected potential". When he has played, he has been the most terrorizing bowler in the world but these numbers are too few to even talk about.
From day 1, the PCB has just taken up to his tantrums. Call it injuries, disciplinary actions and the big time foreign expenses for fixing his bowling action and God knows how many medical problems. I guess even the PCB has had enough and they have clearly indicated the same by not offering a central contract. They are not letting him go, they have offered him a retainer. What they mean by this is, we are not bearing your expenses any more. Be fit, you can play.
What Shoaib says to that is close to hilarious. He is in complete denial. Quoting, "Central contracts are not an issue because I play for my country and not for money. I will not accept retainership..."
He is deaf to the clear voice of PCB to say the least. Everybody has had enough of waiting for this volcano to erupt and cause destruction. He is well past his prime and where one had hoped he would take the reigns from Wasim and Waqar he has actually taken up a spot in the team long enough and many other Paki bowlers have missed their chance to prove.
Very happy with PCB's decision and hopefully the Paki team can find a few more of the infinite talent of fast bowlers that they seem to have. Its a good lineup even now if they are fit. Asif, Umar Gul and the list of newcomers, I think the future is more brighter than it was with Shoaib on contract.
Bye-bye Shoaib, have a nice day.
From day 1, the PCB has just taken up to his tantrums. Call it injuries, disciplinary actions and the big time foreign expenses for fixing his bowling action and God knows how many medical problems. I guess even the PCB has had enough and they have clearly indicated the same by not offering a central contract. They are not letting him go, they have offered him a retainer. What they mean by this is, we are not bearing your expenses any more. Be fit, you can play.
What Shoaib says to that is close to hilarious. He is in complete denial. Quoting, "Central contracts are not an issue because I play for my country and not for money. I will not accept retainership..."
He is deaf to the clear voice of PCB to say the least. Everybody has had enough of waiting for this volcano to erupt and cause destruction. He is well past his prime and where one had hoped he would take the reigns from Wasim and Waqar he has actually taken up a spot in the team long enough and many other Paki bowlers have missed their chance to prove.
Very happy with PCB's decision and hopefully the Paki team can find a few more of the infinite talent of fast bowlers that they seem to have. Its a good lineup even now if they are fit. Asif, Umar Gul and the list of newcomers, I think the future is more brighter than it was with Shoaib on contract.
Bye-bye Shoaib, have a nice day.
MAYG & UTP - The Blog
We have finally launched our shared blog where we will be ranting about how good (or bad) our lives are together hehhe...me and Mayg (my wife) have activated something that we had wanted to do for quite some time. Our shared blog. here is the URL,
http://maygandutp.blogspot.com
Add to favourites, add to google reader, whatever makes you happy....
Dont worry, I will still be blogging over here...with my usual regular frequency. But I have a feeling it is going to get much more interesting there. Hehehe....excited? I was talking to myself ok...Yes I am excited...Lets see what this develops into...
http://maygandutp.blogspot.com
Add to favourites, add to google reader, whatever makes you happy....
Dont worry, I will still be blogging over here...with my usual regular frequency. But I have a feeling it is going to get much more interesting there. Hehehe....excited? I was talking to myself ok...Yes I am excited...Lets see what this develops into...
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