tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-219679782024-03-13T21:21:39.314+08:00*Living Here and Now~ ^.^*Being right where you are now, is a blessing~~vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.comBlogger331125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-72298261978915327542015-08-16T00:52:00.002+08:002015-08-16T00:52:42.130+08:00Hello againIt has literally been years since I've last posted here, and I do not expect anyone to still be around to read this anymore =)<br />
<br />
In any case, a whole lot has happened to me and my co-blogger since then. We have split, and Jen is now happily married to her sweetheart. So I guess things has turned out for the best.<br />
<br />
For now, I guess I'll just use this blog to vent out my thoughts once in a long while. As for my hobby of taking up blogging about tech, you can have a look at http://vseehua.wordpress.com.<br />
<br />
Till the next post, see you guys!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-50450549302148407282011-03-18T12:11:00.001+08:002011-03-18T12:19:40.318+08:00Perhaps Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Perhaps love is a balance<br />
Sometimes bitter sometimes sweet<br />
It's a cycle, it's there to help us grow<br />
When the sun is out, the rainbow appears<br />
Beautiful sight, refreshing breeze <br />
If we could put through the rain and pain<br />
<br />
Perhaps love is a test<br />
When problems arise, we figure out the solutions <br />
There is no right or wrong answers<br />
Only compliments and forgiveness<br />
Patience and acceptance<br />
<br />
Perhaps love is a guidance<br />
When we are lost and lonely<br />
When we are confused and coiled<br />
The memory of love will bring us home <br />
The memory of love will see us through<br />
<br />
Below is a song by John Denver that was written for his wife. The song says it all. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/UMcZI8pOjjA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(Placido Domingo)<br />
Perhaps love is like a resting place<br />
A shelter from the storm<br />
It exists to give you comfort<br />
It is there to keep you warm<br />
And in those times of trouble<br />
When you are most alone<br />
The memory of love will bring you home<br />
<br />
(John Denver)<br />
Perhaps love is like a window<br />
Perhaps an open door<br />
It invites you to come closer<br />
It wants to show you more<br />
And even if you lose yourself<br />
And don't know what to do<br />
The memory of love will see you through<br />
<br />
(Placido Domingo)<br />
Oh, Love to some is like a cloud<br />
To some as strong as steel<br />
<br />
(John Denver)<br />
For some a way of living<br />
For some a way to feel<br />
<br />
(Placido Domingo)<br />
And some say love is holding on<br />
And some say letting go<br />
And some say love is everything<br />
And some say they don't know<br />
<br />
(John starts joined by Placido)<br />
Perhaps love is like the ocean<br />
Full of conflict, full of change<br />
Like a fire when it's cold outside<br />
Thunder when it rains<br />
If I should live forever<br />
And all my dreams come true<br />
My memories of love will be of you<br />
<br />
(Placido Domingo)<br />
And some say love is holding on<br />
And some say letting go<br />
<br />
(John Denver)<br />
And some say love is everything<br />
Some say they don't know<br />
<br />
(John starts joined by Placido)<br />
Perhaps love is like the ocean<br />
Full of conflict, full of change<br />
Like a fire when it's cold outside<br />
Or thunder when it rains<br />
If I should live forever<br />
And all my dreams come true<br />
My memories of love will be of you<br />
<br />
<br />
J<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-27705545559560086932011-02-28T00:15:00.001+08:002011-02-28T00:15:01.441+08:00Blessed - 33IDC 2010This post will mark the start of a new series of posts, talking about the various blessings we have in life (notable, about my life). Watch out for new posts! <br />
<br />
It has been almost 1 year since I wrote the post Melancholia (April 2010). That time, it was almost the time for me to come back to Malaysia, having finished my final thesis, and waiting for my results. At that time, the final visit to UK (and meeting Yizhen for the first time) has made a realise the importance of having great friends around me.<br />
<br />
Over the 4 years when I was in Germany, I didn’t take the chance to make more friends, locking myself up in the room most of the time. I took my time to play lots of games online, notably the World of Warcraft. Over there I has made myself a great and supportive group of friends, a friendship that lasts even until today. In any case, the years I had been through in German wasn’t exactly rosy memory for me, because of the lack of opportunities to actually go outside and do something meaningful for myself and the society (also because I didn’t exactly go out and look for it). <br />
<br />
I packed up my bags and finally came back to Malaysia for good in June 2010. <br />
<br />
A New Beginning<br />
After I am back in my homeland, where the people and things that matters to me in the heart are, I vowed to not be the same me over the 4 years I was in Germany. I vowed to take up all kinds of opportunities I am going to have, and to constantly improve myself in order to reach new height, and to achieve my life goal: Making this world a better place to live in, one step at a time.<br />
<br />
So, I got myself involved in lots of meaningful activities over the past few months. <br />
<br />
INCOVAR Dhamma Camp<br />
Firstly it was the 33rd INCOVAR Dhamma Camp as part of the publicity team. I may be new in the team, but the team members (Xiao Thoong, Catherina Chan, Jacyln, and Yee Kuan) were very very supportive of each other, making the job much more bearable despite us having to rush to lots of universities and colleges go do out promotion. Despite not hitting the KPI of 60 members, we felt satisfied with our results (45 people). I would say that it’s a blessing in disguise, because that was just about the right balance between enough people to make noise, and getting each participant to know everyone else in the camp. <br />
<br />
Then there was the counseling course, which started in the end of September, and will last till the second week of May. I have learned a lot about helping out others in need through the course. Through the course, I have learned more about my natural inclination in doing things. It also enabled me to ponder more about the direction I am to bring and steer my life to later in my life. (Those of you who are closer to me would have hints about that already)<br />
<br />
In any case, it was as much a learning journey as for the participants. There is much satisfaction to be gained from seeing the participants’ faces going from moody to bright and sunny in the fours days of the camp. Also, the bond amongst the participants and between the committees and them that have formed throughout the camp really touched my heart. Who would have known that we can be this close during the camp, and the bond persists even after the camp.<br />
<br />
The main highlight of the camp is, of course, the visit to the Rumah Sinar Harapan in Kuala Kubu Bharu. Seeing the patients there for the first time arouses feelings of sympathy, initially. The state and conditions they are in was by no means. However, it is their plight and physical deformities that has caused me to reflect more on life. Having thought of it over and over again, I believe sympathy is the last thing we should feel of them. They are there, oblivious to the outside world, living in their own world... contented. It is they who taught me about the value of being contented with what we have, and to be happy with our lives, no matter how hard it is... <br />
<br />
I have also gotten to know many more circles of friends who are supportive of each as Kalyana Mitras. Also, it is through the camp that I have gotten myself active in Twitter and using it as a motivational tool. Who would have throughout that having people wishing each other Good morning with motivational phases each morning would be such an inspiration to go through each day with a great and positive outlook?<br />
<br />
In any case, I believe that I have made the right decision to come back to Malaysia. As I have said earlier, it is the people who mattered to me who have brought back the colours and happiness into my life. For this, I am deeply grateful!<br />
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I’ll talk about my counseling course in the next post, which will be post… when I have the mood to actually write again…<br />
<br />
In any case, I wish all of you well and happy always. Do well in life, and always remember that there is a silver lining to each dark cloud out there!<br />
<br />
See Hua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-31032156504298114732011-02-07T01:06:00.000+08:002011-02-07T01:06:02.939+08:00We can!If you think you are beaten, you are<br />
If you think you dare not, you don't<br />
If you'd like to win, but think you can't<br />
It's almost a cinch you won't<br />
Life's battles don't always to<br />
To the stronger or faster man;<br />
But soon or late the man who wins<br />
Is the one who thinks he can<br />
<i>--Anon</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-17272264988058269152011-01-11T23:47:00.008+08:002011-01-27T00:54:34.781+08:00The Chicken and the DuckIt is the relationship anniversary of a couple, in a time so long ago that we can't imagine when. Anyway, back to this couple. They were celebrating their anniversary with loving hugs, light kisses and a sumptious romantic lunch near to a lake. They happilly chit-chatted their way through half the afternoon, before deciding to take a walk around the lake.<br />
<br />
As they were slowly strolling their romantic way through the park, they heard a sound:<br />
<br />
"Quack, quack," it goes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">***</div>I'll pause here to let you guys figure out what it is.<br />
<br />
Now now, it doesn't have to be that long... 5 more seconds<br />
<br />
5...<br />
<br />
4...<br />
<br />
3...<br />
<br />
2...<br />
<br />
1...<br />
<br />
Got an idea of what it is? Yes? let's move on with the story, and find out what it is<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">***</div>The lady exclaimed, "Oh, I heard a chicken!"<br />
<br />
Dismayed at the statement, our young gentleman corrected her, "No, my dear, it's a duck."<br />
<br />
Thinking she is right, she retorted "No! It is definitely a chicken!"<br />
<br />
"Quack quack," the sounds goes again.<br />
<br />
Not wanting to give up, our gentleman hit back, "There, it's a duck! No chicken ever goes 'quack, quack!'"<br />
<br />
"It's a chicken!"<br />
<br />
"No, it's a duck! D. u. c. k. duck!"<br />
<br />
... The argument went on for a while ...<br />
<br />
Finally, teary eyes, the lady said "But, but, it's a chicken..."<br />
<br />
Seeing the teary eyes, our gentleman finally saw the light, "Yes dear, it's a chicken."<br />
<br />
Happy again that they finally agreed on something, they walk, hand in hand, toward the sunset.<br />
<br />
"Quack, quack!"<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">***</div>So what is it? A duck, or a chicken? That we will never know. if you think it's a duck, it's a duck. if you think it's a chicken, chicken it is then. It is said that we can never be right and correct at the same time. We can be right, but not correct, as seen in the argument. Or, we can be correct, but not right, as seen in our gentleman's decision to yield. What matters is our priorities, which, in this case, means getting the animal right, or the relationship going.<br />
<br />
Lesson of the month (December): We can never be correct and right at the same time.<br />
Teary eyes is the best way to get guys to agree with you.<br />
<br />
Source: <i>How to Win Friends and Influence People -Dale Carnegie</i><br />
<i>Ajahn Brahm's anecdote during his talk "How to survive relationships"</i><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-16344359303392397102010-05-09T13:16:00.002+08:002010-05-09T19:56:13.789+08:00Melancholia<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">These few days, I was and am feeling pretty down with a melancholic feeling. I guess it was the time in London that has reminded me of much of my sweet memories of the past, of being able to spend lots of quality time just chatting the night away with my closest friends.</div></div><div><br />
</div><div>I guess all the time that I have spend way too much time over here in Germany alone, more than 4 years to be exact. While I also have German friends, they are never the same with my close friends who are now scattered all over the world, with their own business to deal with. </div><div><br />
</div><div>I so miss the times when I was doing my A-levels in INTEC. That time, even if my schedule was sometimes hectic at times, being with my friends totally made up for it. That time, we ate together, laughed together, studied together, went for outings together, and chatted away the night until sunrise together. Needless to say I savored and enjoyed almost every moment of it. To add to that, I have also met Jen in INTEC as well.</div><div><br />
</div><div>It has been quite a number of years since I left INTEC, and embarked on a journey to Germany to continue my studies and get my first degree. The experience has been unpleasant at the least. I have not been able to integrate myself properly into the society here, and have spend most of my times alone. Having most of my best friends from the other programs in INTEC didn't help as well, since I am not close to all of them. </div><div><br />
</div><div>The experience can be considered as harrowing at the very least. I realized that I have not been the ultra optimistic and happy-go-lucky person that I was in INTEC. It is said that loneliness can eat away one person slowly from the inside. I became moody, and became settled down with depression. The worst part of it is, I have lost my optimism totally. Any kind of advise that I get, I counter with probable negative results and why it can't be done. I probably shouldn't be surprised if I ended up with no friends now...</div><div><br />
</div><div>They say that true friends will stick around through bright and dark times. I have my friends to thank for sticking with me all this while. You guys were fantastic in your support. There are almost always ears to for me to speak into when I need it the most. I may have lost my mind if not for you, and probably somewhere in the netherworld already. Well, here's my big thanks! Thanks to all of you for being there! Thanks for everything!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Special mention to Jen, for still sticking around despite all my negativity, and for being there to push me up, and for lending an ear whenever I need to sleep, despite her heavy schedule. Well, you just see, I am going to be better than the 1 million guys in the line!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Before I end this post, here's a particularly sweet song by Kymm and JJ that happened to one of my favourite songs at the end of my time in INTEC:</div><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/EWh_6FSgJ0w&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/EWh_6FSgJ0w&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<br />
Cheers,<br />
seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-1061782423734252282010-05-01T06:22:00.000+08:002010-05-01T06:22:13.900+08:00Hardware Accelerated Adobe Flash Plugin for OSX<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.adobe.com/devnet/images/160x160/logo_flashplayer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.adobe.com/devnet/images/160x160/logo_flashplayer.jpg" /></a></div>After using OSX for one and a half years now, there is one thing that I notice. The Macbook tends to get very hot while watching Flash videos (YouTube and Vimeo are two popular sites that use Flash technology) and while visiting Flash heavy sites (Fashion sites, I am looking at you!). Apparently, it is Apple's reluctance to provide low level APIs to the GPU that causes this problem. The current version of Flash decodes video using the CPU. This method is taxes the CPU heavily, and thus making the Macbook able to fry some eggs while I watch <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxPZh4AnWyk">Susan Boyle proving Simon Crowell wrong</a> over and over and over again...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/S9tXqb05C6I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/a6iLMPt1v_w/s1600/Screen%20shot%202010-05-01%20at%2012.18.34%20AM.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/S9tXqb05C6I/AAAAAAAAAkQ/a6iLMPt1v_w/s320/Screen%20shot%202010-05-01%20at%2012.18.34%20AM.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The good news is, Apple has provided just that API along with the OS X 10.6.3 update some weeks ago,. Adobe took advantage of that update, and has provided a beta of <a href="http://blog.kaourantin.net/?p=89">Flash Player 10.1 Gala</a> for public testing.<br />
<br />
Once I know of this, I immediately downloaded this version, installed it, and use my (still favourite) Firefox for a spin in YouTube. Well, I have a positive feeling about this. CPU usage dropped, and my thighs aren't charred while watching the videos. While Adobe said that it won't be go out as part of the Flash Player 10.1 release, I eagerly await the final, refined release. Until then, I will continue to use this beta version.<br />
<br />
CJ<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-1643361597429368932010-04-30T09:44:00.001+08:002010-05-09T19:56:29.995+08:00Living Here and Now: Reboot?It has been quite some time since I last updated this blog. During this time, I was busy with my thesis, preparing for my final two papers in my examinations, being depressed and being happy. Yea, it has been quite a semester for me.<br />
<br />
As of now, I am busy looking for places to do my masters (somewhere bigger than Aalen, hopefully). While doing this, I am also trying to clear my huge backlog of articles in my RSS feeds, spamming around in ReCom, and designing a new interface for ReCom Wiki.<br />
<br />
Life has been pretty good to me so far, with many of my old and newly found friends being so supportive on many of my predicaments and being patient while listening to my rantings. (A big salute and thank you to the all of you out there!)<br />
<br />
Anyway, to the main issue of this post. I will be doing a reboot of this blog, and hopefully, I will again be able to post regularly in topics ranging from local and international hot issues, computer tips, politics, discussions in ReCom, and my own musings on random things that always seemed to pop up in my head. I have always wanted to be able to communicate my points properly to the others by speech and words, so it is my aim to improve myself in this aspect by writing and posting stuffs here again. If there is anything that you would like to comment on, feel free to do so =)<br />
<br />
It is good to be back again, hope you guys will enjoy reading what I have to say all over again!<br />
<br />
seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-83226412092577559072009-09-29T16:59:00.000+08:002009-09-29T16:59:21.719+08:00Appear rich or to be rich?Buying stuffs has always been a big topic, at least at the back of my head. For me, it is always a decision on whether I need the stuffs or I just want them. What I need are food to keep myself healthy, and clothing to keep myself away from the weather elements. What I want are things that make my life easier, and some of the times, makes me look better(tm).<br />
<div><br />
</div><div>As far as I can see, the modern society lives on capitalism, with people being persuaded and coerced into buying stuffs that they don't really need. Most of the books that I have read about being successful in life emphasized buying and maintaining a financially heavy lifestyle. The book "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0131858386?ie=UTF8&tag=livihereandno-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0131858386">The Rules of Work: The Unspoken Truth About Getting Ahead in Business</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=livihereandno-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0131858386" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />" advocates "buying nothing but the best accessories" in order to make oneself look "great" enough in order to climb the corporate ladder. The writer, Mr. Richard Templer mentioned that we need to behave and walk like the general managers if we want to be promoted soon to their position. This goes to the extent that we should buy their kind of watches, cars, ties, clothings, handbags, and so on. Of course, there are many more rules that are highlighted in the book, but since those are not the theme of this post, I will not discuss them here.<br />
<br />
In the book, "<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1582701709?ie=UTF8&tag=livihereandno-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1582701709">The Secret</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=livihereandno-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1582701709" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />" Rhonda Byrne touches on the need to change the way our minds think in order to achieve our wishes. So, in order to become a successful high ranked manager or CEO in a company, we have to walk and talk and dress their way. However, it is also subtly hinted that we should start dressing they way they do and use their kind of accessories in order to be able to join their ranks.<br />
<br />
It is a well known fact that, in order to join a group, we will need to behave and look like them. But I shudder to think the economic impact this kind of culture is bringing to our world today. Everywhere around me, I see people won't can't really afford things taking loan to buy and tote LV/Bulgari handbags, driving luxurious BMW, Mercedes and high end Toyotas, buying the ever so expensive iPhone, buying the biggest mansion and so on.<br />
<br />
During this time of economic downturn, we should really start to think of the implications of our high spending culture on ourselves and the economy in general. This economic crisis itself is caused by the banks in America lending money to people who cannot really afford big homes to do so. When much of these lenders don't get their money back, an economic downpour happens, causing a rippling effect on the world at large.<br />
<br />
We as consumers should really start looking into the larger scheme of things, and ask ourselves the main question before embarking on an purchase: "For what do I need to buy this item?" If the answer turns out to be as a show off item, then keep the money safely in the pocket, and turn down the ego. The world now needs more people who can spend wisely rather than more people who spends more on borrowed money.<br />
<br />
Remember, in the end, all status items are cosmetic and hence temporary. For me, the real measure of success is a contented life. A person don't really need much to be contented, and most of them cannot be bought by money. For me, a successful life is a life in which I am always surrounded by family and friends who will accompany me through thick and thin, as I will do the same to them as well...<br />
<br />
This post is inspired by a post at the Simple Dollar, "<a href="http://www.thesimpledollar.com/2009/09/28/do-you-want-to-appear-rich-or-do-you-want-to-be-rich/">Do you want to appear to be rich? Or do you want to be rich?</a>"<br />
<br />
C<br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-86278524137691016282009-09-14T00:51:00.007+08:002009-09-19T15:33:44.504+08:00Book: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell, Chapter Review: Chapter 1: "The Matthews' Rule"<div style="text-align: center;"><i>It has been quite some time since I last read a book at the speed and enjoyment that I am having now, in fact, since I got myself a more or less permanent internet connection there in Germany. You see, having an almost always connection to the wide wide web causes my concentration to falter to such a degree that I can no longer single-task well. I really think I should disconnect once in a while, just so that I can catch my breath and get away from the overloading inflow of information for my many sources of news.</i><br />
</div><i> </i><br />
Anyway, that is not the point of this post today. This post will mark the starting of a new series of posts in this blog, talking about the books I am currently reading and the insights that it provided me with.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316017922?ie=UTF8&tag=livihereandno-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0316017922"><img border="0" src="https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41bbHmtqpQL._SL160_.jpg" /></a><br />
</div><img alt="" border="0" class=" jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy jnrjoasewnbfuyqsjeqy" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=livihereandno-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0316017922" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" width="1" /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SrSG1dhsYmI/AAAAAAAAAjo/W-Nok6L_DK8/s1600/41bbHmtqpQL._SL160_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a><br />
</div>Currently I am reading the book Outliers written by Malcolm Gladwell. Gladwell had previously also written "The Tipping Point" and "Blink," all serving to point the little points that ultimately build up to success. In "The Outliers," Gladwell points out the various small external factors that lead up to success.<br />
<br />
Chapter 1 of the book talks about the Matthew Effect, named after a phrase in the Matthew Gospel: "For unto everyone that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance. But from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath." Matthew 25:29. Gladwell talked about the peculiarities of the ice hockey professionals in Canada, and the football and hockey team of Czech Republic. When we look at the birth month of all these teams, almost all of the players were born early in their respective year.<br />
<br />
This boils down to how the selection of the players when they are young are done. The cut off month for most selection process is put at the middle of the year, making those born later in the year not eligible. So, at a young tender age of 6 or 7, those born earlier in the year have a small advantage over those born later. This small difference builds up as the years passed, since the "best" will always be selected to train with better trainers. So after 10 or so years, the best players are the ones with this small advantage when they are young.<br />
<br />
This trend continues in life as well. The best people in many fields gets better and better at their own field; the rich kept getting richer; the best athletes kept beating their own records; the best scientists kept discovering newer and better ways to generate energy. The list is endless.<br />
<br />
So for me, the lesson from the first chapter in Outliers is clear: opportunities are essential to success. When the opportunity is there, seize it, no matter how small it is, and build on it. Success is often built on a good foundation. Once the basics are down, we can continue to the next step, which is hard work. This is outlined in the next chapter: The 10,000 hours rule. I'll post a discussion on this when I am done with that chapter.<br />
<br />
C<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia1.558073 110.3515431.214879 109.884624 1.901267 110.81846200000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-67699145408680669772009-05-17T09:05:00.003+08:002009-05-17T10:05:31.782+08:00JPA Scholarships – Seeking A Fair & Equitable PolicyGrieving straight A students being denied the Public Service Department (PSD) scholarships once again hit the <a href="http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/14/nation/3880204&sec=nation">news</a>. Time and again, the controversy never seems to end. <br /><br />Many are demanding an explanation over the scholarship award selection process. Aggrieving students feel they deserve the scholarship award when they score a string of As. The general public (taxpayers) wonders whether their money has gone to the well deserving students. The current and former local and overseas scholars may want to share some first hand experiences with the rest of the audiences, show the audiences the true story of being a scholar and shed some light over this issue. Whether a scholar and a non-scholar has any differences in academic performance has yet to be investigated. However, academicians may be able to share some views on this. <br /><br />An opportunity to express and discuss our views and perspectives has come with a forum/ dialogue session organised by DAP to seek valuable feedbacks from the aggrieved students, current and former local and overseas scholars, academicians and the public on the selection process of PSD scholars. <br /><br />The forum/dialogue session is scheduled as follow: <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />JPA Scholarships – Seeking A Fair & Equitable Policy</span><br />Venue: KL & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall<br />Date: 19th May 2009 (Tuesday)<br />Time: 8.00 pm<br /><br />The panelists will include:<br /><br />Lim Kit Siang, DAP Parliamentary Leader and MP for Ipoh Timor,<br />Anthony Loke Siew Fook, MP for Rasah and DAPSY Chief,<br />Tony Pua, MP for Petaling Jaya Utara,<br />Dr Dzulkifli Ahmad, PAS Research Centre Director and MP for Kuala Selangor<br />Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, Selangor ADUN for Seri Setia<br /><br />Dr Goh Cheng Teik, eminent academic, former deputy minister and interviewer for Harvard University admission programme in Malaysia will also be a special guest for the evening.<br /><br />Details are obtained from <a href="http://tonypua.blogspot.com/2009/05/jpa-scholarship-scheme-seeking-fair.html">here</a><br /><br />There will be a live webcast online and live video call with overseas students. <br /><br />To PSD scholars: <br />It is hoped that some of us would be able to participate in the live webcast online and live video call to share some of our views and experiences being a PSD scholar.<br /><br />To non PSD scholar:<br />You are most welcome to express your views on this issue as well as share the experience of being friends and studying together with the scholars. <br /><br />Participation from all will only enhance the outcome of the forum and provide a clearer picture on the issue for the benefit of all. <br /><br />Anyone who wish to participate in the live webcast and live video call, you may drop me a comment, buzz me in my flat H6 of JBC, or email me at chjenjen@hotmail.com. I will get you connected to the right person. <br /><br />Written submissions to the panel could also be submitted through email. Please write to: dapscholarship (at) rocketmail (dot) com<br /><br />Complains, appeals and suggestions will be compiled at the end of the forum. Please participate and spread the word to all parties. It is time to contribute back to the society. <br /><br />Thank you!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15755738309224385932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-55733223040479531522009-05-10T07:22:00.003+08:002009-05-10T10:09:26.828+08:00Impressive National Health Service in GlasgowAfter staying for almost 11 months in Glasgow, it was only recently that I got exceptionally impressed with the National Health Service (NHS) that was provided to not just their own citizens, but to overseas students as well. <br />
<br />
On the first week of arrival in Glasgow, we were required to register with the local NHS. With the registration we will be able to call in for appointments with our doctor anytime. Initially, I wasn't very impressed with their system as we had to make an advance appointment before meeting the doctor. What make things difficult was, their appointment slots are ALWAYS almost full, and only left with a few weird slots for you to make an appointment. So, if you were not available during the particular slots, you will have to delay your appointment. This could delay up to a month, which by the time you get your appointment, the symptoms that you are having might have subsided.<br />
<br />
Recently, I made appointments with the doctor, the dentist and the optician. Apart from the doctor, the dentist and optician service was impressive. We could simply go to any of the dental clinics (with appointment of course, but less busy) and get your teeth checked up. If a treatment is required, you will be asked to make another appointment. However they will first let you know the total cost of the treatment and asked if you are eligible for NHS or not. If yes, you could fill in the HC1 form and apply for a exemption certificate, which thereafter all your dental fees are covered by the NHS. Or you could pay first, and make a claim afterward. <br />
<br />
As for the optician, the service was superb. I was toying the idea of having a pair of contact lenses. Hence, I went up the glasses shop that provides NHS service, made an appointment (which was quick) and had my eye checked for free! And the eyesight check includes not just the normal eye power check, but includes photographing the eye to check for any other health problems. <br />
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Opticians here use very extraordinarily advanced equipments to check for the eye power, eye tension, eye muscle and eye nerves. The eye nerves checking process was blinding indeed, as they will shine bright lights to check for any occlusions or abnormality in the nerves of the eye, but the outcome was very satisfying. The eye tension test was a little different as they drip a few drops of dye into my eye to check for the tension. I do not know how they analyse the eye tension, but it sure was interesting. The optician was very professional in her job. I was told that opticians in Scotland has taken over the role for checking the health through the eyes. This was done so that doctors could focus on what they really need to do. This system however, has yet to be implemented in England but they may follow suit soon.<br />
<br />
After the checking, I was told that I could wear toric lenses, but it will cost me 15 pounds a month. Toric lenses requires special orders and hence more expensive compared to normal contact lenses. These toric lenses will be given as a trial pair for a month before I decide whether to continue or don't continue with the contact lenses. However, if i decided to quit, I would have to pay 20 pounds administrative fees. Otherwise, I can continue and enjoy the free toric lenses. <br />
<br />
What was impressive was the near flawless service, thorough checking and their professionalism. And all these are covered under NHS. That is the best thing. :)<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15755738309224385932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-50313915020058374102009-04-02T06:52:00.002+08:002009-04-02T07:03:00.086+08:00Firefox Personas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SdPsktHkQSI/AAAAAAAAAh0/1vXLwvefX9g/s1600-h/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SdPsktHkQSI/AAAAAAAAAh0/1vXLwvefX9g/s320/Picture+1.png" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Firefox Personas is a new way of skinning the browser. This difference between Firefox Personas and normal themes is the fact that you don't have to restart Firefox to see the results. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To be able to use Firefox Persona, you will have to install the extension from the site <a href="http://www.getpersonas.com/">Get Personas</a> and restart Firefox afterwards. After restarting you will see a new button (a fox) at the bottom right of the window. Clicking on that button will reveal a menu allowing you to choose an array of categories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SdPuIkeiUyI/AAAAAAAAAiE/ZwD-otD-hd8/s1600-h/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SdPuIkeiUyI/AAAAAAAAAiE/ZwD-otD-hd8/s320/Picture+4.png" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Hovering over one of the theme's name will cause Firefox to apply the theme immediately as preview. Clicking on it will apply the theme permeanently. In case your mood changes, you can just go back to the menu and choose another theme rightaway.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><object height="300" width="400"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=3841582&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=3841582&server=vimeo.com&show_title=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="300"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://vimeo.com/3841582">Getting Started with Personas</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user1482657">Mozilla Labs</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div><br />
Seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-53602736822879810092009-03-30T19:20:00.001+08:002009-03-30T23:14:32.965+08:00Double Parking?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/parking.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="85" src="http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/parking.png" width="420" /></a></div>linked from <a href="http://www.xkcd.com/">xkcd</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-86308825872691892812009-03-18T13:16:00.000+08:002009-03-18T13:16:14.460+08:00POP3 Access to Hotmail enabledLagging for years behind Gmail, Microsoft had finally relented and decides to allow POP3 access to hotmail. What this does mean is that we can now use *any* email clients to connect and collect mails from Hotmail instead of depending solely on MS Outlook, or Windows Live Mail program.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ScCAmjqMvOI/AAAAAAAAAhk/FfrqYR7Ps-Q/s1600-h/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ScCAmjqMvOI/AAAAAAAAAhk/FfrqYR7Ps-Q/s320/Picture+1.png" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div><br />
For example, you can add a new account from thunderbird via Tools -> Account settings -> New. From there you can set up the required information to retrieve and send your mails via Hotmail. The relating informations are as follows:<br />
<blockquote><strong>POP server:</strong> pop3.live.com (Port 995)<br />
<strong>POP SSL required?</strong> Yes<br />
<strong>User name:</strong> Your Windows Live ID, for example yourname@<a class="tagautolink autolink" href="http://lifehacker.com/tag/hotmail/" title="Click here to read more posts tagged HOTMAIL">hotmail</a>.com<br />
<strong>Password:</strong> The password you usually use to sign in to Hotmail or Windows Live<br />
<strong>SMTP server:</strong> smtp.live.com (Port 25)<br />
<strong>Authentication required?</strong> Yes (this matches your POP username and password)<br />
<strong>TLS/SSL required?</strong> Yes</blockquote>Interestingly, this also means that i can start using Gmail and only Gmail to manage all of my mails comfortably. I can now use Gmail's email retrieve feature to get and send my mails via Hotmail. Yay for centralized management =)<br />
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That's all for today, I might create a tutorial on how to access your other mails from Gmail if you want. But you will have to ask for that :P<br />
<br />
Seehua<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-40870339593073225322009-03-13T02:46:00.000+08:002009-03-13T02:46:39.087+08:00Passwords you should never useThinking of protecting your system with a password, head over to <a href="http://www.listable.org/show/passwords-you-shouldnt-ever-use">this</a> site and never ever use those listed!<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-36749094366962132192009-03-12T06:42:00.003+08:002009-03-12T06:55:46.035+08:00Malaysia BolehDoes Malaysia still have hope in the hands of these people? Have some uncensored 'news' from this <a href="http://www.gutteruncensored.com/2009/03/malaysian-politicians-like-to-have-fun.html">link</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>Jenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15755738309224385932noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-35829375229783110452009-02-27T19:23:00.000+08:002009-02-27T19:23:33.409+08:00A plea<div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000099;"><span style="font-size: 180%;">Dear Malaysian Politicians</span>,</span><br />
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<span style="color: #000099; font-size: 130%;"><strong>Please stop the power chase, call for a truce and focus on the economy.</strong></span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;"><br />
I do not claim to speak on behalf of all Malaysians, but I have strong convictions that many share my sentiments. </span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;"></span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Our concern today is not who rules the country or heads the state governments but the looming bad economy.</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;"><br />
Whether Barisan Nasional or Pakatan Rakyat leads, it is meaningless if Malaysians have no job to go to, no money to pay rent and no means to put food on the table.<br />
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I am a business owner, like other business owners and managers of corporations I have a responsibility to ensure people under my care and payroll continue to have jobs and a decent income to take home. We work hard and willing to go the extra mile to make sure our nation not only survive this crisis but come out stronger and wiser. We need your help.<br />
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Let me explain. I am in the business of Training, Development and Consultancy and have 20 people in my team.<br />
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Saedah is 42. She keeps the office clean and helps organise the training rooms. She has four children and her husband is unemployed. She was first hired on a part time basis, because she is very hard working and has a great attitude, we offered her a full time job to help provide a stable income for her family. Even then, when her third child started school this year, it was a struggle for her to buy new school uniforms and other necessities. Saedah lives on a <em>‘kais bulan, makan bulan’</em> basis, so, if she is jobless, her tap runs dry.<br />
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Samsuri is 27 years old. He lives with his sister and her family in a low cost government flat in Sunway. He does our despatch, helps with various clerical works and occasionally acts as a driver. During the first week at zubedy, we learned that he not only did not have money to buy new clothes and shoes for work, he had no money for lunch. Like Saedah, if he has no job, his tap runs dry too.<br />
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Alicia in Client Servicing turns 26 this year. She lives with her dad who is 71 years old and retired. Her mom passed away when she was little. Alicia is a hard-working team member, has a gentle caring outlook and fun to be with. (We like to poke fun at her as she blushes easily). Last May her dad went through a major operation, thank God he has recovered well. Alicia needs a job, both for herself and her dad.<br />
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Sudesh, 38, is one of our facilitators. When his father passed away last year, he moved back and lives with his mother in Seremban. He shuttles between Kuala Lumpur and Seremban daily, leaving home sometimes as early as 4 in the morning and returning late at night. He is no stranger to hard work and sacrifice, he knows what he needs to do to survive and to care for his mother, but he too needs a job.<br />
<br />
Like fellow Malaysians, every one of us in zubedy needs employment, those that live from hand to mouth like Saedah and Samsuri and others like Alicia and Sudesh with family to care for. We Malaysians need the Malaysian economy to be strong. We need you, our leaders, to work hard and to work together to make our economy viable.<br />
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So this is my plea.<br />
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Pakatan Rakyat, please stop your attempts to take over the federal government and persuade BN’s lawmakers to join you. Stop all legal proceedings, no more 916 and let go, just let go. The nation can wait till the next general elections if they want change. By doing so, Malaysians will see your party as caring, unselfish and gracious and give you their support in the next elections.<br />
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Barisan Nasional, please stop any attempts to take over PR states and win over PR’s lawmakers. You have proven your point with Perak. The nation can wait for the next general elections if they want your party. Focus all your talent, energy and hard work in steering the country out of an economic downturn. By doing so, Malaysians will see your party as caring, unselfish and smart and give you their support in the next elections.<br />
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BN and PR! Call for a truce. Get together and compromise. Someone has to give in. Or has hate consumed your heart till it blinds you? You can do it. You have enough intelligent people between you. I am sure you can find solutions. Take the nation to heart. That is why you are in politics in the first place.<br />
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Focus on the people.<br />
<br />
Focus on the economy.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Anas Zubedy</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Managing Director</span><br />
<span style="color: #000099;">Zubedy (M) Sdn Bhd</span></span></div><div style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #000099;"> <span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Quoted from <a href="http://rantingsbymm.blogspot.com/2009/02/anas-plea.html">Rantings from Marina</a><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-89882358677198579892009-01-16T07:48:00.000+08:002009-01-16T07:52:15.164+08:00GraduationFor those who kept asking me when my graduation ceremony is, I have to disappoint you guys. There will be no formal ceremony. When I graduate, the only thing I will do is to receive a call to get the certificate from the secretary, and get it myself...<br />
<br />
seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-87656718736062118472009-01-12T08:16:00.000+08:002009-01-12T08:48:07.787+08:00Getting Things Done<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SWqSueIfFNI/AAAAAAAAAg0/jmEWP7egcrk/s1600-h/Making+it+all+work.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SWqSueIfFNI/AAAAAAAAAg0/jmEWP7egcrk/s320/Making+it+all+work.jpg" /></a> </div><br />
Last year, during my bored times as an intern, I have bought a book titled Getting Things Done written by David Allen, mainly through the rave reviews on the net.<br />
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Getting Things Done is mainly about getting thoughts out of the mind and onto more solid medium filing system. This will serve to help the mind to keep their focus on current task as it don't have to carry the burden of remembering things as they pass. <br />
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Sadly, after reading the book, being the lazy me, I have failed to implement the things learnt. After analysing my past year, I have come to realize that I have been playing catch up on a lot of things that I have to deal with. I am constantly behind schedule on my activities, and there are many occasions that I have forgot to do things even after repeated reminders. The last past had led to a point when my supervisor had to yell at me for not implementing a simple change to a sentence in my internship report (I only implemented it 20 minutes before it was sent to the print shop :P The report still got myself lots of praises from my professor and second supervisor though).<br />
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Even worse, I can't locate the book when I am looking for it just before Jen came here for Christmas and New Year holidays. Darn, I must have misplaced it somewhere when I was shifting house or holidaying at the third quarter of the year (I have the tendancy of keeping favourite things with me at all times, which also leads to them being the things most liable to misplacements).<br />
<br />
Anyway, I have gotten myself the other book of David Allen, Making It All Work, winning at the Gamd of Work and the Business of Life. With this book, I hope that I can finally stop thinking and start implementing changes to finally get myself ahead of the game.<br />
<br />
With this post, I would start a new series highlighting my journey in reading and implementing the suggested changes, and the effects on my life.<br />
<br />
As a first sign of change, I am taking notes even while reading the book (at least the 16 page that I have just read) as suggested. Along the process I am also writing my todo list of stuffs that I am supposed to do in the near/long term, as the first step in implementation.<br />
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With this series I am hoping that the implementation will stick, and not be relegated to the realm of "I know I should do this but... "<br />
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This is my resolution for the new year, to start doing things effectively :)<br />
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Wish you all a happy new year 2008 again, the year ahead will be wonderful again for me...<br />
<br />
seehua<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">p/s: my final exams in the course are coming the end of this month so don't expect much postings from my this month though.Btw, should I start posting about the things that I learn about during my classes, like how optical fibres work? :P</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-74499705959429901192009-01-01T09:48:00.000+08:002009-01-01T09:52:57.979+08:00Happy New Year 2009Happy New Year we would like to wish you all. May you all have success on your path for the next 365 days :)<br />
<br />
See Hua and Jen<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">New year resolutions in the next post :P</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-75357826082315963422008-12-16T08:24:00.001+08:002008-12-16T08:53:21.112+08:00Creating PDF files<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb2RCm6CrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/ql8YxaUvPRI/s1600-h/PDF.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb2RCm6CrI/AAAAAAAAAgk/ql8YxaUvPRI/s200/PDF.png" /></a></div><br />
Portable Document Format, or PDF is a file format created by Adobe Systems early in the last decade to help save documents. <br />
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As for casual users like us, PDF is a good way to archive our documents, whether it is a web page, reports, spreadsheets, and presentations. I usually use the format to archive web pages because it will only create one complete file instead of creating a html page with an accompanying folder as with the "save" option. A PDF file will also retain it's looks wherever it is viewed on, which is important for obvious reasons. We won't want our documents to change it's looks and formating when we take them out for printing (disasterous when your hard created 100 page thesis gets skewed at the printing shop :P, happens with Word files all the time). <br />
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To create PDF files, we will first need to install a PDF creation software, a popular one is the <a href="http://sourceforge.net/projects/pdfcreator/">PDF Creator</a>. There is of course the allmighty Adobe Acrobat Professional, but the software is usually out of our (wallet's) reach. Mac OSX users are lucky because they will have PDF creation capabilites built into the operating system. Install the related software and you will notice a new "printer" installed into your system. This is the main way to create PDF files, you "print" them. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb2DZ7PznI/AAAAAAAAAgc/ujnMBK1r7ns/s1600-h/Picture+2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb2DZ7PznI/AAAAAAAAAgc/ujnMBK1r7ns/s320/Picture+2.png" /></a></div>To create a PDF file, open the "print" dialog from the related document that you are working on and select the PDF printer. Note that the name of the printer will differ by software. It will be known as PDF Creator if that is the software installed. For Mac OSX users, click on the PDF button (shown to the left) from the print dialog to do the same thing. Click on ok and you will get a "save" dialog.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb5gIl136I/AAAAAAAAAgs/DB55NbfG5os/s1600-h/Picture+3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/SUb5gIl136I/AAAAAAAAAgs/DB55NbfG5os/s320/Picture+3.png" /></a>From the save dialog you can save your to-be-created PDF file to anywhere in your system. Save it and (usually) the PDF file will open by itself in your PDF reader program (My favourite PDF reader software remains <a href="http://www.foxitsoftware.com/pdf/rd_intro.php">Foxit Reader</a>). <br />
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That's all for today's guide. Till next time ;)<br />
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seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-21378849936918737542008-12-10T10:10:00.001+08:002008-12-10T10:42:31.327+08:00Thunderbird 3 (beta 1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ST8o3J68QnI/AAAAAAAAAgU/lf3IyOHO9vY/s1600-h/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ST8o3J68QnI/AAAAAAAAAgU/lf3IyOHO9vY/s320/Picture+1.png" /></a></div>The email/messaging/contacts management counterpart to Firefox, Thunderbird had just reached the beta 1 milestone, almost 2 years behind firefox. I guess the spinoff to Mozilla Messaging had really gotten things moving again, after the neglect shown to it.<br />
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New features include:<br />
<blockquote><ul><li>Tab interface for Mail</li>
<li>Improvements to IMAP for faster message viewing</li>
<li>Improved message reader view</li>
<li>New Add-ons Manager</li>
<li>Improved Address Book interface</li>
<li>Improved import of mail from other Mail clients</li>
<li>Integration with Windows Vista search</li>
<li>Integration with Mac OS X Address Book</li>
</ul></blockquote>The tab interface will be my favourite feature out of the list. Finally I can open a few mails open in tabs for later viewing while skimming through the various newsletters that I get daily. This is much more convenient for me since i don't have to locate the mails again after I've finished processing the whole inbox...<br />
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The integration with Mac OS X Address Book is also nice since I don't have to keep separate address books for 2 different programs. And hey, since my phone also syncs with the Address Book as well, I can always be sure that the contacts stays identical across my devices.<br />
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The Growl integration is a very very nice feature as well... Now I get all notifications coming from just one system wide notification software.<br />
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The next thing on my wish list will be integration with <a href="http://www.blacktree.com/">Quicksilver</a>... It will be awesome when I can manipulate my mails anytime and anywhere in the system by using a simple keyboard command ;)<br />
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I'll be testing this program over the few days, though a bit unwillingly. This is because I've lost my appetite for beta programs while still learning about a completely new platform :P <br />
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Before I log off, I would like to complement Mozilla Messaging for that very nice looking page as displayed at the beginning of this post.<br />
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cheers people<br />
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seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-37760746272599431792008-12-10T00:36:00.002+08:002008-12-10T00:52:39.574+08:00Upgrading your RAM to 4GB?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ST6hIhjbkkI/AAAAAAAAAgM/Dr5SIYA0zBE/s1600-h/Memory_module_DDRAM_20-03-2006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YXwu6vIA_pM/ST6hIhjbkkI/AAAAAAAAAgM/Dr5SIYA0zBE/s320/Memory_module_DDRAM_20-03-2006.jpg" /></a></div><br />
While reading the "<a href="http://www.appleinsider.com/topics/Road_to_Snow_Leopard.html">Road to Snow Leopard</a>" series on Apple Insider, I've came across a very interesting <a href="http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/08/09/03/road_to_mac_os_x_snow_leopard_64_bits_santa_rosa_and_the_great_pc_swindle.html">bit</a>:<br />
<blockquote><blockquote>Prior to using the Santa Rosa platform, Apple sold its laptops as only supporting a maximum of 3GB RAM because of this. However, many Original Equipment Manufacturer PC assemblers represent their machines as supporting 4GB of RAM even though the operating system can't actually make any use of a big chunk of it. With hardware that only supports 32-bit addressing, no operating system can make use of the full 4GB. However, even with Santa Rosa-style hardware that can make use of the full 4GB, the mainstream 32-bit Windows Vista still won't use more than 3.2GB or less because it can't remap MMIO.</blockquote></blockquote><br />
This means that 32 bit windows systems (Vista 32 bit and Xp x86) won't be able to maximize the usage of at least 25% of the RAM should the user choose to ugrade based on recommendations by "experts" wanting to upsell more stuffs. The issue is made worse by computer systems intergrators trying to make more profit from unknowing users as stated in the following paragraphs:<br />
<blockquote><br />
One developer we consulted about the issue noted, "consumers are being scammed by [PC] OEMs on a large scale. OEMs will encourage customers to upgrade a 2GB machine to 4GB, even though the usable RAM might be limited to 2.3GB. This is especially a problem on high-end gaming machines that have huge graphics cards as well as lots of RAM."<br />
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"Microsoft even changed the way the OS reports the amount of RAM available; rumor is, due to pressure from OEMs," the developer told us. "In Vista and prior, it reported usable RAM, while in SP1 they <a href="http://support.microsoft.com/kb/946003">changed it to report installed RAM</a> ignoring the fact that much of the RAM was unusable due to overlap with video memory." And so many PC users are installing 4GB of RAM in their PCs and thinking that it is being used by the system, when in fact it is no more beneficial than if the RAM were simply poked halfway into the CD slot. <br />
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For example, Dell's top of the line $5799 Alienware gamer PC comes standard with a 1GB video card, 2GB of RAM, and 32-bit Windows Home Premium. That means the system can only possibly use 2.3GB of RAM, but Dell "recommends" users spend $250 (or $8 per month with financing) to buy a 4GB upgrade (below) that will offer them little more than bragging rights, as the 1GB video card and the roughly 750MB of other MMIO will make the extra 2GB unusable. Dell says "Upgrading your memory allows you to take full advantage of system capabilities as well as increasing system efficiency," but that's simply not true on this page.</blockquote><br />
Simple solution here. If you want to install more than 3GB of RAM, get a 64 bit Windows, else your money invested is wasted.<br />
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Do note that many older devices won't work with Windows Vista x64 because of non-existing drivers. Notable are the webcams from Logitech (they are trying to sell me newer webcams instead of writing drivers that supports vista :S).<br />
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Cheers people,<br />
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seehua<br />
ps: On the brighter note, I am pretty happy with my new Macbook. It certainly is a lot user-friendlier than a comparable windows system, to the point that I kinda miss the gesture based UI when i get back to my old system for maintenance<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21967978.post-29878082593092698852008-12-01T19:34:00.000+08:002008-12-01T19:37:00.104+08:00White Christmas (?)I's snowing heavily here... after 2 years or almost no snow, we finally get to experience >1 inch thick snow again...<br />
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Let's see if the snow can hold itself until christmas time :P<br />
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and yes, I am back to full online capacity, due to my new Macbook. The old laptop had been relegated to a new role as a file/private test web server. Should I be writing an introductory crash course on the various features of a new Macbook as well?<br />
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seehua<div class="blogger-post-footer">Living Here and Now</div>vseehuahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01537962875550716753noreply@blogger.com3