MacaholiQ8

January 21, 2012

2012-01-23T02:30:00.003+03:00

الحمدلله الذي أنعم علي بنعمته ورزقني بمولود

Thanks to Allah for blessing me with a beautiful baby boy.

Recording OS X Text to Speech to an Audio file using Terminal

2012-01-12T15:35:00.006+03:00

This is a very useful method to record OS X text to speech into an audio file.

Create a text file using TextEdit and write whatever you want the Mac to speak then save it as "text.txt" on your desktop.
Open Terminal
Type cd ~/desktop and click Enter
Type say -v Alex -o "audio.aiff" -f "text.txt" being "audio.aiff" is the name of the audio output file and "text.txt" is the name of your text file saved on your desktop then click Enter

Once you click Enter the audio file will appear on your desktop.

You can change the voice with any of OS X system voices (Kathy, Vicky, Victoria, Alex, Bruce, Fred) by replacing Alex with any of the names.

Note that even ".rtf" files can be read as well so in that case just change "text.txt" with "text.rtf".

Learning Misconception

2012-01-09T23:12:00.003+03:00

Here's an advice for all of you graduate students...
NEVER defy your instructor even if he/she was wrong.

I'm doing my masters degree in instructional design for open and distance teaching and training. Our current module is "Design and Presentation of ODL materials" and part of our study is learning HTML attributes. It is funny how my basic knowledge of HTML became useful.

What we are being taught in our workbook is that "ALT attribute" for graphics and media is basically a mere tooltip option rather than accessibility feature. There's also no mention for the "Title attribute" which is in fact the rightful attribute for tooltips on web pages. When I told the instructor it is a misconception he told me to wait and see. He defined ALT attribute for an image on dreamweaver to demonstrate how it works and when he moved the mouse over the image waiting for a tooltip to show text he entered nothing happened. I told him this has nothing to do with ALT attribute, it's Title attribute that handles tooltips. He insisted that there's a problem with his browser and all of us should try it on our computers.

I, being ignorant, defined my image with a Title attribute. When he came to check my work, to his shock mine was the only one working, I told him see this is the right attribute. He stood still for a couple of seconds. Goes back to the center of class and says arrogantly "When I ask you to do something you do it precisely. I don't need your help rather you need mine." Double/you-tea-ef ?!

Ok, my fault. I don't need to tell a professor what's right and what's wrong but if he is teaching us this misconception how is he expecting us to succeed? No wonder why our learning outcome sucks and nobody seems to understand what he/she is doing.

Belated new year resolutions

2012-01-08T10:45:00.004+03:00

My blog has been up for the past 6 years *shocked how time passes by* and I'm still here, not active as I used to be but still alive and kicking'. My belated new year resolutions are:

Be a better person (that includes being a better son, husband, brother, uncle and friend)

Blog more often

Do my best in my masters study

Become super dad for my upcoming baby

Buy a new car without having to sell the one I have

Enjoy photography even more

Ease up on shisha ( yeah right -_- )

Vaporized Money

2011-12-07T18:05:00.007+03:00

I've been away from Kuwait for the past three months studying in Bahrain. Last week my brother called me telling me the company that I'm storing my furniture at called him telling him they have not received any payments from me and they are going to press charges unless I pay.

The story begins at NBK. Three months ago I made a debt transaction directly to the company's account and for the past three months their money gets deducted on the 24th of each month however it neither goes into their account nor back into my account. Where is it?

I got back to Kuwait last Wednesday hoping to resolve this issue and get back to my study but as we all know no one can finish anything in one day, this is how our system works. When I went to NBK they said as long as the money never got back to your account then the transaction is accurate, and when I went to KFH (company's bank) they told me I cannot do anything, a company representative should come and deal with this issue.

The dilemma started when the company and I wanted to resolve the issue. They asked me to cancel the monthly transaction. I went back to NBK and they said we cannot cancel it unless you bring us a release paper stating that there are no outstanding amounts due to the company! WTH? I made that transaction personally, it is not an installment! I had the option of transferring the money online each month but I didn't want to deal with that hassle. The company accountant said they don't have release forms of any kind and since I made it I can cancel it but NBK refuses to cancel. W T F ?

I couldn't stay for long so I'm back in Bahrain now. I gave the company my account statement which clearly shows every deduction and they can look for their own money, and after talking to some people at NBK I signed some papers to cancel the transaction but it won't happen until transaction department look into it.

UPDATE: Jan, 2012 - Problem resolved

Doodle Devil | All 190 Elements

2011-12-07T17:58:00.003+03:00

One of the most addictive games.

Source: [link]

"Elements
Metal = Fire + Stone
Air = Human + Apple
Steam = Water + Fire/Water + Lava
Ash = Fire + Tree/Fire + House/Light + Vampire/Fire + Book/Fire + Beast
Earth = Human + Apple
Energy = Fire + Air
Stone = Water + Lava
Fire = Human + Apple
Water = Human + Apple
Lava = Fire + Earth

Good
Prayer = Human + Angel
Angel = Life + Light
Religion = Human + Prayer
Friendship = Human + Human
Heavens = Soul + Religion
Life = Human + Human/Man + Woman
Resurrection = Corpse + Soul
Light = Human + Apple
Soul = Human + Demon
Order = Human + Apple

War Machines
Airplane = Air + Car
Napalm = Fire + Oil
Battle Cruiser = Water + Cannon
Radar = Air + Radio-Wave/Air + Surveillance
Bomber = Airplane + Bomb
Cannon = Weapon + Bomb
Helicopter = Air + Mechanism
Submarine = Fish + Battle Cruiser
Land Mine = Earth + Bomb
Tank = Car + Armor

Sins
Envy = Sin + Greed
Pride = Sin + Sin
Gluttony = Sin + Food
Sloth = Sin + Work
Greed = Sin + Money
Heresy = Sin + Religion
Lust = Sin + Sex
Theft = Sin + Money
Murder = Sin + Corpse
Wrath = Sin + Weapon

Animals
Rat = Beast + Diseases
Bat = Air + Vampire
Snake = Egg + Worm
Beast = Human + Apple
Pigeon = Air + Rat
Egg = Stone + Magic
Wolf = Beast + Wrath
Fish = Beast + Water
Worm = Earth + Life
Piranha = Fish + Weapon

Technology
Internet = Computer + Computer
AI = Life + Computer
Radio-Wave = Air + Electricity
Car = Oil + Mechanism
Cell Phone = Radio-Wave + Computer
Computer = Book + TV
Robot = Mechanism + Computer
Cyborg = AI + Robot
TV = Demon + Mechanism
Electricity = Energy + Metal

Monsters
Cerebrus = Beast + Death
Mutant = Man + Magic/Human + Darkness
Cthulu = Water + Demon
Vampire = Human + Blood
Demon = Beast + Darkness
Frankenstein = Corpse + Electricity
Ghost = Ash + Soul
Werewolf = Man + Beast
Ghoul = Corpse + Zombie
Zombie = Life + Corpse/Death + Corpse/Human + Computer

Society
Atheism = Human + Heresy
Money = Knowledge + Copyright/Demon + Soul/Oil + Politician
Book = Human + Knowledge
Psychology = Human + Heresy
Censored = Sex + Mechanism/Sex + Money
Copyright = Order + Demon
Gambling = Human + Greed
War = Pride + Politician
Knowledge = Human + Apple
Work = Human + Coffee/Human + Money

Witchcraft
Spell book = Book + Magic
Crow = Pigeon + Witch
Torture = Suffering + Suffering
Necro-mancer = Zombie + Wizard
Potion = Water + Magic
Sacrifice = Murder + Religion
Wand = Weapon + Magic
Scroll = Magic + Leather
Witch = Woman + Magic
Skeleton = Human + Acid

Humans
Man = Human + Apple
Blood = Human + Weapon/Human + Torture/Man + Weapon
Politician = Human + Copyright/Human + Pride
Corpse = Human + Life/Human + Murder
Food = Beast + Weapon
Human
Sex = Dragon + Hydra/Man + Woman
Lawyer = Human + Copyright
Woman = Human + Apple
Leather = Human + Torture

Nature
Apple
Seeds = Apple + Earth
Bacteria = Life + Spore
Spore = Seeds + Mushroom
Coffee = Energy + Seeds
Grass = Earth + Seeds
Mushroom = Earth + Seeds
Tobacco = Fire + Grass
Razorvine = Grass + Weapon
Tree = Earth + Seeds

Security
Army = Order + War
Scientist = Knowledge + Knowledge
City = House + House
Soldier = Firearm + Warrior
Corruption = Politician + Money
Cyber-space = Life + Internet
Empire = Politician + Army
Surveillance = Knowledge + War
Hacker = Knowledge + Computer
Terrorism = War + Chaos

Evil
Sect = Religion + Heresy
Chaos = War + Nuclear bomb
Sin = Human+ Apple
Darkness = Human + Apple
Death = Human + Life
Diseses = Human + Tobacco
Styx = Water + Death
Inferno = Human + Murder
Suffering = Fire + House/Human + Torture/Human + War/Human + Acid
Magic = Energy + Demon

Destruction
Earth-quake = Earth + Earth
Armageddon = War + Biological weapon
Epidemic = Diseases + Chaos
Biological weapon = Spore + Bomb
Chemical weapon = Poison Gas + Missile
Communism = Demon + Sect
Nuclear bomb = Mushroom + Bomb
Democracy = Politician + Politician
Tsunami = Water + Earth-quake
Dictatorship = Politician + Army

Science Fiction Weapons
BFG 9000 = Weapon + Inferno
Plasmai-gun = Weapon + Plasma
Death ray gun = Weapon + Alien
Space marine = Soldier + Void
Death star = City + Spaceship
Disintegrator = Weapon + Void
Force field = Energy + Armor
Spaceship = Rocket + Battle Cruiser
Light saber = Laser + Force field
Vacuum bomb = Void + Bomb

Tools
Acid = Water + Sulfur
Poison gas = Air + Poison
Bomb = Metal + TNT
Sulfur = Air + Inferno
House = Human + Stone
Mechanism = Metal + Work
Oil = Earth + Knowledge
TNT = Oil + Acid
Poison = Coffee + Tobacco
Weapon = Human + Metal

Midevil
Spell = Knowledge + Magic
Castle = House + Armor
Tower = House + Wizard
Dragon = Magic + Egg
Elf = Human + Light
Hydra = Beast + Snake
Unicorn = Beast + Magic
Pegasus = Pigeon + Unicorn
Wizard = Human + Energy
Phoenix = Fire + Pigeon

Weapons
Gun-powder = Cellulose + Acid
AK-47 = Firearm + Magic
Hand grenade = Bomb + Soldier
Armor = Metal + Warrior
Bazooka = Weapon + Missile
Desert eagle = Firearm + Pride
Missile = Bomb + Rocket
Firearm = Weapon + Gun-powder
Warrior = Human + Wrath
Flame-thrower = Fire + Weapon

Science
Alien = Life + Void
Satellite = Void + Rocket
Cellulose = Grass + Work
UFO = Alien + Rocket
Laser = Fire + Radio-Wave
Plasma = Fire + Energy
Radiation = Radio-Wave + Radio-Wave
Virus = Human + Diseases
Rocket = Airplane + Void
Void = Order + Chaos"

Siri

2011-10-12T21:15:00.005+03:00

Siri will take over the world one day, just like "V.I.K.I in I, Robot" and "Red Queen in Resident Evil"! It will become self aware and as powerful as Skynet one day!

Imagine that this is still in beta. Creepy.

Thanks to Bashar @ G+

UPDATE: Looks like it's happening [link]

Goal Courts TV Commercial

2011-08-06T04:15:00.003+03:00

Goal Courts commercial - Senyar Marketing 2011

This is by far one of the best ads I have ever seen in Kuwait. The main reason I love it is because I've experienced that attitude from older guys. Yes I was one of the poor generation of those unfortunate ones who always get kicked out by mustaches.

Facepalm

2011-08-03T01:26:00.002+03:00

Forgetting is part of our human nature. People forget things they've said, heard, or done though some of them have a method of calling back their thoughts. Some scrub or squeeze their head, others look aside and try to recall what's deep inside their mind, but very few of them use rough methods to express their failure to remember... Facepalm, or in other words, forehead slap. This common gesture either refers to annoyance or, in some cultures, forgetting.

I've been looking all over the internet for an explanation to this indication as a sign of disremember but I couldn't find anything. I'm looking it up because I'm afraid one of my friends is starting to develop some form of agnosia and with that he started to facepalm himself quite often or literally slapping his forehead to remember. His action started to look weird, unexplainable, and sometimes embarrassing to himself and those around him.

I know I won't be able to resolve his issue but at least I can read further more about it to convince him to see a doctor so if anybody has a point or a place to refer to please tell in the comments.

Butterfly Effect

2011-07-22T17:48:00.006+03:00

If you are familiar with the term butterfly effect you'll understand the situation.

Five months ago I had to move out from my place. That lead to canceling my plans for this summer vacation since moving out cost me around KD1200. With my plans shattered I had no other plan but to start a family. Few days after knowing that my wife is pregnant I got an anonymous call telling me I got accepted on a scholarship! I went to review my application and turns out I did apply for masters degree a year ago. That means I have to leave the country for three years for this masters program. I can't take my wife with me for her safety and baby's. Now I have to move my furniture to self storage, pay another rent abroad, send money back home for the wife and future kid, and probably have to sell the car and get a new one to take it there with me.

This is a hard situation. My child will be born and probably grow up a few years without me around him/her and even harder for my wife. Hopefully it won't be as bad as I think. Time flies by and I'm doing this for the best.

Wish me luck because I really need it.

Shinedown - 45

2011-07-01T19:35:00.001+03:00

Q8soug.com

2011-06-25T17:01:00.002+03:00

Showcase your products on Q8soug.com for free. Sell your used items directly without third parties. Automotive, electronics, real estate, tools, clothes, and everything you want to sell. All under one site.

Cellular Data Network | Fix

2011-06-18T20:18:00.001+03:00

If you recently updated your iPhone version and lost "Cellular Data Network" tab on your settings then here's how to fix it.

You either need to FTP to your iPhone or use iFile (jailbroken iPhones) from Cydia. Browse to

/var/mobile/Library/Carrier Bundles/iPhone/(YOUR Carrier).bundle

and edit "carrier.plist" by adding the following code after
< plist version="1.0">
< dict>...

< key>APNEEditabilityTypemask< /key>
< integer>5< /integer>
< key>AllowEDGEEditing< /key>
< true/>

All without spaces. It should appear once again on your Network tab.

White iPhone 4

2011-04-27T16:33:00.002+03:00

Available tomorrow (April 28) in the US.

UPDATE: And it's slightly thicker than the black one. [link]

Japanese invention | Switl

2011-03-28T22:10:00.004+03:00

Someone please explain how is this possible?

Friday March 25, 2011

2011-03-25T18:15:00.006+03:00

Within 10 minutes everything went from clear to dust.

iPhone Photo Library & Camera Not Working? | Fix

2011-01-04T21:51:00.001+03:00

Your iPhone or iPod photo library and camera not working? Crashes? Stuck on Updating / Rebuilding Library? Even a restore or update can't fix this issue? Here's the solution. Unfortunately it involves deleting ALL your saved pictures/videos on your iPhone/iPod library.

Mac users: Connect iPhone to iTunes. Cancel sync. Go to mac application and open Preview. Click File > Import from (your iDevice name) > Select All Images and Delete.

Jailbroken iPhone/iPod users: Download iFile from Cydia. Browse Files > User > Library> Media > DCIM > Delete ALL Images.

Tested and proven to work %100 on SoCoMoCo's iPhone 3GS.

Aramex New Rates

2011-01-04T20:47:00.003+03:00

Aramex have raised their rates again. This seems to be never ending. They know there's no alternative to some orders.

FAIL! | Wataniya Give Kuwait Campaign

2011-01-04T20:31:00.003+03:00

Most of you are familiar with Wataniya Telecom."GiveKuwait" campaign and some of you, including myself, are participants. It saddens me to see this campaign failing because of unorganized planning.

It all started with the voting system. Most participants are well aware that the voting system in the website is a joke where anybody can cheat by giving thousands of fake votes to himself/herself by using proxies/VPNs. Lots of people complained to Wataniya asking them to find a solution. Wataniya came up with one solution... Reset ALL votes. How smart? What about the other people who earned their votes?

The second reason for this fail is their weekly winners announcements. It took them two weeks to announce first week winners which is probably caused by the flaw in the voting system yet there's no excuse for not announcing the other winners.

The third and final reason for this epic fail is the judges. I don't know about the other two but I know one thing, Mr. BahaAlden Al-Qazweni is very biased. I've seen him in so many events and know people who have close contact with him and they all agree. This is by no means pointed towards his personality rather than his actions. Let's just say if you have anything to do with Bayt Lothan then you get his vote blindfolded.

Submitting your files to that campaign means Wataniya has exclusive rights to use it whenever they want. It should be called "Give Wataniya". I'm not willing to share my photography knowing it's only a giveaway to Wataniya, no chance of winning. Now I know better not to contribute in a public event without knowing the consequences.

Give Kuwait | My Entry

2010-12-20T16:20:00.004+03:00

--> Vote Here <--

Review | Saso Restolounge

2010-12-05T23:32:00.004+03:00

I should have reviewed this restaurant long ago but I forgot about it and now after having yet another bad experience I am going to give my honest opinion about it.

They say "Don't judge a book by its cover". In Saso's case this should be literally converted to "Don't judge a restaurant by its decoration".

Saso Restolounge stands sheerly on its environment. Cosy lighting, comfy seats, fairly good service and best of all pretty much well priced. So what's the matter? Isn't that good enough to make the "book's cover" embellished? The answer is a big NO.

People go to restaurants to eat. Whether they're in for a large meal or a small plate of dessert, food is what really matters. Saso's food might be well presented but it's nowhere near tasty. The menu is full of vapid choices including cheap sushi made from Al-Wazan rice and Mazolla mayo. Tasteless pre-made soup with a pH value of 6. Chewing on their steak is like chomping on a cow's feet. Word of advice, sushi and mayo don't mix up, Maki's style is overrated.

Further more their bill was decently priced but I have no idea how they came up with "**.013 fils"! Imagine having to pay those 13 fils in cash.

Eating there is one thing and getting there is something else. I don't know what's up with that restaurant and smelly places. In all three places that you can find Saso you can smell rotten eggs. It's more like a vapor cloud flying over the restaurant wherever it opens.

You probably think I'm exaggerating. Well I'm not. On my scale from 10 Saso respectively comes second from bottom, right above Munch. Go there and try it yourself. Just don't forget to wear a gas mask before going in.

Life Clock

2010-11-27T21:12:00.004+03:00

My summary

Your Age: 27.4 years
Projected Life Span (total years you will live): 66.4
Projected Life Expectancy (years remaining): 39

The average life span for your region is 66. You are expected to live 0.40000000000001 years longer than average due to your health and lifestyle.

GENDER: -2.5 years
Men live 5 years less than women. Not much you can do about that. But don't worry, female smokers loose a year more than men so your smoking has baught you a year, right? NOT!

FAMILY HISTORY: 3 years
Your family history rewards you with a few extra years. Remember to thank your mom.

SMOKING: -4 years
Smoking places you at high risk of developing lung cancer. Heavy smokers could loose 15 years (some estimates are as high as 25 years). Smoking will further shorten your happy years, making your final days a nightmare of suffering and medical treatment. It takes 10 years for the risk of lung cancer to return to that of a non-smoker and 15 for heart attack risk to return to normal. Stop smoking now before it's too late.

DRINKING: 0 years
You could benifit from drinking one or two glasses of red wine per day

WEIGHT: 0 years (BMI: 23)
Your BMI score classifies you as normal. Grats. Go treat yourself to a double fudge, candy topped, chocolate coated, three scoop ice cream cone. You've earned it.

HEALTH: 0 years
Keep living right and maybe you will never have to worry about hypertension, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

DIET: -3 years
I won't lecture you on what foods you should be eating. I'm sure you already know. Is 3 years of life worth the sacrifice? Your choice.

EXERCISE: 1 years
Exercising 20-40 minutes each day can add many years to your life.

HAPPINESS: 2 years
As Emerson said, "Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself." Keep smiling :)

EDUCATION: 1 years
Not surprisingly, higher education equals longer life.

DRIVING: 2 years
You're no fool.The average person has a 30% chance of being in a serious accident in their lifetime but your odds are lower than average.

Try it yourself...

RedBull Flugtag 2010 Kuwait | First Place

2010-11-06T14:55:00.008+03:00

DRAGONFLY TEAM

We won first place!

History [link]

UPDATE

Laptop For Sale

2010-10-11T22:32:00.004+03:00

EDIT SOLD

ASUS X83VM-X2

New laptop, still in the box (never been used).

Specifications:
Intel Core 2 Duo P7450 2.13 GHz processor
4 GB DDR2 RAM
320 GB hard drive
LightScribe DVD±RW DL drive
NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GS graphics
Integrated audio with built-in speakers
Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet
802.11b/g/Draft-N wireless LAN
Built-in 1.3 megapixel webcam and microphone
4-in-1 Digital Media Reader
14.1-inch TFT active matrix widescreen LCD display (1280 x 800)

Expansion Slots:
One (1) ExpressCard/54 card slot

Supported Media:
Secure Digital (SD)
MultiMediaCard (MMC)
Memory Stick (MS)
Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO)

I/O Ports:
Five (5) USB 2.0 ports
One (1) HDMI
One (1) eSATA
One (1) 15-pin VGA
One (1) RJ-45 Ethernet
One (1) 4-pin IEEE 1394 FireWire
One (1) Headphone
One (1) Microphone

+Plus laptop bag.

Perfect for gaming

SOLD

I Want This Watch

2010-09-17T14:19:00.010+03:00

I'm just 28,000 thousand KD short.

URWERK UR-202 [link]

Apple, Inc. Will Inherit the World

2010-09-05T07:00:00.005+03:00

If you're familiar with video games then you know Umbrella Corp. from Resident Evil series and how it controlled the virtual world of the game. If you have watched Wall-E you know how Buy n Large (BnL) mega corp. dominated the virtual world of the movie and space too. In our world Apple Inc. is becoming the real world Umbrella / Buy n Large. Why?

For the past quarter century Apple have evolved from computer hardware and software development to portable gadgets and all the way to mobile cellphones, initially changing their brand name from Apple Computer, Inc. to Apple, Inc. to invade the latter market (portables market) with new innovations and not to be stuck with computers only. In stock market Apple (AAPL) is always on a rising tide. No matter how it gets knocked down it gets back up again and at some point exceed expectations.

AAPL stock chart through the past 25 years

So what makes Apple so special? Apple simply makes unique things we crave, things barely 10~15 years ago we could only dream of. Apple may not be the first or the only company making these gadgets but they sure know how to make a stunning product. They are making unique stuff that other companies can't, or let's just say don't dare, to produce.

Ok, that's interesting, but what will make it inherit the world?

If you look closely nowadays, not a day goes by without hearing, reading, or seeing something that has to do with Apple. You have a Mac, your sibling has an iPhone, your cousin has an iPod, your neighbor has an Apple logo sticker on his car. It's everywhere.

Unlike other brands Apple has products available for all consumers. No age limit, no profession limit, and gender-neutral. You see a 3-year old kid solving puzzles on his iPod touch. You see 80-years old lady reading Bible/Qur'an on her iPad. Regular teenager on her iPhone, businessman on his MacBook. Even governments / presidents use Apple products. [link]

People started to refer to their Apple products as if they invented them. "My iPhone does this. - My Mac has that... etc". They start to brag and boast as if they were the ones who built it from scratch. It's become part of their lifestyle and worst of all part of their ego. What Apple earned from this is an army of devoted consumers and heap marketing for free.

Apple has two major propellers to their success aside to their diehard fans...

They know how to attract more customers and best of all how to make older customers in their need. No matter how perfect their products are they always have something to spoil the fun and make you want to upgrade your product or buy a newer model, hence getting back to the mighty Apple.

Two of the world major great powers have their back. United States where their designs and planning is done, and China where their products get built. Having two great powers on your side makes you a super power.

They have dominated the Music market on the internet and working their way on dominating the Movies market as well. There are rumors of Apple flat panel TVs to compete in the market someday in the near future.

In the next 25 years we'd see Apple make microwaves, refrigerators, blenders, all the way to cars, trains, or even spaceships for all I know, but whether hated or loved, Apple Inc. is dominating our surroundings and eventually will inherit the world.

Dragonfly 2.0

2010-08-31T23:15:00.004+03:00

Credit: ©2005 Jessica Postle

Redbull Flugtag, again!

History [link]

MacBook Pro Battery Defect

2010-08-26T03:22:00.001+03:00

My MacBook Pro battery (model: A1281) gained extra weight today due to unknown circumstances.

I always keep my laptop running on power source without removing the battery even when it's fully charged. I don't shut down the system, I just close the screen and leave it on sleep mode. Yesterday though I left it downloading Apple Software Updates and went to sleep. When I woke up today I found the cooling system working pretty hard and the whole laptop unibody was quite hot but what made me certain there's a problem is the trackpad. Those who are familiar with Apple's buttonless trackpad know how it feels when you click anywhere on it, it simply clicks, but mine did not click no matter where I press. At first I thought there's a problem with the trackpad itself but then I saw the bottom of the laptop to see the battery cover slightly curved. I opened the latch and the battery popped out of its place. Turns out it got deformed and swollen in the middle pressing against the trackpad from the bottom.

Curved battery cover

Battery cover with latch closed

Battery cover should align horizontally over the battery

I have no idea what caused this problem. I'm just thankful I noticed this problem before it got worse.

Even with this defect the battery's running good with only 120 cycles and over two and a half hours lifespan.

64 Years Old !!

2010-08-12T21:09:00.003+03:00

Photo of Sylvester Stallone prior to filming his "ALL-STARS" movie The Expendables.

Whether he's taking loads and loads of drugs or pumping his body with nitrous I think it's amazing for a guy in his age to have that body.

*goes to sign up in a gym*

iPhone 4 Knockoff already in the market

2010-08-11T00:06:00.002+03:00

iPhone 4 knockoff has reached Kuwait market. I'm sure 95% of those who are going to buy the iPhone 4 are familiar with it and know how to differentiate between the original and knockoff but just in case here's a video to see how the knockoff version looks like...

Bully Beatdown

2010-08-06T03:11:00.003+03:00

If you're familiar with MTV shows you might have heard of this show. If you get thrilled with UFC and follow MMA fighters news then you ought to watch Bully Beatdown.

Personally I hate wrestling, UFC, KOTC or any other fighting shows for that matter but this show is something else. Not only it makes me feel good to see bullies take fists and kicks by top fighters but also extremely hilarious thanks to it's host Jason "Mayhem" Miller. This guy is so awesome regardless of his hyper insanity. He also looks somewhat like German football player and Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger.

There are only two seasons with 16 episodes so far (8 episodes each) but I read that season 3 is still cooking... I can't wait.

The "D" Sticker Story

2010-08-04T14:38:00.001+03:00

Long story short, I filled a Benzin car with Diesel thanks to that sticker.

Being the auto enthusiast I am I've always thought I know almost everything about cars, however, not knowing what this little sticker stands for got me cornered for two days in Europe!

You see, for years and years I recall seeing these stickers on cars everywhere around the world even here in Kuwait. When I started liking things to do with cars I used to ask myself what this is and how it works and go look for it but those stickers were available way before my only knowledge resource, the internet, that's when I used to ask my parents, older brothers or friends regarding automotive inquiries and guess what? I've been told the "D" stands for "Diesel"! I remember every time I asked about those stickers I get the same answer so I took it for granted.

Now my unfortunate story starts here in Kuwait when I booked a "DIESEL" car online. The contract was "Opel Astra -or- similar". I flew to Germany to see the car I booked wasn't available therefore I got the "similar" car which was Seat Leon with the so-called "DIESEL" sticker. I drove all the way from Munich to Rust (about 4 hours drive) then after a couple of days I went out from Rust to Geneva (another 4 hours drive). On my way out the tank was half full from the first trip so I parked in a gas station, refill the car with DIESEL, and continue my journey. The moment I went out of that gas station I knew something was wrong, the car barely reached 100km/h. The 4 hours trip became 6 hours though I was lucky enough to reach Geneva before it died!

From there I was stuck in Geneva for two days going back and forth to resolve this issue with the rental company. I got leeched a couple of hundred KDs for that matter. I'm not happy but I caused this and I deserve it for not knowing better.

One piece of knowledge I got from this experience is... "It's acceptable to put Diesel in a Benzin car than putting Benzin in a Diesel car." Thank you Mr. Mechanic but I don't think I'll be doing fuel mixing anymore.

The " D " Bumper Sticker

2010-08-02T00:14:00.001+03:00

Has anyone seen this bumper sticker on the back of a car anywhere around here? Now I have a good story regarding that sticker but first I just want to know if anyone's familiar with this sticker and what it refers to so tell me what does it stand for?

Spotted in Geneva

2010-08-02T00:09:00.000+03:00

Who ever those guys are, they're living life to the fullest. Driving all the way from Kuwait to the far west of Europe is something I envy them for. Unfortunately I wasn't able to meet them.

I've always wanted to go a long road trip traveling around with nothing but beautiful landscapes (I kinda did this summer but that's not the story) though it needs a decent budget, strong will, good planning, and a couple of brave team members.

I wish them all the best of luck and hope to see some updates about their journey.

DEUTSCHLAND!

2010-07-03T01:24:00.001+03:00

Modern Shishas / Hookahs

2010-06-19T18:21:00.000+03:00

Meduse Pipes by Meduse Design

The Narghile by Nedda Al Asmar
For Airdiem Paris

The Unit 3.0

Shishavac (Preparation System for pipes)

iPhone 4 | Unleashed

2010-06-08T00:49:00.001+03:00

Another day, another iPhone.

Everything seems exactly like the lost model found few months ago. Better screen resolution, better camera, retina (retinal) display, HD video recording, better battery, and best of all a new micro-processor (A4) designed to boost this phone into a whole new generation of suaveness.

Now of course this one will cost a fortune when it reaches here and I'm sure a lot of people are willing to buy it no matter how expensive, I think it would be a waste of money because

~~a) It uses micro-sim which I'm not sure is available out here yet.~~
Turns out they're available.

b) It'll become a hype but once everything cools down you can get it for a lot cheaper.

Vintage Casio TV Watch

2010-06-01T22:36:00.004+03:00

This watch brings many good memories.
Found in perfect condition.

Pinkberry Railroad

2010-05-10T16:02:00.003+03:00

All that for frozen yogurt? Pfftttt.

اللهم لا تأخذنا بما فعل السفهاء منا

Jailbreak iPhone 3.1.3

2010-05-03T20:26:00.002+03:00

The easiest way to jailbreak iPhone, iPod, iPad on the latest firmware 3.1.3 using Spirit [link]

Amazon.CO.UK SUCKS!

2010-04-12T17:50:00.002+03:00

I received a wrong order from AMAZON UK today and it's not the first time.

I ordered Converse All Star Chuck Taylor slim leather low in WHITE [link] but I received it in BLACK! It says WHITE in the product page, it even says WHITE on the box too!

How convenient... B@stards.

Hardee's & the beggar

2010-04-12T17:11:00.000+03:00

Yesterday I went to buy dinner from Hardee's. I took my turn in the drive-thru, the booth was on my left, I saw shadow with the edge of my eye on the right side next to my passenger window. When I turned my head I saw an old woman begging, with the kindest words I might add, for money. Out of good will I gave her 1KD and closed my window. I turned my head left again to pay for my meal then I spotted the beggar getting inside Hardee's ordering a meal for herself. The funny part was not over yet, as soon as I received my order she came back to me seconds before driving away asking for a half KD to complete her meal! And was I that kind? Of course I was. I gave her the 1/2 KD and went on my way.

What's making me curious is that she could have asked me to buy her a meal and I would've been glad to do so but I guess she was too polite to ask. Oh wait, was she?

Enough Said

2010-04-08T00:58:00.001+03:00

Knocking Man Utd. out of Champions league is not only an accomplished mission but also a poke into all Anti-German football fans.

You see, I'm a diehard Bayern Munich fan and I admit lately they don't have consistent shows nor the team spirit like they used to still they showed the most typical aspect of German football... Constant resistance and fighting spirit to die for.

Now that we kicked some hooligan be.you.double.tee.s I can happily see my team getting knocked out by any other team because to me what matters the most is winning against Real Madrid and Manchester United on all occasions.

Ferrari California Accident

2010-04-01T11:23:00.004+03:00

I came across a weird accident yesterday. Around 3PM I was heading to Salmiya when I passed Salwa x Rumaithiya junction, on the U-turn there was a red Ferrari California with a broken rear wheel. There were no other cars involved, it also appears that the car did not hit a curb or anything, the rim was intact but detached from the vehicle.

Unfortunately I wasn't able to take photos so if anyone knows what happened please tell the story.

AND NO THIS IS NOT APRIL FOOLS' JOKE

Translation Needed

2010-03-24T00:33:00.003+03:00

Arabic is my mother tongue but in this cellphone store ad.
I seem to understand English way better than Arabic.
Does that translates anything close to

O r i g i n a l

A p p l e s t o r e

A p p l i c a t i o n s

?!

Define "Obsession"

2010-03-20T01:21:00.004+03:00

Two words... Angry Birds. If you have an iPhone, iPod, or even Nokia N900 you probably have heard about this addictive game. If you haven't then you have no idea what you're missing.

Angry Birds is a funny challenging logic game involving lots of destruction. With cartoon-like graphics, unique gameplay, perfectly composed soundtracks and hilarious sound effects this outstanding game is definitely the best of the best on the iPhone.

Don't get me wrong I am not promoting the game I'm just admitting how good it is. I also want to brag about it too. Yes you read right, BRAG! I've succeeded in becoming number one on Kuwait leader board managing three stars in all levels and completing the game %100.

"I don't mean to brag, I don't mean to boast. But I'm like hot butter on your breakfast toast." -Someone.

Now that I have documented my success and got that competitive obsession out of me feel free to knock my off the leader board because I quit. :)

Kuwait Postal Service & Airport Cargo

2010-03-18T14:29:00.002+03:00

This shows how convenient^-1 Kuwait postal service and airport cargo are...

Lately I started ordering directly to Kuwait without having Aramex ripping my pockets off. It takes less time to get my packages delivered and in most times it costs even less but that's limited to my options on the seller's site. Though on this unique occasion I had ordered two packages separately, one was posted on 19/2/2010 and the other was on 1/3/2010. Both packages were carried by UK Royal Mail and been forwarded overseas to Kuwait Postal Service for delivery.

The funny part is, the second package that was shipped almost two weeks later than the first one had been delivered on March 5 2010 while the first package whereabouts is still unknown. I went to KPS at Keifan, gave them the reference number and after 20 minutes the guy came back telling me they haven't received it yet, "It might still be at airport cargo or your local postal service office" he said.

All in good will I went to airport cargo asking around about my package only to find out that they have no way of knowing whether it has been collected by KPS or not. I realized I've wasted two and a half hours of my life and half a tank of gas through traffic jam on absolutely nothing.

If anyone knows how to track shipments forwarded to Kuwait postal service please enlighten me on how to understand this mess.

Blog Stats

2010-03-14T23:21:00.002+03:00

Blog stats declined severely in the past few months.

*post made for future reference*

Ahem...

2010-03-09T22:08:00.002+03:00

I had no intentions in deserting my blog yet I did, and I had no intentions to get back to blogging yet here I am.

For the past few months I kept thinking "Now that I got married, what else have I accomplished in my life so far?" Honestly, I couldn't recall a single thing, beside getting married of course. I saw myself as a miserable teacher who lost his voice over the so-called generations to come, labor for MOE examination committee, and a contractor back at home waiting for this construction work to finish. That's until yesterday when I opened my blog and started reading years back.

I kept reading and reading for hours. I grinned, I mourned, I saw the lost side of me. I saw myself as this happy youth who's full of passion for living. Computer addict and self-proclaimed tech-savvy. Automotive maniac, enthusiastic photographer, and last but not least a loving son, brother, husband, uncle and hopefully one day a father.

This blog has become part of me, part of who I am. It barely skims my entire life yet it underlines a lot about me and how I managed to go through all those years with their ups and downs.

With that said I am happy to be back to blogging and I will do my best to keep it thrived with many good years to come.

iPhone tech support?

2009-12-24T15:34:00.004+03:00

Ok this has become really annoying.

Earlier this year I wrote about getting an anonymous call asking me for help regarding his mac. Today I got a similar call but this time regarding someone's iPhone.

Now I don't know who's spreading my number but I know for sure that I'm not your friendly tech-support guy. If you need help jailbreaking your iPhone look it up yourself or simply try iClarified or go right ahead to geohot's blackra1n website and download it, it works for your iPod, iPhone 3G & 3GS. Just save me the hassle, please.

Word of advice... If you know something about anything, Do NOT show it. Keep it to yourself and act stupid because once you show it annoying people won't hesitate to eat you alive.

When School Administration Collapses

2009-12-15T00:33:00.002+03:00

If you stay at work for a long time you start to care less about changes around you but when you leave work for a period of time and get back every change will be exposed to your eyes and you'll feel different, it even takes time for you to adapt with these changes.

I left my job for a couple of weeks and today I marked my come back and to my shock the school is not how I left it. Both assistant principals are gone due to heated dispute between the two, school principal comes late and leaves early, students are in a state of disorder skipping classes and running away from school, teachers can barely contain the situation and continue with their classes.

Trying to resolve all these problems we implemented physical discipline upon those who have helped building up the chaos. We suspended a couple of students and retained order for a period of time up until the first recess, students went out writing on walls and spilling juice on some of the writing boards. From there it went downhill again.

It's hard for me to admit but the situation is out of hand and this snowball is going fast down the mountain. All we can hope for is to have two new assistant principals who better be very strong and very strict as fast as possible.

When school administration collapses brats of hullabaloo prevail.

Credibility

2009-12-06T00:05:00.002+03:00

*No Comment*

Fingers Crossed

2009-11-23T13:59:00.002+03:00

Can hardly wait...

Review | Munch

2009-11-09T00:05:00.002+03:00

Tasteless |ˈtāstlis|
adjective
1 lacking flavor.
2 considered to be lacking in aesthetic judgment or to offend against what is regarded as appropriate behavior : a tasteless joke.

After my bad experience with Japanese food I thought I'd never have anything worse than that but then came Munch.

The best word to describe my experience with Munch is "Tasteless". In fact if you look closely in the dictionary for synonyms of the word tasteless you'd fine "Munch" listed.

This restaurant stands solely on it's hyped decoration and food presentation. Other than that, nothing at all. The service is inadequate, the menu is unreadable, the drinks are made from Sunquick concentrated juice with some add-ons, their fries can be found in City Centre market, their kitchen ventilation system is so noisy you'd think you're in a heavy industry plant, and the food is another story... The food tastes like mud. Yes, Mud! The salads, pasta, burger... No salt at all! Seems their cook has some blood pressure issues.

Definitely the last time I take internet marketing for granted. Oh and a word of advice... Stay away from Bang Bang Chicken salad. Unless you want to vee.o.em.eye.tee.

Aramex "To Clear Things Up"

2009-10-27T17:19:00.003+03:00

"Hello Shop&Shippers!

We understand it's been a rough week for all of you, but finally, Kuwait Customs' policy has cleared up, and we're happy to say that online shopping is about to become more fun than ever!

So here's the bottom line: regardless of the goods value, all shipments are subject to customs clearance. We'll clear all shipments in one bundle, and pay the charged customs duties accordingly. You read correctly; it's on us!

In this case, you will only endure the following charges:

- 1 KD handling charges
- 5% of order value for Kuwait Customs duties (applicable only to orders valued above $100 USD)

However, self-clearance option is no longer available for our customers. You can contact us at [+ 965 1 820011] for further details.

Happy online shopping!

Your friends at Shop&Ship,"

Now let's get things straight...

Today $100 UDS = 29 KD (approx.)

Let's say you bought something that costs $1000 USD and weighs 8 LB.

That's 290 KD + 20.5 KD = 310 KD
310 + 5% = 310 + 14.5 + 1 KD = 325.5 KD

35.5 KD is not a small cost. This is outrageous, not to mention we got screwed with shipping fees and still after months of relatively low gas cost Aramex persists on keeping their shipping prices high.

Again, if you want to order something it better be worth it.

News?

2009-10-21T19:36:00.003+03:00

Here I am still safe and sound. Been lazy, I know... I got caught up with a lot of hassle lately but it's all good. So what's new on here?

My wedding is next Friday.

My job is making me sick. Nothing whatsoever can make me enjoy it.

I almost crashed into a Mercedes SLR yesterday.

Apple has released new iMac, Magic Mouse, upgrades MacBook and Mac Mini. I'm liking the new mini. Could be nice to go along my entertainment center.

New customs regulations puts a big exclamation mark over everyone's head. If you're about to order online it better be worth it.

I'm looking for a decent external hard drive (1TB), wireless bridge with ethernet, 256GB indilinx-based SSD for my MacBoo Pro, and a home theater system with wireless surround. Recommendations and very welcome.

And that's about all. Back in *put proper period here*

Demonoid !

2009-10-06T20:28:00.001+03:00

All of you "leechers" know Demonoid.com, it is like eden gardens for torrents. The site's been down since Sep. 26 but that's not the point.

The point is... By mistake I tried accessing Demonoid without activating my proxy and guess what? It was not blocked. I tried other sites that had been blocked by MOC / ISPs such as thepiratebay.org and hi5.com and they all opened without any problem.

Could there be a "not-so-bad" problem with my ISP (Gulf Net) ? Or did they just give up on blocking sites?

sigh

2009-10-05T22:01:00.000+03:00

"It's easier said than done"... Who ever said that is a genius. Keep those words in your mind and you shall find your path to eternal serenity.

How many times have you thought of doing something thinking it's easy then it turns out to be the most irritating thing you have ever done and you fall apart half way without completing that task?

Take me for example... I thought furnishing my apartment would be quite easy since me and Blue Jay got along regarding furniture and had no trouble choosing what's good for us. But when the labor got involved it took the whole thing two months to finish, not up to our standards of course.

For example, a construction guy comes to build a concrete wall drops a rock over clay roof tiles folding one of the tiles into a window and breaking the glass. Glass guy comes to repair the broken window and damages the ventilating fan. Electrician comes to fix the fan and breaks the door knob. Carpenter comes to fix the knob and scratches the door. Painter comes to repaint the door and spoil the parquet floor.... etc. Things just can't seem to get right from the first time.

Now that all is barely done I just want to say if you want to start construction better think a million times before you do. As my friend's father once said...

"الله لا يبليك بالبنيان"

Mac Overheating Issues?

2009-09-21T03:14:00.002+03:00

I was discussing this topic with Bu Yousef a few weeks ago. This is a copy/paste version of my response to him (yes I'm lazy!). Just a quick solution to those who are experiencing overheating issues with their Mac.

"It's normal for a MacBook Pro to overheat from time to time when it's multi-processing but not to alarming levels as cooling all the time - cooling fans reach over 6000rpm - screen starts to flick.

Which version/update of OS X do you have installed? If it's 10.5.6 then it's known for causing fatal overheating issues thus you'll need to either update for the most recent version or reinstall OS X (not format just reinstall it so it can overwrite the system files back to normal). However, make that (reinstallation of OS X) your last resort if nothing works.

First things first...
Room temperature: If it's not cold the macbook pro will heat up fast so make sure you operate in a cool environment.

Operating surface: Put the macbook pro on a flat solid surface, neither on your lab nor on sofa, carpet... etc. to keep it ventilated.

Charging: If your macbook pro is charging it is more likely to overheat while processing but once the charge is full it should get back to normal unless there are severe processes (video editing, multi-browsing with lots of Flash activity, ..etc.)

- Download iStat Pro on your dashboard: See if the fan speed reach over 6000rpm or CPU temperature goes over 70~80c, if it does then it's not normal so you can carry on with the next step...

- Go to Finder > Applications > Utilities > Disk Utility and choose your Macintosh HD. Click "Verify Disk Permissions", it will take some time then when it finishes click "Repair Disk Permissions".

- Open Activity Monitor when the macbook is overheating: Look for the process that is taking a lot of CPU usage and quit it then try resetting PRAM & NVRAM.

That's about all you can do to resolve the issue. If nothing helps then as I pointed out earlier in this email try updating with the recent OS X version or reinstalling OS X from the CD. Reinstall only if the overheating is severe (reaching over 6000rpm and CPU temp reach closer to 100c on iStat Pro)."

Snow Leopard | Review

2009-09-11T01:31:00.006+03:00

Before I start with Snow Leopard I'd like to point out one simple reason why I think OS X is far more superior than Windows... OS X is easier to handle and a lot more user friendly than Windows. In other words "It Just Works!".

I did not anticipate much from this version and I think I was right. There's nothing much to it other than small touch-ups here and there including QuickTime X, Expose, Stacks, and best of all becoming 64-bits standard although we still cannot have full benefits of it yet.

As for the negative part my MacBook Pro started to overheat. The fans used to idle at 2000rpm, now they're running at 2750rpm when idle and have the tendency to reach up to 6200rpm in extreme cases. I'm not sure what could be the case as I was discussing this issue with my friend Bu Yousef the other day but Snow Leopard wasn't involved. My guess is 64-bits is squeezing every spot available in the processor/memory hence it overheats. It's all good as long as my Mac keeps running fine.

To conclude I think this version is quite stable and can be safely installed without any concerns.

OS X 10.6 | Snow Leopard

2009-09-07T20:56:00.002+03:00

OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard

*preparing for installation*

Check back for review.

60 Days and Counting...

2009-08-29T21:31:00.003+03:00

As my shisha addiction counter indicates, I have been sober from shisha for the past two months and still aiming to continue.

I thought I will have some rough hours in ramadan but here it is and I'm making progress. It wasn't hard since I've been busy furnishing my apartment and also the fact that shisha is not addictive like cigarettes. I'll keep away from shisha cafes and that'll do it.

Schlotzsky's

2009-08-25T02:48:00.001+03:00

How bad can a sandwich be? If you'd like to know just pay a visit to Schlotzsky's, by far the worst restaurant I have ever been to.

Their caesar salad comes with sour brown dressing, their bread is rock solid dry wheat, their chicken breast sandwich was as cold as ice, and the environment and lighting is bad Bad BAD! No wonder why we were the only customers.

Officially the worst restaurant ever. Save yourself the hassle and head directly to Badr Albudor.

Pleading?

2009-08-19T02:29:00.001+03:00

I received three emails today which I thought were nothing but scam then after skimming them they caught my attention so I went back and read them thoroughly.

I decided to share this here and see if anyone else got the same emails (looks like it's sent to other bloggers too).

There's also a PDF file showing the case papers and they look legitimate too though I'm not sure if it'll be viewable without google account. [link]

I cannot do anything but to share this and waste another blog space for those who care, and also to see if anyone can confirm this as true pleading or perfected scam.

New Toy

2009-08-04T08:08:00.001+03:00

Sony 'alpha' α700 DSLR (camera body)
16-105mm f/3.5-5.6 lens (SAL-16105)
50mm f/1.4 lens (SAL-50F14)

*story and review comes later*

Handcuffed

2009-07-27T14:02:00.001+03:00

*No longer a bachelor*

Palm to Apple: "Bring it ON!"

2009-07-24T13:13:00.000+03:00

Apple released iTunes 8.2.1 few weeks ago to block Palm Pre from syncing. They have all the right reasons to do so because they want iTunes exclusive to iPod and iPhone, no intrusions from other competitors.

It seems Apple's decision made Palm a bit anxious of loosing their fan base because syncing with iTunes is one of the biggest features of their product and they just can't afford to get kicked by Apple, so now they decided to return fire at Apple with a new release of webOS that is said to break Apple's wall and return their Pre back to iTunes syncing.

This Tech-War will be so much fun to watch.

Microsoft Maren

2009-07-15T12:37:00.002+03:00

Ever wanted to write in "عربي" as fast as you write in "3arabi" ? Confusing, no? I'll explain...

Simply write in arabic with roman letters and Microsoft Maren will convert the word to arabic text. I haven't tried it because it's a Windows plugin but I think it's promising.

Lack of access to an Arabic keyboard or lack of familiarity with one are two of the most common problems preventing Arabic users from communicating in their own language.

Microsoft Maren is a Windows extension that comes to the rescue, allowing you to type Arabic in Roman characters (Romanized Arabic, Arabizi, Arabish or Franco-Arabic) and have it converted on the fly to Arabic script.

Maren integrates seamlessly with Windows and works in most Windows applications and websites.

I'm still not sure but I think there's one serious downside to it too. Looks like it translates to Egyptian only. Maybe there will be more versions soon.

cough

2009-07-10T18:17:00.001+03:00

New Reason to Love Apple Mail

2009-07-09T23:23:00.005+03:00

For years I've been using Mac I never found a use for Apple Mail application (Microsoft didn't support this service for free and Gmail is just too simple and unique making you don't need to use it with any application).

Few months ago I found a tweak to run and import Windows Live mail directly to Apple Mail which made me use it frequently, though it has some flaws. It won't update your actual account (deleting an email won't remove it from your account in Windows Live server).

However, looks like Microsoft finally decided to follow the herd and bring that service up for free with POP3. It's very useful as I only have to check emails without having to wait for the attachments to load/download (it downloads everything simultaneously) though there's still no effect on the server itself when managing emails.

Setting up your Windows Live email with this method is quite easy...

Open Apple Mail and go to Preferences then go to accounts.

Add a new account "+".
Type your name, email, password and click "Create".

Incoming server (POP): pop3.live.com
Your username must be your email as username@hotmail.com

Outgoing Server: smtp.live.com
Use your email as username and type your password in authentication box.

Now your email is configured. All you have to do is wait for Mail to import all your emails (takes a while depending on how many emails you have) then select them all and mark them as read or simply remove them and keep mail running to check for new emails.

Randomness | Part Trois!

2009-07-07T21:14:00.000+03:00

Some of you might recall my Operation Redecoration. It took a whole month, around 800KD, and pain in the neck for sleeping on the floor to get it over with.

Fact: Kiss your room goodbye and get back to sleeping on the floor. You're moving to The Cage.

My first accident since I got my driving license. No casualties, just a small fender bender. My car came out clean but his car got a small scratch and I get the feeling he's gonna blackmail me for it.

Fact: There goes my clean record.

The temperature is over 50c and our ground floor AC broke down. Our brand new 10 ton YORK air conditioner decided to give up at the perfect time of the year with just a little over two years of operation. The maintenance department won't answer.

Fact: YORK AC and Al-Yousifi company = Fail. Buy Hitachi.

I would like to welcome a new and special "silent observer" here in my blog.

Note to self: Post moderately! LOL!

Quitting the Smoke, For EVER!

2009-07-01T21:40:00.002+03:00

July 1, 2009. Today I will begin my second and hopefully last attempt in quitting my shisha addiction.

It's not really an addiction rather than a stupid way to waste my spare time. I have been indulging myself with it for too long and it's time for me to leave it for good before it's too late.

Thanks to my friend Bashar for helping me out with a script to keep me updated on how long I've been sober from shisha. The script is up and running on my blog side bar.

Wish me luck.

The Reason I Worked 24+ hours

2009-06-26T20:56:00.003+03:00

Like last semester I signed up to work for high school examination control. It usually takes from 10am to 3~6pm depending on the amount of work/papers we have. This semester though, is a whole new story...

Everyone probably heard about examination leak that happened midway through the finals. Our job took another curve that day until yesterday, the final day.

Our day starts 8pm. We go to the ministry and stack the exams, collect them in boxes and mount them with iron and stamp them, then head back home at around 12~2am when we finish. Then wake up at 5am, go back to the ministry, take the boxes to our governorate, distribute the exams to each school, wait till 10am, go collect them from the schools and bring them back to examination committee, work on those papers till 6pm, wrap up everything, and head back to the ministry for more exams for the next day (start from the beginning of this paragraph!)

Some people said "Quit". Well it's not that easy. I have signed up for that job with my own will. There's no turning back.

About me getting paid. There's an "extra" payment but it's NOT something worth mentioning. I mean how much would a refinery worker get for that overtime? Probably double his salary. Here though, it's not even a three-digit number. :/

Anyhow... I'm glad now that it's over. It won't prevent me from signing up for it again though we just need to avoid this stupid exam leakage.

iPhone MMS Issues

2009-06-23T15:50:00.002+03:00

Ok so the recent iPhone OS 3.0 update has a lot of features but the biggest hype about it can be concluded in four points...

Bidirectional languages support

Message forwarding

Copy / Cut / Paste

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)

The first three work fine but MMS doesn't work every time. Turns out the MMS APN setting gets reset after a while.

Now I'm not sure whether it's a bug in OS 3.0 or if there's anything causing the problem but what I know for sure is that it just won't remain there; it simply disappears without any reasonable cause.

I tried everything to store the APN (mms.wataniya.com) but it just won't happen. Everytime I do I go back to network settings to find out it's not there anymore.

The only method I found out to keep it working is to restart the iPhone, go to Settings > General > Networking > Cellular Data Network and re-enter the APN again and NEVER connect the iPhone to anything, neither a computer nor WiFi network!

Anyone having the same problem?

UPDATE: Problem resolved...

To avoid this problem you need to enter the APN for both Cellular Data and MMS.

Stressed | Part Duex!

2009-06-22T22:09:00.006+03:00

Back in January I asked the question

"Is working +12 hours legal?" [link]
A lot of people said it's legal if you're getting paid, which I'm not, and now comes the striking question...

"Is working +24 hours non-stop even legal?"

Note that I'm not getting paid as well.

iPhone OS 3.0 | Available for Download

2009-06-17T20:26:00.003+03:00

About time!

iPhone OS 3.0 is now available for download via iTunes.

Released @ 8:20pm Kuwait time.

UPDATE: Looks like we'll have to wait for a few hours (days maybe?!) to avoid the traffic on Apple's activation server. It's log-jammed so there's almost no chance for updating your iPhone / iPod within the next couple of hours unless you're one lucky leech.

Safari 4 | Unleashed

2009-06-09T02:03:00.003+03:00

Nothing outstanding about the release of Safari 4 so I'll just get through it quickly...

Browsing is fast. I mean really fast to the point that I thought for a second I had 2MB broadband connectivity instead of my actual 1MB. That's about the only exceptional thing.

As for other stuff you got Chrome-style Top Sites listing your bookmarks and favorite / most visited sites all in one window. Coverflow-style history search and bookmarks, new tab button on the upper right corner, smooth scroll using command+direction buttons, and fast launch time than before.

One of the things that had been available with the last beta version of Safari 4 is overhead tabs (like Chrome, tabs were on top of the browser's frame) but it has been removed. That was stupid and a bit irritating to handle. Removing it from this full version is certainly a relief.

= 30 !

Snow Leopard | iPhone 3GS | iPhone OS 3.0

2009-06-08T22:05:00.016+03:00

It's been a marathon race, thanks to Gizmodo liveblog.

Skimming the facts for everybody on Safat...

MacBook Pro hardware improvements.
Better battery (irremovable!), faster processors, larger storage options with SSD, better screen, new pricing.

Snow Leopard:
Next generation OS X. Faster, much more user friendly than it already is, around $170 new and $30 for upgrading Leopard.

iPhone 3GS:
Same design, same colors, faster processor, larger storage (32GB), better camera, video recording, voice call / command, better battery life, will be available July 9 2009 worldwide.

iPhone OS 3.0:
The best thing so far. Bi-directional language support (Arabic), message forwarding, MMS*, copy cut paste, GPS system by Tomotom*, Push notifications, landscape keyboard for all apps, Peer 2 Peer connectivity via wireless / bluetooth for gaming and other stuff, Tethering*, available for download June 17 2009 (free for iPhone, $10 for iPod)

Pictures courtesy of Gizmodo.com

* = Depending on carrier.

Not sure if it will be supported by curriers here in Kuwait, hopefully though everything will work just fine. I'm in love with the GPS already!

Over and out.

New iPhone + OS 3.0

2009-06-08T13:56:00.002+03:00

Today is the day and it seems to be moving pretty slow.

- iPhone OS 3.0 has been confirmed: Message forwarding, copy cut paste, MMS, native bi-directonal (RTL) languages support including arabic, spotlight and so many more.

-- OS 3.0 update is free for iPhone users and around 3KD for iPod users. It will be available for download June 17 2009.

- 3rd Generation iPhone is also very likely to see the light today: Some plausible features include better battery life, better screen resolution, better camera + front camera for video calls, better processor and bigger storage memory.

With these improvements it will become perfect. I don't even have to bother buying the new one because simply the new OS will resolve everything for the 2nd generation iPhone (aka iPhone 3G).

I guess we'll have to wait for tonight and see for ourselves.

iPhone OS 3.0 coming out soon

2009-06-02T06:33:00.005+03:00

Yes, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel!

With iTunes & QuickTime new updates, and a bunch of updates for recent iPhone apps noting the compatibility with OS 3.0, it looks like iPhone OS 3.0 update is just a couple of days ahead.

The most interesting part,
it's official that it will have built-in Arabic support!

UPDATE: Some pictures showing Arabic text.
- SaudiMac.com
- EgyptianApple.com
- Khalid @ Picasaweb

How to use Windows Live with Apple Mail

2009-05-14T13:38:00.006+03:00

Apple Mail is a very nifty application that comes pre-installed with OS X. It checks for new emails and downloads all of them directly to your Mac.

You may already have better alternatives such as Mozilla Thunderbird and Windows Entourage but Apple Mail is much simpler. It even downloads attachments seamlessly and simultaneously which can save you a few minutes of downloading them manually. All you have to do at the end of the day is go through your emails and organize them.

Despite that, as most Apple gadgets and applications, it lacks the compatibility with Microsoft products and for this one the ability to check Hotmail / Windows Live accounts.

Now here's a solution that'll make checking Windows Live Mail possible using Apple Mail.

Download and install "HTTPmail plugin" [link]

Open Apple Mail and setup your account then choose HTTPmail instead of POP mail from the Account type drop down menu.

Once it's logged in go to Mail > Preferences click Accounts and select your account.

Where it says Outgoing Mail Server (SMTP) click on the drop down menu. Then click Edit Server List...

Create a new entry as shown in the picture below. Make sure to use the server name oe.msn.msnmail.hotmail.com

Switch to the Advanced tab and make sure it says Port 25, then click OK.

Check the box that says Use only this server under the Outgoing Mail Server drop down Box

Now you're good to go.

Please note that this is more like a crack than a 100% solution. Meaning some features won't be fully functional.

Street965

2009-05-11T20:27:00.005+03:00

~~Q8speed revamped...~~

For all of you Kuwaiti automotive fanatics...

Street965.com
UPDATE: "id like to clear things up before more rumors accumulate! we are not affiliated with q8speed nor are we the new q8speed. We are just trying to deliver the same idea with a primary focus on social networking, cars & entertainment!".

Thanks to Anonymous for referring that link
& street965 admin for clearing things up.

More Than Satisfied!

2009-05-07T22:23:00.005+03:00

1980 Germany Heritage Windbreaker

Not only one but TWO! :D
( 1 Cotton & 1 Polyester )

Special thanks goes to...

- My friend Abdulaziz for the cotton model.
- desertpalms for the Polyester model.

Inspector 3gaidi

2009-05-03T22:28:00.003+03:00

Few days ago I had to go to our local police department to get repair permit to fix my mother's car. I went in to see a couple of policemen and a fat guy with grubby dishdasha and a typical tilted shmaq were having dinner in the reception office.

I asked where I can get the paper and they said I have to see the inspector first. I walked in the inspector's office and no one was there so I went back and asked where the inspector is. One of the policemen pointed to the grimy guy saying that's the inspector. I said ok I'll wait for you in the office and he nodded.

20 minutes later the stupid 3gaidi comes wobbling in burping like he's alone at home. He asked "What do you need?" in an impolite manner. I told him the story hoping to get the paper and get this over with but no, Mr. Bedouin Law suddenly decided to comply all his stupid procedures on me. He takes out a paper, writes down some info, folds the paper and stamp it, and then tells me to take it to another police department and bring back an inspection report of the accident.

What a typical 3gaidi. I mean isn't that his job? And why all this bother for repair paper? *starts cursing*

I took the paper and ripped it off as soon as I stepped out his office. Screw it.

Engaged :)

iTablet | Fact or Fiction?

2009-04-22T14:55:00.003+03:00

There are plenty of rumors revolving around the idea of tablet Mac and there are thousands of "photoshopped" and "3D rendered" images of tablet Macs but as we already know they are far from being true. However, lately there has been a lot of gossip about the launch of the long-awaited Mac tablet and this time it sounds a little more serious.

There have been a lot of rumors about an upcoming Apple "iTablet;" we think this new device would be a huge bestseller in healthcare. Why?

The primary barrier to EMR adoption has been ease-of-use. Too many physicians are concerned about being able to efficiently use an EMR at the point of care. Apple, meanwhile, continues to raise the bar on usability and efficiency. If Apple releases a tablet with the usability of the iPhone, we think it would go over tremendously well amongst physicians.
-- Houston Neal [Read the article]

I don't know if this time it is going to be for real or not but I would certainly love to see a tablet Mac.

Mac Support, Anyone?

2009-04-11T23:36:00.000+03:00

This just got hilarious.

The problem:
Today I got a call from someone I don't know saying he got my number from someone I've never even heard of asking me for help to fix his Mac.

The Story:
I usually get random/anonymous emails asking me for help regarding their Mac. All in good will I do my best and try to resolve their problems if I can, but I never had anyone calling me on my cellphone asking for help.

I don't want to complain (I think I just did) because it's my pleasure to help but calling me on my cellphone without knowing who I am and what I do is wrong.

Conclusion:
I'm not your hotline Mac support team. If you have any problems regarding your Mac and think I can help email me, Do NOT call.

To the guy who called: Hope you're reading this.

WANTED AT ANY COST

2009-04-02T20:16:00.007+03:00

Adidas Originals
1980 Germany Heritage Windbreaker
Medium or Large (preferably M)

If you have it and willing to sell it
-OR-
If you're kind enough to buy it for me from abroad
I'll pay DOUBLE the price!

Please contact me
macaholiq8 [at] gmail.com

Scavenger Hunt

2009-03-14T23:01:00.005+03:00

My entry to Nicole's 1st Scavenger Hunt photography game.

What is a Scavenger Hunt?

"You grab your camera and the list I will give you and shoot pictures of the “items” on that list. Preferably the shots are new shots, not out of the archive. But that’s up to you."

You know who to vote for !! o(>_<)o

VOTE FOR ME HERE!!

1) local currency 
36.750 KD = 124.57 $ = 96.36 € = 89.00 £
*today's exchange rate* :P

2) local flag
*Salute*

 3) local food
Not really "the" local food but I couldn't get a pic of "machboos"
so, this is the only thing I came up with.

 4) something rusty

 5) local wildlife

 6) local nature 

7) local stamp

 8) part of your neighborhood

 9) traditional house 
Diwan Al-Shamlan. :)

10) a local person

 11) local weather
Yeah right. That's just one day in 365 days.
The real weather is a mix of humidity and/or sand storms. :P

 12) local transportation

 13) traditional local clothing
"Dishdasha"

 14) night sky
Cityscape on a clear night.

 15) sunrise 
Correction: I posted this as "Sunset" on Intlxpatr's Kuwaiti Sunset Challenge. After checking the details it turned out to be a sunrise! My mistake. :P

16) local product non food
"Souq Al-Safafeer".
To someone begins with an "i".. Feels cosy doesn't it? :P

 17) something furry

 18) something feathery

 19) a sign of the season

 20) a part of you
The devil's footprint matching my foot at Frauenkirche :P

 21) your main hobby

 22) a local shop
The only thing I could get. Plaza Mall.

 23) a local restaurant 
Marina Waves (?three? restaurants) I lost count.

24) a street sign

 25) a local mail box

OCA Opening Ceremony & Congress Meeting

2009-03-09T06:57:00.001+03:00

"The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) is the apex sports body controlling the sports in Asia. It is one of the five continental associations recognized by the IOC.

The OCA was formed in 1982 and has its permanent headquarters in Kuwait. The main objective of the Olympic Council of Asia is to develop sport, culture and education of Asian youth and to promote international respect, friendship, goodwill & peace through sports."

"The activities of the inauguration of the Sport Congress of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), due to kick off here on Wednesday under auspice of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, will attract over 1,300 celebrities, a senior Kuwaiti sports official said on Sunday.

President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Jacques Rogge as well as chiefs of the Olympic committees of almost all Asian countries will be among the participants in the largest Asian sporting gathering ever, OCA Director Hussein Al-Musallam told reporters here.

On the second day of the activities the first scientific OCA Sport Congress will be held under the chairmanship of OCA President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah. The event aims to introduce an academic approach to the practical sporting practices and reach recommendations on for improvement.

The expected recommendations of the congress will be subsequently tabled to the coming meeting of the IOC to be held in September, Al-Musallam pointed out.

After the inauguration ceremony of the OCA Sport Congress, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad and Rogge will held a joint press conference. Chairman of the organizing committee of the Asian Games, to be held in Guangzhou, China, in 2010, is scheduled to hold another press conference at the end of the four-day event to explain the preparations for hosting the games, Al-Musallam added.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Kuwaiti Olympic Committee Obeid Al-Anzi voiced gratitude for HH the Amir for his kind sponsorship of the inauguration of the OCA Sport Congress. The organizing committee will do its utmost to ensure the success of this grand international sporting event and show the bright civilized portrait of the State of Kuwait, Al-Anzi added.

For his part, Assistant Director of OCA Ali Al-Murri said the event will deal with six axes namely; the female sports in Asian countries, marketing, the independence of the Olympic movement, the sports science, the Asian Games and the sports-environment relationship.

A total of 120 research papers will be tabled to the congress and the top two will be win the award of Sheikh Mohammad Bin-Rashed Al-Maktoum at the closing ceremony. The OCA Sport Congress will be held between March 12 and 14, 2009, Al-Murri added.

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has been responsible in organizing the Asian Games, the Asian Winter Games, the Asian Indoor Games and the Asian Beach Games and proactive in promoting sports in Asia through various activities." --KUNA

In other words...

MARCH 11, 2009:
AVOID GULF ROAD
AND ALL ROADS LEADING TO SCIENTIFIC CENTER

MARCH 12-14, 2009:
AVOID COURTYARD MARRIOT (AL-RAYA)
AND ALL CONNECTED ROADS NEAR AL-RAYA BALLROOM

War Experience

2009-03-06T19:53:00.001+03:00

"I cannot imagine what it must have been like living here at that time, Mac. I think more people need to write it all down, we need a record."-- intlxpatr

Being in the middle of a war is unbearable. But having to live in war twice is the worst thing a man could experience in his life, and so having to bear with these memories is simply a nightmare. A nightmare that has a mixture of good and bad memories.

The first war was the invasion of Iraq on my beloved country Kuwait. Back in 1990, our closest neighbor and our greatest ally simply decided to take over our country without regarding the greatest bonds and our trust in him. That was my first experience in a war that turned my innocent childhood into a dirty playground.

We were just a bunch of naive children back then. We used to play outside until morning not knowing how critical the situation was and how stressful it is to our parents. Even though I was young I remember my country being robbed and citizens taken captives right of their doorstep but back then I was too young to care.

President George Bush supported Kuwait against this hostile behavior and unleashed Operation Desert Storm to free Kuwait. After 7 months from the invasion Iraqi forces retreated from Kuwait scorching everything on their way out.

Thirteen years later, President G.W. Bush raged a new war in the region (Operation Iraqi Freedom) facing the Iraqi regime and their leader Saddam Hussain. During this war Iraq launched missiles towards Kuwait that have hit close to residential areas and a shopping mall (Souq Sharq), causing terror between citizens in Kuwait and bringing back memories of the first invasion. Fortunately, there were no casualties in Kuwait.

Thanks to the last war, not only Kuwait has rested from this atrocious regime, but the whole world and especially Iraqi people that have been tortured in every way. However, mistakenly I thought Iraqi people can live in peace and harmony and feel the freedom that had been taken away from them all these years after liberating them from Saddam's regime but I was wrong. Only God knows how that mess would end.

War is a waste of money, time and lives. No one could ever disagree with that but; sometimes-peaceful solutions simply don't work for some people. They hold on to their wrong acts and make their own people suffer for their greed. Just like what the Iraqi leader did to his people. Is it really worth to be killed for someone made you suffer all your life? Are we going to learn from all the wars that we've gone through? These are some questions people should be asking themselves, and more importantly world leaders to prevent such situations.

In conclusion, it is a great feeling to sleep safe past these experiences. We can only hope that someday we will wake up living a peaceful world.

Safari 4

2009-02-26T14:17:00.003+03:00

Apple have introduced a beta version of Safari 4.

It has more than 100 new features and the coolest are:-

Cover Flow: iTunes-like Coverflow but for history/bookmarks.
Top Pages: Thumbnails of your most visited sites in one page.
Developer Tools: Easy and innovative way for developers.

It still needs some more work (being a beta version). Browsing is a little bit slower than Safari 3 and the new tabs are awkward but you'll get used to them eventually. Also, Windows Live mailbox doesn't respond to any clicks. I don't know if it's happening just with me or if there are others experiencing the same problem.

All in all it looks really promising and I'd love to see the full version coming out soon. Google needs to hurry up and launch Chrome for Mac otherwise it won't stand a chance against this version of Safari.

Router issue | Resolved

2009-02-25T01:21:00.001+03:00

After a bunch of emails from Buffalo Tech Support without any progress I took it back to Buffalo dealer and they figured out the problem. It was an MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) issue.

United Networks require a particular MTU (size 1492) for full access, and for some reason the Buffalo router wasn't able to automatically configure that setting even though it was set to "1492" but in order for it to be functional it had to be changed from "Auto" to "Manual".

RayBoy was so close to resolving this matter.

Explain this...

2009-02-19T22:37:00.000+03:00

Yes yes yes... a new template. Not a big revamp nor improvement, same crap different layout, but that's not the case.

Beside my latest irritating issue with the stupid Buffalo router that still doesn't want to get along with Windows Live, I checked my blog today to find something weird... so weird that I had to change my template just to make sure everything goes back to normal...

They're still there and my archives prove it but my home page entries went invisible all of a sudden! I haven't even done any editing to my layout/template in a long long time.

For no particular reason my blog entries stopped from showing up. Safari, Firefox, Opera, Flock, OmniWeb, and even Internet Explorer on my friend's Vista PC, not a single browser was able to show up my home page entries! Zajil, W-Net, and United Networks at home, and also cleared out my cache and reset my browsers but nothing appeared until I changed my blog layout.

I'm worried because as the saying goes "Bad things come in threes". This is my second IT-related problem in a short span. God be merciful what's going to happen next. :\

Calling out ALL Techies

2009-02-18T15:32:00.000+03:00

Long story short...

I bought a new router, Buffalo Wireless-N Nfiniti ADSL2+ (WBMR-G300N), and it's working flawlessly. The only problem is I cannot use it to sign in Windows Live! Neither my hotmail nor MSN Messenger work and it's only acting like this with Mac.

I tried my rusty Acer laptop and it can access just fine but when I use my MacBook Pro or my sister's MacBook it keeps loading forever and sometimes stops with the message "Sign in to Microsoft Messenger failed because the service is not available or you may not be connected to the internet".

I replaced it with my old router, Linksys Wireless-G (WAG200G) and there was no problem signing in Windows Live accounts.

No Firewalls enabled, no third-party security applications, nothing at all. I even tried forcing the router to keep Windows Live ports open yet there was no connection.

The odd thing is, Firefox can access my email through hotmail.com but it takes around 10 actual minutes to reach my inbox.

Any idea of what might be causing this or how to solve it?

Review | The Butcher Shop & Grill

2009-02-09T17:12:00.001+03:00

Forget about Chili's, Friday's, and even Gaucho Grill...

When was the last time you had a decent piece of steak that made you drool with every chunk you eat? If you're eager to have that feeling again then look nowhere else, The Butcher Shop & Grill is the place to go.

They opened up recently in The Avenues mall (phase II) at restaurants corner. Their service is nice and their waiters are very polite and extremely joyful.

Their menu is steak-oriented but it's not limited to steaks, they have seafood and some other dishes though I doubt being there for anything other than their steaks. As mentioned, they are new in Kuwait and they still don't have all the kinds of beef listed on their menu but still their current set is good nonetheless.

Personally I hate fat and their only none-fat steak (fillet) was not available so I went with a piece of well pepper-cooked rump and asked them to trim out the fat, and my friend got a fine plate of ribs. About 15 minutes later the steaks arrived. From the first piece I ate I knew for good that this is something else, I was smothered with delight! I never wanted to end chewing that piece. It was by far the best steak I have ever had in my whole life and gladly I enjoyed every piece of it.

The food is well priced compared to Gaucho Grill (or relatively overpriced compared to Chili's & Friday's) but for that quality beef, it is all worth it. And with all that perfection I almost failed to notice the only downside of the restaurant which is its not-so-calm environment (being in the open between all other restaurants) but I guess it's not a big deal if you're there for the food.

Sorry Gaucho Grill but your SunBursts will have to be reserved for later.

Aramex Responds

2009-02-07T00:41:00.001+03:00

I don't know whether my last blog entry has anything to do with this or not but I got a call from Aramex regarding my last issue.

"We are aware that you had two packages together in your US mailbox and they were shipped separately. Your current package is sent out for delivery. All you have to do is pay this shipment fees only, and the other package is free of charge once it arrives. Sorry for the inconvenience."

Well well... Who would have thought this could happen? I'm glad they initiated, it means they do care about their customers after all.

A Screw Up Called "Aramex"

2009-02-05T00:41:00.001+03:00

Aramex never fails to amaze me with its stupid management and ailing customer care. The problem is, I still cannot find an alternative service.

Long story short... I have placed two orders in the past few weeks, both arrived in my mailbox (one earlier by a day), a whole week passes by without shipping any of the packages. Today I checked my inbox to see only one of the packages has been shipped!

I called AraScheiße customer service inquiring why my packages haven't shipped together since both were in my mailbox for a week. He replied...

"We cannot box two separate packages together and when it gets busy they grab whatever small and fits for freight, however, I will look into this issue and see if I can hasten the process of your other package ".

First of all, do NOT try to outsmart your customers. That's just rude and stupid. Secondly, what the hell is that supposed to mean, "... grab what's small and fits freight"? That's not even a freakin' excuse. Don't you have schedules and listing of the packages? Don't you ship older packages first? Screw it, just admit that your service is inconvenient!

I did my calculations and if those packages got shipped together my shipping costs 10.5 KD. Thanks to their barbaric shipping method it will cost 3 KD more (not to mention if it falls into customs hands).

Shout Out

2009-02-01T01:38:00.003+03:00

I would like to send out the biggest and loudest curse in the whole universe to the BMW 730Li driver (License plate ²⁴6999) at Mishref Co-op for delaying me on one of my busiest days ever by parking with almost zero clearance and about 30cm from my door making me unable to squeeze myself in, and also for making me look stupid jumping from passenger seat to driver seat after waiting for +15 minutes without her showing up.

We have said this a million times before and I concur once again; women cannot drive and probably never will be able to drive properly, except some odds. They should be locked up in the trunk and a male driver takes them from point A to B.

DISCLAIMER:
Some people were questioning my credibility and I how I knew it was a woman without seeing her in person. Well I have stated in my first comment to my fellow friend iNoor that there was a scarf on the seat and women gloves on the center console. How is that for a fact?

Sighhh!!

2009-01-29T13:58:00.002+03:00

Finally I've finished from the longest working hours of my life, although there's a chance I might get cornered like this again at the end of next semester but the hell with it I don't want to be bothered, I have this short holiday to enjoy.

Someone asked "But you're a teacher, how come you're working +12 hours?". Well, I was assigned to two different jobs regarding high-school first semester exams.

Here's my routine for the past 10 days...

05:30AM-07:30AM: *Classified!*

07:30AM-09:00AM: The first few days it was a free period then it got loaded with *Classified!!* work.

09:00AM-05:00PM: Exams Control.

05:00PM-08:00PM: *Classified!!!*

08:00PM-11:00PM: *Classified!!!!*

I cannot disclose anything about the "Classified" work but know that we've become labors for the Ministry of Education since they cannot assign none-kuwaitis. That incorporates transportation, weight lifting, mathematical processing, and there's no place for mistakes!

All that and I only had four and a half hours of sleep each day.

*sigh* It's so good to be back to my normal life. *goes to sleep*

Stressed

2009-01-20T06:02:00.003+03:00

Is working +12 hours none stop even legal?!

Back after Jan 29th