Imagine with me... The Gaucho Grill, Palms Club & Spa, dinner on candle lights, a group of civilized people all around you, comfy seats and great service. That is what I had imagined until I saw it myself. If you ever had to go there don't expect too much because that restaurant stands strongly on its overworked environment. The service is too slow, we got a couple of wrong dishes, and worst of all, their steaks were cold!
If it's about their food quality then it is high. The waiter brought out a small tray with every kind of steak they offer and he started to explain the differences between each and every piece. I ordered Bife Caudril which is 300gm of pure beef (no fat), medium-well and pepper sauce, while all my friends went for the extra fat beef (don't remember its name). The food was already cold when delivered and they made it even worse by giving us the wrong order so we had to wait for the other dishes to be delivered. It took around 20 minutes to get the starters, 45 minutes to deliver our main course, and another 15 minutes to get the rest of the order.
Now put all this aside and don't get struck like we did when we saw the check. Let's just say we could've had 10,000 falafil/potato sandwiches, 200 family coke bottles, and still saved some cash! We were 6 people btw.
Money was not an issue but I couldn't stop thinking of THIS. I felt ashamed for paying KD20+ on a cold poor meal while there are people out there who don't have anything to eat. I could've had given some of the money to charity and still have a warm fresh happy meal from McDonald's that would make me graceful. After all, everything will be flushed down the toilet.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
The Gaucho Grill
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
LineForm | Vector Art Redefined
If you're sick of Adobe Illustrator complexity and want a simple vector based alternative then check out LineForm:-
"Lineform is a completely new drawing program. Winner of a 2006 Apple Design Award, it is the ideal tool for vector based diagrams and illustrations. Powerful features combine with a simple interface to create an intuitive artistic process."
Maki | *ugh*
Yesterday I had dinner at Maki and to be honest it wasn't good at all. I heard a lot about how delicious their food is but it turned out to be nothing close to what I've heard, in fact it was absolutely the contrary which is utterly disgusting! We've ordered a large variety of dishes but none of them was tasty to me, not even slightly. And the price is a whole another story; I think we paid for the stylish look of their "decorated" food and the calm environment of the restaurant, but not the taste of the food itself.
Now you don't want to take my words for granted because this counts as my first experience with Japanese food.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
ALL Techies | Please check in
I'm going to buy an LCD TV and I need some opinions. Now before I rush and buy what I have in mind (40" Sony BRAVIA KDL-40V2500), I want to know if there are any better alternatives. If you do recommend another TV, please give me a practical reason of why you see it's better.
I'm open for all suggestions just bear in mind that I won't go for anything less than 40" with full HD setup (1080p) and high contrast ratio. Price isn't an issue since I'll buy it by installments, however, it's preferable that it does not exceed 750KD in cash so profit won't rape my pocket.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Operation Redecoration | Phase Finale
IKEA BRAVUR watch reflecting my Mac.
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- Update:
Other stuff:-
- IKEA | BRAVUR wall watch | (15KD) [1] [2] [3]
- IKEA | Steel bulletin board (x2) | (7KD) [1] [2]
- TrueValue | Black leather trash box | (2KD) [1]
Operation overview:-
Duration | Almost one month. Money $pent | Around 770KD.
Conclusion: Operation Redecoration is a success.
I've realized that my room looks more of a mixture between retro bedroom style and secretary office. More or less, pictures don't give the room its justice because it looks way better in real life and I'm happy for that. However, it's not really the end of O.R. since I still have one more thing in mind (Does BRAVIA ring any bells? ;P) but I'll leave that for next month. The only bad side is the room size, if it was a little bit bigger it would've looked a lot better.
UPDATE: "Why be nice when you can be a little naughty and spoil yourself?"
Related topics:-
Operation "Redecoration"
Operation Redecoration | Update
Operation Redecoration | Phase 1
Operation Redecoration | Phase 2
Operation Redecoration | Phase 3
Operation Redecoration | Phase 4
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Security Update 2006-008 (PPC)
Security Update 2006-008 is recommended for all users and improves the security of the following components:
Quartz Composer
QuickTime for Java
For detailed information on this update, please visit this website: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61798
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Deutsche Polizei ging WÜTEND
Based on the world's fastest sedan, this elegant police car has the upper hand when it comes to pursuing speeders.
Known as Brabus Rocket, this CLS-based Mercedes-Benz S Rocket growls with 6.3 liter BiTurbo V12 engine capable of producing 730 hp and go up to the speed of 362 km/h.
Yet another reason to join the police force.
* via Autoblog.com
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Web Designer Subscription | Active
Dear Mr. 私の名前
I am writing to sincerely apologise about the delay in getting back to you. I have been looking into your problem and it seems your subscription is now on our system whereas before it wasn’t.
Could you please confirm if you have received any issues to date or any letters? Issue 125 was sent on the 25/11/2006 could you please confirm if this has got to you. If you haven’t received any issues, do you have an alternative address that we can get the issues sent to who will then divert them to you in Kuwait.
The address we have for you is –
******* 私のホームアドレス *********
Please confirm if this is correct.
If I could be of any further assistance please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind Regards
Sade Tyler
Customer Service Advisor
www.devotailservices.com
That's a relief. Can't wait to get my first issue.
日本の文字はセクシーである !!!! xD
Update:
Dear 私の名前.
I can now confirm that issue number 125 was the first issue that was due to be sent out to you. We have now requested for this issue to be sent to you again please allow some time for this to arrive as of the Christmas post.
Also you will not be charged any more fees for shipping or handling.
Your subscription reference number is ******* please quote this if you have any further enquiries regarding your subscription.
I hope I have helped with your problem. Please do not hesitate to contact me.
Kind Regards
Sade Tyler
Customer Service Advisor
www.devotailservices.com
*fingers "Dual" crossed* xD
United Networks | Robust
United Networks are now running on fiber network, as I have mentioned earlier. I got a call from United Networks asking me to confirm if my connection went up from 256kbps to 320kbps so here it is.
Practically, that's barely noticeable but at least the connection doesn't lag as much as it used to.
Saturday, December 16, 2006
I've been ROBBED!
Last October I have subscribed to Web Designer magazine, published by Imagine Publishing Ltd., and subscription fees (£80.00 = 45KD) were deducted from my Visa account. There was a disclaimer that international subscriptions may take around 28 days to be processed. However, I haven't collected any issue during November therefore I had contacted Web Designer magazine through emails. I was asked for proofs that money has been withdrawn from my Visa account and so I did, I have downloaded my Visa statement regarding that specific transfer from my bank's site and forwarded it. Then I got another email telling me that bank statement cannot be accepted because it's an Excel file and was asked to take a screen capture of that statement online and forward it, which I did, but I haven't gotten any reply yet. I called NBK and the guy told me to wait for a reply (email). WTH?! It's been almost two months and a half since I have subscribed and yet no issues were delivered neither this problem has been solved now you tell me to wait for a F-ing reply?
I will go check with NBK tomorrow and let them look into this subject themselves.
* Many thanks to moocherx for his seal of disapproval.
Friday, December 15, 2006
DivX 6.6 ++
A few weeks ago I have received an email from Steven Chien, DivX Inc. posse, thanking me for blogging about DivX, and had given me two serials for DivX Pro.
Personally, I should be the one thanking Steven and DivX team for such an outstanding application. Good luck to you guys and keep up the great work on bringing the best out of DivX.
Download DivX 6.6 for Mac: [link]
Also, my Mac Starters Guide post has been updated with Dashboard Widgets section. If you're a Mac user make sure to check it out.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Operation Redecoration | Phase 4
Closeup of the leather carpet from Midas.
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- Update:
Today I have received the computer desk and tv/stereo unit from IDdesign. To be honest I was kind of disappointed how they did not fit my room like I imagined but it is all good. I also went to Midas today and got a fake leather carpet. It doesn't look good in the pictures but it does look neat in reality. However, the room still needs some minor touches. I need a curtain, trash box, laundry basket, wall decorations, and best of all, which I don't know how it slipped my mind as you might have already noticed, I have forgotten to get some bed sheets! Which means I still have to sleep on the ground for a day or two. *sigh*
*goes to IKEA for them "minor touches"*
Friday, December 08, 2006
Porsche Cayenne | Refined
The second version of Porsche Cayenne has finally came out to reality. With some minor touches in both the front and back end of the car, you can easily distinguish it from its old successor.
This model stands out with sportier head lights, larger grill, unique fog lights, revamped back lights and exhaust tips, and best of all, the all new engine setups for each model range.
Now for me I didn't like the old Cayenne by looking at its pictures all over the net but until I saw it cruising around here in Kuwait I realized that it really looks amazingly atrocious in a great way. I rate it as the second best looking SUV there is. (1st place goes to Range Rover Sport, hands up). However, my love had been flushed down with the flood of them; seems like everyone has a Cayenne! But now with a new model coming out soon, I'm starting to like it once again. As long as it remains unique of course.
Update: I've just realized that this is post #100! (Yay! ;P)
Fun with Backlit keyboards
Thursday, December 07, 2006
G&WD update | Free laptop recieved
Well, it's not really free since I'll be paying for it during the whole course. :/
Anyways... specs in a glitch:-
- Acer Aspire.
- AMD Turion 64 processor.
- 512MB RAM & 2MB cache.
- 60GB @ 5400RPM Hard disk.
- 64MB ATi graphics card.
- Super DVD writer (+/-).
- 15.4" glossy widescreen.
Status: Given to my sister.
Operation Redecoration | Phase 3
THE one® print on the double layer mattress.
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- Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive the desk | (65KD)
- UPDATE: Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive TV/Stereo unit | (128KD)
The bed arrived today and it looks damn fine! However, there's a downside, it's taking half the room! I didn't have that in mind when I bought it, not to mention there still are two objects to be delivered soon so I have no idea how I'll manage some space. I was looking for minimalistic looks but I guess that won't happen. If only the room was a bit bigger it would look perfect.
Aside from that downside; the double layer mattress is extremely comfortable and the bed is so slammed, xzibit would feature it on Pimp My Ride! ;P
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Renegades Reference | Mac Starters Guide
This post is dedicated to Me7sin and all Windows renegades out there; congrats on your new Mac! Hope you find this useful.
- Priorities:-
First thing to do is getting all available updates for your Mac by clicking on the Apple icon on your menubar (on the upper left corner) and select "Software Update". This will keep your Mac up-to-date so make sure you download them all. Installing/Removing applications: Installing any application on Mac is a matter of Drag/Drop, just double click on the disk image (*.dmg) file extension, a removable disk icon will show on the desktop, open it and drag and drop the application icon into your "Applications" folder. If you want to remove an application simply drag that application icon and drop it in your Trash then empty it. If you want to remove every single relative file of that application, just search for the name of that application using Spotlight (on the upper right corner) and drag/drop all relative (*.plist) files into Trash then empty it. System Preferences: Like Windows Control Panel; System Preferences is where you can control all preferences on your Mac. It doesn't take a computer scientist to figure it out so make sure you surf a little inside that menu to have an idea of what it contains. Utilities: If you look around your Applications folder you'll find Utilities folder. This is where you can manage your Mac's utilities. The reason why I pointed this in priorities is because in Disk Utility you can mount/unmount, fix, remove, and repair disks & permissions. It is recommended that you repair disk permissions each time you install/remove applications or get new updates from the net.
- Must-have Applications:-
Stuffit Expander: Stuffit expander will unpack almost all compressed files such as .sit, .sitx, .zip, .rar, and some others. Make sure you install it because you need it to uncompress some apps/files. Real Player: To play Real media. (.rm/.ram) Windows Media Player: To play Windows Media. (.wmv/.wma) VLC -OR- Mplayer: Both are video players that can run almost any type of video (even .flv) except Real media. I personally prefer VLC over Mplayer. However, having them both won't hurt you. Adium: Although there's a version of MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger for your Mac, they're not as good as Adium. Adium is by far the best instant messenger there is for your Mac because it can connect to AIM, MSN, Jabber, Yahoo, and more! The only downside is that it doesn't support voice/video yet, but that's not a big deal. Roxio Toast: The mighty CD/DVD burner for all Macs. Transmission: The ideal torrent client for your Mac. Also Vuse and xTorrent although the first is quite heavy and the latter is not for free.
- Other useful Applications:-
DivX Player: For playing DivX videos. Web Browsers: FireFox, Opera, Flock. GraphicConverter: If you miss MS Paint then this is a better alternative. Amadeus Pro & Sound Studio: For audio editing but they're not free. Audio Hijack: Audio recorder that will come in handy if you want to record (convert) Real Audio into any other type. Path Finder: An innovative file browser and manager with powerful tools. Not free though. Pref Setter: Useful utility application for editing (.plist) files. TinkerTool: Another useful utility application that can expand your Finder options such as viewing hidden files (files that begin with dot "." are hidden on Macs) and lots more. HandBrake: Rip full DVD movies directly into iPod compatible .mp4 mode. TubeSock: Downloads and converts .flv videos directly from YouTube. (ps: works only with YouTube).
For all other video sites simply follow these steps.OmniDictionary: English to Multilingual (including Arabic) lexicons.
Dashboard; Useful Widgets:-
iStat Pro: The ultimate system monitoring widget, consisting of nine sections which can be minimized, expanded, or closed. Amazon Album Art: Search for artwork for the currently playing track and import into iTunes with the click of a button. Organized: Take care of the little jobs with Organized, a new widget from iSlayer featuring a calendar with events, world clocks, notes and to do’s. ABD Indicator: Adult Body Mass Indicator; Are you overweight, obese or maybe under weight? Find out for yourself with this helpful widget. This version has a smaller footprint and you can enter your height in inches and feet rather than all inches. Also includes metric units. Gmail & Blogger Widgets: Gmail inbox & quick posting on Blogger in two widgets. Suduku: Play Suduku on your dashboard. Mono Solitaire: Play Solitaire on your dashboard. BubbleTrouble: Waste some time with this game. The Holy Qur'an: Read and Search the Quran in Arabic, English, French and Spanish on your Dashboard! ThinkFree Viewer: View ThinkFree or Microsoft Office word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation files without having any other office applications installed. After installing the appropriate Widget simply drag and drop files from your desktop, or copy and paste the Web URL into the ThinkFree Widget. Web Translator: Web Translator is a little widget that lets you translate any web page to and from ten different languages using AltaVista's Babel Fish translator and/or Google's Translation service. So when you come across a page that's written in a different language, Web Translator is the widget you need. Wikipedia Widget: A Dashboard widget for browsing the free, user-created encyclopedia, Wikipedia. Search for articles and view from the Dashboard, complete with pictures and links. Utility Button: UtilityButton is a small widget that gives you easy access to Mac OS X utilities that you use sometimes, but don't want cluttering up your dock. All you do is click on the button, choose the utility, and it opens.
- Tips & Hints:-
Get used to keyboard shortcuts. They're very useful.
Here are some of the most useful shortcuts:-fn+F9: Expose ALL applications. (or F3 alone) fn+F10: Expose all windows of the active application. fn+F11: Show desktop. fn+F12: Dashboard. (or F4 alone) Commands+shift+3: Capture current screen. Commands+shift+4: Capture selected area of the screen. Commands+Q: Quit application. Commands+W: Close active window. Commands+alt+esc: Force quit. Commands+ "," (comma): Application preferences. Commands+I: Show file information. Commands+shift+B: Send file via Bluetooth. Commands+alt+ctrl+8: Invert screen colors. Commands+alt+8: Turn on magnification.
----> Commands + (+/-) = zoom in/out.Commands+Tab: Swap between active applications. Commands+shift+N: New Folder Commands+shift+A: Opens Applications folder.
& some quick hints:-
- One finger: Move cursor.
- Two fingers: Scroll up/down, Zoom in/out.
- Three fingers: Next/previous document pages, Back/next browser page.
- Four fingers:
Up > Desktop, Down > Expose,
Left/Right > Active Applications..
In recent Apple laptops (Intel Based) you can configure your trackpad to have a Right-click by placing two fingers on your trackpad + click or tap your trackpad with two fingers. This can be enabled/disabled in "System Preferences > Keyboard & Mouse"
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And that's about all you need for a start. Hope it's helpful.
PS: I'll be updating this post frequently whenever there's new stuff to add.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Operation Redecoration | Phase 2
Parquet floor halfway done.
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- Wed., Dec. 6 | Receive the bed | (354KD)
- Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive the desk | (65KD)
- UPDATE: Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive TV/Stereo unit | (128KD)
I never thought those silver side pads would look good. Fortunately they do look great! The room looks Much better in real life so I'm quite satisfied yet I still have to make sure if this setup would match the furniture or not. *fingers double crossed*
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Deutsches Polizei
I know this is kind of outdated but anyways...
An edited version of 3baid's and Marzouq's Lamborghini police patrol post; I represent to you the ideal police car (to me that is),
Based on 997 Carrera S model and fully modified by TechART.
I swear I would join the police force for the rank of "?chassis?" (Does it stand for the same thing in English? lol) if that car was available for our local force. ;P
Hot widget | ThinkFree
"View ThinkFree or Microsoft Office word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation files without having any other office applications installed. After installing the appropriate Widget simply drag and drop files from your desktop, or copy and paste the Web URL into the ThinkFree Widget." *
* ThinkFree homepage [link]
----- Officially posted on TUAW
Friday, December 01, 2006
Operation Redecoration | Phase 1
Color sample from palette #161
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- Sun., Dec. 3 | Install parquet floor | (136KD)
- Wed., Dec. 6 | Receive the bed | (354KD)
- Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive the desk | (65KD)
- UPDATE: Sat., Dec. 9 | Receive TV/Stereo unit | (128KD)
At first I was very, Very, disappointed when the painter was halfway finishing the room because it didn't look good at all. However, after the whole room got its new color(s) it looks good. But why "good" not "great"? Because I still don't know if it will match the furniture and floor or not. :/
Apple Security Update 2006-007
" Security Update 2006-007 is recommended for all users and improves the security of the following components:
AirPort
ATS
CFNetwork
Finder
Font Book
Font Importer
Installer
OpenSSL
PHP
PPP
Samba
Security Framework
VPN
WebKit
gnuzip
perl
For detailed information on this Update, please visit this website:
http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61798 "
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Operation Redecoration | Update
Almost there with this schedule.
- Fri.,All paid: [link]Sept.Dec. 1 | Paint the walls (161) | (29KD)
- Sun.,Sept.Dec. 3 | Install parquet floor | (136KD)
- Wed.,Sept.Dec. 6 | Receive the bed | (354KD)
- Sat.,Sept.Dec. 9 | Receive the desk | (65KD)
EDIT: Sept. = Dec. | A common brain fart when you post at 1:30am! ;P
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
G&WD course | Update
Finished:-
Language course:-
- Introductory English for I.T. | 40 hours
Starting:-
ICDL course:-
- Introduction to Information Technology | 10 hours
- MS Windows XP | 10 hours
- MS Word 2003 | 10 hours
- MS Excel 2003 | 10 hours
- MS PowerPoint 2003 | 10 hours
- MS Access 2003 | 10 hours
- MS Outlook 2003 & Internet | 10 hours
Welcome to Jeleeb Al-Sheyokh
This is what happens when you teach in a school of juveniles.
Yesterday morning I went to work to see that our P.E. section had been robbed. The robbers broke the lock, torn our papers, damaged one desk, and stole some stuff like an air-pump, water boiler, 2 desk drawers and our tea's saffron! Yes. Saffron. Imagine THAT!!
Anyhow, our principal called 777 and one guy came to investigate the crime scene where he took pictures and finger prints.
- They've left a note. [link]
For those who don't understand arabic, it says
"No to studying; Yes to sneaking out" - Looks like one of them couldn't help some kind of internal pressure so he had to leave his "territory mark" in our bathroom, skid marks where ALL OVER THE FREAKIN' PLACE! It's utterly disgusting otherwise I would've posted a picture for you peeps.
Well, that's day 9 in my new school and it sure doesn't look promising. Dealing with junior scum of Kuwait has't been a real pleasure so far. I don't blame it on anything other than this outrageous year.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
*shivers* x2
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
A Friendly Web Browser | Flock
Friday, November 24, 2006
Operation "Redecoration"
Some of you already know that I'm on the verge of redecorating my room and I had a couple of posts about it earlier on my blog.*
Anyways, time has come to initiate "Operation Redecoration" and get it over with so I'll make a small to-do list to organize the flow of transformation.
- Paint the walls. (est. 40KD)
- Wengé parquet floor. (est. 120KD)
- BoConcept bed w/o frame. (est. 460KD)
- IKEA Lack Floating wall shelf. (est. 15KD x2)
- IDdesign black glass desk. (est. 60KD)
- IDdesign TV/Stereo unit. (est. 80KD)
- SONY 40" BRAVIA KDL-40V2500. (est. 750KD)
--+ Other stuff (100~200KD)
Now let me clarify before you go on commenting about these prices; it'll take me around three months to scratch every single term in that list so I will start with my priorities and leave the rest for the next month and so on.
* Older posts: [post 1] [post 2]
Monday, November 20, 2006
Price Update | Play Station 3
We all know that the new Play Station is Universal which means it has support for all systems whether NTSC/US pr NTSC/J or PAL so if you get either US or Jap, they both will run the same games BUT...
A
While a 60GB US PS3 is for
That is F-ing Fagadelic $#@% !!!
* Thanks to Yazeez
This can't be happening!
Apparently I don't think I've had enough of 2006, yet. Day by day I keep thinking that this is the worst year in my life, and now with a new incident I can make sure it is the worst year ever.
Yesterday at around 10:30 pm I went out for dinner with my friends. I was distraught about my "transfer situation" at work so while I was backing my car, my friend shouted "hey... Hey!! ... HEYYY!!!!" *crashing sound*. Nervously, I got out of my car to see another car (old chevy blazer) parked behind me! Having no idea how I didn't notice a car that big; I checked the car and it didn't have any scratches or dents while my car had a thick scratch on the bumper and a broken rear-light holder. I've waited for 15 minutes to see the owner of that car but no one showed up so I placed a note just in case.
Just for the records, I have never had any car accidents before. I've been in a couple of accidents but none of them was my fault neither my car was part in action. 4 years of clean driving have come to an end.
So there, you be the judge if the rest of this year could be any good for me. Honestly, the way I see it, I'm sure the worst is yet to come.
I will just quarantine myself for the rest of the year.
Play Station 3 Running Fedora Linux
Saturday, November 18, 2006
This can't be right
I know it was cold earlier today but I don't think it was 7°c.!
And check out the rest of the days! Definitely can't be right. :/
Enough of 2006
I've been very depressed the past weekend for many reasons; I've lost a friend, feeling my injury's getting back on my right hand, and been having troubles at work. This year just doesn't want to pass peacefully.
My friend, Fawaz Al-Jarki, was the youngest among us. He graduated from high school last year and had been accepted in a military scholarship in UK's air force for pilot rank. Unfortunately he had to pass that scholarship due to medical issues to stay here in Kuwait and continue at KUNIV just to wait for his fate to come.
The day my friend passed away I was playing football and the ball hit my hand and dislocated my thumb. Nothing serious except that I'm feeling the pain of my old injury getting back at me.
Last Wednesday our school principal called for me to tell me that I have been transferred to one of the worst schools in Kuwait at Jeleeb Al-Sheyokh and there's nothing I can do about it. Jeleeb Al-Sheyokh as in the ultimate shYt hole in Kuwait where there's no trace of modern life or even Kuwaiti citizens. I've been trying to reach out to anyone possible to avoid this transfer but it looks like it will happen whether I like it or not.
So there, enough of 2006 because this year is by far the worst year ever and it seems like it's lasting for ever.
Friday, November 17, 2006
Tagged, once again.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Condolence | Fawaz Al-Jarki
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
يَا أَيَّتُهَا النَّفْسُ الْمُطْمَئِنَّةُ
ارْجِعِي إِلَى رَبِّكِ رَاضِيَةً مَّرْضِيَّةً
فَادْخُلِي فِي عِبَادِي
وَادْخُلِي جَنَّتِي
صدق الله العظيم
Fawaz Ali Al-Jarki
( 1988 - November 2006 )
A friend and a brother
الله يرحمه ويرحم الجميع
Monday, November 13, 2006
Play Station 3 | KD 500!!
My friend told me that the new SONY Play Station 3 has arrived and is for 500KD!! That's total BullScheiße because it doesn't cost more than 260KD in the US!!!
Games (citation needed): Metal Gear | Marvell | Tony Hawk
Now I know I won't be getting one any soon.
* Image courtesy of Q817 @ q8speed.com
Promoting another Blogger | Elijah
Why you should read for elijah:-
She's from Kuwait.She's Jordanian living in Kuwait.- She's an English teacher. (they're all cool!)
- She makes sense when she posts.
- She contributes to others' blogs.
- Seems like I'm the only one commenting on her blog.
- She did the tags I tagged her with & she hates me for it. :P
- It wouldn't harm you to check her blog.
Friday, November 10, 2006
LOTTO | ZHERO GRAVITY
Today I passed at Sportsman Center at Salmiya and this got my attention. They've recently brought a new collection of football/soccer boots but this one stands out and is by far the sexiest looking football boot I've ever seen.
Lotto called it ZHERO GRAVITY due to its light weight and amazing flexibility, like if you're wearing nothing but socks, hence it hasn't gotten any laces. That is pure perfection for a guy like me.
Anyhow, I was about to buy it but when I saw THIS I cautiously retreated and have written it down on my wish list. :P
Thursday, November 09, 2006
For Sale | 1992 ('98) Honda NSX
A friend of mine wants to sell his NSX so if you're interested just give him a call.
Car: Honda NSX
Color:-
- Black metallic Ext.
- Cream leather Int.
- Wengé wood decoration.
Year Model: 1992 (refurbished 1998)
Transmission: 6 Speed (Manual)
Oddo: 150,***ish (fully serviced)
Figures:-
- Car is still owed KD 4,000 in installment.
- KD 85 per month over 3 years.++ KD 1,500 over payment.
Overall PRICE: KD 5,500
Pictures:-
Front: Front 1, Front 2 Side: Side 1, Side 2, Side 3 Back: Back | Engine: Engine Wheel: Wheel 1, Wheel 2 Interior: Interior 1, Interior 2,
Interior 3, Interior 4
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Slap your Mac | Skip Checker
This is hilarious... Skip Checker is a funny application that lets you control your iTunes by stirring your Mac's S.M.S. (Sudden Motion Sensor). When activated, literally SLAP your (MacBook/Pro - PowerBook - iBook) or shake it and it will skip to the next song!
Make sure you don't slap it hard & use it at your own risk. :P
Things I would be...
1.- If I were a fruit I'd be... Red Apple.
2.- If I were a colour I'd be... Blue.
3.- If I were an animal I'd be... Siberian Tiger.
4.- If I were a domestic appliance I'd be... Mini Fridge.
5.- If I were a book I'd be... Guinness World Record book.
6.- If I were a clothing item I'd be... Bayern Munich Jersey.
7.- If I were a jewel / stone I'd be... Silver.
8.- If I were an object I'd be... Turbocharger.
9.- If I were a car I'd be... Porsche Carrera.
10.- If I were an element I'd be... Wind.
11.- If I were a tree I'd be... Cedar.
12.- If I were a drink I'd be... Mineral Water.
13.- If I were an ice cream flavor I'd be... Chocolate Mousse.
14.- If I were a person I'd be... Myself.
15.- If I were a planet I'd be... Neptune.
16.- If I were an insect I'd be... Hornet; Wasp.
17.- If I were a form of public transport I'd be... Concord.
18.- If I were a song I'd be... In Loving Memory - Alter Bridge.
19.- If I were a movie I'd be... Signs.
20.- If I were a season I'd be... Winter.
21.- If I were a flower I'd be... Blue Orchid.
22.- If I were a job I'd be... Pro football.
23.- If I were a cartoon I'd be... Guyver.
24.- If I were a place I'd be... A National Landmark.
25.- If I were a gift I'd be... Cash Money.
26.- If I were a memory I'd be... A Dream.
27.- If I were a city I'd be... Bavaria, Munich.
28.- If I were a sense I'd be... Sight.
29.- If I were a game I'd be... Gran Turismo.
30.- If I were a candy I'd be... Skittles.
31.- If I were a time of the day I'd be... Dawn.
32.- If I were an invention I'd be... Electricity.
33.- If I were a body-part I'd be... Knee.
34.- If I were a country I'd be... Kuwait, definitely.
35.- If I were a flavor I'd be... Sour.
36.- If I were a sport I'd be... Football (soccer).
37.- If I were a smell I'd be... Gas scent.
38.- If I were a subject I'd be... Graphic Design. (ditto)
39.- If I were a flag I'd be... Germany's.
40.- If I were a building I'd be... Liberation Tower.
41.- If I were a month I'd be... July.
42.- If I were a perfume I'd be... Estée Pleasure Cologne.
43.- If I were a gummy candy I'd be... Bubbles.
44.- No question? ---------------------
45.- If I were a toy I'd be... Wrist Ball.
46.- If I were a textile / fabric I'd be... Neoprene.
47.- If I were a shape I'd be... Triangle.
48.- If I were an answer I'd be... Something confusing.
49.- If I were a store I'd be... Häagen-Dasz
50.- If I were a word I'd be...
Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis (wtf! lol)
51-If I were an actor I'd be... Kevin Spacey.
52-If I were a singer I'd be... Myles Kennedy.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
This goes out to "anonyshYt"
I'll summarize to those who don't know what this is all about:-
I had a few posts on how to crack Menufela (small application that hides the menubar on Mac OS X) and it wasn't a big deal, anyone would've found out how to do it because it's damn easy. Then, out of nowhere, Mr. Anonymous comes with this reply telling me not to brag about it. I wasn't bragging.
However, somehow the owner of that application, Fjölnir Ásgeirsson (aka ninja kitten), found out and left a comment on that topic. Coincidence? Maybe. Snitched? Almost certainly. Anyways he didn't make a big deal out of it.
Then Mr. Anonymous comes back in another post and literally boasts that he told me not to brag. Heh? Are you mentally ill?! I was NOT F-ing bragging!
Anyways, after I have clarified to him that I was just sharing the method, not bragging, I got this reply:-
" Anonymous said...
Well, now that I got your attention, here is who we are: Business Software Alliance (www.bsa.org). That was in response to "And what's in it for you even if I share it with Interpol?" And yes I am in Kuwait, and I am a Kuwaiti, and I know how fucked up things are here. But just because you don't hear about the daily busts of copyrights violators, it does not mean they are not happening, and it does not meant that the law here is not tough and getting tougher. There is still the problem of law enforcement, but this is also changing. This is because Kuwait is being pressured by the Big Boss (USA) to comply with its obligations under the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS Agreement). And in case you don't know (probably you don't), there is a special IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) unit in the customs department. Since I deal with these people on daily basis, I know for a fact that the "worst thing that can happen" to any one is not just removing their blogs! Now, you asked me to be "man enough and share your blog or post under a username." That's not going to happen! You think I am crazy?! I already told you I don't brag. Besides my job is to monitor and report, not to share my blog entries. As for being "man enough," I find this to be very childish and typical Kuwaiti teenage stuff as in: Let's see who has the biggest dick. Now we know who does! Finally, here is something about copyright laws in Kuwait:
http://www.helplinelaw.com/law/kuwait/articles/labeed%20abdal/article2.php
Just read the last paragraph
PS. You misspelled anonyShyt. It should be anonyshit. Have fun. This will be my last visit to your blog."
Now, Mr. Anonymous...
I'm glad you're doing your homework but please don't take words out of context. I can go all day long taking what I like about your reply and counter it on you but that's not me.
I am well aware of intellectual property rights. I know what I did was wrong and I did admit that by apologizing to Fjölnir Ásgeirsson (aka Ninja Kitten) but that's not the point. The point is, those laws don't work out here, and even if they do, you have sinfully contradicted yourself; you have already admitted that you crack programs all the time and you still say you work for that BSA organization? How is that?! From that I understand it's ok to do illegal stuff as long as you remain "anonymous", isn't that what you meant?
Also you admit how F~ed up the situation is out here in Kuwait so why start to argue over this dull topic while there are "shYt" loads of copyrighted materials being sold around every corner? Or just because you think you can impress me with your legitimately-overworked reply??
Anyways, I am sure you'll check back so I will not deny the fact that you're right but before you go on and judge me, start with what's out there!
Oh and about that last part of your reply, that's just hilarious. First you're from BSA (Bull "ShYt" Association, so far) now you're an English teacher? You can go back and check some of my older posts and even some of my comments to others' posts; I never use the correct term when it comes to cursing so whether I write Shit, Sh!t, ShYt or even Scheiße (that's German for you), the point will get to you in the end so don't act smart.
* For those who read the whole story and has nothing to do with it, sorry for making you read all this.
Friday, November 03, 2006
The Ultimate Browser | OmniWeb
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
BUSTED! xD
I'm still laughing about this so here's what happened...
A couple of days ago I had two posts on how to crack Ninja Kitten's Menufela and guess what, I got BUSTED! LOL!
Fjölnir Ásgeirsson (aka Ninja Kitten), somehow, found about this and ?he? left me a comment under the name of aptiva.
"aptiva said...
Thanks, I'll make sure to fix this issue in the next version...
- Fjölnir Ásgeirsson Aka Ninja Kitten
- www.ninjakitten.us"
Well, I never thought this would happen but since it has, first I would like to apologize to Fjölnir and I really do wish ?him? all the best with his applications. I know what I did was wrong but don't hate me for it. It's by far my first crack and it was nothing but "logic", anyone else would've gotten to it.
And while we're at it, still hoping you see this request, can you work on something to expand/extend the menubar so it can hold more menu items?
As I promised in my reply to your comment, I am willing to donate more than what you're asking for if you came up with that "menubar expantion" and I will also run Menufela clean.
So there. Yet again sorry and I wish you all the best.
Monday, October 30, 2006
Menufela Part 2 | 3baid
To make it permanent just do the old steps then:-
- [ options + i ] @is.ninjakitten.menufela.plist
- Change "Ownership & Permissions" to "Read Only".
- Tick on the "Locked" box under "General".
There, you're done!
Menufela seems to be updating that .plist file so I thought if it's possible to force the program not to update that file while it still has access then it won't have any problem so I figured out to manipulate with its Permissions and I tell you, after around 2 hours of experimenting, rebooting and reading further info on changing permissions, it worked!
The funny part is that I was trying so hard to update that file's permissions using
chmod command in Terminal by following instructions on my O'Reilly book but then I thought to myself "Wait a sec! I can change it easily using File Info!!". lol. Ok I admit that was stupid but at least I came up with the solution and that what really counts, right? ;P
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Using Oxford Dictionary | Live
If you're using Mac OS X 10.4.* then you can try this with every Cocoa applications such as Safari, Pages, Keynote, OmniGraffle, TextEdit or even iTunes! Mind you, if you right-click (control-click / ctrl-click) over a word, you can check its definition using Oxford Dictionary but this new method will show that word's definition / thesaurus without having to launch Oxford Dictionary application.
Here's how it works:-
Go over any word on any Cocoa application, say Safari. Click " command + ctrl + D" while you're over that word.A small pop-up window will show up containing the definition of that word, you can also choose its thesaurus using the small drop-down list under the definition. To keep getting definitions of every word you hover above just keep holding down " command + ctrl" after you release the "D" and move over other words with your mouse/trackpad.
Here's a video of that tip in action: [link]
Pros: Very easy, very helpful and looks unique.
Cons: Doesn't work on non-Cocoa applications (FireFox, Opera, Terminal..etc.)
* Officially posted on macosxhints.com
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Menufela | This one's for 3baid
This post is dedicated to 3baid
Not long ago I had posted about "Menufela being shareware" and ever since it stopped working I was looking everywhere for any -illegal- method to make it work again but I couldn't find any. So out of curiosity I started to mess with the program hoping to come out with something. Ironically, don't know whether anyone else knows about this or not, I did find a decent crack to keep the program running although you'd have to do it every time you restart your Mac but it's not a big deal, right?!
Anyway... Here's how to do it:-
- Download Pref Setter.
- Using Spotlight, search for "Menufela".
- Look for the file:-
is.ninjakitten.menufela.plist
(also can be found under /Users/*ur username*/Library/Preferences) - Open that file using Pref Setter.
- Change the "hide menu" option/key by double-clicking on its value "false" to change it to "true".
- Click "File > Save" on Pref Setter's menubar.
-- The menubar should be hidden when you reach here --
Update: To make these changes permanent:-
- [options + i] @is.ninjakitten.menufela.plist
- Change "Ownership & Permissions" to "Read Only".
- Tick on the "Locked" box under "General".
So there you go, back to minimalistic desktops.
I don't think this qualifies me to be a hacker, no? ;P
Friday, October 27, 2006
TVDuo | TV on your Mac
Miglia's unique products bring your dreams to reality, their TVDuo is a small TV tuner for your Mac.
"The integrated Dual TV tuner expands your TV horizon by opening new options. Watch one TV channel while you record another, record two channels simultaneously or enjoy the Picture-in-Picture feature."
Price: £139.00
* officially posted on TUAW.com
Thursday, October 26, 2006
SNL Classic
Sony Batteries Went Suicide Bombing
"Poor Sony, they just can't seem to win lately. At least they have apologized for those batteries that had a tendency to make laptops burst into flames, and that has to count for something right?
Sony says the problems were caused by microscopic pieces of metal that somehow got into the batteries and caused a short circuit. Well, at least the batteries didn't ship with a virus or something." *
* Officially posted on TUAW
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Define "Boredom"
So I'm bored, I cannot sleep and I've seen this on a couple of blogs so I'll give it a shot....
1- My friends (and family) think I'm a perfectionist, which I'm not. Turns out I really am a perfectionist.
2- I've been a member on Blogger since last year 2005 but never really started a blog till this year 2006.
3- My father passed away two months before I started this blog.
4- He was, and will remain, my idol.
5- I get obsessed easily whenever I like something.
6- I'm extremely outgoing.
7- My favorite hangout is was Cafe Digol.
8- I was there a couple of hours ago before writing this.
9- I used to shesha on daily basis but been easing up on it. I quit shisha two months before 2009 until this day. Still trying.
10- I don't smoke cigarettes. I actually despise cigs.
11- I'm mostly in my dungeon (aka my room) whenever I'm home.
12- I can be categorized under "Junior Techie Geek".
13- I'm a self taught so-proclaimed vector-artist and enthusiast photographer.
14- Never been to any private school.
15- I have never been out of Asia continent. Been to Europe summer 2008.
16- I teach physical education for elementary intermediate school.
17- I'm into sports, mostly football.
18- I'm a diehard German National Mannschaft and Bayern Munich fan.
19- A lot of people think I'm tall (183 cm) but I think my height is normal.
20- I'm considered to be skinny yet fit.
21- My bellybutton looks funny.
22- Blue is my favorite color.
23- I listen to all kinds of music (mostly rock and acoustics).
24- Currently playing on my playlist is Empire State of Mind (II) - Alicia Keys.
25- I rarely dream, and even when I do I wake up remembering nothing.
26- I think Porsche and BMW are the best auto makers ever.
27- My car's a Chevy SUV 2007 Nissan 350z.
28- I can't use any other bathroom than mine.
29- I sleep late and wake up early even if I have nothing to do.
30- I cannot sleep on my back.
31- I cannot sleep uncovered even if it's too hot.
32- I have two brothers and two sisters.
33- My elder brother's a successful business man.
34- I'm an uncle of five nephews and three adorable nieces.
35- I'm hyper and hilarious among people I know.
36- I'm extremely shy amongst people I don't know.
37- I'm a "Self-Burner" which means when someone takes my turn in a line I don't say anything but I keep raging inside.
38- I eat too much junk food.
39- McDonald's is the best junk food restaurant for me.
40- I hate tomatoes and mushroom.
41- My mom cooks the best chicken machboos I've ever eaten.
42- I'm addicted to Apple Inc. gadgets.
43- I prefer bottled Coka Cola and canned Pepsi. Yes, there's a BIG difference.
44- I have a Mac PowerBook G4 12". MacBook Pro 15" Unibody.
45- I think Windows is retarded.
46- I can't stand long finger nails.
47- I'm a hard sneezer.
48- I'm righty, both my hand and foot.
49- Roaches are my damn worst fear.
50- I have suffered of deQuervain's Tenosynovitis for almost four months.
51- Had to take several cortisone shots to cure it.
52- Did M.R.I. to check the problem and found another separate issue with my back (wrong F-ing diagnostics).
53- Never had a broken bone (dislocated finger doesn't count, right?)
54- I can write stuff I cannot pronounce right.
55- Six of my most favorite actors are Robert DeNiro, Denzel Washington, Kevin Spacey, Tom Hanks, Edward Norton and Ben Kingsley (Yes!).
56- Six of my most favorite actresses are Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman, Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, Halle Berry and Whoopi Goldberg.
57- Six of my all time favorite movies are Gladiator, Signs, The Others, Se7en, Lucky Number Sleven and The Sixth Sense.
58- I love going to Wafra farms.
59- I shoot rats for fun.
60- 212 Splash One Million is my cologne of choice.
61- My foot size is 45.
62- Three of my favorite sport brands are Adidas, Puma and Umbro.
63- My room is considered to be well cleaned and never to be seen messed up.
64- I argue a lot, for fun though.
65- I utterly hate Brazilian national team, Real Madrid and Manchester United.
66- I use Wataniya Express cards. Wataniya Post-paid.
67- I don't like arabian ice cream (bu'6a).
68- I regret doing one thing in my life but it's too late to correct it.
69- I think Kuwait is the best country ever even with all this mess.
70- I totally despise "3agad".
71- I collect cinema tickets, express cards and internet cards since my early days in high school.
72- I love cloudy skies.
73- I love it when it rains.
74- I never went to Scientific Center till this day. Went there July 2007.
75- I think Liberation Tower is the most amazing thing in Kuwait City.
76- My family and I were here back in Gulf War.
77- I miss Air-raid sirens.
78- One of our maids fell of the 2nd floor once, unintentionally. (no, she didn't die)
79- Ihave used to have a mini fridge in my room.
80- I cannot stand not wearing hand watch.
81- I had braces when I was little.
82- I'm single married and liking it.
83- I cannot burp. I don't know how to do it.
84- I'm not in league with todays lame fashion & so called style.
85- I hate fads.
86- I have never failed any subject at school except one at college (arabic - Quira'At wa Asa'leeb) and it was three times in a row.
87- I have 60GB 3rd gen iPod classic.
88- Thinking of starting small business asap.
89- I don't like swimming in the sea but I do like it in pools.
90- I'm addicted to my laptop and the internet.
91- My favorite music bands are Alter Bridge, Nickelback, 3 Doors Down, Evanescence and Staind.
92- I'm addicted to Q8speed.com. It's dead.
93- I have met great people I knew through the internet.
94- I want to buy PS3 but first I need to get me an LCD (Full HD Bravia). Got the LCD, won't need the PS, but I wan't Sony full frame DSLR.
95- I prefer trackpad over mouse.
96- I need to get my lower teeth fixed.
97- I never go shopping. I see something, buy it at once and leave.
98- I still mourn my father.
99- I can't think of anything else to write about.
100- I am glad I'm done with this.
And that's about all. Sorry for wasting your time.
EDIT #1: Added some links. Which makes me have second thoughts about #1. =/
EDIT #2: Update. August 1, 2007.
EDIT #3: Update. January 1, 2009.
EDIT #4: Update. March 27, 2010.
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
New MacBook Pro | Intel Core 2 Duo
Yep, it's officially out; the new MacBook Pro with Intel Core 2 Duo processor is out. Now with better features, both MacBook Pro (15"/17") models have better processors, support FireWire 800, more RAM space up to 3GB, more drive space and double-layer SuperDrive.
The new MacBook Pro @ Apple Store [link]
I should be considering one instead of my 12" PB G4. =/