Netvibes !

My new favorite web utility is Netvibes. Like traditional news aggregators, Netvibes allows you to add RSS feeds from all your favorite websites and blogs, and it also ties in useful widgets such as meta-search (google, yahoo etc.), facebook, a calendar, and a meta-email sign in (gmail, yahoo, hotmail etc.). As a result I no longer have to run around the entire web. Think of this as a launch point on steroids; it is incredibly useful because you no longer have to go anywhere.

Here's a screen cap of my Netvibes launch point (yes I named it 'Metabot'. Why? Because it sounds robotic and cool). I've moved some panes around so you can see some of the features I referenced earlier, as well as feeds from msnbc, the economist, and oh look my blog as well, woo hoo :)

I highly recommend that you setup a Netvibes launch point, traditional web navigation is so Y2K.

Uncertainty

I had a really interesting conversation today with a partner at work. She is young, ambitious, funny, charming, brilliant, and incredibly conversant. She is also single. And somewhat cynical. In another life, if we didn't work together, I would date her in a heartbeat.

Our conversation was centered around how San Francisco was just rated by Forbes as the #1 city for single people. She scoffed. She generally feels disappointed by men, in that most guys 'don't step up to the plate.' And to be perfectly honest, I do agree with her to a certain extent.

Look, I can't speak for all men, however my perspective is that most girls my age are looking to nest. They see a good thing, and want to know 'what happens next?'. They want certainty in life. My take is, spend time with people who make you happy. Stop trying to plan your life, and just have fun. I'm not someone who will give you certainty: I won't call every day, spend every weekend together, or fawn over you. Why? Well mainly because I don't care enough to invest that sort of effort, and I find needy people terribly annoying. I also don't like misleading people.

Unfortunately that's not enough for most women, they need to know that 'this' will lead to something more permanent. For someone who has eternally lacked permanence in almost every aspect of life, that is just not a possibility, it's a sure impossibility. My problem is that I hate giving good people bad news; the bad news here is that Kal is not ready to settle down, not just yet. Sure I'm sure you may think, wait till he meets 'the one'. Ha! You need to wake up and smell reality friend. Life for me revolves around climbing the mountain. Sad, but true.

Tainted Love

Awesome song but I never realized it had such a ridiculous video. Honestly it's really bizarre: it's interspersed with overlays of a black 'slave', the object of affection in the video is a Lolita, and the lead singer is wearing a toga. Oh he also has bad dental work (go figure he's a Brit).

Great song though, you gotta love the One Hit Wonders from the 80's !

Remy Redux

So I just found out that Remy's name is actually spelled R-E-M-I. Yikes! I'm not sure I like it that way (not that I have a say in the matter). However since this is my blog, and my nephew, I shall spell it 'Remy' for now and ever more.

Everyone thinks that E and I look alike. Do you agree?


Remy's dreaming about something, I wonder what?

Bienvenue Remy

So the wait is over. My favorite little nephew has arrived ! Remy was born at 130 am in New York City on August 26th. And we're very happy to see him! His mom went into labor, got an epi, but little Rem decided he didn't want to be born just yet. So after 45 minutes of 'pushing' (eew-ouch), the attending physician mercifully interceded and decided to proceed with a C-section. I realize in ye olde days, a C-section meant danger, however now it's just a routine procedure. Both Mom and baby are doing well.

Remy's father, E, is my best friend and the closest I have to an elder brother. My mum and his mum are sisters, so he is actually my cousin. Growing up, E was my hero, my idol, cooler than cool, it was honestly a case of, when I grow up I want to be like E. In a way, he was the only person in whom I saw shared similarities. E was born in Q8 (our grandparents lived there) and grew up in London, Paris, Karachi, and ultimately New York. He understood what it was like to grow up as a global nomad and make sense of the confusion that was our childhood. Over the years our friendship has evolved. We've both had to pay our dues over the years, to get to what we wanted in life. I remember a time, when I was in college, and I would call him in the middle of night to give him company; he used to work the night shift in a lab. It's the struggles that bring you together. These are moments shared that will remain unspoken but always remembered in time.

E's wife, S, is a sweetheart. I first met her in 1995 and we became fast friends. Over the years, we've built up our own friendship and she is truly a beautiful person. She also has incredible strength; a few months after their marriage in 2001, S was diagnosed with cancer. She has an inoperable tumor near her brain stem, and endured very aggressive chemotherapy. Sorry for the details, but it's relevant to our conversation- typically in such situations, cancer patients are advised to have some eggs stored as chemotherapy completely ravages and destroys the system. However given the aggressive nature of her cancer, there was little time for her take such precautions. She endured the chemotherapy, lost all her hair, and never once did she complain. Afterwards the doctors admitted that it would be very difficult for her to conceive and thus for them to have children of their own. At the back of their minds, perhaps E & S wondered the sad consequences if her cancer came out of remission- the doctors had warned that it would be terminal if such was the case.

Over the past five years E & S seriously considered adoption and pondered their options. And then the miracle of life. S conceived in December and over the course of her pregnancy consulted with a geneticist to ensure that the baby would be unaffected by her illness and any vestiges of the treatment. Well, little Rem is finally here and is, thankfully, completely healthy.

I hope this little miracle helps you understand the power of love, dedication, and makes you realize there is someone out there looking over us. I may not be religious, but I do believe that there is a God helping us find our way in life.

For Remy:
So my little nephew this is the story of your life to date. You're not even a day old, but what a story it is, little one. In a way it's a short history of our lives and what we have seen as we waited for you. You hold the love and hope of so many around you. God bless you little one, may you prosper in all you do. All my love, Uncle K

Saturday

I needed a haircut. The one I got, is a bit severe, but short hair is low maintenance. Saw a beautiful Cadillac- vintage fins and Detroit steel. I also ended up buying a gray sweater (v-neck of course) and restocked up on boxer briefs and white v-neck t-shirts (Calvin Klein of course). Wow. I realized I just disclosed underwear details. Hahaha :) Oh I took a nap in the afternoon.

INXS

I 'discovered' INXS when they released Suicide Blonde. While I wasn't first to the party, I certainly enjoyed it. After listening to INXS' X, I heard Kick. And what an album it was- it was quite simply a revelation, far far better than X. In fact any INXS purist will admit that Kick is indeed a far superior album (if they don't, then they should). X was a good album; Kick just simply rocked.

I nearly saw INXS in concert in 1991. However Ma didn't let me go. Her list of reasons included: it's too dangerous (Pittsburgh PA was such an urban nightmare- notice the sarcasm?), I need to study for finals (Study? People do that? But but I'm brilliant), and I'll have time later in life to go to INXS concerts. Suuuuure, that's a real possibility considering that Michael Hutchence is now conveniently, DEAD.

Regardless these are three songs by INXS: Need You Tonight, Disappear, Bitter Tears. And yes how ironic that two of them are indeed from X. Look to do Kick justice, you just have to listen to the entire album (unfortunately Generation iPod doesn't consume albums holistically).

Lisbon + Furtado

Driving around today, listening to the radio when I heard a song that I like, but never knew who sang it. Turns out it's Say It Right by Nelly Furtado. Now while I am aware of NF, I really have no knowledge of what her music is all about. Kind of like Coldplay- just never really got into them, sorry. Anyways, I did some Nelly Furtado research, and turns out she is gorgeous. Jesus. She is so striking. So slender and sleek. She's originally Portuguese, which also made me happy. Why? Well one of my dreams is to own a summer house in Portugal. Nelly Furtado is affirmation that Portuguese women are certainly stunning.

Oh here's the song that triggered this chain of thought. Totally reminded me of someone as well:

Punk Revival

I've been a fan of punk since I saw The Ramones, at the ripe age of 14, at The Academy in New York City in 1990. I remember the first time I heard The Offspring was on a school trip to Athens* in 1994. A friend had bought a graciously pirated copy of their album, Smash, from a street hawker. After Nirvana's Nevermind, this was the first album that I thought seriously rocked.

Interestingly the lead singer of Offspring, Dexter Holland, was his high school's valedictorian and was a Ph.D. candidate in Molecular Biology at the University of Southern California. He has a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Molecular Biology, both from the University of Southern California. Holland is also a licensed Airline Transport Pilot and has made a solo trip around the world in 10 days. He also runs marathons. Nerds who made good, always make for a great story.

Enjoy!




* That trip to Athens was fun since my best friend and I managed to secure the hotel room right next to our girlfriends (who were conveniently rooming together). At night, even though our respective balconies were separated by a divider, we managed to swap rooms. How? We climbed over the railing and slid across. 15 stories up. Ah yes the wonderful stupidity of youth and impulsiveness of hormones.

NICE !

You know I try to catch Smallville whenever my psychotically busy life will permit. Honestly, I have considered buying the DVD box set, but I just know myself- I'll never watch it. I have the Soprano's season 1-7 box set, and I have yet to even open the box. Why? I don't know, I like catching random episodes, I'm very busy, and watching the episodes linearly is somewhat boring. How's that for an explanation?

Anyways, just when I thought Smallville couldn't surprise me, it somehow pulled it off ! So I just saw 'Progeny' and turns out LYNDA CARTER IS CHLOE'S MOM?? Yes Wonder Woman Lynda Carter ! How awesome is that?!

It's odd, when I get very busy with work (which is most of the time) my memory gets scrambled- like my brain has focused its resources on processing critical data elements. So, vaguely, I want to say that I knew Lynda Carter was Chloe's mom, but I can't be certain. Anyways, it's still pretty cool :)

The Shirt of Doubt

So last weekend one of the errands on my list was: buy new jeans. This is my extremely pragmatic and straightforward approach to shopping: price sensitivity is inversely related to the amount of time spent. The approach has served me well over the years.

Anyways, I picked up a pair of jeans at BR and when I saw this funky hipster shirt, I thought, hmm, not bad, I'll pick it up. I bought it, stuck it on a wooden hanger and promptly forgot about it.

This morning as I was groggily getting ready for work (working late, little sleep, and waking up early tends to do that), I saw the shirt and thought, hmm I'll wear my new hipster shirt!

It felt weird. The shirt. It didn't feel right. Didn't look right.

Look as you know I have my own unique formula, or 'look' that orbits around fairly conservative, french cuff shirts shirts, and v-neck sweaters.

I thought about changing. But as I was running late (not really, but I had a lot of work, it was 7:25 am), so I dashed off to work.

It felt odd all day. So the first thing I did was consult with our resident fashion maven K-Lo (she's partner at the firm and supercool). K-Lo's said the shirt was funky, cool, and gave it two thumbs up. I'm still undecided on it. What do you think?



And yes, the shirt has a contemporary, skinny collar :)

Running on Empty

Wednesday involved a host of meetings, as well as a client meeting. I got back from the client at 4 pm, knowing that I had a half day of work ahead of me. I managed to leave the office by 10 pm. There was a major fire that I was trying to put out, as a result I had to take a call at 530 am SF time (it was 830 on the east coast).

Needless to say my brain feels like jello, and I'm wiped out ! Oh there's an office event tomorrow (Friday), but I'm not going. Why? Because there's a conflict with a project deliverable. We're taking a cruise up near Tiburon, that entire area is really picturesque. I was quite looking forward to going. Oh well :)

Numb

Ah a new day, and yes I'm numb. See I told you that's what would happen. Last night I felt somewhat sad, and today I'm over it. It's a defense mechanism, and I'm totally fine. Or so I tell myself :)

Ramble On

I hate losing friends. Even more than most people. I believe it's a natural reaction to my childhood, where I constantly had to move, again and again, and constantly lost friends along the way.

Three months ago, one of my closest friends at work decided to take a sabbatical. I've mentioned before that the consulting life is high pace- there's a lot of wear and tear, and sometimes people burn out. Well she did, and decided it was time to for some soul searching and recuperation. So she was off to the Far East, for hiking, yoga, partying, and lazy days spent reading.

Today she returned, and I was so happy. Why are we such good friends? Well partly because we were staffed on the Project-from-Hell and fought together in the trenches- late nights at the office, working hard, and keeping a sense of humor are great elements for bonding. The other part of it is that she's TCK, somehow us international kids tend to gravitate towards one another, yes? Finally, a small part of it is that I think she's cute, and she thinks I'm funny (and impeccably dressed, of course haha). I know what you're thinking but office romances are a recipe for disaster. I never pursued it, and she, now, has a boyfriend. Yes, your Kal might have the worst timing in the world :)

Well I got a call tonight from her, we were catching up but I sensed something ominous. Well, the news is such- she's seriously considering a job offer and might be leaving. Sigh. It shouldn't affect me so much, and by tomorrow morning I'll have managed to bury it deep in my heart of darkness. But right now I feel a bit lost.

In retrospect, I realize why I'm in such a hurry. Since Bella, I am so much more reserved and cautious. I don't allow myself to form new deep bonds of friendship. Why? Because losing friends is painful. Losing loved ones even more so. So, I don't live. I just exist.

New Moon on Monday

When I was a kid, back when MTV was a novelty (waaaay back in the 80s), Duran Duran came out with some of the most innovative, fun, and cutting edge videos (Thriller aside of course). Most of the videos had some sort of 'story', and were often very elaborate productions. Personally I was never a huge fan of the 'concert video' because, what's the point?

Here's a great song, and great video. Enjoy !

She's Beautiful

I got my car detailed today. It was washed, waxed, clay barred, and buffed. The pictures don't do it justice (I took them with my cell phone...the D80 will be purchased imminently). It's not what you wear, or what you drive. It's how you wear it, how you keep it. Doesn't it say volumes about someone? I guess that makes me impeccably dressed, but deeply superficial. Just wait till I get my Maserati :)

Hydro

Chloe
Look, I'm sorry that I had to take a two-second breather from hiding the fact that you are an alien from another planet to protect someone else for a change! God! You had that coming, you know?

Clark
For the record, I prefer "intergalactic traveler" over "alien from another planet".

Ok I just saw, what might be, the greatest Smallville episode ever. I realize that is a lofty claim but honestly 'Hydro' kicked ass! It had it all: drama, suspense, a cat fight, betrayal...you get the point, it was GREAT ! Interestingly, it was directed by Tom Welling.

For the record can I just add that Clark is such an ultimate bitchass- I mean going and telling Lana, 'I hope Lex makes you very happy.' Jesus, what a loser. He should tell her she's fat and ugly.

First Class

This article on next-gen First Class service reminded me of an incident-

The last time I was in London was 1993 (I can't believe it's been that long). As a family we were flying back to Q8 from our holidays, my parents were in Business Class, and my sister and I were unceremoniously slated for Economy. I was 17, and friend if you think I'm cocky now, you should've seen me back in the day (go ahead roll your eyes, it's okay)- my parents found it immensely funny that we were stuck in coach, and were giving me good natured grief about it all the way to the airport. I, of course, was furious. How could I be treated like this?? The indignation! The humiliation! I deserve better!

Scene: British Airway Business Class counter @ Heathrow -the hot check-in lady with her BBC accent was like- "Ah, Mr. and Mrs. El I can see you're in Business Class and, ah yes, the kids (serfs) are not!". This was all too much... I must do something... must go down FIGHTING-at this moment I leaned forward, gave her my special howyoudoin smile and said, "You know, wouldn't it be just great if you upgraded me to First Class?". The lady looked up, saw this 17 year old punk, smiling at her, twinkling eyes...skip two beats...I hold eye contact...and she says..."Alright. Just this once."

Mom and Dad were like, Wow! My sister was FURIOUS and started the mandatory protest, but by then the deed was done. She flew coach, Mom and Dad flew Business, and I flew from London to Kuwait in First Class baby ! Ma and Pa, in a way, were amazed and amused by my hustle and charm :)

How was the flight? Things I remember:

- Flight attendants were so much hotter back then
- Lunch/Dinner/Snacks were served on fine bone china
- The silverware was heavy
- I found it amusing to be called Mr. El for 5 hours

Looking back, in a way it's little incidents like this that help build self-confidence and self-belief, qualities that most teenagers, even cocky ones, need in copious amounts.

End of the Line

I love these lyrics from End of the Line:

Maybe somewhere down the road aways
You'll think of me, wonder where I am these days
Maybe somewhere down the road when somebody plays Purple Haze

Well it's all right, even when push comes to shove
Well it's all right, if you got someone to love
Well it's all right, everything'll work out fine
Well it's all right, we're going to the end of the line

Don't have to be ashamed of the car I drive
I'm glad to be here, happy to be alive
It don't matter if you're by my side
I'm satisfied

3 Great Songs by Roy Orbison

I realize this may not be the most contemporary of choices, however I've always been a big fan of Roy Orbison. Which, I guess, makes me terribly old-fashioned. Oh well !

Only the Lonely



In Dreams



You Got It

CC is a Simpson

CC, this is what I was talking about being 'Simpsonized'. I think my resemblance is fairly accurate, you, however, are prettier in real life (don't let it get to your head, oh look, too late!). I thought you'd be amused that I even managed to find a v-neck sweater (considering I wear one every day) haha!

Outstanding Questions:

Why is my hand sort of pointing at you?
Why do you look so pleased with yourself?
I seem somewhat embarrassed by you, yes? I'm not, even though I haven't said it, you're quite cool/fun (Note to self: stop being candid on blog)

wikihow

My absolute favorite new website is wikihow ! Where else can you read about critical topics such as:

- Keep Warm After Showering in Winter
- Avoid Becoming a Religious Zealot
- Get Inside a Girl's Head
- Obtain Irish Citizenship

Very awesome :)

Chief of Staff

The duties of the White House Chief of Staff vary greatly from one administration to another. However, he is responsible for overseeing the actions of the White House staff, managing the President's schedule, and deciding who is allowed to meet with the President. Because of this duty, the Chief of Staff has been dubbed the "the gatekeeper" and the "co-President".

Not every President has had a formal Chief of Staff. John F. Kennedy never hired one. Due to the stressful and demanding nature of the job, the average term of service for a White House Chief of Staff is a little under two and a half years. John R. Steelman, under Harry S. Truman, was the last to serve as Chief of Staff throughout the entire duration of a President's administration. Steelman also holds the record for longest service at six years. Andrew Card and Sherman Adams tie for second at five years each.

Some have suggested that a powerful Chief of Staff dealing with a "hands-off" president who decides not to become involved in the minutiæ of government, can become a quasi-prime minister. Such prime ministers exist in some presidential systems, such as in France and Russia, with the prime minister running the government and the president remaining somewhat aloof from the political process but setting broad policy goals. James Baker and Donald Regan were seen as prime ministerial-style chiefs of staff during the Reagan presidency. Howard Baker, who succeeded Regan, was critical of this system and what is sometimes called the Imperial Presidency.

By contrast, Andrew Card, President George W. Bush's first Chief of Staff, was not regarded as a very powerful figure. Some say that this is because Card was overshadowed by Senior Adviser and Deputy Chief of Staff Karl Rove; others suggest that the Chief of Staff's authority is limited by Bush's practice of dealing directly with his Cabinet secretaries. Similarly, President Bill Clinton's Chiefs of Staff were not particularly powerful, in part because Clinton's personality kept him in touch with his Cabinet.

Rosanna !

This song is good, but the MUSTACHE is awesome ! Another one of my favorites, and yes Melt with You by Modern English is great (that's why I posted it!).

Modern English

This song reminded me of 'someone'. I figured you might enjoy it (and it's related 80s movie- Valley Girl).

Bon Apetit

This is dedicated to all you vegetarians (don't worry it's not as bad as balut- believe me, don't click on the link):

Vietnam-> Snake Restaurant -> beating Cobra heart

followed by...

Snake gall bladder dipped in vodka, piercing it, releases the bile which turns the 'drink' into a nice dark green color !

Each part of the snake is consumed: fried snake skin, grated snake bones, and snake meat of course.

Although I consider myself an adventurer, I don't think I would enjoy eating snake.

I just think when it comes to food, it should taste good. Like home-made falafels :)

Well I just got home from a 14 hour day at work, and I had an apple for dinner. Woe is me, and I can hardly keep my eyes open. Must try to get past page 3 of The Kite Runner, and must get some sleep.

Gnites mites,

Kal

From Russia, With Love

I've always been a fan of the perfect dedication. Whenever I give a book as a gift (which I tend to do a lot), I'll spend an inordinate amount of time thinking of the dedication. In my estimation, it the keystone that brings into perspective your friendship and your affection, and as such are words that may last a lifetime. It is an awesome responsibility, and if you love the person enough to give a book, then the time and effort is well spent and deserved. The trick is to be memorable and succinct, which as you can imagine, is not easily done.

I'm also in the habit of signing my own books with the city and year. It's cool- as I look at books I've bought over the years, they are a reflection of my interests, challenges, and perspective on life.

Sunday

I woke up early and procrastinated doing work all day. Enjoyed watching Tiger win the PGA Championship, took a nap, read. Ate an apple for breakfast. Had a protein bar for lunch. Took a nap. Woke up and showered. Sat down to work at 1730. Now it's nearly midnight, just finished.

Oh yesterday I bought 'Dave's Insanity Sauce' which is meant to be used only one drop at a time (I kid you not). Today I tried it out...let's just say I still can't feel my tongue- I believe parts of it are permafucked and my tastebuds have gone completely numb. Awesome!

Before I forget- I spoke to Hague today (he's back in London) to say congrats. Mr. Hague was the first to bite the bullet ! He got married on Friday. Poor guy sounded reeeally down today, he's like I can't believe it, welcome to the rest-of-my-life. He was generally kidding, but there's always a grain of truth even in most benign of jokes.

Self-Hypnosis

Are you fat?
Lack self discipline?
Want to change your life?

Here is the key to success! All your phobias? GONE! Your nervous tics? GONE! The key (apparently) is self-hypnosis.

Self-Hypnosis is a naturally occurring state of mind which can be defined as a heightened state of focused concentration with the willingness to follow instructions. Linked to it is autosuggestion- commonly accomplished by presenting one's mind with repetitive thoughts, until those thoughts become internalized. Practitioners typically hope to transmute thoughts into beliefs, and even into actualities.

Here's how to get started:

1. Go to a comfortable, private place and sit in any comfortable chair or couch. You may lie down on your bed if you wish.

2. Close your eyes and try to rid your mind of any feelings of fear and anxiety. When you begin, you will find it difficult not to think. You may find that thoughts keep intruding. When this happens, don't try to force the thoughts out. Observe them impartially, and then let them slip away.

3. Recognize the tension in your body. Beginning with your toes, imagine the tension slowly falling away from your body and vanishing. Imagine it freeing each body part one at a time starting with your toes and working its way up your body. Visualize each part of your body becoming lighter and lighter as the tension is removed. relax your toes, then your feet. Continue with your calves, thighs, hips, stomach and so on, until you've relaxed each portion, including your face and head.

4. Take slow, deep breaths. When you exhale, see the tension and negativity leaving in a dark cloud. As you inhale, see the air returning as a bright force filled with life and energy.

5. Appreciate the fact that you are now extremely relaxed. Imagine you are at the top of a flight of 10 stairs. Picture every detail of this scene from the top to the bottom. Tell yourself that you are going to descend the stairs, counting each step down, starting at 10. Picture each number in your mind. Imagine that each number you count is further down and one step closer to the bottom. After each number, you will feel yourself drifting further and further into deep relaxation. As you take each step, imagine the feel of the step under your feet. Keep counting and stepping down until you reach the bottom. Once you reach the bottom imagine that you are happy and relaxed.

6. At this point, you should begin to address the issue you're concerned about. Speak in the present tense. Your subconscious mind does not understand negatives in speech - avoid using statements with negative connotation such as "I don't want to be tired and irritable." Instead, say, "I am calm and relaxed." Examples of positive statements "I am strong and slender," "I am successful and positive," and, if you have pain, "My back feels wonderful."

7. Repeat your statement(s) to yourself as many times as you wish.

8. When you are satisfied, say to yourself that you will now count upwards to 10 from 0, and when you reach the number 10, you will slowly rise back to normal consciousness and remain calm and relaxed. Proceed to count upwards, again picturing the numbers in detail.

9. Once you have ascended, give yourself a few moments before opening your eyes, and take your time getting up.

_____________

Now champs, I don't know if this shit works. Honestly, I have no idea. Frankly, I can't figure out how you remember all the instructions while you're busy self-hypnotizing !

Launch Control

I was talking to a friend here in SF, she's from France, let's call her Claudine. Anyways Claudine is in the process of buying a car, and the conversation turned to how cars personify their owner. Anyways the we subsequently meandered to the topic of Launch Control. LC is Formula 1 technology-to provide optimal acceleration off the starting grid- that has emerged in high end street-legal vehicles. I told Claudine about how it works in the Lamborghini Murciélago (4:59 minute mark in the video below):

- Press the 'Sport' button
- Turn off the Traction control
- Rev to 4000 rpm-the clutch kicks in
- Release the brake and launch!

Claudine's response, quite cutely, was: Why Kal?

Why? Sigh. Look the brilliance of Launch Control can't be explained. Just like the Pagani Zonda. Perhaps its charm is rooted in the imagination and wonder of those, who still see the world with child-like curiosity and excitement.



Kobe Bryant's wife Vanessa is the only person in the world to own a converted automatic Murciélago. The car was given to her as a gift by her husband, but upon realizing she could not drive a manual transmission, Kobe Bryant had the car converted to an automatic. The estimated cost of the car after conversion and customization was US$400,000. Ah the sweet fruits of adultery.

What's Next? Maverick?

Is it possible for one man to have TWO nicknames from Top Gun? It seems somewhat unfair and apocryphal. Well friends, it's true, golfer Retief Goosen is known as both Goose and Iceman.

The former is somewhat dorky, but Iceman? Come on! That's my nick! Iceman was way cooler than Maverick and don't forget who ended up as Top Gun.

Perhaps it is well earned, Goosen has been struck by lightning twice in his life. Go figure.

Cheapen Her Image??

Years ago I asked my dad for a boob job and he said it would cheapen my image. So I decided not to do it."

From the Sydney Morning Herald

Saturday

0630- woke up and cursed myself for waking up so early on the weekend. No wonder I'm tired.

0631-0830- checked fb, read news, read about Oliver Cromwell and Lord Lucan on wikipedia

0835- decided to sleep, after all it's Saturday, however turned on my cellphone as Ma mentioned last week that Dad always wants to call on Saturdays before he goes to sleep.

0925-1030- Dad calls. Asked if he woke me up, I say no I've been up since 630. Asked if I was with 'anyone', I laugh and say no, not today. Catch up on with the folks: monsoon rain, who's getting married/divorced, and why some relatives are cool/lame.

1035-1100- feeling tired. Negotiate on whether I should sleep (yes, because I didn't get enough sleep) or not (no, because the day is wasted). Turn on the tv and watch cartoons on mute.

1105- decide to get up and shower. En route I realize that I'm almost out of my signature cologne (as a creature of habit, I've used the same cologne since I was 16).

1130- Errands! great! pick up and drop off dry cleaning. Talk to Gwen on the way. I decide to hold off on getting the car washed till next week (I need to get it clay waxed, takes 3 hours).

1200- hmm noonish, feeling hungry. I hope across the street from the dry cleaner to the gourmet deli for a roast beef sandwich on wheat bread with swiss cheese, extra mustard and no tomatoes (I never get tomatoes, they overpower the sandwich and cause sogginess mayhem). Indulge in some impromptu grocery shopping: apples (Red Delicious of course, they are the best), protein bars, Diet Coke, and peanut butter.

While I was waiting in line for my turn at the deli, this little old couple came up to me. They were holding hands, and were very cute. The lady says, "Sonny, did you get a number?", I replied with a 'Yes ma'am, I sure did.' She smiles and says well I wanted to be sure we didn't cut in front of you. Her husband was beaming at her, and turns to me and says, 'She's like that, always making sure everybody's alright.' What a lucky man.

Samuel Pepys' Blog

Started reading the diary of Samuel Pepys, an introduction to contemporary life during the English Restoration. It provides a fascinating combination of personal revelation and eyewitness accounts of great events, such as the Great Plague of London, the Second Dutch War and the Great Fire of London.

Samuel Pepys (23 February 1633 – 26 May 1703) was an English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, who is now most famous for his diary. Although Pepys had no maritime experience, he rose by patronage, hard work and his talent for administration to be the Chief Secretary to the Admiralty under King James II. His influence was important in the early development of the British Civil Service.

Also details his rather gruesome operation:

The procedure, described by Pepys as being "cut of the stone", was conducted without the use of anaesthetics or antiseptics, and involved restraining the patient with ropes and four strong men; the surgeon then made an incision along the perineum, about three inches long and deep enough to cut into the bladder. The stone was removed through this opening with pincers, which came from below, and which were assisted, from above, by a tool that had been inserted into the bladder through the penis.

Childhood Friend's Evil Wife

Freddy is a childhood friend. From pre-Gulf War I, which in TCK time is ridiculous (given the number of moves etc.). Freddy and his lovely wife, Celica, are in town for a holiday. Celica hates Kal.

Why?

Well a few reasons:

1. Kal is perceived as a bad influence (probably true, but what is she, his mother? Oddly, not far from the oedipal truth)

2. Kal forgot their wedding- yes that is my bad, however my reasons are valid. Having just moved, and busy with travel, I forgot that it was on a Saturday and not a Sunday. Oh they paid $80 for my dinner! OMG $80. Exactly, f9cking whitey thought process.

A couple of years ago I was in DC, attending a conference. I called up Freddy, and as usual, we went out and painted the town red. It was a great night. At some point I told Fred, who was just dating Celica at the time, 'don't sweat the pussy.' Granted, not the most eloquent prose, but it was funny (at the time) and heck that's how guys talk. The next day we exchanged text messages, and Fred said, 'I'm at a fucking pottery class with Celica.' To which I responded, with great wit and timing, 'Dude! Don't sweat the pussy!'. Ha ha right?! WRONG! Fred starts laughing in the middle of the pottery class, Celica snaps Freddy what are you laughing at??! And...Fred SHOWS HER MY TEXT MESSAGE. Yes friends, that was it. The nail in the proverbial coffin. Since then I've been a charter member of Celica's Nixonian Hate List, persona non grata, public enemy #1!

Of course, it doesn't help that me, or any of the core friends (known as The OBGs) don't really like her. And it's not unjustified. Time and again she's shown her overwhelming focus on money i.e. basically being cheap. What's worse she's made him all cheapy and money-sensitive as well; the whole gang of us have gone out, when the bill comes they are the first to grab at it and calculate their 'share'. Let's make sure we split that equally because X had an extra drink! OMG that'll be like $3 more than what we should pay!

Look such money-minded behavior is seen as unbecoming, and somewhat crass. Having grown up with Arabs for most of my life, I can honestly state that they are some of the most generous, classy, and loving people I have ever met. Perhaps, I haven't been able to completely articulate the dynamic clearly, but there just many subtle cultural nuances that you would only understand having been part of that way of life.

Anyways getting back to the story at hand! Sorry for the detour, but it provides much needed context. So I meet them for coffee and general meandering around Stanford Mall (the greatest university in the world is bounded on one end by a highway and the other by a mall- yes only in America). Celica would conveniently shop, while Fred and I could hang out and chill. Their plan was to spend a week at a beach house about 90 minutes outside of SF (which is incredibly picturesque). At the end of the afternoon, I'm getting ready to leave and Fred invites me to the beach house to hang out, before the words are even out of his mouth...well the exchange went like this:

Fred
Dude you have to come hang at the beach house it'll rock

Kal
(Mumbling some form of yeah we'll see...not that I had any intention of going)

Fred
Yeah dude just come after work or take a day off, we're free in the evenings

Celica
NO FREDDY WE HAVE PLANS

Fred
We do?

Celica
Yeah we have plans all week

I wanted to say. Look you old, fat, ugly ass cow. Chill out. It's not like I was going to hang out with you. I'd rather do laundry and organize my socks. Just have some fucking tact! Jesus! He's inviting me and you're blatantly going on about these mysterious 'plans'. Whatever, it was lame. She's stupid, and he's stupid for having married her.

TCK

So, the time has come to clear out my facebook profile. Why? Partially because change is good, I get bored of the same things, and that it just seemed like the right thing to do. This has entailed leaving groups, deleting notes, and general maintenance etc.

I left the 'I went to an international school, bitch' group, however this list (redacted Kal version) should read familiar to every TCK out there, enjoy:

1. You can't answer the question: "Where are you from?"
3. You flew before you could walk
7. Your life story uses the phrase "Then we went to..." five times (or six, or seven times...)
8. You speak with authority on the quality of airline travel
12. You don't know where home is
15. You realize it really is a small world, after all
16. You feel that multiple passports would be appropriate
18. Rain on a tile patio - or a tin roof - is one of the most wonderful sounds in the world
25. Your room/apt/living room looks a like a museum with all "exotic" things you have collected
30. It takes 24-36 hours to reach home in a plane
32. You never really use a seatbelt
33. School trips meant going to a different country
52. Once you get home you miss your adopted home and visa versa
53. You are never content in one place, be it city, state or country for long. You're a mover.
64. You and your best friends will always have a unique bond
66. You don't feel at home at home anymore
68. You don't even bother to change your watch when traveling
81. You start to keep your experiences overseas to yourself because most people can't relate

Firecrotch !

My fascination with Lindsay Lohan is akin to commuters slowing down to look at car accidents on highways- a simple triumph of morbid curiosity over reason. Her complete lack of control/direction in life is absolutely incredible. (I will admit it does feedback into my overarching interest/obsession with popular culture in general, but you knew that!). Honestly can you even keep track of her various indiscretions/problems? Is it even possible to plan a more turbulent life? She has problems/issues on each front: family, friends, career, financial, psychological, DUIs, legal, frenetic competition against Hillary Duff*, and of course her well documented on-again/off-again 'frenemy' Paris Hilton. It's one giant snowball of hate, angst, turmoil, partying, uppers, downers, and overall imbalance; which, of course, makes for great entertainment and my ensuing morbid fascination. She is possibly the ultimate Lana.

LL would be the perfect girl to date: you tell her fat she's fat, reinforce her self-doubt, and she'll fall madly in love with you. Sad, but true.


This, in my humble opinion, is very funny:




* Have you seen the 'new' Hillary Duff? Hotty.

No Reservations

Continuing with our theme of chefs. One of the show I like watching is Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations. Bourdain gained popularity from his New York Times bestselling book Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly.

Bourdain is a smoker, drinker, and an opinionated jerk. Turns out 'chef culture' is really quite mean and psychotic-chefs are apparently very strange and full of idiosyncrasies. Just my kind of people! I like odd, bizarre characters, who may defy logic but are manically interesting.

The book is remarkable for its insistence in deglamorizing the professional culinary industry. The commercial kitchen is described as an intense, unpleasant and sometimes hazardous place of work staffed by what he describes as "misfits". Bourdain is absolutely insistent that this is no place for hobbyists. Anyone entering this industry will run away screaming, he insists, if they lack almost masochistic (perhaps irrational) dedication to cooking.

In Kitchen Confidential he writes:

"We were high all the time, sneaking off to the walk-in [refrigerator] at every opportunity to 'conceptualize.' Hardly a decision was made without drugs. Pot, quaaludes, cocaine, LSD, psilocybin mushrooms soaked in honey and used to sweeten tea, Seconal, Tuinal, speed, codeine and, increasingly, heroin, which we'd send a Spanish-speaking busboy over to Alphabet City to get."

Nice!

An Affair to Remember?

A couple of years ago Britt and I had an affair. Britt is terribly beautiful, full of life, fun, and epitomizes 'joie de vivre'. It was torrid, passionate, and dangerous. Soon afterwards her path turned towards Europe and I headed towards California. And that was that, The End?

No! (Of course not, otherwise what would be the point?)

Today, like a specter from the past, Britt resurfaced in my life. What will happen? Well I'll probably see her in New York next month, nothing more nothing less.

Britt
Kal!!!! How are you my love?!
How is CA?

Kal
SF is great !
how are you? where are you?

Britt
Kal, I left Per two weeks ago

Kal
Really ? wow
How are you faring?

Britt
Sooooo well
Better for both of us really
I've been going to hamptons every weekend with friends

Kal
Ah, Britt part of the international jet set

Britt
Now I need to know when you coming to new york?
I would love to see you

Kal
How do you like New York?

Britt
It's great, I love working in the art world, I get to see the people are great
and I am able to have a big personality in ny without stepping on toes

Kal
Yes, the anonymity is an advantage

Britt
So how do you like sf, are you dating?

Kal
Well the girls here aren't as beautiful as you
They are quite grungy

Britt
Hahaha, when are you coming to NY?
it would be great to see you

Kal
yeah
the past year has been a blur

Britt
all you do is work
and you're working too hard

Kal
Oh I did buy a Mercedes :)
SF is incredibly diverse
I needed to move out here
Big cities are great

Britt
That makes me happy
Areed never moving unless its to europe
You know what's funny?
I won a best dressed at a burlesque parlor sp with bjork in the audience
pretty cool huh?

Kal
hahaha!
nice!

Britt
so glad to to be in touch again, don't be a stranger

Kal
You know you honestly made my time in m-town so great
you were/are awesome
we had fun

Britt
Lets pick it up in nyc or sf
you have to ring me before so we can make plans
the art world gets into full swing during sept
I will take you to some fun parties

Kal
Yeah for sure
will you be my date?

Britt
Yes I think I could manage that
I can't wait to see you!

Kal
haha
cool
I promise to brush my teeth

Britt
Hurry up and get here
I miss ya

____________

It's interesting that all my dalliances are just that, dalliances. New York will be fun, although there is part of me that believes it's not the right thing to do.

Nigella Redux

I thought about naming this post- All You Wanted to Know About Nigella But Were Afraid to Ask.


So! Here are some facts on this culinary vixen:

1) Nigella is generously pear-shaped (see above). I always thought that implied the basement-to-balcony ratio was seriously imbalanced. One could make the claim that Nigella is amply endowed in both locations. Nevertheless, the various 'hiding' techniques are quite amusing

2) Nigella is part Jewish. She has traced her mother's side of the family, to Ashkenazi Jewish ancestors in the Netherlands and the Rhineland of Germany. That makes sense as her dark, somewhat exotic features look quite non-Brit (typically insipid and watered down)

3) Nigella's mother, Vanessa Salmon, was a socialite and heir to the Lyons Corner House empire (essentially a gourmet grocery store). She died of liver cancer when Nigella was 25

4) Nigella's sister Thomasina died of breast cancer when Nigella was 33

5) Nigella's husband, journalist John Diamond, died of throat cancer in 2001. Nigella was 41

6) Nigella is now married to Charles Saatchi, co-founder of the iconic Saatchi & Saatchi advertising agency and world renowned art collector

This is not so much a fact, but it well might be- it's certainly part of the Nigella's allure:

Her style of presentation is often gently mocked by comedians and commentators who perceive that she plays overtly upon her attractiveness and sexuality as a device to engage viewers of her cookery programmes, despite Lawson's repeated denials that she does so

Ha!

Long Hair, Perfect Eyebrows??

So the post on fat chicks got me thinking, what do I like in girls? Well asides from Uma, who embodies perfection in every sense, I can't say I have a preference for blondes, brunettes, red heads, tall girls, or muffins. I do know I like intelligence and wit (the well documented Chloe myth etc). But what do I really like, physically? Well yesterday's conversation with Raya shed some light on the matter-

Raya claims that I told her, a while ago, that I prefer girls with long hair (yes, somewhat true, and yes, terribly old fashioned) and perfect eyebrows (huh? that's what I said). Perfect eyebrows? What the hell is that?? I told Raya she had lost her mind, but perhaps there is merit to her claim?

Here what I will admit- Natascha McElhone is incredibly beautiful. And yes she has long hair, and well, perfect eyebrows.

Breakfast Club III

Why are most girls insecure? Because they think they're fat. If you think you are...well you probably would be best served by hitting the gym and laying off the bagels (that means you Nigella). In a perfect world, people wouldn't be judged by how they look. However, we don't live in a perfect world, far from it in fact, so if you are likely to be judged then you might as well look your best. That and the fact that insecure people are a vortex of negativity.

Funny dialog from The Breakfast Club on the subject:

Claire
What's your name?

Bender
What's yours?

Claire
Claire.

Bender
Claire?!

Claire
Claire. It's a family name.

Bender
Oh, it's a fat girl's name.

Claire
Oh, thank you.

Bender
You're welcome.

Claire
I'm not fat.

Bender
Well not at present, but I can see you really pushing maximum density. See I'm not sure if you know this, but there are two kinds of fat people: there's fat people that were born to be fat, and there's fat people that were once thin but became fat... so when you look at 'em you can sorta see that thin person inside. You see, you're gonna get married, you're gonna squeeze out a few puppies and then, uh...

To The Victor, The Spoils

Recently I had a conversation about Bella. Did you know her husband (yes it felt weird even typing that) has a blog? When I first saw it, I thought I'd read it for hours. I didn't. Why you ask? What made me walk away?

They went to Italy for their honeymoon. To Roma. To the Pieta.

Reality does bite, indeed.

PS- Want to see 'the blog'? Email me.

Breakfast Club II

Over the next few days, I'll blog some of my favorite scenes, memorable quotes, and commentary on/from The Breakfast Club.

I love this scene where they whistle the tune from Bridge Over the River Kwai:

English Muffin !

I have a new, rapidly growing, and somewhat unexplained, fascination with Nigella. I'm not quite sure what to make of it.

Questions that remain to be answered:

Is she hot? Yes and No. I'm not quite sure. What do you think?

Is she fat? Yes! No! I have no idea. I think she might be, but she hides it very well.

The fact that she's an amazing chef, has a lovely lilt to her accent, and is pretty (?), all of which combine to make her quite desirable. I believe, ultimately, she epitomizes the fulfillment of our most primitive desires- food, sex, and uh, eloquence (hehehe, yes retarded, but I had to work in her sexy voice).

PS- Look at the picture, at the area behind Nigella's right thumb- is she strategically hiding a giant booty? Aha! That's it. She's fat from the waist down! Nigella, you temptress, how diabolical of you to divert our attention to the English muffins.

The Breakfast Club

Dear Mr. Vernon,

We accept the fact that we had to sacrifice a whole Saturday in detention for whatever it was we did wrong. But we think you're crazy to make us write an essay telling you who we think we are. You see us as you want to see us. In the simplest terms, in the most convenient definitions.

But what we found out is that each one of us is a brain...and an athlete...and a basket case...a princess...and a criminal.

Does that answer your question?

Sincerely yours,

The Breakfast Club

Coming soon, my review of this 80s icon. Is it really better than Ferris Bueller's? Stay tuned!

What Now?

So believe it or not, the year is over. Seriously, there's only four months left. Most management consultants will tell you that time passes at an incredible clip in this profession. Why? It's because our point of view is completely project focused i.e. you move from one project to the next, deadline to deadline, without any respite.

Broadcasting, or any deadline driven profession, is similar- functioning in such an intense environment is highly stressful but very euphoric. You're constantly putting out fires, rushing to complete deliverables, and always expected to produce the highest quality of work. It's a high stress, high reward lifestyle, and to the outsider it must seem oddly masochistic.

Nevertheless, time is passing at an oppressive rate. Although there are days when I want it to go faster (Itchy Feet Syndrome). By this December, I'll know where I'm headed for B-skool next year. And then, what? I can potentially take an 8 month vacation.

Consider this- I face the possibly the longest bona fide vacation of my life, without having to work, without a care in the world and in true Kal El fashion, I find this idea mildly daunting. It's not my fault really- when you've been busy working and climbing the proverbial 'mountain' for the last 7 years, even well earned time off becomes a source of penance vs. happiness.

Nevertheless, some ideas I've considered-

Far East Adventure: some days I think this would be incredibly fun. Other times I feel that it would be incredibly lonely. My only companions would be a journal and my D80. Perhaps I'll postpone it till it feels right

L'aventure Gauloise: a college buddy,Q, mentioned recently that his parents recently moved to Paris (from Tunisia, by way of Ghana). Q is one of the coolest people I know- a TCK, he grew up in Pakistan, South Africa, and Nepal. He might be headed to France in March, so it would be a perfect opportunity to party / travel in Gaul

Work: I would take some time off, just not so much. I figure I can continue working till about June and then take 2 months off. Then I wonder, why? After B-skool I'll be working for the rest of my life, so why not take advantage of this interlude?

New York: Okay work with me on this one: I move to New York and get job as a bartender, or a valet, or even at the library. Some simple job. I'd spend most of my time running, and training. I could even join a boxing gym. I'd walk around the city taking pictures with my Digital SLR. The question is how sustainable is it? Would I get bored?

Regardless of what I end up doing, at some point I'll go see my parents and spend time with them. It's long overdue. Asides from that I figure as the time comes closer, the right decision will become apparent. Most importantly, I'd like to look back at this time in my life and remember as a time of great discovery and growth. I'm not sure that can be structured or planned, it just has to happen.

Bizarre Food

I mentioned that I have an odd interest in bizarre food, check out what I saw today at my local gourmet food store:


Goose fat? Who eats goose fat? That's like eating camel burgers.

WHY?

"He cried in a whisper at some image, at some vision - he cried out twice, a cry that was no more than a breath - 'The horror! The horror!' "

So I, diabolically, announced the Harry Potter 7 spoilers on Facebook. I know that is quite diabolical, on the spectrum of diabolical.

Now, why I would do such a thing?

Well it's quite simple, Kal El has a heart of darkness.

The motif of "darkness" from the title recurs throughout the book. It is used to reflect the unknown, the concept of the "darkness of barbarism" contrasted with the "light of civilization" and the ambiguity of both - the dark motives of civilization and the freedom of barbarism, as well as the "spiritual darkness" of several characters. This sense of darkness also lends itself to a related theme of obscurity — again, in various senses, reflecting the ambiguities in the work. Moral issues are not clear-cut; that which ought to be (in various senses) on the side of "light" is in fact mired in darkness, and vice versa.

Fire & Ice

Some say the world will end in fire,
Some say in ice.
From what I've tasted of desire
I hold with those who favor fire.
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

-Robert Frost

Injury

This is going to sound terrible. Don't read ahead if you're squeamish.

Two years ago I was playing tackle football in the park and suffered, what I thought was at the time, a minor injury. Here's what happened: I was tackled at my ankles, the pass sailed out of bounds, and while I was falling face first, I decided to break my fall by putting my hands out in front of me. I ended up falling on my right side, and my shoulder bore the brunt of the impact.

When I stood up I could hardly move my shoulder. I should've gone to the emergency room, because (I didn't realize this at the time) I had a partially dislocated shoulder. I ignored it, and thought, 'hey, it'll get better in a couple of days'. Bad bad idea Kal.

Over the years my right shoulder needs to 'crack' back into place and is generally discombobulated (I like that word). This past week it's been acting up more than usual.

Here comes the scary part: I've started losing sensation in the extremities on the right side of my body i.e. my finger tips and toes. At night if I sleep on my right side at all I get pins and needles in my arm within a few minutes. Essentially the blood circulation seems to be off kilter.

I did some background research and what's happened is that the blood vessels around the ball-socket joint have been disrupted due to scar tissue. The condition will most likely require surgery to restore the blood circulation. Unfortunately the effects are cumulative so it's possible that I will continue to lose sensation/use of my right side. I can't believe this is for real. However this is based on my initial research, I'm finally going to see a doctor. Pray for Kal El.

Disappointment

You will travel far, my Kal-El, but we will never leave you-even in the face of our deaths. You will make my strength your own. You will see my life through your eyes, as your life will be seen through mine. The son becomes the father. And the father, the son.*

I finally got home to at a reasonable hour this week, and thought is going to be a perfect start to a relaxing (well somewhat i.e. asides from work I brought home, and grad school apps) weekend- I'm going to have dinner and watch my favorite television show at 7 pm, Smallville. Turned on the tv, watched an interesting feature on bizarre food (I am somewhat obsessed with bizarre food) on the Travel Channel, and was totally psyched to finally watch Smallville after a looong time- you know how it is-

Find out what Lana's complaining about now, check out the freak-of-the-week, admire Lex being diabolical, appreciate Chloe's smile etc...except...there was one problem...

THEY STOPPED SHOWING SMALLVILLE

I feel numb. I think I'm still on the second stage of the Kübler-Ross model-

Denial- "Nooooo, this can't be happening, where's Smallville"
Anger-"WHY? I so work hard, was a daily episode of Smallville TOO MUCH to ask for?
Bargaining- this stage hasn't started yet
Depression- my old friend, I'm sure I'll visit here for a while
Acceptance- eventually I'll come accept this 'loss' in my life

So instead of Smallville 8 days a week, it'll be Thursday nights only. That's if I make it home on time. And I remember.

Why did this happen?

Of course, I believe it's an omen. All good things must come to an end, yes? Why does it have to be like this? I'm not sure. Perhaps this little love affair will continue at a different time. Somehow I know it will.


*I realize it's not from Smallville, but it was, and remains, one of my favorite quotes from the movie

Hello !

I got home from work at 11:30 last night. Project deliverable, deadline, putting out fires etc. The usual drill. Today, Friday, I have meetings from 9:00 am to 5:30- I was amused to see that I'm even triple-booked at a couple of points. Great!

It's quarter to seven right now, and I'm getting ready to head in- I'm going in early because I need to get some work done before all the meeting start. Great!

Honestly, I don't mind, I'd rather be busy than bored. The next two months are going to be quite intense! Asides from grad school applications, gmat prep, and writing essays, it looks like I might traveling as well to Philly and Chicago.

Till the weekend, keep the faith,

Kal El

Gestalt

I never knew it was called Gestalt psychology. What you really need to know:

"a theory of mind and brain that proposes that the operational principle of the brain is holistic, parallel, and analog, with self-organizing tendencies; or, that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts"

The The Hallucinogenic Toreador by Dalí is a great example:

3:30 am

I got home at 11 pm after a long/eventful day- was troubleshooting a problem on my latest project because of which I was late for my dinner date (only 45 minutes, no big deal right?). Anyways came home wiped out, read for 12 minutes, and fell asleep...

Woke up 3 hours later. Why? Well I was oddly compelled to post about Logan (which I did, see below), and, of course, check my facebook inbox. Good news: I got in touch with my best friend from 5th grade! For a TCK, the magnitude of a such an event is always remarkable given added layer of complexity involving the time/distance.

Oh I woke up because I 'slept' for 3 hours and had dreams about how I'm going to structure the powerpoint deck for my project deliverable (due Friday). Yeah, I know, lame.

Anyways, hopefully I can sleep for a couple of hours before I head back to work!

Gnite mite,

Kal

Doll Face

This is really, really, weird. I found it (oddly) scary.

Logan

Formerly an assassin and part of the Weapon X program, Wolverine, commonly known as Logan, is a mutant with natural and grafted enhancements to his physiology. His primary mutant power is an accelerated healing process widely known as a "healing factor" that regenerates damaged or destroyed areas of his body far beyond the capabilities of an ordinary human and renders him immune to toxins, diseases, and aging.

Wolverine's entire skeleton, including his claws, is molecularly infused with adamantium, rendering it practically indestructible. The adamantium claws can cut almost any known solid material. The only known exceptions are adamantium itself, and Captain America's shield, which is the only substance in the Marvel Universe known to be even more durable than adamantium. Wolverine's ability to slice completely through a substance depends upon both the amount of force he can exert and the thickness of the substance. The adamantium also weights his blows, dramatically increasing the effectiveness of his punches and kicks. The adamantium claws make a distinctive "Snikt" sound when extruded. Wolverine's hands do not have openings for the claws to move through; thus, they cut through his flesh every time he extrudes them. Although Wolverine's healing factor resolves these wounds almost instantaneously, it has been noted that the claws cause Wolverine pain when they emerge.

It's been hinted that his healing abilities also work on a mental and emotional level; although he is susceptible to psychic attacks, he can heal much faster from traumatic experiences than most, and can suffer through mental trauma without the psychological breakdowns and physical ailments associated with such events. For instance, a recent encounter with Sabretooth at the Weapon X program suggested that his amnesia was caused as a result of his healing factor, bridging over the painful memories of his past to prevent him from going insane.

Wolverine sometimes lapses into a "berserker rage" while in close combat. In this state he lashes out with the intensity and aggression of a mindless animal and is more resistant to psionic attack. Though this quality has sometimes saved the life of his allies, as well as himself, he has frequently expressed shame concerning it as he strives to be a purely civilized and honorable warrior.

Wolverine is private and often gruff but, despite his apparent ease at taking lives, he does not enjoy killing or giving into his berserker rages. Logan adheres to a firm code of personal honor and morality, despite often displaying a rebellious and irreverent attitude. Coincidentally, Wolverine seems to defy authority on any team he is on. However, he has proven time and time again of being a valuable and reliable teammate, and when necessary, a leader.