You THINK you know, but you have NO idea.

2006-11-07T15:12:00.000Z

So I haven't updated in a while but then again, I guess you guys are not too surprised! Alot has happened since I last posted something onto my blog but I guess it's too personal to share!!

It is now 2.52p.m and I am sat in a computer cluster at uni waiting for my next lecture! This keyboard is really annoying and it's going to take me a while to adjust to the smoothness of each key! Anyways...

I'm turning 20 tomorrow and I'm actually dreading it! I can't believe i'm no longer going to be a teenager! I don't know if i've accomplished enough in these last 20 years! I'm still as immature and stupid as I was 5 years ago! And i'm not ashamed of admitting it! If you're wondering whether or not I've made plans for tomorrow, the simplest answer is no... I haven't! I don't think I will.. besides, I've got too much work 2 do and I don't think I have enough time to celebrate something I'm not too proud of myself! :S (I am expecting presents though ;) )

I had a very interesting conversation about religion last night. It's got me thinking about alot of things. I'm actually really tired and I'm literally falling asleep! I guess i'm going to have to save that conversation for another post!

For all you football fans out there, I'm sure you will agree with me when I say that arsenal's match against Westham was a complete disaster. I mean I am one of arsenal's biggest fans but I'm beginning to doubt arsenal's ability to make it to the top 3! Thierry Henry, if you're reading this, I just want to let you know that I don't and will NEVER hold you responsible for arsenal's loss! You are an amazing player (and captain) and I love you from the bottom of my heart.

In case you're wondering, no i'm not stoned nor am I drunk! I'm just exhausted... Yesterday I had a lecture rfom 9-10 and then a practical from 10-4 non-stop! IN addition to the practical, I was forced to leave for an hour for a tutorial! After the practical was done, I had a lecture from 4-5 and then another from 5-6!!!!!!!!!! By the time I got back home, the sun had already set and the roads were empty! Walking down that slope that leads to my flat was by far the scariest experience I've ever had! I guess knowing that a few people had been mugged, raped and murdered in that area, didn't really make things easier on me! But oh well, I got there in the end and that's all that matters!

I think I might be falling for someone with me on the course! Verbose, I think you should call me... I need 2 speak 2 u about this one! He's not what I usually go for in MANY ways!

Over the last 4-5 weeks, I have managed to have massive arguments with some of my closest friends. I haven't spoken to any of them since, but I have to say I did TRY and make things better! You know what they say..... friends come and go!

Anyways, now I'm tired AND a bit upset! Haha.. I'm out

British humour!

2006-10-20T20:41:00.000+01:00

You know what I love about British people? They crack up laughing at the weirdest things if not almost everything! One of my flatmates, Abby, stays in the room right next to the kitchen. A few days ago, we were all sitting in the kitchen chatting and all we could hear was Abby laughing her ARSE off (as they like to say it here!). So, we all looked at one another in puzzlement and figured that she was probably on the phone to someone!

Anyways, the night carries on and we're interrupted by this bizzare laughter every now and then. Finally, our curiosities are fed when Abby barges into the kitchen with tears practically rolling down her blood-shot cheeks and says, "GUY YOU HAVE TO COME SEE THIS WEBSITE, IT'S SO FUNNY!" So, we rushed into her room with excitement and made sure we were as close to the computer screen as we possibly could (after all, we all wanted the front seats!)

I don't really know why I took Abby's word for it! I mean to be fair, I've been in England for two years now, and I concluded that I just could not understand British humour since day one! But anyways, I'd sit here and try to describe the STUPIDITY behind the little cartoons she showed us but I'd rather have you guys see them for yourselves and leave a comment with your verdict! I've added links to two of the cartoons we watched that night, but in total there must've been around 10!If you feel like watching more, all you have to do is remove the title of the cartoon (e.g independent women) from the end of the URL (scroll down to watch these cartoons!)

Anyways, my other flatmate Laura, who's doing Japanese and Spanish, and I were sitting alone in the kitchen last night discussing the diversity of languages. She showed me how to write different things in Japanese, and in return, I translated a few famous quotes for her in Arabic. I can now proudly say that Laura can fluently say the following quotes in PERFECT Arabic:

"There's a snake in my boot" Woody from Toy Story.
"Oh my god, they killed Kenny," "YOU BASTARDS!!" from Southpark.
"Somebody stop meeeeee!" from The Mask.

There were atleast six more but I'm not sure where she got them from! You'd think that she'd want to learn how to say something useful wouldn't you?! Oh well!

Besides that, life's been good around here. I've got a few assignments and reports to work on over the weekend so I'm not REALLY looking forward to spending Eid reading and attempting to solve problems on genetics! Speaking of Eid, I'd like to wish you all a happy Eid and I hope that it is as JOYOUS and memorable as mine!!!!

Enjoy the links... later xx

Click me first and click me if you DARE to watch more!

Yesterday, all my troubles seemed so far away, now it looks as though they're here to stay, oh I believe in yesterday!

2006-10-06T12:05:00.000+01:00

U know what that means right? Yes, you guessed it. I am in fact back in Leeds! But wait.......... it gets better, this time i'm not on my own. The ministry thought it would be cute to send my younger brother to the same city. Hey, i'm not complaining! If anything, I'm glad he's here with me. I can keep an eye on him. Make sure he sorts out things like accommodation, bank accounts, railcards and what not! So I really am glad to have him around.

Living back in dorms was by far the BEST decision I could've made! I don't have to worry about paying bills on time, I don't have to worry about fixing anything in the flat on my expense, I don't have to worry about setting up an internet connection. I can keep going but I'm sure you get the point. And my flatmates........ I love them... I honestly do. We have had the best three weeks of our lives getting to know one another. I feel awful about what I wrote in my previous post. I think I mentioned something about a bunch of blondes pissing the crap outta me with their never-ending drama!! :S Well..... I take it back!

Progressing into my second year has been daunting! I've had sleepless nights already! My timetable is fucked up! I've got lectures from 9-6 almost everyday, but that's not as worrying as the 6 hour practical I have on Mondays! SIX HOURS??????? You gotta be kiddin' me man! Nevertheless, microbiology with immunology is no piggy-back ride so I should've expected this to happen. After all, it IS my second year and I quote "this is the year when everything starts to count towards your final grade."

Anyways, ramadhaan........ Yeah. That's the end of the sentence.

My brother's phone got stolen the other night. He was walking to the city with a friend (A) of his and these two men approached them and demanded that they hand over their phones! One was masked whilst the other had his hoody on. At first, my brother tried to convince them that he didn't have a phone on him when he OBVIOUSLY did! But after several attempts at doing so, he decided to sacrifice his phone rather than his wallet. And so, he handed it over! My brother assumed it was all over so he walked away only to realise that (A) was still being interrogated by the two men. My brother insisted that (A) hand over his phone but the guy refused to!!!! Anyways, to cut a long story short, he handed them the phone and they both (meaning my brother n his friend) made a run for it!

Apparently, after my brother n (A) reported what had happened to the police, they were told that six other people had been mugged in the same way, around the same area, possibly by the same people! How awful is that? I feel sorry for my brother. To have to experience this only a week after his arrival! Poor thing... Anyways, it could've been worse so thank god they're both OK. Besides, if having his phone mugged was what it took for my brother to finally change that piece of crap then I AM GLAD it got mugged!

Other than that, life's been unusually stable for me. There's not much going on at the moment but I better not curse it. Watch how my next post will be based on all the shit that's happened to me after typing this post! Haha.. it'll be quite funny.

Later..

It's time for a change!

2006-08-04T23:37:00.000+01:00

Turkey, Australia, Singapore, America, Lebanon, Paris, Greece and Thailand. Confused? Let me elaborate. The countries listed above are those that have been visited by different family members or friends of mine in the last few weeks. My list is very short. In fact, I don't think I want to list the countries I've visited in the last few weeks. Simply because I've been stuck in Oman all along!

Cruising around the streets of Oman has become a big part of my life! Sad but true. Verbose, remember that one time you and I had absolutely nothing to do and shamelessly ended up crusing in Shatti? Remember how stupid we both felt? How boring our lives felt that very afternoon? Well, that's how I feel EVERY SINGLE DAY OF MY LIFE. And so my fellow bloggers, the time has come to make some DRAMATIC changes to this shitty lifestyle of mine. Problem is... Where do I start? sniff sniff!

Thought about going to the gym for a change. I've been stuffing my face with junk all month and the pounds just keep piling on baby! Not proud of it. On the contrary, I've THOUGHT about doing something about it on numerous occasions and you know what they say... It's the thought that counts (hehehehe).

I've also considered finding myself a temporary job. Problem is, no one seems to be interested in hiring someone who's willing to help out for less than a month! So I guess that's out of the question. It's a shame though. I was really looking forward to working in starbucks. Imagine... free coffee... mmmm.... caffeine...

Maybe I should dye my hair. Something out of the ordinary. Something flashy. Something cool. Hahaha. Nah! Too risky. Mom's gonna kill me!

Maybe a new piercing? Nah! I have enough holes in my body. I don't need extras. For you dirty minded people out there, keep your comments to yourself. I meant PIERCINGS and you know it!

Maybe I should start singing again. Don't get me wrong. I sing at home all the time. In fact, I go through Kelly Clarkson's whole CD everyday. The only thing missing is the band. I feel sorry for the neighbours. I parked the car outside the house the other day and I still managed to hear my sister singing in the shower. She doesn't even sing as loud as I do! Hey, who's complaining? It's not like I can't sing right? ;) No but what I meant was maybe I should WORK on it. You know. Get out there and bust my moves. My friends keep asking me to sing in every kareoke bar I come across in Leeds. I guess they all believe that I could somehow be "discovered" by some record producer who happened to catch my humiliating performance and fall inlove with my voice! Sure guys. And I thought I was unrealistic!

So I guess I'm back to square one. Oh this sucks! I would go to Dubai like normal bored Omani citizens would do, but I'm all Dubai-ed out. What if I go to.... Yeah! I can't think of anything. Fuckin' hell... This country ought to be the next Australia. You know how convicts were sent to Australia to do time? I think Oman should be the new prison. After all, it qualifies pretty well. It's so boring it practically makes you suicidal (hehehe), and at the same time, it's got so much potential that the prisoners sent to it will always have enough work to occupy themselves with. JOKE! Laugh everyone.

I've decided that I'm inlove with Josh Groban's voice. Listening to his songs gives me goosebumps. I swear. He makes me tingle all over. It's even better than.... hahahahahahaha.. Yeah! "Girl you wanna come to hotel baby I will leave you my room key.." LOL!!

I miss Leeds. I look forward to meeting the new batch of blondes that will successfully drive me up the wall with their stupid tales and never-ending drama! Should be good. Might just pull one of those 'stare at the sunrise and say, "I don't get Athiests. How can they witness such beauty and not believe in a higher power!" when all my flatmates turn out to be Athiests' again!! That was hilarious man! The day that happened was the last day I spoke of anything revolving around religion. Me and my big mouth!

Anyways, enough of this crap. Let's face it. There's nothing to do. Looks like the only change taking place in my life at the moment is THIS. I'm going to have to spend more time trying to think of something to talk about and post! Other than that, I see no further option. However, if you have any ideas on how I could spice up this life of mine, please feel free to fill me in.

I hope I have managed to entertain you :)

untitled.

2006-07-23T17:26:00.000+01:00

So...... I've been meaning to write about this for a while, but I was constantly warned by different bloggers not to get too personal on this thing, and so I've avoided this post for a while now but I feel as though it is time....

After all, it's been a while since I last spoke of something personal and frankly... interesting!

I'd known him for 4 years before I finally realised that I had feelings for him. He was that one person who was there for me whenever I needed advice or comfort. He was that "so called" shoulder to cry on, a helping hand, a true best friend. He stuck by me through thick and thin, believed in me and trusted me when I had lost belief in myself. Boosted my confidence when I felt insecure, reminded me of how important I was when I felt worthless. He made me feel beautiful, special, smart, funny in everyway possible, and for that he meant the world to me.

From looks to personality, he lacked nothing. I'd always considered him my miracle. As corny as that may sound, had you known him, you would've probably reached the same conclusion. I know people say that no one's perfect and I am not implying the he was. He had his faults like any other human being but compared to the assholes I'd come across in my life time, he was unique. He was mature, wise, understanding, sensitive, funny, smart and handsome, unlike the usual big-assed tiny-brained guys I knew!

I'd spent so long looking for someone to provide me with the same amount of love, care and respect that I was willing to offer. Little did I know that that person was right by my side all along.

He admitted that he had felt this way for years but had remained silent as I was never available. He claimed that he'd been waiting for years to tell me how much he longed to be with me. He confessed that he had loved me ever since I had accepted him into my life as a friend. But his intentions were different from mine.

I could not see myself with him. I could not seem to understand how I hadn't noticed. I spent hours trying to absorb what he had confessed. But no matter how long I spent trying to figure it all out, my feelings towards him were very different from his feelings for me. He was no more than a friend and allowing our friendship to evolve into anything else was simply out of the question. And so I said no repetitively, despite his apparent faith in the relationship.

But it would not be too long before I realised that I too felt the same way.

The day I realised how much I loved him was the day I realised how much I hated life, for when I built up the courage to tell him the truth he explained that he had already found himself a replacement!

I tried to be understanding. I tried to be happy for him. I spent weeks trying to convince myself that what I felt for him was no more than a physical attraction. But I failed, and as the days passed by, my feelings for him grew stronger.

People say that you don't tend to realise how special someone is until you lose them. I now fully comperehend what they mean.

I do ask myself whether or not I will ever get the chance to be with him. I question whether or not it would've worked out. But my questions remain unanswered.

Only time will tell.

45...

2006-06-25T23:44:00.000+01:00

This is my 45th post. Damn man... that's alot!

What can I say... Back in Oman... chillin' with friends... failed my driving test because the police officer thought I lost control at one point!! RIIIIGHTTT! Lost control on an automatic car huh?? OK!

I was on steroids for 4 days due to an allergic reaction I had by ingesting.... I still don't know what it was... I think they're starting to have an effect on my body. Four different people told me that I had gained weight in less than 24 hours! Actually, make that five. Funny, because a number of people claimed the opposite when I arrived 2 weeks ago! How much weight can one put on in 2 weeks? Apparently.... enough for people to notice!

Verbose.... I hate you for making me sing that night. I sounded like a scratched CD! I will now have to spend the rest of my life suffering the consequences... Just kidding... :D Thank you for believing in me.

I'm thinking of visiting Oz this summer. I enjoyed it last summer and my dad's offered it this summer as well. I might just take advantage of this long vacation and go... what do u say verbose, Lym, weem?

I'm enjoying the world cup. Not particularly impressed with the way France are playing but I love Thierry Henry and I'm with him ALL THE WAY. Haha... that is NOT the reason why I'm supporting France by the way. I support them because I think that the players are GOOD and talented ones. It's a shame they have a f****d up coach. Raymond Domenech should be fired!

Cut my hair today and decided I will not leave the house until it grows back. What have I done!

Sorry... I know I've been lazy. Exams went well though and I was in hospital for a couple of days due to that allergic reaction I was on about previously.

I've missed u all. Thanks for commenting on my last post..despite the delay.

chillin'

2006-05-06T19:05:00.000+01:00

HELLOOOOOOOOO EVERYONE.... I feel i'm going to have no one but myself to blame when I check my blog only to find out that my trustworthy blogger friends have stopped visiting my blog, as I have stopped updating it as often as I did in the past! Pleaseeeeeee don't... I swear i've been sooo busy these past few days it's not even funny. My friend from Oman came over for a whole week and I have never had this much fun ever since I came to Leeds :) Cheers wadad... I love you.

Other than that, the weather's been AMAZING in England for the past few days. I think I might just bring back some of that beautiful golden tone to my pale skin :)

I've recently taken a weird interest in cooking. I cooked the best bamya curry (okra curry) the other day and I woke up this morning with an unusual pancake craving. So I made the BEST, FLUFFIEST American pancakes. I'm loving it :D

Immunology has been a very interesting topic. I'm finding it quite appealing and I'm starting to enjoy my course. FINALLY!

Verbose's visiting soon so that should be realllllllllly good.

You must've noticed that I have absolutely nothing to talk about by now! So, I just wanted 2 let u know that I am in fact still alive. Sorry about the delay....

Peace...

I have a confession to make...

2006-04-23T23:07:00.000+01:00

... so I lied! I said that I'd be posting alot more often once I get back to Oman and I didn't! In fact, I don't think I updated my blog at all! But I was just soooo thrilled to be back home and not have to worry about bills, uni and whatever, that I didn't really get a chance to sit myself down and type anything let alone a whole post! And you know how long my posts are.... I'm incapable of typing short posts... It's not me!!!

Well, now that I'm back in Leeds, I'm not going to promise you guys anything, but I tend to get the time to update my blog atleast once every week. BUT, like I said, I can't promise you anything!

Being back in Leeds has been a nightmare! I arrived in Manchester airport at around 8, got on the first train to Leeds and reached Leeds at around 9.30p.m. My friend was there to meet me and we decided that I'd chill with him and the group until I was too tired to stay out! And that's exactly what I did.

A few hours later I decided that I was too tired to function. So, I grabbed my bags and took a cab back home. Imagine, I had slept at three in the morning the night before, woken up at 6 in the morning to get ready for the flight back to Leeds, hadn't slept at all on the plane or train and had chilled with my friends until 1 in the morning (which was like 3 in Oman). I couldn't wait to go home, get changed, jump on my bed and doze off!

Finally I was home. I walked up to my flat and stopped to check the mail box. Once I finally placed the letters in my bag, I searched for my keys and finally unlocked the door.

First there was shock.. then there was nausea and finally there were tears! My flat had been flooded with shit once again. Yes, It had happened before but atleast the first time it'd happened my flatmates and I were there to put an end to it. This time, the shit on the floor looked like it had been there for weeks! Problem is, it was still flowing out of our toilet onto our floor and into our rooms! The smell was unbearable and the sight was just disgusting!

I immediately called my friend and informed her that I was not sleeping in the flat when it was practically soaked in shit...I had to check it out though. I needed to know that my room was ok. That my shoes, clothes and carpet were all ok. So I placed a few plastic bags on the floor and barely made it into my room. The smell had invaded my room as well. My carpet was ok and so were my shoes. Although they smelled like shit, my clothes were fine too.

For some UNAPPARENT reason, I decided that I could not carry my huge bag with me wherever I went, and so I went back out and carried my bags into my room. I then found my way out and headed towards my new temporary home!

I have now been living in someone else's house for 2 nights and the news just keep getting better! The flat's situation is worse than we all thought! It's not just drenched in shit, but the whole floor needs replacing. My poor flatmate's carpet has also suffered from the flooding as his room is the closest to the toilet!

At this point in life, words can not describe how pissed off I am! I'm fed up and I'm not impressed. With the amount of money these assholes are making us pay, you'd think that the flat ought to be of high standard! High standard my ass! The flat has the equivalent of sleeping out on the streets!

Anyways, I've got shit loads of work to hand in this week and two exams to revise for. Without a home, clean clothes and books, I can't exactly do anything can I!? Oh well, shit happens.... LITERALLY!

This can only mean one thing... I am definitely back in Leeds!

Back by popular demand ;)

2006-04-02T14:30:00.000+01:00

It started on a wet Sunday morning. My phone went "riiiiiiiinggg riiiiiiiiingg" and I was up instantly. After all, I couldn't afford to be late when I had a train followed by a plane to catch. My bags were packed, and I had already arranged the outfit I believed to be most suitable for the occasion. I got dressed, checked to see if I'd packed everything I needed, located my passport and head to the living room for a cup of coffee.

It was still dark outside. There was not a human in sight, not a bird fluttering in the sky and not a car in the neighbourhood. In a way, I couldn't help but feel like I was in the same situation that poor guy in 28 days later was, when he woke up in an empty hospital all alone, only to find out that the world had been invaded by a deadly virus. Ok, so the world hadn't been invaded by anything, but the place looked so peaceful, unlike usual, and deserted.

I had informed my flatmate to book a taxi for me the night before, and therefore had no intention of calling for one that particular morning. As I sat down sipping my coffee and simultaneously smoking my cigarette, I looked at my watch only to realise that it was getting late and there was no taxi in sight. I decided to call the taxi company to confirm that a taxi had infact been previously booked and was currently on it's way to claim me.

"Hello? Good morning. I was just wondering, is there a cab on its way to 75 Hyde park road, under the name M?"
"Ummmm, no ma'am."
"NO? Shit...... Ok, in that case can you please send a cab to this address as soon as possible?"
"He'll be here in 15 minutes. Thank you."

Silence. Panic. Anxiety.

Fifteen minutes later, the cab arrived. I struggled down the stairs, using all the strength I had to try and lift the 20 Kg bag full of books, my laptop case and handbag, without stumbling over in the process. I managed, and before you knew it, I was comfortably sitting in the back seat, saying goodbye to all the familiar buildings we drove by, with a smile. This comfort was temporary however, for disaster stroke once again when the taxi driver asked me where I was going, and what time I had to be there.

"Oh, I'm going to Manchester Airport and I'm taking the 5.40 train to be there by around 7."
"I see. You mean 6.40."
"No, I mean 5.40a.m."
"But it's already 6 o'clock."
"No it's not. It's 5."
"Didn't you hear? The clock's gone forward. You know daylight savings? So it's currently 6a.m and not 5."
"WHAT? ARE YOU SERIOUS? YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDIN' ME!"
"No it's been on the radio all morning."
"And what if you don't listen to the radio? Then what? How are you supposed to find out?"
"Well, they've been announcing it on T.V as well!"
"OH SHIT. THIS CAN'T BE GOOD!"

Panic.

The car finally came to a halt, and before you knew it, I was doing what I did best; running. There was no point in running though. I was an hour late! Luckily, trains to Manchester were frequent, and although I had booked a ticket on the 5.40 train, I was now trying to catch the one at 6.40.

Despite being an hour late, I was surprisingly calm. I sat down, lit another cigarette and text my mom telling her what had happened. There was no reason to be nervous. My plane was at 10.20 and I didn't need more than 30 minutes to track my ticket down and eventually check in.

One hour, forty minutes and a whole lotta running later, I was comfortably sitting in a cafe having hot chocolate, a muffin and a fag. I had not only made it in time, but the plane had been delayed for an hour to compensate for the bloody time change which, apparently, not only I was completely unaware of!

Three hours later, I was still sat in the lounge area listening to Kelly Clarkson complain about here dysfunctional family, while at the same time laughing at random people rush their way to their specified gates hopelessly. The plane had been delayed for an additional two hours! To others, this might have been convenient as this would've given them a chance to check in despite their late arrival, but to me, this meant one thing; I was bound to miss my flight from Doha to Muscat.

I was right! I spent the night in Doha's Grand Regency hotel. I didn't mind. I had always wanted to visit Doha, so this was my chance. And although it was dark outside and I did not leave the transit bus until we reached the hotel, I concluded that Doha was beautiful. It reminded me of Dubai. The tall glass buildings, the amazing architecture, the colourful atmosphere, it was simply beautiful. It was definitely good to be back in the Middle East. One can only stand looking at identical houses and buildings for a limited amount of time!

Being back in the Gulf did (inevitably) have its downs. Wearing full-length loose jeans and a black 3/4-sleeved top proved to be quite problematic! Two Indian, two Kuwaiti, three Sri Lankan, one Lebanese and an additional Philippino man approached me in just 40 minutes! At first I thought it might've been the piercing and the unfamiliar Western look, and I was soon 100% sure that it was in fact the cigarette in my hand that grabbed their attention.

All in all, it's good to be home. I've been getting along with my mom pretty well. I have not touched a cigarette for the past 48 hours and counting. The piercing has finally come off. Been eating healthily. Relaxing.

Being back in the Middle East has proved to be a very eye-opening experience. I've done this so many times I ought to be used to it by now, but as much as I'd like to say that I'm getting used to it, the cold truth is that you NEVER get used to it!

Haven't updated in a while, so I thought I'd make this a long one :)

I feel good.....I knew that I would...

2006-03-17T21:13:00.000Z

So, it's been a while but MY GOD do I have a lot to tell you! :D

First, the Kelly Clarkson concert. Two words....... F*****G BRILLIANT! Psycho and I went absolutely crazy when she came on stage. We were quite excited from the start; taking photos of almost everything worth remembering like the arena, the microphone on stage, the audience and finally Kelly and the band.

"You've got your mother and your brother every other undercover tellin' you what to say, you think I'm stupid but the truth is that it's cupid baby lovin' you has made me this way" echoed in the arena as she walked in; making the audience go wild. Next came some of her greatest hits including; "Breakaway", "Because of you", "Beautiful disaster", "Trouble with love", "Behind these hazel eyes", "Gone", "I hate myself for losing you", "Addicted", "Miss Independent" and of course "Since you been gone."

I don't want to obsess about it so I'll make this short, the concert ROCKED! I've kept my promise by posting some of the photos I took that night. To all you Kelly Clarkson fans, she's an amazing entertainer, she's beautiful and her voice is out of this world! :)

Next, the Omani fashion show. Well, I have to admit, it wasn't as successful as planned. Out of 150 seats, only 40 were occupied! Most of the occupants being hungry women passing by the hall! The over-head projector only started working five minutes before the start of the show, and the children participating in the fashion show wouldn't sit still. In addition, the food wasn't anywhere in sight for the first two hours and the woman in charge of all the technical work was busy preparing the dessert at home! It was unorganized, unsuccessful, humiliating and EXTREMELY short. The tickets read 12-4 p.m when the ACTUAL show only lasted 40 minutes after a 30 minute delay!

Over all, as relieved as I am that it's all over, I must admit that many enjoyed certain bits of the show, such as the wedding demonstration. I also have to admit that I'm glad I took part, because I got to meet all the Omani women here in Leeds and I've made friends with all of them :)

So, Easter’s coming up (thank God for that). As usual, I leave in exactly one week. I'm looking forward to it even though I know that most of this vacation will be spent with me trying to come to terms with my mom, finding something to occupy myself with and regretting ever wanting to come home! But, I found out that one of my closest friends is back home so at least I'll get a chance to see him :) And plus, I miss my cats more than anything in the world.

What else? Oh, so I've decided that because I think that the Irish accent is by far the sexiest accent on the face of the planet, I have decided to pay Ireland a visit sometime over the next few months. There's this Irish guy on my course (who SADLY has a girlfriend) and I swear, every time this guy speaks all I do is stare at him. He has the strongest and sexiest Irish accent I've EVER come across. Other than the fact that I barely understand a word he says, I still think his accent is out of this world. I swear if only he was single.... I'd jump........ Ehm.... ok..... Where were we? Oh yeah, so Ireland it is :)

I've decided to take my eyebrow piercing off. It's nasty man! I have to clean it everyday and to tell you the truth I'm sick of it! I don't think it looks nice on me and I know a lot of people would agree with me when I say that I'd look better without it. So that's coming off.

Well, I guess that's all I have to say for now. Now that I have one week left until I'm back in Oman, I can assure you that I'll be updating my blog more often. Until then...... I missed you all... how are ya'll doing? :)

Kelly Clarkson live in Manchester.

2006-03-17T20:43:00.000Z

Let it snow let it snow :D

2006-03-04T06:23:00.000Z

I know I said I wouldn't update for a while but this is too exciting to keep to myself :)

update II

2006-03-03T07:00:00.000Z

So I haven't updated for a while and I must admit I don't think I will be until Easter. University is getting a bit too demanding for me and I'm usually busy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Nonetheless, i've included a few things WORTH mentioning:

1) As a person who loves singing, I look up to three particular singers; Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera and Kelly Clarkson. I doubt i'm EVER going to get the chance to see M.C and C.A perform in my whole life! BUT on the other hand, Kelly Clarkson has been kind enough to fly her ass off to England :) Which means, that in a weeks time I'm going to be standing 2 metres away from her, wiping the tears away :D I'm sooooo excited. This is going to be my FIRST concert EVER! Didn't get the tickets for cheap!

2) The Omani society here in Leeds have organized an Omani fashion show at the university. Tickets are ebing sold and everything! Guess who gets to go on stage first wearing a jalabiyya? Yep, you guessed it, it's me! Not looking forward to the humiliation. The fashion show is one thing, but the event is divided into two sections; a fashion show and a traditional Omani wedding. Thank God i'm not the bride. Doesn't really make life any easier because I have to DANCE on stage and humiliate myself infront of atleast 200 women!

3) My legs have not been cooperating with me. Remember that slope I was telling you about? Well, eveytime I'm half way up that stupid slope, my legs start BURNING (like internally that is). The pain only gets worse with every step. Whether I slow down or stop, the pain remains until I sit down for atleast 10 minutes! That slope is like 10 minutes away from uni so you can imagine how funny I must look limping in pain! I'm getting worried.

Other than that, stress has REALLY got to me. I've had MAJOR insomnia for a month, I can produce atleast 3 wigs per week with the amount of hair I have falling off my head and smoking's getting worse! I haven't had my period in THREE MONTHS! No, i'm not pregnant :S My personal tutor suggested I go see a doctor. Apparently this entitles me to deadline extensions! Like that's gonna help! I still have to give the stuff in eventually, and I'm still gonna be as clueless as I was to start off with!

Why has my body completely shut-down on me?

Really need a break.......

God help me

Dreams..

2006-02-25T20:40:00.000Z

Some people believe that dreams are like signs or hints; they prepare you for what's to come, give you a glimpse of your own future and warn you of certain people and places so that you may avoid them and their circumstances in real life.

Others are sceptical. They believe that dreams are a combination of your thoughts, desires and imagination. If one spends a whole day watching horror movies, one is bound to have nightmares. If one spends a whole day watching comedies, one is bound to have pleasant dreams. And if one spends a whole day watching porn, one is bound to have...... I'm sure you get the point!

Then there's the final group which includes people like me. People who are partially sceptical but somehow find themselves questioning their dreams every now and then. I must admit that some dreams are too realistic to ignore, too detailed to avoid looking into, too precise to let go of.

I once had the same dream three times. The thing that strikes me the most is that I had these dreams at different times, in different months, but in the same year. The dream revolved around Judgment day. It involved me going to Hell whilst having to watch all my family and friends go to Heaven. At first, I chose to ignore it but when I had the same dream with the exact same details, I knew that I had to analyse its contents.

Some people told me it had something to do with God being angry at me. He was trying to warn me of how my destiny would turn out to be if I carried on behaving the way I did, treating people the way I did and following the same path I was on. The ironic part is that I was a pretty innocent girl at that point. I didn't know what dating was, what clubbing was, and what swearing was. If that was the case, I should've had that dream recently!

This dream doesn't worry me as much as the one I had last night. I had a dream that my parents were with me here in Leeds. My younger sister had decided to tag along. My parents were planning on going out for dinner and so my mother asked me to keep an eye on my sister while they were out. I particularly recall her warning me not to feel tempted to go out with my friends and leave my sister behind. But I was, and I did. The next thing you know, I received this phone call from my mum, who was sobbing, telling me that my sister had been involved in an accident and was rushed to the hospital. I remember rushing to the hospital in panic.

When I finally got there, I was informed that my sister was in a stable condition but was being operated on. My parents seemed to be alot calmer. They seemed to be alot more relaxed now that my sister was in good hands and so I breathed a sigh of relief and decided to go out for some fresh air. Before I could even leave the hospital doors, my mum came rushing out with my sister in her arms. She was still, unlike my mother who was now hysterical. She was screaming, wheezing, whaling and shivering. My sister's corpse lay there exposed to everyone. I walked towards her and put my hand on her face. The tears streamed down my cheeks as I tried to absorb the sight before me. The next thing I remember was me rushing out into the cold shouting my sister's name and asking God to take my instead.

I woke up screaming and crying. It was horrifying...... How can I possibly ignore such a dream?

Piece of art? Or purely horrendous?

2006-02-20T04:12:00.000Z

NOTE: Some of you might find some of these images disturbing, if so, please feel free to either scroll down and read the text that follows, or to skip this post! :)

Body piercings have been a fashion trend for decades! From nose piercings to navel, eyebrow, lip, tongue, upper ear and upper lip piercings, body piercing is becoming increasingly fashionable!

As a person with nine piercings, three on one ear, two on the other, one on my upper ear, one on my nose, one on my eyebrow and one in my tongue, I don't know HOW some people find body piercings disgusting!

When I meet people for the first time, most of them eventually (if not immediately) comment on my facial piercings. Depending on where these people come from, the commonest remark i've heard so far is either "eeeeeeeeew, doesn't that hurt" or "wow, that looks really nice on you, maybe I should consider getting mine done!"

By now, I think you would've guessed that the first comment is mostly made by arabs, while the second is made by EVERYONE ELSE!

I understand why most Arabs find piercings unusual. Let's face it, how many of you have spotted ANYONE walking around with anything other than an ear piercing in Oman? I personally haven't seen more than FOUR!

Some people ask me why I got my piercings done in the first place . Some are convinced that i'm turning gothic, others are convinced that it's a matter of westernisation and t.v. influence. Some are even convinced that certain piercings have a sexual component accompanying them... hmm... I wonder which ones they're referring to :S

I have to admit that I'm obsessed with piercings. I think that they are beautiful. Maybe not all of them, but the commonest ones definitely grab my attention. I'm not denying their health risks or anything. In fact, I am fully aware of most if not all of them! For those of you who don't let me just summarize some of the main health risks accompanying body piercings:

~ Cartilage piercings (especially upper ear) tend to stretch with time. This is because the area surrounding the hole usually deteriorates! Some eyebrow piercings, if not handled with care, can actually cause the skin surrounding the hole to stretch so much, that eventually the whole bar falls through the huge gap created by the stretching! In this case, the person is left with a flap of skin dangling from their eyebrow or in less severe cases, a scar!

~ Needles used in piercings, if contaminated or re-used, can cause the transmission of a variety of diseases (such as HIV or Hepatitis C) and infection of the pierced region. Navel, or belly piercings, can actually cause the infection of major organs located in the stomach. Tongue infections can have devastating effects on the tongue. Along with the swelling and the severe pain, the tongue tends to look bruised.. not a pretty sight!

~ Piercing the WRONG area by damaging a nerve can also be risky.

~ Allergic reactions to the metal bars or studs used can also cause infection.

After mentioning all these health risks, I know what most of you are thinking; "If she knows all this how can she still find them appealing?" Well, the answer to that is with every step you take comes responsibility, and if you're not responsible enough to either take care of the area you've pierced or make sure that the needle used is new, sterilised and clean and that the person who's doing it for you isn't some freak that sits in little alleys and offers them for a fiver, then THIS IS WHAT YOU GET! If you KNOW that you're allergic to the metal bar/stud being used then ask for another one such as a titanium one! If you go to the right store and consult a qualified body-piercer, he will usually tell you wether or not you can get that area pierced by looking at it and checking for any complications such as nerves or veins or whatever that can be damaged!

People that have every single part of their body pierced can look intimidating and that's why I understand why most people find THAT ugly or unusual. I'm not saying that I would go that far and i'm not saying that I find THAT attractive (see picture one). In the same time, people can over do it sometimes! I mean, why would anyone want to pierce their own genitals for God's sake?The way I think of it is this, if you want to get something pierced, make sure you know what your doing and where you're doing it.

In conclusion, I would like to add that if you're still against body piercing or still think that they are ugly-looking then please feel free to elaborate :)

Tagged by degoat :)

2006-02-17T04:18:00.000Z

This one's for you G;

~ Seven things to do before I die: (or atleast try)
1. Learn how to ride a motorbike.
2. Visit Rome and in specific the Vatican City.
3. Become a chef :)
4. Become a singer..... I can keep dreaming... I know :S
5. Try a flaming lamborghini :D
6. Go bungee jumping.
7. Have children :) I decided... I want them.

~ Seven things I can't do:
1. I can't cook rice.
2. I can't cliff-jump.
3. I can't crack jokes. I think I can! CERTAIN PEOPLE THINK I CAN'T! :P
4. I can't watch a football match if no one scores in the first 30 mins! I realised I tend to start day-dreaming if they don't, and lose track of the game!
5. I can't stop twirling my hair if i'm anxious, nervous, worried or concentrating on something.
6. I can't leave the house without my phone.
7. I can't eat sushi. I puke!

~ Seven things I always say:
1. 7amas
2. Ya man
3. Wussup
4. Daaaaaamn
5. illa ma
6. mmmmm
7. You're so mean.

~ Seven books I loved:
1. Pride and prejudice
2. Angels and demons
3. The da vinci code
4. Who moved my cheese?
5. Matilda :P
6. Extreme: Sharon Osbourne's autobiography.
7. Far from the madding crowd.

~ Seven movies I love watching over and over:
1. Braveheart.
2. A walk to remember.
3. The emperor's new groove.
4. Moulin Rouge.
5. How to lose a guy in 10 days.
6. 10 things I hate about you.
7. Never been kissed.

~ Seven things I get attracted to:
1. Anything that has chocolate in it.
2. Anything small. No preverted shit please! I meant baby t-shirts and shoes that sorta thing!
3. Puppies and kittens.
4. Art work. Paintings, pictures, still-life drawings.. anything.
5. Men in uniforms ;)
6. Music.
7. People (preferably men) with either Irish/ Scottish/ Australian accents.

~ Seven people I wanna tag:
1. Verbose (only cuz I know you won't do it)
2. arabpearl (just to get to know you better)
3. pizzaqueen (4 the same reason)
4. psycho.
5. libellula
6. lym ( cuz I know you've been tagged by G too :P)
7. bu7sain.

good luck!

Friends.

2006-02-13T05:33:00.000Z

A simple word which holds great value and importance. Some say that friends are essential in one's life, while others believe that they simply come and go. What do I think? I think that friends do come and go but only the REAL one's stay forever.

When you leave your family and friends behind to study abroad, you don't really realise how challenging the experience is until you wake up one day only to find yourself lying down on someone else's bed, in an unfamiliar room, in a far away country with no one to guide you but your instinct. And when you do, only at that particular moment do you start appreciating your family and friends' presence. The loneliness and emptiness you feel at that very moment fills your heart with so much pain and remorse. You regret not taking advantage of their presence, not expressing how grateful you've been for everything they've done for you, and not telling them how much you love them.

You only come to realise how truly thankful you are for having these certain people in your life, until you are forced to temporarily replace them. The deeper you search for them, the more you realise that they simply don't exist. It's not true that you spend your whole university career friendless, but you certainly comprehend that the people you meet along the way are merely acquaintances.

You compare them to some of your closest friends back home only to regret ever doing so in the first place. Too many differences, infact no similarities at all. You question why you insist on comparing them to your closest friends, but you realise it is practically inevitable.

And even when you finally make new friends, you somehow continue to rely on your old ones for comfort and advice. You only share your secrets with those who have heard them once before. In the end, regardless of the amount of friends you make along the way, your old ones remain your first priority.

Despite your commitment to your old friends, you naturally grow closer to a new friend or two. You realise that although your old friends are irreplaceable, there is no harm in enjoying the company of others while you still can.

Your priorities do not change. You still love and miss your old friends more than words alone can describe. You do sometimes fail to keep intouch, but when you finally do, all is forgotten.

The day finally arrives. You re-unite. You grow more attached to each other than ever. You explain how thankful you are and you inform them of how lucky you have been for having them in your life.

Inevitably, they've all changed. Their interests, beliefs, views and ideas are all different. You choose to ignore your differences because in the end, the love you have for one another is strong enough to outweigh any barrier. You then realise that it's not enough. The change is too grand. You are two completely different people. Your personalities clash. You believe in and look for different things. You choose to ignore it once more and look forward to not having to deal with it when you separate once more.

You come back to the very same room that no longer feels unfamiliar. It is now yours. The bed belongs to you and no one else. Although alone at that very moment, your instinct re-assures you that you will shortly re-unite with the friends you made before the vacation.

You call the first. No answer. You try another number. No answer. After the third attempt, she finally answers. She pretends she doesn't know you and that you haven't even met. She then pretends she vividly remembers you but claims she's too busy to go out. You smile and say it's ok. Your instinct continues to re-assure you that there are two more to call.

Luckily, the other two seem to feel the same way. Before you know it, you stop hearing from them. They refuse to pick up your calls, or reply to your messages.

Having friends does not depend on how sociable a person can be. The most anti-sociable people have them! But you realise that it is not too long before you start waking up every morning to realise that you are once again all alone.

Babies.

2006-02-09T05:00:00.000Z

Most people find kids or infants or children adorable. They treat them like Gods, shower them with kisses, love and care, and hope to have them in the future. I am NOT one of those people (I think)!

Babies and I are like oil and water. We don't mix and we certainly prefer staying as far away from each other as possible. Most people think that because they're really young, babies can not be blamed for their actions. Similarly, I am NOT one of these people. I think that babies are fully aware of everything they do, and they do it to grab attention! It's true that some can be cute, but the truth is even those can be problematic at times!

When I see babies, I try not to be so judgemental by immediately assuming they're going to be mean and annoying. But once I look at them with those big brown innocent eyes of mine and I give them a smile, their reactions remind me of why I CAN'T STAND THEM! They either start crying, making you look like a complete jerk for attempting to mess with the wrong kid, or they look away and pretend they never saw you. Some kids, out here in England, can also shock you by giving you the finger! YES.... the finger!

I visited Glasgow a few months ago to see a couple of friends, and I recall this one particular incident that continues to shock me until this very day. My friend and I were walking to the train station when we were approached by three 5-6 year-old girls. One of them was on her little tricycle, while the other two were too busy eating their crisps. At first, I couldn't help but look at them and smile. Let's face it, when one sees three 6 year-old girls with golden curly hair bouncing around and beautiful blue eyes, one can't REALLY avoid smiling at them. So I did. I looked at the youngest-looking one of them and I gave her a smile. Suddenly, the girl stopped cycling. She looked up at me and smiled back. I was thrilled; I couldn't believe that she had actually smiled back at me. It was definitely a first! I was so excited until she decided to dedicate HER version of a familiar song to me, "WE WILL WE WILL FUCK YOU!"

Like I said, kids and I were just destined to hate one another! Having to experience the blossoming of four different cousins was HELL! One of them found my hair so fascinating, he wouldn't stop pulling it. No wonder I barely have any left on my head! The other thought it was funny to slap me, infact I think I still have a mark. My favourite was the one who PRETENDED I was his best friend, until he watched toy story, found a new best friend, and started running away from me! I mean, he was TERRIFIED of me!

Kids always think they're smarter than you. They think they know everything. I know that I too was a kid at one point, but I was a nice kid. Had I been your child, the only problem you would've had to cope with would've been the sudden disappearance of food. I was an obedient child. I was quiet and shy and lovely. Unlike some of the devils i've seen!

Despite my extreme dislike for kids, I have to admit that i've improved. I mean, two years ago, hearing the word child or kid would've made me furious, let alone seeing one! Then one day, I had a dream that I had a baby girl called Rana, and the connection I had with this girl was extraordinary. I loved her so much and we practically inseparable. After I woke up and I realised it was only a dream, I decided that it was a sign. God was trying to teach me that kids might be a nuisance at times, but not when they belong to you.

Alot of women say that God's greatest gift to a woman is her ability to have kids. As a person who's not too fond of kids, you would think I couldn't be less bothered about it, but I would HATE to find out that i'm incapable of having my own children. I think I would be devastated if I found out I was infertile. The other day I was watching this programme about 35 year-old women who wanted babies but didn't have a partner. One of them, a former SMOKER, was informed that her eggs had dramatically decreased due to smoking, and that having children would prove to be very difficult! I have to admit that I did put my cigarette out then and there, but I also have to confess that I am currently typing this post with one hand because the other one happens to be holding a fag! IGNORANCE! *sigh* I was affected though... seriously! :^)

In conclusion, I would just like to say that I spent three days trying to think of something to write, so this is more of a DESPERATE attempt to post something! If you would like me to talk about something in particular PLEASE let me know because i'm running out of ideas here! :S

Tagged for the first time :)

2006-02-04T04:24:00.000Z

Thanks to Q.C. I have now been tagged for the 1st time... here goes:

Eight weird things about me:
1. I speak English all the time, even though I can speak Arabic and it's my first language. I just think my English's better :S
2. I have the strongest American accent (been told its a Californian one actually), when I was taught by British teachers and attended a British-system-based school for 14 years! T.V... I blame T.V!
3. I am a bit too emotional. I cry on the simplest things. These include seeing others cry and watching corny ads on t.v!!!!
4. I blog.... now that's weird :)
5. I speak to myself when i'm studying. I literally give out lectures to myself like a lecturer would do in a lecture hall... that sorta thing. I don't think i've ever punished myself for not understanding something though! ;)
6. I talk to my cats. I have full conversations. You should see what I do when I see a puppy or kitten on t.v. I go crazy!
7. I faint if I even get a TINY whiff of medical alcohol. I think i'm allergic to it :S
8. I sneeze continuously if someone touches my nose... we're talking constant sneezing for atleast 10 minutes! I feel sorry for the people i've dated. Picture this; candle-light dinner, gorgeous food, romantic atmosphere and all and then the guy leans against the table to pinch my nose............. the consequences.... HORRIBLE!

Eight attributes of my perfect lover:
1. He has to be physically attractive (atleast in my eyes) but modest in the same time. There's a fine line between arrogance and confidence!
2. He has to be taller than me. Don't date shorter ones! I know... i'm mean!
3. He has to have a good sense of humour.
4. He has to be sensitive. I'm not asking for "Romeo" or anything.
5. Has to be romantic. I'm a very romantic person so he has to be one too.
6. Has to respect me, accept me for who I am and be fair by giving me my rights as a woman. (I think these are three different things.. oh well)
7. Has to be intelligent and have an open mind. I wouldn't wanna have baseless conversations with him, and i'm not wearing an abaya or avoiding certain areas or people for no one!
8. Has to love pets. Preferably dogs.

I tag arabian prince, degoat and life :)

This is it.... anyone fit the description? haha ;)

Student life...

2006-02-01T07:32:00.000Z

I'm sure that most of you guys have either experienced or are currently experiencing student life. If you've already experienced it, then I congratulate you for making it this far. However, if you are currently a student adapting to this life-altering adventure, then all I can say is may God be with you!!!

I have now been a student in Leeds for two years. When I think of it, I try to convince myself that I have already passed the toughest stage; that being the first year. You see, alot of people are inclined to thinking that the most challenging part of being a student, is leaving your family and friends behind to start a whole new life in a foreign country, and in an environment where one is considered a stranger amongst new faces, new places, a new culture and a new life in general. And frankly, you only face this problem in your 1st year.

The first year does infact involve some pretty difficult phases that one has to adjust to. These phases include the famous "fresher's ten", the process of making new friends, finding a place to stay, getting along with your flatmates/room-mates, learning how to cook, understanding the different forms of a British accent and learning some of the commonest British terms, finding your new hang-out places, taking care of yourself whilst taking care of your studies, choosing the most appropriate mobile network that provides the most amount of free texts or free minutes, shopping at the cheapest grocery stores, opening an account at the most suitable bank, figuring out the off-limit territories in that country, staying away from bad habits by avoiding the temptation of having all the freedom one could ask for and more.

Managing the first year should be considered an accomplishment. It's pretty tough you know! Nevertheless, the experience has its positive effects. The student involved not only starts appreciating his/her family and friends a bit more, but he/she learns how to rely on him/herself, and therefore becomes alot more independent. The pupil also learns alot about him/herself and finally realises that being a student is not as simple as he/she had expected it to be.

Passing my first and most challenging obstacle, by making it to my second year, is something I am definitely proud of. When I think of the different things I learnt and the various things I experienced, I can't help but thank God that it's all over. After all, the second year is ALWAYS alot easier. Things tend to be alot more organised, one tends to be alot more prepared, and life tends to feel smoother. Or is that just another one of my attempts to try and convince myself that the worst part is over?

Some of you might have read my previous post entitled "older-men-magnet". In that post, I summarized the advantages of living in Hyde Park (oh how amusing sarcasm can be). However, in this post I would like to focus on a more specific part of Hyde Park. The area that includes the finest take-outs and grocery stores, the neighbourhood that includes the London suicide-bombers' house and finally the building in which I am currently staying in!

Living with two other people can have its pros and cons. Depending on who the poeple are, things can sometimes get a bit ugly! For example, if you're living with two COMPLETE strangers, who come from two different cities in England or who are simply not Arab, then you're going to have to start worrying about continuous house parties with plenty of booze, snogging, drug-abuse, sex and complete DRAMA. I know alot of you might think i'm exaggerating but believe me...... I WOULD KNOW! I lived with 5 last year!

Alternatively, if you're living with two of your friends or relatives, things do tend to be alot more under control. Mis-communication, differentiation in morals and beliefs and isolation are not an issue. Remember this is my OWN opinion, so if you disagree then it's completely understandable.

I luckily, live with two of my good friends. We're all from the same country and we're all from the same family... I guess that makes us relatives!! Haha, i'm not sure. Back home, all Blooshies are related to each other in some way, the same way that all Zanzies and Lawaties are!

Anyways, my main concern is not my flat-MATES but my FLAT. I have now survived life without hot water, heaters, lights, a microwave, a toaster, a toilet (at one point) and a decent vacuum cleaner. My conclusion? Who am I kiddin'? The second year is as tough as the first (if not tougher)!

Living without a microwave or toaster is not as big a deal as living without hot water, heaters, lights and a toilet. Let me fill you in on the details:

One very fine day, my poor flatmate rushed into the kitchen only to realise that the heaters weren't doing their job. Now because everything tends to be LINKED to something else here in England, without heat there's no hot-water! And so, my flatmates and I were forced to tolerate temperatures as low as 5 degrees C outdoors as well as indoors! I was forced to wear three layers all day, sleep with two qilts, shower in freezing water and wash my hands and cutlery in it too, drink cold tea/coffee and eat cold food (because the flat was so cold it was like an instant cooler) for four consecutive days! Hence the severe case of tonsillitis! :S

Now the lighting. Everyday, the flat surprises us by fusing one of our RECENTLY-BOUGHT and fitted bulbs! Three months ago, we had no lights in our rooms, two weeks ago in the hall-way, a week ago in the living room, and now in our bathroom! Yes ladies and gents, we have no lights in our toilet. Luckily, we have no WINDOWS in our toilet either!!!!!!!! You know what I realised? Taking a shower in the dark can be very difficult at times, especially when shampoo gets into your eyes or when you accidently use conditioner as shower gel or when you slip on your bar of soap.. you know that kinda thing! And after spending two nights trying to figure out how to change the bulb with no use, we realised that we had to think of an alternative. Our solution? Taking our laptops into the toilet to provide light!! PATHETIC!

The WORST case was when our toilet got blocked. Because we live on the bottom floor and because AGAIN everything's LINKED to something else here in England, sewage from all the toilets on the ascending floors has to pass by OUR toilet's pipes in order to leave the building. But when OUR toilet's pipes are BLOCKED, the sewage HAS TO FIND AN ALTERNATIVE METHOD OF LEAVING THE BUILDING so why not on OUR toilet FLOOR via OUR potty? The sight still haunts me. The worst part was when someone from upstairs decided to use the toilet for WHATEVER reason, and ended up flushing the STUFF away thinking it was never to be seen again, the outcome errupted out of OUR potty! The things I saw.......

Other than that, living in complete "filth" by not having a decent hoover is another problem. The hoover we've been provided with RELEASES dust and dirt instead of sucking it in! So we decided that we might as well not bother using it at all!

The one thing I keep asking myself is this: Is this what people refer to as "student-life" or is it simply a different form of POVERTY!

update..

2006-01-30T02:31:00.000Z

Just wanted 2 let you guys know that I don't think i'll be updating 4 a while. I have been blessed with a severe case of tonsillitis (for the second time) and I have been extremely passive for the last 3 days. The fever, cold, heachache, sore throat, loss of appetite and nausea are getting on my nerves! I don't usually get sick, but when I do... it's BAD!

Will be contemplating my next post's topic.

Older-men-magnet!

2006-01-25T06:45:00.000Z

When I first moved into my flat, I was fully aware of it's location's draw-backs. I was aware of the fact that this flat was situated in GHETTO Leeds. We're talking about the area where MOST murder, rape, robbery, bullying and sexual harrasement cases take place. Now as STUPID as this might sound, as a student studying in the U.K, one has to keep track of his/her daily expenses. Living in the city was out of the question! It would've cost me a fortune! Living anywhere else meant that i'd have to worry about trasport fees as well as accommodation fees! Therefore, living in Hyde Park was the most rational decision.

I have to admit that hearing gun shots in this area has been as common as hearing cars pass by!!!! Nevertheless, Hyde park remains one of the commonest student attractions. It's cheap, it's 15 minutes away from the University of Leeds and it has a variety of convenient stores fit for a student's daily necessities!

Anyways, now that i've given you a summary of what to expect, should you decide to visit Leeds and Hyde Park in specific, let me get to the REAL story.

In order for me to get to uni, I must walk up this HUGE slope that leads to the main road. Before getting to the peak of the slope, I usually make a pit-stop at a small grocery store to buy a couple of things.. you know, water, cigarettes (sometimes), top-up my credit.. that sorta thing. The thing is however, the shop-owner happens to be an old, preverted, silly Indian man. Everytime I come into the shop, he greets me with his usual flirtatious comments such as, "sweety-pie","my love","sweet-heart".. etc. Usually, listening to the phrase "love" after every sentence is not too worrying around here. British people tend to use that word ALOT! But as for all the other comments, they're a bit uncommon!

At first, I kept telling myself that this man is old, he's married, he's a father of two, and his kids are as old as I am, so he's around what? late 50's? So I chose to ignore all his silly remarks and continue shopping in his store.

Things got a bit extreme when I decided to walk into his shop one very fine day to top-up my credit. He looked at me with his pathetic eyes and explained that he loved his wife and kids more than anything in the world. Why he was telling ME this was beyond my understanding but the next few lines solved the mystery,
"You know, I have NEVER cheated on my wife. You hear alot about different men taking advantage of their helpless wives by sleeping around with as many women as they can gather. Not me. I am a faithful husband and I intend on keeping it that way. Now... I was thinking. You're a lovely girl. You're smart, you're beautiful, you're kind and you're genuine. I can tell just by having these short conversations of ours every now and then. So why don't you let me take you out for a nice cosy dinner at my place sometime during the week?"

I looked at him in disgust and I couldn't help but find the IRONY in his question amusing. As funny as this might sound, I really didn't want to be rude so I kindly said that I didn't think it was a good idea and I walked out.

Passing by that certain store was NO longer an option after that incident, but I decided to give him another chance and plus, I was desperate for a pack of fags!

"Riiiiiiiiiiinnnnggggg" went the usual door bell hung on the top of the door to attract the person behind the desk's attention. There he was, looking as old, filthy and ugly as he always did. "Hello sweetheart. Long time no see. I hope I didn't scare you at your last visit because i've realised that you don't come round here anymore. Well, not as often atleast."
"No, no i've just been busy with exams and uni. You know us students!! (nervous laugh)"
"Oh yes I can imagine. Well it's really nice to see you again love. You made my day. Come here (arms wide open awaiting a cuddle)."

I personally froze in my position (it could've been the weather cuz mind you it was BLOODY cold outside, but in this case it was definitely the situation I was in). He approached me and put his arms around me while I sheepishly patted his back.
"It's good to see you my sweety-pie. So how about that dinner?"

I WAS SHOCKED! I couldn't help but feel guilty for not wanting to be rude the first time he had asked me the same question. Nonetheless, the bastard has asked me out again!
"You can give me your number and you know I live upstairs, so we can meet here and i'll take you up. Do you like red or white wine?"
"I don't drink!"
"Ok then coke it is."
"Paul listen, maybe I didn't make myself too clear the last time you proposed this offer, but I really don't think that's a good idea."

He then grinned cunningly and started walking closer to me until he had me cornered. He put his arms around me again and looked deep into my terrified-looking eyes. For a moment, he leaned closer to me to give me a kiss, but I quickly responded by pushing him away and leaning to the other side.

How I left the shop and how things had gotten to that extent HAUNTS me until this very day.

All I can say is that I AM NEVER PAYING THAT ASSHOLE A VISIT AGAIN!

Islam...

2006-01-21T11:24:00.000Z

Being an Arab in England can be quite difficult at times. However, nothing beats being a Muslim in this country. Not after the terrorist attacks that took place in London over the summer. From bullying to nasty looks to hostility and isolation, one can only wonder what the future is yet to bring.

The amount of times i've gotten into debates over the topic of Islam with the most RANDOM people are countless. From taxi drivers (both British and Indian/Pakistani), to shop owners (both Muslims and Hindu), to teachers, friends and the passenger sitting next to me on a plane, i've had 'em with ALL!

What surprises me the most are the different views those people had.

The Muslim taxi driver, who was originally Pakistani but had lived in England for the past 25 years, thought that as a Muslim who'd experienced life in England, this was no place to bring up his daughters. He decided to take them back to Pakistan, where he registered them into all-girl Quran teaching councils, wed them to the finest Pakistani men and bought them the perfect homes. Allow me to add that these girls had never been introduced to the hijab or the strict rules of female and male separation before they moved to Pakistan, so the culture shock must've been a GREAT one!

The Hindu shop-keeper, who had asked me to leave the shop after I had innocently asked whether or not he was Muslim on the day of Eid so that I could wish him a happy Eid, thought that muslims were a threat. He explained that Islam was too strict, "extreme" and unacceptable. "I am Indian. When I bump into another Indian, it brings me joy. Out here, it's nice to meet people who come from the same country as you. Who understand you're culture and your life-style. Who can relate to your feelings of detachment and isolation. So it's nice to go out, talk, have a laugh and a few beers and keep intouch. However, when this Indian turns out to be a Muslim, that would be the first and last conversation we'd ever have. Muslims are nothing but trouble!"

The British taxi driver, who's daughter had been co-workers with one of the London suicide-bombers' sister, thought that the public's impression of Islam was appalling. "It's a shame that people can be so narrow-minded and judgemental at times. You know that girl, the guy's sister, was a lovely woman. The nicest girl you'd ever come across. She didn't have a CLUE what her brother was up to and yet she was sacked after the London bombings. To tell you the truth, I think she's better off. The harrassment, black-mailing, threatening and bullying was getting outta hand. But I mean the poor girl had nothing to do with it!"

The British guy sitting next to me on the plane who kept answering my every attempt to explain what Islam was all about with a sarcastic laugh, thought that Islam and Muslims were ridiculous. "Does the Quran tell you that your religion is better than other religions? Does it ask you to bomb every other Christian, Jew, Hindu..etc? Is that how your God claims you earn Heaven? What about me? Just because I happen to be a devout Catholic does that mean that I don't get the right to go to Heaven?"

However, the best debate i've come across so far HAS to be one that I personally did not take part in. I was watching a programme on MBC 4 entitled "Heaven". It was actually an American programme from abc but it was recorded and was being viewed on MBC 4 that particular day. The programme involved a variety of interviews with a range of religous figures such as the Dalai Lama, a random pope, sheikh and rabbi. The programme was obviously in English!

When it was time to shed some light on Islam, two fairly contradictive interviews were taken. A Palestinian prisoner, held captive in Israel for attempting a suicide bombing on Israeli soil, and a sheikh/ lecturer at a well-known American university, were asked the same questions. The questions were fair and quite predictable but the ANSWER to one particular question SHOCKED me:
Interviewer: "What were you thinking when you planned this whole thing? Do you think that by committing suicide and killing hundreds of Israeli men you would be considered a martyr (shaheed) and therefore go to Heaven?"
Prisoner: (in Arabic) It's not in my hands. All I want, is to end up in Heaven.

When you read the man's reply it doesn't really strike you as shocking. What WILL strike you is the translator's interpretation of his reply:
"I hate all Jews, they should all burn in Hell!"

Along with each debate I received a word of advice:
The Pakistani taxi driver told me to go back to the Middle East and leave this life of temptation and sin behind. "Women belong at home!" He told me to always respect my parents' wishes and be an obedient girl. He even asked me to get married to the man my parents thought was appropriate, "you're parents know what's best for you. See how my daughter's lives have been so successful!"

The Hindu shop-keeper thought I was a good example of a broad-minded muslim woman. He asked me to speak up and let other Muslim people become aware of the amount of fear and terror they're causing. Then he asked for my number!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The kind British taxi driver told me he thinks the British public will soon get over it! He also added that he thought that our religions had alot in common. He then smiled and said, "you never know, I might just see you in Heaven."

The guy sitting next to me on the plane wished me luck (with a sarcastic laugh). He thought I was talking bull-****.

The questions I have in mind are these:
Who creates this impression of Muslims and Islam? We can blame the media to an extent but we have to take some of the blame too. Extremists in countries like Afghanistan and Pakistan don't exactly make us look too welcoming... "you're either with us or we bomb you"! So, is Islam really that strict? That harsh? That "extreme"?

So many more questions......

Any answers?

It's about time!

2006-01-16T13:36:00.000Z

You didn't really think I'd dedicate a whole post to Lym and another one to verbose without dedicating one to you did you? Tsk tsk tsk.. Here goes:

We started off as two little girls with the same interest, Barbies! Hiding away from the world to make our own Barbie soap-opera! We spent alot of time together, it was inevitable, our mothers are sisters!! But that wasn't the end of it. In addition to being cousins we were always the best of friends. Even though we never had anything in common, except for our secret Barbie obssession, we somehow managed to get along very well, and my God we were inseperable!

We argued, we fought, we didn't speak for weeks, ignored one another for months and we even wrote each other hate mail! We allowed others to come between us and we let our pride get in the way.

I remember those days like they were yesterday. 12th grade was stressful. We were all under alot of pressure and we were all feeling very worn-out and fed-up that the slightest comments caused the not-so-slight arguments! There was alot of drama, alot of tears, alot of unnecessary words used by the both of us, but in the end...... we came through!

What amazes me the most is the fact that we've both changed so much and yet we're still as close as we were 10 years ago, if not closer! I know for a fact that the girl I knew 5 years ago is NOTHING like the one I know now! I also know that i've changed! Whether we've changed in a good/ bad way is irrelevant at this point ;) because all i'm trying to high-light is how strong our relationship has been. We've managed to maintain our friendship for almost 17 years!!!! Do you know how long that is??????

You know i've always loved you. I might not say it as often as i'd like to but you know that i'm not really into the whole 'expressing your feelings to one another' thing. I have SUCH good memories with you. I can't help but smile everytime I think of the times we spent together doing the craziest things. From skipping school to go to Qantab, to going to the love shack for a 7abba, to reminding you of what to do when you both enter and exit your car, to driving around the whole of Muscat to try and find a place to eat, to driving down to Mutrah to see what's changed, to moving from one sheesha place to the other, to spending EVERY night in Kargeen, to witnessing your COUNTLESS embarrassing moments on the road, to and to and to......... the list is endless!

You have taught me sooooooooooo much. You have ALWAYS been there for me. You've always known the right things to say at the right times. You've constantly supported me when no one else did. You've stuck by me, knowing I was wrong, when no one else did. You've patiently listened to me complain about the most ridiculous things for hours. You've been a trust-worthy friend. You've been nothing but a life-saver since... I can remember!

Us singing along to the GAYEST and the most 7AMAS songs while trying to find a life is definitely one of my best memo's. You know you have a nice voice! Maybe one day we can BOTH try to do something about it!

I miss you... I spent a whole month following a certain routine each day, that being:
wake up- brush my teeth- change my clothes- call you to plan the day- lunch- internet- talk to you again- meet up with you- find a life with you- visit love-shack 4 a 7abba with you- drive around a bit more- dinner?- home- speak to you AGAIN!
and now, I can barely speak to you on the phone let alone do everything else! I've grown so attached to you. Leaving you was definitely one of the most difficult things I have had to do.

You really have made me realise alot of things about myself! I hate to admit it but I feel like there's something missing in my life now that we're not together! The funny part is, this post sounds like something I would dedicate to an exboyfriend or something! haha. Well, I know it's gay and all but i'd rather publically announce it then call you and tell you this in person! NOW THAT'S GAY!

Well, I hope that i've been a good friend to you as you have to me! I might not thank you enough for everything you've ever said or done but you know i'm more than grateful. Being your cousin/ friend has been a privilege!

I love you more than words can describe..

It's cold init?

2006-01-13T02:37:00.000Z

So i'm back in Leeds. Wasn't really looking forward to it but hey, i'm here now so I might as well make the most of it!

Everything and everyone looks the same. To be perfectly honest, as much as I LOVED Oman and I enjoyed every minute, I don't feel like i've just come back. Studying for my exams is taking my mind off things. I don't really have much time to think of my family and friends and so home-sickness is not an issue.

It's ABSOLUTELY freezing out here. The temperature is around 4 degrees C. This can only be disadvantageous. It means that the complexion I acheived by spending almost one month under the sun is going to VANISH. It's funny how I need atleast 2 months of non-stop tanning to become two shades darker, when it doesn't take more than 2 weeks of this awful British weather to bring back the ghostly look I usually end up with!

So after spending atleast 4 hours in both Dubai and Amsterdam, trying to revise as much as I could for today's exam, I concluded that I definitely work better and remember things a whole lot easier when I revise in public. The thing is, you know how you can either understand things better when you revise individually or you can do so when you have someone else explaining things to you? Well, I always thought that I was the type of person who liked revising independantly. Group revisions were never my thing. Studying in a library was something I wouldn't have even CONSIDERED. I usually talk to myself when I revise. Talking in a library is not only not-allowed, but if I were to come across someone sitting in a little corner talking to themself i'd think they're insane!

I'm definitely jet-lagged. I slept at around 7 last night and I woke up at 5 this morning! I think it's very convenient at this stage, especially when I haven't done much revision for ANY of my coming exams! The fire-alarm had to interrupt my precious sleep by going off atleast SIX times last night! Allow me to add that this fire alarm is so loud that you can probably still hear it if you were standing atleast 2 Km away from my building! So you can imagine how loud it is when it's in your ROOM! I was TERRIFIED! There I was dreaming about Oman, my friends, 7awasna, my family and cats when this EAR-SPLITTING siren-like noise woke me up in panic. It was really scary you know. In addition, thanks to the fire-alarm, I started thinking of my exam and how my revision was inadequate. I started panicking even more but I managed to fall asleep whilst worrying about it!

The only enjoyable thing about being back in England is that I get to watch British t.v! I have a routine you know! I start with brain teaser, flip to countdown, watch the afternoon movie, catch up on deal or no deal, move to ready steady cook, then to the weakest link and finally to the simpsons! You know what verbose??? I DO watch alotta t.v! No wonder I have this annoying Amercian accent!

Anyways, I would just like to add that I don't think i'm going to be updating 4 a while. My last exam is on the 20th so I might just update my post after i'm done failing! :)

Wish me luck!

One can always dream.

2006-01-05T21:01:00.000Z

I remember mentioning in one of my previous posts, how badly I wanted to transfer to Brisbane. I also recall explaining how difficult it was for me to accomplish this due to the ministry's reluctance. I know I made it seem like I had given up on trying to convince the ministry, and that I was UNwillingly prepared to spend the next three years studying in the U.K, in order to satisfy my parents' wishes. However, as a rebel (haha) I believe that this is not something I am used to! I don't normally give up on something I really want that easily. As for the 'satisfying my parents' wishes' part, well, what can I say, this is MY future right?

I arrived in Oman about 3 weeks ago. I spent the first 2 weeks travelling to and fro the ministry trying to see different people, hand-in the necessary paper work, break down infront of the weak-hearted, and finally explain myself to the people who mattered.

I pushed myself to the limit. I did EVERYTHING one could do. I don't think i've put this much effort into ANYTHING. I wrote atleast 5 different letters containing several reasons behind this sudden urge to transfer to Brisbane. Let me just add that my reasons were far from ridiculous. They were GOOD, powerful, and legitimate reasons that SHOULD have convinced the ministry to grant me this one request!

How could one create sympathy amongst people who do not have hearts? I guess that's where I went wrong. I ASSUMED that my reasons were powerful enough to convince the ministry that I was infact uncomfortable in Leeds. I don't want this post to be too personal, but to cut a long story short, something happened to me in Leeds. Something one would consider shocking and unacceptable. Don't let your imaginations run wild! But this "thing" that happened to me has had a huge impact on me and my impression of Leeds in general. It's just made me feel really uncomfortable, scared and quite..... I don't really know how to explain it but let's just say that it has had a major impact on me. Enough to make me DESPISE Leeds atleast!

So back to the ministry. For those of you who haven't figured this out yet, the only reason i'm running after the ministry is because I am fully sponsored by them! Anyways, so after stating my reasons behind this request to several people in a variety of letters, I was told that a certain committee, which usually deals with cases similar to mine, would be meeting up next week to discuss such requests and finally decide who's eligible or worth helping and who's not.

It has now been almost 2 weeks since. The ministry hasn't contacted me, but then again they never do. What's highly unacceptable is the fact that NO SUCH committee has had NO SUCH meeting to discuss NO SUCH requests! NOTHING has been done. After calling the ministry almost 20 times, I was repetitively asked to either contact someone else or write ANOTHER LETTER stating my reasons once more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The people I had spent hours and hours trying to explain myself to claimed that no such case had been presented to them and that no such conversations had taken place! The people I had sent all my letters to claimed they had never received them. The people I relied on to support me, claimed to have done so but with no use.

No words can describe how hurt, helpless and frustrated I felt. Never did I think that accepting a scholarship would cause me this much misery. I was ignored. Everything I had to say was ignored. My letters were useless. My time and effort.... gone to waste.

On Tuesday the 10th of January I will no longer be here. Personally speaking to the ministry will no longer be an option. My conditional offer at the University of Queensland will have to be ignored the same way the ministry has chosen to ignore my letters.

What I do have to look forward to are my exams!!!! Haha.. the one's I haven't studied for that is!!!! I should be grateful for what I already have shouldn't I? What do I have? A scholarship? If i'd known this was going to happen, I wouldn't have even CONSIDERED applying for one! I'm getting the best education? How? I'm not studying, attending classes or paying attention if I do attend them!

What now?

God help me.........

What can't kill you can only make you stronger.

2006-01-02T23:17:00.000Z

So I met this guy a couple of days ago. I'd seen him around in the past but i'd never really gotten to know him. To be prefectly honest, he was my ex-boyfriend's brother and that's as far as it went! I remember that when I was dating his brother, this guy NEVER really liked me. I don't think he approved of the relationship, or maybe he just didn't approve of me! I'm not sure what the EXACT reason behind this hostility was but I know for a fact that he could NOT tolerate me! I didn't date his brother 4 long, barely 2 months, and after I broke up with him, I never saw him nor his brother again.

So, I walked into this restaurant the other day and to my surprise he was there, I mean my ex's brother, sitting with a friend of mine. I said hi and whatever and we BARELY spoke. However, when another friend of mine called my name out in order to get my attention, this guy's facial expressions changed instantly. He looked @ me in shock and said, "You're mimi?" (using my real name ofcourse) And I looked @ him and said yes. He then continued, "I know you!!!!!!" and I said, "well ofcourse you know me I dated your brother!!"

Anyways, so from then on, I kept seeing more of this guy. Turns out he's a good friend of one of MY good friends, so we always ended up hanging out @ the same venue! It was good, I got to know him better, I got to tell him a bit about me and he got to tell me a bit about himself.

Can I just point out that I have not only been single for almost a year and a half but I haven't had a crush on someone in a VERY loooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong time!

So now that you know this piece of information I can get back to my story.

I don't know why, but I began looking forward to bumping into him. He always managed to put a smile on my face, and he was so sweet. I can't begin to tell you how charming he was. I don't know why I am using past-tense because HE STILL IS as charming as he was when we first met!

We ended up partying @ the same place for new years. Alot happened that night but to cut a long story short........... alot was said, and maybe it shouldn't have. I said too much and he didn't react the way I had HOPED he would. Let me just spit it out..... he was DEFINITELY NOT interested! Sound familiar?? I know what you're thinking... QUEEN REJECT RIGHT? I know, I told you. My luck with men is quite........ SHIT!

Now the funny part is that this is what I gathered by speaking to him that night. My other friend, who is also a good friend (if not a relative) of his, disagreed. I had previously informed her of my true feelings, and she had promised that she would do her best to hook us up. After I had POURED MY TRUE EMOTIONS out to the subject, I was pretty convinced that I would have to spend the next couple of days trying to get over another REJECTION! But, according to his relative/ friend, I was wrong! She confirmed that he WAS infact interested. She told me that she had spoken to him earlier on and he had basically pointed that out himself!

Now like I said, I have been rejected so many times before it's become more of a routine! I don't know if I can handle being rejected once more, and especially not by someone I ACTUALLY like!

I'm supposed 2 meet up with a couple of friends today and he's supposed to be there! I'm not quite sure what i'm supposed 2 say. I haven't done this for so long I feel as though I have forgotten how to handle these situations! I feel as though I am 15 again!

The suspence is killing me....

Any plans?

2006-01-01T00:38:00.000Z

Everyone seems to be really into the whole partying mood now that new years is on the way. I mean I have to admit that I too was looking 4ward to it. I had everything planned out. My cousin n I were gonna catch a ride to Dubai to meet up with a couple of friends, and then attend this party held in the middle of nowhere. Apparently a number of dj's from all over the world were gonna be there busting their moves, so it sounded like alotta fun.

Well, it's the 31st of December today and I still don't know what i'm doing tonight!!!!! Dubai got cancelled, dad thought it was too dangerous with all the wadis and what not, due to the constant rain we had this morning. This is the problem with Oman. When a little rain decides to honour us with it's presence, it creates a RIOT in Oman. We had no electiricity in the house for atleast 4 hours this morning. Not to mention I heard that the traffic lights weren't operating this morning for the same reason! It's not bloody Tsunami u know! Ma balak if it was!

Anyways, back to my plans for new years! So there was this party @ the automobile club which I planned on checking out, but sadly, I couldn't find myself a ticket and after making thousands of phone calls to try and hook myself and othersup with tickets we decided it just wasn't worth all the effort!

I wonder what I will end up doing tonight!!!?? Let me just list the various ways in which I celebrated the last 4 years, to show you how important it is 4 me to DO SOMETHING:

2000- went to Qurum natural park with my cousins and ended up staring @ a projection of a "towell" clock on a white screen to countdown the last 10 seconds.

2001 + 2002- don't think I did ANYTHING!

2003- drove to Mc donald's with my cousin to have a meal. Bumped into my ex... didn't go too well!

2004- I think I was too busy stydying for exams or something!

2005- Partied @ Bustan but was asked to come home @ 12!!!!!!!!! Beats the whole purpose doesn't it!

2006- I can pretty much ASSUME that it's gonna be something like pizza hut!!! Hahahaha.. I hate this!

Well anyways, I hope you have BETTER plans! Happy new years everyone! :D

ME!

2005-12-26T03:50:00.000Z

Five things I can do:
1. I can sing.
2. I can blow-dry my own hair/ straighten it.
3. I can cook.
4. I can talk on the phone 4 six hours straight.... no breaks!
5. I can blow lil doughnuts when smoking!

Five things I can't do:
1. I can't cliff-jump.
2. I can't concentrate on something or someone 4 more than 10 mins max.
3. I can't belly dance.
4. I can't go through a whole day without food.
5. I can't do push-ups!

Five things i'd like to acheive in the next decade:
1. Convince the ministry to send me to BRISBAAAAAANNNEEEEE!
2. Graduate from uni with a distinction. Inshalla do my masters after that... maybe even... NAH!
3. Get my f*****g driver's license.
4. Keep intouch will all my high school mates.
5. Get into some sort of music competition..... x factor, star academy, super-star??? I don't know! But definitely do something about it!

Five things I am thinking of this very moment:
1. Dealing with the ministry about the transfer!
2. My exams in January.
3. Making an appointment with Daksha.. must wax!
4. What i'm gonna b doing tonight.
5. The fifth thing i'm thinking of right now hahaha!

Five things I am looking forward to:
1. New years in Dubai.
2. Seeing an old friend.
3. Spending time with verbose.
4. Visiting the love shack with the founders ;)
5. My next cigarette!

Just introducing myself to you people out there who don't really know me... sorry, I didn't have anything else to talk about today.

A trip to Qantab.

2005-12-23T22:20:00.000Z

She was hesitant but we managed to convince her!

My dad, the king of the world! :P

On Thursday morning, we packed our lunch, extra towels and clothing, chairs and tables and headed towards bandr-ji99a (aka Qantab). It was amazing. The water was so clear and the weather was just right. I personally wanted 2 go there to get some of my colour back. Being in England 4 three months can have DEVASTATING effects on ur complexion! I was as white as snow, so tanning was one of the MAIN things I wanted 2 achieve by going on this trip.

From mountain climbing, swimming, bbq-ing, fishing, tanning, sculpting and burrying my sister, all was accomplished. Well.... except for the tanning bit. The sun wasn't too cooperative. The island we were on was divided into two parts; one with ALOT of sunshine, and the other with ALOT of shade. The parents had settled in the shady part, but my cousins and I had invaded the sunny part hoping to turn golden-brown.

"We be burning not concerning what nobody gonna say". After sitting under the sun for almost 3 hours straight, we came out looking as WHITE as we did b4 we started the tanning process! So technically.... nobody had been sun-burnt like the song pointed out!

Generally, the trip was a success. Before heading back to the main island to go back home, we decided to take a look at the new hotels being built in the area. They're really coming along. Some were beautiful, others were PINK! I think it'll grow on me.. the pink hotel I mean. But yeah, they look amazing and I can already imagine the place being packed with hotel-residents tanning and swimming and what not. Good stuff!

Every apple tree is bound to have atleast ONE bad apple.

2005-12-21T23:36:00.000Z

It happened again this afternoon.
We were sitting quietly having lunch,
My brother started talking about marriage,
He turned to me promising me that I would never be consulted 4 a second opinion,
I didn't mind, nor did I care,
We never got along,
Not for more than 4 minutes,
We always argued over SOMETHING,
But still, he is my flesh and blood and nothing can change that.
I attacked by saying that I wouldn't consult him when I found the right man,
Irrelevant accusations had managed to become part of the argument,
"You want to transfer to Brisbane to be with S,"
"He was my class-mate, and still is a very good friend of mine,"
"Bull-shit, I've seen photos of you two that prove a bit more than just that,"
"Mom's seen them too, she never commented,"
He turned to my mother and accused her of being naive and oblivious to the facts.
I couldn't sit there and listen,
I asked him to get his facts straight,
He yelled,
I screamed,
He threatened,
I didn't flinch,
Mom interrupted trying to calm HIM down,
She looked @ me and questioned how I could be so disrespectful when he was two years older,
I explained that I could not hear someone accuse me of such things... not when they were wrong,
"First he accuses me of drinking, then of smoking and now he's accusing me of dating,"
He yelled again,
I defended myself,
Mom asked us to be quiet.
"How can you call yourselves brother and sister? You haven't seen each other in a year and this is how you choose to treat each other?"
"I refuse to respect someone who has no respect for me,"
"Shut up or i'll slap you," he threatened once more,
"STOP IT YOU TOO!"
Silence....
Mom decided that changing the topic was the best thing to do,
"There's this wedding coming up. Nancy Ajram's performing and you're invited,"
"You know I don't go to weddings,"
She looked @ me with disgust,
"I know I know, just spit it out.. 'Mimi, with an attitude like that you're never going to get yourself a husband',"
"Ha-ha," she said sarcastically, "this is the royal family we're talking about, they wouldn't even accidentally set eyes on YOU.. look at yourself!"
I love my family... They always know exactly what to say to make my day.

"Rejection is the symbol of wantism"

2005-12-20T20:45:00.000Z

I know what you're thinking... "wantism?" You're probably looking through the dictionary trying to find its definition. Stop. Don't even bother. It doesn't exist in any English dictionary. This word was invented by one of the world's wisest women (being sarcastic).

I remember the day she came up with it. I was having problems with a guy I sort-of had a crush on, and we had both chosen to use the all-time favourite solution... 'the silent treatment'. We were in the same class. Ignoring each other was almost impossible. Someone had to break the ice, and so this supposedly-wise-woman walked up 2 me and said, "you know what mimi, rejection is the symbol of wantism." I looked at her in bewilderment and I was obviously not following what she was trying to say. "What the hell are you saying.. yakhi walla i'm not in the mood!!" was all I could say in return. "Hold on, let me explain myself. You and *#$% are both giving each other the cold shoulder. In reality, you're both being childish, and you know pretty well that you still like him as much as you liked him before you decided to have this stupid argument. So technically, you guys might be rejecting each other @ this point, but if anything it just shows how much you guys want each other." Clarify anything 4 u yet? If not, I guess you're gonna have to ask the founder herself. Lym, elaborate.

Well, the reason I chose this quote as my title isn't because I wanted 2 tell you guys how it was created. Now that I have made an attempt at explaining what it means, I wish to apply it to a real-life situation and hear your personal views on the matter.

I met this guy online the other day, and despite the fact that I had heard so much about him and I knew exactly how he looked like, he didn't have a CLUE who I was and how I looked like! From perfectly innocent messages here and there we finally exchanged phone numbers and decided to meet up 4 a cup of coffee.

My intentions were ANYTHING but bad. I know that some of you out there, who know me pretty well, are probably saying, "YAH SURE!" But honestly, it was not a DATE! And I wasn't meeting up with him because he was a complete heart-throb (even thought I have to admit that he is quite good-looking.... Ok... he's GORGEOUS) but simply because I was making a new friend. So, dating him was not what I had in mind (not @ the start atleast). I'm here for another 3 weeks, and if ANYTHING was to happen between us it would need a lil more than just that! ANYWAYS, so like I said b4, this guy had no idea what I looked like but I think he was under the impression that the woman on the other side of the internet was a complete hotty! HAHAHAHAHAHA... miskeen. I definitely did not fit that description but nonetheless, I decided to go.

OK, so i'm not gonna deny it. I did call my very-hot cousin asking her to pose as me. Do you blame me? I was never gonna live up to his expectations. I've mentioned this before and i'm mentioning it again. I am not exactly a confident woman. I know what you're thinking... someone would actually do that???? NO I WOULDN'T, I was just being insecure......plus, she said no anyways! uff

So, it was time. I didn't really dress-up, it wasn't a date. I made my way to starbucks and there he was. I had butterflies in my stomach way before I reached starbucks, but when I saw him standing there looking as cute as he did, a shiver ran down my spine. I was nervous as HELL! I mean I know I said I knew what he looked like, but I kind-of forgot to mention that I hadn't seen him for a while. People were always going on about how he was one of the very few good-looking Omani guys. I personally remember seeing him once, a very long time ago, and I recall thinking that he was cute. But the guy I saw standing in starbucks wasn't just cute. MASHALLAH!

Anyways, so I introduced myself, we grabbed a cup of coffee each and we sat outside. We began conversing, introduced ourselves a bit more and before we knew it, we were making fun of each other like we'd known one another for years. I love it when that happens. I don't mean I enjoy being made fun of, but I like it when people have that instant connection. It saves a lot of time, effort and energy. So back to the story. Minutes merged into hours and we had both lost track of time. OK, so maybe we weren't into each other as much as I make it sound like we were. But generally, we had a good laugh.

So as we were sitting outside enjoying our coffees and one another's company, I suddenly found myself enjoying his company a bit too much. I mean, let's face it. He was good-looking, he was sensitive, caring, an artist (extra points 4 that!) and he had a good sense of humoUr. Having said that, I must point out that this is what I gathered by sitting with him for about 4-5 hours only! So, this is more of a first impression and not what I generally think of him. I barely know the guy so I can't really judge. I talk too much... Let's cut the story short.

There I was, admiring his beauty and his personality. Our conversations had drifted from university life, friends and what we do 4 fun around here, to down-right obvious flirting! I was definitely interested and available... I knew he was available too, but the question was... was he interested? I think this question was almost instantly answered when my very-hot cousin decided to pass by and join us. HAHAHAHA, i'm laughing to avoid breaking down in tears man! I was no longer the centre of attention that's 4 sure. The flirtatious comments had been re-directed to my cousin. There was no more eye-contact between us what-so-ever, and it was as though I had vanished from the scene completely.

I hate to break it to you, but I knew he wasn't interested in me but rather in my cousin! Nothing new there! And I was right. At about 11 p.m, I received a text message from him saying, "is your cousin single? If not, who's she dating?"

I was disappointed. I'm not going to deny that. In the same time, I guess I kind of expected it. In addition, I really don't blame the guy! She is down-right stunning!

So, I guess I pretty much answered my own question. I was about to ask you guys whether or not there was a chance. Whether him ignoring me, and pretending like I didn't exist anymore, was just another way of covering up the fact that he was interested. You know like, "rejection is the symbol of wantism." But I guess I know the answer to that already. Nevertheless, please do leave me some feedback on your point of views.

Peace (sniff sniff).

Ouch!!

2005-12-19T10:42:00.000Z

I remember mentioning in one of my previous posts that I got my eyebrow pierced recently. The thing is, after I got my eyebrow pierced I never really knew what I was getting myself into in terms of figuring out a way 2 clean them without taking the bar off.

When i'm in Leeds I don't really clean my eyebrows very often, and when I do I don't get them done professionally (cuz frankly i'm not prepared to pay almost 10 pounds 4 something that can be done in 2 rials back home) and instead I end up doing them myself. Whether I do a good job with them is 4 me to know and 4 u 2 find out but let's just say that my eyebrows never look alike!

Anyways, so yesterday was my 1st experience. I went to the famous Christina in Qurum and the first thing I told her was "Christina, I know you've been doing my eyebrows 4 a while now but i'm afraid u have a challenge today" and I showed her my piercing. After listening to a variety of comments I was finally told that this other "new" girl was going to do them for me. So, I thought to myself "ya why not... ma tifraq 3indi who ends up cleaning 'em as long as I get them done."

So there I was, sitting down on the specialised chair waiting 4 the thread 2 attack my oh-so-ugly-looking eyebrows! However, b4 the woman could even apply the powder on my eyebrow I decided I was going to warn her ONCE MORE not to use thread around the pierced area. Instead I told her I wanted her to use a pair of tweezers.

After being re-assured that she had heard me the 1st time the threading process finally began. Ouch here, ouch there but nothing too serious. Suddenly.... UNBEARABLE pain! The woman was threading out the hairs UNDER the lower ball of my eyebrow bar. The thread kept on wrapping itself around the metal bar and the woman kept pulling it to try and untangle it! "OOOOOOUUUUUUUCCCCCCHHHHHHHH, CAN U PLEASE STOP DOING THAT!!!!" was my response, and she just looked at me and smiled!

All I can say is that I have never experienced this much pain whilst getting my eyebrows done! My eyes were tearing like nobody's business!!!!! My eyebrow had swollen to the size of an olive! It looked worse than when I first got it pierced and trust me.... when I 1st got it pierced, it wasn't a pretty sight!!!...

So I decided, NEVER AGAIN... from now on I'M cleaning my eyebrows!

Are u open-minded?

2005-12-18T07:41:00.000Z

Before I start typing this post I must warn people that it's content might not be too appealing to a certain group of people so if you feel that this entry is going in a direction which does not interest you please feel free to stop reading!

Remember when we were all in high school and we all thought it was cool to have a boyfriend? I have to admit that I started dating guys in order to fit in! My 1st boyfriend was a MISTAKE! I only dated him cuz all my other friends had other things 2 worry about. They didn't spend alotta time with me anymore cuz they had other priorities. Their conversations had drifted from topics concerning school, family and fashion 2 guys, guys and more guys! I just HAD 2 start dating someone if I wanted 2 fit in and so I did! I grabbed the 1st opportunity that approached me and I have NEVER stopped regretting that decision cuz my 1st turned out to be a complete ass, and I ended up being slapped for realising he was!

I have to admit, Oman has changed tremendously since I left 4 uni. People have started to look @ things a bit differently and the general mentality of the society is still undergoing a MAJOR transformation. People are beginning to be less strict and more flexible with things that were once given ALOT of attention. These things include one's dress sense, one's curfew and one's reputation. I remember that when I was about 15 I wasn't allowed 2 leave the house without an 3abaya. Dating was NEVER an option in my family and I was always asked to be back home @ a certain time (preferrably b4 10.30). I have to admit that despite having a few friends with quite easy-going parents the majority of my friends had been given the same rules!

A trip to MQ a few nights ago shocked me! Thirteen-fourteen year old girls sitting in the parking lots smoking, wearing some pretty revealing clothes, surrounded by a bunch of OLDER guys @ around 11 @ night! I could not help but STARE @ the scene infront of me. I was gobbsmacked!

Sitting with a friend (who's graduatin this year) I was speechless 2 find out that the "new thing'' amongst his class and other classes was 2 lose your virginity. He spoke of it as though it was normal and OK. '' Find one girl in my class who's still a virgin and I will be very surprised," was the answer I received when I asked him how certain he was of this information! He said that girls didn't pay too much attention to their virginities (and reputations 4 that matter) anymore! '' They believe that if everyone starts doing it it'll be less frowned upon',' ''people have done it all along mimi, they just never spoke of it. The only difference is, now that they're starting to take pride in doing so.''

I didn't know what 2 say. I asked myself rhetorically how things could have reached this stage. How girls were sleeping around with God knows who in order to look cool or in order to be accepted by others!

When I say (or others say) that I/they am/are quite open-minded what exactly do I/they mean? Open-minded enough 2 bend the rules to this extent? Or enough 2 stick with what's important and just simply be a bit less strict about things like wearing a hijab, drinking, dating and so on?

What's going on?????

How did u spend Thursday night?

2005-12-16T08:29:00.000Z

I don't know if you guys are aware of this, but Elissa (the Lebanese singer) performed live in Qurum natural park this evening. The theatre was EMPTY it was almost humiliating!!!! People who had purchased tickets in the 3rd row were asked to come join others in the FIRST row so that the theatre could look a bit more accommodated! It was embarrassing... even when Elissa finally showed up, the expression on her face kinda pointed out that she too was amazed @ how little people had showed up!

The evening began with the FAMOUS Sahar 3azawwi introducing the sponsors and the band. Finally, the stunning Elissa decided to show up wearing a gorgeous pink dress with heels as long as an un-used pencil. The Omani guys went CRAAAAAAAAAAAZYYYY, I mean lets face it, her breasts were partially exposed and I don't think Omanies are used 2 seeing so much flesh being revealed by ANY woman let alone Elissa! "BU9 SHOOF ELISSA BTA3MIL EH!!!" was chanted all night and whenever she made an attempt at dancing along to the music the Omani men shouted as though they were in battle!

I personally thought it was entertaining..... not too organised but entertaining. I was surprised 2 see so little people, I mean not too long ago this very female received an award for being voted the arab world's favourite female artist!!!! Obviously no Omanies took part in the voting process!

From "3ayshalak'' to ''ajmal i7sas'' to ''kul yoam fi 3umri'' and ''irja3 lil shoa2'', Elissa BARELY kept the audience going. I must say that the concert wasn't as active and energetic as I would've liked it to be. At one point the audience were so passive that Elissa decided to sing Wael Kfoory's ''3umri killu'' and Fadhel Shaker's ''ya ghayib'', and let's just say that the crowd were MORE impressed with these 2 songs than her own songs!!!!!!! :S

I must say that I found Elissa quite arrogant! Young girls kept coming up 2 the stage offering her red roses and not only was her smile fake but she threw the roses on a nearby keyboard as though they were worthless. I personally didn't think she enjoyed performing infront of (roughly) 200 people. Do you blame her?

Generally, I don't think I would've been able to find something better to do on a Thursday night so i'm glad I decided to go. To all you Elissa fans who missed the show, all I can say is that she's as pretty on t.v as she is in real life. Oh.... don't know about the breasts though! they looked ALOT bigger in 3ayshalak's video clip.. waaay bigger!

SINGLE FEMALE LOOKING 4 HOT, TALL, DARK AND HANDSOME SINGLE GUY.

2005-12-15T01:03:00.000Z

I want a boyfriend!

" This is Lym , mimi , is currently sick in the head"!

IT BEGINS

2005-12-14T23:33:00.000Z

Remember how I was telling u guys that i've always been a daddy's girl? Well, the reason i'm pointing this out again is because it's been less than 48 hours since I arrived from Leeds and i've already managed to have a HUGE argument with my mum!!!

My mum and I never really got along for more than a week (max.)!! The problem is I knew exactly how to pull her strings and she knew exactly how 2 pull mine! We knew exactly what 2 say and do when we wanted to hurt one another! So we've always used these powers against each other!

I'd like to say that uni's changed me by making me appreciate things a bit more.. and to be perfectly honest.. yes it has.. I do appreciate things a bit more and I am grateful for everything and everyone I have in my life! In the same time, i'd like to think that i've matured and that I look at things quite differently and I handle things a bit more rationally... but who am I kidding!? I am the same unpatient, hot tempered, sensitive, dramatic and rude individual i've always been! I'm not saying i'm proud of myself but in the same time it's not something u can change over night!

It all started when I mentioned that I needed to adjust to the time difference so that I can start waking up @ around 8 every morning to revise 4 my exams! My mum decided that it would be a good idea for me 2 go to bed early but I thought it was useless cuz going to bed @ 10 p.m in Oman would be like going 2 bed @ 7p.m in Leeds.. and frankly getting some shut-eye @ seven in the evening is not something i'm used to!!! If anything when i'm in Leeds I always go to bed @ around 2 in the morning.. even if it's a week day! So techincally.. that would mean that I would be feeling tired @ 5 in the morning here in Oman!

I finally decided to do this in steps.. I would set my alarm clock @ 10 on the 1st day and I would gradually take off half an hour each day until I get used to waking up @ 8! Sounded like a good plan! And so today was the 1st day of my experiment. Sadly it was interrupted when my mum decided to barge in on me @ NINE in the morning! Lemme just add that scaring the SHIT outta me by banging the door open, switching off the A.C, pulling my blanket away from me and switching on the lights is not exactly my idea of a fresh start!!!!!

I have never been a morning person.. i'm always grumpy, moody, agressive and crancky! Waking up every morning to go to school was probably the hardest thing I ever had to go thru.. there was always some kinda drama to put me down.. a break up the night b4.. A fight.. a really bad day 4 revision.. there just had to b something!!! Luckily, there were no break ups to deal with 2day and there were certainly no fights 2 deal with cuz i'd only been here 4 a day! Revision wasn't on that list either but I still managed to get all worked up and annoyed when my mum woke me up! DO U BLAME ME??? I MEAN 9ARA7A!??? it's my second day!!!!!!! ya3ni ok u wanna wake me up gimme atleast 24 hours 2 get a good night sleep after that long-ass flight! uffff...

Anyways, so I finally decided that I was up and it would be POINTELSS 4 me to try and go back to sleep bcuz unlike other people I have NEVER been able to do that!

We have this thing in my family where, when the weather permits to do so, we always end up having our meals outside on the balcony. So, I walked out into the balcony and I sat down. I started arguing about how selfish my mum was 4 not letting me rest when it had only been a day since my arrival. Suddenly, the conversation drifted towards a variety of IRRELEVANT topics such as my friend's engagement and what I knew about it and such as why I had nail polish on when I presumably started praying! I don't know.. just stupid topics my mum uses to stir things up... and lemme just say she did a HELL of a good job! Honestly.. I just EXPLODED.... "aish da55al 9alati u hathil bint fil salfa?? ya3ni inti shufi kaif t7awleen tkabreen il salfa! itha inti kitha mishtaqa innish titdharbi ma3aya intadhri 3alal aqal yoam ziyada... ba3dain affa 3alaish... banitdharab lain ma arja3 leeds aish rayish? ya3ni inti walla t5alleen il wa7id YINDAM laish raja3 Oman!!!" She wasn't impressed... if anything.. had I not just come back from Leeds she would've probably slapped me with a comment like that!

Anyways things just got worse after that.. we ended up screaming @ one another over lunch and now we're both giving each other the SILENT-TREATMENT! YIPEEE!

Aaaaahhh... drama drama drama!! One word capable of summarising my whole life! DRAMATIC.. oh well... hopefully when my dad gets back from Dubai he'll be able to put an end to this... it's funny how both my mum n I rely on my dad to fix things! it's happened so often that it's become a routine... argument, fight, silent-treatment, nasty looks, more arguments, daddy saves the day!!!! Well, I better go hide my room key b4 my mum decides to take that away from me 2 stop me from lockin my door in the morning! I swear I feel like i'm 12 again!! This is ridiculous! How long am I going to be treated as thought I am a child?? peace!

I hate flying!

2005-12-11T04:10:00.000Z

You know how I mentioned that i'd be in Oman by Sunday morning? YA! not anymore! My flight was cancelled this morning and instead I was told to catch the next flight to Amsterdam which departs @ 10 a.m TOMORROW! This is ridiculous man! The first time this happened to me it was by the same airline and they f****d me over NICELY making me miss 2 other connections! Atleast this time the reason was a bit more acceptable.. the weather was APPARENTLY really bad in Amsterdam! BULLSHIT! other KLM flights from Amsterdam sure made it RIGHT ON TIME! aaaah! Anyways.. as 4 the 1st incident with KLM, the flight was delayed for FOUR hours cuz they found.. listen to this... a TROPICAL CENTIPEDE on board! WHAT???????????? no more KLM 4 me.. never again!

OMAN HERE I COME!

2005-12-10T05:34:00.000Z

The day has finally arrived.. I leave tomorrow morning.. will be there by Sunday morning.. can't wait to c everyone!

Haunted by good memories!

2005-12-09T04:29:00.000Z

I thought of you again last night and I have NO idea why!
All I usually remember are the endless fights & arguments we had..
It was different this time!
The love shack, school, lessons @ my place, school exams, thanawiya... the good memories only.
I know i'm over you and that we've BOTH moved on....
But why do I keep thinking of you whenever I feel lonely and unwanted?
It's not like it was perfect.. it was FAR from it!
And you've changed tremendously... so have I.
I know I don't want it back but why does it keep haunting me?
Do I still love you?
I doubt it...
You and I are in the past and my feelings 4 u died along with our relationship.
I know you don't think of me and I don't care cuz I wouldn't normally think of u!
Doesn't mean I can help it!
Maybe it's because i've been single 4 a while,
Maybe i'm pms-ing!
Whatever it is...... it's confusing.

IMPORTANT NOTICE.

2005-12-08T08:44:00.000Z

Won't be updating for a while.. exams... gotta study.. already failed two! Not going too well!

Do blondes like really like have more fun?

2005-12-01T08:55:00.000Z

The reason I chose this title is because I wouldn't consider myself a BLONDE per se but my hair's quite light @ this point and I was thinking of dying it back to it's natural colour (if not darker). To be specific I was thinking something like BLACK. Now the reason i'm not on the phone making an appointment with the salon right now is because I really don't know whether or not it'll suit me!!!

You see, before I even started dying my hair, I was never allowed 2 do ANYTHING to it. It was always really short, which made it look really boring and lifeless. All this cuz my mum believed that cutting my hair real short would help make it look healthier and thicker in the future! And to tell you the truth I think it worked.. well.. until I decided to follow a realllllly strict diet and lose most of it!

After I turned 15 I was FINALLY allowed 2 cut my hair the way I wanted and I was allowed 2 change its colour using NATURAL products i.e. henna. So for about 2-3 years I had the whole tint-of-red look! It was ok and if anything I really liked it but then henna kept drying up my hair so I decided to quit the natural stuff and go 4 the artificial stuff instead. So by the age of 17 I had my first high-lights done. It was ugly! haha.. it was an experiment really and it just went completely WRONG!

After coming to Leeds I decided it was time to give my hair the treatment it always deserved by paying Toni & Guy a visit. At first I decided to go for the old-fashioned consultation to see what the stylist thought would look nice on me and what the new THING was.

From a red head I quickly became a BLONDE. Word of advice, although colours may look nice when you see them in catalogues they look COMPLETELY different when applied to your hair! So, I decided to go 4 caramel and let's just say that the colour I have on right now is ANYTHING but caramel.... it's BLONDE! haha well... like I said.. it's not PROPER blonde as in Jessica Simspon blonde but it's like subtle blonde! :S

Anyways, when I look @ old photos I kinda like the idea that I no longer have the typical dark brown hair everyone seems to have back home. If anything, I kinda like this colour BUT it's fading away now that my hair's growing and it's gotten to a stage where both my complexion and hair colour look the same! It's making me look sick and pale! Hence the sudden urge to change my hair colour!

My mum thinks i'm turning gothic! Well, I don't blame her.. the nose, eyebrow, tongue and 6-ear piercings I have don't exactly help! But i'm not gothic I promise! Dying my hair black would CONFIRM that I am infact turning gothic and I really don't want my mum giving me CONTINUOUS lectures about GOD and ISLAM and so on cuz i'm 100% muslim no doubt about it!

ANYWAYS, for those who know me and know what I look like... HELP! Should I dye my hair or not?? For those who DON'T, what do u think in terms of facing my parents once i'm back home... which by the way is in exactly 12 days????? :s

EXAMS!

2005-11-30T07:43:00.000Z

I don't see the point of having exams! If exams are meant to TEST our abilities then i'm sure there are other ways... aren't CONTINUOUS assignments and presentations and practical write-ups good enough? I mean I can barely go back home and LOOK @ a file or book after I come back from uni and they expect me to go back home and revise EVERYTHING i've taken so far PLUS do some additional reading??

Another thing I really hate about uni is this whole x'mas VACATION! 1st of all my idea of a vacation is definitely not spending time in the library revising for exams.. that my friends is what I call a study-leave and even then I doubt the library is where you'll find me.. And that's the thing, I am looking forward to the x'mas holidays but in the same time when I think of all the revising i'm going to have to do and all the time i'm going to have to waste by reading useless scietific crap I kinda just wish exams were never invented!

Well, anyways... I've decided that I write and talk too much. That's something I shall have to remedy! 7amas.. I stole that line from brave heart.. haha.. great movie!

Is beauty REALLY in the eye of the beholder?

2005-11-29T05:20:00.000Z

I was talking to a friend of mine the other day and I asked him a question which I must admit was more rhetorical rather than being one demanding a huge explanation. You see, when I first came here and I made friends with a bunch of arabs who also study at the University of Leeds, I was a bit intimidated by them when they all thought it was almost IMPOSSIBLE to believe that I was Omani.

At first, I thought... oh well... I've heard that one b4. Alot of people think i'm Indian cuz my looks don't exactly prove i'm not, but apparently it wasn't that! You'd be surprised at the amount of times i've been told that I could not possibly be Omani.. I mean I found it a bit weird but in the same time I really didn't know what 2 make of it. I mean it's not everyday that you introduce yourself as an Omani and get a response as weird as : "This is the first time i've ever seen an Omani girl like you!!!!!!"

So, at one point I thought to myself, OK this has to stop! I have to get to the bottom of this! I didn't know what they meant and I certainly didn't know what to say in return! Thank you would've been inappropriate bcuz for all I know they could've easily meant it as an insult. So, I decided that I wouldn't say anything at all! And i'm glad I decided to keep quiet cuz apparently.. ladies.... prepare yourselves... I found out that Omani girls are known to be the UGLIEST women amongst other women from the gulf!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When my friend (who by the way is from Kuwait) told me this I was SPEECHLESS! The thing is.. he didn't make it easier on me. He told me that "men state the obvious!" That is that Omani girls are HIDEOUS compared to Kuwaiti and Bahraini and etc girls!

First of all, let me just say one thing about these so called "BEAUTIFUL" Kuwaiti girls (and I really don't mean to generalise here), but to some of you girls, when you go back home and take those MASKS off your faces do you really look as pretty as you do when you have that make-up on? To tell you the truth I feel that if I were to slide my finger down a Kuwaiti girls face i'd probably leave a trail of my finger behind, as I would if I were to slide my fingers down a REALLY DUSTY window!

I've seen GORGEOUS Omani girls! And i'm not saying this because i'm Omani or anything like that but it's a shame cuz people do generalise in the end! I felt greatly insulted when my so called "friend" said this to me. Not because I expected him to say something like "but you're an exception" or anything of the sort but because even if he HAD mentioned that I was an exception he'd still be insulting all my friends and family members! And that is just.... unacceptable and totally unnecessary!

This brings me to the real topic I wanted 2 cover in this entry. How much do physical appearances account for in a person? How important are they? How reliable can they be? And for you HONEST people out there do you REALLY go 4 personalities b4 looks?

As an honest girl :P I have to say that as shallow as this may sound I can not date someone I don't find attractive. A physical attraction is VITAL in any relationship. Without it, the relationship between any two individuals can not evolve! I mean let's face it. If I had to go back home to a person I wasn't physically attracted to i'm sorry but I wouldn't be going home @ all! I'd probably end up going to my attractive neighbour's house instead! hahaha.. No honestly.. I believe that looks MUST come b4 personalities because AGAIN let's face it, the first thing you notice about someone is his/her face and body! You can't look @ someone and immediately go "ooh I can tell he's a good listener" or "ooh he looks like he has a good sense of humour, better charm him with my wits!" hahaha.. I mean it would be alot easier if humans were capable of having some sort of 6th sense enabling them to determine someone's personality by simply passing a quick glance @ them! haha.. I swear that would make life so much easier on us. Atleast you wouldn't have to date a guy in order to CONFIRM that he's a b*****d! OK i'm not gonna be sexist here.. so i'm gonna have to mention this as well... Atleast you wouldn't have to date a girl in order to CONFIRM she's a b***h! :s I feel bad just typing it!

Anyways, next we come to another serious topic common in the Middle East (and probably around the world but let's not go there.. I'm from the Middle East and therefore I can state factual information without having to ensure it's accuracy... cuz it's accurate alright!)

So, this topic relates to confidence and security. As a fairly insecure woman who has some fairly insecure friends I must say that I believe that our society CREATES this insecurity, and if CREATES is not the correct term to use then I believe the word ENCOURAGES is more precise! For example, people around here (as in the UK) or Europe or whereever don't really CARE about other peoples' looks! I mean, they wouldn't give you nasty glances if you're carrying the OLD louis vitton purse and not the LATEST one.. they wouldn't talk about u behind your back, out of jealousy, just because you happen to have an eyebrow piercing or you've decided to dye your hair pink this time.. they wouldn't dislike you because you're more elegant or fashionable than they are and they certainly wouldn't inform you that you've put on weight in an inappropriate and embarassing manner or make fun of you when they happen to have bigger breasts than you do! Now lemme get one thing straight... these are all EXAMPLES... I've COMPLETELY made them up... none of them have actually happened to ME! hahahahahaha... honestly...

Well basically what I mean to say is this, people wouldn't be so concerned about their physical appearance and so insecure about themselves if circumstances didn't force them to be! I mean I know for a fact that the one thing I dread the most about going back home is having to listen to a COUNTLESS amount of people tell me that i've gained weight! OK so I gained weight!... if i'm fine with it and if I like my new figure then 6uz feekum! And if I still haven't lost my touch around men then once again 6uz feekum! :p HAHAHA... shit it felt good just saying that... this obviously shows how sarcastic I was when I made that last comment! But obviously, if I didn't expect people to point of all my faults to me and others around me @ our first encounter I wouldn't be so insecure about myself!

So in conclusion this is what I have to say. Ladies (and gentlemen) as long as your happy with what you see when you look @ yourself in the mirror then SCREW what people have to say about u! walla... if I had a penny 4 everytime someone's told me that i'd gained weight i'd be F*****G rich by now! So if I were you i'd cut the crap and admit that I like my new figure and that I certainly love my new hair colour! As for that louis vitton purse, if I were you i'd thank god I had one full stop!!!! fee nas ba3adhum yista3milu those "no fear" wallets tara.... hahahahaha... LA LA WALLA I'M NOT INDIRECTLY SAYING IT'S ME!

So, I mean as much as I hate to admit this... I guess looks aren't everything! I don't know.. I mean... they are... BUT.... I don't know.. haha.. I guess you're just gonna have to tell me what YOU think cuz I think i've contradicted myself too many times throughout this entry!

confessions of a daily life!

2005-11-27T04:15:00.000Z

My dad decided to come up to Leeds for a short visit. He insisted that he had not yet seen my flat, my university and my friends, when my mum had seen it all, as she accompanied me to Leeds at the start of my university career to help me settle down. He said he felt a bit jealous and so I spent last weekend with him in London and I spent Friday and Saturday morning with him here in Leeds. It was great. I had loads of fun I guess...... well, despite spending the whole of Friday practically SCRUBBING the kitchen floor with one of my old pyjamas and despite having to hide all the "EVIDENCE" and by that I mean ash trays, cigarettes, cigarette packs and ash which had distributed itself ALL OVER the kitchen floor and tables, I did sort of have fun while it lasted.

My dad and I rarely spend time together in Oman so I guess i'm grateful we had a chance to catch up on things here in Leeds. We spoke about Brisbane, I explained how much I wanted 2 b there and how badly I hated both my course and Leeds. Didn't really do me any good cuz he made it quite clear that he was willing to financially support me if I really wanted 2 do architecture, and not have to depend on the ministry's approval, as I am currently sponsored by them... however, it wasn't that simple.. sacrifices had to be made once more! I had to completely get Australia outta my system and consider staying in the U.K as my ONLY option! So, I turned it down...

I've always been a daddy's girl. I've always felt a bit closer to my dad than I did with my mum but I can't say I prefer one more than the other. I love them both equally. My relationship with my dad wasn't always this way. I believe that @ one point, my dad and I were practically inseparable! Things have changed though. Maybe it's because i've finally grown up and i've realised that I can not depend on my dad all the time and it's time for me to start depending on myself. Or maybe it's because of the tough times my dad's faced throughout these past couple of years.

I must admit that the first changes I observed in my dad were those I noticed almost as soon as he was released from prison. I mean, it's inevitable really. Obviously I expected that my dad would look @ things in a different perspective after having 2 face such a difficult and life-altering experience. Never did I think that he'd change around his family too. I mean I don't mean to sound harsh when I say this but my dad has definitely grown a bit distant from us.... from me 2 b exact. Like for example, when you speak 2 him it seems like he has no interest in what you're saying or what you're about to say. When you say something funny it's like he TRIES 2 fake a laugh when in reality he wasn't even paying attention 2 the joke! When you ask him a question you have to repeat it atleast twice in order to get a response... I know this might sound HIGHLY self-centered but I really don't mean to make it sound like this is about ME! I'm concerned about him. I really am. It hurts you know. It hurts when you're sitting there having a nice dinner with him, expressing your views or having a normal conversation when all he's doing is sitting there, BARELY keeping eye-contact, thinking of God knows what! The countless problems he has to deal with once he gets back home? The obtacles still to come? His role as a father and how well he can portray that good fatherly-image around his family? I know there's alot to deal with and I know he's CONSTANTLY under pressure and stress. For this reason, I fear the worst!

My two greatest fears in life are death and bankruptcy. I guess I was never aware of how much momey my dad had to spend on us in order to send us 2 the BEST schools with the FINEST education and evetually send us off 2 the TOP universities around the world. When I think of it now, all that useless junk I used 2 buy everyday and all that precious money I threw away, I feel disgusted. I practically HATE myself for it. It's like, now that I get to experience a little part of what my dad's going through, by having to pay my accommodation fees and my water and electricity and etc bills, and now that I have to make sure I save enough money 2 spend on myself, it's like i've FINALLY realised how difficult it is 2 save money and not throw it away on useless stuff!

I know people say that money comes and goes but I can't help but feel responsible for what my dad's going through right now. All that hard work and all that suffering, it's like i'm responsible 4 it. It's like i'm a burden on his shoulders. Whenever he's around all I do is complain. If not complain.. all I do is ask 4 more! I AM grateful 4 everything... I've always been! But this is exactly why I am placing my parents' wishes as my 1st priority in terms of my academic career.

If I had one wish it would be this, for me to complete my studies in Brisbane without having to upset my parents by disobeying them. Receiving this scholarsip was like a dream come true 4 me. Not only did it eliminate the burden of having to pay 4 my education on top of my brothers' and sister's, but it also meant I would be able to guarantee myself a well-paid and deserved job when I finally graduate. Putting my personal comfort on top of what's best for me and on top of my parent's key 2 happiness is something I am just not capable of doing. Not after everything i've put them through! No... I just can't. I'm not gonna lie.. I despise Leeds and I absolutely HATE what i'm sudying @ the moment, but as long as it's keeping my parents happy and as long as it's increasing the chances of giving my brother a chance to study abroad as well, I think i'm gonna have to live with it. In this case, what I want can not POSSIBLY be my 1st prority. I can not afford to keep trying to convince the ministry 2 send me to Brisbane instead, and I can not afford to jeopardize my scholarship.

Verbose.. I know I said i'd keep trying but I have 2 admit I don't consider this a failure and I don't think I can say i've finally given up. I know this is not what I want but I can't help it. The ministry have refused this request three times so far. One more and not only will I be broken hearted but I will also be back home with no sponsorship! I can't do it. Not now. I am not being pessimistic but rather realistic. I don't wanna make a decision based on friends and where i'm going to feel more comfortable. I want it to be a rational decision with a good cause and I believe this one is!

To all you guys in Brisbane, I know I said i'd be there with you shortly but i'm afraid that's gonna have to wait!

I am not going to be the cause of pain and stress in my parent's lifes. I will not disobey them and I most certainly will not be the person responsible for erasing that smile off my mum's face by telling her that I no longer have a scholarship and that I no longer want to study in the U.K. and that I expect them 2 send me 2 Brisbane on their expense!

Whatever happens from now on is my responsibility. If I am infact making the wrong decision than I would rather make this mistake myself, suffer the consequences and avoid repeating it. However, I will not ASSUME that it is a WRONG decision by rushing into things and leaving all this behind due to my personal reasons!

I just hope that God will support me and that both my family and friends will too.

She who they call ZANZI!

2005-11-26T06:30:00.000Z

Five words that I can think of that perfectly describe you would have to be: daring, intelligent, mature, persuasive and strong-willed. You have an opinion for almost every topic you come across, and the way you express yourself or explain and justify your opinions is something you're very good at. You've been there for me through the toughest times. You helped get thru thanawiya, high school in general and you've helped me solve some of my continuous problems in a mature and rational manner.

I knew i'd like from the first day I met you. You were probably the ONLY girl in the class who wasn't looking @ me as though I were a fresh piece of meat and they were all hungry hyenas! haha.. Honestly though you were just so welcoming and friendly and kind enough to show me around that I never doubted us getting along and reaching the stage we're at today!

I love the fact that you are into this whole women's rights thing! honestly man, the way you defend our rights is amazing.. I guess that's the one thing you could be as vicious as a hyena in! haha.. no but really you have such strong views on this topic and many other topics and I think that's fascinating! keep it up man.. girl power! hahaa... that was gay!

I just wanna add one more thing. Don't you EVER doubt yourself lym. Honestly, I am not going to tolerate you asking me questions like "am I pretty or am I fat?" cuz you and I both know that you are GORGEOUS and you and I both know that you are ANYTHING BUT FAT! so WAKE up and smell and hummus!! ufff.. athiyya! :D

Finally, I just wanna point out that I too consider you one of my closest friends. Everything we've ever been thru is practically engraved in my mind and so are you. I am never going to neglect you and this I promise you!! I love you sooooo much and if you EVER need anyone to be bitch-slapped... you know who 2 call! ;)

I love you... xxx

The exorcism of Emily Rose.

2005-11-25T10:35:00.000Z

I've been looking forward to watching this movie for over 2 weeks now and I have FINALLY watched it. An interesting movie I must say. Not as scary as "The exorcist" but then again I don't think anything is! It's actually based on a true story which makes things a bit more difficult to believe. We as muslims obviously believe in demons and their abilities to possess our bodies and appear in different shapes. We also believe that certain animals can SEE demons when we can't unless they've evolved into another shape. What we DON'T agree with however is the fact that Jesus is not the SON of god but merely a profit SPREADING God's message. So, to me the movie wasn't too realistic. It related possession with certain aspects of Jesus Christ's crucifixion and it related the time @ which demons usually encounter our world to a time that is believed to be that of Jesus' crucifixion as well!

Generally, I thought it was quite powerful. I mean certain parts of the movie did kind of leave you sitting there asking yourself some odd questions. What are demons? Where do they come from? What are their intentions?! You know... questions you wouldn't NORMALLY ask yourself! I think! :S

To tell you the truth, the only question running through my mind DURING the movie and now that it's finally over is, "HOW THE HELL AM I GOING TO SLEEP TONIGHT???!?!" It took me AGES to finally eliminate the vision of that poor girl in "The exorcist" from my mind and I really don't want to have to spend the next few months trying to stop myself from IMAGINING that the possessed Emily Rose is sleeping right next to me!!!! gulp! .....................

e-bay.. addictive or just purely helpful?!

2005-11-24T10:00:00.000Z

Well, how eventful was my day!!! I woke up on time, got ready for uni but ended up skipping! Nothing unusual there. I think I spend more time @ home then I do @ uni. It's become more of a routine really. I did figure out the cause of this habit, which can be a good thing cuz this means I can finally put an end to it. You see, whenever I get ready for uni I always make myself a cup of coffee to go with my usual morning cigarette, and I realised that if I take my cup of coffee into my room and I end up drinking it there and smoking there as well I ALWAYS attend uni.

However, if I decide to drink my coffee and smoke in the living room infront of the T.V (even if there's nothing interesting on) I always end up skipping! so from now on, it looks like i'm having my coffee in my room! But then again I don't really enjoy having a cigarette in my room. It's small and always reallllly warm cuz the heaters been on all night so it gets kinda claustrophobic. I wonder what's more important.. enjoying my morning cigarette with a nice hot cup of coffee b4 leaving the flat and facing that dreadful British weather or attending uni!? Hmmm.. a mystery I will never solve. For you non-smokers the answer seems quite simple but believe me it's not as simple when you are a smoker!

After skipping uni I decided to visit one of the most INCREDIBLE inventions ever created in the history of technology... no not the internet... a bit more specific.... it's none other than the famous e-bay!

I was introduced to e-bay a few weeks back. I mean I had obviously heard of it but I just hadn't had the chance to visit the site and explore its wonders! All I can say is that after spending almost 200 pounds on the most ludicrous items, I wish I was still an e-bay virgin! I mean some of the stuff I bought is AMAZING.. haha.. where else can you find a cherry seed on sale 4 almost a million dollars? amazing! and it was actually sold you know! ya.. some MORON thought it was like a lucky cherry seed or something! what a load of crap! haha.. another interseting item I came across was a jar, I mean a normal empty jam-jar, that contained the breath of both Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie DONATED @ the premiere of Mr. and Mrs. Smith!!!!! Hahaha.. can you believe that?!

So the main question still remains.... is e-bay helpful or is it as addictive as heroine?! Cuz i'm telling you, I know one thing for sure and that is that I am addicted to it. I mean the way I think of it is that it can be a bit of both. I mean depending on what you're looking for, e-bay is by far the easiest and the most efficient way of finding some of the world's most UNIQUE items.

So, am I going to have to add another new year's resolution to my current list? Am I going to have to quit smoking as well as shopping on e-bay? or am I going to need to put an end to shopping on e-bay alone.. hahahaha... as you can see I am not too keen on the first one! No honestly. Am I going to have to quit e-bay before it's too late? What do you think?

Another day, a new lesson learnt.

2005-11-23T22:12:00.000Z

I was talking to a good friend of mine last night and she asked me to dedicate a whole blog to her by explaining in FULL detail why I loved her so much! So, i'm going to keep my promise and i'm going to dedicate this entry to her... you know who you are ;)

Sometimes I get the feeling that I don't really show the people I love how much I appreciate them and how truly honoured I am to have them in my life. I try to express my feelings towards them every now and then but I guess that words alone can not prove much without actions. If circumstances were a bit better i.e. we happen to be studying in the same country, things would be alot easier. But believe me when I tell you this, as incredibly fantastic as university life can be, it can also be time consuming and hectic. It's not that I don't think of my friends back home.. I do.. infact, I can almost say that they are all CONSTANTLY on my mind, especially @ this stage, as we are now approaching our x'mas holidays. It's not like I don't try to keep intouch, I do, but it's just that i've had sooooo much to deal with over the past couple of weeks I can't begin to tell you how busy i've been. I know you don't enjoy listening to excuses. I don't think anyone does, but @ this point in life all I can do is explain myself and show you that I still care. How can I not? after all those exciting and adventurous days we had in high school and all that drama we both experienced? You once said to me that whenever you think of me you can not help but smile. Believe you me, when I think of you my face lights up. No pain or sorrow can interferre with the happiness I feel when I think of everything we've been through. Ups or down the thought of you always manages to put a smile on my face.

You know very well that I have always considered you to be one of my closest friends, and as much as I disliked your continuous attempts at correcting my grammar, I must say I think it has had a HUGE impact on my ability to speak english today! :) It's like whenever I am having a conversation with one of my friends, teachers or any random person, I can not help but picture you standing next to me EXAMINING every word I say.. hahaha well not literally but I do tend to pay more attention to what I say before saying it! I guess for that I must thank you. xxx
You have always been that mature, intelligent and helpful role model to me. I mean i'm sure you've noticed it yourself... Does this ring any bells: "I wanna walk like you, talk like you, oo oo" ;) haha

You know more than anyone in the world how difficult it was for me to say goodbye to you when we all had to go our separate ways. I still try to picture how things would've turned out if we'd all gone to Brisbane like we said we would @ one point in high school. In the same time, I guess I am glad that you're having a BLAST in Montreal and I wouldn't wish for anything more than your happiness :)

You have taught me soooooooo much in life I can not begin to tell you how grateful I am for everything you've ever done for me or said to me for that matter. The impact you have had on my life has been tremendous. I have changed so much and I can proudly say that I owe it all to you. You have helped me deal with things in a mature way. You have helped me see things in a different perspective. You have helped look @ people in a different light. You've made me appreciate friends, family and life in general. But most importantly you have made me appreciate myself and my abilities by helping me sort out my insecurity.

I think I can proudly say that with your wise words you have helped not only helped me but ALOT of people too. You know I can go on forever.. let me just add that I am skipping uni because I think this is more important..... hahaha not really.. I'm skipping uni because I can't be bothered to walk up that HUGE SLOPE for one stupid lecture! I guess that's one thing you never got to shed some light on. You and I both know that when it came to attending classes we'd both end up attending out normal smoking sessions in the #*$ toilets! hahaha.. daaamn I loved high school. It was just sooo eventful. If I had the chance to go back in time and make some adjustments to my life in high school I don't think I would change ANYTHING! Do you know why? let me quote something a wise person once told me:
When asked if I regret anything in life I answered that I had soooo many regrets they were almost countless. This wise person replied, " you should NEVER regret anything you've ever done in the past because it is precisely these things that have helped create who you are today, and you should ALWAYS be proud of who you are!"

Does it sound familiar? It should because this is ONE of the many things you've told me in the past. I remember it like it was yesterday :) where we were sat, what we were having, what we were talking about, who we were with. You really don't understand how much I love you. I can not thank you enough for EVERYTHING.

I would like to end this entry by saying that frankie CAN NOT go on WITH junoir.... hahahahahahahaahahaha... you know exactly what I mean :) I love you. xxxx

introduction.

2005-11-23T06:33:00.000Z

Wow... alotta events taking place in my life @ this point. I am now 19, no longer a blog-virgin and I am ALMOST done with my first semester! Thank God 4 that!

I have another 3 weeks 2 go until I finally make my way back home.. I'm really looking 4ward to it. Re-uniting with friends, sharing our experiences; who we met, who we took back home ;) who we didn't! haha.. honestly though.. I really am looking 4ward 2 it.. I can barely wait.

Well.. my blog's name kinda indicates that if you actually take the time 2 read it you will come to know alot of my deepest and darkest secrets. As much as this might sound stupid, I actually do have a few confessions 2 make.

First, for all of you who know this person, I have FINALLY come to terms with an enemy (@ one point atleast)! hehe I know... unbelievable right? No but honestly I have. I realised that high school was in the past and @ times like these, the LAST thing I wanna do is hold grudges against people due to my UNFORTUNATE habit of judging them! And you know what? If i'd known that this person was this funny, kind, friendly and fun to be with I would've done this AGES ago. But hey.. that's why people say it's never too late.. it just isn't!

It was my baby's b'day yesterday.. I really miss her man.. I just hope we can ALL go back home during the x'mas holidays even if 4 a short period of time. I just hope I can celebrate my birthday once I go home cuz I sure as hell didn't celebrate it on the actual day! it was SHIT.. honestly it was DEPRESSING! So i'm hoping i'm gonna make up 4 it (big time) when I go home!
hahaha.. a funny incident took place over the weekend. I was supposed 2 go down 2 London 2 meet my dad, and as excited and thrilled as I was, the truth was that I was more concerned about my new and unexposed EYEBROW piercing. So, I finally decided that straightening my hair b4 heading to London would b a good idea especially bcuz when straightened, my fringe fully covers the piercing making it almost IMPOSSIBLE 2 spot. So there I was, walking towards my dad with arms spread as wide as possible ready 4 a good cuddle, when suddenly a breeze of cold air blew my fringe away from my face... there it was... exposed 2 society like a new-born baby who's just been introduced to life, and it was an instant decision really.. "SHIT, PLAN B.. daaaaaaaaad i'm realllllly sorry but I pierced my eyebrow!" :S hahaha wasn't too bad actually.. didn't even get a lecture!

Otherwise, London was GREAT.. I truly enjoyed it.

More secrets 2 be revealed in my next entry... keep reading! ;) xxxx