Redzky

Long Weekend!

2009-10-24T21:54:00.000-07:00

It's 0455am on a Saturday morning. I think I woke up at around 2 in the morning and my eyes opened wide thinking of the dream I just had. I dreamt of the Sultan and Pehin Yasmin and we were all in Indonesia for an official visit. I guessed I was the LO coz I was not in uniform. The ending part was funny as I was running toward the flying ship and I managed to get hold onto it. Then there was something about these 2x bulky expensive pens that I needed to return to the Sultan. Unfortunately I did not manage to see them until I woke up.

Yeah we are having a VERY long weekend off from work from Friday till Tuesday. Yes I am excited and yet I have no planned. Well theres lots of things to do I hope I could manage to get most of the things I listed done by Wednesday. My flute and my new flute book is just lying around for few days to be practised and sorted. Yesterday I spent the whole day doing trial and error for my Ghost make up for the Halloween social next week. I just had my sculpture half way done right after I woke up from my dream.

Finally I bought my oven last Friday with Intan. It cost me around 75 pound. When I first tried it yesterday, I burnt the body of the sculpture. I guessed Intan recommendation to set it on a baking setting is not correct after all. I carefully set it at 110 degrees for 3 minutes then tried again further. Yeah I made it this time, abody with 2x full legs and of course without hands and head yet. Amazingly it was quite tiring and quite daunting sometimes to start all these from scratch. I just need some patient and motivation. As for now, I am just gonna leave it there for a while and would come back when I am ready.

Today is already Sunday morning. Tomorrow will be my Mum's birthday, 26th October. I hope her birthday card would arrive on time tomorrow and I hope she loves her surprised gift. I am not even telling anyone about this, special gift from her speacial son. hehe.

While scrolling on BB article yesterday, I read an article about Lily Chiam music. I got excited and congratulated her on her facebook. Speaking of the devil, found her on FB and we chatted for a while. ''Where can I go' translated in Malay - Mana Ku Pergi', composed and pianist Lily and sung by Zul F. I requested Lily to purchase her Piano score on this song and she said it would only be ready by middle November. 'Where can I go' originally from Lily is one of my favourite music she composed when I first bought it last year when I first met her on her shop in Expression. I used to listen this music when I first arrived in England and used this as my background music for my YOGI breathing technique for my Cornet. And I just purchased 'Mana Ku Pergi' song from Amazon and I am listening to this song over and over again. A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I love the malay version too, very soothing and relaxing. Lyrically meaningfull. Wow!

Today has to be very productive and I need to go out for fresh air. I must do my laundry today and hopefully everything would be ready by lunch time. At one point I must go tho the Gym and run the trademill for atleast an hours, training for my cross country I just joined last week. Extra activity for me. I wish I could swim today too bad their opening time is limited so not a great idea.

Last Thursday, I attended a Trafalgar Dinner nite in The Wardroom dining hall. I was not suppesed to be there as the seats were already full. I was quite disappointed not being able to attend the dinner. However I got the seat on the last minute when the Hall Porter told me there 1x person pulled it out and I had 1 hour to get my mess kit ready. Initially the Hall Porter stopped me because my parcel from my Sculpture tools had arrived. I was luck then and I guessed this dinner was meant for me. Luckily my mess kit was immaculate and by half 7pm, I was at the bar with other guests. Dinner went very smooth that night except for the guest seated infront of me had to use the 'heads' (toilet) during dinner. Ouch.. he ended up paying a bottle of Port and also embarrasement. lol. After dinner we all went to the bar again and we towards the end we had a naval tradition game where everyone was holding tight to each other in circle and not to touch the object around them. There were around 20's Liuetenants around including me playing the game. I remembered I used to play this game in Dartmouth. When the game started, everyone tried to avoid the object and get hold to each other and slowly the circle got smaller and I was there still. I just couldn't believe when theres only me and 1x Leftenant would be against each other. He was big and tall and he could dragged me before we even started. Bully man! So he tried to land me on the object and I was flying in the air and managed to get away and land somewhere safe and he hit himself on the object and I WON! I couldnt believe I WON! Everyone cheered and all the senior officers and all the staffs watched and cheered for my victory. Wow!

Its quarter to 5am now. I guessed time for shower and Solat Subuh. Thanks to Allah the Almighty for giving me all the rahmat, happiness and rezeki. I believed you made this all happened. Have a great Sunday to all!

Piano exam around the corner

2009-06-15T10:12:00.000-07:00

It's Monday today and I realised the last time I did my blog was on my birthday. hmm Anyhow I am trying my best to update as much as possible.

I did my 3rd 3 miles run today with otheres and it seemed like I have improved on my running where I cut down 1 minute. I did 21 minutes and 27 sec today. Great effort and I hope I could improve it sooner.

I have 1 week before my ABRSM Piano exam and thank god my last piece 'Wonderful Tonight' is coming along but what worries me now is the sight reading. My bass cless is rubbish and I need a miracle to get it right asap.

I did good on my Cornet today. Proff Yates was quite happy with my breathing technique and also my piece he gave me earlier. He gave me the last scales I need to memorise before summer leave. Hmm I just can't believe I have done 3 sharps and 3 flats in a very short time. Afterall l need to keep them flowing naturally before my exam.

I guess that's it for now. Weather has been very good lately. Sun is out every day now. Yahoo..

My Birthday Doughnuts

2009-05-13T22:49:00.000-07:00

2009-04-20T02:44:00.000-07:00

2009-04-19T15:51:00.000-07:00

Holiday Villa, Bayswater, LONDON

2009-04-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

Haaaaa..... It's been a while aku inda mengupdate my blogspot... hehe asyik udah wahh.. Masa ni aku cuti di London,, seminggu udah ku stay di Hotel Holiday Inn Villa di Bayswater. Macam terasa lama jua aku cuti Easter this term.

ALhamdulilah, kanyangku bakas makan Kway Tiaw goreng arah Gerai Bonda sama Teh Tarik. AKu apa lagi, xtra secial lah n xtra padas n hitam. Esuk pagi kepisan tah parut ku tu. Seminggu ani banyak udah ku melapaskan liur makan makanan melayu... syukur tecapai jua hajatku walaupun ku inda balik. Then dari Bonda, aku singgah ke Malaysian Hall minum teh tarik lagi n tarus lepak lah.....tapi sorang2 ja. Hmmmmm

Actually sanggal ku udah slama ani because all this while I have been alone wah... antah kenapa kah ya. Kena sumpahan Harimau mata satu kali makanya aku sorang2 sja. Di Portsmouth sorang ku jua, di London sorang ku jua astahhhh. So far ok lah jua tapi kesunyian ku jua lah. Tadi aku singgah di Brunei Hall kan cari kawan becakap. Actually I was looking for Kak Ros, a receptionist, she is very friendly and openminded. But she finished her shift early today so I was talking to few students down at the lobby. Lobby Brunei Hall pun banyak berubah udah, very MODERN berabis and spacious.

Sepanjang cuti ku di London, I managed to see 3 museums. Quite ngalih jua melawat few places and travelling melalui TUBE,,,, wuiiii mengalih ehhh padahal I was taking my sweet time udah tu, pandai ngalih jua. Sangal ku jua melawat sja tu, so lately,, I was just being lazy,, walking around kemana sja kakiku melangkah... hehee

SKali kan ke kadai buku ku... kadai arab... tejumpa ku buku belajar bahasa Arab... nah .....ku bali tia few editions. Siuk ehhh and now aku start udah belajar Arab at my own time.. new hobby yo selagi mampu. Balik ke Portsmouth karang,, my GERMAN language is waiting for me. SAmpat ku chatting sama FINI tadi kajap. SImple aje!!! sampat kami be webcam with ELDA, LISA and BETTY... astah macam2 sja durang atu.

Well actually I have a great news. My MUM is odw to London and she will be arriving tomorrow morning then catch another flt to Manchester. She will be staying d Manchester for 6 months... Yatah,,,, I am looking forward besok as tomorrow is also my last day aku stay at this petite hotel and I am excited kan ke Manchester esuk pagi2 buta.... after breakfast lah..... Excited ku berabis kan jumpa Mama ku yang tercinta. Rupanya aku disini ampir 9 bulan udah... inda terasa ehhh......yatah my mum now is on the plane, I just cant believe that she is coming alone... Alhamdulilah... Terima kasih Ya ALLAH kerana telah memberikan ku hadiah yang begitu berharga. Mudahan my mum sampai ke Heathrow dengan selamat Amin. Infacet my mum ke London yg ke 4 kali kah ni. and shes been to Manchester jua before this......

Awu inda terasa jua masa bejalan sepintas lalu.. ada kawanku atu kan,,, he will be turning 31 very soon.... aiii ketuahan ehhh. Baik jua ku masih 24 turning 25 soon.... I hope kawanku atu kan will achieve whatever he wants this year....and stay healthy jua. Seram eh umur semakin meningkat..

I think thats all for now. TIme to learn Arabic for 2 hrs......Nx time, I will update my blogspot in Manchester insyaalah....

EXECUTIVE DECISION

2009-03-23T14:58:00.000-07:00

Hari ani hari Isnin, biasalah hari yang paling sibuk in my week. Fortunately banyak class yg kna cancel aku apa lagi,,, syok lahh n banyak ku free so aku buat xtra rehearsal for my Piano and Cornet. Susah hatiku my other Piano repertoire alum bebunyi and esuk lagi ku ada Professor lesson. Syukur alhamdulilah, dapat jua ku memajal tadi malam after dinner.

Ngalih ku hari ni sikit pasal aku awal bangun and awal datang ke skulah 45 minutes early because i like to warm up early on Monday. Biasalah after weekend, semuanya slow. Sengaja after my school, tidur ku skajap for 1 hour to charge up my battery then I had dinner. Inda lagi nyaman tu makanannya, Moroccan Lamd because TAWAR ani wah... layan sja tia pasal aku lapar jus coz tengahari aku makan buah ja.

SO tadi malam aku practise my Piano d Skulah. Ku pajal lah belajar new piece and the second one balik2 ku main sampai lancar. Alhamdulilah bejalan jua sikit and nyaman hati ku... Mana inda ku pressure, my professor ani MR PERFECTION wah, yatah kalau ku alum membuat kerajanya, kusut tah mukanya tu. Tapi ada jua bagusnya kedia catu, capat ku belajar an progress ku berabis.

After 1 hour, sudah tah ku practise psal I tot cukup tah udah and esuk pagi subuh lagi ku datang awal sekulah and I can practise more. Parade Drill esuk pagi awal pun kna cancelled so baguslah I could practise more before my Professor class kul 1pm esuk. Then aku received msg from enche Yakub dari embassy d London.

Hmmm I dunno was it a god news of bad news. Apparently it was quite a bad news bcause it was not something that I plan for. Its about my letter staying in London for easter. Yatah just because harga ticket ke Brunei is cheaper the prefer to send me home which I prefer staying in London and not wantint to go home now. Or else I coild stay tapi they limit my hotel accomodation to 11 days instead of 18 days. Yatah paning ku memikirkan ni..... is it worth staying here in London when they cut it a week of my stay or worth going home.

I think its rather early for me to go home now. THeres nothing to show to my band right now and I am just not ready to show my self up to the band. Siuk pulang tu dapat meliat family... but i dont know because I have target and things to achive here.... I shall see and think about it and update this matter to Enche Yakub asap.

Weekends

2009-03-21T00:14:00.000-07:00

I just can't believe it's weekends again. Time must have flown really fast, very fast I could say. I was really quite busy over the weekedays with new music repertoire, scales and apreggios on my Piano. Yesterday, we were given 3x new music on Cornet for Marching band. and what's next?.......

Infact my future weeks will be a challenge? I will start learning different instruments throughout my course. The instructors suggested that I shall get acquainted to all these instruments maybe spending 2 months on each instruments getting to know the fingering, music range, scales etc. What a great challenge!!! But they let me play Piano and also an option for me to learn Cornet or otherwise.... My third instrument will be Clarinet. My Cornet is a Brass instrument and now I want to feel the Woodwind instrument. I hope I can catch very fast. We shall wait and see...

My laundry is ready I guess. Need to do ironing for my uniform, polish my 2x shoes, ordering stuff from internet etc... BTW, sian jua Limbang atu, left unmonitored. I would fight over Limbang whatever risks it might take......Have a great Weekends everyone...

Recital, Piano Exam, Sha Visit, Intan, Assignmnet..

2009-03-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, I had music recital infront of the school for the 2nd time. I was a little bit nervous and I played 2 repertoire on my Piano. That 'Banana' really helped me out reducing my nerves. Everyone seemed to enjoy the recital and there was also few recitals on the Piano and Harp.

Yesterday on Monday at 1300h, I had Piano Grade 1 ABRSM exam at St Peter's Church. I went there with Cpl Walsh and Annie who both had exam on Harp. It went smooth and i thought it was a good experience.

On Friday night, I receieved text message from Sha Woodstock. She said she was in Exeter. i got shocked and couldn't reply her coz I had run of credit. Only the next day I could call them early in the morning. I got very excited as they were going to visit me here. WHile waiting I went arount to Albert Road and bought my self a TOP HAT. Had lunch at Turkish restaurant and it was amazingly delicious, Lamb with Aubergine.

Sha eventually arrived with REza, Aliya and Salmezan and we met at GUn Whorf Quay around 3 pm. I couldn't believe they were here. Sha was also expecting her best fren named Intan, Malaysian lady married to a British man. Intan arrived and we both got excited with Sha's presence.

I brought them to the Wardroom and we had dinner. I brought them around the Wardroom. I felt very happy to have them in the Wardroom. Right after dinner, we all drove to Intan's house nearby in Portsmouth. What a lovely house and I met Derren, her friendly husband and of course met her 2 lovely daughters earlier, Alisha and Aisha.

By 10pm, Sha and family had to say good bye coz they need to drive to Exeter, 3 hours journey. It was such a brief visit and the visit to the Wardroom will be remembered for life. I will never forget them.

Well,, today I am quite knackered, exhausted..... ngalih banar... I was doing this new Piano repertoire on Grade 2. Sakit jua kepala dikit and I am going to learn new instrument very soon.... wow....Shall I start Violin? Flute?... or Saxaphone? I have got 3 days to go to finish my History assignmnet on PIANO..... Quite stressful to finish it....

MOUNTBATTEN FESTIVAL OF MUSIC at ROYAL ALBERT HALL LONDON 2009

2009-02-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

2009-02-21T14:25:00.000-08:00

2009-02-21T14:22:00.000-08:00

Portsmouth blanketed with SNOW

2009-02-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

School of Music Social Night

2009-02-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

Bertakhta Di Hati

2009-02-09T18:05:00.000-08:00

Di hempas ombak
Terdampar buih
Menanti waktu pulang ke laut
Begitu rindu
Di pisah takdir
Meniti saat bersulam cinta

(Bridge)
Lihat… lihat…
Ke dalam mataku
Sinarnya menyala
Lihat… lihat…
Ke dalam mataku
Cintamu bertakhta (dihati)

(Korus)
Sebelum ku kenal
Dirimu siapa
Aku tak kenali
Apa itu cinta
Setelah ku kenal
Dirimu sebenar
Kau cinta sejati
Ku sandarkan jiwa

Di gilis angin
Tercarik awan
Menanti detik sebelum hujan
Begitu sendu
Di guris resah
Meniti hari bersulam tangis

(Ulang bridge)

Takkan berganjak pendirianku ini
Selagi kita tak kembali bersatu
Selamanya
Takkan berubah perasaan ini terhadapmu
Biar digugat, biar dicabar, biar dihalang

(Ulang korus

Dance with My Father...

2009-02-05T20:29:00.001-08:00

Back when I was a child, before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high and dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around ‘til I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved
If I could get another chance, another walk, another dance with him
I’d play a song that would never, ever end
How I’d love, love, love
To dance with my father again
When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way, I would run from her to him
He’d make me laugh just to comfort me
Then finally make me do just what my mama said
Later that night when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me
If I could steal one final glance, one final step, one final dance with him
I’d play a song that would never, ever end
‘Cause I’d love, love, love
To dance with my father again
Sometimes I’d listen outside her door
And I’d hear how my mother cried for him
I pray for her even more than me
I pray for her even more than me
I know I’m praying for much too much
But could you send back the only man she loved
I know you don’t do it usually
But dear Lord she’s dying
To dance with my father again
Every night I fall asleep and this is all I ever dream

DAD Happy Birthday

2009-02-04T13:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my Dad.... Sorry I only sent u a Birthday Card yesterday and hopefully will arrive safely..... U r the best Dad ever..

Wednesday was individual practise from morning to afternon. I started with my 2 pieces of music on my piano till I really got them quite smoothly. Yesterday, I was really pressed by Professor Douglas on my Piano. From my Hanon, Fingering exercises was upside down and he insisted me to read the notes carefully especially those notes with sharps.. When comes to my music, the 1st one got me into headache as I only started practising in the morning. I was very hesitant and unsure but other music, Minuetto was not too bad. That's why, the whole day today, I spent alot practising my music, fingering ex and my scales before my nx Piano lesson with proff. I hope nx week would be perfect. Prof Douglas intends to upgrade me in Grade 2on my Piano...Certainly it's a good news and lots of challenges as well.

Not forgetting I was also practising my Cornet in my cells till my lips got swollen.. wahhh... I just got lots of music to cover. At lunch time, I collected my shoes from the cobler and had them polished tonight. I got all my new uniforms ready to go and I just ironed my new trousers lininig new creases which I had them altered earlier. I guess,, by next I shall change and wear my new uniform... Smart!!!

I need to sleep now. Need to wake up early in the morning to complete my homework. I am quite exhausted to do it tonight.

SNOW N SNOW

2009-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

This morning I got excited as I was ready in my sport attire to go out for 3 miles run, I got surprised when I saw snow covering the area outside.... THe snow really shocked me as we never expect to have snow falling down in Portsmouth... Got very excited and shocked at the same time.. Went backto my room and grabbed my camera.

I was wearing short with a jumper as I jogged to school with snow around me.... It was all white and good sight.. I really loved it. Everyone seemed to get excited aswell seeing the snow. We all falled in at the school waiting for PTI for briefing. THe wind started to blow quite strong as I started to freeze and had to move around restlessly. THe parade area was covered in snow and also the cars... It was quite unsusual to see white stuff covered most reas here..

PTI tinted us out because of the snow and thank god we didn't have to run today. I jogged back to the Wardroom and got online for a while. I managed to chat with Chicko and showed him the snow thru webcam.... siuk.....I don't mind snow and snow everyday... After lunch, the snow kept coming down again as I walked to school. And when we had wind band practise at the Concert Hall, I could see the snow falling down from the window....

Last weekend, I started my new music on my Piano called Minuetto from Mozart. It's quite a good classical piece and thank god I got it atlast in 2 days. When I played Minuetto today, it just getting better and better. I need to focus one more piece... I hope by toningt as I have Professor lesson tomorrow. Our Choir, Panis Angelicus sounds much better today....

I need to get change for dinner now and later, I need to go to a gym for a run... TIme to burn lots of calories...

Monday ohh Monday..

2009-01-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

It's midnight as I woke up at 10pm. I was quite exhauseted mentally today and tried to sleep and relax my mind unfortunately I woke up again. Felt better but I wish I could sleep longer...

I cant believe Monday was just over and we are already on the 2nd weeks of our school.. Gosh everything moves faster. Last Sunday, we went out to watch football match down at the Pub, Manchester United vs Chelsea. There were Beth, Emily, Throwbrige, Flob, Lambert and mostly the new troops.. Very exciting match and Man U won the game..3 0.. HOw bizzare is that when I realised Man U played at Old Trafford in Manchester and I was there 2 weeks ago.... Small world isn't it? I just wish I could watch Man U vs Liverpool on the 14th March 2009. I'm still figuring out how can I make it possible to get the ticket and to travel 5 hours journey up n down. Hmmm

Monday oh Monday... Ahh great day today and extreamly busy. I could feel like I was running from cless to another as most of our classes are our 1st class. Aural class, I started with the new troops and we had Melody Dictation... THen after break I had Piano class with Cpl Thompson where she took video cam on her teaching.. Pressure pressure.... It was not to bad coz I just did as per normal class. I filled up for my Piano Exam practical ABRSM form today cost about 30 Pound.

After lunch, we had Wind Band class at the Concert Hall.... We practised marching music and new music was given, Les Miserables... I was quite late today coz I lost my Beret from the Wardroom.. eh macam2 saja.... Yatah lintang pukang ku ulehnya.... Mentally I was tired... trying to absorb every music given today.... Half way, I had to excuse my self coz I had Cornet lesson with Professor Yates.. Hmmm kepisan ehh... dari satu ke satu.. But I was just chilling out in his room... I am quite weak on my Cornet fingering especially on an octave higher as well as the notes with sharps and flats on them....

Break time, had a cup of tea..... Balum jua abis Tea ku,, break time was over.. Astah... What is going on with the time? Then aku jumpa Band master, Martin... time d bilik rehat. katanya, "Sir, would u like to join the choir class now?".... then I said, "I was not told by Cpl Thompson about it"...... Then he said on air, "Cpl Thompson, Lt Redzky is very keen to join Choir class today..." hmmm

Walked trudgingly to the Concert Hall... hmmm what a great Monday. Everyone from new and senior troops all stood up ready.. and WO Mc Gain Harding took over and taught us on Choir.As usual, I got Base voice group and I couldn't believe Miss Brook rambutnya yg paling pendek ah,, Soprano.. very Soprano..Everyone was amazed when we had vocal assesement together and that high Soprano voice came from somewhere in the group.. Sekalinya,, Miss Brooke... Unexpected... n funny. Everyone laughed and amazed at the same time... So we had our first Choir.. PANIS ANGELICUS....astah.. lagu church jua bunyinya.....and it's all written in Latin.

At the end of the class, I just chilled out in my music cell kebeliangan....I organised my stuff yg bejurit. Seeing my Piano, I was so tempted to practise as I have always enjoyed practising Piano, but..... I was just so tired. Then after that I set ready for tomorrow, which is enjoying the cold weather doing Parade... Great n just great.... It's going to be fun... I got Proffessor Douglas Piano lesson at 2pm.. and he is expecting me to play one music piece without any mistakes...Yes I am ready....Apa lagi... aku layan ja...

TIme no is quarter to 1 am... need to memorise some Cornet fingering before I sleep again...

Tomorrow, It will like a brand new day and a new person with new vision. I will wake up early in the morning with a smile, eat little breakfast, walk happily to the school 30 minutes early so that I can warm up my lips for my Cornet Parade. I will enjoy the Parade as well as the weather and the weather will be mild and less chilly with no wind. On my Piano class, I would perform my music without mistakes infront of Proff Douglas. And the rest of the day will be an enjoyable individual practise... HOw is that? Positive indeed? It's the LAW OF ATTRACTION...SO good nite everyone and SMILE...

2nd day of school

2009-01-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

TOday 2nd day of school... And I am very exhausted dari 1st day udah. 1st day of school started on Tuesday and it's good to be back to see others. Other people grumble to be here and I was so semanagat as I believe 2009 will be a great year to excel in my music.

After school this afternoon, I was so exhausted and totally not in a mood. I met David at the wardroom and he invited me to go for New Year Music Concert at Guildhall tomorrow.. Hmmm THursday would be very busy day with Physical Training, Element Class and History class.... I accepted his invitation and I hope I would be fresh tomorrow....

Hall Porter called me saying that I got letters... I walked through my cabin while opening one of the letter. It was from Lily Chiam and I was quite shocked.... Her letter just boosted my energy up again for my music... WOw what a coincident! Lily Chiam is the greatest Brunei composer which I met last year and thank god I have found her. SHe is really inspiring. She is like and angel to my life.... WOw.. I kept on reading her letter again n again and few tips given... THanks Lily... U r a legend... Certainly I would take ur invitation to play along with u in the future...

Happy Birthday to Haliq, my sweet Brother who is now in Manchester... I wish U success and find something valuable in ur life..... I need to go to bed early today.... Kan bangun subuh ku esuk kan membaca music theoy.. betagar kali udah ... and also my Italian terms... kepisan eh... THis term I will start my melody and composing.... Takut ku ehh... My Piano practical exam is also coming maybe in March... WOw quite hactic..

Tadi I met one of the girl as school.. ind aku tau namanaya.. lovely, sweet and friendly girl.. She was menyusun lagu on the other block while others were practising at the concert hall... then I asked her why didn't she joined others.. She said she got transfered.... coz of her poor performance.... Hmmm I am just quite pressured!!! Demanding jua ahh ... Wow this school is really expecting an excellent standard... I better keep on my toes now.....Scary!!

Cpl Thompson sorted out new schedule this year for me... quite busy and I have new history class.... new Wind Band class... Really keep me busy this year.... Mudahan tah lancar semua.......As Lily Chiam advised...THE SECRET OF DISCIPLINE PRACTISE! I will remember that...and I also requested from Colour Sargeant Bean for Royal Navy uniform instead of my current uniform...SO sananglah kalau baju sampit or faded since I am here for 2 yrs.... Mudahan approved.... Lawa kali ah pakai white shirt, tie, black pants, woolie Pollie and cap.... tapi terpaksa tah mengilati kasut tu tiap hari... haha...

Thanks to Noraini Kabun for all ur help... How can I repay you... but don't worry.... I will help u next time... I am expecting a parcel..... I am excited eh.... Dalamnya Vitamins, Deodorant, Moisturiser, Mask and Scrub... Special products kali ah outside Brunie nada bejual kerana DIRIKU BEGITU BERHARGA ahahehhe... Tapi inda tau bila sampai... Thanks Noraini and your sister and you brother's gf... much appreciated....

Masa ni I'm on a diet... not really a creash diet.. just reducing my carbo intake... I dont eat very heavy breakfast now... skip my soup, skip my desert ocassionally except for today's chesse and crackers... reducing my sugar level on my tea.. from Cff I changed to tea, no more taking Hot Chocolate, 1x chocolate bar in a day during break.. haha.... YAtah,,, sampit kali ah bajuku.... sexy wah.

Bah kan tidor ku... Discipline, discipline discipline... I shall write more when I am free.. I haven't talk about my 2009 resolutions, my Xmas leave, my trip to Hull, my trip to Manchester, New Year's eve celebration.... I ope to write more over this weekend and put more photos...

Ah Beng

2009-01-07T12:04:00.000-08:00

Ah Beng : I am a Proud, coz my son is in Medical College.
Friend: Really, what is he studying.
Ah Beng: No, he is not studying, they are Studying him.
===========================================
Ah Beng : Doctor, in my dreams, I play football every night.
DR: Take this tablet, you will be ok.
Ah Beng : Can I take tomorrow, tonight is final game.
===========================================
Ah Beng : If I die, will u remarry?
Wife: No! I'll stay with my sister. But if I die will u remarry?
Ah Beng : No, I'll also stay with your sister.
=========================================
Ah Beng : People consider me as a "GOD"
Wife: How do you know??
Ah Beng : When I went to the Park today, everybody said,
Oh GOD! U have come again.
===========================================
Ah Beng complained to the police: "Sir, all items are missing,
except the TV in my house."
Police: "How the thief did not take TV?"
Ah Beng : "I was watching TV mah..."
=========================================
Ah Beng comes back 2 his car & find a note saying "Parking Fine"
He Writes a note and sticks it to a pole "Thanks for complement."
=============================================
How do you recognize Ah Beng in School?
He is the one who erases the notes from the book when the teacher erases
the board.
===============================================
Once Ah Beng was walking he had a glove on one hand and not on other.
So the man asked him why he did so. He replied that the weather forecast
announced that on one hand it would be cold and on the other hand it would
be hot.
==================================================
Ah Beng in a bar and his cellular phone rings. He picks it up and
Says "Hello, how did you know I was here?"
===================================================
Ah Beng : Why are all these people running?
Man - This is a race, the winner will get the cup
Ah Beng - If only the winner will get the cup, why others running?
===================================================
Teacher: "I killed a person" convert this sentence into future tense
Ah Beng : The future tense is "u will go to jail"
=====================================================
Ah Beng told his servant: "Go and water the plants!"
Servant: "It's already raining."
Ah Beng : "So what? Take an umbrella and go."
=====================================================
A man asked Ah Beng why Ahmad Badawi goes walking in the Evening
and not in the morning?

Ah Beng replied Ahmad Badawi is PM not AM

Portsmouth, Home Sweet Home

2009-01-04T19:17:00.000-08:00

The time now is 0317H on Monday morning. Eventually I arrived in Portsmouth. The moment the train finally stopped at Portsmouth Harbour, I felt glad and I said " I'm home". Weather was cold when I walked with my heavy luggage to my Wardroom...... Once I got to my cabin... wahhhhhh!!!! Siuk ehhh rasanya. I am really home, feeling like home. Once I opened my cabin, my bed was clean and ready and everything was secured.

Nyaman rasanya balik arah rumah sendiri walaupun bukan rumah banar... SInce I got here, I feel very comfortable and nothing compare my cabin in Portsmouth. My cabin is just so spacious and warm. Right away unsecure my stuff, logged on internet, put on Nocturne music from Chopin while I am writing my blogspot. Nice music... not forgetting, concurently makan serunding given by Kak Zurin.

I guess it's not late to say Happy New year 2009 to everyone out there coz if I'm not mistaken the last time I updated my blog was on new years eve. Wow... today is 5th January, Monday.. Time has passed very quickly and so fast. Yesterday was Nona's Birthday and I managed to greet her on sms as well as through msn.

There's so many stories to update and I'm not going to write everything tonight coz I am just tired. Sunday morning after breakfast, I had to say goodbye to Manchester and took 5 hrs train to London. Then I spent few hours pempering myself exploring London then I took a train to Portmouth approximately 1 hr and 10 minute. Not bad...SO it was quite hectic and long journey from Manchester to London to Portsmouth.

So when looking back where I started from Manchester, with my luggages, cramp in a bus, reading 2x newspapers, dragging my luggages to bayswater, missed train, waited another hour and very freezing cold.. I am now feeling grateful to be back here again in my cabin feeling so warm and very comfortable.....

I shall update more stories later when I get up...... hmmmmmmm I guessed I had a great Christmas leave and I could feel it the moment I touched here. Great ending!! Good night everyone.

2009-01-02T08:56:00.000-08:00

2009-01-01T14:01:00.000-08:00

Sight Seeing..

2008-12-31T09:18:00.000-08:00

Buckingham Palace

2008-12-31T07:36:00.000-08:00

Memorable in Paris 1998

2008-12-31T05:54:00.001-08:00

Hope you like it! This was taken in 1998 in Paris! (kebangahan ku)...hahahah
Now 2009, berapa tahun sudah kan tu? Still fresh in my mind..

NEW YEAR'S EVE

2008-12-30T21:17:00.000-08:00

Aku tebangun subuh kul 2am on New Year's eve. Rupanya baru pukul2 pagi... Adakah aku cukup tidor or been thinking while sleeping? Then I texted Nabilah, mi sister to buy some vitamins for me sal I will be checking out from my hotel right after new year. I tot, aku kan bekirim arah any crew kemari. Very urgent matter lah. Skali rupanya nabilah ani ke Temburong... Hmmm Khanshel! I guess terpaksa tah sabar tu... hmmm

I can't believe 2008 left for few hours. I was excited for new year celebration but something has alarmed me. Have I fulfilled my resolutions this year? I guessed I have... most of them and what worries me is how to maintain the momentum. Of course this new year I have my new resolutions, something achievable. I am trying to set my mental to be ready for new year and start kicking. My Christmas leave jua kan habis... Not too bad jau lah staying in London masa cuti. Atleast I ada jua pengalaman time cuti disini...

My 1st leave...

time to relax and sleep
enjoying malay food
great time to visit interesting places in London
to realise, my room is so petite
to realise my leave allowance comes out after leave
to realise travel warrent for train is to be claimed
time to social with other Brunei students or anyone
shopping, shopping, shopping

Time now is 536h and still inda mau tido walaupun aku atas katil dari tadi.... so while waiting mataku mengantuk.. aku ceta sedikit lah...

Tadi pagi, aku bangun kul 8am... my back sakit wah, inda tau ahh was it from my long journey dari Hull semalam or selahau bantal.... lepas mandi, biasa lah excited kan breakfst... then aku jumpa few orang Brunei lah d bawah. Sorang ni namanya Bahrin, belajar d Manchester bahagian media, editing.... meaning to say ending cetanya d Hollywood lah ni or maybe d RTB hehe. I had toast, croissont, butter, strawberry, cff n orange juise... then makan lagi nasi Lemak... Sorang lagi c Wen namanya belajar Engineering... been here lama udah tapi kan habis in 2 weeks times. siuk ehhh and pas breakfst sibuk ya kan shopping ke Sheaperd Bush membali Selipar Jaguar...

Actually few days ago ada ku mendangani kedia ke sana tapi tutup kadai ah. Singgah pulang kami arah West Field, mall baru arah Sheaperd Bush... WOW wow n wow.... basar n huge......5 kaliganda dari d Mall... suka ku kadainya.. semua ada.... most branded brand pun ada sana... LV wah ada sana tapi alum buka... Shopping tah ku sedikit time atu....

THen, C Firdaus, another Engineer guy rang me.. kan membawa ke Muzeum. Layan tah jua sal nada kan d buat jua... we dropped ke Malaysian Hall skajap menunggu kawan c Firdaus, NABILA... While waiting, makan tah kami dulu sana ah. Aiii nyaman ehh.

Pas makan, jalan tah kami around Hyde Park... siuk lah sana except weather nya sajuk ni wahh... Nabila pun very friendly.. sekali imbas macam Siti Nurhalizah tia jua....hehe. THen we all sampai arah Science Museum... 5 stories and very informative... lama jua kami sana ah....

Pas dari Museum.... naik tube dari South Kensington ke Bayswater... so kami makan arah TUK TUK restaurant....nice n warm ... the food also not bad... sudah keluar dari restaurant... anh sajuk tia bebalik.... I hate it... freezing cold. I think it was 0 degrees tonight...

I think thats all....ngantuk udah ku ni....... and hungry.... see u guys. See u nx year.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009

A Trip To HULL

2008-12-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

1530H I am on a train from Hull heading to London King Cross Railway station. I felt glad to have visited Hull finally when Tim Button, one of my colleagues invited me for a Christmas gathering a month ago. I just can’t believe it went so fast after 2 nights stay with Button’s family.

I went to Hull last Saturday, 27th Dec 2008 by train at King Cross London Railway station. I bought a red wine and my favourite flower Lily to bring along to Hull. It was busy when I got to King Cross railway station as this station goes to Paris as well. Ahuh.. now I know that Eurostar starts from here…

It was 3pm when I departed towards Doncaster and changed train to Hull and arrived half past eight. When I got out, Tim was just outside with his friend, Mike. Tim’s mother, Helen fetched us from the station and our acquaintance started from there. We arrived in a lovely house and I presented those Lily and I met Tim’s grandmother, Audrey. Everyone was very friendly and I felt like home. I passed the red wine I bought to Audrey.

We had our 1st dinner together and unfortunately Mr Button was away for gig that night. After dinner, we watched movie, The Chronicles of Narnia and it brought up my memory as I have watched that when I was very little. Helen then passed me my Christmas present. Wow I felt so special. I just couldn’t believe I was in Hull.

Just before midnight, we stopped watching the Chronicle of Narnia and headed to bed. I slept at Dan’s room, Tim eldest brother who is also in a Royal Marine Band serving in Afghanistan now. He would be back home early next year.

Sunday morning, after breakfast, we went to Church. Hmm and I think it was a great experience for me to be there. I met Tim’s dad, Michael at home then we drove to Tim’s sister’s house not far from their house. I met Rachel and her huband, Nick. What a lovely house they’ve got. We all had a great dinner together. I just couldn’t resist those chocolate cakes in front of me. We played games and it was wonderful to be there and certainly I had a good time. We went home at 7pm. We watched Jurassic Park 1 and 2 in the living room while having the sandwiches, celery, carrots, cheese, chocolate cakes and etc….We finished at 1am, it was late and I felt very sleepy.

I woke up at 10 am and took my shower. When I got into the bathroom, I got my self locked up as the door handle fell off on the floor. I was quite panicked as I couldn’t open the door. I got my shower then Tim finally rescued me as I knocked on the door and shouted his name from inside. What a relief…

When I got down for breakfast, Helen, Audrey, Tim and his dad, Michael giggled and he said “we always keep our visitors inside the bathroom”. After breakfast, Tim’s dad sent his grand ma home then we continued watching the Chronicles of Narnia till episode 6. We couldn’t finish the movie as Tim’s mum had to go to work at 1pm. They dropped me off to the train station in Hull and I said goodbye to them for their great hospitality and a wonderfull stay. I walked around Hull town before I took a direct train to King Cross London.

The time now is 1715H and I am still in the train. Another 1 hour I shall be arriving in London.

Off to Hull

2008-12-27T01:54:00.000-08:00

I woke up lazily today when I checked the time was nearly 10 am. I must get up as Nasi Lemak would be waiting for me downstairs for my sweet breakfast. I don't want to miss it. I need to get something as I am going to Hull for X'mas dinner invitation....

Sorry guys... will update later whenever I am free

Perfect coincident!

2008-12-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

I woke up at 4am and I guessed I had enough sleep as I slept early last night. I felt hungy and grabbed that Nutella Chocolate while I started going online. There were BB and Nona online.

Yesterday, I managed to get my breakfast before 10am and I was offered for Roti Chanai or Nasi Lemak. Wow!!! I had some toasts, croissont orange juice as well as Nasi Lemak at the end. I think there is no regret staying at this petite hotel as I am enjoying the food served here.

I continued online after breakfast as I was quite lazy to go out today. Faizal Paizsru was online and he introduced me on Skype. Great stuff. At 2pm, I thought it would be a good idea to go out and take fresh air.

I walked to Bayswater to get a tube and suddenly I saw Kak Jurin walking around next to Whitelys with her baby pram and her group of family. Hahahaha I met them finally. Then I saw Khaliq, Naming.. What a coincident bumping into them. They all just arrived from Manchester this morning and would stay in London here for 2 nights. I followed them to their hotel which was just few blocks from my hotel. They checked in with 3 rooms then we went off to Harrods at Knightsbridge with 2 taxis. I couldn't remember when was the last time I was in Knightsbride, I guessed it must be 10 years ago.

We had dinner down at the hotel restaurant and we planned to take a day tour to see the change of guard at Buckingham Palace which is later after breakfast.

OOhhh I'm just so hungry now.... Hmmm Should I take Roti Canai for breakfast later?

2008-12-21T03:15:00.000-08:00

2008-12-21T03:07:00.000-08:00

X'mas Leave

2008-12-21T02:27:00.000-08:00

Today started our 3rd day of X'mas leave. I woke up in a not usual room, smaller, big window, good combination of wall colour, maroon carpet and a single bed. Ohhh I just realised that I'm in London now in one of ordinary hotel spending here for nearly 2 weeks before I head to Manchester.

Our X'mas dinner went very well last Wednesday night at Royal Maritime Club not far from HMS Nelson. We started with welcoming dinner, X'mas draw in which I didn't win anything followed by dinner, magic show, live band and photo session by professional according to individual musical instruments.

When I was in my Wardroom in Portsmouth, I didn't know what to pack. I really hate travelling with heavy luggages. I minimised my stuff yet it was still heavy and fortunately there was only 1 big bag I needed to carry. Travelling on train from Portsmouth Harbour to Waterloo station was quite smooth until I used the underground tube in which I needed to change few tubes nad running up and down on stairs with my bulky luggages. I finally arrived in the hotel and I felt so relief.

Then started my London stay with Malay dinner buffet. Ohhh I really miss my food. I initially wanted to order ala carte but I just couldn't resist when I saw Sambal Belacan with some Ulam, Ipoh Mee Curry, Lamb garlic, Ketam etc.. Aiii nyaman ehhh. What a food after 3 months. Sambal Belacan was a kicking start. I just love it though it was very spicy. I finished up with Teh Tarik with Cucur Pisang and Seri Muka... aiii lagi nyaman and I ended with cery full stomach and felt sleepy. I walked out along the street for a while before sleep.

I guessed everyone from school has settled home closed to family celebrating Christmas together and I'm going to explore a little bit of travelling and exposure around England...

3 days before X'mas leaves

2008-12-16T09:50:00.000-08:00

I felt exhausted today.... It was just 2pm I put my head on the Piano where Andy caught me in my cell and I couldn;t be bothered. I was so exhausted, mentally exhausted. He played my latest piece, African Dance. It would be good if someone is doing my back massage. I could felt the lactid acid on my stiff back.

Last night I practised this new piece, African Dance on my Piano for 2 hrs from scratch. I did it last night and I thought it would be happy to show it to Proff Dauglas unfortunately he was not in today. Cpl Thompson skipped my lesson as she was busy sorting out Xmas dinner for tomorrow. I just realised I needed to collect my Tuxedo...Opsss..

Anyhow I just kept on practising my Piano and Cornet alternately. Right after standeasy with a cup off coffee, atleast stimulated my brain abit and I ended up drawing some figures for hours. I guess I felt bored and tired.

I tinted out early to collect my Tux and I bumped into Andy where he just got back from town. He showed me his girlfriends's X'mas gift. Hofing and lovely!. Cost him his arms and his legs. I walked as fast as I could and managed to collect my Tux before it closed. What a relief. I don't want to collect it tomorrow as there will be X'mas draw at lunch time in the Wardroom and I just hope to win the grand price. I will sure get it!

DA left me a message this morning I managed to call him at one point somewhere hidden. He explained to me it would be cheaper to buy me a ticket home to Brunei and it shocked me. I don't want to go home now and it's just to early to go home. I told him that I prefer staying in London. Finally we sorted out with some solution and I am just happy to hear that I could stay. I wrote a my personnel letter and refaxed the school letter to embassy this afternoon.

Last weekend was a bit quiet for me. The 2 chaps from Oman invited me to HMS Sultan for Eid Adha celebration with the rest of Omani. We walked to Gunwhorf at 3pm at took a ferry to Gosport. We were then fetched by a car and we got out self in their accomodation at HMS Sultan. We had Homous, Bread and some beef and I was just surrounded by heaps of Omani. I only realised other Bruneian from the Navy stay here on the same block and I managed to see them. We had a few hours of chat before we went home to Nelson.

When I got home last Saturday, I rememberd about the final contest of X factor. Switched on tv and ALEXANDER BURKE won the X Factor. Wow and she deserve it. Last Sunday, I was online with Syukriez apparently when he just got back from BI 430 from Singapore. He gave me a litter tutor on IMMEM music for Blogspot.

Last week I recieved my T5 Exam result and I scored 89% yuhuhhu.... I wrote my mark on a piece of paper and placed it on TOM's music stand as we put 5 pound bet. After standeasy, he replied saying "Welldone Sir" with 5 pound next to it. Smashing!!!!

Well, I am just counting the days before X'mas leave which is this coming Friday. I can't wait and tomorrow would be our X'mas social dinner and I hope there is nothing beyond my imagination.

X'mas Carol Concert - St Mary's Church

2008-12-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

2008-12-14T11:09:00.000-08:00

Colonel Bogey

2008-12-14T11:07:00.000-08:00

All Pianist X'mas gathering

2008-12-14T11:06:00.000-08:00

Dan Harridge's Wedding

2008-12-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

2008-12-14T11:02:00.000-08:00

Southampton Castle on previous weekend

2008-12-14T10:59:00.000-08:00

Trafalgar Dinner Night

2008-12-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

Costume Marching - Children In need charity

2008-12-14T10:53:00.000-08:00

2008-12-14T10:49:00.000-08:00

Last halloween Party

2008-12-14T10:47:00.000-08:00

Last Halloween Party

2008-12-14T10:30:00.000-08:00

Exam ohhh Exam!!!

2008-12-04T12:38:00.000-08:00

I just had my theory exam today at 9pm.... ahhh what a relief. Had long week of some revision on that. I was glad on my history part, J.S Bach and Mozart came out as I was quite prepared on those. Tom had that exam earlier this year and he put a bet on me that I would not get higher mark than him. He got 87 percent and we bet for £5 on who would get higher mark. Right after standeasy, I talked to Prof Evan if she could mark my paper as soon as possible. I just hope to get excellent mark.

After break, I joined other instructors for BFT run. I was not very keen earlier as the frosty wind was just killing me but when I heard they would run for a test, I would love to try coz I never had one before here. We started with 41 push ups n 50 sit ups then we ran for 1.5 mile run and my time was not bad 11 min 01 sec. My joints were just knackered after the run. Andrew bought me Chicken mushroom pie from nearby cafe in which we passed through that cafe after the run.

I started my Marching music practise with Beth at her cell and I thought it was good effort. Tomorrow we would start all the music together in Concert Hall. My Piano is getting along very well. i could do another Scales, more Broken Chords, Hanon Exercise.

MONDAY BLUES

2008-12-01T12:25:00.000-08:00

Temperature dropped again to 5 degress today and I am not happy about it. I wish I could run all the way from the wardroom to the school. Freezing cold!!! Sajuk ehh,,, sajuk ani wahh! Inda ku tahan ehh... napa kan ya sajuk berabis ah? hehe Exaggerating kah? The fact is, sajuk berabis? How I wish I can move the sun closer. I imagine ah in Brunei would be scorching hot and siuk eh,, I rememberd when I used to fo for sun tanning hehe mau jua kan macam celebrity tan ah... Good thing here, I never get sweat and never.

Last weekend, I attended Dan's wedding at the Wardroom. He called me in the morning of Saturday, inviting me to tonight reception. I was studying on my Italian terms when he called me up and I would miss X factor that singing competition.

After lunch of that Saturday, I managed to get to town to get my Tuxedo for X'mas ball. I managed to get my size and I am quite happy with the cutting and material. I stopped by at the Hongkong chinese restaurant to grab one of my favourite meal, Roast Duck in Black Beans... Yummy. Then I bought a wedding gift for Dan and a card.

I managed to get some studies before I got ready for Dan's reception. I was wearing my Mes Kit and I could feel my Mes Kit had shrunk a bit or I could have put on some weight? Went to the Bar and met some familiar faces. I was welcomed by Ed, duty officer whom I just met today at lunch time and he bought me an Orange Juice. I met Ollie and Dudley, another Matloes from Dartmouth during my training in 2001. What a reunion.

Lisa appeared, Dan's wife with lovely white gown looking so stunning. I only met her few nights ago and she looked perfectly like Sarah Jessica Parker to my surprised. Dan came in I congratulated him. We had few drinks and chats then followed my First dance by the Bride and Groom. "Wonderful Tonight" song in the air and wow.. so romantic. Then we came in with fast dance. I met Dan's parents and her sister. Wow, her sister's loverly and attracted my attention. I danced with his mum and his sister all the way. I met this girl called Kate and we chatted and dances throughout.

We finished at 2 am and helped them clearing out the sound system that morning. It was a great wedding party I ever attended here in England. Wow and Superb! I missed my breakfast on Sunday morning as I woke up very late. Had lunch and the dining hall loooked a bit different now as we danced all the way last night jumping aroung here and there....

I've got theory exam this Thursday and I am focusing to get good grade and I guess my practical test will be soon as well by the end of this term. Wow..... It's going to be hactic. Tomorrow I've got Piano instructor lesson in the morning and Piano Professor lesson in the afternoon. I hope my scales would run smoothly tomorrow as I have practised last week. I have got 5 musical pieces now before I ealised it. My last piece is called Triudging, with a chord and some dynamic.

Went to the gym after work and did a little bit of chest and I jsut hope I would get a perfect 6 packs for Christmas. Hehehe Saja.. buang tabiat. Night...

Friday Night

2008-11-27T12:05:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone... I guess it,s been a very long time since I last updated my blogspot. I am sorry coz since my laptop charger, I have no mood of updating my spot on public internet. However, I have already sent my laptop for repair and hopefully it would be ready very very soon....

My musical life has been extreamly busy lately. I have been very focused on my Piano as well as my Cornet in particular. I am quite happy with my piano as I have progressed quite well and fast and next year I would be sitting an exam on my Piano. My Cornet is quite a bit slow in progress and I think other people might agree as well it is not an easy instrument especially when comes to learn Cornet from scratch. But I am quite happy this week as there has been some little progression on it an d I just hope I could move faster on my Cornet very soon.

I just can't believe that Christmas leave is in 3 weeks time meaning I will be in London or somewhere loafing around. It would be a perfect time for break and I just can't wait till that day to happen. This weekend I am thinking of getting myself a Tuxedo for our Christmas dinner before our leave. I am more than onyone who is excited as this would be my 1st celebrating Christmas here in England. Thats why I am quite stressfull going to the gym building up some muscles and also been attending few physical training with the trainees so that I would look good on my Tux..... I think I have just been influenced with that James Bond movie. haha

Today after work when I reached my accomodation, I met a familiar face at the car park. Then I said, " DAN, is that you?"... then he said, " Redzky......" Wow I met another batch of mine when were in Dartmouth 8 years ago. What a reunion and he is getting married this Sunday at our accomodation dining hall. It feels good as well when he remembers my name and I remembered his. Congratulation and I wish I could celebrate my wedding here as well. What a nice Dining hall we've got.

I felt so happy today I guessed because I had good music today and since today is Thursday night, I recited Yassin to say thank you to Allah the almighty and to share my Yassin to my late auntie who I missed so much. Whenever I recited yassin for her I always shed in tears remembering what she used to say before that she had wanted to memorise Yassin and I am indeed bersyukur she said that and I hope I will always remember her in my prayers.

I think thats all for now. I need to sleep early and wake up tomorrow at 4 am to study. I got exam on my theory next week Thursday and I aim for excellent mark. Good night everyone.

A GREAT NIGHT TO REMEMBER

2008-11-08T03:43:00.000-08:00

Now I am trying to trace back and updated my blogspot that I have missed for few weeks coz few friends out there demanded me to update and I realised there's someone reading my blogspot. Hehhehe Thank q guys and for those who haven't got their Blogspot, start creating one now.. yes NOW!!! u know who u r? regardless ur r bz, working, married, computer illiterate, no laptop?.... when there is a will, there is a way.... yeahhhhh, inda ja?

Well, let me start with my Trafalgar Dinner Night. It was on Wednesterday afternoon, I tinted out early from my music cell and prepared my Mess Kit. I was very excited that night and that was my last on my Blogspot in which I written down.

At 1900H, I got ready and headed up to the bar and it was very crowded with officers in their Mess Kit and there I came in and luckily my Mes kit was not much different as the Royal Navy apart from the golden strip on my pants. I met couple of Chaplins and officers and met couples of x military personnel who served in Malaya during the conflict in 1963. They showed me their Sarawak or Malaya medal presented to them.

At 2000H, we all went into the dining hall and there were staffs standing at the side watching us and I felt like walking on a red carpet as this would be my first time wearing my Mess Kit with a Bow Tie in a dining hall. I have also prayed that whoever seated next to me would be an interesting guy that I could talk to. I was shocked when I realised, LT NICK the one who seated next to me was my batch mate from Dartmouth. How ironic and he remembered my name, Hanika and Zouhdy, another candidates from Brunei. Wow...

Appetizer was served on a lovely decorated table along with the Portsmouth Royal Marine Band on their string instruments. I was very excited with the Band and the music was hoofing, smashing. I was busy talking to Nick and taking my sweet time having my appetizer until few staffs infront of me and few staffs behind me giving me the smile. I was shocked when everyone had finished their appetizer and waited for me until they could serve the next course. I just hope the guest of hornour wouldn't realise this... Because of this, we broke the ice with few officers seated infront of me. After the main course, I realised I have a full of white wine in my glass and empty on others. They told me that they finished their wine during appetizer and that was the time when they realised that I didn't drink alcohol and asked for my Red Wine. Red wine came along with the main course. Quite hard to keep up the mess rules and ettiquette.

To cut the story short, we toasted to the Queen and Sir Nelson, had some Chocolate SHIP, few songs..... then we moved to the bar and Nick and I had few chat along with his friend which I forgot his name. oooo... I guessed his name was Tony. He came to Brunei before sorting out the new OC school in Sg Akar. We had guessing game as well and finished at 2 am. What a great night!

"Blogspot BANGAS"

2008-11-08T03:33:00.000-08:00

I know I have not updated my blogspot because of various reasons:

broke my laptop charger
overlapping work on my musical scales, arpeggios, broken chords n musical pieces
boring with the routine job
found watching TV kill the time easily especially X Factor etc
been involved reading newspapers and TIMES magazines
demoralised

but feeling good now and been trying to update blogspot since few friends complaining of my 'BANGAS' blogspot. Hehe "Rupanya ada jua urang membaca..."

Cheers

MY 1st PIANO RECITAL

2008-11-08T02:54:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday morning on the 8th Nov 2008. It's raining outside and certainly not keen to go out. I am feeling very chilly now inside the internet room and being outside would froze me to death.

What a relief... I just had my 1st Piano music recital at the School of Music yesterday Friday afternoon. After 2 months being here, yesterday saw a great achievement and progression of myself. I couldn't feel the ground once I finished the performance. I was actually very calm before I started and I believe there is no point of being over nervous that would destoy the whole performance. I was playing a simple musical piece called 'GAVOT'. Gavot is an old english spelling of Gavotte, a French dance of the 17th and 18th century by William Duncombe.

I made a short introduction and a brief story about Gavot infront of the Director of music, Bandmaster, Senior Ranks, Professors andTrainees. Positioned my self on a stool, facing the Grand Piano with my best seating poisture and took a deep breath. Once ready, I played along with the dynamic with full of concentration. Until the last note of my decresendo and eventually my last note, I could hear applause of clapping and I could feel the release of the tense and walked away. UUUhh what a relief.

My performance was right in between of 3 performances. Mr Lambert performed first on his Bossoon with 2 Clarinet players. I came 2nd and the last performance was the from the Trafalgar Dinner Night theme, a comprised of Spratt on his Grand Piano, few Violon players, a Cello and a Clarinet. They started with a song called Roast Beef, a very distinguished song. They played Natinal anthem, Spanish Lady etc... complete with a replica of a Vitory ship made from chocolate and we sang along at the end. Once finished, we had wash up down the Coffe Boat and both parties seemed to enjoy the music. Thank god it's over for me for now and more show coming in the future...mmmm

Every Friday aftternoon is allocated for music recital here at the School of Music and infact this was my 1st day attending because I would go for my Friday prayer in the afternoon and I missed it yesterday. hmm. I was in my music cell practising my Cornet, when on of the trainee came over and greeted me, " Did you enjoy the recital Sir?". I didn't realise the Buigler's gone meaning class is over at 1520H, earlier than normal day. Everyone seemed excited not only for the recital but also for the weekend.

1600H, Maddok waited for me at the main gate and we walked down to HMS Temeraiere for a swim and unfortunately it was closed. GGrrrrrr. Then I spent the afternoon releasing my shoulder tense over the GYM. Today I am going to chill out and realaxing after a long week and I am very excited to watch Mariah Carey tonight on X Factor live on TV. OOhhh Mariah Carey, my dream girl and I hope she would come to Portsmouth spending time for dinner with me. mmm....

PRE TRAFALGAR DINNER NIGHT

2008-10-23T05:28:00.000-07:00

I had just finished my Physical Training at lunch time. We did another different pattern and it was just nail but fun. After my shower, I played on my scales on my Piano what I have learnt this week and I was surprised I got them all correct. I laminated some briefed Scales and it helped a lot and I was not even looking on the book. Quick progress and hey it really paid off drilling head this week plus my 2 music pieces coming along. Felt really happy. Yesterday, I was given another music piece by Proff Douglas which is called A Song for Erin. Thank god it’s a simple piece.

I had a Chicken Club Sandwich for my Lunch and I thought it was delicious. During lunch time, they arranged the tables already for Trafalgar Dinner Night tonight and I am just excited to attend it. I would certainly be enjoying my self tonight and not because of some Port or alcoholic drinks, but merely because there’s something new is happening. Weird huh!

After my dinner, I received another parcel. I was quite happy at last my online shopping stuff has just arrived. There’s something I ordered from EBAY and I am not going to tell you. Only certain people would know and not even my family nad big SECRET. Well it’s a collectable item. Last Monday, I received a parcel as well quite a big box and it was after lunch time as well where I put a bigger smile in fact I was laughing as if I received a letter from home. I guess I found another stuff to spend my 2 years here which is spending on collectable items from online shopping.

I had a hair cut yesterday afternoon and paid £7.50 down next to Naafi. Not bad and I am fully ready for the dinner. They also have massage service and maybe I would just drop someday. Playing Trumpet and Piano in a long hours could be pretty tense sometimes. This early in the morning I wrote 2 pages on MUM’s Birthday Card. She will be 51 I guessed this coming Sunday. Not bad for 2 pages of writing with some tears of expression and appreciation.

After my ELEMENT class with the Warrant, one of the boy in Brunei Band rang me and I was shocked when he told me that he edited some videos and photos during their Graduation Band few months ago and wanted to send copy to England. Ooooo That was so sweet and thoughtful and the Band are missing me he said. Wow… another Moral booster for me today.

Well I am late now for work and another music piece to sort out before a long weekend starting tomorrow. Yeepeeeee…. Long Weekend and I am going home to Brunei….. I mean I am staying alone in Portsmouth chatting on Internet imagining I would be in Brunei. How is that?

GUN WHORF QUAYS

2008-10-19T23:11:00.000-07:00

It’s Monday morning. I got up early semangat and before 7am I was already in my uniform. Kejarangan tu, antah ah semangat kali for a new Monday.

My Sunday was a bit quiet. Spent on internet in my cabin and it was my last Puasa Enam and felt abit tired though coz I didn’t have my sahur last night. Few hours spending on internet, I got bored. Then I walked to Gun Whorf Quays just to get fresh air. It was half five when I got there and decided to break my fast at one of the Oriental Restaurant. 13 pound buffet was not too bad as we could eat as much as we can served with 60 dishe. Wow yummy. With my full tummy, I walked back to my where I live.

Noraini K, an air crew is here. So I managed to call here from my cabin and we spent hours talking on the phone updating our lost weeks. She was on my flight to London month plus ago. It was a good laugh when I told here I bought a bike and got stolen. Hehehe

This morning when I called her, she was getting ready putting on make up. Now it’s 0719H, I don’t want to be late for breakfast because I am expecting my favourite Hash Brown and Scrambled Egg. Yummyy… Have a great Monday….

BROADBAND & Weekend at SOUTHAMPTON

2008-10-18T12:49:00.000-07:00

Saturday, 18 Oct 2008

I just got back from Southampton today with other colleagues, Willie, Ripin and Fahmi. I woke up very late and I missed my lunch as I thought I wanted to try that Chinese Restaurant nearby my accommodation but it was close unfortunately. Dropped by to get a BOW TIE for my Trafalgar Dinner next week on Thursday. I got a Bow Tie for £10 and it’s not bad.

They fetched me at 1330h with my hunger, we drove down to an hour journey to Southampton. It was a lovely sunny afternoon and I was wearing a t-shirt until I got there the weather changed to cloudy. We went straight to Burger King as I realized it was not only me who was hungry. Everyone has not had their lunch yet.

We walked around pass stretch of shopping areas and it was quite busy and crowded. I stopped by at this Contemporary Paintings & Artwork stall with various impressive paintings. They are unique and I have never seen such paintings before.

Yesterday after my Jumaat Prayer, I walked down town to collect my Bank Pin no then I bumped into Fahmi who was happened to be there as well. I eventually collected my pin no and joined others after that. I had no plan really so we drove down to Gun Whorf Quay and had window shopping around.

I registered eventually a MOBILE BROADBAND for an 18 months contract with ORANGE which is a £15 monthly direct debit. It was very quick and they gave me some sort of like a DVD stowage and I got it. I was so interested and had it tried online once I got home.

I got online instantly and chatted with Shahirin from Singapore. I guess there’s no longer for me to go up to the guest room for wireless internet anymore as this Broadband indeed would be very handy and surely keep me busy.

Wednesday, 15 Oct 2008

2008-10-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

I am here again at the same spot connecting on internet at one of the guest room in HMS Nelson... Hmm cakap melayu saja ku this time. Actually aku kanyang plg ni bakas ku dinner tadi diatas dalam Bar. Setiap hari Rabu, dinner kna served diatas arah Bar so people can enjoy having their meals along with their Beer.

Aku makan Sup Cauliflower sama Roti bulat. Seperti biasa sini mesti makan sup.... nyaman jua lah. My favourite is Mushroom soup. Buleh plg skip, tapi ku rasa makanan sini inda banyak wah. Yatah takut ku lapar tangah malam. So, lapas sup, I chose Lamb Jorgan Josh sama nasi putih, ubi kantang, carot and beans. Ok jua lah, makan pakai garpu n pisau. Very the Orang Puteh. I was sitting with this bini2 orang puteh muda. Kami becakap sikit lah. Masa ni pandai ku udah ‘Breaking The Ice’ sama almost anybody. Macam sibanar lah ku cukup lagi dengan Slang Omputeh sasat ku atu.. I guess I have improved quite drastically sal dapat ku kira berapa banyak ku becakap melayu disini.. atu pun ah,,, cakap sorang2. Masa ni bepikir pun ku cakap english.. hmmm u ever imagine kah tu?

Tonight, kan tidur awal ku..... Pasal I need to get up very early in the morning tomorrow. Banyak keraja ku kan buat. So atleast kalau ku bangun subuh maybe dalam kul 4am, I can start reading my Music theory, buat workbook theory dll.

Tadi aku attended lesson with Piano Professor.... kepisan ku wah after keraja dibaginya last week. So di checknya tia tadi patang. Nervous ku jua and he gave me lots of tips n points and he's been helpful lah.. Sekali apanah..... hmmm. MORE WORK coming in.... Tebeliak mataku tarus ni wah....... scale F Major...... another arpeggios n broken chords.... kepisan utak ku mengusahakan broken chords ah.. tunggang tebalik ku cuba tuk mengkoordinate jari jemari ku ahh..... selapas music piece Gavot... ada lagi music piece dibaginya....hmmm THE AUTUMN from VIVALDI.... Gavot lagi balum perfect... hmmm sabar ja lah apa buleh buat. I think it's time to heads up now. Sal atu I need to wake up early so that I can learn faster.... Oh yeah, Proff lend me 3 CDs of Classical Music for me to hear... hmmm he even listed me Radio FM yg ada Classical Music... Astahhhh.........Bila tah ku berehat ni.. hehe

Tadi aku jumpa Mess Staff betanya pasal TAFALGAR DINNER, tutup kah udah for registeration... Yes it was already closed. Suruh nya tunggu skajap then I got my self a seat for the coming dinner... Happy ku.. Sja lah, atleast ada kan ku buat. I was checking my Mess kit di bilik complete kah inda.. rupanya my BOW TIE nada ni wah.. antah I tot ada ku bawa udah dulu... Inda apa,, nanti tah ku membali d kadai I am sure banyak bejual... Next week kali dinner nya.... and it should be fun. Yang siuk nya, that night there will be Marine Band Concert playing throughout dinner… Of course not the Trainees dangan ku blajar.. Band yg udah qualified lah…

After Lunch, I was talking with Nabilah on the phone... saja buang tebiat... Lama ku becakap sama kedia.. siuk jua ah,, sal lama udah ku inda ketawa senda gurau..... Then lapas tu back to work lah main Piano... Main Piano lagi.....

I think, even sama my colleagus, I didn't have much time talking and chatting with them ni wah... atu pun time coffee break ja bejumpa atu pun sekajap...... baru tah lega dapat becakap and baibun ni wah..... After break... balik semula main muzik.... Kadang2 ngacau urang tah ku tu buang boring rah bilik sebalah... pemain Bass Tuba and bass guitar n Double Bass.... Namanya c TOM, Heheh. cali ni wah.... basar banar instrument Double Bass ah.. teingatku Pelakin 60 an, S Samsudin main double bass dalam movie hehehe. Rupanya jiran ku ani umurnya masih 17 tahun tapi tinggi ya tah..

Last Monday ada kedia mengatuk bilik ku, "U HAD A GOOD WEEKEND SIR?" pasal last weekend kami clubbing beramai2 after Parade Band. Then ketawa ku tebahak2 sal baru ku realise kedia di Bawah Umur and inda dapat masuk club n also inda dapat Minum... cali urangnya.. sebalahnya sama jua instrument nya... rupanya abangnya.... hahaha. lagi cali... namanay c SAM. Adi beradi join muzik. heheh kadang2.. time ku focus,,, aku plg kana kacau. Ada tah tu urang menutup lampu bilik ku.... or kana lukis Katun rah my white board.... tau ku tu keraja siapa... so balas balik lah........... Sapa lagi kalau inda c Andy.

More events coming in. Yatah.. Halloween coming... antah ahh... Jadi apa kah ku tu... Then theres Long Weekends.... Trafalgar Dinner, Christmas Dinner... tepaksa cari TUXEDO lagi ni... macam2 saja durang sini ah... kalau nada party, music and Beer, inda sah... hehe. I think ketuahan kali aku ni udah... The thing is I have been there wah.. ya tah, udah tah enjoy ni and time to focus... tapi.... tempting jua ah. Astah....

Tadi time kami break coffee sbalah pagi, I was on queue for Coffee then aku jumpa c Pete, hehe another orang puteh cali... He’s 20 and kedialah yang mendangani ku clubbing dari awal sampai abis.. cali wah meliat kedia mabuk.... I was chatting with him... rupanya caranya becakap cematu,,, pikirku kedia masih mabuk hehe. Katanya,, hari ani ia ahir bangun wah 730am pas tu 745 ada Parade... hehehehe 730 aku baru mandi, 745 breakfast... special lah sikit... diri siapa.. apa kan? Lucky I don’t have to do Parade and lots of Sport. Jan ingar eh..

Esuk I have ELEMENT Class sama Ence Marine Band sbalah pagi... yatah semakin mendalam ni Theory nya ah... tau ku jua.. Then lapas tu ada Sport sama instructors. Takut ku tecramp lagi karang kaki ku ni... Yatah pasalnya aku kan bangun subuh jua dapat ku stretching awal.... I must RUN smoothly esuk.... Last week ENGKANG2 ku membari malu... Di Brunei lagi ku inda catu... See lah.

Ku liat Blog c Shukriy ah, Pic nya lawa2 ni wah.. suka ku meliat and menjadi2 ni.. aku pulang inda active lagi dalam photography. Anyone inda pecaya, liat sendiri rah blogspotnya…

http://servicesunit.blogspot.com

I guess for Shukry, u need to cover more events and location sal biasalah, the more pic u r taking the more u will learn. Kalau buleh any subject and disana karang baru u tau which one u like… All the best to u…. May I suggest if u can shoot some pics rah Sekolah tani dulu d Salambigar n di Sg Hanching. Happening jua tu n memory. Of course minta permission lah dulu rah principal, gtau what ever reasons… or gambar curi ja… u can take pic rah kanten di Sekolah rendah Sg Hanching… Arah bunga time tani selalu bekabun, padang bula… Class tani 1st time bejumpa darjah 3 kah? Then move out tu Sekulah Menengah Salambigar.. take pica rah kanten, tempat makan tani dulu.. makan nasi bungkus.. tempat assembly rah ko pengsang, d dewan tampat ku bekelahi sma c Marno..hehe, rah tangga… rah bilik tani dulu Form 3C kah.. 'I WANT THE JANTUNG', nya Miss Loida Noccon eh. Hmm Rupanya kedia mau pic HEART.. panggilnya Jantung… Jan lupa take pic rah class Art, Geo, Library rah tani meng attack…. Cali ehh.. Atu pun if u wish lah…

I wonder what can I do here?... Bah kan tido dulu… Night

TUESDAY, 14th October 2008

2008-10-14T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today is Tuesday. It’s a long day for me as I have been very hard trying to coordinate both hands with musical piece given by the Professor. It was last week on my 1st day of his lesson when he gave me bundle of work. I was quite shock when he gave me scales of C Major, G, D, A, E for me to practice in last than a week. Pwehhh… Not only that, I got Broken Chords, Arpeggios, Hannon fingering ex and musical piece.

I rang NONA after she SMS me that morning once I arrived in my musical Cell. She was asking where was the workshop that I mentioned before. It was my Pump Break of my car that needed to be repaired asap and hopefully she found it.

I could manage to sort out my scales and others except for my musical piece called ‘GAVOT’. I felt that I have used up all my brain today. Every Tuesday would be my lesson with Professor as well as Instructor. That made me more into pressure and too bad I have to keep my Cornet away for a while…

I started my Piano lesson with instructor today in the morning and she let me play all the work given. That was when I felt that my brain was about to burst and it was f*#@ing nail! Again it was that musical piece that shot me in the head. GAVOT oh GAVOT..My lesson with professor was postponed to tomorrow.

I felt time passed so quickly that I really made my time the whole morning on that Piano. When the buigler blew that buigle for lunch break, I quickly walked towards the Wardroom for Lunch. Even 1 hr and 15 minutes of lunch break flies in a sec. I wanted a fresh air for a while and I knew I would gradually progress in my Piano. It was busy during lunch and I really had no mood talking with others as I was mentally tired. I didn’t remember what I had for lunch.

I rang Mum but I couldn’t get her then I phoned BB and it was a relieve talking to BB as I missed home so much and I guess it’s been a while now not talking in my language. Ngalih ku wah cakap urang puteh ganya ahh… tapi inda ulah wah,, nada dangan ku sini..

It was only yesterday when this Orang Puteh greeted me, ”Selamat Malam, Apa Khabar?” I was shocked until I realized he is a Dentist who served in Brunei before. Cali jua tu…… inda disangka2 jauh sudah ku tu ah, ada jua urang kan cakap melayu atu….

I hope BB is now enjoying reading my blog updating my life. But hey… Inda jua adil tu…. Why can’t it be vise versa. Whose going to update me life in Brunei? To BB, solve this matter, and also to NONA and Nabilah…. Pls stay online all the time.

Back to my story as I have said it was along day today. I was late for my afternoon class or maybe time was so short for lunch break. Malas tah ku ingau, gagas ku tarus bah ulehnya. Baru jua ku becerita sama Dentist yg cakap melayu tadi time minum Coffee… skali ku liat jam ah, 1315H. I had to rush for my Zuhur prayer for a while and walked 8 minutes to school. Again I faced my Piano and practiced that music piece again and again and again. I was so optimistic and really forced my self and I guess it paid off at the end and felt like magic when I progressed tremendously… Sakit kepala ku tarus ehh.. Kepisan. Tau2, abis time keraja.. wow, capat jua masa ah bejalan.

Kadang 2 when I think about it, my life is so full and kadang2 boring jua sal routine wah. I know what is going to happen everyday. So sometimes I need to alter a little bit to avoid boredom. Even after I realized time was over that day, I knew that I would be going home, have dinner, log in internet then off to bed ready for tomorrow.

Once I got into my room, I prayed Asar and all in a sudden Almarhumah Ngah Amit was in my head. I was so lesu, ngalih inda bermaya and mentally exhausted. Bukan lagi sujud, ampai2 ku atas tikar sembayang tebangang. Of course it was after my Asar prayer as I coiled up on my mat thinking of her. It was not long ago when I remembered Nabilah phone me up one day, “Bang Redzky, Ngah Amit meninggal”. It shocked me. I was thinking deeply and tears run down my eyes. I was quite emotional and how lucky she was when she passed away in a last 10 Ramadhan. I wonder when is my turn? Sedih ku nyamu….

While waiting for Maghrib, I got up from my mat and moved to my bed. I cried thinking of her and I guess apart form her, I really missed home. There is always this feeling that I felt I am lucky to be here studying music in England at one of the prestige School of Music for 2 years. I remember paying $80 per month just to attend my 45 minute Piano Class in Brunei and I stopped for a while because I just couldn’t afford it. Now, I am facing my Piano everyday from morning to Friday looked after by Professor and Instructor here in England. Syukur Alhamdulilah, life has getting better now. I feel like a dream come true and I just can’t believe it sometimes. I just love studying music here with friendly colleagues, staying in a Victorian accommodation with great food. I have my own time here to manage particularly in Solitude and I like that.

I don’t know what I am talking about with all the subjects jumbled up… Last Night, I was watching TV in one of the Victorian room alone. I felt like being in a Buckingham Palace. Exaggerating huh! It was my 1st time watching TV here as I am not a TV person but it was good sitting on a comfortable sofa all alone watching English TV. Now I realized that I have the luxurious but have no friends. I guess I needed somebody to talk to.

I just downloaded my favourite song called ‘Kau Tetap Milikku’ from The Seed featuring Maria. Nice…. Recalling memories. Siuk ehhh… I hope NABILAH is burning her midnight oil now preparing for her O Level exam. Don’t be playful, time to concentrate, get focus and score on your result. Insyaalah I will always pray for you success. You can do it Nabilah, make our family proud. Good Luck!

2008-10-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

Marines Band Reunion

2008-10-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

I attended Marines Band Reunion at the HMS Nelson Gym Last night. It was after my breaking of fast dinner, looking quite smart with my blazer and tie. Crossed over the road I had no clue weather I was late or early and apparently it was quite misty tonight and dark. When I reached there, it was quiet and thank god it was still early. After sometimes, the Band flocked in together and I was chatting with them before they went in for the parade.

It was reunion for the Marines Band and most of the ex Marines Band who attended the function were the seniors who joined as early as in 1940’s. I sat down right at the front row and watched the Band parading up and down. It was around 45 minutes show non stop and it was smashing!. I really enjoyed the night and we moved to Senior Rates for Booze…. Haahaha… They boys were feeling so relieve after the parade and seemed quite excited. BZ to them.

At 2130H, Andrew Spratt waited outside Wardroom gate and I got myself with Jeans and T shirt and with the rest of the boys, we headed to town for clubbing. This would be my first time and I thought it would be a good idea to socialize and breaking the ice with the others. Went to Weatherspoon, Babylon and the last pub which I didn’t know its name. Met another Brunei colleague over there. We started with the crowds and slowly everyone disappeared including Spratt that I could not see him around and I ended up with this chap named Beets, I guess. He is funny though and we stayed until half three and walked home as the boys would be having memorial service in the morning.

SATURDAY, 11 Oct 08

2008-10-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

I woke up lazily at lunch time and I felt great today as my back pain and muscle shock has gradually recovered. I didn’t really have any plan for this weekend except for Andy’s invitation for tonight’s Band Reunion at HMS Nelson Gym. I shall see if I have mood to go. Did my laundry and organized my stuff.

My week has been so long and busy now as I am having lots of homework given by both Piano and Cornet Professors this week and I needed to focus on both instruments. Yet, I attended new class on ELEMENT by WO2 Harding. We revised on music theory from scratched so that I won’t miss anything. I was given another homework and reference book on loan.

Did my first physical training with the instructors on every Thursday onwards at 1100H. We had circuit training continuously then few miles run around the Dockyards. My muscle started to get stiff and nearly cramped when I ran and I had to slow down a bit so I won’t get cramped. It was like 2 months now I have never run and now it’s time to heads up for more cardio activity.

Last Tuesday, was my first breakfast in the Wardroom as I missed on Monday. It was the best breakfast ever as I had an original English Breakfast here as I have always wanted. I had Scramble egg with hash brown potatoes, mushroom, tomatoes, Toast, A cup of Coffee and a glass or Orange Juice. What a heavy breakfast and I was quite late for my class. Oppss!

Yesterday, I walked to Portsmouth Mosque to perform Friday prayer. It recalled of my lost bike when that bike used to bring me to the mosque for Tarawikh last Ramadhan. It was only 2 weeks plus that I got to use that bike until it was stolen in London last Hari Raya. Hmmm I walked 30 minutes to the mosque and felt great that I was right on time when I got there.

Dropped by at HSBC down at Commercial Road claiming for my account PIN no which I have not received for nearly 3 weeks now. They would be sending another one to me by around a week. Oh great. It’s quite disappointing waiting for the PIN no as I am desperately in need of getting a mobile broadband so that I could log in internet anywhere anytime. I just wish everything would run smoothly this time and eventually receiving my PIN no safely.

Today is my 4th day of PUASA ENAM. I thought I wanted to complete my Puasa Enam by this Sunday. Hmmm I was supposedly fasting yesterday on Friday because I thought could fast and not attending standeasy. I was practicing on my Piano until Proff Douglass knocked on my door inviting me for a coffee on charity next to the Gym. It was hard to refuse and I had to go. Before I realized, I had coffee and lots of Chocolate. I felt guilty and funny at the same time because I couldn’t resist those Chocolate. Hahaha… Anyhow Syawal has a long way to go and Insyaalah I could complete this.

I was talking to a Chaplain during lunch time at the Dining hall and he invited me to attend Trafalgar Dinner Night which will be held on Thursday, 23rd Oct 08 in the Wardroom. I shall see if my Mess Kit is complete and that would be nice to mingle around especially with such an honor to be invited. Princes Charles and Duchess of Cornwall would be visiting Japan on the 27th Oct, 31st Oct to Brunei then off to Indonesia as part of their official visit. Wow!… I wish I could be there…

MALAM JUMAAT GEMILANG

2008-10-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday night, 3rd October 2008, Lancaster Gate Berry House London, marked important day of my life as I finally QHATAM my ALQuran on the 3rd day of Syawal in UK = 1st day Raya in Brunei. I started a week after Ramadhan and intended to complete it before Raya but was a good effort I thought. Alhamdulillah.

Ya Allah, ampunilah dosaku, ampunilah dosa ibu bapaku, terimalah puasa dan amalanku. Berilah aku kesihatan, jauhi aku dari hasutan iblis dan syaitan, berkati hidupku, berikan ku rezeki yang luas dan lancarkan lah segala urusan ku di sini. Amin2 Ya Rabbalalamin.

SOME PICKY NICKED MY BIKE!

2008-10-07T13:24:00.000-07:00

It’s been a week now that I’ve not been updated my Blog. Apart from Hari Raya celebration and back to school business, there’s another reason why I felt so NOT in the mood to update. I myself don’t know where to start because apparently there’s so much to tell and I try to summarize each subjects so that I won’t bore any readers if there’s any. I guess I will just jumble up my stories that I am going to cover and it won’t be in order.

I woke up lazily today because I had a back ache. I tried to stretch my back so it might relief a bit. I guessed it must have been from the last Sunday when I moved to the new cabin and I had to carry heaps of luggage in a few trips back and forth. Oh yeah… I got an upgraded cabin and I don’t know how it happened because I thought I have never requested for an upgraded cabin as yet. I planned to request for a bigger room after Ramadhan considering that I would be here for 2 years and it was just on Hari Raya Eves that my request has been fulfilled miraculously by God because I haven’t said anything yet. Or maybe somebody could have done it for me. Yet I won’t complain with my new cabin. It is bigger, nicer, comfy, and spacious with queen bed. Alhamdulillah and I believe in miracles.

It was on Sunday when I got home from London to Pompey = Portsmouth. It was 6 days of my Raya leaves and I returned to HMS Nelson Wardroom. I felt really good to be home. In my heart when I eventually arrived in Portsmouth Harbour Train Station, I said to my self, “Home Sweet Home”. Despite my relieves of coming back, there something left behind not the same as I was on my departure and here’s the story.

My overall Hari Raya Celebration in London was just not too bad. As I said before it is better than nothing and there is nothing to compare to Brunei. In fact I was lucky to be able to celebrate Raya with others because there is few unfortunate people working on that 1st day Raya. I would never forget my Takbir Raya in Brunei Hall and proud to be part of the small gathering to celebrate Raya together with other Bruneian. I would certainly never forget my 1st Takbir Raya recital. Brunei Hall Raya followed by another open house at Brunei High Commissioner at Belgrave Square in London boost Raya mood with lots of food and cakes as well as the crowds. The next day of 2nd Raya was another great open house at the accommodation of our Brunei Embassy down at Kensington.

It was just 2 days of Raya celebration and it slowed down immensely and the rest of the week was just a LOAFING days after a month of my settling down in Portsmouth. I had no where to go and stayed few days in our DA accommodation at Lancaster Gate facing Hyde Park. My loafing in London created a monotonous activity which forced me to explore London with my Bike. I remembered the purpose of me bringing along my Bike.

Getting a London Map would be a good start and I studied the Map and planned my destination. I started cycling down to Brunei Hall and I realized it was just behind Lancaster Gate then off to Waterloo Station. I passed over Marble Arch, Dorchester Hotel and Buckingham Palace and crossed over to River Thames Bridge and arrived at Waterloo station.

Loafing around Leicester Square down at Music shops and logged in Internet for few hours and headed home. Stayed another night in a DA accommodation and left on Friday morning and as I have always wanted to explore more on my own. I checked in at Bayswater HOSTEL for 2 nights and obviously cheaper, £16 per night and I was quite happy with the cleanliness and its security - Hmmmm….. I stayed in a 4 bedded room and felt great having the experience staying mostly with other backpackers from around the globe. Felt a bit strange and scary though at first and it was worth a money for just spending few hours of sleep in a sharing bed for 2 nights.

This is the saddest moment that I encountered when I stayed at the hostel or maybe I wouldn’t blame the Hostel. Some ‘picky bastard’ nicked my Bike after staying a night there and I was shocked then next day as I took out my bike locker key from my jacket and realized my bike was gone forever. I got shocked and I thought I must have parked it somewhere. Hmmmm….. Walked towards Whitley’s speechless and slowly I felt moody. I just bought my bike I guess 2 weeks ago in order for me to go for the Mosque for Tarawih and its gone. What a pity! Certainly I’m going to miss my SCOTT Brand bike which I bought a total of £418 at Fareham. What a luck! Nevertheless I was just ‘Pasrah’ maybe that bike is not meant for me and it may be for the purpose of going for Tarawih and now Ramadhan is over and my bike has gone.

Yesterday on Monday, I walked through the main gate of HMS Nelson and walked for 10 minutes to reach my Music Cell in a cold weather. It would have been better if my bike is still around….Oh yeah, I think this one’s funny. A night I lost my bike, I was stunned on my top double decker bed in that Hostel thinking of my bike and ended up reciting Yassin hoping my bike would be returned. Yet still missing! Uwaaaaaa……..

Hey, look at the bright side, I got my self upgraded cabin now, my Cornet starting to sound good and I’ve started my Piano lesson with Professor today with lots of homework. And the most important thing of all, I feel much more energetic and optimistic focusing on my music……Not forgetting I have been able to fast my Puasa Enam in Syawal for 3 days over the last weekends and hoping to complete them this coming weekends, Insyaalah.

My poor Bike.............

2008-10-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

SELAMAT HARI RAYA

2008-10-01T16:28:00.000-07:00

Selamat Hari Raya to everyone… I just can’t believe it’s Hari Raya now and this my 2nd day Raya here in UK particularly in London. Today is a 1st day Hari Raya celebration in Brunei. It’s passed midnight here in London and I’m listening to Pelangi FM where Bruneian started their Takbir Raya live at the Mosque.

The feeling is just so SAYU though we celebrated Raya 2 days earlier. Nevertheless, my Raya celebration in London has been so great despite being away from family. It's better than nothing. I wouldn’t imagine my self stuck in my cabin in Portsmouth on 1st day of Raya.

Last Monday was our last day of Puasa here in UK and I never expected Syawal moon would be sighted as I was not ready mentally. I was laying on my bed reading a magazine while waiting for Sungkai when PW Yaakub rang me saying that Tomorrow (Tuesday), would be Raya. I jumped out from bed and got surprised. Then I phoned Fahmi and we planned up to depart to London together tonight. Then I had my last Sungkai in Dining Hall with my Raya eve smile.

I felt so happy that Hari Raya is emerging and at the same time, felt so sad that Ramadhan is over. Cycled to Portsmouth Mosque to pay for Zakat of 4 pound. It was quiet and I said to myself, I’m gonna miss this mosque so much. Packed my stuff and took a train to London Waterloo Station along with my bike. Met Fahmi at station by 2230H and we grabbed a taxi going to Lt Kol Abg Abas apartment at Lancaster Gate. The apartment was so big and we were welcomed by the family. Great and sweet family.

1st day Hari Raya here in UK on Tuesday, 01 Oct 08 / 01 Syawal 1429 meant a lot to me. Dressed up in my favourite white Baju Melayu, Sinjang and Songkok. Fahmi and I walked to Brunei Hall when we arrived there early by 0730H and was quiet. After sometimes, other Bruneian started to appear and we had Takbir Raya down at basement. I couldn’t believe that I made my ever first Takbir Raya that lovely morning in public and felt so great and sayu sekali. After takbir, we had open house makan in Brunei Hall with lovely food and kueh Raya. Alhamdulilah, my 1st day is celebrated with others though not around my family. I met Affendi who is taking his Master in Wales there and then we moved to Brunei High Comm for an open house. Food served was excellent along with Kambing and Serunding. There was Kek Tapak Kuda in London. Yahuuuuuuuuuuu at least felt like home. On my 2nd day Raya, we went out to open house at Brunei Embassy’s house Kensington Garden. Great food with Sateh.

I have been listening lagu Raya from Pelangi FM and witnessed Sembayang Raya live now. I wish SELAMAT HARI RAYA, MAAF ZAHIR BATIN to my family at home and friends wishing everyone a wonderful Hari Raya celebration this year.

HARI RAYA CELEBRATION IN UK

2008-10-01T16:17:00.000-07:00

2008-09-27T12:27:00.001-07:00

2008-09-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

MY BELOVED PARENTS

2008-09-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

Miss u Mum & Dad

IN MEMORY

2008-09-26T04:53:00.000-07:00

ALFATIHAH - Dyg Kartine bte Hj Md Arshad

2008-09-26T03:03:00.000-07:00

It’s a lovely Friday, 26 Sept 2008. I’m in a guest room of HMS Nelson Wardroom of my accommodation having a day MC. My eyes are so BANGKONG and swollen and my visions are not very clear. I put on Yassin on air so I could hear from my headset.

Nabilah rang me yesterday afternoon 1414H UK time when I was having a quick nap hiding myself next to my Piano so that I wouldn’t be seen by instructors. I was shocked when she said “Bang Redzky, Ngah Amit meninggal!” My mum sister, Dyg Kartine bte Hj Md Arshad passed away in Ripas Hospital. Didn’t say much but just nodded and put down the phone as if I could go right away to visit her. I sat down blank speechless and burst into tears for few minutes. My grieve responded abruptly and I just couldn’t believe what I heard. Then Mum and Santi sms me the same news.

Grabbed my Al Quran from my bag and started reciting Yassin for her on my chair in tears. I didn’t know what to do.

I sped off back to my cabin as I needed to top up my phone. Cycled to town and rang Mum. She was on her way to Brunei from Pontianak with Dad, Nona and Auntie Masnah. And they would be back Friday night. Ya Allah, they would miss for her burial. I lost Mum then rang BB. She was in grieve greatly and couldn’t speak properly. She just got back from Ripas Hospital and had just arrived home at Salambigar with my late Auntie. It was 10pm Brunei time on Friday night my late Auntie’s body lay on the living room with family and friends around her reciting Yassin. I cried talking to BB where I stood behind shopping area in town.

Everything seemed to recall everything on her memories before I left UK. I was not on the right mood few days back and my Cornet didn’t seem to sound properly and I even looked through her photos from my laptop which I took from Hari Raya in 2006. She suffered from Cancer since then and had an operation in KL and was in and out of Ripas because there was a complication in her body after the operation. Lately before I left, her condition became worse and she wouldn’t eat as she lost her appetite and she suffered from suffocation most of her time. I remembered a month ago when there was a makan2 at home, she came by but was having her rest in Nona’s room and ended up Nona massaging her. Then on purposely she requested to stay few nights in her parent’s house which are my Grandparents behind.

That was one of the last moment we actually talked deeply with each other. I came by to visit her as she lay down coiling up on bed exhaustedly. I was with Nabilah at that time and I sat next to her on bed. She complained that she had suffocated more frequently lately and I could imagine the pain she went through. I reassured her to recite ZIKIR and being positive and advised her to consume some food. It was so sad on her last moment as if she knew she would be leaving us the she stayed in her parents house for few days to say goodbye apparently. Deep in my heart I knew it would eventually happen because she wouldn’t eat anything. We talked for quite a long time. I mentioned that I have started praying and has changed me gradually and told her good stories. Suddenly she said she wanted to memorise Yassin and I was surprised. "Ngangah kan menghafalkan Yassin bah Boi..." I couldn’t believe what I heard. I love to hear what she said. I encouraged her that she would be able to memorise piece by piece. I would never forget that moment forever and whatever her niat, semoga Allah menerima amalannya and mengampunkan dosanya, Amin.

Ya Allah.. my tears wouldn’t stop flowing even when I am typing right now. I just couldn’t believe this happened and leaving her beloved loyal husband, Pg Supry and her children, Iskandar, Mas, , Puteh, a girl, Nurul and Rafi.

I was still in the room with her when she said my Mum has been very nice to her… “Boi.. baik tu Mama mu ah, kan ku kanang tu and jua adi beradiku.. Ngah Supri pun baik menjaga kediaku sama familinya...” Rawan hati ku mendangar when she said that. We cried together in that room. Ya Allah give me strength to type to share my sweet memories with her to family and friends out there… I don’t want others to see me crying now as I am in a public room in which anybody could just bump in to use the room for internet as well and further more it’s lunch time now.

Alright, lets continue….She even asked for forgiveness from me. “Boi, maafkan Ngangah ah…” And I asked for forgiveness to from her. She mentioned that one of her children, Rafi ever prayed next to her and bedoa in tears for her mum’s health to be recovered as before. She said “Kesian c Rafi ah ia bedoa smbil menangis2 supaya Babu jangan tinggal kan kedia”.

Nabilah was quite moody that she had to wait for me for so long and in the car I told her, “Nabilah, iatah masa nya tani bejumpa sama Ngah Amit, sedih ku tadi and kami bedua betangisan. Ngah amit kan ngafalkan Yassin yatah rawan hati ku” Then straight and changed direction, I drove to Huaho Manggis with Nabilah to buy a surprise for Ngah Amit. I bought her a CD player so that she could listen to Yassin and start memorising it as she had always wanted. It was like an urgent matter that I needed to get as I wanted to leave to UK for 2 years. Once paid, drove back to Salambigar and happily I gave her that CD player with CD Yassin. Unfortunately my CD Yassin couldn’t read. I felt good passing her that CD player and few days later I bought her that CD Yassin and gave her in her house in Rimba. It was raining heavily that night when I passed that CD. I climbed up the 3 stories house to her room. There she was laying with her beloved Husband, Ngah Supry next to each other so lovingly. I didn’t want to show my real emotion to her and has always wanted to show positive reaction. I could have cried seeing her but I didn’t stay long. “Terima Kasih Boi ah, mudah mudahan ko selamat.”

On the D day of my departure to UK, Mum advised me to call Ngah Amit. I did when I was about to board the Aircraft. I called c Mas, then she passed it to her Mum. “Boi, sorry ah, Ngangah inda dapat ngantar…. Ok tu Ngah, doa2 kan ku saja ah…” That was the last moment I talked to her on my departure on the 5th Sept 2008.

Last night, I cried and cried while cycling in a cold weather to the Mosque for Tarawih. I kept saying, “mana kita Ngah? Insyaalah I would keep you always in my prayers.. “ as I imagine her body laid in the living room last night.

I woke up at 3am and it was 10am in Brunei and BB told me that her body was buried at Salambigar Cemetary. Alhamduliallah it’s done. I cried again while reciting Yassin then I prayed Tahajud and Tasbih. After Sahur, I recited Alquran till morning. Slowly I watched clear sky and then sun slowly emerging.

Ya Allah, ampunilah dosanya, terima amalannya, tempatkan ia bersama orang2 beriman dan semoga rohnya dicucuri rahmat Amin….Sesungguhnya aku merasa terharu pemergiannya di Malam Jummat di bulan Ramadhan.

MY FAV GREMLINS

2008-09-23T12:53:00.001-07:00

Burning Midnight Oil For TASBIH PRAYER

2008-09-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

I was not in a mood today probably because I was feeling pretty tired and exhausted. Everything seemed to be unright and I felt so restless. My Cornet didn’t sound the normal sound as it used to . But I ended up drawing something on my book killing the time.

There was a time the weather was very windy and cold especially during Steandeasy this afternoon as usual I didn’t join others for Coffee as I was fasting. I went up to the Chaplain building normally to recite AlQUraan but today I was just releasing my tension and watched Goldon Brown on TV.

Finally I got my bike yesterday from brand Scott for £349 and altogether with lights, locker and mud guards I paid them for £418. I felt so happy yesterday. It was right after my tutor with Professor John at 1530H, I zoomed off to Fareham by walk. Bought return ticket from Portsmouth Harbour to Fareham and return for £4.30. Everything set and I brought my bike eventually home.

That night, as for my purpose of my having a bike, I cycled to Portsmouth Mosque in Fratton for Tarawih. I wore my thick jacket as it could be very chilly at night and this would be my first time cycling at night. When I got there, I was early and Isyak started at 2100H. I felt so grateful to perform my Isyak in Jemaaah as well as my Tarawih with other Jemaah particularly in England. Moreover we are in the 10 last day of Ramadhan and this would be the very best time to perform Ibadat to coincide with Lailatul Qadar somewhere in between Insyaalah. I managed to do 8 Rakaat of Tarawih then I sped off back to Nelson and it was not too bad at all.

I woke up at 3am purposely as I wanted to perform Tahajud prayer as well as well as Tasbih prayer. I just hope I could manage to cycle to the Mosque every night until Raya appear. My times was just nice as I drank 2x thick coffee to keep me awake. Had my quick Sahur then performed Suboh prayer and completed 1x Juz of Al Quran till 0600H. I had a quick rest before I cycled to Music Cell with my new bike.

1930's book for 50p

2008-09-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY Car Boot Sales in Portsea

2008-09-21T15:41:00.000-07:00

I really had a great Sunday, the best ever so far since I’ve been in UK. I was cleaning my laundry and around 11 am, I cycled down town checking out the Money Changer and unfortunately it was closed meaning I couldn’t get my bike by today. Hmmm….. Then I scrolled around Portsea, a place where I got lost last Friday and surprisingly when I got there, there was a Car Boot Sales on the park. I love it as much as I love the Sun…. I bought my self small collectable stuff. Walked along the Seafront and enjoying the view.

Scorching Saturday 20 Sept 08

2008-09-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

I woke up late this morning not until Dimitris rang me up at 10am. I got up early for my Sahur and made my self a thick coffee I just bought from Tesco last night in preparation for 10 days of last Ramadhan. Frankly I lost track when would be the last 10 days of Ramadhan as I heard here in England they started fasting a day earlier than Brunei. Anyhow regardless of whatsoever, time to heads up for the Ramadhan opportunities…Insyaalah.

A quick dry cleaning that morning in excitement to get my new bike, Dimitris and I cycled towards Portsmouth Port Harbour train station and he bought myself return tickets to FAREHAM. After 20 minutes journey, we arrived and bike shop was just around the corned. It was called HARGROVES CYCLES. I was blurred not knowing what to get. They’ve got heaps of them and Dimitris suggested me to get SCOTT brand as he got the same one he bought couple of weeks ago. Funny thing about him, he did all the talking instead of the salesman. And he kept on repeating that SCOTT brand is the top brand there’s no comparison with other bikes bla..bla… I tried on that particular SCOTT bike and it was so light and very comfortable. NICE… I thought!! Check out the price… 349 Pound… Yuuuhhuu!!!! Initially it was 399 Pound and the price was reduced. Hmm…. Put on deposit for 10 Pound and yeah I am getting that bike and I needed to change some money. I would hope money changer would be opened on Sunday.

Coincidently, there was FAREHAM FESTIVAL with Vintage Cars parading along the road with Samba Band. We were lucky to be there. I bought my self a second hand HEATER for 5 pound, not bad eh. From Fareham, we headed back to Portsmouth and I just couldn’t believe that Dimitris was still talking about the SCOTT brand, the top bike brand bla.. bla. WE stopped by the bar accompanying Dimitris to get something to eat. Hmmm certainly not a good place for a fasting person.. Cobaaan.!!!! Before I left home, walked around the Gun Wharf Quay for a while and found myself a scrapping shop there. Yeahhh I found you!!!!

After a long day of a wonderful Saturday… finally got home and straight away headed for Sungkai with Mushroom Soup, VEGETABLE CASEROLE and Ice cream. Finally I talked to that foreign officer and only knew that he was from Estonia as he hardly speak up. I was knackered and I didn’t realize that I slept on my prayer’s mat after Isyak until I woke up in the middle of the night and moved on to my bed.

BIKE... Here I come

2008-09-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, 19th Sept 08, TOM PIERSON lend me his new bike for the weekend. He is my neighbour who lives next door of the Music Cell in the Royal Marine Band School of Music. He plays Bass and I could hear he practises his Bass sound and apparently he's been hearing the high register of my Cornet... Hahah

I got so excited riding his 400 pound bike which he bought in Southsea. What a price... I had a test drive behind the school building and I realised the saddle was really high. Right after he gave me his bike locker and key, I sped of to the rear gate and headed home. As I made an immediate turn, I lost control of the bike and fell off over the side of the road. Ouuchhh!!! Hurt my knee and had a torn on my pants. Changed clothes a quick as possible and cleaned up my bleeded knee, cycled towards the Portsmouth mosque for Friday Prayer. I got lost and ended up at Southsea but managed to turn back to Holbrook Road for the mosque on time.

Cycling around further North as I drifted away from the Mosque and when I checked out the Map, I was really further up North and turned back again to the Commercial Road. My HSBC card was ready for collection and yet waiting for the PIN to be delivered. Met Dimitris, a foreign officer from Greece with his great bike. I told him that I wanted to get a bike and he is the bike maniac and the right person to ask.We planned up to check out bike shop tomorrow in Fareham.

Hooked my self with internet all nite right after my Sungkai till midnite. Yahoo... it's my 2nd Weekends.......

2008-09-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Check out these Drummers... Aren't they COOL!! It was last Friday afternoon, I was in my cell practising my breathing exercise when they all flocked in the building right after their marching parade practise...

ROYAL MARINE BAND HELMET

2008-09-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Look at that Goergeous Helmet issued t0 the Royal Marine Band to be used when they conduct on marching parade. I must get this Helmet before I leave.... Great Stuff!

Farewell Cake

2008-09-21T13:07:00.000-07:00

Farewell Cake given by Shukriz and Chicko few days before I departed to UK. It was a nice evening dinner at Le Taj and Shukriz showed us his complete Camera set he just bought in Singapore.

THE YOGI BREATHING EXERCISES

2008-09-18T14:53:00.000-07:00

Another lovely day today with sunshine.... Another day in my 3 x 5 metres Music Cell the whole day. I was actually measuring the Cell my self with my feet. You know after blowing that Cornet for nearly 2 weeks now, I tend to create something funny in my Cell or else I wouldn't survive.

Today I learnt something new. The Yogi Breathing exercise, which help students to improve on their blowing. I actually tried all the exercises and apparently it worked on me and yeah.. great stuff. Even my neighbour next door realised on my sound. 'Today you sound better but yesterday was no good'. Hmm.. The past few days, I haven't touch my Piano yet as I have concentrated and focused on my Cornet so far . Proffesor Robert of Piano had been on sick leaves. Another hectic day when I start my Piano lesson soon....

Weekends here I come. I want to get a bike badly. 10 days of last Ramadhan is just around the corner... So guys out there, grab this golden opportunities..

IFTHAR at HMS NELSON Bar

2008-09-17T13:44:00.000-07:00

I had a great day today. The sun was a bit more friendly and warmer. I couldn't believe I could complete 5x Juz of AlQuran today and it never happened before. Started after Subuh Prayer this morning, another one before my class started, one during break time at Chaplin building, one in the afternoon and final one in my room before Sungkai. Alhamdulillah...

I thought of buying a Bike urgently so that I could go to the nearest mosque for Tarawih. Been there once last week during Jumaat Prayer and walking from my accomodation to the Mosque would take me half an hour. I have been wanting to grab any opportunities to perform Tarawih atleast 10 days before Ramadhan. If I were in Brunei, it wouldn't be this hassle. I guess this would be my challenges. I shall ask anyone from my class if they would let me rent their Bike till end of this month.

Every Wednesday, dinner will be on Buffet served in a Bar. Hmmm. Sungkai time getting earlier as today was at 1913H. Had 3x dates from my Cabin and prayed Maghrib before I headed for my 'scran' at the Bar. Felt awkward having my Vegetable Curry with steamed rice infront of liqours and beers infront of me. Well.. Seen that, been that, tried that and FORGET that!!!!!!!! Hehehe

Here are some pics of me in my Music Cell on Wednesday afternoon while others had gone for recreational training and I was left behind blowing my CORNET religiously. I am serious!!

FUTURE MAESTRO ROUTINE

2008-09-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

The weathers just getting more colder lately and I couldn't help it without my wooly pully. Surprisingly I woke early as early than usual at 0715 am. I just felt happy and in a good mood today. Routinely I would passed over that Hall Porter, got out from the big, tall Wardroom door. Felt the cold breeze and my eyes would start becoming watery as usual. Walked down the stairs leaving that HMS Nelson building in which it has always mesmerised me everytime I open that big, tall door. Its just a wonderfull building... Victorian, brick wall, tall ceiling and wooden interior. I bet this bulidding has been built for more than a 100 years now. I just wish I could built such similar interior back home someday.

Just crossed the road, I arrived at HMS Nelson and walked through the gate where I showed my ID pass to the Police. Headed to the Royal Marine Band School of Music is a 5 minutes walk. I would come accros where other ranks would salute me or rather people would go confuse wheather to salute or not considering of my Asean look or strange identity. Heheh I thought it was funny when I pretended not seeing them but then accidentally starred at their hand wanting to solute. I laughed inside my heart and has always made me smile heading towards my music cell.

Yeah, my Music Cell building as it was a prison building before as everyone has always convinced me from the moment I stepped in on my 1st day. I thought so by looking at individual room but of course it looked so different now. I would never go to the front door passing through the security and preferred to go from the back door where I would just pinned down the secret numbers from the door. Once arrived in the Cell, felt warmth and ready to start for my music. But it was quiet and everyone must have gone for Parade Training or Physical Training.

I would try to recite my AlQuraan for few pages before I start blowing my Cornet. Routinely I would blow my Cornet for 20 minutes not more than that coz my lips would start to get swollen by then. Then I would always start playing the Piano practising my speed on the Scales. Break time at 1015H, sometimes I would join others for Standeasy for coffee break. I would just sit there watching them sipping hot drinks. Or else I would go to the Chaplin building and continue reciting my ALQuraan there. I was introduced to the Chaplin on my 1st day and he said I could use the room for praying or anything. I prayed Asar few times here at one corner of deserted room. Then the room was filled with lots of Bibles and religious books. I would just imagine that this is pretty like a gathering room rather than a Church just to avoid and misconcept intentions. After standeasy, we would continue to do our individual practise till 1720H. I spent religiously in my Music Cell today blowing my Cornet and practising Piano every minute of it. I wanted to improve and learn as much as I can. Besides that, I have also reciting AlQuraan whenever theres spare time as I wanted to complete ASAP particularly before Syawal of Hari Raya, Insyaalah. Now I'm heading towards Juz 4 as I started yesterday on Monday.

Back to HMS Nelson Wardroom, had Asar prayer and grabbed my Laptop bag to the Guest Room above the Hall Porter. I thought of going for sight seeeing today but considering the weather was very cold and windy, I changed my mind. I just couldn't stand cold weather. Got online connected with family and frens while waiting for Sungkai at the Dining hall. 1915H Sungkai time here and I had Fish with mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Broccoli. Started with Tomato Soup and Apple Tart as dessert. As much as possible I would try to avoid any meat meals. My dinner would cost me 2 pound and 25 p per serving and my meal throught my 2 years would be met my the Armed Forces. Lucky me. Next room, had coffee and started updating with the papers. Accidentally looked through Page 3 of SUN paper. Wow.!!

Basically this would be my routine life for the rest of my course here. So far so good and I have nothing against all this because I have been paid for this.. Hahaha Nice and relax...

MY MUSIC CELL

2008-09-14T05:18:00.001-07:00

Not Bad for SAHUR eh...

2008-09-14T05:08:00.000-07:00

SUNGKAI Delights

2008-09-14T05:01:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY BLUES

2008-09-14T04:37:00.000-07:00

This time I managed to wake up for Sahur atleast for 5 minutes and quickly drank the Ribena and grabbed the baggette from last nite before times up. I could say its better than nothing. Hehe... My Sunday has been so quiet and lazily I was just doing my laundry and cleaned up my room. I had to throw my soaked Strawberries to the bin as they started to taste sour. Sayang eh... Too Bad!

Yesterday I really had a great Sungkai down at GOSPORT with my colleagues. I had to go down to GUNWHARF QUAYS by taxi crossed over the river by Ferry to reach Gosport just to get the best scran. Then they fetched me by a car. What a lovely accomodation they have... Surely cosy and Confy. Thank god I don't have to wait longer time for Sungkai. Well I managed to grab some pics around the area. Lovely sceneries... Its Scran time!! Food was great, Fish Halibut in Tomato Sause, Fried Egg, Sambal Belacan and some Veggies... Wow!! I could say the best food ever served in Ramadhan... I ended up 2 rounds of meal... Fewh. Watched the 1st episode of Lord of the Ring on TV. Once finished, the dropped me off to Gosport Ferry and I walked from GunWharf Quay to Nelson. Not too bad for a 1st timer... at least I saved 4 pound. Hehe.

I got home by midnite and I was stunned by my reserved Sahur food prepared for me. Baggette with Roast Chicken, Potatoes in Mayonese, Salad and Eggs. Nice and much better then my previous prepacked Sahur....

MY 1st Weekend in Portsmouth

2008-09-13T05:51:00.000-07:00

Woke up at 8am on Saturday. I tought it was a week day. I realised I missed my Sahur last nite and there was Cheese Sandwiches, Crisp, Chocolate Biscuit packed for me left untouch on the table. Was tempted to see the Strawberries which I bought for a pound from town last nite I tought it would be good for my sahur. Hehe Well with a litlle bit of disappointment, I got up and cleaned up my room. There was my praying mat still laying on the floor after my Qhatam AlQuraan alone right before Isyak last nite. It felt good that I eventually Qhatam my 2nd AlQuraan this year particularly in UK. I didn't remember much last nite as I slept on the praying mat and got up somewhere in the middle of the nite and moved to my bed.

Wanted to do my laundry but it was full. SO went the Hall Porter and I tought I wanted to try to use the Wardroom Wireless. Paid 2 Pounds and hey I was online. Went to the Guest Room on top of the Hall Porter and was online with Shukrizz, SHer and Nina. What a good laugh! Strangely when I opened Shukriz blogspot, there was this sentimental and touching song on the air and concurently I was opening my hotmail and there was an article about MUM. TEARS came down from my eyes and I was just speechless while reading the article. I couldn't believe I could be this emotional. I felt homesick... Thanks god I have friends around to keep me company.

My 1st weekend in the UK, felt lazy to go out. I could live like this to be online all the time in 2 years rather than going out and froze to death. Haha the weather is just getting colder and colder. I couldn'nt stand it sometimes.