Happy New Year

A new year means more than simply hanging up a new calendar. It should be a time of reflection; of learning from past mistakes and gaining strength and wisdom from past experiences. But more importantly, it should be a time for resolution and new beginnings; of turning a new leaf and of planning for the future (albeit so uncertain) with renewed optimism and much rejuvenation.

In this challenging year ahead, DIESELFREAK wishes everyone a happy and most successful two double o' nine!

How to install a doorknob

Simple-to-follow steps... just it case you ever get stuck in such a situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Install the strikeplate with the two screws.

 

2. Position the deadlatch into its place and screw into place

 

3. The door knob comes in two halves, which slide together and are joined by a pair of long machine screws. Obviously, the outside knob is the one with the key and the inside knob has a button. MAKE SURE TO PLACE IT CORRECTLY... Otherwise it is as good as having no door at all!, hehe...

 

 

4. Twist in the rose insert into place

 

5. Then, lock in the inside knob

 

6. Don't forget to test your work with the key and ensure that both handles twist easily, the knobs don't rattle up against the door (if this happens the screws are too loose) and the door cannot be pushed or pulled open (from either side) without using the handle.

 

7. Voila! Your brand new doorknob... now, who says that DIESELFREAK can't do 'man's' job properly, hehe...

A new day has come

OK, I admit that channeling Celine Dion is a bit melodramatic, hehehe... but I wont sugarcoat the fact that it does suck big time for not being successful in getting the scholarship for further studies. All those months of planning, filling up forms, begging for referees and preparing for evaluations and interviews... all for nothing. Also, I honestly feel that my work performance since the beginning of the year is so-so at best, considering that my enthusiasm for paperwork and forecasts had waned while thoughts of lectures, libraries and lounging at chic bistros for (supposed) study group sessions get stronger.

Anyway, I could have wallowed deeper in self pity had I not being reminded that this slight misfortune is nothing compared to the real tribulations faced by others. That it is all but a slight bump in the long and winding journey that is LIFE. Even better, in His infinite wisdom, there may actually be a lesson to be learned here somewhere...

So thanks to my friends for cheering me up over the weekend. I really had a great time. As for my study plans, I may try again next year depending on the circumstances... so don't count that blog entry from Bond Street flagship store out just yet! hehe...

Dreams deferred

Up to a higher power

This afternoon i had my presentation cum interview for my scholarship application. I have been in somewhat of a nervous wreck the entire weekend, preparing the presentation slides, rehearsing and thinking about all the permutations on potential questions that might pop up. And at 3.45pm today, after about 30 minutes or so... it was all over.

How did i do? Well, i did present my slides without a hitch, i did answer all of the questions raised. I also managed to inject some humour and into my arguments, all delivered in a natural, BBC-esque British accent I thought I lost years ago (hehehe). On the other hand, I somehow lacked conviction in some of my answers and perhaps did not project a more confident outlook as I have hoped for... so i suppose my chances of getting the scholarship or not are more or less balanced.

Whatever it is, as they always say, it is now beyond our control and that it is up to the powers that be to decide my fate. In the meantime, i better start sending in those long overdue application forms before the closing date inches closer.

Here's hoping that the next time you will read about my study plans, i will be able to give a definite and most importantly, a favourable outcome. Wish me luck ;)

Bristol calling

I recieved something very special in the mail today: my postgraduate prospectus from my old alma mater, the University of Bristol. Browsing through the pamphlets and looking at the pictures brought back many a fond memories back in my undergrad days there. Bliss...

I think i have mentioned this before, one of my broad ambitions for 2008 is to, godwilling, pursue my further studies. I think its about time to undertake this sabbatical, after 5 long years in the Bank. A break from slouching infront of the PC all day would be good, and taking up the semi-urgent lifestyle of a 'mature' student would be even better.

With the prospectus in hand, now begins the process of filling up forms (memo to self: need to order my result transcript) and preparing for scholarship presentations and interviews. Though nothing is set in stone yet, if all goes as planned, i intend to read Msc Economics, Finance & Management back in Bristol. I am also looking to other suitable courses, and in other uni's as well... maybe for a change of scenery i might try and apply the States or Australia.

So watch this space for further developments... fingers crossed Dieselfreak may finally update his latest shopping escapade at either the London, NY or San Fransisco flagship store.