Werf, BBQ April, 2010 (thx Dré!:)):

EIPHNH

The month before.

Monday, 26th April, 2010.

Very good meeting with coach: all qualities are becoming clear, all flaws (and "traps" of my qualities) as well. I think sessions like this are indispensable if you move forward to a new job, as I am at present. People around us tend to respond differently to questions about ourselves: it's all in the eye of the beholder.

What I know for sure right now: I need to be passionate about something, then I will completely commit myself to that cause. Just look at what I've done for Marcouch, for the promotion of Greek music, for multicultural society, for the integration of Islam into our society, all the spiritual consultancies. I was passionate about those things/people, and they have truly given me a sense of accomplishment.

I don't know exactly what the coming years will bring, but I will definitely use that passion to make a success of my new job. I will be able to motivate all servicedesk staff to join me on this path. We will have a lot(!) of challenges to face though............

Tzenh Banou, singing "Se blepw sto pothri mou" ("I (can) see you in my glass"):

The whole of Twitter is going frantic with politics. A bit of a dull subject..........I told you already: only a few politicians are able to capture my attention and inspire me. The rest of them........ehm, not really. However, check the latest polls anyway.

Whom ever you are going to vote for in June, don't forget that politicians don't make the change; WE do! Every change begins with us, and ends with us. You, I, we, are responsible for every single thing which occurs in our society, in our country. No one else is. Elections are not going to change that, and they are most certainly not going to work miracles, far from it! Check out Be the change.

Remember that there still are people in our world who think that their religion, for example, is the "right" one, and the only one. There are still people who think women are lesser human beings than men, there are still people who think gays are lesser human beings than straights. We have a lot of work to do. Start today, right now! No politician will be able to solve the problems I have mentioned above, however, those are the real issues in our society; the existence of people who think they are better than others, and the consequences of their beliefs. Think about it.

God bless you.

Sunday, 25th april, 2010.

Kevin's birthday party last night, at Chaos, Looiersgracht in Amsterdam. Very nice atmosphere and crowd. His brother was also there: a completely different person! Good to see everyone again: Désirée, Leanne, Rachel, Suzanne, Alex, Mirjam, and lots of other people as well, mostly colleagues and friends of Harry's, but we get along great.:).

Picture this. 1997. My ex, S., and I, driving through Greece. I just purchased a tape with the latest Greek hits of that year. One song particularly struck our hearts: unknown voice, a magnetic Turkish/Egyptian beat and arrangement, dramatic lyrics. It's called "Sbhnw ap'ton xarth" ("I completely wipe out....."), and I finally found it on YouTube. The singer is Natasa Theodoridou:

Afterwards, Harry and I went to Entre Nous for another drink. I said to my psychologist, a few years ago: "I just would love to be that relaxed, normal guy, who curls up with a book on the sofa on a Saturday afternoon!" Psychologist replied: "Chances are that this will never happen, Freddy. You're an impulse-person; you need challenges, the exploring of boundaries. Peace and quiet are treasures you could pursue, but which you may never own....." I told Harry this story at the Entre Nous and he said that I personally don't create the ideal circumstances to find peace and quiet at all: alcohol, Mediterranean music (which is very upbeat and dramatic at the same time), late nights, busy jobs, parties, etc. I think he is right, and I also realized that we often create the things we don't wish for, with our (destructive) behavior.

My friend, Aouatif, just tweeted the following: "a real man is usually a woman". Don't you just LOVE that?:) It's something her mother used to say. I agree. Not in all cases, but in many cases this tends to be true. Women are resilient and brave. Maybe it's something biophysical, I wouldn't know.

Harry and I watched my taping of Ik hou van Holland this afternoon (we only got up round 13:00;)). One of the "Halal Girls" (famous program about Dutch Muslim ladies), Esmaa, was there as well. She did a good job, answering the questions, and she looked great:).

Esmaa, one of the three Girls of Halal.

Everything points out that Ahmed is going to be an MP. Elections are on the 9th of June, so I'll vote for him. Normally, I vote for Femke Halsema in the national elections (Green Socialist Party - "Groen Links"), but I'll make an obvious exception this time. In my opinion, if you don't vote for Marcouch, you should vote for Groen Links. By no means, choose PVV, CDA, Christen-Unie, or SGP! Very bad for the country. I can forgive you for voting VVD or D'66.....;);). But then again, I always vote for politicians, not for political parties, I'm a people person.

Femke.

I wish you all a wonderful Sunday, God bless you.

Saturday, 24th April, 2010.

After three days of introduction meetings, parties, and the Werf BBQ, I finally got some decent sleep last night. I feel a little bit less exhausted. The process of gradually stepping into my new job, and just as gradually stepping back from my old one feels very strange. I work in IT, and, at the same time, I don't anymore.

Something like this..........

By the way, I'm just watching a Dr. Phil Show about bullying among girls in high school: I sometimes wonder if everybody should be allowed to have children, seriously. Why aren't parents capable enough to raise their children with the concept of respect for others? What's so difficult about that?! Maybe religion should be brought back as an essential part of raising our children.

During the same show, Dr. Phil's son, Jay, appeared as a guest, is he cute or what?;):

Listening to Doukissa's "20 Megales epityxies" ("20 Big hits"), this is one track from it:

The Werf BBQ was a great event: everyone was there, including S., our District Secretary, and M., C., and M., the managers. Some nice talks, with a few of my colleagues over there, as well as saying goodbye to one of my engineers, M., who is leaving for the Municipal IT Service. He got a great job offer a few weeks ago, and took it. God bless him. A huge career move.

Yesterday, we had our final department meeting, with M. as president. Very strange and unreal as well. However, we all agreed that - despite all the trouble and hard times we have gone through in the past few months, as a team - we have shown great resilience and strength during the whole process. Kudos to all my co-workers, indeed!

The final meeting of the migration project was wonderful: we all have a great sense of accomplishment regarding the results of the project. Everybody has worked their *rses off, I can tell you. E., the project manager, gave all of us a big rose, and great compliments for our achievements.

The "big shuffle" of employees will take place 6th and 7th of May. IT, Facility Management, including the Servicedesk (my department) have to work, the rest of the employees have been asked not to come to the office, but work at home, or take time off, due to the expected chaotic situation. A HUGE project! But it can be done.

Soft-core picture of Danny Saradon, Bel Ami's superstar, in my opinion the cutest guy on the planet!;)

Next week will be Queen's Day, and the day after, Slotervaart will be officially merged into the new district of New-West. Exciting times, with lots of challenges for all of us.

Have a great weekend, God bless you!

Thursday, 22nd April, 2010.

A lot of introductions, receptions, and festivities. Loads of fun, but very exhausting!;) Yesterday, I had a meeting with my colleagues of the new department I am going to work for: facility management. Very good atmosphere, great laughs, wonderful people. I'm truly looking forward to working with them.

This evening, we celebrated the successful finish of our migration project. This time, a lot of IT-people of course, and people from records management/document management, plus the people from company N., who did an amazing job supporting us. Great crowd, at a wonderful location, Opium at Sloterplas. M. has truly become my buddy, for sure!:)

I spent today at our new servicedesk counter: great fun!:) I felt like a bartender, LOL!:) A few bar stools wouldn't be a mismatch at all.;) H. did a good job replacing me, as well as B. did later on. People, this servicedesk is going to be "the bomb", I can tell you!

Rena Dalma, singing "8elw antra n'agapaei" ("I want a man to love (me)"):

I can't help but writing it again: I miss Ahmed Marcouch so much!:( Of course, his career will go through the roof and I am very happy for him, but I didn't realize how much the atmosphere at our office was influenced by his presence, by his radiance. I just want him to come back. I know that won't happen, but I still want him to come back. I also spoke with J., my ex-boss, today, and asked her to send him my regards. She's going to move on after the fusion. I hope we will stay in touch. God, that lady really struck my heart, I can tell you. I will miss her as well. Colleagues tell me I'm over-dramatizing. Ehm, no, I'm not. If you truly understand who I am, you know I'm not!

H. invited me to the christening or his daughter. I LOVE that! Of course I accepted.

Well, tomorrow will be the last meeting of our IT department, just before the fusion. M. will say goodbye and move on to another job. It will be a strange experience. BBQ at the Werf afterwards, lovely!:)

I cycled to Opium this afternoon with my colleague N., who lives in Osdorp (which is in the same neighborhood as Opium). N. works at the HR department. She is very pious (Muslima) and I can tell you, she looked like a movie star!:) LOL! She has a bright green bike, glamorous sunglasses, killer eyes, and a smile to die for, dark clothes and her head scarf included. So, people, sexy is not what you show, it's what you don't show, really!:) All this apart from her incredible resilience, her faith in God, her positive outlook on life, and her warmth. Everybody should have a colleague or friend like N., for inspiration and for comfort as well. God bless you, N.!

And God bless you as well.:)

Tuesday, 20th April, 2010.

The impression which "Tegenlicht" gave of Ahmed wasn't my cup of tea: too chaotic, not coherent, a lot of noise, no content. Sorry, guys, bad job! Well, VPRO is not really my broadcasting corporation anyway, though some of their programs are good. Of course, you can watch and judge for yourself: Tegenlicht, 19th April, 2010 (Dutch).

My stomach is killing me, so I had to stay at home today; I had a really bad night because of it. I hardly ever have problems like that, so I'm a bit worried about it being an ulcer or something.........I'm able to eat yogurt though, which I never do, but strangely enough I like it! I believe that our bodies tell us what we need, one way or another. My homemade soup works fine as well. I can't seem to be able to put my finger on what causes this pain. It seems to be anything solid, or fiber, something like that. I'll try to work tomorrow. I have two important meetings, so it wouldn't be good to call in sick.

I asked K. if he would appreciate it if I came to his birthday this Saturday. He replied that he would, so I will go with Harry. A while ago, I said something that hurt K.'s feelings (I understand why), but I apologized later on. I believe his party will be at Café Chaos, Amsterdam.

Friday, there will be a BBQ at the Werf. So, looking forward to that. However, I don't think I will be able to eat yet (they always have vegetarian food, which is nice, as you know I don't eat meat or fish).

Litsa Diamanti, singing "Esu 8a me steileis" ("You will send me"):

The coaching really gives me a new perspective on myself. If there is one thing that I have realized during the past few days, it is that I always listen and seldom are listened to. It seems as if no one wants to hear what I have to say. It is not because it's dull or uninteresting; it's just because most of my friends are self-absorbed. Are they friends then? Something to think about. Time to move on?

I don't need other people to like me anymore, I want to like myself and that's it. Whatever they think or say is of no concern to me in this phase of my life. I notice this every day: I hardly look at other people, just because I don't find them particularly interesting. That is not because I am selfish or narcissistic, it is because I'm fed up and overwhelmed by other people's problems. I can't cope with that anymore. It's over, at least for now.

Talking about being self-absorbed: don't use your cell phone in traffic, not even walking or cycling! Take the pledge at Oprah.com!

Blog you later, guys, God bless you.

Monday, 19th April, 2010.

I did some work today, because the migration of the PST-files didn't go very well (that is, too slow). We decided to launch plan B: the people who need the archived e-mails the most, will get them first. Not ideal, but no alternative, unfortunately........

My friend N. invited me to watch "Tegenlicht" with her tonight (Ahmed will appear in it). As much as I would love to, no energy. I'll text her in a minute. I think I will tape the episode or something.

Meeting with my job coach went very well. It's a great way to prepare for my new job, 1st May. A lot of things are becoming clear to me now; my qualities, my flaws, everything.

Rena Violanti, singing "Ti na kanw" ("What shall I do?"):

She gave me a list of qualities which could or couldn't apply to me. I have to pick 10 max. and two of my friends/colleagues have to do the same. So my partner, Harry, and my boss, M., will be good candidates. Can't wait to see the results!:) I already picked mine.......;)

I'm doing soup therapy again: pea soup. A very good way to concentrate on my life, and what to do with it. It takes several hours to prepare, so time is on my side.

My recipe: rinse 250 grams of split peas with water, and boil them for 45 minutes. Don't forget to remove the foam, or the peas and the water will be all over your stove! Add two cubes of vegetarian stock. After 10 minutes, first add a whole sliced carrot, and wait for 10 minutes. Then add a sliced fennel, and wait for 15 minutes. Don't forget to add some extra water, every now and then. Add a sliced leek, and, after ten minutes, add some fried onions. That's it!:) If you like, you could add some sliced Dutch vegetarian smoked sausage as well. If so, boil for an extra 5 minutes.

Freddy's pea soup: halal and vegetarian as well!:)

Blog you later, God bless you.

Sunday, 18th April, 2010.

A very late night, last night. Harry and I arrived at mine round 05:00! A nice evening at Entre Nous though, with Désirée, Georgetine, Ellen, and Ruud. A little bit too much to drink, but, hey, two days to recover, LOL!:)

What to do if your partner is so unhappy with his life? I don't know. He was okay today.......

I am preparing for my appointment with my coach tomorrow. Qualities, flaws, what do I want, and who am I actually? Questions like that. I truly think this is necessary, because my new job won't be an easy one, I guarantee you. I need lots of feedback and (self-)reflection, period.

Did you miss Harry Winter's interview with Ahmed? Here it is!:) I'm listening to it now, and watching it every now and then, while blogging for you.

Good to see Ellen again, who is a good friend of Georgetine's. I instantly liked her the first time we met, a few weeks ago. She has a partner who is so compatible with her, I've hardly ever seen that before in a couple.

This is the goodbye-era in my life: receptions, dinners and other festivities to create a kind of closure for Slotervaart, welcoming New-West. Weird, strange, slightly sad. Project after project is being finished, after which a new one is started immediately. People are working very hard. The atmosphere is good, positive, and vibrant as well.

The resilience of all those people is astonishing, at least, I think it is.

God bless you.

Saturday, 17th April, 2010.

Yesterday, I saw Georgetine, my "partner in crime" (which means that we both have the same flaws, we're not criminals!;)), We had a great time together, watching our Toppers DVDs and X-Factor. Lots of food and lots of wine. Georgetine said that I probably have had a past life in Greece or Turkey. I don't know if I believe in that sort of thing...........It's wonderful to have her as a friend.

Harry, Désirée, and I are going to Entre Nous tonight, to celebrate Dési's birthday, because I missed it last Thursday. Looking forward to that. I'm a bit hungover from yesterday, but feeling OK. The week was extremely heavy, despite my two days off: I still had to do a lot of things for work from home anyway.

Ahmed is doing a lot lately: visit his page for viewing tips and a brand new interview! Support my hero on FaceBook as well.:)

One of the shows he will appear on is about his musical autobiography. I happen to know he loves Umm Kulthum:).

The incomparable Umm Kulthum, with a wonderful orchestra, intro to "Inta omri" ("You are my life"):

I'm already preparing for my new job, still being in the old one. I have several ideas about how to set up our new service center. My new boss, R., is really supportive. I think this job will be the nicest one I've had in years!:) My financial situation has not really improved though: I will have to wait one year for a substantial pay rise. However, it's the job that counts, not the salary, at least, that's the way I see it.

I wish you all a great evening, God bless you.

Wednesday, 14th April, 2010.

The e-mail migration project is almost finished. Some loose ends regarding the archive files, but we'll survive. Good job everyone!:)

My new boss gave me flowers to celebrate my new job. Very sweet of him, can't wait to get started. Congrats received from everyone, so thank you all!:) Congratulations to all my colleagues who have found a job in the new organization as well. For the others: may your wishes come true, and I'm sure they will, mark my words!

J. gave me permission to publish the wonderful pictures of Ahmed's farewell reception. You can watch them here, on Konstantinou.nl! The man truly has glamor potential!;) How about offering him a part in a soap opera? LOL! He could play the lady killer, the bad guy, the good guy, well, basically every character.

Paulus (interview with Paulus, in Dutch) as well as Ahmed: lookin goooooooood!:)

I took today and tomorrow off, except for a meeting about the migration, tomorrow at 11:00. I worked Sunday and Monday, so it's a bit of necessary compensation; I'm really very tired! I hardly managed to do some cleaning work today; kitchen, bathroom and laundry, not even the living room and my bedroom! I'll do those tomorrow, after the meeting.

This basically is Freddy Konstantinou at present!;)

The company council is having a farewell dinner with our District Secretary tomorrow, at Le Marais. That is the reason why I can't go to Désirée's birthday celebration, or to Inge's farewell party, both of which I regret, but the dinner is important, because I went through a lot with my fellow cc-members..........Désirée: I love you darling, I wish you the best birthday ever! Inge: we'll see each other soon!

Stevie Wonder, singing "Happy birthday", especially for Désirée:

A turning point for me, during my meeting with the job coach, Jolanda, last Monday. I've always been under the impression that I can't say no easily. Ehm, yes, I can! I never say no to my job, but I almost always say no to my friends: too tired, too miserable, too busy. Shocking isn't it?? That realization really struck me to the core, I can tell you. We decided to work on this issue the coming weeks. Because, my new job will be very challenging indeed, and if I don't take care of myself enough, I'll be drained in no time. Red flag alert and rightfully so........

However, Danny Saradon always cheers me up! LOL!;)

Harry has exactly the same problem: everything is less important than work. We will have to talk about that together, because we both obviously have the same hang-ups about work.........But I think Harry does a better job at creating time-off with high quality: he might be tired after a day's work, but he still goes quizzing with his friends, or out to dinner. I just can't. He has more energy I guess, or he manages his energy better during the day. I don't know. It's something I have to learn.

Have a great evening everyone!:)

Friday, 9th April, 2010.

Wow! A lot of things happened this week. Where to start??

Of course! Freddy has a job at New-West, as a servicedesk co-ordinator!:) Exactly what I want, a great and wonderful (and gorgeous;)) man as a manager, and wonderful staff and co-workers. What else could I wish for? I'm happy.:)

Ahmed's farewell as Mayor of Slotervaart took place yesterday. Of course, I was there, just like my friend N. However, it wasn't a sad event at all. Ahmed was happy and cheerful, his speech was great, and the people at the reception were cool. Great to see Fatima again by the way!:)

Fatima Elatik

Ahmed Marcouch

Migration project is heavy but going well. Colleague R. and myself are stand-by this weekend, for the Exchange-migration. He is doing a good job and I'm happy for him. We've been through a lot together........

More and more colleagues are being informed about their future position in New-West. Most of them happy, thank God. Re-organization is difficult and burdensome, so upbeat news is always welcome.;)

I, myself, am not well: a terrible, persisting cold. The only way to go on is lots of paracetamol and ibuprofene. However, that's the physical part. The rest of me is quite OK, actually. A short weekend ahead (at least, for my standards) because I will work this Monday, which normally is my day off. Necessary though. Another tough week ahead.

Listening to Mairy Marandi, one of the most incredible voices in Greek folk music.

"Th zoh mou th xalasa" ("I destroyed my life"):

Nil just heard very bad news about M. She is devastated, but very strong and rational at the same time. Powergirl! You can do it, darling, I love you!

Have an inspiring weekend everyone, God bless you.

Second Easter Day, 2010.

Yesterday evening, Harry and I watched "Happy feet" (after "Deal or no deal" by Linda of course). At first, I wasn't really in the mood, but after 15 minutes or something, I really liked the theme: let's face it, people, being different from the crowd is supercool!:) Be honest, just watch my slideshow below; it's about people who stand out, people who have the courage to be different, in which ever way possible. Just imagine what a huge difference they have made to the world.

I sincerely hope that you have the courage to stand out, because life really is too short not to.....! My true love Harry absolutely belongs in this gallery of heroes as well!:)

As far as Harry is concerned, I'm really worried. He's not happy at all, and I don't know what to do about it. Of course, I've been depressed several times in my life as well. I've chosen to take medication, for the rest of my life. This doesn't mean that life is wonderful all of a sudden, but it definitely takes away all the "sharp edges" of it. It keeps me focused, and - even more important - my self-image remains realistic, without any extreme ups or downs. It's your choice: do you want to use all your energy staying alive, or do you truly want to live?? I don't know the answer for you, but I'm convinced that you do. Think about it.

Cindy Lauper, singing "True colors":

There is no goal in this life, except being (or becoming) your authentic self. I fully agree with my heroine Oprah Winfrey. I don't always agree with her, but this is actually the essence of her message, and the essence of her being. Who is going to benefit from your existence if you don't allow yourself to be who you are? Don't hide yourself, the world deserves to experience you the way you are. Ahmed also says it: if you, e.g., don't allow gay people to be who they are, they will be of much less use to society than if you do. It's as simple as that.

I'm preparing for a difficult week, mentally and physically. Ahmed's farewell reception will be particularly hard; he'll move on and Slotervaart (New-West) will officially have to do without him. Of course, there is also the migration project, and all kinds of difficult unforeseen problems. I'll need all the energy I can get, believe me.

I wish you all a wonderful evening, and God bless you. Be who you are!

Easter Sunday, 2010.

A blessed Easter dear friends!:)

I watched the new Doctor Who this afternoon, at Harry's. Wonderful episode!:) I think he is doing a great job, though it's taking a bit of getting used to for all of us.;)

Louise is one of the hosts of "Something for the weekend", and she used to be part of Eternity. She's also had a bit of a solo career as well.

Louise Redknapp, singing "Let's go round again" (Thx Harry!:)):

I'm starting to feel a bit better: less tired, a little bit more radiant and alive as well. It's about time! Though the hectic life will definitely start again on Tuesday, because of the Exchange (e-mail) migration coming up. At least I will have enough energy for a few days to face this circus.;)

I also noticed that cycling to IJburg really wears me out, especially if it rains, so in that case I take public transport which is so relaxed! I can't believe I've never done this before. I might get hooked on the subway, LOL!:)

Harry is coming over later, for dinner, DVDs, and he has to watch "Deal or no deal" with Linda, sorry darling!;) But he'll survive. I'm planning on doing a big spring clean tomorrow. It always makes me feel better when I do it. Cleaning house, cleaning mind and spirit. That's the way it works for me.

Actually, I would love to go to the Entre Nous tonight, but I'll see how Harry feels about that. It might be too much for both of us, so maybe we'd better wait until Queen's Day.;)

Enjoy your Easter evening everyone!:)

Saturday, 3rd April, 2010.

Yesterday evening, I got an unexpected visit from my friend M., who is originally from Czech. Maybe you remember him: the guy who loves to smoke small joints and who loves to listen to trance music from the Nineties!:) He's really sweet, a bit eccentric, but loads of fun to be around. Actually, I was planning to go to bed early, because I was so exhausted. Well, I went to bed around 03:00! So much for taking care of myself.;) We spent the evening talking and playing YouTube videos. LOVE YouTube!:)

"Acapulco", by Jazeboo:

Today, I got up around 12:00, but I'm still not very well rested. It takes a few days I guess.......I've noticed that I'm shifting my attention as well as my friendships towards men, instead of women. Throughout my life, I've had so many female friends, and almost no male ones. Strange but true; though gay men tend to appreciate friendships with women more than friendships with men (in general, that is, of course). At this point in my life, I like the company of (straight) men, because I feel understood by them, and welcomed into their hearts. Strange, isn't it? Who knew?? But it really works that way: they appreciate who I am, they ask for my advice, they are flirtatious (in an innocent manner of course), and they are just the right company for me. The complexity of human life and the complexity of the human spirit..........again, who knew?? Nevertheless, I lost my older brother when I was fourteen, so maybe I'm trying to make up for this loss. God only knows.

The world (the Christians that is, except for the Greek Catholics) will celebrate the resurrection of Christ tomorrow. I always think this is a very profound celebration, because the resurrection stands for many things: a new beginning, hope, a second chance for humanity, a second chance for me and for you, the beginning of a new season, mistakes which are forgiven, grace, generosity. Christ is the only man in history who came that close to God, at least that is what I think. You don't have to agree. If you are a Muslim or a Jew, you probably disagree with me, which is OK.

"Resurrected Christ" by Matthias Grünewald.

Harry and I are doing pizzas tonight, at his. You know me: I'm a s*cker for a carbohydrate bomb!;) It is truly my weak spot, and if I wouldn't be working out everyday, I would weigh over 90 kilos for sure. O horror! LOL!:) My friend Nil gave me some advice for my house; decoration tips, color schemes etc. I'm going to work out what I want to do with my house, with her advice in the back of my head. She's good at it, just like Harry is by the way. First priority is the shower; it looks horrible.

Don't give up on your dreams!

Of course, I'm looking forward to Linda's "Ik hou van Holland", and "Deal or no deal" on Sunday. I know you think I'm crazy, but I just LOVE Linda, can't help myself! She always makes me happy.

Have a great evening everybody, God bless you.:)

Good Friday, 2010.

I just finished the translation of "Uhuru4all"'s content. This was a request from my friend, M. "Uhuru4all" means "freedom for all". This new foundation provides youngsters in Ghana with a professional education, in order to increase their chances of getting a job or starting their own business. Just like Ahmed Marcouch, I am convinced of the fact that education is the key to a better life for everyone, here as well as in Africa. I will give you some more information about Uhuru4all as soon as the new web site is online.

I texted Harry that I had so much to do today, that I didn't see a chance of us seeing each other before tomorrow. I hope he understands..........Hectic times, with heaps to be done. I admit that I'm feeling overwhelmed. I bought some extra supplements to make sure I won't be ill in the coming weeks, because that would be a true disaster!

Listening to Antzela Dimitriou's album "Pes auto pou 8eleis" ("Say what you want"). This track is from the album:

I slept very well last night, but I am still tired. Awful! I wish I could feel energized and awake after a good night's sleep, but I can't, at least, not right now. Work has been too much in the past few weeks. Add the stress of the job interviews to it, et voilà! Everything seems to be too much, even a drink with a friend or a quick phone call. Is this me?? I can't believe I've come to this.........

On the other hand, a lot of nice things are happening as well: I'm meeting a lot of new people (colleagues, or people who support us during the re-organization), and I must say that I like them a lot. I just love meeting new friends and colleagues. Everybody has his own story and it is always interesting, so that's definitely not the problem.

Skin-wise, I look like a - well - moth! LOL! So, I bought some PCLE cream, by Biodermal; an emergency cream which is extortionate, but works very well. So, starting the treatment tonight. Miracles will happen! LOL!:)

R. said to me last week: "but you can't stop getting older Freddy!". No, I can't, but I'll be d**ned if I look like yesterday's newspaper!;)

Enjoy yourselves, dear friends, and be safe! God bless you.

Thursday, 1st April, 2010.

One month to go before our districts, Slotervaart, Osdorp, and Geuzenveld will be officially one: New-West. A lot of things have happened and a lot of things are still happening.

First of all, work is crazy: three migrations (Active Directory, Exchange, and the telephone system). I'm in charge of two of those projects, a lot of hard work, but a lot of fun as well. I'm not really complaining, though it's a stressful job. The team is working well again; we have overcome our differences. A very powerful characteristic of the people in the team, at least I think so; perseverance and resilience.

My two job interviews took place on Tuesday and Wednesday, and I am truly proud of the way I did them. I wasn't tense or stressed out at all, and the preparation before the interviews - together with my coach - paid off very well indeed. Results will come between now and 12th April. A bit of patience is necessary, unfortunately.

The energy at work is positive, at least, I experience it that way. People are working hard, but I think they are convinced that it is for a good cause. I miss Ahmed's presence very much. He's always been the icing on the cake for me, with his boyish wit and somewhat flamboyant appearance, a bit eccentric and provocative as well. I wish him all the best; he can make a world of difference for our country. And he will. Mark my words!

I'm still looking back on my wonderful night out with R. He's left Slotervaart yesterday: it was his last day at the office. I already miss him......

People are calling my cell phone all the time, and all those people want something from me. And sometimes I think: what about me? Maybe I want something from you as well? I just can't bring up the energy to call back and to listen. Not because I am a bad friend, but because I am just exhausted and overwhelmed by everything that's happening right now. I need all the energy for myself.

Diana Ross, singing "It's my turn":

Tonight, J. took me to dinner. She's a great lady, a colleague, with a wonderful outlook on life and a lot of inspiration to offer. Thanks for the great evening darling! I love you. And, if you get the chance, go to Shape All-in and have dinner there!

Oprah is promoting safety in traffic by the slogan: "Make your car a phone-free zone!". I couldn't agree more. And, people, DON'T use your phone in traffic, period, not even when you are walking on the street, or cycling. It's dangerous, it looks stupid, and it's anti-social.

I'm looking forward to the Easter weekend. I need the time off, though I've still taken some work home with me, but not much. It's time to rest and recharge, because, next week will be hectic as well. I'm afraid this won't stop before the end of 2010.........

I wish you all a wonderful Easter weekend. God bless you!