EIPHNH
Transition.
Transition is closed: go to Freddy's new blog!:)
Sunday, 28th March, 2010.
I had the greatest evening out ever, with my colleague and friend R., last Friday! We started at De Rooseboom, in Amsterdam-Slotervaart, a nice "brown cafe" with a real Amsterdam look and feel. After that, we went to Oslo, at Sloterkade. I think it's a great lounge cafe, with a nice atmosphere, very crowded on a Friday night though. In the meantime, we had discussed so many things about life, love, and misery, that I kind of lost count.;) R. is great company!:) My friend N. called me, whilst we were on the (heated) terrace of Oslo. She was a bit upset, but we agreed to talk more the coming weekend.
R. en I decided to go to Arc, which is in one of the most famous Amsterdam gay quarters, Reguliersdwarsstraat. Arc is mixed: straight and gay 50-50, very good vibe. Go there! The cocktails are amazing, the music is exactly my taste (a bit trancy), and the staff is very friendly. R. didn't specifically like mojitos, he has more or a sweet tooth, so we tried some other cocktails as well. And, yes, we were still walking in a straight line after that!;) LOL!
In the meantime, we were talking about ourselves, about our worries, our pains, and our happy times. Face it people: a cocktail is a great help when you discuss heavy topics!;)
R. is bored very quickly, so I suggested to drastically change the atmosphere by going to Barderij at Zeedijk. This is a predominantly gay bar, with a very friendly crowd and staff. Not particularly young, but I am not young either, though R. is (35), compared to me anyway!;)
LOL! R. is obviously not used to bars with a large gay crowd! So funny.......but he enjoyed it anyway. We spent an hour there, before we went to FEBO (snacks). Once at FEBO, we ate heaps of unhealthy and greasy junkfood. LOVE it!:) "De Wallen" were as busy as ever!;)
We ended the night at yet another (cocktail?) bar at Warmoesstraat, but I can't remember the name of it. Anyway, we were the only guests;). Up until then, we had cycled to every place (on one bike, mine!), but the rain was awful, and we decided to take a taxi to my place. R. payed, which was very nice of him. At home, we had one more glass of wine before bed. I put R. on my sofa-bed, and he fell asleep right away. Enough was enough!;)
I discovered that I had forgotten my bag in the taxi, which was awful, because I had my agenda, address book, papers from work etc. in it, as well as my cell phone. The next day, after trying to call my own cell phone number several times, I got hold of the taxi driver and we agreed to meet at IJplein (Amsterdam-North) in order for me to pick up my bag. And so I did, together with R. who had to go home to Middenbeemster anyway (same direction). Thank God for the taxi driver! Saves me a lot of trouble. I gave him some money as a "thank you".
Andrew Gold, singing "Thank you for being a friend":
I spent Saturday evening at Harry's, which was great as usual. I wish he could be a bit happier though......a lot going on in his life at the moment. Of course, it was great to watch "Ik hou van Holland" together! Harry is getting better and better at his Dutch spelling, LOL!:)
Today, I had to leave Harry's a bit earlier than usual, because N. is coming to visit me. I think she needs some support, so I'll try and do my best.
What's in store this week? Monday, the migration of the telephone system at work. Tuesday, my job interview for co-ordinator servicedesk. Wednesday, job interview for co-ordinator customer service center. Wednesday as well: migration of Active Directory. Well, it's going to be one h*ll of a week!;)
God bless you.
Wednesday, 24th March, 2010.
My goodness! Is it Friday yet?? I mean: how can I possibly do so many things at once, knowing that multi-tasking is b*llsh*t, it doesn't work! Well, this morning I decided to work from home because, at the office, everybody comes to my desk and wants something. I fully understand, believe me, but nevertheless.........
I managed to get some decent sleep in the last two nights, so I have enough energy. That's not the problem at all, despite the extremely heavy weekend I had.;)
I sincerely hope that I look a bit slimmer than this little buddy! LOL!:)
Regrets and guilt: I'm too tired to call Fatima, too exhausted to call N. (who needs my help), too stressed out to respond to D.'s enthusiastic tweets about Egypt. I'm letting everybody down, and especially myself. What exactly is left of Freddy? Where's that guy who was always smiling, laughing at life even, despite all the rawness and distress?
Peggy Lee, singing "Is that all there is?":
Oprah was about marriage around the world. God, that stupid woman from Egypt who claimed that everybody who lives in Denmark is living in sin, because they live together before matrimony! I'm getting more and more annoyed by stupid, ignorant people who just live out of a book, without being conscious of who they are, without thinking for themselves. Grow up, for God's sakes, you're stuck in a time warp! Besides that; you are responsible for the fact that your country is still a backward dictatorship. Live with it, it's your choice to be part of it! Denmark is a democracy, Egypt isn't.
To be clear about one thing people: Konstantinou.nl is very much in favor of Islam. However, oppression is not Islam, and Islam is not oppression! Read your stuff, and you'll agree with me.
I am still worried about my future: what's going to happen, am I going to be a part of the new organization? It's not a financial worry, it's a commitment-worry. I definitely want to be part of it. Lots of things to do, to accomplish.
I wish you all a great evening, God bless you.
Monday, 22nd March, 2010.
Well, this was quite a weekend! A very late night yesterday with Georgetine and friends. Harry left mine at four, and I met up with them at Café Hesp around 16:30. It was very crowded because of the lovely weather. I liked it a lot, because I've actually never met any of Georgetine's friends. One of them, L. from Mallorca, was staying over for the weekend. Nice guy, with an adventurous life, to say the least! E. and her bf are a cute couple. They've been friends for thirteen years already, but they only have been a couple since one year. Extraordinary!
After drinks and live music at Hesp, we went to restaurant ThaiCoon at Beukenplein. Very good food indeed and lovely service! Vegetarian only on request but it tastes wonderful nevertheless.
After dinner, we went to Ruk en Pluk at Linnaeusstraat. OMG, people, if you ever visit Amsterdam, please go there, it's hilarious and a very nice café to spend the late evening! After leaving R en P, L. and I went to Georgetine's for a last drink. I arrived home around 03:30. Oof! I can still feel the late nights (Friday and yesterday). No wonder I fell asleep on Saturday evening when my bf was here, poor Harry! Despite everything, I cooked a wonderful dinner, so no complaints there (I hope;)).
Multi-talented Caterina Valente, singing "Malagueña":
My friends N. and M. split up. Which is one of the saddest stories I've ever heard, especially considering the way it occurred. Well, for privacy reasons no details, I'm sorry. I'm worrying about them a lot, but they have to sort things out by themselves I'm afraid.
I'm waiting for some news on Ahmed Marcouch, but I think I'll have to wait a little bit longer. Nothing is certain yet. Maybe tomorrow, I will hear about his next move. Exciting!:)
Tomorrow, back to work again, with a meeting on the migration of Active Directory in the morning. We are in the testing phase right now, but everything seems to be going well. Migration is planned for 31st March, after which Exchange will be migrated as well. And still, after that, we have heaps and heaps of work to do before the three districts are one, IT-wise. If you don't work in this business, I can assure you that it's very hard to imagine how much (detailed) work is involved is such a huge operation. And still, I'm waiting for my job interview as well: after all, this determines everything that will happen after May 1st! Will I still be working for New-West then? I have no idea..........
When I look out of my window now, I see sunshine and a bit of clouds. Spring is slowly coming to Amsterdam, after a period of heavy (and snowy!) weather.
Have a nice evening, God bless you.
Saturday, 20th March, 2010.
Our department had a coaching meeting yesterday, from 09:00-16:00, which was very good for all of us. I want to thank everyone for their contribution. Unfortunately, I can't reveal any details, for privacy reasons.
Silver Convention, singing "Fly robin fly":
I discovered a terrible leakage in our basement yesterday; the water was literally pouring down! The alarm service only repaired the leak this morning, but there is a lot of damage. The co-operation of owners will have to pay, big time. The building hasn't been built under a lucky sign, for sure! However, things like this tend to bother me much less than they used to do years ago. I accept the fact that it has happened and I "stop, look, correct, and take action" (Essence and Source).
Amsterdam is much warmer all of a sudden; temperatures of 10-15 degrees, which takes a lot of getting used to for me. I don't like to feel hot, especially at work. It ruins my concentration.
I'm waiting for the invitation for my job interview, which has to take place in a fortnight. I don't like waiting that long, but unfortunately I don't have much of a choice. I'm neutral towards the question whether or not I will get the job.
Work is extremely hectic and this makes it difficult for me to concentrate. There's a bit too much going on right now, but most of my colleagues have this experience.
Harry is coming over for dinner later. I have a nice and easy recipe for a mushroom salad. I think he will like it!;)
Yesterday, I had dinner at my friend Georgetine's. Great to see her again, to chat, and watch Toppers DVDs!:) I'm probably going to meet her for drinks tomorrow afternoon.
Enjoy your weekend everyone!;)
Wednesday, 17th March, 2010.
It's very sad - in this re-organization process - to see people being rejected, applying for their dream job. I won't mention any names or jobs now, but it's a painful process for many, I can assure you. I sincerely hope the people in charge know what they are doing.......
I myself am getting a lot of things done, despite the fact that my job interview will take place in the first week of April, which distracts me awfully; two more weeks of waiting!
However, I'm trying to be as relaxed as possible when I'm at home, like right now. Yesterday evening, I discovered so many incredible music videos on YouTube, you won't believe it! I particularly loved the videos of Greek opera diva Agnes Baltsa. Man, she can sing, I mean SING!
Agnes Baltsa, singing "Les tringles des sistres tintaient" ("(You could hear) the bells of the tambourines"), from Bizet's "Carmen":
Oprah this morning was about texting and driving. You won't believe the number of innocent victims who have been killed by texting drivers! I was completely shocked! And I have been right all along: don't use your cell phone in traffic, period.
More news on Ahmed later; I'm still not completely sure if he wants to combine the membership of the City Council with the membership of the parliament. I'll keep you posted. It's a difficult time for him, with many dilemmas to conquer.
There are people asking for my help: it's one of those times in which people just feel astray and lost. However, I can't do it. Really, I can't. I need all my energy for myself. I have to choose me, which sounds awfully selfish, I know, but it's necessary. Because, if I don't, I won't get through this re-organization properly. It's survival mode all over again.
Be good. God bless you.
Tuesday, 16th March, 2010.
On the news, this morning, I heard that The Netherlands suffers from a bad image abroad. You'll never guess in which countries in particular! First of all, our image with the Egyptians doesn't seem to be positive at all. Helloho! Excuse me? We are talking about Egypt: a country which has homophobia, sexism and misogyny written all over it! We are talking about a country which doesn't even remotely know the meaning of the word "democracy". And WE should worry about OUR image with THEM? I beg your bl**dy pardon?! LOL!:) So funny. Or rather, not funny at all:
Apparently, we, the Dutch, should also be very worried about our image in China. China!! A communist, totalitarian state, which doesn't allow gays to be gay, and which doesn't allow people to say what they want to say. A country which celebrates their dictatorship every year, with big, pompous military parades. A country which treats men and women unequally. A country which practically has "oppression" in its signature! And WE should worry about OUR image with THEM? Excuse me?!
The USA also seems to have a negative image of The Netherlands, due to various things which have occurred here in the recent past. OK, now, the USA is a democracy. It's not an ideal state, but with America I can at least begin to try and understand where this image comes from. As for China and Egypt: if you don't like The Netherlands, tough! Not our problem. Try to enter the 21st century, before you even start criticizing civilized societies like The Netherlands, or other European countries.
Don't misunderstand me: I am in favor of Islam, due to my background. I love to explore non-Western cultures, but people, don't give me the cr*p mentioned above, because I'm not naive or stupid. I know what democracy means, and some countries just don't have the right to even include this word into their vocabulary. Let's be realists!
"Libertà" ("Freedom") , sung by Al Bano and Romina Power:
God bless you.
Gotan Project, "Epoca":
Monday, 15th March, 2010.
Very good meeting with my coach this morning: we actually did the whole job interview in advance. It wasn't easy, but I knew what I wanted to say and how I wanted to present myself. Yes, I can;)!
Afterwards, I did some grocery shopping and I dreaded to go home because I had to clean my house and do the washing up and laundry.........but it's reasonably tidied up now. I'm happy enough.
Now, practice your tsifteteli dancing skills, with Elli Kokkinou's remix!
Tomorrow, a meeting with our future partners about the further implementation and embedding of the servicedesk system into the new organization. If I get the job, this will be a very important component of my work.
Freddy@the office;)
The problem now is, that I'm getting so many Tarot questions, and I just can't see myself doing any of the readings.....I'm on such a different energy level at present. Maybe in a few weeks, I don't know. So much going on right now, which makes it hard to direct my energy towards Tarot, it's just difficult. I've always learned from my spiritual teachers that if you find yourself in a situation like this, you shouldn't do any readings. So, I won't, for now.
Let's see what tomorrow brings.......God bless you.
Sunday, 14th March, 2010.
Preparing for the meeting with my coach tomorrow morning. I think I have everything covered. I know what I want, I know what I'm capable of, I know my limitations. "That's all!" (watching "The devil wears Prada";)).
Harry cooked my favorite dinner last night (pasta with spinach and 5 cheeses, carb coma? No, not at all! LOL!). I loved it! I am so glad Linda is back with "Ik hou van Holland"! Watched one episode at Harry's last night, and one this afternoon. I can't get over how many things Harry knows about The Netherlands.
My house is a mess, again, so tomorrow is definitely cleaning day. I don't like it, but the results are always worthwhile, so I'll sacrifice myself........
I can't help wondering: will Ahmed consider becoming Mayor of Amsterdam, now Job Cohen is leaving Amsterdam in favor of national politics? Harry brought it up today.
Maggie MacNeal, singing "Amsterdam":
Great-Britain is going to be represented by Josh, singing "That sounds good to me", for Eurovision 2010:
The year definitely has started for real: Eurovision coming up, before that Queen's Day. Spring is coming, and very exciting times as well, job-wise. Let's see how it goes, but I have already said to myself: "wherever I'll be on the first of May, it's exactly where I'm supposed to be".
God bless you.
Saturday, 13th March, 2010.
A very nice visit to H., V., and their two children yesterday. Lots of great talks about work (H. is a colleague and V. is an ex-colleague), but also about my ex-partner, S. I think people should stop "bashing" him. He has done everything within his power to save our relationship, and he didn't fail, both of us failed, it was too late. That doesn't mean I am over it, absolutely not. It will still take some time, and the whole story needs a place in my heart to settle. H. and V.'s daughter is so sweet! I held her for a while, and it really made me feel happy and relaxed. I was home very late, but we had a wonderful time!
Vicky Leandros, "Caribbean song":
Well, Wouter Bos is gone, Job Cohen will be our......what? Next PM? Actually, I don't care very much. I'm only really interested in politics when Ahmed is involved, sorry guys!;)
This week was really heavy. Actually, every single week closer to the fusion seems to be heavier than the one before. It's hard, everybody is struggling. Next week, I'll probably will be invited for my job interview. I'm not getting my hopes up too much. I take it very seriously. Work is extremely important to me.
Seeing Harry later this evening, around eight. Looking forward to that!:) Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, 11th March, 2010.
So proud of my hero, Ahmed Marcouch, who was officially installed as a member of the Amsterdam City Council today!:) Congratulations Ahmed! It was very nice to go to the town hall, in the great company of colleagues Ahmed, Fatima, and Samia. I met my friend Nazima in front of the council chamber, and more colleagues as well. I am pleased that so many fans and supporters showed up today, how cool is that?!:)
FLTR: Freddy Konstantinou, Ahmed Marcouch, and Nazima Shaikh.
This morning, my IT-colleagues from Osdorp and Geuzenveld, plus myself, had a small festive meeting to celebrate our accomplishments so far. I am especially proud of my intern, N., who did a great job over at Osdorp. The technical domain migration to New-West will be a fact in two or three weeks, exciting!:)
Next week, I will be invited to a job interview for the function of servicedesk co-ordinator New-West, as soon as the department manager is officially installed. I'm a little tense, as you probably can imagine.;)
Vicky Leandros, singing "Günther gestehe" ("Come on Günther!"):
In the meantime, heaps of work are still waiting for me. I'm a bit on-edge about that, but I'll survive, as long as I have the weekend to look forward to. LOL!:) There is a lot of energy at work; there is a kind of tense anticipation among all of my colleagues, I can sense that. I myself am enjoying the communication tasks I got from my manager. I'm always happy when I get the opportunity to write, even if it's only the report of a meeting!;) Writing comforts my soul, and, as you all know, I LOVE writing in (American) English, because it's such a colorful language, even if it's not my own.
Enjoy your evening everyone!:)
Wednesday, 10th March, 2010.
Of course, these are very hectic and exciting times, for us, the employees of Slotervaart; everything will change in a few months, because of the re-organization, the fusion with two other districts, two other companies even. On the other hand, the people working in the other districts are so cool! Great potential, I think it will work. However, "minor point", will I get the job??! Only God knows.
Herman van Veen, singing "Opzij!" ("Step aside!"):
I notice a kind of emotional and mental chaos in myself. I'm all over the place. That is not good people! I need the earth. Ahmed joined us for lunch today and I realized, by the things he said, that his children keep him grounded. I have no children (and will not have any!), so I'll have to keep myself grounded. Sometimes, that is one h*ll of a job, I can tell you. Tomorrow, my hero will officially be installed as a member of the City Council, I'm so proud of this man!:) I'll be there for sure, just have to think of a present to buy........
Harry got some bad news yesterday, and I can empathize with him completely; frustrated and sad. You'll get there darling, don't worry! I'll support you all the way.
Diana Ross, singing "Do you know where you're going to":
Tomorrow morning, before Ahmed's celebration, I have to attend a meeting with future colleagues from Osdorp, about...the migration of our domains! OMG, everyone who knows anything about IT also knows how much trouble this means! I'm in control though.....sort of.....LOL!;)
Sometimes, I just would like to relax and lean back, just like that. I can do that, during my weekends (I only work four days a week), and I don't seem to get around doing the things I want to do. A kind of vicious circle. During the weekends, I'm too exhausted to do anything, and during weekdays, well, I actually feel the same! LOL!:) Don't worry, it will be alright.........
I wish you all a great evening. Blog you soon!;)
Monday, 8th March, 2010.
International Women's Day; check out Oprah's videos!:) She has done so much for women and children around the world. As she always says: investing in women and in children is investing in the world and in our future! One of her guests (not O herself!;)) stated that investing in men means that they will just use the money to show off to their friends. LOL!:) How true.;)
"Do you really see me?"
I think the meeting with my coach went very well. She is helping me prepare for the job interviews which are coming up in two weeks. Very exciting, and a bit scary as well.......;) Next appointment is Monday, 15th March. I prepared the meeting very well, so I answered all her questions immediately, without any hesitation. Preparation, people, it's everything! Believe me.......What I also noticed is that my heroes, especially Ahmed and Oprah, are true examples for me; I remember every quote, everything they have ever said, and they are of great help in times like this. We all need examples, role models, and sometimes our parents will not suffice, let's be honest and face it.
"Freedom is like oxygen [...]"
And how about Antzela, who started with absolutely nothing, in a poor neighborhood, no education, with no real future ahead of her, but loads of dreams? Did she have the courage to follow them? I think she did!:)
"I started to present myself in small music joints of Piraeus, Athens port"
It is so important for us all to realize that we are the only ones who can change us. No one else can. Only we can. We can! Can we change the people around us? Maybe, by inspiration, or by the things we do (not so much by the things we say), but we will not be aware of the influence we have on others. So, pay very close attention to the way you show yourself to the world; people might follow your example. Sometimes, the smallest things we do can be of the greatest impact on others. Be the change, is what I always say. I'm not sure if I'm able to live up to that 24-7, but I try my utmost.
Natasa Theodoridou, singing "Sta limania" ("In the harbors"):
Enjoy your evening!:)
Sunday, 7th March, 2010.
Shila's housewarming party in Leiden was wonderful last night! Great food, lots of drinks, good music (lots of reggae, it's been years since I have listened to that!), and nice company.:) Thanks darling for your hospitality!
FLTR, Désirée, Freddy Konstantinou, Leanne, Heidi.
Of course, Harry (who looked particularly handsome) and I were exhausted at the end of the party, and we went home to Amsterdam by train and taxi, together with Désirée.
Shila's house is in the heart of Leiden, a wonderful space which she shares with a good friend, who was also in charge of the catering last night. Great job! There were many French people, because Shila's BF is from there. Such a charming company; you know French men! LOL!:) Thanks Leanne, for your wonderful present for my birthday!:) Love it!
Today, Harry was hungover, and I was just a bit drowsy, but we had a nice day anyway. I think Harry has hardly seen his own place this weekend, poor thing!
Shirley Bassey, singing "Don't cry out loud":
Tomorrow, I have a meeting with the coach from Randstad. I think the most important thing right now is to prepare myself for the job interview, which will be around 20th March (the servicedesk co-ordinator job). It's been ten years since I have had an interview, so a little practice might be recommendable. Furthermore, I have to make a plan B, in case I don't get the job. Sad, but true........
I was thinking about creating a MySpace for Ahmed Marcouch. That might be nice, especially for people from the USA, Canada, Australia etc. Let's see what I can do. I have recreated a MS for myself recently, to link with my favorite artists from all parts of the world.
I look a bit better than I did a few weeks ago. If you have trouble with dark circles under your eyes, you should try this: Nivea for Men Roll-on Yeux. It works miracles!:) And, again, no people, I don't have shares! LOL!:) If only......;)
Enjoy your Sunday evening everyone!
Saturday, 6th March, 2010.
Well, the hectic circumstances of Ahmed's campaign are over, and he has received 12,000 preferential votes!:) I am very proud of him. Thanks everyone for supporting my hero!
Ahmed Marcouch: the work continues.
Harry and I had a great dinner and a lovely evening at Sibrecht's last night. I already realized she had a lot of talents, but she is truly a multi-talent: wow, girl, you can C-O-O-K!:) Thanks darling for your hospitality and your grace.
Tonight, it's Shila-time: housewarming in Leiden. Very good to see her again, it's a long time ago. I bought her the greatest present ever, so I hope she likes it!;)
Elenh Legakh, singing "Ta panta rei" ("Everything flows") This is a "zeïbekiko psilo"-dance:
Work is so chaotic, that I've given up on keeping control; the re-organization is definitely taking its toll on every single one of my colleagues. Everybody is doing their utmost though, I can sense that. Monday, I have a meeting with my job coach, so I'm already preparing my interview for the servicedesk co-ordinator job. New-West is a challenge, which I would like to accept. So, let's see what Monday brings.
The Marcouch-campaign generated a lot of energy in everyone: we were all so excited and enthusiastic to make this work! I think we all did a wonderful job.
Amsterdam is still very cold, and the weather forecast even says snow is coming back again! Can you believe it? Is this another ice-age??
Harry is extremely tired, so I worry a lot about his health. He should take more rest, and - especially - distance from work. However, I know how difficult that is in case you are fully committed to your job; it's almost impossible. It is the thin line between being involved and taking a healthy distance, almost impossible to do.
The Magician symbolizes our capability to cope with external circumstances, like a "juggler".
I wish you all a great weekend!:) God bless you.
Tuesday, 2nd March, 2010.
Thank you all for your lovely birthday wishes!:)
The exhibition about Oman at the Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam was exquisite, thanks Harry for taking me there!
We got up very late today, because of our late birthday dinner at Arabic Lounge yesterday. Go there, people, great food, nice folks.:) And in the center of Amsterdam.
After the exhibition, Harry and I went to Café St. Paul's. You should go there, if you want to relax, meet with friends, or just if you want to have a nice and quiet dinner for two. It's run by a great Iranian family, lovely people.:)
Turning 49 makes me wonder about everything that's happened in my life. It makes me sad, but I'm also grateful that I'm still here, against all odds. My entire family hasn't survived, but I have. I am convinced that I have a special assignment in this life. I'm also convinced that God loves me. I know He loves you........
Nana Mouskouri, "La Provence":
So, tomorrow you have a choice: I think you should use your right to vote no matter what. If you are going to vote, choose my hero, Ahmed Marcouch, because he has made a huge difference for Slotervaart , and he will make an even bigger difference for our city, Amsterdam!
God bless you.
Monday, 1st March, 2010.
I spent 7 hours "flyering" for Ahmed yesterday: pouring rain, ice-cold, but very nice job to do anyway. I distributed 3,000 flyers on my own! Go Freddy K! LOL!:) Buitenveldert is completely anti-VVD, and pro-Ahmed now, well, I hope so anyway!;)
Ahmed Marcouch: your choice for Wednesday, March 3rd, list 1, #29!:) Choose Amsterdam, choose Ahmed Marcouch!
I always have trouble walking, which is strange: I'm good at cycling, skating, swimming, aerobics, but walking.......after ten minutes it's killing me. Strange........I think my joints are worn out, because of all the years of teaching aerobics. It's the only cause I can think of.
I'm very happy with my extra day off tomorrow, I really need a rest, and a break from my hectic job. Today, the new Servicedesk goes live. F.R. is taking over from me today and tomorrow. He can do it. I'm looking forward to having my birthday dinner with Harry tonight. We are going to the Arabic Lounge.
Tomorrow, I'll be 49! We are probably going to the Oman Exhibition at the Nieuwe Kerk. Arab/Islamic culture, love it!:)
I am happy that Mayor Cohen was so strict on the Utrecht supporters who yelled anti-semitic phrases (he sent them back to Utrecht immediately)! I'm proud of his determination to eradicate anti-semitism. I can't believe people are still doing this, such a disgrace for Amsterdam, for our country!
A few chores to do today, and a lot of relaxing as well.;) I already texted M.A.(one of the leading men of this flyer campaign) that I'm finished "flyering", and he replied that he was proud of me, such a sweet man! There is still a bit of Buitenveldert left though. I don't know if anyone is going to do that bit today.
I watched an episode of Dr. Phil about the N-word. I'm sorry people, whether you are brown or white, why in heaven's name are you still using a derogatory term which originally was meant to dehumanize an entire race?!! What are you thinking?! Still, the good thing about the US of A is the fact that everything is up for discussion and people talk to and with each other very candidly. I still think that is incredible, and unheard of in the rest of the world. On the other hand, why would we want to discuss something so obvious: bury the N-word, period.
Enjoy your Monday, everyone! God bless you.
Saturday, 27th February, 2010.
I notice that I'm feeling better, just because I take more care of my clothes, of what I wear. It sounds shallow, but it really works. For me, this is synonymous to taking care of myself. It's time that I do........
I got up very late, and going to Harry's for dinner later. I did my exercises though.:) I can tell you people: exercise works! I'm the living proof. No more fat stomach, nor more butt heading south, no man boobs, and it doesn't matter how old you are: I'm almost 49! It works!;) Do it, and e-mail me if you want some basic exercises, I'm an ex-instructor.;)
LOL! This guy is actually called Freddy!:) LOVE him.
I'm planning to go "flyering" for Ahmed tomorrow and Monday, maybe Tuesday as well. The flyers look nice, love the picture (view below in yesterday's blog). Don't forget to vote on Wednesday, March 3rd, list 1, number 29, Ahmed Marcouch!:)
Ahmed is very active on Twitter, so if you want to follow him, go to Ahmed on Twitter! If you want to help flyering, contact me today or tomorrow.
My all-time favorite album is in the CD-player: "Eisai mia sunh8eia" ("You're (just) a habit"), by Litsa Diamanti. They definitely don't make songs like this anymore. Or am I growing old? LOL!:)
I forgot to tell you about yet another wonderful talk I had with my ex-boss, J. I truly love her, I mean L-O-V-E her! Her sense of humor, her brutal honesty, her charm, her incredible intelligence, I still miss her.........and that makes me sad, it does. Who else is capable of nailing a situation and describe it in no more than one or two words? In communications it's definitely: "less is more". She's a natural.
I'll blog you tomorrow, have a great Saturday and behave!;)
Friday, 26th February, 2010.
The week was very chaotic, but for myself I got a lot done. Randstad is going to coach me through my job applications for New-West, which is really wonderful. I like the coach a lot and I think we see eye to eye.
For Ahmed's campaign, I truly worked many extra hours, especially on his web sites. This weekend, I am going to distribute flyers in my own neighborhood, Buitenveldert. Though the type of resident is more liberal/conservative, and not Labor, I think many of them like Ahmed Marcouch and his views. So, lots of walking and posting to do!;) Vote Ahmed Marcouch, list 1, #29!:)
We have a large Orthodox community. I wonder how they see Ahmed Marcouch, would be interesting to ask.
Here are Ahmed's web links:
Marcouch on FaceBook (support)
Marcouch on FaceBook (personal)
And, yes, for the billionth time I threw over a glass of red(!) wine on my table. It was everywhere: on the table (obviously), on the walls, it was a real nightmare! However, I found the solution for red wine stains: bleach! It works like a miracle.:) So happy that the wall next to my PC is not bright red anymore! LOL!:)
I'm four days off from work, until Wednesday, 3rd March, election day. March 2nd is my birthday, so don't forget me!;) I'll be forty-nine, great age! I'll bring some birthday cake to work on Wednesday.
The preparations - especially in the ICT-field - for the fusion of our three districts are going very fast. Sometimes it's hard to do my regular work, because everything about the re-organization is urgent. Everybody is working very hard though, and I think we can make this happen.
I've been asked to write a final year report for company council Slotervaart. Great work, I love it! I even like taking notes during a regular department meeting; I just love to write. I don't care what it's about, actually.
Yesterday, there was a reception at the stadsdeelwerf, to which our future partners were also invited. Great atmosphere, wonderful people. Good job guys!:)
René Riva, singing "C'est la vie" ("That's life"):
I wish you all a great weekend!:)
Tuesday, 23rd February, 2010.
I just had a coaching meeting at Randstad, with a very nice and open-minded coach. I think it went very well and this could really work out above my expectations as well!
The thing that struck me, on my way back on the subway, is the terrific skyline of my district ("Zuidas"). It really looks like "La Défense" in Paris! I came from Diemen-Zuid.
I'm having good hopes for the future: the two jobs I applied for in New-West, I'm also really excited about. From where I stand, nothing can go wrong!;)
Pffff, a lot of very tense reactions to my blog about Wilders: some (not all!) people were offended by my comparison with what happened during World War II. The blog is actually just a part of another one ("Fall 2009"). I think the Dutch are really hypersensitive about a lot of things. They are easily shocked, but I can tell you people, the only way to change things is to challenge those who undermine our society and our world, or try to do so. Wake up and smell the coffee! PVV is dangerous, not "funny" or "hilarious"!
God bless you.
Sunday, 21st February, 2010.
I just got a message from Ahmed; busy campaigning. This is the last week before the municipal elections of March 3rd. Very exciting! I had a talk with Harry about the coming elections, and we both agreed that Ahmed Marcouch is definitely the most honest and sincere local politician in Amsterdam: he deserves a place in the City Council! Vote Labor (list1), number 29, on March 3rd people!:)
As you all know, I'm a vegetarian. I don't like to eat animals, and I won't. However, I don't feel the urge to convince you. If you think it's better for you to eat meat (and/or fish), I won't stop you. I don't see any reason why I should. However, being a true vegetarian is very difficult. For example: do you wear leather belts, or leather shoes? I don't always, but sometimes I do. That's not the point. Let's all do our utmost to improve the quality of our world, and the quality of life of our animals. Don't accuse each other, especially not if you are fully aware of the fact that your friend or family member is doing his/her fair share. We're not all the same, and we don't have to be. Harry likes to eat meat, so I'll cook him meat if he's having dinner at mine; I won't eat it, but he likes it. It's not the plague, it's just meat!;)
Cute meerkats!:)
I truly think Harry is doing better. Though it might be because I was there Saturday night (late) and Sunday!;) We had a great time together, watching our favorite TV-shows and discussing our favorite topics as well.
I went to see Jan and Jetty last night, together with my friend Georgetine. Lovely people, very hospitable and warm. Jetty as well as Georgetine used to come to my aerobics classes at Helisports years ago (1995-2001). I can tell you people: exercise works! Jetty is almost 70 years old, and she looks stunning! Georgetine is far in her fifties, equally beautiful. It works, believe me!
Diana Ross, "Work that body":
Talking about healthy (NOT!): I ordered a five(!) cheese pizza tonight, from my favorite pizza shop, New York Pizza (no, people, I have no shares, and they don't pay me!;)). Of course, I could do healthier, but I had a serious carb craving, and it really made me feel better. By the way: their wines are excellent as well! And what's equally important: the pizza delivery guys are very cute! LOL!:) Especially in Buitenveldert.
Oh, before I forget: what do I think of the Dutch cabinet which has fallen over the Uruzgan issue? Ehm, well, one thing I know for sure. I am thrilled that they finally p*ss off. However, what happens if half of the population is going to vote for Wilders?? Dear God, help us! I admit that I don't have much faith in the average Dutchman. We are not a very tolerant and accepting kind of people, though many people around the world think we are. Let's see what happens.........
God bless you.
Saturday, 20th February, 2010.
So, I'm back with a new blog, and the state of affairs is as follows: problems in my department have been partly solved, and I am glad that I can work there in a reasonably relaxed way, and my colleagues as well. Good job everyone!:)
I've been made redundant for New-West, so this means that I have to apply for max. two jobs within New-West (the future organization), which I have done already: 1. co-ordinator servicedesk, 2. co-ordinator customer service center, both of which I would like very much. The salaries are different, but I really don't care much about that, as you probably know. I'm a communicator, a service person. Of course, I'm also applying for jobs outside the municipality of Amsterdam as well. I have two meetings coming Tuesday.
I'm meeting my friends Georgetine, Jetty, and Jan tonight for drinks. Looking forward to that.:) Later on, I'll cycle to IJburg to go to Harry's. Last Wednesday, I helped Georgetine with a sofa, which had to be carried up four staircases. I'm sorry darling: it was not an easy job! What were you thinking? LOL!
I'm happy to say that I am looking a little bit healthier than I did a few weeks ago. I slept well last night, and that's the most essential thing in my life: getting enough rest.
Just a few minutes ago, I talked with my friend H. on the phone. Going to see him, his wife, their son, and their new born daughter in a few weeks!:)
As far as I can see now, Ahmed is doing very well in his campaign. He has been busy in the last few weeks. I have good hopes for him. Make sure you vote Ahmed Marcouch, list 1, #29, on March 3rd!:) Allow yourself to be inspired by innovative, thought-provoking politicians like Ahmed!
If you are interested, I also have a "Vintage" page, with blog-entries from last year and the year before. The blogs are bilingual: English as well as Dutch.;)
I wish you all an inspiring weekend, God bless you.