The kuri and canary

A healthy level of stupidity to break the day...

2007-08-22T12:33:00.000+01:00

I stumbled into this new-age hippy-happy-healthy food café that was blasting a tune I love (which must remain a secret to uphold my quintessential musi-ac reputation).

Inside this cave of a café I noticed the staff behind the counter seriously overcome by jolted dance steps – so of course I joined in too. Before I knew it, my body was violently throwing itself from wall to table ...and just like a diligent puppet I danced, raged and turned the whole thing into some 80's revival music video. I sang like Prince and acted out the words like Jack Sparrow on speed (which I should regret but don’t). And this is the best bit; for my stupidity and fearlessness I bagged a free lunch, a coffee, and even a couple of new equally kewl n krazy friends.

I can only wonder what will happen today… hmm

This is exactly why a blog is better than Facebook

2007-08-15T11:53:00.000+01:00

Blogging = Ranting ....

As I entered the Carnaby St Starbucks this morning, my fists clenched, my forehead drew lines, my lips tightened. I was ready for a fight, a fight for justice, a fight for my right to taste a real hazelnut latte. I ordered my drink, breathed deeply to calm down, and waited patiently. Glancing over the counter, staring at the Barista, I prayed and hoped that they would make the effort to make my drink right, 'Just this once - please make it right' is all I could think.

The barista yelled "Tall hazelnut latte, Tall hazelnut latte, Tall hazelnut -"
I interrupted with a "Thanks" accompanied with a half smile that was all to ready to kill, if the drink was wrong.

I began to walk away, stared at the pitiful customers eagerly queuing for coffee and secretly thought "Don't waste your time, they will make it wrong"
And then, my legs stopped, I sat down, who cares if I have to get to work, this is far more important. I took a sip of my drink, and yes, you guessed it - they made it wrong! Even bees would be sick by the amount of syrup in that coffee.

By now my mind was like an overworked time machine, clogging away at every angry emotion that had been born in this very Starbucks that refused to make my drink correctly. I sat there for a moment longer, and counted the times they had actually made my drink right. And what joy came to my mind - from the 20 or so times I have visited this thief, I had been served satisfactorily 3 times. Calculating further, it dawned on me how much money I had wasted. That was it for me - I had enough, and finally I had retreated to my 'I'm done' gravestone.

I quick stepped back into my office, sat down at my seat whilst my fingers raced through the numbers on my phone. Yes, luckily I have the Starbucks HQ number on my mobile! (Just for these moments).

I explained to the lady my problem, at first I was a little embarrassed by my seemingly 'me me me' complaint, but after the first stumbled sentence I was over it. In fact, I had shot to the top and felt like a dirty politician who was saving face. She empathised with my situation, and asked for my address to which I replied ..

"Listen, I don't need or want Starbucks vouchers, I don't even want you to write apologising for my bad experience. All I want is the expert Barista from HQ to get down to my local Starbucks ASAP and train the staff on how to make (a) Tall hazelnut latte (b) Grande hazelnut latte. I don't want anything else, so please don't bother. Just get onto this ASAP"

Thinking back, I guess she was surprised by my response, in fact, I think I am even surprised by that (I'm not one to turn away freebies). Alas, this is not about freebies, it's about certain standard that needs to be held, there is an underlying principle here somewhere, once I figure it out you will be the first to know.

Oh - I feel so much better now

2007-05-29T09:23:00.000+01:00

Nowadays a typical email consists of:

To: blah blah blah
Subject: who cares
Content: A random string of words
Signature: Please consider the environment, do you need to print this E-mail?

As much as I agree with "Reduce, Reuse and Recycle", I prefer the following comment to close an email:

Please consider cyberspace, do you REALLY need to send me that damn forward?

A quck note for chappala

2007-05-07T11:15:00.000+01:00

I will be going to Addis for the Ethiopian New Year in September, click here for more info.
I will be going to Goa for the New Year in December and January.

FOTY in London

2007-05-05T15:46:00.000+01:00

"If you don't go out and get what you like, you will be forced to like what you get"

Saturday 7th April - Sunday 15th April

Highlights (inc food)

- All Bar One (Arrival lunch in Canary Wharf)
- Floridita (Cuban restarant in wardour street)
- Bar 38 (canary wharf)
- Wagamama (with Kaily and Ting)
- Pizza Express (Soho)
- Keegan's House party in St John's Wood
- Greenwich (Picture crazy in Pizza Express)
- South Bank (Cool kid who learnt a few tricks)
- Las Iguanas (Mexican food by Waterloo foot bridge and South Bank)
- Tower Bridge
- Natural History Museam
- Walking through the McDonald's Drive-thru
- Soho, Oxford Circus (shops and Selfridges)
- Carnaby Street (cool pictures of kids in black and white)
- Covent Garden (shirt shopping in Hawes and Curtis, 194 steps)
- Embassy (Karina, Clara, Vikal, Keegan and ryan?!?)
- Edgeware Road (Karina)
- Nandos (Very chilli Portuguese food)
- Cousins in Acton
- Mash Bar (In Oxford St with cousins)
- Chelsea (Moti Mahal)
- Easter service at Canning Town
- Shoreditch (Zigfrid (pictures of Microsoft family), Medicine Bar, 333)
- Agenda (Bank, with Al Varro)
- Holborn (Guanabarro and Cougar Pinks)
- The Breakfast Club (Departure lunch in Angel)

I miss my old door and the legendary gaselee girls

2007-05-05T15:34:00.000+01:00

Carpe diem

2007-05-05T14:44:00.000+01:00

Like a nagging husband this blog has screamed for attention.

Friends, collegues, neighbours, brothers, non biological sisters, stalkers, waiters, security, and even astronauts (wannabes) have been asking after my dear sickened blog.

"How is it? We have not read anything for months, is it okay?"
Breathe, survive, fight, peace, relax, reform.

"Yes, it is fine, currently it is touring around the globe, the recent postcard depcited alluring images from Ecuador, alright for some hey?"

And now the blog is back, fresh from holiday ... guess what ... it is my turn to jet off. Taking off into the sky, into infinti, up high and then collapsing like a rocket into a foreign land, unknown to mankind. It is a state of mind.

Recent events - Just because I know you care

FOTY was in town from NYC
Offered two acting roles (though one turned out to be a bit dodgy, to say the least)
Zillions of job offers - yikes!
CIMA studies
Moved out of London
Booked my trip to Addis Ababa (for new year celebrations!)
Met a few very interesting people
Caught up with my vintage friends
Developed a peculiar liking for Norris Benjamin Cole

I hope this is good enough? Sincere apologies go out to Ting, Neill, Brownie, Chappala!

A helping hand from Microsoft

2007-02-22T11:10:00.000Z

I came into work today and was oh-so-delighted to see a squeaky clean brand new Microsoft wireless laser keyboard 6000 v.2 and mouse. It is just grrreat. I hope this will help in reducing the pain in my wrists and arms.
It was rated a scorching hot 9 out 10 in Cnet user reviews. The curved style encourages natural wrist position and movement and eases discomfort and pain. Fantastic!

Free Starbucks coffee

2007-02-21T09:59:00.000Z

Don't forget to run to your local Starbucks to grab your free coffee today. This offer is available between 2 and 4pm.

And for those of you living in Stinge City, begging for free coffee all the time, click here to find out how to get free Starbucks coffee.

Bald Britney Spears

2007-02-20T15:54:00.000Z

I placed a bid to buy Britney Spears' hair. The Ebay ad for her hair was taken down for no reason, and now Esther's haircutting studio are selling the hair. Bids start from $1 million. The winner will not only get Britney Spears' hair, they will also get the empty can of Red Bull she drank from during the process, the hair cutting tools, and her fag lighter too! Now that is good value for money. Naturally, I placed a bid for a ridiculous amount. Let's see what happens now. And here she is, the Pop Princess, Britney Spears.

Can anyone guess whose resume this is?

2007-02-15T15:17:00.000Z

EDUCATION / Qualification:
1950: Stood first in BA (Hons), Economics, Panjab University, Chandigarh,
1952; Stood first in MA (Economics), Panjab University, Chandigarh,
1954; Wright's Prize for distinguished performance at St John's College,Cambridge,
1955 and 1957; Wrenbury scholar, University of Cambridge,
1957; DPhil (Oxford), DLitt (Honoris Causa); PhD thesis on India's export competitiveness

OCCUPATION / Teaching Experience:
Professor (Senior lecturer, Economics, 1957-59;
Reader, Economics, 1959-63;
Professor, Economics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 1963-65;
Professor, International Trade, Delhi School of Economics,University of Delhi, 1969-71;
Honorary professor, Jawaharlal Nehru University,New Delhi,
1976 and Delhi School of Economics, University of Delhi,1996 and Civil Servant

Working Experience / POSITIONS:
1971-72: Economic advisor, ministry of foreign trade
1972-76: Chief economic advisor, ministry of finance
1976-80: Director, Reserve Bank of India; Director, Industrial Development Bank of India;
Alternate governor for India, Board of governors, Asian Development Bank;
Alternate governor for India, Board of governors, IBRD
November 1976 - April 1980: Secretary, ministry of finance (Department of economic affairs);
Member, finance, Atomic Energy Commission; Member, finance, Space
Commission April 1980 - September 15, 1982: Member-secretary, Planning Commission
1980-83: Chairman, India Committee of the Indo-Japan joint study committee
September 16, 1982 - January 14, 1985: Governor, Reserve Bank of India.
1982-85: Alternate Governor for India, Board of governors, International Monetary Fund
1983-84: Member, economic advisory council to the Prime Minister
1985: President, Indian Economic Association
January 15, 1985 - July 31, 1987: Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission
August 1, 1987 - November 10, 1990: Secretary-general and commissioner, south commission, Geneva
December 10, 1990 - March 14, 1991: Advisor to the Prime Minister oneconomic affairs
March 15, 1991 - June 20, 1991: Chairman, UGC
June 21, 1991 - May 15, 1996: Union finance minister
October 1991: Elected to Rajya Sabha from Assam on Congress ticket
June 1995: Re-elected to Rajya Sabha
1996 onwards: Member, Consultative Committee for the ministry of finance
August 1, 1996 - December 4, 1997: Chairman, Parliamentary standing committee on commerce
March 21, 1998 onwards: Leader of the Opposition, Rajya Sabha
June 5, 1998 onwards: Member, committee on finance
August 13, 1998 onwards: Member, committee on rules
Aug 1998-2001: Member, committee of privileges
2000 onwards: Member, executive committee, Indian parliamentary group
June 2001: Re-elected to Rajya Sabha
Aug 2001 onwards: Member, general purposes committee

BOOKS:
India's Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth -ClarendonPress, Oxford University, 1964; also published a large number of articles in various economic journals.

OTHER ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Adam Smith Prize, University of Cambridge, 1956
Padma Vibhushan, 1987
Euro money Award, Finance Minister of the Year, 1993;
Asia money Award, Finance Minister of the Year for Asia, 1993 and 1994

INTERNATIONAL ASSIGNMENTS:
1966: Economic Affairs Officer
1966-69: Chief, financing for trade section, UNCTAD
1972-74: Deputy for India in IMF Committee of Twenty on International Monetary Reform
1977-79: Indian delegation to Aid-India Consortium Meetings
1980-82: Indo-Soviet joint planning group meeting
1982: Indo-Soviet monitoring group meeting
1993: Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting Cyprus 1993: Human Rights World Conference, Vienna

RECREATION:
Gymkhana Club, New Delhi; Life Member, India International Centre, New Delhi

DOB: September 26, 1932
Place of Birth: Gah (West Punjab)
Father: S. Gurmukh Singh
Mother: Mrs Amrit Kaur
Married on: September 14, 1958
Wife: Mrs Gursharan Kaur
Children: Three daughters

Romantic? I think not.

2007-02-14T09:32:00.000Z

These are entries to a Washington Post competition asking for a rhyme with the most romantic first line... but the least romantic second line.

1. Thought that I could love no other
That is until I met your brother.

2. Roses are red, violets are blue, sugar is sweet, and so are you.
But the roses are wilting, the violets are dead, the sugar bowl's
Empty and so is your head.

3. Ah loving beauty you float with grace
If only you could hide your face

4. Love may be beautiful, love may be bliss
But I only slept with you, because I was pi*sed.

5. Kind, intelligent, loving and hot;
This describes everything you are not

6. I want to feel your sweet embrace
But don't take that paper bag off of your face

7. I love your smile, your face, and your eyes -
Damn, I'm good at telling lies!

8. My darling, my lover, my beautiful wife:
Marrying you screwed up my life

9. I see your face when I am dreaming.
That's why I always wake up screaming

10. My love, you take my breath away.
What have you stepped in to smell this way?

11. My feelings for you no words can tell,
Except for maybe "go to hell"

12. What inspired this amorous rhyme?
Two parts vodka, one part lime.

Dining at Las Iguanas

2007-02-09T12:44:00.000Z

People of the 21st century please welcome Arfan & Ahmer

Heading straight to the top ten this duo will knock Itchy & Scratchy, Tom & Jerry, and Mickey and Minnie off the Cartoon Charts.

Daily rant

2007-01-31T21:46:00.000Z

My name is not a spelling mistake! The producers of MS Word have indirectly accused my name (Manminder) of abusing the English language. I know this sounds rather pathetic, but I am committed neurotic memsaab.

It could be worse. Computers, people and computerised people could be howling Reji at me. To which I would reply (in true Reji style), my name is George, like the president.

Or it could be uber worse. My name could be Carly Tutty. And those in the know, know that that isn't good, if you know what I mean ; ) I hope Carly Tutty, an old classmate, doesn't Google her name and read this crap about her name.

Life, 23 years ago

2007-01-28T14:37:00.000Z

Yes, all we had to do back then was sit down, shut up and smile!

CIMA exams

2007-01-25T14:29:00.000Z

I've passed my CIMA Intergrated Management and Performance Evaluation exams ... !!!!

Yipppeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

Only about 7 CIMA exams left now : (

Reji and Jeni

2007-01-14T20:07:00.000Z

Looking for a job in Mental Health

2007-01-14T17:22:00.000Z

My friend is looking for a job in Mental Health or related areas. Please reply in comments if you can help.

A Lady's Guide - turning down men gently...

2007-01-12T15:55:00.000Z

HE: Can I buy you a drink?
SHE: Actually I'd rather have the money.

HE: I'm a photographer. I've been looking for a face like yours.
SHE: I'm a plastic surgeon. I've been looking for a face like yours.

HE: Hi. Didn't we go on a date once? Or was it twice?
SHE: Must've been once. I never make the same mistake twice.

HE: How did you get to be so beautiful?
SHE: I must've been given your share.

HE: Will you go out with me this Saturday?
SHE: Sorry. I'm having a headache this weekend.

HE: Your face must turn a few heads.
SHE: And your face must turn a few stomachs.

HE: Go on, don't be shy. Ask me out.
SHE: Okay, get out.

HE: I think I could make you very happy.
SHE: Why? Are you leaving?

HE: What would you say if I asked you to marry me?
SHE: Nothing. I can't talk and laugh at the same time.

HE: Can I have your name?
SHE: Why? Don't you already have one?

HE: Shall we go see a movie?
SHE: I've already seen it.

HE: Where have you been all my life?
SHE: Hiding from you.

HE: Haven't I seen you some place before?
SHE: Yes. That's why I don't go there anymore.

HE: Is this seat empty?
SHE: Yes, and this one will be if you sit down.

HE: So, what do you do for a living?
SHE: I'm a female impersonator.

HE: Hey baby, what's your sign?
SHE: Do not enter.

HE: Your body is like a temple.
SHE: Sorry, there are no services today.

HE: If I could see you naked, I'd die happy.
SHE: If I saw you naked, I'd probably die laughing

HE: Where have you been all my life?
SHE: Where I'll be the rest of your life - in your wildest dreams.

2007 Compatible Star Signs

2007-01-11T16:52:00.000Z

Apparently Sagittarius women and Aries men make a perfect match (find out more here). I am a Sagittarius woman (naturally) and expect replies from an Aries : D

That will be all for now... too-da-loo

5 day summary: New York

2007-01-07T19:24:00.000Z

I flew with Virgin Atlantic to New York and I think they're great, excellent service, good in-flight entertainment, and generally a zillion times better than Continental, American Airlines, Air India, US Airways, and British Airways. Besides, I like to promote the brand : )

I must warn the world and it's neighbour not to swap seats in the name of being a nice person. To hell with the nice person act, I was moved several times approached by 2 frustrated men who raised their voices at me and for what? All because I agreed to be a nice person and swap seats for two lovebirds! I spent 7 hours sorely sat in the middle of 6 people. Rule 1 being a nice person will get you nowhere, in fact it will get you sandwiched in shite.

Arriving into New York, I was pleasantly surprised by the warm weather. After several months of ongoing starvation for this City, finally I was back, back in New York, ready a new bag of tricks and scandal.

I came to New York for 3 reasons, to see my friends, have a break, and to shop. I've never been into the tourist scene in New York, meeting my friends alone is like visiting the New York Zoo!

Now I am going to list some of the folks I was hanging with. Please skip if you don't give a toss.

Vikram Kocher - The ultimate triple shot decaf Espresso
Saika Rahman - A piece of meat that fell in love with Tofu
Shafinaz Rahman - A spiced Octopus delicacy
Joseph Miller - The original American burger sold in Cuba
Rajat Kapoor - A Mixed green salad tossed in every continent
Matthew Hawke - Dom Perignon in the Cheltenham Golden Cup
Vikal Kapoor - An Eggplant curry wanting a roti from KFC
Reji George - Coca Cola Zero: all the taste without the mojo

I was staying with Vikram during my trip and it really felt like home, so a big thank you to Vikram for his hospitality. We had a blast, we ate, relaxed and laughed. I guess I should thank Reji for the laughs ; ) she has a weird way of keeping us entertained even when she's not present.

It was one big shopping pancake, I felt like I had the Adil Ditta on my right arm and hundreds on unlimited credit cards on my left. The sales were great, the Sterling strength was even better and the stuff on sale was totally awesome.

Unfortunately I had lost my voice for the duration of the trip. At first I whispered, then gave up and accepted my fate as the fly on the wall. I'm sure my friends enjoyed the silence, in fact Reji was loving it. Everytime I had the need to speak my body shaked furiously like Justin Timberlake, my face deflated and my mouth overtook the scene and all this parade to blurt a few words that didn't make sense. Vikal humored the masses with various impersonations whilst Jo made fun of my pathetic Salsa moves, like he is King of the South!

We all spent New Year's Eve at Tavern on the Green (in Central Park). It was a blast, though I was a lone ranger most of the night, I wonder why? Everytime I physically bumped into Reji she was all over Saika like Christmas wrapping on Cadbury's. I was like 'Give it a break girls, you are in public.' Vikal was nowhere to be seen all night, and when he did make a guest appearance he was fashioning his new girlfriend, Miss Motorola Razr. Matthew was kissing a horse outside for sometime, (a real horse) and then danced the night away with me me me me and me. Rajat, the composed gentleman stood around mingling and looking undisturbed by the hoards of crowds pushing and shoving their way to his feet. Vikram quenched his thirst with more than 3 bottles of bubbly, and was knocked out soon after. Shafinaz was floating around dancing and drinking the night away, though I didn't see much of her either.... ?!

My last night in New York ended with bribes for a massage : )

2 Bangladeshis, a White house, a Bowling Green, a Mary Land, and an Okla ho's man

2007-01-06T22:14:00.000Z

Happy New Year

2007-01-01T21:47:00.000Z

Yo Happy new year bleaders....

Yo New Year's Eve in New York is AWESOME! I am just having a blast....

Yo Beryl Brownie ... I miss you ... you should be here !!! Everyone knows about you and can't wait to meet you .....

Yeee Haaaa

We know it is nearly Christmas when...

2006-12-23T21:57:00.000Z

There are a trillion men/kids hanging around PC World, Game and Dixons waiting for the Nintendo Wii games console

Whilst waiting in the queue at Starbucks/Nero/Pret people complain about the cold weather AND wish for snow

Every knacker wears a Santa's outfit

Shops play The Pogues song!

The neighbours refuse to leave a brick undecorated

I wear my pink suede boots with fur trim and everybody comments on how festive I am, ignoring the obvious fact that my boots are pink NOT red

Guys (in an attempt to get lucky) fasten mistletoe tightly around their forehead

People are expected to remain in a drunk state every waking hour

Christmas lunch sponsored by David !!!

2006-12-18T17:17:00.000Z

Thank you David...

The snowman in Canary Wharf

2006-12-12T12:47:00.000Z

168 hrs with the flu...

2006-12-11T16:26:00.000Z

A storm of germs swept me away into a hellish state known as the flu. It has taken 7 whole days to recover (with the aid of day and night nurse). I am quite sure (and friends would agree) that the loss of appetite has led to a reduction in body weight.

Since I was unable to do much else other than laze around, I finally decided to read some essays written by Dr Victor Frankl. He discusses the torment he experienced in a camp during the Second World War. What sets this read apart from other autobiographical essays and books is that it is not written like a story - he analyses his experience from a psychological and scientific point of view. I still have a bit more to read, but I can definitely see the correlation between his essays and the making of Covey's habits (another book to finish!). Which reminds me, has anybody read Sean Covey's book? I think that would be a treat to read...

As I was ploughing through more books, I came across The Game by Neill Strauss, which I bought about a year ago. Now that is a funny read. It sets out to help an average frustrated chump pick up girls. Why did I buy it then? I first heard about this book whilst I was in New York, in the company of a particular person (who will remain as an unidentified object) and I did not take much notice. Then when I arrived back into the UK, I innocently overheard somebody else talking about it in Starbucks. So my eager self could not wait to burn 20 quid to get it. So I read it and actually started to think like a man! Maybe Strauss wrote it in a way to incorporate an element of Neuro Linguistic Programming? Who knows but I guess some of the stuff in there could actually work, that is, if the girl hasn't read it too ; )

I have yet to finish that book. A page remains folded about half way through maybe because I was afraid of turning into a man-minder, or I landed a job!

The rest of my birthday

2006-12-01T12:02:00.000Z

Featuring...

Mindi-licious (Naturally)
Beryl Brownie (Denise)
Luscious Lady (Levke)
WTF (Carol)
Paresh : )
Hummus bi tahina (Sooki Dooki)
Babaganoush (Bobby Sanchez) - Pls click to see the Babaganoush
Aajjagavinderpreetpal (I think)
Phorcious Phillipa (Phil)
Alex The Great
Clari - The Lasagne Maker
Gimp (Arfan)
XXX Emma XXX
~Kaily~
Dave ; )
The Groover
Le Matt
Krazy Egg Kev

We started out in 38 after work, where a moody 'les' works. Ended up in Brodie's... exposed some wacky dance moves including: the infamous Airplane dance, Beg on ze knees, Running Bi man, Bhangra (had to be there), sizzlin salsa, and a few lame attempts at a robot dance, oh yeah and obviously hipsters from Shakira.

Strutted and stumbled off back home, after Alex The Great's ridiculous attmepts at breaking and entering the Canary Wharf Ice Rink....

Arrived home to find the Gimp in my bed screaming out 'Don't look, im nearly naked' ... Great one! I was actually supposed to sleep in Beryl Brownies room, but I was locked out, Great one! So I had to return to the Gimp. I was soooooo trying to sleep, but the Gimp just could not stop the old snoring act!

Some funny Birthday emails

2006-11-30T17:42:00.000Z

From Vikal Kapoor

oh.....what you should do is
take yourself out or wait till you come here and we'll hit the town (NYC)....all in reason being -- so that you enjoy your BIRTHDAY !!!!
* * * *
* * * * *
Happy Birthday Mindy!
* * * *
* * * * *

From Joe Singh

Did you think that Joe Singh would forget???? I just wanted to say happy birthday and I hope you go out and drink tons of pints and find a fit guy! But only for a night because we are definitely getting married someday, did I just propose? Anyway, have a good day in Jolly Old England and get back to NYC soon!!

Chau Hermosa,
Joe Singh

From Zin Zin Baby

Hello MAN MINDER!!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANGEL!!!
LET THE WORLD MAKE YOU FEEL EXTRA SPECIAL TODAY!!!

Sun is beaming from the east!
Wait the universe announces Mindy's first beat.

A special day allures in joy and celebration!
The decor on London streets shows no inhibitions

She is the purest of the pure
We are so blessed to have her adore

Her eyes sparkle extra bright
May her dearest wishes come to light.

From Sukhraj and Philip Lloyd

Didn't you get the birthday singers that he sent? We agreed that he'd get an ensemble of midgets to reenact that scene from Wizard of Oz replacing 'lollipop land' with 'birthday land', and i'd get the skywriter to write 'happy birthday mindy' over tower of london. I can't believe he pulled out. the nerve...

OK, so the birthday hat will make an appearance. It is pink though (just thought I'd warn you..). My friend says he's going to wear his birthday suit - i don't suppose that's allowed as well? We will definitely be in on monday - and if there are samosas on offer, sukhi and i will find them out and smote them down.

We're prob finishing work pretty soon, and I'm planning on hitting the drinks asap. i suppose we'll see you guys when we see you guys (which is probably not too long!).

From Rajni

Dearest dearest mindy,

I'm so glad i got to know you this last year or so... has it only been that long>? feel like its been centuries :)

i know you couldnt decipher my little card i wrote up for you when u left nyc but i thnk i expresssed to come extent on there how much i love you for your wit, wisdom, insanity, fun-ness, craziness, warmth, and the light you bring into people's lives.

I'm so proud of you for taking the party to canary wharf, CEMA and now beyond. Mindy 2007 is only goign to get better- this 25th year is going to see my mindy going places! Here's to a great year, many boyfreinds to snog, many girlfriends to jig with, and many more good times!

Mwah
Love
Rrrrrrrajni

PS _ the presents and the party will sadly have to come with me in jan~

From Azmina

YOOOOOO!!!!!!

Hope you have an excellent birthday. Wishing you all the happiness in the world. Thanks for being such an amazing friend

It's my birthday today, the story so far...

2006-11-30T11:58:00.000Z

'Twas the dawn of my birthday
It is my 25th birthday today. And it all started with a phone call from my mum : ) at midnight, Denise prancing around in my room, and me looking like a mickey mouse gone wrong.

Breakfast with the hillbillies (starring Denise as Beryl Brownie, Levke as Luscious Lady, and Mindy as Percy the Penguin)
'Come and knock on my door, take a step that is new....'

8.15am, Beryl Brownie knocks on my door. I open it and to my amazement, dear old Beryl is standing there, quite gracefully, with a Pret chocolocate croissant (this season's must have) and a cup of cwaafee, how sweet. Whats more, the dear Brownie dunked a pink candle in the croissant too! Apparently Beryl Brownie ran upto to Canary Wharf real early to fetch this hot chocolate croissant.

I had my birthday breakfast, accompanied with GHD (Good Hair Day) and make-up. Beryl Brownie wrapped up a rather sparkly heart shaped necklace : ) and Luscious Lady bought me some much needed make-up. Now that's something that definaly flaps my penguin-ity...Percy is loving it

Arrival into work
So I enter the building, the secuirty people raise to their feet, form a choir and boy am I knocked off my feet... they start singing Happy Birthday, suited and booted passers by stop and watch, I put a spring in my step and begin to dance... what a show, bravo!

Lunch at Nando's

2006-11-29T12:15:00.000Z

For my dear bleaders. After scouring the net and a few dodgy dealings I managed to conjure up a helpful list to save you some money! So please go ahead and spoil yourself, you deserve it...

http://www.dorothyperkins.co.uk - use code DPMN29 for free delivery and 15% off anything

http://www.oasis-stores.com - use code GLAMOUR06 for 20% off anything

http://www.usc.co.uk - use code SDM20 for 20% off anything till Sunday

http://www.missselfridge.co.uk - use code MSGL15 for 15% off anything

http://www.faith.co.uk - use code 150906 for 15% off till 2nd December

http://www.urbanoutfitters.co.uk - use code URBAN1 to get £10 off if you spend £50

http://www.asos.co.uk - use code HSBC182116 to get 15% off

http://www.warehouse.co.uk - use code MCY291006 to get 20% off till 30th December

http://www.next.co.uk - free p&p if you use code K8004

http://www.powderrooms.com - use code 4E5KT for 20% off

http://www.hannahzakari.com - use code hzhb10 for 10% off

http://www.hqhair.com - use code BEAUTYBIBLE for 10% off

http://www.lasenza.co.uk - use code AUTUMN06 for 15% off till 30th November

http://www.ravel.co.uk - use code NEWW20 for 20% off till 30th November

http://www.cathkidson.co.uk - use code CKLR06 for 10% off and free p&p till 30th November

2006-11-25T23:04:00.000Z

My CIMA exams are finally over ...

Now I can lead a normal life like normal people. No more rushing around, I can just sit at home and take up a few new hobbies, starting with knitting. I plan to knit a chic and sophisticated scarlet jumper with a green Xmas tree planted on it. Just because I love more I will also try to add electronic flashing lights too. (Excuse the rather large exaggerated shoulder)

Since I know everyone will want one, I have decided to mass produce them. If you would like to purchase this jumper you may do so by contacting me (through this blog). And because I love all my bleaders, you can buy it for £10 plus p&p (No shipping agents, scammers, overseas buyers, money orders, or western union transfers).

PS. Due to my somewhat busy social schedule and the expected huge demand, there will be a 2 month waiting list, but at least you will be ahead of fashion (for winter 2007).

GIRL SEEKING GUY ads taken from Shaddi.com (Indian matrimonial site)

2006-11-08T09:38:00.000Z

These are actual ads on a matrimony site. Grammar and spell errors have no place in a profile description as everything is straight from the heart! Disclaimer : I am not responsible if you forget your basic grammar after reading this mail...

- Hello To Viewvers My Name is Sowmya , I am single i dont have male, If any one whant to marrie to me u can visite to my home. I am not a good education but i working all field in bangalroe.. if u like me u welcome to my heart... when ever u whant to meet pls viset my resident or send u letter.. Thanks yours Regards Sowmya

- i want very simple boy. from brahmin educated family from orissa state she is also know about RAMAYAN, GEETA BHAGABATA, and other homework (Homework?)

- Wants a man who knows me better and can adjust with me forever. he may never create any difficulties in my life or his life by which the entire life can run smoothly. thank you (The principle of running life smoothly was never so easy!)

- he should be good looking and should have a service. he Shoulsd have one brother and one sister. he should be educated. (ain't it unique !! 1 brother 1 sister criteria !)

- I am a happy-go-lucky kind of person. Enjoys every moments of life. I love to make friendship. Becauese friendship is a first step of love. I am looking for my dreamboy who will love me more than i. Because i love myself a lot. If u think that is u then why to late come on ........ hold my hand forever !!! (The dilwale dulhaniya effect)

- i am simple girl.I have lot ofproblemin mylife because ofmylucknow i amlooking oneboyhe caremeandloveme lot lot lot (I don't know why but this is one of my favorites)

- i want a boy with no drinks if he wants he can wear jeans in house but while steping out of house he should give recpect to our cast (by not wearing his jeans? Wat the hell...)

- whatever he may be but he should feel that he is going to be someone groom and he must think of the future life if he is toolike this he would bde called the man of the lamp (I am clueless, I feel so lost. Can anyone tell me what this girl wants)

- my colour is black,but my heart is white.i like social service (Zebra..???)

- my name is farhanbegum and i am unmarried. pleaes you marrige me pleaes pleaes pleaes pleaes pleaes pleaes pleaes (height of desperation! J )

Sadly, the list is endless!

Livin' in da ghetto innet

2006-11-06T17:48:00.000Z

I finished up my Project Management studies last night at midnight on the dot. I knew that I would not be able to sleep immediately because of the over-activity of my brain cells. In light of this, I decided to prance around for aprrox 30 mins, niavely thinking that my brain would have calmed down enabling me to sleep. To my dismay, I was still wide awake at 3.40am. Between 3.40am and 7.30am my sleep was extremely light, and more often than not I was tossing and turning. WHY? I hear you ask... Well basically, some juvenile delinquent(s) decided to pop fireworks in my neighbourhood, which were alarmingly loud and disturbing.

This incident along with the egg bombing explosion last week leads me to question the location and safety of my residence. I am reluctant to say it, but I believe that I live in the ghetto.

Advantages of living in the ghetto

+ It's moderatly cool-ish
+ In a few decades time it will be the hippest part of London. And going by my personal research of ghetto areas around the world I can safely conclude that a trendy hotspot was orgiginaly a ghetto.
+ Exposure to real London and real Londoners and what they really do (inc stabbings, robbery, muggings etc)
+ Development of awareness, safety and caution, many of the primitive survival skills that have dimmished in today's urban society

Disadvantages of living in the ghetto

- Possibility of being mugged, gunned, raped, knived, verbally abused, salivery abused (spit)
- Anything and everythigng else that is not listed as an advantage

My point exactly

2006-11-02T17:31:00.000Z

2006-11-01T13:40:00.000Z

Here is a picture of a few pumpkins we carved out last night. Denise and I decided to head out for a bit, since it was Halloween and our spontaneity was rewarded as soon as we stepped out of the door.

We were merrily walking down the street when we spotted some youths hanging around the corner.

Denise: Those kids better not throw eggs at us
Mindy: Yeah...

SPLAT !!! Those bleading kids started to throw some eggs our way. We screamed and run (I definitely tried to run anyway)
And they chased us down the street. What a joke. We ended up in Bank at this place called New Moon in Leadenhall Market, we were quite happy entertaining ourselves with the food menu (yes, we like to live at the heights of excitement). Then these two chaps started talking to us, and one of them, can't think of his name, was oh-so-interested in Denise, and I spent about an hour trying to understand what she does at work. I was in hysterics. In an attempt to make my laughing not so obvious, I covered my face with the menu, and all that was visible was a body shaking like it was being electrocuted !

Anyway then we went home, trottled off Blackwall DLR.... and saw a couple of Brokeback Mountain's walking n whistling down the stairs... so freaky!

WTF we have a bit of an any problem at home, in fact we have named the ant Martin.... and the most embarrassing thing just happened.... I just picked up my bag and put it on my desk and a couple of Martin's began crawling over this very keyboard....

BTW FYI we have even had pest control in our house, and the Landlord reckons the Martin thing is over ... OBVIOUSLY not!

Eeeewwww Yuk, help someone, please?

This one's for the Exotic One

2006-10-30T13:49:00.000Z

Ha ha ha ha ... yo Exotic One ... I bet this picture brings back memories ?!

I finally managed to get this back from Azminderjitpreetpaldeep who insisted on keeping it in her bedroom as a shrine or something.

I went to this Asian Diwali SLASH Eid event on Saturday, and what a meat market it was! It was very interesting to watch, aye it was.

Happy Diwali

2006-10-21T23:42:00.000+01:00

Hudson York Farrell have failed to respond to complaints about their bad service. This says a lot about Hudson York Farrell. Are they in denial? Or feel that they are too important to respond to customer issues?

On another note, I would like to wish all my bleaders a Happy Diwali. I am at home in Gravesend right now eating eating and eating....

Interesting fact: Pochohontas was buried in Gravesend.

Hudson York Farrell

2006-10-17T17:33:00.000+01:00

I registered with Hudson York Farrell, a recruitment agency a few weeks ago. I thought they were okay, until I spoke to Erin Trembley (a recruitment consultant).

Her phone mannerism was terrible. In fact, disgusting. I could only do one thing and that was to bring it to the attention of Hudson York Farrell's management. The email I wrote:

Dear Sir,

I write to inform you of a particular incident that fails to show the commitment, quality of service and good mannerisms expected by a professional company such as Hudson York Farrell.

I recently registered with Hudson York Farrell a few a weeks ago, and sat an exam. My recruitment consultant, David Pritchard was great, however I believe that he is currently on annual leave. Unaware of his absence, I asked to speak to another recruitment consultant and was referred to Erin Trembley who I conversed with today on the phone. To my surprise and astonishment the level of service and mannerism was, unfortunately, appalling. I was informed by Erin that she was "not willing to stay at after 5pm for somebody who only just passed the tests". I acknowledge that my test results were not fantastic and was merely asking for advice and practical solutions to help me improve. Erin was consistently blunt, ill-mannered in her speech and essentially forgot that she was conversing with a client.

I find it hard to believe that this is the mannerism Hudson York Farrell promote, as with any company, any member of staff is that company's ambassador.

Thank you for your time

Manminder Gill

2006-10-10T14:19:00.000+01:00

How are you doing bleaders? Okay? Had a nice weekend? Good yeah?

Cool, cool, cool

I had the ultimate blast this weekend! Almost feel guilty for it !!
So yeah, whats the plan for halloween, yeah, whats going on, yeah

I went to Pravin's sisters wedding on Sunday, and yeah, man yeah, it was cool, innit... in fact I met a guy yeah, yeah , yeah, and guess what, innet, he was talking like this, innet to me, all night, innet... and then he goes, yeah, yeah, 'Im not chatting you up, yeah, but can i have your number innet? I work in canary wharf yeah, and that means we can have lunch yeah, innet, innet'

In the mighty fine words of Clara The Great > GIVE ME A BREAK

2006-10-06T15:53:00.000+01:00

I received the following list of mildly amusing statements in my inbox today. They were sent by my dear good friend Arfan. I typed in ARFAN in Google images, and the results were ger-rate! You can see Arfan here.

WHAT TO SAY WHEN YOU ARE AT WORK

1. Ahhh...I see the f*ck-up fairy has visited us again...
2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to pronounce.
3. How about never? Is never good for you?
4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.
5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to worship me.
6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.
7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message...
8. I don't work here. I'm a consultant.
9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a word you're saying.
10. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of sh*t.

Nice huh?

2006-10-05T17:29:00.000+01:00

This is my response to the numerous complaints about New York guys:

NYC is a whole different game
Men over there have no shame

drink drink drink, sleep sleep sleep
wake up in da morning wiv another beech

this is their life
these are their ways
why do the play all these games?

maybe they be insecure
work all day is a bore
they have dosh, house and bling
but that's nothin, no they want more

they be in da club hissin
at the girls, wearing nuffin
who is right and who is wrong?
i cant say, tis devil's prong

the day will come when they wake
not from death but from this fake
life they lead just to please
anyone care? definatly not me

then they want a good good girl
who cooks, cleans and is a pearl
they search and search and find not one
cos the good ones be gone

finally they cry, get mad, upset
wondering what they did to let
go of morals, decency and honour
all in the name
of a game
that has no shame

so listen brother
sister too
just be good
dont be cool

2006-10-03T15:10:00.000+01:00

The TamilNadu Sachin Sampath Jr

To watch the show please click here. We all love Sachin the teddy bear : )

2006-10-02T16:53:00.000+01:00

you funny bunny runny rujni
makes me laughs a lots like honey
watcha doing, where ya going
when you gonna be a somefin?

why you smile? why you cry?
i know u like apple pie
like a mint in a choc dip
this rhyme is way too hip

now im bored, as y'all know
nearly time to go go home
so wake me up before you go
else i will meet you at your show

im off to college to read accounting
its oh so fun yes very charming
but its raining, yes rain rain rain
ive forgotton my brolley with my brain

what to do? where to now?
im not sure but pow wow now!

Whuttishhh (sound effect)

2006-10-02T11:06:00.000+01:00

Normally when I ask 'Who is the best?' I expect the response to be 'Mindy, of course' ... however, on this occasion I must step down from the title and bow down humbly to Clara The Great. What a woman she is and more to the point...what a fantastic cook!!! I was invited to a wonderful dinner party at Clara The Great's house on Saturday evening with a bunch of Trading Screen peeps and friends and my taste buds were not disappointed. It was a magical moment, a bit like when you arrive at lost luggage and find your 101 dalmation briefcase amongst the debris... priceless!

I heard that my dear old friend Rajni The Exotic One was also ruffling up her fine feathers to cook up a treat in Brooklyn Baby Brooklyn... So Rajni The Exotic One, tell us what was cooking on that side of the pond? For those bleaders that do not know, Rajni The Exotic One is a cook book editor...ooooohhh...very flash huh? I expect the food was made with love (and chatting) and enjoyed with smiles : ) I miss my dear chappalas in New York, I miss the background noise (he he he), I miss the rainbows, I miss the Yogi Bear, I miss the flowers (you know what I'm talking about) ... sob, sob, sob...

Anyhoo, my hazelnut latte form Starbucks is getting cold, so I will put up another post in a bit..

2006-09-26T17:39:00.000+01:00

Originally, I had a link in this posting that went to a sports blog that contained devasting comments about 'The Kuri and Canary.' A few of my friends, namely Vik and Rajni, read my blog flew straight over to the sports blog and defended The Kuri and Canary's reputation and sl@gged off the sports blog.

However, in my original posting, I forgot to mention, that the sports blog was written by my colleague... who sits right opposite me! Big ooopps! And I also forgot to mention that it was not my colleague who wrote those devasting comments about my blog, it was somebody else's comments on my colleague's blog. Big ooopps!

I have been asked to take down the link to the sports blog. But relaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaax...no big deal : ) I guess I just hit a few nerves.

he he he

2006-09-26T13:29:00.000+01:00

Absolutely shocking!!!

2006-09-25T13:41:00.000+01:00

WHAT ABOUT ME?

I genuinely feel sorry for those people who are constantly on the go, always working, always the first one in the office and last to leave. I mean what kind of life is that? Work, work, work !!! When I try to work (yes, I do try) something happens to me. I usually start feeling sick. For instance, last week I was actually sick and that had nothing to do with what I ate. Actually, that does not make sense, but you know what I mean. Today I have cold and flu symptoms and I think they may last until the end of the working week. I did not ask this to happen, so don't go thinking that it is the thought of using my brain that makes me ill.

Anyway, do any of you bleaders have any quick fix for these cold/flu symptoms? I have heard that soups and hot drinks are good, so I popped down to Kruger to get a broccoli and stilton soup. I think I will have a chai ti latte too, since I have a good excuse to spend loads on a beverage.

Now onto a more interesting topic... who thinks I should go on a mystery date, this week?

2006-09-22T10:20:00.000+01:00

My inbox has been intoxicated by furious Bleaders who want Craigslist links on my blog to make it more interesting. Apparently, to some, the daily dressings of my life are not entertaining enough. Who wants Craigslist links on a blog anyway? After a few days, the links won’t work, and then I will be inandated with requests to remove the link! As you can see dear Bleaders, this is a classic Steven Covey ‘lose-lose’ situation. This blog has a life and purpose of its own and we need to respect it, nuture it and help it grow.

How would you like it if I said to you “You would get more guys/girls fancying you if you had http://www.i-look-like-crap.com/ splattered over your face” (btw fyi … it is not a real link) . Not a nice feeling is it? I guess my point is clear, and no doubt I have trodden over a few nerves along the way, but frankly, this blog just does not care!

2006-09-20T13:52:00.000+01:00

I had lunch at La Tasca the other day ... and have been feeling pretty sick since. Apparently, lemonade is the cure for sickness, and although I would normally run my legs off to grab a fizzy drink...today I just don't feel like it! I forced myself to eat a Waitrose sandwich and now feel sick, again. Great one!

Dream of the day I want to go home and sleep, and not face the world for a few days. I'd much rather be whisked away into a palace and treated like the princess I truely am.

2006-09-15T13:19:00.000+01:00

Yesterday's lunch ^^^
Rather tasty ... and quite a bargain, only £384

Today's Lunch > nothing : (

2006-09-13T12:48:00.000+01:00

Fantasy football: YOU the manager

I have recently joined my company's staff Fantasy football thing. Not knowing much about football - but everything about saving money (thanks to Azmina), I have chosen these players:

I have been told that I am most likely to lose. Great one. But it is the taking part that counts, and apparently the loser wins a prize for 'trying'. I have also been told that there is no point in saving money, since none of the £35 million will be going into my account.

Dissapointed.

2006-09-12T16:49:00.000+01:00

It is nearly time to go home, and to put it nicely: today has been the boring-ist day of my life! Im feeling ever so lethargic today! This dazed stated of mind triggered the following output from a couple of my brain cells:

as my eyelids meet... i fall asleep
for a moment or two
i dream of you
then my eyelids part

i wake up, smell a fart
munching away on a strawberry tart
so ha ha ha hee hee hee
dont you think im so funny?

I know, pretty pathetic, but certainly written in the quickest time... a record time of 40 seconds!!!

I booked my CIMA exams today, and the total so far for 2 freakin modules is £1500... and I have 9 more to go!!!

2006-09-08T18:06:00.001+01:00

Hello bleader (blog reader) and welcome to Mindy's blog!

When reading my blog posts you are strongly advised to relax, smile occasionally, and never take offence.

I would write something thrilling now, but it's already past 6pm and I shouldn't really be at work during this ungodly hour.