First thought.. "What the.... " as I spotted a picture of Marilyn Manson and Evan Rachel Wood?? "What the...", I read on to discover that they are madly in love??
Why.. is all I can think of.. very very odd couple. As I started to judge, I realize that hell I am being discriminating as well. If she wanted to be with someone that's her beeswax..
Onto the next article..
Sunday, August 05, 2007
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Goodbye... Goodbye
I always find myself with a smirk whenever I get a goodbye email from a fellow co-worker. Why? I guess I am just twisted that way... but it's always interesting to read the final words of folks leaving for 'greener pastures'.
Some are angry and bitter. And I do mean bitter, to the point where I sat in awe that they really do not ever, ever wan to ever work for the company again in their life. Like most that don't have the guts to say what they really mean, I do the invisible monkey clap to applaud them for their bravado.
Then there are some that are cordial, simple, and to the point. Thank you and best wishes type. Those are a bit more boring to read. Why? Cuz they are polite. If majority of the folks are interested in reading polite stuff, all these magazines would be out of business.
I love the funny and sarcastic ones.. .. just my personal opinion.
So when it came time to write my own farewell famous last words, I was quite conflicted for couple of days. Do I want to be funny? How about take a jab at the business? Do I want to be polite? Yes, but not kiss ass type I've decided and definitely don't want to burn any bridges, never know when you need to cross back again.
Writing was something I've always viewed more important than spoken word; rather it be emails, handwritten letters, greeting cards, deliverables or blogs for that matter. That finality of letters on a piece of paper is just... there, final. Once viewed you can't take back. Especially in this day and age where things are cached for say years or decades. That note you wrote can easily be recalled many many moons later, even long after you are gone from this planet.
Where was I? Oh yes, my goodbye email. I started many drafts. One thought was to write it in the format of a poem. I am glad I didn't use that! Even after 4 or 5 drafts, I didn't have anything that flowed for me. All the bits and pieces were there but it didn't flow. But I was running out of time to diddle waddle. Today is Thursday. Most of the project team are traveling back to their homes in a couple of hours. I really do want to also say goodbye in person since I will be working from home next week. So project productivity had to be sacrificed. I took about 1.5 hours to finally put together a goodbye email that I was pretty proud of. It's a mix of everything. A dash of sarcasm, a dusting of thankfulness, a sprinkle of humor, and a good dose of authenticity. Well at least I hope I came across as being authentic.
The funny thing is that as I was writing my note, I realized that I am truly thankful for the experience and what it has taught me. Some lessons took me a while to learn but I've learned it and mistakes that I've made in the past will not be made again. I haven't found entirely what I want, but I know what I don't and that's pretty darn good thing to know.
I got a little emotional when saying goodbyes to people after they saw my note. I will miss them.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
The Day I Told
I had practice this moment for a looong time in my head, over and over, of how I was going to announce to the upper management that I am leaving the company. But nothing is as we planned it. Instead, I was rushing trying to finish work at the same time nervous as hell on breaking the news to my manager about me leaving the project.. leaving the company.
Finally I tracked him down and after he finished setting some priorities of work on my plate I asked to speak to him in his office.
Maybe I should have been a little bit more patient about spewing out my resignation statement, but never one for small talk, before my manager even had the chance to close the door fully, I turned around and said something like, "Mike, I just wanted to give you a heads up that I am resigning."
The man is stoic as ever! He should play poker was what I thought. After a brief pause, he said he was sorry to hear the news and then we went into more details of why I am leaving the company. I explained that I've thought about this for a while now but had to move up the exit date due to father's ill health. He was sorry again and thanked me for the heads up.
All was done in less than 5 minutes.. maybe even 3.
Then of course.. I got called backs about 30 minutes later on whether if I had considered taking FMLA again or leave of absence..
Nice offers definitely.. but it's time to go.
How did I feel afterwards? Maybe slightly relieved that now I can submit the resignation formally so that the separation process may begin. But not much of anything else.. my mind was on other things.
Rest of the day I shared the formal news only with several close friends.. then it's business as usual.. fix the bugs, update the config, and update the status.
Finally I tracked him down and after he finished setting some priorities of work on my plate I asked to speak to him in his office.
Maybe I should have been a little bit more patient about spewing out my resignation statement, but never one for small talk, before my manager even had the chance to close the door fully, I turned around and said something like, "Mike, I just wanted to give you a heads up that I am resigning."
The man is stoic as ever! He should play poker was what I thought. After a brief pause, he said he was sorry to hear the news and then we went into more details of why I am leaving the company. I explained that I've thought about this for a while now but had to move up the exit date due to father's ill health. He was sorry again and thanked me for the heads up.
All was done in less than 5 minutes.. maybe even 3.
Then of course.. I got called backs about 30 minutes later on whether if I had considered taking FMLA again or leave of absence..
Nice offers definitely.. but it's time to go.
How did I feel afterwards? Maybe slightly relieved that now I can submit the resignation formally so that the separation process may begin. But not much of anything else.. my mind was on other things.
Rest of the day I shared the formal news only with several close friends.. then it's business as usual.. fix the bugs, update the config, and update the status.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Bad News
Why is it that I am always prompted to write more when things are troubling me or that it's not something pleasant?
Today while out in downtown State Collge enjoying some lunch, a phone call from an unrecognized number rings. "Hello"... and the conversation begins. The doc is looking for pop to inform him of the CAT Scan results. Talking to me is the same, so I was the first that heard those words that we've dreaded..."there's an ill-defined mass"... so has the cancer come back or is it just a tumor? When will he do the biopsy in the next exam? How many were there?
Will a PET Scan be scheduled?
One question after the other. I am not surprised of the news. I had a bad feeling several weeks ago, my right eye just started jumping again. Why is it that mom and pop don't seem to be able to get a break. How am I going to tell him?
What will he think? Will pop get really depressed? Will he think of the worst? Will he ....
Until we know whether the mass is malignant or not, we shouln't jump to conclusions. The oncologist will tell us.
Today while out in downtown State Collge enjoying some lunch, a phone call from an unrecognized number rings. "Hello"... and the conversation begins. The doc is looking for pop to inform him of the CAT Scan results. Talking to me is the same, so I was the first that heard those words that we've dreaded..."there's an ill-defined mass"... so has the cancer come back or is it just a tumor? When will he do the biopsy in the next exam? How many were there?
Will a PET Scan be scheduled?
One question after the other. I am not surprised of the news. I had a bad feeling several weeks ago, my right eye just started jumping again. Why is it that mom and pop don't seem to be able to get a break. How am I going to tell him?
What will he think? Will pop get really depressed? Will he think of the worst? Will he ....
Until we know whether the mass is malignant or not, we shouln't jump to conclusions. The oncologist will tell us.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Balance
The Virgina Tech tragedy has dominated the airwaves and print. It's hard to turn on the TV without hearing the latest updates about the senseless killing by a 23 year old.
It's all very sad, where did all this go wrong? How do someone grow from a tiny little baby to become a killer?
Anyways, so that prompted the thinking that all things in this universe is striving for balance. Too much rain, too little water. Too much sun, not enough light. Give the kids all the things they need or are we spoiling them? Too much work, not enough play? Too much freedom or control?
The kid was definitely off balance. How did he become that way and can we prevent tragedies in the future?
It's hard I think for all of us, society in general to take part of the blame for tragedies that happen every day. Myself is not excluded for sitting back and letting things go by. I think most of us are very detached.. prehaps detached to protect ourselves.. maybe in self denial that ugly.. very ugly things go on in this world. Things we want to distant ourselves with we tend to either ignore to delay facing reality or totally ignore it.
So what can we as humans do to prevent this? How can we as a society help steer the next generation to become humans with moral values? And is it too late for those that are walking and talking already? Can we guide the lost or troubled souls towards a healing path?
It'll take all of us to make those types of commitments. Are we ready?
It's all very sad, where did all this go wrong? How do someone grow from a tiny little baby to become a killer?
Anyways, so that prompted the thinking that all things in this universe is striving for balance. Too much rain, too little water. Too much sun, not enough light. Give the kids all the things they need or are we spoiling them? Too much work, not enough play? Too much freedom or control?
The kid was definitely off balance. How did he become that way and can we prevent tragedies in the future?
It's hard I think for all of us, society in general to take part of the blame for tragedies that happen every day. Myself is not excluded for sitting back and letting things go by. I think most of us are very detached.. prehaps detached to protect ourselves.. maybe in self denial that ugly.. very ugly things go on in this world. Things we want to distant ourselves with we tend to either ignore to delay facing reality or totally ignore it.
So what can we as humans do to prevent this? How can we as a society help steer the next generation to become humans with moral values? And is it too late for those that are walking and talking already? Can we guide the lost or troubled souls towards a healing path?
It'll take all of us to make those types of commitments. Are we ready?
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Melancholy
One word summed it all up. Wonder who thought of this word that describes what every one of us feels. The knit brows, the half grimace, the tightened jaws and this incredible sadness that seeps through the body as if the dark clouds will never dissipate. You try as you might, with loud music and upbeat tempos. You try again with renting laughs that comes on a shiny disc. But, nay, nothing works.
Only time I guess, time and enough self indulgence to let this course of gloom and doom run through your veins throughout each limb, run itself to exhaustion and lay to rest before you can return to your old self.
Only time I guess, time and enough self indulgence to let this course of gloom and doom run through your veins throughout each limb, run itself to exhaustion and lay to rest before you can return to your old self.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Deconstruct and Reconstruct
Following are notes I jotted down, trying to remember bits and pieces of one of my dreams.
The colors were muted.. kinda like that grayish hue depicted in War of the Worlds. The sky was ominous, everything is just a shade grayer, a little more dustier.
- killed in a flash
- imploded, people died but afterwards they came back through another flash
- the entire world seems to be deconstructed and reconstructed by some supernatural force right infront of my eyes. I can only stand there in awe and watch houses tore down and rebuilt within minutes
- houses wiped out crumbled but the rebuilding was like moving of boxes in and out until all the houses are in a row and connected. The strange thing and almost comical if the situation wasn't about life and death was that the rebuilt houses were very colorful in this rebuilt world. They reminded me of Florida or actually more of the France style houses I seen once in Quebec.
The colors were muted.. kinda like that grayish hue depicted in War of the Worlds. The sky was ominous, everything is just a shade grayer, a little more dustier.
- killed in a flash
- imploded, people died but afterwards they came back through another flash
- the entire world seems to be deconstructed and reconstructed by some supernatural force right infront of my eyes. I can only stand there in awe and watch houses tore down and rebuilt within minutes
- houses wiped out crumbled but the rebuilding was like moving of boxes in and out until all the houses are in a row and connected. The strange thing and almost comical if the situation wasn't about life and death was that the rebuilt houses were very colorful in this rebuilt world. They reminded me of Florida or actually more of the France style houses I seen once in Quebec.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Music Is Too Loud
Well, this is a first for me - a complaint from front desk asking me to turn my music down.
I guess the hotel walls are not as thick as I thought. Seriously, how loud can the music be if it's coming from an IBM laptop?
I had the TV on until 3 am and it was pretty loud.. maybe somehow they didn't notice until I started singing.. hahah.
Ooh joys of living out of a hotel, even if it is a Hilton. Just not the same I guess. Sadly I had to turn down Sia - singing Breathe Me on YouTube. Now time to hit the treadmills before my ass completes its morphing into globs of fat.
I guess the hotel walls are not as thick as I thought. Seriously, how loud can the music be if it's coming from an IBM laptop?
I had the TV on until 3 am and it was pretty loud.. maybe somehow they didn't notice until I started singing.. hahah.
Ooh joys of living out of a hotel, even if it is a Hilton. Just not the same I guess. Sadly I had to turn down Sia - singing Breathe Me on YouTube. Now time to hit the treadmills before my ass completes its morphing into globs of fat.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Most Memorable V Day
I got no love.
I got no food.
I got no car.....
Sounds like a beginning of a best woeful hit of 2007.
Well I have to say, this particular Valentines day takes the cake and ate it too. Morning started out with me on top of my blanket and covers on my king size Hilton bed. Alone. That was not a surprise since I did after all went to bed alone. If I didn't wake up alone, that would've been a bit weird and scary.
The world froze overnight. Hilton did a crappy job of plowing and the lot still looked treacherous. Then the boss called to say the roads are horrible. But thankfully I wasn't on the road yet. So I worked from the hotel until my stomach called for food. I donned my winter gear and headed out to the parking lot to clean off the Element.
That's when the day started to go downhill. I must have left my windshield wipers on last night and while I was scraping off the ice, I didn't realize that the wipers were trying to wipe until it was too late. By the time I turned the wipers off, the motor driving it seems to be fried. :( Not a good day. So rest of the afternoon was spent partially working but mostly looking for a dealership around here and worrying how I'll be able to get there tomorrow.
I guess it's better than not remember a Valentines day. I can tell who ever cares to ask that around midnight, I hiked to the local CVS to get myself some grub. A box of Honey Bunches of Oats, 140z of whole milk, Veryfine Apple juice and a bottle of V8.
In the cereal goes into a glass cup, pour in the milk, and with my own metal spoon, I scooped up that delicious mixture into my awaiting mouth. Hmmmmmmm...... fooood...
Happy Valentines Day.
I got no food.
I got no car.....
Sounds like a beginning of a best woeful hit of 2007.
Well I have to say, this particular Valentines day takes the cake and ate it too. Morning started out with me on top of my blanket and covers on my king size Hilton bed. Alone. That was not a surprise since I did after all went to bed alone. If I didn't wake up alone, that would've been a bit weird and scary.
The world froze overnight. Hilton did a crappy job of plowing and the lot still looked treacherous. Then the boss called to say the roads are horrible. But thankfully I wasn't on the road yet. So I worked from the hotel until my stomach called for food. I donned my winter gear and headed out to the parking lot to clean off the Element.
That's when the day started to go downhill. I must have left my windshield wipers on last night and while I was scraping off the ice, I didn't realize that the wipers were trying to wipe until it was too late. By the time I turned the wipers off, the motor driving it seems to be fried. :( Not a good day. So rest of the afternoon was spent partially working but mostly looking for a dealership around here and worrying how I'll be able to get there tomorrow.
I guess it's better than not remember a Valentines day. I can tell who ever cares to ask that around midnight, I hiked to the local CVS to get myself some grub. A box of Honey Bunches of Oats, 140z of whole milk, Veryfine Apple juice and a bottle of V8.
In the cereal goes into a glass cup, pour in the milk, and with my own metal spoon, I scooped up that delicious mixture into my awaiting mouth. Hmmmmmmm...... fooood...
Happy Valentines Day.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
5,000 Calories
Yep, that's what I consumed in one setting if not more.
Today a friend came in to visit so we decided to give the new cheeseburger chain restaurant in town a try. The atmosphere was friendly and brightly lit with the old diner neon lights deco.
Gosh, I don't remember the last time I ordered a cheeseburger at a restaurant. McDonalds don't count.
The owners of the joint made a good call. The town was missing a family restaurant. Actually come to think of it.. lots of town are missing family restaurants where kids enjoy the food much more so than the adults. The place was jammed pack with wait of 25 minutes! To pass the time, we walked across the street to Duncan Donuts to kick off the night of high calorie feast.
The burger wasn't bad.. not out of this world good either. But it was just nice to sit in a place where you see families. The parents, the kids type of thing. I was amazed to see so many in one place.
Good for them.
Not so good for my figure.
Today a friend came in to visit so we decided to give the new cheeseburger chain restaurant in town a try. The atmosphere was friendly and brightly lit with the old diner neon lights deco.
Gosh, I don't remember the last time I ordered a cheeseburger at a restaurant. McDonalds don't count.
The owners of the joint made a good call. The town was missing a family restaurant. Actually come to think of it.. lots of town are missing family restaurants where kids enjoy the food much more so than the adults. The place was jammed pack with wait of 25 minutes! To pass the time, we walked across the street to Duncan Donuts to kick off the night of high calorie feast.
The burger wasn't bad.. not out of this world good either. But it was just nice to sit in a place where you see families. The parents, the kids type of thing. I was amazed to see so many in one place.
Good for them.
Not so good for my figure.
Friday, February 02, 2007
All About the Timing
The past 24 hours has just not worked out for me. Time was my enemy. It went against everything I was trying to do. First I woke up on 02/01/07, 5 AMish to realize that "Sh*t!!! I did not get to place my Amazon Wishlist gift certificate order cuz I fell asleep 30 minutes before the deadline." Contributing factors to the waste of a good 25% off were:
1 - sleep deprivation
2 - coma induced by gorging food at 9:30 PM
3 - the unbreakable habit of procrastination until very last minute
You snooze you loose. Prime example right here. Literally.
So the morning did not start off so well. Got to work, work work work, then found out that we really didn't have to be there on Friday so it was a mad rush during lunch hours to go back and checkout of the hotel.
Finished with the workshops and meeting around 7ish PM and started the mad rush to go catch the 9 PM Amtrak at BWI.
Yah, that did not work out too well.
Contributing factors to missing the 9 PM train:
0 - left at a time that didn't leave much flex room
1 - the 1 hour drive from work to Car Rental place
2 - process to wait for return of car, to shuttle to airport, to shuttle from airport to Amtrak
3 - got on the wrong bus (The bus driver gave me a short lecture on why did I get on the bus to the long term parking lot when it states on the bus that's where it's going. To my defense, I really did not look.)
So the next train was at 10:30 PM but then got delayed to 11PM.
All in all, I got back after getting a ride at around 2 AM on 02/02/07. Travel to come back took over 7 F*king hours.
Not a happy camper here.
But valuable lesson learned once more:
1 - poor time management leads to dire consequences - more time wasted
2 - waste of opportunities
3 - Avoid taking a late Amtrak train
Time for shuteye.
1 - sleep deprivation
2 - coma induced by gorging food at 9:30 PM
3 - the unbreakable habit of procrastination until very last minute
You snooze you loose. Prime example right here. Literally.
So the morning did not start off so well. Got to work, work work work, then found out that we really didn't have to be there on Friday so it was a mad rush during lunch hours to go back and checkout of the hotel.
Finished with the workshops and meeting around 7ish PM and started the mad rush to go catch the 9 PM Amtrak at BWI.
Yah, that did not work out too well.
Contributing factors to missing the 9 PM train:
0 - left at a time that didn't leave much flex room
1 - the 1 hour drive from work to Car Rental place
2 - process to wait for return of car, to shuttle to airport, to shuttle from airport to Amtrak
3 - got on the wrong bus (The bus driver gave me a short lecture on why did I get on the bus to the long term parking lot when it states on the bus that's where it's going. To my defense, I really did not look.)
So the next train was at 10:30 PM but then got delayed to 11PM.
All in all, I got back after getting a ride at around 2 AM on 02/02/07. Travel to come back took over 7 F*king hours.
Not a happy camper here.
But valuable lesson learned once more:
1 - poor time management leads to dire consequences - more time wasted
2 - waste of opportunities
3 - Avoid taking a late Amtrak train
Time for shuteye.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Nikon D50!
When I heard the door bell rang about half an hour ago, I sped down like a kid on Christmas day ... my first DSLR is here!!!
Yeeeeaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhha!!!
After I ran back up with my precious package, the Canon S45 (current camera) was put into action to document the glorious momentous unveiling of my new Nikon D50.
Pictures were snapped, flashes went off, and viola event captured. Now I just have to wait patiently for the parts to adjust to the room temperature since it's been sitting in the cold delivery facilities for the past couple of days.
Then I can charge my battery and start shooting!
Yeeeeaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhha!!!
After I ran back up with my precious package, the Canon S45 (current camera) was put into action to document the glorious momentous unveiling of my new Nikon D50.
Pictures were snapped, flashes went off, and viola event captured. Now I just have to wait patiently for the parts to adjust to the room temperature since it's been sitting in the cold delivery facilities for the past couple of days.
Then I can charge my battery and start shooting!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
I Pulled the Trigger... on the Nikon D50
It has been a long arduous journey for me personally to decide on a camera. Wait, not just 'a camera' but my very first DSLR. Whohooo! I've always liked photography. There's so much that can be read from looking at a picture, and I want to be one of those that capture that moment.
I went to several shops, held them, shoot sample shots with them (store lighting really isn't a good indicator), went back and repeated the process several more times. I think the camera shop people are sick of me now.
Finally hit the 'buy' button for the D50. God, endless nights scouring the forums. I just don't want to regret my decision or look back and say hell.. I should've gone with the other model. But like always, I tend to over analyze things. I guess there will never be that one perfect camera, that one perfect job or that one perfect life. Just need to make a decision and go with it. I am trying. 2 months it took me to pull the trigger and I am still not sure if I'll like it.I figured that if it turns out I really do find the D50 too bulky for me to handle after shooting with it for a while, I can always sell it on eBay and recoup most of my money for it and then go for the D40 instead. I tried manual focusing on the Pentax K100D with some old manual lenses to see how it felt the other day... it was slow.... and I would definitely miss some shots if I had to manual focus with some of the primes like I would have on the D40.
Finally! It's such a relief to at least decide on a camera for now. Can't wait to get the camera and start taking pictures!
Now the long nights will be spent reading up on tripods to get. Ooooh boy ......Thursday, January 11, 2007
Rejected!
I wasn't expecting it.
The call that is. I just got out of the bathroom, going for a pear in the fridge when I was notified that a call from the consulting firm is ringing on the phone.
Dropping the pear on the counter, I rushed up to get the phone just in time to hear the "Booong Boong Boong" on the line. Darn! Missed it!
Not to worry. Thanks to wonders of technology and voicemail, the recruiter regretfully informed me through the message that "they will be pursuing other candidates at this time"... aka .. "Nahh, we don't want you!"
So .. there it was, the first rejection after 7 years.
I wouldn't be honest if I didn't say I was at the least slightly disappointed. Don't get me wrong I am not going to cry me a river for not getting this job, it was mostly that my little ego was slightly bruised. Natural to feel that way right? "Why didn't they want me? Whyy whyyyy whyyy??"
Truth to be told, if I was sitting on the other side of the table, I would not hire me either. Why? Lack of enthusiasm.
I guess I am not that great of a liar nor pretender. Never was one to put on a face for too long. I even heard it in my tone while I was interviewing. If I sounded alive, maybe they would've invited me for the 3rd round.
Oh well. I got over it in 5 minutes.
Their loss! But still, would like to hear what was it that made them look the other way.
The call that is. I just got out of the bathroom, going for a pear in the fridge when I was notified that a call from the consulting firm is ringing on the phone.
Dropping the pear on the counter, I rushed up to get the phone just in time to hear the "Booong Boong Boong" on the line. Darn! Missed it!
Not to worry. Thanks to wonders of technology and voicemail, the recruiter regretfully informed me through the message that "they will be pursuing other candidates at this time"... aka .. "Nahh, we don't want you!"
So .. there it was, the first rejection after 7 years.
I wouldn't be honest if I didn't say I was at the least slightly disappointed. Don't get me wrong I am not going to cry me a river for not getting this job, it was mostly that my little ego was slightly bruised. Natural to feel that way right? "Why didn't they want me? Whyy whyyyy whyyy??"
Truth to be told, if I was sitting on the other side of the table, I would not hire me either. Why? Lack of enthusiasm.
I guess I am not that great of a liar nor pretender. Never was one to put on a face for too long. I even heard it in my tone while I was interviewing. If I sounded alive, maybe they would've invited me for the 3rd round.
Oh well. I got over it in 5 minutes.
Their loss! But still, would like to hear what was it that made them look the other way.
Saturday, January 06, 2007
It's A Happy Day
Wow.. I feel good about myself today. Did a looooot of things. Let's see morning started at 8 this morning. The bladder called and also I wanted to get my rear brakes and rotors fixed once for all.
Roughly 40 minutes into 8, I got an appointment for the Element to get spanking new gear this afternoon. Finally! One would think that getting rear brakes and rotors would be something simple. But noooo.... in this day and age, how many of us have a trusted mechanic? Or dealer?
These day and age, I am a bit more cynical or careful if you want to put it nicer. But as a consumer, when it comes to service, it definitely does not hurt to shop around and get multiple views. So here is a rough summary of my quest to find out what actually needs to be replaced on my vehicle and not get ripped off in the process.
05/31/06
- took my Element into one of the Honda dealers (VIP Honda for those that live in NJ) for some fluid flush and oil change. As part of their routine checks I guess, they pointed out that all four of the brakes pads will need to be changed soon and they might not last until next oil change.
Odo reading = 44,558.
07/01/06
- Element went into one of the local STS mechanic shops for free brake and rotor inspection after hearing some screeching sound coming from the brakes. I was quite impressed when the mechanics actually asked me to step into the shop to show me the rotor and the brake while the tire is off. He explained somethings about the rotor which made sense when he's saying it. But to an untrained eye like mine, I doubt I'll be able to pick up whether or not a rotor has grooves that are not normal the next time I see a rotor. To me they all look like old records!
But it was the thought that count and the fact that the mechanic was willing to show me what they saw. Either we got a honest mechanic on our hands or that he was betting that I am amongst many others who knows knows nothing about rotors and brakes.
Anyways, I left the shop without anything done since the mechanics told me that my front pads still have about 50% life on them and the rotors look fine. The rear pads have 25% left and should replace the rotors at the same time within 5,000 miles.
11/08/06
- Went back to VIP Honda again to have my oil changed and also asked them to look at the brakes. This time instead of saying all brake pads needs to be replaced, the front pads and rotors will need to be replaced. The rear rotors are okay but need new pads.
Okay at this point I am really confused. Dealer is saying front rotors are bad, local mechanics are saying it's the rear that needs to be replaced.
01/03/07
- Went to the same local shop where I got my Nokian tires to see what they gotta say about my braking system. Front pad and rotors looked fine according to them. The rear pads and rotor will have to be replaced and the rotors are out of spec too thin to be replaced so that full replacement is needed. The fronts pads and rotors I were told should last at least another 5,000 miles without problem.
Yah, so this one agreed with the other local mechanic.
01/06/07
Okay finally went back to the STS shop and got my NAPA rotors and Honda OEM pads for the rear. Whohoooo.. I feel safer already!
I am just glad this is over. Not that I mind spending the money since safety comes first but it's just frustrating trying to figure out what exactly needs to be changed. I am still scratching my head as to why the opposite opinions between the Honda dealer and the local mechanics? One says front bad the other says its the rear!
Well, I shall find out soon enough. The next time I get on the highway and need to brake, I'll be able to tell if I still feel the pulsing when the brakes is applied at higher speeds.
The End of the Rotor Chronicles..
Roughly 40 minutes into 8, I got an appointment for the Element to get spanking new gear this afternoon. Finally! One would think that getting rear brakes and rotors would be something simple. But noooo.... in this day and age, how many of us have a trusted mechanic? Or dealer?
These day and age, I am a bit more cynical or careful if you want to put it nicer. But as a consumer, when it comes to service, it definitely does not hurt to shop around and get multiple views. So here is a rough summary of my quest to find out what actually needs to be replaced on my vehicle and not get ripped off in the process.
05/31/06
- took my Element into one of the Honda dealers (VIP Honda for those that live in NJ) for some fluid flush and oil change. As part of their routine checks I guess, they pointed out that all four of the brakes pads will need to be changed soon and they might not last until next oil change.
Odo reading = 44,558.
07/01/06
- Element went into one of the local STS mechanic shops for free brake and rotor inspection after hearing some screeching sound coming from the brakes. I was quite impressed when the mechanics actually asked me to step into the shop to show me the rotor and the brake while the tire is off. He explained somethings about the rotor which made sense when he's saying it. But to an untrained eye like mine, I doubt I'll be able to pick up whether or not a rotor has grooves that are not normal the next time I see a rotor. To me they all look like old records!
But it was the thought that count and the fact that the mechanic was willing to show me what they saw. Either we got a honest mechanic on our hands or that he was betting that I am amongst many others who knows knows nothing about rotors and brakes.
Anyways, I left the shop without anything done since the mechanics told me that my front pads still have about 50% life on them and the rotors look fine. The rear pads have 25% left and should replace the rotors at the same time within 5,000 miles.
11/08/06
- Went back to VIP Honda again to have my oil changed and also asked them to look at the brakes. This time instead of saying all brake pads needs to be replaced, the front pads and rotors will need to be replaced. The rear rotors are okay but need new pads.
Okay at this point I am really confused. Dealer is saying front rotors are bad, local mechanics are saying it's the rear that needs to be replaced.
01/03/07
- Went to the same local shop where I got my Nokian tires to see what they gotta say about my braking system. Front pad and rotors looked fine according to them. The rear pads and rotor will have to be replaced and the rotors are out of spec too thin to be replaced so that full replacement is needed. The fronts pads and rotors I were told should last at least another 5,000 miles without problem.
Yah, so this one agreed with the other local mechanic.
01/06/07
Okay finally went back to the STS shop and got my NAPA rotors and Honda OEM pads for the rear. Whohoooo.. I feel safer already!
I am just glad this is over. Not that I mind spending the money since safety comes first but it's just frustrating trying to figure out what exactly needs to be changed. I am still scratching my head as to why the opposite opinions between the Honda dealer and the local mechanics? One says front bad the other says its the rear!
Well, I shall find out soon enough. The next time I get on the highway and need to brake, I'll be able to tell if I still feel the pulsing when the brakes is applied at higher speeds.
The End of the Rotor Chronicles..
Thursday, January 04, 2007
2nd Phone Interview ...Much Better?
News flash of the day.. whohoo.. I made it through my 2nd phone interview. This round of interrogation, ehh.. I meant questioning was done a principal manager at the company. The entire phone conversation was around 40 minutes in length.
Part I - tell me about you and what you did
Part II - ask me about the company
I think I did better in the 2nd part than the first. But regardless, I sounded much more alive and actually 'interested' this round than my first talk which was with the HR department.
The interview ended with the guy thanking me for my time and he said "I look forward to seeing you." I don't know if he was just being polite or not, but at least it's not "Well, thank you for your time and have a good night."
We shall see....
Part I - tell me about you and what you did
Part II - ask me about the company
I think I did better in the 2nd part than the first. But regardless, I sounded much more alive and actually 'interested' this round than my first talk which was with the HR department.
The interview ended with the guy thanking me for my time and he said "I look forward to seeing you." I don't know if he was just being polite or not, but at least it's not "Well, thank you for your time and have a good night."
We shall see....
Monday, December 18, 2006
Feeling Them Up!
Ah.... I've waited for soooo long. Finally, for 2 hours, I wrapped my hand around the hard bodies of my dreams - Nikon D50, Nikon D40, Nikon D80, Canon Rebel XTi, Pentax K100D. What were you thinking?
If the shop had carried the Olympus EVOLT E-500, then the line up will be truly complete for comparison purpose.
The D80 was the largest of them all and also the highest in price. Here's the size ranking according to my grip:
D80 -> D50 -> Pentax K100D -> Rebel XTi -> D40 (smallest).
D80
- heavy and solid
D50
- clunky and ergonomically like a block
D40
- my gosh that's a cute camera, small grip, my pinky definitely has to go under the camera
Pentax K100D
- surprisingly very solid feel to the camera in between D50 and D40. Perfect grip.
The 2 hours went fast, mostly just taking snap shots and the customer rep was really helpful to explain the features and differences between the dSLRs. His preference? Nikon, being a long time Nikon user. Although he did recommend the Pentax system. I wonder if it's because they were running a special on it? Regardless when asked about how useful is the top LCD and the control dials on the Nikon, the rep said that he thinks it's pretty useful as he illustrated just holding down a button and scrolling with the dial control one is able to change the ISO, shutter speed settings for example rather quickly.
D40 lacked external jog controller and missing the ability to auto focus other than AF-S lenses was a biggie for me. I reallly realllly liked the prime lenses after snapping some shots with them at the store. It was just amazing how fast the shutter was able to go with those fast prime lenses. The 50 mm f/1.4 .. nice.... very nice. (*droool*)
Also heard a rumor that D50 is being discontinued.
After having the chance to hold the D50 longer in my hands and shoot with it, the size actually wasn't too bad. I can now see why a lot of people think the the Canon's grip is too small. If you have a larger hand, then yes, the Canon is probably harder to wrap the hand around with.
So I think it comes down to the following for me:
1 - Do I prefer to have the top LCD and jog dial for faster access to control settings?
2 - Do I want to have a bigger LCD screen?
3 - Do I even need to have jog dial and quick controls to settings?
4 - I guess what pictures am I planning to take? mostly composed or action?
5 - Ergonomically which one will my hand like better?
6 - Which one will I take out with me to places?
Decisions decisions...
If the shop had carried the Olympus EVOLT E-500, then the line up will be truly complete for comparison purpose.
The D80 was the largest of them all and also the highest in price. Here's the size ranking according to my grip:
D80 -> D50 -> Pentax K100D -> Rebel XTi -> D40 (smallest).
D80
- heavy and solid
D50
- clunky and ergonomically like a block
D40
- my gosh that's a cute camera, small grip, my pinky definitely has to go under the camera
Pentax K100D
- surprisingly very solid feel to the camera in between D50 and D40. Perfect grip.
The 2 hours went fast, mostly just taking snap shots and the customer rep was really helpful to explain the features and differences between the dSLRs. His preference? Nikon, being a long time Nikon user. Although he did recommend the Pentax system. I wonder if it's because they were running a special on it? Regardless when asked about how useful is the top LCD and the control dials on the Nikon, the rep said that he thinks it's pretty useful as he illustrated just holding down a button and scrolling with the dial control one is able to change the ISO, shutter speed settings for example rather quickly.
D40 lacked external jog controller and missing the ability to auto focus other than AF-S lenses was a biggie for me. I reallly realllly liked the prime lenses after snapping some shots with them at the store. It was just amazing how fast the shutter was able to go with those fast prime lenses. The 50 mm f/1.4 .. nice.... very nice. (*droool*)
Also heard a rumor that D50 is being discontinued.
After having the chance to hold the D50 longer in my hands and shoot with it, the size actually wasn't too bad. I can now see why a lot of people think the the Canon's grip is too small. If you have a larger hand, then yes, the Canon is probably harder to wrap the hand around with.
So I think it comes down to the following for me:
1 - Do I prefer to have the top LCD and jog dial for faster access to control settings?
2 - Do I want to have a bigger LCD screen?
3 - Do I even need to have jog dial and quick controls to settings?
4 - I guess what pictures am I planning to take? mostly composed or action?
5 - Ergonomically which one will my hand like better?
6 - Which one will I take out with me to places?
Decisions decisions...
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Monster Element
Today's Mission:
# Buy the bargain marked down sofa and lug it back!
# Buy the bargain marked down sofa and lug it back!
Sofa Dimensions: 70"Wx43"Dx32"H
Believe it. This sofa from Crate and Barrel's outlet in Cranbury, NJ was transported sitting upright using my Honda Element!
Note:
Objects are larger than they appear.
Honda Element Dimensions:
Headroom = 39.4 inches
Cargo Volume = 77.1 cubic foot
I LOOOOOOVE my car. It's such a cool little all around reliable car that could.
Now how many other vehicles on the market today (exclude cargo vans and utility trucks) can cart following items within the vehicle with all doors and hatches closed?
- 1 large snow blower + 2 passengers
- 1 large lawn mowner + 2 passengers
- 2 standard size bikes + 2 passengers
- 1 two-seater sofa + 2 passengers
- a whole trunk load of boxes
- 20 plastic bins + 3 passengers
Whohoo! Go Element, go Element, go go go Element..
Buy one and stop drooling.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Phone Interview
Hmm...
Earlier today, I had my first formal phone interview since my job search begun.
The entire conversation lasted around 30 minutes. The first level of phone interview is done by the HR recruiter. Standard questions were asked:
- Why work for us?
- Why are you leaving your present job?
- Are you okay with traveling?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- Do you have any questions for me?
- Tell me about your projects?
- How much do you make currently?
I was not too happy with myself on this interview. Blame it on lack of human interaction, well more like business face to face interaction could be part, the other is just that I am not used to having to impress others or toot my own horn. Whatever my excuse is, I thought I did a bad job today.
Surprised, I was to hear that I'll be having a second phone interview with the company next week. Interesting. This time it'll be with the technical officers at the firm.
The funny thing is, when I was talking to the lady, I knew I did not sound like someone who is really excited about the job. Perhaps my inner self knows that this is not something I really want to do. What then, what are my alternatives? Thoughts of - watching stocks, browsing, working for cousins, go back to school, start online business - flashed through my mind when I answered with "I have other prospects." to HR's question - "Are you talking to other companies right now?"
It's not a lie.
Do I really want this? Million dollar question.
Earlier today, I had my first formal phone interview since my job search begun.
The entire conversation lasted around 30 minutes. The first level of phone interview is done by the HR recruiter. Standard questions were asked:
- Why work for us?
- Why are you leaving your present job?
- Are you okay with traveling?
- Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
- Do you have any questions for me?
- Tell me about your projects?
- How much do you make currently?
I was not too happy with myself on this interview. Blame it on lack of human interaction, well more like business face to face interaction could be part, the other is just that I am not used to having to impress others or toot my own horn. Whatever my excuse is, I thought I did a bad job today.
Surprised, I was to hear that I'll be having a second phone interview with the company next week. Interesting. This time it'll be with the technical officers at the firm.
The funny thing is, when I was talking to the lady, I knew I did not sound like someone who is really excited about the job. Perhaps my inner self knows that this is not something I really want to do. What then, what are my alternatives? Thoughts of - watching stocks, browsing, working for cousins, go back to school, start online business - flashed through my mind when I answered with "I have other prospects." to HR's question - "Are you talking to other companies right now?"
It's not a lie.
Do I really want this? Million dollar question.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Subjective
It's 13 minutes till 5PM. The closing time of my local library where I seeked refuge for the last 3 hours. It's too dam cold in the house for my blood to circulate so I must find somewhere warmer in order to have those digits functioning.
As I walked towards the front door, I noticed the yellow sign that's posted on the front door which reads - "Reception 2 - 4 pm". Ohhh.. what is this? I thought to myself. I soon found out that the library is hosting a reception for a local photographer. A wall of black and white photos with the theme snow is displayed in black frame. My excitement soon diminished as I scanned over the photos. Most of them were distant shots of central park in the winter. Trees and few people in the background. I didn't feel it. I didn't feel the serenity, tPublishhe calmness that the photographer wrote on the stand. And I sure didn't get the prices she tagged onto those photos - over $300 each! What the ...
Photos I guess are just like paintings or other forms of artistic expression - subjective.
What is beautiful and memorable for each person is quite different.
For me those pictures are very mediocre. I could've done those shots! But alas, I wouldn't have the clout to have the local lib host a reception for me.
I guess that's one factor that makes one an artist vs a casual photographer.
As I walked towards the front door, I noticed the yellow sign that's posted on the front door which reads - "Reception 2 - 4 pm". Ohhh.. what is this? I thought to myself. I soon found out that the library is hosting a reception for a local photographer. A wall of black and white photos with the theme snow is displayed in black frame. My excitement soon diminished as I scanned over the photos. Most of them were distant shots of central park in the winter. Trees and few people in the background. I didn't feel it. I didn't feel the serenity, tPublishhe calmness that the photographer wrote on the stand. And I sure didn't get the prices she tagged onto those photos - over $300 each! What the ...
Photos I guess are just like paintings or other forms of artistic expression - subjective.
What is beautiful and memorable for each person is quite different.
For me those pictures are very mediocre. I could've done those shots! But alas, I wouldn't have the clout to have the local lib host a reception for me.
I guess that's one factor that makes one an artist vs a casual photographer.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Hurry! Click!
Freebies, everyone wants them, especially when you make it into a competition.
Take for example, crowd goes wild when parade participants throws out bits of candy. It's a peppermint for crying aloud! No need to poke someone's eye out to get to it. If that peppermint wasn't thrown into a crow and instead placed in a jar on the side of the table somewhere, will we see the people do a mad dash for it? I highly doubt it.
So what is it that makes us go ga ga whenever there's free stuff handed out but in limited supplies? Perhaps it's more of the rush knowing that you beat out others, making us feel somewhat superior.. even if it's just for a wrapped candy.
American Express brought the fun to a whole new level with their introduction of My Wishlist.
Now it's like participating in a lotto.. instead of picking the numbers, you click and click with your mouse and test your typing skills to fill out the information in time to gain the prize.
I got all 3 coupons today. Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot.
Dam I am good!
Take for example, crowd goes wild when parade participants throws out bits of candy. It's a peppermint for crying aloud! No need to poke someone's eye out to get to it. If that peppermint wasn't thrown into a crow and instead placed in a jar on the side of the table somewhere, will we see the people do a mad dash for it? I highly doubt it.
So what is it that makes us go ga ga whenever there's free stuff handed out but in limited supplies? Perhaps it's more of the rush knowing that you beat out others, making us feel somewhat superior.. even if it's just for a wrapped candy.
American Express brought the fun to a whole new level with their introduction of My Wishlist.
Now it's like participating in a lotto.. instead of picking the numbers, you click and click with your mouse and test your typing skills to fill out the information in time to gain the prize.
I got all 3 coupons today. Amazon, Best Buy, and Home Depot.
Dam I am good!
Saturday, November 18, 2006
True Cost of Time = More Time
Today was one of those days that timing really screwed with me...
Morning sun made its way through my windows to conspire with my bladder to wake me up from my slumber. It was 8 am. I turned on my celly to hear the voicemail of a friend that today's meetup is on. Since it looked like a clear, sunny, but brisk day out, I thought a walk to the post office to pickup my certified mail would be a good idea. Then I can come back and catch the 9:35 am train into the city.
Mistake #1. I got there around 8:30 am only to find that the post office does not open until 9. What to do, what to do.. do I run back or just hang around the empty parking lot until the gates are lifted? I opted to head home to shower and then drive back. Mistake #2.
Although my friend would appreciated my clean scent, it sure did cut things tight. By the time I drove back to the post office, it was already 9:17 am. As soon as I stepped in, I silently cursed, "Are you F* kidding me?" To my horror, there's already a line with at least 5 people in front of me and 2 of which had at least 6 boxes to ship out. So I thought to myself, "Okay, let's see the man is going to the back room, maybe to ask for a 3rd person to help in the front."
Noooooooo........ instead of putting another man up to the front desk to help with other customers, yes, customers, the long line continues to accrue more and more people as we watch the 2 front desk people manage each box. Let's just say 5 minutes per box X 6 = 30 minutes at least. That's 30 minutes at least of waiting time for the rest of us.
Inefficiencies... a good business manager would've put another person to help out with a line that has 8+ people in it. Do you think Kinkos would let a line get 8 people long when there's others around to help? Most likely not! Perhaps this says something about the efficiency within the US government.
When my brain finally gave in to the idea that I am not going to get my mail today, it was already 9:25 am. Due to no parking is available near the train station without permit, I had to park on residential streets. By the time I ran down the hill, my train was whizzing by. "Great, F* great." To catch the next train, I ran back to my car to drive it to the next train station hoping to beat the train.
I finally released a sigh of relief as I stood on the platform, ticket in hand, waiting for my 10:10 am train to pull in.
10:05 am - whohoooo my train arrives!!! Mistake #3.
It was not my train. Yes, unfortunately I found out only after I heard the announcement WHILE sitting on the train which is now taking me further away from the city. Great, this is turning out to be a nightmarish day.
That one I had no one to blame but myself.
I made the best of my time as I waited at the next station to catch the city bound train this time. At 10:36 am. The train finally came. The old lady confirmed that this is the train to get on. Thank goodness for old ladies. They don't judge.
Finally, I made it to the city and just in time to submit my name in the lottery drawings for Wicked and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. This would be my 3rd attempt to get lottery tickets for Wicked. Long behold, I wasn't surprised when my name wasn't called for Wicked. Still we had one more chance at getting cheap tickets. After spending 30 minutes at Cosi's for lunch, we were back in front of the door for the drawing. Names after names were announced, sorely defeated I was ready to walk away when my name was called out!! Whooo!!! I did a little hop "that's me!" yeaaaaaahhh... finally I won something!
See that little pin? Each of the lottery winners gets one for keepsake. Aww......
One word to describe the show - cozy. It was a small theater staged as a school's stadium which is really great cuz I hate it when big head sit right in front of me. Not that I would have problem this time because as lottery winners, some gets front center, others get first row on the sides.
For $25, I can't complain about seeing mostly the side profile of the actors.
Fun show to go and if you go for the lottery, you have a really good chance of getting picked due to the small number of people that actually show up for the lottery. Dunno why.
Even though I wasted a lot of time waiting this morning to get to my final destination, the day turned out pretty good. Saw a show, spent time with 2 friends, and had a filling dinner in Chinatown.
Morning sun made its way through my windows to conspire with my bladder to wake me up from my slumber. It was 8 am. I turned on my celly to hear the voicemail of a friend that today's meetup is on. Since it looked like a clear, sunny, but brisk day out, I thought a walk to the post office to pickup my certified mail would be a good idea. Then I can come back and catch the 9:35 am train into the city.
Mistake #1. I got there around 8:30 am only to find that the post office does not open until 9. What to do, what to do.. do I run back or just hang around the empty parking lot until the gates are lifted? I opted to head home to shower and then drive back. Mistake #2.
Although my friend would appreciated my clean scent, it sure did cut things tight. By the time I drove back to the post office, it was already 9:17 am. As soon as I stepped in, I silently cursed, "Are you F* kidding me?" To my horror, there's already a line with at least 5 people in front of me and 2 of which had at least 6 boxes to ship out. So I thought to myself, "Okay, let's see the man is going to the back room, maybe to ask for a 3rd person to help in the front."
Noooooooo........ instead of putting another man up to the front desk to help with other customers, yes, customers, the long line continues to accrue more and more people as we watch the 2 front desk people manage each box. Let's just say 5 minutes per box X 6 = 30 minutes at least. That's 30 minutes at least of waiting time for the rest of us.
Inefficiencies... a good business manager would've put another person to help out with a line that has 8+ people in it. Do you think Kinkos would let a line get 8 people long when there's others around to help? Most likely not! Perhaps this says something about the efficiency within the US government.
When my brain finally gave in to the idea that I am not going to get my mail today, it was already 9:25 am. Due to no parking is available near the train station without permit, I had to park on residential streets. By the time I ran down the hill, my train was whizzing by. "Great, F* great." To catch the next train, I ran back to my car to drive it to the next train station hoping to beat the train.
I finally released a sigh of relief as I stood on the platform, ticket in hand, waiting for my 10:10 am train to pull in.
10:05 am - whohoooo my train arrives!!! Mistake #3.
It was not my train. Yes, unfortunately I found out only after I heard the announcement WHILE sitting on the train which is now taking me further away from the city. Great, this is turning out to be a nightmarish day.
That one I had no one to blame but myself.
I made the best of my time as I waited at the next station to catch the city bound train this time. At 10:36 am. The train finally came. The old lady confirmed that this is the train to get on. Thank goodness for old ladies. They don't judge.
Finally, I made it to the city and just in time to submit my name in the lottery drawings for Wicked and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. This would be my 3rd attempt to get lottery tickets for Wicked. Long behold, I wasn't surprised when my name wasn't called for Wicked. Still we had one more chance at getting cheap tickets. After spending 30 minutes at Cosi's for lunch, we were back in front of the door for the drawing. Names after names were announced, sorely defeated I was ready to walk away when my name was called out!! Whooo!!! I did a little hop "that's me!" yeaaaaaahhh... finally I won something!
See that little pin? Each of the lottery winners gets one for keepsake. Aww......One word to describe the show - cozy. It was a small theater staged as a school's stadium which is really great cuz I hate it when big head sit right in front of me. Not that I would have problem this time because as lottery winners, some gets front center, others get first row on the sides.
For $25, I can't complain about seeing mostly the side profile of the actors.
Fun show to go and if you go for the lottery, you have a really good chance of getting picked due to the small number of people that actually show up for the lottery. Dunno why.
Even though I wasted a lot of time waiting this morning to get to my final destination, the day turned out pretty good. Saw a show, spent time with 2 friends, and had a filling dinner in Chinatown.
Saturday, November 11, 2006
A Good Day
What a gift! Today was the most perfect November day ever! Well at least the most perfect for me when I do venture outside.
Ahh.. that breeze .... you know the day's gotta be great when you walk out and immediate enveloped by this most warm feeling... kinda like the powers telling you "Hey there! Go have fun now. It's a good day."
A beeeeauutiful day. This is the kind of day where every creature comes out of hiding... the 4 legged critters, the 2 legged ones, the old, the young, even the ones that can't even walk yet. After some box moving, it was time for a short hike!
My hiking buddy found a little park that was in between our locations - Lord Stirling Park. The description on the site mentioned some swamp land and level trails. Since we had limited daylight now that sun sets quite early, a short hike for today is perfect.
We got to the park at 2:40pm and got out of the park by 5:15pm.
During those brief 2 hours, plenty of pit stops were made to allow for proper picture taking time. We traveled across swamp patches on boardwalks and by the end of the day it was more like trudging through mud patches. Squish.. Squish.. the sound my sneakers made as I attempted to walking through another wet muddy section of the trail. By the end of our 3.5 mile leisure hike, I satisfied my outdoor exposure for the day and was happy with some of the shots that I took. A digi SLR and a tripod would've made me a lot happier but hey it's all good.
Thanks to the Garmin, we found a place to feed our tummies - Thai Thai. Aptly named, the Thai restaurant was surprising good and very busy.
I hiked.
I took.
I ate.
A very good day indeed.
Ahh.. that breeze .... you know the day's gotta be great when you walk out and immediate enveloped by this most warm feeling... kinda like the powers telling you "Hey there! Go have fun now. It's a good day."
A beeeeauutiful day. This is the kind of day where every creature comes out of hiding... the 4 legged critters, the 2 legged ones, the old, the young, even the ones that can't even walk yet. After some box moving, it was time for a short hike!
My hiking buddy found a little park that was in between our locations - Lord Stirling Park. The description on the site mentioned some swamp land and level trails. Since we had limited daylight now that sun sets quite early, a short hike for today is perfect.
We got to the park at 2:40pm and got out of the park by 5:15pm.
During those brief 2 hours, plenty of pit stops were made to allow for proper picture taking time. We traveled across swamp patches on boardwalks and by the end of the day it was more like trudging through mud patches. Squish.. Squish.. the sound my sneakers made as I attempted to walking through another wet muddy section of the trail. By the end of our 3.5 mile leisure hike, I satisfied my outdoor exposure for the day and was happy with some of the shots that I took. A digi SLR and a tripod would've made me a lot happier but hey it's all good.
Thanks to the Garmin, we found a place to feed our tummies - Thai Thai. Aptly named, the Thai restaurant was surprising good and very busy.
I hiked.
I took.
I ate.
A very good day indeed.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
In The Name of Greater Good
Channel surfing after Smallville ended when I saw a PBS documentary presentation on chimpanzees once used as lab animals for various medical products and procedures.
For the next 40 minutes, I watched as the camera showed the chimps in their man-made habitat, which, for the most part consisted of concrete floors and metal bars. I listened as the narrators and their caretakers re account the harsh life these animals endured. It was absolutely heart wrenching to see these creatures, humans' distant cousins, so used to living in cages that when given freedom to explore green pastures, they were afraid to step off the hard concrete.
In the name of greater good, we have done so many things.
Survival of the fittest, I get that. The strong shall survive and get the bragging rights to write history.
Will I stop using modern medication? No. But when I do take it next time, I'll think of those that made it possible for me to suffer a little less and live a little longer.
For the next 40 minutes, I watched as the camera showed the chimps in their man-made habitat, which, for the most part consisted of concrete floors and metal bars. I listened as the narrators and their caretakers re account the harsh life these animals endured. It was absolutely heart wrenching to see these creatures, humans' distant cousins, so used to living in cages that when given freedom to explore green pastures, they were afraid to step off the hard concrete.
In the name of greater good, we have done so many things.
Survival of the fittest, I get that. The strong shall survive and get the bragging rights to write history.
Will I stop using modern medication? No. But when I do take it next time, I'll think of those that made it possible for me to suffer a little less and live a little longer.
Saturday, November 04, 2006
Personal Productivity
How does one measure personal productivity?
Work? Work productivity is easy to calculate. Someone has already setup metrics, goals, target dates, billable hours, and other standards to which you are to meet to be deemed productive. But what about in our own lives? Who decides when we are productive and when we are just globs taking up space?
Me, I say me. I get to decide. Some days I give myself a big pat on the ass just for getting up to shower and eat. Other days, when the nagging me takes over, I force myself to make up TODO lists and do them (or try very hard). Today is one of those days.
The notepad is full of items to cross off by the end of the day. It's funny how the most important and the most pressing items are always passed over until all the easier, minor tasks are finished and you have no excuse but to tackle the big ones.
I did a lot today I have to say. Balancing accounts, scanning in sheets (joyful task but not for 5 hours), financial research, browsing, and lastly the most important item - sending out the referral form. Phew... I was drained by dinner time. Sorting through records really takes a toll. During one of my many mini breaks to keep sanity in check, I found a pretty cool site - 37signals.
The founders of the site are developers for simple, and intuitive software. One of which I found useful right away - Ta-da List. It's an online ToDo list keeper. How convenient. Now I can be reminded everywhere I go that I got crap loads of things that are yet to be finished. Do I really need additional stress?
Tomorrow, tomorrow will be play day.
Work? Work productivity is easy to calculate. Someone has already setup metrics, goals, target dates, billable hours, and other standards to which you are to meet to be deemed productive. But what about in our own lives? Who decides when we are productive and when we are just globs taking up space?
Me, I say me. I get to decide. Some days I give myself a big pat on the ass just for getting up to shower and eat. Other days, when the nagging me takes over, I force myself to make up TODO lists and do them (or try very hard). Today is one of those days.
The notepad is full of items to cross off by the end of the day. It's funny how the most important and the most pressing items are always passed over until all the easier, minor tasks are finished and you have no excuse but to tackle the big ones.
I did a lot today I have to say. Balancing accounts, scanning in sheets (joyful task but not for 5 hours), financial research, browsing, and lastly the most important item - sending out the referral form. Phew... I was drained by dinner time. Sorting through records really takes a toll. During one of my many mini breaks to keep sanity in check, I found a pretty cool site - 37signals.
The founders of the site are developers for simple, and intuitive software. One of which I found useful right away - Ta-da List. It's an online ToDo list keeper. How convenient. Now I can be reminded everywhere I go that I got crap loads of things that are yet to be finished. Do I really need additional stress?
Tomorrow, tomorrow will be play day.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
What Did I Miss
I am an emotional mess.
Just finished watching Click and blew my nose 3 times already. If I wore make-up, I would be streaking like those 80s rockers. This, was a total surprise of a tear jerker. Adam Sandler's recent movies do do justice to the word "dramadey".
Armed with a brilliant script, Adam Sandler leads us through a refreshing premise to reiterate the important things in life....
- family comes first
- live and engage each moment
I identify with Michael Newman - the main character of the movie 100%. Well not so much the part where he has a gorgeous wife, 2 cute kids, and a humping dog, but with the work part. Where work monopolized all his time and focus. To get work done everything else takes the back burner; let it be personal projects, family, friends, ... life. Years later, like Michael, I am asking myself what did I miss and how can I miss all that. Everyone got older, including myself, the little ones grew up and the old... passed on.
Not to reveal too much of the movie, we often don't appreciate the things we've got until they are gone.
I shook my head at a lot of the scenes in the movie. Why? Because I see myself doing the exact same thing everyday. What a schmuck.
Great movie. Shame on me.
Just finished watching Click and blew my nose 3 times already. If I wore make-up, I would be streaking like those 80s rockers. This, was a total surprise of a tear jerker. Adam Sandler's recent movies do do justice to the word "dramadey".
Armed with a brilliant script, Adam Sandler leads us through a refreshing premise to reiterate the important things in life....
- family comes first
- live and engage each moment
I identify with Michael Newman - the main character of the movie 100%. Well not so much the part where he has a gorgeous wife, 2 cute kids, and a humping dog, but with the work part. Where work monopolized all his time and focus. To get work done everything else takes the back burner; let it be personal projects, family, friends, ... life. Years later, like Michael, I am asking myself what did I miss and how can I miss all that. Everyone got older, including myself, the little ones grew up and the old... passed on.
Not to reveal too much of the movie, we often don't appreciate the things we've got until they are gone.
I shook my head at a lot of the scenes in the movie. Why? Because I see myself doing the exact same thing everyday. What a schmuck.
Great movie. Shame on me.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Annual Things
"... the doctor mentioned that I might have to go for a second surgery because..."
(pause)
I believe the doc recognized the onset of uncontrollable fits of giggles if she did not immediately stop what she was doing -- so she did. I managed to act my age and not burst out laughing.
God, it never gets any easier. Perhaps when my boobs shrinks down to flaps of skin is when I will no longer find it funny when someone pinches and squeezes my nipples.
Annual physicals, don't we all love them?
They make you put on a gown, usually made out of paper, with armpit cutouts big enough to fit a thigh through, why bother being modest? But I still fumbled with the little string, trying to tie up the make shift robe when my breasts are still visible from the sides. Hey it kept me warm.
It wasn't long until the next embarrassing moment. As part of the examination, skin is being evaluated. First for me.
"Okay, take off the gown. I need to check your skin so I need to see all of you."
Already... ... so I tried to act as if disrobing in front of strangers is norm for me. I had to do a little twirl too! Maybe next time I'll imagine myself posing for art students instead. Perhaps that'll help. I don't know many people who are completely at ease with baring it all.
"You are in perfect health. See you next year!" With those parting words marked the end of my annual exam for 2006.
You know the drill..
- get into the doc's office
- wait for name to be called
- rummage through the stacks of magazines
- read an article
- whohoooo!! you are called
- get into a smaller room
- wait for nurse
- rummage through the smaller stack of magazines
- wish you brought your own reading material
- read several more articles
- whoohooo!! nurse comes in
- you are informed the doc will be in soon, get naked and into the gown
- back to rummaging through magazines
- again, really wishing you brought other stuff to read
- finally found a good article to read
- half way through the article the doc shows up
- usually 10 minutes later you are out of there with $35 dollar less in the pocket
I'll live for another year.
Halloween, another annual thing.
It's been a long while since I dished out teeth rotting sweets to young children. The act of giving does release some endorphins. I was giddy with joy when I see the kids walk up to the door. Rushing down, I got there even before little monsters had the chance to ring the bell. Quickly, the candy in the bowl diminished. By 7pm, I was out of goodies. Feeling bad, I ran out to CVS to lug back enough candy to induce root canals. But my efforts went unappreciated. Only 4 more kiddies came by the house.
So here I am, with a bag of candy ready for next year's Halloween.
(pause)
I believe the doc recognized the onset of uncontrollable fits of giggles if she did not immediately stop what she was doing -- so she did. I managed to act my age and not burst out laughing.
God, it never gets any easier. Perhaps when my boobs shrinks down to flaps of skin is when I will no longer find it funny when someone pinches and squeezes my nipples.
Annual physicals, don't we all love them?
They make you put on a gown, usually made out of paper, with armpit cutouts big enough to fit a thigh through, why bother being modest? But I still fumbled with the little string, trying to tie up the make shift robe when my breasts are still visible from the sides. Hey it kept me warm.
It wasn't long until the next embarrassing moment. As part of the examination, skin is being evaluated. First for me.
"Okay, take off the gown. I need to check your skin so I need to see all of you."
Already... ... so I tried to act as if disrobing in front of strangers is norm for me. I had to do a little twirl too! Maybe next time I'll imagine myself posing for art students instead. Perhaps that'll help. I don't know many people who are completely at ease with baring it all.
"You are in perfect health. See you next year!" With those parting words marked the end of my annual exam for 2006.
You know the drill..
- get into the doc's office
- wait for name to be called
- rummage through the stacks of magazines
- read an article
- whohoooo!! you are called
- get into a smaller room
- wait for nurse
- rummage through the smaller stack of magazines
- wish you brought your own reading material
- read several more articles
- whoohooo!! nurse comes in
- you are informed the doc will be in soon, get naked and into the gown
- back to rummaging through magazines
- again, really wishing you brought other stuff to read
- finally found a good article to read
- half way through the article the doc shows up
- usually 10 minutes later you are out of there with $35 dollar less in the pocket
I'll live for another year.
Halloween, another annual thing.
It's been a long while since I dished out teeth rotting sweets to young children. The act of giving does release some endorphins. I was giddy with joy when I see the kids walk up to the door. Rushing down, I got there even before little monsters had the chance to ring the bell. Quickly, the candy in the bowl diminished. By 7pm, I was out of goodies. Feeling bad, I ran out to CVS to lug back enough candy to induce root canals. But my efforts went unappreciated. Only 4 more kiddies came by the house.
So here I am, with a bag of candy ready for next year's Halloween.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Eragon
A boy, a dragon, and adventures that span deserts and kingdoms. Cross into land of elves, dwarfs and thrown into battles of good versus evil. What's not to like!
Hmm.. this book to me is a marriage between Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings. 5 stars for it. A good book to me is one that makes me feel and see. I felt the sand whip across my face as I soar through the air on the back of a scaly dragon. I stood amongst the elves waiting, waiting for the imminent attacks of the Urgals.
What impressed me the most is that it was written by a boy at the age of fifteen. Now that's an inspiration.
If you like epic adventures checkout the book and start on the journey.
For more information on the book or the author go to: http://www.alagaesia.com
Now I hope the movie will do the book justice.
Saturday, October 28, 2006
Fanfiction - Thank You
I've been busy lately. Fine. I've been lazy lately. Well, I shouldn't be so hard on myself, so sue me if I like reading fanfiction over doing work. Doesn't everyone? If not, then please do yourselves a favor, venture out and read some internet fiction. Like published works, there are some mediocre ones, some really bad ones, and then you hit the jackpot with the ones that grab you with the first sentence and keep you awake way past your bedtime.
I hit a jackpot this week. Found another author whose work I enjoyed immensely. I liked her novel so much that I even wrote an e-mail to thank her for sharing the stories. Hmm... she would be the 5th author that I wrote to thank. After reading so many stories, I have to say the yearning to write one myself is strong. To think about writing is one thing, to actually have something to write about is another.
I like to read the authors interviews on how they go about writing their story. A lot of them says the characters come to them. I think that'll be the way for me. I would have to be able to see the characters or the storyline play out in my head first than to conjure up something from thin air. Maybe my dreams can help me out. They are pretty intense most of the time, battle vampires, slaying monsters, chasing evil warlords and rescuing the world. Think I have a hero's complex?
The little scratch pad that I bought while I was in Taiwan holds a lot of my notes. Like a little journal/note book. Everyone should carry a pencil and a notepad around. Especially, for one as forgetful as me. That's the main reason I painstakingly write, scan, and take pictures. For my memory is not to be trusted. I am afraid if I don't do some type of recording, I wouldn't remember what my life was like, what I was like.
Anyways, I digress. To all the fanfiction writers out there, big thanks to you all for creating such lively characters and for taking me on journeys across time and space.
Write on!!
I hit a jackpot this week. Found another author whose work I enjoyed immensely. I liked her novel so much that I even wrote an e-mail to thank her for sharing the stories. Hmm... she would be the 5th author that I wrote to thank. After reading so many stories, I have to say the yearning to write one myself is strong. To think about writing is one thing, to actually have something to write about is another.
I like to read the authors interviews on how they go about writing their story. A lot of them says the characters come to them. I think that'll be the way for me. I would have to be able to see the characters or the storyline play out in my head first than to conjure up something from thin air. Maybe my dreams can help me out. They are pretty intense most of the time, battle vampires, slaying monsters, chasing evil warlords and rescuing the world. Think I have a hero's complex?
The little scratch pad that I bought while I was in Taiwan holds a lot of my notes. Like a little journal/note book. Everyone should carry a pencil and a notepad around. Especially, for one as forgetful as me. That's the main reason I painstakingly write, scan, and take pictures. For my memory is not to be trusted. I am afraid if I don't do some type of recording, I wouldn't remember what my life was like, what I was like.
Anyways, I digress. To all the fanfiction writers out there, big thanks to you all for creating such lively characters and for taking me on journeys across time and space.
Write on!!
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Blood Work
It's that time of the year. The annual physical exam. Hopefully one of the rare times where you actually pay strangers to checkout your most intimate parts.
But, alas, I am getting ahead of myself. Before the detail examination, comes the blood taking.
I woke up late this morning. My cellphone alarm failed me. The appointment was at 8am. I didn't get to the doc's office until 8:25am. I wasn't that worried because most of the time they make you wait at least 45 minutes, sitting in a room with a bunch of patients like yourself, avoiding direct eye contact and desperately trying to find a worthy magazine to pass the time.
I brought Eragon with me but didn't get to it as I was called in within 5 minutes after arrival. It's good to have early appointments, that or it's a really slow day. Cotton ball with rubbing alcohol wipes across my skin as I watch the Quest lady prepped me for the needle. I notice that in this last 2 years, I make sure that I watch as the needle goes into my vein. Perhaps it's getting older, but I want to avoid turning into one of those people that get squeamish when it comes to needles and blood. So I watched as the red liquid shoots into two little vials tagged with my name, capped and ready for the labs. Next, comes the urine sample. I hate peeing into a cup. Why? Why the hell not! Most of the time I end up peeing on my hand. Sigh. Oh they also should remind patients not to pee before they come into appointments. Good thing I still had some left in the bladder. Holding the cup, I noticed something. The little cup had a notch! Yah, it's got a built in notch so that it makes it easier to pure into the tube. My entrepreneur mind kicks in and asks, "I wonder how much money they are making off this little improvement?"
I felt awkward handing my urine to some stranger. I mean what do you say? There you go! I did it! Here take it! I think I ended up saying, "uhmmm here .. " She took it. But I noticed she still had gloves on.
Then I was handed an envelope.
"One more thing", she said. "We'll need a stool sample. All the instructions are in the packet with a self addressed envelope to mail the samples in."
I was intrigued, "Oh, this is much different, usually they ask for samples in the big jars." No idea why I wanted to discuss my previous stool sample experiences with her but it came out.
"Oh yes, those test more items, the ones you are doing tests for things like blood in stool etc." She then laughs, "The other ones are fun aren't they? Remember what your mama told chu when you were young? Uh huhhhh.. don't play with those!"
I cracked up laughing. Who knew talking about stool samples can be so much fun.
But, alas, I am getting ahead of myself. Before the detail examination, comes the blood taking.
I woke up late this morning. My cellphone alarm failed me. The appointment was at 8am. I didn't get to the doc's office until 8:25am. I wasn't that worried because most of the time they make you wait at least 45 minutes, sitting in a room with a bunch of patients like yourself, avoiding direct eye contact and desperately trying to find a worthy magazine to pass the time.
I brought Eragon with me but didn't get to it as I was called in within 5 minutes after arrival. It's good to have early appointments, that or it's a really slow day. Cotton ball with rubbing alcohol wipes across my skin as I watch the Quest lady prepped me for the needle. I notice that in this last 2 years, I make sure that I watch as the needle goes into my vein. Perhaps it's getting older, but I want to avoid turning into one of those people that get squeamish when it comes to needles and blood. So I watched as the red liquid shoots into two little vials tagged with my name, capped and ready for the labs. Next, comes the urine sample. I hate peeing into a cup. Why? Why the hell not! Most of the time I end up peeing on my hand. Sigh. Oh they also should remind patients not to pee before they come into appointments. Good thing I still had some left in the bladder. Holding the cup, I noticed something. The little cup had a notch! Yah, it's got a built in notch so that it makes it easier to pure into the tube. My entrepreneur mind kicks in and asks, "I wonder how much money they are making off this little improvement?"
I felt awkward handing my urine to some stranger. I mean what do you say? There you go! I did it! Here take it! I think I ended up saying, "uhmmm here .. " She took it. But I noticed she still had gloves on.
Then I was handed an envelope.
"One more thing", she said. "We'll need a stool sample. All the instructions are in the packet with a self addressed envelope to mail the samples in."
I was intrigued, "Oh, this is much different, usually they ask for samples in the big jars." No idea why I wanted to discuss my previous stool sample experiences with her but it came out.
"Oh yes, those test more items, the ones you are doing tests for things like blood in stool etc." She then laughs, "The other ones are fun aren't they? Remember what your mama told chu when you were young? Uh huhhhh.. don't play with those!"
I cracked up laughing. Who knew talking about stool samples can be so much fun.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Do You Think We Are Deaf!!!!!!
All these networks are now showing episodes of prime time TV shows on the web. I love it. There's limited commercials and the quality is decent. The best perk is that it's on demand. You can watch the missed episodes whenever you want. TiVo watch out. But for crying out loud does, the freaking commercials have to turn up the volume enough to shake the windows? Good God!!! Yo commercial people listen up! Your viewing audience for the most part are not hard of hearing and if you think by ruining our ear drums are going to persuade us from buying your product, you are dead wrong.
Do you know what I do when the commercials come on? I move my little mouse as fast as I can to the mute button so that I can turn off the offending noise and then I switch focus to my other browser windows until the commercials are over.
So please, if you actually want the viewers to watch the dam clips, make it so that at least it's bearable to be in the same room when they are playing.
Do you know what I do when the commercials come on? I move my little mouse as fast as I can to the mute button so that I can turn off the offending noise and then I switch focus to my other browser windows until the commercials are over.
So please, if you actually want the viewers to watch the dam clips, make it so that at least it's bearable to be in the same room when they are playing.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Sex and Food
Daytime job was almost nonexistent today. My mind was just not on looking at XML and troubleshooting, thus the day ended quite early for me - 5ish. Then began the 2 hour cooking session. Been out of practice with cooking and this time I really wanted to make some good dishes to treat my cousin and her hubby. I wasn't disappointed. Two hours and many cutting, chopping, stirring, frying, and washing, later I had an island full of dishes.
Dinner was great but wayyy to much food. Very little self control, we humans are. The more food that's available the more we feel the need to eat. I was punished for the gluttony I was still feeling full hours later. But interesting topics came up during dinner. I forgot how we got on the subject but ooh.. wait I remember, I mentioned that I saw Pornocoupia, a HBO late night 'documentary', on HBO last night. That then spawned a whole slew of interesting discussions from how much porno video stars make to size of a man's mini-me.
'Documentary' or not, I was very surprised by several things while watching:
1 - Porno video stars can make up to 10k a month. Wholly crap!!
2 - Another thing that stood out (heheh) well is that during the porn clips, I mean 'documentary', you only see full nudity of the women and not the men. Even though they show some serious intimate closeups but the men's member is always blocked out strategically, say by someone's head, a setting prop, cameras etc..
3 - Most of the women they interviewed are very forthcoming and funny. One of the best line from the episode was '... on the set everyone is waiting for lunch .. ' in the context of the conversation on how the pressure is on the men. They really need to perform on the spot to not delay everyone else.
4 - There's a whole community of people selling webcast subscriptions of home-made porn and making six figures a year! Wholly crap again! Isn't that illegal?
Anyways.... food and sex, they do seem to go together right?
Dinner was great but wayyy to much food. Very little self control, we humans are. The more food that's available the more we feel the need to eat. I was punished for the gluttony I was still feeling full hours later. But interesting topics came up during dinner. I forgot how we got on the subject but ooh.. wait I remember, I mentioned that I saw Pornocoupia, a HBO late night 'documentary', on HBO last night. That then spawned a whole slew of interesting discussions from how much porno video stars make to size of a man's mini-me.
'Documentary' or not, I was very surprised by several things while watching:
1 - Porno video stars can make up to 10k a month. Wholly crap!!
2 - Another thing that stood out (heheh) well is that during the porn clips, I mean 'documentary', you only see full nudity of the women and not the men. Even though they show some serious intimate closeups but the men's member is always blocked out strategically, say by someone's head, a setting prop, cameras etc..
3 - Most of the women they interviewed are very forthcoming and funny. One of the best line from the episode was '... on the set everyone is waiting for lunch .. ' in the context of the conversation on how the pressure is on the men. They really need to perform on the spot to not delay everyone else.
4 - There's a whole community of people selling webcast subscriptions of home-made porn and making six figures a year! Wholly crap again! Isn't that illegal?
Anyways.... food and sex, they do seem to go together right?
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
No Bites
Kinda disappointed that no new employers or headhunters viewed my resume. The count still remains at 3 ladies and gentlemen.
Work was not particular productive today. I started out at 10 am due to sleeping late last night. Then the weather was so nice that I ran around the house opening all the windows to let the cold air out. Yes, let the freezing cold air out of the house in exchange for perhaps the last pleasant warm breeze of the season. Mid afternoon I read about 2 more uber fictions from the top 25 list of the week. Then I really got restless so it was an hour walk with pit stop at the library. Came back did maybe 20 minutes of work and it was time to cook.
Let's just say the best concoction I made tonight was the fruit yogurt smoothie. Loosing my chef's skills there from lack of cooking in the past 4 months.
At 9:30, the brainstorming weekly session kicked off. We came up with some good ideas but to my dismay most of the ones I though of were already implemented. Darn them!!!!!!! Others require substantial time and money, something none of us has right now.. so the search continues.
Sometime between 2 am and 3 am, I heard the song Everything by Lifehouse (heck, look at that, there's a fan site for a song..) playing from my iTunes. Must have been a freebie at some point. Immediately, scenes from Xena played back in my head. "This is a great song for a Xena video!!!", my inner voice glees. So I had to print the lyrics out and listened to it again to jot down notes for my future production of a Xena video. Perhaps I can submit it into the contest and get some recognition.. but that's if I ever get around to making the dam thing.
Afterwards, I listed to more Lifehouse songs and had the urge to play my guitar to the music. I don't know how to pay the guitar, but still, strumming along..
And that's how I end up sleeping at 5ish in the morning.
Work was not particular productive today. I started out at 10 am due to sleeping late last night. Then the weather was so nice that I ran around the house opening all the windows to let the cold air out. Yes, let the freezing cold air out of the house in exchange for perhaps the last pleasant warm breeze of the season. Mid afternoon I read about 2 more uber fictions from the top 25 list of the week. Then I really got restless so it was an hour walk with pit stop at the library. Came back did maybe 20 minutes of work and it was time to cook.
Let's just say the best concoction I made tonight was the fruit yogurt smoothie. Loosing my chef's skills there from lack of cooking in the past 4 months.
At 9:30, the brainstorming weekly session kicked off. We came up with some good ideas but to my dismay most of the ones I though of were already implemented. Darn them!!!!!!! Others require substantial time and money, something none of us has right now.. so the search continues.
Sometime between 2 am and 3 am, I heard the song Everything by Lifehouse (heck, look at that, there's a fan site for a song..) playing from my iTunes. Must have been a freebie at some point. Immediately, scenes from Xena played back in my head. "This is a great song for a Xena video!!!", my inner voice glees. So I had to print the lyrics out and listened to it again to jot down notes for my future production of a Xena video. Perhaps I can submit it into the contest and get some recognition.. but that's if I ever get around to making the dam thing.
Afterwards, I listed to more Lifehouse songs and had the urge to play my guitar to the music. I don't know how to pay the guitar, but still, strumming along..
And that's how I end up sleeping at 5ish in the morning.
Monday, October 02, 2006
More School Shootings?
What the F@!K is going on in this world!!? Another shooting in schools and this time the victims little girls were shot execution style. What is wrong with these people!
This past weeks has just been one shooting after one another on school grounds.. is anyone else concerned that psychos are now using schools as butcher shops?
Gun control.. that's one thing that comes to mind. Will the law makers pass stricter laws around owning guns or obtaining them? Will we now have the schools in lock down mode or post guards to keep out crazies?
Will the kids ever feel safe in public places again? What about that room where the carnage took place? How will they treat it who would want to ever step into that room again?
This world we live in contains some really messed up people.
This past weeks has just been one shooting after one another on school grounds.. is anyone else concerned that psychos are now using schools as butcher shops?
Gun control.. that's one thing that comes to mind. Will the law makers pass stricter laws around owning guns or obtaining them? Will we now have the schools in lock down mode or post guards to keep out crazies?
Will the kids ever feel safe in public places again? What about that room where the carnage took place? How will they treat it who would want to ever step into that room again?
This world we live in contains some really messed up people.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Resume Now Public in Monster
Finally! Good golly! For crying out loud! Yeeeeehhhhhaaaa!!!!!!! The sanitized version of my resume is now loaded for public search on Monster!
That only took like 4 years to do. Pathetic.. but it's done. I don't know if I can go through another round of fine tuning the 1 page history of my career. Let's see today is Sunday now.. 5 am in the morning, but I feel accomplished. Wonder how many "bites" will I get on Monday? 0? 1? 100?
After going through your own resume writing process, I think one can't help but to gain a profound admiration for those who can weave beautifully scripted words to highlight their strong points on a piece of paper. I wonder what's the going rate for professional resume writers? What would that be like? To have a job just to work on people's resumes? Would you develop a set of words or phrases that are general enough for each category of professions?
Burr.. It's getting cold.. can't wait to get under the covers. Maybe it's time to pile on the 2nd blanket.. toasty.. that's a good feeling. Toasty.
That only took like 4 years to do. Pathetic.. but it's done. I don't know if I can go through another round of fine tuning the 1 page history of my career. Let's see today is Sunday now.. 5 am in the morning, but I feel accomplished. Wonder how many "bites" will I get on Monday? 0? 1? 100?
After going through your own resume writing process, I think one can't help but to gain a profound admiration for those who can weave beautifully scripted words to highlight their strong points on a piece of paper. I wonder what's the going rate for professional resume writers? What would that be like? To have a job just to work on people's resumes? Would you develop a set of words or phrases that are general enough for each category of professions?
Burr.. It's getting cold.. can't wait to get under the covers. Maybe it's time to pile on the 2nd blanket.. toasty.. that's a good feeling. Toasty.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Perseverance Pays Off
This morning started out great.
I woke up around 8:30 am and felt restless. Haven't been out of the house for couple days now and I am way overdue for a walk/jog. After the bladder letting, I put on my tennis shoes and head out to great the brisk morning air. The sun was out and moving steadily towards 12, perfect. A few minutes of walking then I started my slow but nonetheless jog around the neighborhood. My lungs thanked me for breathing in fresh air. After a good 40 minutes of cardio, I came back to even better news.
The medical clinic called me back! It turned out that after the gastroenterologist reviewed the 20+ pages of medical records I faxed last week, he has decided to take my dad's case and set him up with an endoscopy to check out my father's recovery progress!
Awesome! Perseverance pays off and it never hurts to try. Sometimes, human kindness surprises us. Good surprise, definitely good.
I woke up around 8:30 am and felt restless. Haven't been out of the house for couple days now and I am way overdue for a walk/jog. After the bladder letting, I put on my tennis shoes and head out to great the brisk morning air. The sun was out and moving steadily towards 12, perfect. A few minutes of walking then I started my slow but nonetheless jog around the neighborhood. My lungs thanked me for breathing in fresh air. After a good 40 minutes of cardio, I came back to even better news.
The medical clinic called me back! It turned out that after the gastroenterologist reviewed the 20+ pages of medical records I faxed last week, he has decided to take my dad's case and set him up with an endoscopy to check out my father's recovery progress!
Awesome! Perseverance pays off and it never hurts to try. Sometimes, human kindness surprises us. Good surprise, definitely good.
Way Too Relaxed
I just realized that it's been over a year since I started this blog. Happy blogannsery!! Yeahhhh... happy happy joy joy happy happy joy joy.
Now that celebration is done, back to the present. I actually went out this last couple of weekends. It's dangerous to lead a normal weekend life. Why? Cuz it spills out to the weekdays. For the last 2 weeks, I've been a total slacker in both work and personal items to get done. Like balancing accounts, finish writing resume, call relatives, and call grandma. Bad very bad. I just feel so lazy and look at the freaking time! It's only 1 AM!! What the hell is happening.
TV and soap occupied most of my time. There's just too many shows available over the internet these days, I don't even need to move an inch to watch my fav shows now. Click click click, launch.. and viola, it's on my LCD screen.
Weather's been turning colder.. hmmm maybe that's one of the reasons I am feeling so lethargic.. maybe I am cold blooded and like snakes I need to just lay and rest. Walking has dwindled to like 2x a week. Burrr.. instead I've started to do situps with twists too. The bulging stomach will be reigned in.
Look at me, I look like a racoon. But why won't I just go to bed? I should just go to bed.
Now that celebration is done, back to the present. I actually went out this last couple of weekends. It's dangerous to lead a normal weekend life. Why? Cuz it spills out to the weekdays. For the last 2 weeks, I've been a total slacker in both work and personal items to get done. Like balancing accounts, finish writing resume, call relatives, and call grandma. Bad very bad. I just feel so lazy and look at the freaking time! It's only 1 AM!! What the hell is happening.
TV and soap occupied most of my time. There's just too many shows available over the internet these days, I don't even need to move an inch to watch my fav shows now. Click click click, launch.. and viola, it's on my LCD screen.
Weather's been turning colder.. hmmm maybe that's one of the reasons I am feeling so lethargic.. maybe I am cold blooded and like snakes I need to just lay and rest. Walking has dwindled to like 2x a week. Burrr.. instead I've started to do situps with twists too. The bulging stomach will be reigned in.
Look at me, I look like a racoon. But why won't I just go to bed? I should just go to bed.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Brain Storming Sessions Kickoff
Tonight was the first (hopefully weekly) brain storming session. There are 4 of us total and all at one time co-workers.
Communication was taken care of using:
Voice conference: conference phone number
Document sharing: www.writely.com
Hopefully we'll be able to move off conference number and move to using either Skype or Yahoo Messenger as soon as the conference plugin is released.
For the first session, I thought we did fairly well. In that one hour, several ideas were thrown out and constructive arguments were made. Nice. The goal of these sessions is that we all want to do something on the side (for now) while keeping a day job. Hopefully we'll be able to come up with some viable business venture ideas.
Gooooooooo brains!
Communication was taken care of using:
Voice conference: conference phone number
Document sharing: www.writely.com
Hopefully we'll be able to move off conference number and move to using either Skype or Yahoo Messenger as soon as the conference plugin is released.
For the first session, I thought we did fairly well. In that one hour, several ideas were thrown out and constructive arguments were made. Nice. The goal of these sessions is that we all want to do something on the side (for now) while keeping a day job. Hopefully we'll be able to come up with some viable business venture ideas.
Gooooooooo brains!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Little Miss Sunshine
We decided to use our free movie tickets on Little Miss Sunshine after seeing the rare 90+ rating on RottenTomatoes. The movie gotta be at least decent to go watch right?
Little Miss Sunshine is about a family and all those ups and downs that binds us together. We can call them dysfunctional, troubled, or down on their luck, or maybe just a dramatized version of the average family unit on earth. We got the rebellious teenager, the old crazy grandpa, the innocent little one, the embarrassing family relative, the dad who has to spew out wisdom in every single sentence, and the mom whose just trying to keep sane.
The ball (or car, you'll see) starts rolling when the little girl finds out that she's a finalist in a beauty pageant. The entire family piles into the old van and off they go towards the competition in California. What can happen when you pile 6 very different individuals across different generations into a confined space?
A lot.
It's a good movie with some scenes that'll cause you to laugh and snort. Another dramady. Well.. I would say slightly more comedy than drama so make that comdrama.
Little Miss Sunshine is about a family and all those ups and downs that binds us together. We can call them dysfunctional, troubled, or down on their luck, or maybe just a dramatized version of the average family unit on earth. We got the rebellious teenager, the old crazy grandpa, the innocent little one, the embarrassing family relative, the dad who has to spew out wisdom in every single sentence, and the mom whose just trying to keep sane.
The ball (or car, you'll see) starts rolling when the little girl finds out that she's a finalist in a beauty pageant. The entire family piles into the old van and off they go towards the competition in California. What can happen when you pile 6 very different individuals across different generations into a confined space?
A lot.
It's a good movie with some scenes that'll cause you to laugh and snort. Another dramady. Well.. I would say slightly more comedy than drama so make that comdrama.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Invincible
Thanks to American Express Membership giveaways, I was able to watch Invincible tonight with my free ticket. Watching a movie on a week night definitely has its perks.
1 - The entire theatre is practically yours.
2 - No big heads in front of you.
3 - No obnoxious people talking throughout the movie.
Back to the movie...
Invincible is based on the life of Vince Papale. Director Ericson Core took his time telling the story of how a 30-year old devout fan of Philadelphia Eagles went from watching the game to playing on the field. I liked that. Most sports movies these days are more about giving more screen time to the action on the field rather than allowing the audience to learn and hopefully care for the characters.
Like most Disney movies, there's a underlying theme of the human spirit (whether it's depicted through animated animals or humans), which makes these movies feel good movies and entertaining to watch. Mark Wahlberg is really wise in his pick of roles. His acting is sincere and genuine and you find yourself rooting for the man, chanting, don't listen to others, you can do it.
Now couple of things that caught my attention. First the opening credits. It's been so long since I've see the Magic Kingdom splashed on the big screen. When it came up with the shooting star, I couldn't help to let out a little "yeahh! Disney!" Disney make more films!!
Second, the music and montage of life in southern Philly during the 70s was very well done. It established genera, pace of life and struggles during the time all by the time the 3 - 5 minute song was over. Brilliant.
Last, the first scene that introduces Vince and his pals as they watch a dismal game up on the stadium benches. It's a snowy day and obviously cold but I don't see no frosty air as Vince chatted with his friends! That was quite a distraction for me for at least good 5 minutes.
Good movie. If you like character development, Invincible did a great job.
1 - The entire theatre is practically yours.
2 - No big heads in front of you.
3 - No obnoxious people talking throughout the movie.
Back to the movie...
Invincible is based on the life of Vince Papale. Director Ericson Core took his time telling the story of how a 30-year old devout fan of Philadelphia Eagles went from watching the game to playing on the field. I liked that. Most sports movies these days are more about giving more screen time to the action on the field rather than allowing the audience to learn and hopefully care for the characters.
Like most Disney movies, there's a underlying theme of the human spirit (whether it's depicted through animated animals or humans), which makes these movies feel good movies and entertaining to watch. Mark Wahlberg is really wise in his pick of roles. His acting is sincere and genuine and you find yourself rooting for the man, chanting, don't listen to others, you can do it.
Now couple of things that caught my attention. First the opening credits. It's been so long since I've see the Magic Kingdom splashed on the big screen. When it came up with the shooting star, I couldn't help to let out a little "yeahh! Disney!" Disney make more films!!
Second, the music and montage of life in southern Philly during the 70s was very well done. It established genera, pace of life and struggles during the time all by the time the 3 - 5 minute song was over. Brilliant.
Last, the first scene that introduces Vince and his pals as they watch a dismal game up on the stadium benches. It's a snowy day and obviously cold but I don't see no frosty air as Vince chatted with his friends! That was quite a distraction for me for at least good 5 minutes.
Good movie. If you like character development, Invincible did a great job.
Monday, September 18, 2006
dirty filthy love
My tears are still drying as I write this entry, but I've got a smile on my face.
I've just finished watching one of the best DVDs that I've rented in a long while - dirty filthy love, thanks to the recommendation of the local Blockbuster employee. Sorry to disappoint some but this is not a porno flick.
This film revolves around a man named Mark played by Michael Sheen. We discover along with Mark that he has OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and also Tourette syndrome through the help of Charlotte (played by Shirley Henderson).
The film gives the audience a look-see into Mark's struggle with the disorder and his attempts to get his wife back. The director, Adrian Shergold, along with the two leading actors are fantastic. It's one of those movies that makes you cry one second but can't help to bust out laughing the next knowing very well you shouldn't be laughing.
It's a film that provokes emotions. Brilliantly acted and brilliantly directed.
A story well told. Rent it.
I've just finished watching one of the best DVDs that I've rented in a long while - dirty filthy love, thanks to the recommendation of the local Blockbuster employee. Sorry to disappoint some but this is not a porno flick.
This film revolves around a man named Mark played by Michael Sheen. We discover along with Mark that he has OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) and also Tourette syndrome through the help of Charlotte (played by Shirley Henderson).
The film gives the audience a look-see into Mark's struggle with the disorder and his attempts to get his wife back. The director, Adrian Shergold, along with the two leading actors are fantastic. It's one of those movies that makes you cry one second but can't help to bust out laughing the next knowing very well you shouldn't be laughing.
It's a film that provokes emotions. Brilliantly acted and brilliantly directed.
A story well told. Rent it.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Freshmen at College
Remember what it was like? That very first year where you meet so many different strangers whose lives will cross yours for the next 4 years of your lives?
Quite a change, at least for me. Coming from a small, mostly white town to a 40,000 undergrad state university was an experience for me. That first year I met friends who are still my friends 10 years later. That first year I also found others who were just like me. It was the year to explore so many different things and reaffirm others. Such as my distaste for rowdy places or to get drunk. Alcohol in the blood stream never had the tipsy affect on me. It just puts me to bed.
A refresher down memory lane came tonight while I was chatting with younger, distant cousins. It's their first month in college and gauging from their responses, sounds like overall they are having a great time as well. Good for them.. Freshmen year was the most memorable and my most cherished year out of the 5 years I was at school. All the others were just a blur, labs after labs, sleeping in the labrooms, sleeping on the common room benches.. and a heck of a lot of frustration and swearing, and then came the awful coffee incident that prompts me to politely reject coffee offers.
Quite a change, at least for me. Coming from a small, mostly white town to a 40,000 undergrad state university was an experience for me. That first year I met friends who are still my friends 10 years later. That first year I also found others who were just like me. It was the year to explore so many different things and reaffirm others. Such as my distaste for rowdy places or to get drunk. Alcohol in the blood stream never had the tipsy affect on me. It just puts me to bed.
A refresher down memory lane came tonight while I was chatting with younger, distant cousins. It's their first month in college and gauging from their responses, sounds like overall they are having a great time as well. Good for them.. Freshmen year was the most memorable and my most cherished year out of the 5 years I was at school. All the others were just a blur, labs after labs, sleeping in the labrooms, sleeping on the common room benches.. and a heck of a lot of frustration and swearing, and then came the awful coffee incident that prompts me to politely reject coffee offers.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
Goodbye Note
This morning started out great!
I received a goodbye note from a fellow co-worker who will soon be leaving the company. Since it's his goodbye note, I am not going to paste the whole thing in .. but the gist of it is that he had better days being hit by cars than traveling cross country to perform validation tasks.
HA!!!! I bursted out laughing and banged the table it was that good. Awesome goodbye note. Well I guess he's never planning to come back to work for big blue or at least not the current division.
hehe.. *sigh* when will I write mine? Even when I do write mine it won't be as funny cuz I am not planning to burn any bridges. Hmmm on second thought, will I ever come back to work once I leave? Probably not.... hm still.. probably better just to keep my sarcastic remarks to myself in the official goodbye e-mails. Chicken!!!! I know.
I received a goodbye note from a fellow co-worker who will soon be leaving the company. Since it's his goodbye note, I am not going to paste the whole thing in .. but the gist of it is that he had better days being hit by cars than traveling cross country to perform validation tasks.
HA!!!! I bursted out laughing and banged the table it was that good. Awesome goodbye note. Well I guess he's never planning to come back to work for big blue or at least not the current division.
hehe.. *sigh* when will I write mine? Even when I do write mine it won't be as funny cuz I am not planning to burn any bridges. Hmmm on second thought, will I ever come back to work once I leave? Probably not.... hm still.. probably better just to keep my sarcastic remarks to myself in the official goodbye e-mails. Chicken!!!! I know.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
What's Your Dream?
Lucas Rossi, for those of you non Rockstar Supernova fans out there, is the ex-Hooters employee turned super rockstar as announced in the season finale.
What's your dream? Lucas got his. Who knew with his porcupine hairdo, eye shadowed (sometimes glittery) eyes, his signature raspy, a lot of times indecipherable voice will win over the voters and the band members. Lucas got the edge alright and he can sing! I have to say I did enjoy his performances the most, just fun to watch him, with his crazy dance and expressions.
Favorite performance by Lucas is week 7, his rendition of Hero. Now that's a song for Batman!
There's not many other countries in the world that allows one to propel from a restaurant worker status to instant super stardom. Only in America.. Only in America..
What's your dream? Lucas got his. Who knew with his porcupine hairdo, eye shadowed (sometimes glittery) eyes, his signature raspy, a lot of times indecipherable voice will win over the voters and the band members. Lucas got the edge alright and he can sing! I have to say I did enjoy his performances the most, just fun to watch him, with his crazy dance and expressions.
Favorite performance by Lucas is week 7, his rendition of Hero. Now that's a song for Batman!
There's not many other countries in the world that allows one to propel from a restaurant worker status to instant super stardom. Only in America.. Only in America..
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Elvish Sideburns
It's been more than a month, maybe even 2 months since I last received a haircut. So a trip into Flushing, NY it is. A train, a subway, and an hour and a half later, I arrived in Flushing and headed up to my usual haircut place to see Gary - the haircut guy. He didn't earn the right to be addressed as a hair stylist and never will, not from me at least.
The place wasn't that crowded today so the assistant spent at least half an hour washing my hair. It was starting to hurt before she took me to the rinse station. Thirty minutes later, I ended up with the same haircut I get every, freaking, single time! Gary has no creative abilities when it comes to styling a look. I ended up looking 25 years younger, not particularly a fitting look when I am approaching my 30th birthday. Along with the short bangs, I also got a pair of elvishly long sideburns/bangs. Lovely.
The rest of the day turned out much better. A friend met me at Flushing Mall foodcourt where we giggled like animated Japanese girls when we smelled the familiar food and saw boards of neon lit menus. The feeding frenzy continued for about 2 hours until we were stuffed and can eat no more.
Parted in the afternoon, I headed to visit elder family friends. I was treated to a homey casual dinner and in return they found my lack of sports understanding unbelievable.
On the train ride back, I finally got to the last chapter of my most recent reading, trying to understand where is the next energy boom. Whoooohooo! Overall a very productive day. Oh, and did I mention it was gorgeous weather?
The place wasn't that crowded today so the assistant spent at least half an hour washing my hair. It was starting to hurt before she took me to the rinse station. Thirty minutes later, I ended up with the same haircut I get every, freaking, single time! Gary has no creative abilities when it comes to styling a look. I ended up looking 25 years younger, not particularly a fitting look when I am approaching my 30th birthday. Along with the short bangs, I also got a pair of elvishly long sideburns/bangs. Lovely.
The rest of the day turned out much better. A friend met me at Flushing Mall foodcourt where we giggled like animated Japanese girls when we smelled the familiar food and saw boards of neon lit menus. The feeding frenzy continued for about 2 hours until we were stuffed and can eat no more.
Parted in the afternoon, I headed to visit elder family friends. I was treated to a homey casual dinner and in return they found my lack of sports understanding unbelievable.
On the train ride back, I finally got to the last chapter of my most recent reading, trying to understand where is the next energy boom. Whoooohooo! Overall a very productive day. Oh, and did I mention it was gorgeous weather?
Friday, September 08, 2006
Power of the People - Power of a Fan Base
Don't ever under estimate the power of the people.
We got a first hand look at the power of a fan base on the FOX Celebrity Duets results show tonight with the surprising elimination of Lea Thompson as the next celebrity to get booted off the show.
Come on! She was definitely a better singer than Cheech Marin and Carly Patterson. But the fans of the other 2 celebrities voted and Lea's supporters didn't. That or she didn't have much of a fan base to begin with. By the way did Lea Thompson looked like she was about to cry when she was kicked into the bottom three or was it just me?
Like I keep saying, the executive producers of Fox's Celebrity Duets is smart. They went after the gay population this time. Casting 3 gay icons on the show, Fox is going after viewers not quality. We can all be honest here. The singing and content caliber is no competition for CBS's Rock Star Supernova, but what the heck it's for charity they are not signing the singers after the shows. So with todays results, this confirms my belief that Lucy Lawless, the Xena warrior princess will be one of the last ones to be kicked off the show. Yep, mark my words. The fan base for Xena/Lucy is GIGANTOUS. Xena the show, inspired thousands of uber fan fiction and it's still going. As a side bar, Lucy Lawless changed her wardrobe strategy today. I have to say it's a much better improvement than the previous form fitting gowns she wore. It made her look like she was in a beauty pageant or something. Tonight she really flaunted it.
Those tassels were just going round and round.. swing baby swing! ya! Hmm.. sorry a bit of Austin Power just slipped in.
Anyways, where was I, oh yes. The loyalty of followers should not be overlooked in any fashion or form. Even though Lucy Lawless is not the best singer on the show, what do I care. She's Xena, and Xena will get the votes. Life ain't fair so stop the bitchin. What would make Celebrity Duets even sillier and more transparent as the real viewer hoarder as it is now, is to have casted Patrick Stewart.
Who cares if Captain Jean-Luc Picard can sing or not!
He can be rehearsing his lines and I am willing to wager that Trekkie fans will still vote for him! Hell Captain Picard might actually win the show!
It basically comes down to loyalty/image doesn't it, for choosing one thing over the other. Grocery shopping is a good example. How many of us will walk down the cereal isle and go for the brand name boxes instead of the generic grocery store versions of the same cereal?
We got a first hand look at the power of a fan base on the FOX Celebrity Duets results show tonight with the surprising elimination of Lea Thompson as the next celebrity to get booted off the show.
Come on! She was definitely a better singer than Cheech Marin and Carly Patterson. But the fans of the other 2 celebrities voted and Lea's supporters didn't. That or she didn't have much of a fan base to begin with. By the way did Lea Thompson looked like she was about to cry when she was kicked into the bottom three or was it just me?
Like I keep saying, the executive producers of Fox's Celebrity Duets is smart. They went after the gay population this time. Casting 3 gay icons on the show, Fox is going after viewers not quality. We can all be honest here. The singing and content caliber is no competition for CBS's Rock Star Supernova, but what the heck it's for charity they are not signing the singers after the shows. So with todays results, this confirms my belief that Lucy Lawless, the Xena warrior princess will be one of the last ones to be kicked off the show. Yep, mark my words. The fan base for Xena/Lucy is GIGANTOUS. Xena the show, inspired thousands of uber fan fiction and it's still going. As a side bar, Lucy Lawless changed her wardrobe strategy today. I have to say it's a much better improvement than the previous form fitting gowns she wore. It made her look like she was in a beauty pageant or something. Tonight she really flaunted it.
Those tassels were just going round and round.. swing baby swing! ya! Hmm.. sorry a bit of Austin Power just slipped in.
Anyways, where was I, oh yes. The loyalty of followers should not be overlooked in any fashion or form. Even though Lucy Lawless is not the best singer on the show, what do I care. She's Xena, and Xena will get the votes. Life ain't fair so stop the bitchin. What would make Celebrity Duets even sillier and more transparent as the real viewer hoarder as it is now, is to have casted Patrick Stewart.
Who cares if Captain Jean-Luc Picard can sing or not! He can be rehearsing his lines and I am willing to wager that Trekkie fans will still vote for him! Hell Captain Picard might actually win the show!
It basically comes down to loyalty/image doesn't it, for choosing one thing over the other. Grocery shopping is a good example. How many of us will walk down the cereal isle and go for the brand name boxes instead of the generic grocery store versions of the same cereal?
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Bridging The Distance With Google Talk
Hey I did something productive today -- teaching my mom how to use Google Talk to talk to my aunt overseas. Now that's an accomplishment!
Ever since I signed on with Voiceral, I've been doing 3 way calling between parents and relatives overseas. Saves money and the call quality is much better than phonecards. But as soon as I got my mom connected with my aunt tonight, she's like "well we are good now, don't need you as our bridge anymore!" Ha!
It's all good they can talk for as long as they like. Technology can be such a wonderful thing. Now...only if I can setup my grandma with a laptop.. now that would be cool..
Ever since I signed on with Voiceral, I've been doing 3 way calling between parents and relatives overseas. Saves money and the call quality is much better than phonecards. But as soon as I got my mom connected with my aunt tonight, she's like "well we are good now, don't need you as our bridge anymore!" Ha!
It's all good they can talk for as long as they like. Technology can be such a wonderful thing. Now...only if I can setup my grandma with a laptop.. now that would be cool..
Monday, September 04, 2006
The Crocodile Hunter Has Fallen
On my drive back from Maryland, I heard on the radio the unbelievable news of Steve Irwin, better known as "The Crocodile Hunter" died from a stingray barb piercing his heart.
What a freak accident. I am genuinely saddened by the news. I liked watching Steve Irwin's show. Althought he can be a bit over the top sometimes, but that's what makes his show different from others and it was educational and entertaining at the same time. I think like many of his fans, we have learned a lot about our fellow creatures through Steve.
He lived his life doing what he loves and probably has no regrets. But to die from a stingray and esp pierced in the heart is a especially rare, freak thing to have happened. My thoughts goes out to his wife and two young kids.
Thank you Steve Irwin for bringing forth the magnificent creatures that live amongst us. You'll be missed.
What a freak accident. I am genuinely saddened by the news. I liked watching Steve Irwin's show. Althought he can be a bit over the top sometimes, but that's what makes his show different from others and it was educational and entertaining at the same time. I think like many of his fans, we have learned a lot about our fellow creatures through Steve.
He lived his life doing what he loves and probably has no regrets. But to die from a stingray and esp pierced in the heart is a especially rare, freak thing to have happened. My thoughts goes out to his wife and two young kids.
Thank you Steve Irwin for bringing forth the magnificent creatures that live amongst us. You'll be missed.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth
Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth
by T. Harv Eker
I finished the latter half of this book at the library before I returned it with a late fee. But it's the library. I don't mind paying late fees for it. So on with the review...
Come on! I don't believe you if you said you said you never wondered about how the rich got rich. Not even a little curious? Yah right. So I admit it. I saw the title of the book and decided why not, give a whirl. The book surprised me.
The author had a bit of humor so that's always a good way to engage a variety of readers. What I came to realize is that what all these books about becoming rich are more like self help books. The intent of the book is to make you realize that you can be more than what you are capable of, and that being rich is not a pipe dream reserved only for those that have luck or talent. Not saying the rest of us don't, it's just that most of us is stuck at one of the following stages
1 - we haven't realized our potential
2 - we are scared to get out of our comfort zone
3 - we don't really believe that we can achieve the next level
4 - we are lying to ourselves that money is not important
It's not a thick book to read and it was written in a conversational way. The author is trying to pump up your ego as if you were at one of his seminars (which is not so subtly mentioned every other page).
At the end of the book, you know what? I do have a little more faith in myself! It's amazing how positive reinforcements can affect a person right? Some of the things I learned and which also serves as a summarization of the book:
1 - The key is to believe in yourself.
2 - Truly believe that you can make as much money as the next person and that being rich is not something to be ashamed of. Money is important to achieve the things we want to do.
3 - Need to get out of the comfort zone and dedicate yourself to a goal.
4 - You'll never be rich working for a steady income.
5 - Make your money work for you, invest, buy land.
6 - Your attitude makes a heck a lot of a difference. Think positive, you'll attract positive things. Think negative, you'll be a crap magnet.
by T. Harv Eker
I finished the latter half of this book at the library before I returned it with a late fee. But it's the library. I don't mind paying late fees for it. So on with the review...
Come on! I don't believe you if you said you said you never wondered about how the rich got rich. Not even a little curious? Yah right. So I admit it. I saw the title of the book and decided why not, give a whirl. The book surprised me.
The author had a bit of humor so that's always a good way to engage a variety of readers. What I came to realize is that what all these books about becoming rich are more like self help books. The intent of the book is to make you realize that you can be more than what you are capable of, and that being rich is not a pipe dream reserved only for those that have luck or talent. Not saying the rest of us don't, it's just that most of us is stuck at one of the following stages
1 - we haven't realized our potential
2 - we are scared to get out of our comfort zone
3 - we don't really believe that we can achieve the next level
4 - we are lying to ourselves that money is not important
It's not a thick book to read and it was written in a conversational way. The author is trying to pump up your ego as if you were at one of his seminars (which is not so subtly mentioned every other page).
At the end of the book, you know what? I do have a little more faith in myself! It's amazing how positive reinforcements can affect a person right? Some of the things I learned and which also serves as a summarization of the book:
1 - The key is to believe in yourself.
2 - Truly believe that you can make as much money as the next person and that being rich is not something to be ashamed of. Money is important to achieve the things we want to do.
3 - Need to get out of the comfort zone and dedicate yourself to a goal.
4 - You'll never be rich working for a steady income.
5 - Make your money work for you, invest, buy land.
6 - Your attitude makes a heck a lot of a difference. Think positive, you'll attract positive things. Think negative, you'll be a crap magnet.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Pennsylvania Dutch Buffet
The planned trip to Shady Maple finally arrived. The time has come for us to step into this building. What is this place? If you can read the writing on the building it says "Shady Maple Banquets". Is it an building for big events? Well sorta. The official claim is that we are about to enter "Lancaster County's LARGEST Smorgasbord".
They weren't kidding. No false advertising there. My friend told me ahead of time it's a big place. This place was humongus! Imagine a Costco's or a BJ's... yep that's how big it was. Shady Maple is a dining place located in East Earl, PA. It serves real PA Dutch foods.. aka.. tastes great but you probably should not eat more than 2 plates type of place.
The restaurant can handle up to 1000 people. Crazy! I have never been to a buffet like this. Lines of food.. and lines of people waiting to devour the lines of food.
The food was good. Hmmm.. briskets.. 2 days later I still feel bloated! I didn't even eat that much!
After the feeding frenzy, we took a walk down to the 20,000 sq ft gift shop right below the restaurant. That's where we spotted the very very scary dolls. I've never liked dolls and this is why I never will.....ewwww.....
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
"Invictus" - By William Earnest Henley
While surfing through blog sites, I came up one that introduced me to William Earnest Henley's poem - "Invictus".
I love it. It's simple, yet it riles up the emotions.
"Invictus"
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud,
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishment the scroll,
I am the master of my fate;
I am the captain of my soul.
I love it. It's simple, yet it riles up the emotions.
"Invictus"
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud,
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find me, unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishment the scroll,
I am the master of my fate;
I am the captain of my soul.
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Three Months
Words came to me when I was out walking this morning.
Came back and finished in 2 hours. Here goes:
Three Months
Three months granted indirectly to find myself,
Two months left, as things calmed down.
One month left, as I mingled through blood.
All three gone and I’m still on the same ground.
Three more months, I gave myself.
Three more months to figure things out.
Three more months to make a change.
Three more months to leave this state.
One month gone, as I sat on the bench.
One month gone, as I am thrown back into things.
One more month, the deadline nears.
One more month, until I face my fears.
I am trapped in a time capsule of five or so years
Screaming loud but no one can hear.
I watch as the world goes round and round
Colors red, blue, green and white, cycles about.
Churning, night and day, churning of the mind.
Tick -- , Tock --, time slips by.
Immobilized by the very nature of what makes me
Scared by what I can’t foresee.
In my journal there’s a dialogue, pitting me against me,
A testament of my madness if I let things be.
A complete breakdown is required now
Even if that means shattering to the ground.
I will mend from the many pieces of my ragged, weary self
Start afresh, reconstructed to face new crowds.
Not quite healed I will travel forth,
Destination unknown, and there’s no reverse.
Days left until I do the deed
Days left until I leave it all behind
Days left until I regain what was me
Days left until I am set free.
Came back and finished in 2 hours. Here goes:
Three Months
Three months granted indirectly to find myself,
Two months left, as things calmed down.
One month left, as I mingled through blood.
All three gone and I’m still on the same ground.
Three more months, I gave myself.
Three more months to figure things out.
Three more months to make a change.
Three more months to leave this state.
One month gone, as I sat on the bench.
One month gone, as I am thrown back into things.
One more month, the deadline nears.
One more month, until I face my fears.
I am trapped in a time capsule of five or so years
Screaming loud but no one can hear.
I watch as the world goes round and round
Colors red, blue, green and white, cycles about.
Churning, night and day, churning of the mind.
Tick -- , Tock --, time slips by.
Immobilized by the very nature of what makes me
Scared by what I can’t foresee.
In my journal there’s a dialogue, pitting me against me,
A testament of my madness if I let things be.
A complete breakdown is required now
Even if that means shattering to the ground.
I will mend from the many pieces of my ragged, weary self
Start afresh, reconstructed to face new crowds.
Not quite healed I will travel forth,
Destination unknown, and there’s no reverse.
Days left until I do the deed
Days left until I leave it all behind
Days left until I regain what was me
Days left until I am set free.
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Stock Spam
It's amazing how the days just disappears.
Wrapping up this week, I was quite annoyed when I noticed I am getting stock spammed. I was more upset because it was my GMail account! WTF, I mean the reason why created like 8 e-mail accounts is so that I would only have 1 where it's not used by anything else but friends and family, and resumes.
They got to me after all. I never knew about this type of spamming. Apparantly these spammers are a bit sneakier. They use various address and the product they are pushing on you is not in the e-mail content. Instead it's in the form of a GIF attachment. The content of the e-mail is some poetic type of writing.
It's hard to create filters for these spams cuz it's sent from different addresses. Searched online a bit, there doesn't seem to be any legal action victims can take besides forwarding the e-mails to anti-spam sites for them to list and track. But how much that'll do is unknown.
Whoever sold my e-mail out, you suck!
Wrapping up this week, I was quite annoyed when I noticed I am getting stock spammed. I was more upset because it was my GMail account! WTF, I mean the reason why created like 8 e-mail accounts is so that I would only have 1 where it's not used by anything else but friends and family, and resumes.
They got to me after all. I never knew about this type of spamming. Apparantly these spammers are a bit sneakier. They use various address and the product they are pushing on you is not in the e-mail content. Instead it's in the form of a GIF attachment. The content of the e-mail is some poetic type of writing.
It's hard to create filters for these spams cuz it's sent from different addresses. Searched online a bit, there doesn't seem to be any legal action victims can take besides forwarding the e-mails to anti-spam sites for them to list and track. But how much that'll do is unknown.
Whoever sold my e-mail out, you suck!
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Mt Tammany at the Delaware Water Gap
This is the best picture, well, best non human picture I should stress (just in case one of my friends is reading this) that I took on this trip.
The weather was absolutely gorgeous. The day started at 6:30 AM. After making sure my other friend is awake, I went about getting ready for the first hike of the summer. Wow, it was the first hike. The drive to the location was not bad at all, about an hour and a half. Beautiful to drive in the morning with little traffic. A lot of people on the road were heading for the mountains as well. Such a day to waste if not to immerse oneself in the great outdoors.
Today's goal was to climb Mt. Tammany via the red trail. The red trail is pretty steep, about say, 30-45 degrees incline and the first leg of it is very rocky. I believe some website said it's about a 30-foot high rock climb. True that. I sure got a workout.
Oh be sure to put on some bug repellant. Even at 10 am in the morning the little gnats were in our face, prehaps looking for leftover breakfast?
Where was I, yes, although it's not a long hike, 1.5 miles up to the peak, the red trail does test your legs and balance. Once you get to the top, which is named the
"Indian Head", you get to see this spectacular view of the Delaware River:
We had our lunch at the top. Enjoyed gabbing with fellow hikers, trading stories, and even had somewhat of a close encounter with 2 black bears.
It was a great day.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
The Other Half
Weddings are abound this time of the year. Yesterday, I was invited to witness another ceremony to put the official seal on commitment between 2 people, and it was a lovely event.
I think yesterday was the first time when I looked at a couple that I see the distinct difference of personalities and a voice popped in my head "She's really good for him."
My friend is or I can happily say that he was a corporate drone like me. Where our lives are run by the invisible corporate puppet master, our daily schedule revolves around requirements and deadlines. But no more, not for him at least. From mutual friends and new acquaintances at the dinner table, I learned and saw more evidences of changes in the groom after he met his now bride. Good for you H!!!! He now leaves work like a normal person, plays soccer, shakes his tush on the dance floor and there's that happiness oozing.
So that's it, magic of love. One powerful element in nature, that can so profoundly change us.
I think yesterday was the first time when I looked at a couple that I see the distinct difference of personalities and a voice popped in my head "She's really good for him."
My friend is or I can happily say that he was a corporate drone like me. Where our lives are run by the invisible corporate puppet master, our daily schedule revolves around requirements and deadlines. But no more, not for him at least. From mutual friends and new acquaintances at the dinner table, I learned and saw more evidences of changes in the groom after he met his now bride. Good for you H!!!! He now leaves work like a normal person, plays soccer, shakes his tush on the dance floor and there's that happiness oozing.
So that's it, magic of love. One powerful element in nature, that can so profoundly change us.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Whiplash
That's what you'll get if you've been following the market lately. Uppppp Upppp there it goes!!! Then Bam!!! Down 100+.
Been reading a lot more financial blogs lately. The whole dynamics of price movement, psychology of trading, global events, the market ties it all together. Perfect example of how one thing leads to another, cause and effect.
So like many others, why is the market up on days where we have global terrorism threatening our very lives by blowing up planes? Esp the airline stocks? Who the hell knows.
My guess is that either America is very much in denial or that Americans are saying screw you all, we are going to live our lives the way we want, who knows what tomorrow will bring, so we'll keep buying houses that are way out of our budget, keep driving our SUVs across the 50 states, we've got to eat, our kids have to go to school.. so there! Live in the moment.
Either way, sure makes the market interesting.
Been reading a lot more financial blogs lately. The whole dynamics of price movement, psychology of trading, global events, the market ties it all together. Perfect example of how one thing leads to another, cause and effect.
So like many others, why is the market up on days where we have global terrorism threatening our very lives by blowing up planes? Esp the airline stocks? Who the hell knows.
My guess is that either America is very much in denial or that Americans are saying screw you all, we are going to live our lives the way we want, who knows what tomorrow will bring, so we'll keep buying houses that are way out of our budget, keep driving our SUVs across the 50 states, we've got to eat, our kids have to go to school.. so there! Live in the moment.
Either way, sure makes the market interesting.
It's All Coming Back ..... And Out
Do you ever remember a meal?
Well, I am getting not so subtle reminders of my feeding frenzy over Popeyes chicken bucket from 2 days ago. In fact, I think I had anal leakage of chicken fat. Yes, if you think it's gross reading about it, imagine sitting in the bathroom smelling it, with it leaking out of your body orifice. It is true that if you mostly eat a vegetarian diet, once you eat meat or oily stuff, you'll know the difference. Proof is in the pudding, if you know what I mean.
Nasty.
Other random thoughts.. Stopped by blockbuster during my late night walk and what I saw there mildly surprised me. Have you checked out your local Blockbuster lately? Do you see the increase in the number of Japanese horror flicks!! And what's more surprising is the Japanese anime section.
Soon, someone will catch on to that Asians love to watch soap. I am just wondering which one will it be, Blockbuster or Netflix, to nab the Asian soaps.
Yuck, still tasting the chicken grease coming up my throat.. that teaches me to binge on fried food.
I just found out about AIM Phoneline, the free internet phone service from AIM. So the deal is that you get to pick a local phone number that others can call. The call goes through AIM program and alerts you when someone is calling. Click to answer and viola, you got phone service through your fav headset. So far, pretty happy with the quality.
Well, I am getting not so subtle reminders of my feeding frenzy over Popeyes chicken bucket from 2 days ago. In fact, I think I had anal leakage of chicken fat. Yes, if you think it's gross reading about it, imagine sitting in the bathroom smelling it, with it leaking out of your body orifice. It is true that if you mostly eat a vegetarian diet, once you eat meat or oily stuff, you'll know the difference. Proof is in the pudding, if you know what I mean.
Nasty.
Other random thoughts.. Stopped by blockbuster during my late night walk and what I saw there mildly surprised me. Have you checked out your local Blockbuster lately? Do you see the increase in the number of Japanese horror flicks!! And what's more surprising is the Japanese anime section.
Soon, someone will catch on to that Asians love to watch soap. I am just wondering which one will it be, Blockbuster or Netflix, to nab the Asian soaps.
Yuck, still tasting the chicken grease coming up my throat.. that teaches me to binge on fried food.
I just found out about AIM Phoneline, the free internet phone service from AIM. So the deal is that you get to pick a local phone number that others can call. The call goes through AIM program and alerts you when someone is calling. Click to answer and viola, you got phone service through your fav headset. So far, pretty happy with the quality.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Crap Magnet
You ever notice how when you are down everything and everyone seems to be pushing on your head making you feel lower and lower, crappier and crappier?
Well at least so it seems. Morning was goooooorgeous. Bit chilly than other days, but goooooorgeous... slight breeze, bright blue skies, fluffy clouds. I am sitting outside eating my cereal and reading the new library book that I brought back from my t-shirt clinging, sweat permeated walk last night, when I read this passage:
When you are complaining you become a living, breathing
"crap magnet".
Great. Now I am a crap magnet. Have been for last 3 years. It's true right? When you complain you need someone to affirm your crappiness. You don't need someone there to tell you to shutup and move on. You want to hear others complain about similar situations, to agree with you that everything that's going wrong is because of the situation, not you. Not ever. So I fit the description of a "victim", according to the book Secrets of the Millionaire Mind.
Funny thing was when I came back from the lib, my cousin saw the 2 books I brought back and pointed out, "Hmm... The Universe In A Single Atom by Dali Lama and Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, what are you looking for spiritual freedom or financial freedom?" In response, I said, "I am a very spiritual 21st century person, who wants spiritual freedom and also financial freedom!"
Well at least so it seems. Morning was goooooorgeous. Bit chilly than other days, but goooooorgeous... slight breeze, bright blue skies, fluffy clouds. I am sitting outside eating my cereal and reading the new library book that I brought back from my t-shirt clinging, sweat permeated walk last night, when I read this passage:
When you are complaining you become a living, breathing
"crap magnet".
Great. Now I am a crap magnet. Have been for last 3 years. It's true right? When you complain you need someone to affirm your crappiness. You don't need someone there to tell you to shutup and move on. You want to hear others complain about similar situations, to agree with you that everything that's going wrong is because of the situation, not you. Not ever. So I fit the description of a "victim", according to the book Secrets of the Millionaire Mind.
Funny thing was when I came back from the lib, my cousin saw the 2 books I brought back and pointed out, "Hmm... The Universe In A Single Atom by Dali Lama and Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, what are you looking for spiritual freedom or financial freedom?" In response, I said, "I am a very spiritual 21st century person, who wants spiritual freedom and also financial freedom!"
Monday, August 07, 2006
Blink
I finally finished the book Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell. To sum it up, this book directs our attention to something we humans pay so little attention to each day yet it's something that affects possibly every thought we have -- our perception.
As humans we are lucky enough to be granted vision and a brain that can correlate and process amazing amount of information in an instant and thus we are armed with a double edge sword. In a blink of an eye, our brains takes in the snap shot offered to us through the sensory organ and there dissects it into millions of different pieces and based on what we see and our gut feelings, past experiences, and culture, we piece it all back and form an opinion about something.
The book offers many examples of how our perception influences our thoughts and behaviors. It hits both ends of the spectrums, recognizing a fake piece of art work even though all current evidences and tests are saying it's a genuine article to the incident where several cops open fired on an innocent man when they thought they saw him pull out a gun, but later to find out the killed man was only trying to pull out his wallet to show proof of ID.
When I finished the last page, the line from Spiderman "With great power, comes great responsibility" popped into my head. Within each one of us we have the capability to take in thousands of factors and formulate an opinion/thought in a split second based on all the input. Malcolm Gladwell has successfully heightened my awareness that yes, what we see does influence our thoughts greatly without us even realizing it. As much as we would all like to say that "no I don't fall in the category of 'judging a book by its cover' , we all do it whether we like it or it.
As humans we are lucky enough to be granted vision and a brain that can correlate and process amazing amount of information in an instant and thus we are armed with a double edge sword. In a blink of an eye, our brains takes in the snap shot offered to us through the sensory organ and there dissects it into millions of different pieces and based on what we see and our gut feelings, past experiences, and culture, we piece it all back and form an opinion about something.
The book offers many examples of how our perception influences our thoughts and behaviors. It hits both ends of the spectrums, recognizing a fake piece of art work even though all current evidences and tests are saying it's a genuine article to the incident where several cops open fired on an innocent man when they thought they saw him pull out a gun, but later to find out the killed man was only trying to pull out his wallet to show proof of ID.
When I finished the last page, the line from Spiderman "With great power, comes great responsibility" popped into my head. Within each one of us we have the capability to take in thousands of factors and formulate an opinion/thought in a split second based on all the input. Malcolm Gladwell has successfully heightened my awareness that yes, what we see does influence our thoughts greatly without us even realizing it. As much as we would all like to say that "no I don't fall in the category of 'judging a book by its cover' , we all do it whether we like it or it.
Friday, August 04, 2006
Ups and Downs
The stock market for one, suits the up and down pattern.
What is it with this market? I got cash waiting on the side trying to find a good spot to get in and everytime I am just about to jump in the market does a 180.
Fed meeting coming up and job reports coming up. Should be very interesting to watch. Definitely more interesting that what I've been working on, which amounts to desire to finish work but mostly end up conked out after 11pm. Perhaps it's part of getting older? Maybe my body knows that I am about to reach the big 3 0. OOOO.... Ahhh.....
Why 30? Why is that labeled a big one? What is so special about turning 30? Gosh, it's depressing just thinking about it..
Anyways.. wanted to post before I fall succumb to the beckoning of my bed. Couple more documents to read then it's time to hit the pillows.
What is it with this market? I got cash waiting on the side trying to find a good spot to get in and everytime I am just about to jump in the market does a 180.
Fed meeting coming up and job reports coming up. Should be very interesting to watch. Definitely more interesting that what I've been working on, which amounts to desire to finish work but mostly end up conked out after 11pm. Perhaps it's part of getting older? Maybe my body knows that I am about to reach the big 3 0. OOOO.... Ahhh.....
Why 30? Why is that labeled a big one? What is so special about turning 30? Gosh, it's depressing just thinking about it..
Anyways.. wanted to post before I fall succumb to the beckoning of my bed. Couple more documents to read then it's time to hit the pillows.
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