kimberly blog.

2011-10-29T01:39:00.001-07:00

http://m.active.com/running/Articles/How-to-Make-a-Running-Comeback-in-5-Steps.htm?cmp=291&memberid=113229056&lyrisid=23457509&email=taberlykim@yahoo.com

I miss Nintendo

2011-07-19T23:02:00.001-07:00

http://www.nerdyshirts.com/abxy-nintendo-game-controller-t-shirt/

Before Sunrise (1995)

2011-05-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

"I always feel this pressure of being a strong and independent icon of womanhood, and without making it look my whole life is revolving around some guy. But loving someone, and being loved means so much to me. I always make fun of it and stuff. But isn't everything we do in life a way to be loved a little more?"

How sweet.

2011-05-03T17:49:00.001-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCANSvS9X-o

Jazz: My thoughts in a few measures

2011-04-25T16:40:00.000-07:00

Each afternoon that I leave my History of Jazz class I have a sense of elation and ease knowing that I filled my mind with just a tad more awesomeness. It's like I'm learning more words to describe and appreciate a love I have had but didn't know how to express. We started with basic Miles and Coltrane (and will probably revisit) and we are now at the end of the Swing Era with Ella Fitzgerald, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller.... Listening to the evolution of jazz from it's European classical, African worksong, Blues, Ragtime, Swing, Bebop, etc roots and the people and figures that helped shape the art bring me so much closer to it. I am by no means a musician, so some of the learning does not come naturally (hearing the differences in instrumentation, rhythm, chord changes, and time signatures). But I love it! Every lecture, I'm impressed at the talent and richness of jazz history AND the nuances and variations in style and performance--makes me want to learn more.

As much as I like to make lists, I kinda like to speak in metaphors. It helps my mind wrap itself around a particular thought:

I have always contended that a good jazz performance is like a really good relationship. Band members are passionate about their role in playing the song. They may each have the opportunity to improvise and share his/her sound with the world. It's a matter of listening to each other, playing off of each other's energy, understanding each other's limitations, complementing each other's skills and talents, and when the time is right allowing the other to do her thing / play her solo (while the soloist knows she has her bandmate's full support and will jump in to help carry the song when she is done). Like life, the song is dynamic. People are dynamic and ever-changing.

The romantic side of me (a.k.a. the sap) is still looking for her bandmate and jazz partner. Someone who on a mellow day has a natural tempo close to hers, but also knows how to speed it up or slow it down as life (or the particular song) calls for it. If my partner hears my part of the song change, my hope is that he recognizes, responds, plays along or helps to steer it in another amazing direction. A girl can hope that there is one out there for her. Maybe I should put out a want ad.

WANTED: BANDMATE. FEMALE MUSICIAN WHO MARCHES TO THE BEAT OF HER OWN DRUM SEEKS MALE MUSICIAN, PREFERABLY ONE WELL-VERSED ON UPRIGHT BASS OR OTHER CURVY FEMALE-SHAPED INSTRUMENT, FOR THE JAZZ PERFORMANCE OF A LIFETIME.
(Yep. I just went there. Deal with it. Hahahaha)

Mercury is in retrograde, and Saturn is in Libra. WTF?

2011-04-24T00:05:00.000-07:00

Today I spent some time with a friend and met his wife for the first time. I already feel like she and I will become fast friends... but there is one thing about her that I have never encountered in another person I have met. She not only likes to read horoscopes and astrological forecasts, she remembers them and incorporates them into life in such a way that guides her behavior. I don't think I have ever met anyone that will caution her husband not to replace his non-functional XBOX (which he wants so he can play Portal 2) because Mercury is in retrograde and it is the governor of all moving parts, as in electronics. The reason why it is not working is not because he didn't turn it on in 2 years, but because the movement of celestial bodies dictates so. This might make her seem like a flighty, irrational, and loopy woman but she is not. She is intelligent, thoughtful, insightful and practical... except for her "like" of astrology.

So she got me to look up my astrological forecast for April from her favorite related website. It told me 2 main things:

(1) DO NOTHING. MAKE NO DECISIONS. MAKE NO BINDING CONTRACTS.
This month, the planets will be a bit wild, sending differing, often opposite, messages, at the same time. As the adage goes, "When in doubt, do nothing." With your ruler, Mercury, retrograde from March 30 to April 23, things cannot be settled to your satisfaction anyway, so take your sweet time to sort out options and do your research.
Mercury is the planet of thinking, reasoning, and communication, so when it is out of phase, everyone of every sign feels it, but Gemini always feels it more than most. Mercury is your guardian planet, so when retrograde, it is an unfortunate time to launch anything new. It is also not a time to sign a contract or even give your final word of approval verbally. Conditions are shifting rapidly now, a fact you may not see until later. Nothing will be set in stone this month, so if you make decisions now, your decisions will be based on the wrong criteria and with priorities that will change later.

(2) ANY RELATIONSHIP I HAVE NOW IS FATED TO BE LONG DISTANCE (OR SOMETHING)
Saturn's presence [in Libra] could also suggest that you and the person you are dating (if you are dating) need to be in very different locations. Saturn brings separations through no fault of your own, just to see what you will do. Sometimes Saturn does this to test the strength of your relationship. Saturn will change signs in October 2012, so from now until then, you will have to contend with that situation.

I try not live my life according to illogical and irrational thinking, or quackery BUT this is a little weird. Just sayin'

I have further thoughts about dating and relationships that I wanted to blog about tonight but I'm going to sleep instead. Maybe another time.

Incierto

2011-04-17T06:38:00.001-07:00

"Te amo como se aman ciertas cosa oscuras,
secretamente, entre la sombra y el alma."
— Pablo Neruda

Picasso in geekdom

2011-03-22T15:05:00.001-07:00

http://imgs.xkcd.com/comics/alternative_energy_revolution.jpg

With Exception?

2011-03-01T11:06:00.001-08:00

Note to self, also cross-listed under things I wish I knew before starting undergrad:
With regard to grades, my Critical Thinking prof said, "it is better to have something and not need it than to need something and not have it."
In this case, he was referring to having an A, or good grades. I'm not so sure this could apply universally. Is it always good to have something and not need it than to need it and not have it? (I'm repeating it over and over). I think yes, actually--if you are looking at things from the inside, out.

Smoke American Spirits and Drink PBR

2011-02-24T17:30:00.000-08:00

Smoke American Spirits and Drink Pabst Blue Ribbon Mix from dj Alex Fabian at Letsmix.com.

Repost

2011-01-17T09:45:00.000-08:00

Feels weird to repost something that i wrote myself over 2 yeas ago but I felt like I needed feedback and a reminder.

Mindfulness Retreat

2011-01-13T17:37:00.001-08:00

I'm hoping to shed of a lot of mental and emotional weight this coming weekend at the Deerpark Monastery in San Diego county. I have never been on a spiritual/Buddhist retreat before and I am very excited. Flying solo, this is a welcome challenge. I have been needing some time to gather myself and re-center my life.

I am arriving late Friday afternoon and leaving for home Sunday evening.
This is a sample of what the schedule is going to look like:

5:00 a.m. Wake up - Temple Bell in 30 minutes
5:45 Sitting Meditation - Walking Meditation
7:30 Breakfast
9:00 Working Meditation or Dharma Talk
12:00 p.m. Lunch
2:00 Rest / Personal Time
3:00 Classes / Meeting
4:30 Sports and Exercises
5:30 Light Dinner
7:00 Sitting Meditation and Chanting
9:30 Noble Silence
10:30 Light Out and Bed Time

:)

Mi Media Naranja

2010-11-17T14:40:00.000-08:00

Dude. Ever since Philosophy existed, people have been thinking about love. (Which is kinda like fighting for peace... and we know what that's like.)

Plato, in The Symposium, writes about the purpose and nature of love. This philosophical text is allegedly where we get the phrase "looking for our other half," the idea ironically introduced by the comic playwright character Aristophanes.

Oh, the elusive SOULMATE. Where art thou?

Don't get me started about Platonic love, aka Secret Love or Unrequited Love. From Wikipedia: "In short, with genuine platonic love, the beautiful or lovely other person inspires the mind and the soul and directs one's attention to spiritual things. One proceeds from recognition of the beauty of another to appreciation of beauty as it exists apart from any individual, to consideration of divinity, the source of beauty, to love of divinity."

Platonic love brings you closer to God and all things beautiful. And Buddha would say Love is Desire is Suffering. Overlaps? Ponder that! I say.

Thought of the night

2010-11-16T03:59:00.000-08:00

How would you like to spend your day? How do you actually spend your day?

I think Happiness lies in how much those two answers overlap.

Day 9: Feenin' for Facebook

2010-11-11T18:24:00.000-08:00

I wanted to log on so badly today. What was life like before I had a Facebook home page with notifications about everyone? I know I exist outside of my FB account, but what about everyone else? What is my brother who is stationed overseas up to today? Did he remember to wish our other brother a happy birthday? Oh wait. I think that's what email is for. What about that distant acquaintance that was part of my performance art group? What is her witty and clever self up to in Scotland? See? Why do I need to know that? I don't. Especially when I should be doing other productive things like writing Chemistry lab reports, catching up with my pregnant BFF, or knitting.

At least I remembered a few important birthdays without needing a birthday reminder. Dementia and serious memory loss have not set in yet, though on some days I wish I could convincingly plead old age. That way I can be excused for my crabbiness and irritability. Although.... I think that men get a better deal. Mean old men are still charming in a way. LIke, "Ha! It's so awesome how Old Man Wilson cusses everyone out for no reason." Old women are expected to be sweet and grandmotherly. Otherwise, she's just the bitchy old hag with too many cats or something.

Ok. enough with my rant. Maybe I just need good conversation and human contact.

Half dome planning

2010-11-05T02:07:00.001-07:00

permits

Cold French Fries.

2010-11-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Until this past summer my dad had commuted 80 miles a day, round trip, every weekday between work and home. It was a dependable routine. Wake up, make coffee, shower, take lunch, start driving, eat breakfast, work for 8 hours (with lunch break), drive home, get home in time for dinner, or dinner and the Lakers (during bball season), pack leftovers for next day's lunch, a little more tv, sleep.

When I was younger, he would sometimes buy his lunch at an eatery near work. It was always the same: fried chicken and french fries. Maybe with vanilla tootsie rolls for a sweet snack. I knew what he ate because he would bring some home of his leftover meal for me and my brothers and I to eat. The french fries were cold but I loved them. Growing up we occasionally went out for fast food, but the majority of the time my mom cooked. And fries were GOOD. (Not actually delicious, but if you are a fry lover who doesn't eat them daily, leftover fries are yum... and please be reminded, memories are constructs.) If Dad came home with a styrofoam to-go box in his hand I knew that I could have a pre-dinner snack of sometimes reheated, often not, french fries. I'm not sure whether he couldn't finish it or whether he knew we'd eat them, but there was always leftovers from his bought lunches.

I ate a couple of cold fries yesterday at work, leftover from the meal I had hours before. It brought be back my memory of those times, when life was simpler and we were all less wasteful. Oh, my nostalgia fries. Granted we were poor, but it didn't matter. Or we didn't notice because my parents worked hard and did an awesome job. I want that. I want sweet (not the flavor, the feeling).

I want simple.

Day 1: My Facebook Hiatus

2010-11-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I changed my FB status to read something like "Kim Ta is conducting a test. Going on a FB hiatus for the month of November. Will I become more or less distant from people? If you need to reach me, please call or email."

I realized I had been spending entirely too much time on the social networking site, updating my status, clicking here and there on peoples' links and pictures. It was at least an hour at a time, no less. I had an idea of what my FB friends were up to even though I didn't hear their voices. I'm glad I can find out about things like the passing of an old friend (not a FB friend) via the site. There are awesome events people tell me about. And I get excited to see what clever and fun things people are sharing. But I started feeling like I forgot how to really be in touch with people. What if I started speaking like I was updating my status? What if I lose the meaning of a friendship with the friends I have FB friended? Or with the friends that are NOT my friends on Facebook? That would suck.

Who knows... maybe I'll be more productive and proactive with my time.

So I'll post updates about how this experiment is going from time to time. I wonder what I will me missing. Or gladly not missing from not signing on. OR maybe the point is to stop wondering and pick up the phone.

Possibility Girl

2010-10-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

by Andre Jordan

¡Con ganas!

2010-10-23T01:07:00.000-07:00

I had an exuberant Spanish 2 professor who, on the first day, wrote CON GANAS on the board. She told us that it was her expectation that we live, learn and participate "Con ganas," which she shouted with as much eagerness as she wanted us to have, fist in the air and all. Life is too short to passively sit back a watch it happen. If you feel like doing something with half of your passion, a portion of your desire, and a fraction of your energy, then WHY DO IT? It was infectious to watch a woman, a few years shy of retirement, bounce around the classroom, encouraging everyone to take life by the horns and ride it. Corny, but I'm all about corny.

Confession: I have not been living well. I have not been writing, creating, reflecting, or really thinking all that hard...and it sucks! I think that's why I'm in a funk. I have been missing the discipline to succeed, the passion to participate, hunger to be the best and the compassion to help.

All right. Enough with the lamentation. Time to get out there and live this wonderful life. Back to the list. Back to my goals. Back on track!

¡CON GANAS!

Cellar door

2010-10-14T12:35:00.000-07:00

Speaking of random things to get excited about. This is my latest. Just started poking around, but I really want to know who said it first? Why/how/when did "cellar door" become the most phonaesthetically pleasing word in the English language. And is it more fun to form then, say, the word "hemlock?" Is it the combination of L's and R's that makes it so magical? More on this.

If I was a high school chemistry teacher...

2010-09-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

These are some of the jokes I would tell:

On the first day-
Q. Chemistry is about matter and energy. Everything is made of matter. So... What's the matter?

A. EVERYTHING IS THE MATTER.

When learning about nomenclature and naming molecules
Q. Which is the Ugliest Molecule? (some knowledge of another language is required)

A: Iron (II) Oxide. (FeO)

If it wasn't slightly inappropriate, I would wear this when we learn about measuring volume.

I would be the teacher that everyone rolled their eyes at... or something.

Triathlon shopping

2010-07-27T17:06:00.001-07:00

HERE WE GO! Going to commit to one or two of these.

Encinitas Triathlon - Encinitas, May 2011 $85
What I like: It is open water, but since it's in the spring, it will give me time to get better at swimming and get a bike.

Pasadena Triathlon - Pasadena, March 2011
What I like: Pool swimming, reverse tri, limited to 600 participants
What I don't like: $85

Race on the Base - Los Alamitos, Feb 2011 $65
What I like: Pool swimming, reverse tri

CSULB Triathlon = Long Beach, Feb 2011?
What I like: Pool swimming, reverse tri
What I don't like: 4 bike loops

Fun races to consider:
Scavenger Dash

Tour de Palm Springs
A training race? Feb 2011

Ba: My caretaker, my teacher, my hero

2010-05-30T06:51:00.000-07:00

How do you write a eulogy? How do you reduce the richness and depth of a person's life into a few minutes? I knew that I had to write from my heart and I had already done that Monday night, so I based my grandmother's eulogy on that post. I wanted to out this up for those who could not be at the funeral services and for those who want to re-read. Thank you for your sympathy.

-----

Dear guests, Kihn thua cac Cu, bac, co chu, chau muon xin loi, chau khong noi tieng viet kha. Chau muon noi truyen ve ba noi chau tu long, tu ruot, Chau phai dung tieng anh. (This is me apologizing for not doing the speech in Vietnamese.)

It is an honor for me to have been asked to speak about my grandmother as we come together to celebrate her life. It means a lot to me to be able to share with you what a remarkable woman she was.

Born in 1919, she was tuoi Ky Mui, or Earth Sheep. We shared the same zodiac sign, me and my grandmother, or as I called her just Bà. People can be of the same Vietnamese zodiac animal but differ in the heavenly stem associated with that year, so it is worth mentioning that we are both Ky Mui. I wonder if that has anything to do with how close I feel to her.

According to some sources this means that we are supposed to be: Righteous, sincere, sympathetic, creative, gentle, compassionate, mothering, determined, peaceful, generous. Can be indecisive, over-passive, worrier, over-sensitive, complainer. I am not sure whether I am all these, but if I am anything like my grandmother, I am lucky.

Yes, she was a worrier and mothering and compassionate, but to all of us she was our caretaker, she was our teacher and she was our hero.

Ba had the best garden! I used to love walking and playing with my brothers among her roses, peach trees, and other flowers. I attribute her green thumb to her discipline and love. Every day, after her morning exercises she would tend to her plants with care and compassion. Down to the trashcan that collected rainwater and condensation, she paid attention to every detail. Just as she fed and watered her plants until they blossomed, she also guided, nourished, and cared for her children and grandchildren. She used to make me put on my sweater every time I went outside. I didn't like it because my long sleeve would get bunched up in the sweater's sleeve as she put my arm through and it felt uncomfortable. "Did you eat?" meant "I love you." If I was being a fussy eater, Bà would take me and my bowl of food to the front yard. There she would distract me by pointing and the birds and asking "what is that?" in Vietnamese. As my mouth opened in awe or to say WOW, in came a spoonful of rice. I fell for it every time until my meal was done.

After she moved out of the LA house and into the one in OC, I would occasionally bring food to her and my uncle. By this time she was strictly vegetarian, I was finished with college, working in the area, and Bà was beginning to need help with day-to-day activities. So I volunteered to trim her fingernails and toenails. I have to admit that when I pulled off her sock the first time to clip her toenails, I was disgusted. I never thought I would be that close to someone’s feet before. But as I clipped and cut and massaged her toes, I felt an overwhelming sense of humility. I am so fortunate to be able to do this. I was thankful I had the time, energy, and ability to come over and help. This brought me so much closer to her.
Eventually, these visits became routine. I would trim nails at the same time to remind myself that she was due for a trim--if my nails were long, so were hers. My Vietnamese isn't very good, but we were able to work out an understanding, a fair trade. After I finished with her mani/pedis and she ate her food I sat there and she told me stories. Everyone of us remembers her stories. She told me about how as a child she was a little rascal who used to hop over fences and eat fruit from neighbors' trees. It was funny how she punctuated every sentence with a “Troi Dat Oi” "Mô Phâ.t!" or a clap, as she laughed with her entire body.

She told me how the family used to have a cement company in Northern Vietnam until they had to move South, away from the invading forces. It was all so fascinating to me. I loved listening to her. She spoke with her hands and you could see every emotion come through her expressions: the excitement, the fear, the relief that they made it through.
Even in times of war and chaos my amazing grandmother was able to keep her family safe. After the Fall of Saigon in 1975 she was able to reunite everyone. Even 10, 20, and 30 years after being in the United States, her children living all over she was still able to reunite people for her birthday. She is even bringing the family together today to celebrate her life and help her pass onto her afterlife. This is what makes her my hero.

There is so much more; it would take days for me to recount every detail. There is a photo collage board I prepared in the back, filled with memories. After the service, I invite you to take a look at it. Though I could have, I did not fill the board completely. There are still empty areas where many of other people’s memories of Bà can fit. A few of my cousins wanted me to share some words with you about her:

Chi Quynh Christine – Colorado
Bà was such an amazing person--I do remember all of her passionate/fiery storytelling, and all the loving meticulousness she always put into caring for family when she was young and able. It was hard to see her age, especially in these last years.

Chi Tu – New Orleans
I am so blessed to have Ba as my grandmother. She was a such joy to be around. Her laughs were always loud and so cheerful. She was a brave, caring, thoughtful and wonderful woman. I loved the way she told stories. They were intense, exaggerated, and so interesting. I will cherish the memories I have of her and the times we spent together. I will miss her greatly. I love you, Ba.

Chi Lan Anh – New Orleans
Ba was such an incredible and nurturing person; when we visited, she always made sure we were comfortable and never hungry. I have many fond memories of Ba, all of which are filled with lots of joy from the times when she was strong and lively. The most memorable to me were the times when we sat at the dining table, eating her Rice Crispy treats while she told us stories from Vietnam
I'll also never forget walking to the grocery store with Ba. When it came time to pay, she would pull out money from her home-made secret pocket. I remember thinking how neat that was, such a clever idea.
Living so far away from Ba, I didn't get a chance to be with her as much as I wish I could have, but the wonderful memories I have of her will remain vivid and will constantly be in my thoughts.
Ba, I miss you and love you very much.

In her last month I tried to come by once a weekend to help change her diaper, get her out of bed, feed her. I got to know Bà in her most vulnerable state. I did things for her I never imagined I'd do for another person. Most of these interactions were done in silence because her hearing was so far gone she didn't wear her hearing aids anymore. Crude sign language, eye contact and smiles. No more stories. Just smiles. I saw her last Saturday. She didn’t want to eat and was being fussy. So I put on her sweater, making sure he shirt sleeve did not get bunched up in the sweater sleeve, and I wheeled her outside in her wheelchair, around the neighborhood. I pointed and showed her the big white ducks. And she said her own version of WOW.

On the morning that we found out she passed away, one of my aunts gave me a big hug and thanked me for helping to take care of Bà. I told her not to thank me and I meant it. It was all my pleasure. I had the privilege of spending time with her. Being able to hear the stories. Doing for her what she did for me when I was too young to do it myself. To take care of her. To be with her. I should be the one doing the thanking.

Thank you Bà, my caretaker, my teacher, my hero. I love you.

Ky Mui - My grandmother and me

2010-05-24T23:44:00.000-07:00

Earth Sheep / 1919, 1979
Righteous, sincere, sympathetic, mild-mannered, shy, artistic, creative, gentle, compassionate, understanding, mothering, determined, peaceful, generous, seeks security. Can be moody, indecisive, over-passive, worrier, pessimistic, over-sensitive, complainer.

We shared the same zodiac year and attribute. People can be of the same Vietnamese zodiac year but differ in the heavenly stem associated with that year. I wonder if that has anything to do with how close I feel to her.

Things I remember:

I never had hair past my shoulders as a child. I used to love watching Bà undo the tight chignon (bun) in which her hair was pinned. I don't know if she knew I was watching, but I always felt like I wasn't supposed to see her with her hair down. Her hair would unravel and reach at least her waist. And she would comb it with a straight comb, not brush, starting from her scalp all the way down to the ends. (We have good hair.) Apparently, that hairstyle had been associated with either French elegance or Vietnamese nationalist resistance at different points in history. Hm... I kind of think for my grandma it was easy and fashionable.

If I was being a fussy eater, Bà would take me and my bowl of rice/food to the front yard. There she would distract me by pointing and the birds and asking "what is that?" in Vietnamese. As my mouth opened in awe or to say WOW, in came a spoonful of rice. I fell for it every time until my meal was done.

Bà told me once that my forehead (five-head) meant that no one would be able to take advantage of me. Interesting.

After she moved out of the LA house and into the one in OC, I would occasionally bring food to her and my uncle. By this time she was strictly vegetarian, I was out of college, working in the area, and she was beginning to need help with day to day activities. So i volunteered to trim her fingernails and toenails. I would trim mine at the same time to remind myself that she was due for a trim--if my nails were long, so were hers. My Vietnamese isn't very good, but we were able to work out an understanding. I brought her food and mani/pedis, and she told me stories. She told me about how she used to hop over fences and eat fruit from neighbors' trees. She told me how the family used to have a cement company in Northern Vietnam until they had to move South. It was all so fascinating. I loved listening to her. She spoke with her hands and you could see every emotion come through her expressions: the excitement, the fear, the relief that they made it through. It was funny how she punctuated every sentence with a "Mô Phâ.t!" or a clap.

There is so much more; it would take days for me to recount every detail.

In her last days I tried to come by once a weekend (because the home health nurse didn't come on weekends) to change her diaper, get her out of bed, feed her. I got to know Bà in her most vulnerable state. I did things for her I never imagined I'd do for another person. Most of these interactions were done in silence because her hearing was so far gone she didn't wear her aids anymore. Crude sign language, eye contact and smiles. No stories. Just smiles. I watched her slip away more each time I saw her.

This morning we found out she passed away during the night.

One of my aunts gave me a big hug when she saw me and thanked me for helping to take care of Ba. I told her not to thank me and I meant it. It was all my pleasure... pure self-interest. I had the privilege of spending time with her. Being able to hear the stories. Doing for her what she did for me when I was too young to do it myself. To take care of her. To be with her. I should be the one doing the thanking.

Thank you Bà. I love you.

Up: Carl and Ellie

2010-05-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

So I have a thing for Disney movies, especially Pixar collaborations. There, I said it.

Months ago, I saw a glimpse of the type of relationship I have been looking for. Yes, in a Disney movie. Call me sappy or hopeless, but the idealism in me still lives behind the sewn together patches and bits of my heart. She is Ellie, an adventurous spirit and he, Carl, is the one who loves her. In the beginning of the movie, Carl and Ellie meet and it goes into a montage of the couple lovingly growing old together. It's a relatively short part of the movie, but it was the part I remembered best. Getting married, building a home together, their challenges, their affection for one another. The love was in the details.

(sigh...)

On another note:

I will be done with my prerequisites next month and will be able to apply for schools (FINALLY!) The part of me that wants it all tells me that it might be time to look for Mr. Right while looking for the right nursing school/program. So much easier said than done. Factors in choosing a nursing program:

- How fast I can get started: Down with waiting lists!
- How soon I can work as an RN: Includes reputation of school, how long the program is, % of new grads with jobs,
- Cost: Consider my final debt to income ratio, support system, whether I can work at the same time
- Location: I've always wanted to live somewhere beyond SoCal
- Associated vs. Second Bachelor's vs. Masters
- What kind of nursing do I want to end up doing in the end? FNP, ICU, ER, Pediatric, other?

Decisions. Decisions.

Is this going with me?

2010-05-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

Or against me?

How to make your heart and mind work together

Dream

2010-04-21T00:26:00.000-07:00

For the past two nights I have woken up from dreams. I'm not sure what's going on with me internally (stress, hormones,diet etc.) or externally (body, neck position, etc) that is causing me to remember my dreams but I feel compelled to start writing them down since I don't usually remember them--to the point where I question whether I have them at all.

This one was interesting because it involved applying for a job at the organization where I used to work as a community organizer, but in a much different capacity than I had previously worked. It was for a supervisor/coordinator for the employment access and job training program. It was the portion of the interview where a classroom full of people could get to know the candidates: some of the people in the program, the employees of the organization, and community members. They asked the 4-5 candidates, "What would make you a good lawyer? Why are you applying for this job?" Question itself was random and it kind of threw me off, but I had my answer.

I waited until the other people spoke. I don't remember what they said, but I do remember what I said. I said I'm not applying to become a lawyer, but a humble leader and strong facilitator. But what I do know is that a Coordinator is essentially an advocate--an advocate for clients, the program, and her staff. (Part of this dream made me miss my former coordinator at the organization.) I spoke clearly and confidently about how I observed that this program meets that needs of individuals on a basic level, serves the people, builds dignity, and in turn strengthens the sense of community in the area. I have long admired the fact that after basic job training, people feel compelled to return and give on the backside. After they have found jobs and/or gotten themselves settled. The backflow on the backside was why I wanted to apply for the position and what I felt the strength of the program was.

I woke up really wanting to go back to doing community work. I woke up really wanting that job.

It got me thinking about how much different I am (or the same) after having left the organization 4 years ago. A lot has happened in that time. I have been working as an EMT now for two years and everything about it has made me a better person. Running emergency-911 calls and inter-facility transports between hospitals for the sick and recovering has introduced me to a myriad of different personalities of different social, economic and ethnic backgrounds. From Huntington Park to Huntington Beach, I have served people at their most vulnerable...sometimes thanklessly. It has taught me patience, humility, to trust my skills and to stick to my convictions while observing protocol and respecting policy. I am thankful for the opportunity to be doing what I do for a living. But I do want more. I know I can do more. Learn more. Grow more.

I think that's what this dream was about.

Did you eat?

2010-04-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

Means
I Love You

[heart] this

Si tú me olvidas

2010-03-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

Quiero que sepas
una cosa.

Tú sabes cómo es esto:
si miro
la luna de cristal, la rama roja
del lento otoño en mi ventana,
si toco
junto al fuego
la impalpable ceniza
o el arrugado cuerpo de la leña,
todo me lleva a ti,
como si todo lo que existe,
aromas, luz, metales,
fueran pequeños barcos que navegan
hacia las islas tuyas que me aguardan.

Ahora bien,
si poco a poco dejas de quererme
dejaré de quererte poco a poco.

Si de pronto
me olvidas
no me busques,
que ya te habré olvidado.

Si consideras largo y loco
el viento de banderas
que pasa por mi vida
y te decides
a dejarme a la orilla
del corazón en que tengo raíces,
piensa
que en ese día,
a esa hora
levantaré los brazos
y saldrán mis raíces
a buscar otra tierra.

Pero
si cada día,
cada hora
sientes que a mí estás destinada
con dulzura implacable.
Si cada día sube
una flor a tus labios a buscarme,
ay amor mío, ay mía,
en mí todo ese fuego se repite,
en mí nada se apaga ni se olvida,
mi amor se nutre de tu amor, amada,
y mientras vivas estará en tus brazos
sin salir de los míos.

~Pablo Neruda

Sigh

2010-02-25T10:46:00.000-08:00

I love it when the groom is moved to tears as he says his vows.

Things I'm thinking about

2010-01-31T07:29:00.000-08:00

The Story of Stuff
Hoping my parents' packrat and hoarding tendencies are not hereditary. This is not to say the house has things piled to the ceiling with narrow tunnels to get from one room to the next, but we do have a lot of stuff.

Getting Things Done
About
How
Feasibility- GTD seems really stoic and sterile. I think that we as humans need instructions and guides like this because we tend to get distracted from what we initially deemed important priorities. I'd like to say that I'm able to make goals and stick to them, but I wonder if I would be more efficient of I thought more like a machine--cut out the fat, ~~eliminated the excess~~, focused on the tasks at hand, and attacked my new to-do lists with precision. But I like my distractions. Stopping to smell the flowers has been what keeps me going. *sigh* What to do, what to do.

I'm going to get rid of some no-longer-needed things in my life.

Borrowed

2010-01-25T22:00:00.001-08:00

The spaces between my fingers

2009-12-06T22:23:00.000-08:00

Vanilla Twilight

Xmas wish list

2009-12-03T13:49:00.000-08:00

There is always at least one friend who asks me what I want for Xmas, and I am always stumped because I am put on the spot. So before it happens again this year, I am offering to the world a peek at my letter to Santa.

Dear Santa,

This year I have been a little naughty but mostly nice. I have enjoyed working on the ambulance. I don't get to do a lot of 911-emergency calls, but I have been able to talk to a lot of patients during inter-facility transports. Doing both full time school and full time work has been hard, but I'm still smiling. I hope this list isn't asking too much.

Hoodie thing - my brother John's friends make this really awesome cold-weather accessory.

Guitar bag/case- my brother Chung bought me a guitar but I don't want to take it out of the house until I get a bag/case for it.

Lens Crafters Gift certificate- There are two pairs I have my eye on. One is a really artsy, hipsterish cat-eye style and the other is a half-rim Oakley frame.

Wallace and Gromit set - They are my favorite and some of the few movies that I remember enough to randomly quote. I think I already bought this for myself once but it was probably lost in a break-up. I already have "A Matter of Loaf or Death."

iPod docking station - There are two places in my life where music is desired but lacking: the kitchen and in the shower. It would be awesome to not have to bring my laptop into the kitchen just to listen to music while I cook.

The "Yeah-Right" section
Tiffany Somerset ring - I've loved this ring for the longest time. Size 6 or 7.

New windshield- my 2007 Honda Civic hybrid has had a crack in it's windshield for over a month and have not been able to get it replaced.

Tinted windows- to protect the interior of my car from extreme summer heat
S-factor classes- The closest location to me is Costa Mesa.

Sincerely,
Kimi

. . .

2009-11-30T08:48:00.001-08:00

Oh, I'm gonna be wounded
Oh, I'm gonna be your wound
Oh, I'm gonna bruise you
Oh, you're gonna be my bruise

Question / Rhett Miller

2009-11-16T16:06:00.000-08:00

"Question"

She woke from a dream
Her head was on fire
Why was he so nervous
He took her to the park
She crossed her arms and
Lowered her eye lids

Someday somebody's gonna ask you
A question that you should say yes to
Once in your life
Maybe tonight
Ive got a querstion for you

She'd had no idea
Started to cry
She said in a good way
He took her by the hand
Walked her back home
They took the long way

Someday somebody's gonna ask you
A question that you should say yes to
Once in your life
Maybe tonight
Ive got a question for you

--------

Sometimes I feel like my timing is bad, my cartography's off, and my standards are messed up. The prospect is probable and depressing that I will find another person who has his own thing going on with no room in his heart or life for me. The former is not what I worry about, but how it plays out is where I get screwed. Throwing them out the window is an option but then what am I left with? My values and expectations are what keep me from picking the good from the bad. The potentially successful relationships from those that are doomed.

Lately I've been thinking that it would be nice to be in love for real before I really lost sight of what that really means.

I'm a cheeseball

2009-11-03T17:55:00.000-08:00

Mario f/Gucci Mane

2009-10-20T22:20:00.000-07:00

Break Up
The beat is so enticing, exciting, makes me want to move.
Don't know about the lyrics though.

Juno's Dad

2009-10-07T10:43:00.000-07:00

"Look, in my opinion the best thing you can do is find a person who loves you for exactly what you are. Good mood, bad mood, ugly, pretty, handsome, what-have-you. The right person is still going to think the sun shines out of your ass. That's the kind of person that's worth sticking with."

Keep or return?

2009-09-21T09:26:00.001-07:00

People in my life have told me that I am too quick to settle. There was one time I ordered my salad to have dressing on the side because I think that most restaurants over-drench their greens with it and I'd like to add just enough. My salad instead came out with dressing on top, but rather than send it back to the kitchen I decided to eat it. I didn't want to trouble the kitchen and waitstaff and have them throw away food on my behalf. My cousin with whom I was dining told me that I was a pushover and characterized me as a person who would settle for less than what I expect.

Imagine my dilemma when I receive the above shirt that wasn't exactly what I wanted. I ordered it from a booth at the health expo before the Disneyland half marathon, where the sales lady told me I could order any of the shirts in any of the styles they have. There was a long sleeve cream-colored one that I could have purchased on-site and satisfied my American need for immediate gratification but instead I decided to customize and wait because I don't really wear long sleeve shirts. I chose a tri-blend short sleeve tee in heather blue (see this for heather blue color) to have the same writing as the top in the picture. But I instead got a cotton long sleeve tee in sky blue. At least they got the style right in the color font I wanted. I was so excited to get the package because I LOVE the writing--Just not the color and the sleeve length.

So i pitch the question out to the world: Would I be a weak sucker if I kept it? Or should I be picky and send it back?

The Frisky

2009-09-16T22:51:00.000-07:00

Stumbled upon a blog today and found an amusing article: The Mind Of Man: How We Say “I Love You” (Without Actually Saying, “I Love You”)

Shockable rhythm detected

2009-08-30T17:23:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what physically happens to your heart when love leaves? Or dies? A life lost or lost love injures, hurts, and leaves a mark. I recently heard a story about a woman whose boyfriend went into cardiac arrest and died right before her eyes. I instantly put myself in her shoes, helplessly watching the one who owns your heart leave, never to return. It would not be right to compare her heartbreak to what I've experienced in my life, but I have felt loss. It almost feels like my heart has stopped. Who knows if I will ever find the jolt I need to get it working again.

The heart remembers everything. What does my EKG say?

Almost bought

2009-08-30T10:52:00.001-07:00

Then I realized that I should spend the money on lunch or something.
But it's soo cute.
Penguins, bunnies and snow. Who could ask for anything more?

Trips

2009-08-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

My budget nowadays is limited, so I've been consigned to taking trips in my head. Here is one place to add to the list of places I'd like to visit.

Capilano Suspension Bridge
Vancouver, BC

How gorgeous is this?

Shirt

2009-08-16T09:32:00.000-07:00

I need to get this for a few of my friends at work.

Wanted: A Pick-me-up

2009-08-04T22:37:00.000-07:00

I'm starting another list... of things that I would theoretically like to have. The original thought came from the fact that I don't own any of the videos/DVDs that I watch or would like watch. Owning them would make it hand for those nights I want to wrap myself up in a blanket with a glass of wine. If I were to gift myself something I'd be a basket containing a soft throw blanket, comfy loungewear, and several movies:

Chick Flicks
- When Harry Met Sally
- High Fidelity

Animated movies:
- Wall-E
- Wallace and Gromit series

There are a few other ones that I frequently like to watch but do not need to own: Some Kind of Wonderful, The Breakfast Club, Say Anything, something by Pedro Almodóvar, Amelie, Pan's Labyrinth, ... there are more that i cannot remember because I haven't had the time to park myself in front of the TV.

Already Own
- Muppet Show season 1, 2, 3
- Punky Brewster, first 8 episodes

President of the Trier Drinking Society

2009-07-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

I was looking through one of my old journals, where I make lists, muse, and write down ideas and thoughts to look up. I followed up on one thought this morning. I must have been driving home from work when I heard a segment on NPR's "The Writer's Almanac" where Garrison Keillor talks about Karl Marx writing to his wife. Here is part of the segment, which aired May 5, 2008:

It's the birthday of Karl Marx, born in Trier, Germany (1818), the son of a lawyer. Marx went to university to study law but was not a very dedicated student and became president of the Trier Tavern Drinking Society. When he transferred to a school in another city, he became a more serious student. He married Jenny von Westphalen, his childhood sweetheart and the daughter of a Prussian Baron, in 1843. They would have seven children together, only three of whom would survive to become adults. Nonetheless they had a tender and generally happy marriage, and Marx once wrote to his wife, "There are actually many females in the world, and some among them are beautiful. But where could I find again a face whose every feature, even every wrinkle, is a reminder of the greatest and sweetest memories of my life?"

Someone once told me that I seem like I am equal parts romantic/idealistic and practical. My fondness for what Marx wrote to his wife captures that. He is at once being idealistic and romantic, telling his wife that she is the only one he'd rather be with. But the mention of the reasons why make it all the more real: There are beautiful people in the world, but I'm not interested in them--you are my life. You can also feel the gratitude and appreciation in the tone.

Just when you think you understand a philosopher/political theorist/social scientist, you learn something about him that surprises/delights you.

Workout playlist makeover

2009-07-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

I was running today and got bored with the music that was on my Workout playlist. The list is about 2 years old and needs some editing. Any suggestions? I'm X'ing the ones I'm planning to remove from the list because I always skip them.

X Don't Stop - ATB
Commonwealth (Cheap Chicks) - Bahamadia
Wouldn't it be Nice - Beach Boys
Don't Worry Baby - Beach Boys
X Still Dirty - Christina Aguilera
Fighter - Christina Aguilera
X Sci-Fi Wasabi - Cibo Matto
Over and Over again (Lost and Found)
The Skin of My Yellow Country Teeth - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Is this Love? - Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Go! - Common
Here it Goes Again - Ok Go
Friday I'm in Love- The Cure
X Why Can't I Be You - THe Cure
Harder Better Stronger Faster (Neptunes Remix) - Daft Punk
One More Time - Daft Punk
Soul Meets Body - Death Cab for Cutie
Your Heart is an Empty Room - Death Cab for Cutie
X Jumpin, Jumpin - Destiny's Child
Where Did Our Love go? - Diana Ross
Come See About Me - Diana Ross
Baby Love - Diana Ross
X Someday We'll be together - Diana Ross
Hate it or love it - The Game
Maneater - Hall and Oates
X Sexy Back - Justin TImberlake
Stronger - Kanye West
X Gold Digger f/Jamie Foxx
Mr. Brightside - The Killers
Nanny Nanny Boo Boo - Le Tigre
X After Dark - Le Tigre
X Don't Drink Poison - Le Tigre
Loungin (Who Do you Love ) - LL Cool J
X Fire Fire - MIA
Dirty Little Secret - All American Rejects
Last Resort - Papa Roach
Work it - Missy Elliot
X Get Ur Freak On f/ Nelly Furtado - Missy Elliot
Float On - Modest Mouse
X Ocean Breathes Salty - Modest Mouse
X Shake Ya Ass - Mystical
Maneater - Nelly Furtado
Promiscuous f/ TImbaland - Nelly Furtado
X Say It right - Nelly Furtado
Do It - Nelly Furtado
X Bizzare Love Triangle - New Order
Hella Good - No Doubt
Just a Girl - No Doubt
B.O.B. (Remix) - Outkast
Ditty - Paperboy
X Tombstone, Baby - Peaches
I love your smile - Shanice
Kissing the Lipless - THe Shins
X '93 Til Infinity - Souls of Mischief
What About your Friends - TLC
Ain't Too Proud to Beg - TLC
X Blue Monday - New Order
Mas Que Nada - Sergio Mendes
X Luv 2 Luv U (remix) - Timbaland
X Clock Strikes (remix) - Timbaland
Kick Push - Lupe Fiasco
X Never Lies - Lupe Fiasco
Don't Phunk With My Heart - Black Eyed Peas
Pump It - Black Eyed Peas
X My Style f/ Justin Timberlake - Black Eyed Peas
The Way You Move - Big Boi f/ Sleepy Brown
X Superstar f/ Matthew Santos - Lupe Fiasco
When You Were Young - The Killers
Jenny Was a Friend of Mine - The Killers
Get Up (Main) - Ciara f/ Chamillionaire
Hey Ya - Andre 3000
Glamorous f/ Ludacris - Fergie
Pogo - Digitalism
X Kids - MGMT
Oh Mandy - The Spinto Band
Obstacle 1 - Interpol
X Yeah! - Usher
Keep the Car Running - Arcade Fire
12 O'Clock Girl - James Maker

Know any good workout/running songs?

Dreams

2009-06-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

There has been a strange new phenomenon in my life. I have woken up remembering my dreams. For as long as I can remember I haven't been able to remember anything i dreamed about the night before. I was concerned about it enough to ask about my dreamless sleep during an anatomy lecture on brain memory and reorganization (a la the hippocampus). My professor says you're not supposed to remember them unless you woke up in the middle of or right after REM. That brought relief.

But now I'm remembering them! Does this mean my nights are more fitful and restless? Most likely. It's been difficult to be in a long distance relationship, have a milestone birthday, work 2 jobs and not really have time to unwind. There was one dream in particular I had at the beginning of the month that was amazingly vivid. It felt as though I were watching a fairy tale and I had to write it down.

Once upon a time, there lived a king and queen of the forest who ruled over the land with the power of their love. All in the kingdom were humbled by it and loved to be subjects in such a positive and peaceful land. Daily citizens had conversations about the king and queen's true love for each other, and how much it inspired them. They needed no police, no taxes-- love brought peace and comfort to the hearts of all. The kingdom itself was beautiful. The colors shone brightly, the sun was warm but not too hot, the breeze was cool and balmy, and the world seemed to sing. I think this dream was in technicolor.

Around the castle, a loving couple would communicate in short glances, an affectionate hand on the other's shoulder, just staring into each other's eyes. The king would leave notes where his queen could find them to remind her of how special, beautiful and loved she was. They had a special language which only the two of them understood that looked like single-line drawings on EKG strips.

One day, to the dismay of all who knew her, the queen mysteriously disappeared. In my dream she had either fallen ill, died, or disappeared. The king was heartbroken. Part of him believed that his queen would one day return. That she was still alive and would come back to him. But in the meantime he could not rule without her. He gave up his crown to live in the forest and took one of his advisers with him. They were shape-shifters so he and his adviser decided to turn into large trees, kind of like the tall Ents in Lord of the Rings, so that they could retreat but still be able to listen and watch for any sign of the queen.

Months/years... [time] passes.

Suddenly the king began to hear rumors of a woman or being that fit the queen's description: her good nature, her beauty, her grace. He started finding new secret love notes like the ones they used to write to each other. Though skeptical, they king began to move out of the depths of the forest and closer to the kingdom. The king then announced that on a certain day, for an entire day, he would display the queen's ring for her to come forward and reclaim by trying it on. (very Cinderella-esque)

That particukar day came quickly and the king sent his adviser to the town square. He placed a pillow out--on it sparkled the queen's ring. The whole kingdom gathered with wide-eyed anticipation of their queen's return and with hopes that their kingdom would be restored to the happy place it had been. They wanted desperately to believe in true love again.

The day stretched long. No sign. The sun began to set but the ring sparkled on.
The collective heart of the land was once again broken.
She never came.

And then I woke up.

Some of the details are still missing and I hope to fill them in with "awake" fiction because I think it's a lovely (though tragic) story. If you ask whether I'm supposed to be the queen in this story, I'll tell you no.
My thoughts and feelings throughout the entire dream were from the perspective of the king.

Rawr!

2009-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

Another shirt.

Sticky note

2009-04-08T13:24:00.000-07:00

Songs about LA

Songs about CA

I [heart] poems

2009-03-27T18:30:00.000-07:00

Haiku shirt 1

Haiku shirt 2
an oldie but goodie

Sticky note

2009-03-01T20:49:00.000-08:00

Mayor's Midnight Marathon - Anchorage, AK

I have too many shirts

2009-02-25T21:23:00.000-08:00

Cancel My Subscription

Why do I want any more?

See Kim Tri

2009-02-04T09:24:00.000-08:00

Here the quest begins. I will complete a triathlon this year.

Equipment needed:
Wetsuit
Bike
Helmet
Shoes
Heart
Mind

Possible Events:
Oxnard Splash and Dash
500m / 2 miles
July 5, Aug. 17, or Sept. 13
$35 + $10 USAT one-day membership

Imperial Beach Triathlon & Duathlon
Imperial Beach- San Diego, CA
Triathlon:1/2K Ocean Swim, 15K Bike, 5K Run
Duathlon: 2K Run, 15K Bike, 5K Run
Aug. 23
$65

Mission Bay Triathlon
Mission Bay- San Diego, CA
500-meter swim - 15K bike - 5K run
Oct. 4
$75

See Jane Run Triathlon
Shadow Cliffs Regional Park- Pleasanton, CA
400 yd swim • 11 mi bike • 3 mi run
Sept. 26
$85

If you know of any more or are thinking of doing one, Let me know! We'll train together.

Surf City Half-Marathon- Post race report

2009-02-02T13:27:00.000-08:00

Feb 1, 2009 - Superbowl Sunday (Steelers vs. Cardinals, great game!)

I woke up at 5am to be able to find parking for the race and it was well worth it... even if it was butt-ass cold by the beach at 6am. I thought my fingers were about to fall off. I wore long pants and a long sleeve shirt and didn't take them off the whole time even when the sun was out, which I thought was unusual for me because I thought I could only run kind of distance with shorts. I parked at the beach lot at PCH & Newland, facing the shore. After the race, I iced my legs in the ocean.

I was slightly disappointed that I didn't train as hard as I could have. (If I am allowed 3 excuses they were 1. the Holidays and cold weather 2. Not a lot of time with full time work and school 3. I was sick for the last few days before the race.) I thought I wanted to do the race with my iPod on to keep me moving, but voted against it when I realized I don't have 3 hours worth of running music or an arm strap for it. On my Friday shift before the race I told my EMT work partner that I would be happy with a time under 3 hours and if I didn't die. Then I got some words of encouragement and advice from my friend Jenni L. who told me "Mind over Matter, Kim!" and I decided to not settle for less than my full effort.

Time? 2:37:54-- about 10 minutes slower than my time from the Long Beach Half (2:28:05). Only 10! I hit a "wall" during my last 2 miles, but other than that, it wasn't too bad. (The course in Long Beach felt much easier.) Only one more half marathon to complete my California Dreamin' Series: SF here I come!

My most favorite part of running this one were the songs that were in my head. Last race it was "Smile Like You Mean It" and "When You were Young" by The Killers. This time, with the help of a couple of Surf City runners who were singing out loud at around mile 3 and mile 6, I got Matthew Wilder's "Break My Stride" and Madonna's "Into the Groove". So awesome. More to add to my workout playlist!

Second most favorite part of this race was the medal:

My Journal Collection

2009-01-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, they are mine.
Yes. There might be a couple that are missing, but it was unintentional. One was in my bookbag and one is still shrink-wrapped and sitting on my bookshelf.
Yes, they are many.
No, they are not all full. I would only consider 3 of them to be completely filled.
A couple are in progress and the majority are blank.
One has only recipes in it.
One is my 2004 Vietnam travel journal.
A few were purchased for inspiration for my own journal-making projects so they will never be written in.
A few were gifts. (Thank you!)

You would think that a girl with this many journals and a couple of weblogs would have a lot of thoughts and have things figured out. On the contrary. It's because she is still learning and figuring things out about herself and about the world that she continues to write.

I show these not to elbow or make a jab at anyone who has given me a journal or plans to give me a journal (because I love them), but to show that I know I have come a long way and have a long way to go. In one of my first journals given to all students in my fourth grade class, I thought I was being clever in writing the sentence "I like ___ ___." backward. Maybe I can get my secret out without anyone finding out, i must have thought, even thought I knew the teacher read them.

Love and heartache continue to mystify me and be a powerful muse.

I have actually been on a writing hiatus for several months now... swamped with work and school while squeezing in dates in the between-time. I guess I just needed a bit of red velvet cake to help me realize that I have finished processing some of the random thoughts that have been swimming in my mind and re-evaluate what is important in my life. (I guess my huge tattoo is not doing its job very well.)

---

One of the biggest downers in my life right now is the fact that the economy sucks. My public speaking professor--yes, public speaking. If you must know, some nursing schools require me to prove via transcript that I can speak in front of people--mentioned in class yesterday about the murder-suicide of a Wilmington family. Police and a letter left behind suspect that the father killed his wife and three kids after both income earners in the house were fired from Kaiser Permanente West LA.

One of my good friends who has been teaching English in Japan for the past 3 years is going to sign up for another year because she doesn't think there will be a job for her here. I and her other friends really wanted her to finally come home. The sad part is although I got an extension to visit her in Japan, I have less disposable income today than I did when I was told her I couldn't afford it in the past.

Another one of my best friends is about to lose her job in the next couple of weeks as an MFT after just having bought a new home. Economy-related closing of her company/organization.

My dad's hours have been cut in half.

My brother is looking for a job. Anyone need an entry-level legal assistant?

Just makes me appreciate that I have a job. Really.

Apple Tart Recipe

2008-11-27T14:26:00.000-08:00

Pate Sucree - Sweet Shortcrust Bakery

For approximately 1lb (500g) pastry:
4oz. (125 g) soft butter
1/3 cup (3oz/90g) superfine (caster) sugar
1egg
2 cups (8oz/250g) all purpose (plain) flour
2 pinches salt

1. Cream the butter and sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the egg and mix for 30 seconds. Add the flour and salt and mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. Place the pastry on a work surface and knead, pushing it out with the palm of the hand and then reforming it into a ball, until the dough is smooth and elastic; this should take about 5 minutes. Wrap the ball of dough in plastic and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably longer. Remove from the refrigerator 1 hour before using. Any leftover pastry can be stored in the refrigerator for 4 days or frozen.
3. The egg will prevent this pastry from becoming soggy, even when cooked directly with the filling. It may also be baked blind, in large or small pans, by covering the pastry with waxed or parchment paper and filling it with rice, dried beans, or pie weights.

Tarte Aux Pommes A Alsacienne - Alsatian Apple Tart

10oz. (300g) sweet pastry (see above)
1lb. (500g) Golden Delicious or pippin apples
4 egg yolks
1/3 cup (3oz/90g) sugar
1 envelope vanilla sugar or 3 drops vanilla extract (essence)
4 pinches of cinnamon
3/4 cup (6fl oz/200ml) heavy (double) cream

1. Preheat oven to 425 deg. F (215 deg. C). Butter a 10-in (26-cm) deep tart plate (flan tin). Roll out the pastry dough into a 12-in (30-cm) circle and line the plate with it.
2. Peel, quarter and core the apples. Cut each quarter into 4 slices. Arrange evenly over the pastry in the form of a rose, starting from the outsidee and overlapping the slices slightly. Bake for 15 mins.
3. Meanwhile, combine the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon and beat well. Beat in the cream. Coat the apples with this mixture and bake for another 30 minutes or until the apples are tender. Serve warm.

From France the Beautiful Cookbook
Recipes: the Scotto Sisters
Collins Publishers: San Francisco, 1989.

I'll post a picture of the finished tart later.

About the marking

2008-11-17T15:45:00.000-08:00

Written in January 2008, on another blog:

"I finally decided, now with more conviction than ever, how I want to permanently mark my body. It was my second to last day in Saigon and it came to me so clearly as I lay, meditating about the meaning of my trip and my direction in life. ... My exact thought/resolution was that I was to be fabulous from that point on, to show the world what I am and what I have to offer without reservation. It was such an empowering thought. ... I want something to show the world how fierce I can be, and a reminder of the commitment I made to myself.

My life is for me. And instead of wondering whether I'm #3 or #347 on another's priority list, I will be my own #1 Girl."

From Wikipedia:

The Fenghuang [Phoenix] has very positive connotations. It is a symbol of high virtue and grace. The Fenghuang also symbolizes the union of yin and yang. It appears in peaceful and prosperous times but hides when trouble is near. Shan Hai Jing - chapter 1 Nanshan jing records each part of Fenghuang's body symbolizes a word, the head represents virtue (德,) the wing represents duty (義,) the back represents propriety (禮,) the abdomen says belief (信) and the chest represents mercy (仁.)[3]
In ancient China, they can often be found in the decorations for weddings or royalty, along with dragons. This is because the Chinese considered the dragon and phoenix symbolic of blissful relations between husband and wife, another common yin and yang metaphor.

As a tattoo symbol, the Phoenix can be found in many tattoo genres, but of the Far East in particular. It is a symbol of resurrection, rebirth and regeneration. It also represents purification and transformation through fire and adversity.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-10-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

A tee/tank for the occasion. On my wish list!

Long Beach Marathon: Post-race report

2008-10-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

I rocked the Long Beach Half Marathon yesterday and I feel awesome. I jogged/ran the whole distance and according to the official race results, my average mile split was 11:18 and I was running at about 5.3 mph--that's better than a car in rush hour on the some LA fwys! I'm proud of me! Total time: 2h:28m:5s

Highlights? (1) I hit my high running alongside the beach (must have been in Belmont Shore) with small waves crashing to my right. (2) There was a water station at Mile 9 that was playing Pitbull's "Ay Chico (Lengua afuera)" and was so tempted to stop running and shake my booty. A little reggaeton can go a long way! (3) After Mile 10 the course looped back near the same water station and I was also able to hear MJ's "I wanna rock with you." (4) At about Mile 3, I passed a runner that had to have been older than 80, maybe even 90. He was accompanied by someone who was probably was his son and who told an inquiring dentist that the super-aged runner was a retired MD running yet another marathon. Can't get much more awesome than that.

Training could have been more rigorous but it was consistent: I signed up for a circuit training weight course at school that I attend two times a week and I have been running about 5 miles a week since May, increasing the mileage in the last month before the race. I have a few strange traditions and rituals I do/complete before a big run, some too private for the internet. I'll share one: I listen to music on the way to the race to pump myself up and to get a song in my head to mentally sing, kind of keeping a cadence. For this race, Viva! The Killers.

Races are fun! Nothing compares to the energy of the runners lined up at the start line. My adrenaline rushes, my pulse races, my spirits are high. The half marathon distance (13.1 miles) is perfect for me. The distance is long enough for me to get in the zone (runner's high) and to hit a short yet surmountable "wall."

Unlike Revlon 5k run/walk, the LB marathon saw less people with tribute signs--the ones that pull at my heartstrings--but there was a good share of runners and walkers with the Leukemia and Lymphoma society. It's so motivating and inspiring to dedicate your run to someone who cannot be there themselves because of illness, injury or death. That seems starkly morbid, but I didn't know how else to put it. I didn't have anyone specific to run for, but I had a handful of people on my mind: a friend's father suffering from cancer and running a fever this weekend; another friend's baby whose corporeal heart shall one day be as strong as the love he gives and receives; my grandma and last living grandparent whose mental faculties and memory are slipping as her body gives way to age; and at the risk of sounding egotistic I run for my health, my future and myself.

I made it a goal of mine to run 300 miles between May and the end of the year and signed up for the half-marathon as a way to help myself keep up the mileage. For those of you who also visit my facebook page, the number in my status represents the number of miles I have run so far. Big thanks to those who openly (or telepathically) root for me and my running achievements. If you want to run, it's all possible.

Run, Baby, Run!

Remember when?

2008-10-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

Whether or not Barack Obama wins the election, he will have had a lasting impact on my life. Thank you Obama for your time at ACORN as a community organizer. Because of you, less people will give me that perplexed look each time I explain the five years of my life after college.

I was a Community Organizer.

Yes, that means I dedicated my life to bringing up the lot of low income people and connecting people to resources, whether they existed or should exist.
Indeed, I what I wanted the most was to restore dignity to people who had everything in their power to survive and feed their families.
Emphatically, I wanted each of the students I worked with to know that they can and should work toward opening doors of opportunity, to use them to succeed and help their communities.

Each person I came in contact with--whether it was the family who lived in the converted garage, the city officials who talked out of both sides of their mouth, the parents and teachers and organizations who came together because they cared, or the recovering addicts who cleaned our office--taught me a lot about myself and helped me realize what kind of life I want to live.

Just for fun.

2008-09-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

Quiz: Which Greek Goddess are You?
Hearty Artemis!
With qualities like strength, agility and perseverance, you enjoy a challenge, especially one associated with finding or keeping your soul mate. Assertive, confident and poised, you readily confront challenges and expect equality with your beloved. You like calling the shots, at least sometimes. With a bit of the tomboy lending a realistic aspect to your personality, you set and meet high goals in various aspects of your life.

Life is good...

2008-09-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

I have been baking up a storm lately. Sugar cookies, Peanut butter cookies, Rice Krispy treats, chocolate chip cookies, banana bread (x 5). Such a cathartic experience to mix things together and have it all turn into something that warms people's hearts and bellies. I'm thinking of graduating onto cakes and more advanced cookies like these Mexican wedding cakes. Mmm. Mmm.

All I need now is a Kitchenaid stand mixer and my own kitchen and there will be no stopping the tasty goodness!

She'd love my job

2008-08-29T06:12:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite web comics! (Have I already mentioned this?)
Questionable Content #1219

Obama rocks

2008-08-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Because he does

Call Me Penny

2008-08-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

Another t-shirt to giggle at.

This is g33k-tastic!

Blame it on the... moon

2008-07-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

I'm so tired. I can barely formulate thoughts. I started my shift at 6am today, which of course means that i woke up at 4:45. For work I have to be "on" because I am going through driver's training (ambulance). That made my work hours drag.

Afterwards I went to take a test in my Statistics class. (ugh.)

It's about time for bed, but I have to wash up first.

I'm looking forward to seeing friends this weekend and Feist at the Hollywood Bowl.

I should stop reading these

2008-07-08T06:42:00.001-07:00

Today's Earth Sheep horoscope

You'll suddenly be seized by a great desire for change; you may want to change your customary environment by undertaking a long travel, to change your job, or even to change your love partner! In any case, think thoroughly before making a decision. In your work, you can this time bring your most ambitious project to a successful conclusion and by the same occasion outdistance your hardest competitors. The affairs of the heart will receive the benediction of the stars; any tension will be eased off; and if you're single you'll meet your soul mate in the most unusual circumstances.

Today's Earth Sheep horoscope

2008-07-07T19:10:00.000-07:00

Your amorous initiatives will be favored and ecstasy will be at hand. As you are no Superman or Hercules, don't underestimate the effects of overwork. If you're single, you'll be struck by love at first sight. You'll have some budgetary problems because you've been improvident. If you're decided to achieve a project or another, you'll have the means to do it and chance will help you. Give a helping hand to a friend in need.

...
I'm skeptical.

What I learned today in class

2008-07-02T23:43:00.000-07:00

Expression in terms of Probability:

P (K + Mr. Right) = 0
P (K + Mr. So-So) = 1

TEMPEH!

2008-07-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

Food of the day: Tempeh

Some people might say, "Ew! tempeh." But I say, "Dang, I haven't had that in a long time."

It's a fermented soybean cake-ish thing, originally from Indonesia. It was scrumptious when I was vegetarian and ate at the Banyan House (sigh... too bad it closed down). The texture and taste can be a little weird for the novice, but the nutritional value (e.g. iron and calcium) for vegans and vegetarians is superb. Well, except for the saturated fat part. Everything in moderation, I guess.

How about some Tempeh fajitas?!

Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 (8 ounce) package tempeh, broken into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 1/2 cups chopped green bell pepper
1 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, drained (I'd use a mix of brown, crimini, and shitake)
1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
1 tablespoon chopped green chile peppers
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
1 tablespoon dried minced onion

Directions
1. Marinate the tempeh for a few minutes in the soy sauce, lime juice, and a clove of minced garlic--enough for the it to soak up a little flavor.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute tempeh with a little more soy sauce and lime juice until tempeh browns.
3. Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, chile peppers, cilantro and dried onion.
4. Increase heat to medium-high and cook until fluids have reduced, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed to keep the tempeh from drying or burning.

Serve with corn tortillas or over white/brown rice. I'd also add a side of southwestern salad.

Hungry yet? I know I am.

Foodie News

2008-07-01T09:17:00.000-07:00

On my quest to eat better (yes, i know, i have many quests), I am assembling a collection of restaurants and recipes to whet your appetite and spice up your life... and mine. I lost my desire to cook last year and want to kickstart my way back into it.

Feel free to share ideas and suggestions...

Hope you like it!

TODAY's Earth Sheep Horoscope

2008-06-30T08:56:00.000-07:00

Your ambitions will be great but well justified; make an attack on what's dearest to your heart in order to achieve your professional projects at the fastest. There'll be clouds over your love affairs; beware of possessiveness and tyranny. Risk of a break of the thighbone: be watchful in your movements. Without forgoing your outdoor life, devote a little more time to your family; this is important.

It's Mental

2008-06-30T07:48:00.001-07:00

(meaning, "A Little Crazy" and "Willpower" at the same time)

On a whim, I signed up for the Long Beach Half Marathon, which is going to be held October 12. I did the Honolulu Marathon in 2002, so I'm not new to the marathon training regiment. However, this time I don't have a training partner or group. Instead, I have my wits and a training program built into the nike.com website. It's pretty neat. I enter my training level, (Beginning, Intermediate 1 or 2, or Advanced). I chose Intermediate 1 because I need to improve my time. The program then maps out and details when I should do runs, with how much Perceived Exertion, what distances, etc. The gimmick is that I have to buy something that allows me to sync my runs into the computer so I can keep track of my progress. Eh! I needed one anyway. And I have to get a new pair of shoes since I've been running so much. I see these things as investments in my personal health--what a concept!

What's this mean for my diet? Cutting back and/or cutting out alcohol, caffeine, junk food, fast food, empty carbs. Consciously focused on intake of water, veggies, lean protein, and water again--of course, all of this I should be doing anyway.

Why in the world would I do this? You ask? I operate best when I have a goal. Fitness goals and physical challenges keep me focused and I'm looking forward to testing my mettle. Wish me luck.

Yo La Tengo

2008-06-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

"Tears are in Your Eyes"

You tell me summer's here
and the time is wrong
You tell me winter's here
And your days are getting long

Tears are in your eyes
Tonight

You tell me that you haven't slept in days
You tell me sleeping only makes you tired anyway

Tears are in your eyes
Tonight
Tears are in your eyes
Every night

Although you don't beleive me, you are strong
Darkness always turns into the dawn
And you won't even remember this for long
When it ends alright

Please tell me how you know tomorrow staring at your shoes

Tears are in your eyes
Every night
Tears are in your eyes
Every night
Tears are in your eyes
Tonight

Life on the Ambulance, Vol. 1

2008-06-27T21:22:00.000-07:00

As of this moment I have logged in about 237 hours at the private ambulance company where I work. One of the first lessons I learned in training was, "Don't make their emergency your emergency." I say that to myself each time I get a 911/fire call. Actually, only about 98% of the calls I get are on the private side--which means I'm a glorified medical taxi taking patients from hospitals to other hospitals, convalescent homes, dialysis centers, MRI offices, etc.

Everyone guesses that I am about 24-25, and are usually perplexed that little ol' me is there instead of some 6-foot white dude in his early 20's that looks like he surfs in his spare time and is on the way to becoming a Firefighter or Paramedic. When I tell them I want to be a nurse, they seem to understand. Still, a few of them still take one glance at me and tell me (and my partner), "You'd better not drop me."

As an attendant (not a driver), I get to sit in the back with the patients and talk to them (given that they are alert and oriented) as I monitor their vital signs. I've had dozens of fascinating conversations with patients. After the important medical questions, my favorite question to ask older female patients--whose husbands were in the hospital upon pick up--is, "How long have you been married?" and "What do you think is the key to a successful relationship?" I'm still collecting stories, but the common thread is Patience. There always ups and downs... how you get through those times is as important as the act itself. In between time, "Don't go to bed mad." If I get to it, I tell them a little about myself since they are offering so much of themselves. I tell them that I recently had a 6-year relationship end about 9 months ago. And they give me the same look. The wince that says, "Ouch, that much be tough." It is the same look anyone that has been in love gives me when when I tell them that.

Downside, Upside

2008-06-25T21:50:00.001-07:00

Con: It's nearly an hour-long commute to work, each way.
Pro: It's a committed hour of Morning Edition (AM) and Fresh Air (PM) that I didn't have before.

I heard two stories that got me thinking today.

A Nod to Arranged Marriage
I couldn't shake the image of a dancer and an engineer standing on opposite sides of an unfinished bridge, shouting to be heard over the roar of the fast-moving river. Not physically together but newly married and dying to communicate with each other, get to know each other, and be together. Poetic. Romantic. Inspiring.

My Stroke of Insight
This neuroanatomist's story was so compelling. Pulled me right in. She recounts her experience with her left-brain stroke/hemorrhage with such clarity and detail. Only took 8 years to remember.

I am so right-brained. No wonder left-brained people think that I'm spacey. More details about right brain vs. left brain. BUT I think I've been re-wired in order to try to function properly in the world. According to this test, I am left-brained.

Who needs rings?

2008-06-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

Why exchange eternity bands when you and your sweetheart can get a set of these.

How awesome is that?

BAA!

2008-06-18T08:11:00.000-07:00

Campaign T- shirt

Hiphopopotamus

2008-06-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

A smile for your day.

Awesomeness

2008-06-17T22:45:00.001-07:00

Thank you for the thoughtful bday gift.
I love this Flaming Lips album/cover. And a needed a new Moleskine!

Great gifts these make.

New tricks

2008-06-13T06:36:00.001-07:00

javascript:void(0)

Eureka!

2008-06-08T11:22:00.001-07:00

I spent a lovely hour this Sunday morning at a local store that sells yoga clothing. They offer free yoga classes every Sunday morning. Some of the women in this class had super amazing yoga skills: headstands and other balancing asanas/poses. So impressive. Part of me knows that they could have been planted by the store to inspire us novices to get more into it and in turn buy their clothes... so, in sum, it worked. I didn't buy anything yet, but I want to get back into a regular yoga routine.

Finally! Some centeredness in this crazy existence I have been leading for the past few months. Trying to get a job, getting my courses all planned out, my career path paved, bills paid, while staying emotionally, physically, and mentally healthy has been taxing. I finally got relief in the hour at yoga. It's been about 4-5 years since I was in a yoga class that helped me feel this way: focused, centered and in tune with myself and the world. Now I can start processing all the thoughts that have been floating around in my head. #1 thing to remember: breathe.

Though it will take some time to completely get on the ball, this morning was an awesome start.

One Day...

2008-06-05T22:11:00.000-07:00

...I will realize my super power

And have a t-shirt to go with it.

Pip | My sidekick

2008-05-31T08:31:00.000-07:00

I was washing my car this morning and I realized that I love her. She embodies the intersection of idealism and practicality. Ideal because I want to do my part to save the world. Driving normally, I can get between 43 and 45 MPG. Instead, I drive like a grandma and I get between 48 and 50 MPG. Yes, she's already a hybrid and I will get double the MPG of most cars on the road, I still choose to save fuel.

And Pip is pretty too.

New string of blog posts

2008-05-30T08:17:00.001-07:00

I'm going to stop with the Things to See and Do. I'm short on time these days because of the long hours and list of ongoing errands. Instead, I will spend my free time looking for awesome t-shirts online!

I want (Not the girl, the t-shirt.)

One of my friends got this one for his b-day.

Suburban roosters

2008-05-26T08:09:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a symphony of weedwackers and lawnmowers. It sounded like everyone and his/her mother tended to their lawns before 8:00am this Memorial Day. Chores. Whoopee. [Sense the enthusiasm?]

Btw, I hate the shrubs that were planted at the perimeter of the new shopping center. It smells like manure as I run by. I hope it goes away--the smell, not the plants nor the shopping center. Hooray for Trader Joe's

Bay to Breakers: Halloween in May

2008-05-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

The more time I spend in the Bay Area, the more I think that I should live there. This time, I fell in love with the City of San Francisco. I ran the 12k Bay to Breakers run today and boy was it awesome. Not only did i get to see a lot of SF, I got a feel for the crazy people who live in/near it. They don't take themselves too seriously and really like to have a good time. Here are some snapshots of the festivities:

My friend C and I decided to make scavenger hunt lists for each other to keep the race interesting. It was too crowded and hectic to try to run the race for time, so we jogged it for a friendly competition (prize: bragging rights). We ended up in a tie.

Before the start of the race. Everyone is so jazzed. Bouncing beach balls and flying tortillas everywhere!

Me and C. I'm not sure why I look so lop-sided in this picture.

Me as Garbage Pail Kid Hairy Cary. This was a photo cut out thing that I saw during the race. I stopped to get a photo.

Almost everyone was in a costume. I saw Viking ships, the Running of the Bulls, Team Zissou from the Life Aquatic, Indiana Jones and the villain from the Temple of Doom and...

Plenty of people in their birthday suits.

So many people running in such a beautiful day.

The swimmer is male.

Promoting organ donation.

Disney princesses gone wild! If I wasn't abstaining from alcohol, I totally would have asked to partake in that sangria. Mmm.

Sushi!

There was music and bands everywhere. People blasted music from their homes and from their cars parked along the route. So much more energy and enthusiasm than any Rock n Roll marathon!

This kid didn't run/walk. He was just hanging out with his mom, handing out high-fives. Cute, eh?

After the finish line, we headed to the Ferry building for lunch.

(I'd be broke.) Do I really whine that much? Only when I'm not fed.

Lost an excuse

2008-05-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

As a person in her late 20's, my family and friends have continued to ask, "When are YOU getting married?" When it seemed I had no other excuse, I used to tell people that I would get married when my gay friends can get married. I have lost an excuse to not be married today. Go California!

Well. Half a year ago, I gained an important excuse--I don't have anyone to marry. That doesn't stop them from asking. They probably won't be satisfied until they feel like I am actively working on it. To that I say, bah! Give me a nursing license (specifically RN) first.

Things to See and Do - 5/16

2008-05-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Missed last week, but here is a list for this weekend. I'll be in the Bay Area for the weekend and running in the Bay to Breakers race on Sunday. Here is a list of things I may have been doing instead:

Trapezoid.
I have not been to an Asian American small theatre production for about 5 years. The storyline for this play sounds interesting. April 19 - May 25. $16 general admission, $14 students/seniors.

If you live on the Westside and wanted to see exotic animals without having to drive to the LA Zoo, visit Ecostation! Year-round: Saturday & Sunday 10am- 4pm & Friday 1-5pm
**Summer hours (July-August): Monday-Friday 1-5pm. Adults–$8 Children–$6 Seniors–$7 (65 and over)

Raging Waters! I haven't been here since I was in junior high. Have to go back now that I am comfortable in the water. It's going to be in the 100's this weekend. Let's cool off! Adults $34.99, $29.99 Online - Save $5.00, Children - Under 48 inches $19.99, Seniors - 55+ with ID $22.99. The season passes are on sale too!

Or, of you're in the Bay (SF) this weekend come cheer for me at Bay to Breakers! Let me know which mile marker you'll be at: 1 through 7, or Finish Line.

The Best Man of Honor Speech Ever

2008-05-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

It's so great how much love was put into this. I guess it's one of the awesomest things about working in theatre and music.

Thanks for sharing this with me, Jeannie! I guess the season has started.

Concert Prep

2008-05-07T16:18:00.000-07:00

I'm getting myself pumped up for the concerts I'm attending at the end of the month. Both concerts I'm attending will be at my favorite place for outdoor music, the Hollywood Bowl. Yaaay picnics.

REM, Modest Mouse, The National - May 29
The Cure - May 31
Radiohead in August (we'll save that excitement for later)

Here are some highlights from my foraging:

REM
At My Most Beautiful

REM - Be Mine (feat. Thom Yorke)

Thom Yorke is awesome...

THE NATIONAL
Relatively new to my Likes list, they are more the reason why I wanted to attend this H-bowl show. Though REM and Modest Mouse are no small beans.
NPR story
Fake Empire - Letterman appearance

The National - Mistaken for Strangers

MODEST MOUSE
My favorite album is Good News for People Who Love Bad News and I saw them perform in Santa Barbara when they toured it. I decided at that time that the band is better in studio.
Here's one of my favorites-- The View Someone made a video for this song... it's pretty cool.
Other songs I like on this album: Float On and Ocean Breathes Salty

From the new album: We Were Dead Before The Ship Even Sank
Missed the Boat
I'm looking forward to seeing what they do with this song live. Would be great if they screen the video contest finalists as they perform it.

Modest Mouse - Dashboard (Letterman appearance)

THE CURE
I was listening The Cure the entire weekend a few weeks ago. When I mentioned this to one of my friends, he asked "why? were you depressed or something?" Too funny. They are the OG emo band.

Letter to Elise

The Cure - Lovesong

More for your aural pleasure:
Boys Don't Cry

The Cure makes everything better- These songs crack me up! Loving it.
The Cure vs. Justin Timberlake- Lullaby Love
The Cure vs. TLC - Scrub Close to Me
I thought of posting the Eminem vs. The Cure - Friday I'm superman, but it would have changed the way I saw/heard "Friday I'm in Love" forever.

You Tube is a Treasure Chest

2008-05-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

Things to See and Do - 5/3

2008-05-02T19:28:00.000-07:00

See a film or three at the Asian Pacific Film Festival. There are many films in 58 Program events and 3 venues to choose from. $8 students/seniors/member-$10 general admission per Program.

Visit the gardens at the Huntington Library, especially this one. My parents fear that I am turning Chinese. I tell them the word is turning Chinese. $15 weekdays, $20 weekend.

Three MOCA Venues: Free Every Thursday!

Pasadena Roving Archers. I really don't want to tell people about this one because it's so crowded as it is. I tried going once but I got lost and by the time I got there, the parking lot was too full.

Sorry I didn't post this sooner. I was too busy trying to get life in order this week! :)

There's a Fine, Fine Line - Avenue Q

2008-05-01T17:45:00.000-07:00

Things to See and Do- 4/25

2008-04-25T06:59:00.000-07:00

I've started this list in my browser's bookmarks of things and places I'd like to do and visit. Instead of hoarding them all for myself until I get to do them, I thought I'd share on a regular basis. For some events/places, I will not be able to do because of prior engagements. If you do end of doing any of these, let me know how it goes!
.
Velvet Hustlers & Weird Lovemakers: Japanese Sixties Action Films - April 25, 26, 27 (7:30pm)
(TIckets & Location) $10 General Admission
.
Los Angeles Times Festival of Books - April 26 (10am - 6pm) & 27 (10am to 5pm)
Admission to the Festival of Books is free. Parking is $8.
.
Wicked! - Until Sept 2008
$35 - $98. I've only heard good things about it.
.
Watch the Grey Whale migration - Now through 4/30
$25 adults / $20 children under 12, seniors over 60.
"Sightings are guaranteed: you will get a free trip if we do not see whales or dolphin!"
Another option for a whale excursion
If you wanted to make a whole-day adventure out of it. More pricey.
.
Critical Mass - every last Friday of the Month
More info! Where is my bike anyway?
.
2 EARTH DAY EVENTS
Eco-Fair at Universal Studios - Sat, April 26 (10am - 4pm) Free! And Free Parking for hybrid vehicles.

City of Pasadena GREENING THE EARTH DAY & Armory Center for the Arts FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL - Sat, April 26 (10am - 4pm) Free!

Enjoy, everyone. And I hope you have and fun and safe weekend!

Pumping

2008-04-24T03:58:00.000-07:00

They say that cells from the same heart beat independently of each other. And they beat in unison. Say you were to take a cardiac cell that is beating fast and place it in space, outside the heart. Then you take a cardiac cell from the same heart that beats a little slower and place it next to the first one. They will eventually sync up... usually taking up the faster beat. See.

What are your heart cells doing? Because my heart is beating really fast right now. (Must be the coffee.)

Today

2008-04-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

Before the birds wake
And the day breaks, I rise to
Caffeinate the world!