rambling thoughts

2002-06-06T14:22:00.000-04:00

A New Journey is up and running.

This site will no longer be updated. Thank you for visiting. :)

***

As promised, here is the URL to my new weblog, although I am not sure how frequently I will update it:

A New Journey

I have not yet implemented a commenting system on my new weblog and I am not sure if I will. If you know of a good commenting system that
I could use - preferably remote hosting - since the one used here (blogback) is no longer available to new users, please let me know. :)

2002-06-01T00:35:00.000-04:00

Quick update:

I just got back from Game 6 of Boston Celtics vs. New Jersey Nets at the Fleetcenter. It's also my first LIVE NBA game. While I am disappointed that Celtics lost, I applaud them for making this far into the playoff games. Despite the loss, I enjoyed the game (as well as the intensity and energy of the crowd). I was very into the game, although that's not too surprising, since I've been following the Celtics games since playoffs. I thought that Celtics have a good shot of winning tonight, especially since they led by 10 points by halftime. I was actually a little too fan crazed - cheering and booing loudly and jumping up and waving the white/green towel over my head. But then again, if that's the case, everyone is fan crazed too. I am just surprised that I haven't lost my voice by the end of fourth quarter. In that quarter, some fans were so disappointed that they threw paper airplanes and towels down the balcony. One paper airplane actually flew very nicely down from somewhere up the balcony and steadily toward the court, where a Nets player jumped it from the bench and caught it.

I got to the Fleetcenter early and saw the Celtics (and Nets) practiced, although Pierce and Walker weren't out there practicing. I noticed that Rogers made a lot of open 3-point shots at practice. Lots of fans actually lined up to try to get autographs as players head to the locker rooms before the start of the game. Maybe I wasn't paying attention, but I only saw Williams and Rogers from the Celtics heading to the locker rooms. Much to the disappointment of some fans, Williams did not sign any autographs but only waved and high-fived some outreached hands. Rogers was nice enough to take some time out to sign autographs. He probably stayed out the longest to sign the autographs too. Although I am not a Nets fan, I thought Jason Kidd was nice to fans too. Obviously, this was the Celtics home court and as you can imagined, the Nets players were called lots of name. One fan called Kidd "loser" very loudly as he passed by. Although I am not a Nets fan, I thought that was rude and unneccessary. It's obviously a very hostile environment for the Nets players. As Kidd passed by on the way to the locker room, some wanted his autographs too. Anyway, one guy dressed in a green and white Celtics jersey handed out a piece of paper for Kidd to autograph, and Kidd was also nice enough to sign it and several others (unlike his teammates). Obviously, the taunting crowd called the guy in the Celtics jersey a "traiter" and that if he were a true Celtics fan, he wouldn't want Kidd's autograph. Just lots of name calling.

Although the Celtics lost, I am glad I have the chance to watch the Celtic's last game of the season. I actually tried getting tickets for this game on the first day that they were released, but they were sold out within the first 10-15 minutes. I got the tickets only yesterday by some stroke of luck. It's balcony seating, but it gave a pretty good view of the court. Anyway, there's always next season for the Celtics. Go Celtics!

Also, several people have asked if I will continue weblogging. I don't know yet. As of now, I have been really busy and even if I had a new weblog, I won't have the time to write much. Maybe once things slow down a bit, I might start a new weblog. Maybe not. As of now, it's all indefinite. If I am going to start something new, I'll probably post the update here. While things have gotten so much better these days (I didn't really write too much about it only because I didn't want to), the situation could easily explode as it did last time. I don't want that same "situation" to spiral out of control, so I am going to spend more time on mending and rebuilding. That, and due to the craziness these past and coming days, I won't be checking e-mail or this site or other blogs often. I am just going to "disappear" :) for a little while (so to speak), so I apologize if it takes me a quite some time to respond...

2002-05-22T01:16:00.000-04:00

(Note: This might be a long post, as I might take a hiatus from blogging.)

I am proud to announce that, as of May 18, 2002, I am officially a college graduate. :)

The graduation ceremony happened to fall on a rainy and chilly Saturday morning. This was one memorable ceremony, as I can't remember the last time I complained so much about the weather. In fact, it was so awful that open seats were available under the tent, which meant that many of the estimated 9,000 guests were watching from either the auditorium(s) in Lindsay or Adamian, or from the beautiful classrooms in Smith (yep, the non-traditional classrooms). You could (literally) see many of the graduates shivering in their caps and gowns. I even thought I was going to catch pneumonia or catch a cold (I think the latter applied). As for the speeches, I thought they were good, but not particularly awe-inspiring. It might have something to do with the weather, since I could go someplace warmer the sooner they end.

The guest speaker this year is the Republican gubernatorial candidate, Mitt Romney. I was afraid he would talk about politics at our graduation, but thankfully, he did not. Instead, he talked about "heroes" and his experiences with the Olympics. My favorite part of his speech was probably the part about Kerri Strug, the U.S. gymnast who led the U.S. team to win the Olympics several years ago. I liked that part most because I remembered watching that amazing performance by Strug - whose courage beautifully captured the spirits of the Olympics.

I saw most of my friends at graduation, mostly because we're seated by majors. :) I was thrilled to see one of my friends from high school during the processional. I've known him since my sophomore year of high school and we used to work together at the bank, but I only see him occasionally around campus. Because we are different majors and he was was a year ahead of me, we didn't have any classes together.

He's an awesome person, though, and he never failed to make me smile. Even at graduation, he stepped out of his processional "line" just to give me a hug. But then again, graduation or not, it's always like that between us. :) There is only a select few people who I get along with just as well. One of them is like an older brother to me. He definitely watched out for me and my teammate at the trip in Virginia, particularly at the bar, mostly from drunken people who acted like total idiots. (I used to want to check out the bar scene once I've turned 21, but I don't think so anymore).

Tidbits:

-As far as post-graduation plans go, I still trying to figure things out.

-At the dinner with my team at the President's House, I learned that Bentley is now "officially" Bentley University. That's pretty neat.

-Boston Celtics tied the Eastern Conference Finals Series against the New Jersey Nets (1-1) today. I hope the Celtics win. :)

- Warnings about suicide bombers in the future in the U.S. and potential threats against U.S. landmarks are all over the news. While I think many people are used
to the heightened alerts/warnings by now, I still think they are a bit unsettling.

-Genetically modified featherless chickens have been created. Odd-looking creatures, I'd say.

Anyway, going back to the beginning of this post, I think I am going to take a hiatus from blogging (it's been lurking in my mind for some time now). I've started this in my second year of college, and I am still amazed that I've kept this thing going for this long. Now that college is over, I think I am going to take a break from blogging. Maybe I'll write periodically. Maybe I won't. Maybe I'll start something else, maybe a new design, maybe a new name, Whatever it is, something needs to be changed. After all, sometimes we learn most from changes.

We'll see. :)

2002-05-16T17:34:00.000-04:00

I am not really doing anything particularly productive these days, and it's not good. Sure, I know lots of people would like free time to do whatever, but I did most of what I wanted to do already. Now, I just feel like I have lots of free time on my hands and I should just get busy. People would wonder what my hurry is, after all, I haven't even graduate from college yet. Well, I will, in two days, and I'd like to plan ahead. That's just my nature. I know some travelling will be in store for me, but I haven't figured out what I will doing in the long term.

As far as graduation goes, I am not as excited about it as I should be. Don't get me wrong. I am excited about it. Just not as excited about it as everyone else. I still can't believe that it's only three years ago that I moved into college - (even though it's not even too far away from home) - and now it's over. I still remember my freshman orientation, which I didn't particularly enjoyed. Two of my high school friends had just broken up around that time, and it wasn't pleasant to hear some of the arguments. Also, we were "forced" to attend this party on the first night there, which was fine, except I didn't really want to and the RA literally dragged me out of my room even though I insisted on staying in my room to read my freshman viewbook and promised to be good and quiet and make no troubles. (Not that I am a troublemaker anyway).

In my freshman year, though, I did meet two very special friends. I met one of them in my freshman seminar class and it was there that we both planned to graduate in three years from college. We still keep in touch even though we haven't had any classes all this year and only see each other periodically around campus. The other I see a lot more often only because we are both CIS majors and he's in most of my classes. I really adore him. He's such an interesting person. He's getting married next summer too, so I am even more happy for him. I am so happy to see that my friends are happy. I hope I don't lose touch with either of them after graduation. It's so hard to keep in touch with people.

So here I am. I am twenty years old and I am graduating in two days. Like most people, my college experience has its ups and downs. I guessed my college experience, in a lot of ways, is like my trip in Virginia this past April. It's more steady than the trip, since there were one or two things that bothered me a little bit. It forced me to look at the social situation more than I ever paid attention to it or in ways that I never needed to look at in college, and it's quite an experience).

Will I miss the school? Sure. Maybe I will. I doubt that I would miss the school more than I would miss all the people I met there. It's always the people. They're so important and it is they that I will keep in my memories. But, no need for me to get sentimental. After all, this isn't goodbye. This is only the beginning.

2002-05-15T13:16:00.000-04:00

For some reasons, they are all attracted to me.

It's too bad the subjects in question are mosquitos.
Oh joy.

2002-05-14T22:16:00.000-04:00

Update: I received my final grade earlier tonight and I did just as I had expected. Everything is now "official". :)

2002-05-14T11:55:00.000-04:00

All grades were due yesterday from professors, but I am still missing one more grade. I am actually quite annoyed with professors who don't hand in their grades on time. Sure, they have lots of papers to grade, but they also had over a week to do it. If teachers want students to submit homework/assignments on time, shouldn't they set an example by giving us our papers back after a reasonable amount of time?

In my entire college career, this is the second time that a professor had submitted a grade late. This one, however, is particularly annoying. Do you know why all grades were due yesterday? Because the Registrar's Office is going to complete its audit of requirements of graduating seniors by tonight, which is reasonable since graduation is coming up in several days.

Do you know what that means? For those seniors that need the course to graduate, they would be "walking" across the stage to get their diploma. That means that those seniors who need the course to graduate won't "officially" graduate or have honors listed under their names (it would be listed in the next graduation ceremony) until they have completed all requirements (logically enough). But, how is it the students' fault if the professor wasn't puctual in submitting grade?!?! (There's quite a few seniors in that particular class, myself included).

Yesterday, I was psyched to find out that I got a 4.0 for a class that I spent quite a deal of time in. Based on my class performance and quizzes, I think I did well in the class said above (the one I haven't received a grade). With that 4.0, I was able to secure honors - I think. All seemed to work out at the point, except I am a little bit nervous about the said situation above.

Luckily for me, I took the above course only for fun. After looking at my degree requirement summary (DRS), I figured that I don't need the course or the credits. I have enough credits to graduate as it is now, but I am a little bit nervous that the Registrar's would make some mistakes. (Hey, mistakes can happen, and since I am graduating in three years, my DRS is already as complicated as it can get). So I am hoping that everything will go smoothly. If not, I guess I would receive some notice soon, but probably not in time to make any changes before graduation. That would be very irritating, actually. I know this is going to be quite a headache for plenty of people, because I know that a number of students needed the course to graduate.

Oh boy. Grades were due yesterday. Let's just hope my professor put in our grades no later than this evening, before the Registrar's Office completes its auditing of requirements. Otherwise, there's going to be lots of headache. Until then, I am probably going to obsessively check my grades online every other hour. Or something like that.

2002-05-11T21:36:00.000-04:00

A good painting is a good painting, regardless of whether the painter is a friend, foe, or a stranger.

Last month, my mom and sis picked me up from school after my all-day Saturday class to go to Burlington Mall. I was most happy, because I finally got out of school and it was the long weekend. One of the things we wanted to purchase was an air-conditioner. We only have one at home, which has been been used for years and it looked like it won't last for too much longer.

So we soon made our purchase and went to the merchandising pickup area. As my mom and I “waited” for the merchandise, my sister went to get the car. The air-conditioner was semi-heavy (~ 65 lbs) and I walked back and forth between the waiting area and the door to check on my sis’s arrival. As I was waiting by the door, I saw one worker carried a heavy looking box to a customer's car. As he came back in, the automatic door shut on him. Naturally, I stepped in front of the sensor to let him in just as he pressed some button by the side of the door. He obviously noticed my intention, so he thanked me and smiled. I smiled back. It was then that I got a close look at him and was actually quite alarmed at how young he looked! He looked around my age, if not only slightly older (and could possibly be younger!)

I went back to the waiting area to wait for the merchandise with my mom. Coincidentally, the same gentleman brought our merchandise in a wheeled cart. (I said coincidentally because there were several workers). By the time he brought it outside, my sis (and her car) was still nowhere in sight. I explained that my sister has not arrived and the box can been left on the ground. I proceeded to move the box with my leg, and had probably moved the box 97% out from the cart when the corner seemed to be stuck to the cart. Instinctively, I held the cart by the handle to try to push it off with my leg. It worked! In hindsight, I must have looked a bit ridiculous, though, as he was still holding the cart handle! (I should have let the professionals do their work, shouldn’t I?)

The guy asked with genuine concern, “Are you sure you can carry it? It is kind of heavy”. I nodded my head that it would be OK and thanked him (I had to carry desktops when I worked at Field Service for several weeks, so I figured I could handle it). He politely bid me to have a good day. I looked up to bid him the same, when I noticed he was looking at me very intently and smiling. I couldn’t help but to smile back. It’s almost contagious. Because he was intently looking at me, the first thing I noticed when I met his gaze was “oh my, what beautiful eyes he has!” It was the first thing I notice and it’s not something I can say to just anyone. His eyes give him a deep, pondering type of look and its mood matched my mood of the day, filled with excitement and energy. That, along with his sweet smile, struck an immediate thought (and one that I don’t usually think about because it is rather superficial”, “wow, this guy is so cute!” (and he’s in his work clothes!)

He went back to his work. I sat comfortably on the edge of a concrete space right outside the pickup area with my legs rested comfortably on top of the box, and my mom waiting near me for my sister. I was busy thinking what beautiful eyes he has (he really does; it’s almost mesmerizing). Soon, I saw him out again carrying merchandise for another customer. I tried not to look at him because it would be weird (especially since I don’t know him), but I thought how nice it would just to observe him and his facial expressions. He’s so handsome. The analogy is like that of paintings. If one likes a painting, one could just look at it and examine all the details. I then carried on a conversation with my mom, although that doesn’t stop me from looking at his direction. (It's hard to look away when you're drawn to something, almost like most people tend to slow down to look at the scene of an accident). After he helped with his customer, he went to help with a co-worker who happened to be carrying huge merchandise.

Just as he and his co-workers began to walk inside, my sister pulled up and my mom began to put her shopping bag in the passenger seat and prepared to help me put the box into the trunk. While I have done weight training (h.s. swim team), the box was still too big and too heavy for me to carry alone. I sat in my comfortable position waiting for my mom and also waiting for those workers to go back inside. I had told the guy that help was not necessary, so I didn’t want to take back my words. Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw that his co-workers went in but he was still standing there – just watching me intently, again. (I bet he was wondering how I could get the box into the trunk, since he was fully aware that my sis’ car is here. Also, he himself carried the box out in a wheeled cart, so one would wonder how I could put it in the trunk myself.

I hopped down from my position and lifted the box up from the ground, just as he asked if I needed any help and walked over to me with that brilliant smile of his. I tested the weight of the box under my feet and it didn’t feel too heavy, but he insisted, “Here, I’ll hold this side of the box”. So we each carried a side of the box and placed it easily into trunk. He commented (almost as if he were relieved for me) that at least the air-conditioner wasn't as heavy as the other ones. I thanked him again, because he really didn't have to help again.

He looked at me with that smiling eyes of his, and once again, I was so amazed by his beautiful eyes. They truly are beautiful; they’re also so full of life and energy! And those eyes looked so genuinely glad to see whatever and whomever they behold. And like a good painting, I could only admire it. He smiled at me and bid me a good day again. I bid the same to him as a final goodbye. We each went our ways.

When I stepped into the car, I couldn’t help but to blurt out to my sis, “Did you see that guy?” My sis, who had seen him from the rearview mirror, had a rather odd, but thoughtful expression on her face. Before I could say anything else, she said something that I don’t normally hear her say, “You know, he’s really cute”. And you know what, even my mom agreed!

In fact, he may perhaps be one of the most handsome people I have ever seen (Don't get me wrong, though. I don't like him that way because I don't even know him, but that still doesn't change the fact that he was so handsome). His eyes and his smiles are so engaging. But despite his handsome look, there is one thing that I hope he will never lose: the joy, the carefree look, and the happiness that I’ve seen in his eyes that could only come from the heart. That look, that expression is so refreshing to see, and I hope he will never lose whatever it is that made his eyes glittered like the way I saw them…

2002-05-08T10:53:00.000-04:00

My team (undergraduate division) and the other team (open division) all attended the celebration dinner at the President's House yesterday. Each of us received a very nice plaque. It was a nice celebration dinner. One of the team members also made a CD for everyone with all the pictures taken in McLean, Virginia and Georgetown, DC. It was fun looking at the pictures. I can't even remember some of the pictures we took there until I looked at them! Each of us also got several hard-copy (not the digital version) of the pictures. I am so glad I have the opportunity to participate in this competition. Sometimes we learned the most from the people and the opportunities we take more than we learn "from" school, and I can say that this is one of those opportunity. It was probably the culmination of my college experience, and it almost seemed surreal.

This is certainly a huge variance from my last post, but distraction is probably best for me right now.

I completed all of my final exams and papers on Monday. Now, I'll have some time off until graduation next week. I have still yet to find out how I did for three of my classes. While I generally don't pay much attention to grades, I am a bit anxious to find out if I made honors at graduation or not. (Yes, not surprisingly, I am at the borderline right now).

I'll see most of my friends at commencement. I know I'll miss them after graduation, as we all go into our separate paths. Still, it was really nice to hang out with them before graduation. I went out with a good friend just the other day at Friendly's for lunch to catch up on things, and simple things like that are very nice, actually.

Mother's Day is coming up this weekend. What are you planning to do for your special mom? :)

2002-05-06T23:38:00.000-04:00

I wish I could write out everything I am feeling right now, but I can't. And I won't.

I guess if you put it in perspective, it would only be a mild stir in the wavelength. Then again, if you put everything into perspective, then nothing truly matters anymore.

It always comes down to this. Everything else seemed trivial when compared to it. Of course, how can anything ever compare to happiness? Why must it because of it that caused so much unhappiness? Why? Why? Why?

*sigh*

2002-05-05T14:54:00.000-04:00

The weather is perfect for Walk for Hunger today. Last year, it reached a high of ninety-something degrees, which made it all the more unbearable. One walker had to take the ambulance, which was fairly serious. With the exception of the first year when I walked all 20 miles, I walked only 15 miles since. Today was no exception. Why? Because it made no sense to start out in Boston, walk by Brookline, Newton, etc, and then get back all the way to Cambridge. Since I LIVED in Cambridge, it made absolutely no sense for me to walk all the way back to Boston, just to take the subway to head back to Cambridge. I know I'd missed all the celebrations at the end of the walk, but there were plenty of fun during the walk.

I haven't updated this thing for a long while now, only because I didn't really want to. I only wanted to write whenever I feel like it, not because I have to. Otherwise, this blog might as well be a goner. I haven't given my blog URL to people I know. In the past, I put it under my AIM profile, but I don't even do that anymore. So most of the people who tend to visit my blog are people who just happened to stumble into it. I have no problem with it because sometimes it's really easier to say what's on your mind to a stranger than to a friend. I know. I know. It sounds bad, but it's true.

I couldn't really say I am busy these days. Sure, I have finals and papers, but compared to previous semesters (where I pull all-nighters), this semester is like a vacation!
I had time to chill out with friends at Breakfast by Moonlight, play pool (first time this year, although I am fairly decent at it) :), more plans with friends next week, and a dinner with my team at the President's House. The best part about hanging out with my friends is that I've known most of them since first year of college, and they're some of my most trusted friends. (I don't have a huge circle of friends, but some really good and close friends - which is far better and more important in my mind).

I have to study for my final tomorrow, so I'll probably reflect on my college experience next week (intellectually challenged, etc, etc, etc). Unless I changed my mind, of course. Come of think of it, though, I think it's all pretty cool. And you know what, I think I am pretty darn thrilled about it than I have been in the past!!

2002-04-22T21:05:00.000-04:00

It rained this afternoon. My mood felt like the weather today.

I think I am officially suffering from senioritis. The second half of this semester has been relatively easy compared to all my other semesters, because I am not taking 6 courses. Still, I don't want to go to class. I don't mind doing the work. I just don't want to go to class. Senioritis. Let's blame it all on senioritis!

I found out today that I got a 100 on a project that I had spent a great deal of time on. And you know what? Normally, I would be thrilled, but I didn't really react to it. Maybe it's the weather. Maybe it'll sink in tomorrow. Maybe I'm beginning to feel indifferent to it all because of seniorities. Yeah, maybe that's it.

Can't you tell that the theme of this post is senioritis?

2002-04-18T23:08:00.000-04:00

Graduation will take place in exactly a month, and not surprisingly, I have mixed feelings about it.

For one, I am finally done with college. I am thrilled to be the second in my family to graduate from college! (My sis, who graduated last year, was the first). I couldn't have done it without all the little people in my life. Hehehehe, just kidding. My family and friends know just how important they are to me. I am not so sure I look forward to the graduation ceremony, however, as the weather can get unbearably hot in May. And all for what? For a piece of paper that signify the successful completion of my undergraduate degree? Personally, I'd like to think that I took more away from college than a diploma. It's the experience and the learning that mattered most to me, and I think I can take with me plenty from my college "experience". I could care less about the ceremony (or grades, for that matter) and I was reluctant about attending my own graduation, but my parents insisted that I should celebrate my hard work. The only reason I am going is because I see it as a way to dedicate my thanks to those who I care most about.

As far as grades are concerned, I guessed I could've paid more attention to them. I did well enough to maintain the required GPA to renew the merit scholarship, but I am at the borderline at making honors at graduation. I doubt I would be in that situation had I not taken so many course overloads to "challenge" myself. I guessed it will all depend on my performance this semester, which will be over soon enough. I should be suffering from "senioritis" just about now, shouldn't I? (I don't feel it, though) :)

The downside to graduation is that I am still not sure what I wanted to do after graduation. I know that I wanted to attend grad school at some point, but I know it's not now. I need to figure out what I need to do first, otherwise, grad school would just be a waste of time and money. I am extremely glad that I am graduating in three years. Even if I had stayed another year, I highly doubt that I would be in a better position that I am in now. Some people just know exactly they want to be when they grow up. Others don't. (Obviously, I am in the latter category).

Like most people, I just want to figure out what I want to do with my life. The only thing I can say is that while I am still not too sure what I want to do (I have some ideas, which might take a while to get to them), I am, at the very least, always doing my best in the things I decide to do and have the support of the people I love most (namely, my family). And you know what? I am more than happy and appreciative of all that I have, and I always feel like I am one of the luckiest people on the face of this planet because I get to spend my life with those who means the most to me.

2002-04-08T19:46:00.000-04:00

It's been hours since our flight back from Manchester, New Hampshire, and I am still feeling incredibly dizzy. We left the hotel at around 5:45 (I got up at around 4:50 a.m) and I have been dozing on and off during my flight and ride home.

I have lots of interesting stories to tell, from going to a bar in D.C to winning a Playstation II in a raffle drawing. (Yes, it's an over 21+ only bar and I am not 21 yet, and yes, they checked my ID). As far as the case competition itself, there were three divisions: two undergrads and one open division. My school sent two teams there (my team is for the undergrad and the other team is the open) and we both placed first in both! It was such a nerve-racking moment right before the announcement because it was simply a make-it or break-it moment. We were cheering and laughing and then we took pictures in our suits afterwards. I guessed all that late-night meetings until the early morning for the past couple of days paid off. :)

I will write more later because I am still a bit dizzy. But all in all, there were fun moments and also moments that I didn't really enjoyed as much (i.e. my ear was hurting terribly on the trip home, probably because of pressure from the plane's descent). It's my guess, anyway. As for now, I am safe and sound and back on campus and I am going to relax and get lots of rest from now on...

2002-04-08T13:03:00.000-04:00

You can bet I have lots to say about my trip to Virginia/D.C! I am really tired right now (we just got back on campus a while ago), so I am dozing in and out of my sleep-like state. But lots, lots of things to say.

2002-04-02T11:56:00.000-05:00

I have so much work to do this week, but I am not feeling too motivated these days. I have enough work as it is, and I think I am going to focus on them after the competition this weekend.

My team and I are leaving for the competition in McLean, Viriginia on Friday afternoon. We will be staying at a 5-star hotel, so that ought to be fun! My team has begun our presentation and we will be preparing for it in the next several days. Yesterday, my group had a meeting and we didn't get out until nearly 1:00 a.m. in the morning. I was not sleepy, but it was a very long (but productive) 5-hours meeting. It also has its funny moments.

I have another group meeting tonight and we are anticipating that we should be done by midnight. Then we have a short break. We have not decided if we will schedule any more meetings after tonight's meeting; it will depend on how we accomplish tonight. This week has been hectic. I have also yet to pack for the trip. Shall I start screaming, "ah!"? ;)

I am lucky that I am caught up in most of my classes. I will be a little behind in my work by the end of this week, but I expect to catch up with everything by early next week. I think I am just going to relax and focus on our group's presentation for the rest of the week.

After the competition, I am going to.... :) :) :)

Hmmm, what else?

I missed skating. I didn't have the chance to go skating (since the public rinks has closed), so I would have to travel elsewhere to go practice skating (and since I don't have a car...)

But, my sis said that she'll drive me when we work out a schedule! Yay! Even if we can't, I guessed I could wait a couple more months until the skating season begins again.

2002-03-27T22:01:00.000-05:00

Mood of the Moment:

"I am so tired, but I can't sleep.
I am standing on the edge of something much too deep.
It's funny how we feel so much, but we cannot say a word.
We are screaming inside, oh, we just can't be heard..."

- Lyrics from Sarah McLauglan's "I will remember you"

2002-03-24T22:40:00.000-05:00

I have never been so angry in a long time. As those people who knew me well, that's because I tend to see the lighter side of things and I don't get angry easily.

Well, I go home about once a week. Today, my mom, sis and I went out to spend some time together. When we got out of the subway station, my mom handed me $.60 to purchase a newspaper from the vending machine while she and my sis went to Dunkin Donuts. On my way to meet up with them, I passed by this woman with a coffee cup who asked, "Can you give some money? I'm homeless"

I think I looked shock for a moment. She most definitely dressed very nicely for a "homeless" person. I dug into my pockets and realized that I don't have any change with me. The only change I had was the $.60 cent that my mom gave me and it was already spent on the paper. Unlike other people who simply walked by and ignored her, I answered a quick "sorry" and continued walking. As I walked away, she mumbled loudly about my "sorry" - she was mocking my words and it was obvious that she was doing it intentionally. I had already walked too far away to turn back and say something to her, but I was incredibly steamed.

How dare she? Just because she's homeless doesn't mean she "deserved" to get anything from others. What kind of attitude is that?

I am not an apathetic person. I care about the world. I care about people. You know, I am sorry that she's homeless. I know that being homeless is an awful state to be in (I've never been homeless, but I know perfectly how that felt. It's a long story; I might go into it someday). I seriously doubt she is homeless, as she is dressed far too nicely. I think she makes some money from the goodwill of people, like the well-known story of a supposedly "homeless" person but who actually has a house elsewhere.

This lady pushed me a little too far. Who do I look like? I worked a job that pays slightly above minimum wage so that I could pay off college and I already spend very, very conservatively. Why should I give my money to her with this awful attitude? Why doesn't she get a job? She has hands. She has feet. And she looked perfectly healthy to me.

Don't get me wrong. As an overly idealistic person, I want to help people. I've done volunteer work since high school and I do them happily and willingly. I would rather donate to organizations like Project Bread so that those hungry and homeless people could have food to eat, to have the basic nutritions so that they could be healthy and work. Like everyone else.

If they still can't make ends meet, then at the very least, they have tried. This lady, on the other hand, acted like she was entitled to what other people have. If she has some illness and cannot work, then I might understand. Nonetheless, her rude attitude cannot be justified. I treat everyone respectfully, and I expected to be treated as such in return. I just can't believe some people can be this rude.

Maybe I am just too idealistic and naive for my own good...

2002-03-22T23:18:00.000-05:00

I feel so unsettled, so restless all day.

And it's a strange and awful feeling to want to laugh and cry at the same time.

2002-03-19T22:56:00.000-05:00

Relationships.

I think relationships tend to be one of the most written (and talked about) subject. I guessed I am not so much surprised since we're all in relationships. And no, I am not just referring to the boyfriend/girlfriend relationship, but relationship with our family and friends as well.

For those people who are lovestruck, I've heard the lines "I can't live without my (fill-in-name)". For others who are single, I've heard the "I won't be complete without (fill-in-name)". And you know what? Both of them really bothered me. Hello? HELLO? H - E - L - L -O!! I know I can't really explain myself without sounding like a completely insensitive person, but here goes: aren't those statements ridiculously exaggerated?

I find the latter statement to be extremely disturbing. I mean, don't get me wrong. Love relationships can be a beautiful thing. But, some people think that having that special someone is so important to the point that being in a relationship define who they are. It's that beyond the point that I find faults with. Shouldn't people figure out who they are first? Shouldn't they be comfortable enough with themselves so that they won't feel threatened whether they're or not in a relationship? Or so that they won't be defined by whether they have a significant other or not? (Pressures of society?)

Maybe I am not getting something. If so, do enlighten me. Really.

* * *

We have light snow for the past two days here, and it's such a pretty sight. Soft, beautiful snow drifting gently down the sky. It reminded me of the Christmas season all over again. It also reminded of a poem that I once read. It's a simple poem, but I liked it all the same.

"Each flake of snow
so separate
so distinct

yet in the morning
the hillside is a
solid field of white"
- Laura Gilpin

* * *

p.s. Links are updated on the sidebar.

2002-03-08T19:35:00.000-05:00

I don't want to live up to people's expectations, nor I am not trying to. I just want to live up to my expectations, but even that can be difficult sometimes. There are always outside factors. It's hard. It's just hard.

Spring Break has officially begun. To the average observer, I probably looked like I have a lot of free time on my hands - especially since I am always listening to music. But what they don't know is that I have been doing homework with the music on since I was a kid. I don't think it affected my concentration level, with a few exceptions.

This Spring Break, I am just going to get some rest. With midterms and huge assignments over the last two weeks, I am tired. And I am like a walking zombie. What I need is some relaxation time, and that's what I am giving myself. When I come back from Spring Break, I should much happier since one of my most dreaded class has ended. I should have more time to focus on the classes I really enjoy, like poetry! :)

I will be travelling to Virginia in early April and I am thrilled about it! I've never been to Virginia before. More on that later.

Finally, this blog has turned into a number of random updates, and it's not exactly what I wanted. I will have to think about what I want to do with it and see what changes need to be made. But more on that later too.

2002-03-02T17:57:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since I updated this thing, but I needed some time off to myself.

Things have been hectic. With midterms coming up and another programming assignment due soon, I doubt I will get much sleep at all. But it will be all right, because Spring Break is just around the corner. I have been so busy that I haven't really had time to think about what to do for Spring Break. I think I'll just relax a bit and take my first real break. Maybe I'll go catch a movie or two. Hmmmm, are there even any good movies out there lately? (I know. I know. I am so out of it) :)

I just came back from my last skating lesson today. I won't go into details this time because I am so addicted to ice-skating that I might need to call an ice-skating addiction annoymous hotline. Hehe, I got a silly little achievement certificate too! I exchanged numbers with someone I met there and we might go practice together sometime (she does hockey, so I might have to learn how to do hockey stops - I have a tendency to fall whenever I try that).

I said goodbye to my first instructor and gave her a huge hug. She taught me all the basic moves and she made it so much fun. She's also a very nice person. I also thanked my current instructor, who taught us all these awesome techniques. He's starting to teach me how to do spins (haha, my progress in that is pitiful, but that's beside the point). He is so amazing on the ice. He's only a year older than me (I think he's 21), but his moves are powerful. I love watching him skate. Ahem, I think I'll leave it at that or else I won't stop yapping about him and his skating abilities. (I am addicted, remember?) I might go practice some more during Spring Break. :)

I found a solution out of my dilemma, and I was only able to get out of it through the thoughtfulness of a professor and the Chair of the English Department. I was so worried about it (miserable, actually), but it turned out okay since they so kindly approved of my somewhat unusual situation. So, one more week. And speaking of English, I am thoroughly enjoying my poetry class. I have written poems before, but now, I have three poems that I actually liked. Two of them will be published in my school's literary magazine. Yay! I can't wait!

I am also bumping into more of my friends around campus lately, and it's really nice to catch up on things.

But, more on that later. Now, I need to tackle my programming assignment (I want to get some sleep this week). If I could just make it through this week, everything will be okay. Well, maybe not everything (stop being so picky!), but you know what I mean. I'll do my best. Wish me luck! :)

2002-02-15T12:56:00.000-05:00

I had the most awesome time watching the Men's Olympic Ice-Skating program yesterday night. I couldn't keep my eyes off the skaters and their brilliant performances. They looked so free; so beautiful on the ice. I was gushing about most of the skaters throughout the entire program.

Though I am only a beginner skater, I knew plenty about ice-skating. I watched Katerina Witt (of Germany) performed in the early 1990s, and I was so inspired then that I wanted to take up ice-skating myself, but my parents refused because it was too dangerous. Still, even though I didn't learn to skate until late last year, I really love the sport - both as a beginner and as a spectator. In fact, I loved it so much that every time I come home from my lessons, I researched on the web for tips to improve on the techniques. I love being on the ice. I don't care about getting bruises from falling; I just want to skate, skate, and skate.

I was rooting for Todd Elgeridge. Even though I knew he won't be on the Olympic podium because he placed 8th on the short program, I think he did a wonderful performance. I was also playing the judge. Last night, I was watching the program, listening to him skate gracefully to the music, and taking it all in. The music struck a chord with me and I commented to my brother that I knew the music. After a moment's pause, I exclaimed, "it's from the Lord of the Rings!" I've only seen the movie once, so I was surprised at how quickly I remembered it. As if to confirm what I said, the commentator said only seconds later that the music was from the movie 'Lord of the Rings'."

(By the way, Lord of the Rings has 11 nominations. I liked the movie, but I didn't think the plot or the characters were as well-developed. The movie definitely deserves the Best Picture - it has breathtaking scenery - and Best Original Score nominations. I am faily confident that it will win or at least should win in those catogories.)

I was also a darn good judge yesterday too. I was in awe of Timothy Gaebel (representing USA)'s quadruples because he did them with such ease, as such, his nickname "Quad King" was well deserved. I commented that he would get high technical marks, but mentioned (rather disappointingly) that his presentation was lacking. Unlike the Russian competitors, there was something missing from his performance. I said he could possibly take the lead, but it's more likely that he would take second. And so he did. The last skater was Alexi (representing Russia), who was the leader after the short program. His performance was marvelous; he didn't do quads like Gaebel, but his triples and other elements were clean, strong, and consistent. Halfway into the program, I knew he won the gold. His technical marks were bound to be solid, and his presentation was even better. And so he did, with four perfect 6.0s for his presentation marks - and also became the Olympic gold medalist.

It. was. just. amazing.

Next week is the Ladies' Figure Skating competition. Michelle Kwan, Sasha Cohen, and Sarah Hughes are representing the USA team. I like Michelle Kwan for her artistry; I like Sasha Cohen for her power/energy, and I like Sarah Hughes for her grace. If Michelle Kwan skates as well as she did in the Nationals, then she has a good shot at winning (although she has a tough Russian rival to beat). Sasha Cohen is a powerful skater; she also has the same type of energy as Tara Lipiniski. While her jumps aren't always perfect and her artistry might not be as strong as Michelle's, no one doubts that she has a good shot at winning. Then there's Sarah Hughes, who I think also has a good shot because she's very graceful and her skating and jumps are very consistent.

I just can't wait to see. :)

2002-02-07T23:25:00.000-05:00

There are some blogs/journals that I read daily. Never mind the fact that I don't know most of the people; there's just something about their stories and writing that just kept me coming back for more.

Most of my favorite webblogs are listed on the sidebar. For example, I read Mollie's LiveJournal daily, because I like her stories and I like the way she tells them. I used to read her other site, Book of Days . While I am disappointed that she said goodbye to that site, I realized that she had to do what she had to do. I am simply glad that she shared her LiveJournal link with us. Book of Days or LiveJournal; it doesn't make much of a difference to me. It's her writing that I like. :)

Noah Grey has a very nicely designed site and he writes with much feelings. He is taking a hiatus from webblogging. I guessed he is starting a new chapter of his life since he recently agreed to married his boyfriend. It's sweet.

Then, there's Rabi of Wockerjabby. We went to the same high school, but I didn't know her too well then. I didn't even know she had a weblog then! I don't need to explain why I like her site; just visit it and you'll see for yourself. :P

Today and the day after is inspirational and uplifting. Crushing Krisis - I don't quite know what to think of it yet. I obviously like it; that's why I visit it often. It's sometimes very odd, sometimes hilarious, and sometimes something else that I can't quite pinpoint that made it all the more interesting.

Then, of course, there are other sites that I visit often, but have yet to update them on the sidebar. I will continue to blog, but I am having difficulties with one of my courses (see post below) and I really need to spend more hours on it. I could manage to spend several more hours a week on it, only because unlike other semesters, I am not taking 6 classes.

I do need to do well in this course in order to graduate. I don't feel like giving it up just because it's hard, although I seriously thought about dropping it. That, however, would mean I would have to make it up (another business elective) during the summer - after graduation. That's not something I wanted to do, especially after I graduated from college. But it's also obviously something I am not good at. Besides, I've worked so hard for so long just to get here and I don't want to mess it up. I will be the second person (my sister, who graduated last year with the highest honors, was the first) in my family to graduate from college. :) Because of this course, though, there is a likely possibility that I might not get honors for graduation - I am on the borderline right now. I don't want to give up just yet. You know, it's not over until it's over, right?

So if you don't hear from me in a little while, that's because I am hard at work. I have a feeling that I will write again soon, especially since Olympics Ice-Skating is starting next week! In the meantime, check out the other links on the sidebar. Really. They're great. You'll know what I mean. :)

2002-02-04T23:11:00.000-05:00

I spent countless hours last week on a programming assignment. The assignment looked simple enough - four parts, write four different programs, and do it in two weeks. Well, you would think I am done by now, but noooooooo. While I am not completely without progress, it has been slow - especially thinking through the logic behind the programs. I should've figured out that programming is not for me; after all, I disliked all my math courses in high school (especially calculus). This is great. Just great. I chose one of the most difficult courses - thinking that it would provide a challege - as one of my electives. I am such an idiot sometimes. Sure, it's challenging, but it's also frustrating enough that I feel like throwing my computer out the window. Maybe you've known that feeling too. Grrrrrrrr. At least I have a great professor who does an excellent job of explaining the materials. If it were otherwise, I would be in huge trouble.

Another one of my electives is Creative Writing - Poetry, and that's a small, fun class. We will have our first workshop tomorrow. Some of the poems from my fellow peers were amazing; they are naturals at it! Not surprisingly, it's turning out to be one of my favorite courses this semester.

I have lots to say about ice-skating, but I'll save the details for another time. It's just wonderful and I have an awesome instructor. He looked slightly older than me (early twenties), and he's a strong and powerful skater. I loved it when he spins (they were the fastest spins I've seen on the ice rink), and I could hear the swishing sounds while he was spinning so gracefully and effortlessly. (It's obviously much harder than it looks). It's just great. Awesome. Fantastic. I am gushing; I know, but I just can't help it. :)

2002-01-19T18:35:00.000-05:00

Quick updates:

Ice-skating: I guessed the skating school realized that there are many new skaters this season, so they hired more instructors. When they sorted students into groups once again, my former instructor - who was familiar with my situation - placed me into a group that better complement my skating abilities. While I am the "amateur" in my group, I thoroughly enjoy learning the new techniques (despite the falls). I sometimes feel a little embarassed just because others in my group can do more advanced moves, but I am trying hard and having fun. I'll just have to practice more during open rink hours to work on the techniques! :)

Blogging: I started a new entry for this blog several times in the past two week. Everytime I sat down to write, though, I felt like I could not convey exactly what I feel. So I didn't. I find it amazing that some people could update their blog daily, but then again, I guessed it's also a matter of personal preference. I like writing, but I only want this blog to give others a glimpse into my life and as an outlet for my rantings. If it's anything more and I'd have to force myself to write, I think I'd have to quit blogging altogether. And I don't think I want to do that just yet.

School : I am moving back to school this weekend. I am taking five courses this semester, even though I only needed three more to graduate. I need four courses to be considered a "full-time" student, but I think all my courses would be beneficial. Besides, it should be fun since all but one are my electives. The downside is that I won't have any classes with my friends except for one! One out of five! Don't get me wrong. I'd appreciate the opportunity to meet new people, but sometimes, you'd just want to be in a class with people you know - especially since it's the last semester of college.

Life : For a short while, I thought I was all alone in thinking that I am living my life aimlessly, without direction. After speaking with some of my friends, I've realized that I am not the only one. Most of us have such big plans when we were younger, but as we grow older, things changed. Plans changed. People changed. And sometimes all these changes are overwhelming, making us feel confused and doubtful about life: what we wanted to do and accomplish and where we want to see ourselves in the future. I know it's all part of growing up, but why does it have to be so hard sometimes?

With graduation coming up in May, I have lots to think about. Jobs? Graduate School? Actually, I've been thinking about it since high school. For a long while, I've thought I was in the wrong field of study (Computer) - despite the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed it. I thought I wanted to do science, but that didn't work out because my parents oposed my decision to attend a certain school which has a strong research program. I was very upset with my parents over that issue, and they knew full well that I resented them for it. After much thoughts, though, I realized that I don't know what fields other than CS that I'd rather be in. I do like science - a lot - but that interest only began after my physics course during my junior year of high school. Prior to that class, the only science I liked is Earth Science, even though I did respectable in biology and chemistry.

Now I figured out that perhaps my interest in science was not as strong as I might have believed. After all, I have electives during my senior year of high school. Guess what? I did not take any AP Science course, instead, I chose computer courses as my electives. I guessed I thought that I liked science so much that I fell into the trap "what could've..." The "what-could-have" isn't important as what is. So while I like(d) science a lot, there were other areas that I was even more interested in. And you know what? After everything, I truly believe that things worked out for the best. As one of my favorite quotes said, "I may not have go where I intended to go, but I have ended up where I intended to be". And I don't think I could say it any better than that.

2002-01-05T18:34:00.000-05:00

I started taking ice-skating lessons in late November as a beginner; I've never been on the ice before. I didn't care about taking some falls as I had a wonderful instructor and it was just so much fun that I even dreamed about ice-skating. I guessed you can call it an 'obsession'.

Well, the new season began in late December and I have a new instructor. He's most certainly a strong skater, I'll admit, but he's more into "showing off" his skills than "teaching" them to us. We just stand there on the ice listening to him talk and watching him demonstrate, but I think most of us just want to try it ourselves. I know I do. And I know one other person does too - she had the same instructor as me last time.

My former instuctor is now teaching people at a more advanced level, which doesn't work for me since I am still a beginner. My forward skating is relatively strong, and I have started to learn how to move backwards. With my new instructor, however, we're still learning how to do forward strokes! I am so frustrated! I want to improve; I want to learn new skills, but I feel like I am being kept back! I usually go to the ice-rink an hour or two before the lesson to warm up and practice, and I don't just want to keep practicing the same thing over and over again. I want to learn new techniques!

Our former instructor would give us tips and pointers during lesson time and practice time, but my instructor was nowhere to be seen! I think he was talking to another student somewhere across the rink. Guess how many tips/pointers I got today? Zero. Zilch. Nothing.

During practice time, I spent my time doing more productive things. I've practiced the snow-plow stops, backwards skating, forward skating, and skating on one leg (I'm still very shaky on that). And, I fell at least three times today. Hard. At least I was wearing my helmet. When the lesson was over, I skated toward the exit where a group of kids was still exiting. I've been skating pretty well prior to that and I am feeling graceful (for the very few rare times in my life). The high school hockey team and cheerleaders were already gathered at the rink. To slow down time (to let the kids exit), I did a quick turn around the rink - even though it's one of my weaknesses. I heard my current instructor commenting (from a faint distance) that it was a great turn. As I complete my turn, I saw that the kids were still exiting. Since I hadn't give myself enough space to do another turn, I tried to stop but I fell down. Hard. Right in front of the exit. So much for being graceful, huh? :)

I have never fell so many times on the ice rink in one day. I am still sore from my falls even as I am writing this.

After all my rantings above, I just think that instructors played a huge role. I think my new instructor is crushing my love for ice-skating into frustrations. The lessons doesn't come cheap either and I paid for these lessons (10 sessions) with my summer earnings. And right now, I just feel like demanding my money back! (No refunds). I know I'll stick with ice-skating, but I really don't know how I can improve at the current rate.

I've done all the research I can on ice-skating online. I've watched ice-skating events on t.v. I even watched others skate in the skating rink to see how I could improve, but it's not the same if I don't get the necessary pointers on the ice! I don't think it's entirely my new instructor's fault; he does have a whole group to work with and it's hard for him to give some individual attention, but where does that leave me and the others!?!?!

2002-01-01T21:54:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

It's another new year and plenty of people are making new year resolutions. I never really believed in making resolutions, because I probably won't keep them anyway.
That doesn't mean that I won't work to change some things in this coming year.

For one, I am going to try to stay away from the computer as much as possible. I don't know if I am the only one who does this, but I think I have spent far too much time on the AIM in the past. I think I also spent too much time reading people's blogs. However interesting as they may be, I need to spend more time to live my life, to share my time with people I care about, instead of sitting in front of my computer reading about the lives of others. I want to spend more time getting to know people better. That doesn't mean I am going to stop reading other blogs altogether; it's just that I am going to read them on a less frequent basis. On the same note, I am (of course) going to update my blog, but only periodically.

I've actually started staying more away from the computer since the start of finals in December. For those who I can't keep in touch unless via e-mail or AIM, the Internet is a great mode of communication. For those people who lived closer to me, however, I'd much rather hang out in person. I am going to hang out and spend more time with friends as well.

Unlike most years, I've decided not to work this winter break and instead to spend some quality time with my family. In addition to my ice-skating lessons every weekend, I've played video games, darts, and went ice-skating with my brother and sister during open rink hours. (I am only starting to learn how to ice-skate backwards, if you have any tips or advice, do share!) :)

I've also gotten my semester grades; most were better than I had expected. I am still waiting for a grade from a class which I received an "incomplete". I was incredibly surprised when I first saw the "I" while checking my grades online; I thought there must be a mistake! I e-mailed the professor and it turned out that she misplaced my final exam and term paper. How likely is that, really?

2001-12-14T16:55:00.000-05:00

I will have to drop by school next week to take my last "final exam", but between now and then, I will have more time to spend time with my family.

What does this mean? It means I am going home, you silly. :) Home! Yay! There's no place like home! :) I am happy! I just want to share my excitement with you. :)

This is for you: family, friends, and strangers. You have to see it, or you'll really miss out. ;)

Have a wonderful holiday!

2001-12-08T21:25:00.000-05:00

As I sorted through a pile of letters this morning, I found one that was addressed to my younger brother. A huge grin appeared on my face when I noticed it was from Vienna; I figured that this was a letter from a girl that my brother met in elementary school. It was not the first time that they have written to each other. They are, after all, pen pals - although they exchanged letters infrequently. As I held the letter in my hand and examined the neat handwriting on the envelope, I couldn't help noticing that the envelope was unusually thin.

I placed the letter aside and went about doing my business. When my brother came home from work, I teased that he had a letter from a girl-friend. My brother opened the letter, read it, and then he said something that stopped me from writing my term paper in mid-sentence.

I did not think it was true, so I asked him for the letter. He handed it over to me, still with a look of shock on his face.

I read the letter and I went silent. What my brother said was true:

She. was. dead.

It was a letter from her mother. As I read the letter, I could not control the emotions raging within me. My eyes quickly brimmed with tears and I turned away from my brother. I held the letter tightly in my hands and I just kept reading and re-reading the letter. I didn't want to face my 16-year old brother. I didn't want to say anything, because I was afraid my voice would betray me. I fought back tears; I didn't want my brother to see me crying.

When I finally spoke, my voice was shaky. I was also obviously not strong enough, because I burst into tears. I cried. And I cried openly.

My older sister walked in then and my brother informed her of the news. She harmlessly commented, "Why are you crying? You don't even know her!"

It is true. She was my brother's classmate. And yet, I have always felt that I knew her because my brother had always shared with me the letters that she had written. As young as she was, I have always admired her letters because they were beautiful - each written with genuine feelings.

I ...I am just sad that the world will never get the chance to meet this very special person, whose writings touched even the lives of people she didn't even know...

2001-12-03T14:31:00.000-05:00

On an early friday morning last week, the city was enshroulded in a cloud of mist. The fog blurred everything, leaving only faded outlines of things for us to distinguish from a distance. As my group and I walked toward a local school for our weekly America Reads sessions, I saw the faded outline of an American flag waving proudly outside the entrance. I have always noticed it before, but this time, the flag - with the help of the wind - seemed to be defiantly claiming its presence under the heavy fog.

I paused for a moment, lost in thoughts about the history of America. I have not taken a history course in college (AP credits), but I still remembered much of it from AP U.S and European history studied in high school. Granted, America has its wrongdoings (i.e. slavery), but it has also come a long way in its short history. Every time I look at an American flag, it inevitably reminds me about the many brave men and women who lost their lives fighting for the just causes of America.

I peered at my fellow America Reads coaches who were walking quietly beside me, and for a moment, I wondered if they might be thinking the same thing that I am. With voices and laughter of young kids in the distant background, I looked at the flag one last time, quietly saluted it, and disappeared into the building.

2001-11-15T23:01:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving break will be here soon. Hooray! (that means that I could soon take a pause from the insane amount of work!) But, as soon as break is over, there is the end of the semester "rush" - all the final projects, assignments, and exams at the end of November and the beginning of December. It's going to be crazy! :)

I meant to update this blog more often, and hopefully, I would be able to do so when things calmed down a bit. In the meantime, please feel free to visit my website here . I've finally put some pictures from my London trip up. :)

2001-11-01T13:05:00.000-05:00

Somewhere, sometime, we all have to say goodbye. It could be a good friend moving far, far away; it could be the end that all of us must inevitably face. Goodbyes are never easy to say, to those we love, and those who came into our lives quietly, and unsuspectingly, leave permanent marks on our hearts and bittersweet memories etched forever in our minds.

Despite the trivialities that sometimes consumed our lives, all of us know how important people truly are. People are invaluable. Irreplaceable. We need not to have the events of 9.11 to remind us of it.

We only have one life to live, so while we're at it, we might as well make it the best. After all, isn't it a terrifying thought of waking up one day years down the road, only to find that we've lived a life full of regrets?

"In the morning when you wake up
Open your eyes to a new day
Look around at the gifts you've got
You've been so lucky along the way"

Yes, it a cliche, but it's also the truth.

CARPE DIEM. SEIZE THE DAY.

"I close my eyes
And I can see
The day we met
Just one moment and I knew
You're my best friend
'Do anything For you

We've gone so far
And done so much
And I feel
Like we've always been togther
Right by my side
Through thick and thin
You're the part of my life
I'll always remember

The time has come
It's for the best I know it
Who could've guessed that you and I ...
Somehow, someday
We'd have to say goodbye.

You've helped me find
The strgenth inside
And the courage
To make all my dreams come true
How will I find
Another friend
Like you

Two of a kind
That's what we are
And it seemed
Like we were always winning
But as our team
is torn apart
I wish we could go
Back to the beginning

The time has come
It's for the best I know it
Who could've guessed that you and I ...
Somehow, some way
We'd have to say goodbye.

Somehow today...
...we have to say goodbye"
- Pikachu's Goodbye from Pokemon

2001-10-15T22:48:00.000-04:00

On my way to class last Thursday, I saw a small, white butterfly fluttering directly in front of my path. While this particular butterfly lacked the colorful designs of most butterflies, I thought it was beautiful in its own rights. I couldn't help thinking that perhaps the butterfly was performing some sort of dance that only its species would recognize, as it fluttered gracefully away. That thought, along with the fact that I have not seen a butterfly in months, was enough to bring a smile on my face.

I guess I always had a fascination with nature. As much as I appreciate nature and all the beauty around us, I am also well aware of its danger. The first time I realized that I liked earth science was in sixth grade, when a guest speaker made a presentation on "what to do" in case of natural disasters. I read about tsunamis and I just kept reading and reading all about it. When I studied about earthquakes and tornadoes in my first year of high school (in "Principles of Science" - a course I signed up for despite my teacher's recommendation to take Biology Honors), I even thought I wanted to become a storm chaser! And even though I had to play "catch-up" by taking two science courses the following year, I never regretted my decision! ;)

Speaking of nature and its wonders, have you ever seen a shooting star? I've only seen it once, two years ago, and coincidentally on Thanksgiving. That night, my family went on an outing, and we decided that we'd drive home instead of staying elsewhere. I was sitting in the back of the car, listening to the soft music playing from the radio, and feeling blessed to be with my family. Then my younger brother commented that there were lots of stars out there! I looked, and much to my amazement, I saw a sky full of stars! The only other times I've seen skies full of stars were in Hong Kong, which were plenty since we lived on the top floor. It was, however, the first time I saw so many stars in the U.S. I just stared at the big, wide sky, wistfully thinking about the past, wondering about my good ol' friends, and trying (unsuccessfully) to look at the stars in a way so that I could identify the constellations.

I couldn't fall asleep in the car that evening, so I just look at the stars for most of the ride to see which one might be the brightest. And then, there it was. The shooting
star. I saw it flashed across the sky and I was delighted! Immediately, I exclaimed something along the lines of, "Oh my gosh, did you guys see the shooting star?" Like the kid that I was (and probably still am), I made a wish on the shooting star. That same special wish I made on my birthday every year.

These are all little things, but it is pretty amazing that they can provide so much comfort and that warm feeling of contentment...

2001-10-10T12:32:00.000-04:00

I guessed having only read the 7 of the chapters (out of 8) for the first time this weekend, my grade for my first exam yesterday wasn't so bad. But then again, it wasn't great either. If I got a grade like that in high school, I'd be somewhat disappointed - maybe with the exception of AP Calculus. (I told you I strongly dislike math!) ;) Geesh, what happened to my standards?!! Perhaps one of the solutions to that problem could be grade inflation? :)

And, I know. I know. I scanned the pictures from the London trip and I'll post it soon. Hehe, by that, it could be until Thanksgiving Break! I'm planning to update my old website during break/free time, so it might just take a while. I am not in most of the pictures (is that a good thing? ;)), since I took most of the pictures. We brought two cameras, and the one that my sister used (I think she took a couple of pictures of me near the Buckingham Palace!) was broken. Shucks.

Otherwise, I have been busy keeping up with the latest news development. Many of the events that have been happening certainly puts things into perspective, and I certainly have lots of thoughts on that...

2001-10-04T17:20:00.000-04:00

Yesterday at the annual Health Fair, I bumped - not literally, of course ;) - into one of my co-workers and his friend. As we walked around to check out some of the tables, a lady at a table with brochures on mental health stopped us and asked, "So, how are your mental health?" We were all smiling by then, as it was an odd approach to attact people to her table. Needless to say, we all said that our mental health is good and healthy. ;)

As a member of SHAC, I volunteered to watch the pot painting/ plant planting table early in the morning. I was not too surprised that many were interested in it, since the interest and turnout for it was high last year too! Its purpose is to act as a "stress-relief" event. We provided soil, small flower pots (really cute!), bulb, a fake flower, and paint/markers to decorate the flower pots. You would plant the bulb in the pot and put in a fake flower. The fake flower makes it look good while you wait for the bulb to grow. Or that's the idea behind it. ;) I got one for myself, and it is now in my room. The fake flower I got is a sunflower, and it's pretty. I know it sounds chessy, but I feel like it's smiling at me everytime I look at it. I wrote "Peace, Happiness, Love and Smile" on the pot, although you would think the stencil drawings were done by a first grader. :) I saw one person has the phrase, "you are my..." and then a picture of the sun shining. "You are my sunshine". How pretty too. ;)

Afterwards, I went to the Service Learning Training Session for the America Reads Program. I will be working with a child ranging from Grade 1 - 3 at the MacArther Elementary School. I know it sounds silly, but I am a mildly nervous - I've tutored adults before, but not kids. At at the same time, I am eagerly looking forward to it. It starts next week, so I will find out soon enough...

I have been rather busy and (actually, very drowsy) these days. I doubt it will get better anytime soon, as I have 3 exams next week and another one the week after. Hmmm, does that mean I won't catch up on sleep until then? ;)

2001-09-28T16:12:00.000-04:00

This week, someone invited me to join Circle K. I was not interested in joining the organization, and I declined the offer politely. Then the person said that "it'll look good on the resume". It wasn't my first time that I've heard this line, but it it is really, really irksome to me. Was it supposed to entice or motivate me to join the organization? If you are doing something you love or interested in, then all the more power to you! I just have a problem with people joining organizations for the "sole purpose" of padding their resumes. What happened to joining clubs/organizations just for the love or the fun of it?!?!

Okie dokie, that's my complaint of the week. ;)

I have work training on Saturday - it is expected to run from early morning to mid-afternoon. This means that I'll be staying on campus ... on a Saturday. Ahhh! I've made plans for the afternoon and evening of Saturday, fortunately, so I'll be out of here shortly after the training session. Yay!

P.S. I don't think the senior events/trips are particularly appealing. Besides, some are only for 21+ (i.e. Foxwoods Casino) - a requirement that I will not meet until next September. Can that be considered as age-ism? ;)

2001-09-27T18:59:00.000-04:00

OK, plenty of people have asked me why I am graduating early from college, and the truth is, financial reasons are only half-truths. It is a major aspect of my decision to graduate early, but there are other reasons as well. It all goes back to my senior of high school ...

Me: At the time, I didn't know what I wanted to do or major in, but I was leaning toward enrolling at Brandeis to study science (chem or physics) or computer science.

Parents: Despite the fact that it offered me the second best financial aid package, my parents did not like Brandeis. In fact, they were so dissatisfied with it after the college visit that they'd rather that I attend any of the other schools on my list.

Me: Since my FA package consisted mostly of grants, I was concerned about how to finance school for subsequent years. Brandeis was one of the top 25 most expensive colleges in the U.S, and I don't want to be deep in debt upon graduation, either. I began looking into other possibilities.

I applied to about 6 or 7 safety schools, which was a bit excessive but necessary due to financial factors. In retrospect, I should've applied to more reach schools just for the heck of it. ;)

Final choices: (Selected based on financial aid packages)

Me: Brandeis
Parents: BC

The truth is, I only applied to BC because they accepted the Common Application - it took no time to apply! I'd never expected that this would be the school that would offer me the best financial aid package; two scholarships! BC's a good school, but I know it wasn't for me. My heart just wasn't in the right place.

After many arguments with my parents (we've all said some things that we shouldn't have), I finally made my final decision. And it was MY decision:I chose Bentley.
Besides a beautiful campus, they also offered me a half scholarship - renewable upon meeting GPA requirements.

I wasn't entirely happy with it because it wasn't my first choice, but rest assured, I am perfectly content now. If I could do it all over again, I'd probably choose Bentley! ;) "Because" it was not my first choice, I made a vow to myself that I'd pay for all my tuition and room and board myself - whether it be through loans, scholarships, or life savings. With the exception of my laptop, I refused to let my parents pay for anything that is "school-related". I naively thought that if I flunk out of school, no one can complain but me because I am paying for my own education! ;)

Fortunately, I highly value education and love learning. Besides, my parents never got the chance to go to college, and I am not going to waste my opportunity. It's not even an option. But because I made a vow to myself - and one that I intend to keep - it'd made more sense for me to graduate early. I had AP credits, credits from other colleges, and I only need to work harder in school by taking course overloads. Things laid out perfectly by itself, and it was a simple decision. Besides saving money, it also saves time. I could spend the year to have a head-start in graduate schools, work, or maybe do some travellings (just not London again) ;)

You know, life has its strange way of working things out. Trust me on that. :)

2001-09-26T22:25:00.000-04:00

Did I ever tell you that I am a newspaper freak? Well, now you know. ;) Besides local/national/international news, I go as far as reading other schools' news for interesting articles - if time permits. I am telling you; it's almost like an addiction.

I've stumbled upon an entertaining article on Cornell's website. Trick or Treat (Career Fair) To summarize it, the author went to the Career Fair to get "freebies". ;) I thought it was entertaining because we had our Career Fair just yesterday. Despite my sister's advice, I *did not* wear a suit because it's just not...me. Instead, I wore a black jacket that "looked" like a suit. See, it's all a matter of perception! ;)

You see, I didn't want to go to the Career Fair in the first place because I think it's rather superficial . I went though because I had promised my roommate that we'd go together. The gym - where the Career Fair was held - was hot! You'd think they were trying to fry us! My roommate and I walked around and were ready to leave after the 5-10 minutes. I then saw some of my friends (who I haven't seen in some time) and we just hung out. I wasn't at all surprised that most of the companies were recruiting accounting and finance majors, after all, this IS a business school

I ended up walking around with one of my friends, who seemed equally as bored as me - she was just waiting for her friends to "finish up". I have to agree with the author that too many people were too serious with it. People seemed to be in a mad dash to submit resumes! My heart just wasn't into it, so I didn't even bother to stop by the IBM and EMC tables. I guess I should be more concern about career prospects, but I am not. So, if I am unemployed after graduation, we'll know who's to blame. ;) D'oh! Of course I am not talking about me! It's the darn economy! It's always the economy! Blame everything on the economy! ;)

My friend and I walked around rather aimlessly. So while we have nothing better to do, we decided that we might as well get some freebies. And you know what? As silly as it sounds, I think that was the highlight of the Career Fair. Why? Because it occupied us ... for a while. So the point of this post? Well, I could say "don't take life seriously" but there's really no point to this post. ;)

2001-09-23T20:39:00.000-04:00

My personality type: INFJ

"Only one percent of the population has an INFJ Personality Type, making it the most rare of all the types. INFJs place great importance on havings things orderly and systematic in their outer world. They put a lot of energy into identifying the best system for getting things done, and constantly define and re-define the priorities in their lives. On the other hand, INFJs operate within themselves on an intuitive basis which is entirely spontaneous. They know things intuitively, without being able to pinpoint why, and without detailed knowledge of the subject at hand. They are usually right, and they usually know it. Consequently, INFJs put a tremendous amount of faith into their instincts and intuitions."

I actually wanted to say something about my intuition for quite some time now, but I wasn't sure how to talk about it without sounding presumptuous. There is something that is bothering me, and it has to do with my intuition. I - I don't know how to quite explain it, but I know how another person feels about me - actually, even better than he knows it himself! That's certainly not something anyone can say, but I do know, believe it or not. The truth is, I am kind of disappointed by what I know, even though that person does not know or realize it yet (I, myself, don't how I know, but I am 99.9% certain that he does not know yet).

I guess the interesting thing is that I also know how others think about me (both the details of my "positives" and "negatives"). I haven't changed any of my "negatives" because 1. I am not really concerned about how people think about me 2. Those "negatives" that I know others viewed me with aren't really "negatives" in my mind; some are misconceptions, whereas others are not done intentionally - even though it may appeared that way.

I might write more about it later (let me know at hkmail@excite.com if you're interested in reading more about it), in the meantime, I think this is confusing enough.

2001-09-17T22:34:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend, I have been writing an article for my school newspaper on the terrorist attack in NYC. It's not a long article, and it is the very least I could do to inform others (in the most objective way I could) on what is going on in the world. They might not even publish it (I am speculating that many others will write about it as well), but all that matters to me is that I made an effort. A long effort, actually.

I have been rather tired these day from not getting enough sleep - especially with all that has happened last week. So this week, I am going to try to get as much sleep as I could, because there is a very real possibility that I might get sick if I am not more concerned about my health.

2001-09-16T17:03:00.000-04:00

I am just glad for some sort of normalcy.

On to other updates: I have been assigned the role of "Lead Analyst" in my group project. I thought that was funny, just because I couldn't quite imagine myself playing that role yet. Anyway, I haven't been paying as much attention to my school work (or much at all, for that matter) with all that has happened last week.

My two classes on Friday have been cancelled due to the National Prayer and Remembrance Day. Those two classes were cancelled on Tuesday as well, so there should be lots of make-up work. It shouldn't be too bad, though. College will be over before I know it and I am just trying to cherish my time there. I love Bentley and I am just so glad to be there.

2001-09-12T23:13:00.000-04:00

When I read the news about one of the passengers from the doomed flight - who called his mom to say that "he loved her very, very much" moments before it crashed - tears streamed down my face. I quickly wiped my tears away because I don't want my roommate to see me crying. It was all too surreal yesterday - almost like a very, very bad nightmare. But it's all too real, and ... it's finally sinking in. The collaspe of the World Trade Center. Rescue workers working to find survivors under the mass of rubbles. Death tolls estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.

I guessed I was still detached from the reality of it all yesterday, but now, it hurts just to see others suffering over the loss (or the unconfirmed fate) of their loved ones. My thoughts and prayers are with them...

"The flame that burns the brightest
is the light of eternal human spirit:
a beacon of love, justice and peace
that will never be extinguished.

It will triumph over the forces of darkness,
And illuminate for the whole world
The truth path of freedom,
through goodness, hope and love."

2001-09-11T21:08:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you, but I am still reeling from the shock of the terrorist attacks on the U.S. today. The destruction of the World Trade Center, the injuries of thousands, and the many who are not accounted for- even at this late hour - saddens me. This morning was also the high point of my worries, as a number of my relatives live in NYC (who are OK, thankfully). Nonetheless, I still feel very bad for the victims and their families. Today is a tragic day that will go down in history.

The topics of

why? (terrorist attack)
how? (four planes were hijacked)
who? (Bin Laden is at the top of the suspect list)

have been reviewed by news stations all over America today. One of the things that disturbed me, however, is the short broadcast where some of the Palestinians (note: only those individuals, not the group) were celebrating of the attack in the U.S. It almost seemed cruel. Even if U.S. consistently sided with Israel, it and NATOs didn't just sit there and do nothing (or worse, laugh or celebrate over it!); they tried to resolve the conflict between them! Whatever happened to...human compassion?

2001-09-11T14:09:00.000-04:00

Terroist Attacks
A tragic day today...

2001-08-23T22:11:00.000-04:00

There is so much I want to say, but ... ? (Is life just a huge question mark too?)

Instead of my usual ramblings - or rantings ;) - depending on how you look at it, I am just going to share a poem which I've accidentally stumbled across online. I think it's a beautiful poem. Enjoy!

If I knew - Annoymous

If I knew it would be the last time
that I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly
and pray the Lord, your soul to keep.

If I knew it would be the last time
that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug and kiss
and call you back for one more.

If I knew it would be the last time
I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would video tape each action and word,
so I could play them back day after day.

For surely there's always tomorrow
to make up for an oversight,
and we always get a second chance
to make everything right.

There will always be another day
to say our "I love you's",
And certainly there's another chance
to say our "Anything I can do's?"

But just in case I might be wrong,
and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you
and I hope we never forget,

Tomorrow is not promised to anyone,
young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance
you get to hold your loved one tight.

So if you're waiting for tomorrow,
why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes,
you'll surely regret the day,

That you didn't take that extra time
for a smile, a hug, or a kiss
and you were too busy to grant someone,
what turned out to be their one last wish.

So hold your loved ones close today,
and whisper in their ear,
that you love them very much and
you'll always hold them dear.

Take time to say "I'm sorry,"
"Please forgive me," "thank you," or "it's okay".
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today.

2001-08-17T23:56:00.000-04:00

Last week of summer course. Yay! Look what I am doing instead. I am here. Wasting time. Being unproductive. I don’t mind, though, because each of us need sometime to ourselves. And this is just my way of doing it. Of course, I know I’ll pay for it when I stay up late to finish a paper in the very near future. ;)

With the final exam around the corner, unfortunately, that means I won’t be able to reply to e-mails. So if I owe you e-mail, please be patient…

I received my room assignment for school yesterday. I am rooming with one of my friends, and we’ve got a 2-person apartment on-campus. Another yay! ;)

It is also my last year of school too, so I am feeling a mixture of gladness and sadness. Sometimes I never really feel like I belong … anywhere. Don’t get me wrong. I am, by no means, anti-social (most say I am ebullient). Come to think of it, I don’t think I’ve ever worried about the social aspect of things – it comes quite naturally to me. And I have some very good friends (and an awesome best friend!), all of whom I am always grateful for. So I don’t know why I should feel the way I feel. Maybe it’s just a phase? Maybe there is something I have yet to grasp?

2001-08-11T19:46:00.000-04:00

I need out! Something else! Anything else!

I am frustrated - I am not sure if I am more frustrated at myself or my situation. I am always one to believe that we are the change we want to see. I also know that it is easier said than done, but I do intend to make some (temporary) changes. I don't know if it can be done yet, but I'd go crazy if it were to go like this for the next few weeks. I feel really guilty the way I feel now, because I know that many would love to be in my position right now. But what do I do when my heart is telling me something else? Do I listen to my heart or my head? (Rational thoughts aren't always helpful). And no, I am not referring to romance here. It just dawned on me that it could be taken that way. :) I won't go into it - nor do I want to, but I just want a moment to rant about it. I guess I'll leave it at that now.

On a different note, I would have love to do a study abroad - had it not been for financial factors. But then again, I'd have a hard time choosing where I'd want to visit. Before I visited London this past May, I would have picked London. Now that I know what I know, I probably won't. I'd probably want to go somewhere else, but where? Italy? France? Spain? Then again, I guess staying where I am now sounds like a good plan. Although I might go elsewhere before school starts. I won't say where it is yet; maybe after plans have been finalized? Also, why would you want to know, anyway? :)

2001-08-02T18:42:00.000-04:00

ooooh, I know this is a strange post, but...oh well. :)

I am eating oce-cream right now (as I am typing this very sentence) and it tastes good. Really good.

(time elasped)...

Ok. I am done with the oce-cream. I eat fast. I know. I am going to scoop myself another oce-cream in a couple of minutes. Yum.

************************************************
It's very tiring to go to work full-time and take a class at the same time. I am only taking one class for fun this summer, and it's already killing me (time-wise). The work itself isn't difficult, but I can hardly find the time to do the assigned reading, let alone anything else. The only other thing that I always make time for is my personal diary. And no, you can't read it. ;)

Otherwise, I don't know if it's just this week or if it's the weather. Whatever it is, though, I don't like the way it feels.

I've been having a headache at work for the past two days, and...and...my imagination is running wild with me. At work today, I was thinking about what could be more exciting, so I was ...um...looking at the stapler. A really cool thought then struck here. I watched the stapler, and then I imagined (in my mind, of course) little feet coming out from the bottom of the stapler and the white-colored stapler started to dance around the table. I actually smiled at that thought. Oddly enough, one of my co-workers, happened to joke at that moment that she could feel the heat coming from my thinking. It was just a joke, but I was just thinking, "Ha! you wouldn't want to know what I was just thinking!" I don't know if that's just a nuts me or that's creativity at work. Can that even count as creativity?

And I hit my hands on the wall while I was having a dream the other day. Ouchie. What a draggy (it's better than "dragging") week.

What else?

Oh yes, oce-cream time! :)

2001-07-28T20:42:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was one of my co-workers' last day on the job, and I miss him already. I met him two years ago (he was a college sophomore then), and he's one of the nicest people I have ever met. He has a great sense of humor, and he never failed to bring a smile to my face.

He will move to New York in September to start his new job there. Don't get me wrong; I am most happy for him - as long as he's happy with his new job and in life. He's a great person and I only wish him the best, but that doesn't make saying goodbyes any easier.

I know, as well as anyone else, that we meet people in life, and that someday, sooner or later, we'd all have to say our goodbyes. Still, that fact couldn't make the void (this strange emptiness feeling inside) go away. I take solace in the fact that I have been blessed just to have met him and that our path crossed each others' - however short it may be.

He gave me a hug, which felt very comforting. Yet, it made me feel sad at the same time, because I know I'm probably not going to see him again. We exchanged e-mail addresses and phone numbers, but it wouldn't be the same. But such is life, isn't it?

2001-07-28T19:01:00.000-04:00

My summer class (Modern Drama - Selected Plays from 1879 to the Present) is more entertaining that I thought. You should have seen the look on my face when I found out that it was a junior-level course. I wouldn't have minded, normally, as I love reading. Unfortunately, I feel like I don't have enough hours in a day with a full-time job and everything else in between. Also, it's summer, so I am feeling a bit lazy too. ;)

I think role-playing is one of the best aspects of plays. I tend to be on the more quiet side in school, but I volunteered to read a part at my last class because I wanted to do something, anything! to keep me awake. It's not the class (there were many sharp and articulate students there), but I only wanted more sleep! If you are like me, though, you'd know that role playing does something to people. I perked almost immediately when I had to read my part. It was so much fun and I was being as dramatic as I could ( ah, but he is engaged to me). I guess that surprised some people because I am not big on participation. Come to think of it, I always get surprised looks from people whenever I do any presentations. What can I say? People have a natural tendency to make assumptions, which can be both a good and bad thing.

2001-07-21T23:16:00.000-04:00

The world will turn...and the seasons will change. And all the lessons we will learn - will be beautiful and strange. We’ll have our fill of tears, our share of sighs, my only prayer - is that you realize, you’ll always be beautiful...in my eyes.
...

We can laugh about it. How times really fly. We won't say goodbye if true love never dies. You'll always be beautiful in my eyes.

What an awesome song and beautiful lyrics...

2001-07-17T22:18:00.000-04:00

It might sounds a bit strange, but I like to think a lot. I haven't decided if it's a good or bad thing, but that's certainly up for debate. Truthfully, *some* of my thoughts are insanely strange. In fact, I was telling my brother about some of them yesterday night (near midnight), and it was so disturbing that he'd rather not hear about it. Don't worry, by "disturbing" - I don't mean that the thoughts were twisted. It was disturbing only because it was so against traditional conventions. If you heard our conversation, you'd hear phrases like "mathematical manipulation", "Issac Newton", "history", "physics" and blah, blah, blah. It was quite entertaining, actually.

Althought, I was, very tired yesterday night. I went straight to my first class of my summer course immediately after work, and I didn't get home until about 10p.m. That didn't leave me with much time, especially with all that I have to do. I went to bed sometime between 12 and 1a.m, and I was rather sleepy (but still energized) today. The class is twice a week and three hours each. And guess what? Tomorrow will be another long day for me. It'll be worth it, hopefully. My class should have finished reading this short play for next class, but I haven't even bought the book yet!

So, I'll be quite the busy bee for the next several weeks. I have a two papers, an final exam, and a short presentation. The class that I am taking is Modern Drama (I am an English minor), and MORE than half the students there are English MAJORS! Needless to say, many of them are very articulate - although the fact that many are older may have contribute to that as well.

I also have plenty of decisions to make. Do I want take out loans for school? Do I want to work part-time during the school? (My supervisor asked me to think about it today) :) There are also lots of other things that I need to deal with. With everything that is going on, unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to write as much as I'd hoped. It's just going to take some time for me to sort everything out. In the meantime, please feel free to e-mail me at hkmail@excite.com if you have any comments or suggestions. (I know, I know - I still haven't had the chance to get the comment function of this site fixed yet. If you have a good solution to that, let me know too). :)

2001-06-09T21:04:00.000-04:00

I had a beautiful dream that I want to share it with all of you. I wrote it on my personal diary that morning, because I never want to forget that feeling. I am only going to share that part of my personal diary, but I need to point out that my words - no matter how descriptive – could never give it the justice that it deserved.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 4, 2001

Dear Diary,

It is still early in the morning, and I want to write about my dream before I forget:

In my dream, I just woke up from my sleep. (How fitting, right?) The setting was absolutely amazing. There were three beds in the room. There was a climb-up-the ladder (double beds), and the other is the standard single bed. It was a medium sized and relatively simple room. Nothing extravagant. It’s almost like a standard hotel room – only it’s one room and smaller. I don’t recall any paintings on the walls. Despite its simplicity, it has this elegance to it.

I sat up and saw a glass window with a beautiful view of a big pond? Small lake? The water was calm, with ripples moving ever so gently. I then closed my eyes to make sure I was awake (yes, I did that in my dream). I half-expected everything to disappear. Much to my delight, the pond was still there when I open my eyes! Because the water was so clear, I even saw the leaves at the bottom of the pond. It was a detailed dream, and I was fortunate to experience the beauty of that moment. Just being. Not a worry in the world. It was a wondrous and comforting sight. Paradise? It’s nature at its best, maybe?

And its serene setting makes my heart feel so at peace. Maybe soared with a sweet contentment – even a strange sense of happiness. And that’s a truly blessed feeling…

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just close your eyes for a moment and imagine the scenery...

On to other things:

I’ve read the following quote from a newspaper, in a speech by Bono from the rock band U2 at Harvard’s commencement. I have always felt that way (about the quote), but I can never find the words to express them. So I guess his quote is as good as none. "The culture of idealism is under siege, beset by materialism, narcissism, and all the other isms of indifference." I think it’s a good and beautiful quote, indeed.

I haven’t had a chance to write about England. I think the trip was interesting, but with all due respect, I don’t think London is as great as most people made it to be. For one, there is a huge social and economic disparity there. Let’s just say…I am glad to be back home. I guess it’s really true. “There’s no place like home”.

P.S. With work starting next week, I might not have time to update this website often. Please be patient.
P.P.S. “Comments” no longer work. If you have any comments, please feel free to e-mail me at hkmail@excite.com. (I will try to figure out a substitute for it).

2001-05-31T17:16:00.000-04:00

I just got back from London two days ago, and I have lots to update. :) Unfortunately, I am very, very busy at the moment.

I didn't realized that my website was down until I got e-mails from some of you. I am sorry about that. I don't know what happened, and Blogger hasn't been working too well.

More later. Promise... :)

2001-05-18T00:38:00.000-04:00

Do you know what the best part is about the end of school? It’s so awesome to finally be able to go to bed late and wake up up late! Yay! That’s totally cool. Still, I probably looked like I haven’t had sleep in a long, long time. You know…with undereye circles and all. Or as my mom liked to say, I have “Panda’s eyes”. D’oh. Should I be flattered that I got such an original compliment? ;)

Friends are special – not because of what they say, but because of what they do – and I feel so lucky to have some very, very special friends.

I talked to my best friend on the phone the other day. We’ve known each other since elementary school, and we’re both college students now. Gee, where did the time go? Still, we remain the best of friends…and that’s all that matters to me. Have no fear, though! While we may be “older”, we are still little kids at heart! You wouldn’t believe how many “he he he” and “ha ha ha” we had in our brief conversation! Yeehaw! :)

I finally sent out the check to take the summer class. And now, that left me pretty much broke . Awww, I’ll be working…and working…until…? Hmmm, that doesn’t sound too exciting, does it?

I also visited my high school, Cambridge Rindge and Latin, with my sister this afternoon. I've really enjoyed my high school years (especially times shared with friends), and it just felt strange going back and seeing everything – familiar and yet… obviously different at the same time. Maybe the school wasn’t the only change, maybe I have changed plenty too. Perhaps my two years at Bentley have helped me to see that. Or maybe I see that now because I am two years older and wiser? (yeah, right!) Or maybe it’s a combination of the two?

The visit reminded me how much I miss my high school friends. It also made me think how I would probably miss the friends I have made here at Bentley (when I graduate).

Hmmm, I should start packing for the trip and all the other things I have to do. I must mention that the exchange rates (from U.S. currency to British pounds) weren’t so great…

So this will be my last (long) entry, at least for a while. Don’t worry. I’ll be back. You didn’t think you could get rid of me that easily, right? :)

I hope life is treating you well, fair readers. Smile. Be happy. =)

2001-05-17T22:16:00.000-04:00

Hmmm, nice poem...

By: Ralph Waldo Emerson

To laugh often and much;

To win the respect of intelligent people
and the affection of children;

To earn the appreciation of honest critics and
endure the betrayal of false friends;

To appreciate beauty;

To find the best in others;

To leave the world a bit better, whether by
a healthy child, a garden
patch or a redeemed social condition;

To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived;

This is to have succeeded.

2001-05-17T22:05:00.000-04:00

Oh my gosh, I have just watched an incredible season finale of "Charmed" . Darn, it's so unfair! I have to wait until September to find out what happened!

2001-05-14T16:45:00.000-04:00

This is really strange. Last month, everything that could go wrong went wrong (and they have little to do with school). It was simply an upsetting time.

Now, life is good. Maybe too good? The day after I moved back home from school, I have been offered a summer job. I applied for the same position that I have worked for in the past few summers, and I was so surprised when they called back with some other news. I can't explain what it is now, because I want to explain it all toward the end of the summer. You can bet you will read all about it. ;)

Just several minutes ago, I got an e-mail saying that I was one of three people to have won a $100 from the online survey that I filled out. I don't know what to think. My first reaction is like, "is this for real?" l almost never win anything from sweepstakes or drawings, not even from those soft drinks promotions.

And well, things in general are...? I don't know what to say, except that I am just thankful.

My sister will be the first in my family to graduate from college this Saturday. Oh, this is so exciting! My family already got my sister a bouquet of beautiful roses. I think my sister deserved it; she worked so hard all these years. And if you're reading this, sis, congrats! And with the London trip just around the corner, you can celebrate! Yay! =)

2001-05-10T01:05:00.000-04:00

My room looks...empty, now that most of the things were moved. Daddy dropped by tonight to help us with the move; he'll be back again tomorrow to help us move the remaining things. It was funny how he dropped by our room in the apartment and commented, ""wow, your room looks as comfortable as a hotel room." Well, I'll admit that it is a nice and spacious room. I remembered that the first time I saw it, I thought it was huge compared to the dorm room that I lived in last year.

All my roommates - including my sister - are graduating this year. Congrats! I wish them all the best. Fortunately, I could still bug my sister just because she'll be stuck with me for a while. Hmmm, perhaps that is "unfortunate" for her? ;)

Well, this is it. The end of my sceond year of college. I found out most of my grades for the semester as they are updated on BannerWeb. I did well in some and not so well in others. My lowest grades, as expected, were from the two courses that I disliked the most. I still don't know two of my grades as of yet, but I did an estimation just to see if I had jeopardized the scholarship. The result? Well, it looked as if I managed to keep the GPA higher than the scholarship requirements! Yay! I am happy about that. =)

Using conservative estimates on those two courses, I'd also realized that I might not make it to the Dean's List - by the hundredths of a point! It would be the second time already, if this happened! At this point, it looked like it'll be the same for Honors at graduation - by the tenths of a point! Getting honors or no honors is no big deal; it's just that when you are so close, you kind of feel like the grades are taunting at you. Then again, what are grades anyway? They are nothing but numbers that don't always accurately measure one's understanding of the materials. I wouldn't even worry about them if it weren't for the scholarship. I am just glad it's over. :)

Tonight is my last night at campus. I feel a bit sad about it, but without change, where would we be?

I thank you all, fair readers, for visiting my site. I probably won't be updating this site as often now that school's over, but don't worry, I'll be sure to update it. Just not as often, that's all. :)

And now, I bid you all a happy summer! Please take care and I'll see some of you again in the fall. :)

2001-05-09T20:25:00.000-04:00

This sounds just like it's coming out of a movie, doesn't it?
CNN.com - Sci-Tech - Space - Scientists urge killer asteroid prevention plan - May 8, 2001

2001-05-07T15:46:00.000-04:00

Don't you wish you could travel to space too, like Tito? After all, how many people could refuse the opportunity to get nauseous in space, right? :)

Hmmm, let's take a look at a hypothetical situation: What if a space tourist encounter some sort of alien in space (assuming that they exist), and then died of a heart attack? What do you think would happen to the "space tourism" industry?

I think I want to work for NASA now. Or maybe not. But I liked their website nonetheless: http://www.nasa.gov/

CNN.com - Sci-Tech - Space - Tourist finds 'paradise' in space - May 6, 2001

2001-05-07T02:32:00.000-04:00

If there is anything I learned freshman year - while writing a 10-page paper for Philosophy, another 10-page paper, and trying to study for a major final exam, it would be "never procrastinate until the very last day!" I was yawning more at how boring my papers were than from sleep deprivation! (Can you just imagine the quality of those papers?) :)

And yet, here I am again, hurriedly typing away to finish up yet another final paper. You would think I'd learned my lesson from last year! Apparently not...

I guess my professor will have to read whatever mumble jumbo I managed to cram into my paper. I have three (good) pages down, but I still have lots to write. Did I also mention that it was worth 40% of the final grade? Hmmm, do you think my professor would noticed if I used 16-size font? =)

2001-05-06T16:15:00.000-04:00

If "abnormal psychology" is anything as interesting as this, then I am signing up for it the following semester (for my unrestricted elective)!
Sperling's Bio of Sidis

2001-05-05T17:57:00.000-04:00

I found out today that my course away has been approved! Now, depending on how motivated I am, I might (or might not) take a course called "Modern Drama" at Umass. Why a summer course? Click here. Students will be studying works by authors such as Ibsen, Chekhov, Shaw, O'Neill, Odets, Beckett, Brecht, and Miller. Interesting, huh? :)

I also took a course at Bentley last summer. I didn't want to, but my advisor strongly recommended it because I was stuck between the old and the new DRS. I finally decided to take the course because it would give me more option should I decide to (or not to) accelerate my studies. It turned out be more fun that I expected.

On my first day of class, I met this guy named Nick. It was strange because it was an introductory accounting course, and he was an accountant at an oce-cream company! It turned out that it was a "refresher" course, and that his company would reimburse him based on the grade he earned in the course. Most of the students there were about my age (age range: 18 -20), and he was apparently older than most of us. Nonetheless, he was easy to talk to and I really liked his frankness. He told me that he need to start planning his future: buying a house, starting a family, and saving for his retirement. It was not something that I was used to hearing, but it was neat to see things from his perspective.

I didn't really know too many people in that class except for Nick and the guy who sat next to me. He was, like me, a freshman at college. He was a student at Yale, and I think he was double majoring in International Relations and Politics with a concentration in economics. Or something like that. I was far too busy laughing at how long his major was! Ha Ha. He thought I was amusing. We exchanged more jokes in class than paying attention to the professor, but can you blame us? It was summer! (And who want to work after a long day at work already?)

Besides some friendly competition on our exams, he'd also like to scribble physics equation on my notebook. When we were separated for one class to work with our group on the project, he sat next to me the next class and joked, "Did you miss me?". Ha ha. All I can say is our crazy jokes made that summer course more entertaining. After all, accounting is not the most interesting subject in the world. I'll admit, however, that people should give more credits to it than they do now.

Well, what can I say? Welcome to my ramblings... =)

2001-05-05T14:01:00.000-04:00

CNN.com - Sci-Tech - World's first genetically altered babies born - May 5, 2001

Is this really something or what?

2001-05-04T19:13:00.000-04:00

I think the kids (me, included - just because I'll always be a kid in my mom's eyes) :) will be treating my mom to lunch or dinner for Mother's Day. I know there is nothing that I can ever say or do to repay my parents for everything - their time, love and sacrifices. And so, the dinner is the very least that we "kids" could do as a token of our love and appreciation. (And, I think this is the sentimental moi writing). =)

2001-05-04T12:54:00.000-04:00

I've started several posts, but I can't post any of them because I haven't finished them...yet. Anyway, raise your hands you are a repeat visitor to my site! Yes, now. R-a-i-s-e y-o-u-r h-a-n-d-s. (Not that I'd see what you're doing, anyway.) =) Apparently, I am not myself, but that's okie dokie.

I just don't know how anyone could put up with my nonsense and ramblings. :)

2001-05-02T23:07:00.000-04:00

"If you are never scared, embarrassed, or hurt, it means you never take chances". -Julia Soul

Hmmm, I guess that meant that I have taken plenty of chances? Well, I don't want to share the stories...just yet. =)

2001-05-02T03:33:00.000-04:00

I am yawning, but I can't fall asleep. Why, oh why?

2001-05-01T18:51:00.000-04:00

Another presentation down; just one more to go! Yay! I have one final next week, but that will be difficult. So, I will study the night before. Or maybe two nights before just to ensure that I don't flunk the class. I also have an English paper to write, but that should be fun. After all, I love writing. :)

I am too hyper today, so I am outta here. =)

My ramblings at (4:01 a.m):
Life is but a dream. Everything that we see, all that we know, and all that we ever do is but a figment of our imagination.

At the end, all that matters are the people we shared our lives with - those who helped us grow, and whose love, support and guidance gave us strength to overcome adversity and the many disappointments. They are the ones who walked with us on our journey, filled our lives with laughter (and tears), and warmed our hearts. They are the ones who showed us what a blessing life truly is.

At the end, when we are left with nothing but faraway memories, we could always look back with a smile - just because we could. So no matter how busy our lives get, never forget to take the time just to say a simple "thank you!"

2001-04-29T18:08:00.000-04:00

We finally got our airline tickets in the mail! The trip is less than a month away, and I am excited! Yay! “I am so excited, and I can’t hide it….” :)

As usual, I came home this weekend and “forgot” all about my work. Funny why I even brought my backpack home.

One of my friends invited me to go “clubbing” . I was like, “Err…” Is clubbing really such a big deal? A co-worker (a student at Northeastern) also invited me to go clubbing last summer. She joked that she could get me a fake ID; she even showed me her fake ID! Ha Ha. I laughed at the absurdity of it all. :)

But, nothing can beat an invitation I got last week. One of my friends asked me, out of the blue, if I wanted to go skydiving! Beat that! After all, who can refuse to jump out of the plane from X feet in the sky and fly (or fall, depending on how you look at it) Y feet below before the parachute opens? My friend and I had a really good laugh over that. She will be jumping on May 2 – which is Reading Day. A great stress reliever, maybe? (I, on the other hand, am not planning to jump out of anywhere anytime soon). :) If she is reading this, she should know that I think she is one amusing person. =)

With the perfect weather out there, I surprised my mom and went shopping with her. I guess it was surprising because she knew I hated shopping. Whenever we go, I am usually the one who nags, “Can we go now?” But now I figured, “Anything to procrastinate.” :)

I shouldn’t have brought my credit card to the stores (especially the Disney Stores). I spent over $100 in less than three hours (not bad for someone who hates shopping, huh?) Ouch. Just wait until I get my bills next month – I am going to be so broke. Wait, nevermind. I am already broke. I really need to get a job…and soon! But I think it is fair to say that I am not a huge spender, at least not on myself. Most of the things that I bought are actually gifts. That’s as far as I can say, because I know that somebody visits my site, and I don’t want to give the surprise away. =)

I think this is long enough of a post to last for the entire week… (laziness is taking over). ;)

2001-04-26T19:49:00.000-04:00

A guest speaker (also a professor at Bentley) visited my English class today. She is rather young for a professor. In fact, I have no doubt that she could even pass for a college student. :) She actually reminded me of my physics teacher in high school - so full of life and energy! I perked up just listening to her stories. Unexpectedly, a sudden realization struck me! It is people like her - teachers who taught with a passion - that sparked my love of learning in high school! That alone has changed me in many ways, even see the world in a new light!

I thought I had lost my passion for learning after all that has happened this semester, but I now know that I was wrong. My love of learning may wane sometimes, but I think it would always stay with me. The guest's visit was short and simple, but it was all that I needed. It was absolutely refreshing, and I couldn't have asked for a better timing! :)

2001-04-26T13:30:00.000-04:00

One presentation down; two more to go. :) I was more nervous that I *should* be, which was a bit surprising. It was not as if I had never done any class presentations before.

In fact, I had to go to the podium and announce daily news/updates to the class in elementary school. That was actually one of my "responsibilities" as the Class President of my graduating class. I don't think of it as a "responsibility" at all, because I had soooooo much fun with my amusing bunch of friends and classmates! It made me smile just thinking about it. One of my crazy guy friends even told me that all the guys in the class voted for me. Hehe. Funny story. :) Trust me, if I had any social skills at all - I learned most of it from them. It gave me a good balance, and I am thankful for that.

Anyway, I was reading the news today and there was an interesting article on the foot and mouth disease in Europe. There was an article about it, and it made me feel very sad for the cattles that were slaughtered. What a tragic situation.

Hmmm, I think this is a long enough post, and I don't know if I had bored you enough yet. :) I still have some work to do, so I probably won't write again until next week. So until then... :)

2001-04-26T00:06:00.000-04:00

I couldn't wait until the end of the semester, and now that it is almost here, I am excited. And yet, seeing that one of my roommates have things ready to be moved, I couldn't help but feel a bit...sad.

Emotions. What a wonder.

2001-04-25T20:04:00.000-04:00

I have two group presentations tomorrow. Ooh, how fun! Things are getting better these days, and my stress level has gone down dramatically. Maybe that's because I am in denial. ;)

I am a bit tired of group projects. I am only taking five classes this semester, and I have four group projects! That's excessive!

I signed up for a total of 19 credits next semester (1 credit is for Service Learning). And catch this: I have free days on both Monday and Wednesday! Do you know what that means? Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday would be crazy. It wasn't my choice, either, because there were only 1 or 2 sections for some of the required major courses.

I don't have to take 19 credits next semester, but I want to have an extra elective so that I could try out a graduate course - so I could decide whether to stay or withdraw from the 5-year program. I am leaning toward the latter at this point. It's still too early for me to decide, and things could easily change. So we'll just have to wait and see. :)

2001-04-25T17:11:00.000-04:00

I am ultra hyper these days. 'Nuff said. :)

2001-04-23T18:42:00.000-04:00

I just tried my first (or was it the second time?) a root beer. It wasn't my choice. Everything else in the darn machine was sold out! Let's see...Coke, Sprite, Nestea, and even Minute Orange Juice! By then, I was hitting every button to see if I can even get *any* drink out of the machine. So, what do you know? I got a root beer. And you know what? It's no wonder that it wasn't sold out. Why? Because it tastes nasty. In fact, it tastes so nasty that I feel the need to write a post about it. :)

2001-04-23T13:14:00.000-04:00

Yay! I found out that I did well in my second (the so-called "final exam") for one of my classes! My professor didn't give us back our exam yet, but our grades were on a spreadsheet that she passed around in class. A 96! I was shocked! Can you imagine the look on my face, especially since I hadn't done too well on my first exam. Now, I just hope she doesn't hand back the actual exam on Thursday, and say, "Oops. I made an error on my spreadsheet. Your grade is actually a 46" or something like that. That would be freaky.

Well, maybe I am not going to lose my scholarship after all! Or maybe I am just overly hyper and optimistic today!

2001-04-20T14:48:00.000-04:00

Friends are treasures. Yes, without a doubt! I have much to say about my friends, and many thoughts on "friendships". But, time is not on my side right now. I could, of course, just ramble on about it. I don't want to do that now, however, because my friends certainly deserved more thoughts and care than just some "ramblings" done in a hurry. Wouldn't you agree? :)

Hmmm, it'd be easier if I could just "name" my friends while writing my post, but I do respect people's privacy (so, unless I have your permission...) Also, wouldn't it be interesting if I do something like "Friend of the Month" or something to that effect? ;) Well, if you don't mind that I use your name (and trust me, there's always something I could say about you), let me know. You could post by clicking on "comments", e-mail me at hkmail@excite.com, or IM me. Whatever works.

P.S. Some of you are "comments-shy!" Still, much thanks to those who gave me comments via e-mail and AIM. (Oh yes, at least I know I am not the only one having recurring dreams) :)

Note: This page is *usually* not updated over the weekends. There are some exceptions, of course. ;)

2001-04-19T17:28:00.000-04:00

When is the (pre) final exam *madness* going to end?! To college students everywhere: I sympathize with you. I really do. Now, the question is, when will this semester finally be over for you? :)

2001-04-18T02:11:00.000-04:00

The sky, the stars, the moon. How amazingly beautiful. There is something about nature that always gets to me.

Some artists can capture the beauty of nature so perfectly in their paintings. The branches of the trees, the swaying leaves, the bright colored flowers. Sometimes I could even imagined myself in the drawings - imagining the sweet fragrance of the flowers, or the feeling of gentle winds brushing against my face. And sometimes, I don't even have to imagine it. It *is* all around us. But sometimes...we are too consumed with the routines of everyday life that we never really slow down our lives to truly appreciate the beauty and wonders of this world...

2001-04-18T00:43:00.000-04:00

The jittery before finals. It's crazy. Sleep? What is that?

2001-04-17T04:46:00.000-04:00

Disclaimer: If you click on this page, you will get lots of annoying pop-up windows. But, I like this page well enough to disregard the minor annoyances. At least I liked it well enough for it to land in my Favorites folder. That's it for now. It is, after all, 4:48 a.m in the morning. :)

2001-04-16T12:47:00.000-04:00

I find it funny (and freaky sometimes) when dreams repeat itself. No, really. I am serious. Sometimes when I don't finish a dream, I would have the *exact* same dream some months later -- starting from the very beginning. Just the other day, I had a dream and I awoke in the middle of it. I didn't need (or want) to know how the dream ended because I knew exactly how it ended. Yes, I had that dream before. It's a bit eerie that the even the smallest details were unchanged. Brrr. Maybe my unsubconscious mind is in some sort of a loop? Any similar experiences? :)

On a lighter note, for those at Bentley, what date have you been assigned for course registration? Mine is this Wednesday, so *hopefully*, I should be able to get into most of the courses without jumping through loops (as is the case for the last 3 semesters). I think someone else (no names here, *hint, hint*) knew how frustrating that can be. What courses do you plan to take? Any good course/professor recommendations? Post away, e-mail me, or let me know when I see you. :)

(Another trick: If "comments" doesn't work on IE, simply refresh the page. It usually works the second time.) :)

2001-04-15T20:41:00.000-04:00

Earlier this year, my brother was working on his homework for AP European History. I, other the other hand, was on my way to the kitchen to grab something to eat. The only thing that was on my mind was...food! My brother, knowing that AP European History was one of my favorite courses in high school, interrupted me and asked, "Hey, what do you know about the Romantic Movement?"

I didn't even have to think about the question. It was too simple. With a huge grin on my face, I answered, "It was romantic. What else?" My brother looked as if he was about to kill me, but...then his expression turned into one of amusement. After all, who else could've given him such a cool answer? :)

2001-04-15T16:10:00.000-04:00

There is so much work waiting at my desk, taunting me, "How long is it going to take you to finish me!" Is your work calling out at you too?

At the rate that I am going, I won't be getting much sleep for the next two weeks. What a scary thought! Then again, did you know the British liner, Titanic, sank today in 1912, taking about 1,500 lives with her? If you didn't, well, now you do...

P.S. I really get my kicks just updating my "rambling thoughts", even though I haven't even told anyone about this page...yet. :)

2001-04-14T16:20:00.000-04:00

We always have a choice in everything that we do, right? Well, today, I choose to be happy. You should too. Appreciate the little things in life and keep smiling. Life's much better and more meaningful that way. :)

2001-04-14T14:12:00.000-04:00

I found out that I have been assigned a new advisor...again! The strange part is, they changed it right before course registrations! Brilliant move, don't you think? ;)

2001-04-13T21:29:00.000-04:00

Welcome! This is it. My first post of my very first blog. So, what is this all about? Well, as the name ("Random Ramblings") may have suggested, what do you think? :)

There are about two more weeks until finals, and then it'll be all over. I am glad. It's not that I don't enjoy school (I most certainly do), but this has just been a rough semester. There were too many days when I felt as if my life was spinning out of control. Fortunately, I felt happy (or at the very least, content) for the most part.

I'd like to end my very first blog entry with some of my favorite quotes:

"There is a magic that comes from loving life with a passion; the only way to find it is to see it with your heart."
"May the blessings of hope and the warmth of memories remind us all what a wonderful life this is."
"Beyond the clouds, behind the rain, there are a thousand rainbows."

P.S. If you have any comments, please feel free to post them by clicking on "Comments". (Note: If you are unable to leave comments using Microsoft IE, try using Netscape!)