2009 Memories.

So, in the midst of looking for a full-time job, I got distracted by the new Facebook application: "My Year in Photos". And as I started recreating one for myself, I started getting nostalgic and realized...damn...there is NO WAY I can capture all of the highlights of my year in just 16 pictures! And so...I blog!

To celebrate (and procrastinate) 2009.

Cheers to 2010!

My fondest memories of 2009 (attempted in chronological order). *ahem*:

• New York! Shake Shack!
• Chicago! Hot dog!
  
• Imbibing with Bo for the first time...ever! "Oh man...remember when we used to play with barbies?! Look..now we're drinkin together!"
• John Legend Concert. Thanks Helen for the bday gift <3>
• My 23rd Birthday at The Bubble.
• UC Berkeley LUNAFEST. $1,115 fundraised. 200+ in attendance.
• Many many trips to the Gender Equity Resource Center =).
• District Board meetings galore.
• "Bread! Drinks! Bread Drinks! Camille, Camille, Camille!"
• District Convention 2009 -- my final one.
• Tears from the bondiest d-board ever...Lots and lots and lots of tears. Deep down inside, I wasn't the biggest softy on that board! no way! *hem hem* ET? ;)
  
• Career Fair.
• Class of 09's graduation.
  
• Cheriz + Nitt = Chezitt <3>
• Helen has a Doc <3>
• Napa. Lots of picture posing. Love at First Bite.
• Random trip to Santa Cruz for wine tasting.
  
• SF Marathon 2009. 4 hours and 1 minute.
• Ngail Adventures. Beta Lounge. Adesso. Easy Lounge. Jupiters. Kitty's. Infusion. Thalassas. puff puff puff...oi!
  
• Road trip to Portland and Seattle.Voodoo Donuts. Truffle fries.
  
• Clif Bar. LUNA Bar. Clif Kid. Expo expo expo. Chop chop chop. "No. You won't grow boobs if you eat LUNA Bars."
• 4 Squares at Rockridge.
• Cover letters. Interviews. Rejection.
• Leslie's Birthday with Sam Bau.
• Mashed potatoes with Jess and Less followed by the ultimate T-Day dinner =).
  
• Bento in a Box convo sessions.
• Getting inducted as an official Kiwanian!
• Kiwanis DCON.
• San Diego night life with Rachel, Francis, and more...>.<
• Camp Cazadero. Bakery. River. Bridge. Kiwanis!
  
• OkC..
• Taking Cal Train for the first time down to Sunnyvale.
• Stella, The Granny Mobile Tanke dies =(.
• Bike falls off and gets run over by bus...
• New Honda Civic =D.
  
• Attempting to learn the guitar.
  
• Cooking cooking cooking. Bartending class!
  
• Alameda. Lots!
• Yelping and job hunting in coffeeshops galore.
  
• Yogurtland opens up next to campus. *gasp*!
• Peach mumbles "Cheese Pretzel!" in her sleep.
• Yelp, yelp, and more yelp.
• Christmas and Thanksgiving Dinner = muy delicioso.
• Tiki Lounge in the middle of December.
• Peach Nipitnorasate.
• One-on-one convo's with good friends...<3>

And many many more memories to be made =)

The One

I no longer know if 'The One' exists, but I do believe there is someone in this world that I can truly make happy and can fulfill all my desires...

And that person is me.

I am my #1.

Followed closely by my best friends and family.

Compliments

Digging deep into my philosophical brain and heart, I think I tend to compliment people a lot for 2 reasons:

1) It makes them feel good.

2) It makes me feel good to see that it makes them feel good.

Quite often I find that a majority of people don't take the time nor find the need to express their gratitude. Or maybe they just have some odd un-affectionate way of expressing it. But it bugs me when people take things for granted and neglect the beauty of those around them.

IE: Parents. Often, they get so busy tending to work that they're constantly telling you what to do rather than "good job" or "I'm proud of you". Or a boss who makes you grind 40+ hours a week without a single "keep up the great work!". Or a boyfriend who has glazed the fact that you've worked out all day or styled your hair differently neglecting to say "you look gorgeous today."

Perhaps I am just venting or wasn't hugged enough as a child.

One way or the other, I think making a point to compliment someone everyday is a great way to spread the love that is needed so much more in this dark world.

Whether you are complimenting..

...a friend, "Hey! You're such a great listener, and I'm glad I have you to talk to <3"
...a child, "Thanks for cleaning the dishes!"
...a stranger, "That coat looks ravishing on you!"
... or heck..even yourself!, "You look stunning today!"

I strongly believe it's totally a day-maker.

Life would be so much beautiful if we each strive to do so much more often. *nod*

Perhaps, we all could use a little Validation in our lives.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am thankful for my stomach that is able to digest everything that I put in it so very well, which allows me to enjoy food over and over again the next day and the next...annnnd the next.

Aside from that, personal shot outs for some of my favorite people who have kept me happy these last few weeks:

Cajita: LOL. You make me laugh. We're chatting right now, and you do. You and your brute honesty.

Raymundo: For your truly random texts at random times throughout the week, vent sessions, and constant cravings for George's Greek.

Danielle: For your wake-up texts, quirky emails, and gushy lovey-dovey self.

Jess: Because no matter how long it's been since the last time we've talked, you ALWAYS understand!

Leslie: Because you've always got my back, are so protective of my heart, and are always there for a good drinking session.

Helen: For being my emotional/relationship counselor and getting me excited about future "festivities".

Mak: Because even though you always say "get outta here!", you still let me back into your house and feed me with great food and music.

Bento: For being my #1 International Fan and always excited to get the latest news fresh off the press! You make me feel like my life is actually exciting! LOL.

Jenny: For always being so sweet, genuinely you, and such a great listener!

Peter Y: For always being so honest. And so funny while you're at it! You always make light of serious things. It works. Haha.

Joe Lee: For always smelling good. :)

Maddie: For making the funniest faces and screaming with Helen on the road to keep the drive up to Seattle that much more entertaining.

Alan: For being online and finally getting text.

May: Because you still inspire me after all these years.

Bo: Because you'd let me visit you in Chicago given any time or day. You're my run-t0 cousin.

Peach: Because well, duh, you're my sister and you're a pretty damn good one!

AND FINALLY...

Quote of the day (which I heard from the radio):

"Happiness is having something to look forward to."

And I look forward to talking and seeing each of you everyday <3

Haven't Met You Yet

For the day dreamers and hopeless romantic goofballs...just "Haven't Met You Yet"!

By Michael Buble

What I love most about this song is that the lyrics are kinda sad and very relate-able, but the beat itself is so happy and bubbly that you're like "Ok! You're right! Not today...but one day! Until then, la la la!" :) *jazz hands*!

...

I'm not surprised,
Not everything lasts,
I've broken my heart so many times I stopped keeping track.
Talk myself in,
I talk myself out,
I get all worked up,
Then I let myself down,

I tried so very hard not to loose it;
I came up with a million excuses,
I thought I thought of every possibility,

And I know some day that it’ll all turn out,
You'll make me work so we can work to work it out,
And I promise you kid that I give so much more than I get~ mmm.......
I just haven't met you yet.

Mmmmm ....

I might have to wait,
I’ll never give up,
I guess it's half timin', and the other half's luck,
Wherever you are,
Whenever it's right,
You'll come outta nowhere and into my life.

And I know that we can be so amazin',
And baby your love is gonna change me,
And now I can see every possibility, mmmmmm....

Somehow I know that it’ll all turn out,
You'll make me work so we can work to work it out,
And promise you kid, I'll give so much more than I get, mmmm....
I just haven't met you yet.

They say all’s fair
in love and war
But I won’t need to fight it,
we'll get it right an',
we'll be united

and I know that we can be so amazin',
And bein' in your life is gonna change me,
And now I can see every single possibility, mmmmmm

And someday I know it'll all turn out,
And I'll work to work it out,
Promise you kid I’ll give more than I get
Than I get, than I get, than I get.

Oh, you know it'll all turn out,
and you'll make me work so we can work to work it out,
And promise you kid to give so much more than I get, yeah
I just haven't met you yet.

I just haven't met you yet,
Oh, promise you kid,
To give so much more than I get.

I said love love love love love love love.....
I just haven't met you yet
Love love love .....
So doy day ay ay ay, ay ay yeah
I just haven't met you yet!

"Happy Thoughts"

I think it's time for a different approach to life.

To wake up thinking about what you DO have rather than what you DON'T have.

And so, I'm going to make more of a greater effort to wake up each morning and make a list of things -either by jotting them down or just saying them out loud to myself or something - to be grateful for, so here goes list #1:

1. My parents who continue to shelter me everyday
   
2. My mom who continues to cook the best Thai food ever.
   
3. My legs - that allow me to run.
4. A healthy body - that allows me to breathe and allow me to enjoy everything with all 5 senses to its very fullest.
5. Peach Nipitnorasate
6. The people in my life who make a good effort to keep in touch everyday no matter the distance -- you know who you are.
   
7. The internet/chat systems that allow for the above.
   
8. Latte art.
   
9. Cafes/library's.
10. My own room.
11. My own bed.
12. Autumn.
13. Good eats.
14. My aunt.
15. Music like Matt Nathanson and John Legend
16. The ability to love greatly, fall in love, and feel completely enamored over and over again.
    

And the list will continue to grow..day after day.

I wonder if there's a website/open forum where people can just go to -- to share their happiness with each other?

Happy Thursday =).

Matt Nathanson <3

Alright...so...I'm 2 years behind...but...if Matt Nathanson's "Some Mad Hope" could be embodied into one guy...I'd seriously be in love.

Gosh darn it -- is it possible to fall in love with a person through their music?! John Legend...I think you've met your match (in another realm of music!). This guy sings with a whole lotta great passion about LOVE.

I think it's safe to say that after listening to this album on repeat for the last week+, I've become a very satisfied fan! =)

----

Excerpt from Matt's Bio: http://www.mattnathanson.com/about
At the core of Nathanson's music are his lyrics -- deft turns of phrase that can alternately cut deep into the heart or heal it. That's evident throughout Some Mad Hope, a song cycle of sorts that chronicles the search for a genuine connection, touching on the sensually electric moments as well as the darker frustrations of sifting through the wreckage -- in hopes of finding redemption at the end of the day.

"I definitely think of the album as capturing the arc of a relationship," says the Boston native. "It starts out on a positive note and it goes to some really dark places. But after touching bottom, there's a sense of optimism in the end. Maybe coming from a realization that two people can be a team, not just two individuals who happen to be together."

...

"In a lot of ways, the album is about learning what a relationship really can be," he says. "Some people deal with that when they're 20, some people deal with it in their thirties and some people never do. -- writing and recording these songs genuinely left me with the feeling that, 'wow, this is a real step forward for me, both as an artist and as a person.'"
----------------------------

My fav's:

• "Come On Get Higher"
  
• "Still"
• "I Saw"
• "All We Are"
• "Falling Apart"
• "Car Crash"

Ah..who am I kidding? The whole album is great.

Gratitude.

I think I have taken some very important people for granted in my life, and so this entry is dedicated to the people who truly have made an effort to reach out to me when I've needed it most...even if I didn't want it.

1) Mom: You call me ALL of the time. 24/7. It bugs me. Because you make me feel like I'm still a baby. You make me feel like I've done something wrong with my life, but in my mind...I think I've come a long way and have yet to do anything tremendously horrendous that has made my life gone completely astray. The only things I've done...even if it's beyond the "norm of your traditions" are things that I feel I am passionate about or things that I feel are worth while in my life. But, Mom, I know you do it all just because you care...but sometimes, you just need to trust that I will be ok.

2) My friends who have been checking in on me to make sure that I'm still alive and doing well via a random text/IM/call here or there....you know who you are...

No matter how busy we get or how caught up we get in some other aspect of life...it's like..we never left each other. Even if it's just for a few moments or..hours...I just want you to know....I appreciate every little effort you make. It's people like you that make life worth living. It's people like you that...despite the fucked up economy, incontinency of relationships, mis-understandings of family, and all those other "down-times"...it's YOU...you crazy...honest...beautiful...genuine souls...that piece it all back together.

Alright. I'm gonna go way out on a limb and be EVEN mushier than my usual self (ha!)...but seriously...SERIOUSLY.

Each of you guys are unique in your own way...but common charateristics that I feel I truly see in you which I will always cherish from now until I die...are the following...which make you the creme...of the creme of the brulee's!:

• Genuine
• Honest
• Blunt
• Intuitively Weird/Silly/Goofy/Dorky
• Off-the-wall
• Wipe my tears away with something deep or stupid.
  
• Give-it-to-me-straight-and-tell-me-how-it-is-no-matter-how-much-it-hurts-for-my-own-good-worthy.
• There for me when I need you...even if it's just a virtual hug or kiss...

Thank you...for being so beautiful.

Please don't change.

Songs of the Month

1) "Angelina" ~ Tommy Emmanuel

2) "I Didn't Know My Own Strength" ~ Whitney Houston

3) "Smile" ~ Uncle Kracker =)

You're better than the best
I'm lucky just to linger in your light
Cooler than the flip side of my pillow, that's right
Completely unaware
Nothing can compare to where you send me,
Lets me know that it's ok, yeah it's ok
And the moments where my good times start to fade

You make me smile like the sun
Fall out of bed, sing like bird
Dizzy in my head, spin like a record
Crazy on a Sunday night
You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Ohh, you make me smile

Even when you're gone
Somehow you come along
Just like a flower poking the sidewalk crack and just like that
You steal away the rain and just like that

You make me smile like the sun
Fall out of bed, sing like bird
Dizzy in my head, spin like a record
Crazy on a Sunday night
You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Ohh, you make me smile

Don't know how I lived without you
Cuz everytime that I get around you
I see the best of me inside your eyes
You make me smile
You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild

You make me smile like the sun
Fall out of bed, sing like bird
Dizzy in my head, spin like a record
Crazy on a Sunday night
You make me dance like a fool
Forget how to breathe
Shine like gold, buzz like a bee
Just the thought of you can drive me wild
Ohh, you make me smile

#45 -- Rejection Alleviated by Comforting Words.

So, I unfortunately didn't get #45 today -- a job I seriously thought was "the one".

And because of the high expectations (though I attempted to be realistic) I found myself crying...a whole lot.

But the pain was alleviated by comforting words...

Nga: "...They are missing out!"

Peach: "It's ok, you'll find an even better job!"

Raymundo: "The perfect one is just waiting to be taken...by you!"

Helen: "Well think of it this way...how ridiculously overqualified would that other person have to be to beat YOU? right? so they're just a freak of nature. haha"

My Boss: "Well, don't give up. You never know what will come up. [Company] would be so lucky to have you full-time. As would any other company."

Thanks you guys <3 for taking the time to listen to me and wipe away my tears...virtually.

And so...the show must go on.

Not sure when...or how...but it must!

Continuing to look for something...I can believe in.

I found me!

This pic reminded me of...me. LOL.

And it made me smile. Reallllyyyyyyy biiiigggg

<3 <3 <3 <3

*happy sigh*

http://www.azuzephre.net/

Maintaing your shine in a rusty grown-up world.

Let's face it.

Reality...can be pretty darn ugly.

Check out some of today's headlines in CNN:

• Purpoted bin Laden tape: Obama can't stop war
  
• Body found in wall may be that of missing Yale student
• Kanye West grabs Swift's mic at MTV Awards
• Girl, 12, forced to marry dies while giving birth
  
• Pregnant teen, shot, and killed at bus stop

And that's just a few selective headlines....along with usual -- the economy sucks and global warming is creating this funky ass weather.

And through all of this, we try to stay positive by telling ourselves that...

"There will always be good and bad days."
"Everything happens for a reason."
"In the end, everything will be ok."

But I will be honest with you, it's hard to keep your head up when you're constantly being knocked down.

When a majority of things around you (well...at least the things the media seems to want us to focus on!) seem to be falling apart.

It's like...applying for jobs. And getting rejected a couple 40+ times...and still trying to maintain your positivity and integrity every time you step in to the next interview to remain motivated. How...how do you do that?

It's like I've forgotten what it means to be idealistic anymore.

There's a reason why I don't particularly like reading the news and becoming vastly involved in politics. It's not apathy per say. It's...gosh darn it! I don't want to pop my happy bubble. Why can't we all just get alonngggggggggggggg?! (That's pretty naive isn't it?).

So let's face it. This is reality: The world is never going to change. And I have no control over anyone except for myself.

And I must... must maintain my shine.

It starts from within. And it only gets harder. But, that's when I need to try my hardest. And be resilient. And keep my heads up. And realize that I'm trying the best I can, and if results aren't showing...try harder! And be a little bit more patient.

And that's the purpose of my blog: "Live to Love. Love to Live." Mental getaway? Sure. But more importantly....a place where I can turn the shitty into witty. (Haha...)

It comforts me atleast...to know that...there are people...like Kiwanis. Circle K. Key Club. Volunteers of all sorts. Who continue to push through the negativity and TRY.

Feeling Content

So, I'm still looking for that full-time job that I can truly believe in and so I can start earning money so I can help my parents pay for stuff...

But I'd like to reflect on the contentness of my week culminating to my feel-good mood at the moment. So here goes:

• Watching the Serena vs. Clijster match live. Despite the unsportmanship actions of Serena, it was a pretty darn good match!
• Watching mom, Clijster beat Wozniachi today to win the US Open's women's finals
• Learning that Honyin plays tennis
• Receiving a message from Jess <3
• Seeing Virginia Carpenter get installed as D2 LTG.
  
• Attending the Kiwanis LTG Install and sitting at the CKI table -- catching up with Joe and Josh =)
• Eating Josh's honey butter.
  
• 1st Gen CKI Meeting = memories. Seeing familiar faces at CKI meeting.
• Interview at a possible full-job place. *knock on wood*
• Making good eats with Mom and Will
• Dessert...twice in one day.
• Cinnamon bun!
• Sundae
• Pitter patter of the rain
  
• Golden Gate Park
• Harry Potter #5...so...very close to finishing!
• Syrah + Dark Chocolate
• Rearranging my room
• Getting a bigger bed! (Well..futon)
• 2 trips to IKEA in one week
• The smell after it rains
• Driving my car
  
• Peach Nipitnorasate
• Looking at pictures of food on Yelp
• Being a source of decent advice
• Having a consistent and reliable person in your life
  

A-Z

I guess I'm posting this random trivia thing on my blog because in a way...it makes me happy in that it's chill and random. Bwahaha. Enjoy!

1. A – Available/Single? Content.

2. B – Best friend? Peach Nipitnorasate (aka: sister). Althought she denies it.

3. C – Cake or Pie? Why not both? Fine. Cake.

4. D – Drink of choice? Clif Quench

5. E – Essential item you use every day? Email. It's a MUST.

6. F – Fears? Getting rejected.

7. G – Gummy Bears or Worms? Gummy bears.

8. H – Hometown? Berkeley. Well...technically El Sobrante. But grew up in Berkeley.

9. I – Indulgence? Peanut Butter + Chocolate confections...so...bad...but oh so gooooooood

10. J – January or February? January duh! New Years + my birthday!

11. K – Kids & their names? I'd like to name one of my future kids, Apple. That would be fun. Hehe.

12. L – Life is incomplete without? Food. Love. Family. Friends.

13. M – Marriage date? One day.

14. N – Number of siblings? Dos.

15. O – Oranges or Apples? Apples! Fuji and Gala in particular =D.

16. P – Pet Peeves? When people sign off of chats without saying bye and/or respond at a much slower rate than you do.

17. Q – Quote for today? I've been told I have crappy memory...So, I found a great rebuttal quote today actually that made me laugh! --- "The advantage of a bad memory is that one enjoys several times the same good things for the first time." ~Friedrich Nietzsche. HA!

18. R – Reason to smile? Good eats, great people.

19. S – Season? Autumn - amber leaves + warm sweaters + that ooy gooy tingly feeling inside

20. T – Tag 4 People? Mmmm...Peach because you're a butthead. Helen because I miss you. Raymundo because...I dunno -- you're weird and I could go for George's again. And Will because you keep me entertained.

21. U – Unknown fact about me? There's a fat, but adorably cute, panda sitting on my bed named Gizmo.

22. V – Vegetable you don't like? Fresh papaya...yes I know this is a fruit...but I can't think of one otherwise...It tastes like vomit...

23. W – Worst habit? I'm still working on my punctuality...

24. X – X-rays you've had? Dentist.

25. Y – Your favorite food? Mediterranean food. The whole shebang.

26. Z – Zodiac sign? Capricorn

Old School Thoughts

This article in CNN, "Skin whiteners labeled racist", reminded me of the top 2 old school thoughts embraced in Asia...even until today:

1. Light skin = more beautiful
2. Being skinny as a stick = more beautiful

*shakes head*

Old school thoughts!

Bah!

Not that I'm suggesting it wise to go out in the sun and get a tan without SPF or that we all eat ourselves to obesity, but sheesh...it pains me to death that the people (particularly women!) in Asia STILL strive to use products and find crazy ways and contraptions to make themselves look lighter or "whiter" and to be the size of anorexic. Why? WHY?!

It's things like this that make me grateful for a country where running freely in the sun while turning a shade of golden medium and building muscle mass...is sexy.

*nod*

Thank goodness!

Home Is Where the Heart Is

For the longest time I was certain that I wanted to go as far as possible. Live anywhere...BUT here.

I was born in San Francisco. I went to elementary school-college in Berkeley.

I've been wanting to get out of this bubble SO bad. Change. Scenery. People. Lifestyle...me.

But on Sunday, August 16th...as we were driving back up from KDCON in San Diego, and I saw the sunset along the 5...and as we made it onto the 880 just as the night fell...I realized...

"Home is where the heart is."

When you look up in the sky here in the Bay Area...you can see the stars brightly.

You want nature? Go hike at Mt. Tam.
You want bougie? Just cross the bridge to SF and shop at Bloomingdales or hit up Infusion.
You want diversity and culture? It's here.
You want amazing food? It's everywhere here!
You want clean air and drinkable tap water? Right here baby!
You want history? Here.
You want reliable public transportation? BART. AC Transit.
You want political/liberal? You're here.
You want bodies of water and bridges? It's here!
You want gorgeous weather where you go through all 4 seasons in just one day? Here here here.

And the list goes on.

Now...I'm not opposed to moving if the opportunity comes along -- IE: if a career with great benefits were to call my name towards another location. I'm not opposed to change. I'm not opposed to traveling. In fact. I'd LOVE to see the rest of the world! I LOVE the feeling of getting on a plane and seeing new cites and experiencing new adventures.

But, I just want to say that...

For once in my life...I can say with 110% assurance...that the Bay Area is the most amazing place on earth to live and to love. And this...is MY home.

"You Make It Real"

Heard this on a random commercial. Just listened to it now. How sweet! This is exactly the kinda love stuff I was talkin about earlier! <3

James Morrison - "You Make It Real"

So much craziness surrounding me
So much going on, it gets hard to breathe
When all my faith has gone, you bring it back to me
You make it real for me

When I'm not sure about my priorities
When I've lost site of where I'm meant to be
Like holy water washing over me
You make it real for me

And I'm running to you, baby
You are the only one who saved me
That's why I've been missing you lately
Cause you make it real for me

When my head is strong but my heart is weak
I'm full of arrogance and uncertainty
When I can't find the words
You teach my heart to speak
You make it real for me, yeah

And I'm running to you, baby
You are the only one who saved me
That's why I've been missing you lately
Cause you make it real for me

Everybody's talking in words I don't understand
You got to be the only one who knows just who I am
You're shining in the distance, I hope I can make it through
Cause the only place that I want to be
Is right back home with you

I guess there's so much more I have to learn
But if you're here with me, I know which way to turn
You always give me somewhere, somewhere I can learn
You make it real for me

And I'm running to you, baby
You are the only one who saved me
That's why I've been missing you lately
Cause you make it real for me
Yes, you do, you make it real for me

Ode to Peach

Ok. So, I'm not actually going to write a lyrical poem for my sister, but I figured I'd dedicate this entry to her (eventhough YOU NEVER read my blogs!).

Anway...

Little Sister...Peanut Head. Little Boo. Butt Munch. Booty Crack. Chub chub. Cream puff.

Honestly, I would not have my sanity today if it weren't for you!

As much as we fight, there is no one on this entire planet who knows me better than you. And I'm so lucky to have a sister like you because you've got such a big heart for such a little person. (5 feet to be precise).

Why you rock my socks:

1) You are athletic -- like me. Bwahaha. You're so tiny, but you kicked butt playing varsity volleyball AND basketball through high school. Who the hell does that at 5 feet? Only you, boo boo!

2) You are very responsible -- for only 19, you take care of the family like no other. You take care of all 4 of our big dogs. And you're the glue that holds everyone together...

3) You are the best listener in the world. You know how half the time I'm not listening to you when you're talking because I'm on the internet chatting, emailing, or have my mind pre-occupied? You seem to always listen! And not just..like..partially listening. But COMPLETELY. Your patience and level of understanding is beyond amazing. Whenever I'm sad...or need to cry, I feel like I can always call you. You're always there for me..no matter how far you are...you always pick up the phone and return my text messages. I truly appreciate that.

4) You're weird. I love you're genuine weirdness and dorkiness. It makes me feel comfortable being around you.

5) You are very giving.

6) I like hanging out with you -- go figure! My favorite things we do together include: eating, shopping, watching chick flicks, complaining about the family, driving home together, and talking about our guys. =P.

Yea. So, there ya go. In writing...just a few reasons...as to why I am so grateful for you..

<3

"Live to Love".

I have a lot of love to give.

And no matter how many times I've fallen in and out of love, I think I'll always have the propensity to do so again.

Why?

Because no matter what you do, or who you're do it with, or where you are on this planet, I believe...that the feeling of caring about someone and having that person care about you with equal or greater magnitude in return is...the greatest passion to experience.

And when I think about the past, the future, and the present I realize...that...this feeling isn't about how much or how little one has in common with the other...but more about...that connection. The desire to care. The desire to truly share ones life with another.

And the reassurance that you are going to care about the things I do...non-unconditionally. The accomplishments. The failures. And that I will care about yours. And we will grow from it.

And that I'm not alone.

And that YOU will never alone now that you have me.

I think everyone is capable of love. And I think everyone has the ability to care. But whether or not someone is ready for this intensity...is another story. They were right when they said, "You can't love someone, until you love yourself."

I think...I have a lot of love to share becauseI have the ability to...care...a lot...

Perhaps it is that simple.

Self-Confidence.

"Trust yourself. Have confidence in your abilities."

"Stop comparing yourself to others. You'll never feel like you measure up if you're constantly picking yourself apart. There will always be someone with a bigger, better whatever. The sum total of who you are is what makes you special."

"Respect yourself."

"Focus on what is, and not what could be. "

"Thrive on the present. Fore go the hypothetical."

"Give it your all."

"Be positive." =)

And finally...the biggie that should boost it all:

"JUST DO IT!" Then don't regret anything and realize that everything you've simply done has been added to your book of life lessons and accomplishments.

2:50am Thoughts

Still up working on some market research for part-time job. Just finished.

Now to reflect on some wishful thinking:

If I had all the money in the world right now...I would...

• Make sure that my parents retired comfortably.
  
• Take all of my favorite people to celebrate and and eat at their favorite places.
• Pay back all of my loans.
• Take motorcycle lessons and buy a sexy Ninja 250.
  
• Open my own gym.
• Hire all of my friends and make sure that they were all employed with full benefits.
  
• Travel. To everywhere.
  
• Buy health insurance.
• Move NorCal and SoCal closer together.
• Move to my own place, decorate it with a bunch of really neat IKEA stuff, and buy a bigger bed.
  

But alas...I'm not as financially affluent as I'd hope to be.

So, how about we settle for the highlights of my week thus far:

• Home-made crab cakes and making food look pretty.
  
• Meditating at the Thai temple.
• Spending one-on-one time with my little sister.
• Running one mile and not having my knee hurt.
  
• Hearing how awesome Cal-Nev-Ha Circle K rocked at International (as always).
  
• Discovering delicious falafels for good deasl in Bezerkeley.
  
• Unplanned rendezvous
  
• Free wi-fii.
  
• Birthday cakes.
  
• Multivitamins.
• Smiley familiar faces and hugs at the Kiwanis meeting.
• Foozball.
  
• Driving with the windows down, music up, and dancing in my own little world.
• Genuinely good listeners.
  
• Sleep. (Why am I still up again? Hah).
• Food network.
  
• Trader Joe's Low-Fat Granola with Almond's + Bananas + Milk
• Peanut Butter & Jelly Clif Mojo Bars
• Drinking quality booze at 2pm on a Sunday - in particular raspberry liquors.
• Laying down in front of the Campanile on a bench and just absorbing the world around you.
• Crying... And realizing that as insecure as things may be... everything ultimately will be ok as long as I keep smiling and pushing through.

"500 Days of Summer" - A Modern Day Love Story (Though it's in denial that it's not)

"I guess I just figured, why make something disposable like a building when you can make something that last forever, like a greeting card." ~ Tom from 500 Days of Summer

A guy that's infatuated about a girl? That wants to find "the one"? THAT, for starters, is one of the many things that makes this a remarkable movie.

What I loved most about this movie was the constant juxtaposition of feelings of happiness and agony in the most chaotic manner (which is JUST how life is!). The concepts of relationship "expectations" vs. "reality" were addressed -- something I...and I'm sure many people, can identify with.

Anyway...let's cut to the chase:

I like this movie a lot because it's genuinely...real: the romantic experience you share with an individual is momentary. It's only for now.

At this point, the common hopeless romantic would shout "Well...why just now?! When it can last forever!"

Well...you see...that's the beauty of this movie...is that it compels you to NOT only live for those...big "AHA!" moments...but instead to truly enjoy every experience, then to simply live and let go as needed.

So you see...the momentariness of love/relationships...is not a bad thing, as much as it may hurt. Because...even if things don't work out...you're bound to find someone just as amazing if not more amazing...or at least someone you can once again share those feelings with...in a matter of time. Just open your eyes.

All it takes is time. An open mind. The willingness to love again. "...To love as if you have never been hurt before." Resilience.

And the important thing to remember is that...THE WORLD IS NOT ENDING just because your person of infatuation is no longer there.

*nod*

The second concept I enjoyed that was addressed in this movie is the oh so popular question of... "What is Love?"

Answer: It's simply indescribable.

Tom: "What happens when you fall in love?"
Summer: "You believe in that stuff?"
Tom: "It's love...it's not Santa Claus."

It just...BAM! hits you when you least expect it. You can feel as comfortable as you may with someone and spend every single day with them...but...when you feel it...you FEEL it. And you can't do anything about it. (Just like how Tom felt for Summer, and as Summer felt for the guy she ended up marrying).

It's just...a feeling of intense passion for someone.

To feel such great intensity towards someone...

That energy to care for someone whether they are "the one" or not...it's a beautiful thing that I truly admire.

...

Gosh. What a great movie.

Been thinking about it for the last many hours now.

Ah, just got watch it already! :)

Knee Pain

My knee has been hurting in waves since the marathon. (It came about a few days after the marathon).

The pain started in my right foot (it hurt to walk) and now the pain is definitely in the right knee. It hurts when I walk up stairs. And it hurts mostly when I walk down stairs. Extending my knee hurts. It goes away sometimes momentarily (like after I sleep), but then the pain comes back at by the end of the day. Sharp, pinched pain around my right knee. (The internet says it could be Iliotibial Band Syndrome or..."Runner's Knee").

It's been hurting since last Thursday. It's been 6 days and the pain hasn't subsided.

Why am I posting this on my "inspiration" blog? For three reasons:

1) BE GRATEFUL FOR YOUR BODY and WORK IT OUT. Please please please please for those of you who don't work out as much as you should...if you are not injured, PLEASE exercise. My knee has prevented me from running or doing any type of real cardio in the last 6 days and OMG...my body is craving exercise like no other. I NEED to sweat!

Please exercise if you don't have any legitimate injuries! Be good to your bodies!

2) There are other people out there in this world who have greater injuries, who still are able to stay fit and workout -- I need to keep this in mind and not let my knee get in the way of staying fit...must find other ways. Must must must! Will will will!!!!

3) Doctor. Health Insurance. This knee pain is a sign -- inspiration to get health insurance!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please pain -- go away, so I can resume my normal activities as usual.

Thank you!

Just Live.

"Whatever happens, happens for a reason."

(This must be the 2nd or 3rd time I've started a blog with that).

But this time I'm serious.

I think it's days and moments like today where one needs to realize that you should stop trying so gosh darn hard to make something happen.

Like, yes, I have goals.

Yes, I have dreams.

But, stop fretting so much.

Just do it. Give it your all. Do the best that you can or care to do.

And it will be done.

And when it comes. It will come.

Enjoy life. To its fullest.

No worries. No regrets.

Remember, you are only 23. And you have the rest of life to live. So start LIVING IT!

<3

Go me!

A balloon and its string

A great friendship is like a balloon and its string.

When my string is gone, I am floating alone...aimlessly. I go and I go -- sometimes up and up, sometimes down and down -- I just keep floating along. Everything becomes almost automatic.

But then we meet up for a meal or even just an IM or a short "hello!", you tie me down momentarily. And I thank you for that.

I think the most valuable friendships are the ones where...you don't need to talk every single day because even when you are apart or don't talk for a few days, weeks, months, or even years...it only takes a few moments to get back into that same groove and niche again.

And to remember that the reasons you're such great friends is because of that connection you guys have that will never change - under any circumstance.

It's nice to know that...when everything in life is changing - for the good or the bad... someone will consistently be there to remind you that...you're alright and everything will be ok.

Pre-Marathon Thoughts

My anxiety has fluctuated within the last two days.

Mostly for one reason: I've set expectations for myself.

In 2006 I ran the LA Marathon - my first marathon - going in with no real goal except to complete the race and not walk one bit. Surprisingly, I crossed the line in 4 hours and 23 minutes. (10:01 minute/mile pace).

This year -- I want to beat my first time. And not just by a minute. Ideally...23 minutes. Meaning I need to shave off about a minute/mile.

My goal is to simply run under 4 hours. And I will do the best that I can to achieve that goal.

*deep breathe*

I registered in January, and I've been running/training myself 4-6 days a week since then. I've run up 12 miles. This is my 2nd marathon. I ran long distance in high school. Mentally, I am there. I know what's expected.

75% mental. 25% physical.

My right calve was aching earlier this week. A bit sore after a long run, but after some good tiger balm/bengay/placing a warm towel on it/massaging/having a personal trainer perform the "self myl-facial-release" on my legs -- the soreness is down to 5%. The rest of my body feels fit and ready to go.

Marathons -- humans aren't naturally meant to run 26.2 miles. Our bodies aren't built for this kinda thing. And that's what makes the 20,000+ people running tomorrow's San Francisco Marathon/Half-Marathon...cRaZy.

And I'm one of them! =P

What's my motivation to do it again?

1. The challenge. Physical endurance. Mental endurance. "Pain is weakness leaving your body".
2. The unspoken unity. 20,000+ people running towards the same finish line.
   
3. The energy. Adrenaline, sweat, pure physical drive.
   
4. MY BODY. 26.2 miles of feeling every ounce of my muscle work to to it's extreme capacity. Breathing. Living. Making the most and pushing your body beyond limits only a handful of people on this planet dare to venture.

"The only things that stops you from not doing it is....NOT doing it."

"If you say you can't, you won't. If you say you can, you WILL."

Thank you to everyone for your support thus far.

And good luck to my fellow marathon friends-- May, Sam Bau, Andre, and Schro.

*closes eyes*

Good Luck.

Confessions of a Shopaholic

"I have a relationship with someone who never declines me..." [relative to a credit card!]~ Confessions of a Shopaholic.

The movie didn't superly make sense nor was very realistic...but come on, it's a chick flick!

Feel good stuff all the way :).

Favorite/cute scenes:
- When Luke purchases the green scarf back for Rebecca and pulling her in for a kiss with it.
- The two of them attempting to salsa dance together (hilarious)
- "You speak prada...?!". Cute.
- The soundtrack for the movie was pretty fun and upbeat. Very chick flicky and something I'd totally play on a good girls night out!

Best Song: "Takes Time to Love"

It takes time
Living in a world when you don't know who to trust
Next time
Slow it down there ain't no bill you have to rush
It'll be fine
Takes time
To love

And now ima tell the truth, when it comes to you my lady
And its a Miracle
You have found the conscious baby
I had a plan on leaving
You came and gave a reason
And now I know the reason why

But I know how you feel
It's hard to see whos real

And I really enjoyed the score by James Howard. It's a great mix of everything! :).

Enjoy!

Come What May

While driving from 24 to Clif today, it occurred to me that by next Monday I will be back to the drawing board -- plopped on my couch/some place with internet scavenging for a full-time job that I will be inspired to commit myself to.

And today, while slightly re-evaluating my future, I realized...it's been a few months since the last time I wrote "I have no idea where I will be by this time next month!", but I still feel that way.

I really have no idea where I will be or what I will be doing with myself.

It's scary, but...this is the path I have chosen for myself since the day I sat on Sproul my sophomore year and told myself "I'm not going to be a doctor." I'm not going to chose the clear-cut route just because it's "secure" and simple. (Not that I'm saying being a doctor would have been easy by no means!).

I told myself...I'm going to work my way up. Even if I have to start from the bottom.

And if I have to bounce around...then...so be it.

Am I being picky? Even in this recession? Yes I am.

But there are times...like... these last few weeks where things become obscure and I'm like...what the heck am I doing with my life? Have I attained any of my goals? Am I closer to attaining any of my goals?

Of which I need to step back and remind myself that...I'm doing everything that I WANT to do that I CAN do at the moment.

"Come what may."

I will do the best that I can.

And enjoy all of life's blissful moments along the way.

5 Grab-and-Go Breakfasts

1. Peanut butter on a whole-wheat English Muffin with sliced bananas + a drizzle of honey
2. A snack bag filled with dried cereal, nuts, and fruits.
3. Two pieces of whole-grain crisp bread spread with soft goat cheese/whipped cream cheese and topped with slices of strawberries
4. A whole-wheat tortilla sprinkled w/shredded reduced fat cheese, topped with sliced green apples, and rolled up.
5. A whole-wheat pita stuffed with lowfat cottage cheese and sliced peaches or blueberries with a drizzle of honey.

~"The Food You Crave", Ellie Krieger

Gut Feelings

I quit one of my jobs today.

Why?

Because...even if it's a part time job...

I don't want to work at a place where I feel like...my job is meaningless.

I don't want to work in an environment where I don't feel like I'm being mentally challenged.

I don't want to work in a place where people aren't passionate about what they're achieving or driven for a purpose greater than just money.

I don't want to work for a place where the definition of success is "more money" or "more sales".

I don't want to work for a place where everyday I feel "off" or unhappy.

I refuse to continue complaining about my job.

Life is too short to be stuck doing something you could care less about.

Mental getaway.

Recently...

I've been wanting to jump into the ocean.

Fully clothed. I want to swim with the fishes. Be a part of the shimmering water while being caressed by the sun.

I want to lay on the grass -- head under the shade of a tree, legs in the warmth of the sunlight. With a book over my face and my body stretched out on the cool green.

I want to curl up on my couch in the sunlight like a cat and watch Food Network and fall into a day dream...

I want to gaze up into the sky and see nothing but stars.

I want to take a long drive to no where. And discover everything and anything.

Take a Breather. And just...enjoy life's precious moments.

There was a brief moment today when all of the thoughts in my head dissipated - in the Kid's Club section of 24 when this incredibly adorable little kid attempted throwing the nerf ball into a mini hoop.

Despite missing the hoop by a long run, he had such a huge grin on his face that could have brighten up anyone's day. A few more attempts to make the basket, except he kept missing. The little nerf ball rolled out of the play area, and so I picked it up and tossed it back to him -- instantaneously a smile was shared in return.

Pure. Youthful. Happiness.

---
Leslie came to visit me today at work. Took a one hour lunch break to catch up. :). It's been too long, and I need to remind myself that no matter how busy I am...it's essential that I make time for the people I care about. If it weren't for them...well...what's the point of even working when you have no one to spend money with? LOL.

---
RUN.

After the Kiwanis and CKI meetings tonight, I decided to run the Bay trail between Berkeley and Emervyille around 8pm. Felt a bit tired, but somehow...ironically, doing more physical activity helps wake me up!

The run itself felt good. Though, it was only about a 30 minute run back and forth, I felt strong. And despite this huge mosquito bite that is swelling on my right foot...I ran through the slight pain and still felt good!

As for the atmosophere...sun setting along the horizon. Water sparkling. Smell of the ocean. Gorgeous. Took a few moments to just sit and the edge of the path gazing into the sun set. Letting thoughts just flow. Closing my eyes and just detoxing. And realizing that life is way too short and there is just way too much in life to enjoy and opportunities to seize in the MOMENT to be worrying about the unknown.

Car = Freedom

I'm not generally a super materialistic person, but when it comes to being grateful for something...I can definitely say that I am so thankful to have a car again.

As you may or may not know, Stella (my old car of about 5 years) died about about 2 months ago and since then I had been busing, biking, walking, and hitching rides off people to get around.

Now, I don't have a problem so much with taking public transportation (in fact I wrote a recent blog about how taking pt helped me slow down in life and take a breather), but I can surely say that I missed most about driving was the sheer independence of mobility.

Especially when I'm living at home with my parents...having a car is the one of the few things I have that is mine and which allows me to run my own schedule.

It's simply wonderful...

So if you have a car - be grateful and good to her/him.

Natural Highs

1. Signing a contract under your name :). AKA: Now a proud owner of the Honda Civic 2009!
2. Having the entire family together...and not arguing for once!
3. Laughing. About anything really.
4. Making fun of people you care about...in a sincere "I'm going to press your buttons just because I love you" kinda way.
5. Closing a deal with client -- aka: making a sale!
6. Watching/reading/hearing about Federer's wins.
7. Late night visits and trips to In N' Out =).
8. Running. Always.
   
9. Days off after a long work week.
10. Driving your own car and blasting the radio.
    
11. Sitting on the bed and just reflecting on all the things that went right during your day.
12. Butterflies in your stomach...and the pounding of your heart...<3...
    

Please Support My Cause as I Run the San Francisco Marathon! - Beta Lounge Fundraiser & Donations =)

Dear Friends & Family,

This year, I am training for my 2nd Marathon -- the San Francisco Marathon on Sunday, July 26^th, 2009 -- to raise funds for Youth Run4Fun.

Youth Run4Fun

Youth Run4Fun (YR4F) is dedicated to establishing community-based running and fitness programs for youth of all shapes, sizes and cultures that enhance physical health, emotional well-being and personal achievement, with a focus on underserved populations of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Youth Run4Fun supports local youth races as well as offers a free, bi-lingual, web-based program called JUST RUN® San Francisco designed for:

• Children that live in underserved neighborhoods
• In or after school programs for elementary and middle schools
• Combating childhood obesity and diabetes
• Promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyle choices
• For more information please visit http://www.youthrun4fun.org/

Beta Lounge Fundraiser! Thursday, June 25th, 7pm-12am

I will be raising funds by hosting a mixer at the Beta Lounge located at 2129 Durant Ave, Berkeley, CA 94704 Berkeley, CA. on Thursday, June 25^th, 2009 from 7pm-12am, and I truly hope that you can make it out to support the cause =).

To help out, all you need to do is print out the flyer (which I will email to you -- just ask!) and present it when you order any food or beverage, and 20% of your check will benefit this great cause - Youth Run4Fun!

Other reasons to come on out:
- DJ Marnacle (a friend of mine from high school!) spinning 80's, 90's, and today's dance and hip hop music!
- Raffle Drawing Opportunities (Clif Bars, LUNA Bars, gift cards, and much more!)! 100% of the proceeds will benefit the cause!

The Beta Lounge is a new modern lounge in Berkeley, CA serving deliciously fresh appetizers, wine, sake, and specialty sake-based drinks!

The owners are awesome! =)

Fore more info, visit: http://thebetalounge.com/

Other Ways You May Contribute =)

If you can't make it this evening, but would still like to support my cause and me, a donation of any amount would be most gratefully appreciated.

You can easily donate to via debit/credit card by clicking here: https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=6087830

OR
I can pick up any donation/check from you in person if you are local! =)

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.

Thank you so much for your time and continuous support.

Training Notes

My goal at the 2006 Marathon was to...finish! This year, aside from running for a cause, my personal training goal is to simply...run faster than the first one! Haha. That is...complete the marathon in less than 4 hours and 23 minutes =)!


Donate to my cause!

Stronger, Harder, Faster...Ish?

"Tomorrow is...simply put: another day to do better than yesterday."

And.

"The key to true happiness is to lower your expectations."

Two very strong ideas that I believe in, but two very opposite thoughts.

The antithesis of the other.

Quote 1:
I agree. It's quote like these that gives me drive. That makes me want to do my very best. To improve in every way every day - physically and mentally. Tomorrow is...another day to workout harder, to dress better, to meet new people and gain more ideas - make more connections, to learn new foods/cultures/lifestyles/philosophies - to become more open minded, have new conversations, see new things, develop ourselves on all levels.

It's what makes me look forward to the next day - because there's so much more I CAN do. There's so much more that CAN happen. The opportunities are simply ENDLESS!

But at the same time...those opportunities...indeed ARE endless...and can get a bit overwhelming to the point where you could end up disappointing yourself a bunch if those heights are not achieved in ways which you had intended.

Which brings us to...

Quote 2:
I was hanging out with a bunch of CKI alum's the other night and someone mentioned this to me. And I was literally like...O_o???? Interesting...I've never heard of it that way.

But it made so much sense because you know...sometimes you can build up so much expectation for someone -- be it yourself, friends, boyfriends/girlfriends, family members, chair members, pets, etc...that you become so...disappointed.

So, it's better to be just satisfied without any desire for more or less. It's a peaceful way of thinking.

So - now I ask YOU this question: how do you strike the right balance between drive and contentedness?

I for one think this is just another one of those "shades of gray" parts of life. And I don't really need to pick between the two. It's a little bit of both that make me who I am. A little bit of this and that which shapes each of our lives.

But still...intriguing, don't you agree?

On Repeat

Trey Songz

It gets lonely in this business, need a homey
who tha realest.
Someone who wants to find out all that I have to give.
Who can bring me what is missin',when I talk she wanna listen.
Sittin' patient steady waitin',for the day when I can face it.

The one that can love me for,who I am and so much more (is it you?).You ma Bonnie (say that I) I found the one,
I ain't gonna rest till I know for sure,sure.

Baby please believe me when I tell you that,I need a girl (need a girl).
So come on pretty lady won't you holla back, I need a girl
(I'mma tell you what I need).
I need a girl that's goin' be my baby, so if you love me say "i'm your baby".
So fine I go "that's my baby", so if you need me say "your my baby".

I'm a good man, who ain't got a lot to ask, just lookin' for somethin' I can build on.
I'm a young man, wit a whole lotta cash, just lookin' for a lady I can spend on.
So all the young ladies in every little city, when I come to your town, let me know that you down.
Sittin' patient steady waitin',for the day when I can face it.

The one that can love me for,who I am and so much more (is it you?).You ma Bonnie (say that I) I found the one,
I ain't gonna rest till I know for sure,sure oohhh.

Baby please believe me when I tell you that,I need a girl (girl).
So come on pretty lady won't you holla back, I need a girl
(I'mma tell you what I need).
I need a girl that's goin' be my baby, so if you love me say "i'm your baby".
So fine I go "that's my baby", so if you need me say "your my baby".

You could, be my everything,
Oh you mean so much to me and I don't even know your name.(But I know that..) that i'm your man (man), and you are my girl (girl)and if I eva meet ya imma give ya the world (oh).

Baby please believe me when I tell you that,I need a girl (girl).
So come on pretty lady won't you holla back, I need a girl
(I'mma tell you what I need).
I need a girl that's goin' be my baby, so if you love me say "i'm your baby".
So fine I go "that's my baby", so if you need me say "your my baby".

Baby please believe me when I tell you that,I need a girl (need a girl).
So come on pretty lady won't you holla back, I need a girl
(I'mma tell you what I need).
I need a girl that's goin' be my baby, so if you love me say "i'm your baby".
So fine I go "that's my baby", so if you need me say "your my baby".

Sweet Songs Discovered Today

"I Need a Girl" by Trey Songs (heard it on the radio and then blasting from a random car)
The one that can love me for
Who I am
And so much more.

"I Can't Win" by Usher featuring Ne-Yo (shared by Peter!)
It's really the piano entwined in the melody that gets me; the song itself is just...a bit sad.

Light Summer Drink Recipes

Ginger-Pineapple Spritzer

Apricot Iced Tea (with a hint of Vanilla)
Or swap in with whatever nectar you'd like...IE: mango! =)

Pictures of Love

They always say, "Don't be sad because it's over. Be happy because it happened."

Sometimes I find the need to repeat this kind of thing about 10 x's in my head.

But it's hard...when you pick up a picture of the past and it makes you want to cry...but then you ask yourself...well...why?

For those of you have ever been in love...or even to have developed a deep relationship with any friend...you must know how it feels to look at those old pictures and have memories come flooding back knowing things are no longer the way they used to be.

But...at the same time...we need to remind ourselves of why we took photographs of those moments in the first place: to capture good memories together. To freeze time for that happy or whatever moment of inspiration.

So when we look at those pictures...instead of feeling sad, mad, or...scared. We just need to remember that it's because of moments like those that make us who we are today: Stronger. More beautiful. Greater.

Pictures of Love...aren't meant to evoke sadness...but instead...to portray a happiness that one was simply lucky to have experienced and a foundation to an even happier future.

Now here's a guy to admire: Roger Federer!

Successful. Talented. Sophisticated. Humble. Just darn handsome!





















What an extremely lucky woman (his tie was made out of the same material as her dress designed by Oscar de la Renta - very cute)!
















Good luck, Fedi! You got it this!

Roland Garros Semi Finals: Friday, June 5th
Roland Garros Finals: Sunday, June 7th

Getting Paid to Tell you to Exercise =)

So, I'm going to be adding another part-time job working at 24-Hour Fitness selling gym memberships.

Please send yourselves, friends, family, 3rd cousins, and colleagues my way to start living a physically fit and healthier lifestyle!

=)

Thanks and have an amazing day!

Healthy Snacks

As a nutritional science graduate, I find myself often scanning random news article or "suggestions" for credibility. With this blog, I'm also going to attempt to help broaden your horizons with entries that I believe are on the more accurate side of healthy eating. But don't worry...I will still have tons of posts on ALL foods...because well, if you hadn't realized it yet...I am a huge foodie and I just don't believe in abstaining yourself from pleasurable delicacies. "Moderation is key!" For the most part. Haha. Enjoy!

From: Healthy Living with Ellie Krieger (Email Subscription)

Today's Small Change: Eat for energy.

Choose the Right Snacks

Does your energy level flatline in the midafternoon? Do you dread exercising or find it hard to get through your walks without feeling fatigued? If so, your body may actually be low on fuel.

Going too long without eating can make you feel tired, cranky, and spacey. Small, healthy snacks or mini meals that include both protein and carbohydrates can help keep your energy levels high throughout the day. What's more, they take very little time to prepare. Most of these make a good breakfast on the go too.

While you probably don't want to eat too close to your workout, having a high-energy snack about an hour before you exercise is a great way to keep your energy level high. Today's small change is to try one of the energizing snacks below — or come up with your own healthful protein-and-carbohydrate snack — to enjoy when your body needs it.

Here are some sample snacks:

• Sliced apple with peanut butter (1 tablespoon)
• Turkey and tomato on whole-wheat bread (1 slice)
• Low-fat cottage cheese and a peach or pear
• A hard-boiled egg and a piece of fruit
• Almonds (1⁄3 cup) and dried apricots (1⁄4 cup)
• A yogurt-and-fruit smoothie
• Hummus (1⁄4 cup) and baby carrots
• Low-fat yogurt and fresh strawberries
• Baked sweet potato with low-fat cottage cheese
• Baked tortilla chips (10) and low-fat bean dip (1⁄2 cup)
• Reduced-fat cheese (1 1⁄2 ounces) and whole-grain crackers (5)
• Half a peanut butter and banana sandwich (1 tablespoon peanut butter)
• LUNA Bar! (I threw this one in, yes I did) - perfect combo of protein + carbs to sustain that energy =)!
  

A Transformation of a Day's Worth of Feelings

Sleep
So I slept about...11 hours last night. Which is A LOT. Haha. Typically after 7 hours my biological clock will wake me up, but I guess I was really drained from weekend activities. Plus, I've read in various health articles that your sleep pattern will be chaotic if you don't stabilize them. That is, if you want your body to function appropriately, you should be trying to sleep at the same time every day. Yep. So, weekend activities tend to throw off sleep patterns...as I'm sure many of you are famliar with!

But, sleep is good. =). Obviously. Ever since classes finished up in December, I've been getting 7+ hours of sleep a majority of my days and going to bed less stressed. Sleep -- it does wonders for the body and soul. They weren't wrong when they coined the term "beauty sleep". *nod*

Getting Your Hands Dirty
The first thing I got to doing after waking up was getting to fixing my bike. I broke the valve...yet again...>.<...the other day, and unfortunately bc it's one of those prestor valve things I had to go buy a completely new tube. The tube itself cost $5.99. And the guy was gonna charge me $10 for labor. So, I decided forego the cost and have a go at it myself.

After...a few hours of miserable frustration, running around lookin for that little bike tire taker offer widget thing, a you tube video, and consulting a friend, I finally was able to do it! And so, I'm pretty darn proud of myself! This probably sounds pretty lame to all you biking geniuses out there, but...man...what a feat! Haha.

I must say...there's an amazing high when you struggle with something...no matter how small the project...and then finally get it =D! And the sensation seems to be even greater when your hands literally get dirty...woooo.

Apple Upside Down Cake
Yes, you heard right =). Apple. Not pineapple. I helped my brother (the culinary school graduate) prepare this delicious smelling cake today. Can't wait to sink my teeth into it tomorrow...

Oh..and now I'm hungry again...Go figure >.<

Up, Bride Wars, and Other Movies
Watched Up on Saturday with my brother. It was very cute! I cried in the first 10 minutes! But..that's all I'll say on it so as to not give too much away...but yea...go watch it! Pixar never fails imo.

Rented Bride Wars from Red Box today. Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson are great together! Definitely got some good laughs in. The end was a bit...of a cheat I think, but...all in all a sweet movie. And made the "marriage" thing pop into my head a bit. Haha. Thus my facebook quiz if you saw that.

Other movies that might be fun to watch comin up:

• Fame (the previews totally leaves you wanting more!)
• Post-Grad (with that Gilmore girl girl...this movie seems like my current life!)
• The Proposal (for sure!)

Crossing Paths

You will come across a billion people in your lifetime.

You will talk to maybe....10% of them.

But how many can you actually say you've created a relationship with?

My life...as I'm sure it has been for many of you...has been entwined within Kiwanis...and has been touched by a handful of selective faces.

To my graduating seniors -- you will ALWAYS be the reason that the 2006-2007 UC Berkeley CKI Board was as extraordinary has it could have ever been.

But most importantly, you will ALWAYS be a large part of who I am today.

I'm lucky. To have met each of you. To have developed friendships with you on all levels.

I'm grateful. That even until today we still can reminisce about yesterday. And dream about tomorrow.

I'm glad our paths have crossed, and I know they will continue to do so in the many years to come - no matter where you guys are - be it in person, gchat, phone, email, or even a simple facebook update/message. I look forward to seeing you all grow into the amazing and inspiring leaders I know you each have been empowered to become.

You know...just about a year ago I remember having a conversation with a good friend about "fate" and how if things are meant to be, they will be. That is, if our paths will cross again, then it will. So let it be.

However, after beating the topic around a bit, we came to the conclusion that...you know what? It's really WE who will MAKE our paths cross.

Luck will always indeed play a factor, but I strongly believe that determination and will power is what fuels the opportunity of that chance to even take place.

That is my belief.

And, gosh, you know. You never know who you're going to meet in your life time. And what impact they're going to have on your life, but I've learned that...if you go into meeting people with an open mind and open heart, I think you'll learn a lot about...everything...especially yourself...just by listening. Or...observing. It takes a bit of risk to make yourself vulnerable to opening up yourself to someone and letting someone open themselves up to you...but I can definitely say that this is a risk I'm willing to take for there could be nothing else more worthwhile.
...

Cheriz, Joe, Alex, Amy, James, Kathleen, Diep...man...I'm really gonna miss you guys. But hey -- please know that you all truly! really! make me proud and happy like no other.

The greatest service you can do in this life...is to touch someone's life.

So thank you...for touching mine.

Random note before I head out.

Firstly...

This is how we do it, it's Friday night!!!

Haha.

Ok. Now that you've enjoy that old school goodness, let' us quickly debrief on the concept of going to bars, clubs, and happy hour in the eyes of the asian parent:

"You're never going to meet any one decent while drinking!" my parents like to tell me before I head out.

Au contra ire dear parental unit.

Studies have shown that those that venture out to happy hour tend to do successfully better than those that choose not to.

Why? Because at happy hour you have the opportunity to:

• Network beyond office hours (you'll be surprised as to how much is discussed outside of "work" hours. I know this from CKI...your job/passion becomes 24/7 and you can't stop thinking and talking about what you do or plan 24/7).
  
• Develop yourself socially, and therefore your people skills.

So, this is my own-going negotiation with my parents I just wanted to share with the world =).

Princess Sing Along!

Cinderella: So This is Love

Cinderella: A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes

Hercules: I Won't Say I'm in Love

Sleeping Beauty: Once Upon A Dream

Beauty & the Beast: Something There

Aladdin: A Whole New World

The Lion King: Can You Feel the Love Tonight

Pochahontos: Color of the Wind

Sailormoon: My Only Love

<3 Cuteeeeee.

Insert Creative Title Here

Song of the Day: "Live High" ~ Jason Mraz

...
Live high, Live mighty.
Live righteously takin it easy
Live high, Live mighty.
Live righteously.
...

Journey to the City
38L - Geary to the 22-Filmore to the 14 - Ferry Plaz. Today I ventured through the city as mentioned yesterday dropping off resumes in person. Ironically, I didn't feel like SF was as receptive to me as LA...but nonetheless I'd like to think it was worth the effort making some face to face connections while getting to do some good ol' fashion site seeing on foot =).

Pretty darn spectacular things I saw today:

• The 22-Filmore bus ride down Filmore to 18th and Mariposa: really neat urban area with lots of random, diverse shops.
  
• Awesome view of the city/Bay Bridge on top of Portrero Hill (or...a random hill at the top of Portrero and 18th Ave.)
• Random kitty cat sitting in a tree O_o...the cat ended up following me for a block. Very cute!
• The compact office space of Adina. I ended up dropping off my resume with the CFO. That was pretty neat =).
  
• Women's Resource Center which consits of some pretty awesome women empowerment organizations -- such as Girls On the Run and GirlVenture (I think this is the place where part of the scene in "Kaden" from LUNAFEST was filmed!)
• The Landmark building on Market and Steurt Street near the Embacadero. OMG. This building is uber kewl!!! You know those scenes in movies where a bunch of business people are coming out of a building??? This place was it! Granted...it was near lunch time which I'm sure is the reason everyone was coming out all at once. (I'll dwell more about this later in this blog) .But man, 10 story high building. Del Monte Foods (the company I dropped my resume off at) was on the 10th floor and wow. Those offices. Really neat! *shakes head in awe*
• The Sports Club of LA -- I didn't even know it existed in San Francisco. Lo and behold...there she was. Smack dab in the middle of Market.

All in all, yes, today was a good job hunting day =). Which brings me up to application/cover letter #37.

San Francisco vs. New York (Random comparison based on today's
There are a lot of similarities...

• Big city
• Lots of people
• Business Center (SF - Market/Mission's Financial District. NY - Wall Street)
  
• Diversity
• Culture
  
• Urban lifestyle
• Hobos galore
  
• Shopping!!!
  
• Lots of things happening 24/7
  
• Damn good food.
• By a body of water/bridges.

Differences

• SF's transportation is WAYYYYYYYYYYYY cleaner. Haha. Though...NY's substations are pretty darn efficient...time wise. Once you've figured them out.
  
• NY has lots of hot dog stands and vendors....everywhere.
• I think SF has way more asian people per square mile. Where as NY has way more...all races per square mile. I guess you could say NY is more diverse...perhaps because it's closer to the Atlantic Ocean...?
• I think SF is more...chill. NY is like...super speedy. Everyone's constantly rushing everywhere.

I think I'd like to dwell in either places eventually =).

I Will Always Be in Awe of Business People
I've mentioned this a few times randomly to exclusive people, but I think I can share with the world now that...I have a fetish for business suits.

Why? Because I'm attracted to ambition.

Ambition inspires me. A desire to succeed in life or something in life or to develop a passion to the extreme is super dedication - and that's hot.

And business people tend to be the "icon" of ambition. Thus...this fetish.

Why do I say this? Because when I stepped into The Landmark today my mouth pretty much dropped in awe. All of those...people in suits.

There were alpha women...everywhere! Pencil skirts, blouses, neat/stylish hair in heels and briefcases. They embody...power! Success. Drive. Goals. A "I'm not going to take that shit" kinda attitude.

And that's where I hope to be in a few years...*hopeful glee*.

So here's the plan, aiiighhhttt?

• Today: 23 years old.
• 5 years from now: I'll be 28 years old and I'll be one of those amazing women walking out of those buildings. In heels heck yea. Doing what? A Director of Marketing of some sort of amazing place I can believe in of course!
  
• 10 years from now: I'll be 33 years old and I'll be on the start to owning my own gym =).

And in between, enjoy life's every day wonders. Mwahahaha.

That's the plan.

It's gonna happen. You just watch.

I WILL make it happen.

Ponderings.

I need to be up by 6am at the very least tomorrow.

But I can't really sleep.

There's a bunch of random mish mosh in my head. And I've got to much energy pent up to just knock out.

So, another posting shall do it I believe...=).

Driving Down to LA
I think I'm driving down to SoCal with Cheriz on Sunday. I mean...can't let her drive by herself...right?! I figured I haven't ventured out of the area in a while, so I think this will be good for me.

Not tooooo sure what I'm going to do once I get there, except see if that job I landed an interview for can interview me in person instead of over the phone. (Just emailed them a follow up today). Perhaps look at some potential places I can live. Raymundo says there are a bunch of random studios I can look at in Long Beach. That could be fun! Other than that...eat, visit friends, scout out for more jobs. Yea. That sounds about right.

Then I'll just utilize one of my rapid reward tickets to fly back up...eventually. It'll probably be a one week affair. Haha.

Career Progression
Spent the last two days completely reworking my resume -- I think it's much more polished now with lots of good feedback from the professionals (yes that could be you! So, thank you!).

Marked my itiniary for all the companies I'm going to visit tomorrow.

I researched all the "headquarters" located within San Francisco that I might potentially want to work at -- and I found 5 that really peaked my interest. So, tomorrow, I shall be knocking on their doors and impressing them with my...charismatic, optimistic, dedicated, hard working self. Bwahaha. Oh boy.

And because I'm carless, I've routed out my complete itiniary of SF buses and walks from my aunt's restaurant. Ohhhhh yea.

The plan tomorrow:

• Hitch a ride with parents to SF.
  
• Eat breakfast at aunt's restaurant.
• Bus/walk it to places from 9am-12pm (gotta get them all before lunch!)
• And hopefully I'll be done by 12 so I can spend the rest of the time just chillin in SF doing completely nothing =).
  

I think I'm gonna go do something about my hair tomorrow. Maybe do some good ol window shopping. Maybe drop by the bookstore. And continue with Harry Potter.

Yea. That sounds nice and productive. Haha...somehow I've digressed from "Career Progression".

All in all, I think...hope...I'm getting better leads. I can just FEEL like I'm getting warmer!

--

Oki. I think that's it for now.

Those are things to look forward to for now =).

And look! It worked! I'm ready for sleep! G'nite!