Sometimes a dream is so much more wonderful...
When reality escapes you,
Carefree.
A new world,
Beneath you,
to explore.
Emotions guide you,
Freedom.
Where the climb is harder,
The peak is higher,
And yet you reach.
6.24.2010
6.23.2010
Our Music Choices
Recently, I heard someone say this:
"You should listen to more sophisticated, fine tastes of music such as classical. People such as Lady Gaga only become popular because they are essentially cheap music and surrounded by scandals. By the time, such artists die, they are forgotten, however, when you are listening to classical music, is it practically timeless. Remember what happened to Michael Jackson? Well, once he died more attention was called to his music then if he had not died-in 20-30 years he will not be remembered."
That, truly, is simply an opinion, and so I know that many of you may disagree with this statement while many of you may wholeheartedly agree with it. For example, I have heard people say countless times "I just can't listen to classical music unless I'm doing my homework or sleeping...pop, hip hop, and rock music is so much better [state various names of bands, artists here] and it's just more upbeat and cooler." Again, an opinion.
Personally, I am in between. I absolutely adore classical music when you need something to calm or sooth yourself at any given time, and being a violin player, classical music can never go wrong...But honestly? I have nothing against listening to pop, hip hop, or rock (ok maybe I have a lot against rock :D)...but still. On the topic of the fact that pop culture music is "cheap" moneywise, I strongly disagree...In fact, is it really something to argue on? If you go to the store right now, I am positive that a Lady Gaga (or Justin Bieber or Paramore or Linkin Park or 3oh!3 or such...) CD would cost more than simply finding a classical music recording. Even look at concert ticket rates: Compare the hundreds of fans who paid $500-$1000 to see Miley Cyrus in concert versus the mere $100-$250 dollars at most that people spend to see a chamber orchestra or classical performer. Furthermore, I disagree that the music in it itself is "first-rate". Maybe the lyrics are. Maybe the outfits are. Maybe the performances are. But the music? no. Although surprisingly you may never actually have thought this, all those artists do have good, sometimes even amazing voices and vocal ranges. They can do things classical opera singers can't. And they have great music interpretation and rhythym. They're music isn't easy. If you listen to them on the radio, it actually sounds good. Aside from the lyrics, sometimes. Oh, and they love what they do. You don't always see that in classical music. In fact, all you classical music lovers...I'd just advise you to give it a try. Once.
Then, however, once we get to publicity wise and their actually performances, that's when I change sides. I don't particularly blame all these artists however, because it seems as if to keep in the 21st century and be popular, you have to pull off these outrageous things, but still, what do some people do for fame? You don't need to come onto stage in this horrific outfit with strange special effects and odd backup singers. You just don't. It is completely possible to get a standing and completely embarass herself. That's when you can call music "cheap" in the sense that artists try to make themselves stand out and cross the line just to bring attention to them and their music. Have you ever realized that whenever something big happens to someone, people start listening to their music? Yeah.
So, my final point, is that all you strict classical music-listeners who abhor pop, hip hop, or rock music, give it a chance, there actually is a lot of things that you wouldn't expect. But then again, maybe some of them are over-the-top...I'm with you on that ;) The popularity of such music has dramatically increased and so I don't think that it's fitting to just categorize classical music as "elite" and the rest as "cheap." It's just not. Also, since this is a really interesting debatable topic, I'd like to heard all of your opinions...Which side are YOU on?
"You should listen to more sophisticated, fine tastes of music such as classical. People such as Lady Gaga only become popular because they are essentially cheap music and surrounded by scandals. By the time, such artists die, they are forgotten, however, when you are listening to classical music, is it practically timeless. Remember what happened to Michael Jackson? Well, once he died more attention was called to his music then if he had not died-in 20-30 years he will not be remembered."
That, truly, is simply an opinion, and so I know that many of you may disagree with this statement while many of you may wholeheartedly agree with it. For example, I have heard people say countless times "I just can't listen to classical music unless I'm doing my homework or sleeping...pop, hip hop, and rock music is so much better [state various names of bands, artists here] and it's just more upbeat and cooler." Again, an opinion.
Personally, I am in between. I absolutely adore classical music when you need something to calm or sooth yourself at any given time, and being a violin player, classical music can never go wrong...But honestly? I have nothing against listening to pop, hip hop, or rock (ok maybe I have a lot against rock :D)...but still. On the topic of the fact that pop culture music is "cheap" moneywise, I strongly disagree...In fact, is it really something to argue on? If you go to the store right now, I am positive that a Lady Gaga (or Justin Bieber or Paramore or Linkin Park or 3oh!3 or such...) CD would cost more than simply finding a classical music recording. Even look at concert ticket rates: Compare the hundreds of fans who paid $500-$1000 to see Miley Cyrus in concert versus the mere $100-$250 dollars at most that people spend to see a chamber orchestra or classical performer. Furthermore, I disagree that the music in it itself is "first-rate". Maybe the lyrics are. Maybe the outfits are. Maybe the performances are. But the music? no. Although surprisingly you may never actually have thought this, all those artists do have good, sometimes even amazing voices and vocal ranges. They can do things classical opera singers can't. And they have great music interpretation and rhythym. They're music isn't easy. If you listen to them on the radio, it actually sounds good. Aside from the lyrics, sometimes. Oh, and they love what they do. You don't always see that in classical music. In fact, all you classical music lovers...I'd just advise you to give it a try. Once.
Then, however, once we get to publicity wise and their actually performances, that's when I change sides. I don't particularly blame all these artists however, because it seems as if to keep in the 21st century and be popular, you have to pull off these outrageous things, but still, what do some people do for fame? You don't need to come onto stage in this horrific outfit with strange special effects and odd backup singers. You just don't. It is completely possible to get a standing and completely embarass herself. That's when you can call music "cheap" in the sense that artists try to make themselves stand out and cross the line just to bring attention to them and their music. Have you ever realized that whenever something big happens to someone, people start listening to their music? Yeah.
So, my final point, is that all you strict classical music-listeners who abhor pop, hip hop, or rock music, give it a chance, there actually is a lot of things that you wouldn't expect. But then again, maybe some of them are over-the-top...I'm with you on that ;) The popularity of such music has dramatically increased and so I don't think that it's fitting to just categorize classical music as "elite" and the rest as "cheap." It's just not. Also, since this is a really interesting debatable topic, I'd like to heard all of your opinions...Which side are YOU on?
6.22.2010
Summer Movie Update!
Welcome to YOUR Summer Movie Update!
Essentially, here I have the descriptions of the summer movies that will be released To the left is a picture of the movies scheduled to release this summer. Please note that I will by no means be putting all of the movies, but simply the ones intended for a child/teen audience. All rights go to Regal Cinemas.
Eclipse-The Twilight Saga: 
Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob — knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with the most important decision of her life.
Bella once again finds herself surrounded by danger as Seattle is ravaged by a string of mysterious killings and a malicious vampire continues her quest for revenge. In the midst of it all, she is forced to choose between her love for Edward and her friendship with Jacob — knowing that her decision has the potential to ignite the ageless struggle between vampire and werewolf. With her graduation quickly approaching, Bella is confronted with the most important decision of her life.
The Last Airbender:
Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a brutal war against the others. A century has passed with no hope in sight to change the path of this destruction. Caught between combat and courage, Aang (Noah Ringer) discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Aang teams with Katara (Nicola Peltz), a Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka (Jackson Rathbone), to restore balance to their war-torn world.Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film “The Last Airbender” is the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to survive.
Air, Water, Earth, Fire. Four nations tied by destiny when the Fire Nation launches a brutal war against the others. A century has passed with no hope in sight to change the path of this destruction. Caught between combat and courage, Aang (Noah Ringer) discovers he is the lone Avatar with the power to manipulate all four elements. Aang teams with Katara (Nicola Peltz), a Waterbender, and her brother, Sokka (Jackson Rathbone), to restore balance to their war-torn world.Based on the hugely successful Nickelodeon animated TV series, the live-action feature film “The Last Airbender” is the opening chapter in Aang’s struggle to survive.
Ramona and Beezus:
Based on the "Ramona" series of novels written by Beverly Cleary. As everyone knows, Ramona Quimby lives on Klickitat Street. The stories of her adventures begin in Beezus and Ramona, where Beezus, who is just turning 10, finds 4-year-old Ramona an exasperating little sister!
Despicable Me:
In a happy suburban neighborhood surrounded by white picket fences with flowering rose bushes, sits a black house with a dead lawn. Unbeknownst to the neighbors, hidden beneath this home is a vast secret hideout. Surrounded by a small army of minions, we discover Gru, planning the biggest heist in the history of the world. He is going to steal the moon (Yes, the moon!). Gru delights in all things wicked. Armed with his arsenal of shrink rays, freeze rays, and battle-ready vehicles for land and air, he vanquishes all who stand in his way. Until the day he encounters the immense will of three little orphaned girls who look at him and see something that no one else has ever seen: a potential Dad. The world's greatest villain has just met his greatest challenge: three little girls named Margo, Edith and Agnes.
The Sorcerer's Apprentice:
Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) is a master sorcerer in modern-day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). Balthazar can't do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel), a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé. The sorcerer gives his unwilling accomplice a crash course in the art and science of magic, and together, these unlikely partners work to stop the forces of darkness. It'll take all the courage Dave can muster to survive his training, save the city and get the girl as he becomes The Sorcerer's Apprentice.
Balthazar Blake (Nicolas Cage) is a master sorcerer in modern-day Manhattan trying to defend the city from his arch-nemesis, Maxim Horvath (Alfred Molina). Balthazar can't do it alone, so he recruits Dave Stutler (Jay Baruchel), a seemingly average guy who demonstrates hidden potential, as his reluctant protégé. The sorcerer gives his unwilling accomplice a crash course in the art and science of magic, and together, these unlikely partners work to stop the forces of darkness. It'll take all the courage Dave can muster to survive his training, save the city and get the girl as he becomes The Sorcerer's Apprentice.
Toy Story 3 in Disney Digital 3D:
The creators of the beloved “Toy Story” films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of Woody, Buzz and our favorite gang of toy characters in TOY STORY 3. Woody and Buzz had accepted that their owner Andy would grow up someday, but what happens when that day arrives? In the third installment, Andy is preparing to depart for college, leaving his loyal toys troubled about their uncertain future. Lee Unkrich (co-director of “Toy Story 2” and “Finding Nemo”) directs this highly anticipated film, and Michael Arndt, the Academy Award®-winning screenwriter of “Little Miss Sunshine,” brings his unique talents and comedic sensibilities to the proceedings. TOY STORY 3 will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.
The Karate Kid:
The creators of the beloved “Toy Story” films re-open the toy box and bring moviegoers back to the delightful world of Woody, Buzz and our favorite gang of toy characters in TOY STORY 3. Woody and Buzz had accepted that their owner Andy would grow up someday, but what happens when that day arrives? In the third installment, Andy is preparing to depart for college, leaving his loyal toys troubled about their uncertain future. Lee Unkrich (co-director of “Toy Story 2” and “Finding Nemo”) directs this highly anticipated film, and Michael Arndt, the Academy Award®-winning screenwriter of “Little Miss Sunshine,” brings his unique talents and comedic sensibilities to the proceedings. TOY STORY 3 will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.
The Karate Kid:
Twelve-year-old Dre Parker could've been the most popular kid in Detroit, but his mother's latest career move has landed him in China. Dre immediately falls for his classmate Mei Ying -- and the feeling is mutual -- but cultural differences make such a friendship impossible. Even worse, Dre's feelings make an enemy of the class bully, and kung fu prodigy, Cheng. With no friends in a strange land, Dre has nowhere to turn but maintenance man Mr. Han, who is secretly a master of kung fu. As Han teaches Dre that kung fu is not about punches and parries, but maturity and calm, Dre realizes that facing down the bullies will be the fight of his life.
6.21.2010
The Crayon Philosophy
Yes, The Crayon Philosophy. 
One day I pondered over why we must always look back on our past and which that we could step back into it, rewrite it, or step away from the present. That was when I began to think of the Crayon Philosophy (yes I made it up).It might sound childlike, but honestly, it is a very crucial philosphy that is hard to understand. Here is the basis of it:
One day I pondered over why we must always look back on our past and which that we could step back into it, rewrite it, or step away from the present. That was when I began to think of the Crayon Philosophy (yes I made it up).It might sound childlike, but honestly, it is a very crucial philosphy that is hard to understand. Here is the basis of it:"Remember when you were younger and picking a color of a crayon was the biggest decision in your life? Remember? Do you sometimes look back on that and wish that you were that age again?"
And this is the Crayon Philosophy itself:
That in the case in which we grow up and relieve ourselves of dependency on another being (well...we still depend on people but you know what it means) and take on new responsibilities, although sometimes we may look back on our past and which that we were back in that same situation again, each state has it's ups and downs, even when you were a little infant or when you were still in kindergarten picking crayons from a box. (Hence why it is called the crayon philosophy).
Now honestly, anyone is free the argue against this philosophy, but if you think about life in such a way, it makes things seem much easier. For example, right now you are probably wish that you were perhaps...5 years old again. Unless you are a billionaire and living the life that you would never want to get away from ("I wanna be a billionaire..." :D). You say to yourself, remember when all I had to worry about was whether I could have a lollipop for dinner or...if I could have a birthday party? However, that is besides the case. Because at that time, the importance that you carry at the moment for your job\school\whatever you are worried about is how much you care about the lollipop or birthday party. Trust me, at five years old, a birthday party can mean EVERYTHINGto you ;).
Also, try to think positively at what you have acquired over the years, responsibility, experience, and independence...even trust. Basically what I'm trying to prove here is that although many people might just adore the opportunity to step back into the past and change things...everything has it's good and bad sides, and just like that something might mean the world to you right now, a crayon meant the world to any five year old. :)
6.20.2010
Cinnamon Rolls
To make up for the fact that I didn't post yesterday (it was a reasonable excuse I promise...I had no computer access :D), I am posting this: Here is a super super good cinnamon roll recipe straight from Cinnabon. I highly reccommend it!
Rolls/Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients:
flour- 3 1\2 to 4 c
yeast- 1 package
salt- 3\4 t
margarine- 1\4 c.
egg- 1
very hot water- 3\4 c.
sugar 1\4 c.
375 degrees 20-25 minutes or until done-1 dozen rolls
METHOD:
1. in a large mixing bowl measure and set aside flour.
2. In a large bowl combine 1 c. of the flour and yest, sugar, and salt.
3. Blend in margarine with pastry blender.
4. Stir in hot water until margarine melts into dough evenly.
5. Stir in egg.
6. Congtinue adding the reast of the flour until it can no longer be stirred into batter (dough).
7. Empty dough onto lightly floured counter and knead 5 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic. Work in flour using no more than the orignial 4 c. total from step #1.
8. Shape by dividing dough into 13 pieces and placing in buttered pan as shaped. Let rise. Backe.
FOR CINNAMON ROLLS:
9. Roll dough into large rectangle about baking sheet size. Bruch 2 T. melted butter onto dough. sprinkle mixture of 1 c. brown sugar and 1 t. cinnamon over buttered dough. ll up. Slice into 12 rolls. Place in buttered 9" x 9" x 2" pan. Let rise and bake.
6.18.2010
Carpe Diem: Seize the Day
Some of you might have heards these words a countless number of times. In fact, if you know me, you've probably heard it more than that. At the same time, numerous people have come up to me and asked me:
"What does 'Carpe Diem' mean?"
I now do realize that simply saying "seize the day" means nothing unless we really do understand what it means to seize the day. The reason why I abruptly decided to write a post on this topic is that in such times we seem to really need to make the most out of our day...whether is be economic times, natural disasters (the infamous oil spill for example), or maybe you are just someone undergoing social stress. Yes. No matter who we are, "Nobody's Perfect" (it seems like a dreadful crime to quote Miley Cyrus in such times, but...). I will admit, even as myself, I face times where I think that it is impossible to make the most out of our day.
For example, you know, that day when you woke up and everything just seemed to go wrong?? Where you were in a bad mood, and on top of that, late to work because you spent fifteen minutes searching for coffee to find that there was none, and it even was raining, and on top of that, the work load at your job was pressurizing and you couldn't make time to take a break, and then once you got home, you just needed a rest, but then there was still work to do like picking up your kids from soccer, making dinner or mowing the lawn? Yeah.
Or maybe, you woke up thirty minutes late to school because you were tired from last minute studying until 12:00 the previous day, so you were late to school and got a lunch detention, only to realize that you forgot your ASB card or money. Then, after going without lunch, you have math finals but realize that you studied the wrong chapters, and in science, your teacher assigns a pop quiz, but you didn't have time to read the textbook last night and so you don't know anything, and finally, after school, on Facebook, your heart gets broken and you feel horrible but you have a huge history assignment for 200 points due tommorrow. Mhm.
Still, at these times, as strange and impossible as it may seem, it is possible to stay optimistic and make the most out of it. So, you do feel exhausted after that horrible day of work, but think, am I really one to complain when there are people out there who are working in inhumane conditions, struggling, and wondering whether they will eat dinner (they don't even have the option of coffee)? Or, you do feel absolutely terrible about those math finals and that Facebook episode and need to do history, but take a look at how this will impact your life:
Will one insignificant day really affect my happiness in 20\30 years? Will I really look back and wish that this day never happened, or is it perhaps...a learning experience?
Yeah, I know. No one actually tells that to themselves...so there is something else that many people get cheered up by. You know that feeling when you had that really bad day or got a horrible test grade but then realize that everyone else did too, and it makes you feel better? Well, just remember that EVERYONE has their bad moments and experiences and so don't let it ruin your day. Just don't.
Finally, there is one more thing that I would like to say...tommorrow is a brand new day. Think of it as a fresh start. In fact, think of every hour as a brand new start. You can make it better and better by thinking positive. I was thinking over the concept of "Carpe Diem" earlier today and realized that it can truly relate to Bella in New Moon. Even if you are a true Twilight hater, please bear with me :). Anyways, in those tragic months, where Bella feels horrible...there are so many things she could have done to get away from her "pain" and make a brand new start. Of course, that would dramatically end the saga and Edward would be long gone, but theoretically speaking, although it would be very very hard, Bella's life would be much easier in New Moon if she "seized the day".
Therefore, I would just like to end on the note in which you ask yourself...in 25 years will I honestly be impacted by this experience/day or is it better to just let go of everyone, get a fresh new start, and live your life. That's right ;)
"What does 'Carpe Diem' mean?"
I now do realize that simply saying "seize the day" means nothing unless we really do understand what it means to seize the day. The reason why I abruptly decided to write a post on this topic is that in such times we seem to really need to make the most out of our day...whether is be economic times, natural disasters (the infamous oil spill for example), or maybe you are just someone undergoing social stress. Yes. No matter who we are, "Nobody's Perfect" (it seems like a dreadful crime to quote Miley Cyrus in such times, but...). I will admit, even as myself, I face times where I think that it is impossible to make the most out of our day.
For example, you know, that day when you woke up and everything just seemed to go wrong?? Where you were in a bad mood, and on top of that, late to work because you spent fifteen minutes searching for coffee to find that there was none, and it even was raining, and on top of that, the work load at your job was pressurizing and you couldn't make time to take a break, and then once you got home, you just needed a rest, but then there was still work to do like picking up your kids from soccer, making dinner or mowing the lawn? Yeah.
Or maybe, you woke up thirty minutes late to school because you were tired from last minute studying until 12:00 the previous day, so you were late to school and got a lunch detention, only to realize that you forgot your ASB card or money. Then, after going without lunch, you have math finals but realize that you studied the wrong chapters, and in science, your teacher assigns a pop quiz, but you didn't have time to read the textbook last night and so you don't know anything, and finally, after school, on Facebook, your heart gets broken and you feel horrible but you have a huge history assignment for 200 points due tommorrow. Mhm.
Still, at these times, as strange and impossible as it may seem, it is possible to stay optimistic and make the most out of it. So, you do feel exhausted after that horrible day of work, but think, am I really one to complain when there are people out there who are working in inhumane conditions, struggling, and wondering whether they will eat dinner (they don't even have the option of coffee)? Or, you do feel absolutely terrible about those math finals and that Facebook episode and need to do history, but take a look at how this will impact your life:
Will one insignificant day really affect my happiness in 20\30 years? Will I really look back and wish that this day never happened, or is it perhaps...a learning experience?
Yeah, I know. No one actually tells that to themselves...so there is something else that many people get cheered up by. You know that feeling when you had that really bad day or got a horrible test grade but then realize that everyone else did too, and it makes you feel better? Well, just remember that EVERYONE has their bad moments and experiences and so don't let it ruin your day. Just don't.
Finally, there is one more thing that I would like to say...tommorrow is a brand new day. Think of it as a fresh start. In fact, think of every hour as a brand new start. You can make it better and better by thinking positive. I was thinking over the concept of "Carpe Diem" earlier today and realized that it can truly relate to Bella in New Moon. Even if you are a true Twilight hater, please bear with me :). Anyways, in those tragic months, where Bella feels horrible...there are so many things she could have done to get away from her "pain" and make a brand new start. Of course, that would dramatically end the saga and Edward would be long gone, but theoretically speaking, although it would be very very hard, Bella's life would be much easier in New Moon if she "seized the day".
Therefore, I would just like to end on the note in which you ask yourself...in 25 years will I honestly be impacted by this experience/day or is it better to just let go of everyone, get a fresh new start, and live your life. That's right ;)
6.17.2010
A Memoir of Goa, India 2009-2010
Okay. I'm posting this post in order to prove that I will not break my promises. Also, I am partly teaching myself a lesson that I should not make promises about writing certain blog posts because then I have to find the time to write those long blog posts. Anyways, the fact is that I am majorly late on posting this post but now that I alas have a decent amount of time on my hands in which I may be able to create such a post, I have decided to get it over with and not have it forever hanging on my shoulders.
Hehe. Sorry. Just kidding :D I actually fully owe this post to "Bo Peep" (you know who you are ;D) Speaking of which...
Shout Out: To Bo Peep for constantly pestering my to write an account of my India trip even though I'm a pathetic 4 and a half months late (I know) Anyways, this post wouldn't have been created without you.
Anyways, I will quit with all the drama. Let me get straight to it. An account of my India trip. Right. Let me travel deep back into the shelves of my memory and search for those wonderful days in December and January that made a great vacation. Right. Okay, mhmmm...Disclaimer: Although I am writing this, you must understand that my memory of the trip is anything but fresh as it would have been a few months ago, as it has been a while. Now, right onto it.
December 2009-January 2010
Goa, India
A Tribute to the Holiday Season
"And I finally realized, that it is not just me is it? Everyone loves that wonderful feeling you have inside when the stress of the world is gone and you feel as if you're effortlessly enjoying life. Some call it relaxation. I call it vacation."
Okay, for you're own good I'm not going to give you an account of the plane ride that lasts forever. Why? Because I assume that you are the type of person who dreads reading AP Reading book or another other form of long text. mhmmm. Except for anything interesting. So, in short the plane ride wasnt that interesting except for a few things. Let me elaborate:
Have you ever taking a domestic flight somewhere on vacation thats literally hardly a few miles away? Well, taking an international flight is a whole new feeling. Trust me. It is probably safe to say that you've been somewhere international as well. China perhaps. Or India like me! Or Russia or Italy or France or Canada or some significant place that I haven't forgotten but that I've not had enough time to mention here. (Ask me later and I'll tell you). Anyways you get this whole different feeling as I was saying. New culture! New food! New clothing! New languages! Or just the plain fact that you are able to talk about a whole foreign place that you visited after coming back home to your friends and make them feel amazed and jealous (just kidding!!! Tip: do not try that at home kids.) Anyways, I just realized that I have used the word "Anyways" a whole bunch of times in the paragraph, but as I tend the randomly change the subject oh so randomly...well...
Okay, so just in case you don't know this, the Sea Tac Airport is pretty cool. Well, Chinese food is not very good at the Sea Tac Airport, but carrying on....Well, it's not the most wonderful airport (I will explain why later because some foreign airports are just oh-so better.) but it's always is amusing to see people's faces as they step into the airport from Haiwaii, dressed in leis and Haiwaiian shirts and see that it's raining. Because they're in Seattllllle!
Okay, sorry. I just realized that the actual events in the Seattle airport itself weren't that interesting. Therefore I must fast forward t o the plane. Yup. The Plane.
Hehe. Sorry. Just kidding :D I actually fully owe this post to "Bo Peep" (you know who you are ;D) Speaking of which...
Shout Out: To Bo Peep for constantly pestering my to write an account of my India trip even though I'm a pathetic 4 and a half months late (I know) Anyways, this post wouldn't have been created without you.
Anyways, I will quit with all the drama. Let me get straight to it. An account of my India trip. Right. Let me travel deep back into the shelves of my memory and search for those wonderful days in December and January that made a great vacation. Right. Okay, mhmmm...Disclaimer: Although I am writing this, you must understand that my memory of the trip is anything but fresh as it would have been a few months ago, as it has been a while. Now, right onto it.
December 2009-January 2010
Goa, India
A Tribute to the Holiday Season
"And I finally realized, that it is not just me is it? Everyone loves that wonderful feeling you have inside when the stress of the world is gone and you feel as if you're effortlessly enjoying life. Some call it relaxation. I call it vacation."
Okay, for you're own good I'm not going to give you an account of the plane ride that lasts forever. Why? Because I assume that you are the type of person who dreads reading AP Reading book or another other form of long text. mhmmm. Except for anything interesting. So, in short the plane ride wasnt that interesting except for a few things. Let me elaborate:
Have you ever taking a domestic flight somewhere on vacation thats literally hardly a few miles away? Well, taking an international flight is a whole new feeling. Trust me. It is probably safe to say that you've been somewhere international as well. China perhaps. Or India like me! Or Russia or Italy or France or Canada or some significant place that I haven't forgotten but that I've not had enough time to mention here. (Ask me later and I'll tell you). Anyways you get this whole different feeling as I was saying. New culture! New food! New clothing! New languages! Or just the plain fact that you are able to talk about a whole foreign place that you visited after coming back home to your friends and make them feel amazed and jealous (just kidding!!! Tip: do not try that at home kids.) Anyways, I just realized that I have used the word "Anyways" a whole bunch of times in the paragraph, but as I tend the randomly change the subject oh so randomly...well...
Okay, so just in case you don't know this, the Sea Tac Airport is pretty cool. Well, Chinese food is not very good at the Sea Tac Airport, but carrying on....Well, it's not the most wonderful airport (I will explain why later because some foreign airports are just oh-so better.) but it's always is amusing to see people's faces as they step into the airport from Haiwaii, dressed in leis and Haiwaiian shirts and see that it's raining. Because they're in Seattllllle!
Okay, sorry. I just realized that the actual events in the Seattle airport itself weren't that interesting. Therefore I must fast forward t o the plane. Yup. The Plane.
Well, I must say that it was a big plane indeed. And having a touch screen entertainment center screen on the back of every seat is indeed wonderful, so for your delightment I will include a list of ALL the movies/music that I listened to/watched during the entire trip(s):
Harry Potter 6 (haha it was sort of funny because I really really wanted to see this one, it wasnt the very best though...very emotional :D)
Julie and Julia!!! (hehe I loved this one...btw, I tend to like movie involving food ex: Ratatouille)
Bandslam (If you are not a Disney fanatic you probably do not know what this is. Disclaimer: I. Am. Not. A. Disney. Fanatic. I just watched it because everything else except for Korean shows were rated PG13 or higher and seemed too lovey-dovey/violent. I estimate that only 0.05556% of you readers enjoy Disney and therefore I have concluded that I should probably include a brief description: a social outcast, a new kid who never seems to fit in his new schools, and a once super-popular girl trying to change her ways meet together and develop different relationships for each other. However, in the end, it is all a matter of winning the ultimate best acheivement for high school musicians: winning Bandslam.
Up! Wow. This is one of the most amazing movies (animated or live-action) movies I have ever watched. It has breath-taking emotions and beautiful music as well as a touching, suspenseful, interesting plot. Without any form of bad words or bad ideas, this movie deserved a five star no doubt. If you haven't seen it, watch it!!! And if you don't believe it, I think that it won a Grammy(s) this year (2010) and was nominated for many. By the way, Dorothy Jiang, if you are reading this I suppose that it wouldn't be fair to go without mentioning the ah-mazing...Russell! ;)
Ok before you criticize my music choice please take notice of the fact that there isn't much selection available. Therefore, unless you would like to have heard that I listened to "Row Row Row Your Boat" and "ABCs!" please refrain from commenting as such: Anonymous: You have horrible music taste. By the way, in case you are wondering, no, there is no way to make your comments anonymous on here, sorry :)
Jordin Sparks...unless you watch American Idol, you probably don't know her
David Archuleta...American Idol again but you might know him
Beyonce :D
Kelly Clarkson
Katy Perry and 3oh3 but honestly I got tired of them after a while.
Carrie Underwood
Korean Nursery Rhymes, well you be honest, I was sort of bored, so I clicked on "kids" on the screen and there I found Korean Nursery rhymes. Then again, let me correct myself, perhaps attempted to listen to this is a better description...the melodies were wonderful, but the words were meaningless as I didn't understand any of them.
Ok.I already wrote a long account of the food on the plane in my other blog and so here I have copied and pasted it:
So after a few hours of listening to Katy Perry, Jordin Sparks, David Archuleta, and a few other artists as well as choosing between the difficult decision of "what would you like to drink?" :), it was time to eat. *shudders* This is possibly the most feared experience of any international traveler- what food will be served on the plane? In case you are planning such an international trip anytime soon, let me un-confirm your fears- airplane food is fine. Not excellent, not "good", I prefer to say "fine". There. I've answered your question.
Yes. Sorry. That wasn't very long. Let me elaborate to confirm you're fears. Here are the interesting things:
-Well, for starters, there were Masala Lays Chips. Well? I know. If you have never been to India you probably have never heard of such a preposperous thing. But they taste good....so....yup :) Only the thing is that because of the air pressure in the plane, you would open up a bag this big: ________ and find out that it was only __ filled with chips. I know :( A dissapointment but an educational experience.
-Then, there were seaweed wrap things that tasted really good (rice cakes I think)
-This grape juice with bubbly things at the bottom. No, it was not bubble tea, but I was informed by my brother and sister that it tasted........errr...okay. Random fact (actually more like opinion if you are picky literature-wise): Bubble tea is just amazing isn't it? [If you are reading this and would like to comment but don't know what to comment on, please comment with your favorite bubble tea flavor. And if you have been bubble tea deprived (just kidding! but you really should try it...) and don't know any flavors of bubble tea, comment with your favorite ice cream flavor. And yes, that was random, but ice cream is good as well, isn't it?]
Instant noodles. (Haha sorry but I can guarantee that 89.9999866% of you know what these are) and yes THEY TASTE GOOD. but are unhealthy for you. (Written in small print so that nutritionally concerned people do not sue me for endorsing such food).
-Indian food.
-Korean food.
Sorry, unfortunately as I am on a very short time limit (not really) I will not be able to specifically define what "Indian and Korean food" exactly is, but ask an Indian or Korean friend and they will tell you. P.S. I can help you on the Indian part, only ask me in person.
Also, well...there were the books which I read. Actually book (not plural), because honestly, although you always tell yourself that you are going to finish dozens and dozens of books on the plane ride, unless they ALL are extremely wonderful books, you usually only finish one book. Because it's just way too distracting on the plane. Well....not at night...but...actually, never mind, thank you, I'm going to stop myself from going on a random tangent again. Unless, you like my random tangents. In which case, you are utterly free to ask me about the tangent I was about to go on.
AHHHHHH!!!! Sorry, I just realized that if I keep up talking so much (or writing) at this rate, I could write a third-grade chapter book on my trip! So, therefore, I am very sorry to say that I must shorten how much I write. But, remember, if you really would like to hear the full story,ask me in person and I'll tell you all of it...i f I have the time that is...because somehow I can talk much faster then I can write
Well then: When we first reached India, it is hard to describe how it was, perhaps I should just add a picture:
Goa, Indi
a
See the difference?
Ok, so first stop was my father's house which is honestly very historical, in fact: It was a mint house a long time ago! Imagine that!
Next was my mother's house "Villa Luz" which I probably spelled wrong but I'll get back to you on that ;)
Okay, so truly I don't remember every every single thing in chronological order, but these are the main places that we visited:
Swimming pool! Haha this was in the Mariott and it was great to take a swim in the water...
It was also great because our adorable cousin, our grandparents, and our aunt and uncle were there also and so overall we had a great time at the pool but this was by far the highlight of our adventures.
Ok, in order to not spend time aimlessly talking about the food areas that we visited, here are the restaurants that we went to (just a few, not all of them): Oh, and just a note to all you people who know how to spell all these types of foods and resturants and realize that I am practicing making fallacy by fallacy here as a make a futile attempt to spell it, just know that it's not my fault :D
Ritz (haha we went here a lot because we loved the seafood)...anyways this was an amazing Goan restaurant with the classic fish, mussels, crab, etc. Anyways, the most curious thing here was that they had lime soda which had cherries at the very bottom...I have never heard of lime soda with cherries but apparently it tastes good, so yup :)
Florentine's (yummy, this place was pretty good and it had good chicken cafreal (that's a word that I probably spelled wrong)) Also, there was great soup and almost our entire family went to it (16 people!!!)...hehe I think that we had to take up three tables
Thali places ( yeah, we went to a lot of these places and so im not going to list all of them but they were super super good except for I don't particularly like Indian food very much, but anyhow, Indian vanilla ice cream is good :D)
Legacy of Bombay (haha this another one of those places that we loved so we went to it about four times)...anyways, besides the fact that I a) lost my retainer at this restaurant and b) there were air conditioning issues (I mean, who ever heard of a cold place in India???), I really like this place. The falludas were wonderfully wonderful and the dai vadas were great and the masala dosas were good too, so I suppose that occassionally I do like Indian food ;)
well...there was this absolutely amazing Ice Cream place!!! Haha, it was the one part about America that I miss but it had the typical American flavors of ice cream. And of course, I had to have mint chocolate chip.
Well...sorry again, because I honestly don't remember the name of this restaurant either but there was also this restaurant which was Indian Chinese and it was really good. For example, the sweet and sour soup had a tint of India in it...and so did everything else :)
RANDOM FACT: Note that at EVERY single resturant that we went to, we ordered lime soda. I'm fairly certain that we got addicted to it, and now I wish that I had a nice refreshing glass or lime soda with a bendy straw and a cherry in it :D
Longhinos (I spelled this wrong...sorry D:) Anyways, this place was pretty good, only the soup was spoiled so we couldn't eat it, but the biryani was pretty good :)
a place called "Happy Town" or something like that...it was one of the most curious places I've every been. Let me explain. Well, the food wasn't wonderful, I mean, fast food which didn't taste perfect except for ice cream shakes. But, it was themed red, white, yellow, and blue. I mean, literally the primary colors. So even the walls were and chairs and everything, but then you go upstairs and there is a T.V. and couches, and a bunch of computers...it was utterly peculiar
This bakery place next to the Indian Chinese place :) All I can say is that it was good, only now I regret ordering a Chocolate Raspberry truffle instead of a cream filled scone..
Ok, next, places we visited, things that we did:
Beachhhhh! The beaches here are amazing...so many times have I heard "isn't this so much better than the beaches in America?" that I might have to agree...
Saw a super old house with so much of amazing history! There were bullet holes, secret passages, artifacts! Itw as over 500 years old and amazing! There even was the ladies' old dressing chamber, old weapons, and so much more!
Took a cruise through the water in Panjim
Went to a weddingggg!
Went to another weddinggg!
Met so many relatives, it is hard to name all of them, but anyhow, yes, I did see a lot of relatives...
Went to a party!! (with the most adorable dog...Boots :))
went to a tourist shop :)
went to another partyy :)
went to another party thrown especially for us grandchildren :) Went to a lot of other people's houses, parties, and such :)
And then finally at last, it was time to leave the wonderful world of Goa ); and so we packed our bags and were on our way to the airport, where they had tea and we played a fair share of MarioCart. Hmm, I just realized that I probably spent more time describing the plane ride then the actual trip, so let me sum this all up:
My 2009-2010 trip to Goa, India was a amazing and thrilling experience to me as I, now older, was able to view the area in an entirely new perspective. There are no words which can describe how beautiful Goa is indeed, but I do hope that you all will consider taking a trip there to get a view yourself.
-Starfire8
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)