Quote of the Day - 11.10.06

There is an old Chinese saying,

"If you aim for the Moon you may just reach the top of a tree, whereas, if you aim for the top of a tree you may never get off the ground."

Death Wish on 95

I drove seven and a half hours in the rain from NY to Boston. I spent nearly and hour on the West Side highway during rush hour, bumper to bumper. Then it was "smooth-sailing" at 40 mph until I hit the 3 accidents along my route. I thought I was gonna collapse during the last stretch. My right foot hurt, my lower back ached, and I was totally dozing off. Add to that the splashes of water onto my windshield from passing trucks and I'm like, I might as well be driving blindfolded! I think this was the longest I've ever driven in my life. Never again!!! I cannot believe I drove back in the rain again. Last time it was with Kelly and at least she drove half way in a blinding storm. I am just glad to be alive right now. For sure, I'm making a pact with myself never to drive long distance in the rain again, it's like a death wish. I was thinking to myself..."hmmm, at least let me listen to my favorite Leehom music in case I die in the next 15 miles."

Borat Compilation

The Best Borat Skits of All-Time

Quote of the Day - 11.6.06

"I feel there are two people inside me - me and my intuition. If I go against her, she'll screw me every time, and if I follow her, we get along quite nicely."

- Kim Basinger

Somewhere Only We Know

I walked across an empty land
I knew the pathway like the back of my hand
I felt the earth beneath my feet
Sat by the river and it made me complete
Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin

I came across a fallen tree
I felt the branches of it looking at me
Is this the place we used to love?
Is this the place that I've been dreaming of?

Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin

And if you have a minute why don't we go
Talk about it somewhere only we know?
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
Somewhere only we know?

Oh simple thing where have you gone
I'm getting old and I need something to rely on
So tell me when you're gonna let me in
I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin

And if you have a minute why don't we go
Talk about it somewhere only we know?
This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
So why don't we go

This could be the end of everything
So why don't we go
Somewhere only we know?

- Keane

Lynn University

This is hilarious. Our goal in life should be to each get a sweatshirt from our respective universities!

Lynn:
"Maybe I should go here for my PhD! I think you should put this on your blog, LOL"

Lynn University

Pepper's Memorial

Nightly Impressions

Ever wake up knowing you just had a significant, involved dream and not be able to remember it only 30 minutes later? Yep, that's me today. I know who and what I dreamt about in one sequence, but the rest is completely gone. They say that dreams lay out all of your subconcious desires. But frankly, mine seem to be pretty straightforward--or at least they have been in the past. I think mine tend to address subconcious fears more than anything else. I remember ones that have been downright scary! There was a time I wanted to keep a dream log but it's so hard to do that. Seriously, because by the time you've gotten up and washed your face...who could remember? All you're ever left with is a haunting impression.

Kid in a Bookstore

I really wanted another book I could sink my teeth into. So after work, I went to the new Border's at Wayside Commons. The bookstore was empty -- it was cold and late in the evening. I felt like I had it all to myself. As I patrolled the aisles, just skimming through everything, I suddenly regained an old feeling I used to have as a kid--excitement! Sheer excitement from being in a bookstore. I used to run into the old Waldenbooks at Kings Plaza when I was young and go straight to the Sweet Valley High section. I would treat myself to the latest addition to the series and go home real happy. I'm not sure where all that excitement for reading went. For a long time, books just didn't hold the same thrill they used to for me. It was nevertheless, a treat to run my hands across the smooth paperbacks and marvel at all the different packaging of various reprints. Perhaps Amazon has taken the thrill out of book-shopping for me. Maybe it's the experience of looking up through all the stacks and stacks of books and then carefully selecting one; taking it home and then cracking open the new volume and flipping to a crisp new page. So what new treasure did I acquire? Well, I got Wally Lamb's This Much I Know Is True. It's a whopper -- 900 pages! I'm looking forward to it though. The saddest part is always when a good book ends and you feel like you're forced to say goodbye to an old friend. A long, involved read holds a lot of promise in this way...like, "stick with me and you won't be sorry, we're in it for the long-haul!" ;)

OMG!

We might get a puppy! It'll be crazy! I feel like I'm 10 again!!! I cannot wait!

My Favorite Passage

Such an immense and beautiful story about love and loss...I devoured this book.

Excerpt from The Lovely Bones, p. 280:


"You look so different," he said.

"You mean older."

I watched him reach up and take a strand of my mother's hair and loop it around her ear. "I fell in love with you again while you were away," he said.

I realized how much I wished I could be where my mother was. His love for my mother wasn't about looking back and loving something that would never change. It was about loving my mother for everything--for her brokenness and her fleeing, for her being there right then in that moment before the sun rose and the hospital staff came in. It was about touching that hair with the side of his fingertip, and knowing yet plumbing fearlessly the depths of her ocean eyes.

Quote of the Day - 11.1.06

"In order to discover new lands, you have to be prepared to lose sight of the shore."

- André Gide

Happy Halloween!

I need me some chocolates!!!

A Classic

Three Witches

Round about the cauldron go;
In the poison’d entrails throw.
Toad, that under cold stone
Days and nights hast thirty one
Swelter’d venom sleeping got,
Boil thou first i’ the charmed pot.

Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn and cauldron bubble.

Fillet of a fenny snake,
In the cauldron boil and bake;
Eye of newt, and toe of frog,
Wool of bat, and tongue of dog,
Adder’s fork, and blind-worm’s sting,
Lizard’s leg, and howlet’s wing,
For a charm of powerful trouble,
Like a hell-broth boil and bubble.

Double, double toil and trouble;
Fire burn and cauldron bubble.


from Macbeth
- Will Shakespeare

Missing Piece

Have you ever felt like a part of you was missing? Like you're just waiting for that last piece of the jigsaw puzzle to descend, suddenly present itself and "voila!" everything becomes complete and lucid? I've felt like this for the last two years. I'm not sure how much longer it'll be this way. There were fleeting times when something took its place and filled the gap just enough to distract me or at the very least, sustain me for a while. It's like a game. I search and search for something and then I'm ok for the time being. Yet, all the while knowing that this has to resolve itself. That this hole has to mend and that nothing will really fit until the rest of me grows into and out of it. I keep hoping that this is soon. Because I'm tired, really tired. It's a constant anxious expelling of energy, all misdirected. Like shooting stars. I keep thinking misdirection is better than penting it up. I think soon, all my energy will be gone and I only hope that some kind of sage and peaceful acceptance replaces it.

Yesteryears

I'm reading The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. It's doing its job, transporting me to another world so that I can be throughly lost in it. I'm really tired of being in this one. Especially today.

I think I will read more. That's a good thing, right?

The novel is about a 14 year old girl; she narrates from heaven, having been murdered. It reminds me of when I was a girl...the little things that mattered. Like when my mom let me pick out my own outfit for school. Or having a younger sibling to play with and tickle. I miss my family. I miss living at home. But what I miss most is that feeling like there's a whole world to look forward to and explore. Like you knew you were going to be someone, like life offered you limitless choices. I don't mean to be depressing. But life today is not the same way. It's not full of hope and joy the way it is when you are young.

I'm really tired and I feel sick. I need some hot tea to cure my senses.

Halloween Yuck

I don't feel so great. I basically went out to Umbria last night and had a few too many drinks, threw up at the club, got kicked out and had to have someone else drive my car home. Apparently, when I kept saying - "no, I can't possibly have another, you don't know I'm a lightweight" people think I mean to say, "yes, please give me another shot...I'm just being polite!" So 2 shots and a mixed drink later, I was already blacking out on the couch and they were still trying to get me to dance. I was seriously begging for a time out. Anyways, as I was trying to make my way to the bathroom...I couldn't hold it in anymore and threw up in a corner. It was not a pleasant experience...I can't remember the last time I did that. I was profusely apologizing to my friend who I KNOW I got some vomit on. But she was being so gracious.

Anyways, I got home and it was THE BEST hot shower I've ever taken. Considering hiking through the rain storm, standing for 5 hours at the volunteer event, and then smelling of wretchedness...a well-deserved shower and bed was looking really good to me. Then of course, I couldn't sleep and kept drinking water for hours on end. I don't think I feel asleep till 8am. Whatever, I had fun. It was an interesting night to be out. Lots of doctors, SWAT team outfits, playboy bunnies, Flintstone characters, and an Asian Harry Potter were present. Umbria also had good music and I really haven't been clubbing in forever. I just gotta remember to offer up myself as the designated driver next time so that I can spare myself.

Pepper

I'm so sad right now. Lynn just called me to tell me that Pepper died. Mom and Dad are away with my Aunt visiting my Uncle in Maryland and Lynn was home by herself with Ian. They found her in the kitchen, not able to breathe and spitting blood. They put her in the cat carrier and couldn't get the car going and had to jumpt start it. By the time they started driving, she had passed away. Lynn's a mess and Mom must feel so guilty for being away. Mom really didn't want to go so she could be home with Pepper. I kept telling her that she should take Pepper to the doctor but she kept refusing, saying Pepper is too frail and that she gags when she picks her up. I finally convinced her to take Pepper to get checked up next week when my Aunt leaves. But now it's too late. I think Pepper only lasted as long as she did on Mom's TLC and as soon as she went away, she couldn't sustain herself anymore.

I hung up the phone with Lynn and didn't think I was that sad. But then I started crying as I thought of Pepper's former self, the healthy version of her we had for so many years. -- 14 to be exact. I looked up at the framed picture of her and Dusty on my bookcase and it just made me so sad. I remember when she was a baby and how she was such a pretty cat who liked to squeeze herself into boxes and on top of plastic bags, just sitting there all prim and proper. That was our Pepper. I regret not seeing her one last time. I think I didn't even say goodbye the last time I left Brooklyn. I should have gone down this weekend.

I called Mom to see how she was and all she said was, "don't be too sad," which only made me cry more. But of course, without her knowing. It's very strange...I never know how I'm going to react to something till it happens. I can't believe I won't ever see my Pepperbabe again.

Cakes and Weddings

Oh, I'm so full I can't go to sleep! =( (This is a commonplace occurence for me by the way.) I had a lavish meal at Dok Bua -- coconut chicken soup, duck choo chee, pineapple fried rice, chicken in tofu wrap, and Thai ice tea. Then we went to Finale's, the new one on Coolidge Corner. That place is just way overrated and expensive, I've decided. However, they did have this awesome pineapple upside down cake that was delectably coconuty and cakey. I think I would go back for that. Honestly, I'm so over that molten chocolate cake...there are so many other better versions of it at other restaurants.

Then I got home and was chatting it up with Kelly all night about the wedding she's a bridesmaid for this weekend. We made a pact that we would be present at each others' cake tasting tryouts. Then we talked about the kind of weddings we'd each like to have...albeit like 10 years from now. ;) I'm like, "dude, I'm going to have a case of bridesmaidzilla" cuz' she's so controlling with her high standards. I'm so like whatevers with things that I can't imagine worrying about shit like tea lights. (Apparently, Kelly's friend spent all afternoon polishing her tea light holder centerpieces for the banquet. Crazy.) I plan on taking a mini-vacation before the wedding AND post wedding in order to recover from the honeymoon. Laziness has its merits, I tell you. Although to be honest, if I truly loved my man, I would be happy marrying him wearing a paper bag in a bar amidst stained beer glasses. There's just something romantic about saying "screw it" to the whole thing. As long as there's a piece of chocolate wedding cake to look forward to afterwards, I'm all set. =)

Rain and Girls Don't Mix

Goodness, it looks so deceptively sunny outside. You really can't tell that a storm is brewing and heading our way. I really hope it doesn't ruin my plans. I'm supposed to go help out at a fundraising gala for the Asian Task Force tomorrow. It's a really great organization that helps Asian women in domestic violence situations. I've always wanted to do work with them ever since I saw flyers on the T and at the local clinic. So tomorrow, I'm doing the silent auction for them. I just found out that I have to stand for like 5 hours. Crap. That means comfy shoes for me. Well, really I would prefer to wear rain boots but that's not acceptable attire at the gala. Anyways, then there's a Halloween thing at Pure nightclub. I'm not sure how I'm going to dress for both and where I'm gonna park. Ugh! Oh well, I'm just gonna suck it up. When I said I'm not sure I'll make it to the club, my friend Charles was like, "yeah, I know how rain and girls don't mix!" ha. Well, that might be true -- but not this girl...well, at least not for tomorrow. =) I think perhaps tonight I'll just have a nice dinner and curl up with a good book.

Quote of the Day - 10.26.06

"You can't just turn on creativity like a faucet. You have to be in the right mood."
"What mood is that?"
"Last minute panic."

- Calvin & Hobbes

Ms. Personality

I love psychological tests...

On the Agreeableness Dimension you are best described as:

TAKING CARE OF OTHERS AND TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF

Words that describe you:

• Fair
• Considered
• Collaborative
• Responsive
• Sensible
• Diplomatic
• Contemplative
• Indulgent
• Rational

Openness Dimension:

SOMETIMES CURIOUS, SOMETIMES CONTENT

Words that describe you:

• Accepting
• Flexible
• Educated
• Self-aware
• Middle-of-the-road
• Proper
• Distinctive
• Indecisive
• Adaptable

Emotional Stability:

SOMETIMES STEADY, SOMETIMES RESPONSIVE

Words that describe you:

• Adaptable
• Engaged
• Able to Cope
• Passionate
• Perceptive
• Flexible
• Receptive
• Aware
• Avid

Approach toward Obligations:

FOCUSED AND FLEXIBLE

Words that describe you:

• Casual
• Informal
• Compliant
• Reliable
• Organized
• Solid
• Dependable
• Uncommitted
• Genuine

Extraversion:

RESERVED

Words that describe you:

• Thoughtful
• Modest
• Reflective
• Private
• Introverted
• Careful
• Restrained
• Meditative

The Scent of Fall

Does fall have a scent? Most definitely. I stepped out for lunch and as I caught the first breeze, it struck me...this leafy autumn fragrance nestled in the brisk air. At once, I felt comforted that I was here. Strange. I was expecting to be greeted with cold cold air. I guess it's because it was one of those mornings when it's so hard to get up, you just want to drown in your heavy blanket and let the world pass you by.

Sometimes when I rise in the morning, I wish I could go outside and immediately be transported elsewhere. Perhaps a forest in my back yard so that I can take a walk in the woods daily. Really inhale the scent of the the trees and feel the branches crackling beneath my feet. Snuggled up in a thick fleece, the cold air against my face. I'd look up at the grey sky and be content.

Quote of the Day - 10.24.06

"There is nothing good or bad, but thinking makes it so."

- William Shakespeare

MySpace

Have you ever had the experience of someone impinging on your personal space? It can be quite a subtle thing. One moment, you're totally comfortable with a person and the next, it's like..."dude, there's plenty of legroom here!" I had that experience this weekend. I guess when you're not on a crowded train or sitting at a packed table, it becomes ever so obvious. But apparently not to him. It was very annoying. Plus I do not enjoy someone staring at me the whole time when there's plenty of people around to socialize with. Ugh. Not that I don't enjoy attention but when it's the wrong kind of attention, it can be grating. Yet it was ever so subtle, the kind you really can't call out. Oh well whatever, it doesn't really matter.

Quote of the Day - 10.23.06

“Many things in life will catch your eye but few will catch your heart... pursue those.”

- Anon

Relics

Why is it that material objects always last longer than the relationships they remind us of? A grey eyeshadow I wore when I visited his mother, a wallet that refuses to disintegrate, mini coffee filters that I can't seem to finish. But you keep these things around because they are still functional, despite the memories attached to them. Or perhaps, because of? I don't know. Maybe it's time to clean house and relinquish these perfectly good things because despite their usefulness, they are but relics of the past. And why should I let them haunt me daily in the present? I suppose I had never really thought about it. Maybe I was waiting to make coffee with him again. But that's just a dream I have to let go of.

Quote of the Day - 10.20.06

"Weebles wobble but they never fall down."

-Cainer

Scaaaaarrrry!

Since it's almost Halloween and all...here's my scary zombie kitty! He looks possessed doin' his thang.

Quote of the Day - 10.19.06

"The loneliest women in the world aren't single. They are women who have married poorly."

- Dr. Neil Clark Warren

Project Runway Finale

Wow. I think everyone was watching the Project Runway season finale tonight. It was so awesome! I totally knew Jeffrey would win but I loved loved Uli's collection. I would wear every piece she had. Jeffrey's was much more fashion-forward and reminded me of Marc Jacobs. You really wouldn't want to wear every piece but you could appreciate the art in it. All I can say is, can you imagine designing and making your own clothes from start to finish? It's so amazing that these people have such a talent!

Ache

Isn't it strange the way things can change
The life that you lead turned on its head
Suddenly someone means more than you felt before
Her house and its yard turns into home

I'm sorry but I meant to say
many things along the way
so this one's for you

Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache for you?

Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache/and I hope it's not too late
Have I told you I ache/Can I hold you and ache for you?

The time that it took writing words for my book
seems to have broken in half
The gate that I shut last time I got hurt
seems to have opened itself

Oh the world it's spinning now it's trying to catch me up
and tell me to appreciate the here and now

I'm sorry but I meant to say
many things along the way
so this one''s for you

Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache for you?

Have I told you I ache
Have I told you I ache/and I hope it's not too late
Have I told you I ache/Can I hold you and ache for you?

- James Carrington

This song moved me when I first heard it...it's so beautiful and simple.

Quote of the Day - 10.16.06

"Truth, like gold, is to be obtained not by its growth, but by washing away from it all that is not gold."

- Leo Tolstoy

The Fall of Friendster

The New York Times did a really interesting article & video (see link) about how MySpace edged out Friendster despite being an also-ran. Friendster lost its first-mover advantage in the social-networking movement and rejected a previous bid from Google. Apparently, Friendster suffered from hubris and said the offer was too low...only now, it's too late to recover.

Now, I know MySpace is huge but I don't have an account there. Perhaps I should look into it. Yet, it seems that the Asian community mostly uses Friendster. When I think of MySpace, I think of teeny-boppers.

Join Red

I love the new Join Red intitiative -- it's such a great cause. Every time you buy a red product - tees, razr, ipod, you are donating to support AIDS/HIV medication in Africa. I can't wait to buy a new Gap tee -- 50% of proceeds go to the cause.

The Departed

So tired. I must be getting on in my years. It was such a gorgeous day today. It got a bit nippy at night but brisk walking does a soul good. Z and I went to see The Departed. It was probably the most entertaining move I've seen this year. Really, better than the original Infernal Affairs. You gotta give it to the actors. I'm sorry, but Andy Lau is good but you can't compare him to a bunch of Oscar winners. The script was also engaging and the characterization, really true to the original but much improved.

I love how it's a Chinese adapted film AND it's got Boston flavor. There was one scene with Marky Mark, Martin Sheen, and Leo DiCaprio under the red line bridge and that's friggin' North Quincy! It's the Neponset Bridge where I used to go over everyday on the way to work and would stare at the sparkling blue water for a moment of peace before I started the day. Well, the whole movie made me feel like such a local...oh North Shore vs. Southie class differences. Funny. Crap, I've been here too damn long. Anyhoo, I had heard a long time ago that Brad Pitt was remaking it and I guess he produced it but didn't act it it. Probably for the best...leave it to Marky Mark and Matt Damon to deliver spot-on Bostonian accents. I think at the beginning of the movie everyone cheered when "Boston" rolled onto the screen. And everyone clapped in the end. Anyways, good stuff...I just hope the Chinese get some credit for coming up with the concept in the first place.

Discontent

Sometimes I just feel like my life is so shitty, even though logically speaking, I know it's not. There's just a couple of things grating me and I just feel so unsettled. I feel like nothing is in order, it's all chaotic and I'm not that much better off now than I was 6 months ago. Thinking positively only gets you so far. When your friends treat you like shit and at the end of the day, you need to drop negative influences in your life...it makes it all very challenging. Ugh, goodness sakes, what am I rambling on about? Discontent. That's pretty much it.

Friday the 13th Fun Fact

"Last year, we had only one Friday the 13th. This year, we have already had one (in January) so this is our second. There will be two next year as well. Statistically, the 13th is slightly more likely to fall on a Friday than on any other day but according to some statisticians, it is LESS likely to be a day of accident... perhaps because the date makes people more inclined to be careful. By the way, in Greece and much of the Spanish speaking world, Friday the 13th bothers nobody - but Tuesday the 13th gives folk the heebie-jeebies!"

-Jonathan Cainer

Frustrations

Some of my friends can be so obtuse sometimes. Ugh. I don't know what's wrong with people. Is it me or am I too understanding? It seems like everyone else is super-judgmental and quick to jump to conclusions. Meanwhile, I'm Ms.Pushover. I'm so sick of it.

I Spy

Miso loves my new Hologram Spy too.

Quote of the Day - 10.12.06

"A woman worries about the future until she gets a husband, while a man never worries about the future until he gets a wife."

- Anon

Hmmm...I think I would rather live like a man. I love how all my guy friends feign concern and preface the "you're not getting any younger" speech with a disclaimer, "Not to be sexist...but...YOU'RE NOT A MAN!" BUT what? Uh...that's a sexist remark if I've ever heard one! What a load of b.s.! Why can't I live like a guy? Why can't I date younger men? As long as I don't waste ALL of my child-bearing years on losers and end up with one winner, who cares?? Seriously. Same for all of my girlfriends...everyone needs to stop fretting!

Black is Back

Nails Meet Midnight

So noir nails are back in fashion and has been the entire summer. Finally, the NY Times picked up on it. And yes, I scored Chanel's Black Satin from my local mall. I had Kelly pick it up for me and the lady at Lord & Taylor was hesitant to sell it to her, saying it was her "last one" and going on and on about how much in demand it was. Maybe I got it before the big rush if Sarah Michelle Gellar had to steal hers. It's interesting that the article talks about women wearing it to work because I had the exact same dilemma...do I sport my black nails upon meeting my new boss?

"The new blacks appear to be growing in popularity with young professional women who are daring enough to wear it to work, and it is the epitome of chic for night events."

Kelly said it was a bad idea so I decided to stay on the safe side. Anyways, of course, my fashion-backward guy friend didn't get it at all. It took a lot of meticulous care to paint my toenails black and my friend was like, "I'm not a fan."(But then again, he didn't know leopard prints were back in and said my shoes were too "loud") Ugh...he's such a big oaf!

I swear, being trendy in this town is like being a black sheep--no one gets it! (pun intended) Sigh! Well, on the plus side, whatever trendy thing I'm sporting, you can bet no one else around here is whereas in NY, it's like a dime a dozen.

"Zilla Eats" Debuts

I launched a new blog called Zilla Eats and killed my old one, Beauty, Bar None. I figured if I was constantly writing about food anyway, why not just do a food blog? I started by just putting all my food-related entries in one place. I haven't quite thought the whole thing out yet--how to differentiate it and such but I think that will just come with time. In any case, lemme know what y'all think.

Channeling My Inner Stacy

So I met Dr. Robin, Nate Berkus, Martha Beck, and Stacy London at the O! You event. Stacy's session was jam-packed and she came out looking fab in a navy dress and black heels. She started the talk with a discussion on teenage girls today who try to dress too young and how the images portrayed in the media are askew. Everyone was like "amen." After the "serious talk," she walked around the audience answering questions. The girl next to me (I was in the front row) asked what she was wearing. She stood before me and replied, "uh...a dress!" She was a tiny woman, so slim and petite that I was thinking to myself, wow, t.v. really does bulk you up! But she was truly adorable and so personable, answering questions like, "I have a big butt, what should I wear?" or, "I've got huge knockers, how do I hide them?"

After the session, I met her and told her I loved her show and that she always looks so great! She's played it off like it was no big deal and took a look at me and said, "oh, what a great purple on you!" It was my turn to be flattered. Anyways, in case someone is wondering, I did stare at her gorgeous hair and realized...yep, she does have silver streaked highlights in the front. But it was a far far cry from Cruella Deville. I honestly wouldn't have noticed otherwise. =)

Mutant Kitties

Cat Lovers Lining Up for No-Sneeze Kitties

A small California biotech company says it is ready to deliver the Holy Grail of the $35 billion pet industry: a hypoallergenic cat.

Since it announced the project in October 2004, the company, Allerca, of San Diego, says it has received inquiries from people in 85 countries seeking to buy a cat bred so that its glands do not produce the protein responsible for most human cat allergies.

Cats ordered now will take 12 to 15 months for delivery in the United States, 15 to 18 months in Europe. Cost: $4,000. And owners must pass Allerca’s finicky screening tests.


Ohhh...but I would never give up my precious, natural and free kitties for expensive, mutant ones.

I Should Really Get a Discount from This...

Louis Vuitton Tries Modern Methods On Factory Lines

(Wall Street Journal) Louis Vuitton has been busy revamping its manufacturing operations in a bid to become more lean and efficient. The company, along with other luxury goods makers undergoing the same process, has had to invest more in its IT. Several have gone with SAP to help with the process.

Accident

I had a rough weekend. I hit another car. I hadn't slept at all the night before and was in a daze. I knew not sleeping and driving was dangerous so I was trying to be extra careful. But then when I was at the Hess gas station, I let my guard down. Ugh. It was bad because the guy I hit accused me of trying to flee the scene. I got all indignant and started getting all defensive because he was screaming at me. But I apologized profusely and he let it go. I did scrape up his car pretty bad. I'm just glad I didn't get into a worse accident. I think the day that finally happens, I might completely freak out and lose it...that is, if I come out of it ok. Oh well, I almost had a clean record as I celebrated my 1 year driving anniversary, but what can you do?

Happy Moon Festival!

Eat lots of yummy --------------------------->

Smoking Ban In of All Places -- France!!!

I can't believe it but the France Parliament has ruled against smoking in public places! I thought hell would freeze over before that ever happened!

France’s history with tobacco goes back more than four centuries. Nicotine, after all, is named after Jean Nicot, a 16th century ambassador to Portugal who took tobacco leaves imported from America to Catherine de Medici as a cure for her migraines.

About 12 million of the French — about 20 percent of the population — are smokers, according to official government figures, and more than 70,000 people die in France every year from smoking-related illnesses and secondhand smoke.

Smoking remains particularly prevalent and acceptable among young people. French public high schools routinely allow students to smoke during breaks.

Home Sweet Home

I love being at home. It's so good to have my family around and Lynn's next door for me to bother at any hour of the day. I feel sheltered and I feel like any sadness can't really reach me. Mom's always cooking up a storm. I was supposed to have left already but keep staying and Mom's like, "I keep trying to send you off with a farewell feast but you never leave! This is like your third sendoff and I'm outta food!" She's such a cute mom. Lynnie and I started a "Mom journal" detailing all the cute and funny Mom moments we remember so that one day we can look through it and recall what she was like. Most of them involve the kitties (big surprise). She's a kooky lady. So silly. I think I get my silliness from her. Lynn's a good foil for us both because she just cracks up at everything we say. =) Anyways, time for beddy-bye. It's a cool nite and I think I'm going to sleep well.

A Home

I mistook the warnings for wisdom
From so called friends quick to advise
Though your touch was telling me otherwise
Somehow I saw you as a weakness
I thought I had to be strong
Oh but I was just young, I was scared, I was wrong

Not a night goes by
I don't dream of wandering
Through the home that might have been
And I listened to my pride
When my heart cried out for you
Now every day I wake again
In a house that might have been
A home

Guess I did what I did believing
That love is a dangerous thing
Oh but that couldn't hurt anymore than never knowing

Not a night goes by
I don't dream of wandering
Through the home that might have been
And I listened to my pride
When my heart cried out for you
Now every day I wake again
In a house that might have been
A home
A home

Four walls, a roof, a door, some windows
Just a place to run when my working day is through
They say home is where the heart is
If the exception proves the rule I guess that's true

Not a night goes by
I don't dream of wandering
Through the home that might have been
And I listened to my pride
When my heart cried out for you
Now every day I wake again
In a house that might have been
A home
A home

- Dixie Chicks

Low Expectations

So I finally went apartment hunting in the city to see what I can get for my hard earned dollar. I think because my expectations were so damn low that the experience pleasantly surprised me. All the agents I worked with were pretty nice people. Some apartments were bad but I actually saw two that I would totally consider. The one I really liked was somewhat out of my price range -- $2,500 a month. Crazy, right? Yeah, but it's right next to the Time Warner building near Hell's Kitchen and is a huge space compared to the small shitholes you usually get. Apparently, that is considered a "great deal." One agent was really snobby tho, with it being a seller's market, he was like "oh whatever, if-you-want-to-see-it-I-don't-care attitude." Nearly everyone was like, "if you like it, you'd better sign up for it now because it won't be here tomorrow." Unfortunately, that part is true. But then I realized the broker's fee was ridiculous -- 15% of one year's rent...that's like $4-5K!! It was still eye-opening though. The way I see it, at least I got some exercise today. I think I might have walked 7 miles (I'm not kidding you!). Shoulda worn my shox instead of my pumas.

A Familiar Quote

"And ever it has been that love knows not his own depth until the hour of separation. "

-- Kahlil Gibran

Moqueca

After my haircut and running into Ann and Jin, I went with Z to Moqueca in Inman. We've been wanting to try this place for a while...it's Brazilian but not the meat-oriented cuisine most associate with Brazilian restaurants. It was a tiny hole-in-the-wall and a total mom and pop establishment. Known for their fish and seafood stews, everything that came out of the kitchen made my mouth water. To start, we got fried yucca with yogurt herb sauce. Then I ordered a seafood stew rice that was divine! It had squid, mussels, shrimp over a saffron rice garnished with tons of yummy cilantro. Ok, it was essentially seafood paella, Brazilian style. Z got a salted cod stew with coconut milk, it was very interesting. But for once, I wasn't stealing off someone else's plate because I liked my own dish better. Anyways, it's quite a little jewel. Our goal now is to try a new place every week.

Slack-Jawed Yokel

OMG. I just went to the dentist and got a new filling. The entire side of my face is completely numb. My cheek up to my ear! I can't control my tongue and can barely drink water. I feel completely slack-jawed. Thank goodness I don't have any meetings until later in the day. Oh, and it was so painful. I was not happy seeing that gigantic needle coming my way. Uhhhhh! Sometimes I wonder if any of this is necessary!!! It's like going into the shop and the mechanic says you have a cavity...do you trust the fellow to be on the safe side or ignore him? Anyhoo, the worst part's over!

Relief

I'm so in awe of my sister sometimes. I don't know what I would do without her. After listening to her, everything made sense and I think I have a handle on things now. She can be so unaffected, yet empathetic and caring. I don't know how she can be so wise at her age. I know I wasn't. There are so many times when I think she's the big sister. Of course, we don't always agree but I think as we grow older, the way we think and relate is converging. It's really nice. I look at other siblings and wonder how they can not be best friends. Ok, maybe best friends is stretching it--we're such different people. But we are always, always there for each another. More and more, I see her as an equal and can actually rely on her for sage advice. I love her faith in me and how she tries to lend me strength when I have none. We've been through so much together, but it only feels like the beginning.

A Bag Ain't Just a Bag

I love this NY Times article about women's obsession with handbags and the psychoanalysis behind it.

Buying a bag is nothing less than a compulsion, a fixation, a tragicomic spectacle, an indication of status anxiety, a sign of existential hope, a fetish, a clue, a puzzlement, a pity, a pleasure. One might even go so far as to conjecture that the British analyst D.W. Winnicott's notion of "potential space" — an imaginative domain between inner and outer worlds that corresponds to the infant's sense of play — finds its most perfect habitation in a handbag. It is, above all, the great unstated answer to the Freudian question: What do women want? Well, I am here to clear away this lingering mystery about the nature of female desire forever: they want bags.

The article goes on to say:

"A bag," observes Wurtzel, "is about controlling the world outside your home. It's not any more about materialism than Neruda's 'Ode to Things' is. When he says, 'Oh irrevocable / river / of things,' he's talking about his attachments, and some of us cannot bear to be separated from our things for too long."

Considered in this light, bags are almost worth the time and money we give them. In being so sublimely iconographic, they tell us nothing less than where we live, who we are and where you might metaphorically someday find us, carrying our best selves in the bag of our secret dreams.

And behold, I'm drooling over my next vessel of secret dreams =) :

Friendship

My head is killing me. I'm so tired. I'm tired of being judged. I've come to realize that the best friends are those that listen openly and do not try to impose their opinions. But those are few and far in between. I absolutely hate how people impose their morals and beliefs on my situations and then say, "well, I'm only saying this because I want what's best for you." Have they ever walked a mile in my shoes? Do they know what's in my mind and my heart? Why do they presume they are all-knowing experts of what life lesson Kosin needs to learn?

Sometimes I want to share to be closer to someone, or I just need a shoulder to cry on, or just someone to nod and be sympathetic. I don't go to people for solutions or advice necessarily, I don't know why they feel like they need to give it. What do they really know? No imagination. No understanding. I vow never to broach certain topics with certain people. It's not worth my own condemnation...when I know I am undeserving. I don't need to be made to feel like a fool when I am not. In the end, I am really only accountable to myself. But sometimes that makes me feel so alone. I wish I had unconditional support from someone who just let me be me.

Briefly It Enters, and Briefly Speaks

I am the blossom pressed in a book,
found again after two hundred years...

I am the maker, the lover, and the keeper...

When the young girl who starves
sits down to a table
she will sit beside me...

I am food on the prisoner's plate...

I am water rushing to the wellhead,
filling the pitcher until it spills...

I am the patient gardener
of the dry and weedy garden...

I am the stone step,
the latch, and the working hinge...

I am the heart contracted by joy...
the longest hair, white
before the rest...

I am there in the basket of fruit
presented to the widow...

I am the musk rose opening
unattended, the fern on the boggy summit...

I am the one whose love
overcomes you, already with you
when you think to call my name...

Jane Kenyon

How the Little Beast Was Tamed

I love writing poetry with Lynn. She's a great teacher. But only once in a blue moon does the mood strike. Inspiration is often hard to find. But when it hits, she and I will stay up till the wee hours of the morning going back and forth on drafts. It takes weeks to really finish one because what seems perfectly phrased today could look silly or cheesey the next. But it always feels good to get that sentiment out...and it definitely always feels like a mini-accomplishment. I'm contemplating my next one. But in the meantime, here's a little diddley Lynnie penned on the bus ride back from Boston. :)

How the Little Beast Was Tamed

You laugh at the odd
little animal sounds I make
I'm not even conscious of it anymore
I think it's from talking to my cats.

You laugh at the way
I sniff your shoulder
as if it were a line of coke
and it's been weeks.

You laugh, but sometimes I do
feel like a furry little beast,
back arched, teeth bared,
in need of a bath and a meal.

Then you come along,
roll over in the patch
of afternoon sun
and show your belly.

You don't make a peep,
cradling my eyes
in your blue-green sea
as I circle you

slowly, cautiously, nervously

one
two
three times

then lay down
beside you
belly to belly
and purr.

--Lynn Huang

For Anon

Sigh

Sigh, I feel so sickly still. I just spent the last week sick and I thought I was better. Now my stomach hurts and I'm constantly sleepy. Plus my nose is going haywire...more than per usual. If this is a healthy, young version of me, I dunno what I'm gonna do when I'm actually old! Sheesh!

I think I'm just gonna call it a night with some herbal tea and a good mystery book. I'm reading a new book called "Died in the Wool" by Ngaio Marsh, who is supposed to rival Agatha Christie. But these books aren't contemporary -- they were first published in the 1940's so a lot of the jargon is dated and I can't decipher what the characters are saying at times. But it came highly recommended from the B&N clerk. I just wanted to expand my mystery reading beyond Agatha. But it seems like most of the contemporary mystery novels tend to be on the cheesey side. I've just been craving a good book lately and since it's still years before the next Harry book comes out, I gotta make do.

Quote of the Day - 9.20.06

"The heart has its reasons which reason knows not of."

-- Blaise Pascal

Welcomed Rain

I'm so glad it's raining right now. It feels so muggy that I just want everything to cool off. It's almost hypnotic looking outside my window into the night and seeing the drops of water bounce off the black asphalt lit by the apartment lights across the street. It's just one continuous stream coming down that driveway. I hope it rains all day tomorrow too. It just feels better for some reason.

O, You!

I just registered for Oprah's O, You! event. It's gonna be so cool going to workshops by Dr. Robin, Martha Beck, and then getting a breakout session with Stacey London from What Not to Wear and Reggie, Oprah's markup artist. I know, I know, it's kinda cheesey housewifey nonsense. But I think people are too cynical. I'm just gonna go and enjoy it. =)

Karl Kokosing

I was highly amused last night as I watched Prison Break. The characters were all heading to K&K ranch in Utah to chase down some buried loot. They look up K&K and behold, it stood for "Karl Kokosing!"

;)

Cars Need to Get with the iPod Already!

I finally bought one of those car FM adapters for the iPod. OMG, it sucks! I knew it wouldn't be perfect but the static is awful. I'd much rather insert CDs all day. When I got my Mazda 3, my friend kept telling me, "oh, don't worry about the iPod integration." Blah, blah, blah! Well, the Scion is looking good now, even if it is a slightly cheesey car. I know Mazda and all these other car manufacturers have announced iPod integration but it has yet to come to market. If I were Steve Jobs, I would have made some lucrative deal with only a few manufacturers to have sole iPod integration. The fact that it's taken this long to get to market is ridiculous considering the demand. Who wants to deal with custom audio work and twiddling around with the stupid stereo? We want smooth integration with the stereo interface and a resting place in the arm to store the iPod. Anyhoo, enuff rambling about things I can't change. Now I know I should've gotten the 6-CD changer. Doh!

Quote of the Day - 9.19.06

"At the center of your being you have the answer; you know who you are and you know what you want.”

- Lao Tzu

My Emotional Journey Through Scrabble

...but I won anyway!

Sushi Reward...

Quote of the Day - 9.14.06

Wisely did Shakespeare say,

"The course of true love never did run smooth."

Ugh II

I can't believe I'm sick again!!! Must be the change in weather. My nose is all drippy and my throat is itchy. =( I was totally fine yesterday! Arghhhhh! Now I'm downing Dayquil, echinacea and Airborne. I wish I could just veg all day. =((((((

Scrabble Disease

I've turned into a total yuppie. We're at Panera right now, playing Scrabble and drinking coffee and checking our challenged words online. Yesterday, we had a Scrabble party and I played some jazz and made tea for all of us. It was much more fun that I had thought it would be. I'm so hooked now and I'm getting a bit too competitive. I barely made it with the word "udon" which was not in the Scrabble dictionary but we agreed we would accept. I mean, just because the Scrabble dictionary was so "anglo" didn't mean I was wrong. "Miso" and "tofu" had better be acceptable words.=)

Quote of the Day - 9.8.06

"Your pain is the breaking of the shell that encloses your understanding."

- The Prophet, Kahlil Gibran

Nite nite

What a gorgeous night. I love the weather right now...so perfect and balanced. I hope it stays like this for weeks on end!

It's All Relative...

"Ko, and i thought you were a bad driver..."

-Chia
________________________________________________

The following appeared on Boston.com:
Headline: 34 hurt in troubled bus line's latest episode
Date:     September 6, 2006

"AUBURN -- Thirty-four people were injured yesterday after
a speeding Boston-bound Fung Wah bus rolled over on an
Interstate 290 offramp, State Police said."

Quote of the Day - 9.2.06

"Absence is to love what wind is to fire; it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great."

-Comte DeBussy-Rabutin

This has never been more true...

Quote of the Day - 9.1.06

“The obvious is that which is never seen until someone expresses it simply.”

- Kahlil Gibran

Intuition

"Any sentient being knows when it wants to eat, mate, run, sleep or fight -- any sentient being that is, except most members of the human race. We are the only beasts in creation who systematically eradicate the knowledge of our own desires."

- Martha Beck


It's been an odd year. A learning year, I should say. I finally feel like I'm in a place where I can get "still" and know where to go next. I think one of my greatest issues is that I'm never quite sure. I can never quite tap that inner voice, drowned out by all the noise around me. Instinctively, I know deep deep down what is right for me but on the surface, I'm completely torn. I give in to other people's needs and opinions, I let passing logic take hold, I'm afraid to do what I should. I don't listen to myself, I don't carry things out quickly or justly. Every day affords a chance to follow my intuition. As long as I do that, I really should not be afraid of the consequnces, whatever they may be.

Opportunity can often be unnerving. When there is no choice, there is no chance of making a mistake. I have many options and alternatives to choose from at the moment. I am going to consider things critically, but most of all, be open to "higher guidance." I know I'll get it right eventually and I know that there's a lot waiting for me out there.

Happiness

"Happiness is never something you get from other people. The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you give." - Oprah

Here's an excerpt from "What I Know for Sure":

In the third grade, I learned the Golden Rule: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." I loved those words. I wrote them on everything and carried them around in my book satchel.

I was a good-deed doer. At one point, I even thought I was going to be a missionary. Every Sunday I would go to church, sit second pew to the right, take out a notepad and write down everything the minister said. At school the next day, I would recite the sermon on the playground. I called it Monday-morning devotion. My classmates would see me coming and say, "Here comes that preacher." I was 8 years old at the time.

In the fifth grade, I ran into some problems. There was a girl in my class who didn't like me, so I went around school talking about her. One of my friends pointed out that if I believed in doing unto others and was talking about this girl, chances are she was talking about me, too. "I don't care," I replied, "because I don't like her anyway."

For a long time, whenever I would say or do something that went against my better self, I would try to justify it that way. What I didn't understand is that all of your actions, both good and bad, come back to you and most often not from the people you are acting toward.

Now I know that you receive from the world what you give to the world. I understnad it from physics and the third law of motion: For every action, there's an equal and opposite reaction. It is the essence of what Eastern philosophers call karma. In The Color Purple, the character Celie explained it to Mister: "Everything you try to do to me, already done to you."

Your actions revolve around you as surely as the earth revolves around the sun. The more conscious I became of this, the more quickly my actions came back.

Today I try to do well and be well with everyone I reach or encounter. I make sure to use my life for that which can be of goodwill. Yes, this has brought me great wealth. More important, it has fortified me spiritually and emotionally.

When people say they are looking for happiness, I ask, "What are you giving to the world?" I'll never forget this couple who appeared on my show. The wife couldn't understand why their relationship had broken dowm. She kept saying, "He used to make me so happy. He doesn't make me happy anymore." What she couldn't see was that she was the cause of her own effect. Happiness is never something you get from other people. The happiness you feel is in direct proportion to the love you are able to give.

If you think something is missing in your life of you're not getting what you deserve, remember that there's no Yellow Brick Road. You lead life; it doesn't lead you.

See what comes into your life when you spend extra time with your children. Let go of your anger with your boss or coworker and see what gets returned. Be loving to yourself and others and see that love reciprocated. This rule works every time, whether or not you are aware of it. It occurs in little things, big things, and the biggest things.

I have an advantage because I work in a profession in which everything I do generates an immediate response in overnight ratings, e-mails, and phone calls. Every day fo your life, you are performing your own show, and the returns may come in more slowly or be less obvious. But everything is being returned. What you're thinking, what you're saying, what you're doing, is having an impact on you and the people around you right now. I know it for sure.

Quote of the Day - 8.28.06

“The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.”

-- Benjamin Franklin

Lone Stars

Hmmm...I hope none of my friends ever get married!

Lone Stars: Being Single

The soulmate culture insists that one person can satisfy all your emotional needs, says DePaulo. "But that's like putting all of your money in one stock and hoping it's not Enron."

"Single people are more likely to have a good relationship investment strategy. They tend to have a diversified portfolio of relationships—friends, siblings, colleagues—and to value a number of them," says DePaulo. "They have not invested their entire emotional capital in one person." Having a broad social network is physiologically as well as emotionally protective, although society perceives singles as psychologically vulnerable precisely because they lack the built-in support system of a spouse.

A broad array of friendships also appears to be a developmental plus. "Having a number of relationships allows you to develop different parts of yourself and a more complex, autonomous self," Trimberger finds

OMG, Tofie's Not the Only One!

Check out this site: Cute Overload

Scroll down to "Cat-a-loons" -- Tofie and this cat, Snowball should join together and start a tour!

Also, check out "The Best Kitten Video Evar" -- that cat looks JUST like Miso!

Horoscope for All

I liked my horoscope for Friday. I just think that it's generally true...

Imagine if you had never made a dubious choice in your entire life. Suppose you had been right about absolutely everything. What if your every action had been impeccable? What if each decision had been guided by an infallible inner genius? You think you would be happy now? I doubt it. You would be bored and, worse, you would be boring! Any idiot can get things right. Only a noble fool, though, can recognise the hidden magic and meaning in an apparent mistake and then learn from it.

Restaurant Week Synopsis

I went to 3 restaurant week meals! Count em'! Anyways, there's the lowdown:

1. Pigalle: (A-) Very nice ambiance, absolutely love the decor (mod blue and brown combo) and the service was excellent. What was impressive was the extensive selections they had for a restaurant week menu when all the other joints in town were only offering up one or two meager choices. For appetizer, I had pan-seared duck liver on risotto...yum. Although I've had much better mouth-watering foie-gras, it was not bad. My entree was a nice mushroom risotto with all sorts of mushrooms -- chanterelle, oyster, cremini, portobello, shitake (if it's a shroom, it was in my dish). My only complaint is that the risotto was a bit stiff and hard. Maybe I'm just not a fan of risotto. Dessert was an ice cream sundae which they innovated on by crumbling bits of sugar cone all over it instead of using nuts. It took a while to figure out what the heck it was but pretty ingenious if you ask me! Overall, this is definitely a place I'd return to! Plus I had requested a booth and they gave it to us, even though we only had two people! It was a luxurious and rewarding meal after a hard day's work of shopping!
2. Avila: (A-) This is the new modern Mediterreanean restaurant in that building across from Finale's, a former parking lot that they've since built into luxury condos. I worked across the street from this construction site for 5 years and it took that long to finish it. Well, this restaurant was an exact carbon copy of Davio's - since it's owned by the same people. However, the light wood paneling and multi-colored pattern on the chairs just really did not appeal to me. I felt like I was in some hotel restaurant where they serve breakfast buffets instead of sitting in a fine dining establishment. BUT, the waiters were ultra-attentive and the food was delicious. Chef's compliments included 2 bowls of gazpacho - I think they thought we hadn't gotten it and gave us eah another bowl. Appetizer was a divine octopus dish made with hot peppers, olives, and chili oil in a red sauce that you just want to keep sopping up with bread. The entree was either a lamb souvlaki or a scallop and crab paella. The lamb was seared just right although I like mine more on the rare side. The paella was way too stiff and undercooked and frankly, a bit tasteless. Dessert was a smash though, it was a trio of flan, chocolate torte, and raspberry cream puff. Yum! All in all, probably the best restaurant week meal we had.
3. Excelsior: (B+) This is one of those chic hangouts where pretty people like to be seen. However, since it was restaurant week, there were lots of young people and college types. We didn't like the service as much here, or the ambiance, which was just kinda loud and crowded. The appetizer made up for everything though! It was a seared duck cobb salad. Generous slices of duck breast on top of greens with gorgonzola, avocados, and carmelized onions. The entrees they had included a veal schnitzel or a scallop and crabmeat pasta carbonara. The pasta was good except mine was a bit too creamy. The schnitzel was way oily and quite a disappointment. Dessert was this blueberry shortcake that was not as tastey as advertised. The bread basket and the duck salad I think, made up for all.

Till next year!

Ugh!

I'm so sick right now. Throat hurts, head hurts, body hurts! I'm supposed to be in the Hamptons right now but had to scratch my plans. It was really really hard saying "no" but my fever won over. I realized I have a lot of trouble saying "no" to people. I always feel like I'm letting people down but honestly, do they really care that much? Probably not. Anyhoo, I slept something like 14 hours and got up, ate, showered and then slept another 2! If that's not bonafide sick, I don't know what is. At least I can catch up on little things here and there when I'm not all groggy and dizzy. Plus, it's all gray skies out there so at least I know I'm not missing out on any sunbathing or boating activities I would otherwise be engaged in. Honestly, I just want to curl up on the bed all day and be served on hand and foot! ;)

The Adventures of Mimi

I went to see Mariah this week and it was awesome. She sang nearly all of her #1 hits like Vision of Love, Honey, Fantasy, Hero, I'll Be There, Always Be My Baby, and of course her new songs - Don't Forget About Us, Shake It Off, It's Like That, and We Belong Together.

Unfortunately, MC took almost two hours to come out on stage and everyone started getting restless and booed her! When she finally emerged, she was pretty much stark naked. A bra and panties with a see-through cape does not qualify as "an outfit." (At least with her wardrobe changes, all she needed to do was throw on a shirt or a pair of pants!) Anyways, I enjoyed all of her hand gestures and all the "real singing" (as opposed to her "whisper" singing).

What was priceless was that sitting behind us were a bunch of Southie types - the kind you usually find at a Sox game. They were like "Go Mimi" and "Oh, my Gawd, she's gonna sing my song!" As I was filming a mini-video through my camera, you could hear these guys behind me causing quite a ruckus.

After the concert, we walked around the Fleet center waiting for traffic to subside and I swear, every bar and restaurant was playing a Mariah tune. Add to that every car driving by with crazed fans singing along. It was as if Mariah had passed and there was a sudden tribute to her memory. It was fun tho...so of course, we had to roll down our windows and blast a song or two as we peeled away into the night...

Housing Virgin

The Housing Virgins of Manhattan depicts the insane apartment hunting process in NYC. Absolutely ridiculous. Thank God I'm not 21 and making $35K a year looking for a place right now. But you know what? I think living in the city is way overrated. (Maybe I've been in the burbs too long). I would like to think I'm a bit saavier than these fresh-faced newbies. Plus, because I'm from NY...I can totally see living in Queens or Brooklyn in areas most out-of-towners would not take a second look at but are pretty decent to live in. Say Forest Hills. My bottom line is, I refuse to settle...high standards will get you everywhere. It's always gotten me what I wanted! ;)

Jin's Shower & Bachlorette Parteee!

A lovely tea room, much nicer than uh-hum...other cheesey Japanese tea houses I've had the unfortunate pleasure of being taken to...
















Later in the evening...Eek! Mercy, mercy...too much to drink for lil' ol me!!! =)

Belated

I just got a belated bday gift! So cute - Frette slippers and a gift set from L'Occitane. Little gifts always seem to mean more than a fancy dinner or a big gift for some reason. Well, really it's the thought that counts. My other cool gift this year was a donation to the ASPCA. I thought that was really unique. I'm glad I was able to serve a good cause. =)

Drowning In Cats

I had a strange dream last night. In it, Tofie was standing up like he does and then he walks into a pool in this upright position, even using his hand to hold the guardrail. I think to myself, "how weird! Cats hate water...what does he think he's doing??" Then he goes a bit too deep and starts drowning. I start panicking and then reach in the water to save him. I grab onto one paw and it was so heavy, I had to pull his heavy body to get him out. Then I had to administer CPR and he was ok.

Then, Miso comes along and goes treading in the water just fine. Then all of a sudden he turns into a penguin but still begins to sink! I went in to save him and then all these penguins emerged in the water around him and I didn't know which one to save! I started picking all of these penguins out of the pool hoping to save Miso. I think it turned out ok. I don't remember. But yep, this was my dream.

Quote of the Day - 8.16.06

"I must see her and press her to my heart. I love her to the point of madness, and I cannot continue to be separated from her. If she no longer loved me, I would have nothing left to do on earth."

-- Napolean Bonaparte

Who knew Napolean was such a romantic? You almost forget that he was a ruthless conqueror. Hmmm...you just don't hear stuff like this anymore because people today are too cynical. Yet you can't help but admire that kind of passion.

"You Won't Be Single for Long"

I can't wait to make this. I'm getting really good at making all sorts of pasta and noodles. I think I'm gonna add shrimp to this one.

"You Won't Be Single for Long" Vodka Cream Pasta
It's Rachael Ray's most romantic dish!

Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, once around the pan in a slow stream
1 tablespoon butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 shallots, minced
1 cup vodka
1 cup chicken stock
1 can crushed tomatoes (32 ounces)
Coarse salt and pepper
16 ounces pasta, such as penne rigate
1/2 cup heavy cream
20 leaves fresh basil, shredded or torn

Serve with:
Crusty bread, for passing

Heat a large skillet over moderate heat. Add oil, butter, garlic and shallots. Gently sauté shallots for 3 to 5 minutes to develop their sweetness. Add vodka to the pan (3 turns around the pan in a steady stream will equal about 1 cup). Reduce vodka by half, this will take 2 or 3 minutes. Add chicken stock, tomatoes. Bring sauce to a bubble and reduce heat to simmer. Season with salt and pepper.

While sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water until cooked to al dente (with a bite to it). While pasta cooks, prepare your salad or other side dishes.

Stir cream into sauce. When sauce returns to a bubble, remove it from heat. Drain pasta. Toss hot pasta with sauce and basil leaves. Pass pasta with crusty bread.

Quote of the Day - 8.14.06

James Thurber said, "Love is what you go through together." That’s why we love our families and childhood friends so much.

Easter Surprises

If only my litter robot actually produced golden eggs! I had to clean the damn thing this morning and it was so filfthy because I forgot to empty it. Blah!

Adam + Eve

Oprah's Favorite White Tee

This white basic tee is all the rage and back-ordered everywhere because of Oprah's recommendation. I'm dying to try it. I really want the white v-tee and the white 3 quarter length sleeve v-neck.

Hmmm...maybe I'll get it as gifts for people...they have these tees for men and women alike. Actually, my friend Kelly's bday is coming up. But then, I think she would be just as happy with a pizza cutter (you know, the kind that rolls) b/c she eats frozen pizza all the time. Just like I'd be really happy with a classic ice cream scooper like the kind that they sell at Ben & Jerry's...oh but don't get me a vintage one because I don't want a used scooper! Ok, so I digress.

Hmmmm...50 bucks for a t-shirt? It had better fit like a dream. That eats into my clothing budget...considering I'm alreay over for this month. Maybe next month. =) I'm being a good girl. =)

Yay! Out Damn Spot!

I finally got a new parking space away from the trio of Mazda 3's that have cropped up in my lot since I debuted with my car. Now there are 4 of them in my lot and 2 are right next to me! What are the chances? Well, mine is the one that does not have the suction cup sign that says "Bitch" on it. It's the cute one with the yellow rubber duckie lookin' out for my back in the rear window. I finally earned a space next to the swamp border and not near a ditch that fills up into a lake when it rains. Can I tell you the number of times I went "doh!" when I got soiled up to my knees when I stepped in that massive puddle??? Plus the parking space is SO SO tight, I'm constantly adjusting my car to fit it into the itty bitty space. Now I can back out big and wide and comfortably! Yay!

Living In Another Zip?

My God, rent is so ridiculous in NY. I'm almost resigned to saying forget it to Manhattan so I can get a better value in Jersey or BK. But all the places in BK are old and there really aren't many high-rises. If I can get a nice place in Jersey, maybe I can even keep my car for the weekends and drive home to visit Mom and Dad to pick up home-cooked meals and such. ;) Oh, but parking costs money too! Gotta save and pay off shit. This may take forever! I still wanna check out some of these places tho. I remember shopping in Jersey City's Newport Mall when I was a kid. That area seems to have a ton of high-rises. They aren't all that expensive either...I wonder if it's because the neighborhood is shitty as compared to Hoboken, which has all the nice restaurants and bars.

Foiling Terrorism

I couldn't believe it when I heard this morning about the foiled attempts to blow up planes using liquid substances. We are so fortunate to have stopped the terrorists in time. I couldn't imagine another 9/11 so close to the date. Ironically, I was just reliving my whereabouts on 9/11 and talking about how awful it was. Thank goodness for the tight security at Heathrow and for British intelligence alerting the US. It's awful that just when we thought we could relax a bit, this kind of shit happens. Now you can't even bring a coffee through security. It's such a crazy world we live in. I'm crossing my fingers that I won't have to travel again for quite a while. With the Ted Williams tunnel collapsing and now this, it must be a zoo at Logan. I have to give it to British and US intelligence for sussing this out in time...at least we've learned from what happened.

Vow

Ok, I'm really upset with myself. I've decided to stick to a budget and to stop overspending. I'm going to create a plan and stick to it. So like $300 to eat out per month and that's it. $50 on personal products per month and that's it. I need some discipline!!! Ugh. I'm so annoyed with myself. I need to get a grip.

A Collage of My Summer Activities

The holy trinity is Toscanini's, JP Licks, and Coldstone...the classic trio is 31, Ben & Jerry's, and Haagen-Daaz. It's a no-no to Brigham's and Breyer's. I was like "eck@#!" when I saw Breyer's at the Boston Common Loews...yes, an ice cream snob I am.

P.U.P.P.Y

Really solid business plan by Cleveland the Puppy -- "I'm Taking Cuddliness to a Whole New Level". See excerpt below.

You've played with other puppies, enjoyed scratching their little heads and rubbing their fuzzy-wuzzy tummies. Heck, you probably thought they were really cute. But what would you say to a cuddliness experience not 100, not 200, but 300 percent better? That's right, folks: I, Cleveland The Puppy, am taking cuddliness to a whole new level.

And how did I make this quantum leap in snuggliness? That's simple: The secret lies in my extraordinary five-point P.U.P.P.Y. plan. That stands for Pettability, Undying devotion, Positivity, Preciousness and—most important of all—You, the petter. In the Cleveland Cuddliness System, the petter is king. This revolutionary system, which promotes active involvement in the playing process, fosters a puppy-human play dynamic that virtually guarantees enjoyment and warmth.

A shout-out to J-town for bringing my attention to this plan. Tofie has since adopted it and made it his own -- the C.A.T. system -- Cherubic charm, Adorableness, and Totally pretty pussycat.

Horseneck and Wollaston

I went to Horseneck Beach this weekend and was pleasantly surprised at how clean it was. At first, we wandered off to the wrong section and it was just rocks and water. I'm like, "We drove all the way here for this???" A lovely old couple told us of people "our age" over yonder and so we finally found the right area where there was an abundance of sand castles, youthful frolicking, and bored lifeguards. What was super-fun was watching all these men and little boys alike learning to body surf. I had never seen that before. You're standing at the edge of the water and suddenly this strange man emerges out of the water at your feet as you scramble to get out of the way. There was one guy who was the body surfin' champ and would catch the wave perfectly each time...going all the way to the shore. It was awesome to watch. There was just the right amount of people sunbathing and splashing in the water and to top it off, the weather was perfect.

The next day, I was strolling along Wollaston Beach and was like "eek...this place is so shitty"...plus you know the bacterial count in the water will kill you if you just dip you toe in the water. Blah! And of course, behind us in a parked car was a not-so-lovely couple, grilling hot dogs next to their beat up car. Sitting inside their car, they had these blank stares as they peered over a box of Cheeze-its and some Surplee cups on their dashboard to view the scenery before them. You just knew that that Cheeze-it box was a permanent fixture in the car. Then next to them were some bikers, not the cool kind but the overweight old grandpa kind that hasn't yet realized he's too old to be dressed that way. Anyways, it was fun watching all these characters in their element.

Quote of the Day - 8.7.06

"Birds of a feather? Yeah, they stick together."

-- Me

Lickety-licious

I'm deep in thought...contemplating where my next ice cream cone will come from...

Tofie's New Trick

I taught Tofu how to stand up and beg. It is the CUTEST THING EVER. Lynnie even took a video of it. You can see his whole white body with his pink belly when he stands up and looks at you yearningly. I've got it down where I say "up" and he stands right up and then I give him a Meaty Morsel treat. Now he follows me around everywhere standing up and I have to run to the kitchen to give him his reward. I hope he doesn't get too fat!

Quote of the Day - 8.1.06

I would rather regret the things that I have done than the things that I have not.

-- Lucille Ball, American radio and motion-picture actress and comedy star, 1911-1989

A "Kosin-ism"

"On a scale of one to ten, I think it's pretty good..."

College

Just went to a BBQ going away party and for some reason, I always feel like an outsider. I guess cuz all the people there have known each other for years and years. Their little group of friends all went to college together, work together, and play together. I'm just like a fringe person. That's what I always hated about Penn. There wasn't one group of friends I could call my own. Just lots of random people. I really wish I could redo college all over and approach it in a totally different manner. I would have played a lot more, been more confident in my own abilities, and just have been more open to new experiences. Sure, it's not too late but that stage has passed. Yet, I think I'm fucking up this stage too...whatever it is.

Underworld Evolution

I finally subscribed to Netflix. The first movie in my queue was Underworld Evolution. I love vampire movies and sci-fi flicks...I know, I'm weird. But I love these stories about continuing legacies, battling evil, and recognizing your humanity. I think I liked the first Underworld better but the second one was enjoyable. It has a crazy love scene and having watched the director's commentary with it, they said they had to digitally erase uh-hum, certain parts of Scott Speedman. I love Scott Speedman...he was the one good thing about Felicity. Wish he would do more films. Anyways, they need another good vampire flick...all the part IIs of Blade and Underworld just don't quite measure up to the first.

KRZR or RAZR?

I still vote for the RAZR despite the cool glass surface and rubberized bottom of the newly announced KRZR in Motorola's lineup. (Although the krazy name may make me a convert yet.) I do like the glass surface but for those people with their oily faces and fried chicken grease-laden fingers, I would not recommend buying this phone and then offering it to friends who need to make a call. eek! I mean, you know...haven't you ever borrowed someone's phone only to hold it to your face and realize your horrific error in judgment? Not sanitary I say...at that point, you might as well make your way to a standard pay phone...if you can find one these days. What has improved is the bluetooth headset. At least you're not inserting a ear bud into some greasey, waxy recess. Ok, ok, I know I'm KRZY!

Assumptions

I hate people that jump to conclusions and accuse others without fully knowing what they are talking about. I've had several similar experiences lately. For instance, I pay to subscribe to this newsletter but my credit card on Paypal expired. So I resubscribed and then the link to the newsletter didn't work. So I emailed them about my technical difficulties and this lady responds by telling me she thinks I'm just subscribing and cancelling to take advantage of their free 2 week offer. She's all "I do this for a living" and accuses me of taking advantage. Sure, I can see people doing shit like this. But c'mon, you just insulted a customer. It pissed me the hell off. What is wrong with people? It's like everyone assumes they know what I am thinking instead of giving me a chance to explain first. I'm getting really sick of it. It seems like everyone is too cynical these days. No one gives anyone the benefit of the doubt. It's sad. I think I deserve an apology. All I can say is, I don't get mad often and I'm stinking mad.

I've Got the Blues

(What can I say? I like puns...)

Oh man, you've got to try Terra chips' Terra Blues. They are basically bluish-purple gourmet potato chips that are kettle-cooked to perfection. They have 40% less fat than regular chips, and have no transfat or cholesterol. And best of all, they are YUM with a nutty taste and are pretty to look at. I am totally hooked on these and have to restrain myself from finishing an entire bag all at once. I've only had purple potatoes up until now...I believe they serve them at Jae's with the tuna. I've always thought they had a certain depth to them. I wish other restaurants would use them more often in dishes...they really kick up the color scheme and add a bit more flavor than the blah Idaho potatoes of yester-year. Anyhoo, go buy yourself some...but leave some for me! =D

Quote of the Day - 7.25.06

"Without metaphor the handling of general concepts such as culture and civilization becomes impossible."

— Johan Huizinga

I suck at metaphors and analogies. But I threw a good one in this morning in a meeting...I'm so proud of myself. ;) Ha. I should just study some and keep them in my repertoire so I can sound like I know what I'm talking about.

Love, Explained

Interesting article, "Love, Explained."

Here are some highlights I thought were interesting...

Q: Can someone truly love more than one person?
Dr. Fisher: No. I think you can feel lust for more than one person, and feelings of attachment for more than one person. But not love. As the Indian aphorism goes, “The lane of love is narrow; there is room for only one.”

Q: How do men and women experience love differently?
Dr. Fisher: Men fall in love faster than women do. Women take longer because they have to create a “memory trail” of their mate’s behaviors. She has to remember what he promised, and what he failed to do.

Q: Does having sex make people fall in love?
Dr. Fisher: Having sex can trigger love—probably because after orgasm, there’s a peak in dopamine activity. So watch out if you casually bed down with someone—you might unintentionally fall for them.

Derwin Di Di

"What are you gonna write about me? That I'm super awesome? Those are the two words I think of when I think of myself."

Character

I was recently told that I'm a "character." Dunno quite what that means...

Patriotic

I was at the Denver airport taking the little tram to the gate and there was a young soldier in fatigues and a huge backpack on his shoulders. A man standing nearby asked him, "Are you coming or going?" and he said "Going back to Kuwait." And they continued the chit-chat. The man said "Well, it must be scorching hot there right now!" And the soldier nodded politely. Then the tram pulled up to the terminal. An older woman standing right next to us reached out her hand and gently held the soldier's arm and said, "Thank you...be safe." The way she said it was so moving, I couldn't help but feel completely patriotic and grateful to this young soldier. He then replied, "Just doin' my job." It's so strange to think that these young boys in their early 20s are defending the country and protecting our rights while we just go our merry ways.

California Nights

Tonight is gorgeous and the night air just makes it lovely to take a stroll outside. California living seems like it is really is what it's cracked up to be. I'm sure I'd be much less of a couch potato if I lived here. Plus it's got awesome Chinese food and sushi. What more could you want? Maybe one day...

I Hate Politics

I swear, business is all about who you know and how you play the game. It's all so underhanded and slimey in a way. I hate how everyone has personal agendas and are two-faced. I'm too honest and blunt of a person for my own good. Ugh.

29 is the new 19?

Already a bit flushed just from getting a whiff of that champagne...

911 Date

A woman who called 911 to get "the cutest cop I've seen" sent back to her home got a date all right — a court date.


This is hilarious...I suppose it qualifies as an emergency...

"Honey, I'm just going to be honest with you, OK? I just thought he was cute. I'm 45 years old and I'd just like to meet him again, but I don't know how to go about doing that without calling 911," she said.

The deputy returned, verified that there was no emergency and arrested her for misusing the 911 system, an offense punishable by a fine of up to several thousand dollars and a year in jail.

Celebrity Chef Restaurants

Ok, my next venture is to visit all of these celebrity chef restaurants. I've been to Mesa Grill and Olives in Vegas, also Morimoto's joint in Philly. But the NY ones must kick ass.

• Mesa Grill (Bobby)
  
• Babbo (Mario) [looking at the Menu I just have to say "wow"!]
  
• Del Posto (Mario)
  
• Olives (Todd)...but the original one in MA
• Morimoto
• Nobu (I can't believe I still haven't been)
  
• DB Bistro Modern
• Per se [if I can ever get in!]
  

What to Watch

I haven't watched cable in forever. Don't even know why I pay for it. On my way to the CNN channel to catch up on all the news I'm oblivious to since I got Tivo, I started watching What Not to Wear. It was like meeting up with a long lost friend. I remember waking up on Saturday afternoons and eating lunch and watching this show. Maybe it's just nostalgia but it's fun to watch. I'm always in love with whatever Stacey London is wearing. Carmindy is awesome but what's cool is that every time she's applying makeup on these frumpy housewives, I recognize all of her tools and products. Though, I have to say, she really doesn't do too much...all her tips are pretty straightforward. I guess it doesn't take much if the women she transforms have never touched makeup. Anyways, I wish I knew someone I could recommend on the show. Actually, my old manager comes to mind. Or maybe I can just pretend to be really clueless myself because the whole process looks like so much fun!

Baby

One of my three adorable babies...always causing trouble.

Blogging Junkie

I must be addicted to blogging. I cannot believe it but I just launched another blog! I was thinking for a long time about doing one on beauty products. I really am the person my girlfriends come to asking about advice on products. I just know this stuff. Admittedly, my knowledge is slightly outdated since I stopped subscribing to inane fashion magazines and thought I'd save some money by not buying hundreds of dollars of makeup every month. Very sound idea, no? Well, in the interest of spreading knowledge and educating poor hapless women everywhere that don't know what Nars Orgasm blush is, I will make some sacrifices.

I usually don't advertise my blogs until I have a few entries under the belt but here it is regardless. I'm just playing with the color scheme in html right now.

http://beautybarnone.blogspot.com

"There are no ugly women, only lazy ones"
- Helena Rubenstein

Damn Rain Spoiled My Chocolate Run

I was about to go out to get some "world-class chocolate" ice cream from Baskin Robbins just now and it starts pouring cats and dogs. Sigh. Can't wait for some decent California weather and room service next week...

My "Tokyo" List

"You are to food what Godzilla is to Tokyo..."
- J.K.

My "best of" places to dine list for NYC and Boston
(includes both hole-in-the-walls, chains, and everything in between):

Chinese

• Joe's Ginger (NY)
• Peking Duck House (NY)
• King 5 Noodles (Flushing & Elmhurst)
• Chau Zhau Bowl (Flushing)
• YangTze River (Flushing)
• Taiwan Cafe (Boston)

Japanese

• Yamas (NY)
• Fugakyu (Boston)
• En Japanese Brasserie (NY)

French

• Le Singe Vert (NY)
• I'm sure Per Se rocks but I haven't been...
• Le Petit Robert (Boston)

Korean

• Cho Dang Gol (NY)
• Natural Tofu (NY)

Indian

• Classic India (Quincy)

Cuban

• Havana Central (NY)

French-Moroccan

• L'Orange Bleu (NY)

Pizza

• Armando's Pizza (Brooklyn)
• CPK
• Bertucci's

Italian

• Giacomo's (Boston)
• Rabia's (Boston)
• Maggiano's

Thai

• Dok Bua (Boston)

Vietnamese

• Pho Bang (Elmhurst)

American

• Stephanie's on Newbury (Boston)
• Joe's (Boston)

Mexican

• Anna's Taqueria [cheap burritos] (Boston)
• Still on the hunt for one in NY
• Mama Ninfa's (Houston, TX) -- I HAD to name it...it's THE BEST

Cajun

• Papadeaux's (Houston, TX) -- Again, I HAD to name it!

Hawaiian

• Roy's

Tapas

• Dali's (Cambridge, MA)

TBD:

1. Greek
2. Brazilian
3. Spanish
4. Seafood
5. Brunch
6. Dessert
7. Burgers