Twenty five things I learned in twenty fives years, in no particular order...........
1. Going to college and getting good grades doesn’t necessarily secure you a good paying job in the real world2. Don’t drive a car that is too big for you, even though it’s a nice car.
3. Start saving money early.
4. Everyone has their own goals and dreams. Don’t judge others.
5. The “what I want to be when I grow up” we write about in elementary school doesn’t come true for the vast majority.
6. Cheese is delicious. I wish I knew how good it was earlier.
7. Friends are important in life, but at the same time, we have to understand the level of friendship we have with are friends will change throughout our life.
8. Change is inevitable. It’s up to you to see the glass as half full or half empty.
9. Everyone should travel to a foreign country at least once. It is such an eye opener to experience other cultures.
10. I often have too much on my plate than I can handle—both literally and metaphorically.
11. Buy life insurance and buy it when you’re young. The earlier you buy it, the less your monthly premium will be.
12. Knowledge is power only when you apply the knowledge.
13. It’s not always what you know, but who you know.
14. Be the change you want to see.
15. “Love—everyone wants it, but not everyone finds it.”
16. Smiling is the universal icebreaker.
17. Exercise. Your metabolism slows down dramatically when you get older and if you have to sit on your butt eight hours a day.
18. Everyone needs an indulgence every now and then.
19. It isn’t worth it to go shopping on Black Friday. You’d make better use of your time sleeping in.
20. Alcohol isn’t as great as it’s made out to be, especially if you’re allergic to it.
21. I need to think before I speak. Not everyone can handle bluntness.
22. Be kind and helpful to the people you cross paths with in your life. You never know when you’ll cross paths again or when you may need their help.
23. Sleep is important. However, sleeping and being a college student are two things that don’t go together.
24. Women over-complicate things; men over-simplify things.
25. Live. Laugh. Learn. Love.
11.24.2010
11.12.2010
The Frugalist
Now more than ever before, people are trying to find ways to lower their debt, cut spending and save more. If there's one thing we've learned from the recession, it's to live within your means. It sounds simple really---spend less than your net income. Of course, that's a lot easier said than done. Luckily, I was able to learn about saving money prior to the recession. (I'm Chinese, so it was probably already in my blood) A friend of mine taught me about budgeting, which has been very helpful. It definitely takes some time, but surely makes a difference. It makes you aware of the the things you're spending money on--what is needed, which are pleasure, and what things can be cut down to reach certain financial goals whether it be being debt free or saving money.
I'm glad to say that with budgeting and cautious spending, I'm in a financially good state. I'm not rich to be splurging, but nor am I not in debt or struggling like many other people are right now, especially those without jobs.
I've learned there are only two ways to save money: 1) increase income 2) decrease spending. I was able to increase income a tad bit with a new job, but when I didn't have a new job, I turned to decreasing spending.
Ways I save money:
-Use store brand cosmetics instead of spending on expensive brands. Many drug-store brands are made from the same manufacturer as name brands with the similar ingredients, but targeted to different audiences.
-Bringing home lunch to work. Food can be a big drain of money and bringing home lunch certainly helps.
-Shop on sale from everyday items to clothes, accessories, etc. I like to use sites like Amazon and eBay to buy things like books, computer accessories, etc. If you're shopping online, remember to Google to check if there are and promo codes for the site you're shopping at.
-Getting my multi-media for "free". Yeah, it's bad, I know. However, if I had to pay for all the movies I watch, music and programs I had, that would be a shit load of money.
-Having a regular cell phone. Yep. I have a regular phone with 500 mins and 400 texts. No fancy texting or smart phone with expensive data plans.
"A dollar saved is two dollars earned"
I'm glad to say that with budgeting and cautious spending, I'm in a financially good state. I'm not rich to be splurging, but nor am I not in debt or struggling like many other people are right now, especially those without jobs.
I've learned there are only two ways to save money: 1) increase income 2) decrease spending. I was able to increase income a tad bit with a new job, but when I didn't have a new job, I turned to decreasing spending.
Ways I save money:
-Use store brand cosmetics instead of spending on expensive brands. Many drug-store brands are made from the same manufacturer as name brands with the similar ingredients, but targeted to different audiences.
-Bringing home lunch to work. Food can be a big drain of money and bringing home lunch certainly helps.
-Shop on sale from everyday items to clothes, accessories, etc. I like to use sites like Amazon and eBay to buy things like books, computer accessories, etc. If you're shopping online, remember to Google to check if there are and promo codes for the site you're shopping at.
-Getting my multi-media for "free". Yeah, it's bad, I know. However, if I had to pay for all the movies I watch, music and programs I had, that would be a shit load of money.
-Having a regular cell phone. Yep. I have a regular phone with 500 mins and 400 texts. No fancy texting or smart phone with expensive data plans.
"A dollar saved is two dollars earned"
10.29.2010
Updates
How did the year creep by so quickly? I swear it felt like I was just making my New Year's resolutions about dieting a few months back. The year started out pretty horribly, but I can say it's turned out pretty great so far, mostly due to the change in job.
I'm quite happy to be working in a totally different work environment in which my coworkers and boss are great people. I can't say I'm passionate about my job, but I like it enough. I'm also super stoked about being able to become the merchandise coordinator after just four months of being in the customer service position.
As for the goals and projects, I'm still trying to work on most of them. I'm still trying to work on "The Flat Stomach Project", although, I haven't been exercising consistently lately. At least I've been able to drop a few pounds and maintain it with conscious eating.
I've decided to abort the project that I've been working on when I was hermiting. It's not something that I was really into, and I need to find something that I'm more interesting in working on, instead of forcing myself to work on it.
My decluttering project is still active, although, it's quite a daunting task. Going through all my magazines is taking a lot longer than I had though. I haven't even gone through my other stuff yet. Perhaps I need to do some prioritizing and time management.
I'm quite happy to be working in a totally different work environment in which my coworkers and boss are great people. I can't say I'm passionate about my job, but I like it enough. I'm also super stoked about being able to become the merchandise coordinator after just four months of being in the customer service position.
As for the goals and projects, I'm still trying to work on most of them. I'm still trying to work on "The Flat Stomach Project", although, I haven't been exercising consistently lately. At least I've been able to drop a few pounds and maintain it with conscious eating.
I've decided to abort the project that I've been working on when I was hermiting. It's not something that I was really into, and I need to find something that I'm more interesting in working on, instead of forcing myself to work on it.
My decluttering project is still active, although, it's quite a daunting task. Going through all my magazines is taking a lot longer than I had though. I haven't even gone through my other stuff yet. Perhaps I need to do some prioritizing and time management.
10.17.2010
Decluttering
It's another one of those sleepless nights because I wasn't feeling well and went to sleep earlier. So, I guess it's time to blog as I find late night/early morning is the best times for me to write. I've been reading a book lately called "Stress-proof Your Life". (It was one of those on sale books that I found at Border's, but it does give some good tips)
It says that one of the reasons people are stressed is because of the place they live in. I think that's absolutely true and believe that's what's happening to me, but I've just never wanted to admit it before. Although, life is going pretty dandy currently, it does bother me that my room is a mess. I'm one of those people that look totally normal and up keep with on the outside that you wouldn't know I had a messy room if you didn't know me. However, I know I have too much stuff in my room, but I've just didn't want to deal with it or convince myself that the stuff is ok to have. There are so many other things that I would rather be doing than de-cluttering and throwing out stuff, but I think it's time to own up to my crap. I want to be able to come home from work and not feel overwhelmed with what I see everyday. Sometimes I feel guilty being out instead of trying to clean out my room, but yet, I don't even know where to start because just thinking about it makes me not want to do it.
Things I need to take care of:
-Go through all my clothes and donate the ones I don't wear anymore. I have a lot of clothes, or so that's what it feels like. I have so much clothes that part of it consumes my bed and I have a hard time keeping up with doing laundry. I'm beginning to notice that some of my clothes still have the tag on them. *sigh*
-Going through magazines and books, and getting rid of some of them. I must say, this one is a hard one, because it's very dear to my heart. Although it's just fashion magazines, I feel like it's a part that represents me. I have parting issues because a part of me still one day wants to use it as inspiration to do something fashion-related again. I still also own most of my college books and projects, as it's something that I think might be useful in the future that I'm not ready to let go yet.
-Organizing my sewing essentials and fabric. This one falls in the category of the previous one. I think I have about five boxes of fabric that I've collected through my college years, bought thinking I would use in the future, and from one of my previous jobs. Although I'm in no way ready to give it up, I think I need to organize it better. Perhaps a few of those plastic drawers.
-Throwing out old bills, statements, pay stubs, etc and organizing my papers. I don't keep a lot of papers, because I don't like having to store them and I also would rather go green and be emailed something. However, the papers I do have aren't really kept in one place. It's scattered in different places around my desk, and I need to find a better way of organizing everything. Maybe investing in a hanging file thing would help.
-Finding a way to organize my knick-knacks. I just have things around in my room that doesn't really belong to any prominent category, so therefore, it's not organized and just laid around the desk where there is space.
-Putting up wall decals. This is actually a project from last year, when our apartment was renovated. I bought some flower wall decals thinking it would be nice for my new room. However, after cutting out a good 50+ flowers, I gave up on the idea after thinking about how time consuming it would be to lay everything out to how I want it and to stick each one on with the sticky paper. This isn't top priority, but still something I'd want to do.
This is definitely not one of those one weekend projects for me, however, I want to at least be done by the holidays. October seems to be a busy month for me: October birthdays, film festival, and Halloween. I hope I can manage my time more wisely and be able to slowly work on it.
It says that one of the reasons people are stressed is because of the place they live in. I think that's absolutely true and believe that's what's happening to me, but I've just never wanted to admit it before. Although, life is going pretty dandy currently, it does bother me that my room is a mess. I'm one of those people that look totally normal and up keep with on the outside that you wouldn't know I had a messy room if you didn't know me. However, I know I have too much stuff in my room, but I've just didn't want to deal with it or convince myself that the stuff is ok to have. There are so many other things that I would rather be doing than de-cluttering and throwing out stuff, but I think it's time to own up to my crap. I want to be able to come home from work and not feel overwhelmed with what I see everyday. Sometimes I feel guilty being out instead of trying to clean out my room, but yet, I don't even know where to start because just thinking about it makes me not want to do it.
Things I need to take care of:
-Go through all my clothes and donate the ones I don't wear anymore. I have a lot of clothes, or so that's what it feels like. I have so much clothes that part of it consumes my bed and I have a hard time keeping up with doing laundry. I'm beginning to notice that some of my clothes still have the tag on them. *sigh*
-Going through magazines and books, and getting rid of some of them. I must say, this one is a hard one, because it's very dear to my heart. Although it's just fashion magazines, I feel like it's a part that represents me. I have parting issues because a part of me still one day wants to use it as inspiration to do something fashion-related again. I still also own most of my college books and projects, as it's something that I think might be useful in the future that I'm not ready to let go yet.
-Organizing my sewing essentials and fabric. This one falls in the category of the previous one. I think I have about five boxes of fabric that I've collected through my college years, bought thinking I would use in the future, and from one of my previous jobs. Although I'm in no way ready to give it up, I think I need to organize it better. Perhaps a few of those plastic drawers.
-Throwing out old bills, statements, pay stubs, etc and organizing my papers. I don't keep a lot of papers, because I don't like having to store them and I also would rather go green and be emailed something. However, the papers I do have aren't really kept in one place. It's scattered in different places around my desk, and I need to find a better way of organizing everything. Maybe investing in a hanging file thing would help.
-Finding a way to organize my knick-knacks. I just have things around in my room that doesn't really belong to any prominent category, so therefore, it's not organized and just laid around the desk where there is space.
-Putting up wall decals. This is actually a project from last year, when our apartment was renovated. I bought some flower wall decals thinking it would be nice for my new room. However, after cutting out a good 50+ flowers, I gave up on the idea after thinking about how time consuming it would be to lay everything out to how I want it and to stick each one on with the sticky paper. This isn't top priority, but still something I'd want to do.
This is definitely not one of those one weekend projects for me, however, I want to at least be done by the holidays. October seems to be a busy month for me: October birthdays, film festival, and Halloween. I hope I can manage my time more wisely and be able to slowly work on it.
10.09.2010
Accessory whore
Yes, I'm an accessory whore. I really don't have that many things I give into, but accessories are one of them, and desserts being the other. Since I'm watching my food intake, I have been declining desserts more and that just leaves accessories to tempt me more. I have a lot of accessories from jewerly to scarves to shoes and even accessories for my phone. The only jewerly accessories that I don't have are earrings, belly button rings, etc. and that's because I don't have any piercings. I refuse to get piercings because I know I would go crazy splurging on earrings. Without ear piercings, then that eliminates the temptation.
My favorite accessory would have to be scarves hands-down. Despite living in hot, sunny Hawaii, my collection of scarves is in the 30s, some of which I haven't even had a chance to wear. What's worse though? It still doesn't seem like I have enough scarves. I had an outfit which I wanted to wear a scarf with one night, but couldn't find the right black scarf to match it. The scarves were either too patterned or too fancy--nothing plain or casual enough to go with that outfit.
My next favorite indulgence are phone charms, especially the unique and cute ones. I think my collection is currently at ten or so. I have some just on my bag as accessories. There really is no real purpose to have a phone chain, but some of them are so cute that I simply can't resist them!! (No picture cuz I'd have to take them out from my bags and gather it together)
Then there's all the fashion jewelry I have, which includes necklaces, rings, bracelets/bangles, and brooches. I've bought quite a bit over the years, but don't wear some of them as much now as I work in an environment in which I need to dress business casual and my taste has kind of changed. (No picture either because it's all over the place)
Last but not least, there's bags and shoes. I do have a fairly decent amount of shoes and bags, although I'm not nearly as crazy about them as I am about scarves. However, my collection of shoes is increasing and I'm using work as an excuse to buy more.
My favorite accessory would have to be scarves hands-down. Despite living in hot, sunny Hawaii, my collection of scarves is in the 30s, some of which I haven't even had a chance to wear. What's worse though? It still doesn't seem like I have enough scarves. I had an outfit which I wanted to wear a scarf with one night, but couldn't find the right black scarf to match it. The scarves were either too patterned or too fancy--nothing plain or casual enough to go with that outfit.
My next favorite indulgence are phone charms, especially the unique and cute ones. I think my collection is currently at ten or so. I have some just on my bag as accessories. There really is no real purpose to have a phone chain, but some of them are so cute that I simply can't resist them!! (No picture cuz I'd have to take them out from my bags and gather it together)
Then there's all the fashion jewelry I have, which includes necklaces, rings, bracelets/bangles, and brooches. I've bought quite a bit over the years, but don't wear some of them as much now as I work in an environment in which I need to dress business casual and my taste has kind of changed. (No picture either because it's all over the place)
Last but not least, there's bags and shoes. I do have a fairly decent amount of shoes and bags, although I'm not nearly as crazy about them as I am about scarves. However, my collection of shoes is increasing and I'm using work as an excuse to buy more.
(One pair missing that's not in the picture)
(Three more bags not in the picture that's somewhere in all my piles of stuff)
9.22.2010
My would-have-been-wishlist
I had copied ThinkTiff and started a post on a wishlist a little while ago since I ran out of ideas on what to blog, but I never finished the post. The wishlist was a list of things I was considering getting myself for Christmas. However, now it's my would-have-been wishlist instead as I don't feel I should be buying anything for myself. I had accidentally scratched my co-worker's car the other week when pulling into the parking. Luckily she had a sense of humor and also her car is kind of old, so wasn't upset over it. It was two lines, which I didn't think was too bad. Yesterday I got her invoice though. I nonchalantly wrote her the $800+ check, although it was killing me inside that I did a stupid thing that cost me so much money. *sigh* My consequence for not being able to park.
Anyways, my would've-been-wishlist that is now out the window:
-A necklace or ring. There's two items from our "estate" aka gold buy back collection that I have my eye on. My excuse is that I work in fine jewelry, so I should have one or two pieces sooner or later. For now, it's the only thing in the store I could afford.
-To get a Japanese straight perm. I got a straight perm once when I went to Taiwan and absolutely love it! I miss having flat, smooth, straight hair and not needing to straighten it everyday. A hair straightener is ok, but just not the same.
-Treat myself to a massage. One of my good friends was very generous and treated me to one before and it was awesome!!
-Buy a beginner DSLR camera. One of my hobbies is photography and I've been wanting to upgrade to a DSLR camera for a while (as mine is currently not), but haven't been willing to dish out the money.
Anyways, my would've-been-wishlist that is now out the window:
-A necklace or ring. There's two items from our "estate" aka gold buy back collection that I have my eye on. My excuse is that I work in fine jewelry, so I should have one or two pieces sooner or later. For now, it's the only thing in the store I could afford.
-To get a Japanese straight perm. I got a straight perm once when I went to Taiwan and absolutely love it! I miss having flat, smooth, straight hair and not needing to straighten it everyday. A hair straightener is ok, but just not the same.
-Treat myself to a massage. One of my good friends was very generous and treated me to one before and it was awesome!!
8.04.2010
The Flat Stomach Project
A month ago, I decided to get myself back into working out. I've decided that "working out" is not enough, and to really get serious about my diet and exercising in order to reach my goal of losing the flabby stomach.
I know that I'm not fat or need to lose a lot of weight. I just want to get into shape and get a flat stomach. People see that I have a small frame, and think I'm "skinny". I am skinny compared a lot of people since more than 25% of the US population is overweight now, but no way am I in shape. Most of the time, my stomach fat hides well under my clothing and people don't notice.
I had always liked physical outdoor activities like hiking and swimming, but I was never consistent in doing it all the time. I think college was when I noticed my stomach fat, but I used school and my part-time job as a "reason" not to be active. After graduating college, I was still never really serious about getting in shape. Being lazy and scared made me not pursue it seriously. I gave myself excuses for not exercising like being busy or that my stomach isn't that bad. Also, I was scared. I loved food too much and I wasn't ready to give up the joy of eating. I didn't want to give up delicious foods, snacks, and of course my favorite, which are desserts. I knew that getting into shape required serious dieting--eating what I use to think as "rabbit food" (blah foods) and consistent exercising.
However, I think I'm finally ready to give it a shot, and slowly incorporate a healthier diet and exercise into myself lifestyle. In a way, I think it's torture not being able to eat foods that I want, but they say no pain, no gain. No one said it would be easy.
Things I'm doing to help with diet & exercise:
-Being aware of the foods I'm eating and their calories
-Eating only three meals a day (sometimes snacks in between), which for me means cutting out my "midnight snack" meal.
-Drinking more water and green tea, and less coffee.
-Eating oatmeal, which I wouldn't have done before, but apple cinnamon flavored oatmeal I can do.
-Eating less rice (which is hard being Chinese)
-Watching the portion control, especially with snacks that I sometimes let myself eat
-Joined Dailymile in order to keep track of my workouts (Joining a group that exercises motivates me to exercise more)
-Working out at least 4 times a week. (My friend says that thinking of exercise as part of a job will force yourself to do it more)
-Watching "Lose It With Jillian" for inspiration.
.
Are you a food restricter or permitter quiz.
I know that I'm not fat or need to lose a lot of weight. I just want to get into shape and get a flat stomach. People see that I have a small frame, and think I'm "skinny". I am skinny compared a lot of people since more than 25% of the US population is overweight now, but no way am I in shape. Most of the time, my stomach fat hides well under my clothing and people don't notice.
I had always liked physical outdoor activities like hiking and swimming, but I was never consistent in doing it all the time. I think college was when I noticed my stomach fat, but I used school and my part-time job as a "reason" not to be active. After graduating college, I was still never really serious about getting in shape. Being lazy and scared made me not pursue it seriously. I gave myself excuses for not exercising like being busy or that my stomach isn't that bad. Also, I was scared. I loved food too much and I wasn't ready to give up the joy of eating. I didn't want to give up delicious foods, snacks, and of course my favorite, which are desserts. I knew that getting into shape required serious dieting--eating what I use to think as "rabbit food" (blah foods) and consistent exercising.
However, I think I'm finally ready to give it a shot, and slowly incorporate a healthier diet and exercise into myself lifestyle. In a way, I think it's torture not being able to eat foods that I want, but they say no pain, no gain. No one said it would be easy.
Things I'm doing to help with diet & exercise:
-Being aware of the foods I'm eating and their calories
-Eating only three meals a day (sometimes snacks in between), which for me means cutting out my "midnight snack" meal.
-Drinking more water and green tea, and less coffee.
-Eating oatmeal, which I wouldn't have done before, but apple cinnamon flavored oatmeal I can do.
-Eating less rice (which is hard being Chinese)
-Watching the portion control, especially with snacks that I sometimes let myself eat
-Joined Dailymile in order to keep track of my workouts (Joining a group that exercises motivates me to exercise more)
-Working out at least 4 times a week. (My friend says that thinking of exercise as part of a job will force yourself to do it more)
-Watching "Lose It With Jillian" for inspiration.
.
Are you a food restricter or permitter quiz.
7.25.2010
Night fall
I find night fall being very interesting. It seems that things change so much from day to night. It's lively, yet also quiet, and mysterious.
On one end of the spectrum, night gives a city its livelihood and brings fun into people's lives with activities such as dinner, club, bars, karaoke. Some people can't wait for happy hour where they can relax, relieve some stress, and where the fun happens. Music, dancing, food, and alcohol awaits you. People drop the hustle and bustle mood and let loose. Have you ever noticed that people tend to sit and talk longer during dinner than they would if they had lunch together?
Night also brings tranquility that daytime doesn't. It's when the sky is dark, and the moon and stars are out. Some people may choose to go night fishing, take a stroll on the beach, or driving up the mountain to see the city lights. Others are asleep. Have you ever looked up at the starry night sky..........and just wonder?
For me, night is when my mind is the most clear, and also when I am able to write the best. It's when everyone is asleep and all I can hear is myself typing and the cars passing along the boulevard. All my thoughts seem to come together more as I'm free from distractions and noise.
(Night also seems to be the time when the roaches and geckos in my house come out)
On one end of the spectrum, night gives a city its livelihood and brings fun into people's lives with activities such as dinner, club, bars, karaoke. Some people can't wait for happy hour where they can relax, relieve some stress, and where the fun happens. Music, dancing, food, and alcohol awaits you. People drop the hustle and bustle mood and let loose. Have you ever noticed that people tend to sit and talk longer during dinner than they would if they had lunch together?
Night also brings tranquility that daytime doesn't. It's when the sky is dark, and the moon and stars are out. Some people may choose to go night fishing, take a stroll on the beach, or driving up the mountain to see the city lights. Others are asleep. Have you ever looked up at the starry night sky..........and just wonder?
For me, night is when my mind is the most clear, and also when I am able to write the best. It's when everyone is asleep and all I can hear is myself typing and the cars passing along the boulevard. All my thoughts seem to come together more as I'm free from distractions and noise.
(Night also seems to be the time when the roaches and geckos in my house come out)
7.12.2010
Dear future husband,
The old me would have had this long list for you to fulfill before I actually consider you to be my future husband. However, although I still do keep a mental list in my mind, I've realized that only some of them are the important qualities that you need to be my future husband.
I don't ask that you are tall, handsome, rich, educated, or successful. I do ask though that you are taller than me, decent-looking, have a steady job, and strive to be better in the future. I don't ask that you put me as solely #1 in your life in relation to work, family, etc, but for you to at least make me feel special in your life.
I'm pretty friendly once you get to know me, but I'm not quite the social butterfly in large groups of people I don't know. I'm an introverted person, so I hope that you would be more extroverted than I am and bring me out of my shell. I would love to enjoy and experience life, so I hope you like to travel and try different things in the future. People say I'm strong and independent, but in actuality I want a shoulder to lean on too and I'm a closet hopeless romantic. I love sunsets, walks on the beach, stargazing, and I sometimes get teary in happy endings of chick flicks. I would love to receive flowers to feel special just like any other female, but please don't get me roses. At least, not common color roses. After all, I am supposed to be special in your life, so I would expect the flowers to be special as well. Perhaps blue roses or hydrangeas?
I have a major weakness for desserts and scarves, so I hope that you can deal with that. :) For some odd reason, I seem to think I can never have too many scarves....when really I live in Hawaii and can't possibly use them all. And while I'm sort of on the topic, future husband, you better have some fashion sense--or I guess I will have to teach you. I mean, after all, I was a fashion major in college, so my other half would have to have some fashion knowledge.
What do I have to offer you may think? Hmm... well, I don't know to cook too well, but I can if I want to. Maybe it's the Chinese in me. A little bit of this and little bit of that and the dish seems to turn out well. I am fine with doing dishes and laundry, but you'd need to take out the trash. I'm also a good bookeeper (....like I said, I'm Chinese) and I can give good massages.
I hope not having kids won't be a deal breaker for you. I'm still not sure how I feel about kids yet. They've never seemed to have phased me. Sometimes I wonder if growing up as an only child had anything to do with it.
So that's me in a nutshell for you, future husband. Overall, I think the most important thing is that we have a special connection and that I can feel like I'm special and important when I'm with you.
Your future wife,
AW
P.S. I would like at least a 1 carat engagement ring. I currently work in a jewelry store, so you can definitely get a discount. Also, it wouldn't be right for me to work in a jewelry store and have people see that I wear less than a 1 carat, right? :)
I don't ask that you are tall, handsome, rich, educated, or successful. I do ask though that you are taller than me, decent-looking, have a steady job, and strive to be better in the future. I don't ask that you put me as solely #1 in your life in relation to work, family, etc, but for you to at least make me feel special in your life.
I'm pretty friendly once you get to know me, but I'm not quite the social butterfly in large groups of people I don't know. I'm an introverted person, so I hope that you would be more extroverted than I am and bring me out of my shell. I would love to enjoy and experience life, so I hope you like to travel and try different things in the future. People say I'm strong and independent, but in actuality I want a shoulder to lean on too and I'm a closet hopeless romantic. I love sunsets, walks on the beach, stargazing, and I sometimes get teary in happy endings of chick flicks. I would love to receive flowers to feel special just like any other female, but please don't get me roses. At least, not common color roses. After all, I am supposed to be special in your life, so I would expect the flowers to be special as well. Perhaps blue roses or hydrangeas?
I have a major weakness for desserts and scarves, so I hope that you can deal with that. :) For some odd reason, I seem to think I can never have too many scarves....when really I live in Hawaii and can't possibly use them all. And while I'm sort of on the topic, future husband, you better have some fashion sense--or I guess I will have to teach you. I mean, after all, I was a fashion major in college, so my other half would have to have some fashion knowledge.
What do I have to offer you may think? Hmm... well, I don't know to cook too well, but I can if I want to. Maybe it's the Chinese in me. A little bit of this and little bit of that and the dish seems to turn out well. I am fine with doing dishes and laundry, but you'd need to take out the trash. I'm also a good bookeeper (....like I said, I'm Chinese) and I can give good massages.
I hope not having kids won't be a deal breaker for you. I'm still not sure how I feel about kids yet. They've never seemed to have phased me. Sometimes I wonder if growing up as an only child had anything to do with it.
So that's me in a nutshell for you, future husband. Overall, I think the most important thing is that we have a special connection and that I can feel like I'm special and important when I'm with you.
Your future wife,
AW
P.S. I would like at least a 1 carat engagement ring. I currently work in a jewelry store, so you can definitely get a discount. Also, it wouldn't be right for me to work in a jewelry store and have people see that I wear less than a 1 carat, right? :)
7.03.2010
21 days...
They say that it takes 21 days to form a habit. Well, I am deciding to continue my New Year's resolution of exercising. A while back, I bought an elliptical and was excited about it. Then, the excitement only lasted a month and half or so and wore out. I stopped exercising and was focusing on other stuff. Now, I'm going to try to start exercising again. My goal is to exercise for at least 30 minutes for four times a week, which only equates to 2 hours/week, but it's a start.
I also have a ongoing bet for this. The Chinese in me gives me more motivation to do this as I don't want to lose the money (though it's not much). Also, it's to prove to myself that I can do it if I put my mind to it.
I also have a ongoing bet for this. The Chinese in me gives me more motivation to do this as I don't want to lose the money (though it's not much). Also, it's to prove to myself that I can do it if I put my mind to it.
6.21.2010
Your actions, your attitude...............Your life
"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it, change the way you think about it."
I've thought about the above quote a lot lately, especially when I see people around me being the way I was a few months ago. I can tell that they're unhappy, miserable, and that something in their life isn't going the way they'd like it to be. I've been in the same situation so I wonder if these people are actually doing anything about their situation. I'm not actually close to some of these people, but a lot of the times I see their Facebook statuses are depressing, complaining, or always about this one thing they haven't obtained which he or she feels like it's only thing important in their life. You know what? It's not.
It took me a while to get myself out of my own rut. I finally decided to take real action when I realized I sort of caused my own unhappiness. I wasn't where I wanted to be and I realized it was because it was my own damn fault--no one else's. No one is going to live your life except you. People will empathize your situation, but in the end, you're the only one who will be miserable because you will have to deal with the situation you're in.
Of course, things aren't always in our control. We can try to change something, but it's not always up to us. The important thing though, is trying, and still having a positive attitude when things don't turn out the way we want it to be. Falling down is okay; people just need to learn how to pick themselves up.
I've thought about the above quote a lot lately, especially when I see people around me being the way I was a few months ago. I can tell that they're unhappy, miserable, and that something in their life isn't going the way they'd like it to be. I've been in the same situation so I wonder if these people are actually doing anything about their situation. I'm not actually close to some of these people, but a lot of the times I see their Facebook statuses are depressing, complaining, or always about this one thing they haven't obtained which he or she feels like it's only thing important in their life. You know what? It's not.
It took me a while to get myself out of my own rut. I finally decided to take real action when I realized I sort of caused my own unhappiness. I wasn't where I wanted to be and I realized it was because it was my own damn fault--no one else's. No one is going to live your life except you. People will empathize your situation, but in the end, you're the only one who will be miserable because you will have to deal with the situation you're in.
Of course, things aren't always in our control. We can try to change something, but it's not always up to us. The important thing though, is trying, and still having a positive attitude when things don't turn out the way we want it to be. Falling down is okay; people just need to learn how to pick themselves up.
5.31.2010
Thank you, TIME mag
I saw this article earlier this week from TIME magazine about the 50 worst inventions. I was so glad that TIME had wrote this article. For the longest time, I've shuddered at the sight of people wearing crocs and dumb shutter shades. Some may argue that crocs are comfortable. Sure they are, but do they have to be so ridiculously ugly? Those things should be left at home. As for the shutter shades, it's ugly and serve no purpose whatsoever. End of story. I'm glad a reputable source thinks it's a total fashion faux pas as well.
5.21.2010
Saying "no"....
Darn. It looks as if I've been slacking off once again in posting two blogs a month. Guess I'll have to cram another one in some time next week.
To help or not to help is the question. It's been something I've been struggling for a while, both at work and outside of work.
Previously, reps at work would ask me to do things that were not part of my duty that I would have to go out of my way to do or would often ask me to re-send things to them because they were too unorganized or busy to keep track of things I sent them. Before, I would be frustrated, but would shut my mouth and help them. Later, I realized, the more I did this, the more they would not do things and their own and instead take advantage of my help. I got fed up, especially when I was already busy to begin with that later learned to say "no" sometimes, and stand up for myself.
Outside of work though, is another story. I find it hard to say "no" to some people, especially when a friend is asking for help. Why? Well, for one, I like helping others because it helps me too. It helps me validate my existence and makes me feel useful that I'm able to help someone else. Another reason is that I believe friendships are a two-way street. One day my friend might need help, but another day it might be me. I want my friends to be able to go to me for help, and for them to know that they can count on me, and also know that they will do the same if I needed help.
However, one downfall about being there to help others is that it detracts me away from my time. Sometimes I have things that I want to get done, but instead I find myself caught in a dilemma of whether I should help a friend or do something that I wanted to get done. *sigh* What to do?
To help or not to help is the question. It's been something I've been struggling for a while, both at work and outside of work.
Previously, reps at work would ask me to do things that were not part of my duty that I would have to go out of my way to do or would often ask me to re-send things to them because they were too unorganized or busy to keep track of things I sent them. Before, I would be frustrated, but would shut my mouth and help them. Later, I realized, the more I did this, the more they would not do things and their own and instead take advantage of my help. I got fed up, especially when I was already busy to begin with that later learned to say "no" sometimes, and stand up for myself.
Outside of work though, is another story. I find it hard to say "no" to some people, especially when a friend is asking for help. Why? Well, for one, I like helping others because it helps me too. It helps me validate my existence and makes me feel useful that I'm able to help someone else. Another reason is that I believe friendships are a two-way street. One day my friend might need help, but another day it might be me. I want my friends to be able to go to me for help, and for them to know that they can count on me, and also know that they will do the same if I needed help.
However, one downfall about being there to help others is that it detracts me away from my time. Sometimes I have things that I want to get done, but instead I find myself caught in a dilemma of whether I should help a friend or do something that I wanted to get done. *sigh* What to do?
4.28.2010
Quarterlife Crisis... Part II
I think it's a good thing that I'm having this quarterlife crisis. I've gone through a range of emotions (anger, frustration, discontentment, sadness), but after having an epiphany, I'm starting to have more hope and be more motivated. My discontentment at where I am is driving me to move forward. However, I know I somehow have to keep this motivation longer than it usually lasts. Usually, I get excited and motivated about something, but not long into it, the motivation dies out and I go back to being my normal self. This time, I really need to focus.
I've decided to be a hermit and try to not go out that often for a while. I'm going to test out how much more productive I can be if I don't go out on the weekends and be online less. (*sigh* We'll see if I can resist the temptations). Sorry in advance to my friends, but it's time for me to be a bit selfish and focus on working on myself.
The other day I was on someone's photography site and saw a quote that hit me real hard. It said, "While most are dreaming of success, winners wake up and work hard to achieve it". I realized that is so true. Being success requires hard work and sacrifices, so it's about time I work at it.
My friend had sent me a link to this youtube video about this guy giving a talk. He owned his family's wine business and quit to do his own thing because he was 1% unhappy with what he was doing. I wish I had that kind of courage. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhqZ0RU95d4
I've decided to be a hermit and try to not go out that often for a while. I'm going to test out how much more productive I can be if I don't go out on the weekends and be online less. (*sigh* We'll see if I can resist the temptations). Sorry in advance to my friends, but it's time for me to be a bit selfish and focus on working on myself.
The other day I was on someone's photography site and saw a quote that hit me real hard. It said, "While most are dreaming of success, winners wake up and work hard to achieve it". I realized that is so true. Being success requires hard work and sacrifices, so it's about time I work at it.
My friend had sent me a link to this youtube video about this guy giving a talk. He owned his family's wine business and quit to do his own thing because he was 1% unhappy with what he was doing. I wish I had that kind of courage. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EhqZ0RU95d4
4.20.2010
Quarterlife Crisis
While I am literally approaching a quarter of a century this year, I am mentally experiencing a quarterlife crisis at the moment. A lot of people know of mid-life crisis, but not everyone is familiar with quarterlife crisis. At quarterlifecrisis.com, it's defined as a period of anxiety, uncertainty, and inner turmoil that often accompanies the transition to adulthood. One definition written in urbandictionary.com is that it usually occurs sometime in your twenties, a few years out of school and still feel as though you're waiting for your life to begin. I feel exactly like that. Although I'm out of college and have a job, I feel like I still haven't gone anywhere and that I'm still "waiting for my life to begin"
A majority of my friends and classmates have already begun a different chapter in their life. They have started their careers in engineering, accounting, etc., they are in long-term relationships and getting engaged, they have their own place, and a lot of people from high school already are married and have families. As for me, I feel like I've been stagnant. I've been the same as where I was three years ago, except there are a few years of admin experience that I can put on my resume. I currently hate my job, and don't think it can get me that much farther in life.
I feel like there's so much more that Andrea has to offer than being an admin assistant, however, I don't know what that thing is yet. There are so many things that I like to do, but I don't know what my "calling" is. I love fashion, but dislike patternmaking and sewing. I only like to see the end result of what I've created. I like photography, but I'm not financially able to just drop $2000+ on nice cameras and lenses. I like art, but I'm not that good in drawing. I like Photoshop, but I don't have a degree in graphics.
Although I'm not exactly sure what I can do to be happy with my life, I decided I need to step it up a notch. I need to be less lazy and do more productive things. Recently, I posted as my status/tagline, "If I'm not where I want to be, it must mean I'm not trying hard enough". I do believe this because, if you don't work hard to get what you want, perhaps you really don't want it that bad. They say that we're always our own worst critic. In a way, it's a good thing. We push ourselves to do better, which moves us forward.
Up until now, I've been quite lazy and not very proactive about moving myself forward. There was an excerpt in the book Quarterlife Crisis that I thought described exactly what I was feeling. Scott, a 27 year old wrote, "I've commited myself to exploring other options that interest me, but I'm having a hard time actually thinking of a career that souns applealing. There is one that I've been meaning to explore, but sometimes I'd rather just watch TV or play guitar or go out with my friends. So, maybe I'm not really meant to do that, either. When is something going to fall from the sky and hit me on the head, knock me out, and when I wake up I see clearly the road that lies ahead? Am I behind the curve? When will I know?"
I don't know what lies ahead, but I know I need to stop doing so many unproductive things. Up until now, all I do was go on facebook at night, chat, or watch TV, and go out on the weekends. It was relaxing, but otherwise, didn't seems to benefit me in any way. Therefore, I am going to try to discipline myself more:
-Limit myself only to one hour of facebook at home on the weekdays
-Chat less. Being online serves as a big distraction.
-Do something more productive the rest of the time like chores, read, exercise, etc.
-Get into the habit of sleeping six hours again. See how that will work out.
-Don't always give in on the weekends to going out and not doing anything else.
A majority of my friends and classmates have already begun a different chapter in their life. They have started their careers in engineering, accounting, etc., they are in long-term relationships and getting engaged, they have their own place, and a lot of people from high school already are married and have families. As for me, I feel like I've been stagnant. I've been the same as where I was three years ago, except there are a few years of admin experience that I can put on my resume. I currently hate my job, and don't think it can get me that much farther in life.
I feel like there's so much more that Andrea has to offer than being an admin assistant, however, I don't know what that thing is yet. There are so many things that I like to do, but I don't know what my "calling" is. I love fashion, but dislike patternmaking and sewing. I only like to see the end result of what I've created. I like photography, but I'm not financially able to just drop $2000+ on nice cameras and lenses. I like art, but I'm not that good in drawing. I like Photoshop, but I don't have a degree in graphics.
Although I'm not exactly sure what I can do to be happy with my life, I decided I need to step it up a notch. I need to be less lazy and do more productive things. Recently, I posted as my status/tagline, "If I'm not where I want to be, it must mean I'm not trying hard enough". I do believe this because, if you don't work hard to get what you want, perhaps you really don't want it that bad. They say that we're always our own worst critic. In a way, it's a good thing. We push ourselves to do better, which moves us forward.
Up until now, I've been quite lazy and not very proactive about moving myself forward. There was an excerpt in the book Quarterlife Crisis that I thought described exactly what I was feeling. Scott, a 27 year old wrote, "I've commited myself to exploring other options that interest me, but I'm having a hard time actually thinking of a career that souns applealing. There is one that I've been meaning to explore, but sometimes I'd rather just watch TV or play guitar or go out with my friends. So, maybe I'm not really meant to do that, either. When is something going to fall from the sky and hit me on the head, knock me out, and when I wake up I see clearly the road that lies ahead? Am I behind the curve? When will I know?"
I don't know what lies ahead, but I know I need to stop doing so many unproductive things. Up until now, all I do was go on facebook at night, chat, or watch TV, and go out on the weekends. It was relaxing, but otherwise, didn't seems to benefit me in any way. Therefore, I am going to try to discipline myself more:
-Limit myself only to one hour of facebook at home on the weekdays
-Chat less. Being online serves as a big distraction.
-Do something more productive the rest of the time like chores, read, exercise, etc.
-Get into the habit of sleeping six hours again. See how that will work out.
-Don't always give in on the weekends to going out and not doing anything else.
4.08.2010
Goal update
So I've been slacking on my blog posting. I'll try to catch up soon. I guess I will do a goal update as a it's been a little over three months since I've made my resolutions. (All the meanwhile, I can think of what to write in my next post)
I previously posted that I had two main goals:
I previously posted that I had two main goals:
-Try to be healthier
>Drink at least eight cups of water a day - Somewhat check. I think I drink about six cups a day.
>Eat salad at least once a week for lunch --> Salad Mondays. - Check. Yep, do that on Mondays, and sometimes on Fridays too.
>Eat more fruits - No. Haven't been on top of that.
>Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. - Somewhat check. I try to sleep before 12, and limit my 3-4 hours of sleep nights.
>Go swimming or hiking every so often - I haven't gone swimming or hiking for a while, but I have bought a small elliptical and try to exercise three times a week.
-Be more productive and less lazy
>Read a book for at least 3-5 hours each week - Check. I get that done when I visit my grandma at the nursing home.
>Blog at least twice a month - Check. Almost didn't meet the quota for March, but I'll try to catch up on the blogging.
>Get off my butt to do chores to get the room neat and clean - Err... not quite. The room is still a mess, and there's always at least one load of laundry that needs to get done. Need to work on that.
-New goal: Keep my plants alive.
Yes, I bought plants. Hard to imagine the plants would be survive under my care, but decided to take a chance. It was hard to say no to $1 for 3 plants. Gave one away, and bought a basil plant. So far, so good I think. (At least it doesn't look like it's wilting away).
-New goal: Keep my plants alive.
Yes, I bought plants. Hard to imagine the plants would be survive under my care, but decided to take a chance. It was hard to say no to $1 for 3 plants. Gave one away, and bought a basil plant. So far, so good I think. (At least it doesn't look like it's wilting away).
3.28.2010
Lay Me Down
So, I usually don't care for reggae music much. However, for some odd reason, this song caught my attention when I heard it on the radio. Maybe because it's a catchy and happy song --something I need in my work life right now.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGYxiIspEBc
Dirty Heads feat. Rome (Sublime) - Lay Me Down
[Rome]
Ho ohh woah ho ho no ohhh
hoo ooh oh
oh oooh ooh
well this is how it starts two lovers in the dark
on the run from the one that they call Sheriff Sparks
six guns by the side and bullets 'round their waist
two shots to the sky send the sign for the chase.
the safe is nearly empty and they were nearly free
but were seen by the good eye of the mean Billy Queen
and he screamed at the top of his lungs "they're on the run"
Mister two outsiders grab your horses and your guns
i said i wish that we could stay here
but i fear our time is come
we could ride out in the darkness
chasing the rising sun
we gotta pack our bags this instant
we're headin' southbound til the next town
and if we arrive there so safely
baby you could lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhahownn
lay me downnnnnn
[Duddy B]
well its the story of the two, always on the move
they got nothing left to lose 'cept their guns and their wounds
now they're crossing borders sheriff's posse on their tail
they'd rather die together than be stuck up in a cell
they drank up all the whiskey and they partied every night
like it could be the last, the bounty said to 'shoot on sight'
they're chasing in the summer, knew it came with a price they wouldn't stop running til they found the paradise
but the sheriff finally found them with his eyes seeing red
so the lovers had to shoot him down and fill him full of lead
they were finally free to find a place to lay their head
and when he finally did he looked at her and he said
[Rome]
i said i think that we can stay here
cuz i feel our time has come
and we can walk down to the ocean
and sit with the rising sun
so unpack your bags this instant
no more running from town to town
and now that we've arrived so safely
baby you can lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhahownn
lay me downnnnnnnnnn
[Duddy B]
well you're my green eyed girl and i been running around with you
its the afternoon and we got nothing left to do
so wipe the dirt off, take your shirt off
and we should go hit the cantina; we got work off
i said its hot outside let me go swimming in your eyes
we been running for awhile why don't you lay down i'll make you smile
i could never ask for nothing better than this
it's just tequila and the beach, it's quite salty when we kiss
[Rome]
i said i think that we can stay here
cuz i feel our time has come
and we can walk down to the ocean
and sit with the rising sun
so unpack your bags this instant
no more running from town to town
and now that we've arrived so safely
baby you can lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhownnn noooo ohhh
lay me downnnnnnnnnn
lay me down
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGYxiIspEBc
Dirty Heads feat. Rome (Sublime) - Lay Me Down
[Rome]
Ho ohh woah ho ho no ohhh
hoo ooh oh
oh oooh ooh
well this is how it starts two lovers in the dark
on the run from the one that they call Sheriff Sparks
six guns by the side and bullets 'round their waist
two shots to the sky send the sign for the chase.
the safe is nearly empty and they were nearly free
but were seen by the good eye of the mean Billy Queen
and he screamed at the top of his lungs "they're on the run"
Mister two outsiders grab your horses and your guns
i said i wish that we could stay here
but i fear our time is come
we could ride out in the darkness
chasing the rising sun
we gotta pack our bags this instant
we're headin' southbound til the next town
and if we arrive there so safely
baby you could lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhahownn
lay me downnnnnn
[Duddy B]
well its the story of the two, always on the move
they got nothing left to lose 'cept their guns and their wounds
now they're crossing borders sheriff's posse on their tail
they'd rather die together than be stuck up in a cell
they drank up all the whiskey and they partied every night
like it could be the last, the bounty said to 'shoot on sight'
they're chasing in the summer, knew it came with a price they wouldn't stop running til they found the paradise
but the sheriff finally found them with his eyes seeing red
so the lovers had to shoot him down and fill him full of lead
they were finally free to find a place to lay their head
and when he finally did he looked at her and he said
[Rome]
i said i think that we can stay here
cuz i feel our time has come
and we can walk down to the ocean
and sit with the rising sun
so unpack your bags this instant
no more running from town to town
and now that we've arrived so safely
baby you can lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhahownn
lay me downnnnnnnnnn
[Duddy B]
well you're my green eyed girl and i been running around with you
its the afternoon and we got nothing left to do
so wipe the dirt off, take your shirt off
and we should go hit the cantina; we got work off
i said its hot outside let me go swimming in your eyes
we been running for awhile why don't you lay down i'll make you smile
i could never ask for nothing better than this
it's just tequila and the beach, it's quite salty when we kiss
[Rome]
i said i think that we can stay here
cuz i feel our time has come
and we can walk down to the ocean
and sit with the rising sun
so unpack your bags this instant
no more running from town to town
and now that we've arrived so safely
baby you can lay me down
lay me downnn
lay me downhownnn noooo ohhh
lay me downnnnnnnnnn
lay me down
3.15.2010
You know you hate your job when....
- you dread Mondays as if it was the end of the world, realize there's a glimmer of light when Fridays come around, and agonize on Sundays and try to absorb every second you have of it left
- you have to drag yourself out of bed to get ready for work
- -you wake up and think about calling in "sick" just to avoid work
- -wouldn't mind some kind of natural disaster advisory (hurricane, flooding, tsunami) or power outage occurring just so that you wouldn't have to go to work
- -you find yourself being a grouchy, bitter, miserable person when you're at work
- -the time at work passes by so slowly that those eight hours feel like forever and a day
- -the only parts of day you look forward to is your lunch and breaks
- -your daily goal at work is to get in, do work, and get out as fast as possible when it hits _:__PM
- -you cringe or give a disgusted look when people ask you about your job. (It's hard to find words to describe the hate, but the look says it all)
- -when you go to your job and feel like you're going to prison for eight hours
- -you dream of the day when you can tell your boss you're calling it quits
2.28.2010
American FAIL
The price of everthing is going up each and everyday, except there seems to be one thing that ISN'T going up--America's wages. We are living in a place where our nation's debt is 12 trillion and rising (which equates to 40K per person in the US) and in which our economic future is uncertain. Gas prices are rising, taxes are increasing on everything you can think of that is taxable (liquor, tobacco, roads, property, etc). Yet, despite this, wages aren't increasing. In fact, people are working more for less because companies have to "cut costs". You have it worse if you live in you live somewhere with a high standard of living like San Francisco or Hawaii. In Hawaii, we have lower wages compared to the rest of the US, yet we have one of the most expensive housing here. (Honolulu ranks 6th in America's Most Overvalued Cities with the median home at 605K) How is the average American supposed to keep up with inflation? How are people supposed to save money, buy homes, sustain our families, and live the 'American Dream'? Actually, the 'American Dream' is probably very far-fetched for a lot of people right now because they're having trouble finding jobs, paying their debts, and keeping their homes out of foreclosures.
We're a total mess. While other countries' GDP is starting to pick back up, America's is slower compared to others. Our unemployment is still high. Small businesses aren't able to get loans, but are faced with paying increased unemployment benefits. In turn, it's the average American that lose out. We're over worked and underpaid, because business is "slow" and a lot of benefits have been cut. In this and age in America, it's supposedly "lucky" to even have a job.
American Dream? Bullshit. More like American FAIL now.
We're a total mess. While other countries' GDP is starting to pick back up, America's is slower compared to others. Our unemployment is still high. Small businesses aren't able to get loans, but are faced with paying increased unemployment benefits. In turn, it's the average American that lose out. We're over worked and underpaid, because business is "slow" and a lot of benefits have been cut. In this and age in America, it's supposedly "lucky" to even have a job.
American Dream? Bullshit. More like American FAIL now.
2.15.2010
The Tiger is roaring in...
Happy Chinese New Year everyone. So, the year of 'me' (ox) is gone, and the tiger is roaring in instead. Last year was supposedly a bad year for oxen (which it was for me), although it was the year of the ox. (Family changes, employment changes, struggles with relationships).
I find zodiacs and horoscopes interesting, and like to read it from time to time. I think some of the things zodiacs and horoscopes say about my personality are pretty accurate. However, I just take forecasts and predictions as something fun to read.
Overall, it says the year of the tiger could bring some luck to me, but at the same time it says be prepared to face challenges. Also, health is stressed this year for people born in the year of the ox. (I guess it's a good thing that I decided to work on being healthier this year).
Take a look at your 2010 zodiac forecast for the year of the tiger:
http://www.moonslipper.com/chinese.html
http://www.proastro.com/?o=&act=&forecastmonth=11&forecastdate=23&forecastyear=1985&x=6&y=6
I find zodiacs and horoscopes interesting, and like to read it from time to time. I think some of the things zodiacs and horoscopes say about my personality are pretty accurate. However, I just take forecasts and predictions as something fun to read.
Overall, it says the year of the tiger could bring some luck to me, but at the same time it says be prepared to face challenges. Also, health is stressed this year for people born in the year of the ox. (I guess it's a good thing that I decided to work on being healthier this year).
Take a look at your 2010 zodiac forecast for the year of the tiger:
http://www.moonslipper.com/chinese.html
http://www.proastro.com/?o=&act=&forecastmonth=11&forecastdate=23&forecastyear=1985&x=6&y=6
2.12.2010
Sanity
Ever had one of those days that you're feeling really down that you don't see that there will be light at the end of the tunnel soon? Or that you're so stressed at work, school, or just have a lot of things on your mind that you feel like pulling your hair out? We all want the days to be bright and go by smoothly. I know I want to be able to answer 'good' when someone asks me how it's going or how my day was. Unfortunately, our days aren't always so bright. We have our ups and downs, and not everyone can always be (or pretend to be) happy go lucky.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT3zCj3F1d4
So, what's your source of sanity when it feels like your world has turned upside down and hell broke loose? Everyone has different things to relieve themselves of anger, stress, sadness, etc. Some people choose to do things like exercise, drink, smoke, vent to friends, eat, go shopping.
For me, one of my sources of sanity is music/singing. It's not detrimental to my health nor wallet. I find it calms me down a lot, especially at work when it's too stressful too handle. When I'm angry, I like to blast the music in the room or car and sing to the music. (Works good if it's metal, rock, etc -- music where the singer yells).
Besides talking to friends, I also like to write, but I don't do this that often enough. It's good to get the thoughts out, even if no one else will be reading the writing.
The other thing I seem to like to do a lot before was go cruising, and driving aimlessly at night. Not sure why, but it just feels good.
Here's one of the songs that has been playing often on the radio, which I've been listening to a lot during stressful times at work. It's just a really happy, upbeat song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hT3zCj3F1d4
Hey, Soul Sister - Train
Heeey, heeeey, heeeeey
Your lipstick stains on the front lobe of my left side brains
I knew I wouldn't forget you
And so I went and let you blow my mind
Your sweet moving
The smell of you in every single dream I dream
I knew when we collided you're the one I have decided
Who's one of my kind
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Heeey, heeeey, heeeey
Just in time, I'm so glad you have a one track mind le me
You gave my life direction
A game show love connection, we can't deny
I'm so obsessed
My heart is bound to beat right out my untrimmed chest
I believe in you, like a virgin, you're Madonna
And I'm always gonna wanna blow your mind
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Well you can cut a rug
Watching you is the only drug I need
So gangster, I'm so thug
You're the only one I'm dreaming of
You see I can be myself now finally
In fact there's nothing I cant be
I want the world to see you'll be with me
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Heeey heeeey heeeeey (tonight)
Heeey heeeey heeeeey (tonight)
Your lipstick stains on the front lobe of my left side brains
I knew I wouldn't forget you
And so I went and let you blow my mind
Your sweet moving
The smell of you in every single dream I dream
I knew when we collided you're the one I have decided
Who's one of my kind
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Heeey, heeeey, heeeey
Just in time, I'm so glad you have a one track mind le me
You gave my life direction
A game show love connection, we can't deny
I'm so obsessed
My heart is bound to beat right out my untrimmed chest
I believe in you, like a virgin, you're Madonna
And I'm always gonna wanna blow your mind
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Well you can cut a rug
Watching you is the only drug I need
So gangster, I'm so thug
You're the only one I'm dreaming of
You see I can be myself now finally
In fact there's nothing I cant be
I want the world to see you'll be with me
Hey soul sister, ain't that mister mister on the radio, stereo
The way you move ain't fair you know
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Hey soul sister, I don't wanna miss a single thing you do tonight
Heeey heeeey heeeeey (tonight)
Heeey heeeey heeeeey (tonight)
1.31.2010
Multi-tasking
Some people view being able to multi-task as a good quality to have, especially at work. However, others may think multi-tasking isn't always a good thing because you don't do that great of a job when you do two things at once compared to just focusing all attention on one thing. For me, I'm all for multi-tasking, since I'm much one myself. I am a multi-tasker and support it because there is always not enough hours a day to do everything. So many things to do, yet so little time, it seems. (Yeah, yeah, some may argue that you just have to dicipline yourself to have time management skills) But instead, why not do two things at once and be more efficient? You can get more done in less time. And who couldn't use more time nowadays?
Multi-tasking is frowned upon though, especially when it comes to driving, because it's unsafe. I recently read an Glamour article about driving and it said that women drivers think they're great drivers and can multi-task. I don't think I'm a 'great' driver, but I am guilty of multi-tasking in the car. I've done them all. I'd have to admit, I'm the 'typical' woman driver that drives and eats in car, puts on make up (mostly when I'm at a stop light or driving less than 10 MPH), texted or have been on the phone while driving, and even tried to write a card once in the car. (However, I have also trained myself early on to drive with one hand.) Yes, I know it looks bad on my part, but so what? (*Knock on wood* I haven't gotten into accidents or trouble yet) Are YOU going to give me an extra ten minutes to put on my makeup instead of doing it in the car? Are YOU going to give me an extra ten minutes of lunch so that I won't be checking the news and stuffing my face at the same time? Are YOU going to give me more time so that I can do one thing at a time instead of many things at once?! The answer is no.
Multi-tasking is frowned upon though, especially when it comes to driving, because it's unsafe. I recently read an Glamour article about driving and it said that women drivers think they're great drivers and can multi-task. I don't think I'm a 'great' driver, but I am guilty of multi-tasking in the car. I've done them all. I'd have to admit, I'm the 'typical' woman driver that drives and eats in car, puts on make up (mostly when I'm at a stop light or driving less than 10 MPH), texted or have been on the phone while driving, and even tried to write a card once in the car. (However, I have also trained myself early on to drive with one hand.) Yes, I know it looks bad on my part, but so what? (*Knock on wood* I haven't gotten into accidents or trouble yet) Are YOU going to give me an extra ten minutes to put on my makeup instead of doing it in the car? Are YOU going to give me an extra ten minutes of lunch so that I won't be checking the news and stuffing my face at the same time? Are YOU going to give me more time so that I can do one thing at a time instead of many things at once?! The answer is no.
1.26.2010
Little Black Dress
The little black dress. They say that every female should have this as a staple in their wardrobe. As a fashion major, I sadly didn't have that in mine. Not that I even wore dresses often, but they comprised of colorful colors like red, pink, green, brown, gray --anything but black. However, now I finally found my little black dress, and at a great price too!
I found this tube top dress at Macy's by Rampage. Having worked at Macy's, my rule of thumb is to NEVER buy their clothes at full price. If you don't need to have it and willing to wait a while, it will go on sale. (Same goes for a lot of stores. I mostly only look at the sale section when I shop now) Also, Macy's will always send out or have ads with dollar off or discount coupons. So, unless it's something that's an EDV (everyday value) that I need, I wait. I love shopping, but I love finding things at bargain prices even more.
This is the ensemble that I thought would work for the dress:
I found this tube top dress at Macy's by Rampage. Having worked at Macy's, my rule of thumb is to NEVER buy their clothes at full price. If you don't need to have it and willing to wait a while, it will go on sale. (Same goes for a lot of stores. I mostly only look at the sale section when I shop now) Also, Macy's will always send out or have ads with dollar off or discount coupons. So, unless it's something that's an EDV (everyday value) that I need, I wait. I love shopping, but I love finding things at bargain prices even more.
This is the ensemble that I thought would work for the dress:
Rampage Dress: $8 (Original $58)
Cropped Jacket: $5 (Bought in Taiwan)
Necklace: Less than $5 (Ebay)
Express clutch: $15 (Black Friday deal)
Express cuff: $8 (Black Friday deal)
Feeling good about finding bargain deals..... Priceless. :)
1.22.2010
How odd....
There are some things that go well paired together (like cookies 'n cream, peanut butter & jelly, rootbeer float) and then there are things that are..... well, just weird. When I think of popular Hawaii foods, I think of arare, Spam, poke`, shave ice, mango, macadamia nuts, li hing mui.. Some of these local combinations go well together also. Arare with popcorn and furikake taste great, and so does li hing mui shave ice, spam musubi, and li hing mui flavored mango. However, I never thought someone would come up with this combination:
I don't know what to make of this. I haven't tried this yet, and I'd be hesitant to do so. This just sounds gross. (Then again, so did vanilla ice cream x wasabi, and it actually didn't taste bad when I tried it).
I don't know what to make of this. I haven't tried this yet, and I'd be hesitant to do so. This just sounds gross. (Then again, so did vanilla ice cream x wasabi, and it actually didn't taste bad when I tried it).
1.18.2010
Tick, tock, tick, tock...
The clock seems to be ticking away so fast. Time seems to be something that all of us can never have enough of. There are so many things to see, learn, love, accomplish, yet there are only 24 hours in a day. Ugh. So many decisions and sacrfices to be made. Everyday, we unconsciously go through a decision process of what we should do with our time. (Should I go to work and make money? Should I just call in sick and enjoy some time for myself? Should I make time for my friends on the weekends? Or do something productive instead?) This is always a constant battle for me in deciding whether my time should go towards work to make money, spending it w/friends/family/loved ones and have a balanced lifestyle, or for my own better being in order to be sucessful. *sigh*
Every year, I end up being overly ambitious in the new year and making a long list of goals that I say I want to accomplish at the end of the year. Yet every year, for some reason or another, the goals don't seem to get accomplished. That's why this year, I've only set two goals for myself (be healthier and more productive) and wrote small little things to do to accomplish them. (I'd really like to add to this year's list of goals to accomplish, but I'm tired of always reflecting back and feeling like I failed the year's goals because I didn't push myself hard enough).
Goal update:
We're into the third week, and so far I'm doing ok. I'm getting the Salad Mondays down good (and I've even done it on Fridays) and I've been pretty good about drinking eight cups of water a day. I haven't been good at getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, but that should get better now that I'm finished with my seasonal job. I think I'll also be exercising a bit again, since my friend is currently motivated (we'll see how long it lasts) to go hiking and walking.
As for being productive, well, that hasn't really happened yet. I haven't picked up one (of the many books I've wanted to read) to read yet, but I kind of blame that on working full time and seasonal. But, a good thing about my 'productive' goal is that I have been posting a blog at least a week so far. It's a new week and one where my work schedule is back to normal, so I'm hoping I can get some things done.
Every year, I end up being overly ambitious in the new year and making a long list of goals that I say I want to accomplish at the end of the year. Yet every year, for some reason or another, the goals don't seem to get accomplished. That's why this year, I've only set two goals for myself (be healthier and more productive) and wrote small little things to do to accomplish them. (I'd really like to add to this year's list of goals to accomplish, but I'm tired of always reflecting back and feeling like I failed the year's goals because I didn't push myself hard enough).
Goal update:
We're into the third week, and so far I'm doing ok. I'm getting the Salad Mondays down good (and I've even done it on Fridays) and I've been pretty good about drinking eight cups of water a day. I haven't been good at getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, but that should get better now that I'm finished with my seasonal job. I think I'll also be exercising a bit again, since my friend is currently motivated (we'll see how long it lasts) to go hiking and walking.
As for being productive, well, that hasn't really happened yet. I haven't picked up one (of the many books I've wanted to read) to read yet, but I kind of blame that on working full time and seasonal. But, a good thing about my 'productive' goal is that I have been posting a blog at least a week so far. It's a new week and one where my work schedule is back to normal, so I'm hoping I can get some things done.
1.15.2010
Half Of My Heart
Been listening to this song a lot. It's from John Mayer's latest album Battle Studies. Usually the songs Who Says and Heartbreak Warfare play on the radio a lot, but this is my favorite from the album.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDGMLiFCdSo&feature=PlayList&p=D9FE98459FF0E046&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=25
Lyrics:
I was born in the arms of imaginary friends
Free to roam, made a home out of everywhere I've been
Then you come crashing in, like the realest thing
Trying my best to understand all that your love can bring
Oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
Half of my heart takes time
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That I can't keep loving you
Oh, with half of my heart
I was made to believe i'd never love somebody else
I made a plan, stay the man who can only love himself
Lonely was the song I sang, 'til the day you came
Showing me a better way and all that my love can bring
Oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
Half of my heart takes time
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That I can't keep loving you
Oh, with half of my heart
With half of my heart
Your faith is strong
But I can only fall short for so long
Time will hold, later on
You will hate that I never gave more to you than half of my heart
But I can't stop loving you
But I can't stop loving you
But I can't stop loving you with half of my...
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart's got a real good imagination
Half of my heart's got you
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That half of my heart won't do
Half of my heart is a shotgun wedding to a bride with a paper ring
And half of my heart is the part of a man who's never really loved anything
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDGMLiFCdSo&feature=PlayList&p=D9FE98459FF0E046&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=25
Lyrics:
I was born in the arms of imaginary friends
Free to roam, made a home out of everywhere I've been
Then you come crashing in, like the realest thing
Trying my best to understand all that your love can bring
Oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
Half of my heart takes time
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That I can't keep loving you
Oh, with half of my heart
I was made to believe i'd never love somebody else
I made a plan, stay the man who can only love himself
Lonely was the song I sang, 'til the day you came
Showing me a better way and all that my love can bring
Oh half of my heart's got a grip on the situation
Half of my heart takes time
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That I can't keep loving you
Oh, with half of my heart
With half of my heart
Your faith is strong
But I can only fall short for so long
Time will hold, later on
You will hate that I never gave more to you than half of my heart
But I can't stop loving you
But I can't stop loving you
But I can't stop loving you with half of my...
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart's got a real good imagination
Half of my heart's got you
Half of my heart's got a right mind to tell you
That half of my heart won't do
Half of my heart is a shotgun wedding to a bride with a paper ring
And half of my heart is the part of a man who's never really loved anything
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
Half of my heart
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