SONIC'S BLOG

Updates...

2010-07-14T22:45:00.000-07:00

Haven't wrote anything on this blog for a while. So many things have changed over the past few month. Here are some of the highlights:

New Home Owner - I finally found my peace of mind.
New Job - Coasting at first, but getting into gear to kick some serious ass. I believe in my ability to do the best that I can do.
Fitness - Getting back into it. Slowly but surely. I miss the days when I was totally in shape. It'll come back.
Love - So many heartbreaks surrounding me. I am just glad that I am grounded, but to those whom I love experiencing hardship. I am with you. You may not, or will never, understand or comprehend how I feel. You may also be annoyed. But know this, my intentions are true and my thoughts are always with you.
Life - Settling to my new lifestyle. New goal =Payoff this house, and a Porsche, (for mom and dad).
Manhood - I know what I am, and what I want, and what I believe in. there.

Change

2010-04-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

Many new changes happening.

1. New Job

2. New House

3. New (old car)

4. New realization

I welcome these changes. And those things I can't let go, I am sure I'll cross it again, but as I always state. I have no doubt!

Make Sense.

2010-04-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

不抽烟不喝酒，63岁，林彪同志；

只喝酒不抽烟，73岁，恩来同志；

只抽烟不喝酒，83岁，主席同志；

既抽烟又喝酒，93岁，小平同志；

吃喝嫖赌样样来，103岁，学良将军；

啥坏习惯都没有，成天忙着做好人好事，23岁，雷锋同志。

Better than Reality....

2010-04-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Dream - Had a dream last night about the one girl whom I absolutely adore. Then for some reason, Fate had to wake me up (in the middle of the night and killed the nice dream). What is even more ironic is that, as I becomes more lucid after I woke up, I soon realized that the dream, as usual, is much sweeter and better than reality. But alas, it is something you can only dreamt of. Once the morning starts, you gotta settle back into reality. But regardless, it is totally awesome to still be able to remember that dream (Which is why I gotta write this down today before it disappears in my memory).

New Outlooks...

2010-03-01T00:06:00.000-08:00

In the past few month, I have learned three very important things.

1. Treasure and appreciate the ones who truly cares for you. Family, friends, pets, etc. Appreciate their company and make the time spent with them a good one.

2. Let go of the past. There will always be certain things you want but can't get. There will always be people who you feel treated you wrongly (or you viewed wrongly because of difference in expectation). Let it go. Don't dwell in the past. And don't have remorse or sense of loss. What is yours will be yours; what is meant to be will be meant to be. Let it go and let it flow.

3. Look around you and appreciate and care for the simple things, for those are usually the things that matters the most. Like morning coffee, playing with your dog, conversation with family, looking outside the window, a walk, a glance at the sky, a moment in the sun etc. etc.

The lofty wants and desires are great to have, but they should be secondary.

Life...

2010-02-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

To DoDo and all those I love.

Life is fragile. Life is equal. Life is a gift, and Life is beautiful.

Treasure every single minute of it and enjoy and make the most of every single minute of it.

I will miss you DoDo and I love you. You are in a better place now, take care.

Eddie

"2046"

2010-01-10T23:42:00.000-08:00

For Some reason, the synopsis and the music from the movie “2046” intrigued me. I am definitely checking this movie out. I know it is slow with a tinge too much mannerism, but nonetheless, 2046 looks very interesting.

Here is the trailer:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-RbpQUqosI

Listening to one of the main song from this movie (Speak Low By Billie Holliday Bend Remix) while sitting in a coffee shop at "The Hotel" in Vegas this past week also gave me the chance to reflex on a recent (albeit sudden) realization...

We all have memories, good ones, bad ones, happy ones, sad ones. But dwelling on the memories will never allow you to move on, and at a certain time, we must all move on, the trigger could be anything. Some self apparent, some very subtle. I think I've just had mine.

Things for 2010

2010-01-03T16:40:00.000-08:00

Seize each day. Live each day as if it's your last. Leave the past behind and do not anticipate the future. Be present to enjoy the moment

Be adventurous. Explore, live on the edge a little and embrace new challenges. Try something new every day. Experience the variety in life. Take the road less traveled.

Keep a journal. Record your accomplishments as well as your delights. Take time to reflect on what has been previously written. Be inspiration to yourself and others.

Love yourself. Focus on your inner and outer beauty to see the same in others. Acceptance comes from within.

Accept everyone. Be kind and courteous. Enjoy the company of others. Acknowledge their goodness rather than the differences in their beliefs.

Find purpose in life. Be selfless in service to others.

Be realistic. Set attainable goals according to your abilities and talents. Consider each effort to be an attainment. Achieve one step before the other towards stability and security.

Seek balance. Understand the night and day, back and forth, good and bad in all things. Focus on good thoughts and good things will happen.

Maintain control. Be responsible for your actions and inactions. Be true to yourself. Maintain a personal code in the situation at hand. Find common ground.

Listen to your heart and soul. Listen for advice, but be confident in making your own decision. Use your instinct.

Clear your mind. meditation and tai chi will replenish and rejuvenate your soul to focus more clearly on serenity and happiness.

Be carefree. Desires, obsessions and possessions possess you. Free yourself of inhibitions. Make an active decision to have simple daily needs.

Laugh. Laughter is the best medicine. It releases endorphins and promotes longevity. Inner joy is beautiful!

Be flexible. Accept change as a positive thing in life. At times, go with the flow that is before you.

List a few daily goals. Meet a new friend, swim at the lake or walk in the park. Enhance your day and initiate fun

Appreciate the little things. Take a walk around your community to experience the wonder in a way that you have never experienced it before.

Love is….

2009-11-06T22:43:00.001-08:00

Love is….

Recently, I started to really think about the definition of LOVE.
So far, here is what I have come up with…

Love is, Give and think for the ones you care for, there is no logical reason why you do it. You just do.

Love is, selfless realization by putting the needs of the ones you love just as high if not higher than your own needs.

Love is, learning and teaching something that feeds the curiocity.

Membership...

2009-11-03T21:24:00.001-08:00

*Sigh

After my recent NYC trip, I think I am officially turning in my mancard membership.

*Sigh

Empty...

2009-10-16T22:50:00.000-07:00

Not sure if it is the changing of the seasons (or maybe it's just my cold these days). But I am feeling very empty these days. Normally, this would sound like I am going into a cycle of melodramatic depression, but on the contrary, I think this is a very good thing for my personal growth.

I suddenly feel empty and alone becuase I think I am so close of letting myself go on whatever that has bound and chained me in the past. Youthful naivety? unrealistic hopes and expectations? whatever. I know that I am so close of just letting it go. Not becasuse I finally killed my inner demons. But more so because I am running out of the fuel to even try to care.

Birthday Wish...

2009-10-01T23:16:00.000-07:00

Just one this year: To Mom, Dad, Sisters and those that I love to stay healthy, be happy and prosperous. That's all.

Oh! and save more of these too---->

Fitting....

2009-09-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eoBaZmmdluM

This song has always been my favorite (I still haven't figured out how to post the actual song as a video in this thang), but this year, the song definitely has that extra, special meaning....

fitting.

Half Marathon

2009-09-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

5 Things I learned about half marathons.

1. I hate it
2. It's boring (I'd very my rather swim and cycling than doing a half marathlon)
3. When doing it, be sure to wear a shirt that are silky near the your boobage area.
4. Pace yourself
5. When it is too hot, quit rather than contine

Anyway, with a totally lack of preparation (I found out 1 day before that I am running it). After my race, I realized that I am still in a fairly good shape. I hope I keep this up into my 30s.

Positive Changes

2009-08-27T21:42:00.000-07:00

Over the past few month, I noticed that I have evolved quite a bit, in a good sense.
I find myself less idealistic, romantic, impulsive and less believing. I find myself seeing things more clearly, feeling things more real, and longing for things that matters in the grand scheme of things and lasting…

What caused these changes. I think my long over due realization in June definitely help a lot, also the experiences in July (good and bad) also help me grew this summer.

Though I will never by cynical about life. I know where I stand, and that is the me from now till….next time I feel like I need ot be idealistic, romantic and impusive :P

Far Away, So close

2009-08-13T23:04:00.000-07:00

For some sentimental reason, this is how I feel now.
Those who are so close is so far away, and those that are so far away is so close.

strange

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=838dPcVq0c4

At Ease

2009-07-15T22:35:00.000-07:00

I haven’t had time to write a blog entry for a while. So here is an entry to fill my readers on what has been going on with me lately.

As some of my closest friends may know. June 2009 was a very interesting month for me with all the transitions with my father moving back to Taiwan permanently and the fact that I’ve finally break free from the mental and emotional chain that I placed on me for the past 4 years. At the moment, I genuinely feel at ease. And I am hoping that as I progress, I will improve and make the fullest of every moment and experience here on.

I genuinely enjoy coming home to my two high maintenance dogs and walk them at the park and spend a quiet evening reading and watching TV with them.

I genuinely enjoy cleaning my pad on the weekends and shop for new furniture here and there (not super expensive, but nice) to make the pad I have a more enjoyable place to live (I am actually am becoming a neat freak now believe it or not).

I genuinely enjoy spending more time with new (and old) people in my life and learn new things about them I haven’t been noticing before.

I genuinely enjoy having good companies over and just spend time watching movies or playing chess or board games with a glass of wine and good music.

I genuinely enjoy finally seeing things and people for whom and what they are instead of what I wish they are.

I genuinely enjoy listening to words of wisdoms from old and young and friends on life’s perspective (one of my favorite was from my friend Steph, it goes something like “Well so what if you feel she is not the right one for you, she is right now right?”) ß wise words, but that just floored me laughing.

And finally, I genuinely enjoy and treasure and appreciate all the things and experience I have now. And I am excited for the trips I am going to embark in Aug and Sep. Buenos Aires and Portugal here I come!

Wonder Girls

2009-06-26T17:02:00.000-07:00

Hahaha. They are coming to the State Side.

Allen, isn't this tone catchy.

http://perezhilton.com/2009-06-26-its-here-3

Life's little twists

2009-06-03T20:26:00.000-07:00

Have you ever made decisions based on gut feel? Decisions that seemed dumb and totally illogical to your own interest (from other's perspective...even your own from time to time) when you think about in a later time? However, at the moment you made the decision, you KNOW and know clearly, whole heartedly and exactly why you made that decision, even in the heat of the moment?

Well, recently, I had that moment. and as unexplainable as it is, I made a choice.
Stupid? Totally!
Regret? Sure I do.

But it IS the right decision....and more importantly, I did it my way...I guess.

What I am looking for is there and I know what it is. I may never get it or succeed but. I did it MY way and it is what it is.

Now, I am left listening to this song.

Weezer - Perfect Situation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WgR-l3fhygw

Duck tale

2009-05-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

Funny story....The banker's got good hands. watch the video.

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/45367342.html

So wrong....

2009-05-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

But I am ROFL.

http://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/entertainment/Must-See-TV-Mother-Lover-SNL-.html

My Fav pic.

2009-05-07T13:11:00.001-07:00

Inspiring isn't it!

1979...

2009-04-30T16:33:00.001-07:00

Favorite Beer

2009-04-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

Had a chance to sample the Hoegaarden Grand Cru today. So refreshing :P brings back fond memories in Europe for me.

Updates...

2009-04-14T23:42:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, my house hunting project has been put on a temporary hold (hopefully not for long). I have passed on a really nice condo in Quail Hill (I would like to call it the Beverly Hills of Irvine) back in January because of some Fung Shui concerns my mom had (she was adamant about it so in the end I figured that if buying a house is going to cause family frictions, what is the point).
And again I passed on a nice house in the not so lovely Chino Hills in March (sorry banker, its just not my type of hood, too much of a family feel), because I just don’t quite "feel it", that and the fact it is within a few miles to Chino Hills prison which my realtor did not disclose to me during the showing was a deal breaker.

So needless to say, I am back on the drawing board. I am not bummed about it, I am just going to take a deep breath and figure out WHAT exactly I want. With my HOME, as one other thing I consider important in my life, once I know that it is IT, I will absolutely have not doubt :P I hope that house will appear soon and give me that luving feeling.

As with family. My mommy went back to Taiwan yesterday after one month stay here. Though I wish she can stay longer, we did spend quite a bit of quality time together (with my dad away to Taiwan, Japan and Korea in his tennis trip and all). Though she still annoys me sometimes with her nagging, I still enjoyed her month long stay here. We talked about lots of stuffs in our regular Saturday or Sunday morning walks thru Huntington Library and brunch, and one thing I absolutely get from our conversations is the feeling of how tenacious she is about what she believes in, and her dedication towards family and loved ones. I think (wish) I can inherit that trait (even though I still have a long ways to go) - Family and loved ones comes first before myself.

With work. As much as I am bored with my current situation (more or less a feeling of not wanting to apply fully my potential), I do have to admit that I have a pretty good job. The P&L pressure and the ownership of the business over the past two years has taught me something about seeing the big picture, working with team members to get things done, managing different types of personality both up and down. And above all, humility and FEAR (yes fear). Without fear, I would be too comfortably what my ability entails, and that that will make me fall behind. I don’t want that.

Other than these things, I really don’t have much that I want and ask for. As long as people I love and care are happy, healthy and well, I have nothing else I want…. Triathlon season is coming soon, time to train :P

Active Mind...

2009-04-01T22:07:00.000-07:00

I think I must have very active mind these days. I had a dream about aurora of all things last night. It looked absolutely stunning in the dream (coupled with some violin music in the dream). I know, and this is a promise to someone too, I will see it one day….in less than 8 years...

Power of Dream....Ghetto style

2009-03-18T21:30:00.000-07:00

I had weird dream last night, (a super crass one that I normally wouldn't have). This dream actually woke me up around 5:30 this morning with a huge (and confused) grin on my face. Anywho, when I told my friend about it today (after having rofl) the suggestion was that I MUST be having too much energy today and I should try the channel this engergy somewhere else :P

Having not much things to do after work, I decided to take on this good suggestion and run my highschool’s X country course which is near my work.

Lo and behold, I actually IMPROVED my time by more than 1 min and 30 sec vs. the week prior. What do you know :P

Anyway, I am not super tired tho and am ready for a good night sleep….zzzzz

The Best Band.....EVER

2009-03-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

Of course you know I am talking about THE LED ZEPPELIN.
I didn't really get into the Zep until this year (after my Van Morrison phase, Astral Weeks is another great album by the way)

Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham are the gods of rock. There will never be another group of musican

Beetles are too soft. The Rolling Stones lasted too long. U2 got stupid and became political. Oasis had those few good songs. But NONE can rock it like Led Zeppelin.

Here are the must listen song for you guys sitting in your living room or study rocking it LOUD.

1. D'yer Maker
2. Immigrant Song
3. Kashimir
4. Whole Lotta Love
5. When the Levee Break
6. Trampled Underfoot
7. Black Dog
8. Babe I'm gonna leave you
9. Dazed and Confused
10. Stairway to Heaven

Trust me on this, just go get the album "Mothership" and listen it cover to cover!

Shopping....Chinese Woman Style

2009-03-15T22:24:00.000-07:00

Today, as promised, I took my dear mother to Cabazon for what I thought would be a quick, easy and trouble-free shopping trip. But I obviously under estimated the power, endurance, ruthlessness and determination of a Chinese middle age shopaholic.

It was truly a site to see, but despite all the hassels, I did enjoy spend time with mommy since she's heading back in about one month. All in all, we had interesting conversations on the way there, and in between her shopping breaks (not on the way back though cause toward the end, I got pretty annoyed with her on how much she had bought for her friends and relatives....nothing for herself btw which sucks).

Anywho, from our conversations, it is very apparant that she still worries for me and my younger sis the most. For my sis, she is concerned about where she is going with her career, the guy she is dating, etc. etc. typical stuffs. As for me, she basicall thinks (in a Chinese proverb) that my "shoulders" need to be stronger and tougher to carry on my responsiblities, not only to myself and the family, but to the ones I truly care for.

To that, all I can say is that I will do my best :P

Now to what I recommend....

2009-03-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

Now, these are the things worth your ears.

1. I've been delievered, The Wallflowers (A song that makes me believe in simplicity and basic human honesty and kindness)

2. Rebel Yell, Billy Idol (My running song, when I need that extra ooomph when running or swimming, I pull out this song)

3. Rain. Ryuichi Sakamoto (Recently "discovered" this artist, it is a simple and elegant song constructed with Cello, violin and piano, can you figure out the logic in the song?)

4. Sexy Love. Neyo. (Didn't think I'd listen to this one did you? but I absolutely love this song and can't get tired of it)

5. Army of me. Bjork (My intense evil song)

6. Gimme Shelter, Rolling Stones (Song that makes me wonder about what is to come to this world, or Final Fantasy for some reason)

7. Son of a preacherman, Dusty Springfield (My soul music of the month)

8. Kashmir, Led Zeppelins (My favorite song from one of the best band EVER, to me, its their best song, not Stairway to Heaven)

9. Sour Times, Portishead (my "lonetime" song)

10. I hate this part, Pussycat Dolls (My secret pleasure)

11. La Vie en Rose, Louis Armstrong (Wall-E)

12. Island in the Sun, Weezer (My vacation song that I'll play when....well I take vaction)

13. The next Episode +Nothin' But a "G" Thang, Dre and snoop (My gangsta song...while driving thru the rough neiborhood of Irvine Cali, 949 G!)

14. Beautiful, Akon ( My reminder!)

15. Teardrop, Massive Attach (My latenight cruuusing song)

Now, go download these songs to help the economy (or I'll burn you a copy)

I never thought I'd say this....but U2, U are totally SUCKING

2009-03-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

I had been a huge U2 fan in my teens and twenties. However, I must say that their works has gone totally down hill, other than Joshua Tree, Actung Baby and All that you can’t leave behind, U2 has pretty much putting out garbage over the years. I’ve just about had it with Bono’s political messages. Sometimes, music should just remain music, strumming human emotions with sound, nothing else.

I am so glad I didn’t almost buy their latest album. Two thumbs way down for me!

(speaking of which, Oasis’ new stuffs sucked too, I guess there is such thing call limitation of artistry). Blah

My Tax Return treat to myself....

2009-02-25T22:21:00.000-08:00

"RISK" LORD OF THE RING EDITION!!!!

The Lord of the Rings has inspired many board games through the years, including Lord of the Rings Risk.

If you're familiar with Risk, you know the basics of this game. Armies move across a map, fighting each other in an attempt to gain control of the world. But LotR Risk adds some new elements, including:

· All territories are places found in Middle-earth.

· Mountains and rivers on the map create impassable barriers.

· The armies represent Elven Archers, Orcs, the Riders of Rohan, the Dark Riders, the mighty Eagles, and Cave Trolls.

· Each player has a Leader, which allows players to add 1 to any die roll.

· Sea ports allow greater movement of battalions.

· Sites of Power give players the chance to complete missions for rewards.

· The One Ring moves from the Shire along a pre-determined path. When it leaves the Dead Marshes, the game ends.

Lord of the Rings Risk is for 2 to 4 players (original Risk is for 2 to 6). The board is divided into 6 regions of Middle-earth, taken from the first two books of the trilogy (so Gondor and Mordor are not featured): Rhun, Mirkwood, Eriador, Rohan, Rhovanion, and Arnor.

There are 42 territory cards, along with 2 wild cards. These are used in a manner similar to the territory cards in original Risk, to earn reinforcements. Unlike original Risk, the number of reinforcements is constant (4, 6, 8, or 10 armies depending on the mix of cards you have) -- it does not increase as the game progresses.
The game also has 40 adventure cards, of which there are three types: mission, event and power.
Examples of each type of adventure card:

· Mission: "Grey Havens - Mithlond - Receive extra battalions in Mithlond." (Move your leader into Mithlond to receive extra battalions.)

· Event: "Winter Storms - Play immediately. Draw the top 3 Territory cards. No player can attack from or into these Territories until the start of your next turn."

· Power: "You Shall Not Pass! - Play at the start of your turn. Choose one bridge to block until the start of your next turn. No battalions may cross the bridge unless accompanied by a leader." (Some rivers have bridges over them.)

Six of the 42 territories are designated as strongholds, and defenders get to add 1 to their highest defensive dice roll.

The winner can be determined one of two ways. If one player takes control of the entire map before the One Ring leaves the Dead Marshes, that player is the winner (this is the less likely outcome). More often, the winner is determined by adding points at the end of the game: one point for each occupied territory, extra points for complete regions, two points for each stronghold, and extra points for played adventure cards played.

My Fav R&B tune

2009-02-17T00:11:00.000-08:00

I don't know much about R&B. But this one is by far my fav.
Javier - Crazy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4-Om2IIcdg

Classic Person....

2009-02-15T21:53:00.000-08:00

Only for those of you who can read Chinese....
What a shame that my Chinese - English translation ability is so poor and that alot of the thing described about him cannot be properly conveyed in English.

生平

[編輯] 高臥東山

《東山絲竹圖》佚名北京故宮博物院藏，該圖所繪即謝安隱居東山時與朋友遊玩的景象

謝安出生名門陳郡謝氏，父親謝裒曾任太常卿，屬於東晉士族。謝家人大多風流瀟灑，被稱為「謝家蘭玉真門戶」[3]「謝家子弟，衣冠磊落」[4]，謝安年僅四歲時，便被桓彝稱許，認為他「風神秀徹」，長大以後，不在王承之下[5]。謝安十三歲時，聲名就已經傳到遼東，連當時才七歲的慕容垂都特地送來一對白狼眊作為禮物[6]。謝安得到了當世王導 [7]以下幾乎所有名士的推崇[8]，因而一舉一動都被世人仿效。曾經有他的老鄉回家沒有路費，只有五萬把根本賣不出去的蒲葵扇，謝安得知以後，便抓了把扇子來用，結果人人仿效，積壓的扇子不久便全部高價售出[9]。他和王羲之及王獻之父子均交好，曾一起參加蘭亭集會，即《蘭亭集序》中所記載的那次。
謝安起初曾做了一個月的小官「著作郎」，但很快就以生病為由辭官回家。他長期在東山隱居，一邊教育子弟，一邊與名流來往，常攜歌妓，在會稽周圍和朋友一起遊玩。他為人鎮定自若，曾和孫綽、王羲之等出海遊玩而遇到暴風雨，眾人皆慌亂不已，只有謝安不為所動，並勸眾人慌亂無濟於事，不如冷靜思考，眾人因此而得以安全歸來。[10]
謝安的聲名越來越響，被推崇為江左「風流第一」，世人皆稱「安石不肯出，將如蒼生何？」[11]

[編輯] 教育子弟
謝安在東山時，兄弟的子女都歸他教養。他善於教育子弟，往往以身作則，潛移默化[12][13]。其中以謝道韞，謝玄姐弟最為出色，也最受謝安喜愛[14]。謝安曾問子侄們分別喜歡《詩經》中的哪一句，謝玄說是：「楊柳依依」，謝道韞說是：「吉甫作頌，穆如清風」，謝安因此而稱讚謝道韞有「雅人深致」[15]，而謝安自己則最喜歡「訏謨定命，遠猶辰告」[16][17]，這一句也被後世史學家認為是他的政治思想的概括。
謝安很注重孩子們的自尊心。謝玄小時候好虛榮，佩戴了紫羅香囊，謝安沒有直接指責，而是打賭贏了香囊以後當面燒毀，以此來教育謝玄不適宜佩戴這樣浮華的東西[18]。謝朗不知道「熏老鼠」的笑話是自己父親謝據的，也跟著世人一起嘲笑，謝安知道以後，故意把自己也說成做這件傻事，啟發謝朗去懂得不應該隨意嘲笑別人[19]。

[編輯] 東山再起
360年，謝萬兵敗，被廢為庶人，陳郡謝氏一族再無重要人物在朝。謝安不得不「東山再起」，入桓溫幕府為司馬。謝安與桓溫雖然政治立場不一致，但仍然非常相得，彼此都很推崇對方[20]。後來桓溫到了因立場相左而打算殺掉謝安的時候，仍然對旁人稱讚謝安不已[21]。
謝安在桓溫幕府不久，謝萬去世，謝安以服喪為由辭職，不久又被丞相司馬昱推薦為吳興太守，任內百姓安居樂業。幾年後，升為侍中。
371年，譙國桓氏的桓溫廢司馬奕，改立司馬昱為帝，族誅陳郡殷氏、潁川庾氏兩家三支士族，貶斥武陵王為庶人，實際控制了東晉的所有州府，聲勢如日中天[22][23][24]。謝安與另外兩家大士族——太原王氏和琅琊王氏的王坦之、王彪之等人聯合，與之周旋[25]，並於372年七月簡文帝病重之時，逼簡文帝改寫遺詔，阻止了簡文帝打算將政權拱手讓給桓溫的打算。桓溫得知以後，大怒，率軍入京，欲「誅王謝，移晉鼎」，太后褚蒜子命謝安與王坦之去新亭迎接，王坦之慌亂不已，以至於在見到桓溫以後倒持笏版，汗濕重衣；謝安卻很鎮定，不僅在臨行前安慰王坦之說「晉祚存亡，在此一行」，並在見到桓溫以後，從容就席，問桓溫：「安聞諸侯有道，守在四鄰，明公何須壁後置人邪？」桓溫笑答：「正自不能不爾耳。」二人笑著談了很久，一場大禍化解于無形[26]。桓溫後來病重，想讓朝廷給他加九錫，讓袁宏起草。謝安見了以後，總是借故修改，拖延時間，沒幾天，桓溫病故，加九錫的事情也就不再被提起了[27]。
桓溫死了以後，謝安為了調和晉室與桓氏的矛盾而頗費苦心。374年，謝安先以王坦之出領徐兗二州刺史而從桓氏取回徐州和兗州，然後又迫使桓溫之弟桓沖出讓揚州，轉而任命其領荊州，謝安自領揚州（非今日之揚州市），終於達到「荊揚相衡，則天下平」的目的，並取得了桓氏的諒解與合作，建立起一個相對牢固的防禦陣線，共同對付北方的前秦苻堅。

[編輯] 淝水之戰
太元元年〔376年〕，孝武帝司馬矅開始親政，謝安升中書監、錄尚書事，總攬朝政，陳郡謝氏成為東晉的最後一個「當軸士族」。同年，苻堅統一了中國北方，前秦與東晉的戰爭已經臨近。當時的東晉，長江上游由桓氏掌握，下游則屬於謝氏當政，謝安儘力調和桓謝兩大家族關係，以為即將爆發的戰爭作準備。[28]

[編輯] 戰前準備
377年，廣陵缺乏良將防守，謝安不顧他人議論，極力舉薦自己的侄子謝玄出任兗州刺史，鎮守廣陵，負責長江下游江北一線的軍事防守。謝安則自己都督揚州、豫州、徐州、兗州、青州五州軍事，總管長江下游。謝玄不負叔父重托，在廣陵挑選良將，訓練精兵，選拔了劉牢之、何謙等人，並訓練出一支在當時的整個中國最具有戰鬥力的精兵——北府兵。

[編輯] 第一階段：淮南之戰
378年四月，前秦征南大將軍苻丕率步騎7萬人進攻襄陽。苻堅又另派10萬多人，分三路合圍襄陽，總計投入兵力17萬。襄陽守將朱序死守近一年後，于太元四年（379年）二月城破被俘。苻堅又派彭超圍攻彭城，秦晉淮南之戰爆發。謝安在建康布防，又令謝玄率5萬北府兵，自廣陵起兵應敵。謝玄四戰四勝，全殲秦軍。戰後，謝安因功晉封建昌縣公，謝玄晉封東興縣侯。

[編輯] 第二階段：淝水之戰
太元八年（383年）五月，桓沖傾10萬荊州兵伐秦，以牽制秦軍，減輕對下游的壓力，苻堅派苻睿、慕容垂、姚萇和慕容暐等人迎戰，自己親率步兵60萬，騎兵27萬，以弟苻融為先鋒，于八月大舉南侵。謝安臨危受命，以謝石為前線大都督，謝玄為先鋒，並謝琰、桓伊等人，領8萬兵馬，分三路迎擊秦軍。十一月，謝玄遣劉牢之以5千精兵奇襲，取得洛澗大捷，秦軍折損10名大將，5萬主力。十二月，雙方決戰淝水，謝玄、謝琰和桓伊率領晉軍7萬戰勝了苻堅和苻融所統率的前秦15萬大軍，並陣斬苻融。淝水之戰以晉軍的全面勝利告終。

[編輯] 戰後影響
淝水之戰的巨大勝利，謝安的事先籌劃功不可沒。而且謝安從戰前的「圍棋賭墅」到戰後的「小兒輩大破賊」，自始至終一直採取極為冷靜的態度，對於穩定當時建康的人心起到了關鍵的作用。此次戰爭的前線將領也是謝家嫡系子弟的謝石謝玄謝琰等人，謝家的聲望達到頂峰，引起了司馬氏皇室的戒備，以至於淝水戰功，竟然沒有封賞，直到兩年後的謝安死後，司馬曜方才因淝水戰功追封謝安以廬陵郡公。

[編輯] 北伐、去世

 淝水之戰到北伐時期的南北形勢圖，圖中黑線為淝水之戰之前雙方實際控制區域分界線，紅線為北伐勝利到謝安去世時期的雙方實際控制區域分界線
桓沖在淝水之戰之後不久去世，臨死前將桓氏子弟托付謝安。謝安為了安定「荊揚相衡」的局面，放棄了以謝玄任荊江兩州刺史的機會，改以桓氏子弟出任，緩和了桓謝兩大士族的關係，為東晉接下來的大規模北伐穩定了後方。[29]
384年八月，謝安起兵北伐。東路的謝玄領北府兵自廣陵北上，一路收復了兗州青州司州豫州，中路和西路的桓氏則出兵攻克了魯陽和洛陽，並收復了梁州和益州。至此，淝水之戰前秦晉以淮河－漢水－長江一線為界的局面改成了以黃河為界，整個黃河以南地區重新歸入了晉朝的版圖，見右圖。
北伐節節勝利以後，司馬氏和部分朝臣對謝安非常猜忌[30]，世人也有懷疑謝安會像王莽那樣篡位奪權[31]，謝安「素退為業」，主動交出手上權利，于385年四月自請出鎮廣陵，都督北伐軍事。不久，劉牢之于鄴城被慕容垂擊敗，謝安不得不調整部署，將進攻轉為調整以鞏固黃河防線。
8月，謝安病重，自廣陵還京醫治，由西州門入建康 [32][33]，不久，于8月22日，病逝建康，享年66歲，諡號曰「文靖」。
謝安葬禮同霍光、王導以及桓溫等人同規格，有「九旒鸞輅，黃屋左纛，縕輬車，輓歌二部，羽葆鼓吹，武賁班劍百人」，為皇帝級別的葬禮[34]。後謝安妻劉氏去世，也用同等葬儀[35]。

謝安致謝萬的親手書信

謝安《八月五日帖》，收入《寶晉齋法帖》

[編輯] 名言
「晉祚存亡，在此一行。」
「小兒輩大破賊。」
「可將當軸，了其此處。」
「見之乃不使人厭，然出戶去，不復使人思。」
「天地無知，使伯道無兒。」
「顧長康畫，有蒼生來所無。」

[編輯] 與之相關的成語
【東山再起】[36]
【圍棋賭墅】[37]
【新會蒲葵】[38]
【雅人深致】[39]
【一往奔詣】[40]
【老翁可念】[41]
【屋下架屋】[42]
【一往情深】[43]
【前倨後恭】[44]
【小兒破賊】[45]

[編輯] 書法
謝安曾從王羲之學行書，其書法非常出色，後世米芾曾稱讚他的書法「山林妙寄，岩廊英舉，不繇不羲，自發淡古。」

[編輯] 趣聞
謝安曾聽人說梁山伯與祝英台的故事，深受感動，上奏請求表其墓為「義婦冢」[46]。
謝安的字與宋朝王安石的名正好相同，後來王安石退居金陵，買的宅院正好在謝安的府邸舊址，宅內有以謝安命名的「謝公墩」。王安石於是戲作詩道：「我名公字偶相同，我屋公墩在眼中。公去我來墩屬我，不應墩姓尚隨公。」[47]時人評曰：「與死人爭地。」謝安與王導皆居秦淮河畔，乃三國孫權舊部烏衣部隊之駐地，世稱烏衣巷。
謝安的鑒賞力不同一般，他曾評「劉牢之不能獨任」，「王味之不宜專城」，均先後應驗；他評顧愷之的畫為「有蒼生來所無」；他還曾讚同王羲之的書法勝於王獻之的觀點[48]。
謝安欣賞真性情的女子，他的嫂嫂王夫人曾經不顧禮節親自出面從席上帶走其子，謝安不以為忤，反而讚歎王夫人情辭慷慨，可惜不能讓朝中大臣們一見[49]。他所欣賞的妻子劉夫人和侄女謝道蘊，也都是這樣的真性情女子，前者曾屢屢戲弄謝安，後者曾當全家人的面鄙薄自己的丈夫[50]，這些不合「禮法」的行為在謝安看來卻是出自真性情，非常值得欣賞。
謝安為吏部尚書的時候，王導的嫡孫王珣娶謝萬的女兒為妻，王珉娶謝安的女兒為妻，均夫妻不和。謝安鄙薄王珣為人，不惜與琅琊王氏嫡系一支交惡，徑自讓侄女和女兒離婚改嫁。雙方因此不通往來許多年[51]。謝安死後，王珣雖政治上一直打壓謝氏以求報復，但仍然從會稽專程趕到建康去哭喪，禮畢，連手也不和謝琰握就徑自離去。[52]

[編輯] 後世評價

謝安像，立於福建漳州

[編輯] 學者
《晉書》評價：
「建元之後，時政多虞，巨猾陸梁，權臣橫恣。其有兼將相於中外，系存亡于社稷，負扆資之以端拱，鑿井賴之以晏安者，其惟謝氏乎！」
「文靖始居塵外，高謝人間，嘯詠山林，浮泛江海，當此之時，蕭然有陵霞之致。暨于褫薜蘿而襲硃組，去衡泌而踐丹墀，庶績於是用康，彝倫以之載穆。苻堅百萬之眾已瞰吳江，桓溫九五之心將移晉鼎，衣冠易慮，遠邇崩心。從容而杜奸謀，宴衎而清群寇，宸居獲太山之固，惟揚去累卵之危，斯為盛矣。」
「太保沈浮，曠若虛舟。任高百辟，情惟一丘。」
唐人李白在安史之亂中有詩曰：「三川北虜亂如麻，四海南奔似永嘉。但用東山謝安石，為君談笑靜胡沙。」
宋人蘇軾亦有詞水調歌頭，其上闋曰：
「安石在東海，從事鬢驚秋。中年親友難別，絲竹緩離愁。一旦功成名遂，准擬東還海道，扶病入西州。雅志困軒冕，遺恨寄滄洲。」
範文瀾《中國通史》曰:
「東晉朝內部出現前所未有的和睦氣象，是和謝安完全繼承王導力求大族問勢力平衡的作法分不開的。」
「東晉朝建立以來，這是最大的一次戰勝擴地。取勝的重要原因之一就是內部和睦，有些力量可以對外。」

[編輯] 民間
謝安逝世之後，民間尊奉為神祇，稱為「謝千歲」、「謝聖王」、「謝王公」、「謝老元帥」、「廣惠聖王」、「廣惠尊王」、「廣應尊王」、「顯濟靈王」、「護國尊王」等。[53]。
陳元光軍隊入漳州時，攜帶謝安之香火，並尊奉謝安為「廣惠王」。而廣惠王的信仰，也隨著漳州人來到南洋、台灣等地。[54]。

[編輯] 家庭

[編輯] 兄弟輩
謝安在他的兄弟裡面排行第三，
長兄謝奕，為人不拘小節，有「方外司馬」之稱。
次兄謝據，早亡，子女由謝安撫養。
四弟謝萬，好虛名，曾兵敗被廢為庶人，以散騎常侍卒。
五弟謝石，名將，淝水之戰的主帥。
六弟謝鐵，永嘉太守，生平不詳。
謝安還有位堂兄謝尚。

[編輯] 妻子
謝安妻劉氏，劉惔之妹，機智幽默，謝安和她感情很好，常和她一起議論時事人物。她性格剛強，不許謝安納妾，有名言「周姥撰詩，當無此語」[55][56]。

[編輯] 子侄
謝家子弟均系謝安隱居東山時親自教養，故將其中傑出人物全部列出，不限於謝安之子。
謝道韞，謝奕長女，謝玄之姊，著名才女，被認為有竹林七賢的遺風。[57][58]。
謝玄，謝奕第七子，「封胡羯末」四才子[59]中的「羯」[60]。淝水之戰和北伐的前線指揮者，北府兵的創建者和統帥。
謝朗，謝據之子，「封胡羯末」四才子中的「胡」，早亡[61]。
謝琰，謝安次子，「封胡羯末」四才子中的「末」[62]，淝水之戰的前線將領，戰死。[63]。
謝韶，謝萬之子，「封胡羯末」四才子中的「封」，早亡[64]。

[編輯] 參見

Thoughts

2009-02-13T21:08:00.000-08:00

A close friend of mine called me out the other day. She said that I’ve been complacent with my life. To that, I admit, it is true.

After sitting outside under a brightly lit moon light for what seems to be eternity. I realized that the time for my complacency is over. It is time to man up and face the music. From this moment on, I will view my life for what it “is” and not dwelling on what “could have been” or what “might be”. Present is all that I can control. And I will make the best out of it.

My “presents”.

My family and loved ones, without you, whatever I have, whatever I experienced, would just be meaningless and selfish. Trust me in that I will put you guys above anything else in the world, even myself. What I gave and can give is insignificant when compared to what I have received already. It is my duty as the first son and as a man.

Life. I owe myself the fullest life experience I can create for myself. There is no rewind in life. I’ve been fortunate to have and experience interesting things in my 32 years so far; while it may not be the most exciting from some eyes, it is exciting and makes me feel happy and alive (my trips, my learns from others, my triathlons, my books, my music, and my random observations). I am truly blessed. I will continue to explore and cherish all that life can offer and absorb all these experiences.

Myself. More specifically my needs rather than my wants. Needs, I don’t have much. Wants, I will measure if I deserve them or not for these are only temporarily things.

Winter Solstice

2008-12-23T09:53:00.000-08:00

Sunday was Winter Solstice. From here on, the days will get longer until 6/21/2009 when the day starts to get shorter again.

I am very excited and am looking forward to the longer days, Christmas and the coming new year (hopefully I'll have a house before Spring Equinox).

My Fav Song These Days

2008-12-12T13:59:00.000-08:00

For some reason, this is my favorite song these days...

Doesn't Linda Evangelista look so cool and free??

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTugeLRZ6GI

Nine Promises That Can Bring Happiness

2008-12-09T22:02:00.000-08:00

1. Promise yourself that you will talk health, happiness, and prosperity as often as possible.

2. Promise yourself to make all your friends know there is something in them that is special and that you value.

3. Promise to think only the best, to work only for the best and expect only the best in yourself and others.

4. Promise to be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.

5. Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.

6. Promise to forget the mistake of the past and press on greater achievements in the future.

7. Promise to wear a cheerful appearance at all times and give every person you meet a smile and respect.

8. Promise to give so much time to improve yourself that you have no time to criticize others.

9. Promise to be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit trouble to press on you.

Fast but don't hurry

2008-12-07T12:33:00.000-08:00

I know I often quote Coach Wooden when I am in doubt, and I provide his simple wisdom to my friends when they are trouble or lost in their ways in navigating thru the danger waters of modern day living (in life, love, friendship and career).

It is comforting that deep down inside, I always know and believe in coach wooden’s teachings. The way he tries to simplify things (about life) with his clear and concise messages is very comforting for a sometimes complex man like me. For that, I really finding it comforting.

2008 is almost over. I foresee changes coming my way in 2009. Personally and Professionally. I welcome the challenges because I know I am up for it.

Valkyrie

2008-11-30T10:31:00.000-08:00

www.valkyrie.unitedartist.com

I know my taste is very different from you all. But this is is the movie I have been anticipating for a while. I am definitely going to watch it on the opening weekend, join me for a interesting history lesson if you would like =) I'll be there.

F*&ked up Haircut

2008-11-30T10:22:00.000-08:00

What does "Bu yau tai duan" (Not too short) in proper Madrain Chinese mean to my Cantonese hair stylist?

Apparently it means just the opposite! Freaking honkies, no wonder I can't stand them!!! Now I have to endure one of the absolute worst haircut every in my life for the foreseeable future (picture a Tibetan Monk haircut with a slight hedgehog spike in the front...or in a simpler term, a reverse mullet).

Whatever, hakunamatata. I'll just be less out and about for the next few weeks then.

Finally a good sleep :P

2008-11-29T09:17:00.001-08:00

Had a great night sleep last night and woke up this morning completely refreshed. I don’t feel pensive as the days before. I think some of the anxiety that I’ve been feeling for the past few days stems from me not quite ready and knowing what I need to do in preparation for the changes that are coming (Positive changes that I wanted too). I was clueless. But before I sleep last night, it occurred to me that just like Triathlon training. The trick is all about pacing and step by step plan. If I can stick to the plan and do my part, then the result will be the best that I can get Jß(this is not a redundant sentence, think about it! J)

So here are the plans for today.

On the housing front, I am going to do of some housing in Tustin and Orange Hills area because that is where I want to be.

On the professional front. I do know my strength and weaknesses, as with my team. I will focus on my strength and try to pass it on to the team as much as possible. As for my weaknesses I know successful leadership skill takes time to develop. While I realized that I need to create some distance now, I will be fair in both rewards and discipline.

This is so cool...

2008-11-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

One of the places I must go eat one of these days....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEgn3kClWGs

Rain...

2008-11-25T16:54:00.000-08:00

Is finally starting, signifying changing of the seasons. It is quite fitting too for I foresee some minor changes in my extra ordinary life.

For the past three years, I've been enjoying a nice and quiet life house sitting in Irvine. Yesterday, when I open the door to my living room, I suddenly realized that I need a change in scenary.

So I think it is time.

I know the economy is bad, and the housing market is in the shitters now, but I am going to start soon. Hopefully by 4/1/2009 (my 4 yr anniversary there). I'll have a place of my own.

I will be talking to Mr. Banker and My realtors soon on my options....

I am excited.

Gardening Progress

2008-11-25T09:16:00.001-08:00

I am happy to report that my two mini pots of dwarf sunflower is finally starting to grow. I've been watering them in my Irvine backyard every single morning when I wake up and place them where there's maximum sun exposure, and I think the result is fairly good. My only concern now are the rainy days ahead and the colder night temperature, not to mention the rabbit family that has made my backyard their new home (seriously, I usually see 3 or 4 every morning in my backyard).

Lets hope the plant will grow and bloom to awesome miniture sunflowers!

My kind of player...I'll miss him

2008-11-22T09:08:00.000-08:00

Mike Mussina. He has always been one of my favorite pitcher from his Oriel days and Yankee days, he announced his retirement this week. The best thing about it, he had decided this as early as Jan before the season started, moreover, he went out ON TOP, with his one and only 20 win season (which proves that he still has a lot left in his tank, yes, the velocity of his fast ball may have dropped from the high 90s when he was younger to the low 90s today, he still has that devastating circle change that I will miss dearly).

One thing about Mussina that I like, he's never been a prima donna, always a team player, cerebral in his approach to the game, family man, and a man of chracter. He may has less raw power then Clemens, less flare than Pedro, or less precision and intelligence than Maddux. He, however, blends in everything he does well and make it a successful career out of it.

Final tally of his numbers. 270-153, 3.68 ERA.

Hall of Famer. Lets hope so.

Gardening...

2008-11-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

So I finally decided to rekindle one of the things I enjoyed doing when I was a kid, which is...planting stuffs.

So this weekend, I finally got off my lazy butt and planted some morning glories, some Sunflowers in the garden and in a few pots I bought a while back (I wish I could find more, but I didn't).

The morning glories are deep blue and purple which I have never planted before, but I am very very excited about my Sunflower garden. I bought the Giant type for the yard, the full bloom 8" in diameter kind for the big pot, and some miniture dwarf ones for the small pot. I hope they will grow. With global warming, I don't think I need to worry about frost damage anytime soon...

Panda II

2008-11-08T23:13:00.001-08:00

Speaking of Panda. Kung Fu Panda. is definitely one of the best movie of the year. I am not joking, downloaded today via iTune and I certainly enjoyed it tremendously.

Panda

2008-11-08T20:47:00.000-08:00

Isn't this so awesome!?!

http://www.milanoo.com/en/thing/Adorable-Giant-Panda-Adult-Mascot-Costume-module-item-id-259.html

and for ONLY $149.oo. SO NICE and TOTALLY worth buying since I am completely bored (lying here on my sick bed BTW).

Imagine doing this Jackass episode (less crass and violent I must add) with a few buddies in panda suits to get shits and giggles out of people in their busy and frustrating daily lives....would that be nice :)

http://www.milanoo.com/en/thing/Adorable-Giant-Panda-Adult-Mascot-Costume-module-item-id-259.html

the brilliance is that you can act like a complete moran in the panda suit and people will still LOVE you....

Can of Worm

2008-10-27T12:51:00.000-07:00

My dear friend the Great Master Lee recently kind of opened up a can of worm on his blog entry on proposition 8. People may have different opinions on it, but here is the fundamental thing that I do believe all of us should REALIZE and ABIDE by, as quoted by one of our founding father who is also one of the smartest man in the past millenium.

"Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church & State." - Thomas Jefferson

He is wise isn't he :)

Sunflower

2008-10-24T17:22:00.001-07:00

"The sunflower (Helianthus annuus) is an annual plant in the family Asteraceae and native to the Americas, with a large flowering head (inflorescence). The stem can grow as high as 3 meters, and the flower head can reach 30 cm in diameter with the "large" seeds. The term "sunflower" is also used to refer to all plants of the genus Helianthus, many of which are perennial plants."

I remember when I was in Jr. High, I actually grew a bunch of Sunflowers in my backyard. And I was amazed how big it got. For the past few days, for some strange reason, I am eagerly thinking of planting again. I may pay home depot a visit this weekend to get some pots and seeds.

Malibu

2008-10-19T17:30:00.000-07:00

Wanted to take Do Do and Guai Guai for ride along PCH at Malibu this weekend (inspired by the song of the same name by the band Hole). But unfortunately, we are planting grass at the San Gabriel home this weekend, so I had to stay home today and supervise (The gardeners, whom dad befriended are very nice people and they did a amazing job). Hopefully, by the end of this year, you will see some green grass where Do Do and Guai Guai can play and roll around in.

(it does not look much now, but it will get green I promise you)

As for my Malibu trip, I think our little "dude" roadtrip will be next weekend :)
I think those two will be the best company ever. I hope the weather would be nice enough to roll down the window and just drive and drive. I am so looking forward to it :P

Mental Visualization

2008-10-15T15:53:00.000-07:00

As a visual and acoustical inclined person. I often paint mental imagery and create mental melody in my mind.

I believe that for the things that are within my realm of control, if I can imagine it, if I want it, I can make it happen in reality :P
sound condescending? Not at all. I take joy in making my imagination come to reality. Its the best feeling.

Now, I wanna go kiting and surfing.... (morning surfers at Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel)

Ten Random Thoughts...

2008-10-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

- There is too much Focus on wealth and social status today, these focus are the causes for so much unhappiness in our society today; it is true that wealth and social status are important, but knowing your own self worth is priceless

- A man, a real grown man, should have a inner core belief that is unshakable, unbreakable and unyielding to any circumstances, and this belief is not self encompassing or self serving, but something greater than himself. I am slowly but surely beginning to understand this

- With the current economic downturn, Wouldn't it be nice for government to get involved in creating projects that improves humanity and save our natural environment (especially Tigers and Polar Bears); by sponsoring projects, we not only create jobs, but actually safeguard something worth while for our future generations

- When you find yourself lucky enough to love and care for someone deeply, regardless of what happens, be thankful for that person can actually allow you to have that feeling (You don't have to say the word out loud i am never a believer in saying it for saying it sake, love is a whisper between you and your heart)

- Fall is my favorite season not only for its sentimentality, but also because in about 2 month time, after the winter solstice, day will start to get longer again

- I have become less of a sports fan today then I was 5 or 6 years ago because most of the great sports figure I came to admire are either retired or getting way too old to stay on

- Silence is Golden

- "You can't hold on to anything if you hold your fists tightly, but you sure can hold on to alot of things on the palm of your hands if you just let go a little." AND "You don't have to live your life vicariously throught someone, YOU can be that person if you choose to! but you have to want to" - Two great quotes I heard recently

- When you try to run as fast as you can on the track nowadays, just remember, NOT to give 110% since at our age now, you can easily pull something and injure yourself, you don't want that set back! So when excercising, just give about 85% to 90%

- Read more. But also think about what you read and develop independent thinking

I think that is ten already....

Soup....

2008-10-09T09:01:00.001-07:00

So, Here is what's left of my tasty short rib winter Mellon soup that I made on Monday.

What happened you asked? Well, I was very tired yesterday after a good workout, and after watching one of the BEST Southpark season premier ever, I found myself dozing off on my sofa and completely forgot that I was heating up the soup.

So around 2:30AM, I was waken up by the burning smell and a smoke filled house, and this is the by product.

Lesson learned: Never cook something when you are tired and never leave the stove on when you are napping...

Cufflinks...

2008-10-08T16:56:00.000-07:00

I am facinated with Cufflinks these days. So I bought a few Cufflink shirts from Brooksbrothers the other day. The selections in Brooksbrothers actually fit me quite well (they have a great selection of slim fits for active men like me). So this winter, don't be surprised if you see me decked out in more formal attires such as cufflink shirts (no bling blings), scarfs, and maybe, even is suits on occassions, I will give you guys a old fashion gentlemanly greeting too.

Fitting for a day like today...

2008-10-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

Fitting for a day like today isn't it.

Blast up the volume and just enjoy, with a cup of coffee or tea by the window would be nice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vg1jyL3cr60

Enjoy

Ninja

2008-10-01T11:45:00.001-07:00

This has been plastered all over the internet, but I can't help but laughing at it everytime I watch this video.

http://video.yahoo.com/network/100284668?v=3510825&l=3774740

(P.S. how do I post the actual video on the blog???)

Death to my favorite...

2008-09-28T16:13:00.001-07:00

Last year, to my happy surprise, I discovered a Quiznos Sub near my home home in San Gabriel. Knowing how RARE it is to find a Quiznos Sub in that neighborhood, I would visit there every Sunday and order myself a peppercorn steak sub. And because I am such a regular there the owner actually know what I am going to order everytime I am there, and we would even chit chat a little about life and other stuffs as I wait for my tasty sub.

Well, today, as I made my way to it, looking forward to my peppercorn steak sub, to my surprise. The place closed down!

What a bummer. I guess my effort to keep the place afloat did not work....sigh*

Quote of wisdom

2008-09-17T11:54:00.000-07:00

"If you let go of what you are, you may become what you may be"

--Lao Tsu

I heard this on the radio today, though it is very abstract, it instantly has a profound impact on my outlook on things.

Mid Autumn moon festival

2008-09-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

Today is the traditional Chinese “Mid Autumn Moon Festival” It is regarded as the 2nd most important holiday in Chinese Culture behind the Lunar New Years. To me, however, Autumn moon festival is actually my favorite holiday, even more so than Chinese New Years.

The thing you are suppose to do for the Mid Autumn moon festival, according to Chinese tradition, is to have Grapefruits, Moon Cakes, and Tea and sit outside on a clear night to watch the moon and compose poetry. So much for modernity, not many people do that anymore. But I’ve always had this romantic feeling that this will be a tradition I start again, for me and my family.

One of my favorite memories of my childhood was a particular “Mid Autumn Moon Festival” about 22 years ago. I remember that year, all of my family were together, and we spent a very peaceful and quiet night on a clear early autumn night on the roof of out house in GuanHsi. I remember, my mom, dad (who had just returned home from Guam that year), and three sisters were all very excited for that particular day not only because it was a first time in a long time that the family members were together, but also because we had planned a family gathering on the roof to watch the moon for a while. I remember we had tea, grapefruits and lots of moon cakes, though no poetry, but the moon was still very bright and calm that night.

I hope, this tradition will be passed on to the future Chen generations for years to come, and I think, I’ll start writing poetries too (need to get my Chinese level back to what it was before).

I am currently reading...

2008-09-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

"Blood and Oil" by Michael Klare.

I came across this book, which is part of the 4 book "American Empire Project" series a few month ago as I browsed thru the rarely visted section of my favorite book store. and I must say this is a great read:

Since the tragic events of September 11 and the commencement of the "war on terror," the relationship between U.S. policy in the Middle East and the oceans of crude oil that lie beneath the region's soil has come under close scrutiny. In Blood and Oil, international security expert Michael T. Klare traces oil's impact on foreign affairs from World War II to the present, arguing that America's oil-influenced military actions will only increase in the coming years. By 2020, the United States will need to import twice as much fuel per year as it did in 1990, and since most of this oil will come from chronically unstable, strongly anti-American regions -- the Gulf, the Caspian Sea, and Africa -- recurrent involvement in violent conflcit is sure to follow.
With clarity and urgency, Blood and Oil delineates the United States' predicament: America's wells are drying up even as its demand increases, while anti-American fervor is building in the world's oil-rich nations. It is time, Klare cautions, to change our energy policies, before we spend the next decades paying for oil with blood.

By no mean am I trying to recommend this book to influence political or social views of my fellow readers, I am, as I have been for the past several years, merely an observer. And this book, and the others in the series, do provide interesting perspective about our world in general. In a very clear and concise way.

Highly recommended. Or if my readers out there are ever interested (highly doubtful), I will give you my 1/2 hour summary when I see you you guys next, either in our tea time, happy hour, or dinner.

New Blog template

2008-09-09T12:58:00.000-07:00

With so many recent self realization and discoveries, I think it is only appropriate to do something new. and this includes changing my blog template. For some reason, this one draws my attention the most. Hope my fellow readers would like it =)

Reading

2008-09-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

I almost forgot how much I used to read, and enjoyed reading. I used to read so much as a child that I would not eat or sleep until I finish every new book that my mom and dad bought me. And I would tone everyone around me out until I am done with the book too (as seen in the picture above). These past few days, as I spent more time with my folks and rediscovered things I had forgotten about my childhood, I am also rediscovering the joy of reading.

So last night, after walking with my parents after dinner, I picked up a book, loaded my ipod with relaxing jazz and classical music, and just read.

I think I am going to make this a more regular habit from now on.

My Saturday morning

2008-09-06T12:13:00.000-07:00

Yes. This is what I've been doing on Saturdays lately. Shopping with my mom :(

Today, we are in Costcos, particularly in the VITAMINS aisle.

see my mom below -->

she is getting pretty good nevigating around Costco, but as usual, she is comparing EVERY single spec and price on what seemingly to be ALL the vitamin in Costco (I think she's gonna to buy them all too). Sigh*

But I do enjoy these things a bit more now. like our early morning walk today, and Costco shopping trip. I view this a a training on how to be a better son (we talk alot about life today), and also a pre-training on how to be a better family man when it is my time to start a family of my own.

Nuevo Tango

2008-09-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

Recently, I am facinated by Nuevo Tango style of music (the artist shown above is one of the best known artist in Nuevo Tango, Astor Piazzolla). And my friend, after hearing some of the tunes I play for her when she was over for dinner the other night also fell in love with this music form (and the fusion version of it with the likes of Gotan Project, or the collaberation with Yo Yo Ma etc.).
Anyway, to me, this music form is very soothing and relaxing. Great to just chill in the living room with reading a book or just do nothing.
I think when we have time in the next couple of month, we are going to start exloring saloons or bars with this musical form. Hope we can find one in LA/OC area.

Booo :(

2008-08-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

Got a call from my mom this evening. Turns out that she is actually thinking of cutting her stay this time in the State a bit shorter! And the reason is that one of my cousin is getting married and she wants to head back home to Guanhsi and "helpout" with the wedding planning (seriously, what is there to help out with...)

Anwayways, this is a SUPER bumming news for me. I actually had some great plans to spend quality times with my dear mommy for the next few month (yeah, call me mama's boy, but as I get older, I actually do enjoy spend time with her talking about life, or nothing in general, and our Saturday morning walks near the Huntington Library... despite her nagging :))

Well, since she is seriously thinking of heading back to the old country early, I am thinking the least I can do, to show my appreciation for her, is to buy her something NICE (within my financial means that is, since I know I'll be a proud home owner soon).

It helps that I am finally getting my Q2 bonus check the day after tomorrow, so I think I'll have some healthy spending money hee hee :P

So my dear readers, I need suggestions? (I know what i am gonna get my dad already....the sofa at home is pretty chewed up by my two senior citizen dogs, so it is time to buy a new sofa....despite my artistic dad's incomprehensible attachment to that piece of S$%t :P)

As for mommy I am thinking of the following:

1) Something nice but not too showy from Tiffany's (she is a very modest lady, never liked to wear anything brand name in her life, but I still want to get her some bling blings) what do you think?

2) A standard "Chinese Woman" LV bag? (I know every OTHER Chinese women that I know has one, but still :)

3) United States quarter collection (she gets a kick out of collectings quarters from all states...go figure) I'll get her this FOR FREE fore sure, its just an added bonus :P

4) Fly her first class for her next trip back to LA?

hummmm....so hard to decide. your feedbacks are welcomed.

iPhone

2008-08-24T11:55:00.000-07:00

I know, I know... this is a hippie tree hugger gadget. But my Blackberry Pearl DIED this weekend, and since my contract with T-Mobile had expired since July, I decided to check this thing out and find out what all the hype is all about....

So far....not bad, but the 3G network is a little slow.

Oh, I have also lost all my contact info since it was not stored in the SIM card but in the Pearl. May need to dig out some old phone to get all your contacts back.

Feel Good Inc.

2008-08-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

For some strange reason, I can't get enough of this song. And yes, it is my ring tune.

Guess who I am in the video=)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eH1UmMu3R7o

Thoughts for this dog days of summer (2008)

2008-08-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

I am officially annoyed with the US and UK media coverage on the Beijing Olympics. Seems to me they are working extra hard to find things to criticize about the Beijing Olympics. For the US, it is obvious that there's a sense of uneasiness that someone is beginning to, and will, challenge the state of Paxy Americana that was created since the fall of USSR. For the UK, (well, even though that country really don't matter anymore), the proud Brits are still the host for the 2012 London Olympics. And they must be thinking, man, how can I do better. Can they do better? I hope so, since I am always open for the idea of a grand Olympic show; and we all know how the Brits can throw a good party i.e. the HK farewell party in '96 :P Well, Iam hoping to see Queen Elizabeth as the torch bearer (hopefully for her majesty's sake, not in a wheel chair), and those Brits better start popping up more spice girls to boost their GDP to support the 2012 Olymics. I say...about 10% of UKs total domestic GPD would be suffice for a nice party.
Georgia. Humm, where do I start. Can you say "PAYBACK IS A BITCH"? I think Vladimir has been waiting for for a long long time. Ukraine in NATO hurts like your first love cheating on you, but it happens, and you can only hope that she'll come back one day. But Georgia joining NATO (under a US backed government BTW), that must feel like your pet dog that you raised running away to the neibor's house and bite you in the ass. That must have hurt. Well, at least today there is apparantly a seize fire, which i am glad. But what about the current regime? what role will US play in this since G Gubba just got called out....In any event, I am observing this closely, and hope for peace...soon.
Obama vs. Mcain. Overhyped vs. Over the hill. I really don't care who wins since we are all demoricans anyway. Just reduce my tax and make me richer I am happy.

WOW. I still suck, but man, when is the Return of Lich King coming out???

Kiehl's Products...

2008-08-10T16:41:00.000-07:00

For no reason, my friend bought me a set of Kiehl’s facial products (for men) this week because she said she is starting to notice that I am beginning to develop some “bird claw” wrinkles around my eyes and that with my active outdoor life style, it is better to start taking care of my skin so I won’t end up like a dried up plum when I am 45….

Anywho, I started to use these products this morning (of which I don’t know how to use ½ of them). I must say, the experience was actually quite refreshing; a little tingly, a little gay, but not bad at all. I am feeling dapper already hahahaha

Pride

2008-08-09T17:40:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's opening ceremony was amazing. I hope you all get a chance to watch it. I am very proud!

Future Photographer!?

2008-08-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Recently, to my surprise, I discovered that my friend has become quite an amature photographer. Everytime we hang out, she would bust out her Leica camera (which I semi bartered for her btw) and arrange things around her and take some artsy fartsy photos. I must say, the quality has gone up in the past few month :P Good job keep it up.
Here are some samples of her work, check it out. ( I think if she continues to improve, I am going to frame some of her photos for my future new house...tee hee)

Electric Rap???

2008-08-04T12:33:00.001-07:00

Heard this song in my friend's car Sat.

LOL, Electric Rap? nice.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpbeTDorgNk

The more things change, the more they stay the same

2008-08-02T21:49:00.000-07:00

(2002 summer)

Recently, I saw a facebook picture of my friend taken from the nearly the exact same spot as the one above. The picture not only brings back nostalgia of a simpler, more adventurous time in my life, but it also makes me realize that our lives, compare to the Great Sphinx and the Pyramid, is flashing us by before we know it; and as I race thru my 30s chasing the things I wanted, cared for, believe in, whether planned or dreamt, it is important, I think, to remind myself that, yes the curiousity and desire to adventure and explore is still within me and that I can and will find the "moment" to do whatever I wish when the time comes calling :)

So, Namibia, Skeleton Coast from the desert to the sea with music of Erasure and a open top jeep with a blue moon as the backdrop....I will be there and do that one day. It is in my vision :)

Razors...

2008-07-24T05:01:00.001-07:00

My dad has this bad habit of not changing razor blade until he absolutely has to (usually one to two month). It always annoys me to see that everytime I come home to San Gabriel (Imagine how much burn you would feel shaving with a not-so-sharp razor blade). Despite leaving BAGS and BAGS of Gillette Quattro at his bathroom, he would just not change it himself, so one of the thing I would do every time I come home is to change his razor blade for him....

But, I had a epiphany this morning (ya, i know its early, but I am going to go catch a flight to San Jose in about an hour). Why not just buy a automatic one and plug it in his bathroom. Being a tech curious person, I think he'd figure it out :)

So I think I am going to go look for a good automatic shaver this weekend....preferably something that looks cool and flashy so it would at least entice him to try to figure it out!

Posers...

2008-07-21T22:46:00.000-07:00

Went to workout at my friend's gym at Newport earlier tonight. It was the first time I actually worked out at that 24 hour fitness, and I just can't believe how many POSERS there are in that gym! Even worse than Irvine! The whole experience just makes me laugh and reaffirmed why I never hang around in the gym that much (45 min x2 light weight training, in and out, and I am done).

I can't stand gym posers. Are they really athletes or enjoy what they are doing? maybe, but I can gurantee you that in today's gym. the population I would actually consider athletic and in tune with their body is less than 5% :P

Feel Good Story of the day - Journey

2008-07-14T13:01:00.000-07:00

Nice story :) Go Arnel! I might go check him out!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89_2UivtEhs

BoA!

2008-07-14T12:35:00.001-07:00

I have officially becoming A FAN of BoA! She is extremely talented and comfortable on the stage (see the youtube videos below).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-pvS0kfrFbo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziaW0D80Nh4&feature=related

for some reason, she also looks so much like one of my sister's friend in the video...trippy :)

Back from Vacation

2008-07-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks,

After 10 exciting days in Korea, I am finally back and ready to get back in action. The trip was a great one (pictures to follow) and I have definitely figured alot of things out and gained a better perspective about Korea...and life.

Here are some of the things I've learned about myself and will follow from this day on:

1. Be more honest and decisive about my feelings, especially to myself. As that Neyo song goes, I am not dumb, just lack a little common sense :)

2. Live each and every day to the fullest and with no regret; and focus in present and the future for those are the only things you can control

3. Treat the ones you truely cared for with love, kindness and respect, no matter what

4. When writing diaries each night, only write about the positive things you've gained for that day; don't write down and go to sleep with any negative thoughts

Greetings from Korea

2008-06-30T02:36:00.000-07:00

Well folks,

just want to say a quick hi to everyone back in the states. it has been quite a fun trip so far =) hectic but good fun. i am definitely enjoying myself here hanging out with the boys. in fact, we are currently having a overdue r&r in jeju island (the hawaii of korea...but 15 degrees colder) chilling before heading back to seoul tomorrow.

i miss you all, especially marvin (and his mom=p) and i'll see you all soon.

My Vacation

2008-06-25T12:55:00.001-07:00

Going on a little 1o day personal vacation to the far East tonight with the boys. This is a long over due FUN trip with the guys. I'll try my best to recharge myself and I am sure when I return, I'll figure more things out and have more conviction about the things I want in life =)

iPOD

2008-06-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

I am beginning to become a Apple hater now! Last week, my 80GB iPOD classic stopped working. initially, I thought it was just a short circuit, so I put it in a plastic bag and put it in the fridge. But it still didn't work.

So today, I finally went to Best Buy where I purchased it, and they sent me to Apple Store, who then said that I would need to make an "Appointment" to see the iPOD specialist to get it fix (it is just a HARD DRIVE)....

Anyway, I am now uber pissed... but more importantly, how am I going to keep myself entertained for my upcoming trip? What will I be listening to as I walk the streets and lay on the beach in a foreign land!?!?

Why I like cycling!

2008-06-21T19:25:00.001-07:00

Just kidding! (not)

But here are some other reasons why I like cycling:

It is the most efficient form of human transportation without polluting the earth (horse riding don't count since you have to feed the horse and it is the horse that is helping you get from point A to point B)
You can only go as fast as you can peddle, and the road will bring out everyone's strengh and weaknesses
On solo ride, it is the best time for self reflecting. Just you, the sun, the wind, and the road (and alot of wather and sweat)
On group rides, it is the best time for male bonding. I always find cycling with my friends the time we talk about what matters for us guys at that moment in life, I wish more if my friends would ride
It is a great way to get your rush on. Get that natural high by going 45 to 50 mph downhill. And it is all YOU.

Summer

2008-06-20T22:36:00.000-07:00

Today is the first day of summer. and it was unbearably hot so I left work early. On the drive back home down to Irvine, I came across a old man riding his bike on the side walk. And that got me started thinking on just how much I used to enjoy riding bikes on nice summer days (bad example as it was over 95 degrees still at 5PM in Irvine).

So, as soon as I got home, I dusted off my bike and started riding. I did not know where I was going and I did not care. I just felt that even it was hot as hell outside, I just wanted to ride somewhere....

so the next thing I knew, after two hours on the bike, I went thru Culver, Newport Coast Drive, up the hill, down the hill, thru PCH, thru Newport bay, back on Harvard, thru Tustin and ended in the intercection between Jamberee and Santiago Canyon.
Then I realized that I am absolutely exhausted and I could not ride home...so I slowly, slowly rolled my bike home.

I did not know why I did what I did today. But during the journey, as physically draining as it was, it gave back a sense of feeling that I had not experienced in a long time. A sense of tranquillity.

Well, now I am officially having a heat stroke (as I lay on my bed drinking wintermellon drinks to cool off). It hurts, but it felt good :)

My Bad Dreams....

2008-05-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

Just came back from a 3 day meeting with a supplier from San Jose. The meetings were quite evenful and productive and I learned a few things about that particular company's culture and direction for the US market. I think they will be a force to be reckon with in the future.

For some reason, I did not sleep well during the trip. And even after I got home last night, I still could not fall asleep. Worst of all, I also had a terrible dream that kept me up from around 4:00AM till the morning.

Needless to say, I am a but grumpy today.... Can't wait till the weekend to start :P I needed some R&R :P

My Summer Meeting

2008-05-17T23:33:00.000-07:00

In Cancun!

Can you believe it? I was sent over there last week for a four day conference. Supposedly it is one of the best resort in all of Cancun (http://www.realresorts.com.mx/The_Royal_Cancun/).

Despite the hectic meeting schedule for the first day. I was able to squeeze in some nice R&R with a friend. We had a pretty chilled time (pics to follow).

I especially enjoyed the speedboat ride at the lagoons and the trip to the Mayan ruin of Chitchen itza (again, more photos to follow). It totally blew me away.

now, back to the good old states, I am thankful for the trip and am definitely getting a better perspective about my state of life now.

http://www.realresorts.com.mx/The_Royal_Cancun/

2008-05-07T10:39:00.000-07:00

I was fortunate enough to attend Alcia Key's concert this past Sunday. It was one of the better concert experience I have had in quite awhile. Even though the sound system at the Honda center was a bit suspect, but I still had A TON of fun for the night :P

Here are some of the highlights of the night:

1. "No One" with all of us singing along and waving our hands. "No One" is one of my favorite Alicia song and her performance really inspired me. I KNOW she was singing to ME directly and telling ME never give up on what I believe in :)

2. Acoustic encore performance of "If I ain't got you" with a white piano. It was a powerful and soulful song and I was definitely feeling her BABY.

3. Our "Almost winning" of a pair of front roll seats with the sponsors. It would have been cool, but just being a honorable mention was exciting enough for me.

4. And last but not least, seeing the joy and sparkle in my ghetoo ass concert dates eyes when Ne-yo came on to perform the opening act. I thought that was cool. Even when there were two nordic women blocking her from a awesome view (well as awesome as two $49 tickets can buy)

Okay, that was my concert update. I will be in Cancun tomorrow for a work conference. I think there is only one meaningless meeting on Friday. For the remaining time, I'll try my best to chill on the beach with a friend :P I think we'll have a blast.

My Mexican Guava Icecream...

2008-05-01T16:24:00.000-07:00

My coworker always raves about how good the ice cream tastes from a particular ice cream cart pushers who would pass by our office every single day. She would always say that the ice cream is NO ORDINARY ice cream, and way better than any of those "pink berry craps". More specifically, of the TWO trollie pushers, only the one being sold by a older Mexican lady tastes good.

so after hearing about this for DAYS. we decided to take a little advanture and try to hunt down this awesome "ice creamer". After driving a few laps around the bloc. We found our favorite ice craemer and bought 10 pieces from her...

She was estatic that she promise to stop by our office every single day between 2 to 3 now :P

seeing the smile on her face made my day :)

My Conviction...

2008-04-30T22:39:00.001-07:00

Is that for me and the ones I so care for, That there will be HAPPINESS. I will stand by this conviciton no matter what. Sure there will be troubles and bumps along the road. But make no doubts about it. There will be Happiness, serenity, content and true love. and I am willing to wage my everything for this conviction :P

My constant companions...

2008-04-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

Whenever I need relaxation, inspiration, and direction.

I know and I can always count two companions to be there. They've been with me since my childhood, and they have always been there for me. Their alias are M and L.

Well, who are M and L? Let me tell you:

M, her name is Music. And she's the most joyful, mellow, happy (sad) complex (simple) simple companion I have ever had. She could be quite fickle sometimes, but through out the years, She has evolved somewhat, I still remember every moments I spent with her whether its analyzing the verse and the hook; exchanging ideas about what can be improved (if any) or simly just listen. I enjoy every single bit of it.
As for L, his name is Literature. A bit different from M. L has always been complex and not always good natured. But what I do appreciate about L is the fact that what he has to offer. if I apply his suggestions correctly, he can bring me tangible value and equip me with what I need in my constant desire to progress and improve.

Well, I am sure you guys also have your M and L in your life :P take sometime and ask them out yeah :)?

Tonight, M is showing me the bluesy side of Eric Clapton and this new pop sensation Leona Lewis from UK and I am trying to finish up on L's offer of "Blue Ocean Strategy"

my Rock Band...

2008-04-25T01:42:00.000-07:00

Isn't it funny that it is now close to two o clock and I cannot fall asleep. Was in a friends house tonight and we cofounded a wii rockstar band call "Useless Skin" ( for some strange reason, I am assigned as the female drummer called Emma..go figure, picture to come shortly). We are a grunge style rockband from Seattle and by the end of the night, we've won over 200 fans....

Anywho, Rockstar is such a FUN game! I can't remember the last time I concentrated so much in a video game before...

After rocking out to the Stones, The Whos and Led Zepplins, till the wee hours, I somehow found myself home (not sure how i did it...since I was both exhausted and intoximcated).

Well, now that I am more clear headed Mr. Bull (I had no idea what I was typing at my friends place when I wrote the draft for this blog, and yes, I do have a terrible headache now), I can tell you that what is going thru in my mind nowadays, a sense of uncertainty but excitement for what's to come in the coming month...

It just seems that there's something that I can't just quite let go...lifestyle, my current comfort zone, fear of challenges etc. etc. maybe....

but I will definitely take the next two month to sort out everything out...

My at ease...

2008-04-24T10:04:00.000-07:00

I feel at ease these days. I would like to believe that this is the byproduct of my recent self-realization. But I also know that it would take concious effort to maintain this newfound freedom. Lets just take it one step at a time.

For the coming seasons, here are some of the areas (professionally and personally) that I would like to improve upon:

1) How to be a wiser, better, effective and efficient manager. There are so many things I just realized that I still need to learn in the business world to move to the next level in my career.

2) How to maintain this feeling of "at ease"

My learning...

2008-04-21T09:58:00.000-07:00

Over the past two weeks, I have learned three very important life lessons that have definitely helped me grown as a person. I have learned:

Everything matters should start with "me". Happiness, Sadness, Joy, frustration, etc. etc. are all in MY mind set and within my control. Everything else, I have no rights or the need to worry.

In relation to the first point. Never ever have expectations and sucumb to the tendency of co-dependency with anything or anyone. Expecations creates co-dependency that leads the elements of negative feelings if these expecations were not met. No expectations. No excuses and live life independently. And that is the path to true maturity.

Action speaks louder than words. What I do will dictate what I am more than what I say.

My Fav Youtube video

2008-04-20T13:51:00.001-07:00

Called "The last lecture"

I came across this video after the jellyfish told me about it.
Enjoy :P

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo

my little booger...

2008-04-17T22:34:00.001-07:00

Nothing much to write about today so I thought it's a good time to write about a little booger at work who constantly cracks me up and keeps me amused.

This little booger is funny in a sense that she actually shares the same interest as I do for stupid geeky toys, and it absolutely cracks me up when we went to Frank and Sons the other day.
I am also pretty impressed with her imagination (crass as it may be) and artistic mind and it would crack me up constantly.

Anyway, I can't wait till next Wed when Frank and Sons opens again and we can drop some SERIOUS bucks on useless collectable toys.

keep the sense of humor Roger! ^^

My Middle Sister...

2008-04-16T23:32:00.001-07:00

It's my "middle" sister Jen's birthday today. Happy Birthday Jen.

you are always the sister that I feel is the strongest yet the most vulnerable (oximoran). But what I do know is that you will be all right. Just remember what you are capable of!!! (I am totally serious about it) and that I know, and I believe that you of all the sisters is the one that can do ANYTHING you want as long as you wanted....

have fun in Thailand with mom :P love ya

P.S. I'll be all right, just feeling a bit meloncholy and overly caring about something (one) I know will be all right :P

Wishes...

2008-04-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes,

I wish I can have the combined powers of my fav TV characters. like a a la carte renaissance man. And these are the talents I would like to have:

1) A super and happy go lucky doctor like Dr Dorian from the TV Show Scrubs so I can cure my friend's recent ailments while amuze her with silly adolescence jokes

2) A cool traveling journalist/cook like Anthony Bourdain who truely appreciates (and can make) great food and alcohol

2) A charasmatic orator like Eric Cartman so people can respect my authoratay and do things MY WAY

4) A survivalist like Bear Grylls so If I am ever in a situation where I need to make a bread out of a muddy

Wishful thinkings? or NOT?

Stop

2008-04-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was caught for a rolling stop in the lovely City of Industry (with the lovely Tupac California lovin' playing in the backgroup). Maybe, just maybe, they should make the stop signs more humorous so people will pay more attention, like me :(

Cofee Bean

2008-03-31T20:47:00.001-07:00

So, where else can you find great tasting coffee and tea at reasonable prices?

At the Coffee Bean

So where else can you find inviting atomosphere that is relaxing and sophisticated?

At the Coffee Bean

And whereelse can you find free internet connection and great lounge/Indy music?

At the Coffee Bean

So today, I decided to revisit my Fav local coffee bean that I use to go every single day when I was working down here in Irvine....ahhhhh
brings back the memories :P