San Fran ♥ Belfast

Fighting For My Mom...

2011-11-28T19:51:00.004Z

LUNG CANCER AWARENESS MONTH IS ALMOST OVER yet not a peep has been said about it. This is my desperate attempt to ask you to join me in the fight for lung cancer research. Please visit my perfume blog for more info on my personal plight or you can donate directly to the LUNGevity Foundation.

My mother's life and thousands of others affected by this awful disease depend on donors like you. Please help me and others join the fight for lung cancer research!

Visit my perfume blog (My Scentiments Exactly!): A Perfumer Fights For Cancer and Brings Hope in a Bottle: Tallulah Jane NYC Hope Eau de Parfum

Or you can donate directly to the LUNGevity Foundation.

Thank you!

Happy Thanksgiving.

2011-11-25T01:29:00.003Z

Where Have You Been???

2011-11-22T18:55:00.004Z

Been up to nothing much. Spending as much time with my mother as I can. Her health is declining and it is painful to watch.

On the blogosphere, I've been escaping into perfume and writing about it. My collection of perfumes were just sitting there waiting to be sniffed so I decided to write reviews and post them on the internet. I've discovered that I love exploring the smelly side of life and it is helping me hone and improve my creative writing skills.

Check it out if you are interested in perfumes or smelly things for that matter. I would love to gather with like-minds.

My Scentiments Exactly! http://olfactoryobsessed.wordpress.com

Feeling Abandoned

2011-10-11T00:54:00.006+01:00

My mother is currently not under treatment for her lung cancer because of a bad side effect with her chemotherapy. She has been in and out of hospital the month of September. She is on a break until she starts a new regimen. Everyone in my family is on edge and frightened what the next step is.

Anyways, I just logged on facebook and read all about how my friends have been hanging out together and having a great time. I feel sad. They know my situation with my mother. The last time I talked to them was when my mom was diagnosed. I haven't heard a peep from them since, despite my several attempts to reach out. I guess they don't want to be bummed.

I feel abandoned and lonely and disappointed my friends would react this way. I was there for them and supported them when they were in need. People say it's not their fault, they are just uncomfortable and don't know what to say. That it's not their fault that they are living their lives and most of them probably can't even comprehend losing a parent. But is that really a friend?

I have been friends with them since grammar school and I am shocked that they would react this way. I don't know if I can ever forgive and forget. At the moment, I just want to sever ties.

I'm lonely and I have no friends. My mother has stage IV lung cancer. My husband is 5K miles away when I need his support more than ever and I won't see him for 10 months because that's how long the visa approval takes.

Life is shit right now.

Bit By the Zumba Bug!

2011-09-12T20:10:00.002+01:00

Our Wedding in a Nutshell

2011-09-08T20:35:00.009+01:00

Our wedding was small, only 40 people. It was at a quaint, charming victorian house built in 1890, a bed and breakfast in Benicia. We got married in the garden. Our reception was on the premisis. We didn't have to decorate much since the place was beautiful already. The ceremony was 30 minutes. We did a handfasting. Since Craig is Ulster Scots, we incorporated this tradition into the ceremony. My mother tied chords of the color of the Philippine flag and Craig's mom tied the colors of the McKay family tartan around our hands while my Maid of Honor recited this blessing:

“These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and full of love for you, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as you promise to love each other today, tomorrow, and forever.

These are the hands that will work alongside yours, as together you build your future.

These are the hands that will passionately love you and cherish you through the years, and with the slightest touch, will comfort you like no other.

These are the hands that will hold you when fear or grief fills your mind.

These are the hands that will countless times wipe the tears from your eyes; tears of sorrow, and as in today, tears of joy.

These are the hands that will tenderly hold your children, the hands that will help you to hold your family as one.

These are the hands that will give you strength when you need it.

And lastly, these are the hands that even when wrinkled and aged, will still be reaching for yours, still giving you the same unspoken tenderness with just a touch.”

We didn't have a traditional reception. No first dance, speeches, cheezy music, or doing the conga. Although we did hire an acoustic guitarist playing classical music in the ceremony (I marched down the aisle to Pachelbel's Canon in D) ; brazilian music and flamenco music during the reception. We just hung out together with family and friends like it was Thanksgiving. Food was cooked by the chef in the small kitchen and served buffet style 2 types of salads, sauteed green beans, garlic mashed potatoes, poached salmon, and prime rib. It was lovely and delicious. The cake was simple and elegant. It was round two tier with scottish heather piping and fresh florals of all shades of purple, white, and green on top. The flavor was an Irish cream cake, a white cake with Bailey’s Irish Cream and Mint-Milk Chocolate Mousse filling. The cake was delicious, moist and not sickenly sweet. Everyone took an extra piece home with them.

At the closing of the reception, my aunt arranged a traditional hula dancer and her husband singing and accompanying on the ukele. They came all the way from Hawaii. The dance and song piece was about a man and woman in a long distance relationship. After a long time separated from each other by the sea, they were reunited again.

Craig and I were pleased how our wedding turned out with only 2 weeks of planning. This is exactly the way we wanted it. Lowkey and no fanfare. Our day was perfect and we were so happy to share this special day with our family and friends.

It's My Mom's Birthday

2011-09-04T17:57:00.002+01:00

I wished her happy birthday this morning. She's 79. I asked her what she wanted to do today and she said she just wants to stay in bed and watch tv. I think she is depressed because she is thinking this may be her last.

I don't know how to make this day pleasant for her, at least have her enjoy her day and have her forget about her cancer for once. She doesn't want to do anything.

Happy Birthday, Mom. I love you!

Good News Today!

2011-08-30T22:21:00.002+01:00

My mom had her follow up MRI and the result show no new brain tumors. The brain tumors she had 3 months ago have shrunk. Her CT Scan shows tumor shrinkage in her lungs.

Oncologist will continue her chemo at a lower dose.

Happy, happy days!

My Mother Has Lung Cancer

2011-08-25T05:48:00.006+01:00

The reason for my lack of posts. Been debating since April to post about my mother's diagnosis. She has Stage IV lung cancer. At first I was shocked and devastated. We didn't see it coming, it was like being hit with a mac truck. She never smoked in her entire life. She took good care of herself. Ate healthy, went to the gym. It was hard to comprehend and I was constantly asking the question, "Why her?".

So basically, if you have lungs, you can get lung cancer. And I hate the barrage of questions that people ask one of them being, "Did she smoke?". As if she deserved what was coming to her.

I am trying to be hopeful but reading the statistics don't help. In April, the doctor said without treatment she has 6 months to live, with treatment 14 months. I quit my job, I dropped out of school to spend the remaining time with my mother and to help her fight for her life. In a panic, I moved up my wedding from July 2012 to May 2011. I planned my wedding in 2 weeks. And I didn't care about matching napkins, or centerpieces, even my dress! I just wanted my mom to be there. Weddings are supposed to be the happiest day of your life marrying your best friend, but I wasn't the blissful bride knowing that this may be my last major life event my mom will attend. It was a bittersweet day but I'm glad my mom was well enough to participate and the look on her face while I was walking down the aisle was priceless. I'm glad I was able to give this gift to her. But the day was emotionally confusing for me.

She was in the hospital last week. It scared us. And the question in the back of my mind, will she come home? Luckily, she pulled through and did come home. We learned that her chemo is working and there is no progression of her cancer, just stable, no change. On the downside, the chemo is damaging her organs.

This is the thing about cancer. You are filled with uncertainty and waiting for the other shoe to drop. Hope for the best, expect the worst.

Cancer sucks. It has terrorized my family. My carefree, innocent days are over. I get to witness my mom in pain and there's not a damn thing I can do about it. I never thought it was humanly possible to produce so many tears. My life has changed forever.

Identity Crisis

2011-07-12T03:31:00.000+01:00

Ulsterman in California: The Official Trailer!

2011-06-24T05:29:00.001+01:00

Ulsterman in California

2011-06-23T17:27:00.003+01:00

Tune in for more vids at Ulsterman in California

Wedding Video Message

2011-05-27T18:06:00.001+01:00

This is a cute wedding video message from my cousin in Los Angeles. He couldn't make it. The video brought a tear to my eye! Awwww!

We Got Married!!!!

2011-05-25T06:58:00.002+01:00

Shankill Butchers - The Decembrists

2011-04-10T06:36:00.000+01:00

Click here for the story of the Shankill Butchers

Ali G. in Northern Ireland

2011-04-05T06:16:00.003+01:00

This is hilarious! I love it!

True Love

2011-03-30T23:54:00.004+01:00

Craig and I went camping in the California Redwoods last summer. I had really bad diarrhea that whole weekend. I'd have pooh attacks around 2am, sometimes twice in the middle of the night.

I kept waking him up to go to the bathroom with me because I was scared to go alone in the dark and afraid of the bears. He would wakeup without any complaints and wait for me outside the bathroom. He just thinks it was funny.

Definitely a sign he loves me a lot. He's a keeper.

This is not the California that you envision when someone says 'California'

Yay or Nay: Maple Bacon Sundae

2011-03-27T08:19:00.005+01:00

The Maple Bacon Sundae at Denny's features maple flavored syrup, vanilla ice cream, and "a generous sprinkle of our diced hickory-smoked bacon."

This a Food Version of the Irish Car Bomb

2011-03-24T21:42:00.004Z

ONLY IN SF: Irish Car Bomb: Sliced Corned Beef, Cabbage, Pepper Jack, and Jalapeno Bacon. Today only, while supplies last.(via)

Asians Need to Learn to Be Polite And Have Some Manners

2011-03-17T22:27:00.005Z

Alexandra Wallace, a caucasian UCLA student had filmed a youtube clip ranting about Asians who use their cellphones in the library. As a UCLA alum and an Asian, I find this hilarious and entertaining that such ignorance is on blatant display. The clip went viral garnering hundreds of youtube video responses and parodies. It eventually made its way to the Chancellor and he is not happy.

She went on to make derogatory remarks about Asian culture saying, "The Asians students can't fend for themselves because they bring their whole family to the dorms to cook, buy their groceries, and do their laundry for them. She says there are old Asian people running around the place on the weekends." LMAO!

She also goes on to say that UCLA accepts hoards of Asians to "our" school which is fine but they need to learn American manners and how to be polite. LOL

WTF?

Anyways the youtube clip became viral and now she's received all these death threats and is under security by campus police, professors had to reschedule her final exams because her exam schedule was posted on the internet.

The Chancellor is reviewing the video on whether she has violated the student rule of conduct and is cause for expulsion.

How the hell did this airhead get into UCLA?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7XAJo3rQn8

And here's a brilliant rebuttal from a Korean guy. I couldn't stop laughing...

Dog won't abandon companion in Japan

2011-03-17T05:05:00.002Z

Tsunami Watch in California

2011-03-11T17:02:00.003Z

Due to the after affects of the devastating 8.9 earthquake in Japan. The U.S. west coast is on wave watch.

Some evacuations in San Mateo and Pacifica. Some schools are closed in Pacifica and Marin. People told to stay away from the coastline.

Ferry service to San Francisco is cancelled. I'm waiting for BART to announce they will shutdown subway service. If I can't get on BART, I can't go to work/school. :/

An Unconventional Shankill Birthday Card

2011-02-21T18:32:00.006Z

Craig thought I would find this coincidentally funny because of our own Maggie...

To My Best Friend On Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T00:00:00.004Z

“May you never steal, lie or cheat. But if you have to steal, then steal away my sorrows. If you have to lie, then lie with me all the nights of our life. If you have to cheat, then cheat death because I don’t want to live a day without you.”

I love you, Craig! And I can't wait for the day I become your wife!

My Crazy Ass Schedule.

2011-02-09T16:14:00.007Z

It's no surprise I woke up with a 101 fever this morning. I feel torn about calling in sick at work (it's only my third week) and I'm seriously debating whether to go to class today.

Ever since the semester started, I have been running my body ragged. My immune system is shot with the lack of sleep. I have a crazy ass schedule and I feel like there isn't enough time in the day to do anything. Even the basic necessities like brushing my teeth and eating is measured in increments. Here is my day, 5 days a week:

4:35 AM - Wake up and get ready
6:05 AM - Stand in line at the bus stop and freeze my ass off
6:29 AM - Run frantically through the BART station to catch the San Francisco Train.
6:35 to 7:35 AM - Study and do homework on the train
7:35 AM - Drag my heavy backpack up 3 large hills from the BART station to School
7:45 AM - Report for work and I am the first to arrive at the office
7:50 AM - Proceed to do various tasks assigned to me.
12:00 PM - Eat lunch at my desk and study
1:00 PM to 2:00PM - Head to the building next door where my first class is and sit in the hallway and do homework.
2:10 PM - My first math class
3:10 PM - My second math class
4:00 PM - Run across campus to the tram stop
4:20 PM - Catch the K tram to head to the gym
4:45 PM - Change into workout clothes
5:00 to 5:30 PM - Eat a light snack while studying lecture notes
5:30 PM - Yoga
6:30 PM - Zumba
7:30 PM - Change out of workout clothes
7:45 PM - Run to the tram stop to catch the train
8:05 PM- Run to catch the BART train
8:10 to 8:59 PM - Study and do homework
9:15 PM - Catch the bus
9:35 PM - Get picked up by Dad
9:50 PM - Home
10:00 PM - Prepare lunch for next day
10:20 PM - Eat dinner and watch t.v.
10:45 PM - Shower
11:00 PM - Email HopAlong and tell him I love him
11:02 PM to 12:00 AM - Study
12:00 AM - Sleep

See what I mean?

My Take on A United Ireland...

2011-01-14T07:24:00.006Z

I'm probably going to get a lot of heat about this and I'm only going to say this once and once only because this subject frankly bores me to tears! This was my response to the recent CNN article, "Irish police arrest 5 suspected IRA dissidents, release 1":

A "United Ireland" is never going to happen. The Republic of Ireland is in a financial quagmire, gone are the days of the Celtic Tiger. And guess who is bailing them out, the United Kingdom! Think about it. If the 6 counties of Ulster ever rejoin the South, how is the Republic going to support 1.8m people? I doubt that the Northern Irish want to join a near bankrupt country. Polls have shown, Norn Irish Catholic and Protestants alike, a large majority want to remain in the United Kingdom. I don't blame them since the UK has a stronger economy! In the end, they are thinking about their own welfare and their families, not some pipedream united republic.

A United Ireland...nice in theory, shit in reality!

I GOT A J.O.B.!!!!

2011-01-12T22:08:00.005Z

It's part time work on campus working for the Dean. Part time is all I can handle with 15 units this semester. 2 math classes, Chemistry, and C++...dog help me!

The people I'll be working for are nice and laid back. They even encourage me to study if there is downtime.

Now I can cross off GET A JOB off my 2011 list.

Turkey Chili w/ Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Muffins

2011-01-08T00:18:00.003Z

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T00:03:00.001Z

It's 2011 in Belfast!

I'm still stuck in 2010...8 more hours!

Lady vs. Snow

2010-12-18T08:05:00.000Z

Lady vs. Bone

2010-12-02T08:51:00.001Z

Lady has been eating (or trying to) this bone treat for 45 minutes. She's knackered.

Christmas Shopping in Belfast

2010-11-29T21:22:00.001Z

My Brother Won an Award

2010-11-28T09:53:00.001Z

and was on television. This was over a month ago and I finally saw a video posted up on youtube. We are all so proud of him.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-26T10:01:00.004Z

I thought it was time for the family to get together for T-day. It has been over 15 years since we last celebrated Thanksgiving together. There was way too much food. I was a lot of work organizing the event but I think it turned out well. Everybody enjoyed themselves and it was a pleasant day.

First Frost in Belfast

2010-11-25T00:09:00.000Z

San Francisco Giants Won the World Series!!!!!

2010-11-02T03:33:00.003Z

The sound of victory outside my window!

Diary of a Caregiver: Home Dialysis Begins

2010-10-27T17:41:00.005+01:00

My aunt started her home dialysis this week and will continue to do
the manual 4 times a day for a whole month. She is doing well, no
complications, it seems to be working as her blood pressure is not as
high and it is gradually decreasing. The only problem is she is not
confident about doing the entire procedure herself because she is not
practicing, and not reading her manual. I've laid out the practice
tools for her but she hasn't touched it. So I threatened her that she
needs to practice because by next week, she will be doing the entire
thing herself without my assistance (only watching). I also said if
she can't do it herself then maybe she is not a good candidate for
peritoneal dialysis and needs to switch to hemodialysis, reiterating
she will need to go to the hospital 3 times a week for 5 hours. Maybe
that will be a wakeup call for her.

Sometimes she cooperates sometimes she doesn't. My mom has also
talked to her about the importance of doing the dialysis herself
and that she should be independent. She has also tried to plant the
idea of hiring a caregiver and that medicare will help cover some of
the cost. My aunt was agreeing with my mom as she always does, but I don't think she was really listening.

I called my cousin about hiring a caregiver and he said he will contact the social worker soon. He did say that I really didn't have to be there and if I want to leave by all means do. I said if it came to a point where I get really burnt out or I have something important to do then I will let him know to make arrangements.

I plan to stick out the whole month, I don't give up that easily. At least I hope so, caregiving is a really hard job and I have a new found respect and admiration for nurses. But this doesn't mean I want to be one. Not ever. I'll stick with being a pharmacist, thanks.

More Noise in San Francisco!

2010-10-24T16:49:00.002+01:00

OMG! SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS ADVANCE TO THE WORLD SERIES!!!!!

2010-10-24T05:39:00.005+01:00

"In another city, 3500 miles away, there's a lot of noise right now"...

Sissy Went Back To Her Owner Today :(

2010-10-21T02:32:00.003+01:00

She was skittish and a little high strung when she first came to stay with us. Now she is a happy, confident dog. She's such a sweet dog and joy to be around. She helped us through our grief just after our beloved Maggie passed. Sissy will be missed.

HopAlong Says: San Francisco Giants Will Win the World Series

2010-10-16T17:51:00.003+01:00

Progress!!!

2010-10-16T02:38:00.010+01:00

I am happy to report that today's dialysis session went very well!

The dialysis nurse had a lot of patients today so she handed me the task of going over the dialysis procedure with my aunt. I decided to try a different approach than the nurse. I noticed the nurse's method wasn't working because my aunt just zones out while the nurse was explaining things, sits back and lets the nurse do everything. I thought keeping her engaged would work so I walked her through each and every step verbally with her, demonstrated how to do it, and handed it to her so she could do it herself.

After each step was completed, I would ask her, "So what do you do next?" When she answered correctly we would proceed to do the next step. When she answered incorrectly, I would tell her the correct step and explain to her why and what happens. I would also make her do the step over and over again until it was planted in her head. She responded very well to this method! When the nurse came back she was surprised! She can clamp and unnclamp the tubes, connect her catheter to the solution, and open her catheter tube to drain and fill! The only thing she can't do is break the frangibles so we're still trying to figure out what's the easiest method for her.

The nurse also taught me how to administer an Epogen injection. It wasn't that hard. My aunt will need an Epo shot every week. Epo is used to treat anemia in kidney patients, because when the kidneys fail, it stops producing a hormone that produces red blood cells. The nurse is hoping my aunt can give the shots to herself, but I don't know, my aunt has a low pain threshold. Any tiny thing she feels, she overreacts.

By the end of this month, the training sessions should be over and
will begin the home dialysis in November.

My aunt surpised us today! I figured out the only way to get her to do things is to be stern with her and not coddle her!

Today was actually fun! It was a nice feeling that I actually played a big role on helping her move forward. I guess this is how a lot of medical professionals feel when they see their patients progress. As the weeks go on doing these trainings and assisting my aunt, I am becoming more confident my decision to transition into the healthcare field was the right choice.

About to Lose My Shit

2010-10-15T05:53:00.015+01:00

I've been thinking lately that I got more than I bargained for when I volunteered to help my aunt out with her dialysis b/c nobody else would do it. (My aunt has end stage kidney disease). I never realized how my aunt is VERY DEPENDENT, HIGH MAINTENANCE, AND DEMANDING, she is constantly calling my name which means I havent been able to properly study. Understandble if she were bed ridden, but she is not. If she can walk around the mall and shop for hours on end, I wouldn't label her as an invalid just yet.

She has to watch what she eats and she hasn't been following her diet, doc said I should do all the cooking for her. I have to dress her, clean her catheter site everyday, run back and forth to the pharmacy. Her first month of dialysis will be 4 times a day. It looks like I will have to do the entire procedure because she has done nothing to practice. She refuses to take an iota of personal responsibility which pisses me off.

Last night I studied for my math exam until 3AM. She jarred me awake at 4AM by barging into my room turning on all the lights asking me to tape up her catheter tube against her stomach so it is out of the way. I mean seriously? I thought, "You woke me up for this? Couldn't you have done this yourself?" I did it anyway because I'm not allowed to say anything because she is sick and potentially dying.

On top of that, my dialysis training session is scheduled at the same time as my midterm exam. She really gave me a massive guilt trip about that. What can I do? I have to take my exam! Should I put my life on hold for the next 3 years or however long you are on dialysis? Now I'm starting to worry that this may affect my studies. The professor is annoyed as it is that I'm taking so much time off. This is also a crucial class for me to get into upper division science courses. If I fail this class, I will be set back.

I feel bad for saying this but I feel like my future is compromised here and I can't fulfill my end of the promise of taking care of her. It's like I'm not allowed to complain b/c I'm not the one sick and dying. I feel like I'm being selfish b/c all I've been thinking this week is about passing my exam when my aunt's life is at stake.

I called my cousin (her son that lives in L.A.) and I told him what was going on. Told him I'm concerned that I'm only here for two months but afterwards she will need someone care for her. Since she refuses to take responsibility for herself, I do not have faith in her that she will be able to do the dialysis alone. I told my cousin he should start thinking about hiring a caregiver, particularly someone who is professionally trained to handle difficult patients.

I feel awful for writing this post but I had to vent somewhere because I do worry and care about her. I know she is feeling like crap and is lashing out at others to express her pain. But my cousin said so himself, "She likes to dump her burdens on whoever is there." I'm learning this the hard way.

The home dialysis hasn't even started yet, and already I am exhausted emotionally and physically. I will be a prisoner in the home as much as she is. 4 times a day, every day. :/

My patience is going to be tested to the limit for the next 2 months.

U.S. to issue alert for Americans in Europe

2010-10-03T07:43:00.003+01:00

I can't tell whether this is just paranoia and/or fear mongering from our government. Better safe than sorry I guess...

Video from Associated Press

From CNN.com: U.S. to issue alert for Americans in Europe

Washington (CNN) -- The U.S. State Department is expected to issue a travel alert to Americans in Europe in light of recent terror threat information, U.S. officials said Saturday.

The alert could be issued as early as Sunday morning, according to one senior official.

The alert is expected to urge American citizens in Europe to be vigilant, especially when in public places such as public transportation, airports, and tourist sites, officials said.

It is not expected to warn Americans against travel to Europe, officials said.
One senior U.S. official said that in addition to the travel alert from the State Department, "U.S. military installations are taking prudent precautions. This is a serious situation."

A separate U.S. official said the alert is being prompted by the volume of intelligence on possible terror threats, rather than new intelligence.

It emerged last week that U.S. intelligence officials were looking at information about a possible "Mumbai-style" attack in cities across Europe. A United Kingdom security source said Saturday that it's not believed the expected U.S. alert is a result of new intelligence received in the last few days.But the source added that the intelligence related to the possible Mumbai-style attack was being looked at very seriously on both sides of the Atlantic.

The security source said there are no plans to raise the terror threat level in the United Kingdom from severe to critical.

A severe threat level means an attack is considered highly likely; critical means an attack is expected imminently.

A possible backlash from the French burqa ban is considered a factor in the expected warning, the security source said. The French Senate recently approved a law banning veils that cover the face, including the burqa, worn by some Muslim women.
Mumbai, the financial hub of India, was the site of a three-day terror attack two years ago that left more than 160 people dead.

Ten men launched the carefully planned assault, targeting prominent sites such as the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower hotel, the Oberoi-Trident hotels, the historic Victoria Terminus train station and a Jewish cultural center.

A U.S. law enforcement official told CNN Saturday that an advisory will likely be sent to law enforcement agencies around the United States after the travel alert is issued, "just to keep them in the loop."

But the official added that current intelligence is about Europe rather than a threat in the United States.

CNN's Barbara Starr, Pam Benson and Carol Cratty contributed to this report.

Food and Exercise Diary

2010-09-21T20:29:00.004+01:00

Breakfast: Woke up too late

Snack: Nothing

Lunch:

Homemade potato and leek soup with turkey bacon crumbles

steamed broccoli with balsamic vinaigrette

grapes

peppermint tea

Snack: Possibly Greek Yogurt with Honey

Dinner:
Don't know yet

Excercise: 1 hour of zumba

Dining with Lady

2010-09-19T04:33:00.000+01:00

Food Porn: Chiquito Mexican Restaurant in Belfast

2010-09-11T03:52:00.004+01:00

This is what they consider "Mexcian Food" in Northern Ireland...

Steak and corncobs with cajun sauce

Chicken Wrap

Food Porn: Avoca Cafe in Belfast

2010-09-08T12:23:00.005+01:00

Butternut Squash Ravioli

Burgers and Fries

Grilled chicken and couscous

Sea Bass

Cappuccino

Acai juice

Monday Revisited

2010-09-07T06:45:00.006+01:00

Today was Labor Day holiday. I met up with Gina again and we took a drive a few miles south outside of San Francisco. This is what we did:

We went to the Filoli Gardens and discovered it was closed. :(
We drove down to Palo Alto for a bite to eat at the Coup Cafe. I had the assorted tartine and Gina had the Greek salad...

We strolled the downtown area...

We went to Stanford University to see the Rodin Sculpture Garden, the world's largest collection of Rodin's bronzes outside of Paris...

We browsed the shops at Stanford Shopping Center and I bought cheap sunglasses.
We headed back and stopped for yogurt in Menlo Park.s
We went to Ulta at Tanforan Mall in San Bruno.
We ended the day at the Elephant Bar where we had tall fruity drinks and appetizer
and watched the planes fly into SFO...

Sunday.

2010-09-06T05:34:00.007+01:00

Dropped off HopAlong at the Airport
Explored the newly gentrified Cortland Avenue with my friend Gina
Had a picnic at Holly Park
Climbed to the top of Bernal Hill
Went to Union Square and saw Tango Dancers...

Window shopping at Macy's
Italian Pastries at North Beach...

Received a text from HopAlong that he is on the last leg of his flight

Here We Go Again...

2010-09-05T19:55:00.007+01:00

I hate this place. Craig's 6 week visit has come to an end and this is where say goodbye. No matter how many times we've replayed this scene, I can never get used to it. I tell myself it's no big deal but in reality I'm tearing up inside. Such as the story of long distance relationships.

The next time we see each other will be in 8 months. He has just started his computer course and will not be able to see me in 8 months. 8 months is the longest we've spent apart. It sucks.

On the bright side, I will be spending a lot of time in the city. I am shacking up at my aunt's house this semester. This will be really convenient for me as I don't have to commute back and forth everyday to school. This saves me a lot of time, money, and sanity. It also beats being stuck in the middle of boring surburbia where you need a car to get everywhere.

It's nice to know that I can just step outside the street and always have something to do and somewhere to go within walking distance! I miss living in the city.

Sigh of Relief

2010-09-02T18:53:00.002+01:00

Introducing Sissy

2010-08-22T21:36:00.004+01:00

This is our neighbor's dog. She is a "pitador" a pitbull/labrador mix. She is very shy. She looks like she can take your head off but she is docile and gentle. She is at our house temporarily until our neighbor recovers from his stab wounds. He was a victim of unfortunate circumstances. I don't know how long we'll have her but she is being pampered and spoiled to the max! I'm pretty sure Maggie sent her to us because we were feeling sad and lonely and a fellow dog needed help!

Maggie Goes To The Rainbow Bridge

2010-08-05T04:48:00.002+01:00

I am very sad to say that at 2:30pm California time Maggie went to sleep. She has been in declining health for the past 2 years but was comfortable. More recently though her health got worse and she was diagnosed with a terminal heart condition. Her breathing became very rapid for the past few months and we tried to keep her as comfortable as possible. She was out this morning for a vets visit but when she got home she was vomiting and had diarrhea. Her parents decided that they didn't want her to suffer any more.

Maggie was a fantastic dog and family member. Flippin' Yank and her parents brought Maggie home from the pound 16 and a half years ago when she was just 6 months old. Her previous owners didn't want her. Their loss. I've only known Maggie for 2 years and in that time she has never really taken to me but i know she is only protecting her family and i respected her for that. Over time she did get kind of used to me being around when i visited and barked at me less and less. As she made her way out to the car today for her final journey she actually stopped as she passed me and let me pet her for a moment. I was very sad to see her go. She will be missed by a loving family but never forgotten.

We love you Maggie. Rest in Peace.

Your friend,
HopAlong

Maggie before she went to the vet (August 4, 2010)...

Scenes From San Francisco: The Mission

2010-07-19T05:58:00.003+01:00

A morning stroll on Mission Street. The Mission is the Hispanic district of the city.

Riots in Belfast Again...

2010-07-12T23:40:00.003+01:00

Northern Ireland is All Over Filipino News...

2010-07-10T18:28:00.006+01:00

Yesterday on TFC (The Filipino Channel) reported on the latest racist attacks on Filipinos in Northern Ireland. Not a surprise to me but now my parents have a really bad impression of the place, and have been asking weird questions if HopAlong's family is prejudiced because they are Protestant. Well it's obvious they aren't because they wouldn't invite me into their home if they were. At least my parents finally know why I came back and decided to get married and live in America instead of over there...

Racist attack in N. Ireland targets Filipino family
JERRIE M. ABELLA, GMANews.TV

A Filipino family in Belfast, Northern Ireland, has expressed fears for their safety after racist attacks in their Whiteabbey town on Tuesday left a part of their house and a Filipino neighbor’s car scorched.

The Philippine Embassy in London said Ishis Calungsod and his family were targeted in a racially motivated arson in their street, which involved the burning of a car owned by Arnel Verzonilla, another Filipino.

“The Embassy has been in touch with Mr. Calungsod and Mr. Verzonilla, and they and their families are safe," the Embassy said in a statement posted on the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) website.

A report by Belfast Telegraph stated 30-year-old Calungsod and his wife were sleeping with their two children, aged four and six, when Verzonilla’s car, parked at the front door of their house in Fernagh Avenue, went up in flames.

Verzonilla lives in the same building several doors up.

Another car parked on the same street, owned by an Indian family, was likewise torched, the report said.

The report said the Calungsod family learned of the fire only when firefighters broke into their house to rescue them.

Local police have ruled the burning of the cars as racially motivated, following at least three similar incidents also in Belfast recorded a day before, based on the report.

The Philippine Embassy condemned the dastardly act of hate and discrimination committed against a Filipino family and individuals belonging to other ethnic groups. It added that Embassy has made representations with the Police Service of Northern Ireland urging them to undertake action to identify and punish the perpetrators.

“Such hate crimes should be eradicated and the root causes addressed to ensure that these acts do not undermine the cross-community successes in Northern Ireland in recent years," the Embassy said in a statement.

According to the Belfast report, Calungsod moved to Northern Ireland five years ago to work. “We didn’t have any problems before but now we are thinking of moving again. We moved here because our friends live here. They said it was a nice, quiet street, good for our kids. And it had been. But now we are all scared," Calungsod was quoted as saying in the report.

I Can't Really Explain What is Going on Right Now...

2010-07-09T16:10:00.002+01:00

It hurts too much.

I find myself repeating the following quote over and over again in my head. It somehow gives me comfort and grounding.

"Life is best not measured in quantity but in quality. If the life has been good.....that is all we can hope for".

Swatches: Urban Decay Naked Palette

2010-07-07T16:45:00.003+01:00

I was overjoyed to see this in my mailbox yesterday!

I can't wait to play with all the different colors. They are all neutral, very wearable colors that would suit anyone perfect for office and day. You can also build the color for dramatic looks as well. As with 90% of urban decay shadows, they are butter smooth and VERY pigmented! Here are the swatches on NC42 skin...

Without flash.

With flash.

The packaging...

The palette encasing is made out of brown velvet with letters embossed in gold. Although aesthetically pleasing, I don't find it very practical. I can see this as a lint and dust magnet and is not ideal for travel. As with all UD palettes it comes with a baby primer potion.

Look What I Found at Costco!

2010-07-03T23:47:00.007+01:00

I've been finding great makeup deals lately. First it was the Urban Decay Naked Palette and now Stila!

As I was browsing the shampoo aisle, I found 2 lonely Stila sets randomly laying amongst a stack of shampoos. From the look of the set, I thought it would go for at least $40, but when I saw the price I was like, "No way, 19.99?!?" They were the last two sets so I snagged both of them! The left is the cool trio (stone, smog, kitten) and the right is the warm trio (lamé, chloe, kitten)...

Stila All About You Set

Orignal retail price breakdown:

#30 brush = $32.00

Full sized Lash Visor Waterproof Mascara = $20.00

Smudge pot = $20.00

Individual Eyeshadow = $18 ($18 x 3 = $54)

Total = $126

Costco Price = $19.99

SCORE!!!

Upset

2010-06-30T18:17:00.004+01:00

I am having a really hard time getting into this one particular chemistry class. I tried to register online last week but the system wouldn't let me register for the class because I took it 16 years ago! So I call the registrar and they said I have to go to the first day of class, get an add number from the professor and they will add me.

Chemistry classes are highly impacted and they fill up fairly quickly. By the time the first day rolls around the class is full. So if this is the process of trying to add a repeat course, then who is to say that there is a guarantee I will get in this semester or the next or the next? There is no guarantee. This will set me back god knows how long? Being a science major especially pre-pharmacy the courses are in a series and you can't jump to the next course without taking the pre-requisite of the previous one.

The registar's solution wasn't enough for me. So I emailed the Department Chair of Chemistry and he said I needed to pick up a repeat course approval form from the registrar's office and have it signed by the Dean of Math and Science. Great!

But I look at the schedule and the chemistry class is completely FULL. All the labs and lectures are full. It's now full and classes don't start until mid August!

Sucks for me. This means I'd have to go to the first day of class and attend every lab and lecture hoping the professor has room to add which is a big pain in the ass.

Crap.

Wanna Know How Much of A Makeup Addict I Am?

2010-06-29T19:43:00.004+01:00

Last night I set my alarm for 8am to get first dibs on the UD Naked Palette. Soon this bad boy will be in my possession...

photo via temptalia.com

The palette is a steal which is why I'm going crazy! You get 12 full sized shadows for $44! One full sized shadow cost $17.00 each. $17 x 12 = $204. Included with the palette are 2 24/7 eyeliners which retail for $17 each. You also get a mini bottle of primer potion which retails for $18. Do the math!

You can now get it online at urbandecay.com or wait until August 1st to get it in store at Sephora or Ulta. For UK folks, it will probably launch there in September.

Wishlist

2010-06-26T08:57:00.018+01:00

~~Urban Decay Naked Palette - Limited Edition - Release Date: August 1st - This is a neutral eyeshadow palette and it was made for me!~~

I want to build my perfume collection. All I have is the one Avoca perfume that HopAlong gave me for my birthday last year. I really love the smell of Avoca's perfume but I'm afraid of running out and I don't want to get sick of it by using it all the time. I had Thierry Mugler's Angel at some point but I lost it.

I love fresh, sweet fruity or tropical scents for the day and sweet musky smells for night. I can't stand straight powdery floral perfumes, they give me a headache. One day I hope to have all these (sigh...)!

Sunessence by Thierry Mugler - Limited Edition - Notes: Frozen Star Fruit, Patchouli, Vanilla, Ginger Flower - This is basically a lighter version of Angel.

Tobacco Vanille - Tom Ford - RARE!!! - Notes: A modern take on an old world men's club. A smooth oriental, Tobacco Vanille opens immediately with opulent essences of tobacco leaf and aromatic spice notes. The heart unfolds with creamy tonka bean, tobacco flower, vanilla and cocoa, and finishes with a dry fruit accord, enriched with sweet wood sap.

Black Orchid - Tom Ford - Notes: Bergamot, Citrus, Mandarin, Black Gardenia, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Lotus Wood, Orchid, Spicy Floral Accord, Orchid (Tom Ford Black Accord), Patchouli, Sandalwood, Incense, Vanilla - I have a sample size of this. This is a perfume people really love or really hate. At first I didn't like it because the musk was overpowering, But throughout the day it would slowly release its notes bit by bit, I kept smelling my wrist and falling in love with it more and more. It totally compliments my body chemistry. I can see myself wearing this day or night in the winter or at night in the summer. This is a very unique and delicious scent. I want it!!!

Miss Dior Cherie by Dior - Notes: Green Tangerine, Violette, Pink Jasmine, Patchouli, Crystalline Musk, Strawberry Leaves, Caramelized Popcorn, Strawberry Sorbet.

Flowerbomb - Victor & Rolf - Notes:
Sambac Jasmine, Centifolia Rose, Cattleya Orchid, Ballerina Freesia, Patchouli - This is lovely, the right hint of floral and sweet.

Comptoir Sud Pacifique Vanille Abricot - Top: Jackfruit, Abricot Papaya; Heart: Papaya; Base: Tahitian Vanilla, Sugar Candy - Wear this only if you want men to follow you around with a fork, it smells like cake.

Blue Agava & Cacao - Jo Malone - Notes: Inspired by the rhythm and vibrancy of Latin music, a sparkling citrus melody of lime and grapefruit leads to an exquisite heart of the blue agava flower. A sensual blend of vetiver, cinnamon and the primitive rawness of cacao, make an unexpected and surprising harmony. - This smells like chocolate!

Nectarine & Honey Blossom - Jo Malone - Notes: A youthful and fruity fragrance, inspired by the delicious scent of just-ripening nectarines and a taste of refreshing peach sorbet. Mouthwatering nectarine and peach with hints of plum, blackcurrant and vetiver are combined with the sweet warmth of acacia honey in this truly seductive combination.

Dark Amber & Ginger Lily - Jo Malone - Limited Edition - Notes: Created as a modern interpretation of Kohdo, an ancient Japanese incense ceremony, Dark Amber & Ginger Lily is a sensual and calming blend that encourages a sense of tranquility.

Ralph Lauren Hot - Notes: Mandarin, Almond Blossom, Cinnamon, Jasmine, Orchid, Maplewood, Honeysuckle, Mocha, Fig, Milk Notes, Sandalwood, Amber, Musk, Vanilla. - This is perfect to wear on a beach holiday, has a slight coconut smell.

Love Rocks by Victoria's Secret - Top notes: bergamot, peony, raspberry sorbet; Middle notes: sandalwood flower, jasmine, peach nectar, plum, stephanotis; Low notes: golden amber, violet, cashmere musk, vanilla- Winner of the 2010 Fifi Fragrance of the Year Award. Fifi is like the Oscar for perfumes.

These are just body sprays. I'll probably pick them up next week when I'm in the city. They are on sale 3 for $21!!!
Island Escape, Room 504, Good Day Sunshine - Secret Moments Collection - Victoria's Secret

How to Chill Out and Relax

2010-06-19T01:15:00.001+01:00

"Weird" Asian Snacks

2010-06-17T21:28:00.003+01:00

I went to the Asian Supermarket today and picked up a bunch of unusual snacks. Stay tuned for reviews!

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 7

2010-06-17T03:42:00.004+01:00

Class was cancelled because everyone was watching legendary Manuela Carrasco perform in Berkeley.

Cardio Overkill

2010-06-12T21:37:00.003+01:00

I have just come back from 2 hours of torture at the gym. One hour of spinning class and an hour of zumba back to back!

I - AM - KNACKERED!

I don't think I can walk for a week. This was my second time trying out spin class. The first time was a couple of months ago and I really hated it. My ass hurt and my heart felt like it was going to jump out of my chest, I was gasping for air. I didn't feel so good.

This time around I was expecting the worst but determined to plow through it. It wasn't too bad actually. I didn't feel sick like last time. My ass didn't hurt so much thanks to the chamois, and I kept an even breathing rhythm which helped my stamina a lot. Granted, I'm a lot more fit than I was 2 months. Now I LOVE spin class and intend to take it 2-3 times a week.

Yay!

The Flamenco Diaries: Crazy

2010-06-11T08:42:00.004+01:00

I was practicing turns in the garage until 2am last night. I woke up the next morning at 7:30AM and practiced footwork on the backyard deck. I probably woke the whole neighborhood up too.

Random Facts About Me

2010-06-10T09:22:00.004+01:00

Decade of birth
1970s

Dream job
Food critic

Where do you see yourself in three years?
Married and in Pharmacy School

What do you spend most of your money on?
Cosmetics: drugstore, Nars, MAC; Food

Favorite way to procrastinate
Watching YouTube videos

Shy or extrovert
Shy

Mac or PC
Mac

How many books do you own
50

Fanta or Tango
None, yuck

Worst school subject
Calculus

Best school subject
Anthropology

Pet hate
duckfaces

Currently have a crush?
Yes… :)

A country you want to explore
Japan

What will you do after filling out this questionnaire
Sleep

Most cherished life experience
Living a year in West Africa

Favourite place to be
In HopAlong's arms (cheezy but true)

Drink you always order
Arnold Palmer

Blue or black ink
Black

Currently addicted to…
Youtube makeup tutorials and reviews

Something that excites you
Dancing

I get many compliments for
My hair

Early bird or night owl
Night Owl

Something you do not understand
text speak

A trait you dislike in people
selfishness

A trait you admire in people
Empathy and open-mindedness

Something you want RIGHT now
For HopAlong to be here :(

Worst feeling in the world
Rejection and failure

I get criticized for
My negativity

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 6- Vueltas

2010-06-09T18:17:00.006+01:00

I thought flamenco class was cancelled today. I walked up to the studio and discovered that it was locked. The lights were off and nobody was there. I was not thrilled at all as I had to travel into the city to get here and it was a complete waste of my time. If class were cancelled, the teacher would have emailed us. I checked my email, and no email from teacher.

I decided to walk out to the corner on market street and wait. About 20 minutes later, I saw my teacher leave a cafe nearby walking to the studio. Phew! Class is not cancelled. I followed her. She too discovered the door was locked and she didn't have the access code. She called the studio owner for the code, all she got was a voicemail.

More students were showing up as we were waiting for the call back. The teacher jokingly said (or maybe not jokingly), "If we can't get in, we'll just have class outside. The concrete will do wonders for our knees."

The owner finally called and we were able to get in the studio.

There are some days when you are having an "on" day. You're in the zone and everything just clicks for you. Today wasn't one of those days. Talk about being humbled. I felt like a downright idiot. The teacher introduced us to vueltas (turning). She broke down the turn for us and showed us how to spot. Spotting is where you focus on a "spot" in front of you and when you whip your head around you go back looking at that same spot. This prevents you from getting dizzy and from being off balance.

I hate turning. Turns are my major downfall. Even back then when I was taking flamenco 5 days a week, I still had trouble with turns and would get intimidated when we had to do them in choreography.

So she made us travel across the floor doing vueltas, switching sides after a set. I don't know if I was psyching myself out or what, I just couldn't do them. And these beginners who've NEVER taken flamenco before could do them. This makes me lead to believe, either I've picked up a bad habit or it's a mental thing.

My teacher approached me after class and said, "I notice when you are turning you are using your head as momentum to get around. You need to use your core." I told her that turns were my weakness and the other teachers I took classes from never bothered to break it down. They just had me do them without proper technique. She goes on to explain that some of her advanced students don't even know how to do turns for this very reason. And she said my spotting is perfect and to stop psyching myself out. I'm guessing she saw my frustration and felt the need to approach me after class.

After class, I wanted to kick myself. I hate it when I don't get something. Anyways, now I know what I'm doing wrong. It took years for someone to point this out to me and I'm so thankful for it. Every week my teacher proves to me that she is an amazing teacher. Most flamenco teachers can't be bothered.

I vow to practice every day until it becomes second nature. I'm going to get it, hopefully by next week when she makes us go across the floor again.

It's Eva Again...Dancing Like She's Possessed (As Usual)

2010-06-08T14:10:00.002+01:00

Brilliant! I can never get enough of her!

Hangin' With My Peeps

2010-06-06T02:28:00.012+01:00

I took this pic last year.

Every year in June the Filipino community throughout the Bay Area celebrate a festival called Pista sa Nayon.

The tradition of the Pista sa Nayon dates back centuries to the rural areas and towns of the Philippines. During Pista sa Nayon (a Filipino phrase translated “town festival”) Filipinos would gather for a fiesta in the middle of town to celebrate a good harvest, and it would be a time for people to focus on their neighbors, family and friends, solidifying the sense of community and hard work. -www.pista.org

I went to one today in my hood. Here you see lots of vendors, food, musical entertainment, comedy acts, food, food, food and more food!

Since we're on the subject of food...

I drank fresh coconut water which is a rare treat for me. So perfect for a hot summer's day!

Did you know that..."Coconut water is the second purest water next to water itself and is an isotonic solution which replaces the fluids and minerals that the body loses during physical activities. For this reason, many athletes and persons who work out regularly are encouraged to drink coconut water to replace all the minerals and fluid that they lose while working out? Coconut water is also almost identical to blood plasma and this makes it easy to use for blood transfusion. In cases of emergency coconut water has been used as an intravenous hydration fluid instead of the standard IV." (from associatedcontent.com)

In a nutshell, it's a natural sports drink!

I also indulged in Mango and Ube ice cream! Ube ice cream, a purple sweet potato used as an ingredient in many Filipino desserts, is a very popular flavor in the Philippines. Don't let the purple color fool you, it is delish!

It was a great today! I'm so glad that summer has finally arrived! I had been waiting impatiently because it sure took its sweet time getting here!

Shindiggers for Spin Class

2010-06-03T20:11:00.007+01:00

which I will start taking next week. It has a well padded chamois so my butt doesn't hurt as much.

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 5

2010-06-02T06:59:00.004+01:00

Teacher walks up to me after class and says...

Teacher: You've danced before!

Me: Yes, but I haven't danced in 4 years.

Teacher: How long were you dancing flamenco?

Me: About 5 years.

Teacher: I can tell. You need to move up to a higher level.

Going Shopping in My Own Closet

2010-05-31T19:59:00.005+01:00

I tried on my old work skirts today. I can fit into them. Three years ago, I couldn't even zip them up! Woohoo!

Luckily they are not out of style. They are classic A-line skirts from Jcrew and Banana Republic. They still look cute and are in good condition!

I'm so happy!

I was in Walmart today...

2010-05-31T01:54:00.003+01:00

In line at the till. A woman and her son (about 9 yrs old) were in front of me. She smacked him upside the head for I don't know why. He looked scared. She paid for her stuff and he paid for his slip n' slide with his own money he kept in a ziplock bag. He was short a nickel and he asked his mom for a nickel. She got pissed off and she said "too bad, you don't have the money you don't get shit!". She told the cashier to return it. I was going to give him a nickel but she would have probably kicked my ass. I feel sorry for that kid. I should have fake found a nickel and said, "Hey kid, you dropped a nickel." But his mom would have probably given him an ass whooping at home for dropping a nickel.

People suck sometimes.

Latest News From the Shankill...

2010-05-28T18:12:00.002+01:00

So the story is that a few nights ago down this street one guy was asking another guy out of his house for a fight. The guy in the house wouldn't come out so the guy outside started damaging the other guys car. Today just down at the corner of the Shankill and the next street down from us a guy was standing on the corner. Just before 1pm 2 masked dudes walked up to him and shot him twice in the face. Turns out he was the dude who was in the street a few nights ago asking the guy out for a fight. I love this place.lol

Love,
HopAlong

Bloody bandages mark Shankill murder spot in Belfast

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 4 - Zapateo y Marcaje

2010-05-26T16:22:00.005+01:00

We did footwork which is getting a bit more complicated and faster pace. She has finally thrown arms into the mix.

She's also had us do some marking to Allegrias.

Everything was a piece of cake and I felt good about everything.

After class, I hung around to observe Beginning II class, where you start doing choreography. It doesn't look that complicated and I would have probably been better off starting at that level. I notice that some of the people from my class stayed on and are taking that class. I think by the end of this session (which ends in June), I would have enough review of basic techniques to move on to Beginning II. Usually, it takes at least 6 months to a year in Beginning I to move up to Beginning II. Thank goodness my muscle memory has kicked in and I don't have to wait that long.

Nails of The Day: Revlon Grey Suede (Limited Edition)

2010-05-20T21:50:00.004+01:00

So I decided to take a break from studying and go to CVS for respite. Hanging out at the cosmetic section (surprise, surprise)! Hidden on a shelf way back in the store was Revlon's Limited Edition Spring Collection of Nail Polish. There was a minty green, soft lilac, peach, and grey suede. The finish are all creamy, no sparkle. The grey suede and lilac caught my eye so I picked those up.

I tried the grey suede today and I quite like it! It's one of those "in" mushroom, taupe colors with a grey undertone. I never thought I would dig Revlon nail polishes, they always give me the impression that they are cheap and would chip after one day of wear. I quite like the formula. It's a bit watery but not hard to work with. Opaque after only two coats. With a seche vite top coat, I am hopeful that it won't chip or peel for a week. I think this is going to be my summer nail color besides coral. It would also make a great color for job interviews, it's very understated but elegant...

Too bad it's limited edition. I'm going to have to stock up!

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 3 - MISSED CLASS!!!

2010-05-18T23:20:00.001+01:00

No flamenco today, I have to study for finals. :(

Food At Avoca in Belfast

2010-05-17T20:04:00.005+01:00

HopAlong decided to torture me today. He went to Avoca (my favorite store/cafe) to have lunch with his sister. I'm so jealous!

Laura treated me to lunch at Avoca this afternoon. Not much atmosphere. A little noisy. The food is fantastic though.

Laura had the chargrilled chicken salad with couscous.

I had the grilled seabass and white beans and sun dried tomatoes. I can honestly say it was very close to being the nicest fish i've ever eaten. A very close second to our seared salmon.

Ballet and Tai Chi

2010-05-12T21:41:00.003+01:00

I woke up early to practice Tai Chi at the park. Every morning 5 days a week, a group of elderly chinese men and women do Tai Chi. It was beautiful and serene. They were very nice and welcoming too. I love Tai Chi it's so graceful and relaxing. I think Tai Chi at the park will be a regular event for me.

After Tai Chi, I went to my first ballet class. It's very basic ballet. I decided to take this class because I want to strengthen my core for when I do turns in flamenco (turning is my weakness), to improve my balance and become more fluid and graceful. After class, one of the students asked if this was my first class. I told her yes, I've never taken ballet before. She was shocked and said that I picked up the choreography really fast, it took them months to learn it. I thought that was flattering but then again it wasn't really rocket science and it is a beginning class.

I had a half hour break, there was another Tai Chi class right after ballet. Different teacher. I've been taking Tai Chi from this teacher for a month now. He showed us practical self defense application from the poses we were doing. I thought it was really neat. He used me to demonstrate some moves, I felt like a rag doll being flailed about.

So 2 hrs of Tai Chi and an hour of ballet. Now 5 hours of study. Finals in two weeks.

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 2 - Footwork and Coordination

2010-05-12T05:54:00.003+01:00

Today we did hand and feet coordination. Piece of cake! I think my muscle memory kicked in because I had no trouble at all and it felt natural.

We did our favorite exercise, zapateado! I have no problems with this area at all. I love making music with my feet.

Um...I think my teacher could tell by now that I'm not really an absolute beginner. She didn't correct me on anything.

This whole week I'm going to drive the whole house bonkers because all they will hear is the sound of stamping feet.

Dog Owners In Belfast

2010-05-10T17:56:00.003+01:00

I find it weird how dog owners in Belfast treat their dogs like cats. They kick it out for the day for it to roam the streets.

Today I get an email from HopAlong about his dog, Lady, who by the way fears walking her because of this very reason...

Lady has almost just been mauled to death by some big fuckin black dog in the street. It then bit some woman. The owner lives just across the street and apparently the dog warden has been out quit a few times and they don't answer the door. I've just called the police. Lady has disappeared under my sister's bed and won't come out. I don't think she's hurt but she seems to be in shock!

This is Lady...she's just a wee thing.

I'm Awesome

2010-05-07T05:13:00.004+01:00

because...

1) I was the only one in class who answered a very difficult question right, and I was awarded extra credit points!!! My average is now A+++! :D

2) I'm now able to get through Zumba class without huffing and puffing! AND we were introduced to new choreography which was tricky and I was the only one who got it! Yes, I do believe I can call myself a dancer now. A sign I need more of a challenge.

The Flamenco Diaries: Week 1 - Muscle Memory

2010-05-05T12:27:00.013+01:00

So the moment had arrived and gone in a flash! Recap of my flamenco class...

1) My teacher is nice and is isn't the type to yell or clown you for making mistakes. She is not intimidating at all.

2) Students in the class commented that they love my purple flamenco skirt and ask where I got it. Honestly, I don't know remember because I got it 6 years ago!

3) The teacher put me in the front because I'm "new".

4) She taught us Solea compas, the 2 types of palmas (clapping), posture, arms, floreo, footwork. This was VERY basic none of these took me by surprise and frankly, I wished she would do something more complicated but this is a beginning class, it's to be expected.

5) My coordination needs work. My body has forgotten to multitask. In flamenco, you do a lot of moves that are counter intuitive to your body. We did an exercise where we were doing footwork and arm work at the same time. Although, I can do it, it just felt really weird and unnatural. Nothing practice and a couple more classes won't fix. The old adage "if you don't use it, you will lose it" is very true in my case.

6) My teacher is a stickler for detail. She goes around to each and every student correcting the smallest things from posture, to how you hold your arms, to how you do your floreos. This is a good thing and right away I could tell she is an excellent teacher.

7) There is a live guitarist! Dancing to live music makes a HUGE difference!

The hour went by really fast! Although the class is way too basic for me and very slow, I'll stick it out for the entire session. I think it was smart to choose the beginning class, that way I won't be in over my head and never come back again! I could just relax and enjoy dancing instead of sweating bullets over trying to figure out crazy choreography.

I'm so glad I decided to take flamenco again. Flamenco has always made me feel so ALIVE! Today those warm, fuzzy feelings returned. It's wonderful!

Woohoo! Flamenco Class Tomorrow!

2010-05-03T18:52:00.005+01:00

I'm excited and nervous at the same time. I don't know why I'm nervous.

This is my favorite scene from the movie Carmen. I love doing zapateado, it brings out the percussionist in me!

If You're Going to San Francisco...

2010-05-02T18:59:00.002+01:00

HopAlong Made Tomato Soup from Scratch!

2010-05-02T03:53:00.006+01:00

I'm impressed! :D Although, he said it was the most untomato soup he's ever tasted, it tasted sweet like carrots even though carrots weren't in the recipe. Very odd indeed...

He has one more recipe in his arsenal besides pancakes, french toast, burgers and salmon. I can't wait for him to come over and make me some tomato soup! Nom, nom, nom!

I Would Like to Meet This Person

2010-04-29T22:24:00.001+01:00

HopAlong Opens His Package

2010-04-28T05:56:00.001+01:00

HopAlong Finally Receives His Birthday Package

2010-04-27T18:03:00.004+01:00

Una Falda y Zapatos

2010-04-24T02:01:00.003+01:00

Trying on my flamenco gear. First class in less than 2 weeks! I can't wait! I can't wait!

Confessions of a Drugstore Makeup Junkie

2010-04-20T01:22:00.012+01:00

I confess that I'm addicted to drugstore makeup. I get an adrenaline rush when I see BOGO (buy one get one free) or 50% off. You get great deals, and sometimes you find makeup that is amazing quality comparable to designer makeup brands like MAC or NARS.

For example, I was browsing CVS today and they were having a 40% off sale on Physicians Formula products. When I saw this kit I HAD TO HAVE IT!!!

I've been searching high and low for a dupe of MAC's blacktrack fluidline gel liner because I didn't want to shell out $15 for a miniscule .1 oz pot. Physicians formula had a set of 3 liners in 3 different colors and an eyeshadow palette for $8.99 with 40% off it was $6.00!!! HOLLA! I said I'll take it, despite the risk of it being low quality, the price wouldn't make a dent in my pocket anyway!

But here's a good example where you don't get what you pay for. These gel liners are AH-mazing! Look at the pigmentation, wow!

And they don't smudge either. I was rubbing the swatches really hard with my finger and they did not move AT ALL(except for the black because I didn't let it dry long enough)...

The bonus addition of eyeshadow palette didn't disappoint either. The pigmentation was above average for a drugstore brand. They were very soft and creamy and not too much shimmer, just right. You can apply it either dry or wet for a more intense, dramatic look. Supposedly, these colors will enhance brown eyes. I'll have a fun time playing around with them. These were swatched without a primer underneath. Can you imagine how vibrant these colors would be with a primer?

I also decided to pick up another eyeshadow palette for perfect smokey brown eyes (40% off sale price=$4.40). I've been on a smokey eye obsession for the past month. The pigmentation with this palette is OK and some of the colors are gorgeous!

I'm a happy bunny! My wallet and I are giving each other the high five! I think I'm going to go back there and get the other sets for Hazel, Blue, and Green Eyes. So run to your nearest CVS right now and get yourself this set, you won't regret it! The sale ends on Sunday!

Unfortunately, I don't think they sell Physicians Formula in Boots or Superdrug in the UK which sucks! But then again you gals have Barry M. I could kill for some Barry M dazzle dusts and nail varnish right now! *Sigh*

These are My Flamenco Shoes...

2010-04-15T06:21:00.011+01:00

I haven't worn them in 5 years.

You could say that I'm a tad bit rusty. I've had this burning desire to go back for the longest time, I am now ready. It's time to get off my fat arse and just do it. Taking all these science and math classes have driven me to the edge I think. I need a creative outlet, dammit!

I'm now registered and will be taking classes from this amazing and beautiful dancer..

Funny Because It's True...

2010-04-09T05:24:00.003+01:00

(image via)

Confronting Rude People!

2010-04-07T05:01:00.005+01:00

I was in line to get on the MUNI (bus) for my commute to school. The bus was late, the line was long, and I was in a bad mood. As soon as it was my turn to get on the bus, this woman comes charging and bulldozes me over and cuts right in front of me. I yelled, "Excuse you! There is a line you know!"

She is in front of me about to pay the driver and she bobs her head back and forth and said, "Girl, girl don't even start with me. You have to wait and get in line like all the other immigrants!"

I guess she assumed I was fresh off the boat since I was Asian and assumed that I was the mousey kind and let ppl steamroll all over me? I told her, "Listen you ignorant bitch, I was born in the US and I waited in line like everybody else! You just don't cut in line and push people like that, you rude ass bitch!" I was ready to clock her fugly face if she gave me the green light to do so.

She started mumbling bullshit at me and bobbing her head again. She went to her seat. I gave her the stink eye, I sat 3 seats behind her. I think I made her paranoid because she kept looking back. We both got off the same stop and I walked right behind her, she saw me and walked faster (practically running) and kept looking back.

Rule #1 you don't mess with Asians. View exhibit A...

pereljon — October 07, 2009 — Oct 7, 2009 10am, Chinatown San Francisco. This fight occurred on the Muni Stockton route (the 9 i think) just before the stockton tunnel. As you can see, a simple argument about seat-hogging quickly turned into a full blown brawl. It's pretty clear who threw the first punch, you can see the bus' serial number, and the exact time in the video.
By the way, this is the same bus where I was attacked 3 weeks ago, so I thought documenting the event was the most important thing I could do. This fight was NOT reported by the driver OR by the MUNI person who happened to be at the final stop (Stockton and Sutter). I'll be walking to work for a while.
©2009, All Rights Reserved.

Together Time

2010-04-02T22:51:00.001+01:00

HopAlong and I did a swat team workout together over skype. It worked out pretty well. :)

Sephora is Evil!!!

2010-03-26T21:30:00.003Z

I originally entered sephora with the intention to "just browse".

(via)

So the Healthcare Bill Isn't Just a Bill on Capitol Hill

2010-03-24T04:30:00.005Z

(photo via)