Thursday, July 31, 2008

今日の夕ご飯はカレーだった! うまい〜

The heat is getting unbearable. The sun seems to be shinning with a vengeance and the humidity is the evil accomplice. My chants of snow summoning seem to hardly work. It started raining a little today, but the storm passed over so quickly that a trail of mugginess was left behind, adding on to the torture of summer madness. Oh, how I wish I can just hit the beach and go surfing!

I know I complain and whine a lot, but it just shows that I am human. Initial plans were made upon my arrival ensuring that my new life at Judson will be set up and settled in within 2 weeks, but well, things never really go according to plan. I do get annoyed and start to worry; however, looking back at my final weeks in Macao did teach me a lot. My recent worries seem trivial.

My trip to the Social Security Office was finally made possible! Yep, it means that I got a job! My volunteer work hour are completed and Financial Aid is hiring me to continue my help with office housekeeping and assistance. The pay is not as fancy as what I was paid back in my college years at TCU, but hey, it is a start. I heard that I might get a second job soon. Do pray for me that they would hire me. I need to pay tuition on August 12. Having an income would help.

At the end of July and two months behind schedule, I am slowly getting thing set up here. Even though I might not be moving out when expected, or into the room I wanted, but nothing beats cooking a good meal and sharing it with friends. I made Japanese curry, pasta, and Chinese veggie stir-fry. It was a scrumptious dinner.

Heads up for another month in the home of the brave!

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

F-helps

I just got back from a (late) night out with the girls. Finally we went to watch Dark Knight and I was not disappointed. I have been wanting to watch the movie for a long time now and was planning to take extreme measures to get myself to the movie theaters to watch it on the big screen. The girls rendezvous to go today (well, technically Monday late afternoon) an we went immediately after I was done with class. All that were in my head during my 3.5 hour class resonates "Dark Knight...Dark Knight... Dark Knight..." "(Class) Finish soon... Finish soon... Finish soon..."

After the movie all of us were famished and we stopped by good ol' Denny's for food. I think it was not such a wise decision to finish an entire burger with a side of salad at 2a.m.
When will I sleep now? (o_O#)

I reckon I have caused quite a number of people to start worrying for me of late. Thank you for your concern and prayers. Things are getting better. I was running around campus compiling paperwork as my time and effort put into volunteering at Financial Aid paid off. They are hiring me and I will be heading to the social security office on Wednesday to submit my papers. The mood swings come and go, while I just have to jump on the discipline train to plow (British English "plough") through the crazy class I have. I just found out that I have very little time to complete a lot of stuff... but hey, if it doesn't kills you, it would only make it stronger. I am doing ok. With the Almighty watching out for me, everything will work out for the best.

Monday, July 28, 2008

忘れない。忘れたくはない。

Once I used to think about you every day, replaying memories that are crystal clear, smiling to myself at the exchange of dialogs, correspondence, and actions. It would make my day just by knowing of your existence. I would smile by a simple glance of significant memorabilia. No matter how busy or crazy the world around me revolves, spending some time thinking of us allows me to let out a sigh of content, breathing in happiness, and giving me encouragement.

Chivalry, kindness, and generosity are your traits. Although moody at times, you were my listening ear and often able to make me laugh and smile with the simplest things. My senses are often stimulated by your very presence, I remember them vividly wherever I was. There were days where reason validates my emotions for you, and yet reason holds me back from ever acting on impulse. You are that special and important to me that I fear my behavior my give you pressure in any way. I keep my thoughts to myself, but willing to listen to your opinions and make mental notes. Even though the official captions were not established, nor as your claims of being familiar with the concept, I thought that the relationship shared was very real.

I will always remember the first time I held your hand, and our stroll down that beautifully lit street. I always enjoyed out time together, even if it was just getting to a destination on foot. Deep in my heart, I will never forget that you were the first person ever to hug me just as I was about to be pissed off. I will always be warm in your presence. We rant, we laugh, and the conversations shared were always meaningful, uplifting, and encouraging. My memories and talking about them to friends made clear something very new to me, it is not just mere attraction or fondness.

Should I be discouraged by your honesty? Our fellowship is one built on friendship. Am I supposed to forget everything and move on? I do not think I am able to remain as close friends yet deny my feelings. Reason and passion, I am who I am with the tension between the two. It would be too proud to say that there is a reason for our acquaintance, but I know that if things were meant to be, God will guide us down a path for the best outcome. Will I be in waiting? I guess the truth is I did not forget, I wish not to forget.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

A Pinnacle of Light

It will be almost 3 months since I set foot in this place. As every new environment houses new challenges, I have my share of it here. These boulders only show that I am human and have a lot of growing to do.

Things are starting to light up. Looking at the important things to me, I am starting to find ground under my feet. Church has been getting better. I enjoy going there every week. Although some discipline is needed to get me out of bed on Sunday morning, I am glad to be there even if it meant going alone. The sermons are great and the worship/singsparation is getting better. Today, I spent time speaking to a few nice people and it felt... nice. No more a stranger, I guess.

The week is getting better. Every year today I do a self check--celebrating the life of someone special and reflecting on a past. I learn much of who I am and by the grace of God, try to become better. My problems seem trivial and I laugh at myself when I am bugged by the trials before me. Who am I to doubt the greatness of God who has been nothing but faithful in His love for me? Things will get better.

お母さん、お誕生日おめでとうございます。

Saturday, July 26, 2008

An Addition to My Favorite Books


This is a very cute book. I inserted it into my stack of books for my social studies methods class. It is a children's book but I enjoyed every bit of it. The synopsis is as follows:

"When Ruby's cousin Flying Duck emigrates from China to live with her, Ruby decides the best thing about Flying Duck is that she is a great new friend. BUT the worst thing about Flying Duck is that now, no one speaks English at home. Plus, there's strange food on the table every night and only chopsticks to eat it with. And Flying Duck is deaf, and Ruby doesn't know any Chinese Sign Language. As if that weren't enough, this summer proves to be even more perilous as Ruby faces the dangers of swimming lessons, the joys of summer school, the difficulty of staying with a twelve-step program, the miracle needed to keep a beautiful stray dog that wanders into her life, and much more. Is it all too much for anyone -- even the Empress of Everything -- to handle?"

It brings a smile and I think it is a great book! Do read it if you have the chance.

Friday, July 25, 2008

What Would You Do When Everything Seems To Go Wrong?

"Overwhelming" seems to be a word used a little too often of late. The other not so polite corresponding expression would be "It sucks." I seem to have a little too much on my plate (but hey, what's new?), and it is absolutely annoying when I could not get things done. What would you do? Vent? Complain? Cry? Diminish into silence, bitterness, and depression? I know well enough that I should find peace and composure in prayer, but how often do I seek that as my first option? I will whine and ramble on and on about things, in hope that someone would come rescue me in offering assistance in anyway possible. I know it sounds sad. I am so used to getting things done, but hey, complaining still plays a vital role as it is a form of self-lecture and reminder that I am still human.

Thus please find an update to my life as listed.
(It is obvious why I have not been blogging for a while now.)

1. Teaching Methods for Social Science. This course started on July 14. Ever since the first day and every class I had since, blood seems to drain out of my face with the course work and high expectations of the teacher. I guess people back home can relate this to "Alam dan Manusia" classes we had in primary school. Yeah, so I am supposed to possess a significant understanding of American history, economy, geography, political studies, anthropology, and sociology from kindergarten to Grade 9. That is a whole lot of reading on my own. The classes are fun and interesting as I am exposed to many different children's literature, but man! The course work is a bg challenge. I scored my first 6/10 on a paper in the past 6 years of my life, and I lost those points based on grammar mistakes. (Now, please don't give me a hard time saying that I do not need to learn up my grammar, or that my English is good.)

2. Securing a social security number. Since 9/11 the procedure for international students to obtain a social security number has been made complicated. With an F-1 visa status, the student can only work on campus, and upon securing a job, initial paperwork can only be started to get a social security number. Getting a SS# is like your IC back home. It is an official identification for your existence. I need one to be able to register for a state required examination to be officially accepted into my program, get a driving license, etc. Since I have yet to find a job= no SS# -> unable to make it for the registration deadline...

3. Get a job. This relates to the above and the issue of money. Yay! I need to start paying tuition fees soon! (>_<)

4. Housing. Summer is almost over and the semester starts next month. I am supposed to move out of Ohio Residence Hall by August 3, but since the Bandits' are still occupying Volkman Hall, I am only able to move that very weekend before classes start. Volkman rooms are similar to those of an apartment and I was super excited to move in as soon as possible, not only to set up but also to settle down with my new roomies while getting a grove before the madness of the new semester and orientation week begins.

5. Getting around. I need to get out to get real. I need transportation of any sort. I rather run errands according to my own convenience than rely on others. They are busy and I wish not to impose.

6. Mood swings. This has caused me to be all weird again with crazy sleep hours and getting up past noon. My work and daily efficiency level has been thrown way off chart. Social skills and sanity level are affected to some degree.

7. Skype is still out. Grrr...

Thus, I would deeply appreciate it if you would pray for me. I sure wouldn't mind a few care packages sent this way. Phone calls and nice emails would work too. In the meantime, I will try not to sigh too much and pull myself together. I know so well that what I am going through right now is like an annoying mosquito almost impossible to kill. I have been in worse situations. I just need to focus on the important and keep swimming.

Friday, July 18, 2008

The Summer That I Know Of

The heat and humidity is becoming unbearable. Somehow the time of the year where I complain about the s-words: stickiness, stinkiness, sleepiness, sluggish, sloth...

It is becoming hotter on sunny days, and even when the sun is blocked by the clouds, it is humid and muggy. I end up like a beached whale on my bed or on the couch in shorts and a little more than my undergarments. I started cooking and eating spicy food with the girls, sweating away as the chili burns while gulping down cold lemonade. I can describe "cold/cooling" foods vividly. I want ice-cream.

I have also been out on walks. O-sanpo! It carries the same connotation as when I was in Japan. N and I will walk and sit for a while. We have 2 spots, and my favorite is the hidden hill over looking the water "factory." It is cool there. I watch the water churn in the night and stars hanging brightly above us.

Just now, the familiar sounds of the cicada are heard. I smile. I finished watching "Honey and Clover" a few minutes ago and thought of all the summers I have spent in Japan. The heat, the mugginess, my complaints... The smell of cigarettes as I sit down with my boys. The familiar sight of greens at Yoyogi-park. The excitement of cooking for one another as we just hung out and talked our days away. Our escapades to affordable restaurants and the mall to chill indoors with the air-conditioning.

Many thoughts plagued my mind. The atmosphere is making me sluggish. I reminisce the summers I had in Japan. I miss those days. I miss the company. And yet, I am thankful that in this new place, I have new friends, new challenges, and finally, I am doing what I have been thinking of since my first summer in Japan.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

MEN ARE HAPPIER THAN WOMEN

Could this be true?
I guess it is all about perception and taking it with a pinch of salt.
Cheers guys! You know there is some truth to it and thus I love you guys so very much!

NICKNAMES
If Laura, Kate and Sarah go out for lunch, they will call each other Laura, Kate and Sarah.
If Mike, Dave and John go out, they will affectionately refer to each other as Fat Boy, Godzilla and Four-eyes.

EATING OUT
When the bill arrives, Mike, Dave and John will each throw in $20, even though it's only for $32.50. None of them will have anything smaller and none will actually admit they want change back.
When the girls get their bill, out come the pocket calculators.

MONEY
A man will pay $2 for a $1 item he needs.
A woman will pay $1 for a $2 item that she doesn't need but it's on sale.

BATHROOMS
A man has six items in his bathroom: toothbrush and toothpaste, shaving cream, razor, a bar of soap, and a towel .
The average number of items in the typical woman's bathroom is 337. A man would not be able to identify more than 20 of these items.

ARGUMENTS
A woman has the last word in any argument.
Anything a man says after that is the beginning of a new argument.

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

SUCCESS
A successful man is one who makes more money than his wife can spend.
A successful woman is one who can find such a man.

MARRIAGE
A woman marries a man expecting he will change, but he doesn't.
A man marries a woman expecting that she won't change, but she does.

DRESSING UP
A woman will dress up to go shopping, water the plants, empty the trash, answer the phone, read a book, and get the mail.
A man will dress up for weddings and funerals.

NATURAL
Men wake up as good-looking as they went to bed.
Women somehow deteriorate during the night.

OFFSPRING Ah, children.
A woman knows all about her children. She knows about dentist appointments and romances, best friends, favorite foods, secret fears and hopes and dreams.
A man is vaguely aware of some short people living in the house.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
A married man should forget his mistakes.
There's no use in two peopleremembering the same thing!

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Another Sunday... but this was wonderful in its own way

Sunday. The Lord's Day. Sabbath. A day of relaxation.
Today, I had a good one.

Church was exceptionally pleasant today. I got up with time to prepare myself and was ready before the pick up time. The worship session was enjoyable and the sermon was great. I met the most pleasant 5th grade boy and was taken out to lunch by 2 wonderful couples. I found a new place that I would love a cuppa or a meal (reasonably priced and serves good bake goods like Pan DeMolde) and they serve the best salad I had thus far in America.

I returned to the dorm and chilled in front of the TV watching the Bring It On movie series. 4 in a row is a little too much, but I have learned much about viciousness among middle, high school, and college girls. I was trying to catch up on my emails and will try to get them done as soon as possible. Although there is much to write, I will call it an early night to break the bad lifestyle of sleeping in the wee hours of the morning and getting up past noon.

I managed to sort some things out over the past week, but seriously, I know I could have done so much more. Discipline, bunny... DISCIPLINE. I had better write out a To-Do-List for the week and hopefully stick to it. I am looking forward to a new course and new opportunities this week. Fingers crossed and prayers said. (*^_ ' *)v

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Skype Down

It is rather annoying when paid services do not work when you want to use them.

I finally found the time and need to speak with some people and when I tried using Skype, it just would not work. At first, everything was working "fine." I could send out and receive regular chat messages until I tried to make Skype calls. Around Wednesday till Friday, my calls were not "processed." I dialed the number, but there was no ringing tone. after waiting for about a minute of silence "Error 1002: Unable to connect" appeared on the calling window. I tried logging out of Skype and trying again, everything else work but the call would not get through. I reported the problem.

I even tried logging out of my PC, restart, but it still did not work. Then, I did a test run trying to log on with a remote computer, everything worked well, even the calls! However, when the test was over and I tried logging on Skype with my Mac once more, this time, I could not even connect to the server. I could not log in at all. Grrrr...

The problem was starting to annoy me and I reported the problem with updates with the additional non-working functions. I received a reply regarding what I could possibly do, like restarting Skype, etc. I even un-installed Skype and reinstalled it! IT STILL DOES NOT WORK!

HELP. Someone, if you do know how to fix the problem, kindly supply me with your assistance. I will have to wait till Monday to go see the PC wizards at Tech Support. At the meantime, being unable to connect to people I wish to speak with is simply annoying. Well, I guess I have to be patient. I am starting to rely on modern technology a little too much. So, in the mean time, if you wish to communicate, emails will do. You could leave a message here, or get me on google chat or MSN. You could easily find me if you know my full name and spelling.

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

It has been a while...

In the process of getting my act together, I went through the process of getting a drastic change. I got a new haircut.

P hooked me up with a free haircut at SpaBlÜe. My recent cheesy sense of reasoning thought that getting a haircut would do me good. Hmm, but how should I do my hair?

The last time I was at the salon was somewhere in the last week of April. I wanted to get a new look then but decided to keep my hair. I know I have nice long hair. My selfish ego wanted to grow my hair as long as possible, my competitive self wanted to have the longest hair among my sisters, and the cheeky me wanted to have hair long enough to go topless if I wanted.

I have been contemplating all day whether should I stick to the same ritual I have when going to the salon, "Just trim off an inch and shape my locks. I plan to grow my hair some more." I love my hair as I can have it straight or the sexy waves and curls. I have received a good number of compliments and "Suemae, your hair is beautiful. Please don't cut it." My hair was at its longest ever, below my waist.

Well, I guess it is time for a change. A real change. I am currently at a new chapter of my life and I guess I should start afresh. Enough of people fitting me into the stereotype of being prim and proper, the spoiled princess, with my long hair. Just cut it. It will grow again. So, here goes...

P, N, & I went to SpaBlÜe. P & I got a new look each. When we were done, the pile of hair looked like a small animal had died. P took off about 5 inches and mine could easily be a foot to 15 inches. The girls liked my new look. The three of us hung out at The Village Squire by the river for dinner. They thought I look chic. Minga screamed when she came pick us up after dinner. Adrienne who saw us before we left came in as she did not believe that I chopped my hair off. K found me in the lounge and I guess "My goodness!" "My gosh!" would be reactions I hear for the next week or two.

So, how do I look? It is really different. I hope it is good. I am missing my long hair. I should have kept a thin braid for memory. But hey, Cheers to a brand new start!

Congratulations, Graduates!

This will be the first time since 2003 that I am not spending the first week of July in Japan. It will also be the first time that I am not there for the ACTS-es/Summer Graduation at TCU.

Today is the day where my close friends--ChingBoi, Mark, and Seth--from the 4th batch of ACTS-es students complete their journey at TCU and embarks on a new adventure in the next chapter of their lives. Joining them, will be another close friend who went through his share of trials, Feng. How I wished I could have been there to give you my well wishes in person. Seeing the smiles on pictures posted on Facebook at the regular reference site was heartwarming indeed. Many hugs to all of you, students, faculty and staff.


Congratulations on your achievement.
You have worked hard during your years at TCU. I am very proud of you. As you step into a new chapter in life, I pray that you will remember the blessings received and be faithful in using every gift for Him who have brought us together in His love and grace. You might be anxious as what lies ahead, but remember "For God knows the plans He has for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11)" As for now, smile, stand tall and celebrate in your success.

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

What People Lack Here is the Sense of Common Courtesy

Okay. Maybe that is too strong of a statement.
I got out of the wrong side of the bed.


I was awaken today by a stranger walking into my room. Crap, visitors... students who will be joining JU in August. Still, what the hell is people walking into my room when I am still in bed? Seriously, this is my private space. Permission should be asked. Okay, giving the benefit of the doubt that I should be as accommodating as possible, at least you should give me some sort of notice. I had my delicates hung out to dry in my room and stuff are not organized as usual due to my late nights. It is not logical to turn the tables and say that it was my wrong in any way. This was not the first time. I gave the "tour guide" a piece of my mind. Her excuse, "your room was open at that time." Oh come on, you should have got keys from the administrator and show visitors the empty rooms on the 2nd floor. Common sense, my dear, common sense!

Things got worse when the water was turned off. It is summer and it is freaking hot and humid. Every normal person would want to take a shower whenever possible. I had a presentation in the evening and I desperately need to wash my hair. Great! So, after a not so pleasant wake up call, I can't even wash up. I waited till M came back from class as she was an RA. She tried to get access so that we could use the showers at the Harm Weber Building. I couldn't wait and needed to use the bathroom badly, so PK and I got us stuff and went over to the men's dorm instead.

Incidents like such would never happen at TCU. Miyo was my room mate and she was actively involved in open campus where she showed off our room when visitors wanted to see how living in the dorms would be like. She informed me when I moved in to be room mates with her, reminded me a week before and on the day itself. She would clean the room and made sure that I was up (at least). Living in the dorm had its rules but we were well notified by Nomura-san or Kawamura-san if there is going to be a power-cut, 2 weeks to a month beforehand!!!

Well, it is different over here. I just have to live with it.

Sunday, July 6, 2008

Picnic

It happened again. I overslept from the time I meant to get up. When I got out of bed, I hardly had 20 minutes to prepare for church. The madness has to stop. This is the last straw.

I was invited to a picnic at church. First Baptist Elgin was having a 4th of July weekend picnic. The church grounds were adorned with marquees and BBQ grills. Everyone was looking forward to the end of the service. After feasting at the Lord's table and the sermon, the congregation moved outside into the beautiful July weather. There were tables and tables of food. My 4th of July weekend could not get more American. Soon, everyone was enjoying hot-dogs and hamburgers, salad and apple pie, dessert and ice-cream from Dairy Queen. It was also an opportunity to meet JD's family and some staff of JU. I bet every one of the international students who were invited had their fill of the yummy food and enjoyed the day.

All went well this weekend. Apart from the lack of order in my sleep routine, I am slowly snapping out of the negative mood swing. I have watched so much TV over the weekend that I felt compelled to pluck myself out of the sofa and throw the TV out. Even the couch has an indent of my bottom. A new week ahead... time to get busy.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Chicago. Chicago.

With a tight embrace and a warm peck on my cheek, he said, "I miss you very much." The strapping adorable young man pulls away. He was the only guy now who would say something like such and send my knees weak. I smile as I gaze upon the face that resemble the cuteness of Haley Joel Osment. I see Ron.
(My dreams are getting highly detailed of late. My memory of them as been expanding too. I am way too stressed and thus having high-definition dreams in sound and color.)

"Suemae..." P and N appeared at my door all dressed up for the day.

"CRAP!!... I am so sorry. What time is it? I was totally wiped out. What time do we have to go? I'll be ready in 10 minutes. Sorry." It was the fastest ever I got ready. I washed up, threw on my dress, and packed my stuff to continue the morning rituals on the go. (o_O#)

...:::x:::...

We were on the bus heading towards Elgin's Metra station. Today, we were going downtown. I couldn't help but kept apologizing. P told me to shut up as we were early despite me waking up late. We made it for the expected hourly train, but boarded on that was an express to Union Street Station. By 11, the trio was walking towards Grant Park, where the annual Taste of Chicago was held.

It was a beautiful day and the 3 of us took a stroll amidst the crazy crowds of people feasting our eyes on the events and food surrounding us. The smell of various exotic foods were intoxicating. We got our food and drinks by exchanging them with the tickets we bought. We found a spot in the shade and had a picnic. The crowd grew as we walked some more in the park. They were live bands and activities for kids. It was like a fair ground with a Ferris wheel, carousel, and all. We snacked on Polish food and got some Italian ice-cream before heading towards National Street for some retail therapy.

ENCOUNTERED WITH A CHALLENGED MAN.We walked for a while and sat in front of Barnes and Noble. While we were sitting a homeless man stood in front of me and the next 5 minutes or so was simply bizarre. He started speaking to me and I tried to be polite. But then he just gawked and stared, and I tried to ignore him. Then he just started looking at my legs and feet, and dusted his clasped hands. Thank goodness he kept his distance of 3 feet; otherwise, I might have done something I might regret. Soon he just walked off. We were wondering whether he wanted my seat when all the other seats were empty. The conclusion was, he is mad. Strange.

The retail therapy lasted until our feet hurt. We searched for a Starbucks, had a caffeine break there before making our way back to the station and the dorms. I now know go to get myself downtown via public transport, I will be back for the parks, museums, and art galleries later.

It was a productive day, my spirits lifted, and now I am back in the dorms, enjoyed a wonderful shower. My tummy is filled with the scrumptious pasta P made and have been rotting in front of the TV watching Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkhaban and August Rush. What a day!

I Can't Sleep

My body is weary, and soul is tired.
I feel like my limbs have been hammered into pulp,
and could hardly will to do anything.
Yet, I lie here, wide-eyed as the mind runs off
on thoughts concerning the many things I wish to understand.
What is wrong with me?
Is the pursuit of happiness that difficult?
Why relationships I long for the most seem impossible?
Does everything need to be a choice?
Is sacrifice inevitable?
Lost and cold, I long to cuddle up like a child in the embrace of a loving parent.
I find myself lost in my thoughts and deep in prayer.
Why is it so difficult to be just me?

Friday, July 4, 2008

Independence Day

Happy 4th of July!

What does this day mean to me? Another day to my not-really-summer summer holidays? Instead of being a total sloth to a day that could mean little to me, I marched in the Elgin's 4th of July Parade with Judson University. I got up at 6 to prepare (a difficult task indeed as I couldn't sleep till about 3am) and made my way to the meeting place with KP and LK. We were wearing Judson Ts and was to hand out candy with the students, staff, faculty, and the alumni. Plans changed and KP, LK, and I ended up holding the banner as we walked down Douglas Avenue. It was really weird for me as I feel so self conscious walking down a street packed with people. Keeping the chin up, smiles, and nervous laughter helped me get through the morning.

It was pretty interesting to look at the beautiful houses that were dressed up for the occasion. Housing on the street the parade procession had people sitting on the sidewalk and some event hosted cook-outs right on the front porch. There were floats, bands, horses, big men on mini bikes, and the whole shindig. I enjoyed the walk, sights, smells, and people cheering for the university.

Lesson for the day: I will not chew gum again.
I was chewing a piece of gum handed to me by a kid of a faculty member. While I was walking down the parade route and suddenly I felt that I am chewing gritty gum. The filling to my left molar came off!!! I started to get paranoid and started feeling the damage with my tongue. Although it did not hurt, but the thought of needing to go to the dentist sent shivers down my spine. I asked KP and she told me to ready myself to part with approximately USD 200. WTH???! She mentioned that just visiting the dentist for a check up cost USD 150. Great just great... where am I going to get the money since I do not have any income? I seriously need to get my act together. Please pray as I go around asking for jobs on Monday will be fruitful. I seriously do not want the exposed molar to turn into something I need a root canal job done later. Don't like trips to the dentist, don't think I will look forward to it at all.

After crashing on the bed sleeping for another 5 hours, I got up and rot in front of the TV. Since there is no specific cook outs or parties to attend today, I might possibly end my first 4th of July watching the fireworks later. Every blast of color in the air would be followed by earnest prayers and hopes that this month would be fruitful.

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Reminiscing Rajiv's Wedding

Eugene finally sent me his share of pictures taken at Rajiv's wedding. As I was organizing them, it brought back fond memories. I had been really busy over the past few months, and thus, allow me to share with you the highlights of the wedding in March.
Do click on the picture to view pictures taken at the wedding.

During March, I was in UK to attend the biggest day of my brother's life thus far. After spending a few days in London and about a week catching up with my sister in Glasgow, I flew south to the city of Birmingham. I remembered vividly Rajiv being late picking me up at the airport, but I was glad as we were finally together again.

Jesse, Rajiv's brother-in-law to-be drove us back home where the traditional celebrations of an Indian wedding was in motion. I was greeted with Rita's many close-knit relatives and was welcomed by hugs and kisses from everyone. It was like a scene from "My Big Fat Greek Wedding." I finally met Rita and we exchanged pleasantries and soon resumed the ceremonial preparations of the bride. Rajiv had his turn too, but it soon turned into a yellow-"cakey"-hair-removing experienced and caused a mess in the bathroom.

The next day, Rajiv picked me up from Elka's (maid of honor/Rita's cousin) place and we hung out at the salon. Rajiv was to have a haircut and we were just chilling till we pick Eugene up from the train station. Rajiv and I decided to walk around the Bullring (center of downtown Birmingham) as we waited. We spent our time catching up while window shopping and enjoyed music recitals at St. Martin's Church. We were starting to get worried when we did not hear from Eugene. We were supposed to meet up in the morning but have yet to hear from him around 5pm. Stressed out we found ourselves at a pub worried and wondering where we would spend Rajiv's last evening as a bachelor. The situation was getting bad as the best man was nowhere to be found. Soon we checked-in to rooms at the local hotel and went out for dinner at the most tackiest Greek restaurant ever. What a nightmare! Well, things could only get better from now on. Eugene finally arrived 12 hours later as he missed his train. Rajiv went over to meet him and to pass Eugene his tux before turning in early.

The BIG Day
I have never seen Rajiv more excited. He was actually hurrying me in getting myself prepared. We left the hotel 15 minutes earlier than as planned the day before. Rajiv wanted his hair to be just the way Rita likes it. We picked Eugene and Yukimi exactly at 9am and arrived 10 minutes EARLY at the church. In these 4 sentences, people who know us well will definitely notice the difference. Since we were early, we had time for pictures, and Eugene and Rajiv had time to catch up and talk while waiting for the guests and the bride. Rajiv was getting really nervous as he was going to the bathroom every 5 minutes.

Rita and her bridal party finally arrived. We waited for 2 hours and the wedding ceremony started with a 1.5 hour delay. Nevertheless, it was one of the most organized and beautiful wedding I have ever attended. The flow of the ceremony was wonderful, the congregation was colorful, and we had the best of both cultures having both English and Indian reflected. After the message, the couple exchanged vows, I did a reading and we enjoyed songs dedicated to the newly-weds.

Marriage Joins Two People in the Circle of Its Love- Edmund O'Neill
Marriage is a commitment to life,
the best that two people can find and bring out in each other.
It offers opportunities for sharing and growth
that no other relationship can equal.
It is a physical and an emotional joining that is promised for a lifetime.

Within the circle of its love,
marriage encompasses all of life's most important relationships.
A wife and a husband are each other's best friend, (I was welling up just about here.)
confidant, lover, teacher, listener, and critic.
And they may come times when one partner is heartbroken or ailing,
and the love of the other may resemble
the tender caring of a parent or child.

Marriage deepens and enriches every facet of life.
Happiness is fuller, memories are fresher,
commitment is stronger, even anger is felt more strongly,
and passes away more quickly.

Marriage understands and forgives the mistake life
is unable to avoid. It encourages and nurtures new life,
new experiences, new ways of expresing
a love that is deeper than life.

When two people pledge their love and care for each other in marriage,
they create a spirit unique unto themselves which binds them closer
than any spoken or written words.
Marriage is a promise, a potential made in the hearts of two peoplewho love eah other and takes a lifetime to fulfill.
----------..... ----------
After the wedding was over, we made a move to the reception hall and had a fantastic time at the wedding reception. Rita's relatives warned us that the English part of the wedding is over and the Indian fun begins. Guys were teaching Eugene how to Banghara and told him that he has to dive in front of the procession dancing as the newly-weds made their entrance. We enjoyed Indian food and danced the evening away. We feasted and danced. Laughter and tears were shared with Eugene's touching speech/toast to the couple. People were commenting that they have never been at a reception where the bride and groom danced as much as everyone else. Everyone had fun and even though we had a few unfortunate incidents, it was a memorable day that left everyone smiling.

We returned to the Masih family home later for the traditional ceremony of sending off the bride. I enjoyed watching the customs carried out and could not help but relate it to my own cultural background. In the midst of it all, my brother has fully embark on the next stage of adulthood. I am so happy for him.

There is so much cover about the wedding. I think I have missed out a lot on the details here. I can still remember the entire event vividly, thus if you like to hear the story, do feel free to ask and I am more happy to tell you all about it.

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Kidnapped!

Kathy, Preeti, Minga... I LOVE YOU GIRLS!

The depressive spell was casts and a cloud of fear and despair seems to loom over me. Insomnia is kicking in and I find it very difficult to get up in the morning. My focus is slowly fading, but thank goodness I still can find strength in b*tching about the whole situation. Venting helps.

Class was exceptionally boring yester-evening. The class was spun off tangent and a discussion broke out about the modern work culture which put me to sleep. Someone caught me but I did not care. The only thing good that came out of my 4 hours spent at Creek Side was that my team and I managed to finish out presentation and paper. Apart from the finals on Thursday, we are almost done!

Jenna dropped me back to Ohio Hall, just when I was about to decent the flight of stairs from the parking lot to the building, I was honked a few times and drawn towards a Nissan Altima. Soon, I was zipped off with the girls to watch a late night move, Wanted. Angelina Jolie was cool, but way too bony. I am inspired to get a tattoo.

It was a bloodfest and the carnival of violence. The adrenaline rush did pull the whole movie together and I did enjoy it. Within minutes of the show, I recognized that it was filmed in Chicago. Yep, it is my town and I feel more connected and engrossed in movies shot at the 3rd largest city in the States. Hmm, taking a depressive woman to a violent action film, when do I start killing? We wanted to get BB guns to experiment the curve shots, while speculating that Minga will be practicing her Angelina's moves falling gracefully to her knees to pass through the bridge on the Loop. We raided JD's house on our way back at midnight and popped in another movie for the night in the dorms.

Just dragged myself out of bed not too long ago. My body aches all over from clearing a patch behind Barton House (administrative building on campus). I should get some work done today. The girls have been great by taking me out for neighborhood escapades. Our trip to Starbucks on Monday night turned out to be a movie night with DVDs rented from Blockbuster. We had a super gross incident with the pizza when someone found really 'unwanted' hair in her breadstick. It caused havoc.

Thanks for the fun. I need to work on my study notes now... will catch up later.

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

20 [6 months] 08

2008 has reached its midway mark. 6 months is gone and we find ourselves in the month of July. Since humans charting the measurement of time, we are conscious about our days and keeping tract of changes around us.

6 months ago, in January, I was at Lan Kwai Fong, Hong Kong, with Susan and Elisa, venting away my life in Macao, and toasting to a new year filled of dreams come true. 5 months ago, in February I spent my first Lunar New Year alone, watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S, snacking on ChipsAhoy, and couldn't wait to leave the special administrative region of China. 4 months ago, March was spent with family as I traveled to UK for Rajiv's wedding at Birmingham, had fun with Suzanne in London and Glasgow, and entertained the family when they visited Macao. 3 months ago, it was a very challenging time for me as I faced the turbulent change of quitting my job, relocating to Malaysia, and prepared myself for the move to America. 2 months ago, I was in Japan with loved ones who I miss dearly, having so much fun together. 1 month ago, I am already here, in Chicago, settled in and attending school as aspired since the summer of 2004.

Looking back, much has indeed happened over these few months. Breaking it down to the details of what came to pass, it is overwhelming. Thank God for hindsight that I am able to see how blessed I am. This is a huge change for me, and although may see me childish or ignorant, I never thought that I would be living a life like this. I should complain and vent less about my life. Many see me as living the dream life of a true traveler. The various changes constantly sets me off a new adventure. I get tired, but I find my strength in the Faithful One.

Thank you for your prayers and support. Without you, I would never have the strength and courage to be doing what I am today.

A toast indeed to 2008, a year of change and to dreams coming true. It is also a year of happiness through weddings and celebrations. May God bless us all.