Elsa's etude

Harvard

2010-08-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

I really don’t know how I got any ideas about Harvard University when I was a little girl. However, I pleased mom to tell her that Harvard’s the school I’d study while growing up. How nonsensical! I do come to Harvard, only I’m a tourist but not a student. Here I’m sitting in the café of Harvard University Bookstore. What am I thinking now? Um… I wish I could study much harder before. I wish…

Jogging and Gossip Girl

2010-07-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Two things get into my life: jogging and “Gossip Girl.” Can’t believe I’m now doing something I hated before everyday. I used to think that jogging is one of the most boring things in the world, but it turns out a really good activity to life and healthy issue. Persistence is something I don’t have in my personality. I hope to create it by running for one hour every morning. As for “Gossip Girl,” well, I disdain gossip, however, what happen to Serena and Dan is the thing I do care about. What can I say? People would change!

STOP

2010-07-15T07:29:00.001-07:00

The oil spill in the Gulf not only endangers the lives like seabirds and marine animals but also force some owners to abandon their pets because they can’t afford anymore. People lost their jobs and got unemployed. It’s really unfair that the selfishness of a few people causes so many victims, including human beings, animals, and the environment. When would they learn the lesson?

Target

2010-07-14T08:30:00.001-07:00

I’d never known that people eat that much. Living in U.S., I have to prepare food and cook for meals of each day for saving some expenses, and it surprised me that we can deplete so much food; starch, fruits, drinks, meats, vegetables, sauce, dessert, and snack... When I was in Taipei, I seldom went to any supermarket for anything, because everything’s so cheap. Go to 7-11 whenever you want or need something. Go to the vendors nearby whenever you’re hungry. Life’s convenient. However, I now spend a lot of time in purchasing food and commodities in all kinds of markets such as Target, Walmart, CVS, Dollar Trees, Stop & Shop. Target is my favorite. I love their “Target dog” and the decoration, feeling joyful shopping there.

Well, need to go to Dollar Trees tonight for some cleansers. Will see what good deals we can get there ; P

Solo

2010-07-13T07:26:00.000-07:00

Look at what I’m learning now!!! I know rigging, unrigging, furling, and storing of sails, also some terms about sailing and sailboat. What’s the next? GO SAILING on the river!!! I’m so proud of myself ^^
* Head up
The boat turns into or toward the wind.
* Bearing off
Turn the boat away from the wind.
* Close Hauled
Sail as close to the wind as possible.
* Jibing
Turn the stern or back of the boat through the wind.
* If two boats are approaching each other on opposite tacks, the port-side boat must keep clear.
*If two boats are approaching each other on the same tack, the windward boat must keep clear.

Rigging

2010-07-11T17:46:00.000-07:00

We finally went signing in the membership of Community Boating of Boston today, and I can’t believe that we already passed the first test for rigging by ourselves. Learning new things is always interesting and exciting. Boating is something I had never thought of before, and now I may go solo sailing next week. How cool and wonderful! Life is full of miracle, isn’t it?

Soaking Boston

2010-07-10T13:05:00.000-07:00

Sailing on the Charles River was the plan for this Saturday. My sluggishness had us go out in the afternoon but not morning. It’s going to rain cats and dogs after we bought a sun block of 100+ SPF. We only could change our direction to the Science Museum. I haven’t seen such a big rain for a while. It’s something like a storm or typhoon and reminds me of the falls of Niagara while standing in the rain. Cars seemed to float on roads; people were all wet with our without an umbrella.

It turned out that I was right to be sluggish on Saturday morning. Why rush? It’s Saturday! No one rushes on Saturday morning. That’s the attitude everyone should have : )

Settlement

2010-07-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

I loved moving and adapting myself to new environments. That’s some kind of stimulation to me, moving and traveling around. It seems once you start, you’d never stop; always leaving or heading somewhere. I said I “loved” doesn’t mean I want to quit the life style but just haven’t found the balance between here and there or stay and go.

By the way, we finally settle down somewhere in Boston.

Concord, MA

2010-07-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

It came back to me that I should write something in English again. That’s why this website began. No matter the thoughts are dark or shinny in my head, I should have taken them down. Diary would be a good start.

P and I have moved to Massachusetts for more than two weeks but haven’t settled down yet. P works at the town named Concord. What a lovely place. From time to time, I’d visit here myself when P’s working. It’s delightful hanging around in the Main St. There’re several pleasant shops. Usually, I’d take a walk to library and read some after sipping a cup of café at the Main Street Café. What a nice life, isn’t it? I really love the peace and harmony here. However, am I too young to want to be far away from big cities? Sometimes I ask myself.

http://www.mainstreetsmarketandcafe.com/

Potato

2010-01-26T20:20:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy to announce that the dark clouds have gone. I discover the happiness of simpleness. It's so easy, as easy as a potato, plain but sweet.

Snow

2009-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

Finally, it snows.
The white snow seem to clear up my mind.
My breath is full of fresh and cold air.
People hug each other because of coldness.
I love snow, which brings me the peace of mind.
I love snow.

Haunted

2009-12-16T00:37:00.000-08:00

By darkness
No matter where I am
No matter how old I am
It’s like sunrise and sunset
Circling day after day
And always comes back again
When I thought it’s gone
What is it?
Untouchable
Unreasonable
Unintelligible
My future sinks back into the darkness.

Miracle

2009-12-12T10:32:00.001-08:00

It’s weird that people usually write something sad but not happy. Maybe it’s because sadness always lasts much longer than happiness. That means I’m pretty well these days. This website’s almost forgotten. It’s very nice, isn’t it? I believe a miracle happened to me. The thing is people shall try to believe there’s a miracle, and when it happens we got to believe that it would last forever, so give me the courage to believe this: Miracle would last ever.

Sleepless

2009-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

Another sleepless night... Why? I don't know.
Maybe there're some doubts in my heart, and I have no faith.
That must be the most terrified thing in the world... have no faith...
Is there anyone who could get through his life without any question?
And if you have a question, what's it? How could you find the answer and know it's right for your?
I ask too much, as always, so I'm sleepless...

Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T16:12:00.000-08:00

One male friend told me he would not send his girlfriend a bunch of flowers as Valentine's Day gift. It's unpractical. He would rather give her some money to buy something useful. I kept silent and smiled. Then it occurred to me that maybe when the day we're leaving the world comes, we can't bring diamonds or cash with us, however, I believe the loved heart, the pleasant odor, the memories of joy can follow.
Today is Valentine's Day, a beautiful cloudy day. I wish you the courage to find your true love and then love the man/woman without regrets.
PS: Dear Bambi, thanks for the lovely flowers. You do know me^^

Revolutionary Road

2009-02-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

Do you live in the way you want?
Or you live in the way other people want or expect?
Do you know what kind of life you want?

Or you want the life other people want or expect?

Are you the person you want to be?
Or you are the person other people want and expect?

Maybe you actually don't know the answers,
Pretend that you don't know the answers,
Or you never find the answers.

That's why you are who and where you are.

2009

2009-01-17T02:01:00.000-08:00

I hadn't talked for a while. All I wanna say now is "thank you." to everyone who loves and supports me. I never feel alone and always, you stand by me. How lucky I am that almost everyday my life is full of laughter, and I'll try my best to make people around me smile in the future. Cheers ^^

My teammates in Galilee. Hey guys, you're really great!!!

The biggest Christmas gifts, Simba and Tiger. Love them so so so much.

Superstitionist

2008-09-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

I was superstitious, following my instinct superstitiously, no matter how hard the future was. It'd been like the moonlight at a dark night, yet it's gone, being smashed completely. I thought I'd get lost but found myself released instead. Reset... that's what I want and need.

Cape No. 7

2008-09-14T01:04:00.000-07:00

31 days later, I finally unpacked the memories. I don’t need to understand a single word of those Japanese asides of the letters for Tomoko because I know the feeling of missing. The melody brings back the touch, the wind, the voice, the tear and the laughter I ever had. Waiting for the rainbow...

Peaceful Warrior

2008-09-07T01:04:00.000-07:00

Because of that slap, my heart and dream's broken. I cried, shouted, raged, forwent…, and then because of that slap, I stopped whining. It's thankful that I don't need a shattered leg to see through myself, my life, and the reality. No longer gaze at the distant future, and start to learn to take the responsibility for the burden I tried to abandon before. No longer struggle but try to live with it at the moment.
"People are not theirs thoughts, they think they are, and it brings them all kinds of sadness." said Socrates. I said we have to be someone, whom our family, friends, and the society expect us to be. That brings all kinds of sadness. I said we're chosen to be someone when we start to breathe in a mother's womb. That brings all kinds of sadness. So it came out that "Life is a mystery. Don't waste time trying to figure it out." and "There is no starting or stopping - only doing." I suppose it means that we may choose the journey but never know the destination; or we thought we took the right way to the destination we want but we might never get it. That's why "This moment is the only thing that matters." We at least have a chance to live without regrets, and that chance brings us a chance to be happy.

My Blueberry Nights

2008-09-01T08:33:00.000-07:00

Elizabeth "Guess I'm just looking for a reason."
Jeremy "Well, from my observations, sometimes it's better off not knowing, and other times there's no reason to be found."
Elizabeth "Everything has a reason."
Jeremy "It's like these pies and cakes. At the end of every night, the cheesecake and the apple pie are always completely gone. The peach cobbler and the chocolate mousse cake are nearly finished, but there's always a whole blueberry pie left untouched."
Elizabeth "So what's wrong with the blueberry pie?"
Jeremy "There's nothing wrong with the blueberry pie. It's just people make other choices. You can't blame the blueberry pie. It's just no one wants it."
Elizabeth "Wait! I want a piece."

Dear Jeremy, in the last few days, I've been learning how to not trust people, and I'm glad I failed. Sometimes we depend on other people as a mirror to define us and tell us who we are, and each reflection makes me like myself a little more... Elizabeth

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I did believe there's a reason for everything. We need a reason to know why we're suffering and what we're sacrificed for. Then we'd think it's worthy and can let go. However, it's hard to find the reason at the moment sometimes. I try to think some other way; to think about what I learned or gained and stick to it. I regained my freedom, which might be something more important than being protected in my life. Thanks. I appreciate it indeed.

Bad luck

2008-07-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

The shuttle bus to airport wasn't coming on time, and then I found I put the scrap of paper with bus company number in my baggage, which was going to be bursting with my cosmetics, clothes, gifts, and I had to open it in the lobby, infornt of my group. The bus finally came with a 80-year-old man, the driver. It meant we'd better load up our baggages by ourselves. Taking those heavy things up and down might hurt his spine.

In the airport, I was the first one to line up for clearing passport control and my personal carry-on items. However, always, always, the line I chose always proceed slowliest. I was trying to lead the tour but always had my group wait for me at the end.

We eventually got on boarding. That's so great to find my seat at 39J between two guys, so I neither could lean on the window for a nap nor stand up for taking a walk. It's not the worst. The kid sitting behind me kept kicking the back of my chair, that meant goddamned 13 hours, while I was eating, while I was sleeping, while I was going to throttle all people around me. Just in time, I switched to a French movie about a "dying" dancer. I shouldn't have complained, right? I'm healthy enough to throttle people and won't get heart attect because of being exciting so far. And I just stuck a flag in my tiny world map. I shouldn't have complained...

What a surprise!!!

2008-07-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

While finishing dinner with my group in the restaurant on the river side of Rhein, the reception told me that there's one lady coming to visit me at 7:30PM. That's Birgit!!! I even can't remember how long we had not seen each other, and last time we met was in Taipei. That's such a long time!!! She spent 2 hours to take a train to see me in Boppard. How sweet and how touching. What a lovely day, very good for talking to an old friend with some breeze and cold beer.

Dear Birgit, thank you so much for your coming and hugs. I would keep the warmth and the moment on my mind for ever.

Sleepless night...

2008-07-14T09:39:00.001-07:00

Can't sleep and need an answer, but who can help me with this? Everyone's on his own eventually. No matter how far you run away, the fate would follow you everywhere. Give me the courage to face and fight it. Like a shadow, like a nightmare, can't be wiped, can't be erased. How about being a bird, nevertheless, the sky is another cage you'll find.

I Wish You Love

2008-06-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

To everyone I love, be strong and carry on...

"I wish you blue bird in the spring
To give your heart a song to sing
And then a kiss
But more than this
I wish you love

And in July a lemonade
To cool you in some leafy glade
I wish you health
And more than wealth
I wish you love

I wish you shelter from the storm
A cozy fire to keep you warm
But most of all
When snow flakes fall
I wish you love"

Quoted from "Ono Lisa: Pretty World"

PhiPhi

2008-06-10T02:21:00.000-07:00

In those cozy afternoons, I'd lie on my bed holding one book in my hands with or without reading.
You sat on my screen contemplating the high, blue sky. The sound of your breath brought me in peace.
I remember the smell while I kissed you on the cheek.
I remember the greeting touch you gave while I walked into the room.
I remember the little voice in your throat while you felt confused.
How would I lose you?
The pains and regrets would never end.
The sorrow and guilt would ever last.

Dive

2008-05-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

too noisy... the world's always too noisy
rumor, gossip, arguing, blaming
traffic's running
shovel's digging
phone's ringing
wanna go diving
listen to the sound of bubbles' cracking
find the silence of the ocean and the peace of mind

Simple life

2008-04-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

What would you see when you close your eyes?

It's spring.
I'm standing under a big tree.
The sunshine glistens in leaves.
My skirt is fluttering in the breeze.
The odor of grass and flowers fills my breath.
I'm just walking without direction and destanation;
not trying to be on time or to be late.
Time is meaningless.
And whenever I look back,
someone's there, always there.
How simple and how difficult.

What did you see when you closed your eyes?

Happy Birthday to Elsa

2008-03-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

Taking the day off had been the birthday gift I gave myself all the time before. However, since I went to Czech Republic for ten days, I didn't think I could get out of my work for one more day. That's why I really didn't want to go to office and was late this morinig. It's very weird that everyone seemed to expect me when I walked into our office. Well, there's a bunch of roses on my desk. WHAT A SURPRISE!!! I wouldn't like to admit, but I couldn't stop smiling when I saw the flowers and read the card. So who sent the flowers? I won't tell. All I can tell is that I do hope he will be albe to give me my birthday present in person next time ^^

It's awesome that Michael and Lucilla sang happy birthday song in German and Italian for me. Also, thank Dolphin and Chinying for the yummy ice cream cake. Carrie's kiss is pretty nice, too. You guys are so sweet. I had a wonderful birthday. Thanks : )

Papaya & birthday gift

2008-02-24T07:56:00.000-08:00

People would change. I've left home and lived in Taipei for more than ten years. I'm seldom homesick and it's usual that I'm not staying at home during Chinese New Year after working in traveling business. Therefore I was surprised when I found I missed my family this year. It's not normal for me. Some people say that when you start to look back, it means you're getting old. I think as long as getting old means more mature and grateful. Why not then? Well, finally got home this weekend. The papaya mom planted herself is sooooooooo tasty. That purely organic papaya is the sweetest papaya I've ever had. So nice to be home.

I got my first birthday gift for this year today. It's a lovely white knitwear. I don't understand why Nini insisted on giving me that as early as possible. Maybe it's because she thinks if so, I can wear it when the weather's still cold. How thoughtful… Thanks, my dear friend. I like the gift very much!!!

Roses

2008-02-15T23:01:00.000-08:00

Those roses for my birthday, graduation ceremony, Christmas, Valentine's Day, or for the expression of apology are always that lovely and charming. Sometimes I hear people say that they rather get something useful or simply cash than a bunch of flowers, but it's not for me. When a man shows up with flowers, oh..., even one rose, it's something special, and I know my heart would smile for that. It represents romance, admiration, generosity, happiness, many kinds of feelings... Well, all of this is based on the man is expected, otherwise it doesn't help much even if he brings a diamond with him.

Prayer

2008-02-12T07:15:00.000-08:00

I still have the mood to welcome 2008's coming, but it's February now. Even Chinese New Year past already. Time flies. There are not many things I accomplished last year. Sort of depressed... However, I learned the most important lesson in my life – being practical. Dreaming is the best and worst thing I have. I'm never afraid of dreaming about my life and how far I can fly. However, taking step by step usually kills me before reaching the goals. So being surefooted shall be the first issue I shall remind myself all the time. I don't have religion but would go to temples or churches from time to time. Sending a prayer of thanks to the sky is some way to express my appreciation for being loved and helped by so many people.
On the last day of 2007, some friends and I gathered in Dolphin's apartment with three Dachshund dogs and watched the fireworks of Taipei 101 on the loft. The blaze dazzled us and the crowd on the street. The cheer "Happy New Year" at the last second warmed up everyone's heart, and how many messages had been sent to your cell phone meant how many people thought of you at the moment. Though 12% of 2008 had glided by, I sincerely wish all my dearest family and friends a new year of satisfaction & happiness.

Mom's garden

2008-02-12T06:56:00.000-08:00

I thought everyone has a garden when I was a little girl. After moving to Taipei, I realized that most people live in the apartment, and the house with balcony is actually pretty nice. Then I know how lucky I was to grow up in such a beautiful land. Mom spends 10% of her life at her garden. Even now she's over 60 years old; still climbs up and down on trees and gets through in and out plants to take care of all lives in our yard. Things she's raising are usually healthy and strong, like fish, dogs, vegetables, trees, plants, and including her children. Currently, we have trees of papaya, star fruit, mango, and longan outside our house. Sometimes there are some dishes of fresh vegetables from our small fields. It's truly blessed to be surrounded with the nature vitality. However, I don't seem to inherit mom's ability and seldom grow anything well... Well, I think I need to learn how to use a hoe first...

Behind the scene

2007-12-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

THE BEST

I bumped into Katya and Ronja in Hundertwasser. Ronja attracted my attention immediately. She's very active and friendly. I took the shot as quickly as possible and got this great photo. Both Katya and I love it. One of the happiest things on a trip is to know some nice people and adorable animals. Nice to meet you all^^

THE WORST
I always tell my friends that a tour leader sometimes is like a swimming swan. You look free and relaxed but actually you are on the alert all the time. You must watch everything to make sure every tiny detail is under control. It's not easy at all. That's why I'm exhausted when everytime I enter my room in hotel and just lie down without taking anything off.

Friendship

2007-12-12T12:02:00.000-08:00

What's the obligation to be a best friend?
I had a fight with one of my best friend. She complained that I was careless about the vexation of her life and didn't let her know before going to Czech Republic. She was worried about losing my contact. As for me, job is always the first priority, and I usually think people would find me when I'm willing to be found. I have no need to report to anyone where I'm going to or when I'll return, especially when I myself am in serious straits. Sort of selfish, I guess.
I recalled my life in junior high school. I was like her, my best friend. I shared everything and every secret with my best friend at that time. When I planned going anywhere or doing anything, she'd be the first one to know. Also, I never forgot her birthday. However, she didn't treat me back in the same way. Then I learned not to expect anything from friends, and no one should be there for your sorrow or happiness. Coldhearted? But I think it true.
Anyway, we've known each other for more than 15 years, so no matter I'm right or wrong, I shouldn't have been out of temper with her. In addition, if an alien takes me away, I think she'd be the first person to detect my disappearance, maybe even earlier than my mom.

Czech Republic

2007-11-29T17:55:00.000-08:00

TODAY, November 30, 2007, I'm going to Czech Republic. That's it. Yes, I'm going to Praha... TODAY!

Mr. Darcy

2007-10-30T09:22:00.000-07:00

"Not all of us can afford to be romantic. I've been offered a comfortable home and protection. There's a lot to be thankful for. I'm 27 years old. I've no money and no prospects. I'm already a burden to my parents. And I'm frightened." said Charlotte Lucas, Pride ＆ Prejudice.

I'm surprised to learn that human being haven't changed much these two hundred years, and I eventually realized that Jane Austen was writing a fairy tale for adults. It's pathetic that when I watched the movie, I sadly thought Lydia Bennet and George Wickham would be very troublesome for Lizzie, Caroline Bingley would be hard to deal with for Jane, and Mr. Darcy is perfect only because they just met. The future would be difficult for the sisters anyway.

I'm always dreaming of traveling around the world, and some friends advise me to find someone who can help me make my dreams come true but not to wait or search for Mr. Darcy. As long as William Collins is not that ridiculous, he might be a good choice. However, what if my dream is romantic love? Unpractical? I know! I do know! Then? Who can wake me up? I burst into tears the moment Mr. Darcy said to Lizzie "You have bewitched me, body and soul, and I love you," I'm frightened as well though.

Zoo

2007-10-10T04:42:00.000-07:00

Last time I went to a zoo in Taiwan was more than ten years ago. Maybe it's because I'm getting older. Sometimes doing something college students would do seems to make me feel younger. However, I actually don't like zoos in Taiwan at all. They usually don't take care of animals well and don't provide good environments. It's painful to see those animals fenced in a small space and stand on cement floor without trees or grass. When a gorilla looked at me with a melancholy face behind a glass window, my heart was broken. It's so sad. I don't think I overreact to this. Animals wouldn't be happy to live somewhere like this. I don't like zoos in Taiwan. I still feel the same way. Nevertheless, I did have a joyful zoo-morning. Thank Yuanhau for his company. He got up early for this today. By the way, it's Double Tenth Day. Happy birthday to Taiwan. Cheers!!!

Animals

2007-10-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

Do you like dogs or cats? If you do, why? If you don't, why not? Like what I mentioned in my first article, I don't know why I love animals that much and why I'm fascinated with vast grassy plains in Africa, and why I'm not interested in people at all. Mom never forces me to watch some healthy or educational TV programs, but I always can stare at NGC, Animal Planets, or Discovery for hours. Moreover, there are usually some lions, leopards, dogs, and cats on the wallpaper of my PC. I don't read news online everyday, yet I definitely would check The Daily Puppy. Weird... Anyway, it seems the stray cat around our neighborhood has new baby now. There are three, I guess. Look at these adorable little things. Hope some kind people would bring them home and take good care of them.

The piggy raised by my neighbor often takes a nap on the street. Did you see him smile? He must dream something yummy. So cute...

Er...

2007-10-06T00:29:00.000-07:00

After finishing my last article, the streetlamp on the viaduct toppled down already...

Krosa

2007-10-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

The building I live is swinging. It's not because of earthquake but Krosa, potentially the most dangerous typhoon this year, bringing torrential rain and strong wind with a radius of 300 km covering entire Taiwan. As long as it doesn't cause any damage, I pretty enjoy this kind of weather. Boring? Have nothing to do? Nope, I won't. I'm very good at being with myself since I was a little girl. Putting old photos in order, writing letters to friends, or reading the book that you want to finish but have no time in daily life are some nice choices. Moreover, dreaming or doing nothing is not bad as well. However, the furious storm keeps whistling and makes some horrible noise. It's quite scary. I hope my apartment is firm enough... Don't blow me away, please!!!

* My father and me, his baby daughter. He passed away when I was three. Telling the truth, I don't have many memories about him, but mom told me he loved me dearly and doted on me all the time. The picture is aged but precious.
* My classmates in college in the graduation ceremony. I lost connections with them. Hope they are well and live their life happily.
* My good friends celebrated my birthday in my apartment. I think that's at least five years ago. Now Gloria is located in London, and Nini got marred alreay. What a change!!!
* My coworkers in NGM Traditional Chinese Edition. We had a diner party in Sean's. Being coordinator in the editorial department is the best job I've ever had. Quality is the first priority. That's the spirit I can't find in any other place afterwards.

New hairdo

2007-10-02T08:26:00.000-07:00

I changed my hairdo again on last Saturday. Is it worse or better? I don't really care actually. Getting a new look is the most important. However, orderly fringe or extremely curly is always my favorite. Hum... What's the next? I've started to look forward it...

Final holidays

2007-09-02T06:49:00.000-07:00

I keep dreaming to be able to travel around the world by teaching Chinese just like many foreigners' doing in Taiwan, so I applied for the training course of teaching Chinese in NTU, therefore, except the Moon Festival Holidays, I need to get up at 7:00am for the course and leave the class at 6:00pm every single Saturday and Sunday from Sep. 8 to Nov. 11. Whew... What a task!

I did use up my final holidays for something nice. Thank Vicente. Got a chance to watch the show "What is fantasy?" last night. It's fantastic, lasting for 3 hours. Life is like a journey. I think that's the point of the play. Some lines are something like "Some people don't know how to pack their baggage, because there are too many things they want to put in." It meant too much desire. Grasping... yeah... I am; always want more and more and more... That's why I can't settle down till now, looking for another journey in my life all the time; still want to know what will happen if I turn in the next corner. I don't expect better things but lust for something new, something fresh. However, shall I seek out a destination? Is there a destination?

Today... belonged to Mirabelle. We celebrated her birthday in Cashbox. Dear Mirabelle, happy birthday! You're my first friend of Virgo. Please tolerate, if I'm not that accurate sometimes :P

Go Go Hawks!

2007-08-18T03:36:00.000-07:00

I was taking a nap while Sepat's passing by, and it came to my mind that I'm obligated. I was roused. Hope it's not too late :P

Once a month

2007-08-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

You'd think the sky is grey, even if it's a sunny day.
You'd never find shoes to suit your black skirt in the morning.
You'd think yourself is ugly to death because there is one pimple on your chin.
You can't stop eating, and then feel yourself like a pig.
And why aren't you an elephant? So you can easily accept your robust shank.
You don't give a shit to everyone, everything, including yourself.
You try so hard to hold yourself back to shout out "I quit!" and then fly to an unmanned island; to shout at someone in office that "Take a look at a mirror! You don't deserve her and everything!"
You're an active volcano; it's going to explode on the go.
People around you may as well run away, the farther, the better.
After about one week, everything would return to normal.
You know that! Yet it will come over again at the same time next month.

Who can tell me why and how this happens? Damn!

Sagittarian

2007-08-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

My rising sign is in Sagittarius. I guess that's why these three Sagittarian girls often say something I wanted to say, dream something I've buried in my heart for a while, laugh at something I felt funny, or read some books I had leafed over in Eslite. It's a great treat to find someone like me; frank and blunt, not that tidy, a little bit silly, very independent, somewhat of dreamer, and out of control at times. Girls, thanks for sharing and listening, and it's really nice to meet you. Freut mich!

Dear Carrie,
I'd never be sad again. Once I get depressed, those amusing things you did will make me laugh. You're the most inneconent and sincere person I've ever met. Please keep it, and remember that you definitely deserve a good man to take care of the rest of your life, and you'll own a lovely family with four kids together for sure.

Dear Liese,
It's really nice to have your company on my way to search myself. I wish I could have your wisdom when I was at your age. I do like the way you think, unlimitedly. Our discussion about life inspires me a lot. You know what? I think you're a mermaid in your last life. That's why you always need to moisturize your eyes. Thanks for not hiding this from me. It's rare.

Dear Lily,
You have a talent for keeping your balance between ideal and reality. I think that's the most imperative thing I need to learn at the moment. I'm still struggling. Anyway, so happy that you're going to fly and have your dreams come true. Rock your life there and promise to tell me the details if you meet "your" Alfie. See you in Strasbourg!

Rainy day

2007-08-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

When it rains cats and dogs, walking on the street would be extremely busy.
1. Use one hand to hold umbrella.
2. Take care of belongings with another hand.
3. At the same time, when the sky lightens, free your hands to cover ears. The next thunder would be fearfully loud.
4. Watch steps for skipping over water holes and homeless cockroaches on the road. Their nests are submerged by water.
5. Scream while necessary for releasing the tense in your mind.
What a mercy! I'm sitting here writing this crap but not standing outside helplessly, hehe!

Transformers

2007-07-12T08:29:00.000-07:00

What can I say? It's unbelievably great! I regard the movie as the most entertaining one for this year; the ending's sort of weak though. The scene of transforming is so cool! Love it so badly!!! After the movie, I kept talking to my silver motobike "Come on, don't be shy! I know you can transform yourself, too! Wake up! Wake up!" Somehow it didn't move. So It seems that none of my ancestries found anything threatening the earth...

Just do it!

2007-07-11T10:58:00.000-07:00

The feeling is terrifically wonderful that when you think of doing something and you just do it in one minute.

Went out for buying a juicer tonight. After that, I thought of taking a walk. I did. While walking by the cinema around my apartment, it occurred to me that "Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" was just on today. I meant yesterday. "Why not just buy a ticket and watch the movie" I thought then. I had been looking forward Ron's performance for a while. So, Yep, I did watch the last show and Ron's adorable still. Alone and not worried about being too late to go to bed. Completely enjoy what I desired.

Um... NICE... I shall go to "Transformers" tomorrow night...

Erratic

2007-07-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

Changing, my favorite doing. Being stable sometimes would kill me. I change my mind almost every minute. I've moved to Taipei since 1994, and stayed at more than 10 different places. When my job bores me, I change to another position or new company to get some challenge. If possible, I would change my hairdo every three months; having it longer, having a perm, dying it or making it short... Also, I love changing the color of my nails; usually green, yellow, white, blue, or black would be great! Yep, that makes life fun! Um... so what's the next? Let me think about it!

Orbit

2007-06-28T09:43:00.000-07:00

My tiny apartment had been cleaned up, I've followed all my cases at work, and my dreams came back to my mind again. It means everything's back to normal, and "Hey Chih, I think you can go snowboarding as scheduled."
I get lost easily. While going shopping, I usually come back home with something I was not planning on. I sometimes hang up the phone without telling what I prepared to say before dialing my friend's number. Occasionally, I have some dishes which are not I wanted to order in my mind during entering the restaurant. DISTRACTED! All the time... but somehow, once again, I would remember where I'm going to and the destination. Now, Dear Elsa, please concentrate this time, and may your little wish will come true in early 2008!!!

Chaos

2007-06-22T05:29:00.000-07:00

I'm in a mess these days. We have karaoke facility at our conference room in office. Without any reason, we had a karaoke party at night last Thursday, and then my heart started flying. The following was a farewell party of my ex-coworker of Lion Tour at Cashbox KTV on last Friday. I shouted myself hoarse for two days running. After that, we had in-house tour to Kaohsiung for attending the wedding of our vice president on weekend. The wedding was very important, because she's the only woman getting married in these ten years in our company, Galilee Tour. (Oh My God!!!) Monday and Tuesday were the Dragon Boat Festival Holidays. I seemed to sleep for two days. The only meaningful thing I did was doing my laundry. Afterwards I worked from Wednesday to Friday without heart. Now I'm sitting and typing in front of my laptop with my vacant brain and empty mind. Everything feels hollow and confused. What shall I think? What if I just let things out of control? I doubt whether I have the courage to do so. Feel so lazy in this burning hot summer...

Lonely Shrek

2007-06-20T07:30:00.000-07:00

Want to see Shrek 3 so badly tonight. Somehow I couldn't get anyone to go with me. In a wayward mood, I cannot help but expect there's someone willing to show up whenever I need him. The aura of the photo is unfitting, but all I have left is Shrek's ears. Sooooooooo looooooooonely...

GO GO SPURS!!!

2007-06-10T07:06:00.000-07:00

During the times of Magic Johnson or Michael Jordan, I liked NBA but not love NBA. However, on one day in 1999, with no reason, I fell in love with Tim Duncan and then became a fan of San Antonio Spurs. Many people asked me why I wasn't fascinated with Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson or Vince Carter at that time. They're much fancier.

I remember I accidentally watched Sports channel and Duncan, a talented, intelligent center, was there. He's very different from other players; practical and never showing off, seldom slam dunk or block shots in games. He usually did that because of necessity. You wouldn't notice while his scoring, but in the end of the game, you would find he got about 25 points. For his teammates, he's stable and dependable. Also, he gives his hand to anyone falling down, including his enemies. It's not big deal, yet I love it. Oh... and perhaps no one agrees on that I do think Duncan pretty cute.

Spurs is now making their fourth trip to NBA Final Champion. I'm keeping praying for Spurs: don't underestimate Cleveland Cavaliers, concentrate, and bring all positive factors into full play. Rock the basket of Quicken Loans Arena! Very soon, I'll hear the cheers arising for Spurs!!!

Litchi

2007-06-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

I ate some litchis today. It's the first time for this year. They're very sweet and tasty. Um... yummy yummy... But did you see anything with that litchi in the photo? Yup! A tiny, green, wriggly worm. I was so glad that I found a whole one but not a half!

BRAVO!!!

2007-06-05T07:44:00.000-07:00

"Ladies and gentlemen, good evening! Welcome to Capital Bus…" That's what I heard while taking a bus home tonight. The bus driver announced every stop and greeted passengers in Mandarin, Taiwanese, Hakka, English, and even Japanese. In addition, his pronunciation is good. I kept smiling along the way home and felt so great to meet someone who did his job with enthusiasm and honor. He's not only a bus driver but also a person bringing some fresh air to people around him. What an achievement!
Then... what will I bring to my customers? Hum... I shall chew on it...

Victor

2007-06-04T08:46:00.000-07:00

I've never met this guy in my life. However, I know a lot of things about him. He's Leo, 183 cm tall, good at playing basketball, and I even have his address. Anyway, why is he here? It's a long story.

To be continued...

The guy with a mask

2007-06-03T05:52:00.000-07:00

It seems unfair to Yuanhao that he has no chance to show his face here, so here's that handsome and single guy. Let me know if you want to learn more about him. I can do the favor, hehe! (Please refer to "Happy Birthday to Gemini!" for more information about him.)

Obituary

2007-06-02T20:26:00.001-07:00

What contents would you like people to state in your obituary?
I recently read an article about encouraging people to practice their ideas, otherwise there's not much to talk about in his/her obituary. I did think of this few years ago, and listed some things to achieve within this life. Actually, I don't care about what people think about my life, but I do not want to disappoint myself. Here is my list. I put them down here, and would check on them from time to time to make sure I'm working on them^^

□ Visit my wonderland "Serengeti."
□ Watch polar bear in Churchill Town. It'll cost a huge amount of money.
□ Learn skiing.
□ Learn one instrument. Maybe guitar or piano.
□ In addition to English, learn one more foreign language.
I'm learning German now. Sooooooooo difficult!!!
□ Live overseas for at least one year.
□ Raise some animals.
□ Love someone with all my heart but not my brain.
I think it's the most dangerous and unreachable thing on my list -_-"

Also, here are some things I've done and feel proud of myself: scuba diving, ski diving, bungy jumping, working for National Geographic Magazine Traditional Chinese Edition, being a tour leader, and visiting more than 20 overseas cities. I'll do my best to have the list longer and longer. How about you? Make a list and move on! Cheers!!!

Happy Birthday to Gemini!

2007-06-02T04:33:00.000-07:00

I can smell Gemini. While talking to someone, it would suddenly come to my mind that "she/he is Gemini!" Usually, I'm right. I don't know how others think about Gemini. I think they're smart, curious, sensible, and open-minded. Many friends of mine are Gemini. It's June now. I'd like to wish my friends a happy birthday and a colorful life.

0530 - Monica
She was my classmate and the best friend while studying in college. Thank her. I could graduate from college. She's the most beautiful girl, and her boyfriend's the cleverest student in our class. He always wrote a report for 3 copies and then we can pass the terminal examinations. Monica is now a mother of a son, a flight attendant of China Airlines, and still pretty.

0614 - Birgit
Birgit's from Germany. I've known her since 1998 or 1999, but we only met about twice. She came on a business trip to visit our company when I worked as a marketing specialist for a computer magazine. She's very nice and open-minded. Both of us are cat-person and love traveling. We exchange our life experience in Germany and in Taiwan and talk about our cats, Mona and PhiPhi, via emails. I once thought we might lose contact one day, but we do keep emailing each other these years. I do treasure this overseas friendship, and I know the day visiting her in her own country is coming soon!

0529 - Wade
This young man knows almost every tiny secret and detail about me and can figure out what I'm thinking, making me laugh again while dark clouds around. When I feel bored, he's always a good company. Well, it should be true that people can have pure friendship between males and females!

0613 - Yuanhao
I failed when I tried to disguise myself as Shrek to attend a Christmas party last year. The punishment was going to a strangers' party and singing a song with them. Yuanhao was there and they even had a crazier party. That's how we met, very interesting. We still keep in touch and I really want to know what theme they will have for the Christmas party this year.
(Yuanhao is that guy with a mask, ha!)

0610 - Joe
She's our baby sister in office and her own family, a very cute and considerate college girl. I'm ten-year older than her. The difference of age is terribly awful to me. Somehow we became friends and can communicate without generation gap. Am I childish or is she overage? I'd rather think I'm a mature woman with young mind, and she's a young girl with mature thoughts. How's that?

Who's Elsa?

2007-05-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

It's a mystery. I don't know who or what planted the seeds on my mind or in my life. I'm so attracted to the wildlife in Africa. That's why I was deeply touched while reading the book "Born Free." It was released in 1966, the best-selling book by Joy Adamson. Elsa was the orphaned cub lioness raised by Joy Adamson while her staying in Kenya. When the cub became a big cat, she didn't send Elsa to a zoo, like her other two sisters. On the contrary, Joy Adamson tried to train her as a real predator in the wild. It's not easy for Joy Adamson. Elsa's like her own kid, and the natural enviornment is cruel. Without languages, she had to figure out how to have Elsa understand the rules in the world of wildlife. It's not easy for Elsa, either. Humans were once her family and the world behind the fence was an unknown future. However, they made it. Elsa finally left her sweet home, surviving in the endless grasslands of Africa, and even had her own cubs afterwards. It's a true and awesome story about the relationship between human and wild animals.

I was inspired and named myself "Elsa." That's the story of my English name. Who am I then? I'm trying to find out still.