The World Is My Playground

We Hold Hands and Promise Eternity

2012-01-19T10:48:00.017+08:00

My cousin got married last weekend, and I was happy to be her bridesmaid.

People who know me well know that I am not a big fan of weddings, but I do believe in love and promises. I remember I've heard this expression somewhere:

If love is conquer, wedding is the conquest; it must look like a victory.

Does that look like victory? It was quiet a happy day, long buy joyful indeed. I met new friends, introduced to some new family members, and reunited with those I seldom see.

The Bride's wedding dress was gorgeous as well, I like the idea of both western style white wedding gown and traditional Chiese wedding dress. The encounter of the west and the east- just like Hong Kong :)

On that day, they held hands and promised eternity.

Congratulations to my newly extended family :)

Effort of undoing

2012-01-06T21:18:00.005+08:00

These two guys- whom I miss from the US of A.

Commission: Impossible aka This world is crazy.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Commission: Impossible - Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Chief Appointment

www.thedailyshow.com

Daily Show Full Episodes

Political Humor & Satire Blog

The Daily Show on Facebook

They do not do nothing. Work tirelessly to make sure nothing gets done. This logic is perfect.

I meet with some people from the states yesterday and I received a comment that I possessed some New York sarcasm. Well.... you know where it's from now.

Feliz 2012

2012-01-01T10:03:00.004+08:00

Happy New Year!

Yesterday I did... absolutely nothing but stayed home and enjoyed firework of the city.

Hong Kong, you are really fine :)

Don't worry...

2011-12-28T22:37:00.005+08:00

The past week of "responsible consumption" was difficult, and I gave in few times, just 'cause I really felt like having the Christmas Special Mint Mocha from Starbucks. But I realized that one thing is true- no matter how hard it looks like, if you give it a try, things can be do-able. Just as crazy thoughts like not shopping at big corporate malls and not dinning in chain restaurants.

Spend local, think global.

I think I just got the next slogan for HSBC :)

My brother left for Seattle yesterday, the journey he is about to depart was definitely not an easy one, but it will be worth it. I still remember the day I left Hong Kong to begin my study abroad. From that day on, I was never the same person I used to be, and it opens my eyes to a whole new horizon. I really wish he can be the same.

So my dear, please hang on.

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:39:00.003+08:00

My favourite Christmas song, Happy Holiday Everyone!

Pre-Holiday Shopping

2011-12-18T20:20:00.006+08:00

I am not doing a lot of Christmas shopping this year, which is good :) But I figure that I need some beverages and snack for my office, so I went to one of my favorite organic shop in the neighborhood: Green Dot Dot.

The Camomile tea was exciting since I haven't had it for so long. And the other reason I went to this relatively small shop rather then this one and this one is because some people in Hong Kong is launching an initiative against big corporate monopoly for dominating the price and our daily life.

By supporting small and medium enterprise, and even social enterprises; we hope to restore justice in our economy by using our power as a consumer.

The challenge ahead lays: Will we give in at some point for convenience or other reasons? I will give it a try. For the next 7 days (Dec 19- Dec 25), I will avoid all forms of consumptions at the big corporate shops or chain restaurants, Well... I have to take the public transportations to go to work so the MTR can not be avoided, but I can get away from their shopping malls for awhile :)

The End of NGOs?

2011-12-04T09:45:00.007+08:00

The book tittle might scared some NGO people, and it shocked me a little when I picked it up at the bookstore too. The Arthur used to be a NGOer and his view of why NGOs can never make a real social change was enlightening. I haven't read that much of the book yet, perhaps he got better ideas I have not yet got to.

End of charity, the time for Social Enterprise... And I still mixed up SE with CSR, I mean, I know they are different, but did they operate under the same principle- reality check?

So the problem arises: Do we need to adjust our social value from NGO based development model to a more practical/ corporate-friendly Social Enterprise? OR NGOs need to change strategy from charitable aids and projects to a more sustainable SE business model?

Who needs to change?

Colors of their lives

2011-11-29T21:53:00.004+08:00

I am proud of my fellow IDS colleagues to have done this nice projects on capturing the stories and lives of children all over the world- while doing our field research!

The exhibition took place in Utrecht, which I obviously can not attend, but there's some pieces I think worth expecting. Children view the world totally different then adults, although I sometimes like to think of myself as a non-grown-ups, but the reality proceeds. Sometimes I really wonder what's the color of... my life.

May be I should draw :)

I particularly like this one by a child from Guatemala, you can particularly see they have value school and nature very much in the lives. Escuela means School in Spanish, the researcher wrote:

Guatemala's policy on education looks perfect on paper. Nowadays, the government acknowledges the importance of bilingual intercultural education, needs of Guatemala's large, indigenous population. Unfortunately, in practice most teachers are not qualified or interested to partecipate in this bilingual program. Not all teachers speak the traditional Mayan language and are therefore not able to teach in this language. Additionally, globalization influences the teacher's opinion about preservation of the culture negatively.

Culture needs to be preserved, and language is the preservative.

We hear and we forget

2011-11-25T23:46:00.007+08:00

I saw a play today, at a little cafe, it's called Those Stories We've Heard.

All the way from Taiwan, the Shinehouse Theatre had bought some refreshing air to Hong Kong, to my favorite chilling spot, and to myself.

We heard stories from different people everywhere, everyday; we paid attention to some, and we ignored most of them. Just like the great people I meet these couple days at the SE Summit Hong Kong. Ordinary people with extraordinary mind, now I know why John Lennon said "When we dream the dream together, it's not a dream anymore".

Let's keep dreaming.

Might have that sharing later on, Good night for now.

Wait, Time Out!

2011-11-16T16:10:00.008+08:00

While I was waiting for someone at the mall this morning I picked up one of the magazine I seldom read -Time Out Hong Kong. It is a decent read I must say, but what really caught my attention was the cover- The BELVEDERE VODKA with (RED).

For Every Bottle of (BELVEDERE)RED we contribute 50% of profits to help Save Lives in Africa.

I found it very interesting, I mean, I do think it's nice that you can go clubbing for a good cause. And I probably shouldn't say this as I'm in the CSR field, but I wouldn't help but wonder what happen if I say this: For every bottle of Vodka that I don't drink, I contribute 100% of its cost to save lives... somewhere.

Another story that I enjoyed reading is the interview with Thomas Heatherwick, and love it said about the West Kowloon Cultural District:

... he (Heatherwick) wants most to get involved with the West Kowloon Cultural District. One can only imagine what Heatherwick will do to the waterfront, but the depends on the bravery and vision of those in charge.

Heatherwick: ... it's important that what happens at West Kowloon doesn't look like it's a rich person buying credibility, a rich city buying "culture"

My questions is: Can culture be "bought"?

Going on 10

2011-11-13T12:14:00.005+08:00

Today I ran the slowest 5k ever in my life.

OK...I had a few drinks last night at dinner, and I felt fine. But apparently my body disagrees. I was struggling to go through the last kilometer and there's one thought sliding by that I might want to give up.

That terrifies me.

So next time when they say: Don't drink and drive. They should also add: Don't drink and RUN.

And by the way, this is my training schedule for first 10K attempt, and I AM STICKING!!!

Wine for Everybody

2011-11-08T10:07:00.004+08:00

Last weekend I went to this years Hong Kong Wine Fair, it wasn't exceptional, but I am always happy to see some of the familiar face of Chile and South Africa :)

This years co-organizing country is Italy, so there's a disproportionately large areas for extensive Italian wines, some I have never seen before. Like this Barbera in the picture is one of my new favorites, with rich honey finishing- very interesting!

Another things I like about the fair is that most of the wine there are sold in a fairly reasonable retail price from HKD100-250 per bottle. Indeed, wine, should be for everybody.

The more the merrier :)

Free Lunch

2011-11-06T16:14:00.006+08:00

There is such thing as Free Lunch in this world.

A journalist from Phenix TV had launch the "Free Lunch" program in 77 schools of rural China and feed children that their family are not able to provide them with nutritious meal.

This all start in an encounter with a rural school teacher in an event and he heard about the problem about school lunch and he asked "What can I do to help?"

So he did. And he also raised over RMB 1.6 billion in less then 6 months.

His vision for this program is to push for government attention; but before that, they can give a little hand.

That should be the spirit of development.

If you read Chinese, please spend a little time on this amazing story: Free Lunch

The Greek Drama

2011-11-04T09:58:00.008+08:00

There are three final principle dramatic forms of the classical Greek theatre. Many are debating weather the G20 summit held in France this year are determined to result in a Greek comedy or tragedy.

I am not an optimist on this subject matter, but rather think this will become a tragedy- base on human suffering that offers its audience pleasure; I prefer to think that it is the third form, Satyr play- with based and developed on mythologies.

From this...

To This...

Ms Merkel said the people of Greece need to decided jointly upon their destiny in the Euro zone. I mean... You are telling the people who said "Everyone should take time for coffee" to decided they want to work hard or suffer for the financial mess in return of staying in the EU? I think this really will be a Stayr Play.

But hey Greece, I'm on your side. Keep laying on the beach and be rude to the tourist, the economy will crash but no one can destroy the Parthenon, that's the power of civilization :)

Happy Halloween

2011-10-30T23:10:00.006+08:00

Hope no one is getting sick from eating too much candy this Halloween :)

Today is the last day of October, and I think it's the best time to recap what happen the first day of October, just 'cause...

So I moved into my new house with my family, finally felling settle down again in HK. The favourite part of my room will be my giant book self, no surprise, and I am trying my best to categorize all my books make them look good, so I can feel... knowledgeable.

The other 2 levels of book self are still under organization, and I think I can uses more book and magazines to "decorate" my room :) Got an idea for my next birthday present everybody!?

Getaway

2011-10-17T09:43:00.007+08:00

I went to Shanghai, the city of food indeed.

The photo below does not belong to me, but I want to show you the reason I'm in love with Shanghai. Isn't this beautiful?

During the 3 days I was in SH, I didn't take one single pictures. My camera at home must be pissed and I'd better take it out for a walk sometimes later, I've been way too lazy recently.

I promise I will have better entries with decent pictures soon.

People who stands

2011-10-05T14:56:00.002+08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, Dr. Cornel West.

Sept 28, 2011 @ Wall Street.

FroYo

2011-09-19T14:53:00.005+08:00

I love Frozen Yogurt.

But sometimes I really wonder weather or it's that health in comparison to ice-cream. So let's go to the nutrition info:

1 Cup regular Froyo

Calories: 221

Fat: 6.26g

Carb: 37.58g

Protein: 5.22g

1 Cup regular Ice cream

Calories: 267

Fat: 14.26g

Carb: 32.45g

Protein: 4.68g

There's no gigantic difference between the two, so I prefer frozen yogurt personally but it will not make my diet more nutritious, or "healthy". So I'm on a diet mission (again...) for a new phrase of life (post-school), so I'm gonna start doing detox in the upcoming days this week and I will definitely complain about how difficult it is in this blog.

You have to take control of your health in order to take control of your life :)

Development as freedom?

2011-09-07T16:54:00.011+08:00

The other day I saw on TV the young and beautiful Secretariat of China-Africa Project Hope, the controversy has been quiet popular with the Chinese philanderers and the public are questioning their real motivation for charity.

The lady on TV said "When I meet the children with misfortune in Africa, I really want to help them..."

OK, here is the problem.

1. What really helps is DEVELOPMENT, NOT CHARITY. In the last couple decades, aids and charity has been failed big time in African, causing problem such as inequality and corruption. They don't need money or help, what they might need is just an opportunity to develop, and a little guidance along the way.

2. We started off equally. Economist Armartya Sen in his Development as Freedom clearly stated that the global economy soars due to the advantages some take upon others. It is our RIGHT and freedom to develop our country, no one can disallow it. So who are we to tell them how and what they should do?

We the people...

2011-08-30T20:23:00.019+08:00

We are all free individuals.

We have rights.

Not sure where these rights come from (don't tell me it's from God) but we do possess them, we believe......

I would like to send my respect to the Hong Kong University for stepping up on the event of freedom violation. Though I still have problem with their view point of July 4th, but their spirit of taking up responsibility is admirable.

It's good to know someone still cares.

If Thomas Campbell was right, that freedom is a tree that irrigated by the patriots blood. Would it be worth it to sometimes give up things we hold dear?

Some people think it's rubbish,

Someone may disagree.

At the end, la historia me absolvera.

Home

2011-08-23T08:55:00.002+08:00

I'm home.

I am care free; thesis free; job free, and relationship free. At least for now, frankly I quiet enjoy this status of being but the pressure is there.

Everything will be OK.

And most importantly, I'm HOME!

Vaarwel!

2011-08-13T14:00:00.007+08:00

Getting ready to go home, packing is 90% done, flight is taking off in 4 hours, and Utrecht is still raining.

Thank you for all the wonderful memories.

A year really gone by fast, I am finish with my school again and heading home again. This time, no more moving around (traveling doesn't count) and trying to settle in Hong Kong, a city where I grow up with.

Utrecht, is great. The Netherlands, is beautiful. Europe, is fine.

I will be back. Sometimes :)

Song of the Day

2011-08-07T00:41:00.006+08:00

The view from my apartment window 15 mins ago, now is all grey and raining again.

So I open up my favorite procrastinating tool- Youtube, and surf for old songs to match up my blue mood. I like Peking Opera, though have little knowledge about it, and this movie was the first to teach me to appreciate this precious art form: Farewell my concubine (1993).

If there was a man can be 10 times more womanly then any woman in the world, that will be him- Leslie Cheung. One of the greatest star in Hong Kong, people are crazy about him even after years of his demise. I was never his fan, I never brought his CD or went to his concert, but this movie of his- has shocked me from inside out.

It is story about art and passion; loyalty and faith;

love in the past, present and future.

When Love Becomes Memories 當愛己成往事

為何你不懂 Why don't you understand

只要有愛就有痛 Love always comes with pains

有一天你會知道 You will understand one day

人生沒有我並不會不同 Life will be the same without me

忘了我就沒有痛 Forget about me to release the pain

將往事留在風中 And let the bygones remain in the wind

Against all enemies...

2011-07-26T02:56:00.005+08:00

I was shocked.

Terror attack in Norway. I mean, NORWAY!?!?! Everyone loves Norway! At least that's what I assumed. Okay... domestic terror attack, heart breaking indeed.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-14281490

Can we have some sort of code of conduct for the terrorists? both foreign and domestics? If you want to express your anger toward the unjust society or anything you don;t like, please throw the bombs to a more specific locations, options are: military camps, government buildings, police stations or the door of big corporate companies. DO NOT POINT YOUR GUN TO A YOUTH CAMP!

Norway, peace be upon you.

When the night is still

2011-07-16T22:49:00.008+08:00

Entering the last phrase of my thesis writing (well...not looking forward to the editing period), a more constructed and discipline schedule is needed. That means couple late nights writing of course :)

And I hate writing conclusion.

Basically I dislike to conclude anything, my research, my school, my friends; my life.

But sometimes you have to, and sitting in a silence room at night helps me to flash back all the memories and reflect upon them, well... sort of.

Oh, by the way, I really like that poster I put up today. Not because that's how I feel at this moment, but that's I feel like I need now.

DREAM------>SLEEP!

One in a Lifetime

2011-07-10T06:58:00.005+08:00

I watched this movie called The Lost Valentine, it's a story about a young journalist doing a life story about a woman who have been going to the train station every Valentine's day for 66 year waiting for her husband to return home.

Her husband was a navy office who have drafted from the war and never come back, but she never give up on hope, never, for 66 years. When she was asked to share her story on TV and weather or not she is ready, the reply was: "One thing the war taught us is to never waste anytime..."

Living the moment is hard, people nowadays like to plan and worry about stuff but sometimes we need to thing about our priorities, what is really important to us.

This woman, is from "an generation that honor service", service to the country, giving to the community and taking care of others. Lost her husband in her 20s, she raised her child and grandchild alone, has been teaching in her life and going to the veteran center every week, and water the nearly dead roses her husband and her planted.

In our times, we need this "honor of service" back to people's mind. Services to others should not be an responsibility but an honor. And love, will be waiting.

Africa's new member

2011-07-09T16:45:00.007+08:00

The UN welcomes its newest member state- Southern Sudan

I found it difficult to keep up with global affairs sometimes, but Sudan used to be one of the countries in the world I relate to "instability" "conflict" and "violation of everything". When all of these 3 components come together, you really got a problem there.

After a decade of struggle and the deal of 1.5 million people, a new country has formed. Will is be an end of the dark age or the new beginning or another rocky era? Hard to say.

I sincerely hope this 54th state of Africa with the blessing (or curse?) or natural resources can lead to it own path of development, a truly independent state.

Perezosa

2011-07-05T04:23:00.012+08:00

Yes, my afternoon snack...

Recently my life has entered a sluggish mode; can't decided if its a good or bad thing. Finding new things online is always fun and I love spending endless internet time on what I'd like to call "new knowledge".

Often time these 'new knowledge' for me brings mw back to the old times. Those shaky times when people are courageous; time of warriors and fighters, now we call them activist.

Once upon a time, there's a guy name Li ShuangZe 李雙澤

And a story about a Coca-Cola bottle

我們會記得......

We shall remember......

曾經 Once upon a time

有一座島 There's an island

有一片海 There's an ocean

有一場運動 There's a movement

有一只可樂瓶 There's a Coca-cola bottle

有一個人 There's a man

他　要我們唱自己的歌！

He wants us to sing our OWN music!

Materialis Vs. Idealism

2011-06-30T23:18:00.005+08:00

I read an interesting Article on Guardian: How Professional de we want development work to be? The author of this article has been in the development field for quiet some time and his friend was surprise to know that he is able to make half-decent salary in the charity sector. Lots of people think that career in NGOs are basically voluntary and amateur work, but hate you burst your bubble, some work that has been doing in the field are highly professional and required a decent level of commitment.

Think about it this way: NGOs basically are the same as private sector in terms of obtaining human resources. The salary might not be as competitive, but NGOs need to have a balance, "a catch" for those smart and strong brain powers out in the market. And if the businesses can do from company trips to afternoon tea in the office to attract bright young professionals, why can NGOs do something to make this sector more... prosperous.

Sometimes passion alone is not enough,

but without passion, there's nothing.

23

2011-06-26T22:14:00.003+08:00

Thanks everybody for the birthday wishes!

I look forward to the wonderful year ahead with old and new friends, also wish everyone all my very best. Love y'all :)

Rock N Roll

2011-06-23T05:29:00.008+08:00

I used to think that rock music is equivalent to loud and riot, but then I learn to appreciate it more and more in recent years. The best way to define Rock n Roll, in my opinion, is doing whatever that pleases yourself and don't have a damn about what others think, basically.

This band is called Su Yang, a country rock band from the great west part of China. I haven't seen such band like them for awhile. I believe only in the Northwestern part of China, with the beautiful scenery and diverse culture, can nurture music like this- simply, pure and very powerful.

And if the music had taught me one thing:

June: Flower

2011-06-19T09:30:00.008+08:00

The pass week is again a reminder of how fortunate I am being...me.

I don't know if it's because I don't have a lot of things to worry about; or I choose not to worry about most things. One's reality and one's mentality.

Summer with sunshine is officially over in the Netherlands, the weekend has been entirely gloomy and wet, with 5 mins of occasional sunshine. I am not impressed, come on Holland, I know you can do better.

But the rain does help me stay home and focus on working though, so it's not 100% bad, such like a lot of other things.

Listen to the rhythm of the falling rain
Telling me just what a fool I've been
I wish that it would go and let me cry in vain
And let me be alone again...

Things I did this week

2011-06-17T04:56:00.011+08:00

1. Trying really hard to write my thesis

2. Had an amazing goat cheese salad

3. Discovered the best ice soya cappuccino in Utrecht @ Simon Levelt

4. Watched sun raise

5. Talked to an old friend

6. Bought a nice pair of high heels :)

7. Send my dad his father's day gift

8. Made apple smoothie

9. Translated a training manual for the NGO I volunteer

10. Cleaned my room

Daisy

2011-06-09T04:38:00.004+08:00

I've got these for my room, fresh flowers always make me happy :)

It's one for those night that I stayed up for no reason, when it slowly got lighter and lighter outside, it's 6 am by the time you check the clock. It feels good.

Someone told me that we are most vulnerable under the condition when we are tired, emotionally. The lack of sleep placed me physically in a weaker situation and makes it easier to face your own fear. You can cry, be sad, even be mad.

In the language of flower, Daisy symbolizes faith and simplicity.

Sweet Sensation

2011-06-03T03:47:00.007+08:00

Something old; something new; something sweet; something... weird.

Where: Pancake house (Pannenkoekenhuis), Utrecht, The Netherlands

What: Belgian Waffle with fruit and AMAZING CREAM

Who: Old friend and new friend

How: we DON'T share :)

After a guided tour at the Vredespaleis at De Haag, we decided that we need some sweet sensation to end the day, so what is better then a tea treat at Utrecht? I love chilling right next to the canal, and love eating waffles with apple tea. Again, Love my life :)

sun of justice, shine upon us.

Sol lustitiae illustra Nos - Peace Palace, The Hague

Daily routine

2011-05-30T14:30:00.015+08:00

It's one of my yummy, heart dinner :) After an intense weekend of helping out a conference, I am in working mood again! Sometimes I think ones value reflects on his/her work, no matter how significant or minute the task is, it shows your attitude.

First thing in the morning in my daily routine is to open the browser for news, and try to see if there's something in the news are really 'new'. I did found something interesting today: Germany has pledged to end all nuclear power by 2022, it's the first western power to ever attempt this, my applause for you Germany!

People who have been in the discussion with me should already know that I disagree with nuclear energy being 'renewable' and it is nonsense to even consider it as 'green energy'. In the whirl of this whole energy crisis, the technological innovation on solar, wind and hydro power should be encouraged, but I think the main focus lays upon energy efficiency. In other words, to use energy wisely, or selflessly.

Be my love...

2011-05-27T04:28:00.004+08:00

Definitely one of my favorite South African band:

Be like the swallows and remember home as a loving tree

I feel silence is best enjoyed with an open heart beating next to you

But for now be my darling and whisper your words to the rolling moon

Right to be Healthy

2011-05-25T03:26:00.010+08:00

I got in touch with a NGO yesterday in Utrecht trying to volunteer with them along side with my thesis writing. This organization is called IFHHRO: International Federation of Health and Human Rights Organizations. They shared the vision of WHO which is the enjoyment of right to health is the fundamental rights of human beings.

One thing I like about this organization is that they believe Right to Health is considered Human Rights. When you talk about human right, health is not necessarily the first thing that pops-up in your head; it might be peace, freedom of speech, food security and other things, but not health.

Human Rights by definition is the rights and freedoms which all humans are entitled. Personally I am not a big fan of the word "entitle", but human right should be something you can out into... practice, like accessibility and accountability to Health facilities and ethical health services.

"... health will finally been seen not as a blessing to be wished for, but as a human right to be fought for." -Kofi Annan

Return to camp

2011-05-21T21:39:00.006+08:00

It feels almost unreal walking again at the streets of Utrecht, the memory of the past three months in South Africa seems so close, yet so far.

Settled in a new apartment, met up with an old friend, grabbed a coffee at my favorite spot downtown, everything is great. Something is missing, or part of me is still wondering in Stellenbosch.

Anyway, I am happy to be back, I don't even know I miss Utrecht until I returned. Now in front of me is 2.5 months of thesis writing, which is something will not happen on its own. Honestly, not looking forward to it.

I went through pictures I took in South Africa and somehow I was drawn into this one. Not sure if I remember exactly when and where this was taken but it is one of the weekend day trip we took on the way to Cape point. Imagine driving through magnificent views and empty highway, it reminds me the midwest of USA.

Awesome.

My Serious Research

2011-04-15T11:37:00.006+08:00

"What is your research really about?" A friend asked.

"It can be whatever I want it to be." I replied.

What can I say about my research? I like it, it is going not as i expected but well.

Driving through beautiful mountain ranges everyday, having coffee with the nicest peoples I have met; drinking wine while thinking about rural development. What more you can ask for in life?

In my facebook and email inbox lies couple messages from my friends about their life recently. It is good to know that everyone is doing fine.

I had a job interview today at 4 am, it went well. I do see myself spending part of my life doing things like that. Again, what a twisted fate, a Chinese model for TFA, which inspired me a bit few years ago.

Not that I believe in everything happens for a reason, but I do believe that your every bits of experiences do shape who you are and what you will/want to do. Path dependency in life :)

Another Geography Lesson

2011-04-05T02:34:00.012+08:00

Today I did my news catch up because I feel obligated to know about what is happening in the country that I can somehow related to personally. The BBC news headline in my homepage is no longer "new", it is been broadcasting Libya for the last 2 weeks. Every time I opened my Safari, there's somewhere getting boomed, someone "condemning" the booming, or people in Libya trying to run away from the booming. Oh I did get a break for the Japanese Earthquake though.

So it has been a depressing couple weeks.

Once an IR student, forever will be. Reading the news and comments is one of my favourite pass times. The crisis (I don't know what else to call it) in Libya recently reminds me the Model United Nations Era in Syracuse. 2 years ago, in March, a group of IR students from 'cuse participating in the MUN Conference in NYC representing Libya Arab Jamahiriya. I still remember the nonsense and fun we had during the couple days, as well as the meeting at the Libyan consulate and the picture we took with the ambassador in front of the Gaddafi portrait.

Oh, what a twisted fate.

2 years later, I am in the southern end of the same continent; and the country I had represented behind the seat of UN head quarter are booming its own people, and getting boomed at the same time.

As for my own country, the largest citizen evacuation since I can remember had taken place. I never knew that we had that much tourist going to Libya. Of course, oil makes everything logical.

One article from NBC News caught my interest. Again, the "raise" of China: sending workers abroad for oil, and getting them back when things go wrong. The rest of the world are stunned by the government's effort to ensure the safety of it citizen abroad, and it is seen as the country's raise in power in the international stage.

No, that's now a show cast for when you become stronger; that's how it should be.

China Organizes Hasty Retreat From Libya

Wild Women

2011-03-23T00:26:00.009+08:00

This weekend is very relaxing for me, I started reading one of the books I got from a boutique book shop at down town Stellenbosch: Women Who Run With The Wolves.

The name of the book sounds... hardcore, and it sort of is. I got it at March 8 in celebration of the international women's day, and in honor of my current reside country that is known by its wild animals- South Africa.

Women before and after me, I believe, all have struggled in finding the "wildness" within. Some embraced it, some resisted and some hid it. Do women and wild wolves have anything in common? I don't know.

It was a time when parents who abused their children are simply called "strict", when the spiritual lacerations of profoundly exploited women are referred to as "nervous breakdown", when girls and who are tightly girdled, tightly reined, and tightly muzzled were called "nice", and those other females who managed to slip the collar for a moment or two of life were branded "bad"

Then what is it like now? Is it still like that?

Drinking Culture

2011-03-11T15:20:00.004+08:00

Lately I have been thinking about drinking, beyond the bottle.

South African wine industry is a lot more sophisticated then I expect, so I raised the question: How is China doing on this? Before I go into the Chinese wine-making industry spectrum, I find this article on a interesting blog and I couldn't stop laughing after I read it.

Chinese and their liquor

I laugh, because it's funny;
I laugh, becasue it's sad.

"During happy times such as celebrating the New Year or other festivals, Chinese drink; when feeling down, for example, being rejected in love or frustrated, they also drink. "

Oh animals...

2011-03-02T07:40:00.008+08:00

Something new I learnt today is that Lion does eat man... The amazing safari story just keep making my day. Fact is that cute and friendly lions are only in the movie, or cartoon, to be more specific.

Still working on the theoretical part of my thesis, little do I care how it will finally turn out but reading and writing on a daily bases is actually quiet enjoyable.

The experience I have dealing with municipalities and the overall mentalities of this country sort of explain why are over a quarter of population is chilling on the street (If you don't know what I'm talking about, READ THIS). There is some common ground I see between South Africans and Chileans, beside the fact that they both have decent wine, they never take themselves too seriously. I think it is because of the sun...

Siempre voy a volver, mantengan encendida una luz

Y si vuelvo, puedo mantengar mi luz? la pregunta es: a donde voy a volver; a donde es mi raiz? yo lo se no mas.

Keep Kaaping

2011-02-28T06:22:00.004+08:00

To answer the question on last entry: My room now is R2500 a month (about EUR260).

And so here it goes updates of my life...

Not Bordeaux, France; Bordeaux, South Africa.

My close encounter with penguins, it looked away after this photo was taken.

It's funny that they have to say it's the "mot south western point" of the African continent because- even the Cape Point, is no the most southern point of Africa. Just like the Equator at Ecuador. People in the pass do make lots of mistakes...

Enjoying the wind blowing from Antarctica, very cool!

Easterner in Western Cape

2011-02-19T02:02:00.006+08:00

Greeatings from Stellenbosch!

In this land where I visited almost 10 years ago, fate had taken me back here to experience what I have left off.
This is the view from my apartment; imagine I can see this everyday, no internet in the house but this definately made up for it!

What else do I need? Oh...WINE. Going on a tasting tour tomorrow, will let you know how grapes made miracle on this land.

Totsiens! (Goobye in Afrikaans)

Let's wage!

2011-02-09T22:18:00.005+08:00

George Clooney said "Peace is a full time job."

I think peace, for some of us, could be a part-time job.

I can come up with 10 negative critiques about the UN Peacekeeping or the UN itself just on the top of my head. However, in reality they are doing things others can't, or won't do. Who am I to judge?

Sir Dag Hammarskjold once said the the United Nations will never take people to heaven, but it can stop them from going to hell.

Keep the color Azure in our daily life. If we can't make peace as our full-time job, at least make it a part-time one.

Peace, like war, must be waged.

Full-moon tonight?

2011-02-09T21:58:00.009+08:00

Received my visitor's visa for South Africa, good to go!

Thanks to Ms. E for letting me staying at her apartment while she's back in Hong Kong, so I don't have to be homeless before I depart for Cape Town.

While I was packing to move last week, the though has come up to me that how many places I have lived in the pass 6 years? Oh well... the conclusion was the average duration I stay at one place is about 3 months, then I move again. Impressive huh?

It was.

My mother and I had a short talk about my future plans last week, she told a story about her father, my beloved grandpa, and his definition of "Home". I love my family (most of time); I am so thankful that even though they sometimes don't agree with me, or don't understand my choice, yet they are always my strongest support.

It is true that I am so many miles away from home and there is so little they can physically do for me, but my parents are my strength, they make me feel that I have nothing to fear.

There's a chinese saying "千里共嬋娟"-

At night you look up to the sky and see the moon, a full moon preferably; people you miss are looking at same moon too. I guess that's all it matters.

Into the wild

2011-01-27T17:52:00.006+08:00

I am going to a research internship in Western Cape, South Africa.

For 3 months, 12 weeks, 90 days;

Why doing this to myself?

Because I realized that my biggest fear is not being alone; it is being surrounded by people, yet, feeling lonely.

Got out of bed at 7:30 this morning, made a cup of tea, awaiting for the sun raise in my balcony. I picked up a pen and outlined the map of South America on a piece of paper; then I drew the Africa continent.

The sun raise was beautiful, I know someone in this world had already enjoyed the sun raise today, and some just need to wait couple more hours. The sun will raise.

I am happy.

So it flies...

2011-01-20T18:24:00.011+08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ef3twHzCkhk&NR=1

The test flight, a stealth fighter, a "military buildup"......So China had surprised the world with this but probably the real message is just:

From the Air Force: Oh...By the way, this is what we've been working on.

From the Navy and Army: So this is where our budget cuts went!!

From the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: The development of this stealth fighter is not aim at any countries or any specific targets. (Not directly at least...)

From USA: The Chinese are catching up! But we are still way ahead, chill pal!

To Taiwan: Relax... this will not post any threats to you. If we are going to use force to compel unification, one stealth fighter will not make a difference.

From President Hu: OMG! It flies!?

P.S. When the B-2 dropped a bomb in the special location at Belgrade in May 8, 1999; I would not think of any reason for someone to say anything about others...

20.11

2011-01-04T02:36:00.008+08:00

Happy New Year!

I didn't count down this year.

The last day of 2010 for me was laying in bed and being sick, I got up the next morning and my cell phone reminded me today is 01/01/2011.

No 2010 recap, no new year resolutions. Just another year, in another country.

But life is still good after a short trip with a good company, small pieces of my heart was left in two European cities. One is called Berlin, another, Paris.

Feliz año nuevo!

a de nouveaux espoirs,

und neue traume.

Juicht toe!

10 years

2010-12-07T03:46:00.004+08:00

So... it's December, the last month in the year of 2010.

I just realize my middle school entrance was 2000, and so I have known some of the people for 10 years now, that's scary. Time does flies.

There're a lot of things in my mind right now, but I it's too messy; much more then words can say. Let me just say this: Gracias a la vida

First...snow

2010-11-28T08:25:00.013+08:00

First snow today... in Utrecht.

It's not too cold for a snow day this morning, the snowflakes felt off gently and gracefully, and it melt before it touches the ground; so different from all the snowstorms we got in Syracuse.

So... mood thermometer, checked. I admitted that I have been a little moody lately, certainly I would like these feelings to go away as soon as possible, but this time it may just be little different.

I rewrote my "Plan" (Yes, I write my goal in a piece of paper and hide it somewhere) and for the first time, I feel that it's OK to be afraid.

Enough with my therapy session, one of my dear friend told me a good news about her new romantic relationship. It was love at first sign. Actually, it sounded more like a horror movie then a romance novel to me. My mother was right:

One man's asset is always another man's liability; vice versa.

Doom or Dumb?

2010-11-23T05:32:00.033+08:00

I don't know what happened, but this time, academic failure had really forced me to reflect my level of intelligence, and it all started in a hot summer night:

-I almost killed myself when trying to swallow a small piece of watermelon and was choked when I was 2 years old. This was the time I first introduce to the idea of "stupidity".

-At age 5, I was told that my great country- China, has a notoriously long ass chronicle that we, as responsible descendant, are obligated to learn. This was the first time I think my brain is too small for 5000 years of history.

-At age 7, I was the first person in my class to memorize the multiplication table from 1-20, my mom said she accomplished this when she was 6. This was the first time I realize that you can never be smarter then your mother.

-At age 9, I wrote a poem which I thought it was the most beautiful and perfect work ever created, I gave it to my father for his birthday. He said "Thank you my dear, I am so proud of you." Then my nerdy dad picked up a pencil and corrected the grammatical error.

-At age 10, I played my first piece of Mozart minuet, I am amazed how gifted I was to create such impressive music; then I was told that Mozart wrote this piece when he was 6. This was the first time I realize the term "genius" is indeed, for few.

- At age 14, first attempt to do my 100k trekking in 3 days and sprianed my ankle at the first day. This was the time I consider luck as an important part of intelligence.

-At age 15, I received one of the greatest award for youth training in Hong Kong, which gives me the right to call myself an "elite". At the award ceremony I found out that there was over 500 recipients this year. The proud somehow turned into the feeling of ordinarity.

-At age 16, dreaming that love can conquer all, but sometimes love is just not enough; then what do you say? Damn fools.

-At age 18, starting college means starting to walk on a path that is already anticipated for you; what you need to do is try not to fall on your behind too hard once in a while. Tips I learned? If you want to get through university and survive you need to be a moron.

-At age 20, after learning a year of Spanish I though I can rock South America, but the Spanish didn't brought the Spanish teacher over there. For many times I felt my Empanada was laughing at me...

-At age 22, I flew over another ocean, started something I have no certainty on; the only thing that is holding me together is this little voice in my head: you have what it takes...

For the past 22 years life have been delivering me this message, the world of truth, which is this: You ARE stupid.

So I have 2 options:

#1 Confronting the truth and be defeated by...em...life?

#2 Keep being a fool and pray for some good moments of stupidness.

Self Crisis

2010-11-18T02:28:00.003+08:00

Who's legacy was the only thing stronger then her love.

Look at me, look at me, I am something......

The Grown ups

2010-11-16T07:21:00.010+08:00

For some of you who don't know: Miffy is not from Japan- It's Dutch, moreover, origin of Utrecht. Dick Bruna House, the contribution and collection for the creator of Miffy- the artist that carefully preserved naiveness and childhood within everybody.

I like Art therapy, thought the art room at the museum of Miffy was not meant for people over the age of 6, I presume. But it was not a busy day and my friend E and I were almost the only visitor there. So we a good time coloring and doing collage , when is the last time I did art craft? Not so long ago, I made a birthday card for my dad last April. That's right! I mad him something, and I was proud.

The truth is- it gets harder and harder to be happy- or content- as we grow older. I still remember the days I was satisfied with a stick and playing around at the yard; my mother was so proud of me when I memorize a 4-line-poem. Things change, and people have expectations; frameworks of how things should be, or shouldn't.

Grown ups never understand anything by themselves, and its tiresome for children to be always and forever explaining things to them- Le Petite Prince

Places to dine

2010-11-13T02:42:00.006+08:00

A day trip to The Hague again, with nice company :)

When you order a salad in Holland, they'll automatically give you some bread as a side, love it! Who say you can't make friends with a salad? One of the most exciting salad I have ever had, today I ordered a Avocado-feta salad at a small bistro where we randomly walked in.

Selecting a good restaurant to eat is actually quite challenging when you are not familiar with the place. My tips of winning this lottery besides luck are as followed:

1. 30-70% full. You don't want to go in a place where no one else is dinning in there, or too crowded that the kitchen might mess up your order.

2. Aroma. If it smells good, chances are it will taste good too! The smell of freshly baked bread always sits mw right down.

3. Smiles. If the waiter/waitress looks unpleasant, turn around. If the people dinning in there have a smile on their face, it can't go too wring.

4. Menu. Always read the menu before you go in, a wide selection is always a plus.

5. A bar. Go to restaurants that have th In case of things are bad anyhow, you can always have a drink...

Guardian of Peace

2010-11-10T23:23:00.016+08:00

Today starts at 11:00 am, what a Good Morning!

My beautiful brunch consist of yummy Grapefruit yogurt, tomato and Brussels sprouts salad and roasted tofu, true contentment :) I try not to have coffee or other form of caffeine when I am on vacation, but craving is a might thing!

With a cup of coffee in my hand I started to ramble on the internet and I read this article on the Washington Post about China's increasing involvement on the UN Peacekeeping. I used to be pessimistic and think that the peacekeeping mission is completely cost-ineffective. The story of Rwanda and the heartbreaking accusation by General Romeo Dallaire are still in my mind of how "weak" the blue helmet is; but then again, I didn't know enough.

Since time is my possession this week, internet becomes my best teacher on this subject matter. After 8 Chinese peacekeeping officer were killed in Haiti last year due to the strong earthquake, I have questioned my view on the blue helmets. Restoring peace? or simply having faith in peace?

Although more political reason is the responsibility and strategic policy for China's raising importances in the international community. The present of troops in Darfur and Congo, was accused by others, for the national interest (oil, economy) of China. If the answer to "Why are we there?" was political economy, what about Haiti? Notice that China does not even have a diplomatic relationship with Haiti yet the troops are there, in the name of UN. What's in there for us?

A lot more should be learnt and reflect on, and stories are the best tool for us to understand and ponder...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRgNqWGlT3E&feature=related (Chinese Only)

Break

2010-11-10T04:12:00.005+08:00

I think this has been the best break ever, all I did in the past 4 days:

1. Sleep

2. Eat

3. Drink

4. Skype

5. Grocery Shop

6. Youtube

Freaking awesome!!!

And I miss you......

Weird Peacock

2010-11-04T04:05:00.004+08:00

I like Yoga, I really do.

Due to the nasty weather I gave myself an excuse not to go jogging again, but sitting on my behind all day will drive me crazy as well. So I pick up an yoga pose that I have not done for almost a year, the last time I practice a Pincha Mayurasana was the summer of 2009... I think.

The wall is my safety net, I think everybody need a safety net some point in their lives, right?
Still a little different from the actual pose, but hey... keep practicing!
I am finished with this period; just have a meeting and conference this week, and I am off to my one week chilling holiday! What a good start :)

Too little? Too much?

2010-10-29T21:07:00.012+08:00

Morning classes in 9 o'clock actually kick start my day pretty efficiently. Yes, I like morning class, as long as there is nothing (or no one) irritating that I have to deal with.

This morning session was the last workshop for one of my classes this period, after given a group presentation on Turkey about our not-so-serious country report, I feel great! However, most of my classmates seem stress and tired after this long week. Some said they preform better under stress, but I firmly do not believe this notion.

The Human Performance Curve (or HPC- so it sounds more important then it really is) suggested the optimal performance one can get is during the stress level that right before "too much". Once you hit the "too much stress" zone, you are exposing yourself into great danger of intellectual decline and even total collapse.

Well....more then enough has been said, now I am in the library first time in this academic year, trying to study for my theory exam next monday.

I perform best under no stress, with coffee, color pencil, dark chocolate and non-sunny weather!

Theories in Action

2010-10-19T15:05:00.009+08:00

Yes, I dislike theories.

But I really like this quote in one of my readings for the theory class:

Theory is the critique, revision and summing up of past knowledge in the form of general propositions, the fusion of diverse views and partial knowledge in general frameworks of explanation (Nederveen 2004).

Theory is the critique and revision, it needs practical confirmation, people who revise it and apply it over and over again, people who don't give up on trying...

And this is how you "keep it real" in development studies:

Likewise, I am a practical; so excited about my internship next year! I have chosen Africa as my next destination, the topics of research project I've picked as follow:

1. Honey value chain in Cameroon

2. Pro-poor tourism in Tanzania

3. Residential tourism in South Africa

I don't know which one I will get, but wish me best of luck, I'm gonna need it this time :)

Feeling close to the spirit

2010-10-13T04:56:00.019+08:00

My Goodie package for home! I am sending my family some Stroopwafels and a postcard of Holland so my mom can out it up somewhere as she requested.

Fresh leaf mint tea is my new dutch addition, it was introduces to me by one of my dutch friend from Syracuse; love meeting old friends in new places :)

I wish they have this in Syracuse, it works SO much better then coffee and especially with a cookie aside. Another exciting things is my new reading from Elizabeth Gilbert, the movie certainly has influence on my choice since I adore Julia Roberts. However, I saw Gilbert on TED talking about inspiration and I indeed enjoyed her soft-voice and peaceful mindset.

So I finish the first 5 pages under the unusual Utrecht Sun in front of Nuede Square, followed by cozy and delicious lunch with my hometown girl- that's my idea of a chilling afternoon.

Gilbert started her journey in Italy, maybe I should see what I can find there too...... or Spain? Somewhere that I can go marvel on the magic of the Mediterranean Sea.

Oh well, for now, an assignment due tomorrow!

Food Connection

2010-10-10T00:27:00.014+08:00

A document that EVERYONE should watch, seriously.

There's 9 more parts so a little longer then an hour but I promise it is worth your time.

There's a time when the local market is not a exotic place to go;

There's a time when mom or grandma serve food from the kitchen table;

There's a time when chicken tastes like chicken, and apples don't glow;

There's a time when I can connect to my food and eating is never alone.

After that video, I reconsider my relationship with supermarket. There's 2 major supermarket close by and I get most of my shopping done there. Thus, I try to go to the open market Saturday or the family run- fruit & Veggie store close by. The reality- I saved money and better food for me!

In debt for a 6-8 page paper, working working......

Lunch today: Mushroom and Lentil stir fry with Spinach salad ♥

More's the pity

2010-10-07T03:35:00.021+08:00

So I was reading my new favorite online news journal- The Guardian. I was so excited that they have an entire section on Development issues, Bravo! And Thanks to my dear classmate who informed me about this. We share :)

But as I move on to the front page of domestic affairs, my minds just got blown off by the headlines and wouldn't help but wonder: What is wrong with these people?

Alright, Where should I start? How about this: You country needs you, says David Cameron. That he wanted to build a country base on mutual interest and not by what we consume but by what we contribute. I say he forgot to quote JFK, or maybe he's just recycling......

Oh.... Mrs Cameron's £749 dress on Tory was wildly commented as well. My problem is: YOU PAID £749 FOR THAT PIECE OF... clothing?

Don't forget UK's most charming prince- Harry, he is so important to the country that they need an episode for a hypothetical kidnapping of him in Afghanistan. I wonder even if the Taliban would want to kidnap him, he's probably the highest maintenance hostages. Hey the terrorist do math too!

Anyway, this is too much for tonight and I need to eat a whole pizza to calm myself down, seat on my chair and be fat! LML!

Alright, That's it!

2010-10-03T22:37:00.010+08:00

One of the greatest action taken to defend the country of USA against nonsense: Rally to Restore Sanity.

Sometime you don't say anything not because you have no opinion, but because there's too much pre-existing annoying voices flying around. Indeed, bullsh*t and extreme stupidity ought to be detected and avoided.

Poliwww.thedailyshow.com

"We're looking for the people who think shouting is annoying, counterproductive, and terrible for your throat; who feel that the loudest voices shouldn't be the only ones that get heard; and who believe that the only time it's appropriate to draw a Hitler mustache on someone is when that person is actually Hitler. Or Charlie Chaplin in certain roles."

1 mes

2010-10-01T09:15:00.017+08:00

IT'S OCTOBER!!

I have no idea how time has passed for the first month, and more importantly, I don't really care. Can't decide which is worst ;)

Weekend at The Hague (or Den Haag), nice getaway!

The water is cold and the wave is strong, all the way across the Atlantic sea it should be......Boston!?

Lunch with friends by the beach with white beer and Italian salad, what more can a girl ask for?

Highlights- visited the Mauritshuis Museum and saw the piece of Girl with a pearl earring by Johannes Vermeer- One of my favorite art work, also later on, a story. Pearl, unlike other jewelry, has a unique characteristic. The west see pearl as classy, pure and royal; Chinese people think pearl represents lightening, gentleness and happiness.

True beauty is spontaneous, a lot like affection.

Tomorrow will be a hard-working sunday, I hope. After this lovely day trip I am in such a good and loving mood. I am so blessed :)

Una mujer puede vivir sin un hombre, pero no puede vivir sin amor.

A woman can live without a man, but can't live without love.

People...

2010-09-29T05:57:00.024+08:00

Looks like insomnia has caught up with me again, Thank God for Youtube.

I Love her.

I know her from watching the show FunTaiwan from Discovery Channel.

Passion for the world; curiosity for new things; gratitude for life, plus that unbeatable smile= Perfection!

You don't meet people like that everyday, and meeting one of these people is enough to be inspired. I am studying one of the most idealistic field in academia with an interesting group of student body. My classmates, including myself- we are immature, a little naive maybe, philosophical, model-oriented, and efficiency is not our priority.

But if you look closer, everyone has this steady look on their face; compassion is our strength, we pledge our allegiance to a cause, and if that's not enough, we ride bicycles.

You can only Live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. -Janet Hsieh

Looking forward to...

2010-09-28T07:01:00.009+08:00

The best dish to eat on a rainy day? Hearty Soup of course! This was also my first attempt to make a lentil soup. Cooking with lentil is easier then I expected, this food is so rich in nutritional values and when you added some cabbage, tomato, spinach and some spice into it, it become unbeatable. I had it as supper with bread and a glass of wine, what more can I ask for?

It actually gets better, over a skype chat across the Atlantic Ocean, my friend and I had our Christmas reunion trip planned out. How efficient we are indeed...

It all starts at Amsterdam (Of Course) and here's where we will spend our Christmas....

And the New Year of 2011......

"After all, seasons changes. So do cities. People come into your life and go. But it's comforting to know the ones you love are always in your heart. And if you're very lucky, a plane ride away."

The White Flower

2010-09-25T05:37:00.016+08:00

I have a date with flower :)

You probably had no idea what that means, but I like flowers (Who doesn't?) and I am so happy to be in Holland- where flowers can make the headline of the paper.

Today as I was taking care of some logistic business downtown, I had an interesting encounter; getting to know people is so easy and enjoyable, if you are in the time and place. This afternoon, we had experience from cloudy to rainy, and then from rainy to sunny in a course of an hour while sitting at a cafe, so typical...

As I was riding my bike home, I rethink the different between what you see, and what you feel. Both which according to karma, does not exist in permanence: what you see now is different then what you saw a minute ago, and what you feel now will not be the same as what you are going to feel in the next second.

Are you still here?

When you take a flower in your hand and really look at it, it's your world for the moment. I want to give that world to someone else. -George O'keeffe

Aww...It's difficult!

2010-09-23T14:24:00.008+08:00

In 1944, Donald Watson came up with the word "Vegan" and defined it was the beginning and end of vegeterian. I still have doubts or resistance about Veganism, but as a vegeterian (on& off...) for almost 2 years, I decided that it's the time to give Vegan a try.

This is part of the grocery shopping I have done for my one-week trial for going Vegan, as you can see, it's mostly stuff I will buy but replaced milk with a lot of soymilk, no dairy and eggs, and later I discovered the honey I bought is consider as "animal product" so that's out of the picture for a week.

-My biggest craving is YOGURT! I know I have enough protein intake so my body is trying to tell me I need/want sometime else, what is it? I'm guessing one kind of the minerals/vitamins like B12 or D.

-The body, however, is some how enjoying this; I woke up every day feeling a little hungry but refreshed, getting out of bed became less painful.

-Someone say Vegan diet can help you lose weight, but I seriously question that, maybe for the long-run but for the first week, you might not used to not feeling full/very full all day so you actually eat more then usual. So instead of having 2 slices of toast, I had 3, or 4......

So that's it! I'm going to get myself a cookie and coffee with milk and enjoy some afternoon sunshine, if the sun's out :)

Week 37

2010-09-18T23:13:00.005+08:00

This is the end of the Week 37! You guys probably had no idea what's week 37, it's just some calendar week for my school, and it marks my first 2 week of class in my new school, so it be!

After the presentation Monday (Yes, at the first week of school, right?) I decided to hop on a train to Amsterdam the next day since it's my day-off. Rainy, as usual, but the capital had never disappointed me. Walking around the Magna Plaza and trying to stimulated the dutch economy, apparently the weather has no effect on me what so ever :)

Afternoon is another cozy delight, I met up with a friend for coffee; whom I met when we were both studying in Santiago, Chile. Certainly our conversation were all about how we miss that land of flores y montanas; and now we are back to our "reality"- doing thesis, going back to school; catching up on life.

One cup of coffee had given me beautiful puzzles of past, present and future. Who said it's not good to have dreams? Maybe some of my dreams can ever be reached, but they were, such beautiful dreams.

On One's own

2010-09-14T04:30:00.008+08:00

Living by yourself compels you to be creative when it comes to food; sometimes you will come up with crazy ideas, but most importantly is to make it comforting, as it is at home...

Today starts perfectly with blueberries (who doesn't love them?), oatmeal and yogurt, a combination that can never go wrong. I prefer my oatmeal uncooked when its mixed with yogurt, that make sense, right?

I am so happy to find Hummus yesterday and I just can't have enough of it! It's also my first attempt to mix apple in a lettuce salad, though it is vert strange with my balsamic vinegar dressing, I will try else things next time.
Dinner- yes hummus again, or Hoemoes in Dutch; dipping carrot sticks in it makes the world a better place, really, at least for me.

What happens when you are staying up late doing work at the FIRST WEEK OF SCHOOL? You go mad, and come up with crazy ideas like this one... here's my contribution to you Utrecht University!

New Start

2010-09-11T18:03:00.012+08:00

A round of applause for me for getting through the first week of school!

Thank you guys; I have this beautiful picture of my school for you in returns. This is the Faculty of Law, Economic and Governance building in Central Utrecht. I won't be having my class there since my new focus now is in the Geoscience Faculty; it's shame that I don't get to go to class in this beautiful place. But I certainly will drop by for a drink sometimes! (Yes, they have a bar in there...)

And here's just some photos of my life recently, the variety of tea they have in the Netherlands makes me very happy :) The canals of the city; the sheep on the bike-ride to class, my new HAIR!

Hasta La Vista!

Dutch to be

2010-09-04T00:21:00.011+08:00

Allow me to introduce my new home country- The Kingdom of Netherlands! My gateway to Europe starts (and ends?) in here and I will take every minute of it and make it the best, you know I will!

Coffeeshops are very popular in the city center and I think after the all the orientation brainwash I might have to pay a visit there. I still don't know much about the City of Utrecht, where I will be spending sometime doing my Master's degree. However, I will being joining a tour tomorrow and if I found out something interesting, I'll let you know ;)

By the way, on my way to the city center to get my phone card, this ice-cream car totally made me smile from my heart. (Disclaimer: I didn't have any ice-cream there)

I guess I will try my best in becoming a Dutch; even more, a Utrechter!

Place I call home

2010-08-28T10:49:00.019+08:00

A few days have passed since the dreadful day of Manila Bus Siege, where 8 Hong Kong hostages were killed and 2 seriously injured.

I'm not gonna comment on this incident, not that I have nothing to say but I can't override my personal feelings on the top those who perished.

A moment of silence in at this little corner, my deepest condolences.

Hong Kong will always be a place I belong, every minute thing happens here will consume my attention and emotion. This is home :)

Packing again......

Gourmet & beyond!

2010-08-22T14:37:00.014+08:00

Here comes the food from Czech and Germany! Bon Appetit!

Czech's national dish: Beef Goulash with homemade lemonade.

Location: Prague's Castle Cafe, Prague, Czech Republic

Curry Shrimp with steamed rice, Grilled Salmon in wine sauce with Pinot Grigio

Location: Lemon Leaf Thai Restaurant, Prague, Czech Republic
Raspberry "jelly" with homemade cream, Riesling

Location: Little bistro somewhere, Dresden, Germany

Pan-fried Salmon (again!) with salad and amazing french-cut fries, Rosé

Location: Near Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic

My Bread Obsession, freshly baked Pretzel, Fresh Cherry, Beer

Location: Beerhouse, Nuremberg, Germany

ARE YOU HUNGRY YET? Then here's come something different, my musical voyage...

The Multipal Hall at Prague, where I attended the Concert of Chamber Music with wonderful pieces of Antonín Dvořák, a well-respected Czech composer. I heard this song for the first time of my life and think I just found me a new favourite piece: Songs My Mother Taught Me (Click to Listen)

Just like the movie: Love, Eat , Play!

The Velvet Touch

2010-08-17T23:22:00.016+08:00

Just got back home and realize I have to upload the journey to my block, catching up is always my favourite thing to do after traveling :) So I am asking for your patient and I promise it will be worth the wait, here comes the story...

Prague, Czech Republic- One of the most popular vacation destination in Europe, including mine.

While walking at the rocky road up to the Prague Castle, I heard people from all around the world with tour guides introducing the history of this sign, I heard Spanish, French, Chinese... It's like the UN Plan meeting without the dias.

The rocky little road we walked on was very old and antigua, it's the same road that people walked by hundreds years ago, and to me, that is history.

The Old Town Square of Prague, the birth place of the Prague Spring. Breathing the same air of the velvet spirit make me realize underneath the soft and kind heart of Czech people, they have this part of stubbornness that is not allowed to be messed with.

The Beautiful Prague... You truly gave me a lesson.

Oh Hello Euro!

2010-08-14T01:11:00.010+08:00

Hallo Freunde! I thought I'd spice things up a little bit with the incomprehensible German language since I'm at Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

No intention to do any sign seeing here, just any other city, since I am from the best city in the world, no need to look further ;) I did meet up with a friend and catch up for a little bit on good old times, superb!

Tomorrow I will meet up with one of the sweetest girl on earth and take a train to Prague, my excitement is beyond any description. However, I do need a good night sleep beside all the jet-lag and excruciating plane ride. The Frankfurt brew beer above may guarantee my quality of sleep, and it taste refreshing, but I know there will be better ones in Czech, waiting for me.

The Best, is yet to come.

Is it Ramadan already?

2010-08-12T22:13:00.011+08:00

Yes- Ramadan 2010 started yesterday Aug 11! Go Moslem!

I was flying with Malaysian Airline today from Hong Kong to Frankfurt, with a stop in Kualar Lumpur today, I received these deliciousness before my meal... (I didn't take a picture so I borrow this from the web)

I never knew what these things are actually called, so I looked it up, that best I can do is: Ramadan Iftar dried Date. It's familiar to me as the little "pre-appetizer" for the people who are feasting in Ramadan and starting to eat after the sunset.

Although I have not been feasting it is not possible for me to avoid such yummy treat. MH is really a wonderful airline for providing us such authentic food. Giving me a room to reflect and be thankful for the diversity we have in the world.

See you in Europa!

Lose the fat...in your head!

2010-08-08T10:03:00.010+08:00

This video of Tyra Banks show first appeared to me several months ago and I regard to her action with respect and warm approval. She's Got Big Balls!

After the trip to the fabulous Maldives, the aftermath starts to show up on my scale, so this week I was very careful about my diet and trying to work out more then I want to. But this video has remind me something more important.

While doing calorie counting, it's not the body fat that needs to be removed desperately, it's the bad thoughts I have regarding to myself, my esteem.

Vanishing Paradise

2010-07-30T12:25:00.010+08:00

Traveling with you family can be painful, very painful. Especially you are the one who are doing all the planning and guiding, while taking the complains and demands from your parents, aunts and uncles.

My last 2 family trip had taught me what to expect, but this time when 10 of us went to Maldives, the beautiful island really gave me a break.

The picture speaks for itself, when you are staying in an awesome hotel, and your room is literately above water, everything else seems so less important.

While Jet skiing, I had the following conversation with my instructor:

Do you believe this country is sinking?

Ya, but it will not be anytime soon, I hope, haha...

So if it does, are young thinking of moving to other country?

No... I'm not going anywhere. We Maldivians stay with the mas (local language for fishes)!

When the world leaders walking about climate change last year at Copenhagen, I'm sure they have the heart to make some changes. Hence, we all forget one thing: the people who are really taking the consequences due to our action of development is someone we have never met, like my kind Maldivian Jet Ski instructor.

Oh Maldives....... I'd love to do you again!

Friedman's wrong...again!

2010-07-17T14:01:00.012+08:00

Hong Kong is about to pass a minimum-wage bill! Frankly, I was surprise but not astonished that such law will finally exist in this place I called home.

Acclaimed by one of the most influential economist in the modern times, Hong Kong was considered the best example of free-market economy. "If you want to see capitalism in action, go to Hong Kong." His compliment was still considered the highest honor of this market economy. However, wonder what would he be saying when he see this article.

"Hong Kong never stops..."

After the Asian Economic Crisis, Friedman is again, wrong about this wonder city of Hong Kong. It's comforting to see "smart people" like him to make mistake and struggle like us normal folks :)

However, behind all these nonsense, I do not endorse this bill. I understand minimum wage, but not in Hong Kong. This doesn't mean I discard the rights and welfare of low-income workers who have contributed vastly to this community. But if earning some extra money very month means your neighbor might lost their job... I just don't think this can add up.

Welfare and social securities for everyone! I just need to figure out how......

The Morning Caffeine

2010-07-14T09:31:00.006+08:00

Cafe Arabica- The taste of the good old past

It doesn't matter in the morning or the afternoon (I do prefer tea or booze at night unless I am staying up late), a good cup of coffee always makes me feel almighty. I do know how some of you feel about caffeine, but hey, nothing is bad for you unless you abuse it :)

I am excited to find this amazing Arabic coffee at a Italian store nearby my house (yes, an Italian store), the little shop had recently become my favourite place, it's my candy house!

I had my coffee ready, now come to the question- What goes the best with an awesome cup of coffee? Cookies, Muffins or Cake? Come on, be creative! If I came up with something exotic, I will let you know, Ciao for now!

The Bottle that holds

2010-07-11T12:48:00.033+08:00

The last 2 weeks I was exhausted by the earthy business and have come to the understanding that the world is NOT flat, maybe your brain is, but definitely not our world system. However, it's true that there's lesser things right now you can control; is it the "free market economy"? or it's something else?

Back to my ME Life, recently I was looking for information online and wish to go for a 10K training and other good strength training. As I was surfing at my new favourite site- Women's Health, I saw this related article: Bottled Water and the Developing World, this had certainly caught my attention since I soon will return to be a student of development studies.

I almost laugh out loud when I read this article on the metro, the idea of travellers from "rich country" often have a weak stomach for the local water just give me flashback for the time when I was travelling in South America. Not only foreigners are consuming unecofriendly bottle water in the developing world, but they have lower the local access to clean, drinkable water.

Well... When I go some place else, I would buy bottle water for drinking because it's more convenient, but I don't use it for EVERYTHING, like, brushing my teeth for example. Living in a bacteria- free environment doesn't mean you are healthy, sometime it means you are more fragile when you go outside of your "safety zone".

Another thing, if a town like Bundanoon, Australia can ban all bottled water. the least we can do is next time we leave the house, bring our own reusable water bottle.

Easy.

Time!

2010-06-30T21:49:00.006+08:00

It's about time I finally settled on my next adventure, the answer is in Heineken Pilsener! (or Amstel if you like.)

I guess I will be drinking that next year at my school, but I'm not learning dutch. My language system is already a mess and thank god for the international language!

See you soon Europa!

Do it for SA!

2010-06-19T21:20:00.019+08:00

Seems like everyone is talking about The World Cup lately, I personally love watching it and I think it's a good place for competition as well as reconciliation. If FIFA host the World Cup every year instead of every 4 year I believe a lot of international conflict can be avoided. DAHH..!

South Africa, however, is the place of miracle. Not only it gave us Nelson Mandela and Charlize Theron, this wunderland also created the game when North Korean had 1 goal on Brazil; on top of all, England Vs. USA: 1-1 tie! This even makes Nelson Mandela goes "Oh brother, That's weird!"

The USA might not be my favourite team at the World Cup, but they surely has my favourite theme song :)

"Of course The World Cup isn't just about football, just like Fashion week isn't just about Clothes and accesories." -My aunt's take on FIFA.

Soy?Joy?

2010-06-13T16:27:00.021+08:00

What would you do when you have nothing to do? SNACK!

The sage was right about keeping yourself busy, or you'll either sleep or eat too much. My snacking candidates are my all-time favourite yogurt and the Soyjoy snack bar which is endorsed by my brother.

It turns out I didn't appreciated the Soyjoy bar as much as he did. The chewy texture is nice though, but the flavour is too artificial, it's not real food to me, and low calorie doesn't always mean healthy. Nowadays, we are so obsessed with he idea of health and wellness, we go on diets, we go to the gym and work out; we have a list of things we do to keep our body "fit", but what is the last time we pay attention to listen to ourselves, to see what our body wants?

We are what we eat; we are where we live.

At the limits

2010-06-06T22:43:00.005+08:00

I was just having a wonderful and enjoying the new book from Edward Said- Music at the limits. A collection of Music review he published at The Nation, This is a very good way of remembering someone that I adore.

Said had spoken highly about violinist Itzhak Perlman, I though the name is very familiar to me so I got on Youtube and review some of this man's work. No surprise, he is the one who played the most tear-drawing song.

Oh ya...... it's been awhile.

In diesem wetter

In diesem braus......

Soak up the sun!

2010-05-28T13:04:00.013+08:00

Recently I am working on my scholarship application essay, but sometimes writing an essay its like shopping for a perfect summer dress; your input and outcome do not necessarily in a positive correlation. So, I decided to give myself a break and go to the beach!

It was the best tanning ever, even better then the one I got from Rio de Janero! The sun tan hurts a little, we will find out in a few days I presume :)

Today's paper have announced the latest college admission in Hong Kong, the most competitive and popular major had shifted from Business to Social Work. It first appeared strange to me but the paper explained that the average starting salary of social workers had raised to HK$19000 compared to only $7000 in the business field. One question had came up in my mind: So in the future, our social workers will be those who are doing it for the high salary? I had a similar conversation with my friend at the beach, she, who is in Education industry believe that there's a different if you are doing your job driven by the goal, or by heart.

Heal...The world?

2010-05-24T08:10:00.011+08:00

Yes I went to Macau, again.

Besides all the eating, drinking, gambleing and hanging out, this MJ Gallery at Ponte 16 is worth mentioning. The gallery is not big, only 3 or 4 show room and a giant TV that shows some of his great preformances. I am not a huge MJ fan but I like his music. This stop is a perfect break time from the game time while our staying at the Sofitel.

Two of his famous songs- We are the world, and Heal the World, both very positive and spreading the loving message. To many people, MJ is certainly a good and caring person, still remember the video USA for Africa? By that he captured the heart from the other continents and the region mourn with "Spectacular disappointment" when he died.

That, is something.

Mazel Tov!

2010-05-17T13:49:00.017+08:00

In Preparation for a wedding dinner this evening I decided to check out this new place for manicure (What an excuse!). Located in one of the best rendevouz of Kowloon, The Bliss Spa is on the 72 floor of The W Hotel. Hip and trendy speaks for itself, which gave me the best spa experience ever.

Overlooking the Victoria Harbour, lovely color selection, friendly staff, the must-try herb mint tea and chocolate brownie snack plate! Oh don't worry babe, I will be back!

So it seems like I am ready to go. The wedding is for the son of my mother's best friend, since that I have really no excuse to absence. The Venue was grand and elegant; the bride was blessed and beautiful; the family was touched and overjoyed; the guests were delighted and enjoying themselves; the food was fine and tasty; and I was bored and running out of patient.

It was really my own fault, I have never liked a wedding before. To me it's like a not-so-private party with not-so-reasonable price. Perhaps I am just not in the position of being able to enjoy it, or I am too young for such life-changing milestone event and celebration.

However, I do appreciate the idea of that there's an opportunity for two people to be together forever.

Life is better then good :)

Seeking Samadhi

2010-05-13T20:07:00.023+08:00

My Yoga classes are my favourite time of the day, doing practice, pushing my limits, relaxing my body and letting go of my mind. Life does need to be managed by heart...and we owed it to ourselves to create a life we love :)

Today I tried the following back bending pose (Urdhva Dhanurasana) and let me tell you the truth: It seems 100 times easier then it really is!

Namaste!

Moment of Zen

2010-05-10T20:10:00.010+08:00

Seeing my unmotivated mood yesterday morning, my grandma had kindly made me a cup of BaBaoCha. Literately means The Tea of Eight Treasures. The reason I love this tea so much is its delightful appearance, so cheerful and feel the joy and sweetness within it. The 8 ingredients also make this tea not handy to prepare, that's why I am too lazy to enjoy this fabulous drink and my grandma only make it for me when she is in a great mood :)

So my grandmother and I are both happy now, let's talk abut the Euro now! What about the Euro? Good question, we know the PIIGS countries are in mess, the European Central Bank doesn't have much control over the exchange rate of Euro and the other European countries doesn't have much intention (and money) to help them out either.

The Euro has devaluated to Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) from almost 12 to close to 9 recently. This is the perfect time to buy in since I will be paying my tuition in Euro for my master degree. I have to do this before the Euro will go up again after the support of the $750 Billion from EU, why do they have to do that? Messed it up yourself and then offer money to "support" it?

I don't care, I got my tea...

In Free World We Live

2010-05-04T15:48:00.007+08:00

My Poll Card has finally arrived regarding to The Hong Kong 2010 Legislative Council By-election at 5/16. It's been a politic-theatrical comedy. 5 councilors had resigned and re-run for the by-election to show their passion for "true democracy" and asking for universal suffrage for the Chief of Hong Kong. Really, very touching.

Allow me to introduce you George Carlin, my favourite comedian of all-times, this wise man had figure out the true political game rules. The following performance can also applied to the Hong Kong political stage right now, sometimes the game has rules, but mostly those rules are the game.

¿Qieres Bailar?

2010-04-29T08:19:00.024+08:00

Tango is the most passionate dance, and passion is what I most endear in life. As I ramble around the Internet in my days of unemployment, this picture had really got into me. Though it always takes two to tango, dancing alone and its melancholy fits more into my type of romanticism.

Someone once said dancing is about being exactly who you want to be at that moment, I wish I know the person who said it; to have such courage to be yourself.

My bravery is just about to sail (/depart) from Eastern Europe, my mentor alone the way? THE LONELY PLANET GUIDEBOOKS!

Certainly, a cup of tea along with the reading/ researching is absolutely called for. A cozy afternoon with a cup of Oolong and I am thinking about Istanbul, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Austria, Poland, Belarus.......(as know as The Economically Snafu State!)

Lastly, my new favorite thing recently is this amazing Organic Toasted Malted Wheat Flake. I am truly in love with this little bag of grains from the United Kingdom, and it's policy support for organic farming, further information at the UK's Department of Environmental food and Rural Affairs.

You are what you eat;

You are where you live.

I hope I can continue to be a fabulous life-loving Pescetarian working my way towards vegeterianism!

Breakfast time!

2010-04-26T15:30:00.011+08:00

Good Morning! Bonjour! Buenos días!

This week has been a "momless" week for my brother and I, she has been away to Beijing for a week, so I am temporally his legal guardian (babysitter?) and enforced healthy living and more veggie in his diet, by which he has firmly responded with hatred, but oh well, I'm in charge :)

My Breakfast: A glass of warm water, a banana and a green apple, I also saved the other apple for the meat-lover.
The meat-lover's breakfast: Japanese Roman noodle, roasted beef slices, a boiled egg (instead of fried egg) and steamed spinach.

The Spinach is not appreciated by my brother and I have to insist that he finish them. Spinach is one of my favorite veggie; it's rich in vitamin and folic acid, as well as Calcium and Iron, which are common in meat but rare in vegetables.

Before I am late for my French Class, I am feeling a little bit more confident in the French language, or I should say, I don't resent it as much now. Just like every time I start a new language I have to adopt a whole new system of thinking, because when you learn a new language, you are compelling yourself into another cultural mindset. Some might found this very uncomfortable, but to me, this is quite fascinating.

IR Hazing

2010-04-19T20:13:00.015+08:00

Here comes Obama again trying to make this world a better place!

The summit had produced based on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) as a "Peace consent". Countries that ratify the NPT will not take Nuclear retaliation among each other, but for those who are not part of this club, like Iran or Pakistan, we reserve the right of blowing their behind up at anytime. So what exactly they have achieved? Sill a mystery...

And if we will all die in nuclear bomb one day I wish it will be a comedic ending like this YouTube video.

Battle within

2010-04-12T23:17:00.016+08:00

My life had been colorless this week since I got a cold, running nose ain't funny, and I was not being able to sleep well at night :(

But other then that, my first French Class with AllianceFrancaise today went well. A lot of things actually make sense to me but as soon as it comes with pronunciation I have utterly no idea. Good thing that the class was held in one of the busiest district in Hong Kong and after class it's a perfect time to call up some friends for lunch.

As an unemployed person, I patiently waited for my lunch date at Starbucks- not necessarily my favourite place on earth- I thought that given my condition today, a mint herb tea will be a good choice; somehow I ended up ordering a cafe americano, perhaps I have unconsciously accustomed this practice of retrospection?

Next time, perhaps, mint tea will be a better selection.

This and That

2010-04-10T21:30:00.005+08:00

First of all, I got an iPod Touch! This delightful creature had brought me new discoveries and I certainly appreciate its company.

Last week was the Qingming Festival, a day for all the descendants to fulfill filial piety by visiting their ancestors' grave. So again I visited my hometown- Ningbo, China for a week to attend my family and the place that gave birth to me.

The ethos of spring was intense here, as my parents brought me to climb this mountain, where used to be their childhood playground. We found this twin bamboo shoot hiding underneath an old pear tree. My dad said it very rare for these plants to grow in pairs, I guess good luck for us then! They both ended up in out lunch table.

My cousin is absolutely a dog person, she love this little teddy bear here. I have to admit that this silly dog have get into my heart, it was a bit sad saying goodbye to him after a week. Animals are a lot more simple then human beings, they will love you and love to be with you unconditionally. There's nothing you have to do to please them, all you have to do is be with them, can we do this with people?

Por amor, lloramos; Por amor, nos reimos.