bad hair day?

Teehee...this picture is both hilarious and disturbing to me...


is this a face you can trust? 

pet cemetery

There's a Memorial Garden here where they have interred the cremains of church members who have passed from this life. Apparently, there's also a Pet Garden for the beloved pets of church members.

An elderly woman called to say they wish to have a dog interred in the Pet Garden. They want the dog placed next to their horse, which died a few years ago. Yes, that's right. There's a horse buried in the Pet Garden of this church. Heh.

body image

Do men talk about their physiques as much as women do with each other? And also comment on each other's?

"You have big boobs. I'm proud of my boobs. Be proud of yours."

"What's your cup size?"

"I have a flat butt. You have a nice butt. I was admiring your butt the other day."

These are actual things I've heard women say. What's funny is that a group of women can have a long discussion about all this. Repeatedly. It never seems to get old.

I mean, I'll hear guys talk about their pecs and abs and stuff. But do men compare and talk about penis size at all, or is that totally taboo?

Heehee. This is a totally pointless entry, I know. =P

nature walks

Since the weather was so gorgeous last week, I decided to hike in Flat Rock Brook. I briskly walked the Boardwalk Trail and the Red Loop Trail. I walked around the Boardwalk Trail a second time where I watched four deer grazing in the grass. It's been a while since I've been that close to deer. It was pretty cool.

Yesterday ended up being a fairly decent day. Rain had been expected in the evening but the sky did not tell of any rain in the immediate future, so I decided to go back, this time for a light jog. I ventured off the Red Trail at certain points to lengthen the distance of my run...er...my jog...er...which sometimes was just a brisk walk to avoid the mud and puddles...and when the incline was too much. Ha.

It's nice to not always be confined to working out in a gym. Anyone wanna join me? =)

dear mr. hong

I love it when people who email me address me as "Mr. Hong" because they probably think it's more polite than addressing me as "Joo." Maybe I shouldn't think of it as a big deal, but I always feel the need to correct their assumption. I am NOT a MAN!

summer plans?

Once Easter is over, activity at this church slows down, and summer becomes the prevailing thought. At our staff meeting, everyone was discussing summer vacation plans. Everyone except for me.

I sat there quietly and realized that I really don't have much time left at this job. And they don't know it yet.

The Personnel Committee here has become basically defunct since the Elder in charge hasn't done a thing. No one has gotten a raise or a bonus. No personnel issue has been discussed. The staff is not too happy about it. But once I announce my resignation, the Personnel Committee will have to take action. I guess they can thank me for that when that happens.

It will be great to move on from here...a little strange, but a good thing.

My summer plans? To transition out of this job and get the hell out of here!! =D

sleep deprived

A fundraising party in Brooklyn. Two birthday parties in the city (one with a surprise guest). An all day training session for the South Africa team. Coming home at 3/4 a.m. two nights in a row. I'm still exhausted.

There was an interesting mix of artists and corporate types at Suzi's fundraising party. A LOT of men were there, apparently because at Suzi and Emily's last party there were a lot of hot women packed into the penthouse. Word gets around. I thought some of these men were about to turn hostile towards Suzi for the lack of female presence Friday night. (I guess the hot women figured there weren't enough men and didn't show?) A few of the guys were getting ready to leave when a small contingent of women (she's blonde! said Suzi) came by. They decided to stay. Suzi wanted me to stay and meet some more people who were still on their way, but I had to leave for the next party, just as hers was gaining more momentum.

Parking proved difficult at the next stop, and I was only able to snag a spot a half hour later as moviegoers left the Landmark Sunshine Cinema. I had texted someone "goodnight" and ventured into Star 64 to find the birthday boy and buy him a drink. I went to look for the only other person I knew when I instead found the person I had texted "goodnight" standing by the bar. Heh. The crowd was cool, and the music was old school.

The best part of training the South Africa team was watching them try and lower a hula hoop as a team with the hoop resting on their index fingers. The exercise is often called "Helium Hoop" because the hoop, much to their bewilderment, usually ends up moving up instead of down. It took several frustrating attempts, but they were finally able to complete the task. =)

The bar area of the Fat Black Pussycat was pretty cool. There was a corresponding music video playing with all the music they were playing, which was a mix of music from the 80's to the present in every popular genre. Their draft selection of beers was average, but their bottle selection was great. I tried the Delirium Tremens, a Belgian beer. It came in a pretty bottle and was yum! It had a nice lingering aftertaste of apples. The next beer, Rogue Dead Guy, was also good...although if I had to pick, I'd go with the first. Anyway, enough about beers, this place also has a separate lounge area with sofas and their own DJ. Downstairs is the club...which was totally monochrome, i.e. the crowd was all white. They were also young, early twenties I guess. I've been told it's NYU fratboy territory. Makes sense. My suggestion? Stick around upstairs, drink a beer or two, and enjoy listening/watching the music.

Going home on Saturday ended up being a huge ordeal. I had thought I would save myself the hassle of driving and parking, especially since I was tired and it was pouring rain. Well, now I know that the GWB bus terminal, where I would normally catch a bus to cross the GW bridge, closes at 1 a.m. I considered walking across the bridge, even in the wind and rain, but the pedestrian walkway closes at midnight. Yellow cabs were charging $37.50 just to cross the bridge. The gypsy cab rate was $20. With the slow late-night A train service and the GWB ordeal, it took me over two hours to get home. Driving into the city would have been a much better and cheaper option!!

Anyway...it's Monday...back to the daily grind!

blogs, nooma, and episcopalians

Sometimes I will find a blog by googling something of current interest to me. Recently I was googling Nooma stuff, when I stumbled upon yet another interesting blog from an Episcopalian in the Pasadena area. (Would you know him too, Petie?)

This was the particular entry I came upon. Apparently he works with a youth group and they had just finished up a series on sex. It's a very frank, open, and thought-provoking entry. (Is it weird to know something personal about a complete stranger?)

Nooma are short films which communicate a message about different issues from a Christian perspective without being churchy. I haven't seen any myself. Has anyone else seen any of these? The series features Rob Bell, the founding pastor of Mars Hill Bible Church.

Oh, Petie knows Rob Bell too...they were classmates in the early 90's at Fuller.

Petie, is there anyone you don't know? =P

jinny's week in the west tour

Jinny only has two more remaining shows in Cali. Their show on Wednesday at the Gig in Hollywood was not as well attended as they would have liked. =(

But they have two more to go! Tonight is a show in Westminster and tomorrow is a show at Synergy Cafe and Lounge in Culver City. Cali folks, check it out, if you can!!

wonderful weather and food

As I write this, it's a balmy and beautiful 77 degrees outside. The sky is blue without a cloud in sight, and there's a gentle breeze in the air. I LOVE THIS WEATHER!!

The weather this whole week has been nice, which is why I think it's a SHAME I work inside an office. *sigh* But because of this wonderful weather, I haven't brought lunch from home at all this week. Buying lunch means spending more $, but it also gives me a reason to be outside since I have a couple of different lunch options just a short walk down the hill.

Today is especially gorgeous so after bringing my greek salad with grilled calamari back to church, I chose to lunch outside in the little courtyard. How can anyone not be happy with weather like this??

And this lovely weather is the only reason why waiting in line outside for an hour yesterday evening to consume a Shake Shack burger is tolerable. Okay, I mean, it WAS a good burger. And yesterday was a lovely evening. So...no complaints! If they served the burger animal-style, it would have been perfect! =)

new music

On Friday, after leaving work at 1 p.m., I decided to brave the traffic and the crowds at Garden State Plaza to exchange something at Macy's. The parking situation ended up being a nightmare, and I found myself wondering if the excursion was a mistake.

While in my car, I was listening to an interview with Franz Ferdinand (no, not the assasinated Archduke of Austria) on Soundcheck. When I finally parked and walked into Garden State, I noticed a Sam Goody store was closing. Everything was priced to go. No CD was over $5.99. No DVD was over $8.99. And, lo and behold, there was the latest release from Franz Ferdinand. Being that their friendly interview was still very fresh in my mind, I picked up a copy and browsed (i.e. scavenged) the rest of the store.

It was a madhouse inside! People were calling other people to tell them about the store's closing and whether or not they had such-and-such album. Everyone loves a bargain. Even with the shelves mostly emptied out, people searched tirelessly for the last gem in the pile.

After purchasing a handful of items, I did eventually make it to Macy's (and I did stop by the new Apple store...and wondered where the rest of it was...it's so small!). Unfortunately, I wasn't able to exchange the item, but considering my Sam Goody acquisitions, the trip wasn't a waste of time...or was it? I would soon find out.

First I popped in Franz Ferdinand. I listened to 30 seconds of each song. For some reason they seemed more engaging on the radio.

Next was Takk by Sigur Ros. I wasn't sure what to expect at all. It started off so quietly and slowly, I initially wondered if I had made a bad purchase, but when I played the album at home in its entirety, I had firmly changed my mind. It's a beautiful album! And it cost me less than $5! Woo-hoo!

In the International Music section, I picked up a copy of Lagrimas Negras by Bebo & Cigala. I went purely by the information written on the cover, and at the last minute, I contemplated not purchasing it at all. Would it be worth the $5.99? Yes! It's worth so much more!! Okay, so the dude's raspy voice can sometimes be a little much, but overall, I LOVE this album. I can see why this album has won so many awards and international recognition.

I ended up also purchasing a Christmas album for 99 cents and (do I want to admit this?) a Lea Salonga album for $1.97 (just because I know her voice is beautiful). I haven't listened to either album yet.

Oh, and I don't know what possessed me...maybe for the humor, but I also purchased Save the Green Planet on DVD. Heehee. I'll have to watch it again and see if my opinion has changed. Maybe they've redone the ending? =P I mean, because I really think it was an interesting and quirky movie...except for the ending.

So was my trip to Garden State worth the traffic, parking nightmare, and general hassle? For Sigur Ros' Takk and Bebo & Cigala's Lagrimas Negras, my two new music finds...most definitely! =D

munch at moma

The Edvard Munch exhibit at MoMA ends on May 8! MoMA has extended their Saturday hours until 8 p.m. for the last three Saturdays of the exhibit, which is great because Saturday is probably the only day of the week I CAN go.

I have a free pass with my name on it (and someone else's free pass with someone else's name on it which I need to return to someone). The passes expire at the end of June. All the more reason to GO NOW!

I've already asked Petie about his Munch experience. Has anyone else gone? Does anyone else wanna go??

the upcoming weekend

Wow...this coming weekend is turning out to be an insanely busy weekend of activity. Now I gotta figure out what I should/shouldn't do...

On Friday, Project Axis starts at 8 p.m. and usually runs until 11 p.m.

Friday is also Suzi's fundraising for her participation in the Triathlon to raise money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. The party in Brooklyn starts at 8ish and goes until who knows when.

Friday is also Phil's birthday party. The party starts at 10:30 p.m. and he's having it at Star 64, a place I have been wanting to check out for months! (Although I think I might prefer Star 64 on Saturday rather than Friday...)

Saturday is the all-day final training for the South Africa team. It starts at 8 a.m. and runs until 5 p.m. (Maybe I can nap while they do some of the activities...)

Saturday night is Dan's birthday party. He's starting it at Meson Madrid for dinner and then to Fat Black Pussycat for drinks/dancing/lounging. FBP also has a downstairs club called the Village Underground.

Whew! I don't know how possible it will be to manage all of this!

Oh, and Saturday, April 29 is Amy's fundraising event for South Africa. There is a cost for admission, but drinks and food will be available as well as a live band and a DJ. Hopefully there won't be anything else going on next weekend...

colonblow

So out of curiosity, I started to look around for information about colon cleansing. I've heard of the benefits and last summer when I did a five day fast (part of it was a cleansing fast), I did recall stool that did look different...it had this weird sliminess to it which was supposedly slime and toxins from my colon.

Someone was saying that his friend had a professional colon cleansing done (where they basically wash out your insides...like a major enema). Anyway, there was corn in whatever was washed out and apparently his friend hadn't eaten corn in years! Nasty, huh? I mean, I know corn doesn't digest, but to be stuck inside of you for years?? Man, and I love corn too!

There is a lot of information out there about different ways to clean out your colons either by procedures like colonics and colon hydrotherapy or by diet and fasting or by use of different natural and herbal supplements.

And I stumbled upon Colonblow. And, yes, it's a real site with a real product, not just an SNL skit about cereal that looks like wood shavings. Check out the pictures of the poop. You can also google other pics of what comes out of the colon. Nasty!

Has anyone tried anything like this?

from fasting...to feasting?

The days of self-imposed restrictions (no alcohol and fasting for two Fridays) and waiting has ended! Petie asked me if the season of Lent helped me look forward to Easter. Yes, it did...although maybe not for all the right reasons...

Easter service was great. Great music. Great energy. Great message. =)

Since Grey's Anatomy wasn't on last night, the housemates and I ended up channel surfing and landed on TLC. After a show about a family with 16 kids, we watched Honey, We're Killing the Kids. Every episode highlights a new family with poor eating habits and a generally unhealthy lifestyle. The parents are first shocked into change by being shown hideous pictures of what their kids will look like at the age of 40 if they continue their lifestyle. They are then given three weeks to change their lifestyle with new assignments each week.

It's quite an adjustment for kids who regularly eat fried foods and sugar to eat bok choy and tofu. They kept spitting it out. It was kinda hilarious. In week two, one kid packed his bag and wanted to leave the house when his television was limited to only two hours a day.

I'm not a junk food junkie nor do I eat lots of sweets on a regular basis. I happen to love bok choy and tofu. Even still, I'm far from being a health nut. I don't always eat enough fruit and vegetables and when I become busy I find myself eating lots of processed food.

On Saturday night, I was talking with a woman who just had her colon cleaned out and another woman who has her own line of organic skincare products. (You can find her stuff at Wholefoods!) The organic woman spoke passionately about the fact that Americans are killing themselves with the food we eat and that it's not just about eating the right foods but about how they are grown (with pesticides and chemicals) and the processing involved. What she said made a lot of sense. I was ready to turn organic right then and there! She also pointed out, however, that balance is important. No point in denying yourself everything all the time. You have to be able to enjoy life too. Amen to that!

The season of fasting is over and while feasting is appropriate during times of celebration, now is a good opportunity to consider my lifestyle and how to be more mindful of what I eat and how I live.

Hm, I scarfed down a yummy gyro for lunch today...

happy easter

Our loving Savior has conquered death! Happy Easter!! =D

lily pollen

Goodness gracious! It's a good thing I only have a half day, and hopefully I can get out of here soon. (I still have 350 bulletins to stuff with inserts.)

There are a gazillion lilies in the church hallway to be transported to decorate the sanctuary. The pollen is SO getting to me. I've been coughing, sneezing, and my nose is running. I even feel dizzy. And it's all getting progressively worse.

Hmmm...maybe that's what I've been feeling these past several days!! I still had a little bit of a lingering cough (or what I thought was) from my cold. And I've been a little dizzy for about a week now. The lilies have been kept across the hall in a warm office with the door closed to help them bloom.

Dang, I gotta get out of here FAST!

tenebrae

Last night, I attended this church's Maundy Thursday service. There was no foot washing ceremony at this service, just the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. After a meditation (like a short sermon from the pastor), we celebrated the Lord's Supper. Instead of passing the elements down the rows, they had us (by row, in orderly fashion) walk to the front to receive the elements and then proceed back to our seats. Normally they offer both wine and grape juice, but it was just grape juice that evening. =)

The sanctuary was partially darkened for the evening. A row of candles was lit up front with one candle, called the Christ candle, standing alone. This was set up for the Tenebrae Service, which followed the Communion.

Tenebrae means "shadow" and the service followed a series of seven shadows: the Shadow of Betrayal, Desertion, Unshared Vigil, Accusation, Crucifixion, Death, and the Shadow of the Tomb. A Scripture lesson began each of the shadows. The reader then proceeded to extinguish one of the candles (and as each candle was extinguished, the sanctuary lights grew dimmer). Then a Choral piece or the singing of a Hymn followed each Scripture text.

The final musical selection for the Shadow of the Tomb was a solo of the African American spiritual, Were You There? It was sung slowly by a tenor who sang progressively quieter. Towards the end of the song, the Christ candle was carried to the back. The song ended in hushed silence, and the Christ candle was no longer in the sanctuary.

In the hushed silence, a sudden loud bang echoed in the sanctuary. The Strepitus is a loud noise that symbolizes Jesus' last cries, the shutting of the tomb, and the earthquake mentioned in Matthew 28:2. (Okay, now, I was anticipating this...it startled some folks...but for some reason, I almost wanted to chuckle...)

Then, in silence, the Christ candle returned, signifying the enduring hope of Christ.

The sanctuary remained dark as everyone left the sanctuary in silence.

Thoughts from the evening:
The Choir sounds great! I was impressed.

I can see why Presbyterians really need their bulletin. I found myself lagging behind in some of the responses because I didn't have my eyes fixed on the bulletin. You would think after two years of creating these bulletins that it would be easy for me, but guess not.

The liturgy and hymns was a nice change. It was, however, all a little too formal for my taste. Many of the men were wearing ties. I think others purposely didn't smile. Seriously!

I liked the Service of Tenebrae, especially the darkening of the sanctuary and the solo at the end. I also liked the Christ candle departing and then returning. It's nice to be able to "experience" the remembrance of this season.

mark 15:28

Is this verse missing from your Bible? Or maybe there is a footnote in its place?

I noticed that newer translations omit the verse. Older and/or more literal translations keep the verse, which according to the NASB reads:

And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "And He was numbered with transgressors."

The verse comes after the verse about Jesus being crucified between two robbers, one on his right and one on his left.

I don't know too much about the background of verse 28, except that footnotes say older manuscripts do not contain this verse. And now I wanna know what the supposed fulfilled Scripture reference is supposed to be.

Not that this affects the meaning and message of Scripture as a whole, but it caught my attention today. Hmmm.

references

Since college was a decade ago and since grad classes were also a few years back, finding academic references has been impossible. While at least one academic reference would have been best, what can I do? Pastoral references were easy and hopefully they will suffice.

Union requires three references, however, and I'm having a hard time deciding on the last one. Who do I ask??

I mean I have a lot of great friends, but they wouldn't be an acceptable reference, right?

The last pastor who was here had offered (he's the one who hired me and he was aware of my intentions to go back to school and encouraged me to attend seminary), but that was like a year and a half ago. The fact that he's all the way in Las Vegas and tends to be an overly busy person doesn't help.

The current pastor here is an alum of Union which would make him a great reference (that is, if he would write me a great reference). But I haven't told him of my intentions to leave and start school. I wasn't actually planning to say anything until my plans were set. Plus, I don't actually know what kind of reference he would give me.

The Activities Director has worked closely with me during my employment here, and she was in charge of the staff when this church was pastor-less. She knew of my intentions to go back to school when I started but I'm sure she's forgotten by now. With all the changes that have taken place here, she has mentioned that it would be nice to have me stick around for a good long while. Would it be bad for me to put her in the position of knowing that I plan to leave before I mention it to the pastor?

Any advice or suggestions?

birthday prayer

Today is my sister's birthday! (Happy Birthday, Mee!)

She is requesting prayer. Randy had some gastro-intestinal bleeding, and they're running tests to find out what's going on. Prayers would be appreciated. Thank you!

box wine

the #1 best-selling and most popular box "wine" of them all, franzia white zinfandel 

Ahhh...Franzia White Zin, how I know you well...

A guest arrived at one of Will's party last year with one of these 5 liter boxes of Franzia, and we couldn't help but chuckle. I mean, Will would often bring up box wine as a joke, and here it was, one giant box of pink "wine", a wine for the non-wine drinker. The alcohol content is really low (like 8% or something). And I can almost guarantee they add sugar to it. We, in fact, never tapped into it that night. The box would then show up repeatedly at future parties; it was all kinda funny really. If I'm not mistaken, that box is still around, waiting for the next party.

Needless to say, box wine does not have a great reputation. Box wine has meant poor quality wine, and large quantities of it. Plus, the sound and ceremony of uncorking a bottle is gone. The major benefit of box wine, however, is the idea of having wine stay fresh for longer than a day or two. That IS enticing.

Yesterday, an informant brought this to my attention:

dtour packaging design has been compared to campbell's soup can 

There was a segment on the Leonard Lopate show yesterday about this new "box" wine. I put "box" in quotes because in this case, they are finding ways to create a new image for box wine by introducing this particular wine as a "bag-in-tube". The design is spiffy and the wine is French! Plus if Chef Daniel Boulud is behind this, well, it definitely piques my interest!

Distribution is limited to NY, NJ, and MD. Unfortunately NJ law does not allow the website to list NJ locations. Darn Jersey! I have to wait for them to reply to my email.

Upon relaying the news to Petie, he informs me that he's been told about another boxed French wine:

rabbit wines include a chardonnay, a cab, and even a pinot! 

Petie thus far is still skeptical of any form of box wine. I am rather wary of there being box Pinot, but...

Hey, if there's a way to keep everyday table wine fresher for longer, I'm all for it! I hate wasting a bottle because I can't finish it. And it sounds like a great way to bring decent wine to large parties and other kind of gatherings where glass might be a hassle. Regardless, it won't work for everything. You won't see me replacing my bottles for wine in a bag/box. I'd most definitely keep the bottles and corks for special wines and special occasions and for most everyday occasions too.

Has anyone tried a box wine they like? Do tell!

Lent is almost over. I miss having everday wine. *sigh*

week in the west tour

Hey, you Cali folks should check these guys out! They're looking for a crowd to come out to Hollywood, so print out a flyer and come out on the 19th! Wish I could join you!

print out the flyer and save $2! 

There are other shows in Southern CA and a few up in Northern CA. Some will cost a few $, others are free. Yay, for Jinny and Koo! (It's Jinny's first time in CA so please help her feel welcomed!)

And in other unrelated news, did you know there's a musician named Wu Man out there?

tick tock, the clock!

The past few nights my dreams have been filled with people from my past and present. People are everywhere, but mostly in the background. Every room, hallway, outdoor scene...all filled with people.

In last night's dream, there was a person who resembled someone I knew from church in my high school days or maybe he was like a conglomerate of a couple of guys who were a couple of years older than me. Anyway, in my dream he asked me out. He lived a distance from me and the next day I drove out to meet up with him, and we had this non-date. I remember this particular dream all taking place in a college dorm kind of setting. One of the students there was an old friend from high school.

I wrote a recent blog entry about people coming in and out of my life, many which have been in the background...few in the forefront. My dream taking place in a college dorm setting probably has something to do with the fact that I'm anticipating starting school full-time in the fall.

The non-date? Well, a couple of people have told me that they expect me to meet someone at seminary. I can't help but scoff a bit when people say things like this because I've heard it so many times before. "You'll meet someone when..."

It's not that I don't believe it could happen. I mean, a part of me realizes that I could very easily meet someone (whether at seminary or not). I've said this before, but I know what I have to offer and I'm confident that anyone I'm with will be lucky to have me (even if that sounds conceited, I believe it). But, at the same time, it isn't easy...because interest has to be mutual and both have to be ready and so many other little things need to happen to actually make it work. There is no magic formula.

I've been spending time with a couple of gal pals who are both a couple of years older than me. Both are also single. One in particular is having a hard time right now because everything in her life is going wrong. And it got me a little sad too.

I'm honestly not so happy about being 32. I can't help but feel like time is moving too quickly and that time is working against me now. I started my period yesterday and thought to myself that another chance to become pregnant disappeared. What the heck?? I didn't use to think this way, but as 35 (in my mind I had decided that's the oldest I want to be when I have my first child) approaches, I'm becoming more aware of the fact that time is running out.

When I go through the motions of my life I realize how accustomed I have become to being by myself. It's a little sad, I think...to be so used to being alone.

BUT...at the same time, the ticking clock gives me all the more reason to move along. I refuse to stay at this job. And if life in NJ is not what I want, then it gives me more reason to leave the Garden State.

And, no, I don't feel old. No one would probably guess I'm 32. Even still, it doesn't stop the clock from ticking...

a sunday evening distraction

Well, it looks like I've been tagged by Petie. I figured I'd fill it out as a way to distract myself from thinking about the fact that Monday is arriving much too soon.

1. First name? Joo Young

2. Were you named after anyone? No...maybe Jesus? Haha. Not quite, I was named to give the "Lord" (Joo) all the "Glory" (Young).

3. Do you wish on stars? Sometimes when I catch glimpse of a falling star, yes.

4. When did you last cry? It wasn't a big cry, but last night for no real reason.

5. Do you like your handwriting? I like my handwriting even though most people can't read it and sometimes I can't either.

6. What is your favorite lunch meat? Roast beef.

7. Birth date? April Fool's!

8. What is your most embarrassing CD? My Utmost for His Highest (the Anthems). It was a wedding favor, and I think I listened to it once.

9. Do you have a journal? Yes, I have a leather bound one for thoughts I don't wish to make public. I have a second journal which I use to work out my issues.

10. Do you use sarcasm a lot? At times, but I'm realizing my sarcasm is a passive-aggressive form of communication...so I'm working on that.

11. What are your nicknames? Joo, Jooey, Joobaca, Joo-Joo, Joo-Joo Bee, Joo-ness, "Tiger" in Korean and another I don't know how to quite translate.

12. Bungee jump? Never have, but would be up for it if you wanna go.

13. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Rarely.

14. Do you think that you are strong? I'm not as strong as I thought I was but stronger than I think I currently am.

15. What is your favorite ice cream flavor? Vanilla, but only with real hot fudge, and anything else with coffee, chocolate, caramel.

16. Shoe Size? Six.

17. Red or pink? RED!

18. What is your least favorite thing about yourself? My tendency to procrastinate.

19. Who do you miss most? Honestly, my niece. I mean, I miss all of my family and faraway friends, but my niece most of all because I miss out on watching her grow up.

20. Do you want everyone you send this to, to send it back? Hm, who would I send this to? But, sure, it would be nice.

21. What color pants and shoes are you wearing? A variation of washed indigo (jeans). Red slippers.

22. What are you listening to right now? Holland by Sufjan Stevens (on Pandora.com!)

23. What was the last thing you ate? Half-pound ostrich burger. (Hey, it's a lean substitute for beef.)

24. If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Magenta because I have a "red" side and a "blue" side. Plus, magenta "energizes the adrenal glands, the heart action and the reproduction system." Haha.

25. Last person you talked to on the phone? Deanna.

27. The first thing you notice about the opposite sex? Hm. Their sense of style (or lack thereof). It tells me a bit about who they are. Unless they have their shirt off because then it's a little harder to tell... =D

28. Do you like the person who sent this to you? I adore Petie! (Is that an okay word to use?)

29. Favorite Drinks? I'm with Petie on his first answer: a nice Pinot. Dirty gin martinis, a stiff mojito, Irish stout or Chimay on tap, and Coke is it!

30. Favorite sport? I'm not the biggest sports fan. To watch...baseball, but only at a ballpark with a hotdog and a beer. To play...volleyball, because I love to dive dramatically to the ground.

31. Hair Color? Black with maybe one stray gray.

32. Eye Color? A sexy dark brown. =P

33. Do you wear contacts? Nope.

34. Last Movie You Watched? Inside Man.

36. Favorite Day of the Year? Christmas.

37. Scary movies or Happy Endings? Of the two, happy endings...wait, what kind of happy endings are we talking about? Oh, sorry. Uhm, happy...and bittersweet at times because life is not always about happy endings.

38. Summer or winter? Autumn. I think summer and winter are pretty equal because of their pros and cons.

39. Hugs or Kisses? Yes to both, please. Alright, alright...hugs.

40. What Is Your Favorite Dessert? Flourless chocolate cake.

41. Who Is Most Likely To Respond? Uh...

42. Who Is Least Likely To Respond? Uh...

43. What Book Are You Reading? Care of the Soul, Joseph in Egypt, Deuteronomy.

44. What's On Your Mouse Pad? Dell.com

45. What Did You Watch Last night on TV? Nothing.

46. What's in your CD player? Jinny Kim's Ophelia at home, The Essential Sarah Vaughan in my car.

47. Favorite Smells? I agree with Petie on the flowering jasmine. Nightime spring air filled with honeysuckle. Uh...men that I've been involved with...haha, maybe I shouldn't admit such things...but 'tis true.

48. Favorite Sounds? The ocean, children laughing.

49. Rolling Stones or Beatles? Beatles.

50. What's the farthest you've been from home? I think "home" needs to be defined first because the answer could be now and really almost any time in my life. But, I'd say Dagestan...or maybe Korea. Haha.

Okay, at this point I think I'm supposed to tag someone. Hannah, Susan, and anyone else reading this. =)

sad days

I'm not sure what it was about today (Saturday)...

Maybe it was because of the rain.
Maybe PMS IS a factor.
Maybe because I've been more tired and feeling dizzy the past three days (PMS-related).
Maybe St. John's Wort is not fully effective after all (although it has certainly helped).
Maybe it was the topics of conversations today.
Maybe it was spending most of the day with someone who has been struggling and feeling down (and rightfully so).

I've been feeling a little sad today, and more so in the past hour (although now it's technically Sunday). The reason why is probably a combination of all of the above and perhaps more.

I went shopping today. It wasn't planned, but the opportunity was there. I am sure I purchased more than I needed to just to help me feel better (although shopping also makes me tired and dizzy, which I already was today). But I did purchase new pairs of jeans to replace the ones I've outworn or outgrown. And I did my taxes. So there were productive parts to my day.

Maybe I'll go into more of what's been on my mind on Monday. For now, it's time to sleep and hope for better when the morning comes.

cranky-free pms??

Tuesday night someone (how do you know my cycle so well?) asked me if it was time for me to be PMS-ing or something because, strangely enough, I haven't mentioned it. I WAS thinking the other day that maybe I was because I was eating a lot more. (I'm hungry right now.) I am feeling a little dizzy and more tired today (which often happens right before my period), even though I had plenty of sleep last night. So, maybe I am?

Why do I not know with certainty? Because I haven't turned into a cranky bitch! Hahahaha.

Hmmm...it's not that I've been particularly chipper...and maybe I have been a little more impatient these days, but I haven't had any major crying fits or emotional rants. This is unusual! Maybe the St. John's Wort IS working!!

Either that or maybe I'm off-schedule...doubt that though.

Well, I'm sure another month will give me a better indication if SJW really is working. I am still planning to talk to my doctor about finding a pill that will help with the hormonal root cause though. We'll see what might be the better option. In the meantime, I'm glad to not be a miserable and depressed soul! =D

soof-yawn

sufjan stevens 

In the Grup article I wrote about, a lot of indie recording artists were mentioned, and although I had heard about many of them, I was not personally familiar with quite a few of them. Thanks to a true Grup, I've now been exposed and enlightened to the music of Sufjan Stevens.

WOW. I'm a big fan now!

His music is unique and poetic. And you don't have to take my word for it! Sufjan just won the New Pantheon Music Prize for the most artistic and creative album of the year by a panel of recording artists, musicians, and journalists. Among the top ten finalists were Death Cab for Cutie, Arcade Fire, and Antony and the Johnsons...not an easy group to beat. Yay for Sufjan!

Oh, and did I mention Sufjan is Christian?? (And he's an Episcopalian to boot...which somehow makes him seem cooler to me...) I'm glad to see a Christian breaking into the creative and innovative world of indie music instead of the Nashville-Christian-thing (apologies to those who like this kind of music). I'm impressed! His music is indeed deeply spiritual, but he's very real and doesn't hide from dealing with issues of pain and loss. My kind of guy.

Okay, so now I gotta make use of the Barnes and Noble giftcard I received and purchase more of his work! I received a copy of Illinois, which is the album that was recognized. He also has an earlier album called Michigan, and his goal (whether real or not) is to produce an album for each of the fifty states. The album I'm most interseted in, however, is Seven Swans, a more personal, quiet and reflective piece of work. Despite his dealings with faith in the album, it has a much broader appeal for those of any (or no) faith.

Oh, and Sufjan's a cutie too! =P

april snow showers?

Holy cow! It's snowing!! Okay, it's not gonna stick, but still! It's snowing!

paradou is provencal paradise!

Who would ever think to look for a warm and quaint French restaurant in the Meatpacking district? Paradou really is a bit of Provençal paradise!

Although the menu is not extensive, the menu is seasonal and creative, which is every reason to keep going back. The Skate Meuniere was served on top of a bed of roasted (and mashed) purple potatoes. It was adorned with caper berries (not capers, but caper berries which look more like olives) and garnished with a purple flower...maybe a daisy of some kind. The presentation was wonderful and the food was divine! I also sampled the Rack of Lamb which was also heavenly and beautifully presented. Next time I would want to order the Lamb...or both...or everything on the menu! Dessert was the Gateau au Chocolat, a decadent dessert to be savored. *drool*

The wine menu is entirely composed of French wine. It's too bad I couldn't drink because of my Lent thing. Darn!

It's okay. Next time I shall fully indulge in the Provençal experience and order of carafe of wine to accompany the amazing food.

I thank God for creating the French.

from russia with love

On Sunday my dad sent us (me, my sis, my bro) this email:

l sand pichter
have niceday
dady 4.3.2006

This picture was attached:

parents in snowy russia 

I emailed my dad back thanking him for the picture and asked him when they took it. This was his email back to us:

joo young birsday snow here
l make picture april 2
now snow gone
we are o.k
mee youe bisday soon
happy birsday
dady 4.4 2005

In case it doesn't make sense to you, he's saying it snowed on my birthday and that they took the picture on April 2. My sister's birthday (her name is Mee) is coming up so he mentions that too. Did you notice he corrected his spelling of "picture" in this email? So cute!

He attached another picture. This one is just of my mom.

mom! 

My parents are too cute. I love them! *sigh* I miss them too.

saf seeking single male grup...

Parka posted this fascinating article on her xanga this past Friday. I finally finished reading it to the end, and it was worth the read!

Now, I know I don't keep up with the latest in indie music, nor do I spend $250 on a pair of (purposely demolished) jeans, but I resonated with the concept of being a Grup...very much so.

As I continued reading the description of the Grup lifestyle, including what it looks like to be Grup parents with Grup kids, I realized that is exactly what I want!

I want to meet a guy who's a Grup...someone who has passions and enjoys his life and someone who knows how to be responsible without sacrificing being young at heart.

I've never been attracted to corporate types, and I don't know why anyone would not choose to wear jeans every day if they could. And, you know, the thought just popped in my head that no wonder why I wasn't attracted to that dude I dated briefly at the end of last year. I mean, besides the fact that he seemed overly interested in me, he was just not COOL...certainly not in my definition of cool. A part of me thought that seemed a little shallow of me, but it makes even more sense now after reading the article. It's not just about style, it's about lifestyle, you know?

So, anyway, I hope to meet a Grup and eventually marry a Grup...someone who will one day be a great "alternadad" to our future kids. =P

a birthday past, frienships that last

Unfortunately I didn't have all the energy and enthusiasm for my birthday party on Saturday, but no biggie. It's still hard to believe though. I'm 32?! When did that happen??

Birthdays are usually a time to reflect about life, but this birthday, I reflected less about life and more about people in my life. I received some amazingly cool and thoughtful gifts from friends...and it's not that I was expecting gifts, because I don't, but it was more the thoughtfulness that went into it all. There were phone calls/messages and birthday cards/ecards. And I was appreciative to all those who took the time to come to my birthday party and to contribute their part. I even had ice cream cake this year! =D

So many people come in and out of your life. That has been the case for me. And sometimes that brings sadness. But there are those who stick around, maybe not always physically because often I've been the one who moves away, but they stick around in your heart and mind because their friendship means the world to you. I am fortunate in that sense.

And with the impending changes for this year, I am sure more people will come and go, just as I will come and go out of their lives. It's during these times of change that I am most grateful for the constancy and love of family and close friends, wherever they may be.

It's too bad that weddings and funerals are the only times you can gather and be with them all at once. Oh, wait...you're not really there at your own funeral, so...never mind! =P

thirty-two and a day

:-\

thirty-two

:-O
:-D
:-)