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Honeybunch
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I Can't Help Myself...
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Wednesday, June 30, 2004
i can't believe they're playing xue ke again. on channel 8.
went out with yilin yesterday. funny, why ask me to go with her to buy present for kaisiang? i'm not sharing it with her... but she doesn't think this way, so i'm pretty used to it... and then she kept looking for these books that are really not in a hurry and not my business, but i'm tired and bored and have lots of other stuff to do. got rather impatient. sian... we had dinner at cafe cartel. the food's alright, apparently, but i still find it a tad too expensive. i prefer billy bombers. and the serving is not exactly very big... but i like the free flow of bread. although... i didn't eat much of it. hehe. we were so stupid, didn't realize there was free flow of ice water as well until we spent so much time trying to swallow the dry food down and almost finishing all already. luckily i had to lettuce to help me... and tomato. had the americano sandwich.
anita's coming tmr night. ok, so i shall have to start packing the place... she was concerned if coming earlier would be imposing on us, more importantly disturbing mom. but then i think it's fine... mom doesn't need to do anything, i'll do them. and mom can have more company...
by the way i forgot to say... mom was quite pissed the other day that everybody was concerned and called to ask how she was. all except her. the next thing, that night she asked dad to bring 2 bottles of lampe berger oil and the burner for mom. uh huh, like it'll be any good for the eyes. i wonder what on earth they go to seminars for. don't they know anything about aromatherapy? if you cared, you could have just gave a call or something. sending that here, i think it's like trying to do a 'promotion' on the product. like "i told you it's good, will help to recover faster!" that kinda stuff. or like sugarpie said, it's trying to prove that it can be brought here. maybe i'm being oversensitive. but i don't approve of that thing. not at all. and the next day we asked the eye doctor. his answer was short. "not good." nuff' said.
. . .
these are the books we have already.
1. Calvin & Hobbes
2. Something Under the Bed is Drooling
3. Weirdos From Another Planet
4. The Attack of the Deranged Mutant Killer Snow Goons
5. Scientific Progress Goes 'BOINK'
6. The Days Are Just Packed
. . .
Saturday, June 26, 2004
just came back from the eye doc.
the blood has subsided a little, so mom can see a bit better on the top of the eye. but the blood is still there, obstructing the retina, so the doc can't check on it yet. two weeks' time, we'll go back and check it. hopefully there'll be nothing wrong with the retina.
we asked him why there'll be blood, and he started explaining, then asked us if mom took any medicine. aspirin, warfarin, ... should all stop before the operation. then why didn't you tell us before the op? shouldn't you have asked all of that first? check is she's taking any of those medicines before you carry out the op? i was so angry about that. and then he said mom should sleep with a higher pillow, let the blood flow downwards, hopefully it can subside quickly. you should have told us last week, why didn't you? totally pissed...
anyway i hope the blood didn't come from the retina. it shouldn't be... before the operation mom could still see with that eye, and there was no blood there. i understand that it might have been covered by the cataract, but he had checked on the retina already then right? so it shouldn't be the retina?... and furthermore, the blood has subsided more rather than increase, so it shouldn't have come from the retina right? i hope it's fine...
going to lijuan's bday later. i don't really feel like going. but then she invited us, and i'm free, i should go... furthermore, we're going to be spending so much money, why shouldn't we go... huh...
still gotta pay qifen for shumin's present. and then wanfen's bday coming too, more money and more 'socialising'.
kaisiang's bday next week. more money!!! ugh... but i rather go for his bday... at least we're part of a larger group...
till then.
. . .
Thursday, June 24, 2004
if i can ever get my hands on a cd that has this...
broadway cares : HOME
heather headley and clay aiken duet : can you feel the love tonight
here are some taken off RHT
Last night's Heather Headley benefit really illustrated vividly for me what some people mean when they suggest that Clay has immense raw talent that he may not quite know what to do with yet. At the Heather Headley show, his voice and demeanor were fairly bursting with beauty and earnestness. The way he sounded on that last harmony of CYFTLT -- it made clap my hands over my mouth, it made my heart skip -- I think I have never before been so moved by one series of notes. It was beyond words. You can hear it in the .mp3. And when you see his face...
Soon, she started talking about The Lion King. It was Clay's turn. She had this schtick going all night about constantly seeking out cute, good-looking guys to sing with, and she started with it again. But, in contrast to her other intros, she didn't mention any history with the singer, she only said that he has a really good voice. She didn't mention his name. It had the feel of an introduction of someone new and previously unseen (and, simultaneously, the feel of an introduction of someone for whom she knew some in the audience would go nuts). She started to sing the first verse of CYFTLT. She was changing it up, adding melisma, and singing it gently -- she sounded gorgeous, but I was wondering how Clay would fit in. She finished the verse, and said, softly, "Ladies and gentleman, Clay Aiken." Loud applause and screams ensued, making it hard to hear Clay. But when I finally could...wow.
I haven't ever heard his voice like this. Tender and mature, and beautifully so. Once again, he had sensed his surroundings, and adjusted his delivery. This was a song that I had fully expected to turn into a belt-fest, and the thought made me cringe, because it would have sounded amateurish in light of what had preceded it. But no, Heather and Clay sang it gently and sweetly to each other, as a song of realized love, and it was convincing. This is the first time that I have been persuaded by a Clay Aiken duet.
Clay's demeanor was noticeably tentative - he looked nervous, and, in watching Heather throughout the song and taking cues from her, he showed his respect for and awe of the moment. He sounded effortless, for the most part, but his body language made clear how much he was trying to get it right. He seemed young and green out there as a consequence, but it made his performance even more sweet, and the audience at large seemed appreciative. This wasn't a place where Clay was going to get respect for being a multiplatinum recording artist. I think that he did earn respect for his talent. His stage presence wasn't anywhere near as assured as it was during the Independent Tour (or Wango Tango), but he was, to me, utterly winning. I fell in love...again. That last harmony in CYFTLT -- it was devastatingly beautiful, he totally nailed it.
When the song was done, the screams that had intermittently sounded while they were singing gathered into a rousing cheer, for both performers. It wasn't just the fangirls who were appreciative (although we may have been loudest). It really surprised me that the duet with Clay was allowed to close the first act. It was obvious that he didn't have the experience of people like Headley and Lewis -- but the decision may have been out of deference to the guy who had sold a lot of tickets that night. Wouldn't surprise me if Clive had a hand in this -- to get Clay some experience and to give Heather some added exposure. I hope to see another collaboration between them -- perhaps they could do a duet for the Christmas album/Christmas special?
too precious!!!
. . .
sometimes...
i wonder...
people think it's the end of the world when they have problems with their relationships. is it? will i think that way in future too?
there seems to be too many things that are far more important...
i think it's so much a bigger problem and worrying thing that mom's eye can't see much yet. i think it's so much more a thing to feel depressed and worried about that it's almost a week, but she still can't make out any shapes or outlines.
when will her eye recover? when can she see clearly again? when?
how long will it take? how much longer can she tolerate this?
. . .
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Comments leave fans of Aiken with 'bad taste' in their mouths
By Matt Grisafi , Associate Editor 06/18/2004
Fans of American Idol loser erupt over suggestion that they have 'no taste.'
In last week's column, we explored the lineup for the upcoming Bethlehem Musikfest. After suggesting that Clay Aiken fans lack musical taste, I received a healthy amount of hate mail from these self-proclaimed "Claymates," many of whom requested an apology.
So, in light of last week's comments and the subsequent outpouring of mail by Aiken fans, I have this to say:
I had no idea the Aiken family was so big!
First, I'd like to get something out of the way here. My views are in no way associated with the Musikfest or the fine people of Bethlehem. So while a number of you have said you won't be spending your money there, don't take your distaste with my article out on them.
Now that that's out of the way, really, people, I am flabbergasted at the amount of support given to this guy, especially over such a silly little comment. But the thing that boggles me the most?
This guy was the American Idol loser.
He wasn't good enough to beat out the likes of Ruben Studdard on a reality TV show, yet a disturbing number of these people have suggested he's the second coming of Sinatra or -- it pains me to even see this in print -- Elvis. Using either in the same sentence as Aiken is considered blasphemous in some circles.
Aiken doesn't have anywhere close to the pipes of Ol' Blue Eyes or the looks and moves of The King. No, he is a novelty act, somewhere in between Weird Al Yankovic and Donny Osmond.
I'll admit, I'm not much of a fan of the type of music Aiken sings, but I know a good crooner when I hear one. I've seen him a few times while browsing American Idol, and believe me, he's no great crooner.
If you want to hear what a truly great singer sounds like, listen to Josh Groban or Andrea Bocelli. These are the great crooners of the times -- not some dorky Fox TV show runner-up.
American Idol is the worst thing to happen to the music industry since Milli Vanilli. They take a small talent hack, put them on stage with Ryan Seacrest (TV's biggest toolbox), advertise the hell out of them, and millions of people like these Claymates buy into it all -- hook, line and sinker.
Meanwhile, a number of talented people who can actually sing and write their own music are having trouble getting contracts while these half-assed "idols" make Rupert Murdoch rich.
Listen, he's a real nice kid -- a good role model for kids with low ambitions. I look forward to seeing him on a VH-1 "Where Are They Now?" marathon some Saturday afternoon in a few years.
©News of Delaware County 2004
===================================================================
hats off to you matt.
you have no qualms about burying your conscience and ruining your personal reputation and taste just so that you can get free publicity for your company.
you do deserve your pay and your position as associate editor, don't you?
by the way, may i just comment that it's a plan that backfired. for this article, i am never reading your news again. nope, not even if it's available free of charge on the net. have a nice day.
===================================================================
-you suggested clay's fans had no musical taste and you still dare to write a second article that is not an apology? you are offending and maligning your readers, how respectful is that?
-just bcs clay didn't win the first prize on american idol, it doesn't make him a loser. it's manners (or lack thereof) like yours that define a loser. and a sore one too.
-you call american idol show one of the worst things that happened, then where would that put ruben? if the show is bad, then how good will ruben be? obviously you're just using ruben to anger clay fans more, not to show that clay wasn't good enough as ruben. you're insulting both of them at the same time.
-you've only browsed through american idol, not watched it. and then you expect people to believe your judgement of the show? with a taste like yours, i would pity anyone who would believe what you say.
the worst thing you can say in your article is not something that insults or puts down clay.
it's being so rude to children with special needs.
you are discriminating and making fun of children with certain disabilities when you call them "kids with low ambitions".
THAT, is unpardonable.
and that is what makes you a loser.
. . .
not good...
she still can't really see... can see some light through the veins that are obstructing her sight, but she can't even make out any outlines or shapes. the op was on fri, it's been a whole five days already... why is it taking so long? i can fully understand her panic and worry...
she's not sleeping well these days... sleep full of dreams. but there's nothing i can do about that. i managed to dig out the pearl powder though. can give her some tonight before she go sleep, hopefully she can have a better sleep.
just gave her the second dose of eye-drops for the day. i hope it is good...
worried...
. . .
Saturday, June 19, 2004
worried
worried
worried
i hope her eye will recover quickly.
i hope she can see clearly with both eyes again soon.
please help her
i have no mood for nonsensical blabbing (aka blogging).
. . .
Friday, June 18, 2004
i'm rather tired...
mom had the op today. had to wake up at 6am then go to the hospital, but we were still late. i think it's because dad and i both had to go to the toilet. hey, at least we saved the time on breakfast by eating breakfast cereal. fuss-free...
the place was not bad. seems quite clean, no smell, and most of the nurses are quite pleasant and courteous. the service is not bad too. they made hot milo for mom when she wanted to drink it. the op wasn't very long, i think. but then she went in for quite long. we waited outside for so long. at first i could keep myself occupied with newspaper and harry potter I. but later on when it felt like almost time for her to come out, i couldn't sit still anymore. kept pacing up and down the corridor waiting for mom to come out.
on the whole it was smooth, except mom vomitted once. i think it's because she starved the entire night and morning, so here stomach didn't feel good. she kept sleeping too, i guess it's because of the anaesthetia.
well, she's fine now at least... i think. she looks good, and she seems cheerful. i hope everything will be just fine and safe.
meanwhile, i am so tired... i need sleep...
i still have tuition tmr. so lazy to go...
. . .
Thursday, June 17, 2004
i must be really free. otherwise where am i going to find the motivation to blog everyday even though nobody's going to see it? do you suppose that i'm really that eager to keep a record of everything going on in my uninteresting life?
and by the way, i like to keep it uninteresting. thank you.
went with mom to the eye centre yesterday.
she's going to go for op tmr. fix the cataract. but mom doesn't have a lot of confidence. she is rather worried. about everything. i can understand how she feels. she must be nervous and anxious and panicky and worried and paranoid...
i must pray with her tonight.
hopefully everything will turn out just fine.
. . .
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
it's a miracle i survived through yesterday night.
cramp yesterday, and i nearly died. it was so painful... i went to sleep feeling fine, but woke up in the middle of the night in pain. i just couldn't get to sleep after that. it was so so awful. there wasn't a single position i could stay in without writhing in pain. i think i got a faint idea how the cruciatus curse feels like man... it was like a nightmare in which i was still partly awake. could feel the pain (very real you know) but i felt like i was losing my mind. weird unrelated things keep popping up in my head. the thought "it's painful from 2 to 7" kept fdrifting across my mind, but i had no idea just what it was supposed to mean. it hurt from my eyes down to my feet. my eyes were shut very hard in pain, so once in a while when i remember to open my eyes for a while, i can feel that it's hurting too. not to mention that my feet were sore and numb from the close proximity to the source of pain. even the soles of my feet were sensitive...
gosh, how did i live to see the morning...
. . .
Monday, June 14, 2004
just came back from huiyi's chalet this morning.
darn sleepy...
ok, for record purposes, i must write this down. getting to downtown east: take bus 17. until the last stop before pasir ris interchange, that's the stop. but that stop is at the back door of the bungalow type chalet. without the alphabets type labelling for the chalets. bus 17 will then take about half an hour from the block 109 stop.
fish was supposed to meet me at 4pm, but she was late... missed the 4:03pm bus, then had to wait another 15 minutes for the next one. ended up we were late... sian. 15 minutes late some more. but who cares... everybody else is late right? right. only siew choo was early. same situation actually. she's always early, but everytime she has to meet huiyi first, she'll end up late. on their own, nobody is too late though.
the chalet room was huge. fully aircon-ed, with a weird smell inside. two bathrooms. anyway the one in 'our' room was a bit faulty. the flush pedal is broken, so it's practically impossible to flush. i need to open up the cistern and pull the tab up to flush the toilet... i suspect, with the exception of zihui, no one else knows how to flush the toilet and nobody else actually flushes it either. gee, thank goodness my period wasn't here then. otherwise, how am i going to flush it away? i think i would have messed everything up with my panic first. tsk tsk
i'm tired, do't feel like blogging anymore. no big deal anyway... nite
. . .
Saturday, June 12, 2004
here's another one... i've made some grammatical and spelling corrections...
God Save The Hardcore HP Fans...
by anti_walser_club (movies profile) Jun 4, 2004
267 of 345 people found this review helpful
I am a true hardcore Harry Potter fan. I love the books. I read them often, and this movie completley slaughtered one of the most treasured books of all time.
I will admit that by seeing the trailer I didn't really expect much. I mean 'Something wicked this way comes?' Please... Thats not even gramatically correct, let alone an excusable catch phrase.
I have a list of big time annoyances, starting with;
1) This is Oliver Wood's last year as quidditch captain. And umm... where was he? Thats right, HE WASN'T THERE. And Katie and Alicia? Is this a whole new team?
2) The whole 10 seconds of quidditch was Alfonso's 'build up' for the Dementors. And Harry falling from the clouds to the ground? Give me a break...
3) Cho Chang... I'm sorry but was she even included? Did we even get the hint that Harry liked her? NOPE
4) The CLOCK TOWER? Where the hell did the clock tower come from? ZELDA?
5) A whole 5 minutes was spent watching Harry ride the stupid Hippogriff!! 30 seconds could have been spent on that and te rest could have gone to the plot!
6) Hogwarts seems to have....relocated. Is Hogwarts now on an Island? Where the freak is Hagrids Hut? On the bottom of a hill? The Whomping Willow was so stupid. Everything is completly different. And in a horrible way.
7) The Hogwarts CHOIR??? WTF??? They could have just used them to sing the Hogwarts anthem!! Double Double Toil and Trouble? That friggin phrase was used in stupid witchcraft movies of the 90's.
8) Now the main characters seem to be wearing muggle clothes. It annoys me.
9) I am a hardcore classical music fan. And I LOVE the original HP theme that was used in the first second of the movie and the credits. And why the hell was Lupin listening to Big Band Jazz of the 30's. It makes me want to vomit blood.
10) Snape says "What is the diff. between an Animagus and a werewolf" or something along those lines. Where does McGonagall tell them what an animagus is? WHERE IS MCGONAGALL AT ALL??
11) There is no internal plot and half of the movie is spent on the end. In fact half of the movie IS the end.
12) The knight bus was gay. I swear, The jamaican head was just used for cheap gags.
13) Where in the book does it even HINT that Hermione has a sudden thing for Ron? I mean the way she grabs his hand and crys on his shoulder. UGH
14) So much good stuff was taken out of the book. I hate Alfonso Cuaron with a new passion now.
15) Ron now has absolutly no more purpose in the book rather then to get cheap laughs because he can act (really well by the way)
16) Where exactly does it specify who Wormtail, Padfoot, Prongs, and Moony are? Had you not read the books, you would be like "huh?"
17) Hermione says "Any minute now, they will perform the kiss..." Again, had you not read the books, you would think "WTF????"
18) Lupin as a werewolf looks like an oversized bald dog.
19) Since when can you calm down the Whomping Willow WITH A SIMPLE SPELL? Any Hogwarts student would be able to shut it up with the 'immobulus' charm.
20) Dumbledore looked like a bumbling fool. No longer does he look kind, caring, and God forbid MAGICAL.
21) Draco..... Ok buddy listen up. Your hair IS SUPPOSED TO BE GELLED BACK. And hes a wimp now!! He almost cryed when Hermione had her wand to him. And draco does Origami now? COME on.
22) One of Draco's buddies (I think its Goyle) Seems to be on the Atkins diet. Because he is now long, gangly, and SKINNY. He's supposed to be THICK and STUPID, and have that blank look on his face.
23) If you look at the size of the first three books, the 3rd book is of much greater size then the first two, yet it is somehow a MUCH shorter movie.
24) The Leaky Cauldron looks like Knockturn Alley.
25) Harry is supposed to OVERHEAR the news about Sirius coming to kill Harry. But NOOOO Arthur Weasley PURPOSEFULLY pulls him aside to tell him the news.
I really do think Alfonso Cuaron tried to put his own 'spin' on the world of Harry Potter but messed up terribly in the process. This movie puts me in serious doubt for the ones to follow...
I seriously think JK Rowling should sue Alfonso AND Warner Bros. for completly massacring her belovled book. I think it was a waste of time AND money.
~A worried fan.
. . .
here's a good review i read... takes the words out of my mouth...
Yay Harry, BOO movie!
by jennabean1221 (movies profile) Jun 4, 2004
605 of 858 people found this review helpful
We'll go with the positives first.
Excellent acting performances were given by the three leads (not to mention that Harry and Ron are so HOTT). As they have become older, it makes the progression of the stories seem more realistic as they grow with their characters. It would be silly and tragic to replace our favorite HP characters. Fred and George were so cool since they got more screen time and longer hair, but we were saddened by the absence of equally hot Oliver Wood and the quidditch cup. Professor Trelawny was good even though no one in the movie bothered to point out who she actually was. The new Dumbledore was a big disapointment, he didn't really seem to capture the kindness and all-knowing qualities of J.K. Rowling's or Richard Harris's Dumbledore. Dudley could've been fatter and whatever happened to him having blond hair? Draco was good and fits better into the character everytime. But we were a bit confused by his friends, one of his croonies was replaced half way through the movie by some skinny guy who didn't seem to fit and was also nameless. Lupin and Sirius were good but not outstanding and could have been made more likeable. Hagrid was large and loveable as always, no complaints there. Who was the little guy with the short dark hair at the staff table? If it was Flitwick he must have discovered an anti-aging spell. Peter Pettigrew was very rat-like and just kind of gross. Crookshanks' squashed face was true to the book and we approve.
The knight bus part lasted a little too long and what was with the Jamaican head giving directions to the driver? That was just creepy and weird. Stan just seemed out of place and not much like the character in the book. It seemed like this part was lenthened just to add some cheap laughs. How come no one else crashed into the front of the bus except for Harry? The Leaky Cauldron's Tom must have had a wand backfire on him because he was different AND hunchbacked?! He had a bigger part than McGonagall and seemed mental and like the guy from the Munsters. The Leaky Cauldron as a whole was dark and unwelcoming, it seemed like we were in Knockturn Ally. What happened to Fudge's lime green bowler? This movie needs some COLOR. He seemed more with it, like he didn't need Dumbledore's advice. It was kind of odd that Mr. Weasley just casually pulled Harry aside to tell him that Sirius was on the loose and looking to kill Harry. Harry wasn't even supposed to know about that until he accidentally overheard. They way he pulled Harry around the room was too staged to show 'magic things' in the background. There should have been more hippogriffs and when Harry flew on Buckbeak we were reminded of Leo in Titanic. The dementors were scary and done well. The werewolf didn't look like a werewolf and was bald all over. We thought Hermione was the smart one and yet she tried to approach it. The whomping willow was supposed to have a knot to freeze it otherwise anyone could use the spell to calm it down. And what was with the birds flying into it and exploding...twice? That was dumb and unneccesary. The whole ending that ties the book together and makes it good was not well represented in the movie. The shrieking shack scene was majorly lacking in explanation, there were so many holes. If you weren't a Harry Potter fan you would have been confused. Harry wants to kill Sirius and easily accepts the explanation that he and Lupin give and then wants to go live with him in the country where you can see the sky all in less than 5 minutes. The entire plot just seemed choppy and lacking in flow. Hermione was very touchy feely and was provocatively caressing Ron when she was scared. Dan could've produced some tears under that cloak to make that scene more realistic. The makers of the Marauder's Map could've been identified in about 30 additional seconds, perhaps you could take out the kids with the singing frogs and add the Map part in along with the whole animagus thing which was NOT explained at all. The fact about how Peter betrayed the Potters was not explained either. It seemed like all the important parts were just skimmed over and not much detail was given. The fat lady was always dressed in a pink before but was wearing a toga? And making Sir Cadogan into a ghost was just pointless, he could've added some comic relief instead of stupid birds flying into the tree. Quidditch was just missing entirely except for about a 5 second scene. It also was not explained why Sirius left with Buckbeak and why he couldn't be free. Some of the comical parts were nice, Ron talking to the spiders in his sleep and the boys eating candy in the dorms, but there are plenty of funny parts that are actually in the book that would have been nice to have in the movie (like Trelawny's crazy predictions). A big deal wasn't made over Scabbers which would've made more sense especially at the end. The time travel was done well and gets our seal of approval. Hogwarts looked fantastic except for the mysterious relocation of Hagrid's hut on the edge of a cliff.
All in all, the movie was disapointing, too many dumb parts were added in that could've been exchanged for classic moments from book that would've been preferred. Important details that make the 3rd book so great were barely touched upon in the movie. So, Harry Potter fans beware for holes in the plot and to just be disapointed in general. We are ready for a new director, we miss Chris Columbus already. Hopefully the 4th movie will be an impovement on this one (even though it wouldn't take much) otherwise the thought of the 7th movie is frightening. I'm surprised J.K. Rowling let this movie get out of the studio.
. . .
had tuition just now. it was fine. he didn't pay attention for a while, but the rest of the time was quite ok. and he wasn't in a bad mood, so we did manage to cover all 3 subjects. he di his homework for last week too. that's a good boy... haha
stupid david. he drove me totally mad yesterday... that conversation, i'm glad i've got a record of it. how dare he. you guys don't have the courtesy to return me what you borrowed after finishing with it, and actually still have the cheek to accuse me of not asking for it earlier? where are your manners? are this the values you were brought up with?
and for heaven's sake, that's your brother who lives under the same roof as yourself, whom you see everyday. why can't you ask him face to face? why do i have to ask him over the internet across the sea? you can't even give me the right msn name, and had the guts to question me so rudely: what's so hard about deleting? hello?! what's so hard about YOU asking YOUR brother? **** ***! i can treat you with respect and control what i say, refraining from profanities and all. but if you can't show any respect nor sign of intelligence, i'm not about to tolerate any of your nonsense. and how dare you flare up at me when YOU lost my stuff. shouting at me over the conversation, that you don't have it at home. well the last i've heard of it, you borrowed it. i don't have it with me. if there's any place that we should start searching for it, it's your place, not mine. and shameless how you try to push the blame on any innocent soul. upang and jovin don't know how to watch those stuff. at that time they have yet to even understand english i believe. not to mention chinese or japanese. how dare you.... what a jerk...
i nearly blew my top yesterday. totally lost control when i was yelling at home. and grandma didn't help things by keep interrupting me and chiding me for 'scolding' people. if you knew what your grandson did your reaction will be loads bigger than mine. but i think i really lost my patience with her anyway... refuse to pack her own stuff, walk around the house fiddling with everything else. use that disgusting rag (used to wipe away dirt and dust on really dirty stuff) to wipe our dining table. and then use the dining table cloth (which is only for the dining table and utensils, as well as pots and pans) to wipe away the dust and dirt on the television and our dvd player. not everything can be wiped with water, can't you just sit down and not mess with them? i'm annoyed.
but that's all...
and this morning on my way to tuition, these kids were selling flags at the interchange. the moment my bus stopped for us to alight, these kids swarmed to the doors and attempt to stop people getting off to donate money. no. way. you're not allowed to block people and not allow them to pass unless they pay. that's totally out of question. man, i scolded them while i was making my way through. irrtating brainless shameless ill-bred kids.
i'm getting so easily annoyed these days. must be pms or i should change my diet or something...
. . .
Friday, June 11, 2004
David says:
helooo
David says:
have you watched troy?
bubble says:
nope
bubble says:
but i've watched harry potter 3
David says:
it's good movie.. think, u should watch it..
David says:
u like harry potter?
bubble says:
i think i shall wait for the dvd then, hehe
bubble says:
i like the harry potter book, not the movie.
David says:
hey, nanti kalo kita kita udh di sg.. dan dapet 1 malem bebas from our parents..
David says:
gimana kalo kita di ajak tour sama kalian?
bubble says:
kalian?
bubble says:
who?
David says:
I mean cici wengi n ci yang2x..
David says:
if you girls are not busy anyway..
David says:
hehaehaeae...
bubble says:
go where? what tour?
bubble says:
cici yang yang is working
David says:
I mean tour singapore city..
David says:
haehaehae...
bubble says:
oh... we'll see then
David says:
yup2x,...
bubble says:
not a lot to see in singapore... but you can walk around
David says:
yeap..
bubble says:
help me do something...
bubble says:
i need to get back my dvds... my dad lent them to kent last time. quite long already... i wanna watch them! help me find...
bubble says:
japanese cartoon dvds. a few of the dvds, one movie per dvd... help me find... i haven't finished watching them yet
David says:
???
bubble says:
huh?
David says:
I know, ur dad have talked to me about those dvd..
bubble says:
oh he did... i thought he forgot... so i ask instead, haha
David says:
but I really dunno where those dvd goes, we have try to find everywhere...
bubble says:
hah... i haven't even finished watching them yet... only watched one...
David says:
is not that I don't have responsibility..
bubble says:
nobody said that. who said that?
David says:
waahh.. when did you borrowed it to kent?
David says:
not to me right?
bubble says:
long long time already. man, at least a year plus...
David says:
wow..
David says:
we can't remember then... where the dvd goes...???
bubble says:
i've been asking for quite some time too...
David says:
it's been a year??? How can we remember?
bubble says:
hey i haven't got it back even after a year!
bubble says:
help me find... just try looking around again...
David says:
r u sure u borrow it to kent? not to upang or jovin?
David says:
what's the name of the dvd?????
bubble says:
hello, i am fully aware of each of your names
bubble says:
i only remember the one i watched. Kiki's Delivery
David says:
what kind of cartoons is that???
David says:
can we still find it here at mangga dua????
bubble says:
japanese cartoon
David says:
well, if it's been 1 year.. we can't find anymore.. our house is big, ...... n is a mess
David says:
last time me n kent have try to find it, but you remind us one year after you borrow it to kent?
David says:
how would I know dvdnya kaya apa?
bubble says:
i would expect it to be returned AFTER you guys finished watching it. it's not my responsibility to chase after you all you know...
David says:
well,.. you didn't said that to me..
bubble says:
it's japanese cartoon series by miyazaki
David says:
soo.. I don't know about it ????
David says:
n kent even didn't tell me 'last year' that he borrows 'dvd' from u..
bubble says:
you weren't the one who borrowed it, it was kent... but since i have no way of contacting him from here, i can only ask you, his older brother, to help me! haha
David says:
ok..
David says:
I get ur point..
bubble says:
Laputa: The Castle in the Sky
My Neighbor Totoro
Kiki's Delivery Service
David says:
have you check from ur house?
bubble says:
just a few of the titles among those...
bubble says:
HELLO
bubble says:
if i had it at home i would have finished watching it...
bubble says:
i was bored to death when i run out of dvds to watch...
bubble says:
WHICH is why i want to watch it even more now... hehe
David says:
well, you can asked him when we're in singapore later.. ok... ?
David says:
n tell him also, that I didn't borrow it.. because, he keep it on saying to me, that I also borrow the dvd..
bubble says:
not you, it was kent.
bubble says:
that was what i remember
David says:
I know, well.. later in singapore, u remind him then..
bubble says:
if i wait until then to ask him, by the time he return to jkt... IF he still remembers...
bubble says:
isn't it much better to ask him now...
David says:
n it would be helpful too, if cici wengi tell him kent yg borrow, not koko david yg borrow..
bubble says:
anyway, the cartoons are by Hayao Miyazaki.
David says:
is it original or bajakan?
bubble says:
they LOOK original in any case... my uncle gave them to me
bubble says:
when i brought it back, i placed them all in a cd case.
David says:
well.. msn him ajah, ...
bubble says:
my dad should have passed to kent in the same cd case
David says:
ok.. I'm Going soon, my friend is picking me up...
bubble says:
i can't speak properly in bahasa!
David says:
it's ok, he's english is good!
bubble says:
how's he going to understand what i'm saying...
bubble says:
i don't have his msn
bubble says:
why can't you help me.. he's LIVING with you... it's much easier than for me to explain the whole thing here
bubble says:
thanks
David says:
HELLO.. We also have tried to find it everywhere...
bubble says:
yah... so i'm just asking you to try find again...
David says:
but THERE's not SUCH thinG as Japanesse dvd in our house.. ???
bubble says:
not mine either.
bubble says:
but we lent to you guys.
David says:
ok, I'll ask him to find it againn...
bubble says:
thank you
David says:
u can msn him....
David says:
try to add him: kent_anwar@hotmail.com / kentanwar@hotmail.com
David says:
either one of them.. I don't remember...
bubble says:
he's got two?
David says:
I can't remember which one it's his msn..
bubble says:
gosh... what if i add the wrong one...
bubble says:
lemme know when it's confirmed...
David says:
just delete it then????
David says:
what's so hard about delete??
bubble says:
i don' really like the idea of talking to the wrong person
bubble says:
when nyou can just give me the RIGHT one
bubble says:
that's your brother
David says:
ok...
bubble says:
i don't see what's so difficult for you to talk to him at home
bubble says:
and make me msn him from singapore
David says:
find then.. I'm GoinG off now,.... my friend has arrived at my home..
bubble says:
thank you
bubble says:
bye bye
. . .
Talk your way through a stellar interview
By Elizabeth McKinley
If at first you don't succeed, try, try again. Sure it's cliché, but it's also true - especially when you're interviewing for a job.
Interviewing doesn't have to be nerve-wracking; with a little practice and preparation you can sail through with confidence.
Most employers use the interview to identify the best candidate for the job. But they're also trying to determine whether you fit their company. You, too, should be gauging whether the company is a match for you.
Preparation is key
Give yourself several days before the interview to think about what you're going to say and to make sure you're prepared.
Research the company and develop intelligent questions about the organization. Check out the company's Web site for press releases and other announcements, or search the Internet for industry news (try google.com or yahoo.com).
"You've got to show me you know about the company and the industry, as well as our clients," says Sitrick And Company's Dana Coleman, who has interviewed more than 20 people for jobs. "You need to be able to speak articulately about it."
Make a clear outline of your ideal work environment, says Leslie Bonagura, managing consultant with Drake Beam Morin, a professional and corporate development company. Know what management style you prefer and which job duties you enjoy most, she says. Use this outline to help determine whether the job is right for you.
Identify key examples of when you overcame obstacles at work to succeed. "I'm looking for concrete examples. I want to know specific details of how they fixed the problem or how they dealt with the problem," says Laura Cavender, a policy analyst at the American Red Cross National Headquarters in Washington, D.C., who has interviewed dozens of candidates. "I'm looking for the interviewee's interpersonal skills. He or she may not have solved the problem, but it's important to know how he or she interacts with others."
Practice your answers in front of a mirror or with a friend. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you'll be during the interview.
Appearance matters
You never get a second chance to make a first impression, and employers will judge you on your professionalism and how you present yourself.
"Your appearance is very important," Bonagura says. "It gives you the confidence to know that you look good and feel good, and that will help during the interview."
Begin a checklist a few days before your interview. Do you need to take your suit to the dry cleaner? Choose your best suit, appropriate for the season. Go with minimal jewelry, accessories and perfume or cologne.
Whatever you wear, make sure you're comfortable. You don't want to be distracted by a wayward bra strap or a sports coat a size too small.
During the interview
Every interviewer is unique: Employers will ask different questions and approach the interview from different angles. Be prepared for the unexpected.
But you can expect to talk about your skills, knowledge and experience, and how your talents fit into the organization.
When you arrive for the interview, you'll probably be a little nervous. That's natural. Take a deep breath and relax. Remember, you're on equal footing with the interviewer, Bonagura says. After all, she adds, you're trying to determine whether you'd be happy at that company.
Approach the interview as a conversation. Your resume can guide you - expand on key points, emphasizing how your skills will complement the organization. Ask about the employer's expectations, and describe how your skills will serve and exceed what they expect.
Most interviewers will ask why you are looking for a new job. Be ready to answer in a positive light. Are you looking as a result of new management, or are you exploring other opportunities for your career growth?
"I want to hear why the person is looking," Coleman says. "In general, I know it's because you want new responsibility, more money or were unhappy. How you talk about it is important."
Tell the truth about your experience and position with confidence. Be mindful of your body language and how fast you're talking; make sure the interviewer can understand you.
When you need to think about a question, take time to fully understand it. You might take a deep breath, repeat the question "If I understand what you're asking, you want..." Or ask for clarification. It's important to maintain the flow of the conversation, so try to avoid periods of awkward silence.
Maintain your professionalism. Some interviewers might try to make you comfortable and relaxed, but it's important to remain formal. You're there to discuss your professional skills, not your social schedule. Stick to what you can bring to the company.
Illegal questions
Interviewers are not supposed to ask questions that could discriminate against you. This includes questions about your lifestyle, children, age or race.
If you're asked a question that makes you uncomfortable, remain composed.
For example, you are asked whether you have children. Don't appear shocked. Instead you can answer: "I've never been asked that before. Is that a question you normally ask?" In the process, you will turn the question around.
You don't have to volunteer personal information. But how you handle inappropriate questions is crucial. Refocus the interview to your skills and strengths.
Follow up
After your interview, take a few minutes to write a thank-you letter. Use plain, conservative stationery and write a few lines in blue or black ink to thank the interviewer for his or her time.
For example: "Thank you for meeting with me. I enjoyed talking with you about the position." Make sure to reiterate how your skills would benefit the organization. Reinforce employers how you would exceed their expectations.
Mail the letter within 24 hours.
You'll probably want to follow up on your interview. Use what you learned about the interviewer to decide when. Though you want to remain on the company's radar screen, avoid seeming pesky.
One to two well-phrased phone calls are generally appropriate. Wait a week before calling, and be prepared with a reason to talk. "I wanted to check in to see whether there is any more information I can get you," or "I enjoyed talking with you and I wanted to see where your company is in the process of filling the position."
Being professional will keep you in touch with the interviewer, which can help build your network as well. If you've impressed the interviewer but aren't right for that particular job, he or she might keep you in mind for another position.
Once you've finished the interview, take a few minutes to review your performance and look for ways to improve next time. After all, practice makes perfect.
. . .
sian.
i hardly ever owe people money, and now there are people pressing me for money. it's all sugarpie's fault. irritating.
that stupid isaac also. disappear just like that. still owe people money one leh. dammit.
yesterday spent the day settling huiyi's present. i am so irritated with the rest of them. i'm going to tell them after this year pls don't make me do the presents buying again. i'm so sick and tired of it. can't the rest do something about it too? everytime wait for me to do it. the responsibilty isn't mine. and they show no concern about it. only wanyu will come and ask me about presents, what to get, and put in some effort. huiboon will ask if i need help with the jigsaw. siew choo tried to make time for it too. cindy only asked about the present like it's bcs we're turning up at huiyi's bday celebration so need to bring something, then after she said she can't make it at the last minute on that day, totally disappeared. zihui and kaili said nothing about it.
what is it with presents and birthdays?
why is it that girls are so fond of surprises? why do they like to be given presents and surprises on their birthdays, but no effort to do something for their friends' birthdays? why do they WANT people to put in effort and sincerity for their presents, but never do so for others? and WHY do all girls seem to forget their closest friends and family the moment they have a boyfriend? men don't need full time attention do they? they don't even seem to like it.
i don't like the way women do things, and i don't comprehend the way women think. but i'm afraid that actually i might be guilty of the same things too. why am i like this!?!??! so annoying... duh
kaili's birthday, i'm not gonna do that much. she's never taken the initiative to put in some effort for present buying among the rest of us. it's always just chipping in and include name. i'll do just that. some of them put a lot of effort into presents, of course i'll put in more effort for their presents. i think it's just fair. wanyu can take care of the present, she'll be in best position to do that. zihui's present, i'll make sure i'll do good because they chose a sucky present for her last year. i'll make sure it's good enough this year. and wanyu's present, i'll wrap things up on a brighter note. and then i'm washing my hands off this rubbish. if they don't like to buy presents, then let's all not buy presents for one another. it'll be very fair won't it be? save on the money too. isn't that a great idea.
i'm really a libra
. . .
Thursday, June 10, 2004
What Are the Signs Indicating about CD Sales for AI3 Winner?
by James Shepherd (2004/06/09)
The winners and contestants on the Idol television programs receive their primary, if not their sole initial marketing, through the medium of TV. Traditionally, the title winner and sometimes the first runner-up, release their first CD within weeks of the finale program which is usually viewed by a huge television audience. The first product for sale is a CD single and its sales is usually a guide as to how popular the winner really is and it's a relatively good gauge how well their CD album will do later on.
Released singles as an item for purchase by the public does not happen too frequently these days, but the Idol franchises rely upon it very heavily, initially. Fantasia's first single is currently scheduled for release on June 22nd. We will probably know the full story on its first week of sales the following Wednesday - June 30th. The first week of sales for a CD single of this nature is critical, but what are the current signs for its success? I have been looking at them, and they are not good.
First Sign - Nature of CD Single
Traditionally, a single CD contains two songs. Fantasia's single, and Diana's as well, will contain three songs - or, at least, this is what has been announced. To be included in Fantasia's single are the following cuts: I Believe (an original, co-written by Tamyra Gray), Summertime (one of Fantasia's impressive numbers from the competition), and Chain of Fools (Fantasia's cut from the AI3 collections album). With three songs, this single is one-quarter of a full album. Why is the product being sweetened so much by throwing in Summertime? Is this a sign that 19 Management is looking at the signs too?
Why is Diana's single coming out so soon as well? Her first single is scheduled to be released one week after Fantasia's. Does Simon Fuller want to repeat the buying competition that happened last year between the fan bases of Ruben and Clay? Yes, this creates a great environment for the selling of CDs, but I doubt there is much profit to be made in single sales in this day and age no matter what are the numbers sold; it's the CD albums that really make the money. However, setting Diana and Fantasia against one another in single sales could potentially create a buying flurry by the two fan bases. It's all really just a game of numbers and not profit with singles. Making the singles attractive for purchase and raising sales numbers through manipulated competition seem foremost in the mind of Mr. Fuller.
Second Sign - Internet Presence Fans
To me, this is a very significant sign. To keep it short, neither the fan bases of Fantasia or Diana have a very strong presence on the Internet. If you poke around on the 'Net, you will see few websites made or in the making for these two women. They each have a few discussion boards created by their own fans, but there is low membership and little activity on these boards. Of course, these terms "low" and "little" are relative, but if you poked around the Internet this time last year, you would have seen scores of websites and discussion boards devoted to Clay Aiken. Ruben did not have as many, but he most certainly had more than the combined sites and boards that Fantasia and Diana have at the present.
You may think that this is an insignificant sign, I don't because the Internet is a place where a person's obsession with a particular Idol can be fairly easily manifested. It does not take a lot of skill, expertise or money to create a simple website or discussion board. Where are the fans of these two girls on the Internet? This is not a good sign at all and what this lack of presence may indicate is that Fantasia and Diana have very few hard and loyal fans.
Third Sign - Voting in the Competition Itself
Both Fantasia and Diana stood on the chopping block for elimination from the competition several times. What this shows is that neither really had, throughout the entire Top 12 competition, a large enough fan base to consistently vote them through. This is not meant to criticize their talent, but near the end of the competition, most of the other competitors that could have given a far better challenge to their final placement were eliminated much too early. Of course, this does not say much about these "other" competitors since they were eliminated, but this brings out one of the major failings of this AI3 competition overall - it just was not that good in the sense that no one really stood out from the beginning as the "one to beat."
Please do not get me wrong. I think that Fantasia Barrino is an exceptional performer. I would not go as far as did Simon Cowell when he said that Fantasia stands above all of the Idol competitors from all over the world - particularly since I have not witnessed most of the competitions, and I doubt that Simon has either. Come to think about it, how could Cowell make such an wide-sweeping statement... but that's beside the point. The fact is, no matter how wonderful Fantasia Barrino really is, the voting public almost eliminated her a couple of time in the competition, and now they are expected to buy her first CD single by the cartload? I don't think so.
Predictions on Sales of Their Single CDs
This is where it gets dicey, and I have had very little luck in predicting the final outcomes for the voting results throughout the AI3 competition. Therefore, the balance of this article is something you should perhaps skip over since if I can not predict the right competitors to pass through the competition, it is doubtful I can predict the correct number of sales for the single CDs coming out in the next few weeks. Regardless, I will keep these predictions very general, and they are based upon the signs as listed above.
My first prediction is that the first week sales for Fantasia's debut single CD will be no more than 200,000 units. My second prediction is that Diana's first week sales or her CD will not exceed 250,000 units. Of course, what this would mean is a further prediction that Diana will best Fantasia in first week sales figures, but not by much - basically, I sense that Diana's fans are a bit more motivated - when you are number 2, there is something to prove.
There is a final prediction, that is slightly off topic, but it has to do with Clay Aiken's current single CD - "Solitaire/The Way." I predict that there will be a small spike in sales of this single in the same week that Fantasia's single is released. It should not interfere with or overtake Fantasia's CD in sales. What this spike will represent is the fan base of Clay saying, in its own way, "Idol found, game over."
And that's about all I have for predictions.
. . .
Wednesday, June 09, 2004
it's been raining the whole day...
but i still went down. cos got serious stuff to do. hehe...
i've sent the registered mail to uncle wang already. and i bought 8days, bought the facaiil scrub at the body shop, and bought some stuff from shop n save. not bad not bad....
actually, it might be better to go downstairs in a light rain than in the sun you know... it was quite cool, the air was fresh, not a lot of people... i quite liked it. with the exception of the water splashing off the ground onto my legs and making my feet wet as well. .. .. ... .. ...
didn't get the jigsaw today. hello, you can't expect me to carry that frame home in the rain right... hope the weather will be fine tmr. i'm getting it tmr, and starting on the jigsaw. i hope.
. . .
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
Beavers On Idol
Did Clive Davis Really Know What He Had in Clay Aiken?
by Linda Lanshe (2004/05/30)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One year ago, American Idol 2 came to an end. The winner was Ruben Studdard and the runner-up was Clay Aiken. Most people couldn’t believe the outcome of America ’s #1 talent show, most people thought Clay would win. I dare say, even RCA thought Clay would win. But it was what it was.
The weeks following the end of the show were a whirlwind of promotional appearances on the morning talk shows, Larry King, and anticipation of the release of the first single from each man. When the singles were released, both did extremely well, but a strange thing happened. The runner-up started to out-sell the winner. Approximately 393,000 singles of This Is the Night moved that week, unprecedented in the world of singles.
What was it with this Clay Aiken dude? What did people see in him besides that marvelous voice? What else was going on? Everyone knew he could sing the heck out of ballads and the sales of the single proved it. But could he do more? No one really knew at that point.
Clay was signed to RCA records by the legendary Clive Davis. Clive Davis is, first and foremost, a businessman, but he has an ear for the music business that is astonishing. He knew that Clay had this outstanding voice, but did Clive Davis really know what he had in Clay Aiken? I think that no one, not even the legendary Clive Davis, knew what they had in Clay Aiken.
Take a look at the songs on "Measure of a Man." Most of the songs are ballads or mid-tempo songs. Could Clay pull off up-tempo songs? Could he pull off rock songs? No one knew.
Fast forward to the American Idol 2 tour. Clay had two full solos on that tour, This Is the Night, and what was to be his first single release off his “Measure of a Man” CD, Invisible. From the first unveiling of that song in St. Paul , Clay rocked the house. Clay proved that he could rock out with the best of them. Problem was, his CD was already recorded by that time and most of the songs were mid-tempo songs.
Invisible got really decent air-play. It was slow-going for a while, but that song was perfect for CHR formatted radio - a catchy pop song that stayed in your head long after the song ended. With the release of “Measure of a Man” on October 13th, selling over 612,000 copies the first week, people were starting to take notice of the runner-up of a cheesy TV show.
Fast-forward once again to The Independent Tour with Kelly Clarkson. Clay opened his set with Kyrie, coming out from the back of each venue in full rock-star mode, bodyguards surrounding him as he made his way towards the stage, once again rocking the house. A funny thing happened on the way to the stage. Clay Aiken shed the image of a man who could only sing ballads. He proved that he could sing anything. He proved that he could take an audience of 10,000 people and hold them in the palm of his hand. Some of the musical choices in his set were expected. He covered most of the songs from “Measure of a Man,” but some of the other songs he chose to sing made his fans sit up and take notice. Clay got everyone up on their feet, dancing along with All About Love, a Christian Contemporary song; he sang his heart out on Fields of Gold, a song penned by Sting, and he took some vocal chances that amazed us on Prince’s ever-delectable When Doves Cry.
So, did Clive Davis know what he had in Clay Aiken when he first signed Clay to a recording contract? I don’t think ANYONE could have predicted the meteoric rise to fame that Clay achieved. I don’t think anyone could have predicted that Clay Aiken, North Carolina Special Ed teacher, would win the hearts of millions of fans as quickly as he did. I don’t think that anyone realized that Clay Aiken, superstar, could go from This Is the Night to Invisible to Kyrie to When Doves Cry to Proud of Your Boy to his first appearance on Broadway, singing a duet with Heather Headly, and so completely captivate his audiences no matter what he sings.
Clay’s fans are anticipating a Christmas album in October of this year and they are looking forward to his sophomore CD, “Son of Measure of a Man” in the spring of 2005. Does Clive Davis know what kind of songs to put on the NEXT CD? I bet he does now. Does Clive Davis know what he has in Clay Aiken? I bet he does now.
. . .
Beavers On Idol
Knee Deep in the Myth Pool
by Lisa Millraney (2004/06/05)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time for a pop culture brainteaser. Can you identify the person I’m describing?
He is distinctive in appearance: skinny, geeky, glasses, unruly hair. He grew up an average son of the middle class, but his early childhood was spent under more unusual circumstances involving his parents.
Extraordinary talent whisked him away to a new world, upsetting every plan he may have had for his life. He traveled far from home; got a new wardrobe; befriended a young man and young woman in similar situations; had regular run-ins with a sharp-tongued authority figure with his own agenda; came into unexpected wealth; and accomplished feats thought impossible.
Ultimately, our mystery male became famous, quoted (and misquoted) in the media. He attracted numerous admirers, but also drew jealous barbs, and even, according to some, the attention of evil forces bent on his downfall. While his story is unfinished, it is clear he will have a considerable impact on his world.
Who is he?
Oops. Correction. Who are they? This description applies equally well to two people currently prominent in the public eye. One is fictional, the other real.
(Final Jeopardy theme plays)
Time’s up!
You probably got the RL (real-life) answer immediately, given the website on which this essay is posted. On the other hand, you may have been surfing the net with no particular interest in the subject of this site, stumbled upon this little quiz, and instantly identified the fictional character I just described. Or you’re chortling right now, because you recognize both, whether you ever considered them in juxtaposition or not.
The RL answer? Clay Aiken.
The fictional one? Harry Potter.
Granted, I was selective about the facts I quoted, but I didn’t change any. After meeting a girl at a bookstore giggling over pictures from the new Harry Potter movie—who squealed at my Clay purse—I started thinking and was struck by the similarities. Is this coincidence, or does it say something to us?
I think there’s more to this confluence than first glance would indicate. Both Harry’s and Clay’s histories bear clear elements of the classic hero’s epic quest—Clay even uses the term "journey" frequently to describe his new life. JK Rowling crafted her books’ protagonist, the Boy Who Lived, with those ancient themes in mind, deliberately or not. We can’t help it; we all dip into that big old myth-pool regularly, as the great scholar Joseph Campbell would attest. It’s part of our human heritage, and we tell stories using it and respond strongest to stories that use it.
Real life doesn’t "craft" a story that way, of course, and yet Clay’s life inarguably follows that same ages-old path, in ways too detailed to do more than touch on here. Is that mythic quality, that stuff of a million folk tales, part of what draws people to him? I believe it’s a possibility. The prince trapped in the body of a frog, the peasant boy who alone can pull the sword from the stone, the homely reject who becomes the most glorious one of all: each finds itself, in the story of the self-professed nerd from North Carolina. Once, the Boy Who Lived would have been just as apt a name for him. Now, the Man Who Survived seems more appropriate.
Rowling’s readers vicariously travel with Harry on his quest, gasping at obstacles, groaning at missteps, and cheering victories over insurmountable odds. Drop in on any Clay message board and you see the same thing. All hang on every word on the page or every tidbit of Clack (Clay info—addictive as crack, hence Clack), breathless to find out what happens next. Still, we don’t know everything. Jo Rowling keeps her plot twists under wraps, and Clay, as open and forthright as he is, carefully (and rightly) guards his privacy. Gladys Knight called Clay a mystery, and that’s as it should be. Every hero has that touch of inscrutability.
Does this comparison give us insight into the future? Maybe. Clouds cast darker hues into the scene. Readers follow as Harry develops, his wizarding powers strengthened by every challenge. Likewise, those who proudly claim citizenship in Clay Nation watch, and generally pitch in, as Clay meets every block with grace and character and courage, growing in wisdom and savvy as he learns to navigate the often troubled waters of stardom. To reach back in the day, I pity the fool who looks at him and mistakes a gentleman for a weakling, for that fool will likely have their rump politely handed to them on a plate.
Both reach beyond themselves for support. A mother’s love, whether present or absent, plays a major role in both lives. Harry has his friends of Hogwarts School, and eventually the entire wizarding community; Clay has legions of fans willing to protect him with pit-bull like tenacity. More importantly, the foundations of both their futures stretch even beyond their mortal plane. Harry’s destiny is guided by a prophecy. Clay unwaveringly gives credit to God for his success. That’s the kind of grounding an opponent not only can’t defeat, but can’t even comprehend.
Ultimately, though, our metaphor breaks down. We may learn from Harry Potter, but he is only make-believe. What we do or don’t do regarding him, whether we keep reading or lay the book down, doesn’t matter that much in the grand scheme of things. Clay Aiken is a real person, with a real soul, a real heart, and a clearly stated determination to use what he has been given to help others. What he does can make a difference in the world—and what we may be moved by him to do can make a difference too. That’s the point. Myth may have brought us this far, but reality takes us forward.
(Now, if we could just get some of those wizardly moving photos… sigh. Hey Clay, patent those for us, will you?)
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How to Play DVDs on Your XP Computer
Bought and installed a new DVD player but can't play DVD movies? That's because Windows XP doesn't come with built-in DVD decoder software. Some OEMs install this software on the machines they sell, however. Here's how you can tell whether your copy of XP has DVD decoder software installed:
Click Start | Run and type cmd in the Run box to bring up a command window.
At the command prompt, type dvdupgrd /detect. Press Enter.
A dialog box will appear, either telling you that no decoders are found, or telling you what DVD decoder was detected.
If you need to install a DVD decoder, you can buy a third-party product. The Microsoft Web site lists decoders that are compatible with Windows XP at:
http://www.winxpnews.com/rd/rd.cfm?id=040608HT-Play_DVDs
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Harry Potter & the Prisoner of Azkaban movie
Rating: 3.5 / 5 (for non-book readers)
2 / 5 (for book readers / fans)
2.5 / 5 (average)
watched harry potter and the prisoner of azkaban yesterday. i must say, chris columbus is a MUCH BETTER DIRECTOR than alfonso cuaron. the movie was quite duh... it didn't follow the plot too closely. it left out a lot of good interesting important details, but inserted a lot of minor stupid jokes and irrelevant things/characters. soemtimes, the words they say are exactly the same as in the book, but the things they were referring to were never shown nor mentioned. and the things they say which didn't come from the book was irrelevant and unfunny and insignificant. the atmosphere wasn't dark enough, the emphasis weren't placed on the right things. it just wasn't good enough. michael gambom as dumbledore wasn't very convincing. richard harris did so much better a job. in this book, dumbledore doesn't need to look powerful and fierce and emit an intimidating air. he's supposed to have the twinkle in his eye, appear benign and kind and sometimes quite funny. it was totally off... michael gambon would have done a job as dumbledore facing you-know-who aka voldermort.
i think this show didn't even deserve the 3.5 stars... maybe just 2.5 or 3.
by the way, the dementors in the show don't glide.
they flew.
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just came back from hk...
the trip was... well, good if i say it now, but then i found it quite annoying...
spent half the time visiting or waiting for these relatives i don't know and don't like. but we did get to shop around. bought some stuff. i bought a big UJI strawberry, a big UJI milk bottle, medium sized NEMO and a very nice Disney keychain. i think my happiest time of the trip was on the last day at Disney Store at the airport. i was grinning non-stop there, and totally high.. haha
the first dinner was at tai woo near our house. the food was really good, i must say. i wore casually, just the yellow shirt and jeans, but of course with sugarpie's sandals with a little heel. two tables, and a lot of aircon. the second dinner was at mirama in dong gong. the food was just alright, especially for a hotel standard. the shrimp was very fresh and chewy and fleshy, credits must be given. but i don't see the big deal about the other food. not very marvellous. there were about 60 people there. so crowded, so noisy, so uncomfortable. but as we were split into tables of about 12, it wasn't that bad. i wore quite casually too, but had to have make up. the powder and stuff were alright, but i really hate to put on lipstick. though by the time i started eating, the lipstick was already almost gone. haha... after that we went to the studio to take photos. well, surprisingly, it wasn't as bad as i imagined it could be. quite casual..
we went to shenzhen. i hated that time. i was in a super bad mood that i think i showed such a black face to everynody, regardless of whether it would have been appropriate. i snapped at everybody, even if he/she didn't necessarily offend me. but i was rather angry that mom was blaming dad for it. the problem was that grandma's relatives are the ones to create all this trouble. dad has been doing more than he had to, and he had been controlling his temper already. he kept to his promise to me that he won't scold us or flare up on this trip. i know mom was quite anoyed that she didn't get to shop around either. but these are relatives on your side. that's nobody's fault, and no one can help it. you can't blame daddy for that...
i managed to get lap's dvd... haha. for RMB15. it cost about HK$90 in the shop near our house. tsk tsk... the cheong fun in the shop in shen zhen was really nice though. tasted great. uncle shing wing was very funny. he's so comical, makes us laugh all the time. sometimes it's a cold joke, but we laugh still, at the coldness of it. haha... uncleh wang has got such a temper. he flares up really quickly. and when he's angry, he talks just like daddy. but when he's in a good mood, so funny too... haha...
sugarpie and i walked around on our own very often. i'm got zero sense of direction, so most of the time she was the one leading the way, the only place where i could bring her around at ease was Central. haha! i knew my way around for most of the places!!! but the restaurant / cafeteria i wanted to go to had closed down already. oh well... so we just walked into any restaurant hanging char siew that looks quite good. it did taste quite good, until i found a worm in my vege. ugh... got a new bowl (compensation) but lost half my appetite already. oh well. char siew at WELLCOME was very good too, by the way. hehe... we also went to wanchai on our own, and to taikoo jusco. we shopped around at the jusco in lok foo too. as for food, breakfast at the little shop with boloyau and macaroni was great. rather expensive, i must admit, but i absolutely love it. yeah yeah!
the day we came back.... DISNEY STORE! I LOVE IT! I BOUGHT NEMO! I BOUGHT KEYCHAIN! I'M BROKE!... i still owe sugarpie money.
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