Going home from work there are two ways I could go: PCH or 405. Both ways take about the same amount of time (and the 405 way usually takes about five minutes longer). The PCH route has lots of lights and the 405 route is, well, it's the 405. To me the 405 route doesn't "feel" as long, even though timewise it doesn't matter. I'm less stressed when I get home if I take the 405, which does matter.
Last night a friend invited me to go to a Tarot reading. It wasn't so much a professional reading as a bunch of people reading each others' cards in hopes of becoming better readers. But I did get my cards read by the "psychic" there and she gave me some interesting (and surprisingly relevant) insights into my life.
My friend has a theory regarding the Tarot that, logically, makes a lot of sense. The short version of the theory is that the cards have enough latent symbolism that when combined with intuition can create a reading that is relevant for the person whose cards are being read. This is akin to the strategy of opening the Bible (or any favorite book) to a random page, picking a verse/sentence and extrapolating something useful from it.
While I don't believe the Tarot is something magical, I do believe that some people have better intuition than others, and this intuition can help people "see" things about themselves they would otherwise not see. I think this is a better way of looking at the Tarot than to think it's something magical, evil, or spiritual.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Monday, December 18, 2006
Adventure - Grauman's Chinese Theater
This weekend I went to Hollywood to check out Grauman's Chinese Theater and the Kodak Theater.
Grauman's is really a sight to see. Get away from Hollywood Blvd (and the mimes and impersonators), and you'll see a truly fantastic piece of architecture. Of course, in the courtyard you can see the hand and shoe impressions of influential movie stars, such as Humphrey Bogart, Clark Gable, Deborah Kerr, Marilyn Monroe, Clint Eastwood, Gary Cooper, Jack Nicholson, Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren, Henry Fonda, Dick Van Dyke, Steven Spielburg, Sean Connery, John Wayne, and Cary Grant (and many others). You can place your hands and feet into the impressions.
In retrospect, seeing those cement slabs was kind of creepy. Here, some famous dead person once put their hand, and now I can put my hand where their hand once was.
The Kodak Theater was very nice. Basically, it's a (fairly average) mall surrounding a movie theater. They had a Swarovski crystal store there, with some obviously gorgeous (and expensive!) pieces. While I was looking for the restroom someone set off the fire alarm and I decided to leave before they evacuated everyone (although I'm fairly certain it was just someone playing a prank). I'd like to go to the Chinese New Year Spectacular next year, but I think that requires more money than I'm able to afford (for a decent seat, anyway). Maybe in '08.
Grauman's is really a sight to see. Get away from Hollywood Blvd (and the mimes and impersonators), and you'll see a truly fantastic piece of architecture. Of course, in the courtyard you can see the hand and shoe impressions of influential movie stars, such as Humphrey Bogart, Clark Gable, Deborah Kerr, Marilyn Monroe, Clint Eastwood, Gary Cooper, Jack Nicholson, Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren, Henry Fonda, Dick Van Dyke, Steven Spielburg, Sean Connery, John Wayne, and Cary Grant (and many others). You can place your hands and feet into the impressions.
In retrospect, seeing those cement slabs was kind of creepy. Here, some famous dead person once put their hand, and now I can put my hand where their hand once was.
The Kodak Theater was very nice. Basically, it's a (fairly average) mall surrounding a movie theater. They had a Swarovski crystal store there, with some obviously gorgeous (and expensive!) pieces. While I was looking for the restroom someone set off the fire alarm and I decided to leave before they evacuated everyone (although I'm fairly certain it was just someone playing a prank). I'd like to go to the Chinese New Year Spectacular next year, but I think that requires more money than I'm able to afford (for a decent seat, anyway). Maybe in '08.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Movie Magic
So the street in front of my workplace was used to shoot some stuff for Bruce Willis' new movie, Live Free or Die Hard. (Can this get any cheesier?)
Here's the teaser trailer. The stuff I know for certain that was filmed near work are the two truck explosions, but I know they did some shoot some stuff at night. It doesn't look like the night stuff that was in the trailer.
It's amazing how it all looks like it was shot in one place.
Cool, huh? (I'm sure the "traffic's being blocked because they're shooting a movie" will get old soon)
Here's the teaser trailer. The stuff I know for certain that was filmed near work are the two truck explosions, but I know they did some shoot some stuff at night. It doesn't look like the night stuff that was in the trailer.
It's amazing how it all looks like it was shot in one place.
Cool, huh? (I'm sure the "traffic's being blocked because they're shooting a movie" will get old soon)
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Book Review - The Good German
When I went to The Fountain last week, they showed the trailer for The Good German (which I've seen before) and I noticed that it was based on a book. I usually like to read the book before watching a movie (which may or may not ruin the movie for me), so I found the book at Barnes & Noble after I went to the movie so I could read it before the movie releases Friday.
The short summary is that, in post WWII Berlin, a reporter (Jake Geismar) tries to unravel a murder of an American GI whose body is found in the Russian zone of the city. Throw into the mix his old girlfriend (Helene "Lena" Brandt), and her rocket scientist husband, Emil. Thematically, the book discusses the ideas of media spin to sensationalize or fabricate news, as well as ethical concerns on several levels (wartime occupation, survival and ethics, who is guilty of warcrimes if everyone let the Holocaust happen, etc).
I ended up reading the book quite fast (it's around 400 pages, plus it's a little difficult to read), so I know I didn't pick up everything. My initial feeling is that Joesph Kanon (the author) builds up this great thriller, only to have this over-sensationalized denounment in the final chapters. Maybe that has something to do with his theme on media sensationalism, but I was really disappointed. By the time Geismar solves the murder, I felt, "Come On! This is getting ridiculous!". Other than that, I really enjoyed the book. While the reading is difficult, the pacing is quick.
I'm not very confidant that the movie will be as enjoyable as the book. Most of the reviews I've read have derided Lena's acts of prostitution in the movie. I haven't seen the movie yet, but from reading A Woman In Berlin (my review here) I can say that women in Berlin at that time were not engaging in prostitution because they wanted to. When you have no idea where your next meal is coming from, it's easier (and smarter) to pick a "wolf from the pack". If you're going to get raped anyway, why not just sleep with one man and get a little food from the deal than be raped by multiple men and get no food? Then again, I haven't seen the movie, and can't say how warped the story became when it was translated to film. I can say (from the previews) that they warped some main story points already. I can understand the difficulties in translating a book to the screen, but I would prefer screenwriters to omit rather than alter characters and plotlines. I've never seen a movie improve a plotline or character from a book (see Faramir in the Lord of the Rings adaptations for an example).
Artistically, I'm still interested to see how the old-school techniques they used to film the movie turned out. I also must say I can't wait to hear Cate Blanchett's German accent either. She was amazing in The Aviator, and while I have to admit I didn't like the movie, she definitely deserved her Oscar win.
The short summary is that, in post WWII Berlin, a reporter (Jake Geismar) tries to unravel a murder of an American GI whose body is found in the Russian zone of the city. Throw into the mix his old girlfriend (Helene "Lena" Brandt), and her rocket scientist husband, Emil. Thematically, the book discusses the ideas of media spin to sensationalize or fabricate news, as well as ethical concerns on several levels (wartime occupation, survival and ethics, who is guilty of warcrimes if everyone let the Holocaust happen, etc).
I ended up reading the book quite fast (it's around 400 pages, plus it's a little difficult to read), so I know I didn't pick up everything. My initial feeling is that Joesph Kanon (the author) builds up this great thriller, only to have this over-sensationalized denounment in the final chapters. Maybe that has something to do with his theme on media sensationalism, but I was really disappointed. By the time Geismar solves the murder, I felt, "Come On! This is getting ridiculous!". Other than that, I really enjoyed the book. While the reading is difficult, the pacing is quick.
I'm not very confidant that the movie will be as enjoyable as the book. Most of the reviews I've read have derided Lena's acts of prostitution in the movie. I haven't seen the movie yet, but from reading A Woman In Berlin (my review here) I can say that women in Berlin at that time were not engaging in prostitution because they wanted to. When you have no idea where your next meal is coming from, it's easier (and smarter) to pick a "wolf from the pack". If you're going to get raped anyway, why not just sleep with one man and get a little food from the deal than be raped by multiple men and get no food? Then again, I haven't seen the movie, and can't say how warped the story became when it was translated to film. I can say (from the previews) that they warped some main story points already. I can understand the difficulties in translating a book to the screen, but I would prefer screenwriters to omit rather than alter characters and plotlines. I've never seen a movie improve a plotline or character from a book (see Faramir in the Lord of the Rings adaptations for an example).
Artistically, I'm still interested to see how the old-school techniques they used to film the movie turned out. I also must say I can't wait to hear Cate Blanchett's German accent either. She was amazing in The Aviator, and while I have to admit I didn't like the movie, she definitely deserved her Oscar win.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Movie Review - The Fountain
This weekend I found myself with some spare time and nothing to do with it. So I went to see Aronofsky's The Fountain. If you'd like to see this movie, I'd recommend not going to it if you want to see something to alleviate your loneliness. This movie just amplifies whatever loneliness and isolation you bring with you.
I didn't come away from this movie with the feeling that it was a good or a bad movie. I think the movie is thought-provoking, so take that however you want.
The acting in it is superb, as are the plot, special effects, and score. You empathize with Tom (Hugh Jackman) when he loses his wife Izzy (Rachel Weisz). In fact, you empathize with Tom's character the whole movie through, as he is constantly on the "impossible" mission. From finding a tree at the top of a hidden Mayan temple to finding a cure for brain cancer to getting the Tree of Life to Xibulba before the star goes nova, you hope that life gives Tom a break for once.
The plot was very interesting, and while I can see why the three points in time are interwoven in the movie, I think a plausible case could be made for viewing the movie sequentially. I found the "past" segments felt more like watching hero characters than real people.
I recommend going to this movie in a small theater with a couple "artsy" friends. The special effects are amazing and I think an argument can be made to bring back non-computer methods of creating special effects.
I didn't come away from this movie with the feeling that it was a good or a bad movie. I think the movie is thought-provoking, so take that however you want.
The acting in it is superb, as are the plot, special effects, and score. You empathize with Tom (Hugh Jackman) when he loses his wife Izzy (Rachel Weisz). In fact, you empathize with Tom's character the whole movie through, as he is constantly on the "impossible" mission. From finding a tree at the top of a hidden Mayan temple to finding a cure for brain cancer to getting the Tree of Life to Xibulba before the star goes nova, you hope that life gives Tom a break for once.
The plot was very interesting, and while I can see why the three points in time are interwoven in the movie, I think a plausible case could be made for viewing the movie sequentially. I found the "past" segments felt more like watching hero characters than real people.
I recommend going to this movie in a small theater with a couple "artsy" friends. The special effects are amazing and I think an argument can be made to bring back non-computer methods of creating special effects.
Friday, December 08, 2006
Oaths and Religious Freedom
"Anything But Straight - A Religious Test"
Does forcing a Muslim to take is oath of office using a bible make sense to anyone?
On the one hand, it makes sense to use only one book as the standard.
On the other hand, if the bible has no meaning for the person taking the oath, what is to morally stop him/her from breaking the oath (other than the ethics involved)? Wouldn't it make more sense to use a moral/religious text that has value for the person taking the oath? Because isn't the oath, the promise a man or woman makes to God (or other diety, or belief system) an individual bond? If I was supposed to make an oath, and I had to take it on a Book of Mormon, the oath wouldn't have any value to me. I don't care if I anger the mormon god by breaking the oath, because the Book of Mormon and the mormon god don't have value to me.
Does forcing a Muslim to take is oath of office using a bible make sense to anyone?
On the one hand, it makes sense to use only one book as the standard.
On the other hand, if the bible has no meaning for the person taking the oath, what is to morally stop him/her from breaking the oath (other than the ethics involved)? Wouldn't it make more sense to use a moral/religious text that has value for the person taking the oath? Because isn't the oath, the promise a man or woman makes to God (or other diety, or belief system) an individual bond? If I was supposed to make an oath, and I had to take it on a Book of Mormon, the oath wouldn't have any value to me. I don't care if I anger the mormon god by breaking the oath, because the Book of Mormon and the mormon god don't have value to me.
The Trader Joe's Ego Boost
While I've had several relationships, and found my partners attractive, I never thought any of my boyfriends were heart-throb gorgeous. Most of them were pretty average-looking. I think how a potential partner looks matter more to men than to women. In high school, all the extremely attractive guys were either dating other gals or they weren't interested in me (or they didn't express interest in me if they were). My point is that I've never had an instance where someone I found uber-handsome also found me attractive and say something about it. I tend to think extremely good-looking guys are out of my league.
On my way home from work last night I decided to stop at a Trader Joe's near my apartment and get some salad and frozen enchiladas (which a gal at work recommended I try). It was super busy, and I picked a line that didn't seem too long. If you know me you know I'm generally friendly to people who work in stores and restaurants. Their jobs are hard enough they don't need to be hassled by customers.
I find many different men attractive, and one particular "look" that makes my heart beat faster I like to call "Californian": tall, caucasian, blond-haired, blue-eyed, with an athletic build and lightly tanned. A relaxed, happy attitude usually goes with it.
So the line I happened to pick was headed by a checker who was a perfect example of the Californian. As he was bagging groceries for the customer in line before me he mentioned it was almost time for him to get off work.
As he started to scan my basket of items I asked him the question I ask all checkers,
"Hello! How are you?"
"I'm good; did you just get off work?"
"Yeah, I'm going to go home and relax."
"That's what I'm going to do, kick back on the sofa and watch a movie."
"That sounds nice."
"Yeah, I'll probably have some wine." (I felt that, being a good salesman, he was trying to get me to buy a bottle of wine. I didn't have any wine in my basket because I have two-and-a-half bottles at home)
"Oh, I have lots of wine at home." (I obviously wasn't seeing where this was going.)
"That's good!"
There was a lull in the conversation while I paid him for my groceries and he started to bag them.
I asked him, "What movie are you going to watch?"
"I don't know. What kind of movies do you like? Comedy, horror. . . "
It was only halfway through my answer that I realized he was flirting with me. I'm really slow on the pickup. Or maybe I just had a long day.
"Uh, I watch a lot of drama, actually. But I also enjoy comedies."
"No horror?"
"No, I don't like horror films." (I really don't)
"That's what I'm there for!"
"Oh, well, in that case I'll rent Saw III! Have a good night!"
"Take it easy gorgeous!"
The fact that, for possibly the first time in my life, a man I found highly attractive not only flirted with me but also complimented my looks when we first met made me feel really good. Exceedingly shallow, but definitely an ego boost.
I suspect that this will cause me to spend more money at Trader Joe's in hopes of getting into the Californian's line. I wonder if he thought about me after work or if he's that flirty with all the ladies.
On my way home from work last night I decided to stop at a Trader Joe's near my apartment and get some salad and frozen enchiladas (which a gal at work recommended I try). It was super busy, and I picked a line that didn't seem too long. If you know me you know I'm generally friendly to people who work in stores and restaurants. Their jobs are hard enough they don't need to be hassled by customers.
I find many different men attractive, and one particular "look" that makes my heart beat faster I like to call "Californian": tall, caucasian, blond-haired, blue-eyed, with an athletic build and lightly tanned. A relaxed, happy attitude usually goes with it.
So the line I happened to pick was headed by a checker who was a perfect example of the Californian. As he was bagging groceries for the customer in line before me he mentioned it was almost time for him to get off work.
As he started to scan my basket of items I asked him the question I ask all checkers,
"Hello! How are you?"
"I'm good; did you just get off work?"
"Yeah, I'm going to go home and relax."
"That's what I'm going to do, kick back on the sofa and watch a movie."
"That sounds nice."
"Yeah, I'll probably have some wine." (I felt that, being a good salesman, he was trying to get me to buy a bottle of wine. I didn't have any wine in my basket because I have two-and-a-half bottles at home)
"Oh, I have lots of wine at home." (I obviously wasn't seeing where this was going.)
"That's good!"
There was a lull in the conversation while I paid him for my groceries and he started to bag them.
I asked him, "What movie are you going to watch?"
"I don't know. What kind of movies do you like? Comedy, horror. . . "
It was only halfway through my answer that I realized he was flirting with me. I'm really slow on the pickup. Or maybe I just had a long day.
"Uh, I watch a lot of drama, actually. But I also enjoy comedies."
"No horror?"
"No, I don't like horror films." (I really don't)
"That's what I'm there for!"
"Oh, well, in that case I'll rent Saw III! Have a good night!"
"Take it easy gorgeous!"
The fact that, for possibly the first time in my life, a man I found highly attractive not only flirted with me but also complimented my looks when we first met made me feel really good. Exceedingly shallow, but definitely an ego boost.
I suspect that this will cause me to spend more money at Trader Joe's in hopes of getting into the Californian's line. I wonder if he thought about me after work or if he's that flirty with all the ladies.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Friday, December 01, 2006
On Formalities
I'm always really amused when people call me "Miss". I'm not sure why. I think it has something to do with the fact that I'm not used to people being formal with me, and when people are formal with me I'm not sure how to react to that.
But then again, I tend to call parents of significant others "Mr." and "Mrs." so-and-so, a possibly good habit that I will credit to my father's indoctrination ability. I also used to call professors "Professor" so-and-so, until they told me otherwise. A couple professors I esteem highly I still call "Professor". A couple teachers I had in high school I call "Mr."; I don't think I could ever get used to calling them by their first names. That just seems weird to me.
The young secretary in my apartment complex learned my name the day I moved in and always calls me "Miss ______". I wish I could be that good with names.
The Marines in the recruiting station the other day called me "Miss" as well. What I find amusing about that is I know it's something they get ingrained with at basic (training, bootcamp, MCRD, etc.) and that they probably wouldn't be so formal with me if they knew me by name. Before my dad retired I was always "Gunny _____'s daughter". The memory makes me smile.
But then again, I tend to call parents of significant others "Mr." and "Mrs." so-and-so, a possibly good habit that I will credit to my father's indoctrination ability. I also used to call professors "Professor" so-and-so, until they told me otherwise. A couple professors I esteem highly I still call "Professor". A couple teachers I had in high school I call "Mr."; I don't think I could ever get used to calling them by their first names. That just seems weird to me.
The young secretary in my apartment complex learned my name the day I moved in and always calls me "Miss ______". I wish I could be that good with names.
The Marines in the recruiting station the other day called me "Miss" as well. What I find amusing about that is I know it's something they get ingrained with at basic (training, bootcamp, MCRD, etc.) and that they probably wouldn't be so formal with me if they knew me by name. Before my dad retired I was always "Gunny _____'s daughter". The memory makes me smile.
Toys For Tots
I work near a Mattel Store, and yesterday I got a coupon for mega discounts there. Turns out I had to get a Mattel Toy Store membership card to use the coupon, and the parking there yesterday was hellish, so I didn't buy any toys. I don't have any kids of my own, nor do I know any little ones well enough to buy them a present for Christmas. You might be wondering why I'd want to spend money in a toy store.
The Marine Corps' Toys For Tots Foundation has always been one of my favorite charities, even though I've never made a donation. (Yes, I'm partial to the Marines. Haven't you noticed?) So I had this great idea that I could buy a toy from the Mattel Store to donate to Toys For Tots, and do something nice to make a little one's Christmas great. Dad told me to stop by the local Marine Recruiting office and get the nearest donation drop-off point from them.
There's one on my commute, so after not buying any toys (because of the parking situation - I can try again today), I stop there anyway to find the drop-off point. As I walk up to the office a Marine walks out, gets into his truck and drives away.
I enter the office and there's six Marines sitting around B.S.ing, which amazes me because I thought at almost-5-o'clock they would either be on their way home or busy finding warm bodies to send to Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Can we help you miss?" (I'm amused at how polite they are, or rather I'm just amused when anyone is formally polite to me - I could probably write a blog on the subject)
"Is this a Toys For Tots donation drop-off point?"
"Yes it is!" One of the Marines points out a pile of toys lovingly arranged, guarded by a line of tinsel garland.
"Great! I don't have any toys to donate today, but I'll bring them back later."
Thank you ma'am, have a good evening, etc., etc. I get out of the office and walk back to my car. When I'm halfway across the parking lot one of the recruiters leaves the office and calls after me,
"Miss?" He catches up with me and says,
"Here's our card with the office cell phone number. Give us a call when you're going to stop by and we'll make sure someone is in the office waiting for you."
"Excellent! Thank you!"
Have a good evening, etc., etc. The Marine sergeant goes back into the office.
I look at the card. Maybe this sergeant does this to all his cards, but I notice another cell number penciled in on the card.
Maybe I'm paranoid (he could have easily just been doing his job), but I've noticed that the men in California are generally 100x more lecherous than men from other places I've been (except for maybe Italy). While I could easily get caught up in the romantic notions of dating a Marine, I think it would end up poorly for me. Not that I necessarily think that Marines are bad people to date (quite on the contrary), but I think on some level it would reinforce the pain I feel regarding my failed attempt at their Officer Candidate's School.
And that's not something I think I'm ready to revisit or process anytime soon.
The Marine Corps' Toys For Tots Foundation has always been one of my favorite charities, even though I've never made a donation. (Yes, I'm partial to the Marines. Haven't you noticed?) So I had this great idea that I could buy a toy from the Mattel Store to donate to Toys For Tots, and do something nice to make a little one's Christmas great. Dad told me to stop by the local Marine Recruiting office and get the nearest donation drop-off point from them.
There's one on my commute, so after not buying any toys (because of the parking situation - I can try again today), I stop there anyway to find the drop-off point. As I walk up to the office a Marine walks out, gets into his truck and drives away.
I enter the office and there's six Marines sitting around B.S.ing, which amazes me because I thought at almost-5-o'clock they would either be on their way home or busy finding warm bodies to send to Iraq and Afghanistan.
"Can we help you miss?" (I'm amused at how polite they are, or rather I'm just amused when anyone is formally polite to me - I could probably write a blog on the subject)
"Is this a Toys For Tots donation drop-off point?"
"Yes it is!" One of the Marines points out a pile of toys lovingly arranged, guarded by a line of tinsel garland.
"Great! I don't have any toys to donate today, but I'll bring them back later."
Thank you ma'am, have a good evening, etc., etc. I get out of the office and walk back to my car. When I'm halfway across the parking lot one of the recruiters leaves the office and calls after me,
"Miss?" He catches up with me and says,
"Here's our card with the office cell phone number. Give us a call when you're going to stop by and we'll make sure someone is in the office waiting for you."
"Excellent! Thank you!"
Have a good evening, etc., etc. The Marine sergeant goes back into the office.
I look at the card. Maybe this sergeant does this to all his cards, but I notice another cell number penciled in on the card.
Maybe I'm paranoid (he could have easily just been doing his job), but I've noticed that the men in California are generally 100x more lecherous than men from other places I've been (except for maybe Italy). While I could easily get caught up in the romantic notions of dating a Marine, I think it would end up poorly for me. Not that I necessarily think that Marines are bad people to date (quite on the contrary), but I think on some level it would reinforce the pain I feel regarding my failed attempt at their Officer Candidate's School.
And that's not something I think I'm ready to revisit or process anytime soon.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
The Blogofractal
The Blogofractal
My favorites:
Snakes on a I don't even care anymore
Hey guys what if Google is evil?!?
MAKE blog: DIY baby
Watch this toddler get owned by a squirrel!
My favorites:
Snakes on a I don't even care anymore
Hey guys what if Google is evil?!?
MAKE blog: DIY baby
Watch this toddler get owned by a squirrel!
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Regarding The Hobbit
Apparently the biggest news that's riled Lord of The Rings fans everywhere is that New Line doesn't want Peter Jackson to direct The Hobbit and whatever LoTR prequel is in the works. From my understanding of the events, even though Peter Jackson received $200 million for directing the films, he is suing New Line because he feels he deserves more money because of the profits from merchandising.
So I guess there are a few questions to ask.
What was Peter Jackson supposed to get according to his contract?
Who owns the movie rights to The Hobbit? (According to Wikipedia, it's split between MGM and New Line)
If Peter Jackson was already given what he was contracted to receive, then he doesn't deserve any more money, regardless of how much New Line makes from merchandising. If MGM and New Line own the rights to The Hobbit movie and don't want Jackson, so be it. But they'll probably want to keep the visual feel of the LoTR trilogy, so they'll film it in New Zealand and probably hire Weta Workshop and Weta Digital (I believe Jackson is a co-founder, and probably co-owner of Weta Digital. Don't quote me.) for the special effects.
From reading about some of the things he did to get his way with New Line, I'm not really surprised that they decided to drop him. Movie companies (for better or for worse) don't like to be pushed around. Usually I'd side with a director for the sake of the art, but in this case I think Jackson screwed himself over.
So I guess there are a few questions to ask.
What was Peter Jackson supposed to get according to his contract?
Who owns the movie rights to The Hobbit? (According to Wikipedia, it's split between MGM and New Line)
If Peter Jackson was already given what he was contracted to receive, then he doesn't deserve any more money, regardless of how much New Line makes from merchandising. If MGM and New Line own the rights to The Hobbit movie and don't want Jackson, so be it. But they'll probably want to keep the visual feel of the LoTR trilogy, so they'll film it in New Zealand and probably hire Weta Workshop and Weta Digital (I believe Jackson is a co-founder, and probably co-owner of Weta Digital. Don't quote me.) for the special effects.
From reading about some of the things he did to get his way with New Line, I'm not really surprised that they decided to drop him. Movie companies (for better or for worse) don't like to be pushed around. Usually I'd side with a director for the sake of the art, but in this case I think Jackson screwed himself over.
Monday, November 20, 2006
Movie Review - Casino Royale
I really enjoyed the new James Bond movie, Casino Royale, the last to be based on Ian Fleming's writings (EON Productions have now adapted all of Fleming's Bond novels). I've been so excited to see this movie and report on it that I'm glad my anticipation didn't go to waste.
There's so much to like and so little to dislike about this retcon of the Bond series.
The movie begins with Bond's first two kills, which enable him to get "double-O" status. It's in black & white, and footage from the first kill is inter cut with the second. It didn't feel like a flashback to me. The man from the first kill reaches for his gun, and then we get the traditional "gun barrel" opening into the opening credits.
I really enjoyed the opening credits sequence and song. "You Know My Name", vocals by Chris Cornell. The artwork in the opening credits does a lot of fancy stuff with card symbols and a great color-block fight sequence.
I'm surprised the movie has a PG-13 rating. The scene that should have given the movie an R rating was faithful to the book, with added witty remarks. Let's say that if you really want to take a 13-year-old to the movie, make sure they can handle large doses of violence. In my industry I think we would call that "scope creep", or even "product substitution". The politics of Hollywood, I guess.
A lot of reviews I've read comment on the grittier nature of the movie, which I would have to agree with except to say that I think the more appropriate term is "honest". Spying and killing people for a living is not necessarily the most glamorous way to earn a living, and the movie adaptations have turned Bond into a pretty boy with girls, gadgets, and guns. Maybe that's all a fellow needs, who knows?
As far as the girls go, Solange is an active seducee, to the point you're wondering who is more excited about the tryst. Vesper is disappointing. At best her character is moody (not to mention homely - I thought all Bond girls were supposed to be drop-dead gorgeous). She is abrasive to start with, then weepy with shock when she sees Bond kill some thugs close-up, back to abrasive, etc. It's irritating and makes me wonder what Bond sees in the girl. After all, this is supposed to be the woman he falls in love with. Surely he can do better. (Note: Vesper's character in the book is described as "emotionally turbulent" by Wikipedia, so maybe the movie's result is the script-writers' interpretation of the character. I still view her as flimsy.)
Gadgets in this movie are limited to cell phones, various medical liquids in syringes and a single-use portable defibrillator installed in Bond's Aston Martin. I might add the defibrillator was definitely made by the lowest bidder.
I thought Bond's character was really polished on. Among other things, he breaks into an embassy, uses a "hostage" as a human shield, breaks & enters M's apartment, and steals M's login data for MI6's website. Very few scruples, if any. Whatever it means to him, I give Daniel Craig a thumbs up for his performance in the role.
I need to mention my new theory regarding Bond's character after reading two Fleming novels. I think Bond's chauvinism is misunderstood. In most of the movies he is without a doubt a sexist pig. But I think the character's chauvinistic actions are motivated by the ugly work he does. I think he spends so much time dealing with ugly characters and doing ugly deeds in the name of Queen and country that he wants to separate the women of the world from the world he deals with. I think this is why he says (in the books) that spying is "men's work" and insists that women don't make suitable spies. I also think this is what is at the root of his sexist attitudes regarding how women should look, dress, and act. This really isn't a well-developed theory yet, but I think this theory explains why so many women (including myself) are attracted to a cold-hearted chauvinist.
Mads Mikkelsen was great as Le Chiffre (i.e. creepy), who has a weird physical trait (weeping blood). Weird physical traits have become cliched for Bond villains but I didn't think this was too over-the-top.
I've read some reviews that criticize the lack of humor in the movie. I thought the movie was very witty, although much drier than in other Bond movies. Maybe you just have to get your mind dragged through the gutter (Engineering School does wonders for this). The only tasteless witty remarks (in my opinion) are in the should-have-made-the-movie-R-rated scene. This doesn't mean I didn't laugh, however. I just feel it took away from the climax of the confrontation between Le Chiffre and Bond.
The movie's score was fantastic, holding off the famous theme until the end of the film. The score is very cohesive; music-wise you feel very much in the middle of a James Bond film and the score doesn't sound inappropriate next to the Bond theme. The theme isn't jazzed up (technoed up?) or altered, and it feels very appropriate as well.
I'd like to think the plot was very tight, and much more complex than the plot in the book. For the most part I approve the major plot changes/updates. While I would like to think that Baccarat Chemin de Fer is more "high class" than Texas Hold'em, poker is much more accessible a game to movie-goers and there are many high stakes poker tournaments publicized these days.
To summarize, I recommend seeing this movie in the theater. It's a great action film, with lots of interesting (if sometimes unbelievable) stunt sequences and explosions. There's a little of something for both men and women here, although I would be wary of taking younger teens to this. I would say sixteen and older should be able to see it; younger viewers will probably have a hard time with the scene I've been referring to throughout this review.
There's so much to like and so little to dislike about this retcon of the Bond series.
The movie begins with Bond's first two kills, which enable him to get "double-O" status. It's in black & white, and footage from the first kill is inter cut with the second. It didn't feel like a flashback to me. The man from the first kill reaches for his gun, and then we get the traditional "gun barrel" opening into the opening credits.
I really enjoyed the opening credits sequence and song. "You Know My Name", vocals by Chris Cornell. The artwork in the opening credits does a lot of fancy stuff with card symbols and a great color-block fight sequence.
I'm surprised the movie has a PG-13 rating. The scene that should have given the movie an R rating was faithful to the book, with added witty remarks. Let's say that if you really want to take a 13-year-old to the movie, make sure they can handle large doses of violence. In my industry I think we would call that "scope creep", or even "product substitution". The politics of Hollywood, I guess.
A lot of reviews I've read comment on the grittier nature of the movie, which I would have to agree with except to say that I think the more appropriate term is "honest". Spying and killing people for a living is not necessarily the most glamorous way to earn a living, and the movie adaptations have turned Bond into a pretty boy with girls, gadgets, and guns. Maybe that's all a fellow needs, who knows?
As far as the girls go, Solange is an active seducee, to the point you're wondering who is more excited about the tryst. Vesper is disappointing. At best her character is moody (not to mention homely - I thought all Bond girls were supposed to be drop-dead gorgeous). She is abrasive to start with, then weepy with shock when she sees Bond kill some thugs close-up, back to abrasive, etc. It's irritating and makes me wonder what Bond sees in the girl. After all, this is supposed to be the woman he falls in love with. Surely he can do better. (Note: Vesper's character in the book is described as "emotionally turbulent" by Wikipedia, so maybe the movie's result is the script-writers' interpretation of the character. I still view her as flimsy.)
Gadgets in this movie are limited to cell phones, various medical liquids in syringes and a single-use portable defibrillator installed in Bond's Aston Martin. I might add the defibrillator was definitely made by the lowest bidder.
I thought Bond's character was really polished on. Among other things, he breaks into an embassy, uses a "hostage" as a human shield, breaks & enters M's apartment, and steals M's login data for MI6's website. Very few scruples, if any. Whatever it means to him, I give Daniel Craig a thumbs up for his performance in the role.
I need to mention my new theory regarding Bond's character after reading two Fleming novels. I think Bond's chauvinism is misunderstood. In most of the movies he is without a doubt a sexist pig. But I think the character's chauvinistic actions are motivated by the ugly work he does. I think he spends so much time dealing with ugly characters and doing ugly deeds in the name of Queen and country that he wants to separate the women of the world from the world he deals with. I think this is why he says (in the books) that spying is "men's work" and insists that women don't make suitable spies. I also think this is what is at the root of his sexist attitudes regarding how women should look, dress, and act. This really isn't a well-developed theory yet, but I think this theory explains why so many women (including myself) are attracted to a cold-hearted chauvinist.
Mads Mikkelsen was great as Le Chiffre (i.e. creepy), who has a weird physical trait (weeping blood). Weird physical traits have become cliched for Bond villains but I didn't think this was too over-the-top.
I've read some reviews that criticize the lack of humor in the movie. I thought the movie was very witty, although much drier than in other Bond movies. Maybe you just have to get your mind dragged through the gutter (Engineering School does wonders for this). The only tasteless witty remarks (in my opinion) are in the should-have-made-the-movie-R-rated scene. This doesn't mean I didn't laugh, however. I just feel it took away from the climax of the confrontation between Le Chiffre and Bond.
The movie's score was fantastic, holding off the famous theme until the end of the film. The score is very cohesive; music-wise you feel very much in the middle of a James Bond film and the score doesn't sound inappropriate next to the Bond theme. The theme isn't jazzed up (technoed up?) or altered, and it feels very appropriate as well.
I'd like to think the plot was very tight, and much more complex than the plot in the book. For the most part I approve the major plot changes/updates. While I would like to think that Baccarat Chemin de Fer is more "high class" than Texas Hold'em, poker is much more accessible a game to movie-goers and there are many high stakes poker tournaments publicized these days.
To summarize, I recommend seeing this movie in the theater. It's a great action film, with lots of interesting (if sometimes unbelievable) stunt sequences and explosions. There's a little of something for both men and women here, although I would be wary of taking younger teens to this. I would say sixteen and older should be able to see it; younger viewers will probably have a hard time with the scene I've been referring to throughout this review.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Mail-Order Pheasants & Roasting Pans
My parents are coming to visit me for the holidays. Well, just for Thanksgiving, and then they'll be back in a few weeks for Christmas.
Normally, I like spending the holidays with my parents. After all, they're family.
This year I'm terrified. This Thanksgiving will be the first time my parents will see my apartment, which is stressful enough on its own. Actually, Dad has always been accepting of my living arrangements, but Mom likes to nitpick. I think all moms like to nitpick about their offspring's apartments. I love my Mom, but her nitpicking stresses me out.
On top of parents-seeing-the-apartment-for-the-first-time stress, I'm hosting Thanksgiving dinner. Dad even mail-ordered a pheasant that is getting UPS-ed to chez moi. As my downstairs neighbor suggests, I'll probably be the only woman in Los Angeles with a pheasant for Thanksgiving. I don't even have a roasting pan.
Not to mention my dad has more-than-average diet restrictions. I hate artificial sweeteners. Splenda is the sneaky one of the lot.
So this week will get devoted to making sure the apartment is presentable (and not just livable, which is its nominal state), and finding the necessary cooking supplies (none of which I have storage room for) for Thanksgiving next week.
Normally, I like spending the holidays with my parents. After all, they're family.
This year I'm terrified. This Thanksgiving will be the first time my parents will see my apartment, which is stressful enough on its own. Actually, Dad has always been accepting of my living arrangements, but Mom likes to nitpick. I think all moms like to nitpick about their offspring's apartments. I love my Mom, but her nitpicking stresses me out.
On top of parents-seeing-the-apartment-for-the-first-time stress, I'm hosting Thanksgiving dinner. Dad even mail-ordered a pheasant that is getting UPS-ed to chez moi. As my downstairs neighbor suggests, I'll probably be the only woman in Los Angeles with a pheasant for Thanksgiving. I don't even have a roasting pan.
Not to mention my dad has more-than-average diet restrictions. I hate artificial sweeteners. Splenda is the sneaky one of the lot.
So this week will get devoted to making sure the apartment is presentable (and not just livable, which is its nominal state), and finding the necessary cooking supplies (none of which I have storage room for) for Thanksgiving next week.
Monday, November 13, 2006
Movie Review - Borat
This weekend I went to Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, on the recommendation of more than a few people. The movie was disappointing at worst and painful at best. I'm much more interested in a film whose trailer appeared before Borat, called The Fountain.
Anyway, the plot of the movie is that a Kazakhstani television reporter (Borat) goes to the United States to learn what he can about Americans and American way of life and create a documentary to show his countrymen. On the way he falls in love with Pamela Anderson, and embarks on a trek from New York to Los Angeles to marry her. The ingenious feat that Sacha Baron Cohen achieves in all this is exposing the prejudices and biases of middle (mostly right wing) America. He then follows with naked man wrestling and an attempt to kidnap Pamela Anderson.
There are a couple of unpleasant things that happened because of this film:
Anyway, the plot of the movie is that a Kazakhstani television reporter (Borat) goes to the United States to learn what he can about Americans and American way of life and create a documentary to show his countrymen. On the way he falls in love with Pamela Anderson, and embarks on a trek from New York to Los Angeles to marry her. The ingenious feat that Sacha Baron Cohen achieves in all this is exposing the prejudices and biases of middle (mostly right wing) America. He then follows with naked man wrestling and an attempt to kidnap Pamela Anderson.
There are a couple of unpleasant things that happened because of this film:
- The film exposes how un-P.C. the average American is (and really, how un-P.C. the average right-wing American is)
- The people who appear in the movie most likely have negative consequences to deal with in their lives. The college students who pick up Borat in the R.V. are a prime example. Although, how stupid do you have to be to sign your liability away, even if you are drunk?
Movie Review - Beyond The Sea
On my way to work, there's a particular bend in the road that gives me a fantastic view of the ocean. If I'm ambitious I can look to the left at intersections, but this particular curve doesn't require any stunt driving to enjoy the view.
If I'm equally ambitious at work, I can see the sea (and Santa Monica) from my office at work. But that view is not particularly great.
But I digress.
I recently watched Beyond The Sea, which is worth watching. Kevin Spacey not only has writing and directing credits, but also stars, sings and dances in this Bobby Darin biopic. I really enjoyed watching Spacey in this; more than once I thought Spacey sounded just like Darin. This is also a great example of a film where a known actor pulls off someone else believably, not so with a typical John Wayne or Jack Nicholson film, for examples.
Most biopics tend to be syrupy and melodramatic; not so with Beyond the Sea. Even though the film touches on Darin's death, the film treats death as an inevitability and doesn't try to emotionally capitalize on it.
I wasn't impressed with Kate Bosworth as Sandra Dee, and I would have loved to hear the song "More" (my favorite Bobby Darin tune), but I feel those are minor issues.
If I'm equally ambitious at work, I can see the sea (and Santa Monica) from my office at work. But that view is not particularly great.
But I digress.
I recently watched Beyond The Sea, which is worth watching. Kevin Spacey not only has writing and directing credits, but also stars, sings and dances in this Bobby Darin biopic. I really enjoyed watching Spacey in this; more than once I thought Spacey sounded just like Darin. This is also a great example of a film where a known actor pulls off someone else believably, not so with a typical John Wayne or Jack Nicholson film, for examples.
Most biopics tend to be syrupy and melodramatic; not so with Beyond the Sea. Even though the film touches on Darin's death, the film treats death as an inevitability and doesn't try to emotionally capitalize on it.
I wasn't impressed with Kate Bosworth as Sandra Dee, and I would have loved to hear the song "More" (my favorite Bobby Darin tune), but I feel those are minor issues.
Friday, November 10, 2006
Happy Birthday!
Guess what? It's the U.S.M.C.'s 231st birthday today!
Commandant Hagee wrote a nice birthday message to Marines.
Go Marines!
Commandant Hagee wrote a nice birthday message to Marines.
Go Marines!
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Is Computer Science Still A Good Career?
Apparently So.
Computer science 'still a good career,' leader of job migration task force says
I would recommend to anyone who wants to study IT of any kind, and engineering in general, to "math up". I was half-way through my college career before I realized how math-intensive computer science and software engineering are. Granted, my school was particularly math-intensive, but CS/SE are applied mathematics in a way that engineering and physics are not. But I digress. If you're in high school, take math and english for all four years, even if it's not required. Why? Because you'll need it in college. Even if you plan on getting a liberal arts degree, I would still recommend the extra math; college courses cover lots more material in a semester than a year-long high school course, and if you have the extra math background you'll breeze through the math and science requirements.
The other motivation for aspiring CS/SE graduates to take lots of math in high school is that you'll need to be prepared for calculus (if you don't take it in high school) when you get to college. Otherwise you might not have the math background to do well in your computer science classes, and/or you might not even be able to take your computer science classes until you get your math pre-reqs out of the way. Think of math as your veggies; you need lots of it.
Personally, I think now I should have gotten an EE degree, but I suppose I can always get motivated and earn one later. (I just really loved my Microprocessors class.)
Computer science 'still a good career,' leader of job migration task force says
I would recommend to anyone who wants to study IT of any kind, and engineering in general, to "math up". I was half-way through my college career before I realized how math-intensive computer science and software engineering are. Granted, my school was particularly math-intensive, but CS/SE are applied mathematics in a way that engineering and physics are not. But I digress. If you're in high school, take math and english for all four years, even if it's not required. Why? Because you'll need it in college. Even if you plan on getting a liberal arts degree, I would still recommend the extra math; college courses cover lots more material in a semester than a year-long high school course, and if you have the extra math background you'll breeze through the math and science requirements.
The other motivation for aspiring CS/SE graduates to take lots of math in high school is that you'll need to be prepared for calculus (if you don't take it in high school) when you get to college. Otherwise you might not have the math background to do well in your computer science classes, and/or you might not even be able to take your computer science classes until you get your math pre-reqs out of the way. Think of math as your veggies; you need lots of it.
Personally, I think now I should have gotten an EE degree, but I suppose I can always get motivated and earn one later. (I just really loved my Microprocessors class.)
Monday, November 06, 2006
Book Review: Casino Royale
Casino Royale, by Ian Fleming, was a quick read. The plot was much simpler than most of the James Bond movies I've seen, and much less flashy. Fleming is sparing with words and is, dare I say, a typical male storyteller. Details are only mentioned when they matter, although Fleming is extremely articulate when it comes to Bond's car, dress, drinks, and food. He's much less articulate in describing Vesper Lynd, who is a believable character only when you view her as Fleming/Bond view her. Moneypenny is more believable and more interesting in her brief appearance in the novel.
I haven't read Fleming's later works, but one can tell that Casino Royale was written by an undeveloped author with lots of potential. It will be interesting to read something Fleming wrote later, say You Only Live Twice, to see how much he developed.
There are definite hints to Bond's chauvinistic tendencies, and considering the time the book was written, some of those tendencies are understandable.
I would say go read the book before you watch the movie, if only to notice how much Hollywood polluted the story. I still think Craig is a good choice for Bond, and I like how the Bond girls in the new movie are all brunettes.
I haven't read Fleming's later works, but one can tell that Casino Royale was written by an undeveloped author with lots of potential. It will be interesting to read something Fleming wrote later, say You Only Live Twice, to see how much he developed.
There are definite hints to Bond's chauvinistic tendencies, and considering the time the book was written, some of those tendencies are understandable.
I would say go read the book before you watch the movie, if only to notice how much Hollywood polluted the story. I still think Craig is a good choice for Bond, and I like how the Bond girls in the new movie are all brunettes.
Friday, November 03, 2006
Book Review - The Handmaid's Tale
Being stuck at home with a cold sure gives you a chance to catch up on your reading.
My pick was Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, which was interesting and disturbing. So of course I enjoyed it immensely.
You can find plot summaries everywhere on the internet, so I'll just stick to my impressions.
This was my first exposure to Atwood's writing, and I really liked the word play in the book (Scrabble is very important in the book). Yes, of course, the humor is dark. That's why shredded fruits of the Date Palm turn into "date rape", or rather vice versa. I think because of this there is a lot of inherent symbolism to wade through. Which isn't bad; it gives the book re-read value.
The book, in quite obvious ways, forces the reader to think about gender roles, as well as why feminism is so tightly tied to the bra-burning antics of the 1970s.
Strangely enough, the idea of right-wing nuts assassinating Congress and blaming it on Islamic fundamentalists seems almost plausible in this day and age. Which is creepy because I definitely don't want to live in a dystopic society.
If they were to make a better movie (I heard the movie made in the 1980's really sucked), here are my casting choices:
Natalie Portman as Offred
William Hurt as The Commander (but on the other hand Neal McDonough or Ed Harris would be absolutely chilling - I guess age shouldn't matter if you really wanted this to be a thriller)
Nicole Kidman as Serena Joy
Jude Law, Eric Bana and Clive Owen would be good choices for Nick (unfortunately probably too old if you used Neal McDonough), but so would Christian Bale - I envision that character as having a dark, smouldering vulnerability that is really attractive to Offred. Jesse Bradford is too immature.
Angelina Jolie as Moira
Mena Suvari as Ofwarren
Scarlett Johansson as Ofglen
Ashley Judd as one of the Aunts (Aunt Elizabeth, maybe)
Any other casting ideas?
My pick was Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, which was interesting and disturbing. So of course I enjoyed it immensely.
You can find plot summaries everywhere on the internet, so I'll just stick to my impressions.
This was my first exposure to Atwood's writing, and I really liked the word play in the book (Scrabble is very important in the book). Yes, of course, the humor is dark. That's why shredded fruits of the Date Palm turn into "date rape", or rather vice versa. I think because of this there is a lot of inherent symbolism to wade through. Which isn't bad; it gives the book re-read value.
The book, in quite obvious ways, forces the reader to think about gender roles, as well as why feminism is so tightly tied to the bra-burning antics of the 1970s.
Strangely enough, the idea of right-wing nuts assassinating Congress and blaming it on Islamic fundamentalists seems almost plausible in this day and age. Which is creepy because I definitely don't want to live in a dystopic society.
If they were to make a better movie (I heard the movie made in the 1980's really sucked), here are my casting choices:
Natalie Portman as Offred
William Hurt as The Commander (but on the other hand Neal McDonough or Ed Harris would be absolutely chilling - I guess age shouldn't matter if you really wanted this to be a thriller)
Nicole Kidman as Serena Joy
Jude Law, Eric Bana and Clive Owen would be good choices for Nick (unfortunately probably too old if you used Neal McDonough), but so would Christian Bale - I envision that character as having a dark, smouldering vulnerability that is really attractive to Offred. Jesse Bradford is too immature.
Angelina Jolie as Moira
Mena Suvari as Ofwarren
Scarlett Johansson as Ofglen
Ashley Judd as one of the Aunts (Aunt Elizabeth, maybe)
Any other casting ideas?
Monday, October 30, 2006
Movie Review - The Departed
I went to The Departed this weekend, which is an American bastardization of the Hong Kong thriller Infernal Affairs. With that said, I recommend taking the $12 you would have spent at the theater and buying a copy of Infernal Affairs you can watch whenever you want. I bought my copy for $10 at Barnes & Noble. Spoilers follow.
I suppose I should explain exactly why I thought The Departed failed, since it's doing so well in the box office and in the reviews (93% on Rotten Tomatoes as I write). Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Sheen are the only two actors who garner any emotional attachment from the audience. Are we given a reason to care about or even like Matt Damon's character? Should we care about the skanky shrink and her unborn child (also known as the plot thread that was never resolved)? What was the abrasive Digham (played by Mark Wahlberg) doing during the half of the movie he was absent from? Sitting on his hands waiting for the story to resolve?
Scorsese fails to build the tension in certain (almost photo-copied but without the flair) key scenes, and it seems to me that so many details went underdeveloped.
This film reminds me of what's wrong with American consumers: Americans are constantly satisfied with less. It's what we get for eating donuts and drinking beer compared with pastries and wine. Eat an entire "death by chocolate" cake and it will still never be as satisfying as one Godiva chocolate. Someone fooled Americans into thinking that more language and violence makes a movie better. The gross decadence and low expectations of Americans are precisely why so many so-called blockbusters these days suck.
I suppose I should explain exactly why I thought The Departed failed, since it's doing so well in the box office and in the reviews (93% on Rotten Tomatoes as I write). Leonardo DiCaprio and Martin Sheen are the only two actors who garner any emotional attachment from the audience. Are we given a reason to care about or even like Matt Damon's character? Should we care about the skanky shrink and her unborn child (also known as the plot thread that was never resolved)? What was the abrasive Digham (played by Mark Wahlberg) doing during the half of the movie he was absent from? Sitting on his hands waiting for the story to resolve?
Scorsese fails to build the tension in certain (almost photo-copied but without the flair) key scenes, and it seems to me that so many details went underdeveloped.
This film reminds me of what's wrong with American consumers: Americans are constantly satisfied with less. It's what we get for eating donuts and drinking beer compared with pastries and wine. Eat an entire "death by chocolate" cake and it will still never be as satisfying as one Godiva chocolate. Someone fooled Americans into thinking that more language and violence makes a movie better. The gross decadence and low expectations of Americans are precisely why so many so-called blockbusters these days suck.
Book Review - A Woman In Berlin
They say that history is written by the conquerors. In "A Woman In Berlin", one of the conquered reveals that she too, has a voice in history.
This short memoir documents 8 weeks in 1945 during and after the fall of Berlin to Allied forces. The author, Anonymous, documents in detail the conditions of Berlin's populace, the mass looting, and mass rape that occured. Even if we did not know Anonymous was an educated, well-traveled journalist, one can tell from her writing alone that she was intelligent as well as observant. While she insisted on staying anonymous for the publication of her book, her voice has become the voice of thousands of women. She is a survivor in every way, and remains hopeful to the end of her memoir. Even when her sweetheart rejects her diary and leaves her to join others who might be more sympathetic to him, she still remarks, "perhaps in the future we might be brought together again."
Recommended for history buffs and women everywhere.
This short memoir documents 8 weeks in 1945 during and after the fall of Berlin to Allied forces. The author, Anonymous, documents in detail the conditions of Berlin's populace, the mass looting, and mass rape that occured. Even if we did not know Anonymous was an educated, well-traveled journalist, one can tell from her writing alone that she was intelligent as well as observant. While she insisted on staying anonymous for the publication of her book, her voice has become the voice of thousands of women. She is a survivor in every way, and remains hopeful to the end of her memoir. Even when her sweetheart rejects her diary and leaves her to join others who might be more sympathetic to him, she still remarks, "perhaps in the future we might be brought together again."
Recommended for history buffs and women everywhere.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Borg Attachments and Casino Royale
To comply with Arnold's new law before I absolutely have to, I ran out and got a Motorola H500 yesterday (a pink one! But only because they don't come in Digger Green). I must say I like it. Plus I discovered that my phone doesn't require me to set-up any voice recognition software (it "reads" the name I've put into my contact list and calls the number associated with it) so I can make calls without fiddling with my phone.
However, I'm weird about how my contacts are listed. Instead ofby [first name], my contact list is [last name], [first name]. The price I pay for organization.
A professor used to joke that cell phones were "Borg attachments". I guess I've really joined the collective now.
Speaking of shiny tech gadgets, I'm very excited for the new Casino Royale movie (releases November 17). I grew up watching Sean Connery and Roger Moore Bond movies, and enjoyed GoldenEye when it released, but the other Pierce Brosnan Bond movies seem to have turned Bond into a womanizing, chauvinistic jerk. Or maybe that's who the character always was, and the Brosnan Bond movies released when I was just finding all of that out.
The same professor who joked about the "Borg attachments" also told me once that Fleming's novels were actually quite good (and I trust this professor's literary taste), and apparently Casino Royale is the first Bond flick since 1989 to be based on Fleming's work. That inspires hope for the masses.
I wasn't really impressed with Daniel Craig as Bond until I saw the trailer the other day. I think he's going to bring cold professionalism to the role, as well as drop the campy chauvinist. He's not sarcastic and disillusioned like Pierce Brosnan's Bond.
However, I'm weird about how my contacts are listed. Instead of
A professor used to joke that cell phones were "Borg attachments". I guess I've really joined the collective now.
Speaking of shiny tech gadgets, I'm very excited for the new Casino Royale movie (releases November 17). I grew up watching Sean Connery and Roger Moore Bond movies, and enjoyed GoldenEye when it released, but the other Pierce Brosnan Bond movies seem to have turned Bond into a womanizing, chauvinistic jerk. Or maybe that's who the character always was, and the Brosnan Bond movies released when I was just finding all of that out.
The same professor who joked about the "Borg attachments" also told me once that Fleming's novels were actually quite good (and I trust this professor's literary taste), and apparently Casino Royale is the first Bond flick since 1989 to be based on Fleming's work. That inspires hope for the masses.
I wasn't really impressed with Daniel Craig as Bond until I saw the trailer the other day. I think he's going to bring cold professionalism to the role, as well as drop the campy chauvinist. He's not sarcastic and disillusioned like Pierce Brosnan's Bond.
Monday, October 23, 2006
Movie Review: Flags Of Our Fathers
I went to Flags Of Our Fathers this weekend, at the cushy new Del Amo 18 Cinema. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie, which I feel can base a lot of its "goodness" on Clint Eastwood's direction and score. Or rather we can just say that Clint is "'da Man" and leave it at that.
As a war film, Flags of Our Fathers doesn't glamorize or try to sell the idea of war as being good for the human race. While anti-war is a common theme in war films, Flags of Our Fathers also sympathizes with the Marine-on-the-ground, and reveres the good Marine who served in silence. Rarely does one see a movie that gives you both.
While there is one very funny practical joke that Mike Strank (played by Barry Pepper, of Saving Private Ryan fame - he makes a much better Marine) plays on a one unsuspecting fellow Marine, most of the humor comes from Ira Hayes (Adam Beach) irony and sarcasm at glorifying the simple job of doing what the flag-raisers were told, when "uncommon valor was a common virtue" at Iwo. I must also add that Adam Beach does a fantastic job as Ira Hayes, who was wracked with guilt that credit wasn't given to flag-raiser Harlon Block until after the bond drive and excitement over the flag-raising was over, and the fact a Marine he revered, Mike Strank, did not survive the battle.
A thumbs-up to Neal McDonough (who plays Captain Severence) as well. I've been a fan of his since seeing Band of Brothers.
Casting was wonderfully done, with actors looking like their real-life counterparts. I also really liked the cinematography in the film, with the color being almost washed out of the scenes from the battle.
While almost cliched, a creative shot that was particularly disturbing was a dessert (ice cream, baked alaska, meringue, ?) depicting the flag raisers being topped with a dark red strawberry sauce.
While some may say the film is hopelessly one-sided, I think the film does a great job within the scope of the story it tells - it's about the flag-raising and the aftermath thereof, and not the battle itself. Also, Clint Eastwood directed a second film, back-to-back with Flags of Our Fathers, regarding the Japanese version of the battle, entitled Letters from Iwo Jima (also Red Sun, Black Sand). You can see a combined Flags of Our Fathers/Letters from Iwo Jima trailer here. From the rumors, it looks like the movie will be in Japanese with English subtitles (Didn't I tell you that Eastwood was 'da Man?) and the source material is from letters the Japanese soldiers wrote home from Iwo. Expect that one next year.
As a war film, Flags of Our Fathers doesn't glamorize or try to sell the idea of war as being good for the human race. While anti-war is a common theme in war films, Flags of Our Fathers also sympathizes with the Marine-on-the-ground, and reveres the good Marine who served in silence. Rarely does one see a movie that gives you both.
While there is one very funny practical joke that Mike Strank (played by Barry Pepper, of Saving Private Ryan fame - he makes a much better Marine) plays on a one unsuspecting fellow Marine, most of the humor comes from Ira Hayes (Adam Beach) irony and sarcasm at glorifying the simple job of doing what the flag-raisers were told, when "uncommon valor was a common virtue" at Iwo. I must also add that Adam Beach does a fantastic job as Ira Hayes, who was wracked with guilt that credit wasn't given to flag-raiser Harlon Block until after the bond drive and excitement over the flag-raising was over, and the fact a Marine he revered, Mike Strank, did not survive the battle.
A thumbs-up to Neal McDonough (who plays Captain Severence) as well. I've been a fan of his since seeing Band of Brothers.
Casting was wonderfully done, with actors looking like their real-life counterparts. I also really liked the cinematography in the film, with the color being almost washed out of the scenes from the battle.
While almost cliched, a creative shot that was particularly disturbing was a dessert (ice cream, baked alaska, meringue, ?) depicting the flag raisers being topped with a dark red strawberry sauce.
While some may say the film is hopelessly one-sided, I think the film does a great job within the scope of the story it tells - it's about the flag-raising and the aftermath thereof, and not the battle itself. Also, Clint Eastwood directed a second film, back-to-back with Flags of Our Fathers, regarding the Japanese version of the battle, entitled Letters from Iwo Jima (also Red Sun, Black Sand). You can see a combined Flags of Our Fathers/Letters from Iwo Jima trailer here. From the rumors, it looks like the movie will be in Japanese with English subtitles (Didn't I tell you that Eastwood was 'da Man?) and the source material is from letters the Japanese soldiers wrote home from Iwo. Expect that one next year.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Airline Honesty
Sitting backward actually would be kind of cool. Maybe we could get those cool olive drab green helmets and suspender-looking seatbelts too? Or maybe I'm just partial to anything that's in olive drab and canvas.
Of course, they wouldn't be able to let fat people on the planes anymore. And in our litigious society, that would be a disaster.
From the Leaders section of the Economist:
“GOOD morning, ladies and gentlemen. We are delighted to welcome you aboard Veritas Airways, the airline that tells it like it is. Please ensure that your seat belt is fastened, your seat back is upright and your tray-table is stowed. At Veritas Airways, your safety is our first priority. Actually, that is not quite true: if it were, our seats would be rear-facing, like those in military aircraft, since they are safer in the event of an emergency landing. But then hardly anybody would buy our tickets and we would go bust.
The flight attendants are now pointing out the emergency exits. This is the part of the announcement that you might want to pay attention to. So stop your sudoku for a minute and listen: knowing in advance where the exits are makes a dramatic difference to your chances of survival if we have to evacuate the aircraft. Also, please keep your seat belt fastened when seated, even if the seat-belt light is not illuminated. This is to protect you from the risk of clear-air turbulence, a rare but extremely nasty form of disturbance that can cause severe injury. Imagine the heavy food trolleys jumping into the air and bashing into the overhead lockers, and you will have some idea of how nasty it can be. We don't want to scare you. Still, keep that seat belt fastened all the same.
Your life-jacket can be found under your seat, but please do not remove it now. In fact, do not bother to look for it at all. In the event of a landing on water, an unprecedented miracle will have occurred, because in the history of aviation the number of wide-bodied aircraft that have made successful landings on water is zero. This aircraft is equipped with inflatable slides that detach to form life rafts, not that it makes any difference. Please remove high-heeled shoes before using the slides. We might as well add that space helmets and anti-gravity belts should also be removed, since even to mention the use of the slides as rafts is to enter the realm of science fiction.
Please switch off all mobile phones, since they can interfere with the aircraft's navigation systems. At least, that's what you've always been told. The real reason to switch them off is because they interfere with mobile networks on the ground, but somehow that doesn't sound quite so good. On most flights a few mobile phones are left on by mistake, so if they were really dangerous we would not allow them on board at all, if you think about it. We will have to come clean about this next year, when we introduce in-flight calling across the Veritas fleet. At that point the prospect of taking a cut of the sky-high calling charges will miraculously cause our safety concerns about mobile phones to evaporate.
On channel 11 of our in-flight entertainment system you will find a video consisting of abstract imagery and a new-age soundtrack, with a voice-over explaining some exercises you can do to reduce the risk of deep-vein thrombosis. We are aware that this video is tedious, but it is not meant to be fun. It is meant to limit our liability in the event of lawsuits.
Once we have reached cruising altitude you will be offered a light meal and a choice of beverages—a word that sounds so much better than just saying ‘drinks’, don't you think? The purpose of these refreshments is partly to keep you in your seats where you cannot do yourselves or anyone else any harm. Please consume alcohol in moderate quantities so that you become mildly sedated but not rowdy. That said, we can always turn the cabin air-quality down a notch or two to help ensure that you are sufficiently drowsy.
After take-off, the most dangerous part of the flight, the captain will say a few words that will either be so quiet that you will not be able to hear them, or so loud that they could wake the dead. So please sit back, relax and enjoy the flight. We appreciate that you have a choice of airlines and we thank you for choosing Veritas, a member of an incomprehensible alliance of obscure foreign outfits, most of which you have never heard of. Cabin crew, please make sure we have remembered to close the doors. Sorry, I mean: ‘Doors to automatic and cross-check’. Thank you for flying Veritas.”
Post script: I just learned that TSA stands for "Thousands Standing Around".
Of course, they wouldn't be able to let fat people on the planes anymore. And in our litigious society, that would be a disaster.
From the Leaders section of the Economist:
“GOOD morning, ladies and gentlemen. We are delighted to welcome you aboard Veritas Airways, the airline that tells it like it is. Please ensure that your seat belt is fastened, your seat back is upright and your tray-table is stowed. At Veritas Airways, your safety is our first priority. Actually, that is not quite true: if it were, our seats would be rear-facing, like those in military aircraft, since they are safer in the event of an emergency landing. But then hardly anybody would buy our tickets and we would go bust.
The flight attendants are now pointing out the emergency exits. This is the part of the announcement that you might want to pay attention to. So stop your sudoku for a minute and listen: knowing in advance where the exits are makes a dramatic difference to your chances of survival if we have to evacuate the aircraft. Also, please keep your seat belt fastened when seated, even if the seat-belt light is not illuminated. This is to protect you from the risk of clear-air turbulence, a rare but extremely nasty form of disturbance that can cause severe injury. Imagine the heavy food trolleys jumping into the air and bashing into the overhead lockers, and you will have some idea of how nasty it can be. We don't want to scare you. Still, keep that seat belt fastened all the same.
Your life-jacket can be found under your seat, but please do not remove it now. In fact, do not bother to look for it at all. In the event of a landing on water, an unprecedented miracle will have occurred, because in the history of aviation the number of wide-bodied aircraft that have made successful landings on water is zero. This aircraft is equipped with inflatable slides that detach to form life rafts, not that it makes any difference. Please remove high-heeled shoes before using the slides. We might as well add that space helmets and anti-gravity belts should also be removed, since even to mention the use of the slides as rafts is to enter the realm of science fiction.
Please switch off all mobile phones, since they can interfere with the aircraft's navigation systems. At least, that's what you've always been told. The real reason to switch them off is because they interfere with mobile networks on the ground, but somehow that doesn't sound quite so good. On most flights a few mobile phones are left on by mistake, so if they were really dangerous we would not allow them on board at all, if you think about it. We will have to come clean about this next year, when we introduce in-flight calling across the Veritas fleet. At that point the prospect of taking a cut of the sky-high calling charges will miraculously cause our safety concerns about mobile phones to evaporate.
On channel 11 of our in-flight entertainment system you will find a video consisting of abstract imagery and a new-age soundtrack, with a voice-over explaining some exercises you can do to reduce the risk of deep-vein thrombosis. We are aware that this video is tedious, but it is not meant to be fun. It is meant to limit our liability in the event of lawsuits.
Once we have reached cruising altitude you will be offered a light meal and a choice of beverages—a word that sounds so much better than just saying ‘drinks’, don't you think? The purpose of these refreshments is partly to keep you in your seats where you cannot do yourselves or anyone else any harm. Please consume alcohol in moderate quantities so that you become mildly sedated but not rowdy. That said, we can always turn the cabin air-quality down a notch or two to help ensure that you are sufficiently drowsy.
After take-off, the most dangerous part of the flight, the captain will say a few words that will either be so quiet that you will not be able to hear them, or so loud that they could wake the dead. So please sit back, relax and enjoy the flight. We appreciate that you have a choice of airlines and we thank you for choosing Veritas, a member of an incomprehensible alliance of obscure foreign outfits, most of which you have never heard of. Cabin crew, please make sure we have remembered to close the doors. Sorry, I mean: ‘Doors to automatic and cross-check’. Thank you for flying Veritas.”
Post script: I just learned that TSA stands for "Thousands Standing Around".
Best Of All - It's Pink!
When I moved, my mom mentioned she didn't have a vacuum at the house in Idaho. What's that? Sure! I don't need a vacuum! Take mine!
So I was stuck without a vacuum, which I suppose is all right until the floor starts to feel yucky.
I went to Target yesterday to buy a new vacuum. I just wanted to get something that wasn't going to be too expensive that would last me a couple years.
But Target sells Dysons.
Of course, I have seen the commercials with the British guy. "The only vacuum cleaner that doesn't lose suction." I even had a pamphlet that told me all about it.
But they're pricey. You have to really want a vacuum.
I was standing at the back of the store, trying to decide if I should really spring that much money for a vacuum, when I saw it. A pink one. $40 goes to breast cancer research. I thought, "well, why not? $40 going to a good cause, I can justify spending that much for a vacuum cleaner." Talk about great marketing. A girl will buy almost anything if it's pink.
When I got to the checkout stand it was about $80 less than what I thought it was going to be. Yay!
Putting it together was a bit of a challenge, and I haven't used it yet (I know!), but I have high hopes.
Now you know what I'll be doing in my apartment tonight.
So I was stuck without a vacuum, which I suppose is all right until the floor starts to feel yucky.
I went to Target yesterday to buy a new vacuum. I just wanted to get something that wasn't going to be too expensive that would last me a couple years.
But Target sells Dysons.
Of course, I have seen the commercials with the British guy. "The only vacuum cleaner that doesn't lose suction." I even had a pamphlet that told me all about it.
But they're pricey. You have to really want a vacuum.
I was standing at the back of the store, trying to decide if I should really spring that much money for a vacuum, when I saw it. A pink one. $40 goes to breast cancer research. I thought, "well, why not? $40 going to a good cause, I can justify spending that much for a vacuum cleaner." Talk about great marketing. A girl will buy almost anything if it's pink.
When I got to the checkout stand it was about $80 less than what I thought it was going to be. Yay!
Putting it together was a bit of a challenge, and I haven't used it yet (I know!), but I have high hopes.
Now you know what I'll be doing in my apartment tonight.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Church & State
Church & State, like beer & tequila, should never, ever mix.
Romney camp consulted with Mormon leaders
I guess the big fear that most people have regarding political candidates who belong to organized, hierarchical religions is the idea that the candidate's leadership would be tainted by the leader of their religion. Wasn't that the fear when Kennedy ran for president? That the pope would use Kennedy to promote the Catholic faith?
My big fear is not necessarily a mormon becoming president, but the repercussions in Utah of a mormon becoming president. An already warped and wacky place will become even more warped and wacky when they have an LDS president to gloat about.
Romney camp consulted with Mormon leaders
I guess the big fear that most people have regarding political candidates who belong to organized, hierarchical religions is the idea that the candidate's leadership would be tainted by the leader of their religion. Wasn't that the fear when Kennedy ran for president? That the pope would use Kennedy to promote the Catholic faith?
My big fear is not necessarily a mormon becoming president, but the repercussions in Utah of a mormon becoming president. An already warped and wacky place will become even more warped and wacky when they have an LDS president to gloat about.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Nicknames
The fellow who lives in the office next to me calls me "Montana", which is amusing because we all wear badges with our names and smiling faces on them, and I'm not a Montana native. I guess you just reach out to something that identifies the person and go with that. If we named people by where they've been, my office roomie would be called "U.S.C." and my office roomie who moved would be called "Minnesota".
Or maybe "Montana" has a wild, romantic sound to it that other place names don't. At least I'd like to think so.
Or maybe "Montana" has a wild, romantic sound to it that other place names don't. At least I'd like to think so.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Boots On The Ground
Iraq 1
Iraq 2
Marines In Fallujah
I was wandering on YouTube and found a couple (a lot, actually. I'm just posting a couple for brevity) of videos that have, uh, wartime footage not sponsored by CNN or FoxNews.
Looking at a couple comments on these videos, there's a lot of hate and general misunderstanding regarding them. I have not been there, and I don't know what war feels like. But I do know a couple people who have spent some time over there, and I do believe (from what they've told me) it's the closest thing to Hell on Earth someone can experience in this day and age.
These guys don't care about the politics of the situation. They care about getting home. They care about their brother next to them. They care about killing insurgents, because if they don't the insurgents will kill them.
I've spent a lot of time thinking about this recently. I think in a lot of ways this war is more complicated than what the average American thinks. I think that yes, war is not a good thing. I also think that now the U.S. has dug itself into this situation that we need to throw all the resources we can into stopping the insurgency and stabilizing Iraq so these guys can come home. Because believe it or not, the United States has a responsibility to Iraq to finish what we started.
Iraq 2
Marines In Fallujah
I was wandering on YouTube and found a couple (a lot, actually. I'm just posting a couple for brevity) of videos that have, uh, wartime footage not sponsored by CNN or FoxNews.
Looking at a couple comments on these videos, there's a lot of hate and general misunderstanding regarding them. I have not been there, and I don't know what war feels like. But I do know a couple people who have spent some time over there, and I do believe (from what they've told me) it's the closest thing to Hell on Earth someone can experience in this day and age.
These guys don't care about the politics of the situation. They care about getting home. They care about their brother next to them. They care about killing insurgents, because if they don't the insurgents will kill them.
I've spent a lot of time thinking about this recently. I think in a lot of ways this war is more complicated than what the average American thinks. I think that yes, war is not a good thing. I also think that now the U.S. has dug itself into this situation that we need to throw all the resources we can into stopping the insurgency and stabilizing Iraq so these guys can come home. Because believe it or not, the United States has a responsibility to Iraq to finish what we started.
What is Beauty?
The Evolution of Beauty
There is a Photoshop how-to book on plastic surgery I browsed through once. How to make eyes bigger, how to make eyelashes longer, skin clearer/darker/lighter/etc., how to make breasts bigger and waists smaller. How to give someone six-pack abs.
My cousin had a friend who was getting married and sent one of those invitations that included a photo of the happy couple. My cousin's sister (who is also my cousin, incidentally) mentioned that the bride-to-be was pretty. When I looked at the photo, I saw a too-thin girl with a long nose. A girl wearing eye makeup that didn't suit her, a girl whose smile was contrived and unnatural. The girl wasn't ugly, but I didn't think "pretty" would have been the right word to describe her.
Perhaps my standard of beauty is different from my cousin's, and I am by no means a judge of beauty, but it seemed strange to me to call the bride-to-be "pretty".
For some reason I tend to tie (or at least try to) personality to physical attractiveness. There are some relatively physically attractive people in the world who are selfish, who hate. People who aren't kind. And that reason alone keeps them from being beautiful in my eyes.
There is a Photoshop how-to book on plastic surgery I browsed through once. How to make eyes bigger, how to make eyelashes longer, skin clearer/darker/lighter/etc., how to make breasts bigger and waists smaller. How to give someone six-pack abs.
My cousin had a friend who was getting married and sent one of those invitations that included a photo of the happy couple. My cousin's sister (who is also my cousin, incidentally) mentioned that the bride-to-be was pretty. When I looked at the photo, I saw a too-thin girl with a long nose. A girl wearing eye makeup that didn't suit her, a girl whose smile was contrived and unnatural. The girl wasn't ugly, but I didn't think "pretty" would have been the right word to describe her.
Perhaps my standard of beauty is different from my cousin's, and I am by no means a judge of beauty, but it seemed strange to me to call the bride-to-be "pretty".
For some reason I tend to tie (or at least try to) personality to physical attractiveness. There are some relatively physically attractive people in the world who are selfish, who hate. People who aren't kind. And that reason alone keeps them from being beautiful in my eyes.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Blog Addiction
It's relatively easy to get addicted to reading others' blogs.
While most blogs are sappy, not intellectually nutritional, and/or unreadable, there are still lots of good blogs out there.
One of my new friends is an Iraq War veteran, and I was looking into what the World of Blogs had in store by way of people in Iraq.
This is what I came up with.
Today In Iraq
Baghdad Burning
Sgt Hook
Boots In Baghdad
A Day In Iraq
There's lots of other good stuff out there, too, but this is what I found on short notice and appeared to be worthwhile to read.
Now I want to pick up a copy of Blog of War.
While most blogs are sappy, not intellectually nutritional, and/or unreadable, there are still lots of good blogs out there.
One of my new friends is an Iraq War veteran, and I was looking into what the World of Blogs had in store by way of people in Iraq.
This is what I came up with.
Today In Iraq
Baghdad Burning
Sgt Hook
Boots In Baghdad
A Day In Iraq
There's lots of other good stuff out there, too, but this is what I found on short notice and appeared to be worthwhile to read.
Now I want to pick up a copy of Blog of War.
Daily Adventure - Bubble Tea!
When I found out I was moving to California I told everyone the first thing I would do is get myself some Bubble Tea.
Turns out that "first thing" takes a month for me to accomplish!
I ended up going to BobaLoca on the corner of Sepulveda and Crenshaw because Boba Paradise on the corner of Crenshaw and PCH had a "B" food service rating (and I was told to never, ever go to a place that had anything less than an "A"). I must also add that BobaFind isn't completely accurate; there is no Lollicup on Crenshaw (unless it's hidden near Izakaya Yuzen Kan, which is completely possible because I *have* driven past a Home Depot here before and not know it).
I must say I was very happy with my large cup of Bubble Milk Tea with chewy boba in it. Unfortunately they don't have Passionfruit juice, which next to milk tea is my favorite beverage to have floaties in.
Maybe I'll have to go on another quest to find the Passionfruit Juice. Unfortunately West L.A. is where the closest Volcano Tea is located, which is just too far for me. Maybe I'll have to explore the shopping center Izakaya Yuzen Kan is located and hope that Lollicup will magically appear and satisfy my exotic juice craving.
Note: Also check out FuRaiBo on Redondo Beach Blvd. in Gardena. Excellent fried chicken there.
Turns out that "first thing" takes a month for me to accomplish!
I ended up going to BobaLoca on the corner of Sepulveda and Crenshaw because Boba Paradise on the corner of Crenshaw and PCH had a "B" food service rating (and I was told to never, ever go to a place that had anything less than an "A"). I must also add that BobaFind isn't completely accurate; there is no Lollicup on Crenshaw (unless it's hidden near Izakaya Yuzen Kan, which is completely possible because I *have* driven past a Home Depot here before and not know it).
I must say I was very happy with my large cup of Bubble Milk Tea with chewy boba in it. Unfortunately they don't have Passionfruit juice, which next to milk tea is my favorite beverage to have floaties in.
Maybe I'll have to go on another quest to find the Passionfruit Juice. Unfortunately West L.A. is where the closest Volcano Tea is located, which is just too far for me. Maybe I'll have to explore the shopping center Izakaya Yuzen Kan is located and hope that Lollicup will magically appear and satisfy my exotic juice craving.
Note: Also check out FuRaiBo on Redondo Beach Blvd. in Gardena. Excellent fried chicken there.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
On Being Ex-Mormon & Relationships
Sometimes I feel out-of-touch with the ex-mormon community, because I was never as indoctrinated as most of those who post on the Recovery from Mormonism bulletin board or because I don't necessarily have something "mormon" to discuss.
We can never escape where we've been, or who we are or who we have been.
Most of the time, the fact that I am an ex-mormon doesn't show up in my daily life. I wake up (early!), miss taking a decent breakfast, commute to work, work, commute back home, and then do whatever it is I do that takes up the rest of the day. No one needs to be ex-mormon to do what I do every day. I hope that some day there are no more ex-mormons, because what that religion does to people is an ugly thing and I do believe it would be a good thing if someday there is no such thing as Temple Square in Salt Lake City; no theocracy in Utah and no more black-suited missionaries on the streets of the world. That world doesn't exist today, but I can hope.
Sometimes, however, the fact that I spent a critical part of my youth in Utah does appear, and I have to deal with the quirkiness of that. Most of this quirkiness deals with mormon gender roles and mormon stereotypes regarding women being dissonant with the type of person I am, the type of person my parents raised me to be. I've (possibly not single-handedly) ruined more than one relationship because of LDS-cultural expectations of women, and I've possibly alienated a lot of my LDS friends because of my opinions regarding their religion.
Please don't misunderstand me; I respect choice of religion and I respect my friends. I don't respect a religion. I don't tie the two together, which many LDS adherents seem to do.
Sometimes I have to bite my tongue when I'm with my LDS relatives when they say something like "polygamy isn't practiced today the way Joe Smith envisioned it to."
I alienate old LDS friends, too, when I say something that's culturally "not right" to them. For example, I've been chatting with an old high school friend online for the past week or so. He's recently married, and was expounding the joys of being married and telling me that I needed to get married. After getting more than slightly irritated, I said, "I'm young, I'm happy with my career and my life, why do I need to get married now rather than later?"
My friend said, "Kids". I responded, "Hmm. Kids? I only want two. Even if I got married at 30 (I'm 23 now - an old maid by LDS standards) I would have enough time."
To this my friend said nothing.
A related conversation with this same person revealed that his wife is expecting a child, and he was feeling insecure about his abilities as a father. When I asked for the due date, let's say it was about eight-and-a-half months from the wedding date. I said to my friend, "I know this is really absolutely none of my business, but the math doesn't seem right." He said, "I know, it's a honeymoon baby; we were planning to wait two years but plans change."
From this additional conversation and similar conversations with a couple other (female) LDS friends, it seems to me that birth-control/sexual education is non-existent in Utah (or at least in the school district I attended). The attitude seems to be, "we had sex, and oops! Now we're going to have a baby." It's like someone took the plus sign from 2+2=4. Hello?!? Did you *think* to use some B.C.? There's no logic or responsibility.
I definitely am not against marriage, I think marriage between the right people is a beautiful thing. I think little ones (kids) are wonderful. But I also think that I'm not ready to be a wife or a parent. I want to be the best mom I can be when I have kids, and I can't offer kids that right now. Why should I have kids if I can't give them the best person, the best mom that I can aspire to be?
We can never escape where we've been, or who we are or who we have been.
Most of the time, the fact that I am an ex-mormon doesn't show up in my daily life. I wake up (early!), miss taking a decent breakfast, commute to work, work, commute back home, and then do whatever it is I do that takes up the rest of the day. No one needs to be ex-mormon to do what I do every day. I hope that some day there are no more ex-mormons, because what that religion does to people is an ugly thing and I do believe it would be a good thing if someday there is no such thing as Temple Square in Salt Lake City; no theocracy in Utah and no more black-suited missionaries on the streets of the world. That world doesn't exist today, but I can hope.
Sometimes, however, the fact that I spent a critical part of my youth in Utah does appear, and I have to deal with the quirkiness of that. Most of this quirkiness deals with mormon gender roles and mormon stereotypes regarding women being dissonant with the type of person I am, the type of person my parents raised me to be. I've (possibly not single-handedly) ruined more than one relationship because of LDS-cultural expectations of women, and I've possibly alienated a lot of my LDS friends because of my opinions regarding their religion.
Please don't misunderstand me; I respect choice of religion and I respect my friends. I don't respect a religion. I don't tie the two together, which many LDS adherents seem to do.
Sometimes I have to bite my tongue when I'm with my LDS relatives when they say something like "polygamy isn't practiced today the way Joe Smith envisioned it to."
I alienate old LDS friends, too, when I say something that's culturally "not right" to them. For example, I've been chatting with an old high school friend online for the past week or so. He's recently married, and was expounding the joys of being married and telling me that I needed to get married. After getting more than slightly irritated, I said, "I'm young, I'm happy with my career and my life, why do I need to get married now rather than later?"
My friend said, "Kids". I responded, "Hmm. Kids? I only want two. Even if I got married at 30 (I'm 23 now - an old maid by LDS standards) I would have enough time."
To this my friend said nothing.
A related conversation with this same person revealed that his wife is expecting a child, and he was feeling insecure about his abilities as a father. When I asked for the due date, let's say it was about eight-and-a-half months from the wedding date. I said to my friend, "I know this is really absolutely none of my business, but the math doesn't seem right." He said, "I know, it's a honeymoon baby; we were planning to wait two years but plans change."
From this additional conversation and similar conversations with a couple other (female) LDS friends, it seems to me that birth-control/sexual education is non-existent in Utah (or at least in the school district I attended). The attitude seems to be, "we had sex, and oops! Now we're going to have a baby." It's like someone took the plus sign from 2+2=4. Hello?!? Did you *think* to use some B.C.? There's no logic or responsibility.
I definitely am not against marriage, I think marriage between the right people is a beautiful thing. I think little ones (kids) are wonderful. But I also think that I'm not ready to be a wife or a parent. I want to be the best mom I can be when I have kids, and I can't offer kids that right now. Why should I have kids if I can't give them the best person, the best mom that I can aspire to be?
Movie Review - Chungking Express
I bought this movie off of YesAsia because I wanted to see something else that had Takeshi Kaneshiro in it. I usually don't purchase stuff "blind", but I really liked Takeshi in House of Flying Daggers (even though the movie wasn't that great) and everything on the internet seemed to point to Chungking Express as a good start to the rest of his filmography.
The copy I bought was a VCD copy, because it was the only "Chinese" copy with English subtitles I could find (according to the edition notes on YesAsia) and wasn't the Quentin Tarantino version. I ended up buying the Quentin Tarantino version at Barnes & Noble last weekend because it was in widescreen and all on one disc (the VCD version is on two discs). I haven't watched the DVD copy through all the way, but there are some translation differences that I'm somewhat disappointed in, most notably in Cop 223's password to his message service: it's "Undying Love" on the DVD, and "Loving You For 10,000 Years" on the VCD. For some reason, "Loving You For 10,000 Years" sounds more appropriate. You'll understand if you've seen the movie. I think the Quentin Tarantino DVD also uses a slightly different cut of the movie, which bothers me. Maybe one of these days I'll get really good in Mandarin and Cantonese that I can watch the movie without subtitles so I can buy a "Chinese" DVD version of the film. But then I'll have to get a Region 5 player, and that causes all sorts of other problems.
Strangly enough I held off watching the movie until after I moved; this was the first movie I watched in California. There's so much stuff I really liked in the movie that it'll take much too long to put it here (and probably ruin the movie). I realize the first part of the film may drag, but it does a great job at setting up the more memorable second part of the film.
There's an idea expressed in the second part of the film (and in the first, to an extent) that I really related to. Cop 663's girlfriend has left him, and he envisions his apartment as sharing the emotional loss with him. "You used to be so chubby!" he tells a thinning bar of soap. "You've lost a lot of weight; you need more self-confidence!"
Then Faye (played by Faye Wong) breaks into Cop 663's apartment and redecorates (among other things), which I believe encourages Cop 663 to get over his heartbreak and helps bring him and Faye together.
Hopefully I haven't given too much away. But I really like that Wong Kar-Wai has expressed this concept - that our surroundings are a reflection of what we are going through internally - so well. There's a lot of hope in this movie, and a lot of hope for refinding lost love. It's beautiful.
There's also the cliched "isolation in the city" theme working here, but it's not too bad to deal with. This is a movie to rewatch just for the little gems of interesting stuff to see and think about. I really like the handheld camera shots, especially when they're choppy (probably just a low shutter speed).
To summarize, I'd recommend finding a copy that Quentin Tarantino didn't touch, although his DVD isn't necessarily bad. The translation differences do bug me, though. It's not that expensive to get a "real" copy from YesAsia, and I think the extra trouble is worth the effort. Watch this on a lonely rainy night with lots of popcorn.
The copy I bought was a VCD copy, because it was the only "Chinese" copy with English subtitles I could find (according to the edition notes on YesAsia) and wasn't the Quentin Tarantino version. I ended up buying the Quentin Tarantino version at Barnes & Noble last weekend because it was in widescreen and all on one disc (the VCD version is on two discs). I haven't watched the DVD copy through all the way, but there are some translation differences that I'm somewhat disappointed in, most notably in Cop 223's password to his message service: it's "Undying Love" on the DVD, and "Loving You For 10,000 Years" on the VCD. For some reason, "Loving You For 10,000 Years" sounds more appropriate. You'll understand if you've seen the movie. I think the Quentin Tarantino DVD also uses a slightly different cut of the movie, which bothers me. Maybe one of these days I'll get really good in Mandarin and Cantonese that I can watch the movie without subtitles so I can buy a "Chinese" DVD version of the film. But then I'll have to get a Region 5 player, and that causes all sorts of other problems.
Strangly enough I held off watching the movie until after I moved; this was the first movie I watched in California. There's so much stuff I really liked in the movie that it'll take much too long to put it here (and probably ruin the movie). I realize the first part of the film may drag, but it does a great job at setting up the more memorable second part of the film.
There's an idea expressed in the second part of the film (and in the first, to an extent) that I really related to. Cop 663's girlfriend has left him, and he envisions his apartment as sharing the emotional loss with him. "You used to be so chubby!" he tells a thinning bar of soap. "You've lost a lot of weight; you need more self-confidence!"
Then Faye (played by Faye Wong) breaks into Cop 663's apartment and redecorates (among other things), which I believe encourages Cop 663 to get over his heartbreak and helps bring him and Faye together.
Hopefully I haven't given too much away. But I really like that Wong Kar-Wai has expressed this concept - that our surroundings are a reflection of what we are going through internally - so well. There's a lot of hope in this movie, and a lot of hope for refinding lost love. It's beautiful.
There's also the cliched "isolation in the city" theme working here, but it's not too bad to deal with. This is a movie to rewatch just for the little gems of interesting stuff to see and think about. I really like the handheld camera shots, especially when they're choppy (probably just a low shutter speed).
To summarize, I'd recommend finding a copy that Quentin Tarantino didn't touch, although his DVD isn't necessarily bad. The translation differences do bug me, though. It's not that expensive to get a "real" copy from YesAsia, and I think the extra trouble is worth the effort. Watch this on a lonely rainy night with lots of popcorn.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Interesting Nerdy Stuff
An aspiring computer scientist looked up the e-mail addresses of some influential minds in the business and asked them 10 questions. Here is his report.
I'm of the opinion that a strong background in math and problem-solving in general is really important in today's society. I know it sounds weird, but the more math you have, the more things make sense. I don't count economics.
Oh, yeah, and the ability to think for one's self. But I may be asking for too much.
I'm of the opinion that a strong background in math and problem-solving in general is really important in today's society. I know it sounds weird, but the more math you have, the more things make sense. I don't count economics.
Oh, yeah, and the ability to think for one's self. But I may be asking for too much.
Monday, October 09, 2006
Migrating
I recently migrated to Blogger beta, which has all sorts of interesting stuff like labels. Actually, labels were the only thing that really jumped out at me; I'm sure Blogger has all sorts of other functionality in beta besides the labels.
Anyway, I was adding labels to all of my older posts, and I noticed that a lot of my posts from late last year, and even some from early this year, showed a very unhappy person. Wow. I apologize.
When I started blogging the last thing I wanted to do was turn this into another one of those "woe is me" blogs.
I think now, today, I'm very happy. I've moved 1000 miles from where I started blogging (maybe we never can escape ourselves, though), and I've started the next great new chapter in my life. I've cleaned up emotionally, and hopefully I'll be able to write and contribute new and interesting things to this.
Anyway, I was adding labels to all of my older posts, and I noticed that a lot of my posts from late last year, and even some from early this year, showed a very unhappy person. Wow. I apologize.
When I started blogging the last thing I wanted to do was turn this into another one of those "woe is me" blogs.
I think now, today, I'm very happy. I've moved 1000 miles from where I started blogging (maybe we never can escape ourselves, though), and I've started the next great new chapter in my life. I've cleaned up emotionally, and hopefully I'll be able to write and contribute new and interesting things to this.
Can Anyone Identify This Photo?
I'm a big fan of photography, and have been wanting to start a collection of prints for some time. Not in any particular genre, just stuff that I like.
Anyway, I thought a particular photo of a Marine running along the beach on D-Day would be a nice companion piece to the Flag-Raising at Mt. Suribachi. Except I don't know who took the photograph, or even if it has a title.
Here is a link to a poster from the National WWII Museum. And here it is on the cover of Norman Mailer's "The Naked & The Dead". (which is a good, if not great book, btw)
Since my googling hasn't come up with anything, I thought maybe someone else might know. I tried looking on the back of my copy of the Mailer book, but no luck.
Anyway, I thought a particular photo of a Marine running along the beach on D-Day would be a nice companion piece to the Flag-Raising at Mt. Suribachi. Except I don't know who took the photograph, or even if it has a title.
Here is a link to a poster from the National WWII Museum. And here it is on the cover of Norman Mailer's "The Naked & The Dead". (which is a good, if not great book, btw)
Since my googling hasn't come up with anything, I thought maybe someone else might know. I tried looking on the back of my copy of the Mailer book, but no luck.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Traffic
One of the things I find incredible here is the traffic. Granted, L.A. is infamous for its bumper-to-bumper traffic on the 405. And yes, the drivers here will pull some insane stunts, for example, cutting across six lanes of heavy traffic to make their exit.
But I think there's also something beautiful about the traffic here, especially at night. An artery of red lights going one way, a vein of white going the other. Automobiles of every shape, size, age and color weaving between one another, flowing faster than the speed limit most of the time.
Do I trust this guy behind me to let me in this other lane? How soon should I start thinking about getting into the right lane for my exit? Should I signal? If I signal will he close the gap?
It's all very intricate, like dancing. Which reminds me I haven't elaborated on my tango lesson yet. I learned a lot that night, about dancing, about following, about trust, about relationships in general. One particular man was very helpful in teaching me some of these things.
"Lean on me," he whispers. "No, no, lean on me. That's better."
"Don't anticipate. If you anticipate it's like dancing by yourself."
"Perfect! That's perfect! You are going to be good."
What I find truly incredible is that, once you trust the fellow you're dancing with, it becomes much easier. He wants you to do "the ochos", he is going to twist your hips and hold you in a way that it's very simple to accomplish. Dancing becomes more fluid, more beautiful.
You never learn that in the movies.
But I think there's also something beautiful about the traffic here, especially at night. An artery of red lights going one way, a vein of white going the other. Automobiles of every shape, size, age and color weaving between one another, flowing faster than the speed limit most of the time.
Do I trust this guy behind me to let me in this other lane? How soon should I start thinking about getting into the right lane for my exit? Should I signal? If I signal will he close the gap?
It's all very intricate, like dancing. Which reminds me I haven't elaborated on my tango lesson yet. I learned a lot that night, about dancing, about following, about trust, about relationships in general. One particular man was very helpful in teaching me some of these things.
"Lean on me," he whispers. "No, no, lean on me. That's better."
"Don't anticipate. If you anticipate it's like dancing by yourself."
"Perfect! That's perfect! You are going to be good."
What I find truly incredible is that, once you trust the fellow you're dancing with, it becomes much easier. He wants you to do "the ochos", he is going to twist your hips and hold you in a way that it's very simple to accomplish. Dancing becomes more fluid, more beautiful.
You never learn that in the movies.
National Depression Screening Day
It's October 5th! If you're not feeling like "yourself", go get checked out! Especially if you have any (or multiple!) of these symptoms:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood.
- Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism.
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness.
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed.
- Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down”.
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions.
- Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping.
- Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain.
- Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts.
- Restlessness, irritability.
- Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain.
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Very Civil Disobedience
A Plan For Very Civil Disobedience
I'm sure MLK and Ghandi never thought civil disobedience would be used with the cooperation of police forces.
I'm sure MLK and Ghandi never thought civil disobedience would be used with the cooperation of police forces.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Daily Adventure
My daily adventure yesterday was to take a bike ride down to the shore. My neighbor who lives below me invited me on a bike ride, and since he owns three bikes he offered to let me borrow one for the trip.
We took off down towards Redondo Beach, then walked through the pier, and biked to Hermosa Pier and had dinner (Sushi!). Then we biked back. All in all I think it was about 10 miles. My neighbor commented that usually people are surprised how much of a workout one's legs get in 10 miles, but I probably could have done a 15-miler and been OK. My legs weren't burning or sore, so maybe working out over the summer did do something good for me!
The sea was a beautiful gray-glass color, and although I wasn't treated to a nice sunset, the fog (or marine layer, depending on who you talk to) created a nice ambiance. Few people were on the beach, so it was nice and un-crowded.
We took off down towards Redondo Beach, then walked through the pier, and biked to Hermosa Pier and had dinner (Sushi!). Then we biked back. All in all I think it was about 10 miles. My neighbor commented that usually people are surprised how much of a workout one's legs get in 10 miles, but I probably could have done a 15-miler and been OK. My legs weren't burning or sore, so maybe working out over the summer did do something good for me!
The sea was a beautiful gray-glass color, and although I wasn't treated to a nice sunset, the fog (or marine layer, depending on who you talk to) created a nice ambiance. Few people were on the beach, so it was nice and un-crowded.
Monday, September 25, 2006
The 9 O'Clockers
My new apartment complex has lots of amenities, including a pool and hot tub. Unfortunately for residents, they shoo everyone out of the pool, hot tub, and clubhouse after 10:00 PM.
A group of colorful young professionals hang out in the hot tub at night, and start trickling into the hot tub around 9:00 PM, hence "The 9 O'Clockers". From my limited experience with the group, the ring leader seems to be a guy named Bruce, who happens to have great access to expensive fancy printers for whenever he decides the 9 O'Clockers need to throw a BBQ.
Being a former Navy man, Bruce has a knack for lavishly embellishing any story, no matter how innocent.
----Flashback Begins Here----
The first night I spent in my new apartment was, obviously, moving day. I spent all afternoon waiting for the moving van and then unpacking boxes. Naturally I didn't think to check if the electric water heater was working. So at 10:30 or so, when I tried to take a shower, the water was unnaturally cold.
I didn't think it was a big deal, so I called the front desk answering service and asked if they could have maintenance stop by in the morning to have a look at it. (I was willing to just take a sponge bath with cold water than stand in a freezing shower)
"Are you sure that's OK? I can have the courtesy patrol stop by and see if there's something we can do tonight about that,"
"No, no, it's really OK. I don't think it's a big deal, just have maintenance come by in the morning."
Not five minutes after I hang up the phone, it rings. It's "The Courtesy Patrol" guy (FYI, all the courtesy patrolmen are really LAPD during the day, and they take turns wandering around the apartments at night. Well, a friend did warn me that cops were all perverts.), who wanted to know if it would be all right for him to come over and see if he could look at the water heater for me.
OK, it's not a big deal, but he insists. He comes over, and within 5 minutes drops the fact that he's LAPD (this is supposed to be a good pickup line, right? Because I thought they were supposed to keep quiet on stuff like that). He thinks the problem is that the breaker needs to be reset, and then proceeds to go through my entire apt (closets too!) looking for the breaker box.
We find the breaker box, and of course the switch for the water heater was off.
Myself and the courtesy patrolman chat for a while, he offers to get a bottle of water, coke, or beer (what's with all the men here trying to get me drunk?) for me (as I just had my fridge installed and nothing in it whatsoever), and we go over to his apartment and chat some more. I go home and fall asleep. The patrolman mentioned the 9 O'Clockers, and I thought it might be a nice way to meet new people. End of story, or so I thought.
----Flashback Ends Here----
When I show up to one of the nightly gatherings, everyone wants to know how I found out about the group, what I'm doing in Southern California, etc. And the above story leaks. Bruce takes the opportunity to turn it into a lurid tale that completely twists the facts out of proportion. "Do you want to see my big gun?", "Let's make sure it's loaded", "Hi, it's ______ from the Courtesy Patrol", etc.
Not that I really mind; I did go to an engineering school after all, which did succeed in brainwashing my mind into the gutter. Plus the story is much funnier if you hear Bruce tell it.
A group of colorful young professionals hang out in the hot tub at night, and start trickling into the hot tub around 9:00 PM, hence "The 9 O'Clockers". From my limited experience with the group, the ring leader seems to be a guy named Bruce, who happens to have great access to expensive fancy printers for whenever he decides the 9 O'Clockers need to throw a BBQ.
Being a former Navy man, Bruce has a knack for lavishly embellishing any story, no matter how innocent.
----Flashback Begins Here----
The first night I spent in my new apartment was, obviously, moving day. I spent all afternoon waiting for the moving van and then unpacking boxes. Naturally I didn't think to check if the electric water heater was working. So at 10:30 or so, when I tried to take a shower, the water was unnaturally cold.
I didn't think it was a big deal, so I called the front desk answering service and asked if they could have maintenance stop by in the morning to have a look at it. (I was willing to just take a sponge bath with cold water than stand in a freezing shower)
"Are you sure that's OK? I can have the courtesy patrol stop by and see if there's something we can do tonight about that,"
"No, no, it's really OK. I don't think it's a big deal, just have maintenance come by in the morning."
Not five minutes after I hang up the phone, it rings. It's "The Courtesy Patrol" guy (FYI, all the courtesy patrolmen are really LAPD during the day, and they take turns wandering around the apartments at night. Well, a friend did warn me that cops were all perverts.), who wanted to know if it would be all right for him to come over and see if he could look at the water heater for me.
OK, it's not a big deal, but he insists. He comes over, and within 5 minutes drops the fact that he's LAPD (this is supposed to be a good pickup line, right? Because I thought they were supposed to keep quiet on stuff like that). He thinks the problem is that the breaker needs to be reset, and then proceeds to go through my entire apt (closets too!) looking for the breaker box.
We find the breaker box, and of course the switch for the water heater was off.
Myself and the courtesy patrolman chat for a while, he offers to get a bottle of water, coke, or beer (what's with all the men here trying to get me drunk?) for me (as I just had my fridge installed and nothing in it whatsoever), and we go over to his apartment and chat some more. I go home and fall asleep. The patrolman mentioned the 9 O'Clockers, and I thought it might be a nice way to meet new people. End of story, or so I thought.
----Flashback Ends Here----
When I show up to one of the nightly gatherings, everyone wants to know how I found out about the group, what I'm doing in Southern California, etc. And the above story leaks. Bruce takes the opportunity to turn it into a lurid tale that completely twists the facts out of proportion. "Do you want to see my big gun?", "Let's make sure it's loaded", "Hi, it's ______ from the Courtesy Patrol", etc.
Not that I really mind; I did go to an engineering school after all, which did succeed in brainwashing my mind into the gutter. Plus the story is much funnier if you hear Bruce tell it.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Woo Hoo! California!
So I suppose I'm fairly settled in SoCal now.
Here's a quick overview of the past couple of weeks:
I went to part of the Dodgers-Padres game on Monday; the car broke down in the middle of the freeway (didn't cost TOO much to fix). I didn't stay for the whole game, but it's quite the experience to watch "the wave" go around a stadium with 58,000+ fans. . .twice.
Found a great apartment. Moved into great apartment.
Started work. Lovin' it!
Weirdly, the people here are much more forward. I got propositioned in the elevator at my former hotel the other day. The guy pretty much saw me in the elevator, asked me which floor I was on, and then asked me if I wanted to join him in his room. Hmm. The answer was no, obviously. Men in their late 30's and early 40's have approached me too. It's kind of. . . creepy.
Anyway, I'm really loving California and looking forward to learning Mandarin Chinese, the Argentine Tango, checking out the beach, surfing, etc. I even bought a new bikini. Maybe when I get paid I'll pick up some sunglasses (which apparently is a "must have" accessory here).
Here's a quick overview of the past couple of weeks:
I went to part of the Dodgers-Padres game on Monday; the car broke down in the middle of the freeway (didn't cost TOO much to fix). I didn't stay for the whole game, but it's quite the experience to watch "the wave" go around a stadium with 58,000+ fans. . .twice.
Found a great apartment. Moved into great apartment.
Started work. Lovin' it!
Weirdly, the people here are much more forward. I got propositioned in the elevator at my former hotel the other day. The guy pretty much saw me in the elevator, asked me which floor I was on, and then asked me if I wanted to join him in his room. Hmm. The answer was no, obviously. Men in their late 30's and early 40's have approached me too. It's kind of. . . creepy.
Anyway, I'm really loving California and looking forward to learning Mandarin Chinese, the Argentine Tango, checking out the beach, surfing, etc. I even bought a new bikini. Maybe when I get paid I'll pick up some sunglasses (which apparently is a "must have" accessory here).
Saturday, September 09, 2006
eHarmony Personality & Compatibility
(This is what I do with luxurious internet time)
I really enjoy personality tests. I'm not sure why, but it seems that good personality tests act as a mirror, and the "compatibility" tests tend to act as a very interesting mirror. The whole idea that some database thinks one particular type of person is right for me, and why it thinks that way, is very interesting to me.
So today I filled out an eHarmony Personality test just to see what would come up (I'm not signed up for their matching service, and I'm not planning to anytime soon). I'm not sure how accurate it is, but the fellow they describe in the Compatibility report sounds interesting.
So here it is in part(it's OK if I pull something from a website if I source it, right?):
You are best described as:
TAKING CARE OF OTHERS AND TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Words that describe you:
You are important. So are other people, especially if they are in trouble. You have a tender heart, but you know how to establish and keep personal boundaries. You are empathetic and compassionate, but you also believe that it's best if people solve their own problems and learn to take care of themselves, if they are able.
You are deeply moved by the needs of others, but you know that if you don't take good care of yourself, you'll wind up being of no use to anyone. So yours is a thoughtful compassion. You strive to be fair and sensible, taking care of others while also taking care of yourself.
When someone really is in trouble, you like to collaborate with them toward a solution; they do their part, you do yours. You consider carefully, and respond in a sensible way; they do their part, and together you move through the difficulty.
You seldom act impulsively; rather, when a problem arises, you take your time to think through the situation. This contemplative quality usually means that you'll arrive at a diplomatic solution, one that's fair for the other person and also fair to you. It's frequently a win/win situation.
On the Openness Dimension you are:
VERY CURIOUS
Words that describe you:
You are a very creative and imaginative person who is especially open to new ideas or new ways of thinking about old problems. You love to approach a conventional idea or a traditional way of doing things by walking around to the other side and explore it from a novel perspective. What's new is what interests you. Like an artist looking for a new way to see, you focus your imagination on envisioning ideas, events or problems in completely original ways. You are intellectually progressive, which means you like to think and feel your way into unexplored landscapes where you let your sense of intellectual adventure romp freely.
Because you are so curious you can also be very teachable. You learn from personal and interpersonal experiences as well as from classrooms and textbooks. You crave new information, and toss and turn it in your vivid imagination. When you come across an idea from someone else or a thought in your own head that is particularly provocative or original, you light up. With wit and wisdom, Dr. Seuss describes you like this: "Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!"
On Emotional Stability you are:
RESPONSIVE
Words that describe you:
You are an emotional person. In some ways, we are all emotional; we feel joy, anger, sadness and fear; some of us more powerfully than others - and you more powerfully than most. Your emotions are closer to the surface, and your feelings more obvious to you than is the case with most people. You've got your life in a good place, your dominant mood is upbeat, and unless life has been particularly trying for you, you greatly enjoy the richness and intensity of life that being so open with your emotions brings you.
Sure there are times when your feelings come very close to the surface, and life becomes more complicated. At these times you may grow self-conscious, or feel a bit anxious. But all in all, you much prefer being open with your emotions, breathing in all that life offers, than shutting down any part of your emotional experience. Granted, there may be times when these emotions are hard but you realize that is part of life. And more often than not you feel enriched by your emotions, by your ability to be open to all that life brings you. You know that even when you have those times that get you down, there will be even more times when you see life in ways that others just can't.
Your approach toward your obligations is:
FOCUSED AND FLEXIBLE
Words that describe you:
When you take on a task at work or at home, you are reliable; you get the job done. In an organized way, you define the goal, lay out a plan, figure how long the task will take, and get to work "solid and dependable you".
But and this is important you're not a slave to the plan. You're committed to it, but not chained to it; the connection is more casual and informal. You know that sometimes "the best laid plans" fall off the tracks; when this happens, you clean up the train wreck and start over, undeterred.
Though not happening often, when plans change, you're okay with it. In fact, sometimes you change the plan. It's too nice of a Saturday to finish organizing the garage. Let's go for a bike ride instead. True, the next rainy Saturday will likely find you back in the garage, but for now the work can wait.
What an interesting combination of qualities in you're organized, but casual; solid, but compliant; and dependable, but informal. At home and at work, people know they can rely on you. You take great satisfaction in knowing that people think of you as disciplined and responsible, but you also know that you have something of a free spirit in you, and when this spirit moves you, off you go, following the impulse of the moment. You are rightly proud of your work ethic, but you also enjoy your willingness to lay the tools down, crank up the music and play like a child.
When it comes to Extraversion you are:
SOMETIMES OUTGOING, SOMETIMES RESERVED
Words that describe you:
Lucky you! You enjoy your own company as much as you enjoy the company of others. You are a great conversationalist and thrive in the wonderful kinds of connections you know how to have with your family and friends. You also equally enjoy your own company, whether sitting in a favorite chair with your book and soft music playing or meandering in the woods by yourself. You like coming home to your family or your roommate; but if no one is home, you find quiet, solitary time to be just as pleasurable. What a great combination to enjoy being outgoing and to be just as comfortable being reserved. Lucky you!!
Because you are so amiable and relaxed, you are comfortable with almost any group of family or friends. Whether they are pumped up and lively or calm and subdued, you remain at ease. If someone needs to take over the conversation, you are comfortable taking the lead; you can also lay back and let someone else be in charge. If the conversation gets rowdy, your moderate demeanor will often draw it down to a more temperate level. If someone in the group loses their cool, you will most likely maintain your poise, and if they get nasty you know how to keep a civil tongue.
You may find yourself out of balance on occasion. If you're alone too much, you may need to get in touch with someone. If you spend too much time with your family and friends, you may need to sneak off for a day by yourself, to putter and read and clear your head of the noise of too much conversation. When you're at your best, you live with a rhythm of time with others, time alone, time with others, time alone It's a satisfying, comfortable balance. Lucky you!
*Compatibility Profile Starts Here*
Some of your ideal mates strongest personality characteristics are:
He generally prefers to solve problems based on rational causes, rather than emotions.
He has a very strong intellect which he enjoys exercising.
He tends to energize his friends into action.
He tends to be very energetic.
Some important qualities that your ideal partner brings to the relationship are:
He is very happy with his life.
He is always appreciative of the good things life has to offer.
He is very good at communicating his thoughts and feelings.
It is easy for him to see other's points of view.
Important goals and values for your ideal mate in a relationship are:
Most of his friends and acquaintances consider him to be very attractive.
He shares your attitudes regarding sex.
Being emotionally expressive is an important part of his personality.
Being healthy and active are primary goals in his life.
Based on your profile, you are most compatible with men who fit the following descriptions:
Kindness: Your ideal mate goes out of his way to shower you with attention. He is likely to perform small acts of kindness others would not even consider, like jotting you a note of appreciation or bringing home your favorite take-out meal when you're tired. He won't take you for granted. He wants to be there for you when you have a problem or when you just want to talk. He is motivated by a strong belief in the importance of treating people with kindness and consideration.
Communication: You will have the best relationship with a man who places a high value on both talking and listening. He also enjoys speaking his mind, but knows that understanding someone else's point of view is vital to healthy communication. He's accepting of what people tell him and rarely argues, even when he disagrees with their opinions. Friends and family appreciate his good listening skills and expressive, open nature.
Romantic Passion: Your ideal mate is a sensual and passionate man who invests 100 percent in the romantic aspects of a relationship. He places a high value on romantic gestures, such as love notes or flowers, and enjoys the reaction they elicit. He's the kind of man who enjoys connecting emotionally, and will take the extra steps to create real romance in a relationship, like planning romantic weekend getaways, finding special restaurants to share and making you feel truly special.
Adaptability: Your ideal mate is someone who really enjoys thinking outside the box when faced with a problem. He tries to approach challenges with an open mind so that he's not tied to conventional solutions. You are likely to find it difficult in the long run if you are with someone who is unable to think in new and creative ways in order to solve a problem or resolve an argument. Friends and family of your best match are likely to describe him as the kind of person who remains calm in a crisis and bounces back easily when setbacks arise.
Curiosity: You will be well matched with a man who is eager to learn. He's the kind of person who's able to discuss the latest headlines and world events. He is constantly expanding his knowledge and understanding of the world. Each avenue of knowledge leads him to another inquiry; for example, a visit to a historic landmark might spur him to do additional research. He's the kind of person who enjoys intellectual stimulation even when he's relaxing. He appreciates your desire to understand the world around you.
Intellect: Your ideal mate is smart, educated and knowledgeable. He is astute and will appreciate your understanding of a wide variety of topics. He has varied interests in subjects such as literature or languages. Other people see him as someone who's looking for friends who are his equal in terms of intelligence or knowledge. He places a high priority on reflection and intellectual pursuits.
Artistic Passion: You are best suited to the kind of man who is able to appreciate art and creativity. He appreciates things like museums and art galleries, but probably just doesn't get to them very often. He enjoys things like literature and fine art, but generally has other priorities when it comes to entertainment. Other people see him as someone who would visit some of the world's top museums during a trip abroad but who might neglect the ones in his own home town.
Sexual Passion: Your ideal companion is someone who needs to have an intense physical chemistry with his partner. He's the kind of person who wants to feel a surge of excitement, like an adrenaline rush, whenever his partner enters the room. You are most compatible with a man who thinks that intimate physical contact, like a romantic kiss, should be an exchange of sensual energy that leaves one breathless.
Appearance: You will be well matched with a man who appreciates the time and effort you put into how you look. He thinks it is important to put effort into looking one's best, such as wearing nice clothes or staying in shape. He is able to understand the care you take with things like your clothing, hair or makeup and will always let you know that he appreciates the end results. He is probably someone who knows the value of a first impression, and will work to ensure that his is flawless.
Physical Energy: You are most compatible with someone who may have a hard time sitting still. He's the kind of person who's energetic and active, whether he's heading out for a jog, a long walk or a mountain biking trek. He generally feels best at the end of a day if he's gotten some kind of exercise. Friends might describe him as a "fitness nut" who thrives on pushing himself to the limit physically.
Education: Your ideal mate is a man who wants his partner to be a person who is able to connect with him intellectually. He's the kind of person who discusses the issues of the day, like politics, religion, science or the arts. If he and his partner aren't intellectually compatible, he might feel like there's something missing from the relationship. He values learning and is accomplished academically.
Ambition: Your ideal mate is the kind of person who strives to be the best at what he does. He pays attention to his progress and compares himself to others, sometimes judging according to the size of his house or the salary he earns. He understands your desire to be recognized for your accomplishments. Like you, however, he won't turn his quest for success into something that will dominate his life. Things like family, friends and time to himself are important to him.
Emotional Status: You are best suited to a man who is stable and calm. He doesn't overreact when he faces challenges like financial setbacks or professional hurdles. He tends to maintain an even emotional keel. He rarely feels anxious, depressed or angry and always avoids taking his personal frustrations out on others. His friends probably describe him as the kind of person who can handle anything and never seems out of control or unable to cope. Like you, he is satisfied with his life, but is ready to find someone to share and grow with.
Self-Concept: Your ideal match is someone who won't change himself just to fit in. Like you, he is resilient and self-confident. He's comfortable with who he is and doesn't feel the need to follow the crowd or be a slave to current fads. He believes in himself and doesn't look to others for approval. Other people see him as self-assured, caring and well adjusted.
Family Background: Your ideal mate has a good relationship with his family, but it's not perfect. They enjoy talking or spending time together but do have occasional conflict, and there could be certain disagreements that have never been resolved. Generally speaking, his expectations about having a family of his own aren't overly idealistic. He's understands that family dynamics can work even when they're not perfect.
Traditionalism: You'll be happiest with a man who considers himself a good person: He has strong values and his moral beliefs are an important part of who he is. He might think people don't need to be sticklers when it comes to their personal beliefs, but he probably believes that values related to religion, country and family provide important general guidelines for life.
Some additional details about your ideal mate:
Character: Your ideal mate is a man who genuinely tries to care for others. His friends see him as someone who knows he's not perfect, but who makes a sincere effort for the important people in his life. He can show great kindness for others on occasion, but is by no means a saint. He will appreciate your compassionate side, but will also understand and empathize with your feeling that there are times when your personal needs and in life may overshadow concern for other people.
Autonomy: You will be best matched with someone who is interested to know all the important things about your past, but is equally if not more interested in experiencing the present and building a future together. You are most compatible with someone who believes that communication is vital in creating a healthy relationship, but you may have problems with someone who feels a burning need to know every last detail about your past or every thought that crosses your mind. When in a relationship: Your ideal partner sees himself as part of a couple, but still maintains his independence and identity.
Vitality and Security: You need a man who is honest and reliable. He has a good understanding of what it takes to make a relationship work over the long haul. He wants to build a relationship that will last, but doesn't need you for constant support. He shares your desire for stability and longevity. Friends describe him as the kind of person who wants to make his partner feel cared for and safe.
Conflict Resolution: You'll be happiest with someone who rarely gets into arguments. Others say he's the kind of person who has no enemies because he's a natural diplomat, brokering peace among those around him. When misunderstandings do arise, he is more concerned about resolving a conflict well than winning the fight. When he's wrong, he's quick to apologize; when he's right, he's quick to forgive and forget.
Emotional Energy: You'll be happiest in the long run with someone who is outgoing and vivacious. While not necessarily a whirlwind of constant activity, he's definitely not willing to sit by and watch life go by. He prefers doing to watching; he's more likely to want to organize a hike or hit the basketball court for a pickup game than enjoy spending hours watching TV or sitting around the house. He's at his best when he's on-the-go, and rarely needs time to recharge.
Dominance: You are best suited to someone who doesn't take competition to extremes. He likes to win but doesn't need to do so at all costs. He is competitive and aggressive when the situation warrants it, such as when vying for a promotion at work or playing football with friends - but generally accepts a loss with grace. He shares your belief that not everything's a contest, even though it's sometimes fun to pit yourself against others or push yourself to perform.
Sociability: You'll be happiest with a man who likes to spend time with old friends and make new ones. Like you, he might not always be the first to strike up a conversation with a stranger, but he is rarely tongue-tied once a conversation is underway. On some days, he might start a conversation with a complete stranger because he feels chatty. Other days, he would rather be alone or just talk to people he knows well already. At parties, he's the type of person who isn't afraid to venture outside his immediate group of friends and meet new people.
Humor: Your ideal mate is the kind of man who sometimes likes to entertain people. He occasionally enjoys telling jokes, making people laugh with things like wordplay, one-liners or satirical observations about friends and family. However, he doesn't feel the need to be a constant one-man show. His friends and family see him as someone who is funny and interesting but who knows when to take things seriously.
Industry: You are most compatible with someone who works hard at the office or jobsite, but avoids bringing too much stress and worry home. He likes to stay busy, but doesn't feel the need to fill every moment of every day with some task or chore. He's generally efficient, persistent and productive, but doesn't obsess over making lists of things to do or accomplish. He will appreciate your work ethic and your ability to enjoy the relaxation of downtime as well.
Organization: You will be best matched with a person who shares your ability to organize and plan for the future when necessary, but who can also appreciate the times when "less is more" in terms of planning and organization. He has a good ability to plan for the future, but he also has a spontaneous side which allows him to enjoy the occasional splurging on a fancy dinner or weekend getaway.
Obstreperousness: Your ideal mate is someone who isn't afraid to stand up for his opinions, but doesn't always feel the need to do so. You need someone who has beliefs and confidence strong enough to match your own. However, you will not do well with someone who needs to dominate every conversation and win every argument. You will do best with someone who knows when to speak his mind, and when to just go along with the people around him. You can tolerate a few rough edges when it comes to your ideal mate's level of Obstreperousness, because you've got some yourself.
Anger Management: You will be happiest with a man who works to control his temper when he is upset. He generally has a long fuse, so he doesn't get mad very often. When he does, he isn't likely to take it out on someone else. Friends and family describe him as the kind of person who doesn't always blame the people around him when things go wrong.
Mood Management: You are most compatible with someone who avoids taking bad moods out on others. You can appreciate that everyone has their bad days, and you need someone who can appreciate that you have yours as well. However, your ideal mate is in tune with his moods and takes effective steps to both regulate them and shield others from their negative effects. Others describe him as the kind of person who is good at cheering someone up when they're having a bad day.
Spirituality: Your ideal mate is someone who is spiritual but does not necessarily adhere to any particular system of beliefs. His faith affects his life, and he is probably looking for a woman who shares his beliefs. He's the kind of person who probably finds meaning in things like meditation, prayer or reading scripture, and believes these activities help make him a better person.
Family goals: Your ideal mate is someone who loves children and wants them to play a significant role in his life. He thinks family is important and is willing to commit his life to having children of his own. Friends say he is the kind of person who's comfortable around kids, who would get down on the floor to play with them when visiting someone's home. For this reason, children are probably drawn to him, too.
Altruism: Your ideal mate is the kind of person who cares about helping strangers but who might not spend a lot of his time doing so. He is someone who generally takes care of his friends when they're in need and who might feel a pang of guilt when he doesn't reach out to assist strangers. Others see him as someone who, with a little encouragement, will join efforts to help, whether it's a canned food drive or a charity fundraiser.
I really enjoy personality tests. I'm not sure why, but it seems that good personality tests act as a mirror, and the "compatibility" tests tend to act as a very interesting mirror. The whole idea that some database thinks one particular type of person is right for me, and why it thinks that way, is very interesting to me.
So today I filled out an eHarmony Personality test just to see what would come up (I'm not signed up for their matching service, and I'm not planning to anytime soon). I'm not sure how accurate it is, but the fellow they describe in the Compatibility report sounds interesting.
So here it is in part(it's OK if I pull something from a website if I source it, right?):
You are best described as:
TAKING CARE OF OTHERS AND TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Words that describe you:
- Fair
- Considered
- Collaborative
- Responsive
- Sensible
- Diplomatic
- Contemplative
- Indulgent
- Rational
You are important. So are other people, especially if they are in trouble. You have a tender heart, but you know how to establish and keep personal boundaries. You are empathetic and compassionate, but you also believe that it's best if people solve their own problems and learn to take care of themselves, if they are able.
You are deeply moved by the needs of others, but you know that if you don't take good care of yourself, you'll wind up being of no use to anyone. So yours is a thoughtful compassion. You strive to be fair and sensible, taking care of others while also taking care of yourself.
When someone really is in trouble, you like to collaborate with them toward a solution; they do their part, you do yours. You consider carefully, and respond in a sensible way; they do their part, and together you move through the difficulty.
You seldom act impulsively; rather, when a problem arises, you take your time to think through the situation. This contemplative quality usually means that you'll arrive at a diplomatic solution, one that's fair for the other person and also fair to you. It's frequently a win/win situation.
On the Openness Dimension you are:
VERY CURIOUS
Words that describe you:
- Imaginative
- Creative
- Intellectual
- Adventurous
- Unconventional
- Artistic
- Progressive
- Daring
- Inspired
You are a very creative and imaginative person who is especially open to new ideas or new ways of thinking about old problems. You love to approach a conventional idea or a traditional way of doing things by walking around to the other side and explore it from a novel perspective. What's new is what interests you. Like an artist looking for a new way to see, you focus your imagination on envisioning ideas, events or problems in completely original ways. You are intellectually progressive, which means you like to think and feel your way into unexplored landscapes where you let your sense of intellectual adventure romp freely.
Because you are so curious you can also be very teachable. You learn from personal and interpersonal experiences as well as from classrooms and textbooks. You crave new information, and toss and turn it in your vivid imagination. When you come across an idea from someone else or a thought in your own head that is particularly provocative or original, you light up. With wit and wisdom, Dr. Seuss describes you like this: "Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!"
On Emotional Stability you are:
RESPONSIVE
Words that describe you:
- Open
- Accessible
- Too Sensitive
- Reachable
- Candid
- Unguarded
You are an emotional person. In some ways, we are all emotional; we feel joy, anger, sadness and fear; some of us more powerfully than others - and you more powerfully than most. Your emotions are closer to the surface, and your feelings more obvious to you than is the case with most people. You've got your life in a good place, your dominant mood is upbeat, and unless life has been particularly trying for you, you greatly enjoy the richness and intensity of life that being so open with your emotions brings you.
Sure there are times when your feelings come very close to the surface, and life becomes more complicated. At these times you may grow self-conscious, or feel a bit anxious. But all in all, you much prefer being open with your emotions, breathing in all that life offers, than shutting down any part of your emotional experience. Granted, there may be times when these emotions are hard but you realize that is part of life. And more often than not you feel enriched by your emotions, by your ability to be open to all that life brings you. You know that even when you have those times that get you down, there will be even more times when you see life in ways that others just can't.
Your approach toward your obligations is:
FOCUSED AND FLEXIBLE
Words that describe you:
- Casual
- Informal
- Compliant
- Reliable
- Organized
- Solid
- Dependable
- Uncommitted
- Genuine
When you take on a task at work or at home, you are reliable; you get the job done. In an organized way, you define the goal, lay out a plan, figure how long the task will take, and get to work "solid and dependable you".
But and this is important you're not a slave to the plan. You're committed to it, but not chained to it; the connection is more casual and informal. You know that sometimes "the best laid plans" fall off the tracks; when this happens, you clean up the train wreck and start over, undeterred.
Though not happening often, when plans change, you're okay with it. In fact, sometimes you change the plan. It's too nice of a Saturday to finish organizing the garage. Let's go for a bike ride instead. True, the next rainy Saturday will likely find you back in the garage, but for now the work can wait.
What an interesting combination of qualities in you're organized, but casual; solid, but compliant; and dependable, but informal. At home and at work, people know they can rely on you. You take great satisfaction in knowing that people think of you as disciplined and responsible, but you also know that you have something of a free spirit in you, and when this spirit moves you, off you go, following the impulse of the moment. You are rightly proud of your work ethic, but you also enjoy your willingness to lay the tools down, crank up the music and play like a child.
When it comes to Extraversion you are:
SOMETIMES OUTGOING, SOMETIMES RESERVED
Words that describe you:
- Moderate
- Amiable
- Laid-back
- Temperate
- Relaxed
- Poised
- Civil
- Uncommitted
- Pleasant
Lucky you! You enjoy your own company as much as you enjoy the company of others. You are a great conversationalist and thrive in the wonderful kinds of connections you know how to have with your family and friends. You also equally enjoy your own company, whether sitting in a favorite chair with your book and soft music playing or meandering in the woods by yourself. You like coming home to your family or your roommate; but if no one is home, you find quiet, solitary time to be just as pleasurable. What a great combination to enjoy being outgoing and to be just as comfortable being reserved. Lucky you!!
Because you are so amiable and relaxed, you are comfortable with almost any group of family or friends. Whether they are pumped up and lively or calm and subdued, you remain at ease. If someone needs to take over the conversation, you are comfortable taking the lead; you can also lay back and let someone else be in charge. If the conversation gets rowdy, your moderate demeanor will often draw it down to a more temperate level. If someone in the group loses their cool, you will most likely maintain your poise, and if they get nasty you know how to keep a civil tongue.
You may find yourself out of balance on occasion. If you're alone too much, you may need to get in touch with someone. If you spend too much time with your family and friends, you may need to sneak off for a day by yourself, to putter and read and clear your head of the noise of too much conversation. When you're at your best, you live with a rhythm of time with others, time alone, time with others, time alone It's a satisfying, comfortable balance. Lucky you!
*Compatibility Profile Starts Here*
Some of your ideal mates strongest personality characteristics are:
He generally prefers to solve problems based on rational causes, rather than emotions.
He has a very strong intellect which he enjoys exercising.
He tends to energize his friends into action.
He tends to be very energetic.
Some important qualities that your ideal partner brings to the relationship are:
He is very happy with his life.
He is always appreciative of the good things life has to offer.
He is very good at communicating his thoughts and feelings.
It is easy for him to see other's points of view.
Important goals and values for your ideal mate in a relationship are:
Most of his friends and acquaintances consider him to be very attractive.
He shares your attitudes regarding sex.
Being emotionally expressive is an important part of his personality.
Being healthy and active are primary goals in his life.
Based on your profile, you are most compatible with men who fit the following descriptions:
Kindness: Your ideal mate goes out of his way to shower you with attention. He is likely to perform small acts of kindness others would not even consider, like jotting you a note of appreciation or bringing home your favorite take-out meal when you're tired. He won't take you for granted. He wants to be there for you when you have a problem or when you just want to talk. He is motivated by a strong belief in the importance of treating people with kindness and consideration.
Communication: You will have the best relationship with a man who places a high value on both talking and listening. He also enjoys speaking his mind, but knows that understanding someone else's point of view is vital to healthy communication. He's accepting of what people tell him and rarely argues, even when he disagrees with their opinions. Friends and family appreciate his good listening skills and expressive, open nature.
Romantic Passion: Your ideal mate is a sensual and passionate man who invests 100 percent in the romantic aspects of a relationship. He places a high value on romantic gestures, such as love notes or flowers, and enjoys the reaction they elicit. He's the kind of man who enjoys connecting emotionally, and will take the extra steps to create real romance in a relationship, like planning romantic weekend getaways, finding special restaurants to share and making you feel truly special.
Adaptability: Your ideal mate is someone who really enjoys thinking outside the box when faced with a problem. He tries to approach challenges with an open mind so that he's not tied to conventional solutions. You are likely to find it difficult in the long run if you are with someone who is unable to think in new and creative ways in order to solve a problem or resolve an argument. Friends and family of your best match are likely to describe him as the kind of person who remains calm in a crisis and bounces back easily when setbacks arise.
Curiosity: You will be well matched with a man who is eager to learn. He's the kind of person who's able to discuss the latest headlines and world events. He is constantly expanding his knowledge and understanding of the world. Each avenue of knowledge leads him to another inquiry; for example, a visit to a historic landmark might spur him to do additional research. He's the kind of person who enjoys intellectual stimulation even when he's relaxing. He appreciates your desire to understand the world around you.
Intellect: Your ideal mate is smart, educated and knowledgeable. He is astute and will appreciate your understanding of a wide variety of topics. He has varied interests in subjects such as literature or languages. Other people see him as someone who's looking for friends who are his equal in terms of intelligence or knowledge. He places a high priority on reflection and intellectual pursuits.
Artistic Passion: You are best suited to the kind of man who is able to appreciate art and creativity. He appreciates things like museums and art galleries, but probably just doesn't get to them very often. He enjoys things like literature and fine art, but generally has other priorities when it comes to entertainment. Other people see him as someone who would visit some of the world's top museums during a trip abroad but who might neglect the ones in his own home town.
Sexual Passion: Your ideal companion is someone who needs to have an intense physical chemistry with his partner. He's the kind of person who wants to feel a surge of excitement, like an adrenaline rush, whenever his partner enters the room. You are most compatible with a man who thinks that intimate physical contact, like a romantic kiss, should be an exchange of sensual energy that leaves one breathless.
Appearance: You will be well matched with a man who appreciates the time and effort you put into how you look. He thinks it is important to put effort into looking one's best, such as wearing nice clothes or staying in shape. He is able to understand the care you take with things like your clothing, hair or makeup and will always let you know that he appreciates the end results. He is probably someone who knows the value of a first impression, and will work to ensure that his is flawless.
Physical Energy: You are most compatible with someone who may have a hard time sitting still. He's the kind of person who's energetic and active, whether he's heading out for a jog, a long walk or a mountain biking trek. He generally feels best at the end of a day if he's gotten some kind of exercise. Friends might describe him as a "fitness nut" who thrives on pushing himself to the limit physically.
Education: Your ideal mate is a man who wants his partner to be a person who is able to connect with him intellectually. He's the kind of person who discusses the issues of the day, like politics, religion, science or the arts. If he and his partner aren't intellectually compatible, he might feel like there's something missing from the relationship. He values learning and is accomplished academically.
Ambition: Your ideal mate is the kind of person who strives to be the best at what he does. He pays attention to his progress and compares himself to others, sometimes judging according to the size of his house or the salary he earns. He understands your desire to be recognized for your accomplishments. Like you, however, he won't turn his quest for success into something that will dominate his life. Things like family, friends and time to himself are important to him.
Emotional Status: You are best suited to a man who is stable and calm. He doesn't overreact when he faces challenges like financial setbacks or professional hurdles. He tends to maintain an even emotional keel. He rarely feels anxious, depressed or angry and always avoids taking his personal frustrations out on others. His friends probably describe him as the kind of person who can handle anything and never seems out of control or unable to cope. Like you, he is satisfied with his life, but is ready to find someone to share and grow with.
Self-Concept: Your ideal match is someone who won't change himself just to fit in. Like you, he is resilient and self-confident. He's comfortable with who he is and doesn't feel the need to follow the crowd or be a slave to current fads. He believes in himself and doesn't look to others for approval. Other people see him as self-assured, caring and well adjusted.
Family Background: Your ideal mate has a good relationship with his family, but it's not perfect. They enjoy talking or spending time together but do have occasional conflict, and there could be certain disagreements that have never been resolved. Generally speaking, his expectations about having a family of his own aren't overly idealistic. He's understands that family dynamics can work even when they're not perfect.
Traditionalism: You'll be happiest with a man who considers himself a good person: He has strong values and his moral beliefs are an important part of who he is. He might think people don't need to be sticklers when it comes to their personal beliefs, but he probably believes that values related to religion, country and family provide important general guidelines for life.
Some additional details about your ideal mate:
Character: Your ideal mate is a man who genuinely tries to care for others. His friends see him as someone who knows he's not perfect, but who makes a sincere effort for the important people in his life. He can show great kindness for others on occasion, but is by no means a saint. He will appreciate your compassionate side, but will also understand and empathize with your feeling that there are times when your personal needs and in life may overshadow concern for other people.
Autonomy: You will be best matched with someone who is interested to know all the important things about your past, but is equally if not more interested in experiencing the present and building a future together. You are most compatible with someone who believes that communication is vital in creating a healthy relationship, but you may have problems with someone who feels a burning need to know every last detail about your past or every thought that crosses your mind. When in a relationship: Your ideal partner sees himself as part of a couple, but still maintains his independence and identity.
Vitality and Security: You need a man who is honest and reliable. He has a good understanding of what it takes to make a relationship work over the long haul. He wants to build a relationship that will last, but doesn't need you for constant support. He shares your desire for stability and longevity. Friends describe him as the kind of person who wants to make his partner feel cared for and safe.
Conflict Resolution: You'll be happiest with someone who rarely gets into arguments. Others say he's the kind of person who has no enemies because he's a natural diplomat, brokering peace among those around him. When misunderstandings do arise, he is more concerned about resolving a conflict well than winning the fight. When he's wrong, he's quick to apologize; when he's right, he's quick to forgive and forget.
Emotional Energy: You'll be happiest in the long run with someone who is outgoing and vivacious. While not necessarily a whirlwind of constant activity, he's definitely not willing to sit by and watch life go by. He prefers doing to watching; he's more likely to want to organize a hike or hit the basketball court for a pickup game than enjoy spending hours watching TV or sitting around the house. He's at his best when he's on-the-go, and rarely needs time to recharge.
Dominance: You are best suited to someone who doesn't take competition to extremes. He likes to win but doesn't need to do so at all costs. He is competitive and aggressive when the situation warrants it, such as when vying for a promotion at work or playing football with friends - but generally accepts a loss with grace. He shares your belief that not everything's a contest, even though it's sometimes fun to pit yourself against others or push yourself to perform.
Sociability: You'll be happiest with a man who likes to spend time with old friends and make new ones. Like you, he might not always be the first to strike up a conversation with a stranger, but he is rarely tongue-tied once a conversation is underway. On some days, he might start a conversation with a complete stranger because he feels chatty. Other days, he would rather be alone or just talk to people he knows well already. At parties, he's the type of person who isn't afraid to venture outside his immediate group of friends and meet new people.
Humor: Your ideal mate is the kind of man who sometimes likes to entertain people. He occasionally enjoys telling jokes, making people laugh with things like wordplay, one-liners or satirical observations about friends and family. However, he doesn't feel the need to be a constant one-man show. His friends and family see him as someone who is funny and interesting but who knows when to take things seriously.
Industry: You are most compatible with someone who works hard at the office or jobsite, but avoids bringing too much stress and worry home. He likes to stay busy, but doesn't feel the need to fill every moment of every day with some task or chore. He's generally efficient, persistent and productive, but doesn't obsess over making lists of things to do or accomplish. He will appreciate your work ethic and your ability to enjoy the relaxation of downtime as well.
Organization: You will be best matched with a person who shares your ability to organize and plan for the future when necessary, but who can also appreciate the times when "less is more" in terms of planning and organization. He has a good ability to plan for the future, but he also has a spontaneous side which allows him to enjoy the occasional splurging on a fancy dinner or weekend getaway.
Obstreperousness: Your ideal mate is someone who isn't afraid to stand up for his opinions, but doesn't always feel the need to do so. You need someone who has beliefs and confidence strong enough to match your own. However, you will not do well with someone who needs to dominate every conversation and win every argument. You will do best with someone who knows when to speak his mind, and when to just go along with the people around him. You can tolerate a few rough edges when it comes to your ideal mate's level of Obstreperousness, because you've got some yourself.
Anger Management: You will be happiest with a man who works to control his temper when he is upset. He generally has a long fuse, so he doesn't get mad very often. When he does, he isn't likely to take it out on someone else. Friends and family describe him as the kind of person who doesn't always blame the people around him when things go wrong.
Mood Management: You are most compatible with someone who avoids taking bad moods out on others. You can appreciate that everyone has their bad days, and you need someone who can appreciate that you have yours as well. However, your ideal mate is in tune with his moods and takes effective steps to both regulate them and shield others from their negative effects. Others describe him as the kind of person who is good at cheering someone up when they're having a bad day.
Spirituality: Your ideal mate is someone who is spiritual but does not necessarily adhere to any particular system of beliefs. His faith affects his life, and he is probably looking for a woman who shares his beliefs. He's the kind of person who probably finds meaning in things like meditation, prayer or reading scripture, and believes these activities help make him a better person.
Family goals: Your ideal mate is someone who loves children and wants them to play a significant role in his life. He thinks family is important and is willing to commit his life to having children of his own. Friends say he is the kind of person who's comfortable around kids, who would get down on the floor to play with them when visiting someone's home. For this reason, children are probably drawn to him, too.
Altruism: Your ideal mate is the kind of person who cares about helping strangers but who might not spend a lot of his time doing so. He is someone who generally takes care of his friends when they're in need and who might feel a pang of guilt when he doesn't reach out to assist strangers. Others see him as someone who, with a little encouragement, will join efforts to help, whether it's a canned food drive or a charity fundraiser.
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