December 8, 2012

"What?..F THAT. DROP THE BEAT."

Growing up we were told to that we could do whatever we wanted to. We were given a sense of control and the promise that we could accomplish whatever as long as we worked for it. Working with children has made me realize that it’s more about making sure kids learn how to conform and do exactly as they’re told. However, when they’re grown, they need to adjust and realize that it’s pretty much “Every man for himself” in the real world. I’m definitely the kind of person that has “Power Trips” (often leading to children asking me “Who made you BOSS?”) but it’s surprising how easily most learn to unquestionably accept authority (Milgram Experiments? Stanford Prison Experiment?) My complaint with the education system is the fact that we teach children to think one way but when they’re grown up, it’s like “Hey forget everything you learned up until now… the world is round so we can’t do physics like the earth is flat. Oh and in science, we actually use the metric system.”

Maybe this is why I’m so indecisive and confused all the time. Everything I know is always changing. Last week a psychic told me that the world wasn’t going to end. I seriously thought it was a possibility so I’ve been holding off on studying for the MCAT but I guess this information changes things. So once again, I need to reevaluate my life and schedule. Before things get too hectic, I’m going to need to remind myself that there will always be shit bothering me but I need to remember it’s important to let loose, have fun, listen/dance to great music, and enjoy life!

October 16, 2012
Never Give Up.-(B.P.-my second grade student who tried to comfort me while I freaked out about the marathon) I ran my first marathon Oct 14, 2012 in the beautiful city of San Fransisco. Despite months of encouragement to train for this marathon, I never really found the motivation to regularly run. I am not a runner. Honestly, I signed up in April because of the College student discount ($100 for full or half) and was guaranteed a spot. Since this is the world’s largest women’s marathon, spots are granted based on a lottery system. It didn’t hurt that SF Firemen would be waiting in their tuxedos at the finish line with Tiffany’s necklaces and there would be MAJOR pampering throughout the weekend. We left LA around 7:00PM and arrived in Santa Cruz around 2:00AM. There was a moment of terror when I glanced over and noticed that the gas light was on at 12AM in the middle of the mountains/nowhere and still climbing. We were forced to pull over at a Chevron charging $4.97/gallon, never been so happy being overcharged. My brother greeted us and we were all exhausted. Having slept only 5 hours the night creating a playlist and working with children for 6 hours was not how I imagined the weekend starting. Thankfully, my brother ordered us some pizza and we fell asleep at 3AM. We headed up to SF around 9:30AM and arrived in SF around 11AM. The expo line was long but moved quickly and were soon enjoying all the FREE SWAG. We got food, free Neutrogena makevovers (2.5 hour wait), and hair makeovers by Paul Mitchell. When we were finally done with the expo, we headed back to Adelaide Hostel except we were told we weren’t staying there but actually in another building on Post and Taylor because we had reserved private rooms. Unlike Adelaide, this place was somewhat old and creepy. The bathtubs were those old ones that give you a bad vibe and the elevator was creaky and like the ones in Titanic. Windows weren’t soundproof but we got a room on the 5th floor and the view was breathtaking. We decided to carb-load and was recommended by SUPU’s cousin to eat at SUPPENCUCHE. We began our LONG walk and accidentally strayed into the “tenderloin” area. It was pretty intense. We found out that the wait for suppencuche was about 2 hours and being the adventurous people who wanted to try new food, we decided to wait. I WAS STARVING by the time we were seated and I was upset because it took them another hour to bring out our food. Also, the place served fabulous beers and people were a bit drunk so it was FREAKING LOUD. OKTOBERFEST! WHOOO!! Basically, we didn’t get back and sleep that night until 12 which meant we would only be getting another 5 hours of sleep because the marathon started at 7AM. (What were we thinking?!) “Runners! Ready? the race begins in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1…” Me and SUPU’s eyes jolt open because we thought we missed the race. We jumped out of bed and saw that it was 5:30AM. Luckily, the place we were staying at was RIGHT where we’d be lining up for the run so all we had to do was walk downstairs. 25,000 + people (with families) awaited us and it was breathtaking to see the buildings, lights, and crowds of people before sunrise in SF. I was in the 10-12:00 min corral and was separated from my group. I was also the only one doing a full marathon so I was already prepared to be on my own but it was still sad to see everyone taking picture with their friends while I just stretched and listened to music. I didn’t reach the start line until 8 min after the race started and everything beyond this point was a blur. Adrenaline, Runner’s High, EVERTHING KICKED in and I was unable to enjoy the scenery because I was so focused. The weather was perfect - cool, cloudy, and just a little bit of drizzle. I finished the half in ~2hr35min and dreaded knowing I had to run another 13.1 miles. I was really upset because at mile 12, the half and full marathon runners separate and the second half of the full is ALL UPHILL. Anyone who tells you the course is easy and flat is A LIAR AND A TERRIBLE PERSON. I wanted to quit at miles 15 -25 but B.P.’s words “NEVER GIVE UP” and my dad kept me going. Admittedly, I cursed alot while running the 2nd half because of all the hills but I DID IT. I finished under 5.5 hours, received my necklace from A HOT BLONDE FIREMAN, went to an oxygen bar, got a massage, bottles of chocolate milk, walked on the beach, and got my picture taken with SEXY FIREMAN. SUCCESS. This SF trip was unforgettable, not because we saw three nudists walking around in the rainbow district when we got Ike’s Sandwiches ,but because I proved that I can accomplish things if I really wanted to. This extra boost of self esteem is perfect because MCAT registration dates open today and I need all the assurance I can get. This was one of the hardest things I’ve had to accomplish and I know I kept saying “Never again” because I was in so much pain but looking back, I know I can do another marathon. MIND OVER MUSCLE.

Never Give Up.-(B.P.-my second grade student who tried to comfort me while I freaked out about the marathon)

I ran my first marathon Oct 14, 2012 in the beautiful city of San Fransisco. Despite months of encouragement to train for this marathon, I never really found the motivation to regularly run. I am not a runner. Honestly, I signed up in April because of the College student discount ($100 for full or half) and was guaranteed a spot. Since this is the world’s largest women’s marathon, spots are granted based on a lottery system. It didn’t hurt that SF Firemen would be waiting in their tuxedos at the finish line with Tiffany’s necklaces and there would be MAJOR pampering throughout the weekend.

We left LA around 7:00PM and arrived in Santa Cruz around 2:00AM. There was a moment of terror when I glanced over and noticed that the gas light was on at 12AM in the middle of the mountains/nowhere and still climbing. We were forced to pull over at a Chevron charging $4.97/gallon, never been so happy being overcharged. My brother greeted us and we were all exhausted. Having slept only 5 hours the night creating a playlist and working with children for 6 hours was not how I imagined the weekend starting. Thankfully, my brother ordered us some pizza and we fell asleep at 3AM.

We headed up to SF around 9:30AM and arrived in SF around 11AM. The expo line was long but moved quickly and were soon enjoying all the FREE SWAG. We got food, free Neutrogena makevovers (2.5 hour wait), and hair makeovers by Paul Mitchell. When we were finally done with the expo, we headed back to Adelaide Hostel except we were told we weren’t staying there but actually in another building on Post and Taylor because we had reserved private rooms. Unlike Adelaide, this place was somewhat old and creepy. The bathtubs were those old ones that give you a bad vibe and the elevator was creaky and like the ones in Titanic. Windows weren’t soundproof but we got a room on the 5th floor and the view was breathtaking. We decided to carb-load and was recommended by SUPU’s cousin to eat at SUPPENCUCHE. We began our LONG walk and accidentally strayed into the “tenderloin” area. It was pretty intense. We found out that the wait for suppencuche was about 2 hours and being the adventurous people who wanted to try new food, we decided to wait. I WAS STARVING by the time we were seated and I was upset because it took them another hour to bring out our food. Also, the place served fabulous beers and people were a bit drunk so it was FREAKING LOUD. OKTOBERFEST! WHOOO!!

Basically, we didn’t get back and sleep that night until 12 which meant we would only be getting another 5 hours of sleep because the marathon started at 7AM. (What were we thinking?!)

“Runners! Ready? the race begins in 5, 4, 3, 2, 1…” Me and SUPU’s eyes jolt open because we thought we missed the race. We jumped out of bed and saw that it was 5:30AM. Luckily, the place we were staying at was RIGHT where we’d be lining up for the run so all we had to do was walk downstairs. 25,000 + people (with families) awaited us and it was breathtaking to see the buildings, lights, and crowds of people before sunrise in SF. I was in the 10-12:00 min corral and was separated from my group. I was also the only one doing a full marathon so I was already prepared to be on my own but it was still sad to see everyone taking picture with their friends while I just stretched and listened to music. I didn’t reach the start line until 8 min after the race started and everything beyond this point was a blur. Adrenaline, Runner’s High, EVERTHING KICKED in and I was unable to enjoy the scenery because I was so focused. The weather was perfect - cool, cloudy, and just a little bit of drizzle. I finished the half in ~2hr35min and dreaded knowing I had to run another 13.1 miles. I was really upset because at mile 12, the half and full marathon runners separate and the second half of the full is ALL UPHILL. Anyone who tells you the course is easy and flat is A LIAR AND A TERRIBLE PERSON. I wanted to quit at miles 15 -25 but B.P.’s words “NEVER GIVE UP” and my dad kept me going. Admittedly, I cursed alot while running the 2nd half because of all the hills but I DID IT. I finished under 5.5 hours, received my necklace from A HOT BLONDE FIREMAN, went to an oxygen bar, got a massage, bottles of chocolate milk, walked on the beach, and got my picture taken with SEXY FIREMAN. SUCCESS.

This SF trip was unforgettable, not because we saw three nudists walking around in the rainbow district when we got Ike’s Sandwiches ,but because I proved that I can accomplish things if I really wanted to. This extra boost of self esteem is perfect because MCAT registration dates open today and I need all the assurance I can get. This was one of the hardest things I’ve had to accomplish and I know I kept saying “Never again” because I was in so much pain but looking back, I know I can do another marathon. MIND OVER MUSCLE.

September 30, 2012 • SoundCloud / trophywifeband

It’s been a hectic two weeks since my last post and although a lots happened, I feel very much stuck in the same place. I don’t remember much but yesterday my family celebrated my Great Aunt and Uncle’s 90 + birthdays. It was super sweet and I only hope to be as cute and loving as they are. Dressed in a vibrant orange complete with expensive jade jewelry and a freshly DIY colored and permed hair, my adorably fun Great Aunt told stories about my dear grandma and I almost broke down a couple times. I know I’m always going on about how I don’t need a man and that I don’t have time to date but it was really heartwarming to see that they’ve been together over 76 years (since high school). Of course, I still know more divorcees than happily married couples so maybe only a miniscule number of individuals are fortunate enough to find that person that doesn’t drive them to pull out their hairs. I’m an extremely impatient person so irregardless of how much I love someone- I get overwhelmed and frustrated easily and immediately distance myself. I highly value my space and in my journey to being an independent adult- I hope to become more focused, balanced, loving, patient, and generous towards those around me…it’ll be hard but after reading Many Lives, Many Masters, I find myself wanting to change…

“Groups of souls tend to reincarnate together again and again, working out their karma (debts owed to others and to the self, lessons to be learned) over the span of lifetimes. We are given intuitive powers we should follow and not try to resist. Some of us possess powers greater than others, because they have been accrued from other times. Thus people are not all created equal. But eventually we will reach a point where we will all be equal. We must accept what comes to us at a given time, and not ask for more. There is no end, time is not as we see time, but rather in lessons that are learned. Humankind has not learned about balance, let alone practiced it. It is guided by greed and ambition, steered by fear. In this way it will eventually destroy itself. But nature will survive; at least the plants will. Happiness is really rooted in simplicity.”

Maybe moderation is key. Live in the moment, don’t overanalye things but never compromise basic values…

On a more local perspective, I start my new job at a learning center tomorrow. It’s not exactly a great paying job but the opportunity presented itself and I’m just going to go with my pudgy gut. I love working with children so I decided to accept  their offer but once I pass my probation period, I’m immediately demanding a raise. How much should a college graduate earn? Four years of working my ass off for two degrees and I’m only worth $10/hr? That’s less than when I didn’t graduate… My friends have been  somewhat supportive, telling me I deserve more but I’m so unsure…I didn’t get a degree in engineering, computer science, or business so I’m basically not qualified for anything I want to do temporarily. I’ll continue to search for a better suited job so my job/internship/volunteer quest continues!!

Also, I began taking an online Python programming class and I’m definitely learning more than when I had to work with Visual Basic C++. I’m excited because it’s sort of like algebra with variables and functions and I sort of understand? I have to continue learning Spanish too but it’s getting so hard…Oh and I have to start studying for MCAT because I’ve officially decided to apply to D.O. schools next summer. Apparently, D.O. programs approach medicine in a more holistic way and learn more about the muscular/skeletal system.

There’s so much to do! But I need to concentrate on the next large obstacle in my life.. the Nike Women’s Marathon is in 14 days and I intend to finish it. 

In the meantime, all you socal people stay cool underneath the canopy shade because it’ll be another triple digits week!

September 14, 2012 • SoundCloud / IMFMAG

It’s official. As of today, Sept. 14, 2012, it’s been three months since graduation and I am no longer e___8@uci.edu. It’s also exactly 1 month away from the Women’s Nike Marathon, an event I have not been training for because 26.2 miles is just a number (it’s all psychological). This week I received a notice that my diplomas are ready for pick up M-F during business hours. It’s as if they knew that I’d be unemployed and totally available….

Anyway, I am beginning this blog to document my attempts at finding a job for the next year because I have made a pact with JOSE-DERPINA that I will be moved out of my parents house by the end of 2013. That gives me a little over a year to save up and hopefully apply to medical school or find a legit career. I began applying to jobs/internships this week and only one has replied- saying that they only offer college credit AKA I SHOULD STILL BE IN SCHOOL IN ORDER TO GET THE POSITION. which leads me to WHAT THE F IRVINE?! (yes it’s a fb group… that i may have possibly created my freshmen year…) WHY IS IT THAT MY ACCESS TO ZOTLINK IS CANCELLED THE MICROSECOND I GRADUATE? *zotlink is an online job search engine* … I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that they assume that we don’t have jobs three months after graduation.

My despair is often temporary because thankfully, I have great friends around to give me encouraging words and advice. I’m often confused, indecisive, and totally lost but my amigas always inspire and motivate me to step up and be a better person. My long time DEAR friend from second grade and I went to our local temple for some spiritual healing this Tuesday. She recommended I set goals for myself and suggested I read the novel Many Lives, Many Masters. It’s a true story based on a psychologist’s account of a patient who when under hypnosis; speaks of previous lives (I get goosebumps every time I hear about this). I’m a believer of any wondrous ideas or conspiracy theories in the world because it’s important for me to keep an open mind. 

Oy, this post is getting longer than I had anticipated so I think I’ll abruptly end with saying that MY MOM JUST PRE-ORDERED THE iPHONE5 for me. GOODBYE FIRST GENERATION OBSOLETE DINOSAUR IPHONE!! I will no longer have to scream at you during moments of frustration when you tell me NO SERVICE. I will no longer have to shake you when you say CONNECTION ERROR. And lastly, I will no longer need to use you as an excuse to explain why I am so MIA. You’ve been great keeping me entertained and distracted in all my classes but I’m moving on. Now, all I have to do if figure out how I can pay my mother back $199 with 2 year contract plus tax (tax is of it’s orginal price of $649). WISH ME LUCK AND LISTEN TO MY SONG CHOICE OF THE WEEK. gotta love that Swedish House Mafia!!

August 28, 2012

Sweet Nothing- Calvin Harris & Florence + the Machine

Just this weekend I was complaining that my infatuation with Calvin Harris was waning. I first discovered Calvin Harris my senior year in high school (2008). The first song I ever heard was Disco Heat and Acceptable in the 80’s- both catchy and what I’d classify as my “happy music”.  Then Flashback and Stars Come Out which completely BLEW MY MIND. OMG. The evolution of his music climaxed when Awooga was released. At that point, I wholeheartedly believed that Calvin Harris could do no wrong. He went on to release the catchy Bounce ft Kelis (music video w/ model AJ English. yay! have you seen him in MSTKFT ft. John Legend Heartbreaker video? YUM.) but his collaboration with Rihanna was blowing up the charts and I did not like it. He went on to work with Neyo but I wasn’t feeling that either. I have nothing against the cult-following he’s acquired because he is an incredibly talented musician- I just no longer heard the quirky strange electronic beats coupled with a deep manly smooth voice that I had grown to love. However, with this latest collaboration with Florence + the Machine, I will once again resume my obsession/total support for this 6 foot 5 beauty. It’s been crazy to see how far he’s come from touring malls and singing live to producing some of the biggest Billboard hits. This latest release confirms that he totally deserves it all. I LOVE YOUR MUSIC CALVIN HARRIS.

August 8, 2012
INGENIOUS CONTRAPTION. may possibly use for studying for MCAT.

INGENIOUS CONTRAPTION. may possibly use for studying for MCAT.

July 28, 2012 • 1 note
Memes + Puns = total happiness.

Memes + Puns = total happiness.

July 25, 2012 • SoundCloud / Gibbstack

BEN GIBBARD IS MY IDOL.

“Ichiro’s Theme” Lyrics
Go go go go Ichiro
Rounding third and heading for home
Don’t you know
Beats the throw
Dave says on the radio,
“Ichiro, you’re unbelievable”

Rode the wave to the northwest coast
He arrived ten years ago
He manned right field
He’s on patrol
Throwing out runners on a frozen rope

Go go go go Ichiro
Rounding third and heading for home
Don’t you know
Beats the throw
Dave says on the radio,
“Ichiro, you’re unbelievable”

He’s the man, number 51
From the land of the rising sun
He’s at the plate with the game on the line
The M’s are gonna win it every time

Go go go go Ichiro
Rounding third and heading for home
Don’t you know
Beats the throw
Dave says on the radio,
“Ichiro, you’re unbelievable”

Any given moment he could completely blow your mind
So don’t you take your eye
Off Ichiro

He stops the ball with the greatest of ease
And when he steals second, he don’t say please
If they’re not careful he’ll take third too
Oh Ichiro it’s why we love you.

Go go go go Ichiro
Rounding third and heading for home
Don’t you know
Beats the throw
Dave says on the radio,
“Ichiro, you’re unbelievable”

Go go go go Ichiro
Rounding third and heading for home
Everyone knows
He’ll beats the throw
And Dave will yell over the radio,
“Ichiro, you’re unbelievable”

July 18, 2012

I know this was on reddit a while back but Summer’s here and bugs are going ape-shit trying to invade our houses. Yesterday, I helped Sophie deter ants from raiding her house with baby powder…it got me thinking….

July 14, 2012
Surfing Instructor: If you get bitten by a shark, you’re not just gonna give up surfing, are you? Peter:… yeah, probably NO.  AS SOON AS THE LAST GREEN PHLEGM ESCAPES MY THROAT. I’M HITTING THE BEACH.

Surfing Instructor: If you get bitten by a shark, you’re not just gonna give up surfing, are you?

Peter:… yeah, probably

NO.  AS SOON AS THE LAST GREEN PHLEGM ESCAPES MY THROAT. I’M HITTING THE BEACH.