Had my work Christmas party on Saturday. The company has changed a lot since last year (3 out of the 5 employees at my table were new). There were lots of new faces, especially since the people from the startup came too.
Last year's party was held at Dave & Buster's, so it was a pretty chill affair, with pool and shuffleboard.
This year, the party resembled more of a typical office Christmas party, with a country club as the venue. At first, I thought it might be kinda ghetto, since it was in a suburb 20 minutes north of work. It turned out to be a really nice place though. This year's agenda was more organized too, with speeches, a photo slideshow, and even a company sing-along!
I wonder how next year's Christmas party will be handled; I hope that even after the split, the two companies will still have social events together.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Year-end Musings
I love this time of year, with all the parties and the chilly weather and the holiday movies on TV and the two weeks off. It's great.
It's been an interesting year overall, and next year (and the next few years for that matter) should hold even more surprises and unexpected turns.
I'm going to start working at a new company in January with many of the same people that I've been working with for the past 1.5 years. This was something that was brought to my attention only a month ago, but I think it's for the better. The new company will focus primarily on commercial customers, and I'm looking forward to learning how a successful startup is run.
I also hope to start flying lessons in February or March, when the weather gets a little nicer, and I have more money ;)
It's been an interesting year overall, and next year (and the next few years for that matter) should hold even more surprises and unexpected turns.
I'm going to start working at a new company in January with many of the same people that I've been working with for the past 1.5 years. This was something that was brought to my attention only a month ago, but I think it's for the better. The new company will focus primarily on commercial customers, and I'm looking forward to learning how a successful startup is run.
I also hope to start flying lessons in February or March, when the weather gets a little nicer, and I have more money ;)
Monday, November 28, 2005
Delays
I hate flying. It's way more stressful than it needs to be. Between the checkin' in, the security lines, and then rushing to the gate, there's far too many uncertain factors. Sometimes you get there hours before you need to, and other times, you're hearing your name over the intercom cause you're late (even though they're the ones that put you on an earlier flight!)
My flight into DFW was two and a half hours late. First, there was the announcement of a 45-minute "company-controlled" delay for all flights in and out of Dallas with no explanation. Some passengers were speculating that it might be because there were too many planes on the tarmac, so they needed to slow things down. Another guy was chattin' on his cell, saying there was probably some security issue. So we're sittin' in the waiting area, and then finally the pilot comes out and announces that it's because of "high winds"!
That's right, wind is causing all planes in and out of American's hub to be grounded. Unbelievable. I can understand snow and heavy rain, but wind? It's not like Dallas is getting hit by hurricanes or tornadoes. Suck it up and fly through it. Seriously.
So we finally board the plane at like 7 (when we were supposed to leave at 6:08), and then sit on the tarmac until 8, with various updates from the pilot (basically saying that the flight has been further delayed and that we're taking a new route that'll take 4 hours instead of the usual 3.5).
After we're in the air, I'm thinking everything should be fine now. The "heavy winds" should be calm by now, if some guy at American Airlines decided that planes can come in again. Oh, but I'd be wrong. We're like 20 minutes away from DFW, when the pilot announces that we're supposed to "hold" in the air. Do what? I thought only helicopters could hover. But we end up "holding" for like 10 minutes or so.
And then another announcement -- the worst I've heard from a pilot -- "We'll be going through high winds, but don't worry. The plane has been stressed for these conditions, and the crew and the plane are prepared for these conditions. We'll try and get through this as quickly as possible." Sounds similar to the kind of stuff that the dentist says right before they drill into your teeth!
I hate flying!
My flight into DFW was two and a half hours late. First, there was the announcement of a 45-minute "company-controlled" delay for all flights in and out of Dallas with no explanation. Some passengers were speculating that it might be because there were too many planes on the tarmac, so they needed to slow things down. Another guy was chattin' on his cell, saying there was probably some security issue. So we're sittin' in the waiting area, and then finally the pilot comes out and announces that it's because of "high winds"!
That's right, wind is causing all planes in and out of American's hub to be grounded. Unbelievable. I can understand snow and heavy rain, but wind? It's not like Dallas is getting hit by hurricanes or tornadoes. Suck it up and fly through it. Seriously.
So we finally board the plane at like 7 (when we were supposed to leave at 6:08), and then sit on the tarmac until 8, with various updates from the pilot (basically saying that the flight has been further delayed and that we're taking a new route that'll take 4 hours instead of the usual 3.5).
After we're in the air, I'm thinking everything should be fine now. The "heavy winds" should be calm by now, if some guy at American Airlines decided that planes can come in again. Oh, but I'd be wrong. We're like 20 minutes away from DFW, when the pilot announces that we're supposed to "hold" in the air. Do what? I thought only helicopters could hover. But we end up "holding" for like 10 minutes or so.
And then another announcement -- the worst I've heard from a pilot -- "We'll be going through high winds, but don't worry. The plane has been stressed for these conditions, and the crew and the plane are prepared for these conditions. We'll try and get through this as quickly as possible." Sounds similar to the kind of stuff that the dentist says right before they drill into your teeth!
I hate flying!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
Lessons Learned
They say you learn something new every day.
Today's lesson: progress = kidnapping.
Put in other words, in order to have any progress, kidnappings must be present.
Think about it.
Today's lesson: progress = kidnapping.
Put in other words, in order to have any progress, kidnappings must be present.
Think about it.
Saturday, November 12, 2005
Gwen! BEP!
Went to the Black Eyed Peas/Gwen Stefani concert last night. It was freakin' awesome.
This is the first "stage-show" concert I've ever been to... I've been to a couple of rap concerts (a free Ludacris one at college, and another TI/Ludacris/Ciara one that was paired with a car show), but this one had an entirely different feel. I'm easily awed by flashy lights, bright costumes, and special effects, so this was my kinda event.
I had no idea Fergie, the sole female on the Black Eyed Peas, was such a strong vocalist and had such a strong stage presence. She pretty much commanded the stage the entire time, and should take a hint from Gwen and go solo. The entire group is crazy talented though, both vocally and physically. Those guys know how to bust a move. They also added some breakdancers as a nice little touch between songs.
After a hour-long intermission (is that normal?), Gwen rose up, seated on a luxurious throne (similar to the LAMB CD cover). While the BEP's stage set was more subdued, allowing people to focus more on their strong performances, Gwen's was all about the lights and multiple screens displaying music videos and crazy visuals. I've never been to a Britney Spears concert (unfortunately), but I'm imagining it's all along the lines of what her stage set would be like. Not that Gwen's performance wasn''t strong, but I'm guessing people expect a lot more in terms of production value when you're the headliner.
She seemed to be genuinely grateful for her fans, and took time out to say that she had no plans to tour, but felt she had to after her albums were so successful.
Overall, a great concert and tons of energy. Oh, and there were lots of hot girls :)
This is the first "stage-show" concert I've ever been to... I've been to a couple of rap concerts (a free Ludacris one at college, and another TI/Ludacris/Ciara one that was paired with a car show), but this one had an entirely different feel. I'm easily awed by flashy lights, bright costumes, and special effects, so this was my kinda event.
I had no idea Fergie, the sole female on the Black Eyed Peas, was such a strong vocalist and had such a strong stage presence. She pretty much commanded the stage the entire time, and should take a hint from Gwen and go solo. The entire group is crazy talented though, both vocally and physically. Those guys know how to bust a move. They also added some breakdancers as a nice little touch between songs.
After a hour-long intermission (is that normal?), Gwen rose up, seated on a luxurious throne (similar to the LAMB CD cover). While the BEP's stage set was more subdued, allowing people to focus more on their strong performances, Gwen's was all about the lights and multiple screens displaying music videos and crazy visuals. I've never been to a Britney Spears concert (unfortunately), but I'm imagining it's all along the lines of what her stage set would be like. Not that Gwen's performance wasn''t strong, but I'm guessing people expect a lot more in terms of production value when you're the headliner.
She seemed to be genuinely grateful for her fans, and took time out to say that she had no plans to tour, but felt she had to after her albums were so successful.
Overall, a great concert and tons of energy. Oh, and there were lots of hot girls :)
Monday, October 31, 2005
Halloween at the office
Halloween turned out to be the event of the year at work!
For some reason, it was decided at the regular office lunch on Friday that everyone should wear suits and "professional" clothing today for Halloween. Everyone, that is, except for the project managers. I'm not sure how exactly how this idea came about, but then again, I've been to office lunches and any idea that comes out of it ceases to surprise me any more.
Well, seeing as how the official dress code is pretty much "wear whatever you want, since it's a long day and we want you to be comfortable," this was an occasion to be commemorated! Break out the cameras! We need pictures to mark this oh-so-rare event. The only time I've seen anyone wear a suit at work is when we have candidates come in to interview. (I believe that's the last time my suit was worn.)
So, after the company-wide picture at noon, we did another oh-so-rare thing: company lunch on a Monday!
Ah, and you thought it would stop there. Nope, pictures and company lunches aren't enough; not for Halloween 2005. We need one more thing to make it a true holiday. Cake! We need cake!
Oh the irony! The company's employees have never looked so professional, and yet we probably got less work done than a normal Monday.
For some reason, it was decided at the regular office lunch on Friday that everyone should wear suits and "professional" clothing today for Halloween. Everyone, that is, except for the project managers. I'm not sure how exactly how this idea came about, but then again, I've been to office lunches and any idea that comes out of it ceases to surprise me any more.
Well, seeing as how the official dress code is pretty much "wear whatever you want, since it's a long day and we want you to be comfortable," this was an occasion to be commemorated! Break out the cameras! We need pictures to mark this oh-so-rare event. The only time I've seen anyone wear a suit at work is when we have candidates come in to interview. (I believe that's the last time my suit was worn.)
So, after the company-wide picture at noon, we did another oh-so-rare thing: company lunch on a Monday!
Ah, and you thought it would stop there. Nope, pictures and company lunches aren't enough; not for Halloween 2005. We need one more thing to make it a true holiday. Cake! We need cake!
Oh the irony! The company's employees have never looked so professional, and yet we probably got less work done than a normal Monday.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
...
My grandfather passed away this week.
I wasn't that close to him, so I'm doing ok. I think it'll be pretty hard for my mom though (she took a year to get over her uncle's death a few years ago).
It's kinda scary though, cause he was in the States visiting my uncles for the past four months and only went back to India in late September...
Life's far too short and unexpected to take tomorrow for granted.
On that note, I'm thinking about taking flying lessons. It's a tad expensive, but it seems like a lot of fun and would be a very unique skill to have (I read that only one out of 10,000 people have a pilot's certificate).
I wasn't that close to him, so I'm doing ok. I think it'll be pretty hard for my mom though (she took a year to get over her uncle's death a few years ago).
It's kinda scary though, cause he was in the States visiting my uncles for the past four months and only went back to India in late September...
Life's far too short and unexpected to take tomorrow for granted.
On that note, I'm thinking about taking flying lessons. It's a tad expensive, but it seems like a lot of fun and would be a very unique skill to have (I read that only one out of 10,000 people have a pilot's certificate).
Monday, October 10, 2005
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Garba-Raas!
Weekend recap..
Saw the Texas-OU game at a friend's apartment on Saturday afternoon.. we finally won! Broke a six-year losing streak.. definitely worth the wait though.. final score 45-12.
Later that night, went to Garba-Raas for the first time in years. For those non-Indians, basically there's two types of dances: one is garba, which is a four-step dance, two steps facing forward, and two steps facing backwards (but still dancing forwards). The second is called raas (or dandiya-raas translated as "stick dance"), where you have two sticks and a partner standing directly in front you; there's 5-steps: 1-2) tap one of your sticks with your partner's stick, 3) tap your own sticks together, 4) tap one of your sticks with your partner's stick, 5) tap your own sticks together.
The raas is more fun in my opinion, since you can modify what you do on step 3 to mix it up. There's also other variations that include 12-steps instead of 5. It's quite a workout though, since you're constantly moving and the beat is pretty fast. You're also in a line, so if you miss a beat or want to rest, the entire line gets messed up and people get pissed.
Saw the Texas-OU game at a friend's apartment on Saturday afternoon.. we finally won! Broke a six-year losing streak.. definitely worth the wait though.. final score 45-12.
Later that night, went to Garba-Raas for the first time in years. For those non-Indians, basically there's two types of dances: one is garba, which is a four-step dance, two steps facing forward, and two steps facing backwards (but still dancing forwards). The second is called raas (or dandiya-raas translated as "stick dance"), where you have two sticks and a partner standing directly in front you; there's 5-steps: 1-2) tap one of your sticks with your partner's stick, 3) tap your own sticks together, 4) tap one of your sticks with your partner's stick, 5) tap your own sticks together.
The raas is more fun in my opinion, since you can modify what you do on step 3 to mix it up. There's also other variations that include 12-steps instead of 5. It's quite a workout though, since you're constantly moving and the beat is pretty fast. You're also in a line, so if you miss a beat or want to rest, the entire line gets messed up and people get pissed.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Best Shows on TV
In no particular order:
Veronica Mars - Kristen Bell, the new hotness, is a part-time student, part-time detective who helps her dad solve cases in their upper-class neighborhood. I've only caught bits and pieces, but she seems to be a bit of an outcast and people are always accusing her of committing crimes like murder.
Arrested Development - By far, the funniest show on today. It takes multiple viewings to catch all the jokes. Unfortunately, the ratings are pretty low, and Fox might cancel it if more people don't start watching (Mondays at 7 pm).
Desperate Housewives - Eva Longoria, plus some deep dark secret (in the form of a human) locked in a basement. Enough said.
Making the Band 3 - Diddy wasn't impressed with the girls his minions found last season, so he sent them all over the country to try and find better (i.e. hotter) ones. Apparantly he wants girls who can dance, but "not dance like Britney." Oh ok, so ignore the secrets of success of the youngest female artist ever to have four #1 albums? That's a great idea, Diddy. Good luck with that.
Veronica Mars - Kristen Bell, the new hotness, is a part-time student, part-time detective who helps her dad solve cases in their upper-class neighborhood. I've only caught bits and pieces, but she seems to be a bit of an outcast and people are always accusing her of committing crimes like murder.
Arrested Development - By far, the funniest show on today. It takes multiple viewings to catch all the jokes. Unfortunately, the ratings are pretty low, and Fox might cancel it if more people don't start watching (Mondays at 7 pm).
Desperate Housewives - Eva Longoria, plus some deep dark secret (in the form of a human) locked in a basement. Enough said.
Making the Band 3 - Diddy wasn't impressed with the girls his minions found last season, so he sent them all over the country to try and find better (i.e. hotter) ones. Apparantly he wants girls who can dance, but "not dance like Britney." Oh ok, so ignore the secrets of success of the youngest female artist ever to have four #1 albums? That's a great idea, Diddy. Good luck with that.
Monday, October 03, 2005
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Inventions
Around the turn of the 20th century, inventors were focused on creating devices that would allow people to travel great distances in a shorter amount of time (i.e. planes, cars).
The inventions and innovations today, in contrast, are greatly focused on allowing people to do more while never having to travel any distance at all. With the expansion of the accessiblity of the Internet, you can buy anything you need to buy, and see all the sights the world has to offer without ever leaving your computer.
I wonder what sorts of inventions people will be thinking about 100 years from now.
The inventions and innovations today, in contrast, are greatly focused on allowing people to do more while never having to travel any distance at all. With the expansion of the accessiblity of the Internet, you can buy anything you need to buy, and see all the sights the world has to offer without ever leaving your computer.
I wonder what sorts of inventions people will be thinking about 100 years from now.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Guitar Notes
When I'm really good at guitar, I want to learn the intro to Mr. Brightside by The Killers. There's also this really cool guitar part in a song by Modest Mouse.
Oh, and another thing.. I found out that guitar has its own way of writing notes, called guitar tabs.
That's helpful, since in my guitar class, they're teaching how to read treble clef.
Good to know this entire semester will be a waste and I'll have to teach myself how to read real guitar music.
Oh, and another thing.. I found out that guitar has its own way of writing notes, called guitar tabs.
That's helpful, since in my guitar class, they're teaching how to read treble clef.
Good to know this entire semester will be a waste and I'll have to teach myself how to read real guitar music.
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
Saturday, September 17, 2005
News?
Why is this news?
Supermodel admits to drug use
Um.. I thought all supermodels used drugs. It's the equivalent of these headlines: "Cars have wheels", "Summer brings heat," "Britney Spears is hot."
It would be more newsworthy if it said something like "Supermodel admits she's never taken drugs." Now that's a story!
Supermodel admits to drug use
Um.. I thought all supermodels used drugs. It's the equivalent of these headlines: "Cars have wheels", "Summer brings heat," "Britney Spears is hot."
It would be more newsworthy if it said something like "Supermodel admits she's never taken drugs." Now that's a story!
No food - Hour 14
Saw "Dancing in the Twilight" yesterday. A friend of a friend of a friend (a fellow Indian) wrote the screenplay, and the entire movie was shot in Houston. It started out kinda slow, but once the tone was established, it was a bit easier to follow what was going on. I kinda predicted the ending about 20 minutes before it happened, but it was still very depressing. Very well done though: the acting, the directing, the writing.
I think this could be a really great play. The whole setup seems better suited for a stage than for a movie set. Nothing in the movie really takes advantage of the fact that it's being filmed. I wonder if it was originally intended to be a play, but then somehow they got money from a studio to make it into a full feature film and decided to go for it.
Still, I hope this movie does well. It has a great story, and more people should see it. Unfortunately, there hasn't been much publicity (I haven't seen any trailers, and the theater was practically empty even though it was opening night).
Afterwards, we went bowling. I've now been to that bowling alley every week for the past three weeks (2 weeks ago with some co-workers, a week ago for an official company party, and then yesterday). I started out kinda slow, but ended up with a personal all-time best 136 on my last game.
Oh, and get this: they have this bizarre "curfew" at the alley, where everyone under the age of 18 has to leave the place at midnight! I've never heard of such craziness. Especially since everyone gets incredibly wild and outrageous as soon as the teenagers leave (what with the bar shutting down at midnight as well).
I think this could be a really great play. The whole setup seems better suited for a stage than for a movie set. Nothing in the movie really takes advantage of the fact that it's being filmed. I wonder if it was originally intended to be a play, but then somehow they got money from a studio to make it into a full feature film and decided to go for it.
Still, I hope this movie does well. It has a great story, and more people should see it. Unfortunately, there hasn't been much publicity (I haven't seen any trailers, and the theater was practically empty even though it was opening night).
Afterwards, we went bowling. I've now been to that bowling alley every week for the past three weeks (2 weeks ago with some co-workers, a week ago for an official company party, and then yesterday). I started out kinda slow, but ended up with a personal all-time best 136 on my last game.
Oh, and get this: they have this bizarre "curfew" at the alley, where everyone under the age of 18 has to leave the place at midnight! I've never heard of such craziness. Especially since everyone gets incredibly wild and outrageous as soon as the teenagers leave (what with the bar shutting down at midnight as well).
Friday, September 16, 2005
No food
So, when was the last time you fasted? What's that? Never? Ever? Never ever? Never ever ever?
Well, that's a shame. Me? I'm actually fasting tomorrow! Why? Well, it's only the most auspicious day on the Jain calendar, silly!
Yeah, I've been doin' the fasting thing every year for about 12 years or so now... Quite the experience. You should try it sometime.
I mean, if David Blaine can do it, so can you.
Well, that's a shame. Me? I'm actually fasting tomorrow! Why? Well, it's only the most auspicious day on the Jain calendar, silly!
Yeah, I've been doin' the fasting thing every year for about 12 years or so now... Quite the experience. You should try it sometime.
I mean, if David Blaine can do it, so can you.
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
It's About Time..
http://tinyurl.com/arxan
Wow, less than a year after he was re-elected. I guess it's pretty easy to keep approval ratings high when people have no idea what's going on in a war if you make sure that all media is filtered through the government. All the people hear about are the numbers of deaths, and the politicians proclaiming that we're still winning. But it's a lot harder to censor the media if they get there days before any government presence, and are able to show the horrid and inhumane conditions that these people went through. It's tough to convince the public that "help is on the way" and that the victims are being taken care of when they can see people dying on their screens.
Pretty ironic that the president who proclaimed that he was the strong leader who would keep us safe is now apologizing and questioning whether we are prepared....
"To the extent that the federal government didn't fully do its job right, I take responsibility," Bush told a White House news conference at which he openly questioned U.S. preparedness for another storm or a "severe attack."
That's interesting, since I vaguely recall his entire re-election campaign theme was about protecting the country and how he would do a much better job of keeping people safe. That, coupled with the fact that he's spent billions of dollars supposedly beefing up security everywhere and his newly concocted claim about the war in Iraq: "fighting them there so we don't have to fight them here." Well, I guess you can't "fight" hurricanes or other natural occurences wherever you want. Sounds to me like the whole country was duped into voting for him under false pretenses. The president's approval ratings have hit new lows
Wow, less than a year after he was re-elected. I guess it's pretty easy to keep approval ratings high when people have no idea what's going on in a war if you make sure that all media is filtered through the government. All the people hear about are the numbers of deaths, and the politicians proclaiming that we're still winning. But it's a lot harder to censor the media if they get there days before any government presence, and are able to show the horrid and inhumane conditions that these people went through. It's tough to convince the public that "help is on the way" and that the victims are being taken care of when they can see people dying on their screens.
Pretty ironic that the president who proclaimed that he was the strong leader who would keep us safe is now apologizing and questioning whether we are prepared....
Tuesday, September 06, 2005
Vegas Baby!
Went to Las Vegas for Labor Day weekend. It was a pretty fun trip.. overall, made approximately $40 at roulette/slots (all of which was spent again on food/drinks/misc.)
The Strip is much more elegant/extravagant than the last time I went (which was probably like 10 years ago, pre-Bellagio, pre-New York, pre-Venetian). It's such a bizarre feeling to be able to travel through time/space as you go from hotel to hotel.
I literally felt like I was going from medieval Europe to modern-day New York City to ancient Egypt. The Roman/Italian theme is a little overdone though.. with the Bellagio, Venetian and Caesar's Palace all within a block of each other. I suppose the theme is fitting though, since the Romans did represent excess and overindulgence.
It's such a great idea for a city.. create a place where people flock hoping to make lots of money, and then offer enough goods/services that even if somehow people do manage to win big at the casinos, they end up spending all their winnings back in the city. I saw ads for at least 5 new condominum complexes (one owned by Ivana Trump) that will be located on or near the Strip, plus they have a Ferrari/Maserati showroom at the new Wynn hotel.
Of course, if you win less than 100K, there's always a myriad of stores/restaurants catering to your every whim and desire.
If I was really rich, I'd definitely have a place there.
The Strip is much more elegant/extravagant than the last time I went (which was probably like 10 years ago, pre-Bellagio, pre-New York, pre-Venetian). It's such a bizarre feeling to be able to travel through time/space as you go from hotel to hotel.
I literally felt like I was going from medieval Europe to modern-day New York City to ancient Egypt. The Roman/Italian theme is a little overdone though.. with the Bellagio, Venetian and Caesar's Palace all within a block of each other. I suppose the theme is fitting though, since the Romans did represent excess and overindulgence.
It's such a great idea for a city.. create a place where people flock hoping to make lots of money, and then offer enough goods/services that even if somehow people do manage to win big at the casinos, they end up spending all their winnings back in the city. I saw ads for at least 5 new condominum complexes (one owned by Ivana Trump) that will be located on or near the Strip, plus they have a Ferrari/Maserati showroom at the new Wynn hotel.
Of course, if you win less than 100K, there's always a myriad of stores/restaurants catering to your every whim and desire.
If I was really rich, I'd definitely have a place there.
Friday, September 02, 2005
It's OK!
I was very concerned for awhile there.. I heard about the horrible hurricane that struck Louisiana this week and thought about all the destruction and lives lost.
I kept thinking, this is very very bad. But then, to my great relief, I read an article on cnn.com, and all my worries disappeared!
Britney Spears, who was raised in Kentwood, Louisiana, posted a message on her Web site saying her family was safe and that her "thoughts and prayers go out to everyone" on the Gulf Coast.
Everything will be alright, folks! She will continue to entertain millions of people around the world. Not even a hurricane can stop this woman from doing what she does best.
To add to the joyousness, Juvenile has also survived, and will continue to whisper in women's ears, and instruct women what to back up.
As long as these people have survived, I believe the country can move on from this so-called tragedy and continue to live their lives.
I kept thinking, this is very very bad. But then, to my great relief, I read an article on cnn.com, and all my worries disappeared!
Britney Spears, who was raised in Kentwood, Louisiana, posted a message on her Web site saying her family was safe and that her "thoughts and prayers go out to everyone" on the Gulf Coast.
Everything will be alright, folks! She will continue to entertain millions of people around the world. Not even a hurricane can stop this woman from doing what she does best.
To add to the joyousness, Juvenile has also survived, and will continue to whisper in women's ears, and instruct women what to back up.
As long as these people have survived, I believe the country can move on from this so-called tragedy and continue to live their lives.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Lunch Conversations
I work with a bunch of crazies.
We go out to lunch as a group (normally between 6-10 people) on Fridays, and this is the stuff we talked about on our last outing to a Mexican restaurant:
1) chips "mating" - Yes, the tortilla chips that they hand out as an appetizer. Two chips were stuck together, and we had a good 10-minute discussion on how chips came about, and why they didn't mate in front of us.
2) "double dog dare" - another 10-minute discussion on the expression, what it means, and where it came from. In the end, it was pretty hard to convince the others of the dire consequences if you backed down from one of these.. the others consisting of one Canadian, one guy who grew up "all over the United States" (and considers Arizona part of the South) and a couple of Romanians.
3) how the smoke from fajitas is similar to war - this "discussion" took about 10-minutes too, but mostly because we couldn't understand what our co-worker was saying (he has a thick Romanian accent). First, we thought he said "work", which didn't make any sense. Then, we thought he said "world," but that was too vague and also didn't make sense. Finally, he made the universal machine-gun motion to signal "war." Ohh! War! Wait, that still doesn't make sense. How are fajitas like war?
Just your typical lunch conversations..
"So what are you doing over the weekend?"
"The smoke from the fajitas are like war!"
"Uh.. that's cool. I'm probably going to do some shopping.."
We go out to lunch as a group (normally between 6-10 people) on Fridays, and this is the stuff we talked about on our last outing to a Mexican restaurant:
1) chips "mating" - Yes, the tortilla chips that they hand out as an appetizer. Two chips were stuck together, and we had a good 10-minute discussion on how chips came about, and why they didn't mate in front of us.
2) "double dog dare" - another 10-minute discussion on the expression, what it means, and where it came from. In the end, it was pretty hard to convince the others of the dire consequences if you backed down from one of these.. the others consisting of one Canadian, one guy who grew up "all over the United States" (and considers Arizona part of the South) and a couple of Romanians.
3) how the smoke from fajitas is similar to war - this "discussion" took about 10-minutes too, but mostly because we couldn't understand what our co-worker was saying (he has a thick Romanian accent). First, we thought he said "work", which didn't make any sense. Then, we thought he said "world," but that was too vague and also didn't make sense. Finally, he made the universal machine-gun motion to signal "war." Ohh! War! Wait, that still doesn't make sense. How are fajitas like war?
Just your typical lunch conversations..
"So what are you doing over the weekend?"
"The smoke from the fajitas are like war!"
"Uh.. that's cool. I'm probably going to do some shopping.."
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Memories
I'm always amazed by the things that people remember. You can completely lose contact with someone for over an year, and then the next time you see them, they'll still remember mundane details about your last meeting. People who you think could care less about what you're talking about will come around the next day and say that they've been thinking about what you've said.
Even more interesting, and perhaps even a little frightening, is when people remember things that you've said or done that you don't remember. And no, i'm not talking about when you're passed out or wasted and aren't supposed to remember anything. I'm referring to situations where you may have casually commented about something, not realizing the impact that it would have later.
Random events/conversations for one person may hold an entirely different significance for someone else. The crazy thing is that neither person really gets to decide what they remember.
My friend, who's a psych major, said that we remember things that are either really important to us or that are highly unusual.
Yeah, I'm guessing most of the memories people have of me are because of the latter ;)
Even more interesting, and perhaps even a little frightening, is when people remember things that you've said or done that you don't remember. And no, i'm not talking about when you're passed out or wasted and aren't supposed to remember anything. I'm referring to situations where you may have casually commented about something, not realizing the impact that it would have later.
Random events/conversations for one person may hold an entirely different significance for someone else. The crazy thing is that neither person really gets to decide what they remember.
My friend, who's a psych major, said that we remember things that are either really important to us or that are highly unusual.
Yeah, I'm guessing most of the memories people have of me are because of the latter ;)
Friday, August 19, 2005
Happy Rakhi!
What? You've never heard of the age-old, tradition-riddled, most sexist holiday on the Indian calendar?
The idea is to strengthen the bond between a brother and sister. The sister ties a cheap-ass string around her brother's wrist, and promises to "pray" for him. In return, the brother is expected to bestow lavish gifts and money on his sister on the spot and promise to protect her. The string, called the 'rakhi', is supposed to be a reminder of that promise.
Most holidays either honor one person (Mother's Day, a birthday, Father's Day) or at least have the illusion of equality, where everyone celebrates and reaps the rewards in the same way. Rakhi seems to destroy that notion of a holiday, and unabashedly skews the day in favor of the sister. She is able to enjoy material wealth as well as a promise of protection, whereas the brother just gets a string and maybe a couple of sweets.
Don't get me wrong, I think the holiday itself is a great idea, and helps bring siblings closer. I just think the way it's celebrated is outdated and has contributed to the inferior status of women in Indian society.
The idea is to strengthen the bond between a brother and sister. The sister ties a cheap-ass string around her brother's wrist, and promises to "pray" for him. In return, the brother is expected to bestow lavish gifts and money on his sister on the spot and promise to protect her. The string, called the 'rakhi', is supposed to be a reminder of that promise.
Most holidays either honor one person (Mother's Day, a birthday, Father's Day) or at least have the illusion of equality, where everyone celebrates and reaps the rewards in the same way. Rakhi seems to destroy that notion of a holiday, and unabashedly skews the day in favor of the sister. She is able to enjoy material wealth as well as a promise of protection, whereas the brother just gets a string and maybe a couple of sweets.
Don't get me wrong, I think the holiday itself is a great idea, and helps bring siblings closer. I just think the way it's celebrated is outdated and has contributed to the inferior status of women in Indian society.
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Surf's Up!
I went grocery shopping today at Wal-Mart in Garland.
So, I'm gettin' my food, and as I pass by the beverage section, I notice something I've never seen in that Wal-Mart before: beer! A little further down, there's an entire aisle of wine (not the good stuff though, cause this is Wal-Mart).
Huh? I thought that Garland was dry...
I'm quite confused, so I look it up online, and what do you know:
Garland Gets Wet
"Since Garland voters passed two ballot measures May 7, businesses have filed 114 applications for alcohol sales permits, according to the Dallas office of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Some are to sell beer and wine in stores; others are to sell alcohol at restaurants without requiring club memberships.
So, I'm gettin' my food, and as I pass by the beverage section, I notice something I've never seen in that Wal-Mart before: beer! A little further down, there's an entire aisle of wine (not the good stuff though, cause this is Wal-Mart).
Huh? I thought that Garland was dry...
I'm quite confused, so I look it up online, and what do you know:
Garland Gets Wet
"Since Garland voters passed two ballot measures May 7, businesses have filed 114 applications for alcohol sales permits, according to the Dallas office of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Some are to sell beer and wine in stores; others are to sell alcohol at restaurants without requiring club memberships.
Voters overwhelmingly approved measures allowing both."
Woohoo, no need to drive to Plano to get the goods anymore...
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Another Great Job
I'm shocked.
If you'll look back at my Guilty Pleasures post, you'll notice my mention of "the hot blonde FBI agent" on the show "The Inside." Well, lo and behold, apparantly Rachel Nichols is trading in her badge for a CIA post in "Alias" (replacing Jennifer Garner).
I should be a TV producer. The meeting probably went something like this:
"Hey, we should get that hot chick on that FOX show that nobody watches. She's really hot, and she already plays a detective. And did you see that one episode where she broke down talking about how she was kidnapped? ... Yeah, not many people did. But, I'm telling ya, she has great emotional range! Plus, did I mention the fact that she was hot? Possibly even hotter than JG."
If you'll look back at my Guilty Pleasures post, you'll notice my mention of "the hot blonde FBI agent" on the show "The Inside." Well, lo and behold, apparantly Rachel Nichols is trading in her badge for a CIA post in "Alias" (replacing Jennifer Garner).
I should be a TV producer. The meeting probably went something like this:
"Hey, we should get that hot chick on that FOX show that nobody watches. She's really hot, and she already plays a detective. And did you see that one episode where she broke down talking about how she was kidnapped? ... Yeah, not many people did. But, I'm telling ya, she has great emotional range! Plus, did I mention the fact that she was hot? Possibly even hotter than JG."
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Greatest Job
Supreme Court Justice has got to be the sweetest job you can get.
You only work a few months out of the year, it's a lifetime appointment so you can't get fired, and by the time you're nominated you pretty much already know everything about the law, so there isn't much outside work.
You just come to court when it's in session, hear the lawyers argue their side, ask a couple of questions, and then get together with the other justices and write a paper explaining the decision of the court.
The great thing is that the court doesn't even hear every case. If you think it's not important enough for your attention, you can vote to not hear it at all.
Why can't more jobs be like this?
You only work a few months out of the year, it's a lifetime appointment so you can't get fired, and by the time you're nominated you pretty much already know everything about the law, so there isn't much outside work.
You just come to court when it's in session, hear the lawyers argue their side, ask a couple of questions, and then get together with the other justices and write a paper explaining the decision of the court.
The great thing is that the court doesn't even hear every case. If you think it's not important enough for your attention, you can vote to not hear it at all.
Why can't more jobs be like this?
Wednesday, August 03, 2005
Austin
I went to Austin this past weekend to visit a friend who had spent the last year in Japan, teaching English to grade-school Japanese students.
It was a pretty fun trip. I think it's good to get out of the city every once in awhile, to clear your head and get a change of scenery.
Unfortunately, I don't get enough vacation time to go much further than Austin or Shreveport. He saw a good part of Asia (Kuala Lampur, Singapore, Bali, Indonesia, Thailand), and a good part of Europe (Spain, Denmark, Italy, Amsterdam, Russia, Turkey) when he studied abroad in Europe in college. I'm so jealous; compared to the adventures he had this past year, I haven't done anything.
The city has definitely changed a lot. The Drag is completely different -- no Barnes & Noble, no Tower Records -- and most of the people who used to live there seem to have moved out. I don't know when/if I'll be going back. It's weird, cause when people ask me which one I like better, I always say Austin. But after this last visit, the Austin that I liked better isn't really there any more.
It was a pretty fun trip. I think it's good to get out of the city every once in awhile, to clear your head and get a change of scenery.
Unfortunately, I don't get enough vacation time to go much further than Austin or Shreveport. He saw a good part of Asia (Kuala Lampur, Singapore, Bali, Indonesia, Thailand), and a good part of Europe (Spain, Denmark, Italy, Amsterdam, Russia, Turkey) when he studied abroad in Europe in college. I'm so jealous; compared to the adventures he had this past year, I haven't done anything.
The city has definitely changed a lot. The Drag is completely different -- no Barnes & Noble, no Tower Records -- and most of the people who used to live there seem to have moved out. I don't know when/if I'll be going back. It's weird, cause when people ask me which one I like better, I always say Austin. But after this last visit, the Austin that I liked better isn't really there any more.
Thursday, July 28, 2005
Sunday, July 24, 2005
up, up and away
I have two online accounts that have consistently been going up since I signed up with them.
My Gmail account keeps giving me more megs (it's currently at 2426, after doubling to 2000 mb in april), and my ING Direct savings account just went up to 3.15% (I signed up in the fall when it was at like 2.6% or so).
My Gmail account keeps giving me more megs (it's currently at 2426, after doubling to 2000 mb in april), and my ING Direct savings account just went up to 3.15% (I signed up in the fall when it was at like 2.6% or so).
Crazy Insane
Ahh, it's been quite a week. Let's see what I remember.
Tuesday: So I started the Harry Potter book on Saturday, and read for maybe 8 hours total over the weekend. And then for probably another 2 or 3 hours on Monday after work. Well, I wasn't planning on finishing the book on Tuesday, but it's such a gripping plot that it's hard to just stop in the middle. Very different from the first five, but still staying true to the characters and the overarching plot, and a beautiful set-up for the final novel. I stayed up until 2 am to finish the book. Yeah, I never stay up that late: even in college, when I had assignments due, I would go to bed and then wake up early the next morning to finish them. 600+ pages in 4 days. A lot of the people I know that have read it, finished it over the weekend. So I'm the slow one. Crazy.
Wednesday: Q. Where can you find an ambulance, police cars, a fire truck, a limo, and a purple taxi cab? A. The Indian movie theater of course! Why go to an Indian movie on Wednesday, you ask. Because it's 2-for-1 silly! Yeah, so we didn't realize it at the time, but the movie we were planning to see is apparantly really popular, and got sold out last week. So by the time we could buy our tickets, it was sold out once again. Ah well, next week I guess. As for the bizarre arrangement of cars, apparantly there was a bit of a tussle with a couple saving seats for their whole family, and another family wanting those seats, proceeding to attack the other family! Obviously, that doesn't explaing the limo or purple taxi cab. But then again, nothing can explain a purple taxi cab, or why someone needs to arrive at a movie theater in a limo. We ended up going to the dollar theater and seeing "Kicking and Screaming" with Will Ferrell. That guy can carry pretty much any film by himself, and this was no exception. The trailers sucked, so I was pleasantly surprised that the movie was really funny.
Friday: Well, since we couldn't go to the Indian movie on Wednesday, we still needed our Indian fill for the week! What better place to fill that empty hole than the National Indian Asian Dance Convention? I can't think of one. Pretty good dance performances overall, but I could have done without the slow parts, even though that's supposedly what typefies some Indian classical dance. Parts of it actually reminded me of Riverdance, since the dancers were so synchronized and they had bells on their ankles that made sounds similar to the taps. In the spirit of diversity, they also had performances by a hip-hop group and a flamenco group (that had performed on Broadway, Carnegie Hall, and the Lincoln Center) .
Saturday: It's off to Ft. Worth for An Evening of Jazz! And by "evening," I mean we arrived at around 5:30 pm. Yeah, so imagine sitting on a paper-thin blanket in a parking lot with the sun beating down on you, and there's no shade. It seems almost cruel to say that jazz is supposed to be "cool" music when you're trying to endure the 100+ degrees weather. I'm used to being in the heat for a total of 5-10 minutes every day: from my apartment to my car, from my car to the office, from the office to the car, and from the car to my apartment. This was like an hour and a half straight! My body was confused, and really wanted me to go into an air-conditioned environment as soon as possible. There was a huge break between performers, so we thought it'd be a good time to go get dinner. When we came back around 10, the concert was much more enjoyable, since it was much cooler and the performers were much more skilled (featuring former NBA star Wayman Tisdale!). They even got the entire crowd (several hundred people) doing the Hustle! Quite a scene.
Tuesday: So I started the Harry Potter book on Saturday, and read for maybe 8 hours total over the weekend. And then for probably another 2 or 3 hours on Monday after work. Well, I wasn't planning on finishing the book on Tuesday, but it's such a gripping plot that it's hard to just stop in the middle. Very different from the first five, but still staying true to the characters and the overarching plot, and a beautiful set-up for the final novel. I stayed up until 2 am to finish the book. Yeah, I never stay up that late: even in college, when I had assignments due, I would go to bed and then wake up early the next morning to finish them. 600+ pages in 4 days. A lot of the people I know that have read it, finished it over the weekend. So I'm the slow one. Crazy.
Wednesday: Q. Where can you find an ambulance, police cars, a fire truck, a limo, and a purple taxi cab? A. The Indian movie theater of course! Why go to an Indian movie on Wednesday, you ask. Because it's 2-for-1 silly! Yeah, so we didn't realize it at the time, but the movie we were planning to see is apparantly really popular, and got sold out last week. So by the time we could buy our tickets, it was sold out once again. Ah well, next week I guess. As for the bizarre arrangement of cars, apparantly there was a bit of a tussle with a couple saving seats for their whole family, and another family wanting those seats, proceeding to attack the other family! Obviously, that doesn't explaing the limo or purple taxi cab. But then again, nothing can explain a purple taxi cab, or why someone needs to arrive at a movie theater in a limo. We ended up going to the dollar theater and seeing "Kicking and Screaming" with Will Ferrell. That guy can carry pretty much any film by himself, and this was no exception. The trailers sucked, so I was pleasantly surprised that the movie was really funny.
Friday: Well, since we couldn't go to the Indian movie on Wednesday, we still needed our Indian fill for the week! What better place to fill that empty hole than the National Indian Asian Dance Convention? I can't think of one. Pretty good dance performances overall, but I could have done without the slow parts, even though that's supposedly what typefies some Indian classical dance. Parts of it actually reminded me of Riverdance, since the dancers were so synchronized and they had bells on their ankles that made sounds similar to the taps. In the spirit of diversity, they also had performances by a hip-hop group and a flamenco group (that had performed on Broadway, Carnegie Hall, and the Lincoln Center) .
Saturday: It's off to Ft. Worth for An Evening of Jazz! And by "evening," I mean we arrived at around 5:30 pm. Yeah, so imagine sitting on a paper-thin blanket in a parking lot with the sun beating down on you, and there's no shade. It seems almost cruel to say that jazz is supposed to be "cool" music when you're trying to endure the 100+ degrees weather. I'm used to being in the heat for a total of 5-10 minutes every day: from my apartment to my car, from my car to the office, from the office to the car, and from the car to my apartment. This was like an hour and a half straight! My body was confused, and really wanted me to go into an air-conditioned environment as soon as possible. There was a huge break between performers, so we thought it'd be a good time to go get dinner. When we came back around 10, the concert was much more enjoyable, since it was much cooler and the performers were much more skilled (featuring former NBA star Wayman Tisdale!). They even got the entire crowd (several hundred people) doing the Hustle! Quite a scene.
Friday, July 22, 2005
What's in a Name?
Although the name Sumeet creates the urge to be both logical and technical, we emphasize that it causes procrastination, lack of confidence, and the inability to realize your goals and ambitions. This name, when combined with the last name, can frustrate happiness, contentment, and success, as well as cause health weaknesses in the elimination and fluid systems.
Your first name of Sumeet has given you a pleasant, easy-going, friendly nature. Personal contacts are important to you. In situations where you are serving others, demonstrating or instructing, you have the patience to go into details that someone else may not think to be important. In your association with others, you are often limited to the more mundane happenings and little personal problems that can be so frustrating to those of an active, dynamic nature. You desire to create system and order in your environment but are inclined to become side-tracked and socialize when you should be working. Your ambitions are not large, as you lack confidence in your own abilities and would sooner not take a chance.Sunday, July 17, 2005
Wow
From http://apnews.myway.com/article/20050717/D8BDC2BG0.html
Even allowing for deep discounts on the $29.99 release, "Half-Blood Prince" still easily generated more than $100 million in revenue. It's not only the richest opening in publishing history, but tops the combined estimated take for the weekend's top two movies, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "The Wedding Crashers."
"When a book beats out movies, we're in great shape," Holton [ president of Scholastic Children's Books] said.
$100 million in one day? For a book? Unbelievable. That's probably more than the revenue of most book publishers for an entire year."When a book beats out movies, we're in great shape," Holton [ president of Scholastic Children's Books] said.
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Who's Screwing Up America?
There's this new book out called "100 People Who Are Screwing Up America." I'd include the list here, but it's 100 people, and I've noticed my posts get really long, so here's a link: http://www.mydd.com/story/2005/7/6/16128/65032
Yeah, so it's pretty obvious that the author is a Republican, with Michael Moore, Jimmy Carter (founder of Habitat for Humanity), Al Sharpton, Al Gore, DNC chair Howard Dean, Ted Kennedy, Jesse Jackson, and John Edwards all in the top 20. Also making the list are Paris Hilton's parents, Barbra Streisand, Dan Rather, Eminem, Ludacris, and Latrell Sprewell.
I haven't read the book, so I don't know his arguments for each person, but here's the amazon.com blurb:
From watching the interview, it seems that his main point is that people in Hollywood (and the entertainment industry in general) have a far greater influence than politicians in Washington.
I caught the author on the Daily Show, and I agree with Jon Stewart, that we be more concerned with the politicians, who have the power to directly change our lives (through foreign policy, taxes, social security, the environment, etc.). Stewart made a good point that there was no correlation between the people the author named and the basic standard-of-living measurements (drug rates, crime rates, etc.), and noted that they have actually been decreasing.
What's with all the entertainers on the list? If you have a couple of platinum-selling CDs (Eminem won an Oscar!), or a hit TV show, you're "screwing up" America?? Latrell Sprewell may deserve to be on the list, though, due to his choking incident back in the day to more recently complaining about not making enough to "feed his family." Then again, I don't buy the argument that entertainers should display impeccable behavior all the time, since some entertainers are just good at what they're paid to do. Sprewell is a perfect example of this. He's pretty good at basketball, but he isn't a model citizen. Does that mean he's screwing up America? I don't think so, as long as people realize (as most do) that he gets paid to play basketball, not to be a role model.
Yeah, so it's pretty obvious that the author is a Republican, with Michael Moore, Jimmy Carter (founder of Habitat for Humanity), Al Sharpton, Al Gore, DNC chair Howard Dean, Ted Kennedy, Jesse Jackson, and John Edwards all in the top 20. Also making the list are Paris Hilton's parents, Barbra Streisand, Dan Rather, Eminem, Ludacris, and Latrell Sprewell.
I haven't read the book, so I don't know his arguments for each person, but here's the amazon.com blurb:
"Bernard Goldberg takes dead aim at the America Bashers (the cultural elites who look down their snobby noses at "ordinary" Americans) ... the Hollywood Blowhards (incredibly ditzy celebrities who think they're smart just because they're famous) ... the TV Schlockmeisters (including the one whose show has been compared to a churning mass of maggots devouring rotten meat) ... the Intellectual Thugs (bigwigs at some of our best colleges, whose views run the gamut from left wing to far left wing) ... and many more."
From watching the interview, it seems that his main point is that people in Hollywood (and the entertainment industry in general) have a far greater influence than politicians in Washington.
I caught the author on the Daily Show, and I agree with Jon Stewart, that we be more concerned with the politicians, who have the power to directly change our lives (through foreign policy, taxes, social security, the environment, etc.). Stewart made a good point that there was no correlation between the people the author named and the basic standard-of-living measurements (drug rates, crime rates, etc.), and noted that they have actually been decreasing.
What's with all the entertainers on the list? If you have a couple of platinum-selling CDs (Eminem won an Oscar!), or a hit TV show, you're "screwing up" America?? Latrell Sprewell may deserve to be on the list, though, due to his choking incident back in the day to more recently complaining about not making enough to "feed his family." Then again, I don't buy the argument that entertainers should display impeccable behavior all the time, since some entertainers are just good at what they're paid to do. Sprewell is a perfect example of this. He's pretty good at basketball, but he isn't a model citizen. Does that mean he's screwing up America? I don't think so, as long as people realize (as most do) that he gets paid to play basketball, not to be a role model.
Monday, July 11, 2005
Dentists Suck
It's true. They do.
Nurse 1: Is this the cavitron?
Nurse 2: I've never used one before.
Me: (thinking) This is good.
Nurse 1: And now your chair will go up. <pushes a button and the chair goes down>
Me: (thinking) Um.. is it that hard to get a nurse who knows how to operate the cavitron and the chair?
Nurse 1: And now we'll be using this tooth polisher.
<pushes a button and the instrument next to the polisher starts vibrating>
Nurse 1: What's going on?
Me: (thinking) Yeah, good question. Does anyone in the room know what's going on?
Ugh.. well luckily, I'm still alive and still have all my teeth (I think).
But I am really puffy all around my mouth area (they decided it would be a good idea to apply an anesthetic). They said it would wear off after 2-3 hours and not to have any solid foods, cause then I might bite my cheeks and it would hurt like a bitch (my words, not theirs) after it wore off. I guess this is what Botox feels like, except all the time.
Oh, and they charged me $80, even though last time it was free, and they did the exact same thing as last time! Whatever, I don't get it. The sad part is, it isn't over. They want me to get my wisdom teeth removed too... which probably means more anesthetic, more puffiness.
I know they had places in Austin that would put you under "experimental" drugs and actually pay you to extract your wisdom teeth. Does anyone know if there's anything like that here? I was telling the receptionist at the dentist's office about it, and he seemed highly skeptical of the whole idea.
Dentists suck.
Nurse 1: Is this the cavitron?
Nurse 2: I've never used one before.
Me: (thinking) This is good.
Nurse 1: And now your chair will go up. <pushes a button and the chair goes down>
Me: (thinking) Um.. is it that hard to get a nurse who knows how to operate the cavitron and the chair?
Nurse 1: And now we'll be using this tooth polisher.
<pushes a button and the instrument next to the polisher starts vibrating>
Nurse 1: What's going on?
Me: (thinking) Yeah, good question. Does anyone in the room know what's going on?
Ugh.. well luckily, I'm still alive and still have all my teeth (I think).
But I am really puffy all around my mouth area (they decided it would be a good idea to apply an anesthetic). They said it would wear off after 2-3 hours and not to have any solid foods, cause then I might bite my cheeks and it would hurt like a bitch (my words, not theirs) after it wore off. I guess this is what Botox feels like, except all the time.
Oh, and they charged me $80, even though last time it was free, and they did the exact same thing as last time! Whatever, I don't get it. The sad part is, it isn't over. They want me to get my wisdom teeth removed too... which probably means more anesthetic, more puffiness.
I know they had places in Austin that would put you under "experimental" drugs and actually pay you to extract your wisdom teeth. Does anyone know if there's anything like that here? I was telling the receptionist at the dentist's office about it, and he seemed highly skeptical of the whole idea.
Dentists suck.
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Guilty Pleasures
Check it.
1) R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet" (a 5-part "urban operatta") - I caught this on VH1 (yeah, the last place you would expect to see R. Kelly) a few days ago. Each part ends with a cliffhanger at the end of the video, so it's hard not to watch the entire thing. Luckily, VH1 didn't let me down, and showed all 5 videos back-to-back! It's quite a story, with every character involved in some sort of affair and hiding some sort of secret. I think I've heard some of it on the radio, but you really need a visual to tell the story in a convincing fashion.
2) "The Inside" on FOX Wednesdays - I was just flipping through when this show piqued my interest. I ended up watching both episodes (I don't know if that's a regular thing, or just a July-6-let's-have-two-episodes thing). The premise of the show centers on an FBI field office with agents who get deeply involved with the crimes that they solve. For example, in the first episode, the hot blonde agent appears to have an emotional breakdown when she calls the suicide prevention hotline (the case involves people who had called it just before they were murdered). At first, the other agents figure that she's just a really good actress, but then later realize that she had been kidnapped when she was 10 and used the call as her own personal outlet. I couldn't really figure out why the agent in the second epsiode was so riled up about the criminal (besides the fact he ripped out his victim's hearts after he killed them), but I'm sure the agent had some kind of personal connection with one of the victims. Anyways, I don't watch any of the other law/criminal shows, so this show might be just like the rest of them. Except, of course, for the hot blonde FBI agent.
1) R. Kelly's "Trapped in the Closet" (a 5-part "urban operatta") - I caught this on VH1 (yeah, the last place you would expect to see R. Kelly) a few days ago. Each part ends with a cliffhanger at the end of the video, so it's hard not to watch the entire thing. Luckily, VH1 didn't let me down, and showed all 5 videos back-to-back! It's quite a story, with every character involved in some sort of affair and hiding some sort of secret. I think I've heard some of it on the radio, but you really need a visual to tell the story in a convincing fashion.
2) "The Inside" on FOX Wednesdays - I was just flipping through when this show piqued my interest. I ended up watching both episodes (I don't know if that's a regular thing, or just a July-6-let's-have-two-episodes thing). The premise of the show centers on an FBI field office with agents who get deeply involved with the crimes that they solve. For example, in the first episode, the hot blonde agent appears to have an emotional breakdown when she calls the suicide prevention hotline (the case involves people who had called it just before they were murdered). At first, the other agents figure that she's just a really good actress, but then later realize that she had been kidnapped when she was 10 and used the call as her own personal outlet. I couldn't really figure out why the agent in the second epsiode was so riled up about the criminal (besides the fact he ripped out his victim's hearts after he killed them), but I'm sure the agent had some kind of personal connection with one of the victims. Anyways, I don't watch any of the other law/criminal shows, so this show might be just like the rest of them. Except, of course, for the hot blonde FBI agent.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Carnival Games
I went to downtown Garland yesterday for 4th of July festivities. They had the requisite fireworks, along with a concert by "country hitmaker" Tracy Lawerence (their description), and a carnival. The fireworks were yawn-inducing, and I'm not a big fan of country music, although watching people in cowboy hats get their two-step on was quite entertaining. Oh, and there was this one girl, about 16 or 17 years old, who kept putting this light-up object in her mouth. I didn't find out until much later that it was a pacifier. Why they even had those is still a mystery, and why she was sucking on one a bigger mystery still.
I didn't expect anything at all from the carnival (since it was in Garland), but it was actually quite massive, complete with rides and games that were impossible to win. I really wonder how they come up with these games. They have to appear to be easy, so people will be inclined to play, but also have some kind of twist that makes it nearly impossible to win. Carnival games are a lot like gambling in a casino, except in a casino, you know your chances of winning. At a carnival game, it isn't the numbers that beat you, it's your own lack of skill that does you in.
Oh, and the highlight of the carnival: a couple of cops chasing down (literally, on foot) some black guys. Quite the scene, especially since the walkway was packed full of people, and there was hardly enough room to walk, let alone run through it.
I didn't expect anything at all from the carnival (since it was in Garland), but it was actually quite massive, complete with rides and games that were impossible to win. I really wonder how they come up with these games. They have to appear to be easy, so people will be inclined to play, but also have some kind of twist that makes it nearly impossible to win. Carnival games are a lot like gambling in a casino, except in a casino, you know your chances of winning. At a carnival game, it isn't the numbers that beat you, it's your own lack of skill that does you in.
Oh, and the highlight of the carnival: a couple of cops chasing down (literally, on foot) some black guys. Quite the scene, especially since the walkway was packed full of people, and there was hardly enough room to walk, let alone run through it.
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Free Things in Dallas
As they say, the best things in life are free. And Dallas follows this advice quite nicely.
1) Auditorium 10 at the movie theater on Jupiter and 635: This is the strangest theater I've ever been to. I think there were a total of 50 seats. When I have my own personal home theater, it will look exactly like this (minus the annoying small children). It's partitioned off from Auditoriums 1-9 so much that they don't have an usher collecting tickets.
2) DART: It's true. The metro rail center for the DFW metroplex can be a free ride. Rumor has it that DART officials ride the trains every once in awhile to check that you have bought a ticket, but only in certain areas and at certain times. So, if you time it correctly, you can go anywhere in the city for free.
Note: I don't in any way endorse the above. Stealing is a crime and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
1) Auditorium 10 at the movie theater on Jupiter and 635: This is the strangest theater I've ever been to. I think there were a total of 50 seats. When I have my own personal home theater, it will look exactly like this (minus the annoying small children). It's partitioned off from Auditoriums 1-9 so much that they don't have an usher collecting tickets.
2) DART: It's true. The metro rail center for the DFW metroplex can be a free ride. Rumor has it that DART officials ride the trains every once in awhile to check that you have bought a ticket, but only in certain areas and at certain times. So, if you time it correctly, you can go anywhere in the city for free.
Note: I don't in any way endorse the above. Stealing is a crime and should be punished to the fullest extent of the law.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
More Reviews
I went to a couple of live shows this week. Here are my thoughts.
Riverdance (Tuesday) - First of all, the venue was in Grand Prairie, so it took about 1.5 hours to get there. Ugh, I hate Dallas traffic.
Too many cars + clueless drivers driving too fast = accidents.
Anyway, my mom and I left the apartment at 6 and the show didn't start until 8, so we still had plenty of time. The theater was really nice: incredibly quiet despite the thousands of people, and plush comfy chairs in the lobby. It had been awhile since I had seen Riverdance (2 or 3 years ago on PBS, when Michael Flatley was still the lead dancer), so I had almost forgotten what the big hoopla was all about, and doubted whether this group would be able to pull off a good performance without their main dancer. But, alas, it was a great show. It was sorta slow at times, when they had groups singing in Irish, but the fancy footwork routines more than made up for it. It amazes me how many taps they can complete in a minute, and it's an incredible sensation to see it live; at times, it looked like their legs were made of rubber, the way they were moving so quickly.
Grade: A (The females looked like fairies)
Music Temptation 2005 (Friday) - Yes, that was the official name of the event. Basically, there were about 5 or 6 of the biggest Indian playback singers (most of the music in India comes from movies, so a playback singer is the person who actually performed the song versus the actor/actress lip-synching in the movie), complete with musicians and "Bollywood Dancers." The event was at the Dallas Convention Center complex, which is in the rundown part of downtown Dallas. Traffic wasn't as bad as when going to Riverdance, and parking was much cheaper, so no complaints there. This event was much less professional than Riverdance though. They didn't start seating people until about 15 minutes before the show started, which meant it was an hour into the program before everyone was seated. So yeah, there was tons of movement and noise in the audience for at least an hour and a half. After people settled down, the show was much easier to enjoy. Admittedly, I'm not hip to all the latest Hindi songs (or to any of the older ones that were performed), but it was definitely fun to hear the ones I did recognize. The last performer, Kunal G., actually came out into the stands and shook hands and signed autographs while singing. The whole performance lasted over 4 hours, but it was definitely entertaining. Quite different from Riverdance in terms of venue, audience, and just overall quality of show, but still entertaining.
Grade: B (Yeah, as fun as it was, I don't think I'll be going to one of these again.. unless of course Aishwariya and Preity Zinta come together or something)
Riverdance (Tuesday) - First of all, the venue was in Grand Prairie, so it took about 1.5 hours to get there. Ugh, I hate Dallas traffic.
Too many cars + clueless drivers driving too fast = accidents.
Anyway, my mom and I left the apartment at 6 and the show didn't start until 8, so we still had plenty of time. The theater was really nice: incredibly quiet despite the thousands of people, and plush comfy chairs in the lobby. It had been awhile since I had seen Riverdance (2 or 3 years ago on PBS, when Michael Flatley was still the lead dancer), so I had almost forgotten what the big hoopla was all about, and doubted whether this group would be able to pull off a good performance without their main dancer. But, alas, it was a great show. It was sorta slow at times, when they had groups singing in Irish, but the fancy footwork routines more than made up for it. It amazes me how many taps they can complete in a minute, and it's an incredible sensation to see it live; at times, it looked like their legs were made of rubber, the way they were moving so quickly.
Grade: A (The females looked like fairies)
Music Temptation 2005 (Friday) - Yes, that was the official name of the event. Basically, there were about 5 or 6 of the biggest Indian playback singers (most of the music in India comes from movies, so a playback singer is the person who actually performed the song versus the actor/actress lip-synching in the movie), complete with musicians and "Bollywood Dancers." The event was at the Dallas Convention Center complex, which is in the rundown part of downtown Dallas. Traffic wasn't as bad as when going to Riverdance, and parking was much cheaper, so no complaints there. This event was much less professional than Riverdance though. They didn't start seating people until about 15 minutes before the show started, which meant it was an hour into the program before everyone was seated. So yeah, there was tons of movement and noise in the audience for at least an hour and a half. After people settled down, the show was much easier to enjoy. Admittedly, I'm not hip to all the latest Hindi songs (or to any of the older ones that were performed), but it was definitely fun to hear the ones I did recognize. The last performer, Kunal G., actually came out into the stands and shook hands and signed autographs while singing. The whole performance lasted over 4 hours, but it was definitely entertaining. Quite different from Riverdance in terms of venue, audience, and just overall quality of show, but still entertaining.
Grade: B (Yeah, as fun as it was, I don't think I'll be going to one of these again.. unless of course Aishwariya and Preity Zinta come together or something)
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Movie Reviews
I've seen three movies in the past couple of weeks (two Hindi and a small independent American one). Here are my thoughts.
'Bunty aur Babli' (Bunty and Babli) - An Indian version of Bonnie and Clyde. Two idealists leave their families, realizing that they don't understand their dreams. The guy, Bunty, believes his ideas are really great and that he could be an excellent businessman if someone gave him an opportunity. The girl, Babli, wants to be a model and tries to sneak into Miss India pageants all over India. The two of them meet at a train station, and after lying to each other about how great they are ("Yeah, I'm a really successful businessman", "Yup, I'm about to become Miss India"), they both finally tell the truth about how they both failed, but still don't want to go back to their families. So, they decide that they'll try to succeed in another city. But first, they'll need some money. This is where the movie really begins, because to get the money, they concoct various schemes and plots to con people. It's great fun. I won't reveal too much more, because I know you'll be rushing out to see it once you finish this post, but I will say that the "world's most beautiful woman" makes a great cameo!
Grade: A
'Parineeta' (One who is married) - This movie is based on a classic 1960's Indian novel based in Calcutta. It's the story of two childhood friends who live next door to each other. The guy is really rich, and the girl is really poor (yeah, I don't get how live next to each other either). The movie starts with the wedding of the guy to a rich girl (who can't cook, and at a bizarre moment confides in someone else that she will kill him), and the rest shows how the relationship between the two has grown over the years. It's a pretty interesting movie, and gives an insight to life in 1960's India. No Aishwariya though (although the rich girl looks like she could be Ash's sis), so that knocks the grade down a letter.
Grade: B
'Batman Begins' - Yes, this is the small independent American movie that started last week. Since it may slip under your radar, here's a brief synopsis: A boy is afraid of bats, primarily because he gets attacked by thousands of bats when he falls into the cave behind his huge mansion. His fear forces his parents to leave the opera when grown men dressed as bats appear on stage. When they're outside, he sees his parents get mugged and murdered, so he decides that crime is bad, and he needs to fight it at every turn possible. He also realizes that he can't really fight crime as a man, so he decides to take the persona of a "Bat man," hence the title. Pretty different from the previous Batman movies, but I saw a lot of similarities with the Spiderman movies. Oh, and Katie Holmes is in it. I'm waiting for the sequel.
Grade: A
I saw the first two movies with my mom, and the last one with 7 other people. I'm surprised that many people came, considering an event I previously organized (my birthday dinner) was at a location that was shut down! Yeah, so I told everyone the movie was at 7:30 pm, but bought tickets for everyone for the 7 pm showing. Ah well, luckliy the theater wasn't crowded and they let us into the 7:30.
After the movie, some of us went to Cafe Brazil and we had a waitress, Jaime, who looked like the long lost sister of Jessica and Ashlee (who are also from Richardson!) . She was kinda crazy, but then again, it was Cafe Brazil, and that's probably one of the questions on the application.
'Bunty aur Babli' (Bunty and Babli) - An Indian version of Bonnie and Clyde. Two idealists leave their families, realizing that they don't understand their dreams. The guy, Bunty, believes his ideas are really great and that he could be an excellent businessman if someone gave him an opportunity. The girl, Babli, wants to be a model and tries to sneak into Miss India pageants all over India. The two of them meet at a train station, and after lying to each other about how great they are ("Yeah, I'm a really successful businessman", "Yup, I'm about to become Miss India"), they both finally tell the truth about how they both failed, but still don't want to go back to their families. So, they decide that they'll try to succeed in another city. But first, they'll need some money. This is where the movie really begins, because to get the money, they concoct various schemes and plots to con people. It's great fun. I won't reveal too much more, because I know you'll be rushing out to see it once you finish this post, but I will say that the "world's most beautiful woman" makes a great cameo!
Grade: A
'Parineeta' (One who is married) - This movie is based on a classic 1960's Indian novel based in Calcutta. It's the story of two childhood friends who live next door to each other. The guy is really rich, and the girl is really poor (yeah, I don't get how live next to each other either). The movie starts with the wedding of the guy to a rich girl (who can't cook, and at a bizarre moment confides in someone else that she will kill him), and the rest shows how the relationship between the two has grown over the years. It's a pretty interesting movie, and gives an insight to life in 1960's India. No Aishwariya though (although the rich girl looks like she could be Ash's sis), so that knocks the grade down a letter.
Grade: B
'Batman Begins' - Yes, this is the small independent American movie that started last week. Since it may slip under your radar, here's a brief synopsis: A boy is afraid of bats, primarily because he gets attacked by thousands of bats when he falls into the cave behind his huge mansion. His fear forces his parents to leave the opera when grown men dressed as bats appear on stage. When they're outside, he sees his parents get mugged and murdered, so he decides that crime is bad, and he needs to fight it at every turn possible. He also realizes that he can't really fight crime as a man, so he decides to take the persona of a "Bat man," hence the title. Pretty different from the previous Batman movies, but I saw a lot of similarities with the Spiderman movies. Oh, and Katie Holmes is in it. I'm waiting for the sequel.
Grade: A
I saw the first two movies with my mom, and the last one with 7 other people. I'm surprised that many people came, considering an event I previously organized (my birthday dinner) was at a location that was shut down! Yeah, so I told everyone the movie was at 7:30 pm, but bought tickets for everyone for the 7 pm showing. Ah well, luckliy the theater wasn't crowded and they let us into the 7:30.
After the movie, some of us went to Cafe Brazil and we had a waitress, Jaime, who looked like the long lost sister of Jessica and Ashlee (who are also from Richardson!) . She was kinda crazy, but then again, it was Cafe Brazil, and that's probably one of the questions on the application.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Close Call(s)
Wow. I saw two accidents happen in front of me this past weekend. I'm talking a difference of a couple of minutes, and I could easily have been involved in either of one of them.
The first one was on Friday, at the intersection right in front of my apartment. We were about 1000 ft away, and I couldn't tell exactly what transpired, but it looked like one person was trying to turn left and maybe another was going straight. As soon as the two vehicles collided, the driver who was turning left was completely motionless. My mom and I went grocery shopping, and when we came out, there were at least two fire trucks and a couple of police cars right at the scene, and traffic was backed up in all four directions of the intersection. We had to wait in a line to get out of the parking lot. I had no idea my apartment was at such a dangerous intersection.
The second accident happened today, on 635 East (an incredibly busy highway in Dallas), when we were coming back from the temple. My mom heard a screeching noise, so I looked in my rearview mirror, and saw a car moving perpendicular to traffic (i.e. from one concrete barrier to the other). Needless to say, there was lots of contact, and traffic was probably backed up for at least a couple of miles. My mom also pointed out that there would probably be more accidents further down, since traffic was moving so fast. If we had left the temple a couple of minutes later, or had a red light instead of a green one somewhere earlier, we very easily could have been involved. (I could get all religious, and say that since we went to temple, that's the reason we were ok, but I won't).
I've always said I hate Dallas drivers, and maybe a lot of that was because I was used to the Austin way of driving -- slower, and less aggressive. I've seen firsthand this weekend that they really can't drive, and that if you don't watch your back, this is probably one of the most dangerous places to drive in the United States.
The first one was on Friday, at the intersection right in front of my apartment. We were about 1000 ft away, and I couldn't tell exactly what transpired, but it looked like one person was trying to turn left and maybe another was going straight. As soon as the two vehicles collided, the driver who was turning left was completely motionless. My mom and I went grocery shopping, and when we came out, there were at least two fire trucks and a couple of police cars right at the scene, and traffic was backed up in all four directions of the intersection. We had to wait in a line to get out of the parking lot. I had no idea my apartment was at such a dangerous intersection.
The second accident happened today, on 635 East (an incredibly busy highway in Dallas), when we were coming back from the temple. My mom heard a screeching noise, so I looked in my rearview mirror, and saw a car moving perpendicular to traffic (i.e. from one concrete barrier to the other). Needless to say, there was lots of contact, and traffic was probably backed up for at least a couple of miles. My mom also pointed out that there would probably be more accidents further down, since traffic was moving so fast. If we had left the temple a couple of minutes later, or had a red light instead of a green one somewhere earlier, we very easily could have been involved. (I could get all religious, and say that since we went to temple, that's the reason we were ok, but I won't).
I've always said I hate Dallas drivers, and maybe a lot of that was because I was used to the Austin way of driving -- slower, and less aggressive. I've seen firsthand this weekend that they really can't drive, and that if you don't watch your back, this is probably one of the most dangerous places to drive in the United States.
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
DP
There's been a lot of controversy recently over whether it was appropriate for race-car driver Danica Patrick to pose for FHM magazine.
Some say that she has enough talent (she placed 4th at the Indy 500) and shouldn't have posed, while others say that if she can get money for it, there's no harm in it.
As a heterosexual, American male, it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that I belong to the latter group. I think that by posing in the magazine, she has broadened her fan base by reaching out to an audience who otherwise might never have watched race-car driving. For those who say it cheapens the sport by essentially reducing her to a sexual object instead of the skillful driver that she is, are also grossly misinformed.
Her decision to pose is a great marketing move, and has the same effect as being in a commercial for the race. It attracts viewers, and potentially brings in a new audience.
As Dan Wheldon (the winner of the Indy 500) put it, "If there were 32 guys and one hot girl, I would put the hot girl on the cover [of Sports Illustrated] too. You'd be crazy not to."
Danica Patrick is almost the new hotness. She still has tough competition with Britney and Carrie though.
Some say that she has enough talent (she placed 4th at the Indy 500) and shouldn't have posed, while others say that if she can get money for it, there's no harm in it.
As a heterosexual, American male, it shouldn't come as much of a surprise that I belong to the latter group. I think that by posing in the magazine, she has broadened her fan base by reaching out to an audience who otherwise might never have watched race-car driving. For those who say it cheapens the sport by essentially reducing her to a sexual object instead of the skillful driver that she is, are also grossly misinformed.
Her decision to pose is a great marketing move, and has the same effect as being in a commercial for the race. It attracts viewers, and potentially brings in a new audience.
As Dan Wheldon (the winner of the Indy 500) put it, "If there were 32 guys and one hot girl, I would put the hot girl on the cover [of Sports Illustrated] too. You'd be crazy not to."
Danica Patrick is almost the new hotness. She still has tough competition with Britney and Carrie though.
Friday, June 03, 2005
Boring!
Apparantly there's this new show starting called "The Scholar" or something where a bunch of high school students try to compete for a "full-ride scholarship" to college.
Is it just me or does that sound like the most boring show ever? Who wants to watch a bunch of people studying? Couldn't I just go to the library if I wanted to see that? I'm a fan of most reality television, but this show just has disaster written all over it.
Is it just me or does that sound like the most boring show ever? Who wants to watch a bunch of people studying? Couldn't I just go to the library if I wanted to see that? I'm a fan of most reality television, but this show just has disaster written all over it.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Reflections
It's been almost a year since I moved to Dallas, so I thought I'd share some of the more interesting and memorable things that I've done.
a polo match, 2 Mavs games, a musical at Fair Park, 2 concerts (Sting and Ludacris/Ciara/TI/Mike Jones/Bobby Valentino), an art festival, an Asian festival, 2 musuems (Kimball and DMA), Easter Symphony Concert, Carly Patterson parade/rally, Texas State Fair, 4th of July fireworks in Plano, Christmas festivities in Richardson and Plano
Not bad for my first year, considering that there isn't much to do in Dallas. It seems that lots of people here go to Cowboys and Rangers games, so that might be something to check out too, even though I don't like football or baseball.
Well, Dallas, I'm here for another year. Let's see what you've got.
a polo match, 2 Mavs games, a musical at Fair Park, 2 concerts (Sting and Ludacris/Ciara/TI/Mike Jones/Bobby Valentino), an art festival, an Asian festival, 2 musuems (Kimball and DMA), Easter Symphony Concert, Carly Patterson parade/rally, Texas State Fair, 4th of July fireworks in Plano, Christmas festivities in Richardson and Plano
Not bad for my first year, considering that there isn't much to do in Dallas. It seems that lots of people here go to Cowboys and Rangers games, so that might be something to check out too, even though I don't like football or baseball.
Well, Dallas, I'm here for another year. Let's see what you've got.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Memorial Day
woohoo for memorial day..
here's to all those who've lost their lives fighting for america! it's because of you that we get a day off from work!
(don't worry veterans, we'll remember you guys in november... not so fondly though, since we still have to work ;)
here's to all those who've lost their lives fighting for america! it's because of you that we get a day off from work!
(don't worry veterans, we'll remember you guys in november... not so fondly though, since we still have to work ;)
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Shreveport
Went to Shreveport with some friends for Memorial Day weekend. It was me, a family friend from Austin (who lives in Dallas now), a co-worker, and the co-worker's friend from high school.
Besides losing a lot of money, it was a pretty fun trip. Mostly because I had never heard of Shreveport until I moved here, I was expecting a sketchier version of Las Vegas, but the majority of the casinos were actually relatively decent.
I don't think it's worth a return visit (unless some great new casino opens up or there's some event happening there) mostly because the city has nothing else to offer besides gambling. I also didn't like the fact that the casinos were spread out across three different exits from the highway.
So, if you wanted to go from one casino to another, you'd actually have to get back on the highway and then exit again.
I came up with a great idea to solve this hassle: "boat taxis" between casinos. Apparantly, all the casinos in Shreveport are on riverboats, so this plan is similar to the monorail service in Las Vegas.
The casinos could collectively fund the taxi service, and the company operating it could be bankin'.
Besides losing a lot of money, it was a pretty fun trip. Mostly because I had never heard of Shreveport until I moved here, I was expecting a sketchier version of Las Vegas, but the majority of the casinos were actually relatively decent.
I don't think it's worth a return visit (unless some great new casino opens up or there's some event happening there) mostly because the city has nothing else to offer besides gambling. I also didn't like the fact that the casinos were spread out across three different exits from the highway.
So, if you wanted to go from one casino to another, you'd actually have to get back on the highway and then exit again.
I came up with a great idea to solve this hassle: "boat taxis" between casinos. Apparantly, all the casinos in Shreveport are on riverboats, so this plan is similar to the monorail service in Las Vegas.
The casinos could collectively fund the taxi service, and the company operating it could be bankin'.
Monday, May 23, 2005
American Idol
I have a bet with a co-worker that Carrie Underwood will win American Idol on Wednesday.
I've only seen the show while flipping channels, but whenever I do, Carrie is always singing. I don't really think she's that good, and I have no idea who this Bo guy is, but I still have a lot of confidence that I will win.
Never understimate the power of a hot girl who has a decent voice.
I've only seen the show while flipping channels, but whenever I do, Carrie is always singing. I don't really think she's that good, and I have no idea who this Bo guy is, but I still have a lot of confidence that I will win.
Never understimate the power of a hot girl who has a decent voice.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Wal-Mart vs. Target
If you're looking for cheap stuff, go to Wal-Mart.
If you're going there for good quality, the atmosphere, and the service, go to Target.
At Target (the scanner couldn't read the barcode):
Cashier: These things are a pain in the butt. Pardon my language.
Me: It's ok. I think I'm old enough.
Cashier: I said 'butt' one time and this lady got all offended. She went and told my manager.
Wow. You can't even say butt any more? I guess it all depends on the context. "Hey lady, you've got a nice butt."
Oh, and another thing about Target. The cashiers all seem younger and happier to be working there.
If you're going there for good quality, the atmosphere, and the service, go to Target.
At Target (the scanner couldn't read the barcode):
Cashier: These things are a pain in the butt. Pardon my language.
Me: It's ok. I think I'm old enough.
Cashier: I said 'butt' one time and this lady got all offended. She went and told my manager.
Wow. You can't even say butt any more? I guess it all depends on the context. "Hey lady, you've got a nice butt."
Oh, and another thing about Target. The cashiers all seem younger and happier to be working there.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Chaotic Review
First, some thoughts on Britney herself. Although most people don't believe me, I actually first became a fan because of her music, not because of how incredibly hot she was. I then saw her Las Vegas concert on HBO, and was hooked. I began watching interviews, and other shows ("documentaries" on MTV, VH1, etc.) about her, and have been following her ever since, mostly because a) her music rocks, b) she's hot and c) it never ceases to amaze me how Britney Spears can switch between being cute/goofy and sexy. Oh, and she also has been quite successful at conveying an image of being a regular down-to-earth person, as opposed to the images that the media portrays (she's a whore, a bitch, etc.).
So, on to the show. The majority of it is filmed by Britney, and it seems that other shows held back (perhaps out of fear of embarrasing her). She is actually much more open and even a bit annoying as she asks anyone who will listen incredibly personal questions "What's your opinion on marriage and commitment?" "What's your favorite sexual position?"
Within the hour, Britney goes from feeling lonely and empty to inviting a guy she hardly met (Kevin) to come tour with her. It's a bizarre transition for what will probably be a bizarre show. Then again, it is quite entertaining, mostly because it's Britney Spears.
Grade: A+ (If Britney just sat on her sofa and stared at the camera for an hour, the grade would be the same)
So, on to the show. The majority of it is filmed by Britney, and it seems that other shows held back (perhaps out of fear of embarrasing her). She is actually much more open and even a bit annoying as she asks anyone who will listen incredibly personal questions "What's your opinion on marriage and commitment?" "What's your favorite sexual position?"
Within the hour, Britney goes from feeling lonely and empty to inviting a guy she hardly met (Kevin) to come tour with her. It's a bizarre transition for what will probably be a bizarre show. Then again, it is quite entertaining, mostly because it's Britney Spears.
Grade: A+ (If Britney just sat on her sofa and stared at the camera for an hour, the grade would be the same)
Monday, May 16, 2005
Britney on TV!
It's been far too long since Britney Spears' last appearance on television.
I'm really looking forward to getting an in-depth view of her life after marriage and her thoughts on being a mother. If ever there was a model mother/wife, I think Britney would be it. She is one of the most eloquent, and deepest celebrities that we have today, and I think it would be a shame not to learn from her experiences.
She's a true inspiration to us all, and I don't think it's a stretch to say that "Britney and Kevin: Chaotic" (tomorrow on UPN 9 pm ET) might be the best show ever.
For those who miss the television event of the century, I'll post a review.
I'm really looking forward to getting an in-depth view of her life after marriage and her thoughts on being a mother. If ever there was a model mother/wife, I think Britney would be it. She is one of the most eloquent, and deepest celebrities that we have today, and I think it would be a shame not to learn from her experiences.
She's a true inspiration to us all, and I don't think it's a stretch to say that "Britney and Kevin: Chaotic" (tomorrow on UPN 9 pm ET) might be the best show ever.
For those who miss the television event of the century, I'll post a review.
Sunday, May 15, 2005
I went to an Asian Festival yesterday. It was pretty interesting. They had a bunch of booths set up by various organizations/companies in the Dallas area, and two stages showcasing dances from all across the continent. The ones I saw were performed by really young girls, and they weren't synchronized at all, so it was a bit of disappointing.
From the booths, I got two free t-shirts (one from Western Union, and one from the Crow Collection of Asian Art), a teddy bear (from State Farm), and a tape measure (from Verizon).
Any day when you come back with good quality free stuff is a good day :)
From the booths, I got two free t-shirts (one from Western Union, and one from the Crow Collection of Asian Art), a teddy bear (from State Farm), and a tape measure (from Verizon).
Any day when you come back with good quality free stuff is a good day :)
Thursday, May 12, 2005
An Open Letter to Paris Hilton
Dear Paris,
First of all, congratulations on single-handedly changing the face of American pop culture. We no longer need to idolize people who have accomplished something (starred in a movie, made an album, etc.). We are now content in creating celebrities who are famous for just being hot.
As a dedicated fan of the Simple Life, I urge you to reconsider your decision to replace Nicole Richie. Although you were the marquee name when the show first debuted, I think it is fair to say that she embodies the true essence of what the show has become. It is her personality and interaction with the various people of the series that really carry the show.
I haven't heard much about the friend you want in place of Nicole, but I think one of the great things about the Simple Life is that the audience gets to see this pair of friends through all of their adventures, and bringing this other friend would ruin the whole experience. In fact, I know I will be wondering how Nicole would act in every situation.
I realize that whatever happened must be a huge issue for this lifelong friendship to come crashing down. However, for the sake of the show, and for all of your fans, I strongly urge you to make up with Ms. Richie.
First of all, congratulations on single-handedly changing the face of American pop culture. We no longer need to idolize people who have accomplished something (starred in a movie, made an album, etc.). We are now content in creating celebrities who are famous for just being hot.
As a dedicated fan of the Simple Life, I urge you to reconsider your decision to replace Nicole Richie. Although you were the marquee name when the show first debuted, I think it is fair to say that she embodies the true essence of what the show has become. It is her personality and interaction with the various people of the series that really carry the show.
I haven't heard much about the friend you want in place of Nicole, but I think one of the great things about the Simple Life is that the audience gets to see this pair of friends through all of their adventures, and bringing this other friend would ruin the whole experience. In fact, I know I will be wondering how Nicole would act in every situation.
I realize that whatever happened must be a huge issue for this lifelong friendship to come crashing down. However, for the sake of the show, and for all of your fans, I strongly urge you to make up with Ms. Richie.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
4 Things
There's a site called 43 Things that lets you set goals and then connect with other people who have similar goals or who have already accomplished these goals. Seems like an interesting idea.
So far I have 4 goals:
1) Go to Vegas (my parents, my sister and a co-worker went this year -- not together haha -- and now i want to go too)
2) Learn guitar (a different co-worker got me one for my birthday and now i need to learn)
3) Work out at least 3 times a week
4) Get a tattoo (haha.. yeah we'll see if this one actually happens.. if i did get one, very few ppl would know about it ;)
You can see my progress, and new goals if I add them, here:
http://www.43things.com/people/view/Klert
So far I have 4 goals:
1) Go to Vegas (my parents, my sister and a co-worker went this year -- not together haha -- and now i want to go too)
2) Learn guitar (a different co-worker got me one for my birthday and now i need to learn)
3) Work out at least 3 times a week
4) Get a tattoo (haha.. yeah we'll see if this one actually happens.. if i did get one, very few ppl would know about it ;)
You can see my progress, and new goals if I add them, here:
http://www.43things.com/people/view/Klert
Saturday, May 07, 2005
I would really like to get an animation cel for my apartment. Something like a cel from Fantasia or any other Disney or Warner Bros. cartoon (Mickey Mouse, Bugs Bunny, etc.)
I went to an arts festival today in Richardson, where artists from all over the country had booths set up to display/sell their works. My favorite pieces were the ones that were more fantasy-oriented/fanciful. I liked this bronze sculpture of Humpty Dumpty the best. Too bad I don't have 12K to spare.
One day, though, when I do have that kind of money, you can expect to find lots of crazy sculptures and animation cels throughout my house. You just wait.
I went to an arts festival today in Richardson, where artists from all over the country had booths set up to display/sell their works. My favorite pieces were the ones that were more fantasy-oriented/fanciful. I liked this bronze sculpture of Humpty Dumpty the best. Too bad I don't have 12K to spare.
One day, though, when I do have that kind of money, you can expect to find lots of crazy sculptures and animation cels throughout my house. You just wait.
Monday, May 02, 2005
Decisons Decisions
I've never had to make any major decisions.
I was only accepted to one college, and only had one job offer upon graduation.
Some people get to choose the direction of their life. They get accepted to multiple colleges, or have multiple job offers that they consider.
I am not here today because of any choices. I've never had the option of turning down a job offer, or even imagining what life would be like if I went to another college since that was never a possibility.
I wonder when I will get to choose the path my life takes.
I was only accepted to one college, and only had one job offer upon graduation.
Some people get to choose the direction of their life. They get accepted to multiple colleges, or have multiple job offers that they consider.
I am not here today because of any choices. I've never had the option of turning down a job offer, or even imagining what life would be like if I went to another college since that was never a possibility.
I wonder when I will get to choose the path my life takes.
Thursday, April 28, 2005
Random Musing
I am an incredibly lucky person.
I attribute most of the things I have today to luck: family, friends, my job.
I don't believe I deserve anything that I have today. My family has an undying amount of love for me that I could never possibly repay. My friends will go out of their way, and even cancel plans, if I ask them for help. I also received my job offer about a month before graduating from college (it was the last decision I was waiting on).
I know there are people who work a lot harder, love much more, and, in general, should have a much better life than they do.
It's not right.
I attribute most of the things I have today to luck: family, friends, my job.
I don't believe I deserve anything that I have today. My family has an undying amount of love for me that I could never possibly repay. My friends will go out of their way, and even cancel plans, if I ask them for help. I also received my job offer about a month before graduating from college (it was the last decision I was waiting on).
I know there are people who work a lot harder, love much more, and, in general, should have a much better life than they do.
It's not right.
Who am I?
Ok, so now that I know to use this thing, a little bit about myself.
I recently graduated from UT-Austin with a Bachelors in Computer Science. After a brief two-week journey to Australia (a graduation gift from my parents), I moved to Dallas and started working for a software development company and have been here for about a year.
And what a year it has been. I never realized how difficult it would be to pick up everything and start over in a new city. People would ask me in college where I wanted to work, and everyone sort of assumed that I would stay in Austin. (I had lived there since I was like 2). I told everyone that the location didn't matter, and that I was looking forward to a new environment.
At first, though, Dallas was sort of bewildering since I didn't have the motivation or desire to explore my surroundings. I was so used to where everything was in Austin, and how to get from A to B that it was second-nature. But in Dallas, I had no idea where anything was, so I got lost quite frequently which sort of made me not want to leave my apartment.
I have seen more of the city since those first months, and think I have gotten to the comfort level of where I was in Austin. I still don't like the city though, and definitely prefer Austin.
I recently graduated from UT-Austin with a Bachelors in Computer Science. After a brief two-week journey to Australia (a graduation gift from my parents), I moved to Dallas and started working for a software development company and have been here for about a year.
And what a year it has been. I never realized how difficult it would be to pick up everything and start over in a new city. People would ask me in college where I wanted to work, and everyone sort of assumed that I would stay in Austin. (I had lived there since I was like 2). I told everyone that the location didn't matter, and that I was looking forward to a new environment.
At first, though, Dallas was sort of bewildering since I didn't have the motivation or desire to explore my surroundings. I was so used to where everything was in Austin, and how to get from A to B that it was second-nature. But in Dallas, I had no idea where anything was, so I got lost quite frequently which sort of made me not want to leave my apartment.
I have seen more of the city since those first months, and think I have gotten to the comfort level of where I was in Austin. I still don't like the city though, and definitely prefer Austin.
My First Blog
So I've decided to jump on the blog bandwagon.
People start blogs for different reasons. I guess my main reason is so that, maybe someday, I'll be able to come back and see what was going on at this point in my life.
Most of what will be posted here will be just my random musings, and possibly things I've done (if they're interesting enough). I've read other blogs and some are quite mundane. Hopefully mine will not be one those.
People start blogs for different reasons. I guess my main reason is so that, maybe someday, I'll be able to come back and see what was going on at this point in my life.
Most of what will be posted here will be just my random musings, and possibly things I've done (if they're interesting enough). I've read other blogs and some are quite mundane. Hopefully mine will not be one those.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
