1. During my blogging absence, I’ve been writing and recording some songs at home. I’ve had numerous friends and acquaintances, amateurs to professionals, anyone who can lend me a hand and putting songs together, coming to my home. Also finished two shows, I know it doesn’t sound a lot… but I can use some rest.
2. I met a pianist-composer 2 weeks ago. He asked me to join him for his show coming in July here in Hong Kong. He assigned me 4 classically-inspired songs, one is a duet with another soprano, and one is in Hebrew. I’m just in awe with his moving and beautiful music. We’re really hitting it off.
3. Mom graduated from her master degree program!! Graduation went well, she received beautiful bouquets of flowers, it was very sweet.
4. Michael Jackson died yesterday. It’s so sad he died too young, too thin… He’s had such incredible moments, and such tragic moments. He is a genius, and a very strange man. He’s not just a musician - he’s an ICON… an incredible part of this generation.
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Few months ago, an acquaintance saw me perform in a local jazz bar… and she later asked me out for dinner to get further acquainted, and mentioned she would love to introduce me to her pianist-friend.
Weeks went by, and I got an invitation to a private party in a wine cellar tucked away in the valley. Never heard of that place till that evening. Never heard of this pianist either.
I arrived and walked into the smoking room and wine cellar. There on the grand piano, was a man in his mid-forties chatting about his adventure (and the politics behind the shows) from days ago during his visit (to perform) in Saudi Arabia.
The crowd was delighted after his story. Then he proceeded to ask the audience what they would like to hear. Something from Middle East? What about Spanish? How about some rock-n-roll? Ragtime? Beatles? Classical, of course… Beethoven, Grieg…
After the audience excitedly shouted out obscure songs, he thought for a moment, and started playing.
I don’t normally gush over musicians. I’ve met a lot of wonderful musicians and have been to alot of amazing performances. It’s either the formal classical recitals-performance or popular numbers at a club or a bar. Improvisation is usually a hit-and-miss pending the musician and the city, but almost always a delight.
But what he was doing, is something I’ve never witnessed before.
He weaved themes and melodic lines all together into one composition. Impromptu.
It was stunning and awe-inspiring.
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During the break, our acquaintance introduced us, and we chatted briefly. He inquired about what I do and musical styles that I dabble in. “I was raised doing the classical thing, then got into pop, then fell in love with jazz…”
He asked which piano composer I enjoy playing… I answered, “Chopin, of course.” He nodded.
He went back to the piano and again asked the audience for suggestions. Then he incorporated Chopin Nocturne in C-sharp minor with the Beatles, then a Spanish Rhapsody.
Several people from this private party knew me, and asked me to sing. I realized they were expecting a performance from me all along. So I just went up and improvized for a minute with him on the piano. We picked up each other’s cues nice, easy, and breezy. It was fun.
Later that evening, while we were having a glass of wine, chatting away, he invited me to perform with him in 3 weeks.
He assigned me 4 brand new classical-inspired original vocal pieces, one is in a completely foreign language, that I’ve never uttered nor imagined myself ever speaking.
This is a challenge I’ve never expected. I’m very excited about it.
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Mom graduated from school!! She’s finally earned her master degree!!! I’m so proud of her. She went to Israel for vacation and came back two nights ago. All is well with mom.
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So it’s been a whirlwind of rehearsals, song-writing, practicing, re-arranging. My brain finally had enough, and I took a break and just hung out with some friends today… and taking advantage of this rainy day, a wonderful break from the hot and humid weather that had been sticking around.
Sorry I haven’t blogged for so long. I’m really tired right now. Going to bed.
I don’t understand how songwriters can write songs so quickly. I’ve known songwriters who fill out lyrics for five or six songs in one day. ONE DAY! It took me a full week to pick through one single song!! Not to mention from conception to fleshing out the melody, harmony, verse, hook, bridge, progression, lyrics (again and again), then arrangements — record it, listen to it, and then take it apart, and redo the process all over again. Sit on it, sleep on it, walk around doing my errands thinking about it.
So it’s been 10 days. And I finished writing one song. It’s a good song. It’s a happy song. And I know the song is nearly done - because I’m getting bored of it.
I also am in the process of finishing this particularly sad song, and it haunts me. I’ve played it for my pianist and guitarist - it just wouldn’t end musically (the chorus just keeps going on and on and on — kind of fade out thing, but I don’t like “fade out”). Anyway, after I finish playing it, and turn to discuss it with my guitarist or pianist, they have this look - the “manshame” look. the look that says, woh, she’s been burned.
The look that pivots upon “she’s psycho” or “damn, that could’ve been me doing it to a girl”…
I don’t know. Anyhow, I’m shy about it - I don’t know if I wanna perform it in front of an audience any time soon.
I have promised to do a show in May, and I’m getting ambitious, setting myself up to perform only originals. I’ll be performing this happy song, plus 3 other songs (1 sad song, 1 kooky song, and hopefully I’ll finish up the cute song this week, ugh.) Plus I’ll be singing a fellow songwriter’s songs - he’s sent me three songs to work on.
I got one dance song half done - but if I perform it live, I have to either use my computer to do the loops while I’m performing the top voicing, or get 3 other vocalists plus drummer. Computer is a lot easier, obviously, but won’t have much of a live performance impact - plus I have to figure out the technical stuff which is screaming trouble already. But if I manage to do the dance song, I’ll be set - that’s 5 songs completed. I would also be alot more confident to get the 2nd dance song going (that’ll be 6 songs).
How have you been? I’ve sorta dropped off the face of blogworld and been a blog-stranger lately. I tried to at least update my blog once every couple weeks because so much is happening, and I haven’t had the energy to get into blogging. It really is a feat to be able to blog every day and have something to write every day. Everytime I tried, I:
1. Got too distracted with too much going on;
2. Got nothing but pure GOSSIP (wait till I tell you about Player crashing my birthday party last week… oh oh and news from American Boy), but the mere thought of writing it aaaallll out exhausts me;
3 . Couldn’t get into writing it because it required way too many details, and don’t really know if outsiders are interested in all that crap (a.k.a. GOSSIP):
4. Like many pieces of my writing, lost track and couldn’t seem to pinpoint the conclusion of my story;
5. Simply hadn’t had the time to finish the post, such as my list of 100 Things I must Do #60 to 41. So I drop it for now, but not forgotten. (I should put “Must finish 100-Things-Must-Do list” onto my 100 Things Must Do List).
Thought I’ll start fresh and check in with you. How have you been? Have you been sick lately? What about your family and friends?
It’s flu season over here, and I’ve been sick practically every other week — first got over the flu which lasted for 4 weeks, then allergy, then cold, then allergy again. My mom was sniffling couple of times, but nothing too terrible, thank goodness. Four of my friends were sick. Three of my students were sick last week. My middle ear is almost always clocked up since February… This is nuts! I don’t sing because my voice is booming inside my head stressing on my sinuses. Ugh.
Is it just me, or are we getting sick more often in this generation than the last? Or maybe my immune system is just plain shot from all that crazy partying. Or maybe there are more medical facilities available now then before? Or it’s easier now to go to a doctor or a pharmacist and tell them your symptoms and get a pill and be done with it?
Again, maybe it’s my partying.
1. Came back from a beach party last weekend - the weather was about 20c, not warm enough to jump in the water and splash around… but enough to wear a bikini with flowers in my hair and dance in the sand to old college dance tunes and play with glow sticks. (Did absinthe for the 3rd time in my life, with the sugar cube and lit on fire and everything. GAG~! EW. GROSS.)
2. Sunday, went to an electronic music show where they had a champagne buffet and served gourmet burgers, roasted turkey, roast beef, etc. etc., plus cakes, pastries, and fresh butterfingers. (Ohyyyeah)
Besides, the weather in Hong Kong has been crap - two week ago was 14c, a week ago it was 28c, and now suddenly dropped back to 20c, with humidity between 50% to 70% the entire time.
This extreme temperature change didn’t just affect the bacterias. It also affected the traffic. The temperature drop induced a thick blanket of fog enveloped Hong Kong and it’s still clinging on even as I type. Last Saturday, the poor visibility of less than 350 metres caused two collisions from CotaiGold CotaiJet vessels in the Adamasta Channel.
According to SCMP - The first jet crashed into a small boat, cutting it into two (and didn’t stop!!) It occured at 4a.m., and threw an elderly couple into the water. The husband Mr. Leung, 62, clung onto wreckage while searching for his critically hurt wife, 60, for over 10 minutes. After he located her, with his unconscious wife in one arm and the other held onto the dismantled sampan to stay afloat in water, Mr. Leung shouted for help until marine police launches arrived. The wife was in critical condition for 24 hours and now stabilized.
Then 90 minutes later — around 5:30am, the second accident occurred when the New World First Ferry catamaran First Ferry XI, carrying 130 passengers and four crew, collided with a cargo vessel, 43-metre long Xin Hui Ji 9, at south of Kau Yi Chau., injuring 13 people, none seriously. Twelve passengers and one crew member - eight men and three women - were taken to Ruttonjee and Queen Mary hospitals, where they were treated and discharged.
That’s two accidents in a span of an hour and half. Why couldn’t they just stop running the ferries when they can see the fog thick as a wall? These jets go 42 knots (that’s 21.6 meters per second)!!! SERIOUSLY WTF!!
Sigh…
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It’s raining and lightning outside my window. Heading to bed now. I’m getting ready for:
1. Coldplay concert tonight
2. Meet up a girlfriend and borrow her “He’s Just Not That Into You” and read it over this weekend. Heard the movie isn’t that good, so maybe I’ll catch it next cheap tuesday.
3. Do my scuba diving theory exam on sunday morning - it’s like a driver’s license, you have to get your written exam done first, then scuba dive on sunday afternoon if my health allows. (In my opinion, it is inhumane to make anyone participate in written exams at 9am on a sunday morning… but whatever).
All-stuffed-up-and-a-million-things-to-do-quick-bearhugs,
CK
I had dinner at a nice British (but also a touch of Asian fusion) restaurant/lounge with several of my favorite girlfriends in Hong Kong. We had spinach salad, clam and mussels, suckling pig with apple sauce, duck breast with red wine reduction, and seabass.
Then 30 other close friends joined us for countdown champagne and cake in the terrace afterwards. People were having a really good time meeting new people and some were surprised with the diversity of friends I have - from fashion, to media, to law, to business (I even have a banking lawyer who’s my scuba diving classmate), to theatre, to music, to just plain good old-fashion party pals.
It was a wonderful birthday party. I was grinning from ear to ear all night, and it wasn’t just because of the champagne.
On Sunday, I took mom to have dim sum at our favorite chinese restaurant, then we went shopping (got 2 pairs of Steve Maddens and a sparkling top from Mango), then hot-potted at home for dinner. It was a good plan, cause I was pretty brain dead.
Then rest of the night was spent talking on the phone till dawn with some friends over in NYC and Toronto. This is definitely a milestone birthday for me. I’m not youngling anymore, even though I still eat fast food and drink too much. But now it’s different, the hangovers and junk food hit me harder than ever, takes me longer to recover. I can feel my age, more so as the days go by. And there is definitely a distinct physical and psychological changes since a decade ago:
1. Gravity is at work
2. An all nighter is now a mission impossible, and when I do have sleep deprivation — I creep myself out seeing deep lines of fatigue around my eyes and my skin.
3. It takes alot more to make me happy
4. I can’t walk out of my apartment without make up;
5. I find myself hugging and cooing over cute babies.
But there also the wonders of gaining experiences.
1. I’m a lot less confused about the world, and so much more comfortable in my own skin.
2. I’m far more confident and softer…
3. I have grown a thicker skin and I’m not afraid to negotiate, and at the same time, I don’t have the need to bust balls (all the time) in order to get what I want.
4. I’ve learned to choose my friends wiser, and even more importantly, learn to determine and handle a given situation better than ever.
5. My emotional well-being is a lot more stable, I have less sad days and more happy days.
6. I’m making my own money, and enjoy my time being a woman.
So I’ve finally recognized the true meaning of birthday celebrations — we learn as we grow, figure out how we’ve changed through the year and celebrate it. Say adieu to the old self we shed and thank those who have helped you grow.
Thank you for being here, for being part of my life. More importantly, thank you for your continuous love and support.
I thought my wildest, craziest party days were over and behind me. But last weekend… all I know is that people covet private parties because anything goes.
**Ok. The burlesque party… kinda goes like this…
For the finale, our choreographer got sequined nipple tassels and jumped on the bed for 12 seconds… a la the madonna-esque Britney for her upcoming tour “Circus”
Soon after the burlesque show on saturday, I was ushered into a cab driving to Wanchai and into the 30th floor penthouse where a private party was held.
Whatever happened at that party… stayed at the party.
But I’ll leave it with a note, I had a blast and I didn’t do anything I wouldn’t do (and there’s a lot I DIDN’T do.)
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Despite a random boy’s protest, I went home at 8am and crashed in my own bed. When I woke up at 3:30pm, I had the braincells of a dim 3 year-old. My phone beeped with a text message,
“Hey, don’t forget we’re watching Slumdog Millionaire in an hour. Meet you in IFC. Love you! xxx”
On my cab ride to IFC, I was overwhelmed by the feeling of hollowness. As though my entire system was pumping cold water, gauging all the meanings out of my own existence. I couldn’t escape the yearning of a real boyfriend, one love… someone to be my sunshine for me to hold and cherish on a chilly March Sunday. Someone to tell me what to do in order to cheer up.
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Sunday: Saw “Slumdog Millionaire”. I can see why “Slumdog Millionaire” won so many awards - it was absolutely incredible - incredible cinematography (from action to breath-taking wideshot Indian landscape), dazzling cultural details (visual colors and imageries), and astounding emotional resonance… it is powerful, entertaining, and an amazing tale of the modern times.
Monday: saw Jason Mraz concert with a dozen of my friends. Nothing like watching his light hearted, airy, catchy, and freshly self-realized pop tunes on stage with great friends.
I’m going to take it easy for a little while. Catch up on some work, and some great blogs. See you in cyberspace real soon.
xoxo
CK
p.s. This month, I’m going to start meeting friends at parks, have lunches, go swimming, indoor rock-climbing, scuba-diving, play my music, sing wherever people would let me, work on my teaching business, go to museums and amusement parks…
I’m really stressed out. I sit up at night and drafting and sketching out about my shows. And when I do sleep, I have nightmares. I have two pretty big shows coming up this week - one is a big 3 hour gig, and one is the burlesque show I mentioned before. I’ve been pretty agitated putting the acts together, including makeup, costume, programme, sound equipments, and schedules.
When I’m stressed, I do what most girls do. I eat greasy and go shopping.
Today I jumped out of bed at 2pm (I know, it’s terrible) and ran out of my apartment in a hurry to make my appointment, stopped over at McDonald’s to grab a combo meal. The fries were done perfect today, they are crispy, chewy, not too salty and so hot it burns the roof your mouth… it was heaven. While I was savouring e-ve-ry crispy hot fry, I wished I large sized it.
Cooled it off with a coke. I unwrapped the McDonald’s asian flavor of the month - Sichuan Mala Chicken burger and bit into a regular grilled chicken burger with a touch of spice and juiciness. I really like that bit of spicy kick, it’s so mild, I can practically slurp that sauce up with a straw. It’s way better than their short-lived Wasabi fish filet burger (yuk).
If I had time, I would have gone to “Fat Burger” or my feels-like-home “Burger King”. But I was hungry and in a rush, so I chose what’s most convenient. Sorry greasy burger and Mr. potato… I’ll be there sometime next week. Promise.
After my appointments and work, I headed to Causeway Bay and shopped for my necessary Bobbie Brown lipgloss, makeup base, hair dye in black, Mac lipglass, hair gloss, facial oil absorbant paper (papier poudre), and false-lashes.
I’m debating on which false lashes I should use for the burlesque night. What’s your vote? The “Feather” or the Madonna “Diamond” lashes?
Been doing some research for the look and costume. Hair hopefully would be Dita von Teese inspired. Add false lashes, red lips, black corset, long red satin skirt… I need long black gloves.
I just gotta get my lyrics down. I’m jamming alot of songs in my head this week. GAH!!!
After I was done shopping, I bought 2 stewed milk custard (one for mom) to take home and relax. It’s one of those super comfort foods that just makes you forget that pounding headache…
I’ve got 23 songs to perform this week. *Gasp* *Heave*
For the 3-hour show, the first hour is be geared toward local Chinese sponsors… so I’ve decided to mix two mandarin songs together. **I’m doing a jazzier version of the original songs, so it’s not as.. err… wrist-slit-inducing…** One of the songs is about self-obsession and not regretting the way “I” (the singer) live my life whether it’s wrong or right. The other song is about being desperately in love, but turns out he never wanted anything to begin with. The two songs go really well together sharing their unyielding manner.
Got me really thinking how much I’ve changed since 10 years ago.
10 years ago, I would live my life the way I want to, and I wouldn’t care what other people think (I still kind of am, but definitely more weathered now)… and remembering being so desperately in love that even a little affection would enable me to keep holding onto a tragic romance. Re-learning these songs threw me back to that mentality… and something slowed down in me - I felt like I’ve been way too hard on certain things in the past few years.
Anyway, I’m going to post the translation of the desperately-in-love love song on this blog. It took me all weekend going through different online dictionaries (and with my mom’s expertise) and make sense out of it. Most of the translation goes in the similar poetic order of the song, but a line or two had to be rewritten to be clear. Some things just don’t translate.
Been thinking about a good Valentine’s playlist. So far it includes:
1. James Blunt’s “Beautiful”
2. Savage Garden’s “Truly, Madly, Deeply”
3. Aerosmith’s “I don’t wanna miss a thing.”
What other songs would you put on this Valentine playlist?
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Tonight I’ll be serenading with heartbreak songs such as “Without You” (Mariah Carey’s version), “My Immortal” (Evanescence), “If I Ain’t Got You” (Alicia Keys), plus a Canto-pop ballad “Let Me Go With You” - I learned this song with my dad’s help years ago. Alot of people have been asking me if I sing canto stuff, thought it’ll be a good time to try it out.
I just hope people in the crowd don’t start slitting their wrists. When it comes to romantic ballads, I tend to sing depressing songs.
Maybe I should bring some I’m-not-bitter-chocolates for insurance.
I don’t have much to pump up this programme - me playing on the piano and no guitars or drums. I find most girl-love songs are sad and depressing.
Before the show tonight, me and 3 other friends (2 boys and 2 girls) are heading to the very girly (yet fashionable) restaurant Agnès b. le pain grillé for our Valentine’s menu.
I checked what that restaurant is serving for this Valentine.
Champagne — Roger Coulon Brut Tradition
*****
Shrimp Cocktail
*****
Swordfish and Tuna Carpaccio Duo
*****
Lobster and artichoke millefeuille
*****
Pistachio-crusted milk-fed duck fillet
*****
Slow-cooked Pyrenees lamb
*****
Specialty dessert
Me and 3 girlfriends went out to watch chick flick of the year “Bride Wars” last night.
During our pre-show dinner, we chatted like we haven’t seen each other in ages… which in hong kong party-mode, it’s forever - me haven’t been out since I’ve been sick for 3 weeks straight, and the others just got back from their Chinese New Year vacation. They asked me how I was, and one of them is a drama queen - she always has crazier stories to share. Her recent hair appointment included melting her blonde hair extensions and piled on top of her head like a plastic bee hive.
The conversation then moved onto the philosophy of “Better things come along after bad things happened”.
I’m not a big fan of this type of optimism. I’ve always scoffed at it as blind cheer - I see it as a light-hearted (almost frivolous) manner in attending a devastating state. I’m more a follower of “Shit happens.” But to think and understand and appreciate what I have this way, I feel like I’ve stepped into a new light.
If I hadn’t moved to Hong Kong (on my own terms — not because my mother wants me to be around her for her sake, but because she needs me to be around her for her sake, even when she says she doesn’t need me), my relationship with my mother wouldn’t have improved so amazingly. It is still reallyreallyreally hard at times, but this already is better than I ever expected.
If my apartment hadn’t been broken into last year - I wouldn’t have moved to this current apartment, which the new landlady noticed the economic slide, and offered to drop the rent by 15% (So I ended up with lower rent for a better apartment).
If I hadn’t lost my job with the devil, I wouldn’t have taken a health insurance for myself and worked on my own (against my mother’s wishes for me to join a big corporation), and now I seriously appreciate my current 12-hour at home work week. And since I know my teaching materials inside and out, it allows me to keep working and keep an income even when I’m too weak to step outside my apartment. And get 80% of my medical bills back later.
If I hadn’t gotten so much free time on my hands, and feeling anxious that I’m not doing enough with my life, I wouldn’t have started singing last year.
If I hadn’t embarrassed myself and started singing last year, I wouldn’t have the offers of performing 5 shows this month.
If I hadn’t gotten sick with my ear infection (which is mild comparing to many other illnesses out there), putting me on antibiotics, I wouldn’t be able to stop smoking and drinking all together and focus on taking better care of myself right now.
I’m thankful.
So a cheap tuesday movie with the girls to watch Bride Wars proves as fun as it sounds. It is a girl-comedy co-starring Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway which their characters’ life-long friendship was brought to the test. They both dream of a June wedding at the Plaza Hotel, and only had one opening between the two of them. The movie was basically pranks after pranks to thwart one another into giving in and relinquish her wedding date.
As the audience, we laughed, and some of us shed a tear (I got allergies). It isn’t epic or romantic or grandeur or brilliant, but cute and somewhat refreshing to see two leading ladies fighting for the spotlight. It works for me, because (and some people may disagree but) personally I don’t feel either one of these starlets can carry a mega blockbuster wedding film on her own just yet. So having them dual it out is a sound idea. It has couple of good funny moments, and definitely worth seeing with the girls.
All I need now is a nice hot chocolate and President’s Choice chocolate chip cookies to end my perfect night.
Maybe some baked mac-and-cheese tomorrow. Mmmmmmmm…
I wanna choke Hong Kong by the neck and shake it violently for this inferior air quality if I’m not already weak and dehydrated. I’m only ever this sick when I’m in this city.
Recap:
1997, I spent the year in hong kong working - got chicken pox for the first time.
1998, I ate not-so-clean seafood on Lamma Island, and had an allergic reaction that hospitalized me for two days.
2002, my visit to hong kong came crashing down when my severe nasal allergy pinned me in bed for 2 weeks.
Now:
2009, I have a severe ear infection which is blocking my hearing for over 8 days and I still listen to this high-pitched ringing in my ear.
Talking gives me migraine because my voice booms inside my head. Can’t drink wine cause I’m on antibiotics. I have pills, ear drops, nose spray and inhaler sprawled on my table and I’ve gotten incisions on my eardrums to let out puss.
So I disappeared from all the parties, dinners, club crawls (it only makes sense to trade in my social life for the medical bills, sigh) and spent my non-working hours in bed catching up on my favorite show “Madmen”.
I enveloped myself with the 1960s world of Stepford wives glam — the Betty flip hair, perfect tan, perfect mannerism. The men, Don Draper and his collegues, and their frighteningly masculinity. The diverse female characters all struggled or flourished in their femininity only acceptable at that time… and their non-stop smoking (anywhere!), cocktail drinking, and whoring lifestyle — I feel so tame in comparison.
One thing I adore most about this show is how they’ve displayed the creative design process throughout the episodes - my favorite moment was Donald Draper’s presentation naming then-newly invented slide projector - “The Carousel”. I love how the character developed through from Season 1 to Season 2, namely Peggy Olsen and Betty Draper. I love the beauty of Joan Holloway, played by Christina Hendricks. I can’t wait for season 3 to come out later this year.
After I was done with Madmen, I saw “The Heartbreak Kid”, “Tropic Thunder”, and “300″ (yes, 300 again). Plus other forgettable movies. It’s easy to kill time when you have it.
Because I’m eccentric like that, I then (skipping ocean park and junk boat parties) dove into “Gossip Girl”. Yes, guilty pleasure like eating marshmallows till you get sick with a belly full of air. Once last year, I saw half an episode of “Gossip Girl” and didn’t like it much. Never thought I would care for this silly adolescent show… especially with Kristen Bell perfectly depicting the preppy and musical titular role can sometimes be so irritating. But since I can’t manage any real life company, I threw an episode of “Gossip Girl” on my laptop while I was rearranging my closet… and boom! I was hooked.
Snotty but sometimes fascinating dialogues between pretty socialites of New York upper east side. I snickered when the freshmen girls were singing “glamorous” in recital poses. I gasped when Serena first announced that she killed someone. I reminised when little Jenny stole the Valentino gown from her rich friend’s mom’s closet to trade in for a second hand Dolce-Gabbana in order to impress her rich friends (not that I’ve ever done that for the record, but those were the mentalities and naive fearlessness of a 14-year-old girl). I secretly root for Chuck Bass, the only interesting character from the whole show - dark and twisted antagonist of the which the tv producers had spun him to be deeply romantic (completely different from the book, so I’ve read). I even like Blair’s cute unapologetic bitchiness contrasting her occasional sensitive side.
Oh, and they have captured New York’s city sceneries beautifully. From what I’ve heard, the books are even racier than the show. Although, I do like seeing fashion on display.
For this week, I’ve got “Heroes” (the show got so convoluted, I need to catch up in order to understand the current episodes) and “Dexter” on my playlist.
If anyone know any good shows for me to murder time with… please share.
At least the weather is nice, makes my trips to the doctors easy breezy.
I’ve been sick with a cold for over 2 weeks, and it turned for the worse last weekend. I got feverish, my flam turned green, and my ear’s plugged, achy, and started pussing.
And I have a show on Wednesday.
So I went to see a GP yesterday. I can’t remember the last time my ear stayed plugged for so long. And when my ear started running, I got worried.
He took a look at my ear and said there are 3 tiny holes in my ear drums.
My jaw dropped. “Is it going to heal?”
He looked up nervously and said, “It should. We hope so.”
I went home armed with 2 kinds of antibiotics, cold medicine, fever pills, and cough syrup — but I refused to leave the clinic without a referral to a reputable otorhinolaryngologist (eye-ear-and-throat doctor).
Today, I visited the specialist for a second opinion.
He took a look at my ear, cleaned it (OUCH!!), and sprayed it with a disinfectant which made me dizzy for a minute. I asked if he saw the holes in my eardrum. He laughed and said, “Oh he’s not a specialist, he doesn’t know. They’re actually bullous. I punctured them and they’ll bleed a little, but you’ll be fine.” He mentioned he could slice open my eardrum and let the puss out - and I’ll hear better, but it’s not necessary.
No slicing of the ear drum, thank you very much.
I just can’t believe the general practioner would tell me that my eardrum got holes. Seriously WTF.
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I’ve been invited to sing for a charity event to raise money for women refugees seeking asylum at the end of February.
I met with the organizers and performers last Sunday.
I realized it’s a burlesque show.
After the meetup, I wandered around the streets of Soho, and thought about the show. I’m a bit… reserved you may say. I’m not used to the idea of sharing the stage girls who will wear tassles on her nipples and swing both of them clockwise. That’s a different kind of talent.
What the hey, I thought. Burlesque is a classic revived. It’s sexy and risque where nudity is a suggestion.
I even got my stage name. Honey McBunny. No kidding. Think I’ll make a decent asian version of Jessica Rabbit.
I slowed down on the partying, I think. My friends have been asking me if I’m ok everytime they call or message me. I said - yes, of course, why wouldn’t I?
“Cause you’ve been hiding.” One of my closest girl from the group said.
I’ve been doing lots and lots of pre-production work. I’ve got 5 shows in February I really need to gear up and be ready for. I HAVE to have new songs by then, plus I’m working with couple of musicians and producers in writing something fairly original. Yeah, kinda busy… yet not quite productive.
Let’s see…. I’ve survived the first two of the triple holiday whammy — Christmas, New Year — and now the approaching Chinese New Year. I didn’t buy myself any presents, nor go shopping. I made christmas candies for my friends as christmas presents. Kinda felt shabby receiving lovely invitations to fancy parties… but also flattering at the same time to get a sorta VIP pass (we’re talking about mansions in the valley with fingerprint key features and elevators inside these 4 storey-homes). I ate rich this holiday. Need to start an exercise routine pronto…. after the Chinese new year… Whaaaaaaaaaaaat? I’m going to be with relatives who flew in for chinese new year’s eve, grandma for chinese new year’s day, then chinese friends for day after. I won’t have TIME to exercise.
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I still haven’t visited Macau. I mean - I love Vegas, and Macau is Vegas of Asia — and it’s only an hour away. I still haven’t visited.
Though, I had good reasons.
I was invited on numerous occasions. Before American Boy left, he asked me to join him for a last minute day trip to go gambling in Macau, but I couldn’t cause (I was working and) he’s too spontaneous like that. Other friends asked me to go, but I wasn’t up for it. The only reason I would want to go to Macau is for the cirque du soleil show - which takes planning ahead of time.
Not traveling this holiday kinda got me going stir-crazy. So I finally put my muscles into planning this trip with several awesome party friends to go to Macau. We’re going to do a little gambling, a lot of eating at a well-known restaurant, and I lured some friends to go Bungee jumping (NOT ME! I’m just gonna take pictures).
But of course, the highlight of the trip is the cirque du Soleil show ZAIA in the Venetian hotel. I’m a big Cirque du Soleil fan. The first time I saw “Alegria”, I was in love. Last time I went to Vegas with the sole intention of watching as many Cirque du Soleil shows as possible. I ended up watching 5 shows in 3 days.
Other than “Allegria” and “Quidam”, I’ve seen “O”, “Mystere”, (also “Le Reve” - but it’s produced or directed by Franco Dragone himself, not a full cirque production), “The Beatles: LOVE”, and “Zumanity”. Now “ZAIA” would be my 7th production.
I’m pretty excited.
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Hong Kong went as low as 10c… without indoor heating and the concrete buildings acting like an insulation to keep the heat OUT… apartments here are like refrigerators. After endless bottles of wine and spirits, I started my regular hybernation routine of cozying up with movies. Last week, while I was watching “Australia”, I realized I haven’t updated my movie list in ages. Thought it’s about time that I update it — here’re the movies I’ve watched (or at least remembered watching) in 2008:
It’s been a nicely productive week. Worked every day and evening. Got some new students, lost some old ones (will talk about that later). Saw a theatre show. I watched the movie “Australia”. Caught up with some friends over dinner.
I even got the time to party a bit last night.
Just finished teaching, now on my way out for a hike today. It’s a sunny, beautiful, and a cool 10c day.
Have a sweet weekend.
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Transcription of the show goes sort of like this:
The show host asked me about my classical background, I mentioned my dad mentored me, and he asked which opera is my favorite. I had to think about it.
“Der…. Rosenkavalier.” I love the trio in the final scene.
“Oh wow - that’s a heavy one!” the host exclaimed.
“I love operas. Some people hate it, but I love it. I can’t help it.” I love the storyline, the drama, the composition, the costumes, the setting.
Then the host asked what kind of gigs I’ll be doing next. I mentioned a book launch party, and some private parties, and playing with random bands. I expressed my appreciation for the Hong Kong scene and the support I’ve been getting.
The host played one of my covers - I sang “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” (yeah yeah yeah, cheese, I know… whatever - it was the best my producer friend could lend me to record with the backgrounds in a short notice).
Then we talked a bit about jazz music, he asked who I listened to… then he asked about my upcoming performances and studio recordings. I said I’m planning on buckling down to write some music in the next little while, produce with as much as I can, and work with as many people as I can. I mentioned the song I wrote 6 years ago after my dad died and he played it.
That’s it. It went by reallyreally fast.
But it was a wonderful experience. It’s incredible to be interviewed in a chit-chat style, he really knows how to keep the conversation alive… I really need to get my game on.
I got a phonecall today from a local internet radio station here in Hong Kong. The assistant called me and invited me for an interview — I’m going to be interviewed as a singer in Hong Kong! At first, I thought, YES!!!! I GOT MYSELF A PUBLIC INTERVIEW!!!
Then I realized — SH*T… I’ve gotten myself a LIVE INTERVIEW.
I’ve been pacing the floor ever since I agreed to do the interview. I’m nervous as hell.
I’m telling myself, it’s good to be nervous right now - I still got over 36 hours to calm my nerves and ready to show myself for the interview slot.
Should be a good way to start year 2009. (Fingers crossed)
1. Get my business registered
2. Learn how to paste on false-lashes and start using them regularly
3. Hook my computer up to my TV so I can watch DVDs on the big screen
4. Take dance lessons — lose some weight
5. Produce and write some music, and perform as much as possible without burning out
6. Get a boyfriend, for real.
What’s YOUR new year resolution?
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I remember my last year’s resolution was: to make more money, be as green to the environment as possible, and get a boyfriend.
I’m making more money than year before, tried to be as green as to my knowledge here in hong kong…
But no boyfriend. Instead, I ended up surrounded by playboys.
I’ve known Flirty-Monster for almost 2 years — pretty much since I’ve lived in Hong Kong. His Scottish-Chinese Eurasian mix totally hit jackpot - 6′2, big almond-shaped hazel eyes, dark hair, huge boyish-smile to match his broad shoulders. Most of my girlfriends literally drool over him.
It’s obvious he gets the girls. I knew it, and I never even considered dating him - he’s just too young (he’s almost 10 years younger than me) and too cute with all the sugar-ficialness Hong Kong life has to offer. He’s flirted with me outrageously at times - which is totally fine by me - I love it when cute boys flirt with me.
Sometimes I wanted to tell Flirty - I think you’re adorable… please don’t end up like Hottie playing mind games and all… stay sweet as you are right now… but the moment never arrived. To me, he’s the best fun boy to be friends with. The group of girls I met through Flirty, half of them clearly has a crush on him.
So when I opened my christmas present from Flirty, the girls all gasped at the 3-foot long plush toy-rose before me. Some complained why she got slippers instead??
I was puzzled. I even asked one of his close girlfriends if he’s given me the correct present.
“No, he likes you.” She’s one of the cool ones who nicknamed him slutty-monster. She knows him well.
“But isn’t he seeing someone?” I asked - I recall alot of his pictures on facebook with girls snapping photos claiming him.
“You know how he is. Taking things one day at a time.” She mumbled.
I know boys like him — open all the channels and make sure you got yourself a nice little lineup.
I hung out with the girls and other friends of Flirty’s in various lounges and bars in LKF for rest of the evening…. and all’s well…..
Until much later that night - Flirty ended up making out with some random girl he met.
Playboys. Can’t live with them, can’t kill them.
The little Flirty-Monster isn’t getting any cookies from me.
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Anyway - I’m enjoying my christmas holidays in Hong Kong. How has it been for you? I won’t get to see christmas snow this year, and no boy-love of my life to get sappy with… but I’m feeling the Christmas spirit. I’m quite happy. Life’s good, mom’s healthy and well, sister is happily married to an awesome guy and now living California (which means I get to visit California soon!!), I’m making a decent living teaching music, I get to perform shows on my own terms, and I have a great group of friends here.
So after all the stuff I’ve weaved through in Hong Kong - I’ve gotten myself a promotional gig (no pay but I don’t have to pay to perform either) tonight in an artist event. I’ll be singing:
If I ain’t Got you (me on piano and singing)
Somewhere Over The Rainbow (tribute to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole)
You Were Meant for Me
Fallin’ (me on piano with backups)
Beautiful (me on piano with backups)
I’ll Be There (me on piano with backups)
Of course - I’d love for you to be here… if you’re not so far away…
It’s been an entire summer of not blogging… and to be honest - it’s been a nice break away from the publishing world. It also allowed me some time to rethink what this blog is all about.
Anyhow - the blog is fixed, though I haven’t added new graphics to my template just yet. I still have my new apartment to organize… just moved in yesterday and got boxes to open. So CK’s BACK!!! – or until some smart and savvy newspaper head chief recognize my talent and give me my own column.
So now I’ve been doing some field research, and boy - do I have things to tell you…!
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Let me tell you something that happened most recently.
Like today.
There is one man in Hong Kong whom I cared about romantically. I liked him alot at first - we were inseperable for a little while…
After we kissed - he disappeared. He ignored my calls, he won’t reply my sms till hours or even days later. I thought we had something that started us off… so I slowly realized he’s just too dumb to appreciate me.
So I moved on. I removed him from my facebook list. I did everything a girl would need to do to purge herself of this sorta-boyfriend. I bought myself the Chloe bag that I’ve always wanted (50% discount on warehouse sale, of course).
Then he started sms me again. As though we’re still friends. I missed him enough. I still had good opinions of him. I thought he just didn’t know what he wanted. Besides, I had already moved on.
Until he drunk-dialed me couple of weeks ago. I asked how his friend’s birthday party went, and if they’re continuing on partying for the rest of the night, he said he’ll give me his friend’s number if I really want to hang with his friend.
No, silly - I said to him. I just wanted to see if you guys will be coming around to my neighborhood… afterall, why call in the middle of a saturday night if he didn’t want to meet up?
THREE MINUTES OF SILENCE AND THREE DAYS OF MOURNING…
It’s been one week since the Sichuan Earthquake. The update reported that the earthquake was actually a full 8.0 scale, not 7.8 or 7.9 as believed before. Nearly 7000 schools were destroyed, killing many children which shook the core of the Chinese families who are limited by the one-child policy.
At 2:28pm this afternoon - there has been a 3-minute silence all around - in China and in Hong Kong. Cars blared their horns in symbolic wailing of grief. People are now battling to dig out survivors who are past 140 hours under rubbles. 200 rescue workers are buried in mudslide while in rescue operation.
Disease is next.
In Hong Kong - all entertainment is suspended for three days.
We are paying tribute to this day of mourning.
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An earthquake with massive 7.9 magnitude hit southwestern part of China last Monday on May 12th, 2008. The epicenter was Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province. Xinhua News Agency reported that almost 15,000 people died from the earthquake in Sichuan and neighboring provinces of Shaanxi, Gansu, and Yunnan and the death toll could reach far higher as the search and rescue effort continued. It was the worst natural disaster hitting the region in the last three decades.
Sichuan is fairly close to Hong Kong. Close enough that western Hong Kong residence could feel the tremor of this devastating earthquake that tore through Sichuan.
A local acquaintance here in Hong Kong was from Sichuan - and once he heard of the news, he made an emergency flight back.
Next day he sent a very simple text message - “Both Parents are Gone.”
The death toll is still climbing. Many buildings were built extremely poorly and many schools collapsed during this earthquake - killing children and teachers, and hundreds more trapped under rubbles. More than 130,000 rescuers were desperately working around the clock as the rescue window shrinks by moment.
There had been 58 counties and towns stricken by the massive quake. The Chinese government opened a new road - part of a national highway from Nagqu in Tibet to Chengdu - to ensure faster delivery of disaster relief materials to the epicenter of Wenchuan, since blocked by landslides created by the quake.
The news reported the Beichuan county got hit the hardest. It is encircled by hills 500 to 1,000 meters high, and is renowned for its picturesque scenery - now was virtually ripped apart by the quake. Officials said about 80 percent of the buildings collapsed in the old town area and nearly 60 percent were leveled to the ground in the new town.
This is not the ending either - there are still fire-fighters and medical workers are sent to Sichuan to help the survivors. Currently - with the lack of water supply, the survivors will face another likely devastating state - disease.
I know there are couple of serious Kenb fans out there, so I thought I’ll post about Kenb’s recent (and his FIRST!!) visit to Hong Kong. Never fear - CK’s here.
As some may know, Kenb had been traveling through asia for a month - and it was quite a list of places that he had visited. Japan (with me!), Thailand, Vietnam, and last but not least Hong Kong.
Apparently - he LOVES Vietnam.
While we were in Japan - I handed Kenb a card… it is no ordinary card… It’s an OCTOPUS CARD.
ALLOW ME TO ELABORATE ON THE COOLNESS OF THIS CARD:
An Octopus card (Baat Daaht Tungtraditional Chinese, “eight-arrived pass” means reaching everywhere) is a rechargeable CONTACTLESS smartcard originally used to collect fares for the city’s mass transit system (combining over 5 transit companies in Hong Kong), which includes the fabulous Airport Express (24-minute speed train out of the airport and into Hong Kong Central).
There are logical reasons why there are twice the amount of Octopus Cards issued than there are people living in Hong Kong.
Imagine you’re traveling with Ken:
Arriving in Hong Kong from an airplane, and survive the airport customs… you wheel yourself into the gigantic airport lobby… and there it was - the airport express - a speed rail inside the airport terminal to take you to the city in no time.
You waltz to the turntile, and with one hand quickly wave your wallet holding all the cards including your Octopus against the Octopus card reader. Almost immediately you can hear a beep, which simultaneously flashes the amount deducted and the remaining balance of your card before you. Then you walk on by and seat yourself comfortably while the train steadily bring you into the city.
After 24 minutes, you arrived in Central, and walk out of the airport express into IFC mall. Go ahead to the Starbucks to grab a coffee, cause as easily as before - you wave your wallet against the Octopus card reader, and the coffee was paid for.
You gotta go next door to Watsons (Hong Kong’s drug mart chain) so you could get yourself a nail clipper, since yours was confiscated at the airport before arriving to Japan (As if you can hold up an airplane with a nail clipper).
Then off to McDonald’s for a Big Mac, and a beer at 7-Eleven. Both paid for with a wave of that card in your wallet. And not once did you have to take your card out, and no loose change or cash.
Just make sure you had enough money in the card to start with.
Of course, if your live in Hong Kong, you can buy your groceries at PARKnSHOP (supermarket) and Wellcome (another supermarket), grab a quick meal at Cafe de Coral (both in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China), and never having to take cash out — well, you have until one last purchase into the negative debit (max -$35) then you’ll need to refill the card (cash or preapproved credit card).
And of course - there are several posh apartment buildings and institutions that use Octopus cards for access control in buildings and for school administrative functions.
Did I mention you can get the Octopus card in a wristwatch format or a keychain format?
Yeah - the Octopus card RULES.
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Ken arrived on Monday, and immediately I showed him the best cheap eats in Hong Kong. LKF for a little dining at the rat alley, drinks at LKF, then more food at a local Dai-Pai-Dong in Soho’s Elgin street.
Then Tuesday we were off to the dark side a.k.a. Kowloon for a little more authentic traditional hong kong experience by walking through the ladies’ market, and a little Shanghainese cuisine.
Then we jetted back to Causeway Bay for some serious Chinese bar experience via drinking games and kareoke.
Wednesday, I woke up feeling pretty darn beatened up from our previous night of partying. But the party must go on. Ken and I dragged ourselves to Stanley beach area for some pina colada and sun. And there is plenty of sun.
We finished off with Ladies’ Night Wednesday at the hot spot in Wanchai – Mes Ames.
I didn’t feel any better by Thursday morning. But after I was done teaching, I managed to meet with Ken and others, and drank the night away at the Peak and Causeway Bay.
I gotta catch up on some sleep right about now. Nighty night.
The manager called me again. This time he said he had some time to think over what my situation is, and he’ll be willing to work with my part-time hours and give me an easier transition into the office.
I’ve got an interview next Thursday. We’ll see how it all pans out.
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I got off the plane less than 24 hours ago and turned on my Hong Kong mobile — and my phone beeped with a voicemail. It was from an interior design firm. The manager got my resumè and interested to hire me as full time intern — and become one of the interior designers in a year’s time.
At least that’s what he told me when I returned the call.
We chatted for a little while - I told him I’m now teaching piano full time (per my resumè), and looking at most for a part time position.
It’s funny how everytime I tell people that I’m a piano teacher, people automatically think it’s part-time. I have to reaffirm that no, this is my full-time job, I treat it as my career. I have plans and goals.
Same goes with this manager - he quickly mentioned one of the interior designers is working full-time in his office, and teaching part-time during the weekends. And he asked me to do the same.
“When can you come in for your interview?” He asked. “Can you come in tomorrow?”
Normally, I’d say sure, my portfolio is ready anyhow, and I can see how things go — check out the salary, test my market value, etc.
But something stopped me. I just couldn’t go through with the interview. I asked him to give me sometime and think about it. I asked if he would allow a part-time position as a graphic artist - and his response?
“No. You will be trained to be an interior designer. It would take too long. It’s not efficient. This is YOUR CAREER. You have to make a choice.” He said.
“I need to think about this, then. I’m sorry.” I said. “I don’t want to waste anyone’s time. Let me call you tomorrow.”
Hong Kong is fantastic in many ways - but working like a maniac isn’t one of them. I really really need to rethink this. Cause I can’t afford to lose half my students this time around.
What would you choose? Piano teacher or Interior Designer?
I took my final shinkansen (bullet train) ride from Hiroshima to Tokyo in time for the weekend madness.
TOKYO IS GI-NORMOUS.
By the last day of my travels, I could barely shuffle my feet - my legs were stiff and throbbing. Even the muscles in my feet are strained and crying in protest.
T’was the price for the traveling.
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DAY 6:
After a late arrival on Day 5 at the Sunroute Hotel in Shinjuku (Times Square of Tokyo), Kenb and I explored the trendiest neighborhood of Tokyo — Harajuku, Takeshita, Yoyogi bridge. I just wanted to witness the hardcore teenage costumes and styles.
Harajuku is the trendiest of trendy trends - from girls dressed their school girl uniforms (it’s Sunday) to funky architecture, stylish bars, and hip-hop American second hand clothings.
I also witnessed in a trendy salon where a Japanese cool-guy gets his perm with his “Pinky-the-Brain” dog sitting obediently on his lap.
I came a long way to “Take-A-shita” (pffff — giggle giggle — another shot of shÅchÅ«, please!)
Across the street from Harajuku where taste is exquisite, Takeshita is the bargain hunting ground, offering everything from cheap bargain on cosmetics (inexpensive Shiseido anyone?) to more affordable costumes. More Japanese girls in doll’s dresses and bo peep costumes.
But the real costume-wearing kids hang out on Yoyogi bridge attracting all the tourists who would hound them into taking pictures. Just don’t ask the goths - they’re not seeking attention, apparently.
Thanks to an architect buddy’s girlfriend, she took us to a hidden japanese bar/restaurant for some winding down. (Horse sashimi, anyone?)
Afterwards, Kenb and I made our last stop to the red light district, the Kabukicho… saw some weird stuff and just called it a night. I’ve never seen a japanese cross-dresser until now.
DAY 7:
Monday morning, I sent Ken safely off to his flight to Thailand for his own R and R, and dragged my aching body to the Fish Market in southeast side of downtown Tokyo for some organic coffee, deep-fried egg on a stick, and fried eel on a stick. It was nice.
JAPANESE FOOD IN JAPAN…
… so far hadn’t blown my mind — given I’ve been eating Japanese food forever, and great Japanese food (sushi, sashimi, Teppanyaki) are readily available in any major cities all over the world - plus I didn’t go to visit remote Japanese islands where the fish are freshest. During this visit, I’ve tasted the Hiroshima pizza, japanese curry, horse sashimi (not impressed, even with great salad to complement it), lots of sushis, shÅchÅ« (pronounced “show-choo”, and not impressed either btw — I love my whiskey and cognac, but no lust for shÅchÅ«), and had lots of sake. Coolest food moment was watching some trendy Japanese girls eating fish-and-chips and mussels with their chopsticks.
Trendy Japanese girls eating fish-and-chips & mussels with chopsticks in Brit pub
Back to this fish market — to my delight and excitement, I found something home grown… something I knew I had to smuggle back to Hong Kong.
Fresh Wasabi.
Baby.
Yeah - FRESH Wasabi.
Normal restaurant wasabi is the fake horseradish stuff that’s so spicy it clears your sinuses with one drop — you know what I’m talking about. Well, fresh wasabi has none of the shock, but all the flavors… and creamy. There’s nothing like it. I can’t wait to buy some fresh sashimi and dig in these babies… I’m so excited thinking about it right now.
ANYWAY!!
Have you ever seen a long line up and followed suit? I followed a crowd of old Japanese ladies (in their kimonos) and ended up with two boxes of Japanese strawberries in my possession. I didn’t know what the fuss is about (sure they’re big and red and juicy, enough indication for me to purchase)….. until I left the market to stroll along the Imperial Palace - sat down under an already-bloomed cherry blossom tree and bite into a strawberry. It was an explosion of sugar and strawberry juice. I got it now.
I had requested for a permit weeks ago to go into the Imperial Palace, but kenb and I couldn’t make it upon our first two days of arrival, so I didn’t go in. Besides, I was in so much pain, I don’t think I’ll manage. But I was determined to see as much of Tokyo as I can. I continued onward to mid-town Tokyo Shibuya to witness the awe-some street intersection.
Shibuya lunch time on Monday
With my Starbuck’s Soy Chai in hand, I knew I couldn’t go any further. I was exhausted. So exhausted I slept the moment I got on the plane… the kind of sleep that you jolt awake catching drool from sliding onto your clothes. As much as I enjoyed my trip to Japan - I’m happy to be going home. I can’t wait to sleep for two days… and make an appointment to see my physical therapist.
It’s been an amazing race against the clock. I don’t know how other people do it, but there’s no way I had any time to blog about my trip - LIVE.
Thought I’ll quickly jot down the highlights of my last few days.
DAY 2:
After lunch in Tokyo, we jetted off to Kobe (city near Osaka) which is about 3 hours away on the bullet trainand met up with my friend Malanie for dinner…
I love Japanese food. Mochi, sushi pizza, peach fizzy drinks…
We managed to race back to the bullet train to catch the last train backtracking (eastbound) one stop to Nagoya for the night. And we’re just too happy to have made it… esp when Ken’s friend showed us what he meant by “The Best Scotch Bar in all of Nagoya”. This is the classiest (scotch) bar I’ve ever been to, in the world. Not that I’ve been to a lot…
And we didn’t even have a hangover the next day. It was fiiine.
DAY 3:
We raced to the bullet train again for a quick 45 minute ride to Kyoto, this is the older part of Japan.
The moment I made it to the top of Kiyomizudera (”Pure Water Temple”), I fell in love with Japan — I finally understood what everyone was marveling about.
Pure Water Temple, Kiyomizudera, was founded in 780 is one of the oldest sects within Japanese Buddhism. In 1994, the temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites. Kiyomizudera stands in the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto and offers a beautiful view over the city.
We even tasted the spring water.
I wish I had spend the entire 7 days in Kyoto. I only managed to see the Gion district and several Geishas on the street. I vow to return to Kyoto another time… hopefully during the cherry blossom period. I can just see it now.
Then off I went deep into the heart of Hiroshima. I made good use of my JR pass. By the time I was in Hiroshima (Thursday) and met up with my girl Jessie, I was out like a light when my head hit the pillow.
DAY 4
Kenb was still in Nagoya when I visited Jessie’s public school in the morning. It’s fascinating to see such peaceful classrooms with uniforms and indoor slippers (!! Seriously, only in Japan would they require students to go to school and change into slippers).
Afterwards we went to Miyajima - which means “shrine island” and celebrated as a sacred island - one of Japan’s three most scenic views. Itsukushima Shrine (photos) is famous for its large wooden torii (gate) which stands in the middle of the water during high tide. It was low tide for me when I visited… wild deer move around the island freely chasing after tourists for food.
During my visit, I get to witness the setup for a Japanese wedding ceremony. I love the kimonos.
Kenb arrived from Nagoya later that afternoon and we visited the Atomic Bomb Dome site.
Afterwards, Jessie and Tobie took Kenb and I for the famous Hiroshima pizza - okonomiyaki… it’s a barely-there thin crust pizza layered with egg, cabbage, moyashi, sliced pork/bacon with fried squid, octopus, cheese, and soba noodles, topped with another layer of egg and a generous dollop of okonomiyaki sauce. The amount of cabbage used is usually 3 - 4 times the amount used in the Osaka style, therefore arguably a healthier version. It starts out piled very high and is generally pushed down as the cabbage cooks.
Now that’s something I’ve never had before. We partied out the night with Kareoke and Ramen… more photos later.
DAY 5
We finally went in to see the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum…
UPDATE!! I was staying at Nagoya with slow internet access, and I was too drunk on scotch to be patient - I am now in Hiroshima but about to go out for a bite to eat. I will blog shortly!! Lots of photos this time.
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I have always depended on the kindness of strangers.
And the strangers in Japan are very kind indeed.
I was sitting next to a Japanese man (in his thirties probably?) on the 1:30am flight to Tokyo. The lack of sleep didn’t faze me any more than the 4am breakfast served by All Nippon. (I must note that All Nippon serve a good-looking almost Bento-like breakfast) I noticed the stranger next to me put wasabi in his japanese noodle soup along with the little shredded seaweed. I was finishing my quiche when I turned to him and inquired about his way of eating the noodles. I asked if it’s a personal choice of his, and he remarked that “It’s very common.”
He gestured that I should try as well - so I added a small dallop of wasabi in my noodles.
And it was DELICIOUS.
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The 4 hour flight is a lot shorter than I expected to fly from Hong Kong to Japan. During this time, I got to know the stranger next to me. He’s a business manager in Tokyo, and was returning from his vacation in Hong Kong and Macau. I asked how he liked Hong Kong, and this was his reply -
“In terms of views, Hong Kong isn’t that great. But I want to live there.” He replied with bright eyes and a small wonderous smile.
“Yes, it’s very convenient.” I replied with a smile.
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The Japanese stranger flipped through my guidebook to Japan, as I was asking him which onsen would be closest for me. I wanted to go to one today before my Canadian friend lands in Tokyo. I’m in no mood to stay in the city.
He flipped to a page of my guidebook, and reached into his breast pocket of his shirt, and wiped out a marking-sticker and marked the page. I was just marveling at how incredibly efficient he is, when he offered to guide me out of the airport and help me exchange my rail pass coupon for the rail pass.
Kindness indeed.
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After 3 hours of transfering public subways, finding my way through the complex Tokyo subway system jam-packed with rush hour crowd with their blood-shot eyes…. plus a bus ride — I made it to Hakone. Read the rest of this entry »
Do you believe we become our ex’s in a new relationship?
I dated a great guy years ago. I was in bad shape then. I was depressed from my father’s death and my grandfather’s death. I just moved back to Toronto starting afresh, working as a temp receptionist my gal pal hooked me up with - I was in transition and feeling really lost.
Just not the best years of my life, you know what I mean?
So when this awesome guy came along — handsome, successful, and he was crazy about me.
I was more than flattered.
I was terrified.
I felt insecure - that I wasn’t good enough, that he was just fucking with my head and no way was he sincere. I felt I wasn’t pretty enough, despite him te
Today I jumped out of bed at 2pm (I know, it’s terrible) and ran out of my apartment in a hurry to make my appointment, stopped over at McDonald’s to grab a combo meal. The fries were done perfect today, they are crispy, chewy, not too salty and so hot it burns the roof your mouth… it was heaven. While I was savouring e-ve-ry crispy hot fry, I wished I large sized it.
. But I was hungry and in a rush, so I chose what’s most convenient. Sorry greasy burger and Mr. potato… I’ll be there sometime next week. Promise.
Then we jetted back to Causeway Bay for some serious Chinese bar experience via drinking games and kareoke.
We finished off with Ladies’ Night Wednesday at the hot spot in Wanchai – 
