lizadooolittle

Win 4 Private Pilates Sessions

2010-11-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Win 4 Private Pilates Sessions: "Pilates is designed to give you suppleness, natural grace, and skill that will be unmistakably reflected in the way you walk, in the way you play, and in the way you work."

I never thought I'd...#1

2010-04-08T21:59:00.001-07:00

I never thought I'd be one of those moms at a restaurant, surrounded by evidence of a baby (i.e., toys, burp cloth and booster seat), but eating solo. Aha! Now I get why you seldom see babies at restaurants past 7 p.m. This is their wind-down time, that is, if they're not already snug-as-a-bug-in-a-rug in bed. I thought I was doing a great job at molding Izzy to "our" schedule and not conforming to "hers." Apparently this only works between the hours of 7 and 7. Anything in between equals trying to keep your cool in a public place while your baby is squirming and/or eating solo. I knew this. I just had to try it out for myself. Lesson learned.

For my Foodie friends...

2009-10-22T09:55:00.000-07:00

Below are restaurants Gwyneth Paltrow recommends in L.A. I'm still trying to picture her waiting for her order at a taco truck on the corner of Highland and Colorado in East L.A., but whateves!

GOOP- LA Update

And The Bazaar is having a 1-Year Anniversary special.

Am I the only one thinking of food at 10 a.m. in the morning? Maybe I'm just anticipating the day when I can eat whatever I want and not have to worry about the bun in the oven.

Cheers!

Tea/Tee Time

2009-10-05T18:03:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my niece told me that for her 6th birthday she was going to have a tea party, but boys and girls would be invited. The girls would have tea, while the boys played golf. "Interesting," I thought, "A tea/tee party."

This past Sunday my sister-in-law did a fabulous job combining the two themes. The girls sipped tea and decorated fairy wings, while the little boys play a rough round of miniature golf. Check out how the two themes were reflected in her cakes. Great idea for a coed tea/tee party!

Lil' Miss Iz

2009-09-03T14:21:00.000-07:00

Received another package in the mail today.

We love the packaging!

Isn't it so cute. It's the softest mini

blankie ever and a matching outfit :)

Thank you Uncle Jim and Auntie Therese!!!! We love it!

P.S. Am I suppose to open these gifts as I receive them, or save them for the shower?

Chugga-chugga...

2009-08-29T09:13:00.001-07:00

Thank you Uncle Mark for Iz's first train set. We love it!!!!!

@ No Doubt

2009-08-01T19:57:00.001-07:00

Therese, LeeAnn, Kat & I (& Izzy).

Saturday morning

2009-07-25T08:06:00.001-07:00

Guess who got himself stuck under the bed again.

One of these things is not like the other

2009-07-18T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is the fourth or fifth time that Jeffrey has gotten himself stuck
under the bed. Notice how Juno can still sit under. I'm not sure how
Jeff can get in but never out. Good thing this only happens when
Ritche is still home and can lift the bed to help him out.

Can you hear me now?

2009-07-14T08:21:00.001-07:00

I just read that the baby can now hear outside the womb, and noises such as the dog barking or the vacuum blaring won't phase her outside of the womb because she'll be use to it.

Version 23: OH Ship!!!

2009-07-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

This morning I got ready for my Pilates class, which I haven't been to in about two weeks. This also means that I haven't worn stretchy pants/clothes in the same amount of time. When I walked by a mirror, I thought, "Oh ship!" I haven't had a chance to really look at my growth. There must be something in there. I'm seeing the term "love handles" in a new light.

Doctor's orders...

2009-07-12T15:54:00.000-07:00

Increase my calcium intake, and I figure out the best way to do so. Check out these milk shakes from MILK. A Banana Peanut Malt and a Mint Chocolate Crunch Shake, complete with malt balls and whip cream on top.

@MILK

2009-07-12T15:16:00.001-07:00

Getting milk shakes. Don't these look good!

Version 21.6: New York City

2009-07-09T21:11:00.000-07:00

I'm just starting to catch up after returning from a long-weekend trip to New York. Here are some highlights...

The girls at Central Park. From left to right: me, Emilie, Suzanne, Camille (at the bottom).

Photo by Suzanne Fernandez.

Here I am at 21.6 weeks. Izzy's first outdoor concert at Central Park.

Photo by Suzanne Fernandez

Here I am with Jay, Emilie's boyfriend, out celebrating my friend Suzanne's 30th birthday. Don't worry folks, I'm drinking sparkling water.

Photo by Suzanne Fernandez

Of course I had to buy cute stuff for Iz. Here are a few of my favorite things...

From left to right: Golf socks--a gift from Auntie Emilie; Robot onesie purchased at Exit 9 in Brooklyn, made by Intl. Robot; the softest stuffed animal blanket ever, purchased at FAO Schwartz; and finally, a couture cootie cloth by Anna Sui because if you're going to spit up, you might as well be cleaned off in style.

Big dogs in the city

2009-07-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

This Great Dane is only 9 months old and expected to get bigger. Hope
the owner has a big apt.

MJ madness in front of the Apollo

2009-07-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

Camille signs wall

2009-07-05T17:12:00.002-07:00

MJ tribute

2009-07-05T17:12:00.001-07:00

It's showtime

2009-07-05T17:11:00.001-07:00

At The Apollo

Ribs.

2009-07-05T16:09:00.000-07:00

Fried pork chops

2009-07-05T16:08:00.000-07:00

2009-07-05T15:38:00.001-07:00

I'm starving!!!

Sooouuuullll Food

2009-07-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

Our crew :)

2009-07-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

Summer Stage @ Central Park

2009-07-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

Dessert

2009-07-05T10:00:00.000-07:00

Main entree.

2009-07-05T09:27:00.000-07:00

Lobster Cobb salad.

Second course

2009-07-05T09:05:00.000-07:00

Too bad I can't have the raw oysters.

First course

2009-07-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday brunch

2009-07-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

The Plaza's Oak Room across from Centrsl Park.

Fooooodddd!!!!

2009-07-04T17:20:00.000-07:00

2009-07-04T17:01:00.000-07:00

We'll be joining these folks on the rooftop in a bit.

Veggies on grill

2009-07-04T16:59:00.001-07:00

BBQ area

2009-07-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

2009-07-04T13:49:00.000-07:00

2009-07-04T13:43:00.000-07:00

Outdoor art

2009-07-04T13:39:00.000-07:00

BAM festival.

Outdoor concert

2009-07-04T13:38:00.000-07:00

2009-07-04T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hanging out

2009-07-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

In front of the East River.

Brooklyn brunch

2009-07-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

Virgin Bloody Mary.

Crack Pie from MILK

2009-07-03T19:09:00.000-07:00

2009-07-03T16:48:00.000-07:00

Smoked duck.

2009-07-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

2009-07-03T16:29:00.001-07:00

Pork buns.

Momofuku

2009-07-03T16:29:00.000-07:00

2009-07-03T13:51:00.000-07:00

Mini cupcakes!

2009-07-03T13:47:00.000-07:00

Classic paella

2009-07-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

Plaintain salad

2009-07-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

Havana Central

2009-07-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

Emilie dividing up our empanadas--Cubano, chicken and pork. We are
starving!

Mini Monkey

2009-06-24T19:41:00.000-07:00

Is this hat cute er what? I like the Princess Lea-like ears. It's made by Citefuzz on Etsy.

A Couple of Cool Baby Videos

2009-06-13T00:15:00.000-07:00

Four-Hours of Play in Two Minutes

How to Make a Baby:

Version 18.0: Sweet Potato

2009-06-09T11:58:00.001-07:00

According to The Bump, Peanut is now the size of a sweet potato. Coincidentally, last night we had sweet potato fries for dinner.

Keep it in the Closet

2009-06-08T23:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this "sneak peek" on Design*Sponge and thought I'd post the pictures of my ideal closet in hope that one day it will come to fruition.

It's actually a bathroom, but let's make believe the sink and counter are a vanity with large mirrors, and the tub and toilet are racks of clothes organized by like items and color-coordinated. Since I'm a shorty, we would definitely need to keep the library ladder.

Pregnant Cheese Lovers...

2009-06-03T17:06:00.000-07:00

I've figured out a way around not being able to eat soft cheese while pregs. My doc said it was perfectly okay for me to eat pasteurized soft cheese (soft cheeses typically are not pasteurized, which is the root of the problem for pregnant women). I picked up French brie and goat cheese while I was at the store and read the label to make sure each were pasteurized. I also picked up some French bread, dried fruit and pre-cooked turkey slices.

The trouble with cheese while pregs is contracting a disease called Listeria. To take the safe cheese measure one step beyond just making sure the cheeses were pasteurized, I decided to bake them too. Baking the cheese at high temperatures help to kill any bacteria that may be harmful.

I sliced up pieces of French bread and topped each with the brie and goat cheese. I topped a few pieces with brie cheese and the turkey slices, then I baked all of them for about 10-15 minutes (until the cheese bubbled) at about 375 degrees in the toaster over. Once they were done, I topped the goat cheese bites with homemade freezer raspberry jam my girlfriends and I made over the weekend, and the brie bites with dried pomegranate and cranberries. The result: a deliciously sweet and savory afternoon snack. Too bad I haven't braved sipping wine yet. Grape juice anyone?

Version 16.6

2009-05-31T11:35:00.000-07:00

Version 16.4: Mrs. Grubsalot

2009-05-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

In order to maintain my sanity and discourage any headaches from coming on, I eat pretty much every two hours. Here's a list of some of the things I've been grubbing per meal...

Breakfast:

Round 1 (one of these items):

Maple Brown Sugar Oatmeal with dried blueberries, sliced almonds and milk
A bowl of cereal
Noah's blueberry bagel with light cream cheese
Two pieces of buttermilk toast with I Can't Believe It's Butter and strawberry jam
Or very rare occasion, a donut
Also on rare occasion, a couple of slices of bacon or turkey sausage with the toast
Sunday mornings: pancakes or French toast with scrambled eggs, bacon or chicken apple sausage
A small cup of java

Round 2 (sometimes a few of these items):

Low-fat cottage cheese, topped with berries and/or sliced bananas and wheat germ grounds
Sliced apples
A handful of grapes
Low-fat string cheese
Low-fat yogurt
Jamba Juice Strawberries Whirl smoothie

Lunch (one of these items):

Small can of tuna with sliced avocados sprinkled with lots of lemon on top of water crackers (mmm, yummy!)
A tuna sandwich on olive bread from Euro Pane in Pasadena
A chicken sandwich on rosemary bread from Euro Pane in Pasadena
A chicken and smoked mozzarella tartine from Le Pain Quotidien
Taco Bell!
In n' Out cheeseburger with fries
A salad with a cup of soup
California Rolls and edamame
Avocado and cucumber rolls and edamame
Pizza and a small salad

Afternoon Snack (just one of these items):

Grilled artichokes from Stanley's in Sherman Oaks
Sliced apples
A bowl of cereal
A handful of plain almonds
Jamba Juice Strawberries Whirl smoothie

Dinner (just one of these items):

Beef Shabu-Shabu dinner
Small bowl of Pho
Chicken adobo and brown rice
Thai food
FatBurger
Baked salmon and spring greens salad
Grilled steak with arugula salad
Sweet and hot turkey sausage with diced tomatoes, basil and penne pasta; and a salad
Sinigang
Pizza and a salad
Furaibo chicken wings, rice ball, yakitori chicken hearts, yakitori okra, soft shell crab, butter asparagus, and deep fried baby halibut!!!!
Ramen noodles
Curry House beef patty or chicken katsu curry over spaghetti noodles

Evening Snack (just one of these items):

A bowl of cereal
Ice cream

Beverages throughout the day:

H2o (daily) - glasses of filtered tap, and one bottle with electrolytes (helps with any amount of dehydration, and tastes way better than Gatorade or Powerade)
Apple juice
Iced green or jasmine tea
Lemonade
Arnie Palmer
On rare occasion, a Coke or Sprite
Hot green tea

So what does this all amount to? I was surprised to be awarded by my doctor "5 (out of 5) gold stars" for what she called "the perfect weight gain amount" when I weighed in at this week's appointment. Doc is still encouraging me to do my Pilates, which I do once a week with a trainer who has me focusing on maintaining my balance as I grow bigger, strengthening my back and arms in preparation to carry the tot around for its first couple of years, and lifting my pelvic something or other off the floor.

Peanut is also doing well. The doc had to chase Peanut around my belly to listen to its heart beat. Peanut is one squirmy kid. In four weeks we find out if its shell is blue or pink.

Have a great weekend!

Rock the Cradle of Love

2009-05-21T22:35:00.000-07:00

Just some nursery room ideas. We still don't know if it's a boy or a girl, so I played with both options.

Nursery #1 by lizadooolittle on Polyvore.com

Items include (Starting from top left, clockwise): Clothes Tree (Giggle.com), Oeuf Sparrow Crib in Gray, Luca Glider (Giggle.com), FLOR Shaggy Sheep Rug,DwellStudio Crib Set in Gio Lemon, perch! design mini chandelier in yellow, Tandem Quilt from Ciuccio, perch! design triangle bird light, Noguchi Table Lamp, DwellStudio Crib set in Transportation, mid-century walnut drawers (we actually have a credenza we plan to use).

Be Like Water...

2009-05-20T21:35:00.000-07:00

My first baby item purchase. I couldn't resist. If it's a girl, she's rockin' this onesie with red leg warmers.

The real "Peanut": version 15.2

2009-05-20T15:42:00.000-07:00

Finally, I'm back to this blog. I've been meaning to catch up, especially now that I have news to report: We're expecting a Peanut in November. Our first kidlet. I'm now 15.2 weeks.

Here's a recap of what's been going down:

5 weeks - In denial, but decided to get the confirmation from the doctor. I took you snowboarding and I think you had too much fun because by Monday (week 6) you made me feel sick.

6 weeks - "Evening" sickness kicked in.

8 weeks - We saw your little heart beat, and the doctor said she saw your Peanut shell wiggle. You also went to the Lily Allen concert with Auntie Lea and Auntie Maite. Auntie Lea bought us a Sprite, but accidentally handed me her vodka drink, so you got a little taste of what you're not suppose to have for another 21 years.

10 weeks - We went to the first night of Coachella out in Indio. You've been a little rocker lately.

11 weeks - We went to see The Black Kids perform, and also saw a surprise performance of Depeche Mode for the Jimmy Kimmel show.

Here's a picture I took of the lead singer of the Black Kid's head as he also watched DM perform.

This is a clip of the new song DM was promoting called "Wrong."

12 weeks - We saw your head, hands and little feet. The docs say you're looking healthy.

13 weeks - Man, you're already giving me a headache. Daily, actually. You better be behaving in there!

15 weeks - You're driving me Nuts with the headaches. Quit it already, would ya!

Other observations: I forget a lot, a eat a lot and I have an unsatiable thirst that can't be quenched.

Keeping the Generation Gap Ajar: Part Tres

2009-01-03T14:06:00.000-08:00

On Christmas Eve day, I was perusing my Facebook account and noticed that I had a new friend request. I clicked the link to find that it was my Tito Danny. I ignored the request so that I could take a moment to think about what it would mean to accept to be his "friend." I'm a fan of Tito Danny. He's funny, he drinks and he makes good conversation. He's one of my "older" relatives (I'm guessing 25 years my senior) whom I don't mind being around. Later that afternoon, I returned to Facebook and decided to search under the name "Makabenta." I found that my dad had also created an account. Interesting. I clicked "ignore" for Tito Danny's request and then headed off to dinner with the in-laws.

On Christmas Day, R and I, along with my brother, headed over to my folks' house for lunch. My parents recently returned from a 6-week stint in the Philippines and this was the first time they had all of us under one roof to share stories from their trip. As they began to tell us about how Patricia is in a band, and how she knows Miguel, my brother and I were quick to reply, "We know." My parents replied with, "How do you know these things?" And we replied in unison, "Through Facebook!"

And so the generation gap begins to close...

My dad 'fesses up that he too had joined Facebook, inspired by the few invitations he's received to join, the most recent from Tito Danny. I smiled, and then interjected, jokingly, but serious, "Just to let you know, dad, I will not be adding you as a 'friend' on Facebook." He seemed to have understood and admitted that he wasn't sure exactly how to use it, but that he had found a friend or two. We moved on to other subjects and no one seemed to have been bruised from the conversation about Facebook.

A few days later, I received another friend request. I clicked on the link to find that it was Tito Danny, again! Boy, this guy is persistent. Ha! In addition, I noticed a new name pop up in my "People you may know list:" Edgar Makabenta. Dad had also figured out how to add a profile picture; he selected his senior high school picture. "Appropriate," I thought, considering most people on Facebook are looking for long-lost friends. Considering my dad began to use text messaging before I did, I was sure that he would quickly catch on to Facebook.

For the last couple of days, my dad's picture and name have been popping up in my "People you may know" list, mocking me each time I log in. Today I decided to post a new status: "Liza thinks it's funny that her dad is in her 'People you may know' list." So far I've received a handful of status comments varying from people who have added all of their Tito's and Tita's, to people confessing that their worse fear is their parents joining Facebook.

Quite frankly, I have nothing to hide on Facebook. Everything is realistically portrayed, and I don't have an alter-ego or anything to hide. I've already invited my folks to read my blog at their leisure, but I guess Facebook is where I draw a virtual line in the sand. I'm just not ready for the gap to be closed, therefore I will keep it ajar. We can share notes about Facebook, I can teach you how to use applications, but Dad (and I mean this in the nicest, gentlest way possible): I love you like a father, but I will not be adding you as a "friend." Just sayin'.

Keeping the Generation Gap Ajar: Part Deux

2008-12-26T22:35:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite aspects of Facebook is being able to live vicariously through my younger cousins scattered around the world. Magnolia, for example, born and raised in New York, is currently attending U.Mass and just completed a stint studying abroad in Spain. I'm still trying to catch up to all the places she's visited just in the last five years of her life! And from what I've seen on the many videos posted on FB, Manny, her younger brother, has progressed to be a pretty kick-ass skater. Then there's my cousin Isabel in Toronto, Canada. The last time I saw her she was about three-years old, and I doubt she remembers meeting me. My relatives say that we look alike, "could be sisters." She always seems to have so much fun with her friends, and she has the cutest little daughter. I look forward to reconnecting with my fellow "whitey" cousin (there are only a few of us pale as snow in the family *wink*). My cousin Patricia in the Philippines kills me with her photos. She sends me links to new bands, posts videos of her own band for me to check out and comments on the live shows I say I'm attending via my status updates. Her passion and dedication to playing the drums is beyond anything I've set out to accomplish. What's funny is she's also friends with my other cousin, Miguel, who is also in a band, lives in the Philippines, but happens to be related to me through my other side of my family (my father's side).

In this version 1.2 of the Facebook Generation Gap, I'm the one who is ten-years senior than my cousins. We have some catching up to do before we can create synonyms established in Part: 1; but through the beauty of Facebook, I've become the ubiquitous "friend" watching them go through the motions of being 20-something or younger.

Keeping the Generation Gap Ajar: Part I

2008-12-25T00:30:00.000-08:00

I love the Internet. It's my means of entertainment, communication, information and to some degree, my livelihood. I'd guestimate that ninety-five percent of my work relies on the speed and reliability of the Internet. Take, for instance, my email account. Currently I have four email aliases (each representing a company that represents anywhere from one to five of its own clients) set up to funnel into my one main account. So in theory, I have a total of five email addresses! As of today, I have close to 4,000 emails in my inbox, 600 of which are unread. In addition to the hours I spend communicating for work and for personal reasons via email, I also rely on the trusty World Wide Web for research and to access a handful of Internet-based databases. Before, during and after my work projects, I also spend a great deal of time communicating with old and new friends on this social networking site called Facebook.

Facebook has been one of the most interesting social networks I've participated in to date. It's connected me to next-door neighbors from when I was seven, to family friends who I use to think were so much older than I because back in the day, while I was still admiring Hello Kitty and afraid of KISS posters, they were sweet 16, driving around, throwing cool house parties (before I knew what those were) and unknowingly exposing me to all sorts of music and trends.

Flash forward to today, and the age gap has closed. Despite our age differences, which range anywhere between 4 to 10 years my senior, we seem to have landed on the same page. What's retro to them, is also retro for me. The term "back in the day" has become synonymous for us all, regardless of whether you were six, nine or 16 years old at the time.

The virtual reunions through Facebook have been a joyous experience. It's amazing what you can learn about your friends on Facebook just through their status updates. Ironically, it's been the best way for me to feel connected to the people from the past and present, without being in their face.

When Words Collide...

2008-12-08T12:46:00.000-08:00

The latest on Jon Favreau, courtesy of Gawker. Apparently, he's all talk AND action. Shout out to my cousin, Margarita, for keeping me, uh, abreast of the situation.

The Facebook Shame of Obama's Hottie Word Guy

Hottie 27-year-old chief speechwriter for Obama, Jon Favreau, acted inappropriately with a cardboard cut-out of Hillary Clinton at a party (HE GROPED IT) and it ended up on Facebook and now everyone's talking about the golden boy gone douche. What if it leads him to not get his White House appointment, now that Hillary is Secretary of State? He already sent an apology to the Clinton camp, for the crime of posing in photographs where he's "dancing with a life-sized cardboard cut-out of secretary of state-designate Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, and another where he's placed his hand on the cardboard former first lady's chest while a friend is offering her lips a beer," as the Washington Post put it. Come on, dude's 27—you have to take the good with the bad. And God knows what kind of hours ol' Obama has him working.

Clinton senior adviser Philippe Reines cast the photos as evidence of increased bonhomie between the formerly rival camps.

"Senator Clinton is pleased to learn of Jon's obvious interest in the State Department, and is currently reviewing his application," he said in an e-mail.

Ex-Radar online editor Alex Balk's response to that: "Holy crap, did Philippe Reines just say something that was actually funny and showed evidence of a sense of humor on the Clinton team’s part? Because we might want to write down the date if so."

JT - Two

2008-11-16T21:57:00.001-08:00

Two days climbing at Joshua Tree = two bruised knees.

Joshua Tree

2008-11-15T18:38:00.000-08:00

I completed day 1 of 2 at JT's rock climbing school. This is what
happens when you don't know how to keep your knees off the rock wall.
It's only 6:40 pm and Lea (my friend/climbing partner) and I are ready
for bed. We're exhausted! Fortunately we are at a motel and not
camping. Hot shower!!!

Crushing

2008-11-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

Earlier in the year I proclaimed my love for Jon Favreau to my BFs.

Photo credit: Jacob Silberberg for The New York Times

I discovered him while scanning the pages of the NY Times. I'm a sucker for people who can write a damn good sentence. I wonder what kind of love letters he could write. My heart: *pitter-patter, pitter-patter*

Venus as a Boy

2008-10-31T19:51:00.001-07:00

Trick or Treat?

Satellite Dishes

2008-10-30T21:46:00.001-07:00

Juno got spayed yesterday and came home straight-tailed, long-faced and with a new party (pooper) hat.

Today, she was feeling much better. We decided to style up her new dish. Medical bandage bows are all the rage.

Side view.

Over-the-shoulder pose.

The end.

Back in the day, pre-myspace

2008-10-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Long before my days of myspace, Facebook, LinkedIn and all the other sites that occupy A LOT of my time now, I use to keep a blog on LiveJournal.com. As a shopkeeper, I would use the quiet mornings or take advantage of afternoon lulls typing away on my PowerBook G4 reminiscing, note taking and bantering about the most random things. On the daily, I would swap comments with my new virtual friends, explore other people's interests and enjoy my innocent adaptation to social networking.

Recently, my good friend LeeAnn sent me a blog link from my LiveJournal and flashes of blog posts crossed my mind. The account had been on my mind for months, but for the life of me, I could not remember my user name or the email account I assigned to it. LeeAnn had resurrected a time in my life that was so carefully noted and fortunately, preserved in the treasure chest of the World Wide Web.

As November looms and temperatures hold steady at 90 degrees+ here in Los Angeles, I thought I'd share an old post from June 2005...

Summer in full swing

01:52pm 22/06/2005

I can't believe it's Summer.

In the almost 30 years that I've lived in the San Fernando Valley/Los Angeles, I have taken note that all of the seasons are marked with an air of familiarity. Now I know many will argue that Southern California does not have a "change" in seasons, but if you've lived here as long as I have you will agree that there is indeed significant qualities that mark the change of seasons. Fall, for example, is always kicked off with the harsh, hot winds of the Santa Ana's. Night would come sooner, clearly indicating that the long summer days were gone, and the long nights of homework were back. I remember being on the playground of my elementary school, awaiting for Halloween, hating the static in my hair, the dryness of my skin, being whipped by dry dead leaves pushed around by hot winds, and the scent of the local brush fires lingering in the air. Winter would tease us during the months of November and December with sporadic rain showers that would taper off right before Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. The days would still be warm, but the evenings surprisingly chilly. Being a Sagittarius on the cusp of a Capricorn, I would celebrate my birthday with a smile, knowing two weeks of holiday vacation were days away. Spring would return almost over night. Day after day, the sky would remain a constant blue. The days would grow long again. Girls would exit their cocoons to flirt with boys, and boys with girls. We would enter the Summer, already tanned and glowing from the Spring days, only to become lazy from the hot Summer heat. Mirages of water would appear on the hot cement, then disappear as you got closer. The streets would empty as families would leave for their summer vacations, and stay-at-home kids would grow bored of the excess time on their hands. By August, we would reunite, share stories of our vacations and take full advantage of the long days.

Wiki, Wiki, Wiki, Wiki. (OMG, like) Shut UP!

2008-10-22T14:04:00.001-07:00

Yes, I'm singing the lyrics to Nucleaus' song "Jam on It," but it was inspired by the research I'm doing on social networking and marketing. Bouncing back from window tab to tab--Facebook, Google, Gmail and SEOMOZ's Awards page, and 'tagging' articles into my del.icio.us account, I came across Wikipedia. You know, that magnificent online destination that's growing as I type. I decided to plug in my family name for fun, just to see what would come up, and OMG, like, shut up! my great grandfather is listed. Actually, I forgot that my brother had already mentioned this to me a year or so ago. Go great grandpops! You're WIcKId!

It's funny how Wiki has been the source of knowledge. When trivially stumped among friends, we'd conclude with, "hmm, that's one to Wiki." Growing up, when I would pose a spelling or word question to my dad, he'd shoo me away in the direction of the book case and say, "I don't know, go ask Webster." For future generations, I'm going to have to adapt that to, "I don't know, go ask Wiki." Instead of shooing the young one towards a laptop, I'll send it in a text or instant message. Fortunately, I'll still be able to use dad's saying that I hated at the time, but love now, "Look with your eyes, not with your mouth." Oh gosh, I might have to adapt that to, "Look with your eyes, not with your text." Aww, it doesn't have the same effect.

And now, for some entertainment.

Unravel

2008-10-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite things...covered by Radiohead

Bjork:

And The Smiths:

And New Order!

My day is complete.

I had to add this one for fun. Thom Yorke getting his boogie on:

Packing for Thailand and Phuket - for women

2008-10-05T09:07:00.001-07:00

A few friends are planning to go to Thailand and have asked the all important question: "What should I bring?" Before we left for our trip, I tried to Google a Thailand-specific packing list, but came up short. So, for all the ladies out there who are about to embark upon a Thailand excursion I've compiled a list of things to consider. I did not list obvious items such as underwear, socks, camera, etc. These are items that I used or wished I had during my trip.

Accessories/Sundries

Sunglasses (bring a back up pair, just in case a monkey steals a pair or yours break/get lost)
Hat
Sunscreen (face/lip balm)
Bug repellent (FYI-They use Tiger Balm in Thailand for bug bites, or you could bring whatever works for you)
Hand Sanitizer/Hand wipes (some bathrooms do not have soap)
Kleenex packets (some bathrooms do not have T.P.)
Small/pocket-sized towel/handkerchief (a lot of bathrooms have a communal hand towel, if they have anything at all). Also works great as a "sweat rag" if you're a sweater. Personally, I glisten ;)
Small Tide or detergent packets
Refillable water bottle. I didn't bring one, but I saw others on our trip with them. The hotel would provide 2 free bottles ( but glass bottles - inconvenient to lug around) of water, and it would have been nice to have a container to fill and bring on day trips. Our tour group provided bottles of water throughout the day though.
Underwater camera (for Phuket)
Electric/plug converters (although, hotels also have them)
Neck pillow for the airplane and long bus rides
A few snacks/power bars. I get hungry fast, so I always have something with me. Also great for when you don't like the food (airline food) or if a tour goes longer than anticipated and lunch is later.
iPod!!!!

Clothing

From owning a street wear and snowboarding shop, I know that the basic rule of thumb is "cotton kills." In other words, cotton absorbs moisture and does not dry quickly. For humid, tropical areas your best bet to staying cool (and not smelly) is to get materials that are a mixed blend with wicking or CoolMax features. These features wick moisture away from your body and dry quickly. Perfect if you also want to hand wash clothing at the end of the day because the items will dry fast.

Tops

Tank tops. If you are a tank-top wearer then I would also pack one of the following:

A lightweight button-up shirt. I brought a white one and just rolled up the sleeves. It was great to have to throw over tank tops and sun dresses when needed. Or you could bring a short-sleeve (cap sleeve), lightweight cardigan to put over tank tops. I would avoid see-through versions or shawls with minimal coverage.

Short-sleeve shirts/tops. I brought my yoga/workout t-shirts that have the wick/dry feature.

Bottoms

Long skirt. If you plan on visiting the Royal Palace there is a very strict dress code. Ladies must have their shoulders covered (short-sleeve blouse or t-shirt) AND must not show any leg (No shorts for men too). If you don't want to wear pants (it's too hot for pants) I would recommend bringing a light-weight, long skirt or maybe even a sarong that you could wear over shorts.

Knee-length shirt. All temples will not allow you to wear shorts, but you could get away with skirts that are at or below the knee. If you want to pack extra light, just go with the sarong idea above to go over shorts.
3/4-length pants. Great for all around. A basic color like khaki or black would be ideal to wear during the day and at night.
Sundresses. I think it's always nice to have at least one that you could dress up or down. I brought a couple, but in hindsight, I should have just packed one or two skirts to match up with some tops for more versatility.
Jeans. I brought a pair but really did not need them. I even wore them in the evenings a couple of nights and they were too hot!
Shorts. Yes!

Shoes

Flip flops. Perfect for visits to temples because you have to remove your shoes. Bring a pair that you don't care about because there are warning signs at some temples that say "beware of shoes," meaning there are shoe thieves. Personally, I like the flip flops with arch support, like Reefs or Chacos. They're as comfy as shoes, especially since you will be standing/walking a lot.
One pair of comfy sneakers that aren't too hot. I brought Salomon amphibians and noticed that others in our group had something similar. You could wear them with or without socks. If you are a Crocs or Keens sandal person, those would works too.

I brought a pair of sandals (flat ones and just a basic pair) to dress up sundresses for dinners. Flip flops work everywhere unless you are planning to visit rooftop bars in Bangkok at some of the nicer hotels, then you'll need an alternative to flip flops.

Misc.

Light weight rain jacket or small umbrella.
Swim suit
Board shorts
Extra small tote/beach bag -- great to carry your hotel pool towel to Phuket island/boating trips

Daily Pack

I had a messenger-style bag that fit the following for each day trip.

A wallet with a copy of my passport, DL/ID card, money and one credit card. I would lock up my original passport and backup credit card in the hotel safe.
Rain jacket (I would bring it on the tour bus, and leave it there during the day)
Camera
Kleenex, hand sanitizer, small towel, lip balm, small sunscreen
Hat/sunglasses
Small journal and pen
iPod

Items I did not need:

Small travel blow dryer. Some of our hotels in Europe didn't have one, so I thought to bring one this time. All the hotels had blowdryers.
Jeans
One too many books
One too many shoes. Just one pair of flip flops, one pair of closed-toe/sneakers, and basic sandals will work.

I also brought:

My laptop. However, almost all the hotels had business centers and there were Internet cafes everywhere. We would use my laptop to download photos every evening, update blogs, and check personal accounts, such as banking, etc.
Extra copies of our passport, itinerary.
Thailand travel book.

Also good to know:

Tampons -- Few and far between at drug/convenience stores. Plan ahead and bring your own if you know you're going to need them.
Bathrooms can be a "cultural experience" (see White Throne)
Don't wear nice clothes when visiting the elephants. They will use their dirty, muddy trunks to sniff you in search for food.
Monkey town. They will climb on you and steal what they can. While we were there they took an earring and a hat. They're also known to steal sunglasses and small items, like cameras. They are also brave enough to try and go into your pockets, especially if you have traces of food.
Phuket boat trips. The rides can be bumpy, so if you are prone to motion sickness bring Dramamine. Dramamine would also work for the days when the tour bus trips take you on windy roads.
Bangkok. The streets are dirty, so you will probably want to wear shoes and not flip flops, especially if it rains.
If you plan on doing a lot of shopping, you might want to pack a small duffle bag that you can check in on your back. You can toss your dirty clothes in the duffle bag, and gifts/purchases in you original suitcase.
Women are not allowed to touch monks.
Watch your stuff when you are in crowded places, including temples.
When you exchange your money, make sure to break up large bills into smaller ones, such as 20 and 50 baht. Also ask for coins. Some bathrooms cost 5 baht to use.
You could eat and drink very well off of $40 a day.
It's worth it to wake up super early to see local people make offerings to monks on the streets.
For a cocktail coupled with a nice sunset or evening view, go to the rooftop bar at the Banyan Tree Hotel in Bangkok.
Get lots of massages!

Thailand LOMO style

2008-10-04T14:38:00.000-07:00

Before I left for Thailand I received my LOMO LC+A kit in the mail. I really didn't have much time to experiment with it, so I packed all of its contents in my suitcase and crossed my fingers for the best. In a nutshell, LOMO camera is an old school 35 mm film camera that originated in Russia. It's known to produce vivid pictures with lots of color saturation. If you've seen Fisheye pictures, the Fisheye camera is another version of the LOMO that makes all your pictures look like they were taken through a pinhole or peephole. I wanted a full format one, but I did get a tunnel vision lens, which is a wider-angled Fisheye. I didn't have a flash, so all my night shots were crap, and I forgot to adjust the focus lever so some of my pictures are blurry. I also got the "Krab" for it, which is a waterproof capsule and that's how we were able to take underwater shots. I'm happy the snorkeling pictures came out. I just ordered the ringflash and a tripod and hope to experiment more at my niece's birthday party next weekend.

Click below to see more pictures - the good, the bad and the blurry.

Thailand - LOMO

Thailand Unwritten

2008-09-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from our last day in Phuket, Thailand, as well as some out of sequence images with captions for fun. Cheers!

And, by the way, we did sneak in one last massage the morning of our departure!

Our last Thai Iced Coffees.

And one last look at view from our resort pool.

And now for the unwritten part:

Dirty Beaches in Phuket:

Styrofoam, flip-flops, household trash...you know name it, it was washed up onto shore.

Sad sight.

The Road-Side Cafe

Serving daily: Organic, free-range, grain fed, fresh field mice and rat. According to Patty, this road-side cart is the happening place come happy hour.

Rest Stop #I stopped counting

While Mark was picking up a Slurpee and a bag a chips...

Patty and Nok were picking up dried and shredded pork particles.

She says, "Mmm, delicious! Especially over rice!"

Reclining, stretching, jumping Buddha.

Yep, they eat these four-legged guys too. Per Patty, she hears the black ones are tastier than the white ones.

The one behind Suzanne was after her ice cream.

Stopping to smell the flowers.

And taste the fresh bananas.

Hot from the humidity or the spiciness of the food?

Random tastes of Thailand

Alan Bond

2008-09-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Sept. 25 –
James Bond Island - Canoe Cave tour

Our final day in Phuket before we depart tomorrow morning for a grueling plane ride. I met new friends today on our van ride over to the harbor. Selena, a 6-year-old Australian girl on holiday with her family, including her two older sisters. Today Selena and I took to the caves of Phuket via canoe boat. We were both excited and scared. The weather got a bit rough half way through when rain decided to visit us. After our first canoe/cave adventure, she turned to me and said with her cute Aussie accent, "Liza, were you scared on the canoe?" I replied "yes" and said, "especially in the dark." She said, "I was scared too in the dark, but I was more scared when we had to go under the cave...I almost pee'd my pants." I thought that was too cute!

During our boat ride I got a chance to speak to the head dude, Alan. I asked him what happens to a boat during a Tsunami? Does it sink or sail? He says it rises. He told me that during the Tsunami he and a tour group had just entered through caves into a lagoon. Imagine a lagoon to be a hallowed-out volcano with water in the middle, and only one or two ways in or out during low tide. He was with a tour group inside the lagoon when the Tsunami hit. They were trapped inside for two hours with no way out. It was severe hardship for the town after the Tsunami. He said residents who were hit hard received money from supporting countries. For Alan, personally, the Tsunami challenged his home life. Because tourism was extremely low, he was out of work. He and the old wife went through some very trying times and in the end, she ended up leaving. Now he is a single dad with two students (children) at home, a daughter who I believe is 11 and a 9-year-old son. For him a typical day starts at 4:30 a.m. when we makes food for his students before he leaves for work. He leaves some spending money for his daughter and son, just in case they want to get a treat during the day. His daughter seems to understand the hardship. She compliments him on his cooking (before the mom did all the cooking), while his son still isn't in favor of it. When Alan returns from work, his daughter will often times still have the money he gave her that morning, whereas the son's allowance was spent by noon.

At the end of our boat trip I made sure to give Alan a tip, and I told him, "Alan, this is for your daughter, but not your son." He smiled and thanked me. It's people like Alan and Patty who really make a vacation trip come alive. Their stories, knowledge of the local people, history of the land and their personal stories are what makes Thailand such a beautiful country where everyone no matter how rich or poor is "Happy" (like Buddha as Patty would say)!

Our morning started off rough.

We should have know it would end rough.

Super-soggy froggy. It started to pour as soon as we got

in this long boat to get us to an island.

Me, "Alan Bond 007," and Ritche.

That funny looking piece of rock is the James Bond island rock.

Lime stones. I'd like to climb these bad boys. Crack and arete on?

It cleared up for a bit while we were on the island.

My monkey friends would probably love to hang off of these babies!

I'm not sure about the rest of you, but when I've done kayak tours in Hawaii, I've never received more than a sandwich and granola bar. Check out the spread that was included with our tour. Now that's service!!!

Later than evening, we revisited Baan Rim Pa for some cocktails, and then after a short restaurant chase, we finally settled at Baan Rim Pa's newer and hipper location, Hung Fat's. The ambiance was nice. It's definitely set up for a lively music scene for hipsters, but because of the low season, we had to serenade ourselves. The food was decent, but if you're looking for better food and a mellow ambiance, I would recommend Baan Rim Pa.

The calm after the storm.

Ritche's best Gene Kelly impersonation.

Russ getting friendly with the ice sculpture.

The bar at Baan Rim Pa.

Ritche's is a virgin.

My drink is almost empty.

Hurray to Hung Fat's for actually, really, truly being open. (We went to 2 restaurants before based of a dine guide, one I actually made a 'reservation' for, both still under construction.)

Looks more like an airport hanger than a restaurant.

Phuket - P.P. Islands

2008-09-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

Wed., Sept. 24 – The Never-Ending Vacation
Journal Entry #32

I love how this vacation feels like it’s never going to come to an end. I do miss my dogs though.

Today we took a bumpy ride to P.P. Islands. We fed monkeys on the beach, where we were warned to feed them, but not to touch them because they are wild. After our excursion in the sun, Ritche and I treated ourselves to aromatherapy massages, and then a nice romantic dinner for two at Baan Rim Pa, across the street from our resort.

Our speed boat.

Ritche snorkeling.

View from our lunch spot.

I swear I did not pee pee on this island.

Dinner for two :)

View from our table.

Candlelight.

Ritche's light.

"Latieng" or Fried Prawns and nut (waterchestnut is what it tasted like)

wrapped in an egg net. One thumbs up. One of the veggies had

a mustardy aftertaste, but Ritche liked it.

"Pia Thod Grod Raad Prig" or Deep-fried fish with chili paste.

Two thumbs up!

"Panaeng Ped" or Duck with curry sause and lychees.

Two thumbs up!!

Sticky rice with mango.

Four thumbs up!!!!

Now for the real vacation

2008-09-29T20:27:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Sept. 23
Journal Entry #31

We made it to Phuket! It was sad leaving Patty, Nok and Lam, our wonderful tour crew who took care of us for the last 10 days. Patty was our fearless leader with a contagious giggle. Nok was our skilled driver who maneuvered our big bus through some of the narrowest streets in Bangkok; and Lam was the assistant who always made sure we each received an ice-cold wash towel, bottle of water and coffee-flavored candy every time we would return to the bus from an exploration. I don’t think this trip would have been the same without them.

Nok, me, Patty, Ritche and Lam.

After a short one-hour plane ride, we made it to our hotel in Phuket. We are staying at the Novotel Resort in Patong Beach. The resort is great, but I must confess that the area of Patong Beach is not as clean as I anticipated.

This afternoon we walked along the beach and made our way to Savoey on the Beach for some fresh lobster. “Fresh” as in, we had to cross the street to their water tank to each pick out a lobster. They were delicious. We ordered cocktails, ate our lobster, and then enjoyed a nice, relaxing view of the sun setting.

We booked our tours for the next two days: tomorrow Phi Phi Islands via speedboat for snorkeling and sight seeing; and Thursday a canoe tour through some caves around James Bond Island. I also booked Ritche and I massages for tomorrow afternoon, and dinner for two for Thursday evening, our last night in Phuket and also our last night of our fabulous vacation.

Tsunami signs are no joke. It was the first thing

I noticed on the streets, and they are every where.

Ronald says "sawasdeekrab."

First restaurant of choice, the beach-side Savoey.

Here we are crossing the street to the street-side

Savoey to hand-select our lobster.

Eat me!

Everyone act like you're having fun.

I'm a sucker for four-legged friends having a great day at the beach.

Suzanne and Russ take in the sunset.

Goodnight Patong. See you tomorrow!

Me in my Novotel slipper.

A little break for Thailand updates...My milkshakes bring...

2008-09-29T07:36:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share an email reply from me to my friend Maite. This is the result of jet lag:

...I should give you all passwords just to have, like if I ever suffer from amnesia or go on a spontaneous trip to Curacao. Dude, I'm so spacey right now, it's not even funny. I feel like I overdosed on Nyquil, Dayquil and Advil, and then didn't sleep for 48 hours. When we got back on Friday night, we got In n Out. We were craving an all American. I got a cheeseburger, fries and a strawberry milkshake. My milkshake came to revisit on Saturday morning. Apparently, milkshakes bring all the boys to the yard, and damn right.... Since then I've been feeling queasy and have had Montezuma's revenge from two known orifices. Too much info? I'm delirious. Can you tell? I've been up since 2 a.m.

Bye Bye Bangkok

2008-09-28T23:30:00.000-07:00

Monday, Sept. 22

Journal Entry #30

Our last night in Bangkok. This journey from northern Thailand to Bangkok has felt like eternity in the best way possible. These last couple of nights in Bangkok will forever be etched in my brain, in the best and worst way possible. Some stories are best shared in person.

Tonight we were treated to a final dinner together. After dinner our little crew took the town to paint it red one last time: more ping pongs and ladyboys.

We're going to miss our new friends and can't wait to reunite with them soon in another exotic country.

Brian and Tarryn, from Denver, Colorado.

Mark and Ryan from Petaluma, California.

Suzanne and Russy from Ill-A, California.

Me and Ritche from the Valley's Village, California.

Lunch to go

2008-09-28T22:50:00.001-07:00

Monday, Sept. 22

The Floating Market

Journal Entry #28

This vacation feels like it's never going to end. We're in the bus again on our way to the floating market. It's Monday morning, which means there's traffic. Here's a glimpse of today's traffic report.

Shanty towns right outside of Bangkok.

Journal Entry #29

Typical House

On the way to the floating market, we made a 'happy room' stop at a typical Thai person's house. I'm convinced that if you're an animal lover, Thailand is the place for you to retire. It seems like you can have any kind of pet you want. This house housed two monkeys, a snake, two squirrels, several dogs, a cat, a bunch of different birds and I'm not sure what else.

Journal Entry #30

Lunch is served

So far each boat ride I've taken has been well worth it. Not only is it relaxing but it allows you a quick look into the lives of people.

How's this for a garage?

Even if a river runs through it, a house is not a house

unless there's a spirit house to protect it.

Markets along the river.

Ritche and I decide to grab a bite to eat before it floats away.

He places an order.

She mixes up the dry goods.

Adds the broth and noodles.

Hands over the bowl of goods.

Ready to eat.

This is where the dirty dishes end up. I never saw anyone washing them though.

Sticky rice and mango to top off our meal.

While eating my bowl of noodles, I spied a transaction happening a boat away. If you're wondering how things make it across boats, here's how it works.

The vendor says, "Look at my sandals. So pretty."

"What color do you like?"

"Here, try these on."

"You like? Okay, great!"

"Here you go, enjoy!"

I also spied our Patty buying friend banana.

Sweet smell of Sunday

2008-09-28T21:57:00.001-07:00

Sunday, Sept. 21

Journal Entry #27

Today we visited a couple more temples and the impressive reclining buddha. One of the things I love most about visiting a temple is the sweet smell of jasmine that lingers. It's like heaven, which is probably why it's the flower of choice. The second favorite thing I love about visiting temples are the dots of orange robes I see and the age range of men sporting the garbs.

Reclining Buddha, vertical (even though the statue is horizontal)

Donations.

My least favorite part of visiting temples is having to remove your shoes. And unfortunately, one would think that visiting a temple would ensure the safety of your shoes, but...

This is Tarryn. She loves horses.

Temple grounds.

Taking a break. Russ, Suzanne and David.

Tarryn and Brian.

Waldo.

Bangkok the city that never sleeps

2008-09-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Sept. 20

Journal Entry #26

After a very long bus ride, we finally made it to Bangkok. People warned me that the city would be dirty, but I find it no different than any other major hub I've visited. Suzanne and Russ opted for alone time this evening, so the married folk (Tarryn and Brian, Mark and Ryan, and Ritche and I) decided to explore the city. We met in our hotel's lobby at 9 p.m. where a few others in our group decided to join us. Destination was unknown to us, which is the way we've been working thus far. We took the SkyTrain over to the Sala Daeng area to find food. I take mental notes of the different SkyTrain stops so that we could make our way back if we were to get separated from the group: Phloen Chit (Flowing shit) to Siam, switch trains to Sala Daeng. There were a few Chit stops, such us Mo Chit, and Chit Lom. Chit, I hope I don't get confused!

I think the additions to our group this evening weren't hip to our plan of not having a plan. After weaving in and out of streets and alley ways, we found a traditional Thai restaurant, where Ritche and I shared a fried fish with chili paste sauce, crab fried rice and pad see yoo noodles. Either we were starving or the meal was delicious!

After dinner, we parted ways with some of the group, then 'the married folk' and another friend David made our way around the alley ways in the rain. Bangkok is the city that never sleeps. All around us were men and women, and men dressed as women trying to pull us into bars, see their 'shows' and who knows what else. Walking down the alley way there was a fine line between walking street-side and getting hit by a car, or walking curb side and getting grabbed by a bar host. I alternated between street side and curb side, deciding it was the safest bet. This evening was probably my most memorable so far. There's something about walking in the rain, destination unknown and laughing with new friends that's unforgettable. I'll never forget how Tarryn and I compared notes and giggled about the secret hiding locations of our hotel business card on our bodies...a place where no one would dare pick pocket. She's a funny girl, and I'm a sucker for funny people! Birds of a feather...

Roaming the Ruins

2008-09-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

Saturday, Sept. 20
Journal Entry #25

We were able to check out this ruin just around dusk and the lighting was beautiful.

Outbreak

2008-09-27T02:31:00.000-07:00

Sat. Sept. 20

#24 - Monkey Town

This afternoon before heading to Bangkok, we stopped at Monkey Town, where three gangs of monkeys run amuck in a small town. One has occupied a temple ruin, the other the local market across the street, and I'm not sure where the other gang hangs. When we stepped off the bus and local woman greeted us and escorted us into the temple. From what Patty tells us the gangs never cross paths and when they do a fight break outs. Each gang is taken care of by the local people, so they don't steal food, but they do steal hats, sunglasses, earrings or anything on you they fancy.

Here are some images from the temple. The people in the pictures are from our tour group.

Pimp my Ride

2008-09-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

I'd like to roll up to my local Trader Joe's in this pimped out Tuk-Tuk.

Saturday, Sept. 20 - Days and Confused
Journal Entry #23
(Phitsanulok, Ayuthaya, and Bangkok)

Even though I’m keeping a journal, I’m still confused as to what day of the week it is. In Bangkok, it is currently Saturday, Sept. 20, but my laptop date/time is still on L.A. time so it throws me off when I look at it. I’m in the bus again, and we’re heading to Bangkok where we will spend the next three nights. We did stop at a loverly garden in Patty’s hometown for lunch.

A Lovely Day

2008-09-27T01:39:00.000-07:00

Friday, Sept. 19 - A Lovely Day
Journal Entry #22
(Lampang, Sukhothai and Phitsanulok)

Today was probably one of the best days yet. We started the day by checking out a museum that features local pottery. We stopped for lunch at another awful buffet, but then the afternoon was so much fun. We headed to a park of ancient temples where we had the option of taking a tram or riding a bike from temple to temple. We opted for the bikes. It was so much fun to ride around the park on old bikes with our new friends. It felt like we were kids again, playing outside. We even got soda in a bag.

My "ride by" pictures:

Mark, Ryan and Brian (from left to right)

Tarryn, Suzanne, Russ and David; Suzanne and Russ.

Ritche cruising.

Me and my shadow.

Sights seen. I like how the first one is warped because I snapped it while riding.

In the evening, we took a dip in the hotel pool, and then reconnected at 8 p.m. to meet for dinner. We ate at another river-set restaurant that was very much for “the locals,” and then took a peddled bike back to our hotel.

White Throne

2008-09-27T00:51:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Sept. 18

Journal Entry #21

I think I may have mentioned in an earlier blog that the bathroom is called “The Happy Room.” Every “Happy Room” stop offers a coin toss of either a “Western” or “Eastern” (aka “cultural”) experience. In other words, sometimes Shorty gets low, and other times Shorty gets low-low-low.

While visiting the white temple I found it fascinating that the “Happy Room” offered a choice. You could select either Western-style commodes, or Eastern. In fact, I found it so fascinating that after using the facilities I decided to go back inside to document the situation. Since we were at a temple, this happy room facility required you to remove your shoes and use provided slippers. I followed the line towards the entrance, removed my flip-flop sandals, and then quickly snapped a couple of pictures. When I returned to the shoe rack my biggest fear occurred…my flip-flops were gone! I looked back in the bathroom and saw an old lady with them on making her way into a happy room stall. I called out “excuse me” several times, but she didn’t speak English so she didn’t turn around. I had to run up to her before she closed her stall door and visually explain to her that those slippers were mine. I pointed at her, then down at her feet towards her shoes, then pointed at me, then pointed to my feet to illustrate that she had on my flip flops. At first she looked confused. She took a second look at her feet, then mine, looked up and smiled at me with a little laugh, and then slipped them off of her feet. I grabbed them and ran out.

Below are pictures of the "offerings." The Eastern-style commode below is actually a really clean version. You still have to squat low, but keep in mind that at some stops these Eastern-style commodes are actually lower than this one. Thai people must really have great quads from squatting low, low, low, low!

Western-style.

Eastern-style. There's no built-in flushing system. To get rid of the evidence

you take a bucket of water from the pot and pour it down the toilet.

Shoe rack outside with provided slippers. If you look inside to the right are all the

Western-style facilities and on the left are the Eastern.

Here's an example of one where one would have to go low, low, low. It's practically set in the ground, so you could imagine the leg work the Thai's get on the daily.

Back to the subject of the White Temple. It really was beautiful. It looked like a beautiful palace decked out in icing. I wanted to taste it!

The White Temple

I wonder which throne Buddha would prefer?

On the road again

2008-09-27T00:47:00.000-07:00

Thursday, Sept. 18 - 3:07 p.m.

Journal Entry #20

I wish we had spirit houses in Los Angeles. I think less people would fall asleep at the wheel since they would have something to look forward to while driving.

Here's a close up.

Crunchy Critters

2008-09-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

#20 Crunchy Critters
Thursday, Sept. 19

Before I forget, I just wanted to note that within the last 24 hours I’ve eaten grubs, crickets, grasshoppers, meal worms and fried frog.

And since we’re on the subject of bugs, I currently have a running count of 5 bug bites.
Update as of 9/22/08: 8 bug bites.

Pineapple Express

2008-09-22T18:46:00.000-07:00

Thurs., Sept. 18 – Pineapple Express
Journal Entry#19

We are at a pineapple farm, learning about the fruit and how pineapple paper is made. I spied this cute little girl. Someone didn’t tell her that pink is so two days ago.

A Hoot and a holla'

2008-09-22T17:19:00.000-07:00

#17
Wed., Sept. 17 4:45 PM

I’m in the bus again on the way to Chiang Rai. Today was awesome. We opted for the optional tour to take a boat down the Kok River to another elephant farm, but this time we rode the elephants. Our elephant’s name was Deedoh and was large. The experience was amazing. We stayed in the area for some time and fed the elephants and watched them bathe in the river. I think Thai people love their elephants similar to how we Americans love our dogs. After the elephant ride, Patty had us dropped off at a local “mall’ called the C Market where we ate in the food court for less than a dollar a plate!

Our dude, Deedoh:
(picture coming soon)

This little guy gave a hoot and a holla' because he wanted some food. I loved when he would put his trunk in his mouth, like he was sucking his "thumb."

#18 - The Hill Tribe Community

We’re returning from visiting the Hill Tribe Community, which is a center that houses three local tribes. The community was created a) to help the tribes make money, b) provide education to their children, and c) so that tourist can get a glimpse at each tribes’ culture and provide more support by purchasing their hand-made products.

It felt awkward walking around the community and snapping pictures of tribe people. It felt no different than snapping pictures of animals in a zoo only the subjects of the pictures were humans. Patty mentioned that our visit to their community and purchase of handmade products helps them be self sufficient so that made most of us feel a better about the experience. It was cool to see their culture and traditions still alive and kicking. For the Karen Tribe (also known as the ‘long necks). Patty noted that it is not safe for their people to leave the community. At one point, 12 of them were kidnapped and exploited for a profit-making venture. While we were there the children were learning how to speak English, and reciting the days of the week.

Thai Massage - Part II

2008-09-21T06:08:00.000-07:00

We're here in Bangkok for the next two days. It's as dirty as everyone had warned me about, but nothing like I've never seen before. We arrived yesterday afternoon after a long drive from Phitsanulok and Ayuthaya (journal entries from those areas when I get a chance). Last night we went to dinner with our new friends, and then walked through the red light district. This morning we visited more temples but had the rest of the afternoon to explore. After dropping off laundry and grabbing a late lunch with Suzanne and Russ, Ritche and I decided we were going to get massages, but at the hotel where it would be clean with no "funny business."

I just returned from my massage, which was really great, but different from one that I've experienced in L.A. I decided to forego "tapping out" of a Thai massage opted for a Swedish massage. It was more expensive, but the conversion equaled about $33 USD for one hour, and that included tip and tax! Usually a massage like this one is north of $100 USD. The funny thing about the spa at the Grand Majestic Hotel (where we are staying) is it's on the same floor as the restaurant, swimming pool and business center. When you exit the elevator, the business desk is to your left, which also serves as the spa check-in desk. I guess that's managing human resources efficiently.

I checked in 10 minutes prior to my 7 p.m. appointment. The woman at the front desk hands me my locker key, and let's me know that I can use the steam or dry room before my massage. I clarify with her the logistics: I am to change and then meet my therapist at the business desk?! She confirms. Odd, but I agree.

7 p.m. rolls around and my therapists finds me washing my hands in the women's area. She leads me to a massage room, just next to the business desk area. She offers her hands towards the massage table. I hint to her that I'm in my "birthday suit" underneath my robe, just to make sure I'm on the same page. When I checked in with the woman at the business desk, she told me that this was kosher. There's no offer to "protect my modesty" as one masseuse in the U.S. so kindly put it as she held up a sheet to block her view from my rear view at one spa I visited years ago. I remove my robe and go face down. The next thing she does is gets on the table with me and straddles me and starts massaging my back. I think, "hmm, interesting. Not a position I've experienced in the U.S., but okay."

After she massages my back, she glides off the table and lifts one side of the towel to expose my left leg. Mind you, I'm in my birthday suit. I feel naked and exposed but she carries on, professionally. I very mindful of my legs, more specifically, the distance between each of them, especially in the thigh area. I think, "what is the appropriate amount of space between my legs to allow her to do her job effectively, but not make me feel uncomfy?" She makes the adjustments.

As she finishes up massaging the back of my legs, she asks me to turn over. She lifts the towel, I flip over, and then she places the towel on top of me. Again with the legs. I'm trying to relax, she's doing her job, and I'm hoping this scene doesn't turn into an Anne Rice novel. The leg techniques and adjustments she makes are as follows: outside of the leg massage, tree pose (that's one leg bent, but flat on the table)-inside of the leg massage; knee bent (towards the ceiling)-glute massage. The leg massage actually felt really great since my quads were sore from climbing up and down stairs for temples and the Bangkok sky tram. She got really close to certain areas, but this is Bangkok where those "certain areas" are performance artists.

As she finishes up massaging my arms and hands, I wonder if the end is near. She pulls the towel down so that it hits just below my navel and starts massaging my stomach and chest. THIS definitely would not fly in the U.S. I roll with it (no pun intended) and pretend that I had just completed a yoga core class and really need my tight abs to be massaged. She places the towel back over me.

Next she massages my face, head and shoulders. Once she's completed that area, she whispers "get up." I sit up slowly thinking the massage is over, but as I make my way up, she jumps on the table and pushes my back up. "Whoa!" I think. She presses her forearms into the tops of my shoulders and then applies pressure along my spine. It feels great!

My session ends. She opens my robe above her to cover her view and offers it in my direction in a way to "protect my modesty." I think it's too late for that.

Golden Triangle: Thailand, Laos and Burma

2008-09-21T03:20:00.000-07:00

Note:
Mice eat rice
Cobra eat mice
Farmer eat cobra
But sometimes cobra eat farmer.

Journal Entry #15
Tues. Sept. 16 - Golden Triangle

This region is called the Golden Triangle because back in the day the three countries of Burma, Thailand and Laos used gold for transactions. Today we took a boat ride to see the area of Burma and also to make a quick visit to Laos. It was HOT!!!! I got my passport stamped as a souvenir and also bought my dad some cobra whisky. There was also a black bear caged up that was so cute. I wonder what they are going to do with it once it gets large.

Buddha along the Mekong River.

Cruising down the Mekong river.

Floating dead water buffalo along the ride.

We enter Laos.

We're welcomed by snake whiskey next to tiger penis whiskey.

Fresh duck for lunch.

I thought I was interested in how the duck was being prepared, but later that
evening I ordered duck and rice for dinner and couldn't stomach it because the
image of this ducks slashed throat kept popping up in my mind.

No lions, no tigers, bug BEARS!

Hello.

I think it just wants someone to hold it.

Local Laos babies and puppies.

Journal Entry #16 - Tricks are for Kids

After our visit to the Golden Triangle, Patty took us to a street that borders Thailand and Burma. This was the first time for me to see poor people begging for money in Thailand. Most of them were Burmese.

Russ is one step closer to Burma.

This little girl kept following Russ asking for money. He emptied out his pockets to show that they were empty, but she new which pocket was filled with gold.

I love seeing the young monks on the streets.
I think they are my favorite to photograph because they get so shy.

A little country

2008-09-17T08:45:00.000-07:00

Journal Entry #12 and #13

The countryside is beautiful. As we drive up a hill Patty points at a spirit house on the side of the road that's the size of a large mailbox but looks like a mini temple. This spirit house is in honor of the road. Nok, our driver has flowers in the front of the bus as his offering and as we drove by he gave a signal to ask the road spirit house for its blessing and protection that we have a safe trip. I'm reminded of the movie "Spirited Away" when the little girl gets on the water train and the spirit sits next to her.

Along the way are acres of rice fields. Some for jasmine rice, others are sticky rice. Our little cluster of new friends giggle when she mentions "Golden Shower." I think she's referring to some sort of flower or plant, but we're all thinking of something else. The other day we think she said dildo and "shitty" something. We're so immature!

We stop at Cabbage and Condoms (yes that's the name) for a "happy room" (bathroom) break. Cabbage and Condoms was founded by some dude who created a non-profit to educate peeps on family planning.

A resident peacock. Ah the symbolism.

Condom Cottages.

These cookies claim not to cause pregnancy.

Journal Entry # 14 - Buffalo Stance

Because of the rise of gas, the country folk haven't been able to afford gas for their farm machines, so now they are retraining water buffalo to pull farm equipment like back in the day. On that note, Patty also informs us tha global warming has changed the seasons in Thailand.

Pink is the new yellow

2008-09-17T05:07:00.000-07:00

Journal Entry #11
Tuesday, Sept. 16 - 8:17 AM; Monday, Sept. 15. - 6:15 PM PST

I'm sitting in our bus on the way to Chiang Rai. Patty is downloading tons of information on the provence we are going to visit and the areas where Thailand exports their Jasmine rice, such as Vietnam and Cambodia. She also reminds us that today's national color is pink. As we drive through a town I notice a group of men jumping out of a truck bed--all of them are wearing pink shirts. I start to really pay attention of all the cars, bikes, places and people we pass by and I see lots of pink. It's fascinating to see the spirit of nationalism and unity of the people. It really is amazing to see all the dots of pink as we drive through the many towns.

Journal Entry #10

2008-09-17T04:55:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, Sept. 16- 4 AM Bangkok

I can’t go back to sleep. I’ve been up for the last 30 to 45 minutes wondering what to do with myself. I am wide-awake. It’s way too early to get ready for the day, so I’m in bed wondering what I should wear for today’s journey. I set aside shorts last night before bed, but we are traveling to the most northern part of Thailand. "Most northern” to be usually means cooler climate, but what exactly does “cooler climate” mean in a country that averages 80 degrees or more with crazy humidity?

Today we depart Chiang Mai and head to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle region. The drive is about three hours to the area of Mae Sai. The original plan is to take a boat ride on the Mekong River to the Golden Triangle, which borders Burma, Laos and Thailand. For an extra 100 baht, which is about $2.84 US/person, we can ask the boat driver to take us to Laos. It sounds like a good deal to me, and a cheap way to mark off another country off of my list of places to see.

It’s now 4:18 AM and I’m going to try and get at least 45 more minutes of shuteye.

Laos

2008-09-15T07:39:00.000-07:00

Today was exhausting! In addition to the elephant farm, we also visited an orchid farm with a butterfly garden, and a silk-making factory. Tomorrow we depart Chiang Mai for the Golden Triangle region. If all on our tour agree, we will even step foot in Laos!

A real butterfly ring. No butterflies were harmed during this photo session.

Those Eyes Adore You

2008-09-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

Journal #9
Monday, September 15, 2008

When we arrived at the elephant farm, an elephant that immediately pushed its trunk towards me in search for food greeted me. I’ve never been this up close and personal to an animal this large before. It’s intimidating and exciting at the same time. In the back of my mind I know that this animal could crush me in seconds, but the minute I saw its eyes I felt a sense of peace from and felt more at ease. Its eyes were large, deep and very expressive. The texture of its trunk isn’t as soft in feeling as I had expected. It was actually rough and dry with areas covered with coarse hair. A group of us pointed out the different kinds of hairstyles on each elephant: one “emo,” one with a fauxhawk, and another with a Ceasar.

As we moved along the farm, we encountered more elephants that we fed. We watched them bathe in the river, and then the trainers and elephants showed us their tricks. It was an amazing experience, and I feel more mentally prepared for what’s to come when we actually ride the elephants at another farm in a couple of days.

Smile!

Russ feeding sugarcane to his new friend.

Art box.

The trainer dips the brush in the paint for the elephant, then elephant holds the paint brush with its trunk and is the "artist."

Final masterpiece.

Big kiss!