On keeping in touch

This post was inspired by Cassie :)

One of the best things about college was the fact that most of my friends were super close by. Despite our somewhat busy schedules, it was fairly easy to make plans with people, most of the time on short notice. During my senior year, my closest friends lived right down the street...lucky, huh? Now that I've graduated and moved back home, I have to make more of an effort to see everyone, and I'm sure many of you feel the same way.

It feels similar to when high school ended- everyone went off to college and we could only hang out over breaks. As we get older and get more involved doing our own thing, we meet tons of new people, but at the same time, it's a lot more difficult to keep in touch with everyone else.

It's obviously hard... actually, pretty much impossible to keep in touch with every single person from our past. At first, I felt bad because I've met so many awesome people throughout the years and it sucks to lose those connections. I guess the reality is that some of the people we were close to before won't play as prominent roles in our lives anymore. It's not a bad thing, and we can still stay connected- it'll just be different.

My take on all of this is that you will remain close to those who simultaneously wish to remain close to you. It has to do with effort- effort to actually keep in touch, effort to see each other, effort to remain a part of each other's lives. Like I said before, I'm sad that I lost touch with some people and feel more distant with others, but I'm very fortunate to have remained close to those who mean a lot to me.

Yesterday, I had lunch with a friend from middle school (or junior high) who went to a different high school and college. It was awesome catching up, as we frequently did during winter breaks, spring breaks, and summers. We were actually talking about this very subject of keeping in touch with people as we reminisced about what we were like ten years ago.

Keeping in touch with people isn't easy and requires a lot of effort, but it's so worth it when we're hanging out with the people who mean a lot to us, and we'll find that those relationships continue to grow even stronger.

On following advice

Most of the time, the hardest advice to follow is your own. I wonder why that is...

On quotes from John R. Wooden

Here are some brilliant and inspiring quotes from a brilliant and inspiring man:

"Make each day your masterpiece."

"Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do."

"Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful."

"Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there."

"Listen if you want to be heard."

"Discipline yourself and others won't need to."

"Be quick, but don't hurry."

On last night's dream

Sometimes when we wake up in the morning after a having pretty vivid dream, we'll ask ourselves, What did that mean?

I believe that the dreams we have at night are inherently complex and it's difficult to make sense of them. Conceptually, it's weird to consciously delve into our subconscious. Although I have what I believe to be a fairly irrational view on the subject, maybe this will help you make sense of it all.

If the dream was a bad one with potentially negative implications, it doesn't mean anything. This is because it was in your subconscious rather than real life. Therefore, don't worry about it.

If the dream was a good one, it definitely means that something good is about to happen :)

On her laugh

When she laughed, the world stopped, for it was a sight to be seen and a joy to be heard.

On feelings

One thing I've learned over the years is that you can't help the way you feel about things. It's just something you can't control, and depending on who you are, I guess it can be a good thing or a bad thing.

On NASCAR

Being a huge baseball fan, I'm pretty sympathetic to the fact that many people can easily dismiss something you love because they don't understand it, and don't take the time or make the effort to do so. That being said, and this may sound super hypocritical, what's up with NASCAR? Really, tell me how watching tons of cars drive around the same circle 500 times is remotely interesting. Ooo, they're making a pit stop- big whoop. I don't get it...

On 99¢ boba milk tea

The Quickly in Millbrae, or as Vidur appropriately named it, "Takes-A-Long-Time-ly" has 99¢ ($1.08) boba milk tea (with tapioca!)- how epic is that?

On Singlebarrel and Downtown San Jose

Last night, Rohit, Tanti, Vicky, Jessie, and I went bar hopping in downtown San Jose and it was super awesome! We started at this place called Singlebarrel and it's unlike any other bar I've ever been to before. It's a classy, speakeasy style establishment, located in a fairly small basement, and they monitor the number of people inside so it doesn't get too crowded. The unique part of Singlebarrel is that you don't just go up to the bar and order a drink. Instead, your group spends some time with the bartender, allowing them to get an idea about each person's cocktail preferences- sweet, sour, citrus, mask the alcohol, etc. Then they make a drink to match you. It was really cool watching the bartender mix all of our drinks, and everyone was quite pleased with what they were given. My drink was called a Ding Ho (funny name, huh?), which is pretty similar to a Mai Tai, so I was happy. If you're ever in the area and looking to try something new, I highly recommend checking this place out.

After Singlebarrel, we went to happy hour at Flames and we had a shot of Kettle One (and subsequently learned that strawberry jam is not a good chaser). Also, per the waitress's recommendation, we tried the "Chocolate Cake Shot"- it was crazy! It looked like multiple shots in this huge glass and actually tasted like chocolate cake haha. We then made our way over to Cinebar and hit up Freddie J's before closing. It was a lot of fun, and a lot of drinking haha- Old Fashioneds, Sex on the Beach (I know, girly... but great), and Bacardi and Coke. Also, Justin and I almost got into a fight (with good cause of course), but thankfully, it wasn't necessary. It was a pretty great night, partially evidenced by the dull headache I currently have lol.

I was also able to go to Fremont's Top of the World for the first time, and it was glorious.

A single barrel outside of Singlebarrel

On how people turn out

"The people who turn out best are those people who make the best out of the way things turn out." - John R. Wooden

On more pictures of food

As you could probably tell, I enjoy taking pictures of food... almost as much as I enjoy eating it lol. That being said...

Sunday Waffle with Nutella, fresh strawberries,
and whipped cream

Seaweed Salad, California Roll, and
homemade Tuna Poke with Rice

Graduation Cupcakes from Auntie Lena!

Epic Picnic Burger- grilled onions, sauteed mushrooms,
red onion, guacamole, bacon, lettuce,
tomato, bbq sauce, and cheddar cheese

Coconut Bread Pudding I made for Mother's Day

New Orleans Benediction
(Poached Eggs over Crabcakes and English Muffin
with House Potatoes)
Crepevine
Burlingame, CA

On 100,000 miles

A couple days ago, one of our cars hit 100,000 miles. It was pretty exciting...

The Odometer showing 100,000 miles

On bowling

Earlier today, I bowled a 186. It was pretty awesome :)

On missing something

At this point, everything looks right (for the most part), but something seems to be missing and I think I know what it is. I could be wrong, as I have been before, but I don't think that's the case this time around.

On "Wherever You Will Go"

...in the process of learning to play this on the piano...

Wherever You Will Go- The Calling

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iAP9AF6DCu4

"So lately, been wondering
Who will be there to take my place
When I'm gone you'll need love
To light the shadows on your face

If a greater wave shall fall
And fall upon us all
Then between the sand and stone
Could you make it on your own?

If I could, then I would
I'll go wherever you will go
Way up high or down low
I'll go wherever you will go

And maybe, I'll find out
A way to make it back someday
To watch you, to guide you
Through the darkest of your days

If a great wave shall fall
And fall upon us all
Well then I hope there's someone out there
Who can bring me back to you

If I could, then I would
I'll go wherever you will go
Way up high or down low
I'll go wherever you will go

Run away with my heart
Run away with my hope
Run away with my love

I know now, just quite how
My life and love might still go on
In your heart, in your mind
I'll stay with you for all of time

If I could, then I would
I'll go wherever you will go
Way, way up high or down low
I'll go wherever you will go

If I could turn back time
I'll go wherever you will go
If I could make you mine
I'll go wherever you will go
I'll go wherever you will go"

On glory

"Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory... lasts forever."- Keanu Reeves as Shane Falco in The Replacements (2000)

On Axis of Awesome

YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS VIDEO- IT'S SO AWESOME!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pidokakU4I

On meaning what you say

Say what you mean and mean what you say.

On sandwiches

Sandwiches are simply awesome, and here's why: they're so versatile and the options are endless. A sandwich can be interpreted in any way possible, and can be made to meet the preferences of every individual. They can be hot or cold, deli or gourmet, surrounded by a bun (burgers), tortilla (burritos), or pita (gyros), eaten on the go or at the table, with your hands or a knife and fork- they're all sandwiches! You could also go as far as comparing sandwiches to sushi (?!). That might be pushing the envelope, but you can understand where I'm coming from, right?

Earlier today, I hung out with Alexis and when we were trying to figure out where to eat lunch, she told me about this Thanksgiving sandwich she hadn't had in a while from Sam's Italian Sandwich Co. at the Depot on the corner of California and Howard in Burlingame. I don't know if I ever ate there before, and if I did, it must have been a long time ago. Thus, I didn't know what to order, so I decided to follow Alexis. We both got June's Turkey Sandwich and it was ridiculously good: turkey, lettuce, tomato, cream cheese, cranberry sauce, and stuffing on a fresh soft roll. It's easily one of the best sandwiches I've ever had, and that's a lot of sandwiches. You gotta try it!

Make a meal into a sandwich or a sandwich into a meal, and you can't go wrong.

On Royce Hall

Royce Hall is such an architectural masterpiece. It's definitely one of the most beautiful buildings I've ever seen. I love UCLA

Royce Hall, UCLA

On pictures of food

ENJOY!!!

#1 Lunch Special

(Chicken Teriyaki, Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura,
California Roll)
Old Town Sushi
San Mateo, CA

Chocolate Mousse Cake
Schubert's Bakery
San Francisco, CA

Baby Back Ribs with French Fries and Coleslaw
Houston's
Los Angeles, CA

Pizza Classico

(pepperoni, mushrooms, artichoke hearts)
Pizzeria Regina
Boston, MA

Mussels Basque Style (Steamed with Garlic and White Wine) and Garlic Bread
ye olde Union Oyster House
Boston, MA

Assorted Sushi
Kome Sushi Buffet
Daly City, CA

Lamb and Beef Gyro
Simply Greek
Oakland, CA

Create Your Own Sundae

(Swiss Milk Chocolate and Pistachio Ice Cream with Hot Fudge, Caramel, and Toasted Almonds)
Fenton's Creamery
Oakland, CA

Chocolate Chip Cannoli
Mike's Pastry
Boston, MA

Fried Calamari
ye olde Union Oyster House
Boston, MA

English Burger with Bacon
99 Bottles of Beer on the Wall
Santa Cruz, CA

On key changes

Gotta love key changes- one of the most epic parts of music. There's not much else to say...

On serenity

Isla Vista, CA

On disgrace

In 2004, U$C defeated Oklahoma 55-19 to win the BCS National Championship. On June 6, 2011, the University of Sanctioned Cheaters were stripped of their title due to noncompliance with NCAA rules. Their participation in the 2006 Rose Bowl was also vacated, but they lost that one anyway. What a disgrace- following the rules must be a fourth-year class over there in south central.

http://sports.espn.go.com/los-angeles/ncf/news/story?id=6632190

Go Bruins!!!

On unfortunate situations

As I'm sure many of you have already heard, on May 26th, San Francisco Giants' Catcher, Buster Posey, suffered a season-ending injury as a result from a collision with Florida Marlins' outfielder, and former USF Don, Scott Cousins. The play at the plate left Posey with a fractured fibula and three torn ankle ligaments in his lower left leg.

As a big Giants fan, this really sucks- Posey is the heart of the team, and the brutal truth is that this injury is going to cause real setbacks in his career and affect the rest of the Giants' season. I'm sure all of Major League Baseball and its fans are wishing him a speedy recovery.

Just to provide a little background for those of you who haven't heard: Cousins made numerous phone calls to Posey the night of the incident, which went unanswered and unreturned, and hand delivered a letter of apology to the Giants' clubhouse the following day before the next game. Giants' General Manager Brian Sabean later described Cousins' intent as "malicious" and went on to say, “If I never hear from Cousins again or he never plays another game in the big leagues, I think we’ll all be happy.”

As you read the rest of this post, please note that I'm writing from my experiences as a former catcher (6+ years), and I totally understand what it feels like to deal with season-ending injuries (three broken legs- two within two years).

I think the best word to describe this situation is unfortunate. I don't think Cousins is at fault in any way, and here's why: when the game is close and you're rounding third base, your one and only goal is to score. If the catcher is in your way, you go through him. You can't blame Cousins because he was just playing the game the way he's supposed to- I would have done the same thing. I think trying to contact Posey to apologize was admirable and his persistence speaks to his character.

On the other side, I can totally see where Posey is coming from. The reigning National League Rookie of the Year and World Champion just had his season pulled out from under him. He must be incredibly frustrated and upset- not at Cousins, but due to the fact that he's physically unable to play for the remainder of the year. The reason he's not answering the calls or letters is probably because he has too much on his mind. I don't think he blames Cousins for the injury- he understands that it's baseball. Playing catcher involves a lot of risk- that's why they make you wear all that gear. This was just an extremely unfortunate freak accident.

Brian Sabean needs to be more careful about what he says- I think he was out of line. Although I can understand he's frustrated (because he now has to make many roster changes) and concerned about his players' well-being, he needs to realize that some situations are simply unfortunate and blame cannot be assigned. It's not fair for him to speak of Cousins' intent (and play with his reputation) because that's not something you can effectively determine.

I'll say it one more time- this was just an unfortunate situation, and what's worse is many seem to be blowing it way out of proportion. I think it would be best if everyone tries to move on.

On sunshine

You Are The Sunshine Of My Life- Stevie Wonder

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPyq4iqt6Go

"You are the sunshine of my life

That's why I'll always be around,
You are the apple of my eye,
Forever you'll stay in my heart

I feel like this is the beginning,
Though I've loved you for a million years,
And if I thought our love was ending,
I'd find myself drowning in my own tears

You are the sunshine of my life,
That's why I'll always stay around,
You are the apple of my eye,
Forever you'll stay in my heart

You must have known that I was lonely,
Because you came to my rescue,
And I know that this must be heaven,
How could so much love be inside of you?

You are the sunshine of my life, yeah,
That's why I'll always stay around,
You are the apple of my eye,
Forever you'll stay in my heart

[Background] Love has joined us,
Love has joined us,
Let's think sweet love"

On being rich

I believe that the richest people in the world are those who can find the most happiness from the least amount of money.

On nice guys

This is a music video my brother sent me last night called Nice Guys. You should check it out if you haven't seen it already:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fz3zFqLc3E

Just to put in my two cents, in no way do I believe the notion that nice guys finish last. A person should never compromise their kindness as a result of their perception of the paradigm. Just be you, and let life happen.

On sitting still

You know how there are some kids out there who can't sit still? Well, it's been 21 years and for some reason I haven't figured out how to do it yet. I wonder if I ever will haha

On Shaq

Congratulations to Shaquille O'Neal for an illustrious 19 year career!

What distinguishes Shaq from other basketball players, and professional athletes in general, is his desire to be a well-rounded individual. He had a work ethic unmatched by most, which became evident from his laundry list of accomplishments: number one overall pick in the 1992 NBA Draft, NBA's Rookie of the Year in 1993, four time NBA Champion, three time NBA Finals MVP, NBA's Most Valuable Player in 2000, and fifteen time NBA All-Star.

However, we need to note that his credentials extend far beyond the court. He has not only a bachelors degree from LSU, but also obtained an MBA, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Human Resource Development- that's super impressive. It's also important to mention that Shaq's relationship with the media is one that will stand alone for years to come. It's so difficult, especially in this day in age, to find anyone famous who can maintain such a positive relationship with the media like he has- it's truly unbelievable.

The game of basketball will miss Shaq and all he's done for it. There will never be another like him. I consider myself lucky to have been able to watch him play over the years, and I have no doubt that we'll see him in the Hall of Fame in five years.

On being clutch

clutch [kluhch]; adjective: 1) dependable or reliable in crucial or critical situations 2) Dirk (see Game 2 of the 2011 NBA Finals)

...so epic

related searches: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Joe Montana, Peyton and Eli Manning, 2004 Boston Red Sox

On dry chicken

What's the point? Might as well throw it away, cuz I'm not eating it...

In high school, a friend invited me over for dinner with her family. She told me her mom was a great cook, so I was excited to try her food. Unfortunately, not five minutes after we sat down to eat, I found myself starring at a Cornish game hen overcooked beyond belief. It had such an awful, dry texture and absolutely no flavor. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. I am no longer friends with this person, but not because of the food haha.

Don't overcook your chicken!

On giving notice

Today at the restaurant, I gave my boss notice that I couldn't work there anymore. As much as I've enjoyed the experience, I have my priorities set. Studying for my CPA exam and taking my Becker classes come first. I recently scheduled two tests in July, and two in August, so they're coming up soon. Also, my classes are becoming more and more intensive, and I need that extra time to make sure I'm successfully absorbing the material.

As I contemplated leaving, I spoke with my parents about how to break the news to my boss. They told me that it was important to preserve my reputation and reminded me not to burn any bridges. To be perfectly honest, I was just going to tell them "I have to quit" and let it be at that, because this job was just a fun way for me to earn some extra cash for the summer. However, I listened to my parents' advice and gave my notice, so I'll be at the restaurant for at least the rest of the week. Lucky for me, my boss was really understanding, and since I was only working part-time, it shouldn't be too hard for them to fill the holes I'm gonna leave in the schedule. She definitely appreciated me giving her notice- it sucks to get hung out to dry.

As I'm sure many of you know, things can get kinda complicated when you decide to quit your job. It's very easy to just walk away and never look back, but in the end, I think a little courtesy can go a long way.