I lay in anticipation for my new netbook

A few weeks ago I bought a new computer on a whim. I rarely do that kind of stuff. I usually like to research before I buy. But I gave the red version of the Lenovo Ideapad S10 a chance because it was $429 and had an additional 15% discount (with a coupon applied). I wanted a new small notebook for cafe lounging and such. Well, and my 3+ year old notebook from college (HP Pavilion dv1000, if you must know) is gonna be mostly out the door when this puppy arrives. It's at the point where the battery doesn't work (so it has to be plugged in) and a few of the ports don't really work. Lol. I also plan on getting a mac when the new Macbooks come out. I'll finally pop my Apple cherry.

When I saw this hands on impression on laptopmag.com, I got more excited. Plus, it's apparently sold out! I'll probably add more ram once I get it, cause 512MB is pretty paltry. Although that's what my current notebook has.

Specs from what I can gather:
2.65 lbs
10.2 inch LED Screen
1.6 Ghz Intel Atom Processor
512 MB Ram
80 GB Hard Drive
Windows XP (suhweeeet.... no Vista B.S.)
Express Card slot
Bluetooth & Wifi
VGA, Ethernet, mic, and headphone and a 4-in-1 card reader
Integrated web cam and microphone.

UCR on the rise?

Two interesting articles have been released that put UCR in a good light. UCR usually makes the negative lists on National University rankings (most notably with The Princeton Review, which never really seems to change their rankings).

The first article (interestingly enough by US News and World Report) places UCR at #9 on the 2009 'Best Colleges: Up-and-coming National Universities.' The methodology is mentioned here. The schools on this list are 'worth watching because they are making promising and innovative changes.'

The second is a new college ranking list by Forbes Magazine that completely shatters the US News and World Report and Princeton Review college rankings. We're talking virtually all of the usually highly ranked schools are pushed down in favor of smaller liberal arts universities. UCR ranked #236 out of 569. That may seem low, but it was ahead of perennial rankings powerhouse USC, and UC campuses in San Diego, Irvine, Davis and Santa Cruz. I do question the list's methodology, but it does seem rather student focused, rather than institution focused.

Running

I was running outside this afternoon around my work, just thinking and absorbing the sun. I haven't run outside since my time spent along the Sea Wall in Vancouver, BC.

As I was running today, I couldn't help think about my time there, and more specifically, about how my hostel roomie Jim is doing. I was thinking of shooting him an email just to see how he was doing since it's been a few weeks since my trip. As I got home and checked my email, low and behold I have an email from Jim entitled 'Saying Hi.' I guess we really do think alike, because he beat me to it!

Jim & I in Vancouver, BC

Friday Night Recap: The blood drips and the marriage stories begin!

Friday was pretty fun. My original plans of a girly dinner with Caroline, Teresa and Danny fell through. Not to fret, we'll have a makeup one with all of the sushi and boba goodness in the near future.

It actually gave me time for a breather, which was nice. At night I went to go pick up Howard, who just recently moved up from LA to go to grad school at SJSU. We headed up to SF to go to the Castro and then eventually Dragon. Our Castro pit stop was Lookout, which has its friday 'Activate!' theme. The music was pretty good and the eye candy was okay.

One of the weird moments was when a guy was taking a picture with one of the go go dancers and they both fell over on a table, crushing a Martini class. The dancer proceeded to say 'I think I'm bleeding!' but was a trooper and finished his photo session. Turns out he was bleeding, with blood dripping down to his calf. We later saw the dancer all bandaged up, ready to start working it again. That's dedication!

Turns out the guy who fell with the dancer was a friend of my co-worker Qing. Qing was celebrating his 39th(!) birthday with fun party hats and all. He seriously looks younger than I do. It was funny he was like 'Oh Howard, you look so young. How old are you?' (Howard's 25 years old) He turned to me and said 'Hey, you look young to... what are you 29?' 29!?! Shiet. Do I really look that old? Not that 29 is really old. I'm not even 25 yet. *le sigh*

One of the bartender guys was nearby and proceeded to give us a free neon blue test tube shot in celebration of Qing's recent marriage to his long term partner of 10 years on 8.8.08. He emphasized, 'Yes, we've been together forever, but we had a breakup of 3 years, too.' He also showed me his ring. They got married on a lookout in Marin County, had a reception in Chinatown, and then wore their suits to Dragon. Yes... classy/trashy fun times. He also was reminiscing about Club Asia, which was located at the old universe in the mid to late 90's.

After Howard and I finished our drinks of choice (Howard - Kamakazie on the rocks / Me - Rum and Diet Coke) and listened to a couple more good songs, we left the 'stro and headed to Dragon in SoMa. We parked a couple of blocks away, which is far for LA people. Remember we drive around the corner to the Grocery Store. Luckily, I've been groomed in Nor Cal to get used to the weather and walking. :)

Howard was like, 'If there is a closer spot, you're giving me a piggy back ride!' There wasn't a closer spot. I lucked out. Howard was walking briskly because he had to pee (like a racehorse, i'm asuming). On the walk to Dragon, I ran into Jordan and scared him from behind. He's having his big bday celebration next weekend. I had to run up and catch up with Howard, though.

We got inside and Howard did his business. The dance floors were flipped, with the bottom floor playing hip hop. The first floor wasn't too crowded, so we checked upstairs where dance music was playing. It was packed. We danced, trying to make our way to the windows for ventilation, which Dragon sorely lacks. The music was good. After a while dancing up there, we made our way downstairs for some hip hop. It was interesting in that it was pretty much the same songs as upstairs, but the original versions rather than remixes.

Throughout the night I ran into a few friends which was nice. I even ran into Chris, who just got back from Beijing a few days ago.

Around 1:45 or so, we peaced out and made our way back down to the South Bay. Howard and I were trying not to yawn the whole time, but that didn't quite work out as planned. I dropped him off at SJSU, passing by the hoards of police that patrol Downtown SJ on any given weekend night.

Resonance

Every day I've been trying to read a bit more of my new favorite book, the 20 Something Manifesto. You can say it's my, for lack for a better word, Bible.

I really resonated with this quote:

In fact once they've been out in the working world for a while and no longer jump out of bed every day with enthusiasm, they often get a major expectation hangover, one that's worse precisely because they were so sure they figured everything out. As part of the instant-gratification generation, they think that the cure for their Hangover is more, better, different -- a better job, a different career, more money, more respect, more fullfillment, a different partner, a better relationship, more passion. They want a better and different answer to their questions, and quick!

A few interesting moments today...

• I think I'm going to apply for a job in a different department in Q4, but I gotta make a case to my manager first. I had a thought about my comfort zone the other day and realized i need to shatter it again.
  
• Pros:
• Start-up environment I thrive on
• Learning a new product
• Doing something I know I'm good at
• Different office
• New people
• Cons:
• Commute to work
  
• Starting from the ground up on a different team
  
• Potentially sacrificing management path for a short term change
• Not being at main campus, missing my friends
• Potentially losing flexibility in my work/life balance 
• Ty mentioned that his friend Josh was 'thinspired' by me. Josh is hella skinny now. It kinda made me teary inside. Ironically, I was inspired to lose weight by Josh To. What comes around goes around, no?
  
• I made the faux pas of saying the word 'girl' in the locker room at the gym. (e.g. 'Heeeey gurl, How you doing?') The straight men definitely gave me the look of shame. 

Once A Diva, Always a Diva - Donna Summer Concert Highlights (Saratoga, CA)

When you hear the word 'Diva,' who do you think of? Patti Labelle, Diana Ross, Beyonce? Um, I would throw the ultimate Disco Diva right up there at the top! Of course, It's Donna Summer. She's had an amazing career, most notably in the 70's and 80's. She actually hasn't had an album of new material for close to two decades until Crayons was release earlier this year. She has had a sprinkling of new singles and the occasional recording for a movie soundtrack.

Her concert at the Mountain Winery in Saratoga, CA has been on my radar for a few months. I never purchased tickets because I didn't think I knew anyone who wanted to go. Remember, I'm a 24 year old. Donna was at her top before I was born! But you know what, two days ago I said screw that! How often do you get to see a diva perform new and old material? I plunked down the cash for a seat in the front section, seven rows from the stage. It's probably been the best location I've had at a concert. You know what, I don't regret it.

I got off work, grabbed dinner at then drove down 85 to Sarataga. It was my first time driving that far in Saratoga. The Mountain Winery is located a top a hill that overlooks the whole Silicon Valley. The views are pretty stunning, especially at night.Yesterday there was a bit of a noticeable haze hovering the city. But it was still beautiful! The venue itself is going under upgrades, but apparently new seats were just installed last week. All of the regulars were talking up the new seats. I walked around the facilities and found it quaint and cute. It kind of reminded me of a a sophisticated community theater type of feel because it's so intimate, yet classy.

The concert started around 7:30pm and it was only her. No openers, just Donna. Sadly, no cameras were allowed. They were hella strict about it too! I haven't been to a concert where they were like that. They were freakin' Nazi's about it. I saw several people get yelled at and threatened by staff. I did manage to snap a few poor quality pictures on my camera phone, though. If you want good pictures from Donna's 'Stamp Your Feet World Tour,' I suggest you head on over to see Dulcito's album on Flickr from her show in Richmond, B.C. Apparently Donna decided to play after I already left Vancouver (right across from Richmond, B.C.) after Pride. Darn. Haha.

Anywho, her set list was fairly 50/50 with new material from Crayons and classic material. I personally was fairly happy with it, but I definitely would have loved a longer show. Here was the set list:

[Intro: Electronic Beethoven's Fifth / Changing of the Guards.]
The Queen is Back (from the album Crayons)
I Feel Love
Dim all the Lights
I'm a Fire (from the album Crayons)

Sand on my Feet (from the album Crayons)
On the Radio
Mr. Music (from the album Crayons)
Crayons (from the album Crayons)

--- approx 15-20 minute intermission ---

No More Tears (Enough is Enough)
MacArthur Park
Bring Down the Reign (from the album Crayons)
Stamp Your Feet (from the album Crayons)
Slide Over Backwards (from the album Crayons)
Selah [wardrobe change - backup singer Mary Ellen Bernard]

She Works Hard for the Money
Bad Girls
Hot Stuff
Last Dance [Encore]

I personally would have love to have heard the following songs too:

• I will go with you (Con Te Partiro)
• Heaven Knows
• Could it be magic?
• Sunset People
• This time I know it's for real
• Power of love

The demographics of the concert were pretty spot on to what I expected... my parents generation (straight 50's and 60's) and the gays who lived through the 90's disco revival (late 30's and 40's). I felt like I totally didn't fit in the crowd, but whatever. I felt like the crowd was mostly comprised of well-to-do Silicon Valley locals who could afford the tickets. They were the second priciest for this season's Mountain Winery concert series. You didn't see too many minorities, although there were some. I was surprised at how many few gays there were. I thought there would be more, not to say there weren't any. A few people dressed up in 80's gear. There were also some cute couples near the front of the stage that slow danced to songs like 'Last Dance.'

Overall, I thought Donna's voice was surprisingly strong, except for the first song 'The Queen is Back.' The sista can sing! She was also very playful throughout the concert. She had several jokes... one that I remember in particular was 'You know, I was voted the nicest Diva. I'd beat you up and give you a cotton ball after.'

The set was also very good considering how small the venue was. The set consisted of a 3 panel L.E.D. system flashing images in relation to the topic of the song. For example, flames for 'I'm a fire.'

Her wardrobes were quite good too. I think she changed about 4 to 5 times.

Her backup dancers were really fun! There were 3 guys: two black and one white. They totally pumped up the crowd and helped set the mood. They also helped bring a sense of youthfulness, to the otherwise post-Vh1 feel of the crowd.

She's got one more show in California at the Paramount Theater in Oakland. I'd imagine all the gays will be showing up to that one...

Bonus Material: Video Opener to the Ottowa Show

My First Table Massage

So one of the perks at my work is the Massage Program. It's subsidized heavily. They give you a table massage when you start, as well as one on your birthday. My massage 'coupons' have been building up over the years as I got the guts to finally pursue setting one up for myself.

Before I left for Vancouver, my cubemate Elizabeth helped me set up a session on our calendar system. She recommended I go for the masseuse Angela. This was a few weeks ago and yesterday was the day I was finally going to let a stranger rub me all over my body. Lol.

It was 6pm and I head over to 1600 Plymouth. I walk up to the massage room and greet Angela. She asked me how I was doing. I said 'I'm nervous. It's my first time.' She was totally sweet trying to make me comfortable at every moment she could. She explained the process and what to expect during my hour with her. She then left the room.

I then had to undress. I decided to keep my underwear on, but next time, I'd probably be OK with taking it off. I guess I was just nervous about what to expect. Once you're ready, you press a button letting the masseuse you're ready.

She started off fairly slow and then started to massage me in long deep strokes. It was pretty amazing. I'm usually ticklish, but I didn't have a problem. The massage cream she used also smelled amazing. The room had fountains and relaxing music to help set a relaxing atmosphere.

After a bit of chit chat, I pretty much became silent for a while. I think Angela had a good balance of talk and silence. She moved from Texas about a year and a half ago and still has a house there. She moved to Noe Valley in the city. I'm totally jealous!

After about an hour I was totally in heaven. Angela let me know it was time. I got dressed and we chatted a bit more. She let me know a few areas I have some issues, but overall, my muscles were pretty relaxed. So much for me not liking strangers touch me all over my body. Bring it on!

Reliving Childhood Memories In A Contemporary Way

I randomly stumbled upon a YouTube channel that has that Chuck-E-Cheese Animatronic Band performing to new music. It's quite amazing. Talk about reliving youth... minus the greasy pizza.

The power of positivity during a quarterlife crisis

Over the past week, I've realized how negative I've become in 2008. You could say I've become a Negative Nancy. Except without the vagina...

No more.

I've been really attracted to positive upbeat people as of late. I used to be one, but a lot of external factors caused a downturn in my mood. I've tried to pinpoint it. Whether it be the economy, my job, my apartment, love life, friends, the future... all of it became really uncertain.

Traveling to Vancouver, Canada really helped me put things into perspective. It wasn't the mere act of traveling, but also who I met. I've also have absorbed a good chunk of information from the book 20 Something Manifesto: Quarterlifers Speak Out About Who They Are, What they Want and How to Get it.

Basically, I'm in quarterlife crisis mode. You know what? It's normal. Everyone goes through it, just not all at the same age.

At this point, the best solution is creating short term goals and worrying less about the long term. I've also learned I can't compare myself to others. There will always be someone better, faster, stronger, more attractive, intelligent, wealthier, etc.

I've got to focus on what makes me unique as a human. After all, I was put on this earth for a reason.

Today is the day I focus less on the bad and focus more on the good. It's not Thanksgiving quite yet, and it's okay because I don't need the calories. ;)

A Surprising Vancouver Pride Story [Updated]

Updated 8.10.08

Vancouver is probably one of the most liberal cities I've been to outside of San Francisco.

It was surprising to hear there was a fairly shocking incident at a local club/bar not too far from my hostel during Pride.

At this place called Majestic Nightclub and Lounge, in addition to Characters, a local greek restaurant, a man hit a hammer of 9 people's heads. Yes, a hammer...

Link to Story on CBC News

We saw police tape at the place after we finished dinner at Moxie's Classic Grill down the street. There was also police tape across the street at the restaurant called Characters. My friend Matt heard that it was a hammer that was involved when his other friend told him. I didn't believe it.

However, I did a Google Search this morning to see if it was true, and it indeed was.

However, it doesn't compete with the crazy Head Decapitation incident on a Greyhound Bus that has made recent Canadian news. :/

More Vancouver Thoughts

I'm still trying to find words to describe the feeling in Vancouver.

It's an interesting mix, but nothing that I can quite describe based off of prior travels. If I were to compare it to places --- I'd say it's a blend of:

• Hawaii's Beauty
• A mix between the energy in DC (small town energy buzz) and San Diego (laid back lifestyle)
  

Everything is so pretty here. The architecture isn't too striking, but some of the local buildings remind me of what you'd find in Los Angeles. The multiple skylines are similar to what you'd find in Honolulu.

I'm going to try and see a bit more of the city today. I haven't ventured too off from Downtown.

Vancouver Afternoon 1

I arrived in Vancouver 20 minutes early, around 7:45am. The flight was super easy. I got on board, put my iPod on and closed my eyes. I do remember getting water at one point, too. Seriously, It was as if the flight felt like a half an hour. I guess I passed out because the next thing I knew we were making our descent and about to land.

I got to YVR and it was super pretty inside! Loads of natural scenery, water and wood. I went through customs. I love it when they ask you why you're there. I was gonna say, 'Pride Baby!' but instead went with 'For pleasure.'

I texted Matt, my Van buddy, but I kept on getting error messages. Apparently, the texts went through every time.

Matt was kind enough to meet me at the Airport. We then made it to Downtown Vancouver and grabbed some breakfast at Cafe Luxy. It was rainy on the way to Downtown, but eventually cleared up, thankfully.

He gave me a quick tour of Vancouver's Boys Town and then we walked on over to Stanley Park. Stanley Park is sooooo beautiful! We walked in the opposite direction of the fun and interesting stuff, mainly because Matt had no clue where he was going. ;)

After a few hours of walking, picture taking, and story sharing, Matt calls his friend so we can find out where the 'Totem Poles' are. Turns out there is a Free Trolly in the summer that takes you all over Stanley Park, including the Totem poles. I loved our tour guide, Bob. We then head over to Prospect Point, which super touristy during the daytime, but apparently a local make out session at night. Haha. I love when I'm given the inside scoop. There is also a fun bridge there called Lions Gate.

After Stanley Park, we went to Robson St. so Matt could get a Slurpee at 7-11. The 7-11's are fairly large and quite clean. After that, I headed to my Hostel to check in. It's actually quite nice to what I'm used to with respect to Hostels. Plus, the location can't be beat!

I'm gonna nap, eat, and the do some pride festivities later. :)