遺忘 (2012, Movie)

迷你劇/電視電影《遺忘》是林心如工作室投資的第一部電視電影類的作品，此劇是專門為台灣金鐘獎而製作的。 遺忘是一種幸福，因為可以從新開始。 可以選擇另外一種生活方式, 可以選擇另外一種性格, 可以選擇另外一種人生, 拋去二十幾年積攢下的令人厭惡的品行, 重新開始是一種幸福.  如果不是一段遺忘的契機，怎麼可能能夠靜下來心平氣和地審視自己的改變。聽著那首蘇芮的《牽手》覺得很感動。“也許牽了手的手，前生不一定好走，也許有了伴的路，今生還要更忙碌”

Underworld: Rise of the Lycans(Underworld 3: Rise of the Lycans) (2009, Movie)

Though it's the third Underworld movie, it's actually the first in the series, a prequel going back 1,000 years and detailing the rise of a breed of werewolves known as Lycans. It also traces the roots of the Lycans' bitter conflict with the ruling Death Dealers, an elite squad of vampires.

The highlight of this fantasy/horror hybrid is watching a pair of the best British character actors — Bill Nighy and Michael Sheen — shed their thespian respectability and unleash their inner beasts.

The story is simple, bordering on silly — and some fight scenes blur into each other. Still, Underworld: Rise of the Lycans is surprisingly campy fun, mostly succeeding through the power of its lead performances.

Sarah's Key(Elle s'appelait Sarah) (2010, Movie)

Kristin Scott Thomas is a reporter who stumbles across a story regarding the rounding up of thousands of Jews in 1942. It's talking about France exported Jewish people to Germany during WWII. This is a sad, touching, and very powerful movie.

The Hobbit (Movie, 2012)

We went to see Peter Jackson's "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey" in a theater with 48-frames-per-second 3D technology (HFR 3D), which Jackson says leads to less eyestrain and a sharper picture. This is the best 3D I have ever seen. Jackson undoubtedly chose to shoot in the controversial 48fps format for the silky-smooth effect it has on the sweeping helicopter shots he loves so much.

The first hour of "The Hobbit" is Peter Jackson's feedback solo. However, once the singing is done and things start to happen it's actually quite fun.

Knott's Berry Farm Day

Knott's Berry Farm is a fun place to visit with family. We enjoyed riding the stage coach, train and looking at the Christmas decorations. Last time we visited the park was two years ago so we already knew the layout of the park. Nothing much is changed, except some construction work underway to prepare for new 2013 attractions.  It wasn't as crowded as Disney Land though. 

Yali Liu's Dance School Xmas Party

Yali Liu and her students gathered together at Walnut Senior Center to celebrate Xmas, at the same time, presented her achievements during year 2012. I personally performed as groups in Floor Exercise, Ballet and Jazz and Beautiful Scenery, plus a solo dance of Hero. Since the stage is not a professional one, we did mostly casual dancing with lots of fun. Still, imagine the efforts and sweat behind each movement. I was so much disappointed with my debut performance of "Hero" and triggered a nightmare in my dream.

• Social gathering: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dK2u0gyE6XU;
• Floor Exercise demo clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JWVWO0QCtXg&feature=youtu.be;
• Ballet & Jazz:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fg8EUjOgZuE;
• Hero: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j--fh5ZyEBM&feature=youtu.be;
• Hero clip (without sound): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CAGl2pVmeU&feature=youtu.be;
• Beautiful Scenery: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4Yru96GT1U&feature=youtu.be

                         

Lightning Tai Chi Certification

The rank examination and certification program was held on December 2, 2012, in the Brea Shaolin Kungfu School in Brea. Luckily, I've passed Form 42 examination and advanced to a new level. This is the required process after I've done Form 24 and Form 48. I'm not sure if it's Tai Chi Fan or Tai Chi Sword that follows. Wait and see. 

Geisha Assassin(Geisha vs. Ninjas) (2008, Movie)

The actress needs serious training in swordsmanship, or maybe the editor just used less than perfect takes of some of the combat, either way the girl doesn't convincingly wield a blade. The story was slow and the movements were over dramatic.

First Position (2011, Documentary)

A wonderful documentary about kids from age 7 to 19 who live for ballet. As a dancer, it was nice to see a movie made about dancers where dancers starred as "the dancers."   The dance students that the movie follows could all be considered prodigies, and it felt as though even if something went terribly wrong, they would be okay no matter what. It's fascinating look at what kind of childhood these kids have; their dedication and their passion. 

Act of Valor (2012, Movie)

Active duty SEALs play the lead fighting roles in a saga based on actual events from their service.The SEALs display courage beyond courage. The action in the movie was very intense and realistic. It gives you a small glimpse into the lives of these hero soldiers on and off the battlefield.

IRIS by Cirque du Soleil

The acrobatics weren't that complex but the costumes were artistic as usual. The story is about a boy trying to find his love that entered into some kind of entertainment business. Not much detail went into the story line.  The "pit orchestra" is absolutely amazing (if you can call it that, most of the sound is pre-recorded except for the eight live musicians sitting in the boxes on stage right/left). 

It was just okay. Nothing amazing about it, but definitely not up to Cirque standards.

Underworld: Awakening (2012, Movie)

Kate Beckinsale is back in black latex returning as Death Dealer Selene. This movie takes place after humans "cleanse" the world of vampires and lycans. 

Snow White and the Huntsman (2012, Movie)

Kristen was fine as a stronger Snow White but Theron really steals the scenes as Evilness personified. Kristen was horribly lackluster in this movie. No chemistry between her and Chris Hemsworth. Hemsworth and Theron gave solid performances as expected, but overall, I thought the movie was lacking something.This film could have been better written for character development or better directed but it still provides an enjoyable movie experience. 

Hotel Rwanda (2004, Movie)

In 1994 in Rwanda, a million members of the Tutsi tribe were killed by members of the Hutu tribe in a massacre that took place while the world looked away.  It is the story of a hotel manager who saved the lives of 1,200 people by being, essentially, a very good hotel manager. The man is named Paul Rusesabagina, and he is played by Don Cheadle as a man of quiet, steady competence in a time of chaos.  He has been trained in Belgium and runs the four-star Hotel Des Milles Collines in the capital city of Kigali. Things he understands make him an expert on situational ethics. 

Rwanda's enemy tribes were forced into the same land.  For years in Rwanda under the Belgians, the Tutsis ruled and killed not a few Hutu. Now the Hutus are in control, and armed troops prowl the nation, killing Tutsis.

There is a United Nations "presence" in Rwanda, represented by Col. Oliver (Nick Nolte).   Paul's hotel is hardly functioning, the economy has broken down, the country is ruled by anarchy, but he puts on his suit and tie every morning and fakes business as usual -- even on a day he is so frightened, he cannot tie his tie.

"Hotel Rwanda" is not about hotel management, but about heroism and survival.  Rusesabagina rises to the challenge. The film works not because the screen is filled with meaningless special effects, formless action and vast digital armies, but because Cheadle, Nolte and the filmmakers are interested in how two men choose to function in an impossible situation. 

Despite flaws in execution, this is a film of rare courage and imperishable heart.

The Hunger Games (2012, Movie)

This is a future time where the youth are being punished for a rebellion that took place many years earlier. The Capitol is a totalitarian government where the people have little food or comfort and are reminded not to ever rebel again through participation in the hunger games. These are games everyone watches and routes for their favorites. Whomever wins the games is given extra food for their district and there are 12 districts which must send two tributes each. It was very true to the book, as it should be, since Suzanne Collins co-wrote the script. One big complaint I have is the shaky camera! 

The Intouchables (2011, Movie)

An unprecedented box-office phenomenon in France. It's based on a true story and is a great and heartwarming story about friendship. 

Warriors of the Rainbow: Seediq Bale (賽德克巴萊: 太陽旗, 彩虹橋)

This is easily one of the most emotionally charge epic war like movies to come out in a long time. Great landscapes, beautiful haunting tribal folk songs in the soundtrack, and authentic wardrobe and sets. The movie is presented in the Seediq native tongue though. Their belief: "to fight like a warrior and live on the other side of the rainbow."

LECTURE: TIMELESS MELODIES: POPULAR DANCE: FROM THE WALTZ TO WEST SIDE STORY

Larry Maurer, educator and expert in American music continues this celebration of dance featuring clips and behind-the-scenes accounts from some of our most beloved musicals. I really enjoyed the "tap" dance of "Begin the Bequine" by Eleanor Powell and Fred Astaire in 1940. Then again, 'West Side Story' is a must-see movie of Jerome Robbins's talent.

The King of Prayers, by Shamar Rinpoche

This is a book from Shamar Rinpoche, which is a commentary on The Noble King of Prayers of Excellent Conduct.

In December 2009, on the occasion of the Kagyu Mönlam Chenmo in Bodhgaya, Shamar Rinpoche explained the Noble King of Prayers of Excellent Conduct. This prayer constitutes the final verses of the Avataṃsakasūtra, and it teaches practitioners of the bodhisattva path the means to develop limitless bodhicitta.

Mid Autumn Festival Dance Performance

To celebrate our Mid Autumn Festival (中秋節), Yali Liu was invited to perform dance program Beautiful Scenery (秀色). We girls spent a wonderful night dancing, laughing, enjoying seafood in 888 Seafood Restaurant.

Wrath of the Titans (2012, Movie)

It's a good fantasy film that has Greek mythological sensibilities and decent acting.  It's the sequel of 'Clash of the Titans' and  'Wrath of the Titans' far exceeds it. Perseus (Sam Worthington) has to save his father, Zues, wondefully played by Liam Neeson, from Hades and Ares. 

Limitless (2011, Movie)

This is a very intelligently written film, it keeps your attention, it keeps you guessing. Great concept that taking a pill can turn you into an instant genius. This is an imperfect movie, but it is entertaining from start to finish.

「袁志鍾書法研習社作品展」（9月15及16日）

此次展覽匯集了63位學員們的佳作，展示了篆、隸、楷、行、草等多種書體。該研習社的學員多數來自臺灣，其中不乏社會工商賢達之士。他們殷切希望向臺灣鄉親匯報在海外學習和推廣書法藝術的成果，並有機會與臺灣書法同道切磋書藝，促進美臺兩地的書法交流。

Beware Macy's 'Go Green' e-bill trap

Beware Macy's 'Go Green' e-bill trap

Macy's has been promoting 'Go Green' to save paper bills. I signed up in April 2012 and did receive my e-bill in April. However, it went nothing in May and June 2012. I totally forgot about the bills until Customer Service called me on 07/25/2012 for 2-months delinquent payment. I payed it off right away. Two days later, I got notified by Credit Bureau that Macy's reported a nasty mark on my credit files.

After several discussions back and forth trying to figure out what happened during May and June, Macy's insisted on nothing went wrong in their notification system. Instead, they blamed on me for not notifying them in writing of my current email address, which was changed four years ago. Not only they couldn't explain why I got e-bills in April, July and August 2012, but not May nor June 2012. In addition, the most ridiculous comment from Macy's was 'Since you are the one who signed up Go Green, you are responsible to watch out for the bill.'

Alas, now I learned my lesson. DO NOT rely on modern digital technology too much. Any IT system can and will have glitches. Beware!

Battleship (2012, Movie)

Don't expect a complex story or anything and you'll enjoy Battleship.  This is a an action movie and it's based on the Battleship Board Game.

盂蘭盆地藏法會

大方廣學會於九月九日星期日舉行本年度盂蘭盆地藏法會。 法會遵盂蘭盆經及地藏經之法門與精神，集共修之力，為會眾之親友祈福增壽；已故者得離苦趣，昇於善道；已生善道者福報增上，佛緣成熟，入深解脫，三昧自在。參加會友，共種福田，同報親恩。

晶瓷彩繪師生聯展

展覽由指導老師朱玉晶安排，學員尹白陽是我書法班上的同學，她展出的作品真的富有巧思，加上繪畫天份，和認真學習態度，令人不得不刮目相看。其他展出者亦不乏他們極具開放的創意點子。讓我對晶瓷彩繪有了新的認識。

Mt. Baldy Visit

We got a deal from Travelzoo for round trip on the ski lifts and all you can eat buffet.  It was not a bad deal.  However, don't expect high on the breakfast buffet which has very limited choices. Not to mention the long waiting line due to the music festival event. Taking the chairlift to the restaurant was the best part of the excursion though. It was the very first ski lift for Wu-Liang and he survived!
  
Southern California has many fine mountains to hike, run, snow-shoe or ski, and 10,064 ft. Mt. Baldy is one of the most prominent. Initially, I'd like to try the trail  to the summit of Baldy, called 'Devil's Backbone', with a 3000 ft. elevation gain in less than 3.6 miles. Then we chickened out and decided to turn to 'Thunder Mountain' with much less strenuosity. The summit did offer us a fairly grand view of San Bernardino area. It was quite an experience considering we haven't done hiking in such a long period of time.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011, Movie)

This is an action movie, not a drama. It moves quickly and has lots of sub-plots that are not all that hard to follow.  I found it much less confusing and complex than the first film.  Robert Downey Jr. and Jude Law are good. 

Lost turtle

No, it's not our new pet. Just a poor lost turtle wandering in our backyard. It's quite big and heavy.  Our neighbor claimed it back later on. And we learned it's name Gilbert. This is not the first time he fled home.

The Warlords(投名狀) (2007, Movie)

This movie is a brilliant glimpse into a Chinese rebellion.


所謂的「投名狀」，不過是句口號而已，被這咒語緊箍著的，只有金城武一個。李連杰一開始就是機會主義者，「結義」是他反攻對手的一個手段，後來不斷的出爾反爾，更加印證他以自我為中心的本性。滿有發揮的一個角色，李連杰也證明自己除了拳腳外，還懂得演戲，只是連他口中「為天下蒼生」的口號都有點勉強，這樣的陰謀家還能講兄弟情義嗎？

而劉德華呢，血性莽夫，其實也不盡然相信這位大哥，由蘇州開始，一次又一次不自覺「反」李連杰，看似尊重的行為卻釋放出「嘲諷」的意味，是因為根本上他不明白什麼是戰爭謀略。當賊匪，為的是跟自己的兄弟謀生活，「搶錢、搶糧、搶娘們！」攻城，與敵人／手下敗將講義氣，基本上除了最後「或者大哥是對的」，而把自己送入絕路之外，都不怎覺得他把李連杰當成大哥。

倒是金城武像個傻小子，嘴唸著的不是「大哥的話是對的」便是「凡亂我兄弟者必殺之」，熱血得有點白痴，最後才會像個傻子般既殺嫂又殺兄。題外話：雖然金城武整部戲的造型戴著帽子，究竟有沒有剃頭？不似李連杰「剃就剃吧」或劉德華的「平頭裝」，但當官後的「青靚白淨」清裝模樣的確驚艷──是因為從來不覺得他的樣子適合當古人，但這個造型跟戲中的時代完全沒有違和感。

GasLand (2010, Documentary)

In this Oscar-nominated documentary, director Josh Fox journeys across America to examine the negative effects of natural-gas drilling, from poisoned water sources to kitchen sinks that burst into flames to unhealthy animals and people.


Everyone needs to see what is being done to our home, our land, our country is being poisoned. However, the camera work was too shaky and blurry, that plus the narrator's low murmuring voice made me nauseous trying to watch this.

Evergreen Cup Tai Chi Chuan Championship (常青盃太極拳錦標賽)

I participated both individual and group competitions of Yang’s 24-Form (24 式太極拳). After a tiring long day, I got the chance of watching all forms demonstrations from talented people around the world. Although no winning trophies for myself, I believe there is always next time.

香巴仁波切傳授＂岡波巴四法＂

岡波巴四法(Four Dharmas of Gampopa）講解:

 祈求加持我與一切衆生，
 願轉心向法：（Turming mind toward the Dharma）
 願法順於道：（Dharma may follow the Path)
 願道清迷惑：(Path may clarify the confusion)
 願開惑成覺： (Confusion may dawn into Awareness）

岡波巴為噶瑪噶舉教派之祖師，密勒日巴大師之弟子，也是第一世噶瑪巴杜松潛巴之上師。

My new hobby: Pressed Flower Art (壓花藝術)

I've indulged myself into this new hobby lately and love it. The above are my crafts work. Believe me, they are all from real delicate flowers and/or leaves. Through patience and perseverance, such detailed art opened another door of beauty for me. I think that the embossing is another style of nature which is rendered in different guise. 
  
Without artificial dyeing and finishing, completely natural colors embossed fully reflect the beauty of nature.  Use of modern drying technology and embossing techniques, the flower of life is an extension for a long time. 

Beowulf: Director's Cut (2007, Movie)

First, I did not know that it is computer-generated animation.  The characters looked too much like cartoon characters. The voice acting was very well done though. 

Half day at the Huntington Library

Return of an Icon  

The wait is over! After a year-long closure and a $6.8 million renovation, the historic Japanese Garden has reopened, marking its centennial as one of the most beloved and iconic landscapes at The Huntington. Completed in 1912, the nine-acre site, with its picture-postcard views of koi-filled ponds, distinctive moon bridge, and historic Japanese House, has attracted more than 20 million visitors since the institution opened to the public in 1928.

Now several new elements enhance this “magical place.” Among the new features visitors will see is an authentic ceremonial teahouse, situated on a ridge above the existing Japanese House and set within a traditionally landscaped tea garden. A newly created waterfall cascades down the slope, visually connecting the tea garden to the ponds below.

Restoration of the Japanese House, a structure built in Japan around 1904, showed elements such as the distinctive curves of the roof line, an elaborately carved ornament atop one of the gables, and original plaster and wood finishes have been restored, giving the house a dramatically different appearance, but one more authentic to the building’s past.

A Storied Past

The Japanese Garden is among the oldest and most elaborate of its kind in America. Begun in 1911, it was inspired by widespread Western fascination with Asian culture.  In 1968, The Huntington added the Zen Garden and a bonsai display that was expanded in 2010.

真 原 醫 21世紀的預防醫學 (楊定一博士 著)

身心靈的完整，人才會是健康的。楊博士不以西醫為侷限，能廣納多方醫學概念，好！

但此書統合性十足. 原創性則未如書名! 作者嘗試以整合性健康醫學概念. 創造一種養身新顯學. 只是讀罷後會發覺. 書中所論述的內容. 多年來已有許多書籍與作者分別論及. 本書並未顯示其獨特的原創性... 它的特色是較具統合性. 它將身心靈各層面的養身健康觀完整論及...  或該說. 本書較為重視東方心靈修持. 因全書約一半篇幅在講述情緒與內在平衡. 唯涉及心靈內層的所有學問(或心法). 其實是法門萬千. 不一而足. 以靜坐或宗教體驗等方式來安定心靈.也可說是其中之最.　　 

閉關三日誌

感謝林淑貞老師的提醒，利用國殤日三天之長週末，完成自己止語三天的訓練。 目的並非剋期取證，也無念頭要成就十萬遍咒語。僅憑一己之私，在無壓力情況下，實行大禮拜、加上交替默誦獻曼達咒、百字明咒、以及六字大明咒。 


三日下來，體驗到止語的精髓，使我根本無暇去妄語、綺語、兩舌、惡囗，天下本無事，庸人自擾之！一個無語的世界就是一個無紛擾的清淨國土。再者，連續數百次的五體投地大禮拜的確讓我腰肩勞損，真有力不從心、齒危髮禿之歎。最後也是挺重要的一環：準備一位負責任的護關者，照料飲食起居諸鎖事，以免心中雜念紛飛，不知所止。 


出關時，但覺身輕氣爽，雖然天空仍舊是藍的，世界依然如故運轉，我衷心祝願眾生離苦得樂，早生淨土。

We Bought a Zoo (2011, Movie)

"You know sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage. Just literally 20 seconds of embarrassing bravery. And I promise you something great will come of it."  


Based on a real story of, and adapted from the book by, Benjamin Mee, who actually bought the dilapidated Dartmoor Zoo in Devon, England, and turned it into a world acclaimed zoological park. The setting has been changed from the English countryside to California. 


Overall this is a fun and lighthearted film.

Showstopper Dance Performance Competition

We've done it! Competing in Showstopper looked like a big challenge for all of us, until we received a Platinum award for our dancing category. For better or worse, it's an experience. In stead of crying over for spilled milk, we shall continue to further our skills and teamwork. Kudos, my dear dancing mates!

Here is the video clip of 'Beautiful Season': http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7OL9lxQxYc

『故宮數位時代過去與未來』特展, 洛僑中心

中國字如何演變而來, 現場視覺聲光效果, 讓大家看見漢字構形的奇妙, 一筆一畫都蘊含豐厚的中華文化, 這是在國立故宮博物院, 臺灣書院及洛僑中心共同主辦的「故宮數位畫時代 過去與未來」展示故宮數位典藏新風貌.


包括毛公鼎漢字互動裝置, 翰逸神飛影片, 唐宮狂想曲, 互動裝置等動態展區與動畫作品, 讓人充分感受互動體驗的魅力. 主要是著重在書畫藝術的部分, 就是傳統中國繪畫藝術, 包括唐人宮樂圖, 郎世寧的百駿圖, 都用數位化的方式, 能夠認識中國繪畫藝術之美.

也有播放故宮最新製作的「國寶娃娃入寶山」的一個卡通影片, 用比較有趣 童趣的方式, 直接欣賞這個具有卡通化效果趣味的電影, 對於故宮整體幾個重要代表性文物, 都有出現在這個電影裡面, 透過古代美術與現代科技, 完美結合.

The Artist (2011, Movie)

There is an amazing amount of depth to this romantic, stirring and beautiful film, and it is impressive on many levels. The irony is it will probably get overlooked by many film goers because it tells the story of the end of silent movies and this film is silent and in crisp black and white. The "Artist", George Valentin (exquisitely played by Jean DuJardin) is the egotistical, self promoting, prideful man who is also charming, funny, and someone you would probably like. But he refuses to recognize the social impact of talking films. Deserving many Oscar nods is what this film has earned. To top this all off as an extra bonus is a dog who is the Brando of animal actors.

IAI Conference, San Diego

Elegant and sunny, San Diego is truly a city with something for everyone. It was where the IAI (International Association of Identification) California Regional Conference was held this year. Tagged along with Wu-Liang, this trip essentially gave me the chance to loosen.

6 May 2012

Gami Sushi, Catamaran Resort, and Green Flash

We stopped by Julie Kenyon’s house on our way to try out my dream pointe shoe ‘D3O’. After almost one whole hour of fitting, Julie gave up on me. Either my left foot is not twisted enough for the shoe or the shoe is not meant for me, period. Too bad for a dream not coming true!

At least we awarded ourselves with a good sushi place named Gami Sushi and then rushed down to San Diego for an elegant seafood feast at Green Flash. Yummy!

Catamaran Resort sits by the Mission Bay. The property is huge, the people are friendly, and the center garden/jungle with the birds is really wonderful to wander and explore. It is like a mini zoo with ducks, coy fish, parrots, and other birds and animals roaming free within the resort. It was so peaceful and unique. And you know what; our tower building room is with beautiful ocean view!

7 May 2012

Sea World

Both of us recalled our last visit to this theme park was over 20 years ago. Therefore, we definitely would like to visit it again. We bought tickets ahead of this trip for much cheaper price and we didn't have to wait long in line to get in. We went early for every show so to get good seats but suffered from sun burn while waiting. The Shamu show was about 25 minutes long and it wasn't as good as I thought it would be. Next the dolphin show (which including birds flying and acrobats), was much better with varieties than the Shamu show. The sea lion show was funny and cute, but a disaster because one main role refused to follow orders. In between the shows, we saw aquariums, shark exhibit, sea turtles, penguins, etc.

We got on one ride which got us all wet and dried off in no time under such harsh sun. By the way, we skipped lunch due to tight schedule. Should pack some snacks next time.

Animals are great and good little mix of other fun stuff for kids but this place is not for couples.

We rewarded ourselves with another big seafood dinner at Nicks at the Beach before retiring.

8 May 2012

Pacific Beach and Mission Beach

At last, we tried out Tandem Bike to fulfill our curiosity. Boy, it was not an easy task! Taking two people to work hand in hand (or feet in feet) for this chore, and still the bike was too heavy to maneuver. We figured the bike material must play a big role. Once is enough! Strolling along both bay shores was a paradise though, if only I knew the sunburn afterwards. I really admire those bold surfers!

9 May 2012

Balboa Park

Finally, I have a whole day to myself. Deciding to visit Balboa Park again because it’s a must see when visiting San Diego! Balboa Park has it all: Education, fun and beautiful surroundings! This time, visiting the gardens in the park and exploring nice quiet places were my main goal, e.g., botanical garden, Japanese garden, rose garden, desert garden, etc.

There are lots of museums to cater to every taste, if you don’t mind walking.

10 May 2012

Safari Park

Both of us were excited since we’ve never been there. And this date happened to be their 40^th birthday! Besides, it feels good to give your money to an organization that is doing the right thing by animals... rehabilitating and helping species to survive against the odds. It’s a far more beautiful land, spacious and free place than Sea World. Unfortunately, bears and lions were out for retreat. The warning goes that you may not see as many animals as in the Zoo though.

11 May 2012

Sternwheeler Dinner Cruise

Here comes the Conference finale: a dinner cruise on the sternwheeler William D. Evans. It was like stepping into the 19^th century when majestic paddleboats plied the waterways with their cargoes of colorful passengers and their goods. We cruised aboard one of America’s most unique gathering sites, nostalgic creations from one of our nation’s most gracious moments. Gorgeous and elegant!

12 May 2012

Maritime Museum and Coronado Island

The Maritime Museum of San Diego is home to the world's oldest sailing vessel that still sails - "The Star of India".  It was a great example of an immigrant ship. In addition, there are the ship from Master and Commander (a Russel Crowe flick), a Russian submarine, an American submarine, and the art display of Paul Gaugin. We even got on the boat ‘Pilot’ for a 45 minutes cruise of the San Diego Bay.

Coronado Island is a small island town in the San Diego Bay, connected to the city of San Diego by the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. This is a beautiful community that is kept in pristine condition. We also took the chance to stroll around Hotel Del Coronado to satisfy Wu-Liang’s urge.

Yes, this trip gave us plenty of beaches, sunshine and the consequence of severe sunburn. Next time, be sure to put on sun scream every couple of hours and wear big rim hats. Other than that, it did provide me a sense of relaxation. Until next time….

Black Swan (2010, Movie)

Black Swan is about Nina Sayers (Natalie Portman), an emotionally delicate dancer who wins the lead in a contemporary interpretation of Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake.  The new interpretation requires performances as both an innocent white swan and a dark, sinister black swan with equal acuity. Director Darren Aronofsky has created a bold, scary and daring film. It hits on all marks. It is not nice. It is not pleasant. It is beautiful. 

Bathing Buddha Ceremony Offerings by me

Two orchids intertwined

Six Syllables with Shri

供曼達拉偈：「須彌四洲日月所莊嚴，妙香遍塗散花之大地，淨如佛土我樂敬供養，願諸有情共享此淨土。」

奶油青花菜 and Shri

My new career: ballerina

How about that! I never dreamed about being able to dance on my toes again ever since my Achilles Tendon on my right leg got cut off one-third 36 years ago. Even though I couldn't bear deserting my lovely pointe shoes and brought them with me to the States, they were still an eye sore and trauma. Finally, that pair went to the trash. Until 4 months ago, under the encouragement of Yali Liu, I started trying out this heartfelt muse of mine once more. Who knows what I can accomplish this time!

It's a Wonderful Life (1946, Movie)

The film cost an astounding $6.3 million dollars to produce and opened so poorly as to be considered a flop. It was nominated for 5 Oscars without a single award. The Academy blew this one big time. AFI (American Film Institute) considers this film the 11th greatest film of the last 100 years (100 Years…100 Movies). The acting is superb. The direction is fabulous and the story eternal. It's a feel-good movie that reminds us to count our blessings, whatever they may be and however different they are from what we expected.

Ghost Rider (2007, Movie)

The plot is all too predictable and the action sequences don't offer anything you haven't seen before. The special effects aren't too amazing either.  The dialogue was just cheesy and corny. It's a waste of time.

病從寒中來 作者：石原結實

人正常體溫下降1℃，免疫力至少下降30%，而如果正常體溫能夠達到36.5℃以上，人體的免疫力就會增強5-6倍！ 體溫從某種方面說，確實是人體健康的晴雨表。 


"提高體溫、早餐節食" 成為日本最流行的養生方式。


現代醫學的弱點：只重視檢查的數值，單憑檢查結果定病名，然後機械地將症狀和藥組合在一起，用這樣的治療方法，多數都無法對疾病進行根本性的治療。 而且，藥或多或少都會有副作用，一個症狀治好了，所服藥的副作用又會引發其他的症狀，結果就可能導致要吃的藥越來越多。 自然治​​愈才是最值得提倡的健康途徑。