I know most of you wont care, but... what the fuck?! Amelia Mauresmo new Aussie Open champ by default?!
She's been described as one of the greatest tennis players of the Open era to have not won a major yet. Having held the World No. 1 rank before, she was the only active tennis great to have not won a Grand Slam after Kim Clijster won the US Open last year. However, Kim Clijster did it in style trashing Mary Pierce 6-3 6-1. She also became the first tennis player (man or woman) ever to rise from outside the Top 100 (No. 134) to No. 2 in the same year.
This year's Australian Open kicked off with so much promise. The William sisters as always drawing much attention, then the Belgians, Clijster and Henin-Hardenne, the Russians (Sharapova, Svetlena, Myskina), Pierce, Davenport and the most talked about wildcard entry, Swiss Miss Hingis. Everyone of them with a Grand Slam under their belt. But who was going to take the Australian Grand Slam this year? Last year Serena came back from the land of Oz to snatch it out of the clutches of Lindsay Davenport, battling from a set down at 2-6 6-3 6-3 to take her seventh Grand Slam title. The first since Wimbledon in 2003, after which she had an injury filled year in 2004 and 2005.
But the Americans this year never even made the finals. Heck, even the men stank! What was going on? Of course the darling of the Australian Open this year was Martina Hingis. Coming back from her retirement 3 years ago, everyone was eager to see if the former queen of tennis (who had dominated the courts during her reign) could still play competitive tennis. Was she going to rise to the occasion or fall flat on her face like she did at the tournemant in Thailand last year? Were we going to witness another comeback story?
In 2001 Jennifer Capriati, though seeded 12th in the Australian, was considered the most unlikely player of the Open era (since 1968), to win a Grand Slam. On her way to glroy, she triumphed over defending champion Davenport, 4 time champion Monica Seles and outplayed Hingis 6-3 6-4 in the finals.
"It was the most captivating moment in a tumultuous career for Capriati, the former child prodigy who left the women's tour in the mid-1990s because of drug and personal problems." (sportsillustrated.cnn.com)
Reaching the quarter-finals this year, Martina Hingis was soon to be brought down from her pedestal by Kim Clijster. Going into the match, she hadnt dropped a set yet. However, the soon-to-be World No.1 was just too strong for Hingis. Though, she proved herself worthy of competing at such high levels. Woman's tennis might have evolved in the last 3 years and Hingis might not be able to out hit the players, but her tactical style of play will always have a place in tennis. Many will be expecting a return of a former great.
Coming back to my point (finally), going into the semis was Amelia Mauresmo who's opponent was Kim Clijster. Halfway through the match Kim retires from an ankle injury! Amelia Mauresmo *gasp* is in a Grand Slam final after such a long drought! Previews of the match pointed in the direction of Justine Henin-Hardenne. Mentally, Henin-Hardenne has always been a tough nut. She could lose a set in the finals of a major and still battle her way back to victory. However, this would not be at the Aust Open 2006. After losing the first set and was down 0-2, Justine walked over to the empire to concede a walkover.
"The decision to retire because of an upset stomach, though, will be part of her legacy because it's such a rare piece of history. Four times in 100-plus years of Grand Slam women's finals this has happened, and this was the first time in 41 years." (espn.com)
Some say that even if Justine had played at top form, Amelia would have won any way because she had been the better player for the past 2 weeks. But leading up to the finals, Justine had Davenport and Sharapova to dismiss. Both big hitters and both tough nutters. Amelia got a walkover from clijster. I'm not doubting her abilities... but I am saying that it is a pity she had to win her first Grand Slam in such a deflating fashion...
Yes, I love tennis. So sue me! >-p!!! Go Federer!!
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Rob in a dress Part II
Photoshop is so handy. It isnt first class work, but hey, beat's the other pic hands down! hehe.. doesnt Rob look lovely? She/he forgot to tan her/his face though... :-S
The committee has decided to go ahead in getting the dress.. I wonder if Rob's pic had anything to do with the decision...
The committee has decided to go ahead in getting the dress.. I wonder if Rob's pic had anything to do with the decision...
Rob in a dress
The BALADS committee are getting a new dress. We got a picture of the dress we had in mind, and someone on the team stuck Rob's picture on top. Nice dress though huh?
Friday, January 27, 2006
Which Celeb are you?
Ethan Hawke!
An intellectual like you needs to be played by someone who understands how to be deep without being boring, someone who can grasp complicated subjects and make them seem clear cut, someone like Ethan Hawke. Whether bringing Hamlet to life or getting published himself, Ethan has shown the world that being smart can be sexy.
Were you sometimes the kid in class who realized when the teacher made a mistake — even if you didn't always point it out? Now that you're grown up, it wouldn't surprise us if you still liked the challenge of banter or enjoyed staying up late talking about the latest in political, social, or celebrity circles. Your glamour comes from your head first and radiates out through your looks. So keep that confidence up. Ethan's a natural to star as you because he, like you, has a good head on his shoulders. And isn't afraid to use it.
(www.tickle.com)
An intellectual like you needs to be played by someone who understands how to be deep without being boring, someone who can grasp complicated subjects and make them seem clear cut, someone like Ethan Hawke. Whether bringing Hamlet to life or getting published himself, Ethan has shown the world that being smart can be sexy.
Were you sometimes the kid in class who realized when the teacher made a mistake — even if you didn't always point it out? Now that you're grown up, it wouldn't surprise us if you still liked the challenge of banter or enjoyed staying up late talking about the latest in political, social, or celebrity circles. Your glamour comes from your head first and radiates out through your looks. So keep that confidence up. Ethan's a natural to star as you because he, like you, has a good head on his shoulders. And isn't afraid to use it.
(www.tickle.com)
The Classic IQ Test
Your IQ score is 135!
Your IQ score is significantly above average. Congratulations! You have a wide range of exceptional skills which are much stronger than those of the average population. You are also skilled at answering the types of questions that are asked in a classic IQ test. The test analyses your strengths and weaknesses based on your mathematical, linguistic, visual-spatial and logical skills. Even though you have high scores in all of those areas, we are able to analyse your results to discover the areas in which you have the strongest abilities.
You have a strong ability to process visual-spatial and mathematical information. These skills combined with your strengths in logic are what make you a Visual Mathematician.
You're able to understand patterns visually and in numbers. That means your mind can create a mental picture for any problem. In addition to that skill, you possess an intelligence that allows you to apply maths to that picture, too. That helps you manipulate multiple parts of the picture (or problem) to come up with a solution. You have many skills that are critical to success and problem-solving. Your talents help you understand the "big picture," which is partly why people may turn to you for direction -- especially in the workplace. You flourish in environments where tasks are clearly defined, and you excel at improving processes and making things more efficient. Like Einstein, your ability to detect patterns and your skills in maths and logic, make it natural for you to come up with ideas and theories that simplify processes for everyone.
(www.tickle.com)
tsk... yeah right... oh, and I cheated on one question.. heahehae...
Your IQ score is significantly above average. Congratulations! You have a wide range of exceptional skills which are much stronger than those of the average population. You are also skilled at answering the types of questions that are asked in a classic IQ test. The test analyses your strengths and weaknesses based on your mathematical, linguistic, visual-spatial and logical skills. Even though you have high scores in all of those areas, we are able to analyse your results to discover the areas in which you have the strongest abilities.
You have a strong ability to process visual-spatial and mathematical information. These skills combined with your strengths in logic are what make you a Visual Mathematician.
You're able to understand patterns visually and in numbers. That means your mind can create a mental picture for any problem. In addition to that skill, you possess an intelligence that allows you to apply maths to that picture, too. That helps you manipulate multiple parts of the picture (or problem) to come up with a solution. You have many skills that are critical to success and problem-solving. Your talents help you understand the "big picture," which is partly why people may turn to you for direction -- especially in the workplace. You flourish in environments where tasks are clearly defined, and you excel at improving processes and making things more efficient. Like Einstein, your ability to detect patterns and your skills in maths and logic, make it natural for you to come up with ideas and theories that simplify processes for everyone.
(www.tickle.com)
tsk... yeah right... oh, and I cheated on one question.. heahehae...
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Makeup Workshop
Like I said, we had a makeup workshop for the gals who were going for competitions at Jill's place. They needed someone to demonstrate how to apply makeup on. Rob was the unfortunate (though willing) victim. Beautiful... :-p~
Me very long weekend
First, I had that 5 hour coach ride to Liverpool on Friday. I slept at 4 am and had to be out of the house by 7am to catch an 8 am coach. Hence, I was pretty much asleep the entire duration of the journey. They had leather seats though.. real nice...
After sorting out routines, me and my friend went out for dinner. I had the best Wor Tan Hor I've ever had in the UK that night. Really good. Then we walked about... visited a couple of 'touristy' places... went home and started watching dance vids. He kept me up till 5am. ughZ... was up again at 9.15 to practice till 2. Went home and had light lunch, hopped onto the 3.30pm coach and was on my way back to London. Again, I was dead to the world most of the way home.
Sunday. Went to Jill's place. The dance team was having a get together. The girls had a make up workshop and the guys... we made a banner for the London team. After much deliberation, we settled on the TFL logo with the word London as the stop. Was pretty neat. We watched dance videos and had food... I went with 2 bags of crisps. I came home with 4 bags of crisps, doughtnuts and muffins. Not bad eh? Left her place at 11.20pm, arrived at the tube station at 11.30pm. Were informed that we had missed the last tube. Walked to another station, informed the last tube was at 11.21pm. Me, Alison, Finbar, Gabriel and Min Hui went looking for a night bus. Got to the stop and saw two foxes. In London! Must've been scavanging. Anyway, got on the bus and changed at Tottenham Court Road. Took me a full 2 hours to get home. :-S
So that's my weekend in a nutshell. Buzz for further details.
After sorting out routines, me and my friend went out for dinner. I had the best Wor Tan Hor I've ever had in the UK that night. Really good. Then we walked about... visited a couple of 'touristy' places... went home and started watching dance vids. He kept me up till 5am. ughZ... was up again at 9.15 to practice till 2. Went home and had light lunch, hopped onto the 3.30pm coach and was on my way back to London. Again, I was dead to the world most of the way home.
Sunday. Went to Jill's place. The dance team was having a get together. The girls had a make up workshop and the guys... we made a banner for the London team. After much deliberation, we settled on the TFL logo with the word London as the stop. Was pretty neat. We watched dance videos and had food... I went with 2 bags of crisps. I came home with 4 bags of crisps, doughtnuts and muffins. Not bad eh? Left her place at 11.20pm, arrived at the tube station at 11.30pm. Were informed that we had missed the last tube. Walked to another station, informed the last tube was at 11.21pm. Me, Alison, Finbar, Gabriel and Min Hui went looking for a night bus. Got to the stop and saw two foxes. In London! Must've been scavanging. Anyway, got on the bus and changed at Tottenham Court Road. Took me a full 2 hours to get home. :-S
So that's my weekend in a nutshell. Buzz for further details.
Wednesday, January 18, 2006
A Love That Will Never Grow Old
Go to sleep, may your sweet dreams come true
Just lay back in my arms for one more night
I've this crazy old notion that calls me sometimes
Saying this one's the love of your life.
[Chorus:]
Cause I know a love that will never grow old
And I know a love that will never grow old.
When you wake up the world may have changed
But trust in me, I'll never falter or fail
Just the smile in your eyes, it can light up the night,
And your laughter's like wind in my sails.
[Chorus]
Lean on me, let our hearts beat in time,
Feel strength from the hands that have held you so long.
Who cares where we go on this rugged old road
In a world that may say that we're wrong.
[Chorus]
Just lay back in my arms for one more night
I've this crazy old notion that calls me sometimes
Saying this one's the love of your life.
[Chorus:]
Cause I know a love that will never grow old
And I know a love that will never grow old.
When you wake up the world may have changed
But trust in me, I'll never falter or fail
Just the smile in your eyes, it can light up the night,
And your laughter's like wind in my sails.
[Chorus]
Lean on me, let our hearts beat in time,
Feel strength from the hands that have held you so long.
Who cares where we go on this rugged old road
In a world that may say that we're wrong.
[Chorus]
Monday, January 16, 2006
2 fairies
The only other fairy at the party, Jen. We decided she was a beginner fairy, still learning the trade since her wings were smaller then mine... I was at the party till 7am... can you imagine that?! Slept at 8am, woke up at 1pm, and went ice skating with the dance team... woo hoo!
Minnie the Minx and me
Hey everyone! Meet my fiance, Minnie the Minx! Remember her? She appeared in the comic with Dennis the Menace. I call her Alison though...
Feathery Fairy
Someone came to the party with a feather boa so I thought I'd try it on and see how it looked on me instead.. *wink* Was at the party till 7am... we had pirates, a cow girl, witches, lots of goths *rolls eyes*... think they were going for the Moulin Rouge thing...there was just one other fairy.
Me and Gabriel
When I got my invite, it specifically mentioned to come in a costume, or else there'd be a forfeit. Only way you could get out of the forfeit is if you come with chocolates. Gabriel came without one and Alison and Jen decided to dress him up either as a school girl or a surgeon (being in a house full of medics).
The Fairy God Father
Alison hosted a great Costume Party last Friday at her flat. I decided, I'd either be cheap and stick sweets to my shirt and say I'm the candy man, or go as a fairy! hAEhHAe... check out what I wore! The wand was made by Alison though. A ladle with sparkly stuff stuck to the top! Like my pearl necklace? I got it free from when I saw "I am My Own Wife". I also had a nice ring on my pinky to add to the whole effect. It was shaped as a flower with a smiley face in the middle.
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Quotable scripts...
"It’s impossible the grasp just how powerful love is
It can sustain us through trying times
Or motivate us to make extraordinary sacrifices
It can force decent men to commit the darkest deeds
Or compel ordinary women to search for hidden truths
And long after we’re gone, Love still remains… burned into our memories.
We all search for love.
But some of us, after we found it,
Wish we hadn’t."
Desperate Housewives, Season 1, Episode 14
"Yes, each new day in suburbia brings with it a new set of lies
The worst area the ones we tell ourselves before we fall asleep
We whisper them in the dark telling outselves;
“we’re happy’
Or that "he’s happy,"
That "we can change,"
That "he will change his mind"
We persuade ourselves we can live with our sins
Or that we can live without him
Yes, each night before we fall asleep
We lie to ourselves
With desperate, desperate hope
That come morning, it will all be true."
Desperate Housewives, Season 1, Episode 15
It can sustain us through trying times
Or motivate us to make extraordinary sacrifices
It can force decent men to commit the darkest deeds
Or compel ordinary women to search for hidden truths
And long after we’re gone, Love still remains… burned into our memories.
We all search for love.
But some of us, after we found it,
Wish we hadn’t."
Desperate Housewives, Season 1, Episode 14
"Yes, each new day in suburbia brings with it a new set of lies
The worst area the ones we tell ourselves before we fall asleep
We whisper them in the dark telling outselves;
“we’re happy’
Or that "he’s happy,"
That "we can change,"
That "he will change his mind"
We persuade ourselves we can live with our sins
Or that we can live without him
Yes, each night before we fall asleep
We lie to ourselves
With desperate, desperate hope
That come morning, it will all be true."
Desperate Housewives, Season 1, Episode 15
Thursday, January 12, 2006
"Thieves on Rampage on Route 29"
On the 1st day of Christmas my true love gave to me... a Partridge in a pear tree...
On the 9th day of January my housemates said to me... our wallets were stolen on the bus!!
The tube strike on the 9th of January saw many tube stations closed, hence, many many Londoners opted for the bus service instead. I was at home when my first 'victim housemate' arrived home. She said "My wallet has been stolen. Sorry!" and zoomed past me up the stairs, and into her room. YD then explained what had happened to me. Their eyes widened when I told them more bad news... our internet connection was dead... and upon further inspection, we realized our phone line was completely dead. So she had to make calls to 0800 numbers to cancel credit cards and etc on her mobile... which undoubtedly would have cost her a bomb. She had only realized her bag was unzipped when she had alighted the bus. After checking the bag for her stolen wallet, it was too late to stop the bus as 'it was in a hurry' so she rushed home.
Not long after they got back, I had to leave for Central London for a dance practice. 4 hours of exhaustive practice later, I read a text msg that was sent by YD;
"Dungu, beware of pick pockets on bus 29. After HF, Dopey's wallet was stolen 2."
Dopey had already been extra careful on his way home after hearing of the theft. According to him, he had been clutching his wallet in his jacket up till our stop when he had pressed the bell to indicate he wanted to alight. When he replaced his hand in his pocket, he realized it was gone. I believe that this was just after he alighted the bus and could do nothing to stop the runaway bus.
Anyway, I partly blame the Underground for this series of unfortunate events. If they hadn't gone on strike, there would be less people on busses. There were probably more pick-pockets operational on that day in the light that there would be thousands more passengers then usual. All of whom normally use the tube but would be using the busses instead because of the inconvenience of the tube strike. All of them unsuspecting that lurking somewhere in the bus is a criminal at work.
Oh... the BT guy came yesterday to inspect our line. Hallelujah! The internet connection is back! WOO HOO! Also, suspiciously enough, he informed us that our line had been cut outside our house... very suspicious indeed...
On the 9th day of January my housemates said to me... our wallets were stolen on the bus!!
The tube strike on the 9th of January saw many tube stations closed, hence, many many Londoners opted for the bus service instead. I was at home when my first 'victim housemate' arrived home. She said "My wallet has been stolen. Sorry!" and zoomed past me up the stairs, and into her room. YD then explained what had happened to me. Their eyes widened when I told them more bad news... our internet connection was dead... and upon further inspection, we realized our phone line was completely dead. So she had to make calls to 0800 numbers to cancel credit cards and etc on her mobile... which undoubtedly would have cost her a bomb. She had only realized her bag was unzipped when she had alighted the bus. After checking the bag for her stolen wallet, it was too late to stop the bus as 'it was in a hurry' so she rushed home.
Not long after they got back, I had to leave for Central London for a dance practice. 4 hours of exhaustive practice later, I read a text msg that was sent by YD;
"Dungu, beware of pick pockets on bus 29. After HF, Dopey's wallet was stolen 2."
Dopey had already been extra careful on his way home after hearing of the theft. According to him, he had been clutching his wallet in his jacket up till our stop when he had pressed the bell to indicate he wanted to alight. When he replaced his hand in his pocket, he realized it was gone. I believe that this was just after he alighted the bus and could do nothing to stop the runaway bus.
Anyway, I partly blame the Underground for this series of unfortunate events. If they hadn't gone on strike, there would be less people on busses. There were probably more pick-pockets operational on that day in the light that there would be thousands more passengers then usual. All of whom normally use the tube but would be using the busses instead because of the inconvenience of the tube strike. All of them unsuspecting that lurking somewhere in the bus is a criminal at work.
Oh... the BT guy came yesterday to inspect our line. Hallelujah! The internet connection is back! WOO HOO! Also, suspiciously enough, he informed us that our line had been cut outside our house... very suspicious indeed...
What's Your True Color?
Dungu, your true color is Brown!
You're brown, a credible, stable color that's reminiscent of fine wood, rich leather, and wistful melancholy. Most likely, you're a logical, practical person ruled more by your head than your heart. With your inquisitive mind and insatiable curiosity, you're probably a great problem solver. And you always gather all of the facts before coming to a timely, informed decision. Easily intrigued, you're constantly finding new ways to challenge your mind, whether it's by reading the newspaper, playing a trivia game, or composing a piece of music. Brown is an impartial, neutral color, which means you tend to see the difference between fact and opinion easily and are open to many points of view. Trustworthy and steady, you really are a brown at heart.
http://web.tickle.com/color/index.jsp
I think some of that doesnt sound like me at all... logical, practical and ruled by the head??? I dont think so... Problem solver? hehehaehahehaea... I always gather all the facts? common.. I'm so compulsive... what do you guys think?
You're brown, a credible, stable color that's reminiscent of fine wood, rich leather, and wistful melancholy. Most likely, you're a logical, practical person ruled more by your head than your heart. With your inquisitive mind and insatiable curiosity, you're probably a great problem solver. And you always gather all of the facts before coming to a timely, informed decision. Easily intrigued, you're constantly finding new ways to challenge your mind, whether it's by reading the newspaper, playing a trivia game, or composing a piece of music. Brown is an impartial, neutral color, which means you tend to see the difference between fact and opinion easily and are open to many points of view. Trustworthy and steady, you really are a brown at heart.
http://web.tickle.com/color/index.jsp
I think some of that doesnt sound like me at all... logical, practical and ruled by the head??? I dont think so... Problem solver? hehehaehahehaea... I always gather all the facts? common.. I'm so compulsive... what do you guys think?
Sunday, January 08, 2006
If I had you
Darren Almond is an artist with astounding talent. Though he may have lost the Turner Prize to Simon Starling, I still think his work is very moving.
I went to Tate Britain yesterday to take a look at the Turner Prize nominees and winner. The works of Darren Almond was the most sensitive and moving for me. It dealt with personal and collective memory and was heartfelt. Really just beautiful. I walked into his room. Black. Hardly any light, except those coming from the 4 four-screen video installation. This piece is called 'If I had you 2003' and focuses on the personal memories of his widowed grandmother.
"Almond filmed her as she revisited Blackpool, where she had spent her honeymoon, for the first time since her husband’s death twenty years earlier. She watches a lone couple dancing in the famous Tower Ballroom. The soundtrack combines a gentle piano melody with sliding footsteps, discernible in each corner of the gallery. Their circular movement echoes the turning sails and creaking mechanism of an illuminated windmill from Blackpool’s promenade; Almond’s poignant metaphor for the reality of passing time and the inevitability of death."
(tate.org.uk)
"Darren A:
“If I Had You began when I was visiting my grandma a few years ago. She was in hospital she’d just had a mild stroke. And when I visited her she mistook me for my grandfather and this was the starting point of the piece. I decided to take her back to a ballroom in Blackpool tower where she used to dance with my grandfather. When she’d had the stroke she kind of leant into my ear and said that she missed him and that she’d like to pass away and return to dancing with her husband. And her body’s failing her but her mind wants to be away with him. So this piece is about a portrait of a widow caught between the present and the past in some sort of field of memory.
There are four projections all shot in Blackpool at the time of the Illuminations: we’ve got one large screen which is the illuminated windmill, which is signifying work and the passage of time; you’ve got a smaller, candy-lit fountain of water - the elixir of life, obviously! You’ve got the footsteps of an unknown couple. And on the fourth screen you’ve got my grandmother, watching it all and recounting her past through the subtle changes of expression across her face.”
(tate.org.uk)
When you sit in the room, you cannot help but feel emotional. First the windmill and it's slow creaking sounds. The never-ending and monotonuous grinding of its mechanics. Then the fountain. Poignant. Then the lone couple.. you can only see their footsteps, but you can tell, they are beautiful dancers. And most important, his grandmother. With the music and the thickness in the air, you can't help but think about life, death, memories, and what was once.
I could almost hear the echoes of her past. She dancing with her husband in Blackpool once more. I could almost hear her memories. The laughter, the music, the footsteps, the costumes, the lights, the zest in the air...
From her expressions... I felt her longing. And in that room, I cried. Not only because of the beauty of the piece, but also because of gesture of love that has been captured forever in this work.
I went to Tate Britain yesterday to take a look at the Turner Prize nominees and winner. The works of Darren Almond was the most sensitive and moving for me. It dealt with personal and collective memory and was heartfelt. Really just beautiful. I walked into his room. Black. Hardly any light, except those coming from the 4 four-screen video installation. This piece is called 'If I had you 2003' and focuses on the personal memories of his widowed grandmother.
"Almond filmed her as she revisited Blackpool, where she had spent her honeymoon, for the first time since her husband’s death twenty years earlier. She watches a lone couple dancing in the famous Tower Ballroom. The soundtrack combines a gentle piano melody with sliding footsteps, discernible in each corner of the gallery. Their circular movement echoes the turning sails and creaking mechanism of an illuminated windmill from Blackpool’s promenade; Almond’s poignant metaphor for the reality of passing time and the inevitability of death."
(tate.org.uk)
"Darren A:
“If I Had You began when I was visiting my grandma a few years ago. She was in hospital she’d just had a mild stroke. And when I visited her she mistook me for my grandfather and this was the starting point of the piece. I decided to take her back to a ballroom in Blackpool tower where she used to dance with my grandfather. When she’d had the stroke she kind of leant into my ear and said that she missed him and that she’d like to pass away and return to dancing with her husband. And her body’s failing her but her mind wants to be away with him. So this piece is about a portrait of a widow caught between the present and the past in some sort of field of memory.
There are four projections all shot in Blackpool at the time of the Illuminations: we’ve got one large screen which is the illuminated windmill, which is signifying work and the passage of time; you’ve got a smaller, candy-lit fountain of water - the elixir of life, obviously! You’ve got the footsteps of an unknown couple. And on the fourth screen you’ve got my grandmother, watching it all and recounting her past through the subtle changes of expression across her face.”
(tate.org.uk)
When you sit in the room, you cannot help but feel emotional. First the windmill and it's slow creaking sounds. The never-ending and monotonuous grinding of its mechanics. Then the fountain. Poignant. Then the lone couple.. you can only see their footsteps, but you can tell, they are beautiful dancers. And most important, his grandmother. With the music and the thickness in the air, you can't help but think about life, death, memories, and what was once.
I could almost hear the echoes of her past. She dancing with her husband in Blackpool once more. I could almost hear her memories. The laughter, the music, the footsteps, the costumes, the lights, the zest in the air...
From her expressions... I felt her longing. And in that room, I cried. Not only because of the beauty of the piece, but also because of gesture of love that has been captured forever in this work.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
How High is your Self Esteem?
You have scored 49.
What your scoring means
Many people think you are confident and in charge of your life. You're not so sure! It may be that you had a difficult upbringing with parents who were too demanding of you. Or perhaps you have always felt that you're not as bright as other people think you are. Or maybe you feel unlovable.
If you're in a relationship, it's likely that you'll often feel anxious about it. Sometimes you may worry that you'll 'muck things up'. You may also have serious concerns that your partner will 'find you out' and decide you're not worth loving.
"http://www2.netdoctor.co.uk/testyourself/facts/selfesteem.asp"
What your scoring means
Many people think you are confident and in charge of your life. You're not so sure! It may be that you had a difficult upbringing with parents who were too demanding of you. Or perhaps you have always felt that you're not as bright as other people think you are. Or maybe you feel unlovable.
If you're in a relationship, it's likely that you'll often feel anxious about it. Sometimes you may worry that you'll 'muck things up'. You may also have serious concerns that your partner will 'find you out' and decide you're not worth loving.
"http://www2.netdoctor.co.uk/testyourself/facts/selfesteem.asp"
Monday, January 02, 2006
A fond memory.
As I am writing this entry, I am watching a dance video of me and Weiqi. It is the Inter-Varsity Dance Competition 2005 Novice Modern 2 dance finals, Waltz. I just had a rush of emotions wash over me.
I can still remember being seated with Weiqi, both of us listening to th e finals re-calls, thinking that we'd never get in. It would be my third IVDC. Held in Winter Gardens, Blackpool. What a majestic setting it was. It was already such an honour dancing there. Feeling the excitement in the air. We were already glad we'd made it into the semis. I know I've already told this tale once, but I cant help it! It's such a fond memory.
Like I was saying, we were already quite certain we wouldnt have made it into the finals. We only made the semis in the southerns. What more could we expect at IVDC, where the north clashes with the south? I still remember so many numbers in the 200s were re-called. It made us lose even more hope. I think we were the last number called, being 413. It was just magical. I was gaping. My eyes just bulged. Never have I made a final at IVDC, let alone a semis!!! And with one of my fave people in the world!!
Such memories make you feel all warm, fuzzy and happy instantly. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful memory with me Weiqi! *huGz*
I can still remember being seated with Weiqi, both of us listening to th e finals re-calls, thinking that we'd never get in. It would be my third IVDC. Held in Winter Gardens, Blackpool. What a majestic setting it was. It was already such an honour dancing there. Feeling the excitement in the air. We were already glad we'd made it into the semis. I know I've already told this tale once, but I cant help it! It's such a fond memory.
Like I was saying, we were already quite certain we wouldnt have made it into the finals. We only made the semis in the southerns. What more could we expect at IVDC, where the north clashes with the south? I still remember so many numbers in the 200s were re-called. It made us lose even more hope. I think we were the last number called, being 413. It was just magical. I was gaping. My eyes just bulged. Never have I made a final at IVDC, let alone a semis!!! And with one of my fave people in the world!!
Such memories make you feel all warm, fuzzy and happy instantly. Thank you for sharing such a beautiful memory with me Weiqi! *huGz*
What's your Ideal Relationship?
| Your Ideal Relationship is Serious Dating |
 You're not ready to go walking down the aisle. But you may be ready in a couple of years. You prefer to date one on one, with a commitment. And while chemistry is important, so is compatibility. |
How Weird Are You?
| You Are 70% Weird |
 You're so weird, you think you're *totally* normal. Right? But you wig out even the biggest of circus freaks! |
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Aries of 2006
"OVERVIEW: In matters of the heart, you've always preferred the chase to the capture. In fact, hard as it might be to believe, once the courtship dance is over -- especially if it doesn't last long enough or prove interesting enough -- you've actually been known to lose interest entirely. You won't have that problem this year though. From early January through early March, someone who absolutely demands your respect will attract a healthy portion of your attention. Suddenly, you'll be willing to suspend all rules, clean up your act and go out of your way to prove how honorable your intentions are -- just to ensure that you end up with the pleasure of their long-term company.
Love won't be your only focus this year, however. You may need to make a major decision regarding your job, thanks to two eclipses, classic harbingers of change. The first, in mid-March, will get the show on the road and probably make you restless enough to start looking for other options. By the time the second eclipse arrives in late September, you'll be more than ready to clear out your desk. Giving two weeks notice may not be first and foremost on your mind, especially if a better offer is already waiting impatiently in the wings. Just be sure your next step is set in stone before you burn any bridges.
Burning bridges will come easily to you by December, however, and you won't have to worry about any repercussions either. By New Year's Day 2007, you'll be amazed at how many great big changes you've made, possibly even including a long-distance move. Regardless of where you end up -- or with whom -- rest assured that this will be a year to remember and that everything will be just fine in the end. So don't worry if things aren't completely fine right now. All that means is that you're not at the end of this process just yet. Relax and do what feels right. You're reinventing yourself, and if you're smart, you'll allow yourself to enjoy the journey -- and to take your sweet time"
(www.astrology.com)
Love won't be your only focus this year, however. You may need to make a major decision regarding your job, thanks to two eclipses, classic harbingers of change. The first, in mid-March, will get the show on the road and probably make you restless enough to start looking for other options. By the time the second eclipse arrives in late September, you'll be more than ready to clear out your desk. Giving two weeks notice may not be first and foremost on your mind, especially if a better offer is already waiting impatiently in the wings. Just be sure your next step is set in stone before you burn any bridges.
Burning bridges will come easily to you by December, however, and you won't have to worry about any repercussions either. By New Year's Day 2007, you'll be amazed at how many great big changes you've made, possibly even including a long-distance move. Regardless of where you end up -- or with whom -- rest assured that this will be a year to remember and that everything will be just fine in the end. So don't worry if things aren't completely fine right now. All that means is that you're not at the end of this process just yet. Relax and do what feels right. You're reinventing yourself, and if you're smart, you'll allow yourself to enjoy the journey -- and to take your sweet time"
(www.astrology.com)
Aries Horoscope 2006
"New Year 2006 is a great year for love and romance. From January to March, someone who completely demands your respect will attract a good portion of your attention. Suddenly, you'll be willing to suspend all rules, clean up your act and go out of your way to prove how honorable your intentions are -- just to ensure that you end up with the pleasure of their long-term company.
You may need to make a major decision regarding your job in the year 2006, due to two eclipses, classic harbingers of change. The first eclipse during mid-March, will show you on the road and may make you restless to start looking for other options. By the time the second eclipse comes in late September, you'll be completely ready to pack out your desk. Make sure of your next step before you burn any contacts.
2006 may just hold the ultimate love story for you! A fast and wonderful love affair takes up most of your time this year. Old flames may make it hard for you to break free and escape with your new love. Family and friends won't be any more understanding either. It's the chance of a lifetime to find ultimate happiness with your prince charming. Follow your heart not directions from others!
Major decisions will come easily to you by December, and you won't have to worry about any repercussions either. By New Year 2007, the changes will completely surprise you. Regardless of where you end up -- or with whom -- rest assured that this will be a year to remember and that everything will be just fine in the end."
(www.123newyear.com)
You may need to make a major decision regarding your job in the year 2006, due to two eclipses, classic harbingers of change. The first eclipse during mid-March, will show you on the road and may make you restless to start looking for other options. By the time the second eclipse comes in late September, you'll be completely ready to pack out your desk. Make sure of your next step before you burn any contacts.
2006 may just hold the ultimate love story for you! A fast and wonderful love affair takes up most of your time this year. Old flames may make it hard for you to break free and escape with your new love. Family and friends won't be any more understanding either. It's the chance of a lifetime to find ultimate happiness with your prince charming. Follow your heart not directions from others!
Major decisions will come easily to you by December, and you won't have to worry about any repercussions either. By New Year 2007, the changes will completely surprise you. Regardless of where you end up -- or with whom -- rest assured that this will be a year to remember and that everything will be just fine in the end."
(www.123newyear.com)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)