MSG MSG MSG

      After 5 hours at the office (yes I know it is Sunday....don't ask) I went to KLCC to grab a quick bite and get a thank you card for my host. Klang was fun. The trip there was quite interesting...I took the commuter rail there. It's an electric train and we had an intense lightening storm on the way over. A bolt must have struck the line and the train came to a complete halt. I had been warned that this can happen, so I wasn't really that concerned until I heard it was going to take over an hour to fix, if at all. It was pooping rain, but fortunately we broke down about a hundred yards from the last stop so I just jumped off and walked back. G picked me up at the station and we headed to her house to cook up some tasty food. We had spice rubbed garlic baked fish, cheesy potato gratin, some type of veggie, and we attempted to make mango rice, but we were all too full to eat any of it. I also met her friend R who is an awesome chef. After overcoming our food comas we headed to the mall.

      Mall going is a pastime of Malaysians, plus I really needed to get a few things. Our apartment doesn't even have filtered water, and I was in desperate need of another fan to blast in my face at night so I was going in prepared to spend some. I also bought beer for later that night. The mall, especially Jusco (kinda like a target but with more of a grocery focus) was a complete CF. It didn't really surprise me, the annual sales are going on because the schools are on break, and westerners find a lot of things in Asia a complete CF in general. This mall was medium to large size (I thought it was enormous) something like 5 floors. Pretty redic. They have stuff from all over, and yes, all the crazy things you can imagine do exist here. I got some household items, including a fan...which I just opened to set up and found that the plug only has one prong...ugh! I'm going to return it, so I went to look on Google Maps for the nearest Jusco, and it's actually quite close, but the roads here prohibit me from walking there, unless I want to wander way out of the way, so the only way to return it is to go by LRT (inner city light rail) to the next stop. So unless I want to drag this fan to work with me tomorrow (it's surprisingly heavy) I'm going to have to come back home, then go back out just to take the train one stop over, hope I don't get lost by going the wrong direction and return the fan. Total bummer cuz it's hotter than hell tonight (didn't rain today). I'm going to just shower and not dry off or something lol. We had some Indian and Chinese last night and watched House, then I passed out. I had a fitful night of sleep due to heat and bad dreams. I awoke the this morning, headed to the market (which I always find interesting) and the sweltering heat got to me. I had to lie in the AC at G's place. We stopped on the way back to KL to get some much needed Gatorade, I was pretty dehydrated. That compounded with missing my bf and doggy made for a tough morning, but I came out stronger.

     I had some really good conversations with G. She's getting ready to move to Brazil to be with her boyfriend. She get's what it's like to be in a new place, miss your significant other, and other culture shock related issues. I was so grateful I got to meet her. She made me feel better about things that bother me on the inside about being away from home. It is definitely harder than I thought. It isn't like I'm on a holiday, I'm working and living here. We talked about various global issues and Malay life. Malaysia is surprisingly international. Many kids go to school overseas, thus it's common to marry or move to another country and with a shrinking world, there is a lot of racial mixing going on. On the flip side, there is a lot of racial undertones. Maybe not like racism as we know it in the west, but she said that the one thing that bothers her is that Malaysians don't identify themselves as Malaysian first. Instead, they identify themselves as Indian, Malay, Eurasian, Chinese ect. It even goes as far as to state their race on their identity cards. I found this interesting. Countries like Rwanda did this and it led to a terrible genocide. Not that I think Malaysia is going to erupt into a brutal civil war, but it was interesting to me. The government has at the same time started a campaign called One Malaysia. You see this logo everywhere that is a Malaysian flag pattern shaped into the number one. I was wondering what that was all about.

    G's friend R also had some interesting insight. She's Malay, which usually means Muslim. However, she doesn't wear the head-dress or anything like that. I asked why and she said because she didn't grow up wearing it and it's an all or nothing kind of deal. Like you should cover everything but your face or hands or just don't do it. She doesn't believe in what I'll call the halfsies you see. People dressed in normal street clothes, usually not shorts, with the head covered. It's so hot here I really don't blame her. She also said the main reason why the people of North Africa and the Middle East cover their faces is because of the horrid sandstorms. I think this makes sense, cuz sand pelting at your face sucks no matter what religion you are, but what both of us didn't understand was the color choice. Black to me seems like it would be terribly uncomfortable in the heat, white may be a better choice. I also asked about the dog thing. She said that Muslims can't keep dogs as pets, but they can have working dogs. She also mentioned that it is un-Halal to touch a wet dog (because of the rabies outbreak back in the day) but that today they are making Halal soap for dog owners. I thought that was kinda cool. She said that the main reason why Malay Muslims don't like/tease dogs is because they are afraid of them. She's an animal lover but doesn't keep dogs. She also mentioned that drinking is forbidden in Muslim culture, it just needs to be consumed under the right pretenses. She said that a drink or two in a social occasion is acceptable, but the law was created to discourage dependency on alcohol. She said that most Muslim countries don't serve alcohol unless you are a foreigner, but alcohol may occasionally be consumed in the private of one's home. When I asked about countries (such as Brunei) that straight up ban it, she and I both agreed it was probably done for control over the population.

     I know next to nothing about Muslim culture, so I'm trying to ask as many people as I can about it. Us westerners, especially Americans, have a very skewed view and access to information about Muslim culture. A lot of practices seem contradictory to me, but I believe people have the right to believe what they choose and practice accordingly. However, I also believe in refraining from passing judgement about things you don't know about as much as possible. Asking never hurt anyone, and I find here especially, Malaysians may appear shy, but if you ask they will share in a candid manner. Obviously R can't speak for everyone, but it was interesting to get another opinion on things I know little about. I'm finding that is the best way to get to know Malaysia. Ask and observe. Everyone here is very different, much like any other place, but to a larger extent here because of so many different belief systems and cultures. I've had a couple of people around where I live ask about me. For example, I was buying street food from my favorite wok man and I guy around my age asked where I was from and was asking about America. I'm sure this was provoked by the fact that I was in a very local part of town where foreigners are rarely seen, even expats. He wanted to practice his English and I'm sure he debated a while whether or not to approach me because I caught him looking over at me several times. However, I spoke some Malay to the wok man and he started to ask me questions. He was with his girlfriend and it was a well lit area so I didn't feel threatened (plus I had a good 4 inches on the guy). I was quite impressed with his courage to just talk to me. That's not super common here. But I, in a way, understood how he must have felt.

      I'm well aware that I stand out here. I'm ok with it though. Ya, it means I have to haggle a little more, people try to pull fast ones on you. They assume you can't understand them (although they will not talk shit about you just sometimes stare and giggle). You are aware that no matter how hard you try or how well you speak the language, the color of your skin is a clear indicator that you are not and never could be from here. However, it doesn't really bother me. I'm not from here. The world is shrinking and Malaysia isn't oblivious to it. They are just as curious about you as you are of them. I mean, I don't have a British accent, being an American is much less common here. I really don't know where I'm going with all of this. I'm sure it's the heat talking. Needless to say I know I am in a place that is truly foreign to back home, and they know it as well. But I have yet to experience true malicious intent. I told G and R on the way home that I have been blown away by the hospitality here. Anyone who has done any extended amount of international traveling and has any sort of sense what-so-ever for cultural intelligence knows when you are not welcome and I have yet to have that feeling here (knock on wood). R told me this is because Malaysians value good food and good time spent with friends and family. That is something I can relate to. Family life is important here. Family includes friends. If you make the effort, you really can feel welcome.

Tired and in need of a shower.

-M

      After 5 hours at the office (yes I know it is Sunday....don't ask) I went to KLCC to grab a quick bite and get a thank you card for my host. Klang was fun. The trip there was quite interesting...I took the commuter rail there. It's an electric train and we had an intense lightening storm on the way over. A bolt must have struck the line and the train came to a complete halt. I had been warned that this can happen, so I wasn't really that concerned until I heard it was going to take over an hour to fix, if at all. It was pooping rain, but fortunately we broke down about a hundred yards from the last stop so I just jumped off and walked back. G picked me up at the station and we headed to her house to cook up some tasty food. We had spice rubbed garlic baked fish, cheesy potato gratin, some type of veggie, and we attempted to make mango rice, but we were all too full to eat any of it. I also met her friend R who is an awesome chef. After overcoming our food comas we headed to the mall.

      Mall going is a pastime of Malaysians, plus I really needed to get a few things. Our apartment doesn't even have filtered water, and I was in desperate need of another fan to blast in my face at night so I was going in prepared to spend some. I also bought beer for later that night. The mall, especially Jusco (kinda like a target but with more of a grocery focus) was a complete CF. It didn't really surprise me, the annual sales are going on because the schools are on break, and westerners find a lot of things in Asia a complete CF in general. This mall was medium to large size (I thought it was enormous) something like 5 floors. Pretty redic. They have stuff from all over, and yes, all the crazy things you can imagine do exist here. I got some household items, including a fan...which I just opened to set up and found that the plug only has one prong...ugh! I'm going to return it, so I went to look on Google Maps for the nearest Jusco, and it's actually quite close, but the roads here prohibit me from walking there, unless I want to wander way out of the way, so the only way to return it is to go by LRT (inner city light rail) to the next stop. So unless I want to drag this fan to work with me tomorrow (it's surprisingly heavy) I'm going to have to come back home, then go back out just to take the train one stop over, hope I don't get lost by going the wrong direction and return the fan. Total bummer cuz it's hotter than hell tonight (didn't rain today). I'm going to just shower and not dry off or something lol. We had some Indian and Chinese last night and watched House, then I passed out. I had a fitful night of sleep due to heat and bad dreams. I awoke the this morning, headed to the market (which I always find interesting) and the sweltering heat got to me. I had to lie in the AC at G's place. We stopped on the way back to KL to get some much needed Gatorade, I was pretty dehydrated. That compounded with missing my bf and doggy made for a tough morning, but I came out stronger.

     I had some really good conversations with G. She's getting ready to move to Brazil to be with her boyfriend. She get's what it's like to be in a new place, miss your significant other, and other culture shock related issues. I was so grateful I got to meet her. She made me feel better about things that bother me on the inside about being away from home. It is definitely harder than I thought. It isn't like I'm on a holiday, I'm working and living here. We talked about various global issues and Malay life. Malaysia is surprisingly international. Many kids go to school overseas, thus it's common to marry or move to another country and with a shrinking world, there is a lot of racial mixing going on. On the flip side, there is a lot of racial undertones. Maybe not like racism as we know it in the west, but she said that the one thing that bothers her is that Malaysians don't identify themselves as Malaysian first. Instead, they identify themselves as Indian, Malay, Eurasian, Chinese ect. It even goes as far as to state their race on their identity cards. I found this interesting. Countries like Rwanda did this and it led to a terrible genocide. Not that I think Malaysia is going to erupt into a brutal civil war, but it was interesting to me. The government has at the same time started a campaign called One Malaysia. You see this logo everywhere that is a Malaysian flag pattern shaped into the number one. I was wondering what that was all about.

    G's friend R also had some interesting insight. She's Malay, which usually means Muslim. However, she doesn't wear the head-dress or anything like that. I asked why and she said because she didn't grow up wearing it and it's an all or nothing kind of deal. Like you should cover everything but your face or hands or just don't do it. She doesn't believe in what I'll call the halfsies you see. People dressed in normal street clothes, usually not shorts, with the head covered. It's so hot here I really don't blame her. She also said the main reason why the people of North Africa and the Middle East cover their faces is because of the horrid sandstorms. I think this makes sense, cuz sand pelting at your face sucks no matter what religion you are, but what both of us didn't understand was the color choice. Black to me seems like it would be terribly uncomfortable in the heat, white may be a better choice. I also asked about the dog thing. She said that Muslims can't keep dogs as pets, but they can have working dogs. She also mentioned that it is un-Halal to touch a wet dog (because of the rabies outbreak back in the day) but that today they are making Halal soap for dog owners. I thought that was kinda cool. She said that the main reason why Malay Muslims don't like/tease dogs is because they are afraid of them. She's an animal lover but doesn't keep dogs. She also mentioned that drinking is forbidden in Muslim culture, it just needs to be consumed under the right pretenses. She said that a drink or two in a social occasion is acceptable, but the law was created to discourage dependency on alcohol. She said that most Muslim countries don't serve alcohol unless you are a foreigner, but alcohol may occasionally be consumed in the private of one's home. When I asked about countries (such as Brunei) that straight up ban it, she and I both agreed it was probably done for control over the population.

     I know next to nothing about Muslim culture, so I'm trying to ask as many people as I can about it. Us westerners, especially Americans, have a very skewed view and access to information about Muslim culture. A lot of practices seem contradictory to me, but I believe people have the right to believe what they choose and practice accordingly. However, I also believe in refraining from passing judgement about things you don't know about as much as possible. Asking never hurt anyone, and I find here especially, Malaysians may appear shy, but if you ask they will share in a candid manner. Obviously R can't speak for everyone, but it was interesting to get another opinion on things I know little about. I'm finding that is the best way to get to know Malaysia. Ask and observe. Everyone here is very different, much like any other place, but to a larger extent here because of so many different belief systems and cultures. I've had a couple of people around where I live ask about me. For example, I was buying street food from my favorite wok man and I guy around my age asked where I was from and was asking about America. I'm sure this was provoked by the fact that I was in a very local part of town where foreigners are rarely seen, even expats. He wanted to practice his English and I'm sure he debated a while whether or not to approach me because I caught him looking over at me several times. However, I spoke some Malay to the wok man and he started to ask me questions. He was with his girlfriend and it was a well lit area so I didn't feel threatened (plus I had a good 4 inches on the guy). I was quite impressed with his courage to just talk to me. That's not super common here. But I, in a way, understood how he must have felt.

      I'm well aware that I stand out here. I'm ok with it though. Ya, it means I have to haggle a little more, people try to pull fast ones on you. They assume you can't understand them (although they will not talk shit about you just sometimes stare and giggle). You are aware that no matter how hard you try or how well you speak the language, the color of your skin is a clear indicator that you are not and never could be from here. However, it doesn't really bother me. I'm not from here. The world is shrinking and Malaysia isn't oblivious to it. They are just as curious about you as you are of them. I mean, I don't have a British accent, being an American is much less common here. I really don't know where I'm going with all of this. I'm sure it's the heat talking. Needless to say I know I am in a place that is truly foreign to back home, and they know it as well. But I have yet to experience true malicious intent. I told G and R on the way home that I have been blown away by the hospitality here. Anyone who has done any extended amount of international traveling and has any sort of sense what-so-ever for cultural intelligence knows when you are not welcome and I have yet to have that feeling here (knock on wood). R told me this is because Malaysians value good food and good time spent with friends and family. That is something I can relate to. Family life is important here. Family includes friends. If you make the effort, you really can feel welcome.

Tired and in need of a shower.

-M

      After 5 hours at the office (yes I know it is Sunday....don't ask) I went to KLCC to grab a quick bite and get a thank you card for my host. Klang was fun. The trip there was quite interesting...I took the commuter rail there. It's an electric train and we had an intense lightening storm on the way over. A bolt must have struck the line and the train came to a complete halt. I had been warned that this can happen, so I wasn't really that concerned until I heard it was going to take over an hour to fix, if at all. It was pooping rain, but fortunately we broke down about a hundred yards from the last stop so I just jumped off and walked back. G picked me up at the station and we headed to her house to cook up some tasty food. We had spice rubbed garlic baked fish, cheesy potato gratin, some type of veggie, and we attempted to make mango rice, but we were all too full to eat any of it. I also met her friend R who is an awesome chef. After overcoming our food comas we headed to the mall.

      Mall going is a pastime of Malaysians, plus I really needed to get a few things. Our apartment doesn't even have filtered water, and I was in desperate need of another fan to blast in my face at night so I was going in prepared to spend some. I also bought beer for later that night. The mall, especially Jusco (kinda like a target but with more of a grocery focus) was a complete CF. It didn't really surprise me, the annual sales are going on because the schools are on break, and westerners find a lot of things in Asia a complete CF in general. This mall was medium to large size (I thought it was enormous) something like 5 floors. Pretty redic. They have stuff from all over, and yes, all the crazy things you can imagine do exist here. I got some household items, including a fan...which I just opened to set up and found that the plug only has one prong...ugh! I'm going to return it, so I went to look on Google Maps for the nearest Jusco, and it's actually quite close, but the roads here prohibit me from walking there, unless I want to wander way out of the way, so the only way to return it is to go by LRT (inner city light rail) to the next stop. So unless I want to drag this fan to work with me tomorrow (it's surprisingly heavy) I'm going to have to come back home, then go back out just to take the train one stop over, hope I don't get lost by going the wrong direction and return the fan. Total bummer cuz it's hotter than hell tonight (didn't rain today). I'm going to just shower and not dry off or something lol. We had some Indian and Chinese last night and watched House, then I passed out. I had a fitful night of sleep due to heat and bad dreams. I awoke the this morning, headed to the market (which I always find interesting) and the sweltering heat got to me. I had to lie in the AC at G's place. We stopped on the way back to KL to get some much needed Gatorade, I was pretty dehydrated. That compounded with missing my bf and doggy made for a tough morning, but I came out stronger.

     I had some really good conversations with G. She's getting ready to move to Brazil to be with her boyfriend. She get's what it's like to be in a new place, miss your significant other, and other culture shock related issues. I was so grateful I got to meet her. She made me feel better about things that bother me on the inside about being away from home. It is definitely harder than I thought. It isn't like I'm on a holiday, I'm working and living here. We talked about various global issues and Malay life. Malaysia is surprisingly international. Many kids go to school overseas, thus it's common to marry or move to another country and with a shrinking world, there is a lot of racial mixing going on. On the flip side, there is a lot of racial undertones. Maybe not like racism as we know it in the west, but she said that the one thing that bothers her is that Malaysians don't identify themselves as Malaysian first. Instead, they identify themselves as Indian, Malay, Eurasian, Chinese ect. It even goes as far as to state their race on their identity cards. I found this interesting. Countries like Rwanda did this and it led to a terrible genocide. Not that I think Malaysia is going to erupt into a brutal civil war, but it was interesting to me. The government has at the same time started a campaign called One Malaysia. You see this logo everywhere that is a Malaysian flag pattern shaped into the number one. I was wondering what that was all about.

    G's friend R also had some interesting insight. She's Malay, which usually means Muslim. However, she doesn't wear the head-dress or anything like that. I asked why and she said because she didn't grow up wearing it and it's an all or nothing kind of deal. Like you should cover everything but your face or hands or just don't do it. She doesn't believe in what I'll call the halfsies you see. People dressed in normal street clothes, usually not shorts, with the head covered. It's so hot here I really don't blame her. She also said the main reason why the people of North Africa and the Middle East cover their faces is because of the horrid sandstorms. I think this makes sense, cuz sand pelting at your face sucks no matter what religion you are, but what both of us didn't understand was the color choice. Black to me seems like it would be terribly uncomfortable in the heat, white may be a better choice. I also asked about the dog thing. She said that Muslims can't keep dogs as pets, but they can have working dogs. She also mentioned that it is un-Halal to touch a wet dog (because of the rabies outbreak back in the day) but that today they are making Halal soap for dog owners. I thought that was kinda cool. She said that the main reason why Malay Muslims don't like/tease dogs is because they are afraid of them. She's an animal lover but doesn't keep dogs. She also mentioned that drinking is forbidden in Muslim culture, it just needs to be consumed under the right pretenses. She said that a drink or two in a social occasion is acceptable, but the law was created to discourage dependency on alcohol. She said that most Muslim countries don't serve alcohol unless you are a foreigner, but alcohol may occasionally be consumed in the private of one's home. When I asked about countries (such as Brunei) that straight up ban it, she and I both agreed it was probably done for control over the population.

     I know next to nothing about Muslim culture, so I'm trying to ask as many people as I can about it. Us westerners, especially Americans, have a very skewed view and access to information about Muslim culture. A lot of practices seem contradictory to me, but I believe people have the right to believe what they choose and practice accordingly. However, I also believe in refraining from passing judgement about things you don't know about as much as possible. Asking never hurt anyone, and I find here especially, Malaysians may appear shy, but if you ask they will share in a candid manner. Obviously R can't speak for everyone, but it was interesting to get another opinion on things I know little about. I'm finding that is the best way to get to know Malaysia. Ask and observe. Everyone here is very different, much like any other place, but to a larger extent here because of so many different belief systems and cultures. I've had a couple of people around where I live ask about me. For example, I was buying street food from my favorite wok man and I guy around my age asked where I was from and was asking about America. I'm sure this was provoked by the fact that I was in a very local part of town where foreigners are rarely seen, even expats. He wanted to practice his English and I'm sure he debated a while whether or not to approach me because I caught him looking over at me several times. However, I spoke some Malay to the wok man and he started to ask me questions. He was with his girlfriend and it was a well lit area so I didn't feel threatened (plus I had a good 4 inches on the guy). I was quite impressed with his courage to just talk to me. That's not super common here. But I, in a way, understood how he must have felt.

      I'm well aware that I stand out here. I'm ok with it though. Ya, it means I have to haggle a little more, people try to pull fast ones on you. They assume you can't understand them (although they will not talk shit about you just sometimes stare and giggle). You are aware that no matter how hard you try or how well you speak the language, the color of your skin is a clear indicator that you are not and never could be from here. However, it doesn't really bother me. I'm not from here. The world is shrinking and Malaysia isn't oblivious to it. They are just as curious about you as you are of them. I mean, I don't have a British accent, being an American is much less common here. I really don't know where I'm going with all of this. I'm sure it's the heat talking. Needless to say I know I am in a place that is truly foreign to back home, and they know it as well. But I have yet to experience true malicious intent. I told G and R on the way home that I have been blown away by the hospitality here. Anyone who has done any extended amount of international traveling and has any sort of sense what-so-ever for cultural intelligence knows when you are not welcome and I have yet to have that feeling here (knock on wood). R told me this is because Malaysians value good food and good time spent with friends and family. That is something I can relate to. Family life is important here. Family includes friends. If you make the effort, you really can feel welcome.

Tired and in need of a shower.

-M

      After 5 hours at the office (yes I know it is Sunday....don't ask) I went to KLCC to grab a quick bite and get a thank you card for my host. Klang was fun. The trip there was quite interesting...I took the commuter rail there. It's an electric train and we had an intense lightening storm on the way over. A bolt must have struck the line and the train came to a complete halt. I had been warned that this can happen, so I wasn't really that concerned until I heard it was going to take over an hour to fix, if at all. It was pooping rain, but fortunately we broke down about a hundred yards from the last stop so I just jumped off and walked back. G picked me up at the station and we headed to her house to cook up some tasty food. We had spice rubbed garlic baked fish, cheesy potato gratin, some type of veggie, and we attempted to make mango rice, but we were all too full to eat any of it. I also met her friend R who is an awesome chef. After overcoming our food comas we headed to the mall.

      Mall going is a pastime of Malaysians, plus I really needed to get a few things. Our apartment doesn't even have filtered water, and I was in desperate need of another fan to blast in my face at night so I was going in prepared to spend some. I also bought beer for later that night. The mall, especially Jusco (kinda like a target but with more of a grocery focus) was a complete CF. It didn't really surprise me, the annual sales are going on because the schools are on break, and westerners find a lot of things in Asia a complete CF in general. This mall was medium to large size (I thought it was enormous) something like 5 floors. Pretty redic. They have stuff from all over, and yes, all the crazy things you can imagine do exist here. I got some household items, including a fan...which I just opened to set up and found that the plug only has one prong...ugh! I'm going to return it, so I went to look on Google Maps for the nearest Jusco, and it's actually quite close, but the roads here prohibit me from walking there, unless I want to wander way out of the way, so the only way to return it is to go by LRT (inner city light rail) to the next stop. So unless I want to drag this fan to work with me tomorrow (it's surprisingly heavy) I'm going to have to come back home, then go back out just to take the train one stop over, hope I don't get lost by going the wrong direction and return the fan. Total bummer cuz it's hotter than hell tonight (didn't rain today). I'm going to just shower and not dry off or something lol. We had some Indian and Chinese last night and watched House, then I passed out. I had a fitful night of sleep due to heat and bad dreams. I awoke the this morning, headed to the market (which I always find interesting) and the sweltering heat got to me. I had to lie in the AC at G's place. We stopped on the way back to KL to get some much needed Gatorade, I was pretty dehydrated. That compounded with missing my bf and doggy made for a tough morning, but I came out stronger.

     I had some really good conversations with G. She's getting ready to move to Brazil to be with her boyfriend. She get's what it's like to be in a new place, miss your significant other, and other culture shock related issues. I was so grateful I got to meet her. She made me feel better about things that bother me on the inside about being away from home. It is definitely harder than I thought. It isn't like I'm on a holiday, I'm working and living here. We talked about various global issues and Malay life. Malaysia is surprisingly international. Many kids go to school overseas, thus it's common to marry or move to another country and with a shrinking world, there is a lot of racial mixing going on. On the flip side, there is a lot of racial undertones. Maybe not like racism as we know it in the west, but she said that the one thing that bothers her is that Malaysians don't identify themselves as Malaysian first. Instead, they identify themselves as Indian, Malay, Eurasian, Chinese ect. It even goes as far as to state their race on their identity cards. I found this interesting. Countries like Rwanda did this and it led to a terrible genocide. Not that I think Malaysia is going to erupt into a brutal civil war, but it was interesting to me. The government has at the same time started a campaign called One Malaysia. You see this logo everywhere that is a Malaysian flag pattern shaped into the number one. I was wondering what that was all about.

    G's friend R also had some interesting insight. She's Malay, which usually means Muslim. However, she doesn't wear the head-dress or anything like that. I asked why and she said because she didn't grow up wearing it and it's an all or nothing kind of deal. Like you should cover everything but your face or hands or just don't do it. She doesn't believe in what I'll call the halfsies you see. People dressed in normal street clothes, usually not shorts, with the head covered. It's so hot here I really don't blame her. She also said the main reason why the people of North Africa and the Middle East cover their faces is because of the horrid sandstorms. I think this makes sense, cuz sand pelting at your face sucks no matter what religion you are, but what both of us didn't understand was the color choice. Black to me seems like it would be terribly uncomfortable in the heat, white may be a better choice. I also asked about the dog thing. She said that Muslims can't keep dogs as pets, but they can have working dogs. She also mentioned that it is un-Halal to touch a wet dog (because of the rabies outbreak back in the day) but that today they are making Halal soap for dog owners. I thought that was kinda cool. She said that the main reason why Malay Muslims don't like/tease dogs is because they are afraid of them. She's an animal lover but doesn't keep dogs. She also mentioned that drinking is forbidden in Muslim culture, it just needs to be consumed under the right pretenses. She said that a drink or two in a social occasion is acceptable, but the law was created to discourage dependency on alcohol. She said that most Muslim countries don't serve alcohol unless you are a foreigner, but alcohol may occasionally be consumed in the private of one's home. When I asked about countries (such as Brunei) that straight up ban it, she and I both agreed it was probably done for control over the population.

     I know next to nothing about Muslim culture, so I'm trying to ask as many people as I can about it. Us westerners, especially Americans, have a very skewed view and access to information about Muslim culture. A lot of practices seem contradictory to me, but I believe people have the right to believe what they choose and practice accordingly. However, I also believe in refraining from passing judgement about things you don't know about as much as possible. Asking never hurt anyone, and I find here especially, Malaysians may appear shy, but if you ask they will share in a candid manner. Obviously R can't speak for everyone, but it was interesting to get another opinion on things I know little about. I'm finding that is the best way to get to know Malaysia. Ask and observe. Everyone here is very different, much like any other place, but to a larger extent here because of so many different belief systems and cultures. I've had a couple of people around where I live ask about me. For example, I was buying street food from my favorite wok man and I guy around my age asked where I was from and was asking about America. I'm sure this was provoked by the fact that I was in a very local part of town where foreigners are rarely seen, even expats. He wanted to practice his English and I'm sure he debated a while whether or not to approach me because I caught him looking over at me several times. However, I spoke some Malay to the wok man and he started to ask me questions. He was with his girlfriend and it was a well lit area so I didn't feel threatened (plus I had a good 4 inches on the guy). I was quite impressed with his courage to just talk to me. That's not super common here. But I, in a way, understood how he must have felt.

      I'm well aware that I stand out here. I'm ok with it though. Ya, it means I have to haggle a little more, people try to pull fast ones on you. They assume you can't understand them (although they will not talk shit about you just sometimes stare and giggle). You are aware that no matter how hard you try or how well you speak the language, the color of your skin is a clear indicator that you are not and never could be from here. However, it doesn't really bother me. I'm not from here. The world is shrinking and Malaysia isn't oblivious to it. They are just as curious about you as you are of them. I mean, I don't have a British accent, being an American is much less common here. I really don't know where I'm going with all of this. I'm sure it's the heat talking. Needless to say I know I am in a place that is truly foreign to back home, and they know it as well. But I have yet to experience true malicious intent. I told G and R on the way home that I have been blown away by the hospitality here. Anyone who has done any extended amount of international traveling and has any sort of sense what-so-ever for cultural intelligence knows when you are not welcome and I have yet to have that feeling here (knock on wood). R told me this is because Malaysians value good food and good time spent with friends and family. That is something I can relate to. Family life is important here. Family includes friends. If you make the effort, you really can feel welcome.

Tired and in need of a shower.

-M

Heading to Klang and finally unpacking

     These last few days have been rather stressful. I have had some problems at work. If there is one true stereotype (and several locals have confirmed) it is that they are work-a-holics. Long, long hours. I was asked to come in this weekend. I am already almost certain I will be in next weekend. I've already had a 12 hour day, I have yet to leave when the office technically closes, or arrive when the work day starts. I was told (because I know architects can be crazy, so I specifically asked) that I would not be asked to work like that because I am only here for a short while, plus I'm not getting paid to. So as you can see, there is a problem. I mentioned something to the higher-ups, although both were not in, I'm hoping it gets resolved soon because I did not come across the globe to be chained to a desk. Hopefully, and I'm assuming, that it is a big miscommunication, or they are testing me to see what I am willing to do. Either way I'm not starting out by slaving away 7 days a week.

     On to more positive things. I finally moved into my apartment, although I have yet to finish unpacking. I got started yesterday and did some much needed laundry, although I forgot that the detergent here kills color so a few shirts that were neon are now dull and blah. I will probably hand wash certain things from here on out. My apartment is super nice, I will post some pix later if I have time. It is a new building and security is quite tight which I find a bit intense, although better safe than sorry I guess. Also, there is no air con, which is a bummer because it is really hot. Especially since there are also no curtains yet so the sun is beating down through my window. It's ok because most of the time I won't be here, but sleeping is an adjustment. I'm going to try to get another fan (I looked all over yesterday and couldn't find one). I've had to spend some cash recently (buying some staple groceries, some beer, some household items, rent, ect). Yesterday, since I was upset, I bought Subway, which is the same price as in the US (read: expensive for here). I am amazed at the amount of familiar brands in the supermarkets. I don't buy them, they are more expensive, but you can get things like Tropicana, Ben and Jerry's, Quaker Oats, ect. The prices of groceries went up a little bit because I am in a wealthier neighborhood, but it is still less than in the US.

     I am going to Skype with my family in a little bit and then the plan is to finish unpacking, make a list of things I still need, and head to Klang. Klang is a city a bit far from here (about an hr and a half train) on the west coast. I was invited to go over to a friend of a friend's house to cook which should be a good time. Maybe I can find a place to get a fan to put near my bed (the ceiling fan only does so much). I have a feeling today is going to be hot hot hot because there are no clouds. It is best when it rains because things cool down a bit. I also find the downpour quite calming.

     Sunday I am getting a ride back from G (the friend of a friend) and I think I will figure out how to use my pool/gym pass (I'm going to gain a bunch of weight if I don't work out, too many carbs!), finish settling in, read, and journal. I have fallen a bit behind in my journal. It's hard to keep up with both the blog, emails home, and a written journal. All trips I have taken overseas have their own written journal (except a cruise I went on). I am going to try to go to church every other week so I can keep in touch with my spiritual side. I have been using a Buddhist filter to sift through the messages, I find it easier for me to relate to.

     Well I am going to cook up some breakfast before I Skype. I have much more to share, but it will have to wait for another time.

Missing home but loving Malaysia,

-M

     These last few days have been rather stressful. I have had some problems at work. If there is one true stereotype (and several locals have confirmed) it is that they are work-a-holics. Long, long hours. I was asked to come in this weekend. I am already almost certain I will be in next weekend. I've already had a 12 hour day, I have yet to leave when the office technically closes, or arrive when the work day starts. I was told (because I know architects can be crazy, so I specifically asked) that I would not be asked to work like that because I am only here for a short while, plus I'm not getting paid to. So as you can see, there is a problem. I mentioned something to the higher-ups, although both were not in, I'm hoping it gets resolved soon because I did not come across the globe to be chained to a desk. Hopefully, and I'm assuming, that it is a big miscommunication, or they are testing me to see what I am willing to do. Either way I'm not starting out by slaving away 7 days a week.

     On to more positive things. I finally moved into my apartment, although I have yet to finish unpacking. I got started yesterday and did some much needed laundry, although I forgot that the detergent here kills color so a few shirts that were neon are now dull and blah. I will probably hand wash certain things from here on out. My apartment is super nice, I will post some pix later if I have time. It is a new building and security is quite tight which I find a bit intense, although better safe than sorry I guess. Also, there is no air con, which is a bummer because it is really hot. Especially since there are also no curtains yet so the sun is beating down through my window. It's ok because most of the time I won't be here, but sleeping is an adjustment. I'm going to try to get another fan (I looked all over yesterday and couldn't find one). I've had to spend some cash recently (buying some staple groceries, some beer, some household items, rent, ect). Yesterday, since I was upset, I bought Subway, which is the same price as in the US (read: expensive for here). I am amazed at the amount of familiar brands in the supermarkets. I don't buy them, they are more expensive, but you can get things like Tropicana, Ben and Jerry's, Quaker Oats, ect. The prices of groceries went up a little bit because I am in a wealthier neighborhood, but it is still less than in the US.

     I am going to Skype with my family in a little bit and then the plan is to finish unpacking, make a list of things I still need, and head to Klang. Klang is a city a bit far from here (about an hr and a half train) on the west coast. I was invited to go over to a friend of a friend's house to cook which should be a good time. Maybe I can find a place to get a fan to put near my bed (the ceiling fan only does so much). I have a feeling today is going to be hot hot hot because there are no clouds. It is best when it rains because things cool down a bit. I also find the downpour quite calming.

     Sunday I am getting a ride back from G (the friend of a friend) and I think I will figure out how to use my pool/gym pass (I'm going to gain a bunch of weight if I don't work out, too many carbs!), finish settling in, read, and journal. I have fallen a bit behind in my journal. It's hard to keep up with both the blog, emails home, and a written journal. All trips I have taken overseas have their own written journal (except a cruise I went on). I am going to try to go to church every other week so I can keep in touch with my spiritual side. I have been using a Buddhist filter to sift through the messages, I find it easier for me to relate to.

     Well I am going to cook up some breakfast before I Skype. I have much more to share, but it will have to wait for another time.

Missing home but loving Malaysia,

-M

     These last few days have been rather stressful. I have had some problems at work. If there is one true stereotype (and several locals have confirmed) it is that they are work-a-holics. Long, long hours. I was asked to come in this weekend. I am already almost certain I will be in next weekend. I've already had a 12 hour day, I have yet to leave when the office technically closes, or arrive when the work day starts. I was told (because I know architects can be crazy, so I specifically asked) that I would not be asked to work like that because I am only here for a short while, plus I'm not getting paid to. So as you can see, there is a problem. I mentioned something to the higher-ups, although both were not in, I'm hoping it gets resolved soon because I did not come across the globe to be chained to a desk. Hopefully, and I'm assuming, that it is a big miscommunication, or they are testing me to see what I am willing to do. Either way I'm not starting out by slaving away 7 days a week.

     On to more positive things. I finally moved into my apartment, although I have yet to finish unpacking. I got started yesterday and did some much needed laundry, although I forgot that the detergent here kills color so a few shirts that were neon are now dull and blah. I will probably hand wash certain things from here on out. My apartment is super nice, I will post some pix later if I have time. It is a new building and security is quite tight which I find a bit intense, although better safe than sorry I guess. Also, there is no air con, which is a bummer because it is really hot. Especially since there are also no curtains yet so the sun is beating down through my window. It's ok because most of the time I won't be here, but sleeping is an adjustment. I'm going to try to get another fan (I looked all over yesterday and couldn't find one). I've had to spend some cash recently (buying some staple groceries, some beer, some household items, rent, ect). Yesterday, since I was upset, I bought Subway, which is the same price as in the US (read: expensive for here). I am amazed at the amount of familiar brands in the supermarkets. I don't buy them, they are more expensive, but you can get things like Tropicana, Ben and Jerry's, Quaker Oats, ect. The prices of groceries went up a little bit because I am in a wealthier neighborhood, but it is still less than in the US.

     I am going to Skype with my family in a little bit and then the plan is to finish unpacking, make a list of things I still need, and head to Klang. Klang is a city a bit far from here (about an hr and a half train) on the west coast. I was invited to go over to a friend of a friend's house to cook which should be a good time. Maybe I can find a place to get a fan to put near my bed (the ceiling fan only does so much). I have a feeling today is going to be hot hot hot because there are no clouds. It is best when it rains because things cool down a bit. I also find the downpour quite calming.

     Sunday I am getting a ride back from G (the friend of a friend) and I think I will figure out how to use my pool/gym pass (I'm going to gain a bunch of weight if I don't work out, too many carbs!), finish settling in, read, and journal. I have fallen a bit behind in my journal. It's hard to keep up with both the blog, emails home, and a written journal. All trips I have taken overseas have their own written journal (except a cruise I went on). I am going to try to go to church every other week so I can keep in touch with my spiritual side. I have been using a Buddhist filter to sift through the messages, I find it easier for me to relate to.

     Well I am going to cook up some breakfast before I Skype. I have much more to share, but it will have to wait for another time.

Missing home but loving Malaysia,

-M

     These last few days have been rather stressful. I have had some problems at work. If there is one true stereotype (and several locals have confirmed) it is that they are work-a-holics. Long, long hours. I was asked to come in this weekend. I am already almost certain I will be in next weekend. I've already had a 12 hour day, I have yet to leave when the office technically closes, or arrive when the work day starts. I was told (because I know architects can be crazy, so I specifically asked) that I would not be asked to work like that because I am only here for a short while, plus I'm not getting paid to. So as you can see, there is a problem. I mentioned something to the higher-ups, although both were not in, I'm hoping it gets resolved soon because I did not come across the globe to be chained to a desk. Hopefully, and I'm assuming, that it is a big miscommunication, or they are testing me to see what I am willing to do. Either way I'm not starting out by slaving away 7 days a week.

     On to more positive things. I finally moved into my apartment, although I have yet to finish unpacking. I got started yesterday and did some much needed laundry, although I forgot that the detergent here kills color so a few shirts that were neon are now dull and blah. I will probably hand wash certain things from here on out. My apartment is super nice, I will post some pix later if I have time. It is a new building and security is quite tight which I find a bit intense, although better safe than sorry I guess. Also, there is no air con, which is a bummer because it is really hot. Especially since there are also no curtains yet so the sun is beating down through my window. It's ok because most of the time I won't be here, but sleeping is an adjustment. I'm going to try to get another fan (I looked all over yesterday and couldn't find one). I've had to spend some cash recently (buying some staple groceries, some beer, some household items, rent, ect). Yesterday, since I was upset, I bought Subway, which is the same price as in the US (read: expensive for here). I am amazed at the amount of familiar brands in the supermarkets. I don't buy them, they are more expensive, but you can get things like Tropicana, Ben and Jerry's, Quaker Oats, ect. The prices of groceries went up a little bit because I am in a wealthier neighborhood, but it is still less than in the US.

     I am going to Skype with my family in a little bit and then the plan is to finish unpacking, make a list of things I still need, and head to Klang. Klang is a city a bit far from here (about an hr and a half train) on the west coast. I was invited to go over to a friend of a friend's house to cook which should be a good time. Maybe I can find a place to get a fan to put near my bed (the ceiling fan only does so much). I have a feeling today is going to be hot hot hot because there are no clouds. It is best when it rains because things cool down a bit. I also find the downpour quite calming.

     Sunday I am getting a ride back from G (the friend of a friend) and I think I will figure out how to use my pool/gym pass (I'm going to gain a bunch of weight if I don't work out, too many carbs!), finish settling in, read, and journal. I have fallen a bit behind in my journal. It's hard to keep up with both the blog, emails home, and a written journal. All trips I have taken overseas have their own written journal (except a cruise I went on). I am going to try to go to church every other week so I can keep in touch with my spiritual side. I have been using a Buddhist filter to sift through the messages, I find it easier for me to relate to.

     Well I am going to cook up some breakfast before I Skype. I have much more to share, but it will have to wait for another time.

Missing home but loving Malaysia,

-M

I ate spicy noodles for breakers...I don't know what else to call this post

              Before I get started on this post I would like to take a moment to express my sorrows for those affected by the recent tornado in Joplin, MO. As some of you may know, I lived in the small town of Joplin for two years back when I was little. My dad also lived there for a bit as a kid. My brother was born there, and the hospital he was born in is now a pile of rubble. It is a small community, but the key word here is community, everyone is very close. My family will be going back to help clean up later this summer. Our old house is ok (the twister missed it by 2 streets). Everyone we know that still lives there is fine (one family’s house had lifted off of its foundation by 6 inches!). However, please keep the family and friends of those affected in your thoughts and prayers.

                I know I have been bad at updating this recently. This is mostly because I have started work and find myself with little free time. We are supposed to work from 9-6 but I have not left the office at 6 nor come in at 9 yet. Tomorrow I move into my actual apartment (I am sad to leave A’s house, her and her family have been nothing but the best to me). I will probably start getting in later and leaving earlier now, at least until the competition I am working on gets into full swing. Yesterday, I was writing a post and got swept away from my computer to go on a site visit/client meeting/model shop visit. I will post pictures from this at some point (hopefully this weekend). The model shop was intense. Absolutely amazing. For those at my school, imagine completed slice models (ie 1:4 scale), except a whole complex of high rises…it’s amazing. It had a sweat shop feel to it, except without the borderline slave labor (the worker conditions were fine, there was air-con, but the level of activity was intense, just please don’t think this place is actually a sweat shop, keep in mind I’m sarcastic), just an old buiding with materials everywhere, lazer cutters humming, music blaring, basically imagine studio with no windows and no maylines.  

                It was an exceptionally hot day (even for here) yesterday. I went with my boss Z and he picked up another architect working on the project from another firm, N from South Africa. He had some interesting things to say about the place. Their economy is much like ours (USA) from a job market standpoint, but he commented that it is even worse because if you have graduated from school in the last 5 years and are white, you can’t find work. This is, of course, very hard for me to wrap my head around, but interesting none the less. The site, albiet just like any other construction site has its issues, but here in Asia things are done a bit differently. First of all, the workers live on the site (although the worker’s homes were somewhat out of view, I had a pretty good idea of what they were like and I’m sure you could imagine as well). Furthermore, they work around the clock, in two shifts. Most of the workers are actually unskilled and learn on the job. As one could imagine, this makes it difficult to meet the already seemingly impossible deadlines because they are literally being trained on the spot to do some rather difficult tasks (bricklaying is an art my friends). They mostly come from Indonesia and Bangladesh. America obviously has a similar migrant workforce population with the Latin and South American immigrants (no, contrary to popular belief, even in America, they are not all Mexican). However, you would never get an American migrant worker to work the way these people do. My knee-jerk reaction is one of uncomfort. To us, this seems like poor conditions, unfair hours, no proper housing, ect. However, here it is a way of life. They obviously get paid less than they would in the states (just due to differing economies) so to live on the job actually saves them a lot of money. I also noticed a clean water source and proper drainage in the glipse I got of the workers quarters. I also did not smell any open sewage, so at least they had basic amenities.  I really do not know how I feel about the workers’ situation, because this is just the mentality of work here. It goes even further than that. From what I have gathered from talking with people is that in Asia a client considers everyone his workers, regardless of the labor involved. Thus, we architects, as the ‘paper workers’ if you will are considered to be like the construction workers. Unless you flat out say it, you are expected to work just as hard as those laborers (granted we have air con). For example, yesterday in the meeting Z had to explicitly tell his clients that he would not take meetings past 6pm. In the west, unless it is a some type of corprate ‘crisis’ or you are a doctor, you would not meet with clients at odd hours such as this. Needless to say I learned a lot yesterday, although I’m still trying to piece together what exactly to make of it.

                Anyways, it’s about time I get back to work. I’ll catch up later, I still obviously have lots to say and lots to share.

Missing everyone back home. Finally sleeping like a normal human being. I hope everyone is safe and sound.

-M

              Before I get started on this post I would like to take a moment to express my sorrows for those affected by the recent tornado in Joplin, MO. As some of you may know, I lived in the small town of Joplin for two years back when I was little. My dad also lived there for a bit as a kid. My brother was born there, and the hospital he was born in is now a pile of rubble. It is a small community, but the key word here is community, everyone is very close. My family will be going back to help clean up later this summer. Our old house is ok (the twister missed it by 2 streets). Everyone we know that still lives there is fine (one family’s house had lifted off of its foundation by 6 inches!). However, please keep the family and friends of those affected in your thoughts and prayers.

                I know I have been bad at updating this recently. This is mostly because I have started work and find myself with little free time. We are supposed to work from 9-6 but I have not left the office at 6 nor come in at 9 yet. Tomorrow I move into my actual apartment (I am sad to leave A’s house, her and her family have been nothing but the best to me). I will probably start getting in later and leaving earlier now, at least until the competition I am working on gets into full swing. Yesterday, I was writing a post and got swept away from my computer to go on a site visit/client meeting/model shop visit. I will post pictures from this at some point (hopefully this weekend). The model shop was intense. Absolutely amazing. For those at my school, imagine completed slice models (ie 1:4 scale), except a whole complex of high rises…it’s amazing. It had a sweat shop feel to it, except without the borderline slave labor (the worker conditions were fine, there was air-con, but the level of activity was intense, just please don’t think this place is actually a sweat shop, keep in mind I’m sarcastic), just an old buiding with materials everywhere, lazer cutters humming, music blaring, basically imagine studio with no windows and no maylines.  

                It was an exceptionally hot day (even for here) yesterday. I went with my boss Z and he picked up another architect working on the project from another firm, N from South Africa. He had some interesting things to say about the place. Their economy is much like ours (USA) from a job market standpoint, but he commented that it is even worse because if you have graduated from school in the last 5 years and are white, you can’t find work. This is, of course, very hard for me to wrap my head around, but interesting none the less. The site, albiet just like any other construction site has its issues, but here in Asia things are done a bit differently. First of all, the workers live on the site (although the worker’s homes were somewhat out of view, I had a pretty good idea of what they were like and I’m sure you could imagine as well). Furthermore, they work around the clock, in two shifts. Most of the workers are actually unskilled and learn on the job. As one could imagine, this makes it difficult to meet the already seemingly impossible deadlines because they are literally being trained on the spot to do some rather difficult tasks (bricklaying is an art my friends). They mostly come from Indonesia and Bangladesh. America obviously has a similar migrant workforce population with the Latin and South American immigrants (no, contrary to popular belief, even in America, they are not all Mexican). However, you would never get an American migrant worker to work the way these people do. My knee-jerk reaction is one of uncomfort. To us, this seems like poor conditions, unfair hours, no proper housing, ect. However, here it is a way of life. They obviously get paid less than they would in the states (just due to differing economies) so to live on the job actually saves them a lot of money. I also noticed a clean water source and proper drainage in the glipse I got of the workers quarters. I also did not smell any open sewage, so at least they had basic amenities.  I really do not know how I feel about the workers’ situation, because this is just the mentality of work here. It goes even further than that. From what I have gathered from talking with people is that in Asia a client considers everyone his workers, regardless of the labor involved. Thus, we architects, as the ‘paper workers’ if you will are considered to be like the construction workers. Unless you flat out say it, you are expected to work just as hard as those laborers (granted we have air con). For example, yesterday in the meeting Z had to explicitly tell his clients that he would not take meetings past 6pm. In the west, unless it is a some type of corprate ‘crisis’ or you are a doctor, you would not meet with clients at odd hours such as this. Needless to say I learned a lot yesterday, although I’m still trying to piece together what exactly to make of it.

                Anyways, it’s about time I get back to work. I’ll catch up later, I still obviously have lots to say and lots to share.

Missing everyone back home. Finally sleeping like a normal human being. I hope everyone is safe and sound.

-M

              Before I get started on this post I would like to take a moment to express my sorrows for those affected by the recent tornado in Joplin, MO. As some of you may know, I lived in the small town of Joplin for two years back when I was little. My dad also lived there for a bit as a kid. My brother was born there, and the hospital he was born in is now a pile of rubble. It is a small community, but the key word here is community, everyone is very close. My family will be going back to help clean up later this summer. Our old house is ok (the twister missed it by 2 streets). Everyone we know that still lives there is fine (one family’s house had lifted off of its foundation by 6 inches!). However, please keep the family and friends of those affected in your thoughts and prayers.

                I know I have been bad at updating this recently. This is mostly because I have started work and find myself with little free time. We are supposed to work from 9-6 but I have not left the office at 6 nor come in at 9 yet. Tomorrow I move into my actual apartment (I am sad to leave A’s house, her and her family have been nothing but the best to me). I will probably start getting in later and leaving earlier now, at least until the competition I am working on gets into full swing. Yesterday, I was writing a post and got swept away from my computer to go on a site visit/client meeting/model shop visit. I will post pictures from this at some point (hopefully this weekend). The model shop was intense. Absolutely amazing. For those at my school, imagine completed slice models (ie 1:4 scale), except a whole complex of high rises…it’s amazing. It had a sweat shop feel to it, except without the borderline slave labor (the worker conditions were fine, there was air-con, but the level of activity was intense, just please don’t think this place is actually a sweat shop, keep in mind I’m sarcastic), just an old buiding with materials everywhere, lazer cutters humming, music blaring, basically imagine studio with no windows and no maylines.  

                It was an exceptionally hot day (even for here) yesterday. I went with my boss Z and he picked up another architect working on the project from another firm, N from South Africa. He had some interesting things to say about the place. Their economy is much like ours (USA) from a job market standpoint, but he commented that it is even worse because if you have graduated from school in the last 5 years and are white, you can’t find work. This is, of course, very hard for me to wrap my head around, but interesting none the less. The site, albiet just like any other construction site has its issues, but here in Asia things are done a bit differently. First of all, the workers live on the site (although the worker’s homes were somewhat out of view, I had a pretty good idea of what they were like and I’m sure you could imagine as well). Furthermore, they work around the clock, in two shifts. Most of the workers are actually unskilled and learn on the job. As one could imagine, this makes it difficult to meet the already seemingly impossible deadlines because they are literally being trained on the spot to do some rather difficult tasks (bricklaying is an art my friends). They mostly come from Indonesia and Bangladesh. America obviously has a similar migrant workforce population with the Latin and South American immigrants (no, contrary to popular belief, even in America, they are not all Mexican). However, you would never get an American migrant worker to work the way these people do. My knee-jerk reaction is one of uncomfort. To us, this seems like poor conditions, unfair hours, no proper housing, ect. However, here it is a way of life. They obviously get paid less than they would in the states (just due to differing economies) so to live on the job actually saves them a lot of money. I also noticed a clean water source and proper drainage in the glipse I got of the workers quarters. I also did not smell any open sewage, so at least they had basic amenities.  I really do not know how I feel about the workers’ situation, because this is just the mentality of work here. It goes even further than that. From what I have gathered from talking with people is that in Asia a client considers everyone his workers, regardless of the labor involved. Thus, we architects, as the ‘paper workers’ if you will are considered to be like the construction workers. Unless you flat out say it, you are expected to work just as hard as those laborers (granted we have air con). For example, yesterday in the meeting Z had to explicitly tell his clients that he would not take meetings past 6pm. In the west, unless it is a some type of corprate ‘crisis’ or you are a doctor, you would not meet with clients at odd hours such as this. Needless to say I learned a lot yesterday, although I’m still trying to piece together what exactly to make of it.

                Anyways, it’s about time I get back to work. I’ll catch up later, I still obviously have lots to say and lots to share.

Missing everyone back home. Finally sleeping like a normal human being. I hope everyone is safe and sound.

-M

              Before I get started on this post I would like to take a moment to express my sorrows for those affected by the recent tornado in Joplin, MO. As some of you may know, I lived in the small town of Joplin for two years back when I was little. My dad also lived there for a bit as a kid. My brother was born there, and the hospital he was born in is now a pile of rubble. It is a small community, but the key word here is community, everyone is very close. My family will be going back to help clean up later this summer. Our old house is ok (the twister missed it by 2 streets). Everyone we know that still lives there is fine (one family’s house had lifted off of its foundation by 6 inches!). However, please keep the family and friends of those affected in your thoughts and prayers.

                I know I have been bad at updating this recently. This is mostly because I have started work and find myself with little free time. We are supposed to work from 9-6 but I have not left the office at 6 nor come in at 9 yet. Tomorrow I move into my actual apartment (I am sad to leave A’s house, her and her family have been nothing but the best to me). I will probably start getting in later and leaving earlier now, at least until the competition I am working on gets into full swing. Yesterday, I was writing a post and got swept away from my computer to go on a site visit/client meeting/model shop visit. I will post pictures from this at some point (hopefully this weekend). The model shop was intense. Absolutely amazing. For those at my school, imagine completed slice models (ie 1:4 scale), except a whole complex of high rises…it’s amazing. It had a sweat shop feel to it, except without the borderline slave labor (the worker conditions were fine, there was air-con, but the level of activity was intense, just please don’t think this place is actually a sweat shop, keep in mind I’m sarcastic), just an old buiding with materials everywhere, lazer cutters humming, music blaring, basically imagine studio with no windows and no maylines.  

                It was an exceptionally hot day (even for here) yesterday. I went with my boss Z and he picked up another architect working on the project from another firm, N from South Africa. He had some interesting things to say about the place. Their economy is much like ours (USA) from a job market standpoint, but he commented that it is even worse because if you have graduated from school in the last 5 years and are white, you can’t find work. This is, of course, very hard for me to wrap my head around, but interesting none the less. The site, albiet just like any other construction site has its issues, but here in Asia things are done a bit differently. First of all, the workers live on the site (although the worker’s homes were somewhat out of view, I had a pretty good idea of what they were like and I’m sure you could imagine as well). Furthermore, they work around the clock, in two shifts. Most of the workers are actually unskilled and learn on the job. As one could imagine, this makes it difficult to meet the already seemingly impossible deadlines because they are literally being trained on the spot to do some rather difficult tasks (bricklaying is an art my friends). They mostly come from Indonesia and Bangladesh. America obviously has a similar migrant workforce population with the Latin and South American immigrants (no, contrary to popular belief, even in America, they are not all Mexican). However, you would never get an American migrant worker to work the way these people do. My knee-jerk reaction is one of uncomfort. To us, this seems like poor conditions, unfair hours, no proper housing, ect. However, here it is a way of life. They obviously get paid less than they would in the states (just due to differing economies) so to live on the job actually saves them a lot of money. I also noticed a clean water source and proper drainage in the glipse I got of the workers quarters. I also did not smell any open sewage, so at least they had basic amenities.  I really do not know how I feel about the workers’ situation, because this is just the mentality of work here. It goes even further than that. From what I have gathered from talking with people is that in Asia a client considers everyone his workers, regardless of the labor involved. Thus, we architects, as the ‘paper workers’ if you will are considered to be like the construction workers. Unless you flat out say it, you are expected to work just as hard as those laborers (granted we have air con). For example, yesterday in the meeting Z had to explicitly tell his clients that he would not take meetings past 6pm. In the west, unless it is a some type of corprate ‘crisis’ or you are a doctor, you would not meet with clients at odd hours such as this. Needless to say I learned a lot yesterday, although I’m still trying to piece together what exactly to make of it.

                Anyways, it’s about time I get back to work. I’ll catch up later, I still obviously have lots to say and lots to share.

Missing everyone back home. Finally sleeping like a normal human being. I hope everyone is safe and sound.

-M

humidddddddddity!

May 22, 2011

            Day three is coming to an end here in KL Tomorrow will be my first official day of work. I am happy I had the weekend to get to know my new home away from home a little better before I got thrown into the frying pan so-to-speak at the office. It is obviously hot and humid here, although it is more tolerable that I thought it would be. It has rained every afternoon, which keeps things cool. Today, however, it was sunny all day and it got very, very hot, even my host family had something to say about it.

           

            I really enjoy my host family. I am living here until the 26^th and then I move into my apartment. The family – A, her mom A, and their dog Duchess live in a quaint bungalow just outside of town. Every evening you hear the call to prayer from the local mosque. It reminds me that I am nowhere near home, but I find the chanting soothing in a way. The family I am staying with is one of the few non-Muslim families in this area. It is interesting because the dog can’t get out of the yard because of Muslim rules regarding dogs. The hospitality I have received by them goes above and beyond anything I have ever experienced before. They have made a real effort to take me under their wing, which is comforting because at night I get homesick for the loved ones I left behind in the States. I’ve had trouble sleeping, which is also a surprise to me, as I have never felt like this before. I talked with some friends from home who moved away and they said that it is temporary and will fade with time. I’ve just been taking things one day at a time and focusing on learning as much as I can about this unique place.

            The food here is absolutely unbelievable. I have been eating foods with a little less spice than normal because I don’t want to overwhelm the system, but I am slowly building a tolerance (although today I had Nasi Lemak – a super spicy coconut rice with peanuts and small dried or fried fish and that combined with the intense heat of the day did not sit well with me, but I’ve definitely felt worse in my life…and ya, it was worth it). I haven’t been eating as much as I should, when I wake up at night I also wake up hungry. If I had to guess I would say it is a combination of being wary about food due to  my last experience overseas, plus the heat squelches my appetite.

            I have learned so much that I really don’t know where to begin so this post will seem a little disconnected. Friday was a wash due to jet lag, culture shock, and the general ‘blah-ness’ associated with 23 hours of plane travel.  I had an awesome Thai dinner of fried rice where the egg is wrapped around the rice and drizzled in sweet and sour sauce. Yummy! I was going to learn to cook some beef curry tonight, but my tummy isn’t up to it so we are having garlic (good for the stomach) beef instead. The water here is drinkable, most households filter their water, but it makes my stomach a little too bubbly for comfort so I am using my water purifier (which is alright with me, it was expensive so it needs some use). I’m also getting used to drinking a lot of tea and coffee with milk. Teh Tarik or pulled tea is a national drink here and I happen to love it. It’s also interesting because it cools you down even though it’s served hot.

            On Saturday we went to the mall, which was an interesting experience. They had all types of shops and of course this includes Muslim-appropriate fashion. There was a risqué (I love that word lol) lingerie shop situated in between two of said Muslim shops. It is just one of the many examples of a culture that is very mixed and very unique in the world. They also have grocery stores in malls here and I bought some snacks and breakfast food for the week. Groceries here cost in Ringgit numerically what they cost in dollars (US). Thus, they are a third the price (read: awesome!). I spent the rest of the day lounging around, writing in my journal, and hanging out with the family exchanging stories/various cultural things. They have a really nice covered patio out front with a fan and it was nice to sit and watch the storm roll in. When it rains here, it dumps (pours does not do it justice). I love the sound of rain and I like to watch thunderstorms, plus it cools everything down so much it’s hard not to be outside. One thunderbolt came very close to us and it cracked so loud it sounded like a Sequoia had been split in half.

            Today I went to mass (my host family is Catholic) for the first time in I’m guessing at least 7 years. I felt a bit weird because of my own personal thoughts on the institution of the Catholic Church, but I support people coming together to share spirituality and community so it ended up being quite nice. There are a few subtle differences that mass in the States, most notably most people dress in regular street clothes (read: lots of jeans and t-shirts) and the priest goes a lot faster than at home. The place was packed; people were even standing outside looking into the church during the mass. It was a medium sized place, but keep in mind religion is a major part of life here so it wasn’t too surprising. The mix of people was the most intriguing part of the ceremony. There were Indian women dressed in saris (some even had the Hindu jewelry and dot – excuse me I forget what it is called at the moment), Chinese families and Malays alike, old and young (a large number of teenagers). A even told me that some families bring their maids along to mass as well. A’s mom put it nicely by saying ‘In Malaysia culture is culture and religion is religion.’

Although I do not want to get too into it here, I am undergoing my own personal spiritual journey. Besides from all of the other reasons mentioned, I came here to have a chance to grow and learn about myself by removing myself from the things, people, and life I am comfortable with. I brought along a book on Buddhism that I have begun to read. I’ve done some recent research into Buddhist beliefs and I have been intrigued by Buddhist practices ever since I saw the Dali Lama speak back in 2008. A mentioned that the Sri Lankan Buddhist temple here teaches classes on Buddhism in English so I am thinking about going to one. Like I said, religion is personal and I have never been much of a religious person despite the fact that I went to a Catholic school for 4 years (although some may argue that is exactly why). However, in 2005 one of my closest friend’s died and that caused me to re-think the idea of spirituality. Without getting any more personal, I am inspired here to really think hard about religion as a separate system from the institution of religion. I don’t really know where I am going with this, but today I observed the mass through a filter I have never tried before and it was quite an experience.

            After mass had finished the congregation had a brunch outside that the youth groups put on. They sold food to raise money for various things that they were doing. I got to talk with my family’s niece. I met her last night and she was quite shy, but once we got talking she had some pretty interesting things to say. It was a great conversation. During breakfast a Hindu ceremony for one of the various deities passed us by as about 50 or so people in beautifully ornate outfits with bright colors walked down the street carrying a big flowery shrine thing above their heads playing drums and bells and chanting. The vast richness of various cultures, and religions all going on at once was quite moving. It leaves a culturally minded Westerner such as myself thinking…

            The rest of the day I spent indoors and eventually moved to my room where the air con is to get a much-needed break from the sweltering heat and humidity. My hosts are cooking up some tasty dinner so I best be going. I am so utterly grateful for their genuine hospitality. I need to get them a gift; probably after I move out because otherwise they would be there when I shop, as I have no idea where I am and this city has no grid so I couldn’t possibly navigate at this point without them as I am not close to public transport. If anyone has suggestions let me know!

            Dinner is almost served so I best be going. I hope I get to eat with my hands tonight, because it is honestly super fun to do!

-M

May 22, 2011

            Day three is coming to an end here in KL Tomorrow will be my first official day of work. I am happy I had the weekend to get to know my new home away from home a little better before I got thrown into the frying pan so-to-speak at the office. It is obviously hot and humid here, although it is more tolerable that I thought it would be. It has rained every afternoon, which keeps things cool. Today, however, it was sunny all day and it got very, very hot, even my host family had something to say about it.

           

            I really enjoy my host family. I am living here until the 26^th and then I move into my apartment. The family – A, her mom A, and their dog Duchess live in a quaint bungalow just outside of town. Every evening you hear the call to prayer from the local mosque. It reminds me that I am nowhere near home, but I find the chanting soothing in a way. The family I am staying with is one of the few non-Muslim families in this area. It is interesting because the dog can’t get out of the yard because of Muslim rules regarding dogs. The hospitality I have received by them goes above and beyond anything I have ever experienced before. They have made a real effort to take me under their wing, which is comforting because at night I get homesick for the loved ones I left behind in the States. I’ve had trouble sleeping, which is also a surprise to me, as I have never felt like this before. I talked with some friends from home who moved away and they said that it is temporary and will fade with time. I’ve just been taking things one day at a time and focusing on learning as much as I can about this unique place.

            The food here is absolutely unbelievable. I have been eating foods with a little less spice than normal because I don’t want to overwhelm the system, but I am slowly building a tolerance (although today I had Nasi Lemak – a super spicy coconut rice with peanuts and small dried or fried fish and that combined with the intense heat of the day did not sit well with me, but I’ve definitely felt worse in my life…and ya, it was worth it). I haven’t been eating as much as I should, when I wake up at night I also wake up hungry. If I had to guess I would say it is a combination of being wary about food due to  my last experience overseas, plus the heat squelches my appetite.

            I have learned so much that I really don’t know where to begin so this post will seem a little disconnected. Friday was a wash due to jet lag, culture shock, and the general ‘blah-ness’ associated with 23 hours of plane travel.  I had an awesome Thai dinner of fried rice where the egg is wrapped around the rice and drizzled in sweet and sour sauce. Yummy! I was going to learn to cook some beef curry tonight, but my tummy isn’t up to it so we are having garlic (good for the stomach) beef instead. The water here is drinkable, most households filter their water, but it makes my stomach a little too bubbly for comfort so I am using my water purifier (which is alright with me, it was expensive so it needs some use). I’m also getting used to drinking a lot of tea and coffee with milk. Teh Tarik or pulled tea is a national drink here and I happen to love it. It’s also interesting because it cools you down even though it’s served hot.

            On Saturday we went to the mall, which was an interesting experience. They had all types of shops and of course this includes Muslim-appropriate fashion. There was a risqué (I love that word lol) lingerie shop situated in between two of said Muslim shops. It is just one of the many examples of a culture that is very mixed and very unique in the world. They also have grocery stores in malls here and I bought some snacks and breakfast food for the week. Groceries here cost in Ringgit numerically what they cost in dollars (US). Thus, they are a third the price (read: awesome!). I spent the rest of the day lounging around, writing in my journal, and hanging out with the family exchanging stories/various cultural things. They have a really nice covered patio out front with a fan and it was nice to sit and watch the storm roll in. When it rains here, it dumps (pours does not do it justice). I love the sound of rain and I like to watch thunderstorms, plus it cools everything down so much it’s hard not to be outside. One thunderbolt came very close to us and it cracked so loud it sounded like a Sequoia had been split in half.

            Today I went to mass (my host family is Catholic) for the first time in I’m guessing at least 7 years. I felt a bit weird because of my own personal thoughts on the institution of the Catholic Church, but I support people coming together to share spirituality and community so it ended up being quite nice. There are a few subtle differences that mass in the States, most notably most people dress in regular street clothes (read: lots of jeans and t-shirts) and the priest goes a lot faster than at home. The place was packed; people were even standing outside looking into the church during the mass. It was a medium sized place, but keep in mind religion is a major part of life here so it wasn’t too surprising. The mix of people was the most intriguing part of the ceremony. There were Indian women dressed in saris (some even had the Hindu jewelry and dot – excuse me I forget what it is called at the moment), Chinese families and Malays alike, old and young (a large number of teenagers). A even told me that some families bring their maids along to mass as well. A’s mom put it nicely by saying ‘In Malaysia culture is culture and religion is religion.’

Although I do not want to get too into it here, I am undergoing my own personal spiritual journey. Besides from all of the other reasons mentioned, I came here to have a chance to grow and learn about myself by removing myself from the things, people, and life I am comfortable with. I brought along a book on Buddhism that I have begun to read. I’ve done some recent research into Buddhist beliefs and I have been intrigued by Buddhist practices ever since I saw the Dali Lama speak back in 2008. A mentioned that the Sri Lankan Buddhist temple here teaches classes on Buddhism in English so I am thinking about going to one. Like I said, religion is personal and I have never been much of a religious person despite the fact that I went to a Catholic school for 4 years (although some may argue that is exactly why). However, in 2005 one of my closest friend’s died and that caused me to re-think the idea of spirituality. Without getting any more personal, I am inspired here to really think hard about religion as a separate system from the institution of religion. I don’t really know where I am going with this, but today I observed the mass through a filter I have never tried before and it was quite an experience.

            After mass had finished the congregation had a brunch outside that the youth groups put on. They sold food to raise money for various things that they were doing. I got to talk with my family’s niece. I met her last night and she was quite shy, but once we got talking she had some pretty interesting things to say. It was a great conversation. During breakfast a Hindu ceremony for one of the various deities passed us by as about 50 or so people in beautifully ornate outfits with bright colors walked down the street carrying a big flowery shrine thing above their heads playing drums and bells and chanting. The vast richness of various cultures, and religions all going on at once was quite moving. It leaves a culturally minded Westerner such as myself thinking…

            The rest of the day I spent indoors and eventually moved to my room where the air con is to get a much-needed break from the sweltering heat and humidity. My hosts are cooking up some tasty dinner so I best be going. I am so utterly grateful for their genuine hospitality. I need to get them a gift; probably after I move out because otherwise they would be there when I shop, as I have no idea where I am and this city has no grid so I couldn’t possibly navigate at this point without them as I am not close to public transport. If anyone has suggestions let me know!

            Dinner is almost served so I best be going. I hope I get to eat with my hands tonight, because it is honestly super fun to do!

-M

May 22, 2011

            Day three is coming to an end here in KL Tomorrow will be my first official day of work. I am happy I had the weekend to get to know my new home away from home a little better before I got thrown into the frying pan so-to-speak at the office. It is obviously hot and humid here, although it is more tolerable that I thought it would be. It has rained every afternoon, which keeps things cool. Today, however, it was sunny all day and it got very, very hot, even my host family had something to say about it.

           

            I really enjoy my host family. I am living here until the 26^th and then I move into my apartment. The family – A, her mom A, and their dog Duchess live in a quaint bungalow just outside of town. Every evening you hear the call to prayer from the local mosque. It reminds me that I am nowhere near home, but I find the chanting soothing in a way. The family I am staying with is one of the few non-Muslim families in this area. It is interesting because the dog can’t get out of the yard because of Muslim rules regarding dogs. The hospitality I have received by them goes above and beyond anything I have ever experienced before. They have made a real effort to take me under their wing, which is comforting because at night I get homesick for the loved ones I left behind in the States. I’ve had trouble sleeping, which is also a surprise to me, as I have never felt like this before. I talked with some friends from home who moved away and they said that it is temporary and will fade with time. I’ve just been taking things one day at a time and focusing on learning as much as I can about this unique place.

            The food here is absolutely unbelievable. I have been eating foods with a little less spice than normal because I don’t want to overwhelm the system, but I am slowly building a tolerance (although today I had Nasi Lemak – a super spicy coconut rice with peanuts and small dried or fried fish and that combined with the intense heat of the day did not sit well with me, but I’ve definitely felt worse in my life…and ya, it was worth it). I haven’t been eating as much as I should, when I wake up at night I also wake up hungry. If I had to guess I would say it is a combination of being wary about food due to  my last experience overseas, plus the heat squelches my appetite.

            I have learned so much that I really don’t know where to begin so this post will seem a little disconnected. Friday was a wash due to jet lag, culture shock, and the general ‘blah-ness’ associated with 23 hours of plane travel.  I had an awesome Thai dinner of fried rice where the egg is wrapped around the rice and drizzled in sweet and sour sauce. Yummy! I was going to learn to cook some beef curry tonight, but my tummy isn’t up to it so we are having garlic (good for the stomach) beef instead. The water here is drinkable, most households filter their water, but it makes my stomach a little too bubbly for comfort so I am using my water purifier (which is alright with me, it was expensive so it needs some use). I’m also getting used to drinking a lot of tea and coffee with milk. Teh Tarik or pulled tea is a national drink here and I happen to love it. It’s also interesting because it cools you down even though it’s served hot.

            On Saturday we went to the mall, which was an interesting experience. They had all types of shops and of course this includes Muslim-appropriate fashion. There was a risqué (I love that word lol) lingerie shop situated in between two of said Muslim shops. It is just one of the many examples of a culture that is very mixed and very unique in the world. They also have grocery stores in malls here and I bought some snacks and breakfast food for the week. Groceries here cost in Ringgit numerically what they cost in dollars (US). Thus, they are a third the price (read: awesome!). I spent the rest of the day lounging around, writing in my journal, and hanging out with the family exchanging stories/various cultural things. They have a really nice covered patio out front with a fan and it was nice to sit and watch the storm roll in. When it rains here, it dumps (pours does not do it justice). I love the sound of rain and I like to watch thunderstorms, plus it cools everything down so much it’s hard not to be outside. One thunderbolt came very close to us and it cracked so loud it sounded like a Sequoia had been split in half.

            Today I went to mass (my host family is Catholic) for the first time in I’m guessing at least 7 years. I felt a bit weird because of my own personal thoughts on the institution of the Catholic Church, but I support people coming together to share spirituality and community so it ended up being quite nice. There are a few subtle differences that mass in the States, most notably most people dress in regular street clothes (read: lots of jeans and t-shirts) and the priest goes a lot faster than at home. The place was packed; people were even standing outside looking into the church during the mass. It was a medium sized place, but keep in mind religion is a major part of life here so it wasn’t too surprising. The mix of people was the most intriguing part of the ceremony. There were Indian women dressed in saris (some even had the Hindu jewelry and dot – excuse me I forget what it is called at the moment), Chinese families and Malays alike, old and young (a large number of teenagers). A even told me that some families bring their maids along to mass as well. A’s mom put it nicely by saying ‘In Malaysia culture is culture and religion is religion.’

Although I do not want to get too into it here, I am undergoing my own personal spiritual journey. Besides from all of the other reasons mentioned, I came here to have a chance to grow and learn about myself by removing myself from the things, people, and life I am comfortable with. I brought along a book on Buddhism that I have begun to read. I’ve done some recent research into Buddhist beliefs and I have been intrigued by Buddhist practices ever since I saw the Dali Lama speak back in 2008. A mentioned that the Sri Lankan Buddhist temple here teaches classes on Buddhism in English so I am thinking about going to one. Like I said, religion is personal and I have never been much of a religious person despite the fact that I went to a Catholic school for 4 years (although some may argue that is exactly why). However, in 2005 one of my closest friend’s died and that caused me to re-think the idea of spirituality. Without getting any more personal, I am inspired here to really think hard about religion as a separate system from the institution of religion. I don’t really know where I am going with this, but today I observed the mass through a filter I have never tried before and it was quite an experience.

            After mass had finished the congregation had a brunch outside that the youth groups put on. They sold food to raise money for various things that they were doing. I got to talk with my family’s niece. I met her last night and she was quite shy, but once we got talking she had some pretty interesting things to say. It was a great conversation. During breakfast a Hindu ceremony for one of the various deities passed us by as about 50 or so people in beautifully ornate outfits with bright colors walked down the street carrying a big flowery shrine thing above their heads playing drums and bells and chanting. The vast richness of various cultures, and religions all going on at once was quite moving. It leaves a culturally minded Westerner such as myself thinking…

            The rest of the day I spent indoors and eventually moved to my room where the air con is to get a much-needed break from the sweltering heat and humidity. My hosts are cooking up some tasty dinner so I best be going. I am so utterly grateful for their genuine hospitality. I need to get them a gift; probably after I move out because otherwise they would be there when I shop, as I have no idea where I am and this city has no grid so I couldn’t possibly navigate at this point without them as I am not close to public transport. If anyone has suggestions let me know!

            Dinner is almost served so I best be going. I hope I get to eat with my hands tonight, because it is honestly super fun to do!

-M

May 22, 2011

            Day three is coming to an end here in KL Tomorrow will be my first official day of work. I am happy I had the weekend to get to know my new home away from home a little better before I got thrown into the frying pan so-to-speak at the office. It is obviously hot and humid here, although it is more tolerable that I thought it would be. It has rained every afternoon, which keeps things cool. Today, however, it was sunny all day and it got very, very hot, even my host family had something to say about it.

           

            I really enjoy my host family. I am living here until the 26^th and then I move into my apartment. The family – A, her mom A, and their dog Duchess live in a quaint bungalow just outside of town. Every evening you hear the call to prayer from the local mosque. It reminds me that I am nowhere near home, but I find the chanting soothing in a way. The family I am staying with is one of the few non-Muslim families in this area. It is interesting because the dog can’t get out of the yard because of Muslim rules regarding dogs. The hospitality I have received by them goes above and beyond anything I have ever experienced before. They have made a real effort to take me under their wing, which is comforting because at night I get homesick for the loved ones I left behind in the States. I’ve had trouble sleeping, which is also a surprise to me, as I have never felt like this before. I talked with some friends from home who moved away and they said that it is temporary and will fade with time. I’ve just been taking things one day at a time and focusing on learning as much as I can about this unique place.

            The food here is absolutely unbelievable. I have been eating foods with a little less spice than normal because I don’t want to overwhelm the system, but I am slowly building a tolerance (although today I had Nasi Lemak – a super spicy coconut rice with peanuts and small dried or fried fish and that combined with the intense heat of the day did not sit well with me, but I’ve definitely felt worse in my life…and ya, it was worth it). I haven’t been eating as much as I should, when I wake up at night I also wake up hungry. If I had to guess I would say it is a combination of being wary about food due to  my last experience overseas, plus the heat squelches my appetite.

            I have learned so much that I really don’t know where to begin so this post will seem a little disconnected. Friday was a wash due to jet lag, culture shock, and the general ‘blah-ness’ associated with 23 hours of plane travel.  I had an awesome Thai dinner of fried rice where the egg is wrapped around the rice and drizzled in sweet and sour sauce. Yummy! I was going to learn to cook some beef curry tonight, but my tummy isn’t up to it so we are having garlic (good for the stomach) beef instead. The water here is drinkable, most households filter their water, but it makes my stomach a little too bubbly for comfort so I am using my water purifier (which is alright with me, it was expensive so it needs some use). I’m also getting used to drinking a lot of tea and coffee with milk. Teh Tarik or pulled tea is a national drink here and I happen to love it. It’s also interesting because it cools you down even though it’s served hot.

            On Saturday we went to the mall, which was an interesting experience. They had all types of shops and of course this includes Muslim-appropriate fashion. There was a risqué (I love that word lol) lingerie shop situated in between two of said Muslim shops. It is just one of the many examples of a culture that is very mixed and very unique in the world. They also have grocery stores in malls here and I bought some snacks and breakfast food for the week. Groceries here cost in Ringgit numerically what they cost in dollars (US). Thus, they are a third the price (read: awesome!). I spent the rest of the day lounging around, writing in my journal, and hanging out with the family exchanging stories/various cultural things. They have a really nice covered patio out front with a fan and it was nice to sit and watch the storm roll in. When it rains here, it dumps (pours does not do it justice). I love the sound of rain and I like to watch thunderstorms, plus it cools everything down so much it’s hard not to be outside. One thunderbolt came very close to us and it cracked so loud it sounded like a Sequoia had been split in half.

            Today I went to mass (my host family is Catholic) for the first time in I’m guessing at least 7 years. I felt a bit weird because of my own personal thoughts on the institution of the Catholic Church, but I support people coming together to share spirituality and community so it ended up being quite nice. There are a few subtle differences that mass in the States, most notably most people dress in regular street clothes (read: lots of jeans and t-shirts) and the priest goes a lot faster than at home. The place was packed; people were even standing outside looking into the church during the mass. It was a medium sized place, but keep in mind religion is a major part of life here so it wasn’t too surprising. The mix of people was the most intriguing part of the ceremony. There were Indian women dressed in saris (some even had the Hindu jewelry and dot – excuse me I forget what it is called at the moment), Chinese families and Malays alike, old and young (a large number of teenagers). A even told me that some families bring their maids along to mass as well. A’s mom put it nicely by saying ‘In Malaysia culture is culture and religion is religion.’

Although I do not want to get too into it here, I am undergoing my own personal spiritual journey. Besides from all of the other reasons mentioned, I came here to have a chance to grow and learn about myself by removing myself from the things, people, and life I am comfortable with. I brought along a book on Buddhism that I have begun to read. I’ve done some recent research into Buddhist beliefs and I have been intrigued by Buddhist practices ever since I saw the Dali Lama speak back in 2008. A mentioned that the Sri Lankan Buddhist temple here teaches classes on Buddhism in English so I am thinking about going to one. Like I said, religion is personal and I have never been much of a religious person despite the fact that I went to a Catholic school for 4 years (although some may argue that is exactly why). However, in 2005 one of my closest friend’s died and that caused me to re-think the idea of spirituality. Without getting any more personal, I am inspired here to really think hard about religion as a separate system from the institution of religion. I don’t really know where I am going with this, but today I observed the mass through a filter I have never tried before and it was quite an experience.

            After mass had finished the congregation had a brunch outside that the youth groups put on. They sold food to raise money for various things that they were doing. I got to talk with my family’s niece. I met her last night and she was quite shy, but once we got talking she had some pretty interesting things to say. It was a great conversation. During breakfast a Hindu ceremony for one of the various deities passed us by as about 50 or so people in beautifully ornate outfits with bright colors walked down the street carrying a big flowery shrine thing above their heads playing drums and bells and chanting. The vast richness of various cultures, and religions all going on at once was quite moving. It leaves a culturally minded Westerner such as myself thinking…

            The rest of the day I spent indoors and eventually moved to my room where the air con is to get a much-needed break from the sweltering heat and humidity. My hosts are cooking up some tasty dinner so I best be going. I am so utterly grateful for their genuine hospitality. I need to get them a gift; probably after I move out because otherwise they would be there when I shop, as I have no idea where I am and this city has no grid so I couldn’t possibly navigate at this point without them as I am not close to public transport. If anyone has suggestions let me know!

            Dinner is almost served so I best be going. I hope I get to eat with my hands tonight, because it is honestly super fun to do!

-M

I'm finally here!

     After 2 and a half days of travel, and several plane rides later, I have finally arrived in KL. I'm not sure how much time I have because someone from Veritas is on their way to get me (I'm currently chilling at the KL Sentral, a transit station). My first impressions of KL are minimal, I haven't seen much besides the airport and the train station so I won't comment on that. I paid way too much for a phone, but I needed to call to let Veritas know I got in, so I sucked it up and paid for it. I should have unlocked my iPhone before I left. It's a tiny thing, and I have to learn to use that auto-spell feature (I have an iPhone at home) all over again, so my first text was a little interesting. My bags are heavy and annoying and I would like to get rid of them. I look ridiculous carrying around three months worth of stuff (although it really isn't that much, just bulky).

     I sat next to two locals on the plane ride over. One was a Brit and the other was Malay. The Brit guy was kind of an ass. He had this imperialist attitude and was pretty rude to the flight attendants (bossing them around and such). He also kept insulting America and I was like dude, seriously? I mean I know America doesn't have the greatest reputation, but do you really need to tell me that Americans 'ruin' places? I didn't ask your opinion about my country and I didn't give you mine on yours. Ugh. It was annoying. The Malay man and his wife were quite nice. He promised me 'wonderful hospitality.' I have yet to meat a rude person, even the gal selling me the phone said maybe she will see me in town sometime - totally unexpected. The customs guy was even chatty.

     They let us off the plane for an hour and a half in Taipei which was nice. The transit passenger center was like a first class lounge complete with free internet, showers, massage chairs, ect. You always know you are in Asia when you enter a public bathroom. There really is no middle ground. They are either intimidatingly nice (yes, bathrooms can be intimidating...esp when there are toilet advertisements throughout the airport and you think the toilet is so complex it might start talking to you/eat you) or they are seriously nasty. There is always a squatter (although this time it was towards the back so I wasn't immediately confronted with an old lady taking a poo with the door wide open like I was in Beijing). The ones here are interesting. There is a hose that is like an impromptu bedee (I don't know how to spell that one, sorry French people) instead of toilet paper. You should ALWAYS bring your own TP around here, so I came prepared. There was also a picture on the back of the door of a person squatting on top of the toilet with an X through it. I've heard this is pretty common here, but I have no idea how one would go about doing it without falling over or worse, in.

     I got hooted at this morning in the airport. I sorta got engulfed by a crowd of women in burkas/head to toe coverings and I was wearing long shorts and an oversized t-shirt. I found it somewhat funny because in the US this wouldn't even warrant a glance. However, in the Islamic world, I am dressed like a hooker. The hooting thing doesn't really bother me (yet). It happens all over the world. Plus, I must have stood out like whoa.

     I can actually understand some of the language which is super exciting. However, I'm finding it significantly harder to get people to respond to me in anything other than English and I don't know if they like my attempt at trying to communicate with them. I'm going to have to look into this further once I get settled.

     Anyways I am beat, I'm going to stop writing for now. I think I'll just enjoy my mango tea and people watch. Until we talk again!

-M

     After 2 and a half days of travel, and several plane rides later, I have finally arrived in KL. I'm not sure how much time I have because someone from Veritas is on their way to get me (I'm currently chilling at the KL Sentral, a transit station). My first impressions of KL are minimal, I haven't seen much besides the airport and the train station so I won't comment on that. I paid way too much for a phone, but I needed to call to let Veritas know I got in, so I sucked it up and paid for it. I should have unlocked my iPhone before I left. It's a tiny thing, and I have to learn to use that auto-spell feature (I have an iPhone at home) all over again, so my first text was a little interesting. My bags are heavy and annoying and I would like to get rid of them. I look ridiculous carrying around three months worth of stuff (although it really isn't that much, just bulky).

     I sat next to two locals on the plane ride over. One was a Brit and the other was Malay. The Brit guy was kind of an ass. He had this imperialist attitude and was pretty rude to the flight attendants (bossing them around and such). He also kept insulting America and I was like dude, seriously? I mean I know America doesn't have the greatest reputation, but do you really need to tell me that Americans 'ruin' places? I didn't ask your opinion about my country and I didn't give you mine on yours. Ugh. It was annoying. The Malay man and his wife were quite nice. He promised me 'wonderful hospitality.' I have yet to meat a rude person, even the gal selling me the phone said maybe she will see me in town sometime - totally unexpected. The customs guy was even chatty.

     They let us off the plane for an hour and a half in Taipei which was nice. The transit passenger center was like a first class lounge complete with free internet, showers, massage chairs, ect. You always know you are in Asia when you enter a public bathroom. There really is no middle ground. They are either intimidatingly nice (yes, bathrooms can be intimidating...esp when there are toilet advertisements throughout the airport and you think the toilet is so complex it might start talking to you/eat you) or they are seriously nasty. There is always a squatter (although this time it was towards the back so I wasn't immediately confronted with an old lady taking a poo with the door wide open like I was in Beijing). The ones here are interesting. There is a hose that is like an impromptu bedee (I don't know how to spell that one, sorry French people) instead of toilet paper. You should ALWAYS bring your own TP around here, so I came prepared. There was also a picture on the back of the door of a person squatting on top of the toilet with an X through it. I've heard this is pretty common here, but I have no idea how one would go about doing it without falling over or worse, in.

     I got hooted at this morning in the airport. I sorta got engulfed by a crowd of women in burkas/head to toe coverings and I was wearing long shorts and an oversized t-shirt. I found it somewhat funny because in the US this wouldn't even warrant a glance. However, in the Islamic world, I am dressed like a hooker. The hooting thing doesn't really bother me (yet). It happens all over the world. Plus, I must have stood out like whoa.

     I can actually understand some of the language which is super exciting. However, I'm finding it significantly harder to get people to respond to me in anything other than English and I don't know if they like my attempt at trying to communicate with them. I'm going to have to look into this further once I get settled.

     Anyways I am beat, I'm going to stop writing for now. I think I'll just enjoy my mango tea and people watch. Until we talk again!

-M

     After 2 and a half days of travel, and several plane rides later, I have finally arrived in KL. I'm not sure how much time I have because someone from Veritas is on their way to get me (I'm currently chilling at the KL Sentral, a transit station). My first impressions of KL are minimal, I haven't seen much besides the airport and the train station so I won't comment on that. I paid way too much for a phone, but I needed to call to let Veritas know I got in, so I sucked it up and paid for it. I should have unlocked my iPhone before I left. It's a tiny thing, and I have to learn to use that auto-spell feature (I have an iPhone at home) all over again, so my first text was a little interesting. My bags are heavy and annoying and I would like to get rid of them. I look ridiculous carrying around three months worth of stuff (although it really isn't that much, just bulky).

     I sat next to two locals on the plane ride over. One was a Brit and the other was Malay. The Brit guy was kind of an ass. He had this imperialist attitude and was pretty rude to the flight attendants (bossing them around and such). He also kept insulting America and I was like dude, seriously? I mean I know America doesn't have the greatest reputation, but do you really need to tell me that Americans 'ruin' places? I didn't ask your opinion about my country and I didn't give you mine on yours. Ugh. It was annoying. The Malay man and his wife were quite nice. He promised me 'wonderful hospitality.' I have yet to meat a rude person, even the gal selling me the phone said maybe she will see me in town sometime - totally unexpected. The customs guy was even chatty.

     They let us off the plane for an hour and a half in Taipei which was nice. The transit passenger center was like a first class lounge complete with free internet, showers, massage chairs, ect. You always know you are in Asia when you enter a public bathroom. There really is no middle ground. They are either intimidatingly nice (yes, bathrooms can be intimidating...esp when there are toilet advertisements throughout the airport and you think the toilet is so complex it might start talking to you/eat you) or they are seriously nasty. There is always a squatter (although this time it was towards the back so I wasn't immediately confronted with an old lady taking a poo with the door wide open like I was in Beijing). The ones here are interesting. There is a hose that is like an impromptu bedee (I don't know how to spell that one, sorry French people) instead of toilet paper. You should ALWAYS bring your own TP around here, so I came prepared. There was also a picture on the back of the door of a person squatting on top of the toilet with an X through it. I've heard this is pretty common here, but I have no idea how one would go about doing it without falling over or worse, in.

     I got hooted at this morning in the airport. I sorta got engulfed by a crowd of women in burkas/head to toe coverings and I was wearing long shorts and an oversized t-shirt. I found it somewhat funny because in the US this wouldn't even warrant a glance. However, in the Islamic world, I am dressed like a hooker. The hooting thing doesn't really bother me (yet). It happens all over the world. Plus, I must have stood out like whoa.

     I can actually understand some of the language which is super exciting. However, I'm finding it significantly harder to get people to respond to me in anything other than English and I don't know if they like my attempt at trying to communicate with them. I'm going to have to look into this further once I get settled.

     Anyways I am beat, I'm going to stop writing for now. I think I'll just enjoy my mango tea and people watch. Until we talk again!

-M

     After 2 and a half days of travel, and several plane rides later, I have finally arrived in KL. I'm not sure how much time I have because someone from Veritas is on their way to get me (I'm currently chilling at the KL Sentral, a transit station). My first impressions of KL are minimal, I haven't seen much besides the airport and the train station so I won't comment on that. I paid way too much for a phone, but I needed to call to let Veritas know I got in, so I sucked it up and paid for it. I should have unlocked my iPhone before I left. It's a tiny thing, and I have to learn to use that auto-spell feature (I have an iPhone at home) all over again, so my first text was a little interesting. My bags are heavy and annoying and I would like to get rid of them. I look ridiculous carrying around three months worth of stuff (although it really isn't that much, just bulky).

     I sat next to two locals on the plane ride over. One was a Brit and the other was Malay. The Brit guy was kind of an ass. He had this imperialist attitude and was pretty rude to the flight attendants (bossing them around and such). He also kept insulting America and I was like dude, seriously? I mean I know America doesn't have the greatest reputation, but do you really need to tell me that Americans 'ruin' places? I didn't ask your opinion about my country and I didn't give you mine on yours. Ugh. It was annoying. The Malay man and his wife were quite nice. He promised me 'wonderful hospitality.' I have yet to meat a rude person, even the gal selling me the phone said maybe she will see me in town sometime - totally unexpected. The customs guy was even chatty.

     They let us off the plane for an hour and a half in Taipei which was nice. The transit passenger center was like a first class lounge complete with free internet, showers, massage chairs, ect. You always know you are in Asia when you enter a public bathroom. There really is no middle ground. They are either intimidatingly nice (yes, bathrooms can be intimidating...esp when there are toilet advertisements throughout the airport and you think the toilet is so complex it might start talking to you/eat you) or they are seriously nasty. There is always a squatter (although this time it was towards the back so I wasn't immediately confronted with an old lady taking a poo with the door wide open like I was in Beijing). The ones here are interesting. There is a hose that is like an impromptu bedee (I don't know how to spell that one, sorry French people) instead of toilet paper. You should ALWAYS bring your own TP around here, so I came prepared. There was also a picture on the back of the door of a person squatting on top of the toilet with an X through it. I've heard this is pretty common here, but I have no idea how one would go about doing it without falling over or worse, in.

     I got hooted at this morning in the airport. I sorta got engulfed by a crowd of women in burkas/head to toe coverings and I was wearing long shorts and an oversized t-shirt. I found it somewhat funny because in the US this wouldn't even warrant a glance. However, in the Islamic world, I am dressed like a hooker. The hooting thing doesn't really bother me (yet). It happens all over the world. Plus, I must have stood out like whoa.

     I can actually understand some of the language which is super exciting. However, I'm finding it significantly harder to get people to respond to me in anything other than English and I don't know if they like my attempt at trying to communicate with them. I'm going to have to look into this further once I get settled.

     Anyways I am beat, I'm going to stop writing for now. I think I'll just enjoy my mango tea and people watch. Until we talk again!

-M

Happy Birthday Brother B!!!

     Before I get started I'd like to just give a huge shout out to my brother, whom I frequently refer to as 'Broseph.' It's his big 2-1 today!!! It makes me feel pretty old, but I'm happy we can finally chill at bars together. Since I'm leaving the country today I decided to buy him tickets to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver this fall. I really owe him a killer gift and I figured it would be a great way to see him when I get home! So happy birthday to you B!!! Please don't forget to keep a shop-vac handy for your party (most people are not supposed to get this reference).

     So this morning was a total waterworks show. I was not ready for it, and I did not expect it. Don't get me wrong, I knew I would cry at some point, but not on and off all morning. I'm not one to cry a lot, but I'm leaving for quite some time. The ticket from Denver to Malaysia (although I was blessed with a freebie from my dad, thank you very much Dad) my boyfriend is not. Private law school, despite a significant scholarship, still costs lots and lots of money. It just isn't in the cards. I wasn't expecting him to visit, but that didn't stop me from telling him to just say screw it and come with me this morning. I felt a lot of guilt this morning. It is my fault we are apart for the summer. He obviously doesn't blame me, and it was odd because I never had those feelings before. However, I have to do what's best for my education. I would support him fully if he were making the same choice, just as he supports me. Plus, as a 20 something living in America these days, it's really the economy's fault anyway.

     It's really been a rough morning. I lost it when my dog jumped on the bed and wedged herself between us for one last snuggle. You could tell when we got to the airport (which was an enormous CF...they closed the main exit down to the airport...and we were stuck behind some of the WORST drivers I have ever seen in CO) that she was pretty upset. She knows when something big is about to happen, she gave me kisses to lick up all my salty tears. MB was freaking out because he thought I would miss my flight. Luckily the west coast is experiencing some weather delays, so I made it here with plenty of time to spare. Of course I cried at the airport and some a-hole police man on a bike (seriously, if someone were to really start trouble here, what is your lame little street bike going to do?) told us to 'wrap it up and move on,' I almost snapped at him, but then thought about how un-fun it is to be detained in airport jail. Or how un-fun it would be to explain to my parents why I missed my expensive flight across the ocean. I really am going to miss the BF. I don't think the internet is an appropriate forum to divulge about my personal relationships, plus I think it's annoying to rub it in other peoples' faces so I'll refrain from further comment.

     Today is turning out to be a little more rough emotionally than I expected. All of my excitement vanished last night and was replaced by sadness. I've never felt 'sad' to travel. Scared, anxious, nervous? Yes. Sad? No. I feel a lot better now that I'm at the airport. Airports are pretty funny places. They are depressing, exciting, annoying, and yet they comfort me. I've been to so many airports, traveled on countless planes. Although I think it's sad that you literally have to be cavity searched to get on a plane these days (although obviously I'd rather have that than some type of disaster...I've got nothing to hide), there is something about being in an airport that is finalizing. You are leaving. You are going home. You are stuck. You are on the go. There is an absolute quality about it. I find it calming. Most people find it stressful. My dad likes to freak out in airports. I take traveling especially multi-day commutes as a time where it is best to just roll with the punches and deal with it.

     I am not looking forward to LAX. Please excuse today's negativity, but it should come as no surprise. I will be sad, then anxious, then knocked out by Nyquil, then super freaked out for about 2 hours upon arrival, then at peace. Anyways, LAX is quite easily one of my least favorite places. It's what I would imagine some place like Lagos being like except with more concrete. Basically, one enormous CF. I've been there all hours of the day, always traffic. You walk outside and literally might get carbon monoxide poisoning. No one speaks English, which is always interesting because you are in America. You hear various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin and South American, and the occasional European languages more frequently than you will hear your own. People drive like morons, act like morons, and baggage claim (esp the Southwest terminal) is like a root canal. Long, slow, and unorganized. Awesome. Fortunately there is an In-n-Out not too far away so I'll be stopping there for some grub and fresh(-er) air. The best part about today is the fact that I not only get to go through baggage claim, but I then get to come in for the late night shift and go through the international terminal. Last time I was smashed between a flight leaving for Guadalajara and my flight to Beijing. My Beijing flight was both cute and annoying, as there were about 50 school children on my flight. For whatever reason the fact that it was 1:45am did not seem to phase them. Although they looked so cute in their sweat pant uniforms and Mickey Mouse hats. It was quite a funny flight because I sat next to a lady from Costa Rica heading to China. She spoke no English and the Spanish I know is not particularly helpful for everyday conversation. I have decided to learn Spanish on my own next year. It's kind of like America's new second language. I'm one of the few west coast kids who doesn't know a significant amount.

     Exactly one year ago I was flying over the Pacific on my way back from Asia. The world felt extremely small to me that day. After deciding to abandon my trip 3 days prior I was magically back in America (read: Business class on Korean Air = best way to travel by plane...especially post hospital). I felt defeated on that day. I felt as if I had failed to accomplish what I left to accomplish. It took me a while to realize that I accomplished something more than what I set out to accomplish. As I set out again, I have things I want to accomplish, but I have more room to accept the things I wasn't planning on finding.

     I would like to end this post on a high note. When I say I blame myself or the economy I'm mainly talking about the fact that I chose to leave the country to find work because there is very little (read: none) here in the States. I realize this is my choice. I don't regret anything I do, because you will always learn something even if it turns out you had the worst idea ever. The journey and the people you take with you are what makes you who you are. I am excited overall to be going to Malaysia. I am eternally grateful for such a unique opportunity. However, when I decided to start this blog, I decided that it is just as important to share my other-than-happy thoughts. If I didn't it wouldn't be a complete story. The past few days have been about saying goodbye. 90% of the time (...every time...), goodbyes are not easy and goodbyes do not incite feelings of awesomeness. They are a simple reminder of your love for others and your own mortality. I will always have my friends and family in my heart (and the pictures on my wall) while I am away. I know that. I'm glad for this opportunity to grow.


     "The best journeys are the ones that answer questions that when you set out you never even thought to ask." - Anonymous

Cheers US of A!

-M

PS. I think this goes without saying, but I've gotta board and didn't have a chance to read through and correct any awkward sentences. My apologies.
  

     Before I get started I'd like to just give a huge shout out to my brother, whom I frequently refer to as 'Broseph.' It's his big 2-1 today!!! It makes me feel pretty old, but I'm happy we can finally chill at bars together. Since I'm leaving the country today I decided to buy him tickets to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver this fall. I really owe him a killer gift and I figured it would be a great way to see him when I get home! So happy birthday to you B!!! Please don't forget to keep a shop-vac handy for your party (most people are not supposed to get this reference).

     So this morning was a total waterworks show. I was not ready for it, and I did not expect it. Don't get me wrong, I knew I would cry at some point, but not on and off all morning. I'm not one to cry a lot, but I'm leaving for quite some time. The ticket from Denver to Malaysia (although I was blessed with a freebie from my dad, thank you very much Dad) my boyfriend is not. Private law school, despite a significant scholarship, still costs lots and lots of money. It just isn't in the cards. I wasn't expecting him to visit, but that didn't stop me from telling him to just say screw it and come with me this morning. I felt a lot of guilt this morning. It is my fault we are apart for the summer. He obviously doesn't blame me, and it was odd because I never had those feelings before. However, I have to do what's best for my education. I would support him fully if he were making the same choice, just as he supports me. Plus, as a 20 something living in America these days, it's really the economy's fault anyway.

     It's really been a rough morning. I lost it when my dog jumped on the bed and wedged herself between us for one last snuggle. You could tell when we got to the airport (which was an enormous CF...they closed the main exit down to the airport...and we were stuck behind some of the WORST drivers I have ever seen in CO) that she was pretty upset. She knows when something big is about to happen, she gave me kisses to lick up all my salty tears. MB was freaking out because he thought I would miss my flight. Luckily the west coast is experiencing some weather delays, so I made it here with plenty of time to spare. Of course I cried at the airport and some a-hole police man on a bike (seriously, if someone were to really start trouble here, what is your lame little street bike going to do?) told us to 'wrap it up and move on,' I almost snapped at him, but then thought about how un-fun it is to be detained in airport jail. Or how un-fun it would be to explain to my parents why I missed my expensive flight across the ocean. I really am going to miss the BF. I don't think the internet is an appropriate forum to divulge about my personal relationships, plus I think it's annoying to rub it in other peoples' faces so I'll refrain from further comment.

     Today is turning out to be a little more rough emotionally than I expected. All of my excitement vanished last night and was replaced by sadness. I've never felt 'sad' to travel. Scared, anxious, nervous? Yes. Sad? No. I feel a lot better now that I'm at the airport. Airports are pretty funny places. They are depressing, exciting, annoying, and yet they comfort me. I've been to so many airports, traveled on countless planes. Although I think it's sad that you literally have to be cavity searched to get on a plane these days (although obviously I'd rather have that than some type of disaster...I've got nothing to hide), there is something about being in an airport that is finalizing. You are leaving. You are going home. You are stuck. You are on the go. There is an absolute quality about it. I find it calming. Most people find it stressful. My dad likes to freak out in airports. I take traveling especially multi-day commutes as a time where it is best to just roll with the punches and deal with it.

     I am not looking forward to LAX. Please excuse today's negativity, but it should come as no surprise. I will be sad, then anxious, then knocked out by Nyquil, then super freaked out for about 2 hours upon arrival, then at peace. Anyways, LAX is quite easily one of my least favorite places. It's what I would imagine some place like Lagos being like except with more concrete. Basically, one enormous CF. I've been there all hours of the day, always traffic. You walk outside and literally might get carbon monoxide poisoning. No one speaks English, which is always interesting because you are in America. You hear various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin and South American, and the occasional European languages more frequently than you will hear your own. People drive like morons, act like morons, and baggage claim (esp the Southwest terminal) is like a root canal. Long, slow, and unorganized. Awesome. Fortunately there is an In-n-Out not too far away so I'll be stopping there for some grub and fresh(-er) air. The best part about today is the fact that I not only get to go through baggage claim, but I then get to come in for the late night shift and go through the international terminal. Last time I was smashed between a flight leaving for Guadalajara and my flight to Beijing. My Beijing flight was both cute and annoying, as there were about 50 school children on my flight. For whatever reason the fact that it was 1:45am did not seem to phase them. Although they looked so cute in their sweat pant uniforms and Mickey Mouse hats. It was quite a funny flight because I sat next to a lady from Costa Rica heading to China. She spoke no English and the Spanish I know is not particularly helpful for everyday conversation. I have decided to learn Spanish on my own next year. It's kind of like America's new second language. I'm one of the few west coast kids who doesn't know a significant amount.

     Exactly one year ago I was flying over the Pacific on my way back from Asia. The world felt extremely small to me that day. After deciding to abandon my trip 3 days prior I was magically back in America (read: Business class on Korean Air = best way to travel by plane...especially post hospital). I felt defeated on that day. I felt as if I had failed to accomplish what I left to accomplish. It took me a while to realize that I accomplished something more than what I set out to accomplish. As I set out again, I have things I want to accomplish, but I have more room to accept the things I wasn't planning on finding.

     I would like to end this post on a high note. When I say I blame myself or the economy I'm mainly talking about the fact that I chose to leave the country to find work because there is very little (read: none) here in the States. I realize this is my choice. I don't regret anything I do, because you will always learn something even if it turns out you had the worst idea ever. The journey and the people you take with you are what makes you who you are. I am excited overall to be going to Malaysia. I am eternally grateful for such a unique opportunity. However, when I decided to start this blog, I decided that it is just as important to share my other-than-happy thoughts. If I didn't it wouldn't be a complete story. The past few days have been about saying goodbye. 90% of the time (...every time...), goodbyes are not easy and goodbyes do not incite feelings of awesomeness. They are a simple reminder of your love for others and your own mortality. I will always have my friends and family in my heart (and the pictures on my wall) while I am away. I know that. I'm glad for this opportunity to grow.


     "The best journeys are the ones that answer questions that when you set out you never even thought to ask." - Anonymous

Cheers US of A!

-M

PS. I think this goes without saying, but I've gotta board and didn't have a chance to read through and correct any awkward sentences. My apologies.
  

     Before I get started I'd like to just give a huge shout out to my brother, whom I frequently refer to as 'Broseph.' It's his big 2-1 today!!! It makes me feel pretty old, but I'm happy we can finally chill at bars together. Since I'm leaving the country today I decided to buy him tickets to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver this fall. I really owe him a killer gift and I figured it would be a great way to see him when I get home! So happy birthday to you B!!! Please don't forget to keep a shop-vac handy for your party (most people are not supposed to get this reference).

     So this morning was a total waterworks show. I was not ready for it, and I did not expect it. Don't get me wrong, I knew I would cry at some point, but not on and off all morning. I'm not one to cry a lot, but I'm leaving for quite some time. The ticket from Denver to Malaysia (although I was blessed with a freebie from my dad, thank you very much Dad) my boyfriend is not. Private law school, despite a significant scholarship, still costs lots and lots of money. It just isn't in the cards. I wasn't expecting him to visit, but that didn't stop me from telling him to just say screw it and come with me this morning. I felt a lot of guilt this morning. It is my fault we are apart for the summer. He obviously doesn't blame me, and it was odd because I never had those feelings before. However, I have to do what's best for my education. I would support him fully if he were making the same choice, just as he supports me. Plus, as a 20 something living in America these days, it's really the economy's fault anyway.

     It's really been a rough morning. I lost it when my dog jumped on the bed and wedged herself between us for one last snuggle. You could tell when we got to the airport (which was an enormous CF...they closed the main exit down to the airport...and we were stuck behind some of the WORST drivers I have ever seen in CO) that she was pretty upset. She knows when something big is about to happen, she gave me kisses to lick up all my salty tears. MB was freaking out because he thought I would miss my flight. Luckily the west coast is experiencing some weather delays, so I made it here with plenty of time to spare. Of course I cried at the airport and some a-hole police man on a bike (seriously, if someone were to really start trouble here, what is your lame little street bike going to do?) told us to 'wrap it up and move on,' I almost snapped at him, but then thought about how un-fun it is to be detained in airport jail. Or how un-fun it would be to explain to my parents why I missed my expensive flight across the ocean. I really am going to miss the BF. I don't think the internet is an appropriate forum to divulge about my personal relationships, plus I think it's annoying to rub it in other peoples' faces so I'll refrain from further comment.

     Today is turning out to be a little more rough emotionally than I expected. All of my excitement vanished last night and was replaced by sadness. I've never felt 'sad' to travel. Scared, anxious, nervous? Yes. Sad? No. I feel a lot better now that I'm at the airport. Airports are pretty funny places. They are depressing, exciting, annoying, and yet they comfort me. I've been to so many airports, traveled on countless planes. Although I think it's sad that you literally have to be cavity searched to get on a plane these days (although obviously I'd rather have that than some type of disaster...I've got nothing to hide), there is something about being in an airport that is finalizing. You are leaving. You are going home. You are stuck. You are on the go. There is an absolute quality about it. I find it calming. Most people find it stressful. My dad likes to freak out in airports. I take traveling especially multi-day commutes as a time where it is best to just roll with the punches and deal with it.

     I am not looking forward to LAX. Please excuse today's negativity, but it should come as no surprise. I will be sad, then anxious, then knocked out by Nyquil, then super freaked out for about 2 hours upon arrival, then at peace. Anyways, LAX is quite easily one of my least favorite places. It's what I would imagine some place like Lagos being like except with more concrete. Basically, one enormous CF. I've been there all hours of the day, always traffic. You walk outside and literally might get carbon monoxide poisoning. No one speaks English, which is always interesting because you are in America. You hear various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin and South American, and the occasional European languages more frequently than you will hear your own. People drive like morons, act like morons, and baggage claim (esp the Southwest terminal) is like a root canal. Long, slow, and unorganized. Awesome. Fortunately there is an In-n-Out not too far away so I'll be stopping there for some grub and fresh(-er) air. The best part about today is the fact that I not only get to go through baggage claim, but I then get to come in for the late night shift and go through the international terminal. Last time I was smashed between a flight leaving for Guadalajara and my flight to Beijing. My Beijing flight was both cute and annoying, as there were about 50 school children on my flight. For whatever reason the fact that it was 1:45am did not seem to phase them. Although they looked so cute in their sweat pant uniforms and Mickey Mouse hats. It was quite a funny flight because I sat next to a lady from Costa Rica heading to China. She spoke no English and the Spanish I know is not particularly helpful for everyday conversation. I have decided to learn Spanish on my own next year. It's kind of like America's new second language. I'm one of the few west coast kids who doesn't know a significant amount.

     Exactly one year ago I was flying over the Pacific on my way back from Asia. The world felt extremely small to me that day. After deciding to abandon my trip 3 days prior I was magically back in America (read: Business class on Korean Air = best way to travel by plane...especially post hospital). I felt defeated on that day. I felt as if I had failed to accomplish what I left to accomplish. It took me a while to realize that I accomplished something more than what I set out to accomplish. As I set out again, I have things I want to accomplish, but I have more room to accept the things I wasn't planning on finding.

     I would like to end this post on a high note. When I say I blame myself or the economy I'm mainly talking about the fact that I chose to leave the country to find work because there is very little (read: none) here in the States. I realize this is my choice. I don't regret anything I do, because you will always learn something even if it turns out you had the worst idea ever. The journey and the people you take with you are what makes you who you are. I am excited overall to be going to Malaysia. I am eternally grateful for such a unique opportunity. However, when I decided to start this blog, I decided that it is just as important to share my other-than-happy thoughts. If I didn't it wouldn't be a complete story. The past few days have been about saying goodbye. 90% of the time (...every time...), goodbyes are not easy and goodbyes do not incite feelings of awesomeness. They are a simple reminder of your love for others and your own mortality. I will always have my friends and family in my heart (and the pictures on my wall) while I am away. I know that. I'm glad for this opportunity to grow.


     "The best journeys are the ones that answer questions that when you set out you never even thought to ask." - Anonymous

Cheers US of A!

-M

PS. I think this goes without saying, but I've gotta board and didn't have a chance to read through and correct any awkward sentences. My apologies.
  

     Before I get started I'd like to just give a huge shout out to my brother, whom I frequently refer to as 'Broseph.' It's his big 2-1 today!!! It makes me feel pretty old, but I'm happy we can finally chill at bars together. Since I'm leaving the country today I decided to buy him tickets to the Great American Beer Festival in Denver this fall. I really owe him a killer gift and I figured it would be a great way to see him when I get home! So happy birthday to you B!!! Please don't forget to keep a shop-vac handy for your party (most people are not supposed to get this reference).

     So this morning was a total waterworks show. I was not ready for it, and I did not expect it. Don't get me wrong, I knew I would cry at some point, but not on and off all morning. I'm not one to cry a lot, but I'm leaving for quite some time. The ticket from Denver to Malaysia (although I was blessed with a freebie from my dad, thank you very much Dad) my boyfriend is not. Private law school, despite a significant scholarship, still costs lots and lots of money. It just isn't in the cards. I wasn't expecting him to visit, but that didn't stop me from telling him to just say screw it and come with me this morning. I felt a lot of guilt this morning. It is my fault we are apart for the summer. He obviously doesn't blame me, and it was odd because I never had those feelings before. However, I have to do what's best for my education. I would support him fully if he were making the same choice, just as he supports me. Plus, as a 20 something living in America these days, it's really the economy's fault anyway.

     It's really been a rough morning. I lost it when my dog jumped on the bed and wedged herself between us for one last snuggle. You could tell when we got to the airport (which was an enormous CF...they closed the main exit down to the airport...and we were stuck behind some of the WORST drivers I have ever seen in CO) that she was pretty upset. She knows when something big is about to happen, she gave me kisses to lick up all my salty tears. MB was freaking out because he thought I would miss my flight. Luckily the west coast is experiencing some weather delays, so I made it here with plenty of time to spare. Of course I cried at the airport and some a-hole police man on a bike (seriously, if someone were to really start trouble here, what is your lame little street bike going to do?) told us to 'wrap it up and move on,' I almost snapped at him, but then thought about how un-fun it is to be detained in airport jail. Or how un-fun it would be to explain to my parents why I missed my expensive flight across the ocean. I really am going to miss the BF. I don't think the internet is an appropriate forum to divulge about my personal relationships, plus I think it's annoying to rub it in other peoples' faces so I'll refrain from further comment.

     Today is turning out to be a little more rough emotionally than I expected. All of my excitement vanished last night and was replaced by sadness. I've never felt 'sad' to travel. Scared, anxious, nervous? Yes. Sad? No. I feel a lot better now that I'm at the airport. Airports are pretty funny places. They are depressing, exciting, annoying, and yet they comfort me. I've been to so many airports, traveled on countless planes. Although I think it's sad that you literally have to be cavity searched to get on a plane these days (although obviously I'd rather have that than some type of disaster...I've got nothing to hide), there is something about being in an airport that is finalizing. You are leaving. You are going home. You are stuck. You are on the go. There is an absolute quality about it. I find it calming. Most people find it stressful. My dad likes to freak out in airports. I take traveling especially multi-day commutes as a time where it is best to just roll with the punches and deal with it.

     I am not looking forward to LAX. Please excuse today's negativity, but it should come as no surprise. I will be sad, then anxious, then knocked out by Nyquil, then super freaked out for about 2 hours upon arrival, then at peace. Anyways, LAX is quite easily one of my least favorite places. It's what I would imagine some place like Lagos being like except with more concrete. Basically, one enormous CF. I've been there all hours of the day, always traffic. You walk outside and literally might get carbon monoxide poisoning. No one speaks English, which is always interesting because you are in America. You hear various Asian, Middle Eastern, Latin and South American, and the occasional European languages more frequently than you will hear your own. People drive like morons, act like morons, and baggage claim (esp the Southwest terminal) is like a root canal. Long, slow, and unorganized. Awesome. Fortunately there is an In-n-Out not too far away so I'll be stopping there for some grub and fresh(-er) air. The best part about today is the fact that I not only get to go through baggage claim, but I then get to come in for the late night shift and go through the international terminal. Last time I was smashed between a flight leaving for Guadalajara and my flight to Beijing. My Beijing flight was both cute and annoying, as there were about 50 school children on my flight. For whatever reason the fact that it was 1:45am did not seem to phase them. Although they looked so cute in their sweat pant uniforms and Mickey Mouse hats. It was quite a funny flight because I sat next to a lady from Costa Rica heading to China. She spoke no English and the Spanish I know is not particularly helpful for everyday conversation. I have decided to learn Spanish on my own next year. It's kind of like America's new second language. I'm one of the few west coast kids who doesn't know a significant amount.

     Exactly one year ago I was flying over the Pacific on my way back from Asia. The world felt extremely small to me that day. After deciding to abandon my trip 3 days prior I was magically back in America (read: Business class on Korean Air = best way to travel by plane...especially post hospital). I felt defeated on that day. I felt as if I had failed to accomplish what I left to accomplish. It took me a while to realize that I accomplished something more than what I set out to accomplish. As I set out again, I have things I want to accomplish, but I have more room to accept the things I wasn't planning on finding.

     I would like to end this post on a high note. When I say I blame myself or the economy I'm mainly talking about the fact that I chose to leave the country to find work because there is very little (read: none) here in the States. I realize this is my choice. I don't regret anything I do, because you will always learn something even if it turns out you had the worst idea ever. The journey and the people you take with you are what makes you who you are. I am excited overall to be going to Malaysia. I am eternally grateful for such a unique opportunity. However, when I decided to start this blog, I decided that it is just as important to share my other-than-happy thoughts. If I didn't it wouldn't be a complete story. The past few days have been about saying goodbye. 90% of the time (...every time...), goodbyes are not easy and goodbyes do not incite feelings of awesomeness. They are a simple reminder of your love for others and your own mortality. I will always have my friends and family in my heart (and the pictures on my wall) while I am away. I know that. I'm glad for this opportunity to grow.


     "The best journeys are the ones that answer questions that when you set out you never even thought to ask." - Anonymous

Cheers US of A!

-M

PS. I think this goes without saying, but I've gotta board and didn't have a chance to read through and correct any awkward sentences. My apologies.
  

I can never think of what to name these posts...

     There are a few things in life that I do love avoiding to do until the last possible minute and that's packing and laundry. Maybe it's because I have been in charge of doing both of those things since I was relatively young.

     I have done almost everything (except for checking into my flight, which I can't do until tomorrow) in order to avoid the actual packing. I did a super-cleaning of the apartment (sort of as a nice thing to do for the boyfriend, b/c we are both students and this trip is costing him the financial benefits of a roommate...no one wants to live in our windowless spare room). I mean, I cleaned every nook and cranny of this place, not to mention Nina is shedding at a fantastic rate, so it was extra dirty. If that doesn't tell you how much I dislike packing, I even went to the extreme to put things that I needed that were out in a pile, to be dealt with later. In essence, I created even more work for myself that is how much I dislike packing.

     I can't emphasize enough just how nice it is to actually have the time to do things such as clean out the apartment. I've realized that after 19 straight years of school, I'm really tired. My undergraduate days nursed that 'work hard play hard' mentality that I love about being a Colgate graduate. Graduate school is more like 'work harder what's play?' It's exhausting. As it should be, if it was easy, everyone would do it. Don't get me wrong I love it, as corny as it may sound I have a passion for learning. However, I feel as if I haven't had the chance to apply anything to the real world. I feel a bit in limbo in graduate school and I'm well aware that the working world is not school. Professional schools tend to slap you in the face with this, but what good does it do if you don't know what they're talking about? My last office job was at an indie record label in Los Angeles. Hardly your typical office, not to mention I was in high school and knew nothing about the world. Needless to say, I am excited for this opportunity to go work at a firm in another part of the world.

     I'm also surprisingly not worried or stressed out about anything. This most likely stems from my last trip to Asia. Yes, I am going to a completely different part of Asia, but I know there is no sense in worrying about time or days or when things should happen, because my sense of time is about to be completely rocked ( the lose a day thing is still a mystery to me). I'm entering a culture completely different than my own, the best way to deal with this is to relax, listen, and go with the flow. I'm not stressed about the loads of things I need to get done before I because it honestly beats what was previously occupying my time, LEED. Passing that exam felt like a heavy concrete wall was lifted from both my back and head (not to mention I can get back to studying Malaysian).

     Just realized that most of the paragraphs of this post start with the word 'I,' that trend needed to end. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous or even afraid. I'm leaving the boyfriend for the first time since I lived in Denmark. We spent a month apart when I graduated and moved here, but we've been living together for almost 2 years now. It will be an adjustment. I can't deny the fact that my stomach concerns me (you also can't blame me either, the last time I left the country I found myself in an ICU because of extreme dehydration). I've been pounding pro-biotic juice like it's crack. Obviously there are other nerves as well. However, I want to do this, come what may. As I always say (and now actually believe) what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and as my dad always told me 'being nervous means you're ready.' So I'm at peace with my nerves, if you know what I mean.

    So my last few days in the states will be with friends and family. I invited a small group of people over for 'make your own pizza night.' The boyfriend has a final the day I leave so it's just a few close friends with pizza and beer. It really doesn't get much more American than that - except if you were BBQing burgers and watching the SuperBowl - or NASCAR if that's what you're into (although I only know one person who actually watches NASCAR - my brother, go figure). So I guess the only thing that makes this even 'American' is the beer thing, I mean the pizza won't even be coming out of a box...so I completely take that back. It's also the last chance I'll get to see a couple of my friends before they too move over the summer. Should be a good night.

    Tomorrow I'll be packing and spending time with MB. I leave Colorado on Wednesday at noon. I'll be in LA with my parents on the 18th (getting my In-n-Out on). Then it's across the Pacific at 12am on Thursday. Lastly, something magical happens and I arrive in KL at 12:15. The plan is to get my things and take the train to KL Sentral where someone will be picking me up and taking me to my host's place for a week. I'll start work in a week.

-M

     There are a few things in life that I do love avoiding to do until the last possible minute and that's packing and laundry. Maybe it's because I have been in charge of doing both of those things since I was relatively young.

     I have done almost everything (except for checking into my flight, which I can't do until tomorrow) in order to avoid the actual packing. I did a super-cleaning of the apartment (sort of as a nice thing to do for the boyfriend, b/c we are both students and this trip is costing him the financial benefits of a roommate...no one wants to live in our windowless spare room). I mean, I cleaned every nook and cranny of this place, not to mention Nina is shedding at a fantastic rate, so it was extra dirty. If that doesn't tell you how much I dislike packing, I even went to the extreme to put things that I needed that were out in a pile, to be dealt with later. In essence, I created even more work for myself that is how much I dislike packing.

     I can't emphasize enough just how nice it is to actually have the time to do things such as clean out the apartment. I've realized that after 19 straight years of school, I'm really tired. My undergraduate days nursed that 'work hard play hard' mentality that I love about being a Colgate graduate. Graduate school is more like 'work harder what's play?' It's exhausting. As it should be, if it was easy, everyone would do it. Don't get me wrong I love it, as corny as it may sound I have a passion for learning. However, I feel as if I haven't had the chance to apply anything to the real world. I feel a bit in limbo in graduate school and I'm well aware that the working world is not school. Professional schools tend to slap you in the face with this, but what good does it do if you don't know what they're talking about? My last office job was at an indie record label in Los Angeles. Hardly your typical office, not to mention I was in high school and knew nothing about the world. Needless to say, I am excited for this opportunity to go work at a firm in another part of the world.

     I'm also surprisingly not worried or stressed out about anything. This most likely stems from my last trip to Asia. Yes, I am going to a completely different part of Asia, but I know there is no sense in worrying about time or days or when things should happen, because my sense of time is about to be completely rocked ( the lose a day thing is still a mystery to me). I'm entering a culture completely different than my own, the best way to deal with this is to relax, listen, and go with the flow. I'm not stressed about the loads of things I need to get done before I because it honestly beats what was previously occupying my time, LEED. Passing that exam felt like a heavy concrete wall was lifted from both my back and head (not to mention I can get back to studying Malaysian).

     Just realized that most of the paragraphs of this post start with the word 'I,' that trend needed to end. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous or even afraid. I'm leaving the boyfriend for the first time since I lived in Denmark. We spent a month apart when I graduated and moved here, but we've been living together for almost 2 years now. It will be an adjustment. I can't deny the fact that my stomach concerns me (you also can't blame me either, the last time I left the country I found myself in an ICU because of extreme dehydration). I've been pounding pro-biotic juice like it's crack. Obviously there are other nerves as well. However, I want to do this, come what may. As I always say (and now actually believe) what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and as my dad always told me 'being nervous means you're ready.' So I'm at peace with my nerves, if you know what I mean.

    So my last few days in the states will be with friends and family. I invited a small group of people over for 'make your own pizza night.' The boyfriend has a final the day I leave so it's just a few close friends with pizza and beer. It really doesn't get much more American than that - except if you were BBQing burgers and watching the SuperBowl - or NASCAR if that's what you're into (although I only know one person who actually watches NASCAR - my brother, go figure). So I guess the only thing that makes this even 'American' is the beer thing, I mean the pizza won't even be coming out of a box...so I completely take that back. It's also the last chance I'll get to see a couple of my friends before they too move over the summer. Should be a good night.

    Tomorrow I'll be packing and spending time with MB. I leave Colorado on Wednesday at noon. I'll be in LA with my parents on the 18th (getting my In-n-Out on). Then it's across the Pacific at 12am on Thursday. Lastly, something magical happens and I arrive in KL at 12:15. The plan is to get my things and take the train to KL Sentral where someone will be picking me up and taking me to my host's place for a week. I'll start work in a week.

-M

     There are a few things in life that I do love avoiding to do until the last possible minute and that's packing and laundry. Maybe it's because I have been in charge of doing both of those things since I was relatively young.

     I have done almost everything (except for checking into my flight, which I can't do until tomorrow) in order to avoid the actual packing. I did a super-cleaning of the apartment (sort of as a nice thing to do for the boyfriend, b/c we are both students and this trip is costing him the financial benefits of a roommate...no one wants to live in our windowless spare room). I mean, I cleaned every nook and cranny of this place, not to mention Nina is shedding at a fantastic rate, so it was extra dirty. If that doesn't tell you how much I dislike packing, I even went to the extreme to put things that I needed that were out in a pile, to be dealt with later. In essence, I created even more work for myself that is how much I dislike packing.

     I can't emphasize enough just how nice it is to actually have the time to do things such as clean out the apartment. I've realized that after 19 straight years of school, I'm really tired. My undergraduate days nursed that 'work hard play hard' mentality that I love about being a Colgate graduate. Graduate school is more like 'work harder what's play?' It's exhausting. As it should be, if it was easy, everyone would do it. Don't get me wrong I love it, as corny as it may sound I have a passion for learning. However, I feel as if I haven't had the chance to apply anything to the real world. I feel a bit in limbo in graduate school and I'm well aware that the working world is not school. Professional schools tend to slap you in the face with this, but what good does it do if you don't know what they're talking about? My last office job was at an indie record label in Los Angeles. Hardly your typical office, not to mention I was in high school and knew nothing about the world. Needless to say, I am excited for this opportunity to go work at a firm in another part of the world.

     I'm also surprisingly not worried or stressed out about anything. This most likely stems from my last trip to Asia. Yes, I am going to a completely different part of Asia, but I know there is no sense in worrying about time or days or when things should happen, because my sense of time is about to be completely rocked ( the lose a day thing is still a mystery to me). I'm entering a culture completely different than my own, the best way to deal with this is to relax, listen, and go with the flow. I'm not stressed about the loads of things I need to get done before I because it honestly beats what was previously occupying my time, LEED. Passing that exam felt like a heavy concrete wall was lifted from both my back and head (not to mention I can get back to studying Malaysian).

     Just realized that most of the paragraphs of this post start with the word 'I,' that trend needed to end. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous or even afraid. I'm leaving the boyfriend for the first time since I lived in Denmark. We spent a month apart when I graduated and moved here, but we've been living together for almost 2 years now. It will be an adjustment. I can't deny the fact that my stomach concerns me (you also can't blame me either, the last time I left the country I found myself in an ICU because of extreme dehydration). I've been pounding pro-biotic juice like it's crack. Obviously there are other nerves as well. However, I want to do this, come what may. As I always say (and now actually believe) what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and as my dad always told me 'being nervous means you're ready.' So I'm at peace with my nerves, if you know what I mean.

    So my last few days in the states will be with friends and family. I invited a small group of people over for 'make your own pizza night.' The boyfriend has a final the day I leave so it's just a few close friends with pizza and beer. It really doesn't get much more American than that - except if you were BBQing burgers and watching the SuperBowl - or NASCAR if that's what you're into (although I only know one person who actually watches NASCAR - my brother, go figure). So I guess the only thing that makes this even 'American' is the beer thing, I mean the pizza won't even be coming out of a box...so I completely take that back. It's also the last chance I'll get to see a couple of my friends before they too move over the summer. Should be a good night.

    Tomorrow I'll be packing and spending time with MB. I leave Colorado on Wednesday at noon. I'll be in LA with my parents on the 18th (getting my In-n-Out on). Then it's across the Pacific at 12am on Thursday. Lastly, something magical happens and I arrive in KL at 12:15. The plan is to get my things and take the train to KL Sentral where someone will be picking me up and taking me to my host's place for a week. I'll start work in a week.

-M

     There are a few things in life that I do love avoiding to do until the last possible minute and that's packing and laundry. Maybe it's because I have been in charge of doing both of those things since I was relatively young.

     I have done almost everything (except for checking into my flight, which I can't do until tomorrow) in order to avoid the actual packing. I did a super-cleaning of the apartment (sort of as a nice thing to do for the boyfriend, b/c we are both students and this trip is costing him the financial benefits of a roommate...no one wants to live in our windowless spare room). I mean, I cleaned every nook and cranny of this place, not to mention Nina is shedding at a fantastic rate, so it was extra dirty. If that doesn't tell you how much I dislike packing, I even went to the extreme to put things that I needed that were out in a pile, to be dealt with later. In essence, I created even more work for myself that is how much I dislike packing.

     I can't emphasize enough just how nice it is to actually have the time to do things such as clean out the apartment. I've realized that after 19 straight years of school, I'm really tired. My undergraduate days nursed that 'work hard play hard' mentality that I love about being a Colgate graduate. Graduate school is more like 'work harder what's play?' It's exhausting. As it should be, if it was easy, everyone would do it. Don't get me wrong I love it, as corny as it may sound I have a passion for learning. However, I feel as if I haven't had the chance to apply anything to the real world. I feel a bit in limbo in graduate school and I'm well aware that the working world is not school. Professional schools tend to slap you in the face with this, but what good does it do if you don't know what they're talking about? My last office job was at an indie record label in Los Angeles. Hardly your typical office, not to mention I was in high school and knew nothing about the world. Needless to say, I am excited for this opportunity to go work at a firm in another part of the world.

     I'm also surprisingly not worried or stressed out about anything. This most likely stems from my last trip to Asia. Yes, I am going to a completely different part of Asia, but I know there is no sense in worrying about time or days or when things should happen, because my sense of time is about to be completely rocked ( the lose a day thing is still a mystery to me). I'm entering a culture completely different than my own, the best way to deal with this is to relax, listen, and go with the flow. I'm not stressed about the loads of things I need to get done before I because it honestly beats what was previously occupying my time, LEED. Passing that exam felt like a heavy concrete wall was lifted from both my back and head (not to mention I can get back to studying Malaysian).

     Just realized that most of the paragraphs of this post start with the word 'I,' that trend needed to end. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't nervous or even afraid. I'm leaving the boyfriend for the first time since I lived in Denmark. We spent a month apart when I graduated and moved here, but we've been living together for almost 2 years now. It will be an adjustment. I can't deny the fact that my stomach concerns me (you also can't blame me either, the last time I left the country I found myself in an ICU because of extreme dehydration). I've been pounding pro-biotic juice like it's crack. Obviously there are other nerves as well. However, I want to do this, come what may. As I always say (and now actually believe) what doesn't kill you makes you stronger, and as my dad always told me 'being nervous means you're ready.' So I'm at peace with my nerves, if you know what I mean.

    So my last few days in the states will be with friends and family. I invited a small group of people over for 'make your own pizza night.' The boyfriend has a final the day I leave so it's just a few close friends with pizza and beer. It really doesn't get much more American than that - except if you were BBQing burgers and watching the SuperBowl - or NASCAR if that's what you're into (although I only know one person who actually watches NASCAR - my brother, go figure). So I guess the only thing that makes this even 'American' is the beer thing, I mean the pizza won't even be coming out of a box...so I completely take that back. It's also the last chance I'll get to see a couple of my friends before they too move over the summer. Should be a good night.

    Tomorrow I'll be packing and spending time with MB. I leave Colorado on Wednesday at noon. I'll be in LA with my parents on the 18th (getting my In-n-Out on). Then it's across the Pacific at 12am on Thursday. Lastly, something magical happens and I arrive in KL at 12:15. The plan is to get my things and take the train to KL Sentral where someone will be picking me up and taking me to my host's place for a week. I'll start work in a week.

-M

In procrastination of memorizing still MORE LEED points...

     So basically, I do not feel like doing any more practice quizzes for a bit so I'm here to update. Things have been...well...going. My final review was great (one of the best I've had, got some really helpful feedback, and actually enjoyed presenting). We had prize money with our studio, I did not win, but I am super proud of those who did. They really did have great projects and deserve the credit. I did, however, get the runner-up prize of being nominated to present at the Design Excellence Awards. It was exciting for me, even though I was going up against the first place people from other studios. Again, I didn't win, but I didn't really mind, it was great to see everyone's projects, have a beer, catch up with old professors, hang out with friends, and help my friend C cater the event (she's a killer cook). I've been beyond busy with finals and other things no one really cares about so I won't bore you with the details. My last exam is tomorrow and it's the LEED AP BD+C exam. I've been studying...lots. You basically need an 85% to pass and it's one of those scary computer based exams you have to drive far away to and go through some crazy security screening to enter the testing room. Ugh. However, by 4:30pm tomorrow I will be done with my second year of graduate school.

     Enough with the school stuff, I leave in 5 days. Yesterday I spoke with my contact at Veritas, Z, who gave me my housing information. I'll be living in an area that is a good mix of locals and expats alike, so I won't be in some compound where expats live extremely sheltered lives (if you don't want to change and learn from others, why leave? Seriously people, you're missing out). I will have 2 roommates and I'm really excited to meet them. They are both women around my age and one of them (who shows up in June) is going to be working with me so I'll have a buddy for my daily commute. It will be me, a local (not sure if she's originally from MY or not), and a girl from South Africa. I think I'm going to like this worldly set up. The apartment is on the 19th floor and apparently has a killer view of the city. I'll be outside the city center, where most people live, and close to the commuter rail. There is a pool and the facilities look really nice. Rent is also, in comparison to what I'm used to, dirt cheap for such a place. If I choose to tell my roommates what I pay at home it will be laughable. Then again, I'm making local wages so the lower rent costs are very helpful (just makes me feel like I'm being ripped off a bit here in Denver). The only downside is I have to wait until the 26th (I arrive in KL on the 20th) to move in. I'll be doing a home stay though (either with a friend of a friend from CS-see below- or someone from the office). I'm not upset about the home stay aspect. I actually think I could gain a LOT from living in someone's home for a week. Plus, it will be a great opportunity to try out my language skills and maybe even learn to cook. It's just the fact that me and my big 'ol suitcases will be in someone's way for a while and I won't be settled in as soon as I would like. However, I see this as a great opportunity to experience real Malaysian life and it definitely beats sharing a bunk with 20 ppl in a hostel.

     I recently joined the CouchSurfing network (CS from here on out). I figure it will be a great way to meet people from all over the world and make a few friends outside of work. Plus it is a great way to find travel buddies and engage in a cultural learning experience when I travel. I doubt I will be able to host people, but I plan on going to events and such in KL (I joined the local group), as well as surf when I leave town for weekend trips. I have a friend who has been CSing all over SEA and her experiences led me to join. It's a great network that allows you to take part in cultural exchanges with people from all over the world, as well as gain valuable local knowledge and insight to a place, something that is hard to come by if you don't know where to find it.

    Anyways, it's back to the books for me. I hope everyone enduring finals is surviving! We're almost there!

Until next time...

-M

     So basically, I do not feel like doing any more practice quizzes for a bit so I'm here to update. Things have been...well...going. My final review was great (one of the best I've had, got some really helpful feedback, and actually enjoyed presenting). We had prize money with our studio, I did not win, but I am super proud of those who did. They really did have great projects and deserve the credit. I did, however, get the runner-up prize of being nominated to present at the Design Excellence Awards. It was exciting for me, even though I was going up against the first place people from other studios. Again, I didn't win, but I didn't really mind, it was great to see everyone's projects, have a beer, catch up with old professors, hang out with friends, and help my friend C cater the event (she's a killer cook). I've been beyond busy with finals and other things no one really cares about so I won't bore you with the details. My last exam is tomorrow and it's the LEED AP BD+C exam. I've been studying...lots. You basically need an 85% to pass and it's one of those scary computer based exams you have to drive far away to and go through some crazy security screening to enter the testing room. Ugh. However, by 4:30pm tomorrow I will be done with my second year of graduate school.

     Enough with the school stuff, I leave in 5 days. Yesterday I spoke with my contact at Veritas, Z, who gave me my housing information. I'll be living in an area that is a good mix of locals and expats alike, so I won't be in some compound where expats live extremely sheltered lives (if you don't want to change and learn from others, why leave? Seriously people, you're missing out). I will have 2 roommates and I'm really excited to meet them. They are both women around my age and one of them (who shows up in June) is going to be working with me so I'll have a buddy for my daily commute. It will be me, a local (not sure if she's originally from MY or not), and a girl from South Africa. I think I'm going to like this worldly set up. The apartment is on the 19th floor and apparently has a killer view of the city. I'll be outside the city center, where most people live, and close to the commuter rail. There is a pool and the facilities look really nice. Rent is also, in comparison to what I'm used to, dirt cheap for such a place. If I choose to tell my roommates what I pay at home it will be laughable. Then again, I'm making local wages so the lower rent costs are very helpful (just makes me feel like I'm being ripped off a bit here in Denver). The only downside is I have to wait until the 26th (I arrive in KL on the 20th) to move in. I'll be doing a home stay though (either with a friend of a friend from CS-see below- or someone from the office). I'm not upset about the home stay aspect. I actually think I could gain a LOT from living in someone's home for a week. Plus, it will be a great opportunity to try out my language skills and maybe even learn to cook. It's just the fact that me and my big 'ol suitcases will be in someone's way for a while and I won't be settled in as soon as I would like. However, I see this as a great opportunity to experience real Malaysian life and it definitely beats sharing a bunk with 20 ppl in a hostel.

     I recently joined the CouchSurfing network (CS from here on out). I figure it will be a great way to meet people from all over the world and make a few friends outside of work. Plus it is a great way to find travel buddies and engage in a cultural learning experience when I travel. I doubt I will be able to host people, but I plan on going to events and such in KL (I joined the local group), as well as surf when I leave town for weekend trips. I have a friend who has been CSing all over SEA and her experiences led me to join. It's a great network that allows you to take part in cultural exchanges with people from all over the world, as well as gain valuable local knowledge and insight to a place, something that is hard to come by if you don't know where to find it.

    Anyways, it's back to the books for me. I hope everyone enduring finals is surviving! We're almost there!

Until next time...

-M

     So basically, I do not feel like doing any more practice quizzes for a bit so I'm here to update. Things have been...well...going. My final review was great (one of the best I've had, got some really helpful feedback, and actually enjoyed presenting). We had prize money with our studio, I did not win, but I am super proud of those who did. They really did have great projects and deserve the credit. I did, however, get the runner-up prize of being nominated to present at the Design Excellence Awards. It was exciting for me, even though I was going up against the first place people from other studios. Again, I didn't win, but I didn't really mind, it was great to see everyone's projects, have a beer, catch up with old professors, hang out with friends, and help my friend C cater the event (she's a killer cook). I've been beyond busy with finals and other things no one really cares about so I won't bore you with the details. My last exam is tomorrow and it's the LEED AP BD+C exam. I've been studying...lots. You basically need an 85% to pass and it's one of those scary computer based exams you have to drive far away to and go through some crazy security screening to enter the testing room. Ugh. However, by 4:30pm tomorrow I will be done with my second year of graduate school.

     Enough with the school stuff, I leave in 5 days. Yesterday I spoke with my contact at Veritas, Z, who gave me my housing information. I'll be living in an area that is a good mix of locals and expats alike, so I won't be in some compound where expats live extremely sheltered lives (if you don't want to change and learn from others, why leave? Seriously people, you're missing out). I will have 2 roommates and I'm really excited to meet them. They are both women around my age and one of them (who shows up in June) is going to be working with me so I'll have a buddy for my daily commute. It will be me, a local (not sure if she's originally from MY or not), and a girl from South Africa. I think I'm going to like this worldly set up. The apartment is on the 19th floor and apparently has a killer view of the city. I'll be outside the city center, where most people live, and close to the commuter rail. There is a pool and the facilities look really nice. Rent is also, in comparison to what I'm used to, dirt cheap for such a place. If I choose to tell my roommates what I pay at home it will be laughable. Then again, I'm making local wages so the lower rent costs are very helpful (just makes me feel like I'm being ripped off a bit here in Denver). The only downside is I have to wait until the 26th (I arrive in KL on the 20th) to move in. I'll be doing a home stay though (either with a friend of a friend from CS-see below- or someone from the office). I'm not upset about the home stay aspect. I actually think I could gain a LOT from living in someone's home for a week. Plus, it will be a great opportunity to try out my language skills and maybe even learn to cook. It's just the fact that me and my big 'ol suitcases will be in someone's way for a while and I won't be settled in as soon as I would like. However, I see this as a great opportunity to experience real Malaysian life and it definitely beats sharing a bunk with 20 ppl in a hostel.

     I recently joined the CouchSurfing network (CS from here on out). I figure it will be a great way to meet people from all over the world and make a few friends outside of work. Plus it is a great way to find travel buddies and engage in a cultural learning experience when I travel. I doubt I will be able to host people, but I plan on going to events and such in KL (I joined the local group), as well as surf when I leave town for weekend trips. I have a friend who has been CSing all over SEA and her experiences led me to join. It's a great network that allows you to take part in cultural exchanges with people from all over the world, as well as gain valuable local knowledge and insight to a place, something that is hard to come by if you don't know where to find it.

    Anyways, it's back to the books for me. I hope everyone enduring finals is surviving! We're almost there!

Until next time...

-M

     So basically, I do not feel like doing any more practice quizzes for a bit so I'm here to update. Things have been...well...going. My final review was great (one of the best I've had, got some really helpful feedback, and actually enjoyed presenting). We had prize money with our studio, I did not win, but I am super proud of those who did. They really did have great projects and deserve the credit. I did, however, get the runner-up prize of being nominated to present at the Design Excellence Awards. It was exciting for me, even though I was going up against the first place people from other studios. Again, I didn't win, but I didn't really mind, it was great to see everyone's projects, have a beer, catch up with old professors, hang out with friends, and help my friend C cater the event (she's a killer cook). I've been beyond busy with finals and other things no one really cares about so I won't bore you with the details. My last exam is tomorrow and it's the LEED AP BD+C exam. I've been studying...lots. You basically need an 85% to pass and it's one of those scary computer based exams you have to drive far away to and go through some crazy security screening to enter the testing room. Ugh. However, by 4:30pm tomorrow I will be done with my second year of graduate school.

     Enough with the school stuff, I leave in 5 days. Yesterday I spoke with my contact at Veritas, Z, who gave me my housing information. I'll be living in an area that is a good mix of locals and expats alike, so I won't be in some compound where expats live extremely sheltered lives (if you don't want to change and learn from others, why leave? Seriously people, you're missing out). I will have 2 roommates and I'm really excited to meet them. They are both women around my age and one of them (who shows up in June) is going to be working with me so I'll have a buddy for my daily commute. It will be me, a local (not sure if she's originally from MY or not), and a girl from South Africa. I think I'm going to like this worldly set up. The apartment is on the 19th floor and apparently has a killer view of the city. I'll be outside the city center, where most people live, and close to the commuter rail. There is a pool and the facilities look really nice. Rent is also, in comparison to what I'm used to, dirt cheap for such a place. If I choose to tell my roommates what I pay at home it will be laughable. Then again, I'm making local wages so the lower rent costs are very helpful (just makes me feel like I'm being ripped off a bit here in Denver). The only downside is I have to wait until the 26th (I arrive in KL on the 20th) to move in. I'll be doing a home stay though (either with a friend of a friend from CS-see below- or someone from the office). I'm not upset about the home stay aspect. I actually think I could gain a LOT from living in someone's home for a week. Plus, it will be a great opportunity to try out my language skills and maybe even learn to cook. It's just the fact that me and my big 'ol suitcases will be in someone's way for a while and I won't be settled in as soon as I would like. However, I see this as a great opportunity to experience real Malaysian life and it definitely beats sharing a bunk with 20 ppl in a hostel.

     I recently joined the CouchSurfing network (CS from here on out). I figure it will be a great way to meet people from all over the world and make a few friends outside of work. Plus it is a great way to find travel buddies and engage in a cultural learning experience when I travel. I doubt I will be able to host people, but I plan on going to events and such in KL (I joined the local group), as well as surf when I leave town for weekend trips. I have a friend who has been CSing all over SEA and her experiences led me to join. It's a great network that allows you to take part in cultural exchanges with people from all over the world, as well as gain valuable local knowledge and insight to a place, something that is hard to come by if you don't know where to find it.

    Anyways, it's back to the books for me. I hope everyone enduring finals is surviving! We're almost there!

Until next time...

-M

Music, one of life's many unifiers and dividers...

     So lately I've been downloading some music for my upcoming departure. Now this is an unusually rare event for me. I pay for my music for various reasons. Pay equals money. Graduate student = no pay. Therefore no music aside from kind 'donations'. However, it would be nice to have some new tunes for the 19.5 hr journey, so I've been window shopping in iTunes. It lead me to think about the bands I still listen to from high school. The list is short and if you asked me then I probably would have only guessed maybe 2 on the list. It doesn't include classics/classic rock or any groups that were around and I may have heard of in high school, but didn't listen to until college or after. They aren't bands I listen to religiously, but they show up, often without skipping when listening to music. By now, you know how much I love lists so without further delay, in no particular order:

1. Modest Mouse: I actually disliked them the first time I heard them. I remember sitting at a picnic bench with a friend at the time, and she asked me why, which caused me to re-examine. However, I fell for Good News I ended up buying their earlier stuff. I would listen to them every now and then, but after falling in love with the movie 108 Deg South, I have re-discovered them. If you don't know what I'm talking about get one of those free-for-a-month Netflix accounts and watch it. It's worth the effort.

2. Say Anything: I would say this one is one I would have not guessed, but not been surprised to see either. I listen to them significantly less in the past couple years, but they made a huge comeback as my artist of choice for music when working on my senior year project (oh how I miss that studio space...) so I give them props here, namely for both ...Is and ...Was a Real Boy. Let's face it devotees, he was so much better when he was all messed up.

3. Sigur Ros: This one doesn't surprise me only because I'm not quite sure if I first heard them in college or the end of high school. Needless to say, I love their general vibe or whatever you want to call it. It may sound nerdy/snotty/elitist/..gasp...hipster, but I studied art and can relate to them from an art theory perspective. I appreciate their unique sound and use of mixed media.

4. Saves the Day: I'm not afraid to admit it. They grew on me. It's a rarity for me to listen to them, but they or on my "once in a blue moon" playlist.

5. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Another one I'm not surprised to see. I grew up (10 onward) in LA. It's a part of my culture. Plus, Flea is a badass. I realize they haven't evolved a significant amount. Consistency is what I like about them.

6. Gorillaz: This is actually really surprising. I remember seeing one of their music videos late at night after one of my early experiences from alcohol and being absolutely terrified. However, I always thought they were catchy. Over the years they've grown on me and I love 'em.

7. Dr. Dre: What can I say other than 2001 was one of the first CDs I got in trouble for owning. My mother was appalled.

8. The Weakerthans: I can't say much else other than I have a sticker of theirs stuck on my calculator that I still use from high school and I've had more than one person make a comment about it.

9. Oasis: What's the Story Morning Glory was one of my first CDs. Sometimes it's necessary to bust out "She's Electric" while doing chores.

    I don't really know what to make of the list other than I seem to have stuck with the weirder ends of the genre, which is why I wouldn't have expected it then. Amazing sometimes to see how much you've changed and what you keep with you. Something I'll have to keep in mind this summer.

Cheers!
-M

     So lately I've been downloading some music for my upcoming departure. Now this is an unusually rare event for me. I pay for my music for various reasons. Pay equals money. Graduate student = no pay. Therefore no music aside from kind 'donations'. However, it would be nice to have some new tunes for the 19.5 hr journey, so I've been window shopping in iTunes. It lead me to think about the bands I still listen to from high school. The list is short and if you asked me then I probably would have only guessed maybe 2 on the list. It doesn't include classics/classic rock or any groups that were around and I may have heard of in high school, but didn't listen to until college or after. They aren't bands I listen to religiously, but they show up, often without skipping when listening to music. By now, you know how much I love lists so without further delay, in no particular order:

1. Modest Mouse: I actually disliked them the first time I heard them. I remember sitting at a picnic bench with a friend at the time, and she asked me why, which caused me to re-examine. However, I fell for Good News I ended up buying their earlier stuff. I would listen to them every now and then, but after falling in love with the movie 108 Deg South, I have re-discovered them. If you don't know what I'm talking about get one of those free-for-a-month Netflix accounts and watch it. It's worth the effort.

2. Say Anything: I would say this one is one I would have not guessed, but not been surprised to see either. I listen to them significantly less in the past couple years, but they made a huge comeback as my artist of choice for music when working on my senior year project (oh how I miss that studio space...) so I give them props here, namely for both ...Is and ...Was a Real Boy. Let's face it devotees, he was so much better when he was all messed up.

3. Sigur Ros: This one doesn't surprise me only because I'm not quite sure if I first heard them in college or the end of high school. Needless to say, I love their general vibe or whatever you want to call it. It may sound nerdy/snotty/elitist/..gasp...hipster, but I studied art and can relate to them from an art theory perspective. I appreciate their unique sound and use of mixed media.

4. Saves the Day: I'm not afraid to admit it. They grew on me. It's a rarity for me to listen to them, but they or on my "once in a blue moon" playlist.

5. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Another one I'm not surprised to see. I grew up (10 onward) in LA. It's a part of my culture. Plus, Flea is a badass. I realize they haven't evolved a significant amount. Consistency is what I like about them.

6. Gorillaz: This is actually really surprising. I remember seeing one of their music videos late at night after one of my early experiences from alcohol and being absolutely terrified. However, I always thought they were catchy. Over the years they've grown on me and I love 'em.

7. Dr. Dre: What can I say other than 2001 was one of the first CDs I got in trouble for owning. My mother was appalled.

8. The Weakerthans: I can't say much else other than I have a sticker of theirs stuck on my calculator that I still use from high school and I've had more than one person make a comment about it.

9. Oasis: What's the Story Morning Glory was one of my first CDs. Sometimes it's necessary to bust out "She's Electric" while doing chores.

    I don't really know what to make of the list other than I seem to have stuck with the weirder ends of the genre, which is why I wouldn't have expected it then. Amazing sometimes to see how much you've changed and what you keep with you. Something I'll have to keep in mind this summer.

Cheers!
-M

     So lately I've been downloading some music for my upcoming departure. Now this is an unusually rare event for me. I pay for my music for various reasons. Pay equals money. Graduate student = no pay. Therefore no music aside from kind 'donations'. However, it would be nice to have some new tunes for the 19.5 hr journey, so I've been window shopping in iTunes. It lead me to think about the bands I still listen to from high school. The list is short and if you asked me then I probably would have only guessed maybe 2 on the list. It doesn't include classics/classic rock or any groups that were around and I may have heard of in high school, but didn't listen to until college or after. They aren't bands I listen to religiously, but they show up, often without skipping when listening to music. By now, you know how much I love lists so without further delay, in no particular order:

1. Modest Mouse: I actually disliked them the first time I heard them. I remember sitting at a picnic bench with a friend at the time, and she asked me why, which caused me to re-examine. However, I fell for Good News I ended up buying their earlier stuff. I would listen to them every now and then, but after falling in love with the movie 108 Deg South, I have re-discovered them. If you don't know what I'm talking about get one of those free-for-a-month Netflix accounts and watch it. It's worth the effort.

2. Say Anything: I would say this one is one I would have not guessed, but not been surprised to see either. I listen to them significantly less in the past couple years, but they made a huge comeback as my artist of choice for music when working on my senior year project (oh how I miss that studio space...) so I give them props here, namely for both ...Is and ...Was a Real Boy. Let's face it devotees, he was so much better when he was all messed up.

3. Sigur Ros: This one doesn't surprise me only because I'm not quite sure if I first heard them in college or the end of high school. Needless to say, I love their general vibe or whatever you want to call it. It may sound nerdy/snotty/elitist/..gasp...hipster, but I studied art and can relate to them from an art theory perspective. I appreciate their unique sound and use of mixed media.

4. Saves the Day: I'm not afraid to admit it. They grew on me. It's a rarity for me to listen to them, but they or on my "once in a blue moon" playlist.

5. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Another one I'm not surprised to see. I grew up (10 onward) in LA. It's a part of my culture. Plus, Flea is a badass. I realize they haven't evolved a significant amount. Consistency is what I like about them.

6. Gorillaz: This is actually really surprising. I remember seeing one of their music videos late at night after one of my early experiences from alcohol and being absolutely terrified. However, I always thought they were catchy. Over the years they've grown on me and I love 'em.

7. Dr. Dre: What can I say other than 2001 was one of the first CDs I got in trouble for owning. My mother was appalled.

8. The Weakerthans: I can't say much else other than I have a sticker of theirs stuck on my calculator that I still use from high school and I've had more than one person make a comment about it.

9. Oasis: What's the Story Morning Glory was one of my first CDs. Sometimes it's necessary to bust out "She's Electric" while doing chores.

    I don't really know what to make of the list other than I seem to have stuck with the weirder ends of the genre, which is why I wouldn't have expected it then. Amazing sometimes to see how much you've changed and what you keep with you. Something I'll have to keep in mind this summer.

Cheers!
-M

     So lately I've been downloading some music for my upcoming departure. Now this is an unusually rare event for me. I pay for my music for various reasons. Pay equals money. Graduate student = no pay. Therefore no music aside from kind 'donations'. However, it would be nice to have some new tunes for the 19.5 hr journey, so I've been window shopping in iTunes. It lead me to think about the bands I still listen to from high school. The list is short and if you asked me then I probably would have only guessed maybe 2 on the list. It doesn't include classics/classic rock or any groups that were around and I may have heard of in high school, but didn't listen to until college or after. They aren't bands I listen to religiously, but they show up, often without skipping when listening to music. By now, you know how much I love lists so without further delay, in no particular order:

1. Modest Mouse: I actually disliked them the first time I heard them. I remember sitting at a picnic bench with a friend at the time, and she asked me why, which caused me to re-examine. However, I fell for Good News I ended up buying their earlier stuff. I would listen to them every now and then, but after falling in love with the movie 108 Deg South, I have re-discovered them. If you don't know what I'm talking about get one of those free-for-a-month Netflix accounts and watch it. It's worth the effort.

2. Say Anything: I would say this one is one I would have not guessed, but not been surprised to see either. I listen to them significantly less in the past couple years, but they made a huge comeback as my artist of choice for music when working on my senior year project (oh how I miss that studio space...) so I give them props here, namely for both ...Is and ...Was a Real Boy. Let's face it devotees, he was so much better when he was all messed up.

3. Sigur Ros: This one doesn't surprise me only because I'm not quite sure if I first heard them in college or the end of high school. Needless to say, I love their general vibe or whatever you want to call it. It may sound nerdy/snotty/elitist/..gasp...hipster, but I studied art and can relate to them from an art theory perspective. I appreciate their unique sound and use of mixed media.

4. Saves the Day: I'm not afraid to admit it. They grew on me. It's a rarity for me to listen to them, but they or on my "once in a blue moon" playlist.

5. Red Hot Chili Peppers: Another one I'm not surprised to see. I grew up (10 onward) in LA. It's a part of my culture. Plus, Flea is a badass. I realize they haven't evolved a significant amount. Consistency is what I like about them.

6. Gorillaz: This is actually really surprising. I remember seeing one of their music videos late at night after one of my early experiences from alcohol and being absolutely terrified. However, I always thought they were catchy. Over the years they've grown on me and I love 'em.

7. Dr. Dre: What can I say other than 2001 was one of the first CDs I got in trouble for owning. My mother was appalled.

8. The Weakerthans: I can't say much else other than I have a sticker of theirs stuck on my calculator that I still use from high school and I've had more than one person make a comment about it.

9. Oasis: What's the Story Morning Glory was one of my first CDs. Sometimes it's necessary to bust out "She's Electric" while doing chores.

    I don't really know what to make of the list other than I seem to have stuck with the weirder ends of the genre, which is why I wouldn't have expected it then. Amazing sometimes to see how much you've changed and what you keep with you. Something I'll have to keep in mind this summer.

Cheers!
-M

I dislike titles

     Well there are, as one could imagine, lots of things going on right now. The school year is winding down (finally...this one really felt long for some reason), It's a little more than 2 weeks before I leave, and then last night happened.

     My interest in global/cultural issues cannot help me from commenting on Osama's death. I, like most Americans alive today, know exactly where I was and what I was doing on the morning of 9/11. I watched the second plane smash into the towers live on TV...unable to really put any thoughts together. I remember watching 'ruin porn' (which, since then, I have actively avoided); I remember what it felt like to see riots of people burning my country's flag. I remember my dad coming home from work early. He was on the phone with someone who was in one of the towers. The phone cut out. He did not survive. It's one of those things I'll never forget. Everyone has a story about that day.

     America has been going through a rough patch. We needed some 'good' news. I struggle using the word 'good' because last night doesn't change anything. In fact, it's probably going to cause Pakistan a whole slew of problems that it doesn't need right now. Terror will still exist. Violence will still exist. All of the poverty that drives people to turn to such measures and keeps the vicious circle going, guess what? It still exists.

     However, at least the family and friends of those who lost someone because of Osama can finally feel some closure. I'm not just talking about Americans, he killed his own people and those from other countries as well. We are celebrating closure, in our own individual ways. To some that's prayer, to others that's thought, and to most college aged kids that's waving flags, chanting, screaming, and pounding Natty's (or substitute your cheap American beer of choice). That's what you see on the TV and whatever, they've got the right to do it. Although, it's funny how much this reminded me of my college campus the night Obama was elected, but that's besides the point.

     Hopefully, America isn't ignorant about what happened. Hopefully we tread carefully. I thought they had this one pretty well thought out. Ocean burial was done with the proper Islamic burial (it's pathetic I should have to even give this credit, but perhaps we are actually learning a bit about cultural sensitivity). Ocean insures no one will deface or idolize. It also puts a quick end to the 'show the body' debate. No other country was willing to take him. It was, in my opinion, a pretty neutral (and although we may never know what really happened) respectable way to dispose of the body. I kind of like the Islamic way of doing it; quick, easy, and no hassle. It leaves time for personal reflection instead of having it loom over your head.

     The almost overly-thought out procedure lead me to raise my eyebrow. I was also intrigued as to why we haven't heard about the raid, why Pakistan and much of the Islamic world seemed so quite. This lead me to believe that we weren't getting the whole story. Maybe he was dead days or even years ago, I'm not really interested in conspiracy theories in this situation. I am willing to admit that I inherently don't trust American media sources. So I did a little research and found this:


http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/5/2/worldupdates/2011-05-02T170009Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-567092-2&sec=Worldupdates

     It's long but it gives an interesting insight into what happened. It's a Malaysian (surprise!) newspaper printed in English. There was actually a military operation (battle just sounds weird) at the compound. A US chopper went down. So yes, it probably did actually happen. You can argue it was fake, but seriously guys? Don't be so paranoid.

    This post is becoming much longer than I had anticipated. I finished up my studio project this afternoon. Presentation is this Wednesday. Without boring you with programatic and design details and in fear that I'll turn this blog into a storage space for portfolio pieces; I'll just give a short blurb. The project is an Environmental Tourism Center for Colorado. These are a few of the more interesting drawings (pencil and paper woohoo!) from my presentation. PS...I was too lazy to touch them up so these are hot off the scanner.

I think it should go without saying, but this and anything else (posts, pictures, videos, some crazy thing that isn't even out yet, ect.) on this blog is intellectual property and cannot be reproduced without strict written consent by me. Give credit where credit is due my friends.

View from Speer Blvd

Amphitheater that opens up to the underground lecture hall. Or visa versa.

Green machine that cleans all the storm water runoff from the site.

I'll save my housing updates until I figure out where I am going to live.

-M

     Well there are, as one could imagine, lots of things going on right now. The school year is winding down (finally...this one really felt long for some reason), It's a little more than 2 weeks before I leave, and then last night happened.

     My interest in global/cultural issues cannot help me from commenting on Osama's death. I, like most Americans alive today, know exactly where I was and what I was doing on the morning of 9/11. I watched the second plane smash into the towers live on TV...unable to really put any thoughts together. I remember watching 'ruin porn' (which, since then, I have actively avoided); I remember what it felt like to see riots of people burning my country's flag. I remember my dad coming home from work early. He was on the phone with someone who was in one of the towers. The phone cut out. He did not survive. It's one of those things I'll never forget. Everyone has a story about that day.

     America has been going through a rough patch. We needed some 'good' news. I struggle using the word 'good' because last night doesn't change anything. In fact, it's probably going to cause Pakistan a whole slew of problems that it doesn't need right now. Terror will still exist. Violence will still exist. All of the poverty that drives people to turn to such measures and keeps the vicious circle going, guess what? It still exists.

     However, at least the family and friends of those who lost someone because of Osama can finally feel some closure. I'm not just talking about Americans, he killed his own people and those from other countries as well. We are celebrating closure, in our own individual ways. To some that's prayer, to others that's thought, and to most college aged kids that's waving flags, chanting, screaming, and pounding Natty's (or substitute your cheap American beer of choice). That's what you see on the TV and whatever, they've got the right to do it. Although, it's funny how much this reminded me of my college campus the night Obama was elected, but that's besides the point.

     Hopefully, America isn't ignorant about what happened. Hopefully we tread carefully. I thought they had this one pretty well thought out. Ocean burial was done with the proper Islamic burial (it's pathetic I should have to even give this credit, but perhaps we are actually learning a bit about cultural sensitivity). Ocean insures no one will deface or idolize. It also puts a quick end to the 'show the body' debate. No other country was willing to take him. It was, in my opinion, a pretty neutral (and although we may never know what really happened) respectable way to dispose of the body. I kind of like the Islamic way of doing it; quick, easy, and no hassle. It leaves time for personal reflection instead of having it loom over your head.

     The almost overly-thought out procedure lead me to raise my eyebrow. I was also intrigued as to why we haven't heard about the raid, why Pakistan and much of the Islamic world seemed so quite. This lead me to believe that we weren't getting the whole story. Maybe he was dead days or even years ago, I'm not really interested in conspiracy theories in this situation. I am willing to admit that I inherently don't trust American media sources. So I did a little research and found this:


http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/5/2/worldupdates/2011-05-02T170009Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-567092-2&sec=Worldupdates

     It's long but it gives an interesting insight into what happened. It's a Malaysian (surprise!) newspaper printed in English. There was actually a military operation (battle just sounds weird) at the compound. A US chopper went down. So yes, it probably did actually happen. You can argue it was fake, but seriously guys? Don't be so paranoid.

    This post is becoming much longer than I had anticipated. I finished up my studio project this afternoon. Presentation is this Wednesday. Without boring you with programatic and design details and in fear that I'll turn this blog into a storage space for portfolio pieces; I'll just give a short blurb. The project is an Environmental Tourism Center for Colorado. These are a few of the more interesting drawings (pencil and paper woohoo!) from my presentation. PS...I was too lazy to touch them up so these are hot off the scanner.

I think it should go without saying, but this and anything else (posts, pictures, videos, some crazy thing that isn't even out yet, ect.) on this blog is intellectual property and cannot be reproduced without strict written consent by me. Give credit where credit is due my friends.

View from Speer Blvd

Amphitheater that opens up to the underground lecture hall. Or visa versa.

Green machine that cleans all the storm water runoff from the site.

I'll save my housing updates until I figure out where I am going to live.

-M

     Well there are, as one could imagine, lots of things going on right now. The school year is winding down (finally...this one really felt long for some reason), It's a little more than 2 weeks before I leave, and then last night happened.

     My interest in global/cultural issues cannot help me from commenting on Osama's death. I, like most Americans alive today, know exactly where I was and what I was doing on the morning of 9/11. I watched the second plane smash into the towers live on TV...unable to really put any thoughts together. I remember watching 'ruin porn' (which, since then, I have actively avoided); I remember what it felt like to see riots of people burning my country's flag. I remember my dad coming home from work early. He was on the phone with someone who was in one of the towers. The phone cut out. He did not survive. It's one of those things I'll never forget. Everyone has a story about that day.

     America has been going through a rough patch. We needed some 'good' news. I struggle using the word 'good' because last night doesn't change anything. In fact, it's probably going to cause Pakistan a whole slew of problems that it doesn't need right now. Terror will still exist. Violence will still exist. All of the poverty that drives people to turn to such measures and keeps the vicious circle going, guess what? It still exists.

     However, at least the family and friends of those who lost someone because of Osama can finally feel some closure. I'm not just talking about Americans, he killed his own people and those from other countries as well. We are celebrating closure, in our own individual ways. To some that's prayer, to others that's thought, and to most college aged kids that's waving flags, chanting, screaming, and pounding Natty's (or substitute your cheap American beer of choice). That's what you see on the TV and whatever, they've got the right to do it. Although, it's funny how much this reminded me of my college campus the night Obama was elected, but that's besides the point.

     Hopefully, America isn't ignorant about what happened. Hopefully we tread carefully. I thought they had this one pretty well thought out. Ocean burial was done with the proper Islamic burial (it's pathetic I should have to even give this credit, but perhaps we are actually learning a bit about cultural sensitivity). Ocean insures no one will deface or idolize. It also puts a quick end to the 'show the body' debate. No other country was willing to take him. It was, in my opinion, a pretty neutral (and although we may never know what really happened) respectable way to dispose of the body. I kind of like the Islamic way of doing it; quick, easy, and no hassle. It leaves time for personal reflection instead of having it loom over your head.

     The almost overly-thought out procedure lead me to raise my eyebrow. I was also intrigued as to why we haven't heard about the raid, why Pakistan and much of the Islamic world seemed so quite. This lead me to believe that we weren't getting the whole story. Maybe he was dead days or even years ago, I'm not really interested in conspiracy theories in this situation. I am willing to admit that I inherently don't trust American media sources. So I did a little research and found this:


http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/5/2/worldupdates/2011-05-02T170009Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-567092-2&sec=Worldupdates

     It's long but it gives an interesting insight into what happened. It's a Malaysian (surprise!) newspaper printed in English. There was actually a military operation (battle just sounds weird) at the compound. A US chopper went down. So yes, it probably did actually happen. You can argue it was fake, but seriously guys? Don't be so paranoid.

    This post is becoming much longer than I had anticipated. I finished up my studio project this afternoon. Presentation is this Wednesday. Without boring you with programatic and design details and in fear that I'll turn this blog into a storage space for portfolio pieces; I'll just give a short blurb. The project is an Environmental Tourism Center for Colorado. These are a few of the more interesting drawings (pencil and paper woohoo!) from my presentation. PS...I was too lazy to touch them up so these are hot off the scanner.

I think it should go without saying, but this and anything else (posts, pictures, videos, some crazy thing that isn't even out yet, ect.) on this blog is intellectual property and cannot be reproduced without strict written consent by me. Give credit where credit is due my friends.

View from Speer Blvd

Amphitheater that opens up to the underground lecture hall. Or visa versa.

Green machine that cleans all the storm water runoff from the site.

I'll save my housing updates until I figure out where I am going to live.

-M

     Well there are, as one could imagine, lots of things going on right now. The school year is winding down (finally...this one really felt long for some reason), It's a little more than 2 weeks before I leave, and then last night happened.

     My interest in global/cultural issues cannot help me from commenting on Osama's death. I, like most Americans alive today, know exactly where I was and what I was doing on the morning of 9/11. I watched the second plane smash into the towers live on TV...unable to really put any thoughts together. I remember watching 'ruin porn' (which, since then, I have actively avoided); I remember what it felt like to see riots of people burning my country's flag. I remember my dad coming home from work early. He was on the phone with someone who was in one of the towers. The phone cut out. He did not survive. It's one of those things I'll never forget. Everyone has a story about that day.

     America has been going through a rough patch. We needed some 'good' news. I struggle using the word 'good' because last night doesn't change anything. In fact, it's probably going to cause Pakistan a whole slew of problems that it doesn't need right now. Terror will still exist. Violence will still exist. All of the poverty that drives people to turn to such measures and keeps the vicious circle going, guess what? It still exists.

     However, at least the family and friends of those who lost someone because of Osama can finally feel some closure. I'm not just talking about Americans, he killed his own people and those from other countries as well. We are celebrating closure, in our own individual ways. To some that's prayer, to others that's thought, and to most college aged kids that's waving flags, chanting, screaming, and pounding Natty's (or substitute your cheap American beer of choice). That's what you see on the TV and whatever, they've got the right to do it. Although, it's funny how much this reminded me of my college campus the night Obama was elected, but that's besides the point.

     Hopefully, America isn't ignorant about what happened. Hopefully we tread carefully. I thought they had this one pretty well thought out. Ocean burial was done with the proper Islamic burial (it's pathetic I should have to even give this credit, but perhaps we are actually learning a bit about cultural sensitivity). Ocean insures no one will deface or idolize. It also puts a quick end to the 'show the body' debate. No other country was willing to take him. It was, in my opinion, a pretty neutral (and although we may never know what really happened) respectable way to dispose of the body. I kind of like the Islamic way of doing it; quick, easy, and no hassle. It leaves time for personal reflection instead of having it loom over your head.

     The almost overly-thought out procedure lead me to raise my eyebrow. I was also intrigued as to why we haven't heard about the raid, why Pakistan and much of the Islamic world seemed so quite. This lead me to believe that we weren't getting the whole story. Maybe he was dead days or even years ago, I'm not really interested in conspiracy theories in this situation. I am willing to admit that I inherently don't trust American media sources. So I did a little research and found this:


http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2011/5/2/worldupdates/2011-05-02T170009Z_01_NOOTR_RTRMDNC_0_-567092-2&sec=Worldupdates

     It's long but it gives an interesting insight into what happened. It's a Malaysian (surprise!) newspaper printed in English. There was actually a military operation (battle just sounds weird) at the compound. A US chopper went down. So yes, it probably did actually happen. You can argue it was fake, but seriously guys? Don't be so paranoid.

    This post is becoming much longer than I had anticipated. I finished up my studio project this afternoon. Presentation is this Wednesday. Without boring you with programatic and design details and in fear that I'll turn this blog into a storage space for portfolio pieces; I'll just give a short blurb. The project is an Environmental Tourism Center for Colorado. These are a few of the more interesting drawings (pencil and paper woohoo!) from my presentation. PS...I was too lazy to touch them up so these are hot off the scanner.

I think it should go without saying, but this and anything else (posts, pictures, videos, some crazy thing that isn't even out yet, ect.) on this blog is intellectual property and cannot be reproduced without strict written consent by me. Give credit where credit is due my friends.

View from Speer Blvd

Amphitheater that opens up to the underground lecture hall. Or visa versa.

Green machine that cleans all the storm water runoff from the site.

I'll save my housing updates until I figure out where I am going to live.

-M