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

Things and...Things

     Less than a month before I leave. Although I have to say it is the last thing on my mind. School is insane this time of the year, so I'm already glad I've gotten all my shopping done (just need 2 more shirts, batteries,  Cipro, and some military-intense bug spray for a potential trip to Laos with my friend A and a weekend trip to inland MY. Got my last batch of shots today and some malaria pills. Woowhoo for crazay dreams.

In lack of a better transition, here are lists...of things...

Things I will miss...(in no particular order)

1. Mild-er weather. I've already heard from friends who are in SEA that the summer is picking up, and at times it is too hot and humid to feel as if you can breathe properly...I think my friends at school will particularly enjoy my complaints about said humidity.

2. Bagels. Yes, bagels. I am going to one of the major food capitals of the world, so I really won't miss too much food here, or not be able to find it if I have a crazy craving. However, living in a Muslim country means no bagels.

3. Family, friends, Nina, the boyfriend. This comes as no surprise. I will be far far far away from my support group, 14-17hours far. Communication will be at odd hours. Every time I travel without the boyfriend I find myself thinking about how much he would enjoy being there. This time, it will be more like, what places must I show him next year? (We are planning a major trip post graduation) However, I've learned how to say to miss in terms of a person in Malaysian. So at least I can express my feelings. Hopefully this time, my family will actually come and visit. If not, that is ok too, but it's easier for people to understand what you go through if they know where you live.

4. Baseball season. You can see the stands at Coors Field from my apartment and I love $5 games. Plus, the Rockies are killing it right now.

5. The pool. See above and below.

6. Microbrews. I live in Colorado, home of the Great American Beer Festival...no big deal.

7. Camping. I could camp this summer, but I have no gear. I'm leaving it with the boyfriend, MB. He and Nina will get better use of it than I will.

8. Chocolate and peanut butter. Asia is a step up from Europe from the standpoint that they actually see the value in peanut butter. However, they have yet to figure out just how excellent it becomes when added with chocolate.

9. Somewhat normal tanlines. Superficial, but I will be coming back with a serious farmer's tan...unless I can find time to even it out on a beach somewhere. Being in that type of sun everyday will leave its mark...for a while.

10. Spitting on the streets. Only kidding guys.

Things I will not miss...

1. Driving/my car. I will still have to deal with traffic; traffic that is much worse in KL...but I won't be the one behind the wheel dealing with massive amounts of dinks on the road.

2. Paying a lot for food. Food is expensive. Going out to eat is even worse. Granted, you can pay American prices in KL for food if you choose. But Hawker stalls are where it's at. Food is just as good or better (you are essentially paying for air con...unless at a high end restaurant). A meal at a hawker stall will only set you back $2-$3 US.

3. The TV. It's on way too much. I really don't need it.

4. School. No offense school, but after 19 straight years with no break, it's time to get some space. I also will not miss summer school.

5. English. Odd I know, but I wanna practice my Malaysian with actual Malaysian people, not saying random phrases to my friends/repeating a recording. I want to know if people can actually understand what I'm saying. I'm self-taught so this is a big test for me.

6.  Studying for my LEED exam. See #4.

7. The Green Peace solicitors who hang out outside my school. Seriously, I don't want to join.

8. Not having my weekends free. Once again...See #4.

9. Overpriced starfruit. I love starfruit. There is much more of it (so most-likely much cheaper) in KL.

10. The train. I live right above a BNSF coal train track (3 tracks to be exact). Don't believe America is addicted to coal? Tell that to the 20-30 2 mile long trains that loudly pass by my apartment every day. The cars are easily 2 stories tall.

     It will be interesting to see what I actually end up missing and what I don't bother thinking about.

Until next time
-M

     Less than a month before I leave. Although I have to say it is the last thing on my mind. School is insane this time of the year, so I'm already glad I've gotten all my shopping done (just need 2 more shirts, batteries,  Cipro, and some military-intense bug spray for a potential trip to Laos with my friend A and a weekend trip to inland MY. Got my last batch of shots today and some malaria pills. Woowhoo for crazay dreams.

In lack of a better transition, here are lists...of things...

Things I will miss...(in no particular order)

1. Mild-er weather. I've already heard from friends who are in SEA that the summer is picking up, and at times it is too hot and humid to feel as if you can breathe properly...I think my friends at school will particularly enjoy my complaints about said humidity.

2. Bagels. Yes, bagels. I am going to one of the major food capitals of the world, so I really won't miss too much food here, or not be able to find it if I have a crazy craving. However, living in a Muslim country means no bagels.

3. Family, friends, Nina, the boyfriend. This comes as no surprise. I will be far far far away from my support group, 14-17hours far. Communication will be at odd hours. Every time I travel without the boyfriend I find myself thinking about how much he would enjoy being there. This time, it will be more like, what places must I show him next year? (We are planning a major trip post graduation) However, I've learned how to say to miss in terms of a person in Malaysian. So at least I can express my feelings. Hopefully this time, my family will actually come and visit. If not, that is ok too, but it's easier for people to understand what you go through if they know where you live.

4. Baseball season. You can see the stands at Coors Field from my apartment and I love $5 games. Plus, the Rockies are killing it right now.

5. The pool. See above and below.

6. Microbrews. I live in Colorado, home of the Great American Beer Festival...no big deal.

7. Camping. I could camp this summer, but I have no gear. I'm leaving it with the boyfriend, MB. He and Nina will get better use of it than I will.

8. Chocolate and peanut butter. Asia is a step up from Europe from the standpoint that they actually see the value in peanut butter. However, they have yet to figure out just how excellent it becomes when added with chocolate.

9. Somewhat normal tanlines. Superficial, but I will be coming back with a serious farmer's tan...unless I can find time to even it out on a beach somewhere. Being in that type of sun everyday will leave its mark...for a while.

10. Spitting on the streets. Only kidding guys.

Things I will not miss...

1. Driving/my car. I will still have to deal with traffic; traffic that is much worse in KL...but I won't be the one behind the wheel dealing with massive amounts of dinks on the road.

2. Paying a lot for food. Food is expensive. Going out to eat is even worse. Granted, you can pay American prices in KL for food if you choose. But Hawker stalls are where it's at. Food is just as good or better (you are essentially paying for air con...unless at a high end restaurant). A meal at a hawker stall will only set you back $2-$3 US.

3. The TV. It's on way too much. I really don't need it.

4. School. No offense school, but after 19 straight years with no break, it's time to get some space. I also will not miss summer school.

5. English. Odd I know, but I wanna practice my Malaysian with actual Malaysian people, not saying random phrases to my friends/repeating a recording. I want to know if people can actually understand what I'm saying. I'm self-taught so this is a big test for me.

6.  Studying for my LEED exam. See #4.

7. The Green Peace solicitors who hang out outside my school. Seriously, I don't want to join.

8. Not having my weekends free. Once again...See #4.

9. Overpriced starfruit. I love starfruit. There is much more of it (so most-likely much cheaper) in KL.

10. The train. I live right above a BNSF coal train track (3 tracks to be exact). Don't believe America is addicted to coal? Tell that to the 20-30 2 mile long trains that loudly pass by my apartment every day. The cars are easily 2 stories tall.

     It will be interesting to see what I actually end up missing and what I don't bother thinking about.

Until next time
-M

     Less than a month before I leave. Although I have to say it is the last thing on my mind. School is insane this time of the year, so I'm already glad I've gotten all my shopping done (just need 2 more shirts, batteries,  Cipro, and some military-intense bug spray for a potential trip to Laos with my friend A and a weekend trip to inland MY. Got my last batch of shots today and some malaria pills. Woowhoo for crazay dreams.

In lack of a better transition, here are lists...of things...

Things I will miss...(in no particular order)

1. Mild-er weather. I've already heard from friends who are in SEA that the summer is picking up, and at times it is too hot and humid to feel as if you can breathe properly...I think my friends at school will particularly enjoy my complaints about said humidity.

2. Bagels. Yes, bagels. I am going to one of the major food capitals of the world, so I really won't miss too much food here, or not be able to find it if I have a crazy craving. However, living in a Muslim country means no bagels.

3. Family, friends, Nina, the boyfriend. This comes as no surprise. I will be far far far away from my support group, 14-17hours far. Communication will be at odd hours. Every time I travel without the boyfriend I find myself thinking about how much he would enjoy being there. This time, it will be more like, what places must I show him next year? (We are planning a major trip post graduation) However, I've learned how to say to miss in terms of a person in Malaysian. So at least I can express my feelings. Hopefully this time, my family will actually come and visit. If not, that is ok too, but it's easier for people to understand what you go through if they know where you live.

4. Baseball season. You can see the stands at Coors Field from my apartment and I love $5 games. Plus, the Rockies are killing it right now.

5. The pool. See above and below.

6. Microbrews. I live in Colorado, home of the Great American Beer Festival...no big deal.

7. Camping. I could camp this summer, but I have no gear. I'm leaving it with the boyfriend, MB. He and Nina will get better use of it than I will.

8. Chocolate and peanut butter. Asia is a step up from Europe from the standpoint that they actually see the value in peanut butter. However, they have yet to figure out just how excellent it becomes when added with chocolate.

9. Somewhat normal tanlines. Superficial, but I will be coming back with a serious farmer's tan...unless I can find time to even it out on a beach somewhere. Being in that type of sun everyday will leave its mark...for a while.

10. Spitting on the streets. Only kidding guys.

Things I will not miss...

1. Driving/my car. I will still have to deal with traffic; traffic that is much worse in KL...but I won't be the one behind the wheel dealing with massive amounts of dinks on the road.

2. Paying a lot for food. Food is expensive. Going out to eat is even worse. Granted, you can pay American prices in KL for food if you choose. But Hawker stalls are where it's at. Food is just as good or better (you are essentially paying for air con...unless at a high end restaurant). A meal at a hawker stall will only set you back $2-$3 US.

3. The TV. It's on way too much. I really don't need it.

4. School. No offense school, but after 19 straight years with no break, it's time to get some space. I also will not miss summer school.

5. English. Odd I know, but I wanna practice my Malaysian with actual Malaysian people, not saying random phrases to my friends/repeating a recording. I want to know if people can actually understand what I'm saying. I'm self-taught so this is a big test for me.

6.  Studying for my LEED exam. See #4.

7. The Green Peace solicitors who hang out outside my school. Seriously, I don't want to join.

8. Not having my weekends free. Once again...See #4.

9. Overpriced starfruit. I love starfruit. There is much more of it (so most-likely much cheaper) in KL.

10. The train. I live right above a BNSF coal train track (3 tracks to be exact). Don't believe America is addicted to coal? Tell that to the 20-30 2 mile long trains that loudly pass by my apartment every day. The cars are easily 2 stories tall.

     It will be interesting to see what I actually end up missing and what I don't bother thinking about.

Until next time
-M

     Less than a month before I leave. Although I have to say it is the last thing on my mind. School is insane this time of the year, so I'm already glad I've gotten all my shopping done (just need 2 more shirts, batteries,  Cipro, and some military-intense bug spray for a potential trip to Laos with my friend A and a weekend trip to inland MY. Got my last batch of shots today and some malaria pills. Woowhoo for crazay dreams.

In lack of a better transition, here are lists...of things...

Things I will miss...(in no particular order)

1. Mild-er weather. I've already heard from friends who are in SEA that the summer is picking up, and at times it is too hot and humid to feel as if you can breathe properly...I think my friends at school will particularly enjoy my complaints about said humidity.

2. Bagels. Yes, bagels. I am going to one of the major food capitals of the world, so I really won't miss too much food here, or not be able to find it if I have a crazy craving. However, living in a Muslim country means no bagels.

3. Family, friends, Nina, the boyfriend. This comes as no surprise. I will be far far far away from my support group, 14-17hours far. Communication will be at odd hours. Every time I travel without the boyfriend I find myself thinking about how much he would enjoy being there. This time, it will be more like, what places must I show him next year? (We are planning a major trip post graduation) However, I've learned how to say to miss in terms of a person in Malaysian. So at least I can express my feelings. Hopefully this time, my family will actually come and visit. If not, that is ok too, but it's easier for people to understand what you go through if they know where you live.

4. Baseball season. You can see the stands at Coors Field from my apartment and I love $5 games. Plus, the Rockies are killing it right now.

5. The pool. See above and below.

6. Microbrews. I live in Colorado, home of the Great American Beer Festival...no big deal.

7. Camping. I could camp this summer, but I have no gear. I'm leaving it with the boyfriend, MB. He and Nina will get better use of it than I will.

8. Chocolate and peanut butter. Asia is a step up from Europe from the standpoint that they actually see the value in peanut butter. However, they have yet to figure out just how excellent it becomes when added with chocolate.

9. Somewhat normal tanlines. Superficial, but I will be coming back with a serious farmer's tan...unless I can find time to even it out on a beach somewhere. Being in that type of sun everyday will leave its mark...for a while.

10. Spitting on the streets. Only kidding guys.

Things I will not miss...

1. Driving/my car. I will still have to deal with traffic; traffic that is much worse in KL...but I won't be the one behind the wheel dealing with massive amounts of dinks on the road.

2. Paying a lot for food. Food is expensive. Going out to eat is even worse. Granted, you can pay American prices in KL for food if you choose. But Hawker stalls are where it's at. Food is just as good or better (you are essentially paying for air con...unless at a high end restaurant). A meal at a hawker stall will only set you back $2-$3 US.

3. The TV. It's on way too much. I really don't need it.

4. School. No offense school, but after 19 straight years with no break, it's time to get some space. I also will not miss summer school.

5. English. Odd I know, but I wanna practice my Malaysian with actual Malaysian people, not saying random phrases to my friends/repeating a recording. I want to know if people can actually understand what I'm saying. I'm self-taught so this is a big test for me.

6.  Studying for my LEED exam. See #4.

7. The Green Peace solicitors who hang out outside my school. Seriously, I don't want to join.

8. Not having my weekends free. Once again...See #4.

9. Overpriced starfruit. I love starfruit. There is much more of it (so most-likely much cheaper) in KL.

10. The train. I live right above a BNSF coal train track (3 tracks to be exact). Don't believe America is addicted to coal? Tell that to the 20-30 2 mile long trains that loudly pass by my apartment every day. The cars are easily 2 stories tall.

     It will be interesting to see what I actually end up missing and what I don't bother thinking about.

Until next time
-M

Rant of the Day

     So instead of boring you with more tedious details of my planning escapades, I decided to focus on something else. In anticipation of my trip, as well as knowing very little about Muslim culture, I've been keeping up with world news (I am notoriously bad at this, not because I don't want to know what's going on in the world, but because I find the American news media so damn depressing). However, since shit is hitting the fan all over North Africa and the Middle East, I figured if I'm going to a Muslim country (not to mention my current studio project is working with a school in Saudi Arabia), I better know something about what is going on over there. Furthermore, I've been reading this book on eastern (particularly Malaysian...thus Chinese, Indian, and Malay) culture, belief systems, and customs. I'm beginning to form opinions about what is going on and why we can't just all get along (well, not quite yet anyway).

     I'd first like to start out with what prompted me to write this in the first place....WTF is America doing in Libya? First of all, you went in with just the FRENCH...the French. Now I don't have anything against the people of France, but the military?...come on I'm American (we just can't help ourselves). Second of all, WTF is America doing there? But wait, you say, America handed the duties over to NATO. Well who's really in charge of Nato? It isn't the Canadians I'll tell you that much (once again, it's this America thing). So, in order to mask direct involvement, America is currently hiding behind NATO. Technicalities aside, how can the American government bounce off into another armed conflict (which are never short endeavors), costing citizens more tax dollars, pilling it on top of a deficit so large it's comical, send human beings into violence so they can get involved in a conflict that they have no attachment to what-so-ever, just so they can live in fear constantly and fire mis-hits (adding to the fear and detachment) because of the lack of proper mapping in the region? Not to mention they are doing all of this while the economy is in such a poor state that hourly jobs are hard to come by even with a master's degree? Something is just plain wrong with this picture.

     Isn't Gadhafi evil and shouldn't we free the people? Didn't the rebels ask for our help? Well I've got news for the world, America shouldn't  (and quite honestly, can't) be the world's babysitter. Yes, before I get accused of being some type of dictator lover, it is obvious that Gadhafi is crazy. I mean bat shit insane. He's like Charlie Sheen but on a whole new level, he's openly been 'winning' his whole life (King of Africa?....Really dude?). He's done awful things, and the world is most likely much better off without him, but I have no doubt that if the people are that pissed off, he'll go without our help (I've always said that the best solutions are those that come from roots up approaches). Oh and yes, the rebels did ask for our help. But (allegedly) so did the Iraqis way back in '91. How did that turn out for us? Seriously, did we not JUST go through this? Has the American government really not learned that they are digging themselves large hole? Or are they really that greedy for oil, money, and power that they just don't care that they are screwing over Libya as well as their own people? I suspect oil is the reason, because well, if we love repeating our mistakes that much, that's the general belief as to why we bothered with Iraq. It's an obvious statement that the world's dependency on oil needs to end (read Collapse by Jared M. Diamond). However, I am not the one with the answer. It's there, but I don't know enough about economics to suggest anything that could begin to answer that question (I'll save cap and trade for another day).

     If we are there primarily for oil, we are going about getting it in the complete wrong way (military violence seems to create more problems than it solves). Here's the problem, whenever we go into a place (from a government standpoint) we assume that the native people want to be just like America. Well guess what? They don't. Now, this mistake is most likely an accident, because it is really hard to accept that there are other world views than your own. I'm not talking at a personal level, I'm talking about a deep cultural connectivity that makes us not just American, but Westerners as well. I would argue that other western cultures may be better at recognizing this than us, but that is simply a matter of how isolated we are relative to other western countries. Furthermore, we loudly, proudly, and ignorantly try to go impose our views and focusing on ourselves. This may be borderline acceptable to our other western counterparts, but in places like the Middle East, the Far East, and Africa, this can be extremely offensive to say the least. In other words, as an American, we tend to believe in certain core values that affect our everything from our everyday lives and behaviors to how we make choices and what our country (in theory) stands for. We were founded on a distrust of government, right to act as we please (within reason -and at our founding, 'we' meant white males), and the celebration of the individual. That is what we believe in and it has (for the most part) worked for us. A country under completely different circumstances containing cultures with completely different belief systems may have a different type of solution. In fact the cultural differences can be so great, that us westerners may not be able to even comprehend why a group would act a certain way. Our celebration of the individual is the complete opposite of many cultures, where decisions are made based upon group consensus. In fact, so much emphasis is placed on total group consensus that any act made outside of that consensus can be seen as betrayal (aka a serious offense). So if we go running in and set up a government as fast as we can (because our culture values efficiency) we may end up not only offending an entire group of people, but we may have made the wrong choices in the process. It is important to understand that just because one group of people does something in a way so foreign that it seems useless to us, that it isn't bad or wrong. It's just different. Do I believe that westerners or Americans in particular are especially bad at this? No, I believe that the world shrunk so fast that most of the world is unable to really wrap their heads around it. Westerners seem to travel and spread out more, so we are faced with dealing with these problems on foreign soil more often. I'm sure the business man from Japan who is used to going through a long process of consensus for big choices made by the company was most likely shocked to find out that he had no input on a move made from higher up.

     I can already hear the words 'well if you don't like it here and you think we are all ignorant then why don't you get out?' Well, luckily for you, those thoughts have crossed my mind and more frequently as I get older. However, I like being an American. I like American people (just not a huge fan of the government, but that's part of being American). Even if I did become a full-time expat I was born an American. That means I have certain cultural values and views that are so deeply entrenched in my brain that they won't simply leave. I would always be an outsider, no matter how hard I tried to understand another culture. I'm simply stating that if there is any hope for our generation to take a forward step in the opposite direction, being comfortable with differences beyond your understanding, keeping an open mind, and LISTENING instead of hearing we may be on the right track. Oh, and America, get the heck out of Libya and help your PEOPLE (not your wallet) you have been SWORN to PROTECT (that goes beyond military spending).

Phew. Glad that's over.

-M

     So instead of boring you with more tedious details of my planning escapades, I decided to focus on something else. In anticipation of my trip, as well as knowing very little about Muslim culture, I've been keeping up with world news (I am notoriously bad at this, not because I don't want to know what's going on in the world, but because I find the American news media so damn depressing). However, since shit is hitting the fan all over North Africa and the Middle East, I figured if I'm going to a Muslim country (not to mention my current studio project is working with a school in Saudi Arabia), I better know something about what is going on over there. Furthermore, I've been reading this book on eastern (particularly Malaysian...thus Chinese, Indian, and Malay) culture, belief systems, and customs. I'm beginning to form opinions about what is going on and why we can't just all get along (well, not quite yet anyway).

     I'd first like to start out with what prompted me to write this in the first place....WTF is America doing in Libya? First of all, you went in with just the FRENCH...the French. Now I don't have anything against the people of France, but the military?...come on I'm American (we just can't help ourselves). Second of all, WTF is America doing there? But wait, you say, America handed the duties over to NATO. Well who's really in charge of Nato? It isn't the Canadians I'll tell you that much (once again, it's this America thing). So, in order to mask direct involvement, America is currently hiding behind NATO. Technicalities aside, how can the American government bounce off into another armed conflict (which are never short endeavors), costing citizens more tax dollars, pilling it on top of a deficit so large it's comical, send human beings into violence so they can get involved in a conflict that they have no attachment to what-so-ever, just so they can live in fear constantly and fire mis-hits (adding to the fear and detachment) because of the lack of proper mapping in the region? Not to mention they are doing all of this while the economy is in such a poor state that hourly jobs are hard to come by even with a master's degree? Something is just plain wrong with this picture.

     Isn't Gadhafi evil and shouldn't we free the people? Didn't the rebels ask for our help? Well I've got news for the world, America shouldn't  (and quite honestly, can't) be the world's babysitter. Yes, before I get accused of being some type of dictator lover, it is obvious that Gadhafi is crazy. I mean bat shit insane. He's like Charlie Sheen but on a whole new level, he's openly been 'winning' his whole life (King of Africa?....Really dude?). He's done awful things, and the world is most likely much better off without him, but I have no doubt that if the people are that pissed off, he'll go without our help (I've always said that the best solutions are those that come from roots up approaches). Oh and yes, the rebels did ask for our help. But (allegedly) so did the Iraqis way back in '91. How did that turn out for us? Seriously, did we not JUST go through this? Has the American government really not learned that they are digging themselves large hole? Or are they really that greedy for oil, money, and power that they just don't care that they are screwing over Libya as well as their own people? I suspect oil is the reason, because well, if we love repeating our mistakes that much, that's the general belief as to why we bothered with Iraq. It's an obvious statement that the world's dependency on oil needs to end (read Collapse by Jared M. Diamond). However, I am not the one with the answer. It's there, but I don't know enough about economics to suggest anything that could begin to answer that question (I'll save cap and trade for another day).

     If we are there primarily for oil, we are going about getting it in the complete wrong way (military violence seems to create more problems than it solves). Here's the problem, whenever we go into a place (from a government standpoint) we assume that the native people want to be just like America. Well guess what? They don't. Now, this mistake is most likely an accident, because it is really hard to accept that there are other world views than your own. I'm not talking at a personal level, I'm talking about a deep cultural connectivity that makes us not just American, but Westerners as well. I would argue that other western cultures may be better at recognizing this than us, but that is simply a matter of how isolated we are relative to other western countries. Furthermore, we loudly, proudly, and ignorantly try to go impose our views and focusing on ourselves. This may be borderline acceptable to our other western counterparts, but in places like the Middle East, the Far East, and Africa, this can be extremely offensive to say the least. In other words, as an American, we tend to believe in certain core values that affect our everything from our everyday lives and behaviors to how we make choices and what our country (in theory) stands for. We were founded on a distrust of government, right to act as we please (within reason -and at our founding, 'we' meant white males), and the celebration of the individual. That is what we believe in and it has (for the most part) worked for us. A country under completely different circumstances containing cultures with completely different belief systems may have a different type of solution. In fact the cultural differences can be so great, that us westerners may not be able to even comprehend why a group would act a certain way. Our celebration of the individual is the complete opposite of many cultures, where decisions are made based upon group consensus. In fact, so much emphasis is placed on total group consensus that any act made outside of that consensus can be seen as betrayal (aka a serious offense). So if we go running in and set up a government as fast as we can (because our culture values efficiency) we may end up not only offending an entire group of people, but we may have made the wrong choices in the process. It is important to understand that just because one group of people does something in a way so foreign that it seems useless to us, that it isn't bad or wrong. It's just different. Do I believe that westerners or Americans in particular are especially bad at this? No, I believe that the world shrunk so fast that most of the world is unable to really wrap their heads around it. Westerners seem to travel and spread out more, so we are faced with dealing with these problems on foreign soil more often. I'm sure the business man from Japan who is used to going through a long process of consensus for big choices made by the company was most likely shocked to find out that he had no input on a move made from higher up.

     I can already hear the words 'well if you don't like it here and you think we are all ignorant then why don't you get out?' Well, luckily for you, those thoughts have crossed my mind and more frequently as I get older. However, I like being an American. I like American people (just not a huge fan of the government, but that's part of being American). Even if I did become a full-time expat I was born an American. That means I have certain cultural values and views that are so deeply entrenched in my brain that they won't simply leave. I would always be an outsider, no matter how hard I tried to understand another culture. I'm simply stating that if there is any hope for our generation to take a forward step in the opposite direction, being comfortable with differences beyond your understanding, keeping an open mind, and LISTENING instead of hearing we may be on the right track. Oh, and America, get the heck out of Libya and help your PEOPLE (not your wallet) you have been SWORN to PROTECT (that goes beyond military spending).

Phew. Glad that's over.

-M

     So instead of boring you with more tedious details of my planning escapades, I decided to focus on something else. In anticipation of my trip, as well as knowing very little about Muslim culture, I've been keeping up with world news (I am notoriously bad at this, not because I don't want to know what's going on in the world, but because I find the American news media so damn depressing). However, since shit is hitting the fan all over North Africa and the Middle East, I figured if I'm going to a Muslim country (not to mention my current studio project is working with a school in Saudi Arabia), I better know something about what is going on over there. Furthermore, I've been reading this book on eastern (particularly Malaysian...thus Chinese, Indian, and Malay) culture, belief systems, and customs. I'm beginning to form opinions about what is going on and why we can't just all get along (well, not quite yet anyway).

     I'd first like to start out with what prompted me to write this in the first place....WTF is America doing in Libya? First of all, you went in with just the FRENCH...the French. Now I don't have anything against the people of France, but the military?...come on I'm American (we just can't help ourselves). Second of all, WTF is America doing there? But wait, you say, America handed the duties over to NATO. Well who's really in charge of Nato? It isn't the Canadians I'll tell you that much (once again, it's this America thing). So, in order to mask direct involvement, America is currently hiding behind NATO. Technicalities aside, how can the American government bounce off into another armed conflict (which are never short endeavors), costing citizens more tax dollars, pilling it on top of a deficit so large it's comical, send human beings into violence so they can get involved in a conflict that they have no attachment to what-so-ever, just so they can live in fear constantly and fire mis-hits (adding to the fear and detachment) because of the lack of proper mapping in the region? Not to mention they are doing all of this while the economy is in such a poor state that hourly jobs are hard to come by even with a master's degree? Something is just plain wrong with this picture.

     Isn't Gadhafi evil and shouldn't we free the people? Didn't the rebels ask for our help? Well I've got news for the world, America shouldn't  (and quite honestly, can't) be the world's babysitter. Yes, before I get accused of being some type of dictator lover, it is obvious that Gadhafi is crazy. I mean bat shit insane. He's like Charlie Sheen but on a whole new level, he's openly been 'winning' his whole life (King of Africa?....Really dude?). He's done awful things, and the world is most likely much better off without him, but I have no doubt that if the people are that pissed off, he'll go without our help (I've always said that the best solutions are those that come from roots up approaches). Oh and yes, the rebels did ask for our help. But (allegedly) so did the Iraqis way back in '91. How did that turn out for us? Seriously, did we not JUST go through this? Has the American government really not learned that they are digging themselves large hole? Or are they really that greedy for oil, money, and power that they just don't care that they are screwing over Libya as well as their own people? I suspect oil is the reason, because well, if we love repeating our mistakes that much, that's the general belief as to why we bothered with Iraq. It's an obvious statement that the world's dependency on oil needs to end (read Collapse by Jared M. Diamond). However, I am not the one with the answer. It's there, but I don't know enough about economics to suggest anything that could begin to answer that question (I'll save cap and trade for another day).

     If we are there primarily for oil, we are going about getting it in the complete wrong way (military violence seems to create more problems than it solves). Here's the problem, whenever we go into a place (from a government standpoint) we assume that the native people want to be just like America. Well guess what? They don't. Now, this mistake is most likely an accident, because it is really hard to accept that there are other world views than your own. I'm not talking at a personal level, I'm talking about a deep cultural connectivity that makes us not just American, but Westerners as well. I would argue that other western cultures may be better at recognizing this than us, but that is simply a matter of how isolated we are relative to other western countries. Furthermore, we loudly, proudly, and ignorantly try to go impose our views and focusing on ourselves. This may be borderline acceptable to our other western counterparts, but in places like the Middle East, the Far East, and Africa, this can be extremely offensive to say the least. In other words, as an American, we tend to believe in certain core values that affect our everything from our everyday lives and behaviors to how we make choices and what our country (in theory) stands for. We were founded on a distrust of government, right to act as we please (within reason -and at our founding, 'we' meant white males), and the celebration of the individual. That is what we believe in and it has (for the most part) worked for us. A country under completely different circumstances containing cultures with completely different belief systems may have a different type of solution. In fact the cultural differences can be so great, that us westerners may not be able to even comprehend why a group would act a certain way. Our celebration of the individual is the complete opposite of many cultures, where decisions are made based upon group consensus. In fact, so much emphasis is placed on total group consensus that any act made outside of that consensus can be seen as betrayal (aka a serious offense). So if we go running in and set up a government as fast as we can (because our culture values efficiency) we may end up not only offending an entire group of people, but we may have made the wrong choices in the process. It is important to understand that just because one group of people does something in a way so foreign that it seems useless to us, that it isn't bad or wrong. It's just different. Do I believe that westerners or Americans in particular are especially bad at this? No, I believe that the world shrunk so fast that most of the world is unable to really wrap their heads around it. Westerners seem to travel and spread out more, so we are faced with dealing with these problems on foreign soil more often. I'm sure the business man from Japan who is used to going through a long process of consensus for big choices made by the company was most likely shocked to find out that he had no input on a move made from higher up.

     I can already hear the words 'well if you don't like it here and you think we are all ignorant then why don't you get out?' Well, luckily for you, those thoughts have crossed my mind and more frequently as I get older. However, I like being an American. I like American people (just not a huge fan of the government, but that's part of being American). Even if I did become a full-time expat I was born an American. That means I have certain cultural values and views that are so deeply entrenched in my brain that they won't simply leave. I would always be an outsider, no matter how hard I tried to understand another culture. I'm simply stating that if there is any hope for our generation to take a forward step in the opposite direction, being comfortable with differences beyond your understanding, keeping an open mind, and LISTENING instead of hearing we may be on the right track. Oh, and America, get the heck out of Libya and help your PEOPLE (not your wallet) you have been SWORN to PROTECT (that goes beyond military spending).

Phew. Glad that's over.

-M

     So instead of boring you with more tedious details of my planning escapades, I decided to focus on something else. In anticipation of my trip, as well as knowing very little about Muslim culture, I've been keeping up with world news (I am notoriously bad at this, not because I don't want to know what's going on in the world, but because I find the American news media so damn depressing). However, since shit is hitting the fan all over North Africa and the Middle East, I figured if I'm going to a Muslim country (not to mention my current studio project is working with a school in Saudi Arabia), I better know something about what is going on over there. Furthermore, I've been reading this book on eastern (particularly Malaysian...thus Chinese, Indian, and Malay) culture, belief systems, and customs. I'm beginning to form opinions about what is going on and why we can't just all get along (well, not quite yet anyway).

     I'd first like to start out with what prompted me to write this in the first place....WTF is America doing in Libya? First of all, you went in with just the FRENCH...the French. Now I don't have anything against the people of France, but the military?...come on I'm American (we just can't help ourselves). Second of all, WTF is America doing there? But wait, you say, America handed the duties over to NATO. Well who's really in charge of Nato? It isn't the Canadians I'll tell you that much (once again, it's this America thing). So, in order to mask direct involvement, America is currently hiding behind NATO. Technicalities aside, how can the American government bounce off into another armed conflict (which are never short endeavors), costing citizens more tax dollars, pilling it on top of a deficit so large it's comical, send human beings into violence so they can get involved in a conflict that they have no attachment to what-so-ever, just so they can live in fear constantly and fire mis-hits (adding to the fear and detachment) because of the lack of proper mapping in the region? Not to mention they are doing all of this while the economy is in such a poor state that hourly jobs are hard to come by even with a master's degree? Something is just plain wrong with this picture.

     Isn't Gadhafi evil and shouldn't we free the people? Didn't the rebels ask for our help? Well I've got news for the world, America shouldn't  (and quite honestly, can't) be the world's babysitter. Yes, before I get accused of being some type of dictator lover, it is obvious that Gadhafi is crazy. I mean bat shit insane. He's like Charlie Sheen but on a whole new level, he's openly been 'winning' his whole life (King of Africa?....Really dude?). He's done awful things, and the world is most likely much better off without him, but I have no doubt that if the people are that pissed off, he'll go without our help (I've always said that the best solutions are those that come from roots up approaches). Oh and yes, the rebels did ask for our help. But (allegedly) so did the Iraqis way back in '91. How did that turn out for us? Seriously, did we not JUST go through this? Has the American government really not learned that they are digging themselves large hole? Or are they really that greedy for oil, money, and power that they just don't care that they are screwing over Libya as well as their own people? I suspect oil is the reason, because well, if we love repeating our mistakes that much, that's the general belief as to why we bothered with Iraq. It's an obvious statement that the world's dependency on oil needs to end (read Collapse by Jared M. Diamond). However, I am not the one with the answer. It's there, but I don't know enough about economics to suggest anything that could begin to answer that question (I'll save cap and trade for another day).

     If we are there primarily for oil, we are going about getting it in the complete wrong way (military violence seems to create more problems than it solves). Here's the problem, whenever we go into a place (from a government standpoint) we assume that the native people want to be just like America. Well guess what? They don't. Now, this mistake is most likely an accident, because it is really hard to accept that there are other world views than your own. I'm not talking at a personal level, I'm talking about a deep cultural connectivity that makes us not just American, but Westerners as well. I would argue that other western cultures may be better at recognizing this than us, but that is simply a matter of how isolated we are relative to other western countries. Furthermore, we loudly, proudly, and ignorantly try to go impose our views and focusing on ourselves. This may be borderline acceptable to our other western counterparts, but in places like the Middle East, the Far East, and Africa, this can be extremely offensive to say the least. In other words, as an American, we tend to believe in certain core values that affect our everything from our everyday lives and behaviors to how we make choices and what our country (in theory) stands for. We were founded on a distrust of government, right to act as we please (within reason -and at our founding, 'we' meant white males), and the celebration of the individual. That is what we believe in and it has (for the most part) worked for us. A country under completely different circumstances containing cultures with completely different belief systems may have a different type of solution. In fact the cultural differences can be so great, that us westerners may not be able to even comprehend why a group would act a certain way. Our celebration of the individual is the complete opposite of many cultures, where decisions are made based upon group consensus. In fact, so much emphasis is placed on total group consensus that any act made outside of that consensus can be seen as betrayal (aka a serious offense). So if we go running in and set up a government as fast as we can (because our culture values efficiency) we may end up not only offending an entire group of people, but we may have made the wrong choices in the process. It is important to understand that just because one group of people does something in a way so foreign that it seems useless to us, that it isn't bad or wrong. It's just different. Do I believe that westerners or Americans in particular are especially bad at this? No, I believe that the world shrunk so fast that most of the world is unable to really wrap their heads around it. Westerners seem to travel and spread out more, so we are faced with dealing with these problems on foreign soil more often. I'm sure the business man from Japan who is used to going through a long process of consensus for big choices made by the company was most likely shocked to find out that he had no input on a move made from higher up.

     I can already hear the words 'well if you don't like it here and you think we are all ignorant then why don't you get out?' Well, luckily for you, those thoughts have crossed my mind and more frequently as I get older. However, I like being an American. I like American people (just not a huge fan of the government, but that's part of being American). Even if I did become a full-time expat I was born an American. That means I have certain cultural values and views that are so deeply entrenched in my brain that they won't simply leave. I would always be an outsider, no matter how hard I tried to understand another culture. I'm simply stating that if there is any hope for our generation to take a forward step in the opposite direction, being comfortable with differences beyond your understanding, keeping an open mind, and LISTENING instead of hearing we may be on the right track. Oh, and America, get the heck out of Libya and help your PEOPLE (not your wallet) you have been SWORN to PROTECT (that goes beyond military spending).

Phew. Glad that's over.

-M