Friday, February 16, 2007

my next entry

Announcement:
My next entry will be posted after March 20. Please check back.
In the mean time, my bf and I will be wandering around the US for
a month, then leaving on March 15 for Thailand, and will
be out on a trip for another month. We will cover
a lot of grounds, especially the heaven-like islands.
I can't wait to share my interesting stories and photos with you.

P.S. Today I got up early without any help from my enemy - a
2x2" alarm clock with snooze and devil sounds.
I'm reviving. AND Freedom is so sweet.

P.S. I do like to hear from you. Please leave your trail. :)

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

bye bye USA

If you're reading this, you've finally reconnected with me. As you know, my next journey will begin in Thailand. It'd been a long process of thinking and making the decision. Now I know I've made the right one. I'm getting out of my comfort zone, packing up my stuff, and moving on.

Chicago is a great city. And it's been my home for the past 8 years. But it's about time to move on to something new and more challenging. I didn't come to the US to have a better life. I came to learn — to observe things as an outsider in a foreign country. Being a minority in the US has broaden my perspective on humanity.
I learned to be broad-minded, learned to understand people, their background, and respected them as who they are regardless of race and nationality. The experience is priceless. Alas, my mission here is complete.

You know, my life's always been adventurous. We are given only one life and I want to make the most of it. Thanks to my parents; I'm so grateful to live my life the way I want.

I thought I would feel sad to part Chicago. In deed, it's not that bad at all. Perhaps I know I'll come back some day. My wanderlust 'll bring me back here — like it did 8 years ago. So, my departure is not for good, yet it'll be for a long while.
I hope we stay in touch. And.. please...if you change your email address, let me know, write to me, phone me, or send me a smoke signal. Just so we can drop a line and say hello to each other.

And I know someday you'll come to find me. I hope you'll have a chance to do so. Thailand is a charming country. Don't let anyone fool you with photos of Thailand taken ages ago. You gotta come and see it first hand. Thai people are warm.
You will fall in love with it. And I will look forward to that day.
all the best

Saturday, February 10, 2007

Take a piece of Land of Smile

Frequently Asked Questions as to Thailand

1. What is Thailand
Thailand is a country located in South-East Asia bordering the Gulf of
Thailand, between Burma and Cambodia. Its shape is
similar to an Ax. It's visible in the world map if you look for it.

2. What are people born in Thailand called?
Called Thai. Not Taiwanese. Not Chinese. Just Thai.

3. What language do Thai people speak?
Thai. Not Taiwanese. Not Chinese. Only Thai. Period.

4. What the heck does that Thai mean?
It means "freedom" in Thai language. As Thailand
is the only country that's never been colonized by
anyone. So please give respect to its name.

5. What does my last name mean?
means "god protects my family" ok? I know it's mouthful
and ridiculously long. But it is my family name.
Isn't that question off the topic?

6. Do Thai people live in a jungle?
YES. And we ride elephants to hunt for food. We live
in a house made of banana leaves.
Sometimes we eat worms and rats just for fun.
(forgive me my thai folks. Someone dared ask me
that question so I had to make up the story to please
him/her.)

7. What is a capital city of Thailand?
Bangkok, the name recognized by non-native Thai.
Krung Thep, the name recognized by Thai.
Krung Thep means the city of angel.

8. Can you define Bangkok (Krung Thep) in one sentence?
It's a big and big and big and big and big and big city.

Ok... better explanation. Bangkok is the capital and largest
city of Thailand, with an offical census population of approximately
10 million. It is also the wealthiest and most populous city in
Thailand. As it's a very old city, therefore the city doesn't have grid.
You can walk right off the shopping district to see an old temple
and ruins. And that's why it's such a lively and vibrant city.
Please look it up if you want to know more.

9. How's the overall climate?
Thailand has 3 seasons – Summer, Rainy, and
(used to)Winter,
Nowadays, it's hot all year round with a temp. between 80-95 F.
April and May are the hottest months of the year.
December and January are ideal for visiting as the coldest months.

10. Why are you still moving back home then?
s-s-s-h-----u---t up

I know Thailand is not perfect. But I'm not perfect either.
I will enjoy what it has to offer and will get accustomed to the ugly parts.
Just like how we treat our love ones.
Besides, perfection is kinda boring.. don't you think?