3/31/08 ~ Monday 9:10 pm

Status: ultra busy ~ Listening to: Yuukyou Seishunkan - ALI Project (Code Geass ED)

Otakon has an anime!

Madhouse studio's producer Maruyama Masao-san has been a long time guest/supporter of Otakon. After much deliberation, it's finally been decided that they'll produce an anime short based on Otakon mascots, Hiroko-chan and Hiroshi-kun. O.O It will be a promotional vid as well as something for the openings ceremonies. That is totally awesome! ANN reports that the director for this project is Mizushima Tsutomu-san (Xxxholic.)

Between this and JAM Project performing, this year's Otakon XV will be epic. ^.^

3/29/08 ~ Saturday 8:50 pm

Status: awake ~ Listening to: me typing

recovering from jetlag

I woke at 2pm yesterday only to go back to sleep at 9pm and wake at 8am today. Did nothing but read yaoi and measure out the new fabric from Taiwan. Will probably go back into the full swing of cosplay sewing by tomorrow night the latest. Seeing how much progress is made by tomorrow night, I'll decide whether or not I'll be able to meet my godsisters for dinner this week. If not this week, then the week after.

3/27/08 ~ Thursday 11:15 pm

Status: hungry ~ Listening to: Moebius - Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles OST

airplane ride highlights

Due to all of okaasan's oxygen issues during our last trip, JAL upgraded our seats to executive/business class for the two hour flight from Taiwan to Japan. I wish it was longer. ^-^ I watched 'National Treasure 2', but was unable to finish the last 20 min. of the movie. (Downloading it right now so I can finish watching it. ^-^)

During the 4 hour wait in the Japanese airport, I took my time at the Duty Free shops. There was a large store that was named 'Tax Free Akihabara'. It was an ecletic store with plushies, USB humping dogs <.<;, snacks and Gundam figures. *drools over Gundam Exia* They also had yukatas and kimonos, but I didn't find a yukata pattern that I liked. So...I ended up not buying one.

At the Japanese airport, there is a room where people go and smoke. I didn't go near that room...there were no windows or fans so I wonder where all the carbon monoxide goes.... <.<; Some of the toilets were the ones with the buttons. Being in an airport, there were instructions in different languages. Um...I didn't press anything. ^^;

I watched the 'Bee Movie' and all of the Cartoon Network shows during the AA flight from Japan to NY. I slept most of the time and overall, it was a pleasant trip. There was a mishap at JFK airport which I won't detail, but nothing major. My pastor was the one who picked us up.

return of me ^-^

So I'm currently safely back in NY. I have unpacked and sorted out everything already. *whew* I return to work on monday so I can relax tomorrow...and work on cosplay. ^^; Right now...I'm thinking about what to eat. *stares at snacks from Taiwan*

12:10 am - Taiwan time ~ 12:10 pm - NY time

Status: awake

last hit of "Akiba Taiwan"

After having breakfast with my father, I went to "Akiba of Taiwan" and browsed for about 2 hours. It was so hard to decide for so many reasons, but I finally bought a manga by Eiki Eiki-sensei. I caught the subway to Taipei Main Station and headed up to Deng Shui.

sora, umi, kaze...sky, sea, wind

Deng Shui was not inhabited with couples like my last venture there. Instead, it was overrunned with students. Not a bad thing. ^-^ I first dined on my fav treat in Deng Shui, egg balls on a stick. ^-^ I visited all the side shops, even discovered a Hello Kitty store, a Snoopy store and a Peter Rabbit store. ^^; I picked up a Stitch and Lilo's doll keychain thingee (only to later discover that I bought the wrong thing ^^;) as a gift for my cousin. I bought two boxes of mochi to give as gifts for people in Taiwan (James and the pharmacist who gave my medicine,) bought two boxes of green tea cakes for my Japanese co-workers and 4 bags of steel eggs as souvenirs.

Of course I didn't just eat and buy food. After buying a crepe treat of corn and tuna, I sat at the edge of the stone steps and stared out into the waters.... *happy sigh*

over Gundam and games

Okaasan and I was suppose to eat with James and his wife Daphne. However, my mother was a no-show (being in a different city altogether >.<) and I ended up going by myself. I don't mind, it's just that okaasan was the one who introduced them to each other so they wanted to show their appreciation.... ^^; The location was a restaurant in Sogo Department store that specializes in small dragon buns (P-chan's fav) and dumplings. There is a large glass window that allows customers to look into a kitchen area to see them make the food. ^-^ I had wonton noodle soup and the topic of discussion ranged from "what's going on now with everyone" to "newest Gundam models". Of course, I promised to introduce James to the Gundam Museum in Bandai (large Zaku head!) and in turn, I promised to take Daphne to Sanrioland. ^.^

After dinner, we walked around a bit in the department store before heading down to the subway. I thanked them profusely as we separated. ^.^

locked out in Taiwan

I knew I didn't have the key to the apartment. I knew it when I was taking the taxi to Sogo. So, I crashed my cousin's small group. Took the opportunity to have her small group leader, Samuel sign two cds. Yes, his cds. It's a looong story which will be told another time. He is a semi-professional singer. The two cds are for a co-worker and 140. ^-^

leaving tomorrow

I'll be leaving Taiwan tomorrow morning so this will most likely be the last update here. *sniff* I'm practically done packing and am just organizing a few things.

on another note...

The Yaoi Jamboree, a convention in Arizona (held at the same time as AnimeNEXT) has mangakas Tsuda Mikiyo-sensei (Princess Princess) and Eiki Eiki-sensei (Dear Myself) going. O.O Lucky! I want to go.... *cries*

3/26/08 ~ Wednesday 12:10 am - Taiwan time ~ 12:10 pm - NY time

Status: sleepy ~ Listening to: silence

a few pics

Since I didn't take that many pics, I'll just upload the three that I like from today. ^-^

~ Here is a pic of me and my cousin, Esther-neechan. ^.^

That's it for tonight! ^.^

3/25/08 ~ Tuesday 10:40 pm - Taiwan time ~ 10:40 am - NY time

Status: busy ~ Listening to: me typing

Taiwanese Botony 101

The cablecar trip got cancelled due to the long line. >.< Instead, we went to the Shi Ling Botanical Gardens...the one that Chiang Kai-Shek used to live. It was like a family outing, my cousin and I, an elderly couple and the caucasion higher up. And I was interpreting. Everything was fine until they (the obaasan) explaining what plants is what and the significance...and asking me to intrepret it for to the higherup. O.o They only wanted me to try my best and we laughed over the results. ^^; For the most part, it was an interesting experience. I got some pretty pics...mostly of flowers. (Will post them later. ^-^)

Like an obaasan, the elderly woman kept on asking if we were thirsty, hungry and since they're going out to dinner, they insisted that we come along. My cousin and I initially refused, but ended up joining them anyway. We left after a eating a bit since there were still places that I wanted to hit before we call it a night. ^.^

Last minute shopping at Shi Ling night market

It was much of a shopping adventure, but Esther-neechan and I went around the famous night market at Shi Ling. We were too full to seriously eat anything so we spent more time browsing. I picked up a presents for two o my Japanese co-workers as well as something for Pearl-chan. My cousin took me to a mahjong store where we found both sets of Hello Kitty mahjong. O.O Christine-neechan asked me to buy it for her...but since she didn't specify the highest cost she wanted to pay as well as which set she wanted, I declined. The large set was 8880NT and the small set was 4880NT. o.O I wanted to buy the small one...but will refrain for the time being. At least we know where to buy it now.

the one wig store in Taipei

I'm sure there are more wig stores here, but it was the only one I found. They had several costume wigs, but mostly real hair wigs for balding people. ^^; I tried on a wig, but didn't like the style. If I had a pic, they could have styled it for me, but there was no time anyway. The price was slightly pricier then I hoped, but at least I know where to go now. (Once I'm in Japan, I can always come to Taiwan to make my costume and buy a wig for my cosplays. ^-^)

my last day tomorrow

In the morning, I will be heading out for "Akiba of Taiwan" at 11am the latest. After shopping for 2.5 hrs. there, I will head to Deng Shui. At night, I'll be having dinner with James (from CCGC who moved to Taiwan) and his wife, Daphne. Haven't seen them in a loooong while. ^.^ I plan to take it easy tomorrow and not rush anywhere. Better rest up tonight! Oyasumi!

3/24/08 ~ Monday 12:35 pm - Taiwan time ~ 12:35 am - NY time (EDIT)

Status: awake ~ Listening to: me slurping instant noodles

first time getting full-blown sick in Taiwan >.<

Yesterday, I barely got out of bed due to the usual asthmatic-achy-pain-sore throat kind of illness hitting me. I went to the ER (since it was Sunday and all clinics were closed,) and was given my asthma medication and sent on my way with some pills and pretty tasty cough medicine. (I'm telling you, this syrup is actually yummy. ^^;) But four hours later, I was still in pain and not breathing well. Then, okaasan calls up an ex-tenant who used to live in my house in 1997 before moving back to Taiwan to become a pharmacist to be like his father and take over the store. He is a wonderful pharmacist now (who I haven't seen in 10 years, but my mother kept in touch) who looked me over and prescribed more specific medication and sent me on my way. I felt better by midnight.

catch up day

Since I'm leaving Taiwan this Thursday *cries* I couldn't stay in bed two days in a row. I was no longer in pain and I lost the achy feeling, but without my hourly inhalation of meth liquid-to-gas-med-in-a-tube I still feel pretty raspy. Stairs are my enemy. *shakes fists*

After breakfast, my father came and we taxied over to my grandmother's house so we could raid the marketplace. I bought about $40 worth of snacks. Yes, you read correctly: $40. The snacks are for my co-workers and me. Stuff for me include 5 boxes of chocolate Pocky for I-con guests and 5 bags of Guai Guai, my fav childhood snack. ^-^ Of course there is more, but listing them all will only make me hungry.

We went over to Taipei World Shopping Center, which is a large complex underneath Taipei Main Station. We had lunch on the 2nd fl. where my father ordered a Eastern medincinal broth with noodles for me. It would have been yummy, but there was alcohol in it which overpowered everthing. >.< I was going to buy mochi for my Japanese co-workers, but since there was a time limit of freshness of 24hr., it wouldn't last the plane ride home. So, I just bought a small box for my cousin. ^-^

Afterwards, we stopped by a bookstore to buy presents for friends before heading to Hismen's "Building of Japanese Stuff". I bought Alby and Jenn-chan's gifts at that time. My aunt picked me up and we went fabric shopping. There is an area in Taipei which is filled with stores that sell fabric. Also, an entire building of fabric stores. I shall dub it "Building of Fabric Stores". (Not very imaginative, but I'm sick. ^^;) I found the right type of fabric I want, though the color is slightly redder then purple. However, it was the cheapest and the CLOSEST color I ever found. We got there just as the stores were closing. I picked up 5 yards and my aunt dropped me off at the nearest subway.

I met up with my cousin at the Christian bookstore at Gong Guan and we bought the stuff I didn't buy on Saturday, mostly presents for church friends. We picked up the manga that we left at the mangastore and even found another store (with artbooks, cards, etc...) where I stood and browsed for a good 5 min before giving up. The salesperson at the store also suggested that I give up on the Night Head manga since if something was that old, it is probably non-existant presently. No! I will never give up!

I am what?

Esther-neechan proceeded to take me Hello Kitty shopping but we came out empty handed as well. Admist one of the stores, I thought I recognized a voice. Looking up, it was Diana-chan's mother! O.O Okaasan mentioned in the morning that she was in Taiwan (for the elections no doubt) but it was awesome to meet all of a sudden in Taipei. ^-^ We exchanged greetings and I introduced my cousin to her which prompted the response, "Oh, she is your younger sister...." Me: O.O Esther-neechan: No, I'm older. Me: >.< Esther-neechan: *pats me on the head* Only 1 in 100 will say this, don't worry.

First, she was my mother, now my younger sister...I think this mask wearing thing is confusing ppl!

food for thought over tomorrow's plans...

I cooked some instant noodles and ate an onigiri I bought from 7-Eleven. Oishi! Going to buy more onigiri tomorrow. Each is around 20NT! ^-^ I may go to Esther-neechan's workplace tomorrow since the English-speaking higherup will be riding a cablecar over Taipei. (I helped interpret for him last week for 2+ hours. ^^;) I mentioned over lunch that I never rode the cablecar before and since they'll be going, they asked if I wanted to go. O.O I told my cousin that I'll only go if she goes since I don't want to use my time hanging with a bunch of people I'm only partially familiar with. ^^; Of course, I mentioned how grateful I was of the offer. Seems like my cousin may be going so I'm heading to the office tomorrow.

If the offer is nil, my cousin will drop me off at the nearest subway and I'll head to the "Akiba of Taiwan" instead. If I end up going, I'll spend two hours at "Akiba of Taiwan" on Wednesday morning before heading to Deng Shui for some beach, shopping and good food. ^.^

3/23/08 ~ Sunday 12:25 pm - Taiwan time ~ 12:25 am - NY time

Status: sore throat ~ Listening to: rain outside

more food and shopping

After my cousin and I watched what is equivalent to American Idols in Taiwan on youtube, we went to Gong Guan for lunch and manga/book shopping. We had sausage wrapped in rice, those soft biscuits with red bean paste that I love, ham-egg-cake and yummy noodle soup.

In between our eating sprees, we stopped by a Christian bookstore so I could pick up souvenirs for church. There, I saw Disney puzzle spheres for 600NT each. O.O They were small too.... >.< We decided to buy everything tomorrow because my cousin has a VIP card. Any sort of discount is good. ^-^

Next stop was the manga store. There, I found out that since Night Head, the manga of Night Head Genesis was soooo old that they couldn't order it anymore. >.< I guess I'm going to have to ask around for it. *is determined* However, my godsister, Christine-neechan sent me a list of manga and I was able to find most of her stuff. More like I gave my written list (in Chinese) to the salespeople and they gathered everything for me. ^^V Esther-neechan signed up for VIP for me so that I could get 15% discount and we left most of the books there for pickup tomorrow.

The books I took with me were two FMA movie books that I bought for myself. The only other thing I bought for myself (besides all that food ^^;) was a chibi-Totoro and soot ball hairtie. I actually bought exactly the same thing two years ago...but I lost it something last year. ^^; I told my cousin that after I lose this one, I'll come back to Taiwan and buy another hairtie. Her response? Don't lose this one!

Elim Church Easter Celebration: The Musical

O.O I'm overwhelmed by the entire performance. First off, Elim church in Taipei is the largest in all of Taiwan. (I mentioned this several times already.) Their Easter celebration is one of the their biggest gatherings of the year and the prep and energy that goes into it is unriviled. Besides the movie that was made (which is as professional as a tv show,) the performance that was shown was just like a Broadway musical. No exaggeration. Several of the music scores were from actual Broadway shows (I recognized the one from Les Mes,) but the lyrics and songs (which were sung onstage/live by the actual dancers) were all made by members of the church.

To top it off, there was an orchestra, lights and everything. Camera movement was smooth (though blurry at times) but very good. *is floored* And the guy who played Jesus was so cute. ^-^ When he sang.... *faints* My fav dance was the one by the prostitutes. My fav song was the last duet after Jesus resurrected. I know they must've recorded this performance (there was two showings today and two more tomorrow) so I hope they'll make it into a vcd/dvd. I totally want one!

voiceless

I have a sore throat and am not able to speak right now. >.< Took some meds and will gurgle with salt water, but I hope this won't get worse. Didn't get sick from the rain riding home, was already sick before that. >.<

But I'm happy that I got to hang out with my cousin tonight and her friends. We went to a congee restaurant for after-Easter-celebration-dinner. Oishi! Congee is perfect for my throat and I kept away from the fried dough. ^-^ Hoping I get better tomorrow! Oyasumi!

P.S. Taiwan elections

Didn't vote today because I wasn't planning on voting. The one that okaasan wanted to win won. Fireworks were going off like crazy. ^^;

3/21/08 ~ Friday 8:20 pm - Taiwan time ~ 8:20 am - NY time

Status: amused ~ Listening to: cafe noises

I'm posting from...

...a Starbucks in Taiwan! ^-^ First time wifi-ing from a Starbucks and first time in a Starbucks while in Taiwan. Not that big of a deal, but amusing just the same. ^.^

Here is a cup of hot chocolate (my usual fare at Starbucks) and my laptop showing the beginning of my fav anime, Loveless (episode 12.) ^-^ BTW, I'm in a sofa seat by the window. *sighs happily*

I'm here waiting for my cousin who is at a meeting at church nearby. Our dinner was Italian, but we shared a meal since she wasn't that hungry and I can wait. ^-^ She promised me something yummier afterwards. *waits patiently*

4:40 pm - Taiwan time ~ 4:40 am - NY time

Status: busy ~ Listening to: office noise

Only in Japan....

A couple of posts back, I mentioned about a Gundam statue being erected on the Shinjuku line, due to it being on the Suginami ward, home of Sunrise Studios (along with other animation studios.) I haven't found vid/sound clips of the train yet, but here are pics of the front of the train with the tradmark Gundam and the statue itself. The exact station is Seibu's Kamiigusa station.

There was a March 16 event at Tokyo train station (why? I dunno.... ^^;) where Matsumoto Leiji (Galaxy Express 999,) a Conductor-san and a Maetel cosplayer appeared. Conductor-san was stationmaster for the day. Sugoi! Click here and here for the Japanese articles and pics. ^.^

12:40 pm - Taiwan time ~ 12:40 am - NY time

Status: hungry

It's take your cousin to work day!

Currently, I'm at my cousin, Esther-neechan's office. I've been very helpful, making a timeline for her co-worker, interpreting between more co-workers and their caucasion higher-up (who travels most of time...though I wonder what happens when he is around regularly? Esther-neechan mentioned something about an interpreter being present during meetings.... ^^;) I hear there is more work that I can assist with in the afternoon. I'm happy to help...maybe I'm a workaholic inside....

Pics from the countryside!

Please click here for pics from Yu Li, Taiwan. Taipei pics will come later...once I take some. ^_^;

3/20/08 ~ Thursday 9:25 pm - Taiwan time ~ 9:25 am - NY time

Status: headachy ~ Listening to: Refraction - Tsubasa Reservoir Chronicles OST

Japanime shopping day!

I drew up maps to my two fav locations in Taipei so that I can go there on my own next time. ^-^ The first stop was 'Building of Japanese Stuff' that is at Hismen. My statement from two years ago still stands: Japanese Japanime stuff is cheaper in Japan. <.<; Calculating the costs in all countries, the Taiwanese price would be the same if I were to buy it at Kinokuniya or Mitsuwa. I picked up a Yu Yu Hakusho artbook for my Theresa-neechan and agonized over Yamane Ayano's Viewfinder artbook. It's sooo hot! Asami with naked Akihito on the cover.... *drools* I also found the limited edition vol. 8 of Loveless in Japanese. O.O I wanted to buy it...but refrained from doing so. (I decided that once I move to Japan, I'm going to buy all the limited editions from yahoo auctions or Mandarake. Not now. ^^;)

I also drooled over the Gundam 00 models and the chibi Code Geass figurines. Kawaii! There was a plushie store but no Kuma-chan (Ouran.) *cries* I guess I'll buy it at the next con...or from eBay.

Next stop was the 'Akiba of Taiwan' which was 5 looooong buildings filled with electronics, manga, dvds and everything computer related. I found the chinese versions of Loveless vol. 6 and 7, but didn't buy it. I was hoping for LE, but Taiwan didn't come out with them. I did find bootleg versions of 'Tornado 2', a Loveless doujin as well as bottleg versions of booklets 1 and 2 that came with the LE manga. Of course, I bought those. If I can't have the originals (yet,) I'll settle for bootleg. ^^; I also found the Viewfinder mangas in Chinese but I'll probably not buy it since I'm still hoping BeBeautiful and Libre will come to a truce soon.... Since my father was with me, I tried not to spend too much time looking for manga...though I did take a long time anyway. ^^; I'll be going back there tomorrow or the day after so I'll wait to buy my hardcore yaoi at that time. ^-^

$3 dinner

Stopped by McD's on my way home and picked up a fish filet meal...totaling 99NT. O.O The fish burger is exactly like the one I would find in NY, small. It was yummy as always. ^.^ There is a Mos Burger store somewhere that I want to go to. Mos Burger is big in Japan and I didn't go try it yet.

Head hurts so I'm going to take a nap. Pics will have to wait! *sleeps*

3/19/08 ~ Wednesday 11:55 pm - Taiwan time ~ 11:55 am - NY time

Status: sleepy ~ Listening to: me typing

The new ambassador of Japan...Doraemon!

Larkspur would love this. ^-^ It has been officially announced that the position of new anime ambassador has been given to the musophobic time traveling kitty. He is truly perfect for the role! Doraemon can stop world hunger, assist in natural disasters and eat dorayaki all at the same time. Afterall, he has a super dimensional pocket.... ^.^

Britney's vid = make no sense

So I caught Britney Spear's new video, 'Break the Ice'. You can probably see it on youtube already, but since I'm in Taiwan, youtube has been giving me some problems. <.< Caught the vid from this article. As the commenters mentioned, there seemed to be alot of Ghost in the Shell in this vid. Not really references to the anime, but the sci-fi/mechanical parts remind me of GiTS. It was pretty in a techo/trance kind of way...though the scene of her dodging a bullet was too Matrix-y for me. *headdesk* The vid was alright. I don't hate it, but it's not the best thing ever. *shrugs* I guess Japanime fans can relax that this vid will NOT break too many brains. ^.^

Best Teacher EVER

I can probably think of a few that are 'dream teachers' but having mangaka Urasawa Naoki-sensei teach a class is a certainly a dream come true. Well, it would be my dream if I was attending the class. ^^; Mangaka of Monster, Urasawa-sensei will be teaching at Nagoya Zokei University of Art and Design, 'Modern Expression Course: Manga Classes'. o.o The size of the classes are small, only 15 students will be able to attend. Urasawa-sensei hopes that they'll become pros themselves. O.O I want to go!

7:30 pm - Taiwan time ~ 7:30 am - NY time

Status: awake ~ Listening to: music from a garbage truck O.o

back in Taipei

Was suppose to come back yesterday, but since my father decided to stop by, my stay in the country was extended by a day. *shrugs* Since I couldn't get to an internet cafe, I couldn't get online. Hence the lack of updates. But I was happy with the abundance of manga at my uncle's house. ^-^ Here are the highlights of my trip:

1. Train bento ~ My trip from Taipei to Yu Li was a 5 hour train ride. Along the way, I ordered a bento box from the train crew. It was yummy pork chop with rice. *drools in memory* I missed having bento on the train. ^-^

2. Milk tea haven! ~ At Yu Li, my youngest cousin, Gigi, (9 years old,) made me a cup of milk tea with tapioca. Oishi! I told my aunt I want to take her back with me to the US so she can make milk tea for me. ^-^ Kawaii! Of course Peter (15) also made me milk tea during my stay. ^.^

3. Shaved ice ~ I finally had strawberry shaved ice that I was craving. (Gonna have more before I leave. ^.^) It melts just like ice cream, smooth and creamy.... There was even shaved ice with chocolate and an egg. O.O Not sure if the egg is raw or cooked...don't know if I ever want to order that one.... ^^;)

4. Games ~ Both of my cousins became addicted to my DS and played Jump Ultimate Stars throughout the evening. Of course, Peter got the hang of the game faster then I did. He ended up unlocking all the characters and made several new decks.

5. FMA vol. 18! and puzzle ~ Of course, shopping with my youngest cousin is a must. We went to two bookstores (where I bought two Fullmetal Alchemist vol. 18 for me and my Christine-neechan *hugs manga* ^-^) and Gigi picked out a 520 pieces One Piece puzzle. We spent most of the evening putting it together (Peter joined in as well) and we got most of it done. However, the top and bottom of the pic had a two toned striped pattern that was difficult to put together. So I ended up working on it and finishing it the next day when they were in school. Of course, I waited until they came back so that they can put the glue onto the puzzle back themselves. It's afterall their puzzle. ^_^

6. anime...translated ~ Gigi and I watched a bit of Ouran High School before I introduced her to Yamato. I watched Yamto Nadeshiko Shichi Henge with both of my cousins, interpreting for them. Of course, I left out all the sexual harassment of Kyohei and Ranmaru's womanizing ways. They seem to like it. ^.^ I knew my simultaneous interpretation will come in handy...but never thought it'll be for this. We ended up watching the entire series (with a few choice ep. left out...like the second kidnapping of Hiroshi-kun. That one scene.... >.<;

Other stuff occured like my two cousins loving to battle it out in the bedroom with a soft rubberball and whiffleball rackets (although my uncle specifically told them NOT to,) me using my other cousin's (the one that is in college in Taipei-will see him later) bike and complaining EVERY single time since the seat is high >.<, my aunt and uncle giving me the obligatory tour of 'this is the rice paddy and this is a mountain and this is a waterfall' (all of which I've been to before ^^;) etc.... Of course, I got pics so I'll put them up soon enough.

More manga please!

Tomorrow, I plan to hit what I labelled the 'Building of Japanese stuff' that is in Hismen and 'Akihabara of Taiwan'. My father will lead me to those places since I can't remember how to get there. ^^;

3/13/08 ~ Thursday 5:15 pm - Taiwan time ~ 5:15 am - NY time

Status: hyper ~ Listening to: Caramell Dansen

Britney + anime = *head explosion*

When I first heard of Britney 'going into anime', I had a moment of horror with the idea of the singer becoming a voice actress. Thankfully, her anime venture is only for her new vid. The style is like the European cartoon 'Totally Spies', reminiscent of Japanese animation. There are very few animated mvs so I'm curious to see what comes of it. But hopefully, Britney won't go into my fandom more than that.

Gundam in Shinjuku!

Gunota Headlines reports that there will be a Gundam monument at Shinjuku station. Which Gundam? They didn't say but that is awesome! (I'm hoping for Freedom Gundam, but the wingspan might be too much, so I want Wing Gundam Zero Custom....which has just as bad of a wingspan. ^.^) Starting 3/15, there will be a Gundam head trademark at the head of the trains. The departure chimes at Kamiigusa station will be 'Tobe! Gundam'. O.O Sugoi! Alas, it's only for a limited amount of time. Hopefully I'll find pics and vids of this. ^.^

ninja you are not

This is old news, but only by a couple days. ^^; Boy dies after asking his friends to bury him HEADFIRST in the sands in hopes to copy a move from Naruto. >.< My condolesences and all to the grieving parents, but I truly hope they're not going to take their grief out on the anime. Everyone must remember the Pokemon terror when parents were finding out kids were beating other kids up for cards. Of course, the concept of Pokemon as the Ulimate Evil has passed, but with Death Note stupidity (kids bring their death wishes to school) going on.... *sigh*

BTW, Fox News, Naruto is spelled as thus, NOT 'Narutu'. Internet is your friend...use it! Grr!

12:40 am - Taiwan time ~ 12:40 pm - NY time
Status: sleepy ~ Listening to: silence

I look like what?!?

When I was buying smelly tofu tonight, the man (making the tofu) thought that my cousin was my mother. O.o To explain his misconception, he reasoned that he thought my cousin looked young (which doesn't explain ANYTHING,) and that he couldn't really see my face since I was wearing a mask (which doesn't explain anything either.) Needless to say, Esther-neechan wasn't very happy. I'm not happy either. ^^; Ano...I don't need any more kaasans.

Yes, my name means 'problem'.

Esther-neechan's friends had fun finding out that not all Asians have 'English' names, only Chinese names that are phonetically pronounced in English. And that my name is prounced the same as 'problem'. Yes, I have lots of problems. *headdesk*

The problem with people in Asia giving themselves 'English' names, is the abundance of Johns, Matthews, Davids, Daniels and Samuels for guys and Jennifers, Sarahs, Dianas, Annas and Crystals for girls. The problem with keeping Chinese phonetic names is having foreigners pronounce your name as if you're sneezing. >.<

When I go to Japan, my last name will by Hayashi. ^-^

convention updates

I entered the cosplay competition at I-Con and I pre-reged for Otakon. Now all that is left is for me to finish my cosplay. ^^;

3/12/08 ~ Wednesday 4:20 pm - Taiwan time ~ 4:20 am - NY time

Status: impressed ~ Listening to: construction outside <.<;

anime on tv.... *drools*

Okaasan and I headed back to our house aka. grandmother's house for lunch. I was greeted with food, money and cable tv! *glomps tv* (BTW, Esther-neechan's house is like my house: a tv with no channels. ^^;) Afternoon animes were Suger Sugar Rune, Sgt. Frog *glomps Keroro* and Pokemon. I saw an MV of the Taiwanese version of a song from Powerpuff Girls Z. Kawaii! Of course, the food was good too. ^.^

removal completed!

We headed over to the clinic where the doctor removed two moles from my face. Of course that was after he shot my cheek and lip with anesthesia. From what I could tell, he cut underneath the mole and removed it. O.O I didn't feel much of anything, but seeing my moles in the tray.... *stares* Ewwww.... Glad they're off my face. ^-^ They instructed me of the recovery process, how to care for my scars and off I went! I'll be walking around with a couple of bandaids on my face for awhile. Doctor prescribed bandages. ^_^

It will take awhile for my face to completely heal so I will still have to wear special 'cosmetic' bandaids on my face so it will heal correctly. My only issue? I cosplay in April. My Ritsuka cosplay should be no problem since bandages are part of my cosplay. However, Kikyo and Tomoyo are not injured...at least not on the face. The cosmetic bandages are skin colored, but still, they will show up, especially in photograhs. Guess I'll think of something when the time comes. ^^;

3/11/08 ~ Tuesday 11:30 pm - Taiwan time ~ 11:30 am - NY time

Status: sleepy ~ Listening to: silence

Return to the night markets!

For dinner, Esther-neechan and I went to the night market near the house. Our entre of the evening was lamb curry. I also had a spicy corndog. ^.^ Went clothing shopping and picked up a pair of cute butterfly earrings that are perfect for any future Soubi cosplays. (I'm sure Ritsuka can wear earrings too though. ^-^)

and we have luggage!

For the record, the luggage have arrived! *hugs suitcase* Watching Yamato before I sleep tonight! ^-^

7:20 pm - Taiwan time ~ 7:20 am - NY time
Status: accomplished ~ Listening to: Harvest Moon BGM on DS

Baseball anxieties

Yesterday morning, Esther-neechan and I woke at 7:30am so we could get to work by 8am. (Her work time, not mine.) She usually gets there at 9am, but they have early morning meetings on mondays. I was supposedly going to help out (with what, I still have no clue ^^;) but then we had to leave right after her meeting to the hospital for my uncle's surgery. From what I could figure out, gallstones. The doctors took it out and placed them in a small bottle. *stares* So that's what they look like.... That's when I found out how much of a fan my cousin is of baseball.

Since the playoffs were for the olympic games, my cousin fervently watched the games with my uncle. Taiwan won against, Germany, Mexico and Austria. (Unfortunately, Taiwan lost against Canada last night so my cousin was sad. *pats her on the head*) They had already announced the wins in the afternoon and were re-showing the games on the sports channel. Of course, we had to watch it. (I played Harvest Moon between catching glimpses of cute players. ^.^) My cousin cheered, yelled and jumped at every hit, double play, catch, etc. Later, she exclaimed at how tired she was. Cheering is hard work too! ^.^

After the game, my cousin and I celebrated at a nearby cafe with tiramisu and chocolate cake with pudding milk tea. It was raining too so we got wet on the way back to the hospital. ^^; No cake for my uncle because he recently got diagnosed with diabetes. (Both my father and my uncle have never ending health problems. My cousin and I could trade horror stories of their eating habits.... >.<) I stayed with them awhile longer before heading home by subway. My cousin was going to stay overnight at the hospital with my uncle...but their convos together drove her nuts so she came back. Also, that was when they announced Taiwan's loss against Canada. ^^;

luggage updates

I ended up having to call P-chan for help since I wasn't able to reach American Airlines through ANY means (and I tried EVERYTHING. >.<) Arigato P-chan for all your help! *hugs* After we confirmed when and how my luggage got from NY to Japan and from Japan to Taiwan, okaasan was able to contact the Taiwanese airport this morning and we were able to get answers. Our luggage is suppose to arrive at 4pm today (didn't it leave on 3/8 from Japan? >.<) so okaasan should already be at the airport to pick them up. I should get my stuff by tonight! *dances around the room*

*counts dots on face*

Today, I woke up late (first time since I got here ^^;) and went to see a dermatologist for my face. He extracted a mole right there and made an appt. for me to go in tomorrow at 3:30 for a 'surgical' procedure to remove 2 other moles...the large one at the right side of my face and the one below my lower lip. He also prescribed pimple cream and toner for my acne issues. ^^; I have been getting better since I got here (thx to 8+ hours of sleep per night) but the problem is still all over the place. ^^;

accomplishment? In Harvest Moon!

I finally got to a level of friendship with Daryl that allows me to enter the basement to meet my future wife: Leia the mermaid! ^-^ I proceeded to bombard her with white flowers since I haven't gotten my fishing pole yet so I couldn't go fishing and give her fish instead. (Yes, she is a mermaid so I need to give her fish. ^^;) I spent lots of time wooing the other girls too since their higher affection events lead to unlocking things. ^^;

PM to amity and co.

Gomen, P-chan for not being able to talk longer yesterday. I was thoroughly pooped and wanted to finish stuff and go to sleep. I'll give you a call again later. Of course, the rest of yous will be hearing from me too.... ^-^ The online calling card that I'm using is so much better then the ones I can find here or the regular ones in Flushing. Yay for internet!

3/9/08 ~ Monday 11:05 am - Taiwan time ~ 11:05 am - NY time

Status: tired ~ Listening to: me typing

Japan love

How could I forget to mention this in my initial 'Asia trip' post? *smacks head* When I was in Narita airport, there was a class of students traveling as well. All male. O.O From their uniforms, they look like highshool students, but their baby faces seem to show junior high. But I can be wrong since I'm really bad at ages (especially ages of cute Japanese boys. ^-^) Yes, yes...I'm turning into a pedo...but I'm not really! *swears by Pocky* Of course, the first thoughts that popped into my head when I saw them was Minami Haruka-sensei and her BL stories filled with school boys.... *drools* I love those school uniforms. I'm totally going to buy a set to wear at cons...even if they're not featured in any anime. It just looks so cool! ^-^

During the flight between Japan and Taiwan, our meal had a creamy, dessert that was fluffy and not sweet at all. Okaasan didn't want to finish hers (because she ate everything else ^.^) so she gave her piece to me. ^.^ Oishi!

yesterday, today and tomorrow...

Yesterday, we woke up around 11am and I proceeded to try to get more details about our delayed luggage. All that resulted was finding out that we'll be receiving in on Tuesday...not Sunday as previously estimated. *throws peanuts at airline staff* After that, I spent the next few hours eating and watching anime from my laptop as well as catching up on some typical online activities (including trying to e-mail a church friend who moved to Taiwan.) I met up with my cousin (who had a last minute work assignment on a saturday) and we went to church and dinner afterwards with her friends. Found a One Piece fan in the group and we proceeded to talk anime. ^.^

Today was busier since my cousin had several errands to run and I opted to run around with her. She left first and I met up with her around 12pm at McD's and we went off to meet her father (my uncle) who had a doctor's appt. Along the way, I had crushed ice which was slightly cold for a mildly cool day, but still yummy. My aunt and okaasan arrived to talk about 'adult' things (mostly health and the upcoming elections >.<) and so Esther and I left to meet up with her friends at Hismen for some bowling. On the way to meet her friends, I ordered an egg pancake with fish inside. Oishi! I actually ate it while riding on the motorcycle. First time eating and I didn't spill. ^^V We were initially going to play MJ, but none of us had a table even though my cousin does have a set. We first stopped by a milktea place where I had my first cup of Taiwanese milktea. Less then $2 for a large. ^^V Needless to say, I bowled pretty badly. ^^; (My shoe size in Taiwanese is 6 1/2.) After bowling, we met up with another of my cousin's friends (one that I met yesterday) and we had dinner at a cafe where they had an indept discussion about LIFE while I played on my DS. We stayed until the cafe kicked us out.

I'm planning to go with my cousin to work tomorrow and I'm planning on having my face worked on on tuesday. ^.^ When I'm come back, I should have a mole-less face! Future plans also include hitting a fabric store, going to the wig shop (that I saw today at Hismen,) an electronics outlet, manga store (of course!) as well as several bookstores that are near Taiwan University. ^.^ Also, Esther promised that we'll go her fav park so we can walk around and eat ice cream. ^.^

3/7/08 ~ Saturday 12:40 am - Taiwan time ~ 11:40 am - NY time

Status: hungry ~ Listening to: rain outside

delays, oxygen troubles and no luggage

To make a long story short, we had a few mishaps with plane delays, one of which was caused by my party. Who exactly? Okaasan of course! *is slightly annoyed* There was an issue with the portable oxygen generator that okaasan uses and whether or not it was permissible to bring on the flight, stored in cargo or even used on the current flight. It was readily resolved. However, due to the initial plane delay (in NY,) our luggage ended up not flying with us afterall so it'll come to Taiwan tomorrow and we'll get it by Sunday latest.

All in all, we had a good flight with wonderful flight attendents (both AA and JAL.) The food was yummy and I enjoyed my trip thus far thoroughly. ^.^

and now...

I'll be sleeping and going to church with my cousin, Esther tomorrow. ^.^ If I encounter anything yummy, I'll let you know! Ja!

3/6/08 ~ Thursday 9:50 am

Status: accomplished ~ Listening to: Chiisaki Mono sung by me (Pokemon Movie 6: Jirachi Wishmaker)

practicing but not perfect

The above mp3 is my entry for the singing contest. I went out of tune in at least 3 places, but this is the best recording I have so far. The original singer is Hayashi Asuca and this is my fav song from her. I uploaded it several times to my site already since I like it so much. (Hence, another reason why I decided to cosplay her PV dress. ^.^) No, I don't think I'm going to win, but I wanted to at least try. We're allowed to submit 2 songs, but I haven't found any other song that I can sing accapella well. 'Every Heart' by Boa is high in some places. 'Let me Hear' by Tane Tomoko is filled with Engrish and I sound better singing to the instrumental then accapella. I like 'Hidarmari no Uta' by Le'Couple, but the offtempo rhythm throws me off. I'm happy to actually have an acceptable (to my ears) song to present to you guys. ^-^ Hope you like it!

still here? but leaving soon ^-^

The airline called me at 4am in this morning...good thing I was still awake at that time. There is a delay of 2 hours (how did they know? I have no idea ^^; ) so I will leave for the airport at 10am instead of 8am. Packing all done (except for this laptop which I'm packing as soon as I'm done typing this) and I sent in my song entry. My to-do list is done, except for the cosplay entry at I-Con. That isn't such a big deal since I can enter in person during the con...but I do want to send in a pic rather then me having to print out a reference pic.

I plan to do some 'cosplay' shopping when I'm in Taiwan too. Hopefully, I'll find the fabric that I want and those fringes I mentioned earlier. Ganbatte, Rai! ^.^

international postings!

I'll update as soon as I get the chance in Taiwan. If my cousin's place doesn't have internet (my families from both my father and mother's side are not very updated technology-wise) I'll update from an internet cafe. Hopefully by the time I reach Taiwan, I'll get at least 12+ hours of sleep so I'll be more awake then now.... ^.^ Ja ne!

6:50 am ~ Status: tired ~ Listening to: FFVII:AC on tv

fav yaoi quotes/moments

Since I'm not sleeping and I'm done packing (practically,) here are a list/paragraphs of fav quotes/moments from BL series. I'll add them here when I find more. Spoilers galore. Tread with caution. ^-^

Quotes moved to here.

3:05 am ~ Status: awake ~ Listening to: silence

cosplay status: incomplete

Turns out, I have to finish my costume when I come back from Taiwan. Not much of a shocker since my previous updates were slow in coming. ^^; But it's okay. As pissed off as I can be, there is not much else to be done if I want to have a brillant cosplay by I-Con.

Tomoyo-Hime: 15% done
Still making: purple dress, white/purple top, white belt with strips, goddess cloth, mirror necklace
Portion completed: headpiece, Moon Bell, purple ribbon (for hair)
Materials that I have: purple fabric, white fabric, mirror, iron-on paper,
Materials needed: purple chiffon fabric and purple fringe (maybe)
Estimated time: 26 hrs.
Total cost (thus far): $62

Timeline

Leaving at 8am today for the airport. 11am flight out of NY. Will reach Taiwan by Friday night. Coming back on 3/27. I-Con on 4/4.

To-do list update

1. Pack (almost done)
2. Submit entry for singing contest (will do in the morning)
3. Submit entry for cosplay competition (will probably do when I reach Taiwan)

3/5/08 ~ Wednesday 12:45 am

Status: rushed ~ Listening to: Changing - Bon-Bon Blanco (Yamato Nadeshiko Shichi Henge ED)

mangaka love

Last year, I bought a Loveless doujinshi that had Kouga-sensei's autograph from Yahoo!Japan auctions. My co-worker bought it over from Japan and gave it to me on monday. ^-^

Kya! Ritsuka-kun! Kawaii! *glomps Ritsuka*

cosplay troubles

I wish I can get off work...but I have an appt. tomorrow that I don't want to ditch.... >.<

Tomoyo-Hime: 8% done
Still making: purple dress, white/purple top, white belt with strips, goddess cloth, mirror necklace
Portion completed: headpiece, Moon Bell, purple ribbon (for hair)
Materials that I have: purple fabric, white fabric, mirror, iron-on paper,
Materials needed: purple chiffon fabric and purple fringe (maybe)
Estimated time: 22 hrs.
Total cost (thus far): $62

The trouble? I don't have alot of time before I leave. Don't think I'll sleep tomorrow night...

To-do list

1. Pack
2. Vacuum/clean house
3. Submit entry for singing contest
4. Submit entry for cosplay competition

3/3/08 ~ Monday 1:25 am

Status: sleepy ~ Listening to: silence

back to work! (cosplay-wise)

My spearhead for my Chun Hyang cosplay is fixed. I can do more work on it, but later on. I don't think I'll be wearing it to I-Con (since I'll be debuting my Tomoyo-hime cosplay and I want to be Ritsuka again ^-^) so I'll work on it more when I decide to wear it next. (Otakon? I dunno....)

I figured out how to place the gold headpiece up on my head without much frustration. My original plan for the Moon Bell fell thrugh so I'm going with a backup. Sewing my fabric has gone underway. I spent alot of time on the prepwork so now I'm preparing for another week of sewing and cursing at hemming fabric! Grr! ^^; (First, I need to sleep....)

Tomoyo-Hime: 7% done
Still making: purple dress, white/purple top, white belt with strips, goddess cloth, mirror necklace, purple hair thingiee, Moon Bell
Portion completed: headpiece
Materials that I have: purple fabric, white fabric, mirror, purple ribbon, iron-on paper, sculpty, white/red/orange/blue ribbons
Materials needed: purple chiffon fabric and purple fringe (maybe)
Estimated time: 20 hrs.
Total cost (thus far): $58

Taiwan prep which means...list time!

1. Pack
2. Vacuum/clean house
3. Laundry
4. Submit entry for singing contest
5. Submit entry for cosplay competition

Of course, doing my cosplay is all in there. I haven't even added the stuff I need to do for work.... Maybe I should move to a planet with longer hours in a day...somewhere like Neptune since Pluto isn't a planet anymore.... ^^;

3/1/08 ~ Saturday 2:00 am

Status: accomplished ~ Listening to: Trinity Blood on tv

cosplay break = clean up

I've been working so hard on my cosplay for quite some time, so I decided to take a break...which meant going to Jenn-chan's house and helping her clean her room. ^-^ It's sorta a 'after-b-day-cleaning-spree-to-greet-a-new-year' kind of thing. We even have ice cream to celebrate. I haven't had the chance to fix my hairpiece yet or make the Moon Bell, but it'll definitely be finished before the weekend. *is determined*

Pens, coins, beauty products and more pens!

Besides the sheer volume of her clothes and shoes, Jenn-chan has a large number of pens and coins scattered around her room. lol After assisting in cleaning Alby-kun's and Pearl-chan's rooms in the past, I expected as much...but the humor of it all was finding them EVERYWHERE. And beauty products. She can open a Duane Reade with the amount of bottles she has...or maybe her own salon. It was hilarious looking at each other's expression with what we found. ^.^ I think we did a pretty good job for one day of cleaning. *pats self on back*

So...Pearl-chan, did you sort through the papers in the middle of your room yet? How about the bags of garbage at your door? ^^; Maybe I should go to your house again....