tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78352735888727285082024-03-13T08:49:29.857-07:00(Mis)Adventures of T-laisaintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-76033839674078472862014-05-03T23:03:00.002-07:002014-05-03T23:03:27.717-07:00Malo! <div>
<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It registered today that I've been in Samoa over three months now... Crazy! Have lots to update on but I'll share one piece now.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Two months ago, I joined the Samoan National Pasefika Orchestra (SNPO). Having learned the clarinet in intermediate and played sporadically at high school assemblies (all-boys catholic high school band always needed help...), I anticipated only playing the clarinet in the Orchestra. However, the Orchestra possesses a number of unused instruments as membership hovers around 10 members. Instead of waiting for more musicians (finding dedicated members is a problem here...), we realized it made more sense to learn these instruments ourselves (duh, right?). I have since taught myself to play the bassoon AND cello. Freakin' random, huh! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">We've already performed one major concert for government officials but I'll post pics/videos from the next one (which will include a bassoon solo from yours truly...) </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back in the States in two weeks. Will be interesting to see how different it is... </span></div>
saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-53808015245195738382014-01-28T11:09:00.000-08:002014-01-28T11:09:58.092-08:005342<div>
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That's the distance (in miles) between Salt Lake City and Apia. Two more days till the big day. And I'm a little worried. That I'm making the biggest mistake of my life... Haha! Dramatic much? </div>
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Facing the unknown is a real fear. There is no guarantee that I'll thrive in Samoa. I thought the same thing in 2008 when I moved to Utah on a whim. And I've since carved out a respectable life... that I'm giving up. But I take comfort in my favorite poem by Robert Frost. </div>
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<b><i>I shall be telling this with a sigh</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Somewhere ages and ages hence </i></b></div>
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<b><i>Two roads diverged in a wood, and I</i></b></div>
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<b><i>I took the one less traveled by </i></b></div>
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<b><i>And that has made all the difference </i></b></div>
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I'm taking a road 5342 miles out of my comfort zone. I will miss Salt Lake City (even the dirty inversion and terrible drivers...) and the wonderful friends I've made. I will miss living with and near my brothers. And babysitting my rambunctious nephews. Thank you all for six years of amazing memories. Cheers!</div>
saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-37715274229984632982013-10-20T14:58:00.000-07:002013-10-20T14:58:04.640-07:00C-H-E-A-T-E-Rs definitely prosper <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">Erykah Badu had just completed a bluesy rendition of On and On when I finally forced myself to leave her concert early. I had a flight in an hour but almost turned around when Erykah cooed the first line of Tyrone... To distract myself, I pulled out my phone to update Facebook while crossing the street into the parking lot. Either my phone was acting up or internet was super slow because Facebook failed to add my picture of the songstress. Probably due to the high concentration of concert-goers... </span><br />
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As I turned into the row where my car was parked, I saw a girl standing next to my car. She took a deep breath, loudly blew her hair out of her face and bent down to my passenger window as if inspecting something closely. Completely puzzled, I walked around the back of the car to watch her finish keying a giant R into the door. </div>
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"What. The. Fuck. Are. You. Doing!"</div>
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The young girl jumped back with a coin still between her index finger and thumb. "He cheated on me! I just saw him making out with some slut at the concert." she said angrily. I didn't understand what she meant until I looked back at the car and saw the capitalized letters C-H-E-A-T-E-R newly etched into the side of the car. </div>
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I silently stared in complete shock when I noticed my half marathon medal and gold ribbon hanging above the dashboard. </div>
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"But that's my car..." I said unsteadily. And then we looked at each other fully comprehending what I had just said. </div>
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"That's MY car!" I yelled. Clearly, I was now livid. </div>
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"Oh my god! I'm so sorry! Teddy has the same car!" She cried out while her hands cupped both sides of her face. And then she turned around, picked up a brown leather purse and ran around the front of the car. "I'm SO sorry!" the girl yelled while sprinting towards the parking lot exit. </div>
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I thought about chasing and momentarily visualized myself tackling her to the ground. But I had no idea what to say or do when I caught up to her. It definitely wasn't worth it and I had a flight to catch. Instead, I walked around the car to ensure there weren't any other surprises and headed to the airport. </div>
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Moral of the story: If you catch your man/woman cheating and you decide to exact 'Waiting To Exhale-esque' revenge, at least ensure it belongs to them. Because next time, I will tackle you to the ground. And then break your shit. </div>
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Lastly, shout out to Teddy. The cheating bastard is the true winner. Got to suck face with some other girl at an Erykah Badu concert and his car wasn't vandalized. Haha! </div>
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saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-58380320139848573782013-09-17T22:25:00.002-07:002013-09-17T22:25:15.194-07:00Eat, Pray, Move?<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">After quitting Goldman Sachs, I planned a five week trip through the Pacific (Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Hawaii). At the time, I had no idea how necessary this trip was. Like I needed to sojourn on my own version of Eat, Pray, Love... haha! </span></div>
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- I love to eat. It's just who I am. And while I was hoping to avoid gaining any additional weight... I knew it would be difficult being on vacation for 5 weeks and staying with family that would surely spoil me. It was in Auckland that I noticed my clothes getting a little tighter... But did I care? Hell no, I yelled while devouring delicious meat pies, sausage rolls and Samoan food </div>
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<b>PRAY</b></div>
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- While in Cairns, I was super excited to scuba dive for the first time. And at the Great Barrier Reef no less! After diving the first of eight meters, I started hyperventilating. Despite my best efforts, these sob-like breaths were uncontrollable. And then I visualized the word BREATHE in bold black capital letters. After repeatedly tracing the word in my mind, I finally calmed down. I've started to adopt this strategy when frustrated. </div>
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- I've always wanted to attend Teuila Festival. The annual week-long arts celebration is known for hosting the Miss Samoa pageant. But it's so much more. With a jam-packed schedule of competitions ranging from best cocktail, most impressive barista and traditional Samoan dancing (including fire-knife), it felt amazing to be enveloped in my culture while in the motherland. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">After a couple days in Samoa, I kept thinking that this island would be my new home. I tried to resist this idea. C'mon, I'm pretty American and not ready to live 3rd world... But then again, I've been in Salt Lake City for five years and am ready for a change.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;"> So it's official - m</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">oving to Samoa in January 2014. Can't wait! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;"> And for anyone that reads this blog, start planning your trip out. I'm one helluva tour guide... haha!</span></div>
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saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-76539094577338804782013-07-25T11:43:00.001-07:002013-07-25T11:44:00.866-07:00What Next??? Just realized it's been 3 months since my last post. During that time, I visited China, paused from school, vacationed in Costa Rica and returned to work only to give my two-weeks notice... Definitely not how I intended my life to play out. Haha! Sometimes even my spontaneity surprises me... <br />
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Fast forward to July 19th and it's my last day at Goldman Sachs. I had always bragged that when leaving the firm, I would cha-cha, shimmy and samba roll (youtube this if you're not familiar) my way out of the building. Instead, I received hugs from my three closest colleagues and walked out to their applause. This was way more emotional than I had anticipated. <br />
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<strong><em>What next? </em></strong><br />
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I've heard this question a gazillion times since submitting my two-weeks notice. Honestly, nothing is solidified. I am truly flying by the proverbial seat of my skinny jean pants. So you know, this is incredibly scary and nerve-wracking. But it's how I know I'll find my next "thing". saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-7520508286544594102013-04-28T15:58:00.000-07:002013-04-28T15:58:19.529-07:00Perky Blonde...In January, I signed up for the Lehi - Thanksgiving Point half marathon on April 26, 2013. That was about four months to train. I could totally be in great shape for it, right? After putting together a detailed running plan, all I had to do was stick to it and I'd be jogging through the finish line like a malnourished Kenyan marathoner.<br />
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Except I didn't stick to my plan. Two jobs and school leave very little free time. I did jog three-five miles at least once a week. But my diet? The usual take outs... sigh. So you'd probably understand my panic as I approached the half marathon start line. And then it was go time. Below is a summary of my "journey"<br />
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At mile 3, my legs wanted to give up<br />
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At mile 5, I was passed by an elderly couple<br />
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At mile 7, I finally stopped jogging and started walking (halfway up a hill mind you)<br />
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At mile 9, I was still walking<br />
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At mile 10, I started jogging and caught up with a perky blonde.<br />
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At mile 12, perky blonde and I are running/walking while trying to beat each other<br />
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At finish line, perky blonde passes me two steps away from the finish line<br />
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Considering my current physical state, this is the most ambitious physical activity I've attempted. And while I wanted to give up between mile 7 and 10, I'm glad I did it. Who knows - I might sign up for another one... And if perky blonde is there again, it's on!<br />
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Picture: Lee, Paul and I recovering after receiving our finisher medals...saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-89079843526875027532013-04-07T23:03:00.001-07:002013-04-08T01:25:28.265-07:005-6-7-8Now that the tri-ward single adult general conference dance is over, I'm excited to get some free time back. If you don't live in Happy Valley, this is a major semi-annual social event for three local Polynesian single adult wards. At each dance, all three wards perform numbers/skits related to an underlying theme. Not sure why but I volunteered to teach a step routine in line with this year's theme of Boot Camp.<br />
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Random Fact #1: I was on a step team in college (bet you didn't know that...)<br />
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Random Fact #2: I enjoy teaching (maybe you knew that...)<br />
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Given both facts, I thought this would be easy. We probably needed a couple three-hour long practices, right? Wrong. In total, we practiced 23 hours these last two weeks. I yelled, shushed and barked 5-6-7-8 a million times (seriously tho...) And then it was the night of the dance and my ward was up:<br />
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Sure, there are a bunch of mistakes... But the raw energy and unity is infectious (how about that random person jumping in at the end???) My ward tore it up! And while I'm happy to have my week nights back, I'll definitely miss counting off 5-6-7-8 to these knuckleheads. Salt-Lake Se-cond (stomp clap!)saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-79216833207304015962013-02-19T22:30:00.000-08:002013-02-19T22:30:23.450-08:00The One About Kanaval... He asked me if I wanted to dance in a paint can. It was already 2am and yet the Caribbean guitar riffs crackling in the air were unbelievably energizing. I said yes. 5 minutes later, this happened.<br />
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If you haven't been to Hispaniola, do it! I spent seven days touring both sides of the island - Dominican Republic (Santo Domingo and Santiago) and Haiti (Cap Haitien). Of course, Haiti's national Kanaval was by far the craziest and largest 3-day party I've experienced. But DR was no slouch. El Meson De La Cava in Santo Domingo (actual restaurant in a cave) offered the best 16 oz steak I've had in awhile... And at only $30 USD. The capital city also had interesting sites related to Christopher Columbus.<br />
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This trip was 'zactly what I needed to regroup after a busy couple months. Ready to push these next couple months. Until my next trip... haha. China in May.saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-70459864031552932052013-01-12T16:57:00.000-08:002013-01-12T16:59:28.646-08:00The One About 2012...<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">10 Best/Worst Moments of 2012!</span></strong></div>
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<b>WORST: </b>Stanford loses to Oklahoma State in nail-biting Fiesta Bowl</div>
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Two words: Andrew. Luck. Sure, he's balling out as the Colts' record-setting QB. But his last game (and BCS bowl game at that!) in a Cardinal jersey should have ended with a 'W' and me rushing the field. Instead, Oklahoma made a field goal after Stanford blew one completely wide to seal the game. What should have been an epic celebration melted into jeers of "Laces Out!" <br />
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<strong>BEST:</strong> International Vacations<br />
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Peru (Lima and Cusco), Australia (Sydney), Samoa (Apia) and Italy (Rome).Yours truly visited four very different international locations in 2012. Macchu Picchu in Peru is a lock for the top spot. It's also where I committed to visiting each of the New <a href="http://world.n7w.com/new-7-wonders/the-official-new7wonders-of-the-world/">seven wonders of the world</a>. Two down. Five more to go. Takeaway for 2013: How to get paid for traveling and exploring different countries...</div>
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<strong>WORST:</strong> Sick as a dog<br />
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A follow up meeting with my doctor led me to believe that my stress levels were unusually high. Definitely a wake up call to take care of myself. </div>
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<strong>BEST:</strong> Work Opportunities<br />
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<strong><br /></strong>In May, I was asked to help build out a new team related to loans and equity investments benefitting low to moderate income communities. This would be in addition to my current responsibilities. Seven months (and two business trips to NYC!) later, I'm near completion of my mandate and ready for a new challenge. Keeping my fingers crossed that another amazing opportunity (travel included pls...) comes my way. <br />
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<strong>WORST:</strong> RIP Dad<br />
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Miss you, Dad. </div>
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I can completely relate to Bilbo Baggins from the Hobbit. While minding my own business, I became engaged in confusing but playful wordplay with an elderly fellow. While Bilbo met Gandolph, I was introduced to Bishop McMurray. He oversees the church/ward I attend. Two months later, he asked me to serve as Activities Committee Chair. As it's a pretty large undertaking, I, like Bilbo, was hesitant. But the relationships and blessings stemming from this position were worth overturning any initial hesitation.</div>
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<strong>BEST/WORST:</strong> Old/New Roommate<br />
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Vanity made my list last year as my new adorkable roommate. I find it rare to meet someone else so different yet completely complimentary. Which is why it was a bummer that she moved out in September. But then Ese moved in soon after. Technically my niece, Ese isn't at all like Vanity. And I'm grateful for that. Ese is undeniably fiery and wears her heart on her sleeve - the traits I definitely want to be surrounded with in 2013. </div>
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<strong>WORST:</strong> Weight gain<br />
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I knew I had put on some weight after the holidays in 2011. But any holiday weight is usually gone by spring. No big deal. And then I saw recent pictures of me... Growing up in Hawaii/Samoa, we used to make fun of people that moved to the mainland and got huge... I'm now one of them. Just look at my family picture. haha. <strong><br /></strong><strong></strong><br />
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<strong>BEST:</strong> Christmas with the entire family<br />
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With my dad passing away in July, it was imperative that my whole family be together for the holidays. I didn't think it was possible but by Christmas Eve, my mom, siblings and grandchildren were chilling in my living room. In typical fashion, we ate, laughed and gave counsel. It was one of my father's hopes fulfilled - that our family bond remain as close-knit as it was when he was alive. </div>
saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-6317384462134413162012-11-21T14:16:00.002-08:002012-11-21T16:48:03.863-08:00The One About Rome... My mind is made up. If I weren't Samoan, I'd want to be Italian. Five days in Rome will do that to you.<br />
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<u>Favorite Sites</u>: <b>Coliseum and Sistine Chapel</b></div>
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Sure, both are well known attractions but they were so impressionable and wondrous. While walking through the arches of the Coliseum, I could really imagine a boisterous crowd cheering for their favorite warriors and/or secretly hoping their fate was sealed by a large saber tooth tiger... haha. The Sistine Chapel silenced my heart. Well-known biblical characters came alive at every inch of the chapel. I spent 20 minutes poring over every image beautifully detailed in dreamy colors.</div>
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<u>Favorite Restaurant:</u> <b>Trattoria al Varesino</b></div>
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Tucked away in a very small basement off of via Marghera and Veranese was my favorite restaurant. Completely run by patriarch Fernando and his family, Varesino produced the best spaghetti carbonara I've ever eaten. But I was more in love with their homemade ravioli, beef steak and tiramisu (hold on to your seat!) from my second trip (yes, I ate dinner there twice...) And the environment was homely. Fernando and his family knew most of the customers by their first names. To borrow from Olive Garden: When you're here, you're family... And I felt like it.</div>
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<u>Favorite Moment:</u> <b>Emaline Fonoti</b></div>
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This trip cemented one thing for me: I am my mother's son. I completely forgot how similar we are. I basically went to Rome with myself (in ~30 years). My ability to quickly develop relationships with others, bargain shop and survive in any environment were innately passed down from my mom. As travel companions, I never once worried if we were separated or randomly took the wrong bus/train. We somehow always caught up with each other and adapted seamlessly (well... for the most part! haha) to any circumstance. We didn't even need to talk most times as we wordlessly followed each other throughout Rome. </div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New7Wonders_of_the_World" style="text-decoration: underline;">New 7 Wonders Of The World</a> <i>Updated</i></div>
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Taj Mahal (Agra, India) </div>
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Chichen Itza (Yucatan, Mexico)</div>
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Christ the Redeemer (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) </div>
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Petra (Ma'an Governorate, Jordan) </div>
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Great Wall of China (Beijing, China) - <b>NEXT</b></div>
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<strike>Colloseum (Rome, Italy) </strike></div>
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<strike>Macchu Picchu (Cusco region, Peru) </strike></div>
saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-81185365302050277092012-10-28T22:11:00.001-07:002012-10-28T22:22:37.828-07:00The One About The Cheshire Cat... I randomly re-read Alice in Wonderland after finding a very used copy at the airport. I enjoyed the dizzying conversations between Alice and her nonsensical acquaintances but one particular interaction stood out.<br />
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<b>Alice:</b> Would you tell me, please, which way I ought to go from here? </div>
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<b>Cheshire Cat:</b> That depends a good deal on where you want to get to</div>
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<b>Alice:</b> I don't care where</div>
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<b>Cheshire Cat:</b> Then it doesn't matter which way you go </div>
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Almost three months since we buried my father in Samoa and I'm finally realizing how dazed I've been. In my hastiness to cope with this sentimental loss, I've continued a vigorous routine of work and school (and work again) with no true sense of direction or purpose. I've wallowed into just surviving each new day. My new church calling as activities chair has helped tremendously. Serving others has that tendency of putting life back into perspective. I still think of my dad every day with incredible sadness. But I'm at least slowly hobbling on a path away from aimless wandering. After all, my dad would have never approved of me asking a cat for directions...</div>
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Up to Bat: Starting 2nd half of last semester of my first year (dizzying, right?)</div>
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On Deck: Trip to Rome with the Madre in 3 weeks </div>
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In the Hole: Christmas/Holidays with the entire family!<br />
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saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-59392825408953685832012-10-10T10:14:00.000-07:002012-10-10T10:14:57.213-07:00The One About EP... I remember when I first discovered my love for singing. It was when Whoopi Goldberg told Lauryn Hill that if singing was the first thing she thought of after waking up in the morning, singing was her true passion. (anyone know what movie?) I definitely empathized. Not that I wake up every morning singing... I don't live in a musical. haha. But I'm always humming a tune during my morning routine. Will even belt a couple melismas if its a great morning.<br />
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This last weekend, I was part of Everyday People's 25th Reunion Show. Everyday People (EP) was the college a cappella group I sang in during my undergrad years. We wore all black, wailed soul, r&b, and Motown classics and even traveled the world. Seriously. I've toured the east coast (DC to NYC), Jamaica, Mexico, Bahamas and Hawaii with the group. That's pretty impressive for a financially independent student group.<br />
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There are a number of groups and communities that I have been affiliated with over the years. One group I will always have time for is EP. Not only was I constantly enveloped in music but heftily supported by great friends. Trust me, you'll always be close to those you sing oohs and aahs with... haha. EP25 allowed me to reconnect with old friends but also remember how much I enjoy singing. Will attempt something musical until EP30. Aca-amazing.<br />
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25 Years of Everyday Peoplesaintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-24379689992690998692012-09-05T19:44:00.000-07:002012-09-05T19:49:23.516-07:00The One About Disney Animals... I just spent the last hour perusing random blogs and I noticed two trends:<br />
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1) I am a minority blogger. There are rarely any blogs maintained by single males... (prob contributes to my singleness)</div>
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2) A significant number of bloggers are mothers and wives sharing valuable household advice</div>
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I wondered... Is it possible for these trends to intersect? Could my blog dispense household advice? I highly doubt that my experiences are at all applicable to these busy matriarchs. And then I realized that my ability to pawn off domestic responsibilities could and would surely be helpful to someone. Maybe even you, dear reader. So here it is: my first attempt at sharing a great "homemaking" tip. </div>
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<u>Convert Your Help!</u></div>
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Groupon, Living Social and City Deals frequently offer cleaning services at great prices. I recently purchased a 4-hour cleaning service for $70. Yesterday, two cleaners came by and I worked from home to let them in and huddle over what I wanted cleaned. Like adorable Disney animals, they mopped floors, scrubbed tiles and dusted every surface quickly and happily as I sang and waved from my work computer. I would occasionally ask them questions: Do you like your boss? Are you treated well by your agency? Is there adequate compensation? I passed them bottles of water and fruit after asking this question... By the end of their cleaning period, I hired them as independent contractors paying $80 for the same two hours of work per cleaner once a month. This was drastically cheaper than the usual $150 fee charged by their agency in which these cleaners earn $10/hour. They now make $20/hour. </div>
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Look, we can argue about the true value of $80/month until we're blue in the face. But I'm more concerned with the opportunity cost --- the great and wonderful things I can do with the time and effort saved from cleaning my own house. I'm sure you can too. Plus, this feeds into my fantasy of living in a hotel and having daily room/maid service...</div>
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Let me know if you local SLC peeps are interested in this great deal. But be warned, they're booked every last Saturday morning of each month. </div>
saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-57251711789803012742012-08-02T15:57:00.001-07:002012-08-02T15:57:49.589-07:00The One About Fonoti...My dad passed away on July 23, 2012. I had already braced for this news. He was in a coma after a tricky procedure cleared all hemorrhaging in his brain. While my father's body still functioned with assistance, the lack of brain activity forced my mom to remove life support after 30 hours.<br />
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Within two days of hearing that my dad was rushed to the hospital, he was gone. And I was completely broken.<br />
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Fonoti Oliovaigafa Toni is my best kept secret. He and my mom are the true source of any of my successes. Looking back, he pushed me both athletically and academically. From early morning beach runs to multiplication/spelling tests, he was relentless in ensuring I did well in school and sports. And that was at nine years old. During my collegiate years at Stanford University, our relationship was slightly strained as I felt burdened by his expectations. They looked incredibly lofty from where I stood. In the last couple years, I realized that his expectations were based on potential he recognized in me. Potential I had no idea existed. Regardless, he loved me the same - celebrating my successes and comforting me during my failures. He rarely expressed his love verbally but I felt it vibrate in my soul.<br />
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My father worked his entire life providing for our family. Even up till when he finally collapsed while designing our new family house in Samoa. It was only fitting that we buried him there, on our land in Malololelei. Our land has a prime view of Apia and the Pacific Ocean. A view from which I hope he watches us, his children, continue to honor the sacrifices he made. Bringing us to America so that we be educated, independent and continually god-fearing. Manuia lou malaga, Dad.<br />
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<br />saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-62816365849887907162012-07-02T20:56:00.004-07:002012-07-02T20:56:46.925-07:00The One About the Seaman...When my younger brother turned 25 last week, I realized I missed him immensely. I don't know why. He's quick to point out my weight gain. Complains incessantly about my singing. Borrows clothes/shoes without permission. Haha! I could go on... In some ways, he'll always be my little brother. I still feel the need to pay for his meals, buy him gifts from my travels and somehow attempt to make his life easier. In some ways I feel guilty for when I was in college and rarely kept in touch during his latter high school years. At one point of our childhood, we were all we had. It wasn't until he was almost done with college that I realized how quickly he had matured outside my peripheral. <div>
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My brother spent the last four months at the Great Lakes naval training academy. I decided to spend this last weekend in Chicago catching up with him in this new chapter. My brother is still a kid... Laughs hysterically at any accidental reference to toilets. Haha! And yet I could tell how the military ingrained a more disciplined mentality. He's more grown. And probably doesn't need my help. I still can't help but be here for him in case he does. </div>
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Chicago was a blast. Sydney tomorrow night. </div>
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<br /></div>saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-2077355411029078292012-05-13T08:11:00.000-07:002012-05-13T10:34:40.546-07:00The One About Bob...I woke up this morning and didn't recognize my own room. Even the sunlight peering through my window looked... different.<br />
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It wasn't NYC.<br />
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I just spent two weeks working in NYC. Two weeks is a long time anywhere. And I immediately fit in. My full-length strides matched colleagues while simultaneously multi-tasking my personal iphone and work blackberry. Haha! As soon as I graduate, I'm moving out of SLC. Not sure where but NYC is a top contender.<br />
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Probably a tacky move (c'mon it's me...) but I inconspicuously snapped a pic of my personal driver during my trip. "Bob" met me at JFK airport and was extremely helpful as we navigated the city. And yet this picture sums up my trip perfectly. I've been to NYC a number of times. But never have I felt that it was more than just a work trip. Not sure if she remembers but before leaving to college, my mom told me that there are few opportunities, if we are mindful and recognize its potential, with the ability to change our lives completely. I can't help but recognize this opportunity as such. Like Fate is calling me up to bat. In my case, Fate is a burly white man named Bob... haha! Be on the lookout for Bob when your opportunity arises!<br />
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<br />saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-81815552029688981232012-03-26T17:11:00.008-07:002012-03-26T22:53:49.227-07:00The One About Peru...<div style="text-align: left;">Best. Trip. Ever.</div><div><br /></div><div>Peru was that amazing, kiddos. I should have lit a cigarette and blew droopy smoke rings afterwards as a sign of my gratitude. Yes, <i>that</i> good... haha! But I digress. I've summarized my trip into three parts: the good, the bad, and the ugly... </div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;">the GOOD</span></b></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000ee;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uAbWZkWVeys/T3EIPbSAXxI/AAAAAAAAAGg/B27U3UjCsNA/s320/DSCN0019.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724365662478950162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></span></span></span></div><div>Cusco is an hour flight southeast from Lima and served as the official Incan capital during the ancient civilization's heyday. While the Spanish eventually took over, the native Quechua culture is persistent amongst the heavy catholic influence. The scenic mountains, throwback cobblestone and completely relaxed lifestyle will make you forget about the outside world. My recommendation: stay close to Plaza De Armas! As above pictures shows, the Plaza is a sight to behold. It was also the perfect eye of the storm and jump off point for any adventure. And McDonalds was right there too... haha!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;">the BAD</span></b></div><div><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QdA8N6Rv3pk/T3Ei2mZsx2I/AAAAAAAAAGs/cJwoos_GCL4/s320/DSCN0134.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724394922781230946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></div><div>Incans were some bad people. Their use of rocks as the basis for home and agricultural structures transcended mere functionality. They created visual wonders with great purpose and insight. After turning a corner and coming into the base of the ruins, I literally gasped out of sheer amazement (have since pledged to never gasp like that again...). My recommendation: Explore the rest of the Andes Mountains! Machu Picchu is the most well known ruins but there are tons of other gems hidden in the Andes. My friend and I rented ATVs for 5 hours and explored Quechua towns, other relevant ruins, local salt mines and other obscure areas oblivious to visiting tourists. </div><div><br /></div><div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:180%;">the UGLY</span></b></div><div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MI8r0BVLBBg/T3E-4R1fPuI/AAAAAAAAAG4/oGio19bYI-A/s320/DSCN0164.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5724425737945956066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></div><div>While Machu Picchu was a pretty penny (about $200 alone), everything else was relatively inexpensive. Peruvian clothing, trinkets, massages, taxis, hostels, and (my personal favorite) food were sold at ridiculously ugly prices. I bought my mom an all white Al Paca fur shawl for 30 soles (about $12). This was the same price for an hour massage. My recommendation: get lost! We found some of our best deals wandering through the city and finding shops in unexpected places. Even the alley in picture above resulted in some great finds. Shout out to my high school spanish teacher (Mr. Cush!) for teaching me everything I should learn to get by. I was pretty fluent in broken spanish by the end of the trip. haha. </div><div><br /></div><div>One of my new goals is to visit all seven new wonders of the world. Next stop, Rome! Wish me luck. </div><div><br /></div>saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-9677104541344184432012-02-20T15:17:00.000-08:002012-02-20T15:26:39.736-08:00The One About the U...<div>Red is my favorite color. Don't worry, I'm not gang affiliated (anymore). It's just been a part of every school I've attended. Kahuku's colors are red and white. St Louis rocked red and blue. Stanford kept it classy at white and cardinal (preppy red) So when I was accepted into the University of Utah's MBA program, I realized that my yellow brick road is actually red and fashionably compliments my ruby red chucks. </div><div></div><br /><div>I was initially disturbed by the lack of diversity in Utah's MBA program. In our class of 55 students, only 5 are ethnic minorities. There are also only 5 females. Regardless, this is an amazing opportunity for which I am extremely grateful. It won't be easy. I'm already having a hard time motivating myself to complete problem sets instead of camping on tv... One thing I am particularly excited to see is a large population of pacific island undergrad students. They are everywhere. Hopefully they consider Utah's graduate programs later in their careers. If their favorite color is also red, it's probably already destined... </div><div><br /></div><div>But be forewarned. While I'm happy to be a Ute, my allegiance still belongs to Stanford during next season's pac-12 clash... In the meantime, I'm hoping to crash undergrad parties as a sketchy grad student... haha!</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Upcoming Events:</b> Exploring Peru/Machu Pichu in three weeks. Half Marathon in nine weeks. Wish me luck! </div>saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-79066987489990418462012-01-04T13:33:00.000-08:002012-01-04T14:35:05.391-08:00The One About EW...<div>Truth: I have a secret obsession for pop culture.<br /><br />Don't worry, I'm not one of those spastic teens on TRL (remember that show?). I'm very subtle. Like when Cee-lo and I accidentally collided at Heathrow Airport, he had no idea I was obsessed with Gnarls Barkley. By the time I accepted his apology, my facebook friends were already liking our chance encounter including my random observation that his unusually soft hands smelled like cream cheese frosting...<br /><br />And to ensure that I'm always in the loop, I surf Entertainment Weekly's online site (<a href="http://www.ew.com/">http://www.ew.com/</a>) at least once a day during the work week. It's not a trashy gossip site but a review of movies, tv shows, books and music. One thing I love about EW is their annual list of pop culture's best and worse moments. It's interesting to see which artists and events had a lasting impact. And I couldn't help but wonder what an EW issue would look like featuring my life in 2011. Well, wonder no more! Because I haven't blogged in over two months, I've decided to present my 10 Best and Worse moments of 2011.<br /><br /><strong>Puerto Rico/Thailand - BEST </strong><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692445449469299666" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-heBzkIqyJeQ/Tv-g-fboC9I/AAAAAAAAAGU/9ycCiyESVQk/s320/PR%2Bfrom%2Bplane.jpg" />2011 trips include Miami, Hawaii, Seattle and San Francisco but none can hold a candle to this year's international destinations. And because I couldn't decide between Puerto Rico and Thailand, I'm giving them both the top spot. Just how good were these vacations? After both vacations, I temporarily forgot what I do at work. Now that's how you know you had a good time.<br /><br /><strong>Dad's Misprognosis - WORST<br /></strong><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692421407716310354" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0cF1yLHakO4/Tv-LHE7CfVI/AAAAAAAAAEE/IhmXnV9Irmw/s320/dad.jpg" />I <a href="http://t-lai.blogspot.com/2011/07/one-about-circle-of-life.html">blogged</a> about my father having these scary black outs. I then spent the next week with him as doctors conducted multiple tests in hopes of determining the root cause. Just when it seemed that he would be discharged, a female doctor told my father that there was partial blockage in a heart valve. As a result, he was now terminal and only had a year left. My father's silence was deafening. Hearing him relay the news to my siblings was extremely difficult. I've never seen such humility as my father understood and accepted his limited mortality. And then it dissappeared in a string of curses as we realized that the doctor (still within initial stages of residency) had misdiagnosed the blockage.<br /><br /><strong>Missing Twin's Church Blessings - WORST </strong><br /></p><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692439524636088274" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s2JsxroJQAE/Tv-blntT19I/AAAAAAAAAEo/JgkcjUGMtkk/s320/twins.jpg" /><i>Best</i>: Twin nephews were born this year. My father flew in from Hawaii to help bless the newborn twins in our church. <em>Worst:</em> We slept in and didn't have a proper ride from Salt Lake City to Utah County (about 40 minute drive). My father and I got to the church just as my younger brother finished blessing his sons. It broke my heart to see my father miss this special occasion involving his newest grandsons.</p><strong>Adele LIVE! - BEST </strong><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y47-bJVXflI/Tv-ftzvTWAI/AAAAAAAAAGI/kBZ_L4sWVAA/s1600/piula-cave-pool-47464.jpg"></a><br /><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 212px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692439616848391986" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WcTE-8g0Vn4/Tv-bq_Ob7zI/AAAAAAAAAE0/1MNtDJnujYQ/s320/adele.jpg" />I can still remember the first time I heard Chasing Pavements. The sad yet sentimental lyrics blew me away. And so did the first single off of Adele's sophomore album, 21. I've seen a number of amazing artists live. But none had me completely spellbound by the raw emotion, sassy chatter and vocal prowess of this British songbird. I dare you find anyone else with the same allure without back up dancers or pyrotechnics. </p><p><strong>New Roommate - BEST </strong><br /></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: pointer" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690690048803903090" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Bi533CVSiMc/TvlkcuXOlnI/AAAAAAAAADg/pkaO3quxY-Q/s320/van.jpg" /> </div>I randomly told my female friend/former coworker that I was looking for a roommate. I had no idea she would throw her own hat in the ring. And even more shocking, I thought it would be a great idea. Two months later, I vaguely remember life before she moved in. If you've seen the tv sitcom, New Girl, my roommate gives Jess a run for her money in the adorkable department. Looking forward to many more adventures in 2012.<br /><br /><div><strong>Used Car for Sale - WORST</strong></div><div><p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 258px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 116px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692443760362558274" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQjSmSIpSPo/Tv-fcLBMk0I/AAAAAAAAAFk/MLk3SENNnOQ/s320/1992_Plymouth_Sundance-2-small.jpg" /> I normally lie that I spent $500 on this car. Truth is that I slid $600 in cash across a table at the local Carls Jr (I should have known then it was a mistake!). Mr X handed me the keys and led me towards the fastfood restaurant's dumpster. I immediately dubbed the car, Buster. Sure, Buster gets me from point A to point B. At this point of my life, I was secretly hoping to arrive at Point B in style. Not park a block away from work and pray that no one sees me. BBC's Keeping Up Appearances, anyone? </p><p><strong>Revenge - BEST</strong><br /></p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 214px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692442136200079474" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c6p_G56lwso/Tv-d9oir6HI/AAAAAAAAAFM/Y_9vUARhyb4/s320/revenge-abc-tv-show.jpg" />TV shows/movies driven by lead females are hit or miss. These characters always seem overly emotional or robotic (and sometimes both... Looking at you, Bella Swan!) It's for this reason why I'm in awe of Kill Bill, Nikita (latest tv effort) and now Revenge. If my father took the fall for a heinous crime committed by his super-wealthy friends, I would exact revenge in the same manner Emily Thorne does. She navigates Hampton's slippery society with a confident (and pearly white) smile all the while plotting her enemy's downfall. The overwhelming number of twists and turns will definitely keep me warm this long winter season.</div><br /><div><strong>GMAT - WORST<br /><br /></strong><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692442189471238194" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EJUhnli1Ybc/Tv-eAu_hSDI/AAAAAAAAAFY/66ZHX0Y-LPU/s320/Kaplan-GMAT-Premier-2011.jpg" />Standardized tests suck. And the GMAT is no exception. As much as I think an MBA would supplement my work experience, I am still disturbed by the need to ace this Business School entrance exam. I didn't get my ideal score. But I'd rather take my chances with this score than take the dreaded test again.<br /><br /><strong>Promotion - BEST<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 222px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692439674987426914" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lf_rf59HVAc/Tv-buXz3NGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/xKOkoZ--dAw/s320/promotion.jpg" /></strong>Any sort of recognition feels good. But a promotion at work almost reduced me to tears. It even allowed me to achieve temporary enlightenment. Instead of some crazy celebration, I wrote the following hoping to truly express what I felt. Goal is to remember this feeling as I bog down and vie for Vice President... </div><div><br /></div><div>"The road less travelled is less travelled for a reason. It's incredibly hard. You might want to give up. And maybe you should. But stick it out and you'll realize why the drive was worth it."</div><div><br /><b>Christmas - WORST</b><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 175px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5692434775150336658" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsTTYTo26LE/Tv-XRKfqmpI/AAAAAAAAAEc/ztXPZ8F2VPM/s320/piula-cave-pool-47464.jpg" /> I had planned on spending Christmas in Samoa with my mom and sister. We had planned a fun-filled time including overnight stay at Samoa's best beach resorts. Due to some terrible flight operations (shaking my fist at you, Delta!) I didn't make it... And while I spent some quality time with my younger brother and his family, I couldn't shake the feeling that I missed an amazing opportunity in the homeland. </div>saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-9440751250359492422011-10-26T19:33:00.000-07:002011-10-26T19:44:28.632-07:00The One About Hogwarts...I spent this last weekend at my college’s homecoming for my five-year reunion. Whoa… Five years have flown by since I accepted my diploma at the School of Economics’ graduation. It wasn’t the perfect tv/movie moment I envisioned based on Saved the Bell College edition and Legally Blonde. My name sounded garbled in the department chair’s heavy eastern European accent. Think he even added extra vowels and a couple of syllables… And my poor parents traveled over 4,000 miles only to watch me pushed to center stage (by a faculty member no less…) because I stood in the wings unsure if I were being recognized… Considering that I pulled one all-nighter a week finishing econ papers and problem sets, I should have taken the mic away and announced myself correctly after which the crowd erupted into cheers... Haha! Shoulda-Coulda-Woulda…<br /> <br />Reunion was slightly overwhelming. I was bombarded by a number of people asking the same question – what are you up to now? I started repeating the same six words in an almost rhythmic pattern – Salt Lake City. Three Years. Finance. Depending on how close we were in college, I would elaborate a little more but I was more interested in what others were doing. I found out that my fraternity brother cofounded Instagram – a photo sharing app I recently downloaded to my iphone. Another friend was part of a non-profit organization looking to construct more efficient water-wells in Kenya. I even met up with another classmate who is the current spokesperson for Bare Essentials (I’d actually seen the commercial randomly…). A number of other friends were in graduation school or settling down in their career or family. I was so inspired by how my classmates chose to live their lives.<br /> <br />Walking around campus and looking at the Richardsonian Romanesque architecture blended with elements reminiscent of Colonial Mission Revival (I was a dedicated tour guide, sue me….), I could not help but enjoy flashbacks from my undergraduate years: biking furiously through the quad as the toll of the bells signaled my tardiness, serenading a couple with my college a capella group before a heartfelt wedding proposal and hiding in the bushes behind Memorial Church as a fraternity pledge while our actives looked for us in a game of Hide and Go Sleep (yeah, it’s not hazing…). People say college is the best four years of your life. It certainly was a magical time for me. For four years, I was part of a world where anything (seriously, anything!) was possible. It was Hogwarts. And I, along with 1700 students, felt like Harry Potter in a four book wondrous series of fortunate events. ‘OOOOO-SIX!<br /> saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-40480994793179152032011-10-13T17:04:00.000-07:002011-10-14T07:55:06.282-07:00The One About Ralph Lauren...Jet lag is real! I've been completely exhausted since returning from Thailand on Saturday. Oh yeah, I went to Thailand! Haha.<br />My cousin Ui and I settled on this trip two months ago. And our excitement grew exponentially since that time. Actually... There may have been a slight decline in excitement when our other cousin and third member of the Thailand trio bowed out of the trip the same morning we were supposed to fly out... Oh well, the show must go on! And it did. 20 hours of flight time later (including four layovers) Ui and I finally landed in Chiang Mai.<br /><br />Chiang Mai is about an hour's flight north of Bangkok and known for the manufacturing of Thai goods like silk, umbrellas, silver and tourist trinkets. We were slightly worried because Chiang Mai was hit by a monsoon the week before and local news reported heavy flooding. But it was as if Fate wanted us to explore Chiang Mai without an Ark because it didn't rain until we left for Bangkok. Ugh, Bangkok... I'm not ready to discuss Bangkok and how the city practically Hangover 2'd us... haha. If you do make it out to Thailand, I insist you visit Chiang Mai. The city, with it's laid-back atmosphere, was comprised of identical looking streets offering ever-changing surprises. On one street sat a whole chain of massage parlors (So cheap!). On the next street, an ornate Buddhist temple (Monks!). I tried to take it all in while riding in our first tuk-tuk (motorized rickshaw) but the various sights and smells (fried pork!) were a blur.<br /><br />What to do in Chiang Mai? I definitely recommend a tour of Maetmann Camp - kicked off by an elephant show (they paint?! They kick soccer balls?!), Ox pulled cart rides through the rice fields, elephant trek to the local town and back to the camp, buffet lunch, scenic bamboo rafting trip down the near river and a tour of an orchid/butterfly farm. Costing a grand total of $33, this was definitely the most bang for our great American buck.<br /><br />In comparison, Bangkok was congested and chaotic. After being impressed by our posh hotel lobby and breakfast, we felt completely duped when our room looked like a dumpy motel crime scene from a CSI episode. Our one bright spot was hitting up MBK (one of the largest malls in Bangkok) and being overwhelmed by the amounts of designer merchandise (7 floors of clothes, electronics and furniture!) - whether they were real or great knockoffs was another story... I dare you to NOT buy a leather Mulberry wallet for $15 or two Ralph Lauren polos for $18. Haha!<br /><br />All in all, it was a great trip. I just wish I slept more. But sleeping is for the grave. And I intend to wear my new Ralph Lauren digs till the very end.<br /><br />Samoa in December!saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-45987746648069177202011-09-22T18:25:00.000-07:002011-09-22T20:24:34.603-07:00The One About The Windy City...I remember when my freshman roommate opened our door exposing the black envelope on the floor. My name was written in cursive gold lettering above a blood red wax seal. Fancy… I quickly learned that it was a bid or invitation to pledge Sigma Nu, the only fraternity on campus with a recruitment event I reluctantly attended because of the Lu’au theme and that my roommate looked ridiculous wearing all of the “island stuff” in my room. Receiving this bid was interesting news... Mike and I had discussed living together another year until he received a bid from another fraternity. I knew he secretly wanted to join Theta Delta but offered to decline if I had no one else to live with. Truth was, I didn’t have anyone else… And because I wasn’t prepared to spend the next year with someone hating me for crushing their dreams, I called Sigma Nu and accepted their invitation. I would be moving into their house in the fall.<br /><br />Last week, I spent four days in Chicago reuniting with older Sigma Nus I haven’t seen since they graduated – at least 6 years! I flew in Thursday evening – hung out at a bro’s incredulous 91st floor apartment at the John Hancock Center, worked out of my firm’s local office on Friday before meeting up with the bro’s at Mercadito - an upscale Mexican restaurant. Our initial conversations were really awkward…<br /><br />“So… what have you been up to since college?”<br /><br />I think I recited the same response 7 times hoping to sound as if my life were incredibly interesting and work was self-fulfilling… Like I do in job interviews… Or beauty pageants… haha!<br /><br />The rest of the weekend was a blur – swanky bars, underground clubs, Chicago Cubs game, beer die tourney, Stanford win over AZ, <br />McFaddens… I realized that my years in Sigma Nu (including 2 in the house) produced amazing memories temporarily suppressed by the <br />constant onslaught of my current life… I honestly forgot how close we all were six years ago. And I vowed not to forget… As I passed out in the backseat of my cab Sunday morning heading to O’Hare after just getting back from McFaddens, I realized that my risky choice to not live<br /> with my freshman roommate paid off. ‘Cause when you think about it, is he blogging about a kick ass reunion with the bro’s? Nope! I <br />checked. He watched Family Guy all weekend… Lame. Haha! JK Mike! <br /><br />Rose to EN.saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-39793900430203175462011-09-06T21:27:00.000-07:002011-09-06T22:43:44.620-07:00The One That's Untitled...Been feeling overwhelmingly uninspired lately. Not sure if I've swan dived into a funk but I haven't wanted to write in some time now. I learned in my teenage years that the urge to not pray truly meant it was necessary. Blogging seems to follow this same rule. Hope below updates are satisfactory until my new muse is found...<br /><br /><b>5 Mins Ago</b><br />- Bought a car for $500 (Timing couldn't be better as just lost my annual bus pass...)<br />- Enjoyed the last week with my mom, sister and younger brother (+ kids) during my cousin's funeral services this past weekend<br />- Adele live in concert<br /><br /><b>Right Now</b><br />- GMAT studying <br />- Working overtime (Car insurance + Gas = Hella Expensive)<br />- Living alone (Optional clothing night makes a comeback! Haha!)<br /><br /><b>On Deck</b><br />- Looking for a roommate (No small feat... More crazies in SLC than people realize...)<br />- Career choices (Grad school vs New opportunities)<br />- Upcoming trips (Chicago in a week, Thailand in a month)saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-37200364391890771642011-07-21T10:13:00.000-07:002011-07-21T10:58:22.648-07:00The One About the Circle of Life...I don't think I'll ever forget this past Saturday night. Before turning in for bed, I called my Dad inquiring about his health. On Friday, my father was shopping at the Laie Foodland when he lost consciousness for a couple of minutes. Luckily, he was in the Bakery area and found a bench nearby to rest on. He was released Saturday afternoon from Kahuku hospital. During our conversation, I laughed so hard as my dad recounted the blackout and how a young female employee immediation rushed over only to become completely useless having succombed to shock over my dad's situation. Poor girl. haha.<br /><br />The fact that he was humourous elicited closure on my end. My father is okay, I assured myself. And then I heard him blackout again.<br /><br />In my quest to experience life to the fullest, I hadn't completely grasped an important aspect of mortality - that as I grow within the prime of my life, my father further fades from his. Sure, I've watched Lion King (Film <em>and</em> Broadway, mind you...) and understand the Circle of Life. But it had never felt as poignant as I scrambled to reach my dad, notify my family and figure out a way to get to Hawaii immediately.saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7835273588872728508.post-45040250599593223412011-05-22T22:39:00.000-07:002011-05-22T23:26:18.068-07:00The One About the Phone Curse...<div>I decided last night to get up at 6am this morning and run the 3 mile distance to work since I start at 730am. Spring has finally arrived and I was eager to see it firsthand while jogging the nearby bike/running trails that looped through the local marshlands. Think I even saw a fox... 20 minutes later, I reached in my front sweatshirt pocket to check the time on my phone. Except it wasn't there. Just my wallet. I immediately stopped running and swore out loud. Unsure of whether I should backtrack for fear of being late to work, I quickly turned around and sprinted back the way I came. </div><div><br /></div><div>I have a history of bad luck with phones. Each phone has it's own unique twist - stolen at a gym, fallen into the crevice of a friends car, left on a plane - but the end result is the same. In 2010 alone, I lost three phones - two of them were iPhones! I finally settled on a cheap Nokia that lasted a year before giving up on me last month. Taking a leap of faith, I got the iPhone 3Gs and have yielded high returns of utility from Words With Friends among many other apps. However, the dreaded phone curse would not allow this happiness to last. I walked up and down North Temple this morning feeling less and less hopeful. Acceptance finally set in around 7am and I had to head to work.<br /><br />Still sad about my phone, my friend Vake took me to Panda Buffet for lunch which did nothing to appease my dark mood. Our discussions over facebook gossip, SLC concerts and other nearby restaurants were especially disheartening because I couldn't utilize an app or search the internet. I went to sleep shortly afterwards dreaming of my Guitar Strum ringtone on repeat. Addicted much? Haha. I woke up 4 hours later and used my ipad2 to peruse the Internet. Turns out my Facebook was hacked! A pilot found my phone and updated my status asking me to contact him. Whoa!!! I picked up my phone 15 minutes later and couldn't believe my luck.<br /><br />Call it Karma or the lifting of the Phone Curse if you will. But major props to Ryan Purvis for reminding me that there are honest and decent individuals in this world. Besides me of course... And I intend to pay it forward. Until then, looking up an app to help brainstorm a great thank you present. Haha.<br /><br />Tangentially, heading to Hawaii from weds - sun. Hope to see some of you Hawaii friends. Take care!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>saintlaihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02712230469419558914noreply@blogger.com4