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May 31, 2003
Have you ever...
Have you ever been in love
Been in love so bad
You'd do anything to make them understand
(Fortunately?) This isn't about a person, but about something near and dear to my heart. I see something figuratively decaying before my very eyes, and it hurts to see it happen. It also pains me that those with the ability to change are blind to the problems... because, sadly, most of them are part of that problem, too.
BTW, unless you're one of three specific individuals, don't even try to guess who or what I'm talking about... you'll just cause yourself unnecessary stress. If and when the time comes, the respective parties will know.
Do I stand by and let them continue their course, trusting/hoping that they will recover and grow stronger? Or do I step in and give the reality check they so badly need?
Why is it that I can't stop caring after so many years?
Posted by stevelee at 02:48 AM | Comments (0)
May 27, 2003
More randomness
UPDATE: Yay, finally caught up with my MTV! Caught an episode of Surf Girls: no real impressions yet, but how can you go wrong with a show about 14 babes in bikinis? ;) Also, although there still isn't any Asian male representation, props to MTV for casting Donell in Road Rules: South Pacific. Seems like an interesting mix of personalities.
And last but definitely not least, Real World: Paris. Haha, looks like the casting team took all the elements of what made Real World: Las Vegas interesting (read: sex and drama) and took it up another notch here. Basically, seems that everyone's single, has a strong personality, sexy, and sex-starved!
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If you're a fellow fantasy football fanatic, this piece of news should make you happy:
"Vick has been very busy putting in appearances, doing photo shoots and will grace the cover of John Madden's video game."
...unless you own Vick! Haha, sucka! For those who don't know, every single football player that's been on the cover of the Madden games have SUCKED the next year, and never quite recover...
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Also, thanks Jack for this funny article on Jin... hmm, now where'd I put my z cav's and New Order CDs?
Posted by stevelee at 12:48 PM | Comments (8)
May 26, 2003
R&R
Ahhh... I'm finally starting to settle into the summer break and enjoy myself; I'd apologize to all the working people, but hey, at least you have a stable paying job!
Hire me please! I code a lean, mean Hello World!
I'm finally 100% healthy -- I guess it helps that I'm actually getting a full night's sleep now -- and making the most of the sunny weather: been jogging/working out, and eating healthy. I feel great! =)
Thanks for all the party invites this past week (I feel the apo love =)), and sorry for not making any of them. I felt sick (and didn't want to be a party pooper), which provided the perfect excuse to spend time with family and friends in a more relaxed, intimate setting. Something which I really had no opportunity to do all semester long.
I wrote in a previous entry about feeling excited about this summer -- that I would face many exciting changes/experiences -- and so far, I haven't been disappointed. I feel this constant sense of excitement, optimism and energy...
Take this past weekend: passing on parties, playing basketball for the first time in over 10 years, walking with my mom for 2 hours... and enjoying it! Relatively insignificant things I know, but still... perhaps signs of greater things to come?
P.S. Sorry, but looks like no free drinks for you all...yeah. Man, B's and even A-'s really kill your GPA...*sigh* Ahh well, I only have myself to blame...=(
Posted by stevelee at 09:21 PM | Comments (0)
May 23, 2003
Philosophy of Science
It's rather fascinating that at the highest theoretical levels, virtually all the "hard sciences" -- mathematics, physics, computer science, life sciences, etc. -- derive key principles, theorems, and theories from the work of philosophy. It makes logical sense, but still pretty ironic that all these "hard sciences" are derived from a "soft science" like philosophy. In the end, I suppose that regardless of background or discipline, it's our aptitude for critical thinking that matters most?
...Boy, am I screwed! ;)
Anyway, if quantum theory/mechanics interests you, here are some good articles (warning: not light reading!) on parallel universes. Links courtesy of Shawn: =)
Scientific American: Parallel Universes
David Lewis, father of modal realism theory
Quantum mechanics
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*sigh* Sucks that the very next day after finishing finals, I catch sick. Spending today huddled in layers, drugged up, and generally feeling miserable wasn't quite the start to summer I envisioned... haha, c'est la vie, oui?
(Sorry if I haven't called to hang out yet! =))
However, these next few days -- let alone summer -- promise to be some exciting times! I feel this growing impetus, as if so many gears have been set in motion, and where it may end (which is an undecidable problem! Haha, you CS geeks should understand that reference)... who knows?
I just hope I don't let time/people/experiences pass me by due to my characteristic laziness... or inability to respond.
...Finally, it's amazing how many people I recognize from my brother's Lincoln HS yearbook... ;)
P.S. I was dying to use the word impetus in a sentence...=)
Posted by stevelee at 01:49 AM | Comments (2)
May 22, 2003
No mas!
Spring Semester 2003 is finally over, baby! The extreme levels of stress, sleep loss (like 5 hours of sleep over these past 5 days alone), and constant work almost made me forget about the good times shared with cool people/friends this semester! Almost. ;)
(If I somehow manage to keep my 4.0 streak alive after this semester, I'll buy everyone a drink!)
What better way to celebrate the end of the semester than with the company of some of the afore-mentioned friends at the overpriced overrated Cliff House? I think everyone had a fun time chatting and joking around. =) Afterwards, we split up... with most of the girls heading over to Sno-Drift for some clubbing action, while Erick, Sue Ping, Jeanes and I got some pool action at "either GE or Great Entertainer!" (hi Sue Ping! haha ;p)
From looking at the pictures, I'm surprised at how dark I got... just from 1 outdoor wedding and studying by the windows at Starbucks!
Finally, you KNOW I've been stressed/busy when *I* forget to watch/record anything Road Rules/Real World! *gasp* ;p
UPDATE: Thanks to Wahine (who else? =)), I found out that the new Real World: Paris will have another Asian: hapa Christine! Where's the Asian male representation? =x
Mini Cliff House review:
What can I say? I've had better, well, everything. For the price and quality, it's hard for me to recommend this place in good conscience. The food/restaurant wasn't bad mind you, just not particularly note-worthy nor unique. I had the Belgian Endive Salad and Wild Mushroom and Butternut Squash Ravioli.
(If you want a more upscale/romantic/seafood/Italian/etc. restaurant, I have a few alternative recommendations. =))
Perhaps the biggest plus/draw about the Cliff House is its view of Ocean Beach.
...But you can get virtually the same stunning view from Sutro Park from further above.
Posted by stevelee at 03:16 AM | Comments (5)
May 19, 2003
///Madness!
Wow, wedding and finals made me miss out on this sweet Baybimmerz meet today in Marin! Roughly 20+ E36 M3s, 4 E46 M3s, and assorted other cars. =)
Here are some shots, courtesy of Ken and some other fellow bimmerphiles:
Mini-cannonball run
More beautiful M3s
M3s doing what they do best: carving tight corners!
Black Beauties
Fellow Avus Blue M3 owner
Posted by stevelee at 01:12 AM | Comments (3)
Sarah and Spencer's Wedding
I went to a wedding today for my Uncle Spencer (my aunt's husband's brother =)) and Aunt Sarah. You long-time Cameron House folks might recognize Spence -- he used to always MC for the carnival. =)
The wedding was held on a beautiful day at Junipero Serra Park with a gorgeous view of the bay as the backdrop, and equally beautiful people in cute summer dresses and outfits! The couple and entire ceremony were amazingly cute! What struck me the most was how relatively simple and casual the affair felt, yet still remained so heartfelt and meaningful.
(Warning: self-analytical BS coming! ;)) The ceremony made me re-realize that I tend to get too caught up in wanting this or that or over-planning things, making life unnecessarily complicated (e.g., an elaborate wedding). When really, what matters most in the end are the "simple" things in life: such as the love shared between two people. Anything more, really, is to satisfy our own egos and pride. (not necessarily a bad thing mind you... I'm the same!)
Anyway, back to the wedding! So as Sarah walked down the aisle, Spencer started singing Till There Was You a capella -- very cute and romantic!! Throughout the entire day, both of them seemed so relaxed, joking and teasing with each other and the rest of us. Spencer's family is very cool and friendly like that. =)
It was cool to see so many people using (film) SLR cameras today -- made for a great and convenient conversation starter: "Wow! Those are some mighty big... lenses you have there!" (haha, kidding!)
After seeing how good Parkin (cspell's hubby; congrats again you two!) and Spencer looked with a shaved head, I have renewed courage to try that myself sometime... soon? And I'm also determined to learn how to sing soon!
...On a final, serious note: unfortunately, Spencer's parents (Mel Sr. and Auntie Jesse) were unable to attend today because of health reasons... please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Posted by stevelee at 12:13 AM | Comments (2)
May 15, 2003
When cows fly...
According to a friend who works for ILM, these flying cows were pretty big news today at Skywalker Ranch... hahaha.
I know there's a witty punchline in there waiting to be delivered!
Oh, I remembered another good reason to finish school (again): so I can have my weeknights and weekends free (well, in theory) to watch more Sharks/A's games! *sigh*
Hmm... I was about to write something sappy, but instead: I just wanted to thank and appreciate all of you: my friends, acquaintances and random readers who leave positive comments/emails -- you've all helped me learn and grow. I'm humbled and thankful for your continued presence, support and love. =)
(...Lol, that wasn't much better, was it? Ahh well.)
This has been a year of many firsts for me: my fan club (thanks Susannah and Danny!), winning a "popularity contest" (sexy PJs...haha), and my own crazysexycool stalker reader Carol! ;)
What does the future hold? Steve Lee says, Bring it, baby!
Posted by stevelee at 06:22 PM | Comments (5)
By "not online," I really mean...
...no AIM! Well, not for more than a few minutes, anyway. ;)
One week left before this hellish semester is over; and despite screwing up earlier this semester, I still have a chance to finish with a 4.0 and keep my GPA intact. I know the GPA ultimately means nothing, but it's a silly personal goal of mine...
So I'm faced with a mini-dilemma. I can finish up next semester (but would have to take 5 tough CS courses, and most likely, ruin my GPA in the process), or split it up over 2 semesters (and take the fun classes I've always wanted to like Mandarin and vocal lessons). I just feel like delaying graduation any more puts me further behind, which stresses me out. Hell, a younger cousin just bought a new house! *sigh*
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I have to start bringing my camera with me everywhere... at church this past Sunday, they had all the young kids -- about 25 munchkins total -- go up and sing some songs for the mothers. It was sweet and SO adorable! Hehe. =)
Speaking of cute and adorable babies, go read about the latest mischief Scott Sun Su's been getting into! Check out that smile where Sun Su poses with his cousin -- definitely a born playah!
Speaking of cute and adorable babes, go read about the latest mischief Sun Su Scott's been getting into! *coughMissKorea2003contestantscough*
Scott, I'll send you a pic once the semester's over! =)
I'm looking forward to a week of drunken debauchery restrained celebrating in Vegas and various other locations in SoCal (TBD) after the semester! Woohoo! Apparently quite a few others will be in Vegas Memorial Day weekend, too... we should all get together! *grin* =D
P.S. Oh man, BAD IDEA to read LuckyKat's entry on wontons/dumplings... they look delicious (mmm... soy sauce egg) and now I'm starving. =/ *drool*
Posted by stevelee at 01:07 AM | Comments (6)
May 12, 2003
More pics!
Well, just one (for now) but it's a cute one! That is, at least Jackie is. =)
Next 2 weeks are hellish; if you see me online, I give you permission to call/come over and kick my ass... or to yell at me to stop playing with my pictures. ;)
Posted by stevelee at 02:41 AM | Comments (7)
May 11, 2003
A Song for Mama
If nothing else (I know this borders on blasphemy, but I'm being true to my feelings.. at this point and time), going to church has renewed the emotional growth that had been neglected from my life for so long.
In yet another Sunday that really hit home for me (really makes you think about how God sees into the hearts of all wo/men), the pastor gave an excellent speech on relationships with our mothers. While we were all praying together, I got quite emotional... I didn't realize how much so until I opened my eyes and a tear rolled down. *sigh*
Basically, it boils down to 2 things:
R - Receive my mother's love (e.g., drink the soup she makes, and if she repeats herself it's only because she loves you and wants to make sure you'll do "it")
A - Acknowledge my mother's love
Anyway, enough rambling from me... I know all you guys want are more pictures anyway, so enjoy! =)
I look like crap in most of them though, haha. =p Oh, I'll be grateful if anyone can help me match names to the faces!
Finally, if you're in my line (e.g., you're related to Denise Oh, Rosina Tao, Gina Lee, Andrew Tung, Larry Lee, Cheryl...) I need help getting contact info for people in my line, because I REALLY want to have a family line get-together soon! =D
P.S. Thanks so much Janet for driving!
P.P.S. OMG, I'm such a fricking dork... instead of studying, I'm hitting refresh and listening to Kiss the Girl (YES, the Disney one!) repeatedly on Jaylene's xanga. =(
Posted by stevelee at 04:29 PM | Comments (4)
L-Dub Pledge Class Activation!
Since everyone else has already blogged/xanga'd about activation/banquet, I'll just let my pics speak for themselves; enjoy! =D
Still need to go through the Iota Phi pics, and the CD of pics Kevin took from the Pajamma Jammie Jam! Woohoo! Taking pictures makes me happy, old sentimental fool that I am. Although, I have the funny feeling I should concentrate on studying/programming instead? ...Nahh, I didn't think so either! Hehe.;p
And as always, if you have any suggestions for captions or want the full-size image, just let me know.
Finally, say hi to my lil sis^7, Stacey! (Gina, she's your lil bro^6 ;)) Not only is she a major cutie (sorry guys, taken), but she has the brains to match her beauty, and loves taking pictures too! Ahh, definitely must run in the family! =)
Posted by stevelee at 01:36 AM | Comments (5)
May 06, 2003
Reluctant Leader?
I know one of the last thoughts that come to people's minds when they think about me is a leader. And I don't blame them. Under normal circumstances, I'm more than content to just lay low and let others have the spotlight, preferring to work in the background.
However, when things need to be accomplished now, and especially when my precious time is being consumed, I notice that's when my leadership skills shine the brightest. These skills also come to the forefront when dealing with interpersonal conflict and resolution issues. I'm transformed from goofy, awkward public speaker to a confident, efficient and professional/empathetic (as circumstances dictate)... well, leader. I also seem to become a much better listener and thinker, too.
Posted by stevelee at 01:55 AM | Comments (8)
May 05, 2003
Cinco de Mayo Madness
Oh, I knew I forgot something! While trying to get back home after the post-PJJ fellowship at In-N-Out, we were stuck in the middle of huge Cinco de Mayo traffic! There were people everywhere along the streets, partying, and all sorts of cars sporting gold rims and waving Mexican flags.
The whole thing had a Mardi Gras feel to it, with music blaring along the entire neighborhood, guys sporting camcorders yelling at the women (so many were really dressed up too!) to take off their tops (some obliged... in front of my car!).. someone asked me to shout out Cinco de Mayo for his camcorder, which I did... that was kinda cool. =)
I never felt threatened or unsafe -- everyone seemed genuinely focused on having a good time and not hating against, say, non-Latin ethnicities. Honestly, if I wasn't feeling frustrated with all the traffic and wanting to just get to the damned 101N entrance (which was blocked off by cops, OF COURSE), I'd have loved to pull off and just observe the festivities. I love learning about cultures different from mine. =)
I just felt bad for Bonnie and Eliza who had to use the restroom... but we couldn't find any. =( But at least I got to know my passengers (Jorge, Bonnie and Eliza) better. =)
The highlight had to be pulling off at some ghetto mini-mart in hopes of finding a bathroom. I pulled up next to a red Camaro which was about to leave. I got out of the car, glanced at the Camaro, and saw 5 very hot and well-dressed ladies! Before I even realized what I was doing, I was staring at the Asian looking one (Filipina, I think) and let out a "Whoa..." Hahaha... I was "rewarded" by giggles (flattered, I'm sure) and the Asian/Latina I was staring at smiled, winked and blew a seductive kiss at me as they took off.
It must've been the "sexy" PJs, haha. ;p
Posted by stevelee at 01:39 AM | Comments (1)
May 04, 2003
Weekend at Gamma Beta's
UPDATE: Ton of pics taken by Kev Lowe, Gamma Beta's resident photographer =):
LA Activation, Album 1
LA Activation, Album 2
LA Activation, Album 3
LA Activation, Album 4
LA Activation, Album 5
Whew, finally have a chance to catch my breath after a fun, if unproductive, weekend. ;)
Friday night, not even nasty weather could keep me from making it down to San Jose for their activation. Always interesting to note the ceremony variations from chapter to chapter. Had a good conversation with Dwayne about APO diversity, direction, and risk management-related issues, but had to cut that short so he could make it up for Gamma Gamma's activation, while I got lost in San Jo...
After lots of circling around the city and Highway 87, and plenty of help from Dre and Michelle, I finally made it to the hotel. =) Cool banquet, lots of cute girls dressed sexily, got reunited with a high school classmate (Dawn Lee, who's now a GB advisor) and of course, I took plenty of pictures. Hehe.
I'm kinda disappointed by the shot quality though...*sigh*
Raced back to SF to catch the last 10 mins of MZ's karaoke fellowship; too bad I missed most of it, because I actually had an English song to sing (I usually sing Chinese): The Calling's Wherever You Will Go. Ahh well, next time. =)
Ahhh... Saturday night, the Pajamma Jammie Jam. Of course, the night where it would've been perfect to bring a camera and take cool pictures, I forget my camera at home!! Arghhh... still beating myself up over that. Anyway, was a fun event (Paul and Anthony, you guys rock!), lots of PJs, lots of dancing. I had a great time: danced, met and chatted with some cool people, and every time I wanted to become wallpaper, had some hot ladies drag me back to the dance floor. Hehe, thanks ladies for making this "old man" feel so welcome. =D
I know this is a generalization, but it really does seem that the CSU system chapters feel friendlier/livlier/more welcoming than the UC chapters...
Oh, one final note: there was a contest for the craziest, sexiest, and coolest PJs... and yours truly was co-winner of the Sexiest category (along with the lovely Jeanes =))! Hahaha... at first, I felt embarrassed and shy (this was totally unexpected), but caught myself and thought, "OK, why be embarrassed? I should just run with it and have fun!" So I relaxed and played a little with the crowd by showing off my PJs and trying to strike some "sexy poses." Hahaha.
What was I wearing? Dark blue silk PJs. Very shiny, especially with all the glitter in my hair... Hehe, us old school folks do it with style. *grin* ;)
I like it when you call me Big Poppa...
Posted by stevelee at 12:09 PM | Comments (2)
May 02, 2003
Random entry #31337
... every so often, I'm reminded that I actually used to be somewhat intelligent. ;) The times when I sit through lectures and understand everything with absolute clarity, when I actually look back fondly on my biochem/undergrad days, and when I absolutely KILL my Computer Algorithms exam!
I was the first to turn in my exam, and as I stepped out of the room, I KNEW I aced that mofo! (Background: I've been struggling with this class the most) After I left the room and thought about it more, I threw up my arms and head in victory... that's how sweet it felt!
...Maybe, just maybe... this sleep and studying thing actually works! ;)
There's really nothing quite like success to breed more confidence, eh?
Interesting chat with Christina tonight: if I was female/gay, I'd be attracted to brunette guys with nice eyes, cute smile, and strong jawline... yeah, I'd be an Asian "traitor!" Haha. Well, I think there's lots of cute Asian guys, but so far none I consider "hot"...*shrug* I tell it like I see it. =)
My appetite's been really whacked recently, so I've been eating more fruits and veggies... and seriously thinking about trying something like cspell's cabbage soup diet. Also been exercising more.
Haha, no... I haven't given up my decadent eating habits, just trying to live a better lifestyle. =)
Related to that, thinking about picking up something like this bad boy up. Figure that it'd help with the poor air circulation and dustiness of my room (damn stucco ceiling!)...*fingers crossed*
Posted by stevelee at 12:56 AM | Comments (0)