Ica, Nasca, Cusco, Salkantay, the jungle, and MORE CUSCO

HOLA MIS AMIGOS! These past couple weeks have been spent jumping from place to place. Traveling is always so exhausting... but well worthwhile. I have to admit that I am missing my roommates back home and am really stressed out about work business while here, but I know I will miss Peru terribly come September 12. My next travel destination is already planned out for next year: India to visit Sanmathi and Vietnam to visit my beautiful family. Any takers? ;)

Our first destination since Lima was Ica where we went SANDBOARDING, ATVing, and wine tasting! It was such an incredible experience. We slide down 100 foot drops on our boards, and of course, I went screaming down like a 10 y/o girl. At one point, I hit a bump and my crotch got majorly bruised from the board. :( That´s when I thanked the higher being I am not a guy. Then we rode through the sand dunes in a 9-seat ATV and felt like we were on the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland. What I would do to relive that day. The city Ica itself was very overwhelming with mototaxis, taxis, and pedestrians EVERYWHERE. In 2007 though, Ica was hit by an 8.0 earthquake. All their historical buildings and catherals went down in ruins. There are still so many areas of Ica that still need renovating and it has been two years since the earthquake. It´s pretty depressing to see. As for wine tasting, I was not really impressed with any of their wine, but I do believe Peruvian wines do have potential. I plan to keep an eye out on these wines in the years to come. What was most interesting about our wine tasting experience was not the wine tasting, but the drive to the wineries. There was one particular winery that was surrounded by major poverty. As I was snapping away on Sanmathi's awesome Nikon D50, the driver told me that I should really close my window before someone runs by to snatch the camera right out of my hands... or even worse. It really put a damper on wine tasting to sit inside the gates of a beautiful estate sipping on wine, while surrounded by Peruanos who worry day to day about how they are gonna put food on the table and have to resort to crime... In much of my time here in Peru, there is something constantly pounding at my heart to leave the States for awhile and do some volunteer work for a few years. I can´t shake the feeling.

Next, Nasca... in a nutshell, we saw the Nasca Lines, puked out guts out, spent the rest of the day in misery, explored the laid back city, ate food at a very sketchy place that ended up actually being pretty damn good, waited for the bus for days, then embarked on a long ass uncomfortable bus ride through the Andes to Cusco. Nasca was a very quaint city but def a one day trip (or maybe just in my motion sick experience).

And as for CUSCO... swoon. I LOVE LOVE LOVE Cusco. Despite being bombarded by sales pitches - "masajes?", "pedicure?", "manicure?", "Machu Picchu?", "informaciones", "paintings?", "taxi?", "rafting?", and little kids selling finger puppets for "un sol?" - every five seconds... literally, I am still in love. I learned not to be fazed by the sales people because it is their way of life after all, and it's because of us tourists that they do this kind of work. We all noticed the immense amount of Ex-Pats living in Cusco, which once again reenforces the charm of this city. The city reminds me of Granada and Sevilla in Spain in some ways, obviously because of the layout and Spanish colonization. Yet, there are so many remnants of Incan times that the Spanish tried to cover up/destroy that could not be avoided. In the 1950s, a huge earthquake was both a tragedy and blessing in disguise. The shake up knocked down Spanish facades only to reveal walls from Incan times. Very dope to think that just six decades ago, Cusco was a whole different world. Anyway, I need to get back to my travels. I was just in Arequipa, Colca Conyon, and am now in Mancora. Sorry ya'll. I need to soak up the sun and enjoy my beach time in Peru (aka my only real relaxing days since being here). Will try to write more mas tarde. I still haven´t talked about my Machu Picchu trip, Salkantay, and the jungle... to be continued...

Lima days/learning how to control my eating

Day three and still in Lima! We will be heading over to Ica and Nasca for the next couple days, then Cusco to trek our way to Machu Picchu. Although Lima is a very cool city, I have to say that 3-4 productive days is sufficient. We´ve done it all here, from eating and drinking (A LOT) at hole-in-the-wall local joints to the fancy restaurant La Mar, to chillin on the beach and watchin the surfers, to strolling aimlessly for hours around the city, to exploring El Centro and Miraflores, and going into churches, to going to bars and a club. The few things left to do on our Lima list: visit Iglesia de San Francisco and a couple other historical sites, go to Parque de Amor, and explore El Centro just a bit more.

I´m in love with Lima, and especially El Centro. It´s the known as Old Lima where there is history written all over the parques, buildings, and streets. We were there on a Saturday afternoon and evening, and it was so lively and exciting just to be in the crowds of Peruvians. Peru has been devasted by big earthquakes over the centuries (there was one in recent times) and it shows the city has not quite recovered from all the tragedy.

Today, we ate a looong lunch at La Mar and now we´re all still recooperating from a major food coma. I´ll upload a sneak preivew of our fancy meal (one of the only ones we´ll be havin here), and post the rest later. I can´t stop eating everything and anything in sight. I´ve probably eaten 3000-4000 calories/day at the least!! But it´s all been worthwhile so I ain´t trippin. I´ve tried all kinds of cebiche, fish, cabrito (guinea pig), calamares, seared tuna, shirmp, shellfish, lots of different sopas, churros with caramel in the middle, chocolates, and MANY postres. I´ve basically tried every dessert I´ve seen. There is one dessert that is a speciality of Lima that I am set out to try when I get back to the city in September.

Anyway, gotta peace out. Leaving for Ica tomorrow at 6AM!


La carta:
Pisco Sour
Norton Cosecha Especial S/A Extra Brut, Mendoza
Santa Rita 120 Cab Valle Central 2007
Atun - Steak de atun premium con salsa de sauco y pure de pallares
Macho - Pepian de choclo con pescados y mariscos, tacu tacu de lentejas
Paella Limeña - Meloso arroz arboreo con pescado, mariscos, pollo, y corizo
La Plancas Criolla - Pulpo a la brasa, pimientos, papitas doradas, y salsa de anticucho
(i will translate later when I get a chance!! In the meantime, apprende espanol ;)

Peru Adventures #1: ¿El es un gay?

HOLA mis homies ;) Our adventures actually started prior to arriving to our destination. Sanmathi and I chilled all night with my roomies and friends as we savored our last hours together (as you can tell, we love each other). Our flight was at 6AM, but S and I didn´t leave for SFO until 455... the reason why we left so late will remain top secret. We sped down the 101 at 90-100mph and made it to SFO in 15 flat, but arrived at the wrong terminal, thus finding ourselves sprinting through SFO to the domestic Delta counter with our huge ass REI backpacks. Seriously like somethin from a movie, right? Fortunately, airport officials directed us to the line for "the slow moving mornin people". So we made it to our gate with 15 minutes to spare/wipe off our sweat.

Our Peru crew consists of four people - Uncle P aka Apollo, Vy Le aka Vida, Sanmathi aka Solita, and myself aka Sol. The only common link between the four of us is me. All these friends come from different walks of my life, but nevertheless, I think we have some great crew chemistry. Everyone is incrediby laid back, and down for anything... and really freaken hilarious in our own ways. We all have strong personalities, but in the right conbination so that we´re not clashing... THANK GOODNESS.

15 hours later...
We arrived in LIMA after a four-hour layover in the ATL!! Our taxi driver took a minute to locate our hostel, but alas, we made it in by 1AM Peru time. We PASSEED THE HELL OUT, and woke up refreshed. Our hostel is located in Miraflores, which is the place to be in Lima. The bustlin streets are lined with shops, bars, restaurants, and PERUVIANS! Surprisingly, the number of tourists is pretty low. Natives seemed to be intrigued by our diverse group, with curious eyes wondering where we are from. The most captivating thing about this city is the juxtoposition between the new and the old. The blocks are lined with a buildings with a variety of different architectures - Spanish, Colonial, Baroque, and super modern. Peruvians seem to be obsessed with glass facades. It´s the new black apparently...

Anyway, I don´t have much time to write about our amazing experiences we´ve had in just a day, but to make a long story short, we´ve already experienced delicious Peruvian cuisine, from all kinds of empanadas, adobo de pollo, and MUCHO postres. ALSO, we purchased a Peruvian wine for 50 soles ($17, which is pricey here) called Picasso from the Ica region of Peru. It was a Malbec reserva aged in oak for 12 months. The wine was fairly light to medium bodied with tannins on the softer side, and lucious with red cranberries, cherries, and blackberries. This wine was quite an elegant for a Malbec, while a fair amount of complexity. There is a substantial amount of minerality with a baking spice sweetness on the finish due to the barrel aging of the wine. The finish lingers a bit, but I would say this is a nice everyday wine... nothing really special about it. I would rate it an 86.

So we also discovered that there are many gay people in Lima, and that most people are okay with the "gays" (in Lima). Though it okay to show public display of affection if you are straight, it is a big no no for the gays. This is according to a street vendor named Patrice who I befriended on our journeys. Who knows... I´m going to have to keep inquiring the locals about this topic.

To be continued... MUST GO TO DINNER TO TRY SOME CEBICHE! BUT THIS IS ONLY THE BEGINNING OF SOME GOOD, CRAZY TIMES TO COME.

The menu (la carta):
Spicy chicken empanada (aji de gallinas)
Mushshroom and cheese emopanada (championes y queso)
Adobo de pollo con arroz
Flan and other selected desserts
Pilsen beer, Pisco Sour, and corn nuts
Shrimp risotto
Some type of fish fillet con arroz

... and each and every one of them were BOMB

Food and kinda wine blog #2

What's up big bosses? I have three special guests on this episode, with Kaleena being the master chef who will be teaching you how to make a quick, easy, but REALLY delicious version of Sheppard's Pie. We were supposed to do a food and wine pairing after the cooking demo, but instead, everyone was too hungry and impatient to record the last part of my blog. In lieu of a wine tasting, I tacked on our happy night adventures at the Chocolate Bar and Cafe in the Castro in SF.




In addition, I will be adding my tasting notes from the wines tried that night.

Cuesta del Viento Syrah Argentina 2007
Cuesta del Viento Tannat Argentina 2007
Neethlingshof Gewurtztraminer South Africa 2007

As you can see, this blog was actually recorded back in May, but I never edited and posted till now. I didn't make my deadline of three food and wine blogs by the end of this month!! I have been working 80 hour weeks lately, so I had to prioritize. =\ But I will be adding the last food and wine blog next week, as well as the three guitar blogs I promised before I leave for Peru. A deal is a deal! Peace out homies...

Wine/Food Blog #1 - YOU THE BIGGEST BOSS THAT YOU SEEN THUS FAR

Hey ya'll. HERE IT IS. Ever wondered how to taste wine?? Why do you swirl the glass? What kinds of things am I looking for wine smelling and tasting wine? Well homies, this wine blog is about how to taste wine. Thought I'd start with the basics. Wine reviews will come in episodes to come. Although I couldn't get into too much detail about how and why to taste wine without talking for an hour, I will add some written notes at the bottom of the video blogs for you. I still get pretty nervous in front of the camera as you can probably tell by my nonsensical rambling in a few spots, but I'm confident I'll get into the swing of things soon. ;)

If you are reading this from FB, click on "View Original Link" at the bottom of this note to watch the blogs. The blog is split into two sections because blogspot only allows for 10 min videos. ENJOY.

Part 1:


Part 2:



There are two more videos blogs on the way within these next two weeks! Lastly, remember: BE THE BIGGEST BOSS THAT YOU SEEN THUS FAR.

Video Blog - Epi 3

Sup homies? I have a food AND a wine video blog on standby, but I need to edit them... so I'm gonna post this guitar blog first. Like I said in this video blog, I will be posting three food and wine blogs before the end of July... and if I don't meet my deadline (though, I will), I will post three guitar blogs and IN ADDITION to the three food and wine blogs before I leave for Peru on August 13. Speaking of Peru, I plan on blogging during my adventures so don't miss out!

Okay, so I have to personally apologize for my horrendous singing in the Madonna blog, and though this video blog isn't going to be a million times better, at least I think the cringe factor will be less... i hope ;) I have been fighting a cold, as you will see in this vblog though =\ Oh, Blogspot only allows for 10 min videos now, and the total time is 12 min... SO I had to split the two up. Enjoy my novice guitar/singing skills (if you're on FB, click on "View original post" to watch). Oh, and don't forget to turn off Michael Jackson in the previous blog on the left hand side of the media player:

Epi 3 - Part 1:


Epi 3 - Part 2 (yes, this is a new one... i'm still congested, but at least you can hear me better in this one. Turn up the volume on this one too though):



Here is some 411 from this blog:

1. Slow Club in Outer Mission on Mariposa and Potrero.
http://www.slowclub.com/

2. Chateau Puy Bardens 2002

3. Bordeaux - Region in Southwest France that produces some of the most expensive (and some would argue most elegant too) wines in France/the world. The region mostly produces red juice, but one of the most famous dessert wines made out of white juice (Chateau d'Yquem - pronounced dee-chem like chemistry) hails from this region too. Red Bordeaux blends are mainly composed from Cab (Cabernet Sauvignon) and Merlot, and sometimes Cab Franc. Though, Malbec and Petite Verdot can also be used in a Bordeaux blend. Ahh, there is so much to write about Bordeaux, and I don't know where to end. Next time I will talk about the rivers in Bordeaux and what kinds of grapes grow on which side of the river (Left Bank v. Right Bank Bordeaux). Btw, Bordeauxs aren't JUST poo stinky. The barnyard element is just one of the many characteristics that add to the complexity of the wine. ;)

4. Hands to Heaven by Breathe originally, then covered by Christian Bautista, and Ja'a... oh, and now me haha. My fav is the Ja'a version :)

5. What I meant to say is since it's my birthday month, I want to spend it volunteering since I've been feeling like a deadbeat citizen lately. My volunteer calendar is below (yes, two blogs in ONE day!). JOIN ME IN MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN THIS WORLD. PLEASEEEE?

Don't be a Deadbeat Citizen!

JULY is here!! Not only is it an awesome month, but it's also my birthday month. :) For my birthday, I've decided to stop being the deadbeat citizen I've become over the past couple years. I am dedicating this whole month to volunteering. Here is my volunteer calendar thus far:


I am looking to fill up this calendar to have three events/week! Suggestions? Also, I am posting this because I want YOU... yes, YOU to join me. There will be at least 15 events to choose from. Surely, you can make one of them ;) Don't worry; after July, I'm not going to stop volunteering though. My 26th birthday is the re-birth of a Nancy we lost for a minute. Come give back to society with me!!

p.s. I have been trying to post my video blog since the 30th, but blogspot is TRIPPPIN. Hopefully, the video blog will be up by Friday at the latest. Stay tuned ya'll.

Celebrating life and death

MJ ALL DAY <3. My fav MJ beats here:




Both life and death should be celebrated - a great life to be lived, and a extraordinary life lived. Welcome to the wonderful world Mica, rest easy Michael.





... Mica is crotch grabbin early on?? Perhaps we've found the next legend ;)

happy father's day

twelve hours on his feet
and he worked like a slave
he didn't make a lot of money
but the bills got paid
every day he dealt with pain
and i've never seen him cry
and no matter how much it hurt
it was his only way to survive

and i'll never forget
what you've done for me
and i'll do my best
to make you proud of me

He said:
girl i just want you to have
a better life than me
He said:
get a good job
so you can raise a family
He said:
i'm not the kind of people
you look up to

... but i don't think you understand
i want to be just like you.

i can never figure out
how we made it through
he did it by himself
and had no one to come home to
still he lived his life
and prayed at night
to make it through another day
and even when i saw
the pain in his eyes
he tells me everything's okay

and i'll never forget
what you've done for me
and i'll do my best
to make you proud of me

He said:
girl i just want you to have
a better life than me
he said:
get a good job
so you can raise a family
He said:
i'm not the kind of people
you look up to

... but i don't think you understand
i want to be just like you.

-the dey

Vid Blog Two (for real) - My encounter with the popo

WOW, once again i'm lookin fly on my video blog screen shot. SO I promise that the dancing in the beginning only lasts for a minute ;)

I had to re-record this blog... but I had fun doin it as you will see. HAHA The song I am singing is dedicated to the beautiful woman I saw at QBar last weekend. HAH! Kidding. But this song is pretty hot despite it bein so old school. I know I butchered it pretty badly, especially the first half... but hey, I forewarned you about my singing... and Madonna is kinda really out of my vocal range :(. Oh, so the popo came after me for dancin and singing so badly =\ To get the full effect of this blog, you may want to turn up the sound... you'll see why.



Please be a follower on my blog if you haven't done so already... and/or COMMENT... even if it is to say, NANCY, YOU REALLY SUCK AT SINGING ;) Btw, yes I did say "it's hard not to judge a cover by it's book"... I only had five hours of sleep, hence the stoner looking eyes... I'm exhausted. After workin all day and recording a new blog, I think this calls for a siesta. Night ya'll...

LINK to VIDEO BLOG EPI ONE:
http://theprofoundandmundane.blogspot.com/2009/03/episode-1.html

Live long and prosper

Tonight, A, K, and I went to the Star Trek sneak preview. Nerdy sounding? Yes. Was the movie actually quite amazing? DEFINITELY. Let's get the facts straight... None of us had seen or cared about Star Trek prior to watching this movie. Actually, I mix up Star Trek and Star Wars all the time (ahh, please don't get offended you SciFi nerds). When K asked me if I wanted to go, I laughed and wondered if she was serious. Even as we left two hours early to stand in line, we were all skeptical of what was to come... but fast forward two hours later... and there are now three new Star Trek fans...

The movie was all that and more... special effects, action, suspense, drama, love, life lessons, philosophical questions. I LOVED EVERY MOMENT. Don't trip. I won't spoil the movie for you... I really enjoyed the fact that romance was never at the forefront of the storyline. I believe that a good action/drama film does not have to include the "hero gets the woman/man" kind of thang in order to complete it. Love was certainly a theme in the movie, but the focus was on emotions and how they can impede judgment BUT that emotions should not be denied because
it's what makes humans unique and special. To deny ourselves of loving and feeling REAL emotions is denying the essence of who we are. I also enjoyed the underlying themes of familial love and sacrifice, honor, and the importance of letting go and moving forward instead of using negative energy to harm yourself and others. I laughed, cried, smiled, sat on the end of my seat, screamed, turned the philosophical wheels in my brain, and much more... that's a winner in my book.

So I realized how much I miss watching a movie in a packed theater. I loved sharing all the ups and downs with hundreds of others who were connecting/sympathizing/empathizing with the characters and storyline... even though many of the viewers there were kinda um... nerdy... they were so respectful and genuinely into the film. Now go to let's say... a movie like Fast and Furious or some Road Trip movie *cringe*... you would get all those immature smart asses making inappropriate remarks about anything and everything. Okay, so some of the jokes in the film were really corny... but I laughed along because the vibe in the theater was so pleasant and lively. It probably was not the hot spot to scope out a new date, but some innocent fun was a nice change for a minute... then you rub your eyes as the lights come back on and you realize that although we had good times together, it's time to part our ways until the sequel. I have to say though, there was some eye candy in the film (also unexpected from Star Trek)... and I'm speaking for both male and female appreciators. Although I LOVE women, I have learned to give recognition to a good looking man when I see one... and Chris Pine was pretty sexy playing James Kirk. BUT of course, my eyes gravitated towards Zoe Saldana (also in Center Stage).

I simply love movies that leave me with a refreshing sense of hope and optimism. How can you blame me??? I strive for my life to be full of those two things! My one suggestion for this movie though: see it in IMAX!

Okay, I'm exhausted and I still don't know why my video blog won't post, but I just had to share my new appreciation for Star Trek.

FREE

TODAY I HAD ONE OF THE MOST LIBERATING MOMENTS I'VE HAD IN MY ENTIRE LIFE... the end... or rather, the beginning of inner peace...

I think this calls for a bottle of bubbly to celebrate life. Video blog should be up this week. Sorry for the delay!!!

Finally moving onto food and wine...

The Show Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 - bought it at Mission Wines in South Pas for16 bones. Nice, easy drinking Cab that is smoothed out by a small dose of Merlot (and a splash of Cab Franc and Petit Syrah). Medium bodied, light tannins, luscious dark berries, hint of pepper and earth, with definite traces of oak. On the shorter end of a finish, but pleasant, smooth, and not overly simplistic. What I liked about the Show is their obvious attempt to take the pretentiousness out of wine. The Show's label is a showstopper in my book fosho. Goes pretty well with the Mt. Tam (review below), but I would have probably picked a different wine pairing if I could hit rewind...
Rating: Dec, and a bang for your buck


Cowgirl Creamry Mt. Tam - Northern Cali creamery based in Marin, with a shop in the SF Ferry building. Oh, how I love that place. A DANGEROUSLY off the heezy triple cream. At $30/lb, and 170 calories/ounce (120 being fat calories... but who's counting anyway?), it is painfully worth it. Creamy and buttery while still holding down elegance, and very earthy. I hate to use the word, but my Umami senses are off the charts. Although the Show was dec, it def could not hang with this musty cheese. My ideal wine to pair would be a Burgundy that knows how to get down and dirty with its bad self, or a crisp but slightly creamy Henriot Souverain Brut that has enough acidity to cut through the fattiness of the cheese but still big enough not to be bullied around by the heavy weight that is Mt. Tam. If a lighter wallet and heavier belly ain't a thang for you to sacrifice from time to time, this fromage is a winner...
Rating: Bomb ass

Stay tuned for vid blog #2 comin at you in less than a week...

My first letter to god...

Dear god,

I used to think you hated me for being gay, but after shaking off my comatose state from eating a quarter wheel of cheese, it dawned on me that you are actually upset with me for being a gluttonous pig. I will try my best to cut down my cheese, chocolate, and cookie intake....

Much love and respect,
nancyd

bust a left on the corner of heart and rhymes

...and there you will find my soul chillin... with a joint ;) So I will be posting poems sporadically, and what better way to start than with one of my all-time favorites, Pablo Neruda. Regardless of the numerous times I've read and recited this poem, it still moves me to this day.

Puedo Escribir

Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Escribir, por ejemplo: "La noche está estrellada,
y tiritan, azules, los astros, a lo lejos."
El viento de la noche gira en el cielo y canta.

Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Yo la quise, y a veces ella también me quiso.
En las noches como esta la tuve entre mis brazos.
La besé tantas veces bajo el cielo infinito.

Ella me quiso, a veces yo también la quería.
Cómo no haber amado sus grandes ojos fijos.

Puedo escribir los versos más tristes esta noche.
Pensar que no la tengo. Sentir que la he perdido.

Oir la noche inmensa, más inmensa sin ella.
Y el verso cae al alma como al pasto el rocío.

Qué importa que mi amor no pudiera guardarla.
La noche esta estrellada y ella no está conmigo.

Eso es todo. A lo lejos alguien canta. A lo lejos.
Mi alma no se contenta con haberla perdido.

Como para acercarla mi mirada la busca.
Mi corazón la busca, y ella no está conmigo.

La misma noche que hace blanquear los mismos árboles.
Nosotros, los de entonces, ya no somos los mismos.

Ya no la quiero, es cierto, pero cuánto la quise.
Mi voz buscaba el viento para tocar su oído.

De otro. Será de otro. Como antes de mis besos.
Su voz, su cuerpo claro. Sus ojos infinitos.

Ya no la quiero, es cierto, pero tal vez la quiero.
Es tan corto el amor, y es tan largo el olvido.

Porque en noches como esta la tuve entre mis brazos,
mi alma no se contenta con haberla perdido.

Aunque este sea el ultimo dolor que ella me causa,
y estos sean los ultimos versos que yo le escribo.

And translated...

Tonight I Can Write

Tonight, I can write the saddest lines.
Write, for example, "the night is starry
and the blue stars shiver in the distance."
The night wind revolves in the sky and sings.

Tonight, I can write the saddest lines,
I loved her, and sometimes she loved me, too.
Through nights like this one, I held her in my arms.
I kissed her again and again under the endless sky.

She loved me, sometimes, I loved her too.
how could one not love her great still eyes?

Tonight, I can write the saddest lines,
To think that I do not have her, too feel that I have lost her.

To hear the immense night still more immense without her,
And the verse falls to the soul like dew to the pasture.

What does it matter that my love could not keep her.
The night is starry and she is not with me.

this is all. In the distance, someone is singing.
My soul is not satisfied that it has lost her.

My sight tries to find her as though to bring her closer
My heart looks fort her, and she is not with me.

The same night, whitening the same trees,
We, of that time, are no longer the same.

I no longer love her, that’s certain, but how I loved her,
My voice tried to find the wind to touch her hearing.

Another’s. She will be another’s, as she was before my kisses.
Her voice, her bright body, her infinite eyes.

I no longer love her, that’s certain, but maybe I love her.
Love is so short; forgetting is long.

Because through nights like this one, I held her in my arms
My soul is not satisfied that it has lost her.

though this be the last pain that she makes me suffer
And these be the last verses that I write for her.

The English translation does it no justice, but it's still a beautiful poem, ain't it?

I am home...

Today is my first official full day as a San Franciscan, and I decided to go cheer on my former love, Cal rugby, on Treasure Island. I miss playing the game, and watching them play brought back good memories of tackling, slipping, and sliding all over the muddy fields on T.I. When I was still playing for Cal, I always told myself I would stop along the road from a game on T.I. to check out the beautiful view of the SF Bay. Of course, I never did follow through... Their game just ended, so right now I am sitting along the side of the road on treasure island, enjoying the view, and awing over my new home... and the beginning of my new life.

Life is so damn beautiful...

it's a beautiful morning in socal, and i'm leaving... is it just me or does this feel wrong?

Been awake for 24 hours (with only 3 hours of sleep the night before and a hangover), but there hasn't been time to rest at all. I've been on the move all freaken day. Just to give you an idea of my crazy day:

I met up with five different people and spent a significant time with each
(at least 1.5 hours for every one of them)
I went on a quick two-mile run (who the hell knows why)
Had two business meetings for my gigs in SF
Wrote thoughtful thank you cards
Filled up the gas tank, and checked my oil and tire pressure
Scarfed down three meals somehow
Stopped by POP one last time
Recycled all my stuff at Cal Tech (the recycling center was closed since it was 3AM so I jumped the fence and lost a huge chunk of my skin... yes, I believe in recycling THAT much)
Finished packing
Cleaned my space
Loaded my car
Watched the sunrise from my window one last time...

Sat on my awesome balcony one last time...

See ya later socal... this is not goodbye

Hello SF... hope to see ya soon internet...

Video Blog - Episode 1

I am finally posting my video blog. My apologies for the delay. My internet has been down for the past 6 hours :( I'm nervous for ya'll to watch this, and I'd like to note how attractive I look in this screen shot. It took me a good 30 minutes to get the balls to press the 'post' button, and a good month prior to convince myself that I had to do this particular video blog first. Turn off the side bar music and enjoy EPISODE 1




So yes, I am pretty damn embarrassed now that I've put myself out there. To me, it really is comparable to being naked. I'm still a newbie so cut me some slack! If you want to know the chords I used for this song (John Legend - Everybody Knows), hit me up.

Anyway, let me know what you think, where I can improve, or what song you want me to play next. Do I talk too much?? Whatever you do or think, please comment on my page people. I've had almost 200 hits on my page within one month, and hardly any feedback. How am I supposed to entertain you if I don't know what you want?! Epi 2 will DEF be a food and wine blog. This past weekend was Kristin's birthday, and I had the honor of trying Krug. It was an unforgettable moment in time, and I stood there for a good 10 minutes taking in all the complex layers of this beautifully produced Champagne. Damn, I have a good life and wonderful friends, don't I?

Comin very soon....

So I recorded my first video blog, but I won't have time to post it until later tonight/tomorrow morning. Get ready... it's pretty entertaining if I may say so myself... you'll see why ;)

My LA bucket list and my photo of the day

There's a new type of carrot on the market...



You don't gotta lie to kick it. You read Pee Led Carrots too... right??????


So I've got less than two weeks in socal, and I'm freaking out. I don't think I am ready to leave, but looks like I've pretty much committed to the Bay now. In order to alleviate some pain, I am inspired to make a bucket list so I can feel as fulfilled as possible before my departure. Here we go:

1. Watch the sunset from Venice beach (DONE)
2. Try at least three more new restaurants, and review them (DONE and in progress)
3. Record at least three video blogs before leaving (2 down, and TODAY)
4. Have a drink at the rooftop bar at the Standard AND jump in the pool (DONE)
5. Party hard at least one more time with my friends (DONE)
6. Purchase Champagne from POP (TODAY)
7. Aimlessly stroll the streets of Pasadena one last time (DONE)
8. Watch another movie by myself at the cheap theater (Will do in SF)
9. Hit up at least two more wine bars in the area (in progress)
10. Find inspiration for my bar (always in progress)
11. Wander around downtown/the west side (DONE)
12. Check out the Getty (maybe today??)
13. Visit my Culver City friends (TODAY)
14. Watch an Ellen Degeneres show (this will be reserved for next time I'm in socal. Couldn't get tickets :( )
15. Too inappropriate for blogspot ;) (DONE x 10)

Do-able? Totally. But I probably won't be doing any major blogging for another couple weeks. Vamos a ver... good night ya'll

Not-so-new in the headlines...

I'm not one to talk about big headliners, especially in the celebrity world, but...

Survey: Why were you shocked that Chris Brown beat Rihanna to a pulp?
A) Because it's CHRIS BROWN, boy wonder
B) Because CB's a celebrity
C) Because he's a youngin
D) Because a woman was beaten, period.
E) All of the above, except for D

Of course I was appalled for reasons A and D... but at the same time, I was thinking, why did it have to be a celebrity for people to finally throw a fit? And how are some people actually saying that Rihanna probably did something to provoke CB to do it?? I mean, really now??? DO PEOPLE REALIZE THAT:

1. One in every four (some stats say three) women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime.
2. One in three women will have experienced an attempted or completed rape.
3. An estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical assault by
an intimate partner each year.
4. The majority (73%) of family violence victims are female. Females
were 84% of spousal abuse victims and 86% of abuse victims at
the hands of a boyfriend.
5. The cost of intimate partner violence exceeds $5.8 billion each
year, $4.1 billion of which is for direct medical and mental health
services
(All taken from credible sources such as the U.S. Department of Justice and the CDC)

... how unfortunate is it that D is definitely not a shocker? How terrifying is it that plenty of my friends will be abused at some point in their lives, and that I ALREADY have friends who have been abused by their partners (ex-partners, I'm proud to say) who seemed absolutely sane and harmless? I didn't even include the statistics on the number of women killed by their boyfriends/spouses every year. Just read a disturbing article about one actually...
http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/02/17/new.york.beheading/index.html?eref=rss_topstories
Let's get one thing straight though, men of all colors, socioecomonic classes, and family backgrounds, commit intimate partner violence.

Nothing new, right? But this shit is real and happening every day. Men also are victims of intimate partner violence too, but I am highlighting female victims/male perpetrators because the numbers are SIGNIFICANTLY higher. Think you know a guy just because he's the "boy next door" or "Mr. Nice Guy"? Think women are equal in this world? It's scary, but guess again... you never really know who is gonna strike until it happens to you or a loved one (if they even have the courage to tell anyone). When we gonna wake up? GO research the "slap on the wrist" consequences that our judicial system hands out for intimate partner violence crimes, and you will never have to question again why another woman is getting beaten/raped/killed at this VERY second.... aaaand this second... aaaand this second...



Can I just end by saying how crappy is it that "Yo (Excuse me miss)" and "No Air" just don't hold up to what it used to be anymore...

R.I.P CB's career of making catchy, cheesy, R&B love songs... at least in my heart. Damn.

And it breaks my heart...

Marissa posted this video on FB, and I felt compelled to pass it on. No doubt, it brought me to tears... turn off my sidebar music, and press play.


"Fidelity": Don't Divorce... from Courage Campaign on Vimeo.


Please don't get lost in the distractions of daily life, and lose sight of the fight for love and equality.

Reality Check on V-Day

*Addendum added at the bottom written the morning after ;)

Tomorrow is Valentine's day, and it is my first time in years since I've been single. You're probably thinking to yourself, "Oh girl, don't be a downer...", but you've thought wrong. Although V-day is a fabricated holiday created by some corporate genius (who ripped the story of St. Valentine and doused it in perfume), this is the first year I've actually grown to appreciate Cupid's annual appearance in every shop and restaurant across the nation. Ironic, I know.... Yes, love should be celebrated on any given day, but why be bitter about people wanting to make this day a special occasion of wining, dining, good entertainment, and the red light special ;), especially if it's not in their character to do romantic things?

Let happy people in love be... and be happy that they've found love, people! Maybe my positivity makes you want to sock me real good right now... and I get that... but hear me out. These are my list of reasons why V-day can be a good thing:

1. It stimulates our economy... it is estimated that V-day spending will still amount to roughly 15 BILLION this year. Recession? What's that?
2. It inspires people to do creative, and sometimes embarrassing romantic gestures
3. It is a reminder of who you should be grateful for, whether it's romantic or platonic love
4. It's an excuse to wear a sexy fit and fiery sassy colors, or dark morbid colors if you so choose
5. Chefs add cool rare specials on their menus
6. It's a great day to people watch
7. People tend to be nicer that day
8. MASSIVE candy/chocolate mark downs on February 15th

V-day is a retail brainchild that will never cease to exist, so perhaps it's best to learn how to co-exist. You won't catch me participating in the fanatical V-day craze in my many years of love to come, but I won't knock anyone for taking part either. Romance comes second nature to me and I don't need V-day to give me a boost of inspiration. Though, I have to say that there are pretty damn cool V-day events I wouldn't mind taking a date because it sounds fun as hell and on the unconventional side. Just don't go seeking a date for the sake of having one specifically for V-day... remember, it's the turtle who wins the race...

Need v-day ideas?? Just ask me. I've got a few ideas rolled up my sleeve in both SoCal and NorCal if you're looking to sweep someone off their feet... there's this especially awesome event going on in SF, but you're gonna have to ask me for more details. Need advice for flyin solo?? I have five words for you - a positive 'tude and lube


Addendum (written at 4AM on February 15th):
I don't know how I'm still functioning... Just had a long ass, exhausting shift at the bar serving a bunch of lovey dovey couples in a dress in heels. Not my usual attire for work since standing/walking 9 hours straight in heels is masochistic, but thought I'd take up my own advice from #4 on my V-day list above. Finally, I am off my feet, curled in bed, cozy and warm. :) So because I probably sounded obnoxiously positive, let me add to my post... Celebrating people in love is a wonderful thing even when you're on the outside of love, but I will not deny that V-day is very much singles' awareness day at the same time.

I am happy where I am, but at the end of the day I am reminded of how nice it is to come home from a crazy day (or any day) to a beautiful face waiting to hold you, kiss you, and maybe even rip off your clothes (oops, that's just my imagination getting carried away again)... and have that be the last face you see at the end of the best and worst days, and the first one when you stretch to face the new day. Who ever tells you otherwise is a big fat liar or is too lost in cynicism to realize. Life is about being happy with who you are and where you go/are going in life, but ultimate fulfullment is also very much centered around LOVE and finding someone who knows you inside and out, and still sees you as the most gorgeous creature to ever exist. So when you have exactly "that thang", appreciate that you've got someone who loves unconditionally, hold tight, "make it work" in the wise words of Ne-Yo, and don't screw up. You'll regret later if ya do, guaranteed. No pressure though... And if you don't got "that thang" yet, don't fret because it's comin, in the meantime, be happy for those who have found it and celebrate a great life lived and to be lived. Now those kinds of people are the most irresistible...

If you haven't realized it yet, I am in love with being in love <3, even though Betty is the one who sleeps on the other side of the bed every night... Betty, being my guitar... and no, i'm not joking. For those who have seen Slumdog Millionaire, can I just say that I got a call from a AAA agent named Latika the day I watched the movie? Yet another reason why I know my destiny is written... Good night world... and hellllllloooo Betty

Life Questions Answered in 3.5 Hours

Is being too passionate foolish or an attribute?? Is there ever such a thing as being too passionate? I have always been a believer that you can never be too passionate, but I recently started to doubt my philosophy on living life. Have I been living too dangerously on a whim for the things I feel most passionately about? Lately, I've been telling myself that maybe I should tame it down and play it safe. Then, I saw a movie today, and another one last week... two movies that revived my spirits. When Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal for his late wife Mumtaz Mahal, that was an act of passion, and now this architectural wonder inspires unconditional love in millions of people. When Pablo Neruda wrote some of the most influential poems of the 20th century, that was act of passion, and now his work inspires social change in not only Chileans, but in many revolutionaries. Even though Einstein started off his life with many disappointments and failures, it was his passion for attaining more knowledge and demystifying the world that contributed to his discoveries in science, especially physics. No great life, positive change in the world, piece of art, love story in the history of this world has existed without passion playing a major part. So ask those first two questions again, and I will confidently reply... HELL NAH, there is NEVER such a thing as being too passionate (LIFE LESSON #2).

Let's be realistic though... with passion, comes criticism. People will call you mad, crazy, insane, and yes, foolish at times. Everlasting passion requires strength, courage, rationality, hope, and patience in order to endure. With the euphoria of passion, pain also has to come into contrast at some point. Let's take from Dumas' The Count of Montecristo. One of my favorite quotes of all time is from this book - "There is neither happiness nor unhappiness in this world; there is only the comparison of one state with another. Only a [person] who has felt ultimate despair is capable of feeling ultimate bliss." Feeling passionate about life and love is the ultimate bliss... and I am a true believer that because my life has been filled with witnessing and experiencing painful moments, I have been able to experience life and love as deeply, and passionately as I have. No one lives a life without moments of despair and disappointments. Ever been burned by love even when you tried giving it your all? Ever been betrayed by a friend/family member? Ever been rejected by someone/from having something you truly desired? Ever lost someone dear to your heart whether by death, location, or a falling out? Ever had a failed attempt at a job, on a sports team, or in a personal endeavor? Ever lost faith in the world, yourself, or others around you? Ever been angered by the state of the world? Take your scars and turn them back into passion for positive change not vengeance... and without a shadow of doubt, you will do great things for yourself and the world.

I know you're wondering, what damn two movies did Nancy watch??



1) Vicky Cristina Barcelona (no, I am not kidding) -
a movie that inspires a never-ending life and love of art and beauty... a movie about the tragedy of settling for less than your passions... a movie about needing to take risks... a movie about seeing the world and creating irreplaceable travel memories with the ones you love... a movie that inspires you to be passionate about everything you do... a movie about the need to surround yourself by those who inspire you to live to your fullest potential.

Before I reveal the second movie... LIFE LESSON #3: Keep checking things off your " must do list" every day. I had been told to see this particular movie back in November, but I put it off till today... don't do the same... see it today... drumroll......

2) Slumdog Millionaire - a movie about complete and total unconditional familial and romantic love... a movie about the liberation of forgiveness... a movie about redemption... a movie about the power of hope... a movie about the virtue of patience and perseverance... a movie about creating your own destiny but letting destiny pull you by the reigns when intuition beckons... a movie that is so real, heartwrenching, and uplifting all at the same time. This movie took me through my roller coaster of life emotions in one sitting. I literally had my hand over my heart for half the movie.

This renewed sense of self has put me on a high... some may say it was the shot of expresso this morning, but I know this was different. When I walked out of the theater, the world seemed brighter but not blinding like the usual effect of exiting a matinee show. Later, I took a stroll to the post office during the intermission of blogging this entry, and as I opened the door I took in a deep breath of fresh air, smiled, and stepped forward. I'm as corny as it gets, but you know what? It beats being miserable and cynnical... that's fosho. Ask yourself today... what sparks your passions? Then, let go of your pain and fears, mend where needs to be mended, and step forward without turning back.


p.s. If you've read my previous posts, I am pleased to disclose that I have choosen to be an idealist physically on March 4th... but mentally now.

Holdin on for dear life

I met a fascinating man at the bar on Friday, and he came back to chat with me again on Sunday. Sadly, he left today to move permanently to the land down under. Kevin is a humble, well-mannered, but handsome black man in his early 40s. He is married and has a gorgeous son of 18 months. He has such a strong but gentle soul, and is such a positive and honest person. At first, I thought K was trying to hit on me because he kept telling me I was beautiful and had a beautiful, genuine psyche, but I soon realized he was just wanting me to know this about myself. He thought it was important to tell people these kinds of things when you felt it. Although we only talked for less than two hours in those two days, it was clear we had both made an impression on each other. We were alike in character and had very similar philosophies on life and the world... it was eerie. He told me that "when you find someone you've made a deep connection with, hold onto them for dear life" (ND's LIFE LESSON #1). And that really struck a chord with me... so I decided to exhange e-mails with this man I had only known for two hours. Hopefully, I will someday visit K and his family when I travel to Australia. Crazy, huh...

Lately, I've made huge steps in making real connections with people. I've stopped backing away when people get too close... Last night, I hung out after work with two people who are so dear to my heart. We talked about serious and silly things, laughed, cried, drank lots of Champagne, and ate good food well beyond 4am. It was truly one of the most memorable nights of my life... the kinds of moments people should live for... the moments that really matter... the moments that keep my connections to humanity and love alive. It's rare to meet people you want to keep next to your heart all the way to your grave, and Kevin is so right... I am going to hold onto these amazing people for dear life.



Champagne and Tsar Nicoulai caviar... I had to document last night. Wow, seems so bougie, don't it? Oh, the perks of working for a great bar ;)

And if Langston is right...?

I would like to begin by saying that I love my Mom. Have you told people in your life that you love them lately? I love my life, and the people in it... and you know what. I truly love LA/Pasadena too. Who would've seen that one comin, huh? So, it's official. Everyone gets hugs from me today... and I mean real hugs. Not those weak sauce pat you on the back ones, or side hugs... no, not from me. You, mon amie, will get a solid squeeze.

In other news, I would like to take a moment of silence for my xanga account going off the public radar. Xanga will now be my personal, private blog ;) People keep asking me, what's your g-blog gonna be about?? So here's an answer. It's a blog about life, love, food, wine, sex, passion, politics, technology, colons, health, money, living, breathing, making mistakes, growing, life lessons, art, music, culture, travel, humanity, humility, the philosophy of the Simpsons... from the perspective of a 25-year old (i'm more than just a number, but I'll keep it simple). It's about viewing the world as I see it... about my interests... about the essence of who I am. No doubt, I will be wrong, vulgar, corny, and downright ridiculous at times... but hey, "take me as I am... who I was meant to be. And if you give a damn, take me baby, or leave me..."

...but if you get bored, feel free to read my old school public postings from 2002-2006. Although sporadic on the postings, there is enough to keep you amused for maybe two hours. I think you'll find a different person those pages in some ways. www.xanga.com/hookdonaesthetix. Peace out xanga... I'm now a true playa in the game of google monopoly. Can I be the pimped out top hat?

Now, let's get to the meat of this cow.... These past few days have been a brain drain. So much to process, so little time. I have to make one of the toughest decisions I've ever had to make. Tell me, how much money would it take to convince you to put your dreams on hold? What if that money could help you follow your dreams later? I need to take a plunge in one direction, and I have to decide soon. What will happen to MY dream deferred? I don't want it to dry up like a raisin in the sun. Tell me it ain't so Mister Hughes... tell me it ain't so... I've decided to stay in SoCal for a little longer to better assess my options. Not moving to the Bay as soon as I thought is slightly disappointing, but I made this decision to stay for now because it is what I truly want. Home will always be there, but opportunity to venture comes and goes. How damn fortunate am I to have options, and wonderful ones for that matter? Whoever god is, s/he loves me... that, I know for sure. So, WWYD? No, not yoda... YOU... what would you do? Defer your dreams and make good money in LA, or struggle so that you can live out your dreams in the Bay? Basically, should I be a realist or an idealist at this point in my life? Make the argument... I'm all ears, eyes... head, shoulders, knees, and toes.

Lastly... because I find sexuality incredibly fascinating, I have to tell you about this news article I read yesterday. Pastor Haggard admitted he had sexual relations with yet another man, and he claimed the prostitute he paid for only gave him massages... oh, and Bill Clinton didn't inhale. PH said he is "heterosexual with complications" and is currently seeking counseling for his urges. I'm not one to define sexual preference, but I mean, clearly, this man isn't heterosexual... whatever that means anyway. Ultimately, it's sad to see that he will never be able to come out clean, thus finishing out the rest of his life fighting these natural desires... sucking cock. I'm def no man-hater, but I shuttered just a little when writing that line... yet again reinforcing that indeed, I am a lesbian. Glad we've cleared that one up

startin '09 with me, myself, and i

Que onda mundo? It's been a minute since I last blogged for public viewing. It's the beginning of a new chapter in my life. Thought this might call for a new blog. Besides, I added it on my NY resolutions list to blog again ;) On that note, anyone know how to transfer my xanga archives to blogger?

My first few blogs are going to focus on me... why? Because right now... it's all about loving me time... no, not like that... okay, maybe a little bit of that too ;) So many changes have occurred within the past year and a half since finishing undergrad. Post-college crisis aside, I've changed and grown tremendously as a person. I couldn't keep up with the changes when it was happening, but damn have I learned from it all. Wasn't the learning and finding yourself part supposed to happen during my college years? College was a wonderful experience, but when it comes down it to, you're stuck in a utopian bubble of academics, messing around, goodtimes, good memories, yet no real time to reflect on yourself or life in general, no time to think about your needs, no time to make sense of the world as a whole, no real responsibilites, and no real accountability if you mess up... then you're spit out like an overly chewed Big Red. My gum has already landed, been stepped all over, been stuck on people's dirty shoes, and left to decompose into the dirt where a flower is now sprouting. That's where I'm at...

I've been humbled by 2008... I think 2008 will rival with 1994 and 1999 as the most life altering, painful years of my life. My life is an economic trend... dipping into recession from time to time... but always recovering stronger, smarter, and better in the end. Of course, those years have also shaped me into the awesome person I am, but damn... why does it always gotta be learned the hard way? I think the most important thing I've taken away from last year is changing my general outlook on my own life and letting go of shit that just didn't really matter in the grand scheme of things... something I wish I could have learned long ago. I'm good at spreading positivity for others, but when I would reflect on my own life, all I saw were gray skies with small beams of sunshine creeping through from time to time. I rarely allowed myself to embrace the moment, and simply be content with the lovely CA weather, the beautiful sunrise, my good health, the smell of food cooking on the stove paired with good wine, the beautiful people I had in my life and the new people I met, the job I had, the opportunities I'd been given, all the hard work I'd put into my life starting to really shine... something always had to be wrong because my imperfect past had to mirror the present. Yes, bad things occurred in my past... some things I still have yet to tell a soul... but why should it continue to haunt my life now? In the past five years, nothing terrible has happened to me so why am I still dragging my feet?

I have a particular charm with people. I get along with anyone I meet. I change people's lives by pushing them to think outside the box, and try to get them to see the world in a different light. I unintentionally break the boundaries of what it means to be a woman, Vietnamese-American, an athlete, a graduate from a well-respected university, a lesbian, a musician, a sommelier, a person who grew up in a lower middle class, and much more... I am incredibly loving, genuinely caring, and real. I talk to and treat everyone with the same respect, no matter who you are or where you come from. I'm passionate about people, about my communities, about the world, about love and being in love. I'm curious about everything and everyone... My passion about the things I love are obvious and contagious. Everyone is special in their own ways... and these are the things that make me stand out from others... so I've finally started to treat myself the way I deserve. I'm taking care of my body, mind, and soul... I make time to cook for myself, workout just enough to see definition in my abs and hip flexors (because that's all I really want in life...), read books and keep up with current events, spend time with friends and family, play the guitar, find new dope beats, and good eats and wine. I cry, write, or speak when my heart needs to. I allow myself days to be on the downside instead of pretending like those days don't exist for everyone.

Okay, dinner time... be back later tonight...

I'm back... this blog wasn't supposed to be an ode to me... but then again, why not? This is exactly what I need right now... writing is tremendously therapeutic and the best way of making sense of the world and oneself. There really is no replacement... well, whoever ends up landing on my page has sure learned way more about me than I let most understand or know... I want to be as honest and true to the world as I am to myself... but that doesn't mean I won't still keep my own personal, private blog ;)

I'll end on this quote I read the other day that really struck a chord with me...
it pretty much sums up what I've made my life out to be:

"Laugh when you can,
apologize when you should,
and let go of what you can't change.
Kiss slowly.
Play hard.
Forgive quickly.
Take chances.
Give everything.
Have no regrets.
Life is too short to be anything
but satisfied or happy."

Here, I snapped a shot of myself so I will forever remember that '09 is where it began...

Okay, not lookin so hot at 2am... but hey, i'm happy and you can't take that away from me ;)

Buenas nochas mundo...