Reflection at the end of the freshman year

This is the last essay I write before hanging out the assignment. How well the old saying goes, “time waits for no one.” At the very moment I met students in higher grade, they told me to cherish the happiest first two years in medical school, because life would be nothing but studying after third grade. When I look back to the first year of my university, fortunately, I can proudly say that there are things unforgettable to me. However, on the other hand, there is equal number of things that make me regret.
The most unforgettable thing is that my friends and I set up a band, called “blue bubbles”. I have had the honor to play as the “drummer” of the band. We performed in two activities of medical school. We didn’t do very well at the first one, but after more practice, we did a pretty good job at the second one. I have improved a lot, yet I know that I am far from my expectation. This summer, I have set up plans to practice as much as possible, for this may be my last chance to have so much spare time.
In addition to my band, I made some very closed friends in university. Unlike in high school, I lived with my new friends in the dorm. Therefore, we are getting familiar with each other in an amazingly short amount of time. I had to say that I was very homesick at the beginning of the first semester. I was not the kind of person who could get along with others as soon as we met. My roommate was much successful in social skill than me, and she often teased me on this issue. I felt lack of confidence and became more afraid of the new environment. However, I realized a very important thing one day, and suddenly all of my fear went away.
I don’t have to compare myself to anybody. I am unique and this fact has nothing to do with other people. You can be beautiful or smarter than me, but I can still remain my own uniqueness and feeling good about myself. After that very moment, I live much more happily. I dare to show myself in front of strangers, and they become interested in me. I grew up a lot during this year. I know now that I can depend on nobody. At the same time, nobody can tell me I can or can’t do something. I get to take full responsibility to my behavior. I am free now, but I should be more decent.
I admit that a small voice in my heart still long to be that little girl being cared by loved ones all the time. However, I have no choice to step forward. Therefore, why not step forward in a confident and delighted pace? After all, this is the most energetic and active period of time in my life!
While there are many things for me to be proud of, there are still many other things that I feel regret about. The first thing is that my academic performance is awful. I hate to use such strong description, but I am afraid that this is true. I put little attention on my study, and I forget all my good studying habit in high school. I believe that this is only an adjustment time for me to find the balance between experiencing new stuff and keeping the obligation of a student. I feel sorry to those who expect me to have great accomplishment in “serious stuff”. Moreover, I feel sorry to myself that I didn’t cherish the treasure opportunities to study. My parents always tell me that being a student is the happiest time in their life. I feel that I should devote myself more in academic performance in the future.
My goal is to be at least the top 50 students in my class! Go go Judy!!

Oh~by the way~I am going to New York this summer!!! Yes!!!

Ever after

A unique 16th century woman, Danielle possesses a love of books, and can easily quote from Sir Thomas More Utopia. An intriguing mix of tomboyish athleticism and physical beauty, she has more than enough charm to capture the heart of a prince ... after beaning him with an apple.
This spirited "Cinderella" is certainly no victim - against all odds, she stands up against a forceful and scheming stepmother, while honoring her late and beloved father.
With her keen intelligence and independence, Danielle definitely is not waiting around for the prince to rescue her; in fact, she often comes to his aid, offering him guidance, and even saving the prince's life by carrying him on her back.
When Danielle does receive help, it comes not from a "fairy godmother," but from one of history's most renowned figures, Leonardo da Vinci. And, while she does don a gorgeous pair of glass slippers, the words "magic pumpkin" are not in her vocabulary.
This is not your grandmother's Cinderella.
Twentieth Century Fox presents A Mireille Soria Production, An Andy Tennant Film, Drew Barrymore and Anjelica Huston in EVER AFTER. The film also stars Dougray Scott and Jeanne Moreau. It is directed by Andy Tennant from a screenplay by Susannah Grant and Andy Tennant & Rick Parks. The film is produced by Mireille Soria and Tracey Trench. The director of photography is Andrew Dunn, B.S.C., and the production designer is Michael Howells. It is edited by Roger Bondelli, A.C.E.. The co-producers are Kevin Reidy and Timothy M. Bourne. Jenny Beavan is the costume designer, and music is by George Fenton.
There are approximately 500 versions of the Cinderella story in circulation, making it the most famous tale in the world. The earliest apparently originated in China where the preoccupation with tiny feet found a highly satisfactory outcome in the search for someone who could wear an exquisite, small glass slipper. Over hundreds of years the story has been refined and reworked, whether as the French "Cendrillon" or as the Brothers Grimm "Cinderella." It has, however, been a story of a passive woman waiting for a strong, handsome (and nearly silent) prince to rescue her. Until now. "I wanted to tell a very different version of 'Cinderella' because I have two daughters," director and co-screenwriter Andy Tennant explains. "I did not want them growing up believing you have to marry a rich guy with a big house in order to live happily ever after."
Intent on turning the tale on its tail, Tennant puts a whole new spin on Cinderella's message. "Our story," the director explains, "says that Cinderella's magic comes from within, not from some fairy godmother." Tennant was never less than passionate about delivering a realistic, different "Cinderella" to the screen. "EVER AFTER," he insists, "is not a cartoon or fairytale - it's an adventure with a completely unexpected attitude." He also insisted on giving the tale a sense of logic, that there be specific reasons for certain actions and choices. "This 'Cinderella' isn't a victim," Tennant states. "She stays on in her father's house, after he dies, from choice. There are reasons given for stepmother Rodmilla's appalling behavior. We also tried to provide some realistic touches to the famous glass slippers and masked ball."
In his quest to reconceive myth and legend, Tennant brought together two stars who not only seem born to play their respective roles, but represent the uniting of two Hollywood dynasties. Drew Barrymore, the youngest member of the famed acting family (she's the granddaughter of John), plays Danielle, the orphan child who, in Tennant's film, is anything but the passive victim most often depicted in legend. Anjelica Huston, daughter of famed filmmaker John Huston and granddaughter of Walter Huston, portrays Rodmilla, Danielle's upwardly mobile stepmother.
Barrymore has been a star since Steven Spielberg cast her in "E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial." As an adult performer Barrymore has appeared in "The Wedding Singer," "Boys on the Side," "Everyone Says I Love You" and "Scream." She worked with director Andy Tennant previously on the telefilm "The Amy Fisher Story" as the headline making Long Island Lolita.
For Barrymore the role of Danielle offered an irresistible opportunity to play someone she sees as "a very positive role model for young women, someone classy and fun." Continues the actress: "She's athletic and protective of people. She's adventurous, very strong and a survivor. She's well read, too, because her father gave her wonderfully eloquent, elaborate literature."
"In short, she is a 'Cinderella' for a new generation," Barrymore adds. "She definitely is not a passive character."
With her character's strength and sensibilities, the mythic romance between Danielle/Cinderella and the prince seems almost, to Barrymore, like an afterthought. "Oh, yes," she adds with a laugh, "a prince falls in love with her!"
Anjelica Huston has become one of the most gifted talents of her generation and an Oscar® winner for "Prizzi's Honor," directed by her father John Huston. Her other credits include "The Addams Family," "Crimes and Misdemeanors" and "Manhattan Murder Mystery." She was Oscar®-nominated for her performances in "Enemies, A Love Story" and "The Grifters." Huston was Tennant's first choice for the stepmother; the part was in fact written with her in mind. "It's nice to be wanted," Huston says of Tennant tailoring the role for her. The story's positive values were another enticement. "It's good to be doing this kind of movie at a time when there are so many films being made about tough, evil subjects," she shares. "Being involved with something sweet and tender was a delight."
With Tennant and co-writers Susannah Grant and Rick Parks giving the stepmother some heretofore unseen quirky comedic twists, Huston found much to latch on to. She also sees the humor as adding some realism to the character. "Giving Rodmilla a light edge makes her more believable," she explains. Starring with these two formidable actors is relative newcomer Dougray Scott. The Welsh-born actor has his biggest role thus far as Prince Henry. But the film had attractions other than the size of his role. "EVER AFTER is unashamedly romantic, without being sentimental. The prince is such a famous character, but when I read the script I didn't see him as a 'fairy tale' figure. He's a realistic and flawed character who has a life, a history - and his own agenda."
Legendary actress Jeanne Moreau makes a special appearance as the Grand Dame of France, the only woman who knows the truth behind the Cinderella legend. The presence of such a formidable actor was initially intimidating for some cast members. But their fears were allayed. Moreau was totally accessible, volunteering to pose for pictures and taking time to chat with many members of the EVER AFTER production team.
Also having a brief, but key role in the film is noted international star Jeroen Krabbé ("Prince of Tides," "The Fugitive"). The Dutch actor plays Danielle's beloved father, whose death helps shape her ultimate destiny. While the beloved fairy tale has also pictured Cinderella's stepsisters as homely (or downright ugly), in EVER AFTER, they are attractive young women whose beauty, alas, is only skin deep. Megan Dodds, who makes her film debut, plays Marguerite and Melanie Lynskey, who made her film debut in "Heavenly Creatures," is Jacqueline.
Cinderella's godmother is no fantasy little old lady, but a flesh and blood Leonardo da Vinci (played by veteran character actor Patrick Godfrey), thus grafting a whole new element onto the Brothers Grimm tale. Also co-starring are distinguished British actors Timothy West and Judy Parfitt as the King and Queen of France, and Richard O'Brien ("The Rocky Horror Picture Show") as the odious and lascivious Pierre le Pieu.


http://www.foxmovies.com/everafter/themovie.html

Reflection
I agree completely with the spirit that this movie tries to deliver. Every child around the globe knows the story, “Cinderella”. However, this story seems out of fashion in the twenty-first century point of view. Women today are well-educated, and can accomplish as much as men can. Therefore, we should no longer wait for rich, noble prince from no where to rescue us. Instead, we should go for the man we want and if necessary, we have the ability to rescue him as well. We have our own dreams instead of supporting others’. Traditional boundary can stop us no more. As long as we have the ability and courage to make ourselves meaningful, we can win other people’s respect and thus improving our personal value. On the other hand, I think that it is high time for us to discard the attitude such as doing nothing instead of managing a house for a man, or neglecting the importance of gaining one’s knowledge. This movie taught me a lot, and reminds me of the obligation and attitude that a successful new-age woman should have!

America's next top model

America's Next Top Model (often shortened to Top Model or abbreviated as ANTM) is a reality television show in which a number of women compete for the title of America's Next Top Model and a chance to start their career in the modeling industry.
The show was created and is hosted by television personality, former supermodel and current talk-show host, Tyra Banks, who also serves as the lead judge and executive producer of the show. The first "cycle" premiered in May 2003 and was one of UPN's highest rated shows. The show's seventh cycle was the first of the shows among regular programming on UPN's successor network, The CW, and thus far is the network's highest rated series. The show will continue until at least the 2009-10 season. The opening theme is performed by Tyra Banks and is produced by Rodney "Darkchild" Jerkins. Banks co-produces the show with Ken Mok and Anthony Dominici. For the 2006-2007 television season, ANTM was the #1 show in average viewers on The CW.

I watched the tenth cycle of ANTM recently. I enjoyed this show so much because it is about the dream of every girl. It is not just about beauty, but also about showing yourself confidently, thinking positively and having good and healthy body shapes. Some fashion models are being criticized for being too thin. However, the competitors in this show weren’t always thin, some of them are plus size and they could still have some great performances.
In this season, one of the girls, Heather, has a disease called Asperger. The patients of this disease have difficulty communicate with others, and also, it is hard for them to focus. Heather, in this case, is extremely beautiful and has a unique, mysterious personal attitude which I think is very, very cool. However, because of her disease, she couldn’t get good performance when having a go-see with the fashion designers. Sadly, she got eliminated this week.Nevertheless, without this show, Heather would never have had a chance to show her ability. Disabilities people may be much more talented than we expected as long as we are willing to give them a shot.

Taiwan, China each agrees to set up offices

BEIJING - Taiwan and China agreed Thursday to set up permanent offices in each other's territory for the first time in nearly six decades of hostility, one of the biggest trust-building steps they've taken in their political rivalry.
There were few details and no time frame was given for establishing the offices, which could perform consular functions such as issuing travel documents.
Yet coming on the first day of formal talks between the sides in a decade, the agreement lends strong momentum toward efforts to build confidence and spur cooperation between the two sides, which divided amid civil war in 1949 and whose relationship has veered between strained to outright hostile.
Foundation Deputy Secretary-General Pong Jian-kuo said a consensus on exchanging offices was reached during morning talks, saying they would "facilitate people's exchanges and traveling across the Strait."
The unexpected announcement injected a touch of drama into an otherwise modest agenda that sought mainly to finalize agreements on charter flights and tourism.
"It's a very positive and healthy development in relations across the Taiwan Strait," said political scientist George Tsai of Taiwan's Chinese Culture University.
Tsai cautioned ,however, that the offices would be limited to dealing with administrative matters and would offer little direct help in dealing with core political differences such as China's threatening missile arsenal and Taiwan's desire for diplomatic recognition overseas.
Taiwan's 19-member negotiating team is being led by Chiang Pin-kung, chairman of the quasi-governmental Straits Exchange Foundation, and includes two vice Cabinet ministers — the highest-ranking Taiwanese officials ever to participate in bilateral talks.
Chiang told reporters in Beijing that the Chinese side had proposed the idea first during talks Thursday morning.
"Chairman Chen (Yunlin) proposed to have (a Chinese agency) to issue travel documents in Taiwan, and I agreed," he said. "I also hope there will be a similar Taiwanese agency serving Chinese people who plan to visit Taiwan."
Ahead of the talks, Chiang had said the negotiations would lay the foundation for "a long-term peaceful relationship between the two sides."
His counterpart, Chen Yunlin, head of Beijing's semiofficial Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, said the public on both sides were counting on the talks to produce results and alter the often combative tone between the two governments.
"Whether cross-strait relations can improve, depends on whether our negotiations can proceed smoothly," Chen said.
Beijing's communist administration, which seized power on the mainland in 1949, considers Taiwan part of its territory and refuses to recognize the government in Taipei, which means that negotiations must be carried out by semiofficial bodies.
Taiwan's delegation also planned to discuss what additional help the island could provide for China's earthquake relief efforts. The talks are scheduled to run through Friday at a state guesthouse in western Beijing.
Both sides have periodically looked for ways to build trust between the governments amid soaring trade and investment, and they set up the dialogue mechanism in the early 1990s after briefly setting aside political differences. China withdrew from the exchanges in 1999 in anger over steps by Taiwan to shore up its independent identity. Beijing insists the island is Chinese territory to be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary.
While most Taiwanese oppose political union, many favor closer economic cooperation with the mainland, which has already absorbed more than $100 billion in Taiwanese investment in the past 15 years.
Chiang's visit is seen as the first step toward fulfilling a pledge by newly elected Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou to reinvigorate Taiwan's economy, in part by hitching the island's wagon to China's economic juggernaut.
Foundation Secretary General Kao Koong-Lian said that the two sides also reached an agreement on expanded charter flights and tourism.
"On July 4, we will have the first large group of mainland tourists visiting Taiwan to coincide with the kickoff of weekend charter flights," he said.
The accord opens the way for 36 charter flights to cross the 100-mile-wide Taiwan Strait every weekend. Taiwan has banned direct scheduled flights since the 1949 division.
The expanded flights will be enough to shuttle several hundred thousand Chinese tourists to Taiwan every year — below Ma's target of 1 million, but far above the current level of about 80,000.
Charter flights are now limited to four annual Chinese holidays and are usually packed with Taiwanese residents on the mainland returning home to visit family. Ma wants to gradually expand the charter schedule and supplement it with regularly scheduled flights by summer 2009.
An agreement is expected to be signed Friday, after which Chiang was scheduled to meet with Chinese president and Communist Party leader Hu Jintao.
Also Thursday, Xinhua reported Chen had accepted Chiang's an invitation to visit Taiwan later this year. No specific date was mentioned.




*Personal Opinion towards this news:
After Mr. Ma was elected in March, I knew that the future political decisions are going to make a big turn. The new government swore to make a big progress in economy, and forget all about the differentces between political statements of Taiwan and China.
Indeed, the economic environment in Taiwan was facing a turning point. The percent of economic growth dropped 50%, and the stock market dropped at least one third. Taiwan needs different policies to bosom the low atmosphere in its economic environment.
However, we can't forget that there are something else worth considering about. Such as, new factories may mean greater working opportunities and income. Nevertheless, there may be serious ecological damage. Moreoever, there are still tens of thousands of missels set directly towards Taiwan in coastland of China! We can't by no means be "ture friends" with all these threatenings.
I hope that the new government can bring a brand new breakthourgh as it promised, giving its people more happiness.

New hair style

Before

After

I had a perm recently. My hair used to be very curly and hard, but now it is totally a typical “straight hair”. Many people compliment my new hair style, which of course, making me very happy. They said that I look much neater now.
To have a straight hair, there is no doubt that I have to pay some prize. I not only spent 3000 dollars to get my hair done, but also I couldn’t wash and tied my hair in three to four days. I was a torture for me, because I used to wash my hair everyday. Not to mention how hot it would be not to tie up my long hair. However, I guessed that there is no free lunch in this world. At least, I got long, straight hair shining with light, just like those girls’ in advertisements. Ha ha
To sum up, there is no ugly woman but lazy woman. As long as you are willing to make efforts, you can almost always get what you want!

interview questions

1. When do you start to wear glasses?
I started to wear glasses in fifth grade.(angel)

2. What kind of inconvenience that glasses bring to your life?
Sometimes I can't find my glasses, and I have to ask other people to find it back for me.(lilian)

3. Do you know what causes myopia?
Watching too much TV and playing computer games for too long.(Catherine)

4. Do you know how to prevent myopia?
Eating vitamin A and exercising your eyes can prevent myopia.(Eric)

5. What do you do to improve your eye health?
Looking at green things.(Janet)

6. If you are near-sighted, will you try eye surgery? Why or why not?
1.No, I won't.
2.I am afraid that the surgery fails.
(Bill)

7. When you have your children in the future, what would you do to improve your children’s eye health?
I won't let them watch too much TV and make sure that they take a rest every once in a while.
(Owen)

We are the champions

the picture of "queen"

Lyrics:
We are the champions by Queen





I've paid my dues time after time

I've done my sentence

But committed no crime

And bad mistakes I've made a few

I've had my share of sand kicked in my face

But I've come through



We are the champions - my friends

And we'll keep on fighting till the end

We are the champions We are the champions

No time for losers

'Cause we are the champions of the world





I've taken my bows and my curtain calls

You brought me fame and fortune

And everything that goes with it

I thank you all

But it's been no bed of roses

No pleasure cruise I consider it a challenge before the whole human race

And I ain't gonna lose


There is a popular TV show in Taiwan called “Star”. People from around the world attend this show to compete in singing. I enjoy it not only for the good music, but also for the touching partnership between each attendant. One of the attendants sang this song on the show last week, and I was very very moved. He said that he dedicated this song to all the partners in season 3 of “Star”. He wanted to tell every each of them that it doesn’t matter who win the competition in the future, what really matter is the unforgettable process. They had tears, and they had fun. They are all the champions!

How wonderful it is to have partners who can share all the ups and downs with! Luckily, after entering university, I make some friends, and we have already gone through so much together. I feel sorry that sometimes I take everything for granted and not being thoughtful enough. I think that I should cherish you guys more. After all, love is the most valuable thing in my life.





See the TV show on youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9zcuNBiBNc

Martian Child

Martian Child

I watched the movie, Martian Child, this Monday. It was a heart-touching story featuring a remarkable love between a widowed science fiction writer, David and a weird kid, Dennis, who considered himself as a Martian.

The following is the summary abstracted from http://www.reelviews.net/movies/m/martian_child.html
David (John Cusack) has been a widower for two years. A successful science fiction novelist, David has never been fully able to adapt to his wife's death. Now, despite advice to the contrary from his sister, Liz (Joan Cusack), he's considering adopting a child. Sophie (Sophie Okonedo), a friend who works at an orphanage, has "the perfect child" for David: Dennis (Bobby Coleman), a cute young boy who believes he's a visitor from the planet Mars. During the day, he hides in a box because the sun bothers him. He never goes anywhere without his "gravity belt" and a video game that he claims to be more than entertainment. After bringing Dennis home, David discovers that connecting with a child is more difficult than he expected, and love may not be enough to get them through the tough times, especially when the doctors wonder about Dennis' competence to care for someone as "special" as Dennis.

Reflection
On the Internet, critics’ opinions to this film weren’t very good. They thought that it was too artificial and lack of creativity. However, as an ordinary audience, I did weep several times as the director expected. Maybe I cried because the movie made me think of my own childhood.When I was a kid, I was considered sort of a weirdo. I wasn’t very socialized, and living in my own imaginary world. I didn’t communicate with other kids. ( if my imaginary friends don’t count) Therefore, I could totally understand the fear of Dennis to reach the reality. Now, as an outgoing 18-year-old teenager, I have more confidence in myself when meeting people. I understand better how to react normally, and showing myself if appropriate. However, I kind of miss the old me, who is so weird but also so unique. In the movie Dennis asked a very inspiring question: “Is it good to be like everyone else?” David couldn’t answer it, and neither did I. The simplest question in the world may be the most difficult one to solve. All I know is that being like other people and you can live more easily without having to explain yourself all the time. However, everyone envies people who dare to walk their extraordinary roads. Managing to find a balance between socializing and uniqueness is the toughest problem I face, and maybe the world really leaves me no choice.

You're beautiful

You're Beautiful



My life is brilliant

My love is pure

I saw an angel

Of that I'm sure

She smiled at me on the subway

She was with another man

But I won't lose no sleep on that

'Cause I've got a plan



You're beautiful. You're beautiful

You're beautiful, it's true

I saw you face

in a crowded place

And I don't know what to do

'Cause I'll never be with you

Yeah, she caught my eye

As we walked on by

She could see from my face that I was

*****ing high

And I don't think that I'll see her again

But we shared a moment that will last till the end



You're beautiful. You're beautiful

You're beautiful, it's true

I saw you face in a crowded place

And I don't know what to do

'Cause I'll never be with you



You're beautiful. You're beautiful

You're beautiful, it's true

There must be an angel with a smile on her face

When she thought up that I should be with you

But it's time to face the truth

I will never be with you

This is English singer James Blunt’s latest hit. He was used to be a ordinary pub singer, traveling from one bar to another. However, this song he made was so catchy and touching that it magically spread through the alleys and streets of all England and made James Blunt a household name.

Not only the song is unforgettable, the music video of it was also quite unique. James Blunt was standing beside a cliff, taking out his wallet, putting off his shirt, his watch, his shoes…etc while singing the song” you’re beautiful” with his heartbreaking voice. In the end, he jumped down the cliff unexpectedly and the music video ended. I was socked by the beauty of simplicity could be so strong, provoking endless imagination and reflection.

In this busy world, sometimes things are getting so frustrating that we forget that this world is so beautiful.





"You're beautiful" music video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Y7WDWP8WMs

The music of night

Last Thursday we held a concert on the plaza in front of the student community center. Students who have talent in music finally got a chance to show themselves. I had the honor to play drum set for my band and the orchestra. Also, two classmates and I planned a special performance.
I wonder if you ever heard about “stomp”. Stomp is a very special music group. Members of Stomp used ordinary stuff, such as pots, bottles, basketballs…etc. to make extraordinary sound. We mimicked them and tried to make a music performance by beating bottles and cans of different sizes. The following is the video taken when we were practicing.



It was harder than I imagined. It takes great sense of beat and unspoken consensus between each of the partners. We practiced again and again, yet I couldn’t manage to perform the right beat and ruining half of the show. I was very disappointed at myself and feeling sorry to my partners. However, this failure couldn’t stop me from trying again. With perseverance and consistent practice, I hoped that we could perform perfectly on the stage one day.

free writing

I am a very happy girl. I live with my parents and my older sister. We aren’t rich, but we are contented with what we have right now. My mother always tells us not to be a rich person, but a kind person instead. Therefore, I try my best to help other people.
However, since I graduated from elementary school, I have changed into a girl who loves shopping and eating. I almost forget about what my mother told me and just spend a lot of money on things that is not necessary. The other hobbies of mine is eating, and I have a dream of marrying a cook. In that way, I can enjoy delicious food. And I would like to learn to cook myself too. For me, cooking is real fun and because of that no one knows my eating habits better than myself, I can always cook something I like and enjoy eating it. Especially desserts, cakes and cookies are things I would love to make as often as I can. Every time I eat them, an image of my sweet memory emerges. That’s so wonderful that I can dig in them so often that I even sometimes get a little obesity. Therefore, the obesity has once annoyed me. But as I had been working hard in losing weight, it is no threaten to me. What I am worried about now is how to make a good boyfriend with my good body shape. I think if I have good body shape, piles of boys will rush to me.hahahahahaha

Trip to New York

Trip to New York
I am going to New York this August. My older sister went to Boston University last June, and she is planning to find a job in New York after graduating. Therefore, we will go there together.
Although I am only 18 years old, I have been to many countries. According to my traveling experience, I know that it is very important to be well-prepared before going on a journey. I bought books about New York and searched for some information on the Internet.
New York is truly a tourists’ heaven. Among all the thrilling and fascinating attractions, I want to go to Broadway Show best. The show I want to see most is “Chicago”. The following is the introduction of it .
The Story of Mama mia
The story takes place on a fictional Greek island. Sophie, a 20-year old English girl, discovers her mother's old diary and finds entries which describe intimate dates with three men. Sophie believes that one of these men is her father, and sends each an invitation to her wedding without letting her mother know.
The day before the wedding, Sophie's mother, Donna, begins receiving guests at her taverna.Later that day, three men arrive: Sam Carmichael an American architect, Harry Bright, a British banker, and Bill Austin an Australian writer. Sophie convinces them not to tell Donna that she invited them. Donna walks into the taverna just as Sophie walks out. She is very surprised and more than a little devastated when she sees her three previous boyfriends all in the same place at the same time.
Tanya and Rosie find Donna in her room with her head under her pillow. They try to cheer her up. Donna confesses to her friends that she doesn't really know who Sophie's father is, but all three candidates have arrived at the taverna. Twenty years ago, the three of them were a singing group called "Donna and the Dynamos." Tanya and Rosie try to convince Donna that she can still be the girl that she once was.
Sophie had hoped that she would know her father the moment she saw him, but she is more confused now than ever. She tries to tell her fiancé Sky how she feels without actually confessing what she has done. Sky tries to cheer her up but assuring her that he will be all the man she ever need, while his friends whisk him away for his stag night.
At Sophie's bachelorette party, Donna, Tanya and Rosie don their old costumes and perform a songas Donna and the Dynamoes. Sam, Harry and Bill accidentally walk in on the party and are persuaded to stay. Sophie first pulls Bill aside to talk with him. She learns that Bill has an aunt Sophia who left all her money to family. Bill learns that Donna built the taverna with money she inherited from a friend she lived with when Sophie was a baby. They both realize that he is probably her father.
Sophie finds Bill outside. He says he needed to get some air. Sophie asks him to walk her down the aisle. Bill wants to discuss it first with Donna. This has been her secret after all. No one has yet guessed that Donna doesn't know who the father is. Sophie insists,and finally, Bill agrees.
Back inside, Sam pulls Sophie aside and tells her that he has figured out why she invited him. He "knows" that he is her father, and he promises to walk her down the aisle tomorrow. Sophie is speechless. Then, Harry approaches Sophie apologizing for being so slow on the uptake, and he also "knows" that she's his daughter and promises to walk her down the aisle tomorrow. Sophie leaves the party, hopelessly confused, and ushers in an intermission.
That night, Sophie has a nightmare involving her three possible fathers all fighting for the right to walk her down the aisle.
Donna finds Sophie in her room. She is upset. Donna assumes that Sophie wants to cancel the wedding and offers to handle all the details. Sophie is offended and vows that her children will not grow up not knowing who their father is. As Sophie storms out of the room, Sam enters and tries to tell Donna that Sophie may not be all she seems, but Donna does not listen,. Sam was probably the man Donna cared about most, and they both wish that they could go back in time.
Harry asks Tanya what the father of the bride ought to be doing for Sophie's wedding. Tanya explains that for her part, her father gave her his advice and then paid. Pepper, one of the men who works at Donna's taverna, continues making advances toward Tanya, who rebuffs him.
Sky finds out what Sophie has done in inviting Sam, Harry and Bill to the wedding. He accuses her of wanting a big white wedding only so that she can find out who her father is. He is very hurt that she kept this plan a secret from him. He storms off just as Sam walks in. Sam tries to give Sophie some fatherly advice by describing his failed marriage, but Sophie is not consoled.
Harry finds Donna in Sophie's room and offers to pay for the wedding. They reminisce about their fling. Sophie arrives and Donna helps her get dressed. She cannot believe her daughter is going to be a bride. Donna admits that her own mother disowned her when she learned that she was pregnant. They reconcile and Sophie asks her mother if she will walk her down the aisle. Sam arrives as Sophie leaves the room. He tries to speak to Donna again, but she does not want to see him, and asks him to leave. He refuses, and a bitter confrontation ensues. Donna tells Sam how he broke her heart, presumably when she found out he was married.
Rosie is making final preparations in the taverna when Bill arrives. He's upset because he has received a note that Donna will be walking Sophie down the aisle. Bill reaffirms his commitment to the single life, but Rosie urges him to reconside.The wedding begins, with Donna walking Sophie down the aisle. Sophie calls a halt to the proceedings. She is not ready to get married. Sam seizes his chance and proposes to Donna in order to prevent the wedding preparations from going to waste. Donna accepts. The issue of Sophie's parentage is finally settled, or rather left unsettled, as none of them have any idea whether they are actually her father; everyone involved agrees that it does not matter which is her biological parent, as Sophie loves all three and they are all happy to be "one-third of a father" and a part of her life at last. Finally, Harry, who has made frequent references to his "other half" throughout the show, is revealed to be in a committed homosexual relationship with a man named Laurence (Nigel in some productions and Peter in the Russian version). In the end, Sam and Donna are married, and Sophie and Sky depart on a round-the-world tour.

Opal's Birthday

Last Monday was Opal’s birthday. Although I only know her for several months, I feel as if we had known each other for ever! We did almost everything together, and I enjoyed her accompany. : )

Opal, me, and a dozen of friends went to Taipei to celebrate. We went to a pretty nice restaurant, Grazie, which is located at the eastern part of Taipei. I like the atmosphere in the restaurant, very relaxed and comfortable while not being unique at the same time.

During the dinner time, we talked and ate and having a lot of fun. We laughed our heads off for small and silly things, such as mimicking one of my friends’ posture, or an embarrassing little story. After meal, we played poker card. We played a game called “killer”. The one who got the joker was the killer, and she could kill somebody. The person who was killed had to guess who kill her. It was quite a suspicious and exciting game. One of my friend wasn’t good at acting, and everyone could see that she was the killer. It was really funny.

Then we went to a 24-hour-open bookstore nearby. Guess who we encountered there?
It was Fan-fan and her boyfriend!! I loved to listen to her song, and I always sang her song when going to Karaoke. In spite of the fact that I was pretty shy, I didn’t want to lose this fantastic chance. I asked for her autograph! She was surprisingly friendly, and sign all of our notebooks.

We arranged a little surprise for Opal. We pretended that we forgot to buy her cake and gift. After we went back to school, we tried to impress her by taking out her gift and cake. However, she said that she had already found out our plan. = =

Anyway, we still had a wonderful and unforgettable evening.

Happy Birthday, Opal! Hope that we can be friends forever : )

Drum set

The dream of becoming a drummer
When I was just I kid, I have attended in many activities, such as piano classes, drawing classes, and countless summer camps. After entering junior high school, my parents always told me that as long as I got good grade, my future would be carefree. Therefore, I stop all the extracurricular activities. As a result, my teenage life is all about studying. However, now I look back to my life before, I can’t help but feel a little bit regret. Didn’t continue my drum kit class is the most regretful thing to me.
According to wikipedia, “A drum kit (or drum set or trap set) is a collection of drums, cymbals and sometimes other percussion instruments, such as a cowbell, wood block, chimes or tambourines, arranged for convenient playing by a single drummer.”
The following is a picture of the drum kit:

The biggest drum on the floor is bass drum. And the other four drums, from left to right are floor tom, toms, and snare. The one next to the snare is Hi-hat, which you can either pat it by hand or step on the peddle to make noises. The tallest two are crash cymbal and ride cymbal.Even though I am only a beginner, I have already decided to make up my mind to become a professional drummer. My parents complain that playing drum set is so noisy, but they can’t change my mind. I practiced one to two times, and take an one-hour class each week. My teacher said that as long as I’m willing to take efforts, fulfilling my dream is only a matter of time.

My favorite movie: Dream Girls

Dream girls
“Dream girls” is one my favorite movies. It was a story about three black girls, Deena, Effie, and Lorrell, who set up a singing group called Dreamgirls. During their pursuit of success of their career, they encountered many obstacles. At that time, black people’s music wasn’t as popular as white people. Strong discrimination widely existed in the America society. Black people could only have a job at working class level. However, with the help of their manager, Curtis, they luckily became the first singing group who was able to overcome the gap between black and white people. Finally, they were the most successful and popular black singing group in the history. Unfortunately, fame didn’t bring all advantages. At the beginning, Effie was Curtis’s lover. When Dream girls released their first album, Curtis asked Deena to be the leading singer instead of Effie. As the result, Effie was very upset and left the Dream girls without knowing that she had already had Curtis’s child. Curtis than married Deena and the new Dream girl( with a new teammate, Michelle) became popular around the world. Even though the couple were rich and carefree, their marriage wasn’t happy. When Deenna found out that Curtis stole Effie’s come-back song, she was so upset that she decided to divorce. In the end, Effie and the other three other teammates reunited and finally understood what was the most important thing for them, love.
I loved the movie for many reasons. First, I loved R&B music! The characters in the movie were always singing and dancing. I enjoyed the movie so much that I bought the original CD and I could sing all of the songs in it. Second, I loved the story! The plot was excited and always giving the audience new surprise. With close combination to the beautiful music, I was totally indulged in it. Last but not the least, the actors and actresses in it were fantastic. I couldn’t forget the scene that Effie completely broke down when finding out that all of her family had abandoned her. Her voice was shaking, and her expression showed such great sorrow that I couldn’t help but cry with her. I loved the movie so much that I had already watched it four times!
The movie’s website:
http://www.dreamgirlsmovie.com/There are songs and photos taken in the movie at the website, and it is really worthy of visiting!

The man who used to be my idle

Many girls will be very excited if you mention the name” David Beckham”, and I am no exception. This soccer player from England is now well known around the world. He is not only a good soccer player, but he also happens to have a supermodel looks. When he played the 2001 World Cup in Japan, people in Asia also began to adore him.
Soccer has became Beckham's main focus ever since he could walk. His father played soccer with him frequently in his childhood. Constant practice has developed Beckham's talent. The professional scouts noticed this talented teenager as a standout player and gave him a chance to join the Manchester United as a trainee at his age of 16. When he was 20, Beckham helped the united win its league championship and become famous throughout the country. But his image took a blow when he played with England opponent, Argentina. He was sent off because he kicked at one of the Argentina’s players. Even though he was criticized by a lot of people, he still helped the Manchester United won the championship the very next year.
I used to love him a lot. However, recently I found out that his life was actually very extravagant. He even built a zoo and tenderloin for his children. Moreover, he had an affair with his secretary, breaking his homeboy image. My admiration for him has started to fade away. I finally understood that no matter how handsome or talented a man was, what really matter was his heart.

A book that every teenager should read

“A book that every teenager should read”
I think that “Harrry Potter” is a book that teenagers should read. Although the story is based on imagination, you can still find familiar experience in your everyday life when you read it. The writer tries to deliver spirits such as courage, cooperation, and love through a young boy’s adventure in the magic world. I learn a lot of things after I read it.

J.K.Rowling has already published seven books featuring Harry’s stories and there will be no more in the future. Among these six books, I like the sixth one most, which was just published several years ago. It’s called “ the Revenge of Half-blood Prince”. As usual, the story is full of exotic things and fascinating characters. But there is something different about this book. It starts to discuss problems that we teenagers often face. In the story, Harry has to deal with problems of all aspects, not just simply fighting Voldemort. He started to understand his responsibility as well as his past. Just like every teenager, he also likes a girl secretly and doesn’t know how to express. I spent a whole night reading this book without sleeping as soon as I got the book. With the writer’s fantastic story-telling skill, I found it hart to put down the book until I totally finished reading it.

The most impressive part is when Harry and Professor Donbledort go out of school to fight the enemies, the bad guy takes the chance to destroy the school. Harry’s friends volunteer to fight the bad guys. They show great courage and wisdom, and are willing to sacrifice for the purpose of helping others. This spirit is really touching and rare in the world today.

To sum up, “Harry Potter” is definitely more than just an imaginary novel. To me, it is a story of trust and love, and gives us a brand-new view on how we should do when facing difficulties. If everyone can understand the spirits behind this story, the world is sure to be more peaceful.

Avian Flu ----- reference

References

Agriculture Department---Aniaml Production and Health Division(2007).Retrieved March28,2008

fromhttp://www.fao.org/avianflu/en/index.html

Center for Disease Control and Prevention(2007).Retrieved March 28,2008
fromhttp://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/gen-info/facts.htm

Cetre for Health Protection(2006).Retrieved March 28,2008
fromhttp://www.chp.gov.hk/content.asp?lang=en&info_id=13&id=24&pid=9

Nature─International weekly journal of science(2008).Retrieved March 28,2008
from http://www.nature.com/nature/focus/avianflu/

The New York times─health guide(2008).Retrieved March28,2008
fromhttp://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/avian-influenza/overview.html

A day as an independent and modern girl

I don't have a lot of classes this semester. Therefore, I have decided to make good use of my spare time. To save money for my trip to New York this summer, I get a part-time job as a tutor, teaching a seven-grade boy. On the other hand, I enroll in drum-set class. I also participate in two clubs, including Lo-kha-da and table tennis. With all these activities, I find my life busy and meaningful.
I have a strong feeling that I have become an independent grown-up. Just take a look at my schedule today and you can tell what I'm talking about. I woke up at 8:30 and went to work at 9:30. My student is a very nice and easygoing little boy. Although he is kind of lazy and doesn't like to do his homework. I do enjoy teaching him. What's more, he has a super cute dog as a pet. I have always been looking forward to have a dog but couldn't. The dog is almost as tall as me when he stands up, and he is indeed a passionate fellow. He always runs towards me and gives me a big hug when I enters the house.
Anyway, after work, I was starving and went straight into a restaurant. I ate my lunch alone. It may sound nothing to you, but in the past, I couldn't stand the feeling of loneliness when eating alone in the restaurant. However, I made schedule for the rest of my day while I ate.
Later on, I found a bus heading towards my next destination. I slept a little on the bus. The trip was quite long(45minutes). Finally I got to the eastern part of Taipei at two o'clock. I had a drum-set class at four o'clock. Therefore I idled alone on the busy street, and made some shopping. I found a shop having a big sale and bought some clothes at a very good price.(I'm so proud of myself haha) Then I found another restaurant and studied for a while.
I paid for my drum-set class and finish all the procedures required alone. I communicated with my new teacher about what I want to learn from him. There was something very interesting about my teacher. He was a young man with long straight hair. I could tell from his look that he was a hippy. He was very kind and told me to feel free to ask him anything. I think I will learn a lot from him in the future.
On my way back home, I suddenly recalled that I had spent the whole day wandering along Taipei city without getting lost or something. Well, I know it may sound nothing to you. However, at that very moment, I felt that I am really a grown-up. I enjoyed all the freedom I got, and I found my life is brighter than ever!

Starting a brand-new phase of my life

Practicing English by setting up one's own blog is really a cool idea. After entering college, I find that time is running out at an amazingly high speed. My schedule is always full, but I can't remember what I'm busy for. People start to think of me as an adult, giving me more freedom than ever. However, when there is no one to tell me what to do, I feel lost instead of happy. I have to find my own direction somehow.
I begin to understand that when you choose something, you are bound to lose something at the same time. The most difficult part is to find the balence. After a semester, I gradually gain a better control of my time, and my life is no longer a chaos. I used to do everything for the purpose of fulfilling other people's expectations. Now I live for myself. I have to flatter no one. I think I finally grow up and become a more independent person.
This is my first essay. In the future, I will record all of my happy or sad moment here. Time is always passing away and there is no turning-back. However, with this blog, I can transform all of my memory into internity. I believe that it would be great fun to read all there articles in the future.