9.19.2011

FSOT Prep Websites

So I have been chatting, reading all emails, reviewing blogs, FSO yahoo group, research all sites to find useful resources to help with studying.

Here are a list of worthwhile websites that I believe would help:

FSOT related

So my inbox have been blowing up since subscribing to the FSO related yahoo groups, but I came across a lot of useful information. In attempt to organize all of my FSO related items in one place, I am just going to repost them here. I found them useful and maybe this compilation would help others.

My test is on October 3rd - 15 days and counting... the anxiety from wanting something so bad and being emotional invested.

9.15.2011

Life Journey

It's been a while since I've revisited my blog! Life has been busy, work has been busier. And I finally finished my Masters in May. Now I am planning on my next endeavor with high hopes.. I've already started the process and will be taking my FSOT in October. It's scary considering how many people of have taken it and not passed, but I will keep trying. I've been thinking of joining the FSO since my undergrad. I finally feel ready to take the leap and try since I've grown and now have more experience under my belt to make me a more competitive candidate.

3.20.2010

Heavy Hearted


The heart, still healing, as the mind locks away the memories of each of you. Not a day had pass had I forgotten the promise I made. As I still feel your presence now & forever, rest in peace T.P., P.P., J.P., & V.P. 09.07.98.


Not a day had pass since I forgotten the promise I had made.  As much as living through each moment stubbornly believing that each of you should have had a long life to live - where each and every one of you were stripped of a life so tremendously precious.  I still keep it moving and will always keep a watchful eye over the love ones that you had left behind.  Today, as we celebrate the beginning of a new life...a life that will forever represent you since she is has that familial linkage to of each of you.  I am grateful for your presence as you walk with me through times of darkness.  I miss you and the days that we could have shared.

3.16.2010

Inner Demons

One chance . . .
To take and not speculate.
To fight for and not regulate.
just let go . . .
Without any inhibitions and see how far it'll take for you to get a chance to finally, not only see and believe, but to also breathe.

With every break,
tear,
and crack,
Follows strength.
A strength to toughen the skin you speak of,
with each scarring reminder,
an immeasurable courage it takes to face these inner demons.
The audacity to make it through -
where that ferocious, yet honorable determination supersedes it all.

As you walk on that rough road, with you are other fearless souls along with you. Things are not so desolate. Redemption does not correlate. . . with those that carry the responsibility of many. The end of the road must not be reached alone. For if it was at the bottom or the top, the battle, whether shared or internal, molds us. Breathe easy.

With those of the same passionate mentality, awake but in a dreamy state, we will break down those walls and make our own doors - instead of looking through the window, hoping or imploring for more, we just fight for, simply for the sake of our own. Why? Because we only got one . . .

1.09.2010

To all the Geminis






I'm not much a person that reads into horoscopes and the likes of that.  But I can't help but want to share my daily horoscope from my cell:


"There's no question, this has been a long time coming.  But today the change you have been hoping for so long is likely to occur, Gemini.  The enormity of the change may not be obvious, at least at first. But over time, you will look back on the events of today and see just how pivotal they were.  Keep your wits about you today, and seize any intriguing opportunity that comes along."


It's always nice to get nice and positive vibes my way.  


Much peace & love,
cat


P.S. I got the cutest Hello Kitty necklace yesterday in Japan town && I love it!  I'll show you all later. ;]

1.05.2010

Still my best friend . . .

We all understand the meaning of friendships.  Friends come and go in our lives, but whether they know it or not, they have somehow left some mark in our memories, hearts, and in a sense, molded a future self of ourselves.  For those that remain, well they become my mains, soul mate, boos, b.ef.eff, homeslice, and/or tripod material.


Letting go of a dear lover was one of the hardest decisions I made at the end of '09.  He has made a big and positive impact in my life and we mutually decided it was time to start our lives anew - to be young & free.  He possesses such a genuine heart and soul that at first glance, is mistaken for being a charmer, although he does have the skill to be a con-artist.  A charismatic person with the ability to connect with strangers and gain trust from people.  Like a magnet, he becomes a glue for the many people in his life.  This person showed what selfless love really means and how much of the world I deserved.  This was someone that understood that I had my dreams before anything else and I held it above everything else.  He supported me in my decisions of doing anything and everything for my family.  That although my sweat and tears for my family are sometimes not necessary and does not make any sense, he knew it is something I will always do without a second thought.  I felt so strongly that we are still so young with a lot of life to live and needed to be free to figure out what type of life to live.  He valued my opinions, thoughts, and criticisms - took them to heart, accepted them, and was also able to let me go.  Now that is the meaning of love.  For all that, he is still my best friend.  


Life is constantly challenging us to grow, learn, and evolve and I do believe he will one day reach his point of happiness and success.


It is so hard to find people that care about you and your well-being in this cold, unforgiving world and when you find someone like that, it is so important to keep them close - where we together will challenge the world as a team - complimenting each other and lending a helping hand, as a unit we regard each other like family - being there for each aspect of major life moments and giving real heart-to-heart advice.  There are many aspects of me that are complicated and I value those that can see me for who I really am and appreciate me for me.  You go through this world and on your journey you question the motives and intentions of each individual that show you kindness.  Being that I have such a determined mentality and high aspirations, a lot of people see me with strong potential for success.  Again back to my questioning, I test everyone in my life, I observe their manner and analyze their direction to make sure they are here for me, not to just catch a ride and like me, have the strength to fight their battles.  They say to surround yourself with people that are like you and/or compliment you - and I am an avid believer in this.  They must have drive, intelligence, beautiful inside & out, fierce with a work hard to play harder mentality, and lastly the desire to push those around them to reach that finish line.


I have a tendency to really love the people in my life.  I always want to make sure that they are happy and are doing well.  My thoughts are always with them and so is my heart.  I feel their excitement, and I can also feel their pain.  When I come across something that I think would benefit them, I will go out of my way to make it happen for them.  And for all that . . .


I hope that by being a part of the lives of those I hold close to my heart, that I somehow bring forth something to the table for them.  That having me as a friend would be good for them.  I am the supporter, the fan, the cheerleader, the advisor, and the loyal friend during the worst of times as well as times when they are at their best.  At times of tears, I am the shoulder with a box of tissues as well as the avenger to those that caused the pain, if it was a cause that could have been prevented.  Although I do not waste my energy on seeking payback, if it was right in front of me and was effortless, that poor soul will feel my wrath.  I am a lover, but I am also a fierce fighter that hold grudges until I am satisfied.  You wonder why some people do not really have real friends in their lives, sometimes not even a strong family connection - it tells you about their weak character.


I am blessed for the life I have and am grateful for the selected few who are a part of it.  For my family, girls, boys - they got my back - we will celebrate when we reach that finish line, but for now, get off that hype and hustle.  As we go on our individual journeys, together I hope we share more good memories and laughs. 


I like to end with this quote I came across:


“As I look back on all that's happened..growing up, growing together, changing you, changing me -- there were times when we dreamed together, when we laughed and cried together. As I look back on those days, I realize how much I truly miss you and how much I truly love you. The past may be gone forever..and whatever the future holds, our todays make the memories of tomorrow. So, my lifetime friend, it is with all my heart that I send you my love, hoping that you'll always carry my smile with you, for all we have meant to each other and for whatever the future may hold.”








Today is his birthday, and I dedicate this posting to him.

12.31.2009

Life "Bucket" List

***Updated with new "cross outs" 9/15/11***

Growing up I wanted to do and be everything.  I was such a dreamer as a child and in a sense I guess I still am.  I have to say that I have proactively worked on accomplishing many items from this list.  So here is where I am at:


  • White water rafting
  • Shooting range
  • Sky diving
  • ATVing
  • Horseback riding
  • See the auroras/northern lights
  • Europe trip
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • DC 
  • New York 
  • Road trip to LA
  • Meet Obama
  • Hike Half Dome at Yosemite well I got to Yosemite, but a 6-8 hour strenuous hike for me will not do.
  • Learn to navigate a boat
  • Learn to sail a boat
  • Be my own boss
  • Bartender
  • Scuba diving
  • See a Cirque de Soleil show
  • Wakeboard - still working on getting up..
  • Learn to belly dance
  • Rock climb a mountain
  • Go on a safari
  • Travel in a Air-balloon
  • Swim with dolphins
  • Taj Mahal
  • Tour a crystallized underground cave
  • See pyramids
  • African safari
  • Kayaking
  • Grad School
  • Volcano
  • Have a star named after me
  • Work at an Embassy overseas
  • Start my own cause and charity foundation or be a huge contributor
  • Find the end of a rainbow
  • Meaningful major tattoo piece
  • Real ancient temple
  • Mayan ruins
  • Ruins in Cambodia
  • Own a beach house
  • Dance in the rain
* this will be a living list where I will add on as I get more ideas

Hopefully for 2010 I will get to do some things from this list!  Happy New Years everyone ;]

Cheers,
c

12.30.2009

*le sigh* If the world was at my fingertips...

Lately I have been obsessed with editing images just for kicks.  I really like that old school 1960's feel where the colors are a bit washed and faded.  If I can find a photo-edit/creation program that fits these images into those Polaroids-style frames that would be the highlight of my life.  It just brings more character to the photo and so much cuter! Like the blowing bubbles picture in my headline!


Similar to what I'm thinking...













Anyways, my roomiee Thuyfizzle asked me to make some of her photos pretty so after editing the ones she sent me, I wanted to have some good giggles & fun and sent her a little something.  Thuy - You know I love you!!! 







I also LOVEEEEEeee what people can do with adobe photoshop and illustrator.  Someone please teach me!!!  For someone that can not draw for my life - but great at tracing hahahaha or doodling pretty designs & swirls in class - it would be awesome if I can one day do this digitally!  I mean I have an eye for it, I just need the funds for the program and some introduction and the rest...will be history - it would be epic.













Another obsession that not only feeds into procrastination during grad papers & projects, but also bring upon some self-inflicted torturing is http://www.polyvore.com/.  Basically this site can match outfits to certain items - whereas clothes, bags, shoes, or accessories - that you can't quite figure out how to pull off. Some of the pallets (they call them sets) rock my socks and makes my heart flutter.  You can even search your favorite celebrity style and "VOILA" - pages and pages of outfits worn during functions or while in their movie/show character.  The roomie and I are in love with Olivia's swagga from the City (although it is not the best show on earth, you can't miss seeing what Olivia wears!).   Since my recent blogs have been somewhat serious and intense, here are some favorites to lighten any girl's heart (well, at least mines):


How can you not love big bows?













If I had a sugadaddiee, he would bless me with..















Got a Casa Blanca event?















For my 25th Birthday - to mark my quarter-life - I so would ... (I mean, why do I have to grow up?!)











Finishing with Olivia Palermo








12.29.2009

..:: Beginnings&Ends of Life ::..

Quote I'm feeling at the moment - "Stronger than Pain" - (So I live on quotes, bite me suckaa.)


With the current year ending, and a new year approaching, its only appropriate that I recap where I am at.


One of the many lessons I've learned to embrace this year is to ask for help and accept help when handed. I guess all of my life, I have always been so adamant about doing things on my own so that it will be from my own terms and I will never feel obliged to anyone. I wanted to know that the achievements were all solely because of my effort, sweat, and tears. Although it is something that I am working on, I am taking a step back and re-evaluating before I deny assistance from a friend. I must really question why am I denying it. Is it pride? Is it fear of paying back? Is it too generous?

One question that was used recently introduced to me (as a team building facilitation technique, but can be applied in other situations):

"What do you need to know to understand me better?"

At first, if asked this question, like most of my life, I would say, "I struggle". But if I think a bit harder, I would say that there is a few other ways to put that. There had been many trial and tribulations in my life that have challenged me to the extent where not only has it bend or mold me, but break me; where I needed time to heal - leaving me scars. Like scars, these obstacles reveal a pain that was skin deep, yet with time, not only mends itself and heal, but many layers are added to guard that surface that was once hurt and broken. I catch myself at times, deep in thought from the inside, but on the outside, mask on this content and calm expression. Yes, I believe that I have pretty thick-skin and am so much stronger than most. I can't help but feel this strength, has its limitation. I am cautious and hesitant. I like to think hard and review all of my options before making a decision. I am skeptical about many characteristics of others. Although I do not judge a person for who they are, my fear sometimes get the best of me and I turn on this wall that protects me. For many souls that are going through this internal battle, they can usually see when others are fighting themselves too...I guess the eyes do tell.


My Life Thus Far . . .

My ambition has led me to many possibilities in life and this characteristic is what those who are close to me would describe me as. That same ambition is followed by a driven demeanor that as served me well. During times of struggle, I remain focused on what means the most to me.

Goal: Proactively working towards my dream career and attaining my education. I am here to break the cycle and create a path for my future generations to come.

Moving forward, I know that I am able to learn from mistakes and overcome a lot of obstacles that was before me. My determination has pushed me beyond realms that I did not even know existed within me… and it has brought me this far.

I take with me the understanding of others and the ability to see multiple perspectives. I carry with me the drive and passion to finish what I started. And I willingly offer a helping hand to those who ask. These are some of my assets that I bring to the table.

Knowledge and experience in life have molded me into a self-motivated person who is hungry to learn and has the desire to taste success. I believe interest guides us to our true desire, but determination takes us there.




4.30.2009

That Constant Battle

There’s so many things that I want to say but when it comes down to it, I can’t. my thoughts just vanish

You know, many people tell me that these challenges in my life are there for a reason. These obstacles are supposed to teach me life lessons and make me stronger to the cold and cruel world out there. What I can’t seem to grasp is when will this all stop? Is it not possible to say that this sense of struggle might follow me throughout my life? They say, if you think you are having a bad day, someone is probably is having it worse. And to an extent that does put things into context but over time it just gets old.

Family. Is a big part of my life. Its me. And although my family and that sense of family is very important to me there are times where family is the source of my hurt, pain, and tears. Sometimes I just wish that these heart wrenching thoughts just vanish.

Im hurting inside and sometimes I don’t know why. Sometimes I don’t want to so I make it disappear from my mind, but in the end it comes back to haunt me. This wall that I worked so hard build with an misunderstanding that it was being strong has many flaws and so the day that it cracks will be a day that I fear.

2.25.2009

"It's Love, Baby Love"

An old piece a few years back. Slightly old school, but still hits close to home.

As I stand here, I want you to here me out. After all these years I learned a lot in life. Everything these days, we never say anything out loud. Everything is always left unsaid.

As I curl up in there


a mysterious place where God gave me the breath of life


I was too scared to come out and face the unknown


To feel the fearful darkness


To see the hopeful ray of light


taking me to the unfathomable world


The second my heart beats to the hospital air


its cold


I cried my lungs out until I had color in my cheeks


Breathe Baby Breathe


Where's that voice?

the voice

it is the only voice I know of

moments into my series of cries

what's that I hear?

A voice is trying to comfort me as I became brave enough to open my eyes

"Hey there," you say "welcome dear."

Sleep Baby Sleep


I wake up startled to a poisonous touch

A sinuous man violates my innocence

Mommy, I'm so scared

I wish I could ask you

what is done to me? I don't know how.

I wish I could tell you that

that man was so close to you, linked by blood

Mommy, I don't want to think about it anymore

Kiss it, so it will go away

He watches me throughout the day

He lurks outside my bedroom door

When you were in deep sleep

Shame Baby Shame


One morning I woke up with a sick feeling in my stomach, Ma

Some of the boys at my school have been harassing me

Ma, I wear those colorful outfits you made me

Ma, my Payless shoes light up with every step as I run, Ma

They chase me,

they corner me,

they hurt me.

My friends are being forced to the ground behind the bushes

Ma, we're screaming and the yard duties don't care

I'm starting to think it's because we're not like them.

We're Asian Baby Asian


While you were at work, the ice cream man threw out free candy into the streets

All the kids in the block littered our street yesterday

But Momma I'm smart, I'm clever.

I took the candy from a boy sitting next to me

I unwrapped it, broke it in two

How dare that ice cream man!>>>

The chocolate is infested with little worms

I learned to live the streets Momma

Learn Baby Learn


I'm a good student; I excel in all I do

I wish you were here for my award ceremonies in the cafeteria

Like all of the other kids parents

But its okay "you gotta do what you gottas do."

You guys work so hard it makes me sad

We don't see you anymore

My baby brother calls me Mom now

Work Hard Baby Work


One holiday, a terrible accident happened

The scene is hidden from me; I see a trail of blood

We are holding up the traffic, there are cars everywhere

"God please don't let my brother die!"

Mommy, I'm so sorry your brother died

That day with his three kids

I miss them so much

That was a terrible holiday Mom

Cry Baby Cry


I'm helping the family

I'm growing up fast

I'm helping you out

Don't worry I will watch your kids

I will help them do their homework each night

I will make dinner for our family

I will clean the house each day

So when you go home you have more time for them

More time for us

So you can get rest for another day of hard work

Grow Up Baby Grow Up


Hey Mom, I'm calling to tell you that Grandma left us

I spent as much time as I could at the hospital to accompany her

But she just couldn't take another breath

She's tired out

I'm starting to get tired too

Are you tired?

Life is hard Mom

I have already learned that, years ago

It's Okay Baby It's Okay


I am annoyed with you these days Mother

You still get on my back everyday

I just want to be me.

I wish we can see each other eye to eye, person to person, daughter to mother, woman to woman

Just Understand Baby Understand


I have my own life now

I raised myself,

I grew up by myself,

I worked for myself

And I raised my own brothers and sister,

and I took on your role in the family,

and I missed out on my own life

But hey Mom, it's not your fault, no one's to blame

You had to take care of business

That's how things come to happen and that's who I am today

I'm Proud Baby Proud


Dear Mom,

We are two different people

We lead different lives, but in some ways we are similar

We are strong, we persevere in our battles

I'm working on starting my life and making the best out of what's left

And even though we never say I it Mom, I know it's there but it's unspoken

I love you too

Love Our Ways Baby Love