27/100 (03.27.09)
wow...
it's been too long since I've posted anything here.
since the last post
I've been to Connecticut, Boston, Maine....
too many good things happened... amazing memories... good laughters and good food...
now I'm back in Jersey...
will be spending some time here
goto the city and check out some good work... make some good work... and meet more people to continue on my journey...
I'd love to write about my experience in this past week.
hopefully I can get some time to write something up....
didn't get a chance to work on the photos or anything... dang...
3.27.2009
3.19.2009
Good Old Memories....
18/100 (03.18.09)
It's been good so far.
18 days on the road.
Drove 4,600 miles...
Drove through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and now in New Jersey, the place I grew up....
I met Yonji in Virginia...
Last time I saw her was 1.5 yrs ago in summer... very briefly so I don't really remember much...
all I remember of her is that she was a little girl... very little... in middleschool....
and now she's in College... dang...
Oh well... spending time with her was very gorgeous....
time well spent.
seeing her... talking to her gave me inspiration and hope....
seeing her little drawings hit me really hard...
she loves to draw portraits... just like I love taking portraits...
but she spends her time studying the person and spends her time to make one work...
when for me it takes at most 1 second to make the portrait...
she puts so much more effort and energy to create a one work and to capture that emotion in drawing.... wow
I was blown away by her talent... and made me think of myself and the way I work...
Photographing is so much easier and faster compare to the drawing..
and at the same time drawing has more personal touch to it than photography... I don't know...
I think that's how others see it... I do too...
oh well...
now I gotta start working hard to capture everyone's soul...
work hard to have people open up to me... and allow me to capture their natural beauty than "Photo Smile"
Yonji! Good luck!! and believe in yourself.
you are an amazing person.... you make people be themselves when they are around you...
that's an incredible ability to have.
and you can use that in any kind of field. from graphic designing, business, and to art or anything that you maybe doing.
and... good luck with your midterms! sorry took so much time from you. haha
drove from Virgina to New Jersey today.
Driving is so easy now... and especially long distance...
I drove 6hours today and it was nothing.
Driving through Leonia, NJ... the place I have most of my childhood memories... was some what sad...
I had really good friends here...
I loved the school here...
I enjoyed every moment I had...
But I had to move to Dallas... not by my choice....
Moving to Dallas was not a bad thing after all...
It changed me.. made me a better person...
a person with bigger dreams and bigger heart...
If I have stayed here in Jersey... I don't know what kind of person I would have become.
maybe gotten into so much problem...
and of course, wouldn't be doing photography...
I maybe was trying to become a pro soccer player... or I don't know..
still dreaming of becoming an engineer.. who knows....
My memories from Jersey... and the lessons I learned from Jersey... helped me get through myself.
made me become a bigger person...
meeting up with my old highschool friends was very interesting...
seeing them all grown up...
of course.. I've seen them couple years ago and almost every year.
but now... it's all different
everyone's doing their own thing... have their business, going to school, trying to become a teacher...
But somehow... I couldn't connect with them deeply....
the conversation stayed on the air...
the way we were thinking was very different...
It wasn't bad at all but it was interesting...
we are still same people... but the way we are living now is very different from one another..
I felt very distant from them...
As much as I've missed them and wanting to talk to them...
the time have never stop running...
and we all kept doing our own things in different places....
That's how the world is...
the distant and time changes everything...
But we are still friends... not just friends but good friends.... sharing same memories of youth..
spent so much time together...
laughing... talking... fighting... sometimes crying... haha
every little moments added up and created me...
that's how I became who I am now.
and I'll be changing everyday.... to better myself.....
oh well.... it's getting really late...
I'll post up photos later....
It's been good so far.
18 days on the road.
Drove 4,600 miles...
Drove through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and now in New Jersey, the place I grew up....
I met Yonji in Virginia...
Last time I saw her was 1.5 yrs ago in summer... very briefly so I don't really remember much...
all I remember of her is that she was a little girl... very little... in middleschool....
and now she's in College... dang...
Oh well... spending time with her was very gorgeous....
time well spent.
seeing her... talking to her gave me inspiration and hope....
seeing her little drawings hit me really hard...
she loves to draw portraits... just like I love taking portraits...
but she spends her time studying the person and spends her time to make one work...
when for me it takes at most 1 second to make the portrait...
she puts so much more effort and energy to create a one work and to capture that emotion in drawing.... wow
I was blown away by her talent... and made me think of myself and the way I work...
Photographing is so much easier and faster compare to the drawing..
and at the same time drawing has more personal touch to it than photography... I don't know...
I think that's how others see it... I do too...
oh well...
now I gotta start working hard to capture everyone's soul...
work hard to have people open up to me... and allow me to capture their natural beauty than "Photo Smile"
Yonji! Good luck!! and believe in yourself.
you are an amazing person.... you make people be themselves when they are around you...
that's an incredible ability to have.
and you can use that in any kind of field. from graphic designing, business, and to art or anything that you maybe doing.
and... good luck with your midterms! sorry took so much time from you. haha
drove from Virgina to New Jersey today.
Driving is so easy now... and especially long distance...
I drove 6hours today and it was nothing.
Driving through Leonia, NJ... the place I have most of my childhood memories... was some what sad...
I had really good friends here...
I loved the school here...
I enjoyed every moment I had...
But I had to move to Dallas... not by my choice....
Moving to Dallas was not a bad thing after all...
It changed me.. made me a better person...
a person with bigger dreams and bigger heart...
If I have stayed here in Jersey... I don't know what kind of person I would have become.
maybe gotten into so much problem...
and of course, wouldn't be doing photography...
I maybe was trying to become a pro soccer player... or I don't know..
still dreaming of becoming an engineer.. who knows....
My memories from Jersey... and the lessons I learned from Jersey... helped me get through myself.
made me become a bigger person...
meeting up with my old highschool friends was very interesting...
seeing them all grown up...
of course.. I've seen them couple years ago and almost every year.
but now... it's all different
everyone's doing their own thing... have their business, going to school, trying to become a teacher...
But somehow... I couldn't connect with them deeply....
the conversation stayed on the air...
the way we were thinking was very different...
It wasn't bad at all but it was interesting...
we are still same people... but the way we are living now is very different from one another..
I felt very distant from them...
As much as I've missed them and wanting to talk to them...
the time have never stop running...
and we all kept doing our own things in different places....
That's how the world is...
the distant and time changes everything...
But we are still friends... not just friends but good friends.... sharing same memories of youth..
spent so much time together...
laughing... talking... fighting... sometimes crying... haha
every little moments added up and created me...
that's how I became who I am now.
and I'll be changing everyday.... to better myself.....
oh well.... it's getting really late...
I'll post up photos later....
3.17.2009
I have to start challenging myself.
17/100 (03.17.09)
I started this trip to get out from comfort zone...
To start something new and exciting...
But somehow... I feel so comfortable now...
I am not pushing myself enough...
I am not pushing myself enough physically and artistically...
I don't think I am an artist... I don't want to be called as an ARTIST.
but... photography is a form of art.
Therefore, whether I want myself to be an artist or not.... my work will be considered as Art...
To create something that's meaningful...
Not just easy and beautiful looking... but yet something that has stories and forces behind them...
From the early photos I've first encountered... the ones that touched my heart...
Not because they were gorgeous images but they were very strong, bold, and meaningful...
I need to start working towards my goal.. my dream...
can't just stay above the surface and keep making that's easy for me...
I need to start putting myself out there... with everyone ... to see everything... and feel what they are feeling...
That's what I need to start doing now...
Thank you very much for making me realize this again!
I started this trip to get out from comfort zone...
To start something new and exciting...
But somehow... I feel so comfortable now...
I am not pushing myself enough...
I am not pushing myself enough physically and artistically...
I don't think I am an artist... I don't want to be called as an ARTIST.
but... photography is a form of art.
Therefore, whether I want myself to be an artist or not.... my work will be considered as Art...
To create something that's meaningful...
Not just easy and beautiful looking... but yet something that has stories and forces behind them...
From the early photos I've first encountered... the ones that touched my heart...
Not because they were gorgeous images but they were very strong, bold, and meaningful...
I need to start working towards my goal.. my dream...
can't just stay above the surface and keep making that's easy for me...
I need to start putting myself out there... with everyone ... to see everything... and feel what they are feeling...
That's what I need to start doing now...
Thank you very much for making me realize this again!
3.16.2009
Precious moments.
15/100 (03.15.09)
If there's one thing I've been feeling recently...
no I've been feeling this way and felt this way for a while... but yeah...
I really enjoy those little precious moments...
a little joke with friends, a little laughter with people, enjoying some good food with friends and family...
watching little kids laughing and smiling over nothing...
sometimes those moments can be very easy to just let them pass by us and take them for granted...
but no....
all of those little moments add up and make a big memory...
make a big smile later on your day...
give you something joyful to look back....
I want to make and remember more of those little memories during this trip.
meet with more people.
people with genuine hearts... someone who cares of others...
making such memories are so precious and priceless...
for some people, those memories last a long time... including my self.
I see people...
and try to understand each person where they are coming from...
I see their attitudes...
especially when they are encountering with a stranger...
as a stranger, and no body to the place... it is very special feeling when someone approaches me and greets me just because I came to the place where they are used to....
Miami was a place where I felt very welcome...
anyhow.
I want to be able to make those little memorable experiences to the people I meet.
Just by saying Hello. but in a silly way maybe... or something to make that person smile...
laugh... and don't think about the worries they have...
to give them something joyful and positive....
----
Ken, Justin, and I went to the China Town in DC 7th and H. next to the Verizon Center.
main reason we went to the china town was to go to Chinese Buffet and eat alot... ALOT!!!
but the first restaurant we went to wasn't a buffer place..
so Ken suggested we go check out the place where they make their own noodle.
"Chinatown Express"
as we walked around the corner, I saw a big window and saw this guy stretching his noodles out... pretty impressive!
walked into very small restaurant, tables were right next to each other...
really close together...
hardly had any space to walk in to seat.
we decided to order few plates and share... since that's how it always works. hahahaha
half order of Peking Duck, 2 orders of dumplings, Beef Lo Mein, and Lobster Fried Rice.
dumpling was a bit bland... i think because the skin part was bit too thick and the stuffing was too blended to taste and feel the texture. but still better than average.
Beef Lo Mein and Lobster Fried Rice...
wow...
probably the best LoMein i've tried so far. of course... all the chinese food I've tried are just fast food places.. but still the noodle was very thick and tender... almost like Udon noodle...
Lobster Fried Rice.... man... haha good stuff!!! a bit pricey for tiny bit of lobsters inside.. but the taste was good.
Peking Duck.... I thought we ordered a half duck... but it was almost like quarter duck... quarter of body.... hmm anyhow it was very small for the price.
but again it tasted really good. haha
Loved everything!!!
after lunch, we watched Watchman....
I was hoping it to be a "SUPER HERO MOVIE"
but it was more of intellectual philosophical mind bothering movie...
no..... it was good....
yes....
I guess....
Justin and Ken enjoyed it so that's all good. hahaha
anyhow..
our time in DC was pretty good!
good food,
good talk,
good laughters,
good company...
listening Ken's stories about Marines.... and his job was the best of course. hahaha
hmmm maybe.... I can call up on them when I have my first big show.. and have them do all the honors and the good stuff.. haha
anyhow.
we are going to Virginia....
to West Virginia..
and to BOSTON!
If there's one thing I've been feeling recently...
no I've been feeling this way and felt this way for a while... but yeah...
I really enjoy those little precious moments...
a little joke with friends, a little laughter with people, enjoying some good food with friends and family...
watching little kids laughing and smiling over nothing...
sometimes those moments can be very easy to just let them pass by us and take them for granted...
but no....
all of those little moments add up and make a big memory...
make a big smile later on your day...
give you something joyful to look back....
I want to make and remember more of those little memories during this trip.
meet with more people.
people with genuine hearts... someone who cares of others...
making such memories are so precious and priceless...
for some people, those memories last a long time... including my self.
I see people...
and try to understand each person where they are coming from...
I see their attitudes...
especially when they are encountering with a stranger...
as a stranger, and no body to the place... it is very special feeling when someone approaches me and greets me just because I came to the place where they are used to....
Miami was a place where I felt very welcome...
anyhow.
I want to be able to make those little memorable experiences to the people I meet.
Just by saying Hello. but in a silly way maybe... or something to make that person smile...
laugh... and don't think about the worries they have...
to give them something joyful and positive....
----
Ken, Justin, and I went to the China Town in DC 7th and H. next to the Verizon Center.
main reason we went to the china town was to go to Chinese Buffet and eat alot... ALOT!!!
but the first restaurant we went to wasn't a buffer place..
so Ken suggested we go check out the place where they make their own noodle.
"Chinatown Express"
as we walked around the corner, I saw a big window and saw this guy stretching his noodles out... pretty impressive!
walked into very small restaurant, tables were right next to each other...
really close together...
hardly had any space to walk in to seat.
we decided to order few plates and share... since that's how it always works. hahahaha
half order of Peking Duck, 2 orders of dumplings, Beef Lo Mein, and Lobster Fried Rice.
dumpling was a bit bland... i think because the skin part was bit too thick and the stuffing was too blended to taste and feel the texture. but still better than average.
Beef Lo Mein and Lobster Fried Rice...
wow...
probably the best LoMein i've tried so far. of course... all the chinese food I've tried are just fast food places.. but still the noodle was very thick and tender... almost like Udon noodle...
Lobster Fried Rice.... man... haha good stuff!!! a bit pricey for tiny bit of lobsters inside.. but the taste was good.
Peking Duck.... I thought we ordered a half duck... but it was almost like quarter duck... quarter of body.... hmm anyhow it was very small for the price.
but again it tasted really good. haha
Loved everything!!!
after lunch, we watched Watchman....
I was hoping it to be a "SUPER HERO MOVIE"
but it was more of intellectual philosophical mind bothering movie...
no..... it was good....
yes....
I guess....
Justin and Ken enjoyed it so that's all good. hahaha
anyhow..
our time in DC was pretty good!
good food,
good talk,
good laughters,
good company...
listening Ken's stories about Marines.... and his job was the best of course. hahaha
hmmm maybe.... I can call up on them when I have my first big show.. and have them do all the honors and the good stuff.. haha
anyhow.
we are going to Virginia....
to West Virginia..
and to BOSTON!
3.15.2009
It's always the one good thing.
14/100 (03.14.09) - afternoon.
my first impression of DC was horrible
we drove 1,300 miles...
got here around 11:50 PM Friday...
the traffic was ridiculous.
it's mid night!!!
people need to go home and sleep! not driving around at mid night!
the road condition was terrible.
it was the worst road I've ever driven on...
I've drove 6 hours straight.. and that last 10 minutes... it ruined everything.!
my car can't handle big bumps. no way. and I need my car for 85 more days...
so I was pretty upset about everything...
oh well
I don't think I'll ever have a good first impression of any places... haha
the best thing that Justin and I did here in DC area was meeting up with Ken Hernandez.
One of the best person you'll ever meet. and of the BEST LOOKING PERSON.
I've been telling him this for so long now...... he's a model material... haha
just like SeongWoo... hmmm
maybe I should send their photos to model agencies..... or not.. .haha
It's always nice to see a familiar face whenever I'm in a new place...
kinda feel comforting...
not just physically.. but more heartistically...
Just knowing that I'm not alone
that there's someone else that's with me at the moment feels amazing...
I think that's why I'm enjoying more
because Justin came with me.
if I came by my self... than I would probably have gone through or going through some hard depression.... questioning my self....
but since I have Justin to share the beauty of the world with... to share the excitement, to share the struggles... I'm growing even more... and learning even more...
Saturday morning around 11 A.M.
Justin and I drove out to Downtown DC to meet with Ken.
we drove through capitol rd. all the way to Capitol Building...
again.... it was Saturday morning but the traffic was horrible and the parking spot was non existing
met with Ken at the Washington Monument "Tall White Pointy Thingy"
we drove to where Ken is staying at
(by the way Ken is in USMC and stationed in DC. right now)
walked pass by Marine Barrack.
I was really excited to see Marine Barrack! (thought of a video game....) hahahaha
anyhow, we walked around Ken's neighborhood, and went into this restaurant called
"Match Box"
pretty fancy looking restaurant... and I saw pizza oven as we were walking upstairs.
'must have some good pizza here'
the Waitress greeted us
and started her little intro about specials and all...
she was mentioning about wine and we weren't so interested..
she goes "oh... sorry I have to mention it... ehhh" haha funny.
and goes on about her daily specials.. but guess what she forgot!!!
opens her lil check book with cheat sheets in them and started telling us about it again.
I didn't even listen... hmmm
that's how customers felt when I was trying to introduce new items to them... haha funny
anyhow.
we ordered a crab cake as an appetizer and order a large pie.- sausage and onion.
it was very very delicious!
better than Papa Johns' "CAJUN SHRIMP" -Only in Louisiana.
so we ordered one more large pie - match box meat
and again very very delicious!
so after lunch at pretty fancy pizza place.
we visited Ken's room. "Marine Base"
it was a different experience.
very different from the place I was imagining.
it was almost like a college dorm.
they had sink,
two beds, two desks, XBOX360.
Listening to his stories about his work was very interesting.
A Marine... that represents the Marines..
the Face of Marines...
it's always fascinating to learn something new and hear new things...
hope everything works out bro...
really. really. Good luck!
my first impression of DC was horrible
we drove 1,300 miles...
got here around 11:50 PM Friday...
the traffic was ridiculous.
it's mid night!!!
people need to go home and sleep! not driving around at mid night!
the road condition was terrible.
it was the worst road I've ever driven on...
I've drove 6 hours straight.. and that last 10 minutes... it ruined everything.!
my car can't handle big bumps. no way. and I need my car for 85 more days...
so I was pretty upset about everything...
oh well
I don't think I'll ever have a good first impression of any places... haha
the best thing that Justin and I did here in DC area was meeting up with Ken Hernandez.
One of the best person you'll ever meet. and of the BEST LOOKING PERSON.
I've been telling him this for so long now...... he's a model material... haha
just like SeongWoo... hmmm
maybe I should send their photos to model agencies..... or not.. .haha
It's always nice to see a familiar face whenever I'm in a new place...
kinda feel comforting...
not just physically.. but more heartistically...
Just knowing that I'm not alone
that there's someone else that's with me at the moment feels amazing...
I think that's why I'm enjoying more
because Justin came with me.
if I came by my self... than I would probably have gone through or going through some hard depression.... questioning my self....
but since I have Justin to share the beauty of the world with... to share the excitement, to share the struggles... I'm growing even more... and learning even more...
Saturday morning around 11 A.M.
Justin and I drove out to Downtown DC to meet with Ken.
we drove through capitol rd. all the way to Capitol Building...
again.... it was Saturday morning but the traffic was horrible and the parking spot was non existing
met with Ken at the Washington Monument "Tall White Pointy Thingy"
we drove to where Ken is staying at
(by the way Ken is in USMC and stationed in DC. right now)
walked pass by Marine Barrack.
I was really excited to see Marine Barrack! (thought of a video game....) hahahaha
anyhow, we walked around Ken's neighborhood, and went into this restaurant called
"Match Box"
pretty fancy looking restaurant... and I saw pizza oven as we were walking upstairs.
'must have some good pizza here'
the Waitress greeted us
and started her little intro about specials and all...
she was mentioning about wine and we weren't so interested..
she goes "oh... sorry I have to mention it... ehhh" haha funny.
and goes on about her daily specials.. but guess what she forgot!!!
opens her lil check book with cheat sheets in them and started telling us about it again.
I didn't even listen... hmmm
that's how customers felt when I was trying to introduce new items to them... haha funny
anyhow.
we ordered a crab cake as an appetizer and order a large pie.- sausage and onion.
it was very very delicious!
better than Papa Johns' "CAJUN SHRIMP" -Only in Louisiana.
so we ordered one more large pie - match box meat
and again very very delicious!
so after lunch at pretty fancy pizza place.
we visited Ken's room. "Marine Base"
it was a different experience.
very different from the place I was imagining.
it was almost like a college dorm.
they had sink,
two beds, two desks, XBOX360.
Listening to his stories about his work was very interesting.
A Marine... that represents the Marines..
the Face of Marines...
it's always fascinating to learn something new and hear new things...
hope everything works out bro...
really. really. Good luck!
3.14.2009
Driving.... sucks....
14/100 (03.14.09)
Driving from Miami to Atlanta....
from Atlanta to D.C.
1,300 miles......
drove in 2 days.
OMG...
3-4 hour driving is now became nothing to us.
I feel like I can just drive down to Houston to say hello to people from Dallas if I want to...
and drive to Austin for fun...
It used to be a long and boring ride...
but not anymore.
some good music, good company will take care of everything.
LISTEN TO THIS while reading this... haha
I enjoyed driving to Atlanta from Miami so much.
Drove all the way through US 27.
very nice scenery and good music... kept both of us awake and alert.
Of course... Palm Trees everywhere
lakes along the side of the road.
one point we started to smell this very sweet and light scent...
started wonder what they were... where they were coming from...
and later I noticed little orange dots on the trees.......... ORANGE TREES!!!
that's right. I finally saw Florida Orange Trees.
we didn't see any on the way down to Miami so we were very disappointed...
dang. we are in Florida but where are the Oranges?!??!
and there it was ...
trees all along the side of the road...
amazingly sweet scent... wow...
I really wanted to stop the car and just pick the oranges off the tree and eat them...
but.... that was stealing.... hmmm
but next time when I drive on US 27.... I'll definitely stop by and get some fresh oranges. haha
and listening to "Jai Ho" from slumdog millionaire was really amazing also.
Justin and I,
Dancing and singing out loud... hahahaha
really relaxing...
just driving on the highway with our arms out the window... feeling the breeze and beautiful surroundings.... made the whole drive worth it.
Plus. the memories we made in Miami kept us really hyper too.
anyhow...
so we spent a night at a rest stop.
got up... washed my hair in the rest stop bathroom sink....
started driving again to Atlanta...
it was a very short drive but... very tiring..
so the story begins...
I CUT MY HAIR.
we got into a motel room in Atlanta... and we did our daily push up exercise...
and all of a sudden, I wanted to cut my hair...
asked Justin to cut them off for me...
"I HAVE NEVER CUT HAIR BEFORE" - Justin.
"IT"S OKAY JUST CUT THEM, Show YOUR ARTISTIC SKILL" - Joon
so we started to put plastic bags on the floor and I put plastic bag over me...
started cutting with regular paper scissors...
came our really ugly...
I hated it...
OMG...
what a stupid choice...
really...
wow...
worst hair cut ever..
so we decided to buzz it off with buzzer..
I had to wait in the room with plastic bag over me for one hour till Justin came back with a buzzer.
2 on the side
4 on the top...
that's how short my hair became...
oh well...
my hairs gone now... no more dreadlocks.
maybe 3yrs later... or never... who knows... T_T
my hair cut took 2 hours total..
Justin didn't even know how to use a stupid hair buzzer...
ALL YOU GOTTA DO IS TURN IT ON AND BUZZ IT!
dang... oh well hahaha
anyhow.. we are in DC now...
drove 1,300 miles from Miami..
it's really cold up here...
I'm looking forward to go to Boston next week... will be very exciting.! YES!
Driving from Miami to Atlanta....
from Atlanta to D.C.
1,300 miles......
drove in 2 days.
OMG...
3-4 hour driving is now became nothing to us.
I feel like I can just drive down to Houston to say hello to people from Dallas if I want to...
and drive to Austin for fun...
It used to be a long and boring ride...
but not anymore.
some good music, good company will take care of everything.
LISTEN TO THIS while reading this... haha
I enjoyed driving to Atlanta from Miami so much.
Drove all the way through US 27.
very nice scenery and good music... kept both of us awake and alert.
Of course... Palm Trees everywhere
lakes along the side of the road.
one point we started to smell this very sweet and light scent...
started wonder what they were... where they were coming from...
and later I noticed little orange dots on the trees.......... ORANGE TREES!!!
that's right. I finally saw Florida Orange Trees.
we didn't see any on the way down to Miami so we were very disappointed...
dang. we are in Florida but where are the Oranges?!??!
and there it was ...
trees all along the side of the road...
amazingly sweet scent... wow...
I really wanted to stop the car and just pick the oranges off the tree and eat them...
but.... that was stealing.... hmmm
but next time when I drive on US 27.... I'll definitely stop by and get some fresh oranges. haha
and listening to "Jai Ho" from slumdog millionaire was really amazing also.
Justin and I,
Dancing and singing out loud... hahahaha
really relaxing...
just driving on the highway with our arms out the window... feeling the breeze and beautiful surroundings.... made the whole drive worth it.
Plus. the memories we made in Miami kept us really hyper too.
anyhow...
so we spent a night at a rest stop.
got up... washed my hair in the rest stop bathroom sink....
started driving again to Atlanta...
it was a very short drive but... very tiring..
so the story begins...
I CUT MY HAIR.
we got into a motel room in Atlanta... and we did our daily push up exercise...
and all of a sudden, I wanted to cut my hair...
asked Justin to cut them off for me...
"I HAVE NEVER CUT HAIR BEFORE" - Justin.
"IT"S OKAY JUST CUT THEM, Show YOUR ARTISTIC SKILL" - Joon
so we started to put plastic bags on the floor and I put plastic bag over me...
started cutting with regular paper scissors...
came our really ugly...
I hated it...
OMG...
what a stupid choice...
really...
wow...
worst hair cut ever..
so we decided to buzz it off with buzzer..
I had to wait in the room with plastic bag over me for one hour till Justin came back with a buzzer.
2 on the side
4 on the top...
that's how short my hair became...
oh well...
my hairs gone now... no more dreadlocks.
maybe 3yrs later... or never... who knows... T_T
my hair cut took 2 hours total..
Justin didn't even know how to use a stupid hair buzzer...
ALL YOU GOTTA DO IS TURN IT ON AND BUZZ IT!
dang... oh well hahaha
anyhow.. we are in DC now...
drove 1,300 miles from Miami..
it's really cold up here...
I'm looking forward to go to Boston next week... will be very exciting.! YES!
3.11.2009
Beautiful City, Great Laughs, and Amazing People.
10/100 (03.10.09)
WOW!
Miami....
My first impression of the Miami wasn't so good. I wanted to get out of here really fast.
From the driving and the experience at the beach... wasn't so pleasant...... Until I met with these amazing people down here.
I realized that I can not judge one place, or sometimes one person, just by their first impression.
Because you never know what's coming, what's behind them....
I really want to understand each and everyone I meet... everyplace I go...
I try to see the good in them. Try to see the positive more than the flaws, try to see the beauty in every smile.
Just like New Orleans...
my first impression of Miami was horrible... but yet I haven't experienced any people...
all I have seen was just one little part of the city where everyone just do whatever they want to do.
But after meeting up with these great guys... changed everything that I thought about Miami.
SeongWoo, Yastaka, Tacto, InSun, Thomas, and of course JuYoung.... I had such a great time hanging out with them.
Every little moment was so precious... wanted to record everything just to look back while driving.... to see the moment that we shared... to smile again.... to laugh out loud.... haha
It seriously was one of the best times I had in a while.
Thank you so much again guys!
Without people... I wouldn't be here....
It was people... that changed my life... the way I see my self and others... and the way I approach each individual and photographing them...
Before I realized the beauty in people.. I was just a no body... who wanted to become an Engineer make lots of money.....
but after I experienced the Love of human being.... I wanted to become a photographer to tell the stories of people... tell the story of love.. inspiration... hope... dream... and on...
and that's what I'm doing right now... that's what I'm trying to do....
Meeting new people
Talking to them
Understand where they are coming from
and feel their sincere heart.... and love....
I feel really lucky right now that my parents have joined the church... and I was born...
All the struggles I had gone through... all the questions I had... and on....
helped me... and made me realize what true love is...
what the real meaning of living is....
and gave me these amazing people to feel so close with...
without this church.
I wouldn't have existed... or had a chance to be this kind of person who would want to see the greater of people...
and had opportunities to meet my amazing brothers and sisters...
It took a long time for me to be able to understand all these and feel them this way...
but now I have understood everything
Not just with my brain.... but with my heart....
It's only been 10 days since I left home...
but I've realized so much in life.
how stupid I was...
how bad of son I was to my parents...
I'm reflecting back at my self....
Watching SeongWoo made me think again about everything....
I really want to be a better older brother to everyone...
I want to try harder and take a really good care of them to create this beautiful community where all the other kids from the states, around the world will come and say...
"Wow, you guys have an amazing community! I'm jealous"
Make Dallas the Place to be.
Not because of the city but because of us.
There are so many amazingly talented people out there...
and of course here in Miami had some crazy talented people...
Yastaka and Tacto, musician brothers.
Thomas a super athletic
InSun very smart, sharp, and gives an amazing massage.
JuYoung going to be an amazing soccer player.
and all with great hearts!
The World is a beautiful place!
That's why I'm still loving it! and can't wait to see it around..!!
Miami.
Definitely a place to be back!
WOW!
Miami....
My first impression of the Miami wasn't so good. I wanted to get out of here really fast.
From the driving and the experience at the beach... wasn't so pleasant...... Until I met with these amazing people down here.
I realized that I can not judge one place, or sometimes one person, just by their first impression.
Because you never know what's coming, what's behind them....
I really want to understand each and everyone I meet... everyplace I go...
I try to see the good in them. Try to see the positive more than the flaws, try to see the beauty in every smile.
Just like New Orleans...
my first impression of Miami was horrible... but yet I haven't experienced any people...
all I have seen was just one little part of the city where everyone just do whatever they want to do.
But after meeting up with these great guys... changed everything that I thought about Miami.
SeongWoo, Yastaka, Tacto, InSun, Thomas, and of course JuYoung.... I had such a great time hanging out with them.
Every little moment was so precious... wanted to record everything just to look back while driving.... to see the moment that we shared... to smile again.... to laugh out loud.... haha
It seriously was one of the best times I had in a while.
Thank you so much again guys!
Without people... I wouldn't be here....
It was people... that changed my life... the way I see my self and others... and the way I approach each individual and photographing them...
Before I realized the beauty in people.. I was just a no body... who wanted to become an Engineer make lots of money.....
but after I experienced the Love of human being.... I wanted to become a photographer to tell the stories of people... tell the story of love.. inspiration... hope... dream... and on...
and that's what I'm doing right now... that's what I'm trying to do....
Meeting new people
Talking to them
Understand where they are coming from
and feel their sincere heart.... and love....
I feel really lucky right now that my parents have joined the church... and I was born...
All the struggles I had gone through... all the questions I had... and on....
helped me... and made me realize what true love is...
what the real meaning of living is....
and gave me these amazing people to feel so close with...
without this church.
I wouldn't have existed... or had a chance to be this kind of person who would want to see the greater of people...
and had opportunities to meet my amazing brothers and sisters...
It took a long time for me to be able to understand all these and feel them this way...
but now I have understood everything
Not just with my brain.... but with my heart....
It's only been 10 days since I left home...
but I've realized so much in life.
how stupid I was...
how bad of son I was to my parents...
I'm reflecting back at my self....
Watching SeongWoo made me think again about everything....
I really want to be a better older brother to everyone...
I want to try harder and take a really good care of them to create this beautiful community where all the other kids from the states, around the world will come and say...
"Wow, you guys have an amazing community! I'm jealous"
Make Dallas the Place to be.
Not because of the city but because of us.
There are so many amazingly talented people out there...
and of course here in Miami had some crazy talented people...
Yastaka and Tacto, musician brothers.
Thomas a super athletic
InSun very smart, sharp, and gives an amazing massage.
JuYoung going to be an amazing soccer player.
and all with great hearts!
The World is a beautiful place!
That's why I'm still loving it! and can't wait to see it around..!!
Miami.
Definitely a place to be back!
3.09.2009
MIAMI......
7/100 (03.07.09)
Driving to Miami was..... just toooooooo long.
Why does Miami have to so far down south?
hmmm
First thing came into my mind when I entered Miami was..
Dang this place is beautiful... I want to live here....
but for some reason I feel like that in every state.
maybe because it's very different from Dallas and where I spent most of my time.
First thing Justin and I decided to do was to go down to beach and check it out!
But, trying to find the right place go was ridiculous,
driving around the city....
don't know where anything is at...
don't know where's the good place to go..
Plus, everything looked so amazing here somehow...
even little puppies walking around looked better than Dallas...
It is only March.. and Miami seemed like it's peak of the summer time... I'm sure when summer comes it's going to be so much nicer.
Walking around South Beach was hectic experience.
So many tourists, so many bars, so many hotels, so many scooters, so many cars, just overflowing with everything...
Later I found out it wasn't anything compare to spring break, or summer time, but still it was too chaotic for me.
I always wanted to be in the city. Just to see people, and be involved with the busy schedule... but this place wasn't the place I was hoping to see.
Trying to find the place to use the restroom... OMG
walked around for at least good 40 minutes going into every store, every restaurant... but they all said restroom not available.. ofcourse..
Walked into Police Station.. and finally... they had one available... haha
Driving out to find the place to sleep was another thing.
got to walmart parking lot, parked our car all the way in the corner and finally called a night.
it was only 9PM. but i was just too tired...
Driving to Miami was..... just toooooooo long.
Why does Miami have to so far down south?
hmmm
First thing came into my mind when I entered Miami was..
Dang this place is beautiful... I want to live here....
but for some reason I feel like that in every state.
maybe because it's very different from Dallas and where I spent most of my time.
First thing Justin and I decided to do was to go down to beach and check it out!
But, trying to find the right place go was ridiculous,
driving around the city....
don't know where anything is at...
don't know where's the good place to go..
Plus, everything looked so amazing here somehow...
even little puppies walking around looked better than Dallas...
It is only March.. and Miami seemed like it's peak of the summer time... I'm sure when summer comes it's going to be so much nicer.
Walking around South Beach was hectic experience.
So many tourists, so many bars, so many hotels, so many scooters, so many cars, just overflowing with everything...
Later I found out it wasn't anything compare to spring break, or summer time, but still it was too chaotic for me.
I always wanted to be in the city. Just to see people, and be involved with the busy schedule... but this place wasn't the place I was hoping to see.
Trying to find the place to use the restroom... OMG
walked around for at least good 40 minutes going into every store, every restaurant... but they all said restroom not available.. ofcourse..
Walked into Police Station.. and finally... they had one available... haha
Driving out to find the place to sleep was another thing.
got to walmart parking lot, parked our car all the way in the corner and finally called a night.
it was only 9PM. but i was just too tired...
3.07.2009
Driving... Driving... Driving.... and more Driving
Day 6/100 (03.06.07)
How stupid are we?
We though.... their name was "CHIMES"
so we called them Mr. and Mrs. Chimes... but they weren't Chimes....
it was just because they had so many wind chimes at the house..... oh man...
In the morning of 3.5.09 we had a really nice breakfast and talk with Jill (the owner, we called her Mrs. Chimes....;;)
the bread was fabulous!
and not to mention... the CHEESE!! OMG! one of the best!
Talking with Jill helped me realize one more time what my trip is about.
To meet people, talk to people, listen to their stories, and share our hearts together.
They had their own story of starting that business and how they kept going....
I was able to see her amazingly beautiful heart.
Motherly heart. and as a Fellow human being who's constantly trying to be good to others.
Justin and I gave them a thank you present. I gave them a copy of my book, and Justin made a CD of his music.
...... I signed the book "Thank you Mr. Chimes..." They are NOT CHIMES!!!!!! hahaha
we didn't find out till the very last moment when I said thank you Mr. Chimes... and Jill(the wife/owner) started to laugh and say that's priceless.
hahaha
anyhow. it was the best experience we had in Louisiana. not just New Orleans but in Louisiana.
Chimes Bed & Breakfast
--------------------
off to Alabama.
we were planning to go to Georgia.. but realized it was a very stupid decision since to go to Georgia, we would have to drive up north.. and again drive down south to get to Florida.
So we decided to go to Florida first and than to Georgia on the way to D.C.
since we changed our route, we decided to stop by Alabama church and see the church community.
Since it was a week day, the church was locked.
but luckily, Mr. Moraes came to us and took us to his house where we met his son Daiko.
Daiko and Justin met in CheongPyeong Last summer,
Daiko, 19 years old, Highschool Senior, very talented Artist.
we visited Master Marines
I had a chance to meet with the President of M.M. -Brett Dungan... i think that's how he spells his last name.... ehh
He had his passion. and confident in his work, and sense of accomplishment.
I was blessed with his guidence about life.
How young people should live.
walked around for a bit.
Alabama had a very good community, everyone seemed very close, and supportive.
and the church property was gorgeous.
I got to photograph Daiko for my project. YES! haha
that's always good.
Mr. Moraes took us to the Chinese Buffet
I was had an honor to listen to his dream, and passion, and ideas of life.
What a experience.
That's what I love about people,
we all have dream... passion... and stories.
I love to hear about them.
They may not be my dream or passion but gets me excited just by listening to their stories.
Wishing I can be there to see everyone accomplish their goals.
Definetly a place I want to come back.
Drove 4more hours at night towards florida.
slept in the rest area.
drove 12 more hours...
went to the state park and washed on the side of the road.... since we had to pay so much money to just use the shower.... decided to just go around and wash outside.
Today... wasn't exciting at all....
Didn't get to take so many pictures, or even meet anybody..
all we did was drive... drive... and drive a little more...
right now I'm in a very small Motel in Fort Myers area called "Green Wave" on Palm Beach Blvd.
very tired.....
I want to meet people.
that's the main purpose of my trip.
To meet people, tell them about my project.
listen to their stories,
understand each individuals.
But for now, I have to get to Boston by 21st.
today is 7th...
goto Miami,
Vero Beach
Atlanta
Tennessee
Kentucky
West Virginia
D.C.
New Jersey.
and to Boston...
-----------------------------
I got photoshop running now. so by next post, I'll upload photos.!
How stupid are we?
We though.... their name was "CHIMES"
so we called them Mr. and Mrs. Chimes... but they weren't Chimes....
it was just because they had so many wind chimes at the house..... oh man...
In the morning of 3.5.09 we had a really nice breakfast and talk with Jill (the owner, we called her Mrs. Chimes....;;)
the bread was fabulous!
and not to mention... the CHEESE!! OMG! one of the best!
Talking with Jill helped me realize one more time what my trip is about.
To meet people, talk to people, listen to their stories, and share our hearts together.
They had their own story of starting that business and how they kept going....
I was able to see her amazingly beautiful heart.
Motherly heart. and as a Fellow human being who's constantly trying to be good to others.
Justin and I gave them a thank you present. I gave them a copy of my book, and Justin made a CD of his music.
...... I signed the book "Thank you Mr. Chimes..." They are NOT CHIMES!!!!!! hahaha
we didn't find out till the very last moment when I said thank you Mr. Chimes... and Jill(the wife/owner) started to laugh and say that's priceless.
hahaha
anyhow. it was the best experience we had in Louisiana. not just New Orleans but in Louisiana.
Chimes Bed & Breakfast
--------------------
off to Alabama.
we were planning to go to Georgia.. but realized it was a very stupid decision since to go to Georgia, we would have to drive up north.. and again drive down south to get to Florida.
So we decided to go to Florida first and than to Georgia on the way to D.C.
since we changed our route, we decided to stop by Alabama church and see the church community.
Since it was a week day, the church was locked.
but luckily, Mr. Moraes came to us and took us to his house where we met his son Daiko.
Daiko and Justin met in CheongPyeong Last summer,
Daiko, 19 years old, Highschool Senior, very talented Artist.
we visited Master Marines
I had a chance to meet with the President of M.M. -Brett Dungan... i think that's how he spells his last name.... ehh
He had his passion. and confident in his work, and sense of accomplishment.
I was blessed with his guidence about life.
How young people should live.
walked around for a bit.
Alabama had a very good community, everyone seemed very close, and supportive.
and the church property was gorgeous.
I got to photograph Daiko for my project. YES! haha
that's always good.
Mr. Moraes took us to the Chinese Buffet
I was had an honor to listen to his dream, and passion, and ideas of life.
What a experience.
That's what I love about people,
we all have dream... passion... and stories.
I love to hear about them.
They may not be my dream or passion but gets me excited just by listening to their stories.
Wishing I can be there to see everyone accomplish their goals.
Definetly a place I want to come back.
Drove 4more hours at night towards florida.
slept in the rest area.
drove 12 more hours...
went to the state park and washed on the side of the road.... since we had to pay so much money to just use the shower.... decided to just go around and wash outside.
Today... wasn't exciting at all....
Didn't get to take so many pictures, or even meet anybody..
all we did was drive... drive... and drive a little more...
right now I'm in a very small Motel in Fort Myers area called "Green Wave" on Palm Beach Blvd.
very tired.....
I want to meet people.
that's the main purpose of my trip.
To meet people, tell them about my project.
listen to their stories,
understand each individuals.
But for now, I have to get to Boston by 21st.
today is 7th...
goto Miami,
Vero Beach
Atlanta
Tennessee
Kentucky
West Virginia
D.C.
New Jersey.
and to Boston...
-----------------------------
I got photoshop running now. so by next post, I'll upload photos.!
3.05.2009
I'm such a high miantenance...
4/100 (03.04.09)
Day 3 and Day 4 was quite interesting... and VERY LONG
it was the first two days we are actually on the road to get to some places.
For me, it was pretty relaxing because Matos drove the most, since he was trying to get used driving stick around. Stop & Go, small hills, park and reverse.. all that good stuff.
Driving down I-10 -> East
right now we have about 970miles on our car. 970/20,000(+-) not so bad. haha
on the way to Louisiana, we stopped by some of the most bizarre and the most gorgeous places.
We've been on the road for only 2days... but felt, and experienced so much than living at home for all these years.
Everything I see is very new.
Can't even explain with the words.... that's also because my writing isn't good enough.. haha
This morning, we drove around 3 hours... just to find a place to take a shower.
all because I wanted to take a shower.
I need my SHOWER!!! haha
We went to KOA camping site... they were charging us $5 per person.
went to the Pilot truck stop, they were charging us $10 per person....
finally... we found a water pipe on the side of road, just out side of a traveler welcome center...
So I washed my hair and did everything I can possibly to wash my self up.
I need my shower... everyday.... dang... this is tough.
anyhow~
I say Louisiana is the state of bridges....
It seemed like I drove over the more bridges than just flat road.
swamps, and bridges...
The main reason I started my trip East was to have some good cajun food to start my trip.
But... till now, no cajun food.
maybe tomorrow... on the way to Georgia, I'll get some good Cajun Food....
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Chimes Bed&Breakfast"
would be my best experience in Louisiana.
LA was really scary... and frustrating. and especially New Orleans... OMG!
walking around down town New Orleans was the worst experience I had so far.
everyone was looking at me... "what are you doing here?"
I was very intimidated by the people of New Orleans.
Justin and I walked in to the New Orleans Public Library to charge our phones, laptop, camera and to look up for places to go.....
First thing the 'security' told me was to leave my bag in the room.
okay..... so..... why??
I guess it was because of the threat, or preventing from stealing.... okay whatever.
I walked in to the room where everyone dropped their 'big' bags....
i saw all kinds of bags in there.... and no one was watching.
anybody could walk in drop, and pick up....
I'm not leaving my bag in that room... that's the firs thing came into my mind.
I don't care... even if I can't get into the library with my bag. I'll just not go in.
I won't risk of loosing my life just to use a stupid public facility.
I mean... think about it.
there's no one... NO ONE watching the bags.. the security dude was just sitting out side on a small chair... the chair wasn't even big enough for him.
and there was no name tag or what so ever to put on to the bag that the owners can come and check out. it was just walk in drop it, comeback later and pick it up. What a stupid place.
and to leave my life in there... without any liability...? NO! NEVER
New Orleans... NO! that's a NO city...
from the beginning.. all I saw was this big cemeteries... everywhere.... and big trees.... and lots of people...
Anyhow, I was just too tired to do anything that day... started to call around some places to sleep.
Everywhere we called were just too pricey for us.
So we decided to call the Hostel.
"India Hostel" supposed to be a good one in New Orleans.
first impression when I walked into the place was... wow. this place is crazy.
saw so many things put to the wall. I could tell this place has been around for a while.
Whole History of that place was there. from the faded photographs to recent post card.
the owner looking guy also had a very distinctive look.
charged us 22/person... oh well it's cheaper than all of the other places.
so we followed this guy through the house and got to the dorm.
one tiny room with 10 bunks..... OMG
$44 and... we had to share this small room with this many people.
nonononono!
extra $10 would get us our own room, nice shower, tv, internet access....
It could be a good experience. but. oh well... no no
So we came back out asked for the money back.
ofcourse... the guy was pissed. we asked for the money back.
but we just couldn't stay there. whole atmosphere there didn't suit us.
started to call around some places again.... came to this place
"Chimes Bed & Breakfast"
okay.... they have bed and food... let's call..
Justin started to talk to the guy on the phone.
the price was.... $120!!!!!!!!
so he wanted to just say thank you.
but the owner of the place asked what's wrong.
Justin told him the story of us... 2 college students traveling.... tight budget....
Heavenly Father! Thank you!
he told us to come. He said he was in a good mood and felt like helping out tonight.
but ofcourse... this stupid New Orleans won't just let us go there so easy...
we had to drive around 30minutes just to find the BRIDGE to cross over the river.
he gave us a very good discount!! Thank you again very much....
So now,
We are staying at this amazing place call "Chimes Bed & Breakfast"
we were lucky to find this place. and Mr. Chimes helped us alot! Thank you very much!!
I'd like to leave something for them...
This place... is the most luxurious place I would probably sleep during my trip.
A big studio like place, two story, amazingly comfortable bed, really nice shower, big couch....
I don't mind having this place as my home almost. Perfect size for me....
Maybe if I get a place, I would re-model it like this... haha
Guess what we had for dinner!?!?
We ordered a papa johns pizza! "Cajun Shrimp" only in Louisiana. haha it tasted really good. maybe because I was starving. But oh well. I enjoyed alot!
Tomorrow, I'll be start driving to Georgia, and to Florida.... wow...
Day 3 and Day 4 was quite interesting... and VERY LONG
it was the first two days we are actually on the road to get to some places.
For me, it was pretty relaxing because Matos drove the most, since he was trying to get used driving stick around. Stop & Go, small hills, park and reverse.. all that good stuff.
Driving down I-10 -> East
right now we have about 970miles on our car. 970/20,000(+-) not so bad. haha
on the way to Louisiana, we stopped by some of the most bizarre and the most gorgeous places.
We've been on the road for only 2days... but felt, and experienced so much than living at home for all these years.
Everything I see is very new.
Can't even explain with the words.... that's also because my writing isn't good enough.. haha
This morning, we drove around 3 hours... just to find a place to take a shower.
all because I wanted to take a shower.
I need my SHOWER!!! haha
We went to KOA camping site... they were charging us $5 per person.
went to the Pilot truck stop, they were charging us $10 per person....
finally... we found a water pipe on the side of road, just out side of a traveler welcome center...
So I washed my hair and did everything I can possibly to wash my self up.
I need my shower... everyday.... dang... this is tough.
anyhow~
I say Louisiana is the state of bridges....
It seemed like I drove over the more bridges than just flat road.
swamps, and bridges...
The main reason I started my trip East was to have some good cajun food to start my trip.
But... till now, no cajun food.
maybe tomorrow... on the way to Georgia, I'll get some good Cajun Food....
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Chimes Bed&Breakfast"
would be my best experience in Louisiana.
LA was really scary... and frustrating. and especially New Orleans... OMG!
walking around down town New Orleans was the worst experience I had so far.
everyone was looking at me... "what are you doing here?"
I was very intimidated by the people of New Orleans.
Justin and I walked in to the New Orleans Public Library to charge our phones, laptop, camera and to look up for places to go.....
First thing the 'security' told me was to leave my bag in the room.
okay..... so..... why??
I guess it was because of the threat, or preventing from stealing.... okay whatever.
I walked in to the room where everyone dropped their 'big' bags....
i saw all kinds of bags in there.... and no one was watching.
anybody could walk in drop, and pick up....
I'm not leaving my bag in that room... that's the firs thing came into my mind.
I don't care... even if I can't get into the library with my bag. I'll just not go in.
I won't risk of loosing my life just to use a stupid public facility.
I mean... think about it.
there's no one... NO ONE watching the bags.. the security dude was just sitting out side on a small chair... the chair wasn't even big enough for him.
and there was no name tag or what so ever to put on to the bag that the owners can come and check out. it was just walk in drop it, comeback later and pick it up. What a stupid place.
and to leave my life in there... without any liability...? NO! NEVER
New Orleans... NO! that's a NO city...
from the beginning.. all I saw was this big cemeteries... everywhere.... and big trees.... and lots of people...
Anyhow, I was just too tired to do anything that day... started to call around some places to sleep.
Everywhere we called were just too pricey for us.
So we decided to call the Hostel.
"India Hostel" supposed to be a good one in New Orleans.
first impression when I walked into the place was... wow. this place is crazy.
saw so many things put to the wall. I could tell this place has been around for a while.
Whole History of that place was there. from the faded photographs to recent post card.
the owner looking guy also had a very distinctive look.
charged us 22/person... oh well it's cheaper than all of the other places.
so we followed this guy through the house and got to the dorm.
one tiny room with 10 bunks..... OMG
$44 and... we had to share this small room with this many people.
nonononono!
extra $10 would get us our own room, nice shower, tv, internet access....
It could be a good experience. but. oh well... no no
So we came back out asked for the money back.
ofcourse... the guy was pissed. we asked for the money back.
but we just couldn't stay there. whole atmosphere there didn't suit us.
started to call around some places again.... came to this place
"Chimes Bed & Breakfast"
okay.... they have bed and food... let's call..
Justin started to talk to the guy on the phone.
the price was.... $120!!!!!!!!
so he wanted to just say thank you.
but the owner of the place asked what's wrong.
Justin told him the story of us... 2 college students traveling.... tight budget....
Heavenly Father! Thank you!
he told us to come. He said he was in a good mood and felt like helping out tonight.
but ofcourse... this stupid New Orleans won't just let us go there so easy...
we had to drive around 30minutes just to find the BRIDGE to cross over the river.
he gave us a very good discount!! Thank you again very much....
So now,
We are staying at this amazing place call "Chimes Bed & Breakfast"
we were lucky to find this place. and Mr. Chimes helped us alot! Thank you very much!!
I'd like to leave something for them...
This place... is the most luxurious place I would probably sleep during my trip.
A big studio like place, two story, amazingly comfortable bed, really nice shower, big couch....
I don't mind having this place as my home almost. Perfect size for me....
Maybe if I get a place, I would re-model it like this... haha
Guess what we had for dinner!?!?
We ordered a papa johns pizza! "Cajun Shrimp" only in Louisiana. haha it tasted really good. maybe because I was starving. But oh well. I enjoyed alot!
Tomorrow, I'll be start driving to Georgia, and to Florida.... wow...
3.02.2009
People, Laughters, and the Dreams....
2/100 Day...
What a day it was.
Woke up in the morning with the sound of Justin playing the piano.
It was my morning music, very soft and lovely... I'm very jealous of his talent actually.. (this is a secret by the way.. haha)
Whenever he feels inspired, he'll create something so amazing. Sometimes very sad and moody, sometimes very up and happy.
I love to play the drums while he's playing the piano, but my drumming skill is not up to far so I feel bad... almost as I'm ruining his session... haha
Anyhow, today was a good day for me!
In the morning, I met with Katrina and Annabelle.
Oh! guess where they met each other?!?!?! (drum rolls~~)
ELEVATOR!!!
I thought it was so cool, how they were both into Korean culture and met inside of the elevator at Annabelle's fashion show (she was in fashion design).
Katrina, a person with a beautiful smile and hearts.
Annabelle, a person with a gorgeous character and up beat passion.
It is such a great feeling to meet somebody with bright hearts...
someone who cares about others and want to be and do the things they wish to do.
But, the reality is....... it's not so easy to only do things that we want to do.
We all have responsibilities, bills to pay, people to take care of...
especially this time around, when everyone is so struggling to survive each day and just wanting to one day win their "lottery" of life, and be at someplace we all wish to be.
But all the things we have to deal with holds us back from doing so.
I feel very lucky to be able to just go and do this trip.
forget about school,
forget about work,
forget about everything that I had
and go out and see more.... see bigger... and learn something new.
YAY YAH! ^__^)//
Good luck Katrina and Annabelle with everything!! find a good job, and do things yall love!!
I'll see yall again when I get back to Houston.. haha.
Sarah, Justin and I went to a place called "MISSION BURRITO"
Justin said that place is way~ better than 'Chipotle' and 'Freebirds'
only hand full of stores in the nation. so we drove 25 minutes from Sarah's house to the place.
as I was walked in, I noticed fancy interior which set apart from those two delicious burrito places I've been to.
Their line was "More Choices, More Flavor"
They had more choices of tortilla, and had SHRIMP!! and much more choices of salsa, and ingredients to put in... haha ingredients... oh well
I ordered, flour tortilla, extra rice, no beans, beef, jalapeno, mushroom, sour cream, cheese, and spicy salsa....
the basic... expecting it to just taste like a regular burrito...
BAM! that burrito was good... haha I don't know what it was but I was able to see why that place is so busy.... it wasn't huge as chipotle's or well packed as freebirds' but I liked it alot.
a good place to go! haha
tomorrow, we'll be heading towards Louisiana.
hopefully we can find some place to sleep.... cuz I don't want to spend 100 days in my car....
$3.74 (drink)
$2.32 (sharpies)
$6.00 (new AUX cable for mp3)
$9.42 (mission burrito)
---------
$21.84 .... too much? eh......
+ 9rolls of film 4 people added to my project!
still working on to get the photoshop running on this laptop....
so photos will be up soon!
YEAP!!!! Let's goooooooooo~~ 98 more days... wow it's so short... haha
we'll see!
What a day it was.
Woke up in the morning with the sound of Justin playing the piano.
It was my morning music, very soft and lovely... I'm very jealous of his talent actually.. (this is a secret by the way.. haha)
Whenever he feels inspired, he'll create something so amazing. Sometimes very sad and moody, sometimes very up and happy.
I love to play the drums while he's playing the piano, but my drumming skill is not up to far so I feel bad... almost as I'm ruining his session... haha
Anyhow, today was a good day for me!
In the morning, I met with Katrina and Annabelle.
Oh! guess where they met each other?!?!?! (drum rolls~~)
ELEVATOR!!!
I thought it was so cool, how they were both into Korean culture and met inside of the elevator at Annabelle's fashion show (she was in fashion design).
Katrina, a person with a beautiful smile and hearts.
Annabelle, a person with a gorgeous character and up beat passion.
It is such a great feeling to meet somebody with bright hearts...
someone who cares about others and want to be and do the things they wish to do.
But, the reality is....... it's not so easy to only do things that we want to do.
We all have responsibilities, bills to pay, people to take care of...
especially this time around, when everyone is so struggling to survive each day and just wanting to one day win their "lottery" of life, and be at someplace we all wish to be.
But all the things we have to deal with holds us back from doing so.
I feel very lucky to be able to just go and do this trip.
forget about school,
forget about work,
forget about everything that I had
and go out and see more.... see bigger... and learn something new.
YAY YAH! ^__^)//
Good luck Katrina and Annabelle with everything!! find a good job, and do things yall love!!
I'll see yall again when I get back to Houston.. haha.
Sarah, Justin and I went to a place called "MISSION BURRITO"
Justin said that place is way~ better than 'Chipotle' and 'Freebirds'
only hand full of stores in the nation. so we drove 25 minutes from Sarah's house to the place.
as I was walked in, I noticed fancy interior which set apart from those two delicious burrito places I've been to.
Their line was "More Choices, More Flavor"
They had more choices of tortilla, and had SHRIMP!! and much more choices of salsa, and ingredients to put in... haha ingredients... oh well
I ordered, flour tortilla, extra rice, no beans, beef, jalapeno, mushroom, sour cream, cheese, and spicy salsa....
the basic... expecting it to just taste like a regular burrito...
BAM! that burrito was good... haha I don't know what it was but I was able to see why that place is so busy.... it wasn't huge as chipotle's or well packed as freebirds' but I liked it alot.
a good place to go! haha
tomorrow, we'll be heading towards Louisiana.
hopefully we can find some place to sleep.... cuz I don't want to spend 100 days in my car....
$3.74 (drink)
$2.32 (sharpies)
$6.00 (new AUX cable for mp3)
$9.42 (mission burrito)
---------
$21.84 .... too much? eh......
+ 9rolls of film 4 people added to my project!
still working on to get the photoshop running on this laptop....
so photos will be up soon!
YEAP!!!! Let's goooooooooo~~ 98 more days... wow it's so short... haha
we'll see!
3.01.2009
First day is now over.
The trip has now officially started.
03.01.09... the first day is now almost over.
It was a very long yet very short day.
Drove 360 miles, which is not so bad. Since we are estimating about 20,000 of driving I'll do.
It also was a very meaningful day
44th anniversary of the Holy Ground.
that meant so much to me.... because that's the foundation....
without the foundation, there can't be anything built on top of it.
Just like I want to create a good foundation of my life.
For my self, and also for my other half (someday I'll meet)
On the way to Austin,
I have spotted a beautiful ranch on the side of the highway
Justin and I both wanted to stop. And we had a luxury of time to stop whenever we want to
so we pulled our car into property.
"BEWARE OF DOG"
I was very scared... and a bit nervous.... to go ask....
what if the person inside the house is an old and grumpy man with a rifles on his hand.....
so we rang the door bell, an old man came out.
But he was nothing I have pictured.
small, has big beer belly, very big and wise eyes...
"Hello sir, you have an amazing ranch and we were wondering if we could go near and take some photographs"
he said go right ahead,
the place was amazing... what a heaven it was... two small ponds and in between those two, there was a huge oak tree....
the sky was bright and clear, the water was sparkling...
the wind was breezing very softly at us...
I wouldn't mind living by that place...
Something I have always wanted... get a land, have some animals living on the property, have a house in the middle and have some water going through...
going back to the property,
the old man came out with a mug of coffee on his hand.. still a very warm face, nice friendly smile...
I showed him my book. He seemed interested and happy... thinking I was giving it to him. haha... I wanted to... but only have few copies on me so...
I asked him if I can get his name and address so I can send him some copies of pictures I took from his place.
Joon- "Sir, what's your name?"
Mr.- "Charlie Pavlas, I'm a Czech"
Joon- "How long have you been here?"
Mr. Pavlas- "Too long, I'll die here"
Charlie Pavlas, living on the side of Highway 35S.
I won't forget about him... the way he said Czech....
and the fact he said he's been living there too long and wants to die there... made me think.
He has been living there for about 20 years or more.... how lonely would he be?
He didn't want to live in the city, maybe because that area he's living is where lots of Czechs live. or... maybe he just loves the quite and peaceful area he has...
I'm 22 years old... the longest place I've lived is Dallas... and I can't wait to get out and see more things..
maybe it's the age difference....
or it's the love he has to the place... someone saying they want to die at a place.... that shows so much love and attachment.
To live at one place and end at the same place...
czech stop! a must place to go on the way to Austin from Dallas...
Anyhow, I'll come back and visit him when I get back to Texas. I'll maybe than have an extra copy of book to give to him and take his photograph. Learn something more...
We'll See....
p.s. Don't have a photoshop installed on this computer so I don't have any photos to upload but as soon as I get it up and going... than that's photo time!
03.01.09... the first day is now almost over.
It was a very long yet very short day.
Drove 360 miles, which is not so bad. Since we are estimating about 20,000 of driving I'll do.
It also was a very meaningful day
44th anniversary of the Holy Ground.
that meant so much to me.... because that's the foundation....
without the foundation, there can't be anything built on top of it.
Just like I want to create a good foundation of my life.
For my self, and also for my other half (someday I'll meet)
On the way to Austin,
I have spotted a beautiful ranch on the side of the highway
Justin and I both wanted to stop. And we had a luxury of time to stop whenever we want to
so we pulled our car into property.
"BEWARE OF DOG"
I was very scared... and a bit nervous.... to go ask....
what if the person inside the house is an old and grumpy man with a rifles on his hand.....
so we rang the door bell, an old man came out.
But he was nothing I have pictured.
small, has big beer belly, very big and wise eyes...
"Hello sir, you have an amazing ranch and we were wondering if we could go near and take some photographs"
he said go right ahead,
the place was amazing... what a heaven it was... two small ponds and in between those two, there was a huge oak tree....
the sky was bright and clear, the water was sparkling...
the wind was breezing very softly at us...
I wouldn't mind living by that place...
Something I have always wanted... get a land, have some animals living on the property, have a house in the middle and have some water going through...
going back to the property,
the old man came out with a mug of coffee on his hand.. still a very warm face, nice friendly smile...
I showed him my book. He seemed interested and happy... thinking I was giving it to him. haha... I wanted to... but only have few copies on me so...
I asked him if I can get his name and address so I can send him some copies of pictures I took from his place.
Joon- "Sir, what's your name?"
Mr.- "Charlie Pavlas, I'm a Czech"
Joon- "How long have you been here?"
Mr. Pavlas- "Too long, I'll die here"
Charlie Pavlas, living on the side of Highway 35S.
I won't forget about him... the way he said Czech....
and the fact he said he's been living there too long and wants to die there... made me think.
He has been living there for about 20 years or more.... how lonely would he be?
He didn't want to live in the city, maybe because that area he's living is where lots of Czechs live. or... maybe he just loves the quite and peaceful area he has...
I'm 22 years old... the longest place I've lived is Dallas... and I can't wait to get out and see more things..
maybe it's the age difference....
or it's the love he has to the place... someone saying they want to die at a place.... that shows so much love and attachment.
To live at one place and end at the same place...
czech stop! a must place to go on the way to Austin from Dallas...
Anyhow, I'll come back and visit him when I get back to Texas. I'll maybe than have an extra copy of book to give to him and take his photograph. Learn something more...
We'll See....
p.s. Don't have a photoshop installed on this computer so I don't have any photos to upload but as soon as I get it up and going... than that's photo time!
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