Yay! The new layout is finally up! ^^ I think the previous one has been up for more than a year already...longer than I thought. My summer vacation is almost over so I finished the layout just in time. How does everyone like it? The layout design is pretty simple, which gives more emphasis on the layout image drawn by me. I realize that out of the four years of this website's existence, only two layouts featured my artwork (including this one.) Haha, I guess I really suck if I couldn't even stand my own drawing. Since I made this one, it must mean I'm proud of it (the other layout featured a portrait I drew of Keita Tachibana, which I considered to be my best). ^^ You can learn more about the layout on the Information page and more about the drawing here (it is listed under Digital Artwork/CG Art).
I also spent most of this morning revising the content (I always seem to do this when I put a new layout up) so a few things have changed here and there. *smile* I also finally separated the Artwork section into two separate pages: Traditional Drawings and my Digital Artwork. If you take a look at my old artwork and the recent additions, you can see a huge gap in the time difference. It has been about a year since I made any new additions! Shame on me! I'm glad that I was at least able to complete one of my goals to draw this summer. ^____^
Friday, July 20, 2007
Camp Erdman: Last Day (Part 6 of 6)
Continued from the previous post...
The third day was only half day and we had to go home. Nobody wanted to go home. Everyone wanted to stay longer. I felt the same. Why couldn't we have just stayed until the weekend at least?
I didn't know when I woke up, but I knew what woke me up. My aching shoulders. On the previous day, I didn't feel any pain except for my hands so I couldn't imagine hurting anywhere else. I realized that my upper arms and shoulders hurt. When I tried moving my legs, I realized I had two bruises on my left leg (I don't know how it got there). I slept all night curled up in a fetus position so I tried to stretch a bit. It hurt to stretch. I laid in bed, listening to the noisy birds chirp. Boy, were they loud! I was wondering if anyone else in the cabin was awake, but it seemed to be only me. I rushed to the bathroom to pee and jumped back in bed. I wondered what time it was. Out of all the students, only two very smart people thought to bring watches: Hoang and Michelle. I didn't know there wouldn't be a clock. The batteries in my watch were used up anyway. I lay in bed for a while and closed my eyes, trying to get a little bit more sleep. Eventually, I heard the noisy kids from an elementary school walk by our cabin. I should have known that it was time to get up at this time. If they were up, we should be up too. I had no logic and no common sense. I continued to lie in bed.
Everyone ended up oversleeping. We were late for breakfast. It was my fault for no waking everyone up. Some didn't even get the opportunity to brush their teeth! Breakfast was the classic scrambled eggs, sausages, and rice combo. After breakfast, we were given time to go back to our cabins and pack our things. After packing, we had some more "quiet time."
After the writing, we met at Crosson Hall and sat in a circle. We took out a piece of paper and wrote our name in big letters at the top. The paper got passed around the circle and each person wrote a nice comment about that person. We did some more picture taking before we left. It was a really quick leave. Everyone was really sad.
My overall camp experience was amazing. The actual experience somehow felt different from what is being written here. Undergoing all those challenges made everyone bond at camp. I like how everyone at camp are such fun people...!
In my opinion, camp itself wasn't so great. I did not expect the camp staff members to be the way they were. To put it in a nice way, I guess I can say they were very "laid-back." They did their job, but they didn't seem too...enthusiastic. I don't know - that's just my impression. I can understand if they aren't because they probably have to do the same things over and over when some silly school kids come to visit. They are used to the stuff we did and they are probably bored with it, but they should at least try harder to be more into it because it was a new experience for us. I learned to trust Luli, but I found some of the other staff members to be quite unfriendly.
I guess the challenges we had at camp made it interesting but I think it was more the people that made being here at camp awesome. During the discussions, everyone opened up and said how they felt. We were becoming more familiar with each other. We created many memories and if we joked around, nobody would understand unless they were one of us. I can't put this feeling in words. But it's easy and simple enough to say that I had a blast at camp.
The third day was only half day and we had to go home. Nobody wanted to go home. Everyone wanted to stay longer. I felt the same. Why couldn't we have just stayed until the weekend at least?
I didn't know when I woke up, but I knew what woke me up. My aching shoulders. On the previous day, I didn't feel any pain except for my hands so I couldn't imagine hurting anywhere else. I realized that my upper arms and shoulders hurt. When I tried moving my legs, I realized I had two bruises on my left leg (I don't know how it got there). I slept all night curled up in a fetus position so I tried to stretch a bit. It hurt to stretch. I laid in bed, listening to the noisy birds chirp. Boy, were they loud! I was wondering if anyone else in the cabin was awake, but it seemed to be only me. I rushed to the bathroom to pee and jumped back in bed. I wondered what time it was. Out of all the students, only two very smart people thought to bring watches: Hoang and Michelle. I didn't know there wouldn't be a clock. The batteries in my watch were used up anyway. I lay in bed for a while and closed my eyes, trying to get a little bit more sleep. Eventually, I heard the noisy kids from an elementary school walk by our cabin. I should have known that it was time to get up at this time. If they were up, we should be up too. I had no logic and no common sense. I continued to lie in bed.
Everyone ended up oversleeping. We were late for breakfast. It was my fault for no waking everyone up. Some didn't even get the opportunity to brush their teeth! Breakfast was the classic scrambled eggs, sausages, and rice combo. After breakfast, we were given time to go back to our cabins and pack our things. After packing, we had some more "quiet time."
After the writing, we met at Crosson Hall and sat in a circle. We took out a piece of paper and wrote our name in big letters at the top. The paper got passed around the circle and each person wrote a nice comment about that person. We did some more picture taking before we left. It was a really quick leave. Everyone was really sad.
My overall camp experience was amazing. The actual experience somehow felt different from what is being written here. Undergoing all those challenges made everyone bond at camp. I like how everyone at camp are such fun people...!
In my opinion, camp itself wasn't so great. I did not expect the camp staff members to be the way they were. To put it in a nice way, I guess I can say they were very "laid-back." They did their job, but they didn't seem too...enthusiastic. I don't know - that's just my impression. I can understand if they aren't because they probably have to do the same things over and over when some silly school kids come to visit. They are used to the stuff we did and they are probably bored with it, but they should at least try harder to be more into it because it was a new experience for us. I learned to trust Luli, but I found some of the other staff members to be quite unfriendly.
I guess the challenges we had at camp made it interesting but I think it was more the people that made being here at camp awesome. During the discussions, everyone opened up and said how they felt. We were becoming more familiar with each other. We created many memories and if we joked around, nobody would understand unless they were one of us. I can't put this feeling in words. But it's easy and simple enough to say that I had a blast at camp.
Friday, July 6, 2007
Que Sera Sera*
*To explain the title, I've been listening to the song (Doris Day and Pink Martini's version) and watching the drama. All three are <333!
Gosh, I haven't updated the artwork section in the longest time...and Inspiration is supposed to be an artwork site. *slaps self* Even though my left hand (my drawing hand!) is all swollen and puffy from the stupid mosquito bites I received at the library the other day, I shouldn't use that as an excuse. Oh no, I'm here to finally bring you some updates!
I finished my second CG art this Tuesday. You can view it here. Comments are also made on that page.
My sister and I have also been making some cards for the craft fair to fund for our Japan trip next spring. I really hope they will sell...!
My sister makes the cutest cards!
The cards I made...
The card on the right is the first one I made. I also took a close-up of the drawing I did. You can view it here. ^^
Pretty girls in kimonos.
We also made bookmarks from a kit provided by Oda sensei. The quality of the paper was outstanding. I was so nervous when I was using them that it was the first time I cut so straight using scissors! The one on the left is made by my sister and the one on the right is made by me.
And some pictures of what I cooked up this past week:
My lunch today.
If they happen to look random, that's because it is. I always cook with whatever ingredients I can find in the kitchen. And if you're wondering why noodles all the time, it is because we have a thousand packets of noodles simply waiting to be used!
Gosh, I haven't updated the artwork section in the longest time...and Inspiration is supposed to be an artwork site. *slaps self* Even though my left hand (my drawing hand!) is all swollen and puffy from the stupid mosquito bites I received at the library the other day, I shouldn't use that as an excuse. Oh no, I'm here to finally bring you some updates!
I finished my second CG art this Tuesday. You can view it here. Comments are also made on that page.
My sister and I have also been making some cards for the craft fair to fund for our Japan trip next spring. I really hope they will sell...!
My sister makes the cutest cards!
The cards I made...
The card on the right is the first one I made. I also took a close-up of the drawing I did. You can view it here. ^^
Pretty girls in kimonos.
We also made bookmarks from a kit provided by Oda sensei. The quality of the paper was outstanding. I was so nervous when I was using them that it was the first time I cut so straight using scissors! The one on the left is made by my sister and the one on the right is made by me.
And some pictures of what I cooked up this past week:
My lunch today.
If they happen to look random, that's because it is. I always cook with whatever ingredients I can find in the kitchen. And if you're wondering why noodles all the time, it is because we have a thousand packets of noodles simply waiting to be used!
Monday, June 25, 2007
A Lonely Summer
I haven't blogged in a while. It has been a little over two weeks since school ended. Having no real friends is depressing but I tell myself I am independent to make myself feel better. =)
Since summer began, there has been a major change in the pace of my life. Sometimes, I find it boring. At other times, I am perfectly content with all the free time I have to relax and do what I want. I now have the chance to work on some handicraft (my newobsession hobby) and practice my culinary skills. I am far from being adept in either areas, but I'll try to master them the best I can. My lovely sister already made a bunch of lovely softies! She recently finished Usotsuki to accompany Warumono from Aranzi Aronzo.
I designed some cards using my original art. These are prototypes that I gave to Oda sensei for approval to sell at the craft fair. I still foolishly cling to the hope that I can make enough money to go on the Japan trip.
I don't feel like saying much else. Pictures will suffice.
Does she look like Nyozeka?
Working hard and diligently studying Japanese.
Spaghetti alla Carbonara
Mango-banana Cupcakes
Innards
------
Ehhh? What is Usotsuki doing, ogling at my new Evan CD?!
Uh oh. Warumono is getting some funny ideas. I knew I shouldn't have left Death Note lying around.
You can't take your eyes off them for even one second. Please excuse me while I make sure these bad boys don't make any more trouble. =)
Since summer began, there has been a major change in the pace of my life. Sometimes, I find it boring. At other times, I am perfectly content with all the free time I have to relax and do what I want. I now have the chance to work on some handicraft (my new
I designed some cards using my original art. These are prototypes that I gave to Oda sensei for approval to sell at the craft fair. I still foolishly cling to the hope that I can make enough money to go on the Japan trip.
I don't feel like saying much else. Pictures will suffice.
Does she look like Nyozeka?
Spaghetti alla Carbonara
Mango-banana Cupcakes
Innards
------
Ehhh? What is Usotsuki doing, ogling at my new Evan CD?!
Uh oh. Warumono is getting some funny ideas. I knew I shouldn't have left Death Note lying around.
You can't take your eyes off them for even one second. Please excuse me while I make sure these bad boys don't make any more trouble. =)
Camp Erdman: My Misery and the Stars (Part 5 of 6)
It has been a while since I made another camp post. Sorry for taking so long! I'm sure nobody cares by now, but I will finishing up since the next camp post will be the last part.
Note: Looking back, this affair was extremely embarassing for me so I wasn't sure if I should post it. But I have decided to be honest with all the events that happened during camp, even of the things that I am not proud of. This was the only one time I felt unhappy during camp, but it helped me to grow stronger. I think that if this happened again, I would have acted differently.
Continued from the previous post...
A class picture behind the campfire.
After doing the skit, late night snack (this time it was pizza) and "discussion," we made our own campfire. It took us a long time to get a fire going. It is silly how people get fires started unintentionally and here we are trying our best to start a fire! It was really difficult. Once we successfully made fire, people took turns to say a speech. We took some group pictures behind the fire and then went star gazing.
I was looking forward to star gazing until the teachers told us to lie on the sand. As prissy as this sounds, I don't like the idea of getting my clothes dirty, but I reluctantly laid down on the gritty sand. We were bunched up like a pack of sardines, touching shoulder to shoulder. The night sky was magnificent. I think this was the first time in my life that I saw so many stars in the sky. I only recognized the Orion belt. It was nice for a little while, but in time I wanted to get back up. The teachers wanted everyone to stay down. Suddenly, I felt someone on top of me. It was Juri! I realized that she was making her way across the sand, just rolling on top of us. That crazy girl. I thought she was the only one until another person tried it. And another. And another. Finally, even Ms. Nakamura rolled on top of us! Sam grew excited and decided to try it, but she rolled off course. It was hilarious. I don't know how long I laid down there, but it felt like forever. I think we must have laid there for an hour. Michelle showed me her watch and it blinked 10:40pm! We laid there long after that, me waiting patiently for us to go back to our cabins.
I loved the night sky, but I was freezing. I wasn't wearing my jacket in an attempt to keep it clean but with insane people rolling on top of me, my efforts were wasted. I tried to concentrate on the stars, but my vision grew blurry, even with my glasses on. People started singing random kiddy songs and Disney songs. It went on and on. I wanted to go, but I stayed because everyone else was having such a great time. I wasn't sure if they wanted to leave yet. Some even suggested lying in the sand until morning. I panicked and hoped they weren't serious. I tried waiting some more until I was absolutely stiff from the cold. I was feeling extremely uncomfortable and I felt my muscles tense up. I tried telling myself to stop being such a spoil-sport. As Janelle would say, I should "chillax." Loosen up. Try to enjoy myself. But I couldn't. I tried to rest my legs, but it was hard. I felt like Jack and Rose near the ending of the Titanic movie. Stiff and cold in the middle of the ocean. When I couldn't take it anymore, I forced myself to sit up.
Eventually, everyone got up and slowly walked back. It was hard for me to move in the sand. I felt drunk. When we went back to the camp, I couldn't hold back my tears. I really wanted to shower first, but I was scared of being selfish because I wasn't the only one who was dirty. Ha insisted on going first so I went second in a different bathroom. I finally got to relax when I got in the shower. My arms finally loosened up but my hands were still shaking and I dropped the showerhead I was holding. I then realized that my entire body was shaking. Not only that, I usually take baths so I wasn't used to the showers. I tried to calm myself down. Now I feel embarrassed for acting the way I did. I don't know what went wrong. Why did I have to be like that? I guess I can handle only so much after one day. Jenni was very understanding and asked if I were okay since I broke down crying in front of her earlier. I wanted to stay up a little later to write, but it was past midnight. The girls planned to have a "Project Runaway Show," but we were so tired and exhausted from the day's events that it wasn't held. Some immediately went to sleep. I lingered around longer, talking to Jenni and eating. I don't know when I finally went to sleep, but it must have been morning. That was a first since I have never been able to do this at home.
Note: Looking back, this affair was extremely embarassing for me so I wasn't sure if I should post it. But I have decided to be honest with all the events that happened during camp, even of the things that I am not proud of. This was the only one time I felt unhappy during camp, but it helped me to grow stronger. I think that if this happened again, I would have acted differently.
Continued from the previous post...
A class picture behind the campfire.
After doing the skit, late night snack (this time it was pizza) and "discussion," we made our own campfire. It took us a long time to get a fire going. It is silly how people get fires started unintentionally and here we are trying our best to start a fire! It was really difficult. Once we successfully made fire, people took turns to say a speech. We took some group pictures behind the fire and then went star gazing.
I was looking forward to star gazing until the teachers told us to lie on the sand. As prissy as this sounds, I don't like the idea of getting my clothes dirty, but I reluctantly laid down on the gritty sand. We were bunched up like a pack of sardines, touching shoulder to shoulder. The night sky was magnificent. I think this was the first time in my life that I saw so many stars in the sky. I only recognized the Orion belt. It was nice for a little while, but in time I wanted to get back up. The teachers wanted everyone to stay down. Suddenly, I felt someone on top of me. It was Juri! I realized that she was making her way across the sand, just rolling on top of us. That crazy girl. I thought she was the only one until another person tried it. And another. And another. Finally, even Ms. Nakamura rolled on top of us! Sam grew excited and decided to try it, but she rolled off course. It was hilarious. I don't know how long I laid down there, but it felt like forever. I think we must have laid there for an hour. Michelle showed me her watch and it blinked 10:40pm! We laid there long after that, me waiting patiently for us to go back to our cabins.
I loved the night sky, but I was freezing. I wasn't wearing my jacket in an attempt to keep it clean but with insane people rolling on top of me, my efforts were wasted. I tried to concentrate on the stars, but my vision grew blurry, even with my glasses on. People started singing random kiddy songs and Disney songs. It went on and on. I wanted to go, but I stayed because everyone else was having such a great time. I wasn't sure if they wanted to leave yet. Some even suggested lying in the sand until morning. I panicked and hoped they weren't serious. I tried waiting some more until I was absolutely stiff from the cold. I was feeling extremely uncomfortable and I felt my muscles tense up. I tried telling myself to stop being such a spoil-sport. As Janelle would say, I should "chillax." Loosen up. Try to enjoy myself. But I couldn't. I tried to rest my legs, but it was hard. I felt like Jack and Rose near the ending of the Titanic movie. Stiff and cold in the middle of the ocean. When I couldn't take it anymore, I forced myself to sit up.
Eventually, everyone got up and slowly walked back. It was hard for me to move in the sand. I felt drunk. When we went back to the camp, I couldn't hold back my tears. I really wanted to shower first, but I was scared of being selfish because I wasn't the only one who was dirty. Ha insisted on going first so I went second in a different bathroom. I finally got to relax when I got in the shower. My arms finally loosened up but my hands were still shaking and I dropped the showerhead I was holding. I then realized that my entire body was shaking. Not only that, I usually take baths so I wasn't used to the showers. I tried to calm myself down. Now I feel embarrassed for acting the way I did. I don't know what went wrong. Why did I have to be like that? I guess I can handle only so much after one day. Jenni was very understanding and asked if I were okay since I broke down crying in front of her earlier. I wanted to stay up a little later to write, but it was past midnight. The girls planned to have a "Project Runaway Show," but we were so tired and exhausted from the day's events that it wasn't held. Some immediately went to sleep. I lingered around longer, talking to Jenni and eating. I don't know when I finally went to sleep, but it must have been morning. That was a first since I have never been able to do this at home.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
They're Not Fat, They're Muscular!
Today, I went to the 2007 Grand Sumo Tournament with Sarah and Jenny. I had won three tickets through Shirokiya's 2007 Grand Sumo Tournament Coloring Contest. Let me first say that I had no interest in sumo, really. It was the $50 Shirokiya Gift Certificate that caught my eye (think of all the free food!) I entered the contest even though I did not expect to win. It was just for fun. But I won, so I'm very happy. =)
At first, I did not know what to do with the tickets I received. At the time, I knew nothing of sumo except that they have many crazy fans in Japan. Yes, apparently they do have their share of fangirls (think fangirls with their favorite popstars). I did not understand their obsession because wrestling wasn't my thing. My reasoning was that I should give the tickets away to someone who truly loves sumo and who deserves them...alas, I found no such person. Now I can honestly say I'm very glad I did not give them away. =)
Spotted two!
Before the tournament began, Jenny, Sarah, and I were scavengering outside the Blaisdell Center, looking for something to eat and drink. The food and drinks were way overpriced ($2.50 for a water bottle!)...but we were hungry. Jenny had a chili hotdog for $4.50 and I had three small pieces of inari sushi for $2. While we were waiting for Sarah as she stood in line to get a drink, we spotted two sumos! They were putting mustard and ketchup on their hotdogs. Sumos eating hotdogs instead of chanko-nabe! How exciting! Of course I had to bust out my camera before they could get away!
We're finally here!
Uwahhh...I was so excited. The sumos came out to do a few warm-up stretches before starting.
Betcha can't do this.
Whoa...dude...everyone started clapping right away. =D
Introducing all the sumos...
They're all coming out. I don't know who's who, but whatever. The robes are pretty.
After introducing all the sumos, the host announced that it was time for some, "comic sumo" - things that the sumo wrestlers cannot do. I am sorry I couldn't catch any pictures during this event, but it was very entertaining to see. There were two sumos (a really skinny one and a really big one) that demonstrated what went against the rules. They did all sorts of funny things to make the audience laugh.
Push, push, push...!
After the comic sumo, a bunch of young'uns came out to strut their stuff. =3 Everyone seemed baffled but delighted by these little guys. The host announced over the speaker that they were the keiki (children) of Hawaii...so they're locals, not sumos-in-training like I originally thought. xD When they first put up the smallest little guy up on stage, he tripped backward. He was obviously scared. It was funny to see them all go up one by one, trying to challenge the bigger guys. There was one particular boy that was really aggressive and he pushed and pushed, struggling to get one win. The sumo was eventually "pushed" out of the ring so the little guy won. The above picture shows one kid who pushed and pushed, but failed to make the sumo budge. Many of them were also twirled in the air by the sumo. xD It looked fun but scary at the same time.
Charging all at once.
After all going up one by one (some with repeated tries), they were allowed to charge at the rikishi (big guys) all at once. What a sight to see!
The preliminary round and the first round began after a short intermission.The preliminary round consisted of six matches and the first round sixteen matches. I fell in love with sumo after watching a few matches. The experience was not what I expected.
I thought that sumo was just a bunch of fat guys goin' at each other...it is so much more than that. In fact, the matches hardly seems to last more than a few seconds. Sumo is a very old and unique sport that managed to maintain its formal rituals and etiquette from the past. It was all these rituals that took longer than the actual matches! They would crouch in the dohyo (the ring), clap to dispel the evil, and of course, wave a sea of salt across the dohyo. Not to mention, I find it funny how they sometimes seem to be throwing the salt in the gyoji (referee's) face. Then sometimes they'd glare at each other some more (thus, exciting the crowd) and grab some more salt tothrow at each other purify the dohyo. And then the match would begin. It took a long time. xD
Takamisakari.
A sumo that I can remember in particular was Takamisakari because he was the crazy, riled up one. Before a match would begin, he would always go crazy, shaking his head and his body angrily, glaring at his opponent, and throwing salt aggressively across the dohyo. Takamisakari was remembered because he always made a scene. Frankly, I didn't know what his problem was. Perhaps he just wanted to excite the crowd (he did this succesfully). He seemed very boastful and cocky so I was glad when Ryuo, my second favorite sumo, defeated him in the second round.
Another formidable sumo wrestler was Kotooshu from Bulgaria. By far, he was the tallest (at 203 cm!!!) and one of the strongest sumos that went on stage that night. To sum it up in one word, this guy was scary.
Wakanosato was remembered for being the sumo wrestler with his own group of cheerleaders. Whenever he came up, they would start chanting his name and clapping in rhythm.
During the first round, the match that impressed me the most (aka the most memorable one) was the fourth match, between Ama (peaceful horse) and Chiyotaikai. Ama was smaller, but he managed to outwit his opponent, snatching victory before anyone could blink. As the tournament went on, I found myself cheering for this guy. He had technique and he was agile. Despite his obvious talent and skill, I felt a little scared for him because his opponents were always bigger than him. But he would come through every time. I loved watching his matches the most because he always made the most impressive wins. One of the more exciting matches was when he went against Kotooshu, the biggest sumo in the tournament. Ama managed to defeat him, proving technique over power. Ama slowly passed through the second round, third round, the semi-finals...and finally onto the final round to compete against the yokozuna, the highest title holder!
The current yokozuna (highest sumo rank) was Hakuho and get this: He's my sister's age (22)!!! I had no idea sumo wrestlers could be so young. XD Throughout the entire tournament, I've been watching him. For some reason, I get the feeling that he is the most clear headed one. He never seems overly aggressive nor boastful. He remains calm. The matches with Hakuho were also suspenseful because he never wins right away. During his matches, he always wins at last minute. Whenever he'd seem to lose, he would turn things around. For example, there was one time when he was pushed to the edge of the ring. It seemed like the end for him until we saw him lift his opponent off the floor and slam him down on the floor. Not only is Hakuho intelligent, he is also very strong.
I had always liked watching Ama. I was very proud and happy to see that he was able to make it to the final round. During the finals, the two sumos left were Hakuho and Ama. Both of these rikishis were very admirable. You can just feel the tension rising. Who would win???
Ama vs. Hakuho.
Hakuho won. I liked them both so I was happy whatever the outcome may be. =)
After watching the rikishis for five long hours, my whole perspective changed. They didn't even look fat to me anymore. The amazing strength and power they demonstrated throughout this event just proved to me that it was all muscles and nothing else. I am a step closer to understanding those crazy fangirls who think of their favorite sumo wrestler as the most eligible bachelor in Japan. I can understand why people love sumo. =D I came as a clueless spectator, but now I truly appreciate sumo. This amazing experience really opened my eyes to the beauty of this 1,500 year-old traditional Japanese sport.
At first, I did not know what to do with the tickets I received. At the time, I knew nothing of sumo except that they have many crazy fans in Japan. Yes, apparently they do have their share of fangirls (think fangirls with their favorite popstars). I did not understand their obsession because wrestling wasn't my thing. My reasoning was that I should give the tickets away to someone who truly loves sumo and who deserves them...alas, I found no such person. Now I can honestly say I'm very glad I did not give them away. =)
Spotted two!
Before the tournament began, Jenny, Sarah, and I were scavengering outside the Blaisdell Center, looking for something to eat and drink. The food and drinks were way overpriced ($2.50 for a water bottle!)...but we were hungry. Jenny had a chili hotdog for $4.50 and I had three small pieces of inari sushi for $2. While we were waiting for Sarah as she stood in line to get a drink, we spotted two sumos! They were putting mustard and ketchup on their hotdogs. Sumos eating hotdogs instead of chanko-nabe! How exciting! Of course I had to bust out my camera before they could get away!
We're finally here!
Uwahhh...I was so excited. The sumos came out to do a few warm-up stretches before starting.
Betcha can't do this.
Whoa...dude...everyone started clapping right away. =D
Introducing all the sumos...
They're all coming out. I don't know who's who, but whatever. The robes are pretty.
After introducing all the sumos, the host announced that it was time for some, "comic sumo" - things that the sumo wrestlers cannot do. I am sorry I couldn't catch any pictures during this event, but it was very entertaining to see. There were two sumos (a really skinny one and a really big one) that demonstrated what went against the rules. They did all sorts of funny things to make the audience laugh.
Push, push, push...!
After the comic sumo, a bunch of young'uns came out to strut their stuff. =3 Everyone seemed baffled but delighted by these little guys. The host announced over the speaker that they were the keiki (children) of Hawaii...so they're locals, not sumos-in-training like I originally thought. xD When they first put up the smallest little guy up on stage, he tripped backward. He was obviously scared. It was funny to see them all go up one by one, trying to challenge the bigger guys. There was one particular boy that was really aggressive and he pushed and pushed, struggling to get one win. The sumo was eventually "pushed" out of the ring so the little guy won. The above picture shows one kid who pushed and pushed, but failed to make the sumo budge. Many of them were also twirled in the air by the sumo. xD It looked fun but scary at the same time.
Charging all at once.
After all going up one by one (some with repeated tries), they were allowed to charge at the rikishi (big guys) all at once. What a sight to see!
The preliminary round and the first round began after a short intermission.The preliminary round consisted of six matches and the first round sixteen matches. I fell in love with sumo after watching a few matches. The experience was not what I expected.
I thought that sumo was just a bunch of fat guys goin' at each other...it is so much more than that. In fact, the matches hardly seems to last more than a few seconds. Sumo is a very old and unique sport that managed to maintain its formal rituals and etiquette from the past. It was all these rituals that took longer than the actual matches! They would crouch in the dohyo (the ring), clap to dispel the evil, and of course, wave a sea of salt across the dohyo. Not to mention, I find it funny how they sometimes seem to be throwing the salt in the gyoji (referee's) face. Then sometimes they'd glare at each other some more (thus, exciting the crowd) and grab some more salt to
Takamisakari.
A sumo that I can remember in particular was Takamisakari because he was the crazy, riled up one. Before a match would begin, he would always go crazy, shaking his head and his body angrily, glaring at his opponent, and throwing salt aggressively across the dohyo. Takamisakari was remembered because he always made a scene. Frankly, I didn't know what his problem was. Perhaps he just wanted to excite the crowd (he did this succesfully). He seemed very boastful and cocky so I was glad when Ryuo, my second favorite sumo, defeated him in the second round.
Another formidable sumo wrestler was Kotooshu from Bulgaria. By far, he was the tallest (at 203 cm!!!) and one of the strongest sumos that went on stage that night. To sum it up in one word, this guy was scary.
Wakanosato was remembered for being the sumo wrestler with his own group of cheerleaders. Whenever he came up, they would start chanting his name and clapping in rhythm.
During the first round, the match that impressed me the most (aka the most memorable one) was the fourth match, between Ama (peaceful horse) and Chiyotaikai. Ama was smaller, but he managed to outwit his opponent, snatching victory before anyone could blink. As the tournament went on, I found myself cheering for this guy. He had technique and he was agile. Despite his obvious talent and skill, I felt a little scared for him because his opponents were always bigger than him. But he would come through every time. I loved watching his matches the most because he always made the most impressive wins. One of the more exciting matches was when he went against Kotooshu, the biggest sumo in the tournament. Ama managed to defeat him, proving technique over power. Ama slowly passed through the second round, third round, the semi-finals...and finally onto the final round to compete against the yokozuna, the highest title holder!
The current yokozuna (highest sumo rank) was Hakuho and get this: He's my sister's age (22)!!! I had no idea sumo wrestlers could be so young. XD Throughout the entire tournament, I've been watching him. For some reason, I get the feeling that he is the most clear headed one. He never seems overly aggressive nor boastful. He remains calm. The matches with Hakuho were also suspenseful because he never wins right away. During his matches, he always wins at last minute. Whenever he'd seem to lose, he would turn things around. For example, there was one time when he was pushed to the edge of the ring. It seemed like the end for him until we saw him lift his opponent off the floor and slam him down on the floor. Not only is Hakuho intelligent, he is also very strong.
I had always liked watching Ama. I was very proud and happy to see that he was able to make it to the final round. During the finals, the two sumos left were Hakuho and Ama. Both of these rikishis were very admirable. You can just feel the tension rising. Who would win???
Ama vs. Hakuho.
Hakuho won. I liked them both so I was happy whatever the outcome may be. =)
After watching the rikishis for five long hours, my whole perspective changed. They didn't even look fat to me anymore. The amazing strength and power they demonstrated throughout this event just proved to me that it was all muscles and nothing else. I am a step closer to understanding those crazy fangirls who think of their favorite sumo wrestler as the most eligible bachelor in Japan. I can understand why people love sumo. =D I came as a clueless spectator, but now I truly appreciate sumo. This amazing experience really opened my eyes to the beauty of this 1,500 year-old traditional Japanese sport.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Last Day of School!
Whoo hoo! I have said this many times, but I want to say it again: I still, still, still can't believe it is summer already! For the first time in a long time, I won't be taking summer school. I regret this a little (but only a little) since the majority of my friends are taking summer classes, but I really don't want to bother with it this time. xD Jenny makes a good point - there is no rush to go to college. Why don't you just enjoy your high school days while it lasts? I just experienced how fast the years go by. Two more years is nothing. Gosh, the very thought of graduating so soon is a bit scary. I plan to quit the Engineering Academy in my senior year because I find that being an engineer is not me after all. The electives I signed up for the next school year are "Graphic Technology" and "Travel Industry & Management." I feel like I'm going in all directions, but I like that I have a chance to explore my options. ^_^
This whole week went by slowly. There were more parties than classes actually being held in school. On Tuesday, my special history class planned a surprise party for Ms. Naks. We had two other teachers help us with the plan, but I think Ms. Naks knew that something was up. How can it not be obvious with twenty-something people in on it? During lunch recess, we had Ms. Asato pretend to ask Ms. Naks to watch her class while she goes on an errand. That gave us some time to prepare.
People went absolutely crazy.
Again, my pictures do no justice. The class was a mess as we flew streamers around and over the lights. The resulting clash of green, blue, yellow, pink, red, and lavendar looked like a gigantic spiderweb...a colorful one. Then we blew up balloons and hung some of them on the streamers. Hoang made four big banners...crazy girl.
THE head.
People who watched our play might recognize this. This was the mannequin-styrofoam head that Rachel, Juri, and I bought at Party City from all the way over in Waikele. We used it in our last scene in the Witch Hunts. Rachel's "head" was chopped off by the guillotine but curtains close before the audience sees. Then the "head" was thrown out onto the stage from behind the curtains. In the first two performances, the head got stuck in between the thick, heavy curtains. I wanted to get it right for the third performance so a precaution was taken. I took the initiative to throw the head out myself. However, I went a little overboard because the head flew right off the stage. -____-; Ah, well. The head is special to us all because of all the memories it holds. We decided to sign the head with a little message from each of us to Ms. Naks.
Uh-oh, somebody better help her.
Haha, I told Angie to smile for the camera but she looks like she is getting strangled by the big spider web. XD
When the bell rang for class to start, we told Ms. Nags (Nagareda) to blindfold Ms. Naks. We closed the lights and the whole class crouched down, ready. When she entered the class, the lights flipped on and everyone jumped up to yell, "Surprise!" while balloons were thrown at her. We gave her leis and then I gave her the doll I made. Then we had what seemed like a photoshoot session because thousands of cameras were flipped out and started flashing away for about ten minutes.
I said, "Don't you feel like a celebrity? XD"
Earlier, we had arranged our desks in a circle around our classroom. After the picture-taking session was over, we each stood up to say a little speech. Mine was crap because I can't say anything right at the right moment. Half of the girls in class started crying because that day was our last class together. Although I'm an emotional person, I wasn't one of them because I was not in the mood to shed tears.
We then grabbed some food while we watched a slideshow that Sam and Julia had prepared.
Going clockwise: Ally's chicken katsu, Hoang's mom's fried rice, my pasta salad, and Jenny's mom's mochiko chicken.
Note that the above picture only shows my first plate. ^^; Don't worry, I won't bombard you with any more pictures because the dessert pictures came out ugly (there were TWO cakes, toaster strudels, and cinnamon rolls). All of the food was deeeelicious and my favorite was Hoang's mom's fried rice. I think it may be the best fried rice I've eaten...no kidding (I've eaten fried rice at many places). At first, I was skeptical because I could see that there was pepper sprinkled all over it, but I found it the spiciness of the dish to be perfect. It complemented the rest of the flavors. The ingredients looked ordinary (like all other fried rice) - spam, egg, and cabbage...so it must be how the dish was prepared that made it taste so good. I want to ask Hoang more about it next time so I can learn to make it for myself. ^.~
This whole week went by slowly. There were more parties than classes actually being held in school. On Tuesday, my special history class planned a surprise party for Ms. Naks. We had two other teachers help us with the plan, but I think Ms. Naks knew that something was up. How can it not be obvious with twenty-something people in on it? During lunch recess, we had Ms. Asato pretend to ask Ms. Naks to watch her class while she goes on an errand. That gave us some time to prepare.
People went absolutely crazy.
Again, my pictures do no justice. The class was a mess as we flew streamers around and over the lights. The resulting clash of green, blue, yellow, pink, red, and lavendar looked like a gigantic spiderweb...a colorful one. Then we blew up balloons and hung some of them on the streamers. Hoang made four big banners...crazy girl.
THE head.
People who watched our play might recognize this. This was the mannequin-styrofoam head that Rachel, Juri, and I bought at Party City from all the way over in Waikele. We used it in our last scene in the Witch Hunts. Rachel's "head" was chopped off by the guillotine but curtains close before the audience sees. Then the "head" was thrown out onto the stage from behind the curtains. In the first two performances, the head got stuck in between the thick, heavy curtains. I wanted to get it right for the third performance so a precaution was taken. I took the initiative to throw the head out myself. However, I went a little overboard because the head flew right off the stage. -____-; Ah, well. The head is special to us all because of all the memories it holds. We decided to sign the head with a little message from each of us to Ms. Naks.
Uh-oh, somebody better help her.
Haha, I told Angie to smile for the camera but she looks like she is getting strangled by the big spider web. XD
When the bell rang for class to start, we told Ms. Nags (Nagareda) to blindfold Ms. Naks. We closed the lights and the whole class crouched down, ready. When she entered the class, the lights flipped on and everyone jumped up to yell, "Surprise!" while balloons were thrown at her. We gave her leis and then I gave her the doll I made. Then we had what seemed like a photoshoot session because thousands of cameras were flipped out and started flashing away for about ten minutes.
I said, "Don't you feel like a celebrity? XD"
Earlier, we had arranged our desks in a circle around our classroom. After the picture-taking session was over, we each stood up to say a little speech. Mine was crap because I can't say anything right at the right moment. Half of the girls in class started crying because that day was our last class together. Although I'm an emotional person, I wasn't one of them because I was not in the mood to shed tears.
We then grabbed some food while we watched a slideshow that Sam and Julia had prepared.
Going clockwise: Ally's chicken katsu, Hoang's mom's fried rice, my pasta salad, and Jenny's mom's mochiko chicken.
Note that the above picture only shows my first plate. ^^; Don't worry, I won't bombard you with any more pictures because the dessert pictures came out ugly (there were TWO cakes, toaster strudels, and cinnamon rolls). All of the food was deeeelicious and my favorite was Hoang's mom's fried rice. I think it may be the best fried rice I've eaten...no kidding (I've eaten fried rice at many places). At first, I was skeptical because I could see that there was pepper sprinkled all over it, but I found it the spiciness of the dish to be perfect. It complemented the rest of the flavors. The ingredients looked ordinary (like all other fried rice) - spam, egg, and cabbage...so it must be how the dish was prepared that made it taste so good. I want to ask Hoang more about it next time so I can learn to make it for myself. ^.~
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