Posted Stacey's rant on Virginia Tech (and recipe for veggies), Hiromi's piece on Strunk and White, and Rosaria's rant on show offs. Check for my edits.
The domain pbuzz.net is fully functional now. I noticed a dramatic falling off of readership over the week as our content got stale! It's back up now (I'll show you in class). We'll have lots of articles with the contributions of the English 11 and 12s, however. We should publish no more than 2/3s of them to make it clearer the effort required!
Bring your ideas for your future contributions to class or post them here. The poster is ready for printing (will show you in class) and we'll need to work out where to post and who will distribute. As for printing places, I'm happy to receive your suggestions, although I've found one online.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
21 comments:
Hello Brad
I rewote my previous article baced on your suggestions and revised the aecdote and some descriptions, so I post the whole article.
Thank you.
Here's my 3rd draft:
To Enjoy A Party
Without studying English conversation and the British-Australian manners, I started living with my host family in Sydney. Every weekend, they held a home party that gave me great lessons to amend my hesitation.
“Which one do you want with your apple pie, whipping cream or vanilla ice cream?” My host mother asked me at the counter.
“Eh? Ice cream or…” I didn’t feel like a dessert right after dinner, so I was wondering about how I excuse nicely.
“Both!” My host father cheerfully replied instead of me; he brought me a large piece of pie filled with two creams. Indecision led him a misunderstanding.
I felt very awkward with the guest sitting beside me. She easily avoided the dessert, smiling at him, saying, “No, thanks. I’m full.” How simple and smart!
Dealing with my weakness, I’ve learned how to enjoy a party with the people from overseas.
Keep Smiling
Smiling face attracts people, gives a good impression, which encourages you to be positive.
Be Honest
Say clearly what you would like to drink or eat when you are asked. If you are weak in English conversation, it is better to mention to a person, “I’m learning English.” By this phrase, she or he would adjust speaking for you, and it would also expand the conversation.
Observe People To talk
Give a lot of care to others’ actions and words, belongings. Catch something interesting point from people to get an opportunity to chat with them.
Be a good listener
Listening attentively is a favourable manner that would satisfy others feelings. Give some questions or comments for their speeches.
Find a Leader
Shy? That’s all right. Just seek someone who is the most talkative at a party. Then stay with her or him. Luckily, if the person is generous, she or he might take care of you during the party.
Help a Host or a Hostess
Helping a host or hostess is beneficial. You will be allowed to enter the kitchen to make yourself busy. It also gives you a chance to approach to others by serving. Beside, they may appreciate your kindness.
(351 words including subheadings)
Hi Brad
Here is my first draft about teacher's profile: The warm-hearted science teacher Tazim.
I appreciate the devotion of the PALC teachers. They are talented teachers to me but family-like co-workers to each other. The warm atmosphere of the PALC the teachers create, gives me a sense of stability. Most of them willingly talk me to keep going with my studying. They teach me much more what goes beyond the textbook.
The kind kindergarten teacher, Tazim
Tazim teaches us how to wash our hands, chew on many times, and take a deep breath. We become kindergarten students in her class. She appeals to me because of her private story-- misdiagnosis about a cancer-- in her science class. Over six-month suffering story made my heart beat roughly. It was a fresh shock to me.
I appreciate her courage to share the harsh experience and love her righteousness with generosity. I miss her high tone lecture.
“Okay, students! Keep exercise!"
Her history in three continents:
It was 9 A.M. April 17th, 2007 when I met her in the computer room.
She was born in Kampala, Uganda. At there she finished pre-school, elementary, and middle school. Then she moved to London, England. At there she completed high school, university, and teacher training. Last she moved to Vancouver and taught international students for seven years. She realized her interest in adult education.
At last she became a full time teacher in the PALC.
“Teaching adults is fun.” She said with a smile.
Here are some her favorites:
Food: vegetarian and spicy foods
Activity: watching tennis
Religion: Muslim
Quote: hard work+ determination= success
Movie: The Firm
Hobby: playing with her son
This is my first draft about Tazim however, I didn’t get her permission. I am wondering if she would agree or not.
Brad,
I have four articles, The Amazing Effect of Yoga, My Story about Yoga, Forbidding Paradise to Public Resort, and A Trip at Danshuel River, are not revised. I need your help, so I put them here below:
The Amazing Effect of Yoga
Yoga exercise gives people energy, confidence, and health and that amazing effect makes them look younger than their age. It requires the coordination of three components: physical, mental, and spiritual. Another component is constant practice. Later, the amazing result would gradually appear.
6,000 years ago, Yoga was a religion in ancient India. Its original meaning is to maintain the body through physical and spiritual. The ancient yoga participants imitated some animal’s movement for relaxation. For example, cats curve their spines upward, dogs stretch their heads downward, and camels bends their heads backward. People felt comfortable and had more energy in their bodies after they imitated the stretches. Then they realized that those animals had an instinct to cure their illness. Also they dealt with their fatigue by doing various stretches. So they added physical stretches to add in their religious practice.
When people stretch their muscle, it actually brings more oxygen into their bodies. The more they stretch, the more it stimulates their muscle deeply. By this way, the chi (Chinese description) will go into their bone marrow and nourish their bone through their spongy bone. Moreover, if they mentally focus on a spot of their bodies that spot get stimulated. The nerve on that spot will be more energetic, then their illness or fatigue can be cured easily. It reflects the power of strong intention that could fulfill their potential. So, stretch combines mental focusing will make people full of energy.
To purify the spiritual is also a very important concern. No matter what kind of practice or discipline, a purified mind gives people free from edgy or worrisome issue. Then their mind can concentrate on whatever they practice. Think about many examples of successful experts or inventors, such as Mother Teresa, Helen Keller, and Einstein. How could they reach their goal without a calm and peaceful mind? Since people calm down their mind, the wonderful amazing wisdom will arise simultaneously. They will be satisfied with the efficient result afterward. The purified spiritual enable people reach good health as well.
However, since Yoga has developed into a popular exercise around the world, people pick up its advantage for the health reason. I believe many Yoga participants like me do not involved in that religion and just do physical discipline instead. For example, my Yoga stretches are mixed with many postures that come from ancient China. It includes acupressure that can prevent participants from getting hurt while doing stretches. After 25 years teaching Yoga, many of my students including myself have got benefit. We have become enthusiastic in doing Yoga. Besides, people from different ethnic groups will mix Yoga with their own culture to develop into a multiple postures; therefore, Yoga becomes a popular exercise in the world
Coordinating physical, mental, and spiritual, Yoga would give people energy and confidence that enhance health and make them look younger than their age, but they have to persist in practicing.
My Story about Yoga
Yoga saved my life and it has become my career. It has given me good health, confidence in life, and energy. For the health reason, I don’t want to stop doing Yoga.
My story started from an aerobic exercise that was initiated by the women’s association in Taiwan 33 years ago. As one of the administrators of the association, I tried my best to help established the class. I was also an earnest participant in the class.
My story should come up several stages: (1) Aerobic class was replaced with Yoga. (2) Yoga has benefited me. (3) Yoga becomes my career. (4) The true of my gastrointestinal disorder. (5) Astonishing. (6) Healing by accident.
Aerobic class was replaced with Yoga:
Later on, my teacher changed the aerobic course to Yoga because the adult’s muscles were too stiff to have good posture. Many of the students gave up the course except me. I became the only persistent student. I was often asked to demonstrate in the class. My teacher always complimented me in public that encouraged me a lot.
Yoga has benefited me:
After I have practiced Yoga, I am always full of energy which builds up my confidence in studying many things and participating in various activities. The most important thing is that my illnesses had gone away, such as, migraine, stomach ache, motion sickness, and menstrual problem. The most serious disease was stomach ache that had been bothering me like a bomb in my body ready to explode since I was a kid. Since Yoga gives me so much benefit, I become an enthusiastic participant.
Yoga becomes my career:
One day, one of my friends recommended me to teach Yoga in the Social Education Hall in Hshin Chu city in Taiwan. At an accidental visit, she saw my postures while I was practicing. I just intended to try one class but it developed into many classes. Many of my students have followed me since I started my class. I even didn’t have any time for my vacation during the time I was teaching in Taiwan. Then, Yoga has become my career.
The true of my gastrointestinal disorder:
My gastrointestinal disorder was actually caused by an anomalous bile duct which is as huge as a sack and a shrunken junction between bile duct and duodenum. I had received the wrong treatment for the stomach disease because my doctors never figured out the real problem. Later, the modern technology, ultrasound, benefited me. My doctor was able to diagnose that I was born with a huge bile duct that would accumulate dirt in the gall liquid to form stones.
Astonishing:
During the 16 years that I practiced Yoga, my stomach ache disappeared. However, the stones constantly grew until they had grown too much; some stones even piled up in my liver. When I had an operation in the hospital, I found many of the patients like me had lost their lives, because the gall liquid was blocked by stones, and then it detoured its path to the pancreas. I was frightened because my situation was more serious than anyone else there.
Healing by accident:
Yoga benefited me by accident. It reminded me I have done upside down everyday so that the liquid went back into the bile duct instead of the pancreas. And also, I did the Yoga special remedy that cleaned my stomach whenever I couldn’t endure the pain. Later, I realized that my gall bladder wouldn’t compress the gall out of it when my stomach was empty. I am appreciative that all these good things happened to save my life.
Yoga saved my life, and it has made me full of energy and benefits me very much. I couldn’t stop doing Yoga.
Forbidding Paradise to Public Resort
Does recollection of special privilege leave a favorable impression on your life?
When my 46-years-ago classmate Judy, who accompanied me to visit the former president’s mansion (Shihlinquadi) in Taipei. I have learned a practical lesson from it. I realized an interesting and ironic issue that the powerful prosperity only exists on a short period of time. Why? I will tell you why.
Forbidden mansion
The former president, Cheang Jieh Shyr, owned one of his luxury mansions which looks like a paradise, and it was a place where was off limited to people. People could only guess what it was. After the president passed away and the power changed to the other party, none of his descendent could keep the property any more. Now, it became accessible to the people. It is a popular resort and a lovely place for picture taking especially who love nature.
Inside the garden
The entrance to the garden path is flanked by lofty palms on both sides. The exultant feelings surged up in me when I walked through it. The fancy landscape includes decorated trees, various flowers, and indoor plants that are breath taking. For example, a big harp shape area has been designed by growing small trees and vines, the various orchids grow in the indoor garden, the exotic beautiful roses occupy a big spot, and the flower arrangements display in indoor room. All these enchanting scenery attract people who love nature.
Enjoyed the atmosphere under the big trees
The garden reminded me of my childhood. I enjoyed the romantic landscape. While sitting on a bench under the big trees, Judy and I had so much recollections. Whatever we could remember make me feel like going back to my childhood. What I love most was the cool breeze passing along with aromatic roses and the colorful butterflies that were dancing around while we were chatting.
The end of special place
The ironic issue is that the forbidden place has ended after the power is gone. It belongs to the public. My recollection of this place will leave me favorable impression. I am happy that it is now a public garden.
A Trip at Danshuel River
Hustling bustling for relaxing,
The rapid transit was crowded.
Danshuel, the charming river has bewitched millions.
A surge of visitors came from nowhere.
Snack stalls stand on the river side.
Street performers sing drama on the square.
Lights like little stars,
Reflect twinkling on the water across the river.
Pursuing the beautiful sun set,
I joined the crowd together along the river bank.
Smelling the favorite delicious local food,
I enjoyed a unforgettable supper with friend Judy.
Walking along the bank,
I tasted the cool tasty fruit juice.
Seeing the attractive dessert,
I shopped some sweet snacks.
Listening to the delicate music,
I watched the street performers playing.
What a wonderful trip I experienced!
hi everyone,
here is my final draft.
Stay on the Road
Gas price sky rocket.
Driving past the gas station on my way home to work, I look at the sign and ti says $1.20 per liter. Holy Moly ! The price was only $1.10 this morning. I do a calculate for my SUV. $120.00 to fill the tank.
Global warming.
Large vehicles are one of the major causes of global warming. Some feel this is partially responsible for the strange, shifting weather we have experienced over the past months.
How do we solve the problem? Solving it may be difficult, but we can reduce the problem in one special way.
Earth friendly hybrid vehicles.
Hybrid vehicles combine two or more sources of power. Hybrid vehicles run off a rechargeable battery and gasoline.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of hybrid cars?
The advantage of hybrid cars is good mileage, lower emissions(up to 30%), less noise, and long lasting brakes. For example, the brakes can last 150,000 k/m ( compared to most cars getting from 30 to 50,000 k/m) and on some cars, batteries go up to 270,000 km or close to10 years before needing a change . Hybrid cars often recover braking energy and use it to charge the battery.
The disadvantages– they still produce emissions, are expensive, costly to
repair, and are not as powerful as gasoline vehicles.
Many people believe that the best hybrid car in the market today is the Toyota prius.
Toyota Prius— Toyota Prius’s approximately price starts from $32000.00.
The government is giving up to $2000.00 tax reduction when you buy any hybrid vehicle and
$ 2000.00 reduction from the actual price,So its all together $ 4000.00. Overall, the hybrid cars will save you some money in long term according to the good mileage and long lasting brakes etc...
I vote for "LEARNING FROM MICE" , "A TRICKY EXPRESSION' and " THE MAN BEHIND THE STAGE CURTAIN" because those articles are really meaningful.
Teaser: Is it true? Spare a rod and spoil a child. Read more…
What for-“Monster” Mom?
I was on a public putting green under a brilliant sunlight glittering through the fluttering leaves with warm summer breeze. What a peaceful moment! All of a sudden, a slim mom, a litter boy and a fully-loaded maid arrived the green. Then, the atmosphere became nervous.
“ Simon, concentrate, remember what the teacher said.”
“This is a up hill one, put it harder.”
“How can put so hard, you miss a whole block”.
“Look at you; it seems getting worse”
“OK, this one is better.”
“Be caution. Even practice.”
“No, come on!”
“…”
The mom was folding her arm standing two-feet in front her son, making on going critical common loudly. The maid stood statuedly out side the green with some cloths and a back-bag in her hand. First, the little boy obeyed his mom’s direction; then protruded his mouth; finally, puled out but still practiced putting the balls. Lastly, he murmured.
“Mammy, I am so hungry and cold. I can’t do it. Please, don’t be a monster.”
“Noooo! Go on, you need practices to improve.” she struggled, stared at her son in an awkward pause. The boy was shaking and sobbing with his head down, but no further action.
Eventually, the stern mom made a sigh heavily and grasped her son and went to the restaurant. Besides, the maid picked up the balls and followed them. A disturbed senior golfer swinged his head to me when I looked at them leaving.
What a scene! What a “monster” mother! I wonder how tough to be a mother sometimes. She must know that spare a rod and spoil a child. The little boy will be next Tiger Wood, then, the “monster” mother’s efforts will be worth it.
First droft, 302 words
Teaser: Is it true?Spare a rod and spoil a child. Read more…
What for-“Monster” Mom?
I was on a public putting green under a brilliant sunlight glittering through the fluttering leaves with warm summer breeze. What a peaceful moment! All of a sudden, a chinese skinny mom, a five-year-old litter boy and a over-loaded maid arrived on the green. Then the tranquil atmosphere became strained.
“ Simon, concentrate, remember what the coach said.”
“This is a up hill one, putt it harder.”
“How can you putt so hard, you miss a whole block”.
“Look at you; it seems getting worse.”
“OK, this one is better.”
“Be cautious. Even practice.”
“No, come on!”
“…”
The unrelenting mom was folding her arms standing two feet in front of her son, making on-going critical comments loudly. The maid stood like a statue outside the green with some cloths and a backpack in her hand. First, the little boy obeyed his mom’s direction; then protruded his mouth; finally, puled out but still practiced putting the balls. Lastly, he murmured.
“Mammy, I am so hungry and cold. I can’t do it. Please, don’t be a monster.”
“Noooo! Go on, you need practice to improve.” she struggled, stared at her son in an awkward pause. The boy was shaking and sobbing with his head down, but no further action.
Eventually, the stern mom made a heavy sigh, grasped her son and went to the restaurant. The maid picked up the balls and followed them. A disturbed senior golfer shook his head from side to side in disapproval it when I looked at them leaving.
What a scene! What a “monster” mother! I wonder how tough to be a mother sometimes. She must follow that saying spare a rod and spoil a child. The little boy Probably becomes next Tiger Woods. Then the “monster” mother’s efforts will be worth it.
second draft, 316 words
Philosophy of Romance
If you are looking for romance, do just that. Look around and observe romance found in Shakespeare or modern novels or, observe your surroundings and pick places that have attractive scenery, somewhere to take a date. During your search you may find the desire to pass judgment on someone’s romance. It’s crucial you do not, instead keep an open mind and learn.
Be an observer
A burning question is “how do I please my date?” Take it slow and get to know the person, avoid being bored at all costs. You want to know a little bit about the person to make the date go smoothly. Is she the type of woman that likes dinner out, or is he the man who would rather stay indoors to watch hockey?
Keen observation skills come in handy in finding out.
Now that you’ve found a spot to take your date or perhaps just staying home, you still need some smooth moves.
Shakespeare won’t give you many of those, but studying the true meaning of his romance works will give you a keen eye some of history’s finest romances, and hopefully the knowledge to create some of your own.
Be an attentive listener, answer any questions with a smile interjecting with a relevant story, and that in itself is a smooth move.
Make sure you genuinely like the person before revealing secrets or making your date uncomfortable revealing their’s.
Let the scenery that you chose for your date inspire you. Take it slow and learn about the person you’re with. Try to find common interests and make a connection, so there can be more dates that will also go well. As long as you are cheerful and attentive, there is no need to rush on the first date.
Observation Tip: Is your wife upset after dinner while there’s hockey on? Try cleaning up the kitchen, putting the dishes away, and give the kitchen floor a once over, missing hockey to do so.
Avoid passing judgment
On your journey to find romance you might slip and fall a few times, but learning from those mistakes will help in your future. If you already have a partner you’ll still need to observe and find solutions to problems, each bump on the road a chance to learn.
Keep an open mind as you explore romance, be it at home with a book or out with a date, and resist the urge to judge. Your mind could be bursting with ideas on how to fix a romance, but often times, a romance between people is inscrutable. Make a note of the problem you see in romance, coming up with a solution objectively and humbly.
Romance is often a mystery, but in it’s pursuit you can find joy and make great memories. Just keep an open mind, a positive glow, be attentive and innovative as you explore the excitement of a new romantic interest, or the fulfillment of renewing an old flame.
497 words, 1st draft
Hello everyone, my article won't leave you licking your lips, but I'm genuinely trying to help people find romance.
See you in class thursday!!
Hi Brad,
Here is my new article for consideration. (The beginning can be a teaser.I have a picture of Symphony at the Park, but forgot how to present it.)
I am sorry that I can’t be in class tomorrow. I wish I were, because I d like to be together with all students to sing “Happy birthday to you”
Have a great week,
Natalia
Summer Outdoor Music Festivals in Vancouver
Summer is nearly at the door. As sun appears more often, even the most dedicated music lovers find it difficult to attend concert halls. Everybody wants to be outdoors, and so does the music.
For the music lovers, I’d recommend putting on your calendar several events.
Annual Vancouver International Jazz Festival.
(June 22-July 1, 2007)
10 days of excitement that starts June 22 and ends on July 1. Festival includes many free performances on the open stages of Gastown Vancouver and Granville Island. You can listen to extremely versatile and talented jazz musicians from Canada and around the world. Spend all happy Canada Day on Granville Island wandering around, listening generously free good music, enjoying the unique atmosphere of free art. For more information see: http://www.coastaljazz.ca/
Annual Vancouver Simphony Orchestra Concert at Deer Lake Park.
(Sunday July 15, 2007, 9:30pm, Free Admission)
Combine three pleasures: listening to the best Vancouver Simphony Orchestra for free, being in one of the prettiest Burnaby parks, and enjoying picnic with friends and family.
The weather, usually, is very merciful at that time -worm and dry. The music is light, summery, and very "outdoors". Every year more then 5000 people enjoy music at the natural amphitheatre landscape of Deer Lake Park. If you forgot your picnic bucket, vendors offer tasty popular food and beverages. The only one problem -parking. The concert starts at 7p.m.; come beforehand (an hour earlier) to find parking nearby.
For more information see: http://www.tourismburnaby.com/taxonomy/term/6
8th Annual Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival at Deer Lake Park.
(Aug. 11, gates 2 p.m.)
This festival is a beloved four -year child of city of Burnaby. Although it is not free concert, but it is generously sponsored by many organizations. For the reasonable price (35-40$) you can enjoy good selection of Canadian and international blues artists throughout all day picnic. Food and beverages will be nearby in a great selection; you can also go outside of the concert area with the small stamp on your hand. Kids will be entertained specially.
Tickets and info: www.burnabybluesfestival.com
When the weather is good, in addition to above mentioned, you might join Sunday afternoon concerts at Queens Park or country music concerts at gorgeous New Westminster Quay.
Hi, Brad, I got her permission
Here is the second draft about teacher's profile
The warm-hearted science teacher, Tazim.
I appreciate the devotion of the PALC teachers. They are talented teachers to me but family-like co-workers to each other. The warm atmosphere at the PALC the teachers create, gives me a sense of stability. Most of them willingly talk me to keep going with my studying. They teach me much more than what goes beyond the textbook. Among them there is Tazim.
The kind “kindergarten” teacher, Tazim
Tazim teaches us in the science class how to wash our hands, chew many times, and take a deep breath. We become kindergarten students in her class. After the class still, we follow her instruction—have rainbow colored diet.
Sharing her story of suffering
Tazim appeals to me because of her private story-- misdiagnosis about a cancer-- in her science class. Her over six-month story of suffering made my heart beat irregularly. It was a deep shock to me.
I appreciate her courage to share the harsh experience and love her righteousness with generosity. I miss her teacher voice during the lectures.
“Okay, students! Keep exercising!”
Her history in three continents
It was 9 A.M. April 17th, 2007 when I met her in the computer room.
She was born in Kampala, Uganda. She finished pre-school, elementary, and middle school there. Then she moved to London, England. She completed high school, university, and teacher training there. Last she moved to Vancouver and taught international students for seven years. She realized her interest in adult education.
In 1989, she became a full time teacher in the PALC.
“Teaching adults is fun,” she said with a smile.
Here are some her favorites
Food: vegetarian and spicy foods
Activity: watching tennis and ice hockey
Religion: Ismaili Muslim
Quote: hard work+ determination= success
Movie: The Firm
Author: John Grisham
Book: Pilot’s Wife
Hobbies: spending time with her son, reading and watching television
Learning From Animals--Hamster:
My Son Jerry
Tears: I had never thought I would have a hamster as a pet until one day my daughter, Cecilia, brought Jerry home. See more…
“Dad,” Cecilia said, “This is Jerry, he will live with us from now on. You should treat him as your son.” I fainted at hearing that. However, after living together for almost three years, I can tell you today that Jerry was so smart, brave, and unbeatable.
Smart:
Not like what I used to think, Jerry didn’t pee everywhere in his home. Hamster’s feces smell not so bad, but their urine smells really not good. Jerry’s home was a not very big cage. He always slept at a certain corner and had a pee at opposite corner. In other words, the place he took a pee was as far as possible from the place he slept. I noticed that Jerry did this practice every day without any accident. I think he was very care about his living environment and knew how to keep it more comfortable.
Brave:
Everyone says that mice fear cats; however, Jerry didn’t at all. Before Jerry came to my home, there had been a cat, called Wasabi, living with us for many years. Since Jerry became a family member, Cecilia often wanted to let Jerry and Wasabi play together; however, I always strongly opposed such a stupid and horrible idea. I shouted at Cecilia: “You want Jerry to be Wasabi’s dinner?” However, one day when I came back home, the picture leapt out at me made me almost faint. I saw Jerry was running after Wasabi, and Cecilia was running after Jerry. All of them looked so happy. Since that day, Jerry and Wasabi became good friend and played together everyday.
Unbeatable:
Jerry not just beat a cat only but beat me also. I used to let Jerry has a free run on my balcony after dinner. It had gone well and never had accident happened until one day I found Jerry disappeared into the air when the free-run time was over. I combed carefully every inch of the balcony, but no Jerry there. I beat my brain out but still couldn’t figure out where Jerry went. I thought Jerry wouldn’t come back again. Cecilia sobbed so inconsolably that I wondered if she would feel so sad when her dad dead. However, a miracle happened on the third day after Jerry disappeared. In that morning, Wasabi woke me up and took me to the balcony. “Oh, my god,” I shrieked: “Is that you, Jerry, my son.” Yes, Jerry came back from the air. He was looking at me with a big smile. Up to today, I have failed to figure out what happened to Jerry that day and in the following three days.
The average lifetime of a hamster is about two years; however, Jerry lived with us over three. One and half year ago, Jerry left us again and wouldn’t come back again forever. Everyone in my family miss him very much. Wasabi often sits beside the cage, where jerry used to live, gazes at it for a long time. Maybe Wasabi thinks Jerry will be back some day, just like last time.
Hungarian Letcho.
Spicy or mild, this sausage or chicken recipe will have the whole family clamoring for supper.
Ingredients:
1 Large onion.
3 Tbsp olive oil.
2 Green peppers, cut into 1 inch squares.
3 Peeled tomatoes. Canned will do.
3 Cloves garlic, chopped.
½ tsp chili.
1 chorizo sausage or 2 skinless, boneless chicken breast.
Directions:
1.Heat oil in large fry pan over medium heat.
2. Saute onions, garlic and peppers until limp.
3. Add chopped sausage and chili. Heat through.
4. Reduce heat and add tomatoes.
5. Simmer 10 mins, stirring gently.
6. Serve with rice.
Road to the Passport Office
I plan to go abroad in summer. No matter how long the waiting line is, today is the day I’d get a passport, I decided. This is my journey on Friday May 4th, 2007.
5:25 AM Edmond Skytrain Station
A few people waited for the first train of the day. I grabbed free paper, 24 hours, from the bending box and got on the train.
(Photo 1)
5:38 AM Passing Joyce Station
Now the skytrain was almost full. Some commuters stood by the door. Everyone looked perky, ready for the day. Top story of the paper was Keep Vancouver Spectacular, the city’s street clean up program.
5:50 AM Arrived at Waterfront Station
Most of the passenger had gone at Burrard Station. About ten people got off the last stop. I followed the direction to Sinclair Centre.
5:52 AM The line up
It started at the main entrance on Hastings street. They were ready: folding chairs, blankets, Thermoses, paper cups, a big box of Tim Horton doughnuts. Two people were still sleeping in the sleeping bags. The line up turned at Granville and continued along to the end of the building.
(Photo 2)
,
5:58 AM
“Seats for sale!” Three guys, who seemed to be sleeping on the street for some time, made the round respectively. Someone asked how much, but they would only talk to the serious buyers. 60 bucks for the 9th spot, I heard.
“The door opens at 7! 7:30, you’ll be in the office! 8:30, you’ll be home, sipping coffee!” he yells. His hand at the sleeve was stainless steel, crooked like Captain Hook’s.
,
6:15 AM
A security poked his head out of the door on the side of the building. He grinned and announced, “Today is the worst [line up]!” According to him, the line up on Friday is twice as long as usual, and the rain doesn’t matter.
6:20 AM
A man in front of me murmured, “I’m not in a hurry. I probably fly in July or August. . .” A girl shivered, “It’s cold [outside]!” She wore flipflops and her toenails were painted blue.
6:45 AM
The man who wasn’t “in a hurry” left. He wished us luck.
7:00 AM The door opened
The line up started to move forward. A few meters in every 15 minutes or so.
7:30 AM Yellow ticket
A lady, a government official, showed up with yellow tickets. “This is the ticket that proves you lined up today!” she yelled. “Hold on, like a golden ticket from Willy Wonka!”
(Photo 3)
7:45 AM Hastings St
I turned the corner of Granville and Hastings and spotted the first litter of the day.
(Photo 4)
Then more litter.
(Photo 5 &6)
8:05 AM
A young man with a black hat appeared with a wagon. He was selling coffee and snacks. The big muffins looked yummy. Very tempting.
(Photo 7)
8:45 AM Entrance of Sinclair Centre
Four people were ahead of me. More trash. We need a garbage can.
(Photo 8)
And abandoned chairs.
(Photo 9)
The second Canucks mobile of the day. Is he a true fan? Or just forgot go take it down. Maybe he is believing in the next season! (Yeah!)
(Photo 10)
8:50 AM
The black hat with the cart came back from his round. The muffins were all gone.
8:58 AM Inside!
It’s warm. Nice to be inside. A group of twenty or so climbed the stairs to the passport office.
(Photo 11)
9:00 AM Office
Before entering, we were informed that if our trip is after June 18, and if we have the applications properly ready, and if we pay cash or money order (no credit card), we can go to the quick drop off section. A few people chose the option.
Here’s the office.
(Photo 12)
From the speaker in the ceiling came Avril Lavigne’s “Girlfriend” faintly.
(Photo 13)
9:10 AM
An official checked my application and told me to come back at 11:30. A new ticket was issued.
The line up outside was still long.
(Photo 14)
11:20 AM Sinclair Centre
I came back. CTV New crews were interviewing the last line of the people.
(Photo 15)
At the office, I was told to be back in an hour.
12:30 PM Back in the office
I sat and waited for my number to be called. I was at the processing counter at 1:10. Everything was fine. The officer told me that the passport would be in the mail by early June.
1:25 PM Out of the office
All done! Phew!
Extra: Construction of the rapid transit under Granville
(Photo 16)
766 words! I don’t mind cutting some. . .
I’ll send a bunch of the photos.
Hi, Hiromi san
Very interesting!
I especially like the part, "5:58ÄM, Seat for sale."
I think you really enjoyed the trip to downtown early in the morning.
And I'm glad that you could manage to apply your passport and could come home safely.
See you
Hey Ritchan, thanks.
Yes, that was quite an adventure.
Rivision:
Road to the Passport Office
The passport office has been busy, I heard on the news. Today I tried it myself. This is how it went on Friday May 4th, 2007.
5:24 AM Edmond Skytrain Station
A few people were waiting for the first train. I grabbed free paper, 24 hours, from the bending box and got on the train.
(Photo 1)
5:38 AM Passing Joyce Station
Now the skytrain was almost full. Some commuters stood by the door. Everyone looked perky, ready for the day. Top story of the paper was Keep Vancouver Spectacular, the city’s street clean up program.
5:50 AM Arrived at Waterfront Station
With most passenger gone at Burrard Station, about ten people got off at the last stop. I followed the direction to Sinclair Centre.
5:52 AM The line up
It started at the main entrance on Hastings street. They were prepared: folding chairs, blankets, Thermoses, paper cups, a big box of Tim Horton doughnuts. Two people were sleeping in the sleeping bags. The line up made a turn at Granville and continued to the end of the building.
(Photo 2)
5:58 AM
“Seats for sale!” A man, who seemed to be sleeping on the street for some time, came by. Another followed. Someone asked the price, but they would only talk to the serious buyers. 60 bucks for the 9th spot, I heard.
“The door opens at 7! 7:30, you’ll be in the office! 8:30, you’ll be home, sipping coffee!” The third yelled. His hand at the sleeve was stainless steel, crooked like Captain Hook’s.
6:15 AM
A security poked his head out from the side door. He grinned and said, “Today is the worst [line up]!” According to him, the line up on Friday is twice as long as usual, and the rain doesn’t matter.
6:20 AM
“I’m not in a hurry. I probably fly in July or August,” a man in front of me murmured. “It’s cold [outside]!” A girl shivered. She wore flipflops and her toenails were painted blue.
6:45 AM
The man who wasn’t “in a hurry” left the line. He wished us luck.
7:00 AM The door opened
The line up started to move forward. A few meters in every 15 minutes or so.
7:30 AM Yellow ticket
A lady, a government official, showed up with yellow tickets. “This is the ticket that proves you lined up today!” she yelled. “Hold on to it, like a golden ticket from Willy Wonka!”
(Photo 3)
7:45 AM Hastings St
I turned the corner of Granville and Hastings and found the paper cups.
(Photo 4)
Then more litter.
(Photo 5 &6)
8:05 AM
A young man with a black hat appeared with a wagon. He was selling coffee and snacks. The big muffins looked yummy. Very tempting.
(Photo 7)
8:45 AM Entrance of Sinclair Centre
Four people were ahead of me. More trash.
(Photo 8)
Abandoned chairs.
(Photo 9)
8:50 AM
The black hat with the wagon came back from his round. The muffins were all gone.
8:58 AM Entered the building
A security let twenty of us in. We climbed the stairs to the passport office. Inside was warm.
(Photo 11)
9:00 AM Office
We were informed that if our trip is after June 18, if we have applications properly ready, and if we pay cash or money order (no credit card), we could drop off the applications and go home. A few chose the option. 14 counters were handling the applicants.
(Photo 12)
9:10 AM
After showing my papers, I was told to come back at 11:30. A new ticket was issued.
The line up outside was still long.
(Photo 14)
11:20 AM Sinclair Centre
CTV New crews were interviewing the people in the line.
(Photo 15)
At the office, I was told to be back in an hour once more.
12:30 PM Waiting in the office
I sat and waited for my number to be called. At 1:10, I was at the counter. Everything was fine. The officer told me that the passport would be in the mail by early June.
1:25 PM Out of the office
All done! Phew!
686 words so far.
Beginning Romance: The Date
Romance is often a mystery, but in it’s pursuit you can find joy and make great memories. Just keep an open mind, a positive glow, be attentive and innovative as you explore the excitement of a new romantic interest, or the fulfillment of renewing an old flame.
Date Preparations
If you are looking for romance, do just that. Look around and observe romance found in Shakespeare or modern novels. Learn from the experiences of others.
Get to know your surroundings and pick places that have attractive scenery. Have a conversation with your interest before the date to help you pick the right activity. Is she the type of woman that likes dinner out, or is he the man who likes to take walks on the beach?
The Date
Once you’ve found the perfect place or activity for the date, you still need to please the person.
Be a good listener, smile and answer any questions with a story of your own. Hopefully a little help from Shakespeare and the movies will have given you a keen eye for romance, and will allow you to have the talk needed to form a connection.
Take it slow and get to know your date. Don’t pressure the person with revealing your secrets right away, make sure your conversation is appropriate.
Avoid passing judgment
Keep an open mind as you explore romance, be it at home with a book or out with a date, and resist the urge to judge. Your mind could be bursting with ideas on how to fix a romance, but often times, a romance between people is inscrutable.
Tip: Is your wife upset after dinner while there’s hockey on? Try cleaning up the kitchen, putting the dishes away, and give the kitchen floor a once over, missing hockey to do so.
305 words, 2nd draft
Hi everyone! Here is my second draft, I hope it is clear. See you on Thursday!
Hi James,
I like your 2nd draft very much.
As I said last week, the "tip" is nice!
I also like the description,"Don’t pressure the person with revealing your secrets right away." I
couldn't help laughing when I read it-- it's funny and interesting!
See you tomorrow.
Post a Comment