Flying over Hudson
Video was taken while the plane was on autopilot. First flight over Hudson, talked to JFK, Newark and Laguardia. It is getting fun.
February 15, 2010
April 12, 2009
Takashi Rocks!
April 02, 2009
Preservation Hall at Blue Note
February 27, 2009
Esperanza Spalding performaning at White House
Just listened to her live performance at Jazz Standard days ago. Today when I turn on the TV and tuned to PBS, I am amazed that she is playing at White House. Maybe not so surprising, coz I immediately knew that she is GREAT at Jazz Standard and swore she will be the new JAZZ ICON.
January 23, 2009
Ballet Night
Willow
January 04, 2009
New Year Eve 2008 at New Orleans
I so love the trip. A combination of friends, seafood, music and more seafood, plantation and Mississippi river. It makes me feel nostalgia.
January 23, 2008
Farewell my Concubine
Sunday, January 27, 2008 8:00 PM
Avery Fisher Hall
(Please let me know, if you need tickets.)
January 01, 2008
New Year at Union Square
This picture was taken from the 2nd FL of DSW building on Union Square. They have great view of Union Square. I actually set on the floor by the window and enjoyed the view. And I also noticed that I was not the only person doing that. So if you are the owner of DSW and I highly recommend you re-organized the store, and may be you can open up a cafe? It would be awesome.
November 26, 2007
Amanda's picture used by traveling site
Hi Amanda,
I am delighted to let you know that your submitted photo has been selected for inclusion in the newly released fourth edition of our Schmap Brussels Guide:
Neuhaus
If you like the guide and have a website, blog or personal page, then please also check out our schmapplets - customizable widgetized versions of our Schmap Brussels Guide, complete with your published photo:
Thanks so much for letting us include your photo - please enjoy the guide!
Best regards,
Emma Williams,
Managing Editor, Schmap Guides
November 22, 2007
Thanksgiving Macy's Parade
-willow
October 16, 2007
New York Film Festival and Jia Zhangke
Jia Zhangke's "Useless" (or "Inutile") premiered on Saturday at Rose Hall in Lincoln Center. It is the second movie that he made about Artist in China , and the third one is on its way. A marvelous piece, smart and faithful. The contrast resulted from different social classes make the movie much deeper. Jia Zhangke's unique and genuine views never fail to catch you with surprises.
What I didn't really expect on the day is that Jia Zhangke himself actually attended the premier. He appeared on stage after the screening, and he answered a couple of questions from the audience. The questions are a bit aggressive, however, Jia Zhangke handled them without any hesitation. It really impressed me. Such an intelligent guy!
1. Economic growth and the Artists
China's rapid economic growth gives great opportunities and more than ever exposures to the Artists. At the same time, it does bring environmental problems and a lot of other issues. We are experiencing the ramification of the rapid economy growth, both the good and the bad.
2. Why choose artists as topic, what can they do to help improve the society, the country, the world.
At this moment, it is hard to say what exactly Artists can do. But we all know what the world would look like if there is no artists.
September 08, 2007
Happy Birthday - James
Amy flew all the way from Spain to New York for James surprise Birthday party. A couple of James' friends from Central Park running club produced a small play for James birthday.
Here are some pictures from the party:
August 11, 2007
First Long Island Balloon Festival
image/jpeg
BEst
-willow
July 13, 2007
Bronx Zoo Trip
May 29, 2007
McNally Robinson
My new favorite bookstore with a lovely teahouse located in SOHO
April 15, 2007
Four Chinese Pagninis at Lincoln Center
Individually they are wonderful, together they are unbelievable! The most known member of four is Lu Siqing, features "Butterfly Love". Although I have listened to the music a thousand times, still amazed by the energy that Lu delivers. Feng Ning is probably the youngest, and I love his performance the best! Ms. Huang is very talented and come up the idea of a unique violin quartet.
April 01, 2007
Prof. Woods come in Town
image/jpeg
B.E.st -willow
March 04, 2007
Sunday afternoon Lincoln Tunnel
A box stuck out of the car in front mine, who is also trying to get through Lincoln Tunnel. And it says: I want pee. And this was how bad the traffic was.
B.E.st -willow
HouseWarming
February 24, 2007
Eighthday showing me her sketchbook before Armory Show
When I arrived in pier 94, there are over 500 people waiting in line trying to get into the warehouse for the exhibition. And finally it took me about an hour. Fortunately, I had Greentea and Eithday with me and not too bad weather.
Continue reading "Eighthday showing me her sketchbook before Armory Show" »
February 23, 2007
Helmut by June
This is the title for the coming film by June Newton, Helmut Newton's widow.
Helmut Newton is a legendary Vogue photographer.
Rizzoli
"Rizzoli joined such prestigious American institutions as Tiffany's, Saks, and Cartier when it first opened its doors on Fifth Avenue in 1963. " All it has are Architecture, Art, Fashion, Interior Design and Photography. Just perfect.
It is the best Bookstore in the world, I love it. Thanks Yvonne!
The Armory Show Feb 23 - 26 Pier 94 NYC
Some people compare it to the Miami Art Basel.
Here is the link: The Armory Show
February 18, 2007
2007 Chinese New Year - The Golden Piggy
February 15, 2007
Three Golden Piggies [Rehearsal]
February 10, 2007
Central park Winter jam
B.E.st -willow
February 05, 2007
Frigid weather
Rush to centry 21 and get this hat.
B.E.st -willow
February 04, 2007
Liu Ye at Columbia
February 02, 2007
Superbowl Bid, Just won the quarter AND the half!
My number 4:6 bears:colts
B.E.st -willow
January 27, 2007
Han's Birthday Party
image/jpeg
B.E.st -willow
January 24, 2007
Ghana by Andy (Olympus 7070)
I loaned my camera to my officemate, Andy, who went on a trip to Ghana. As return, I am allowed to use his pictures on my website :-) So enjoy your trip with Andy!
January 14, 2007
Young Chinese Photographer's Meeting
Vintage Camera Ode
-composed on the occasion of the visit of the UN poetry representative to the Young Chinese Photographer’s meeting on Saturday the 13th of 2007 in Williamsburg, New York
Vintage camera! Vintage Camera!
Bolex! Bolsey! Bullseye!
Contax! Compur! Colormatic!
Polaroid! Polaroid! Polaroid!
Flash & Bulbs!
Burke & James!
Bausch & Lomb!
Pyro and PMK.
Rolleiflex! Rolleicord! Rolei SLX!
Retina! Regula! Angulon!
Kodak! Kodak! Kodak!
As new! Brand new! Asis.
User. Dented. Worn.
Old Leica. New Bessa!
Agfamatic! Autoboy!
Cinemaster! Super 8!
Shutter slow. Speeds stick.
Pay Pal. Visa. E-mail. Sent.
Jorn Ake
January 12, 2007
After a week
January 06, 2007
Moving
January 02, 2007
New Year 2007
December 27, 2006
The First Emperor
(Image courtesy of Danny)
I got totally lucked out and seized the last minute tickets for the already sold out opera.
It is especially intriguing for me, because of the theme "the First Emperor" and the crew are formidable: Placido Domingo, Tan Dun, Zhang Yimou and etc ... As the critics said: "My guess is that a large number of the ticket-holders are opera neophytes attracted by the novelty of this project and hoping for a grand theatrical experience."
He is right, at least for my case. Over all, the scene/costume/lighting/acting are splendid! Just amazing, the music is kinda wicked, technical but too long and lack of the final echo in my head.
I have to agree with most of the comments from NY Times:
"Mr. Domingo, who at nearly 66 is still ambitious, still taking chances and challenging himself."
"The set by Fan Yue is dominated by stairs through which you can sometimes glimpse colored banners and assembled masses. Descending from ropes above the stage is an intricate network of stones, representing both the writing tablets on which the emperor codified the Chinese language and the blocks of the Great Wall, with which his name is associated."
-- This is so smart, shows the witty of Chinese people.
Emi Wada has created 400 wildly colored costumes."
-- The costume is spendid
"lighting by Duane Schuler"
-- Since I am sensitive to lighting, I can feel it a big plus to the whole setting, bravo!
December 25, 2006
2006 Xmas Party Photos
2006 Xmas Party Video
December 24, 2006
Merry Xmas from Willow
December 10, 2006
Directors for the Opera "The First Emperor"
December 07, 2006
R Train
I feel so attached to "R" train, in a good way. It is my door-to-door commute tool, literally. It is warm and never crowded, since it is marked as "local" oppose to "express". But really the difference between riding all my way home in it and that jumping on-off, switching 4 trains is only less than 10 mins. While in the first case, I can enjoy a nap in my favorite seat almost guaranteed everyday. It is also the most convenient one, following Broadway, across town, from south to north, from east to west. Brooklyn bridge/C-town/NYU/K-town/Macy's/TimeSquare/My Cafeteria and photo lab at Queens, and etc.
December 03, 2006
Fa Yeung Nin Wa
November 27, 2006
Holiday Season
Thanksgiving
At the Steak House
November 12, 2006
Picnic Central Park
J7 Reunion
October 29, 2006
Haunting Crab Night
October 14, 2006
Fall in Love - NYU / OCEF Mid-autumn Festival
October 12, 2006
Lomo -- Colorflash
Fall in Love - NYU / OCEF Mid-autumn Festival
NYU/OCEF Mid Autumn Celebration at 7:00pm on Fri October 13, at NYU's Kimmel Center.
October 08, 2006
Rue 57 and Yang's visit
Mozart by the Cleveland Orchestra
OLIVIER MESSIAEN Un sourire
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Mentre ti lascio, K. 513
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Per questa bella mano, K. 612
WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART Rivolgete a lui lo sguardo, K. 584
ANTON BRUCKNER Symphony No. 5 in B-flat Major
Belly Dancing at Tuts
Tuts, an Egypt Theme club located at lower east side of Manhattan. I visited it several months ago. Back then, it was just starting and had nothing just the basic Hookah. Now it is completely different, the drink menu is updated, the Hors d’ Oeuvres is tasty. And they now have a hot belly dancer.
October 01, 2006
New York Film Festival
The 44th New York Film Festival, Sept 29 - Oct 15, 2006, at Film Society of Lincoln Center.
They have Robin Holland's photos on display. He photographed a large school of directors and actors, including Wong Kar Wai, few I can identify from either name or picture. Wonderful pictures. But it seems that I am the only person visit the Walter Reade Theater just for the pictures, usually people just walk by the pictures, when they are waiting in line to get in the next movie.
Although I have learned this event before, I wasn't really pay much attention to the specific agenda. Until recently, I developed a special interest in a panorama camera Widelux F8, which Jeff Bridges used for "behind the scene" documentary. I paid a visit to his all messed up website, and find the 2004 poster was from him, and I assumed the wonderful picture was made by his Widelux, as usual.
The first time I got interested in Jeff Bridges' work is when I watched the DVD Seabiscuit. The extra feature in the DVD is Jeff's pictures, amazing pictures. The filmography from the movie itself is very beautiful, but I seems more attracted to the documentary.
花时间 (Flower Time)
Sunny's Florist (212) 473-0172 | 102 2nd Ave, New York NY
The best Florist in the city. (Says who? Francesco)
Cafe Charbon--Epicerie
Clare's revisit to New York after she hopped from one Island (Manhattan) to another (Hong Kong). But she is still working for the Mayor of NYC. We were sitting in a very French bar, with all French posters and some cigar boxes piled up at the corner.
I didn't have much experience on east village, not as much as the west village. The people here are younger, full of dream, and strive for a brightful future lovelily. The typical looking is a guy around 20, with fluffy red hair, walking fast across the street, carrying a suitcase stuck with all kinds of stamps, pictures, and two drum sticks on the other hand.
September 24, 2006
Mitsuwa
Sasa introduced the fine Japanese supermarket/food quart, called Mitsuwa to us. We can find all sorts of authenticated Japanese groceries. The food quart is nice too. The pork combination makes me full and happy. I also find my favorite UME wine which is sweet and tasty.
They run shuttle bus from Time Square.
September 11, 2006
723 Washington
Late Summer BBQ, hosted by Ai and happened at a cool place to be 723 Washington in Meatpacking District, owed by Mr. Bennett, an Entrepreneur, Architect, Musician and Photographer. We were all awed by the big castle and his owner.
Falcon Cruise
Four-hour cruise by Nautical Cruise departures from Free Port at Long Island. Free Port is an interesting place to be. Lots of yachts and seafood restaurants. Cruise is a little bit long, cruising along the south shore of Long Island: Mansion Harbor, Parsonage and Randall Coves, Lido Beach, Point Lookout and Long Beach. The nice thing is we have abundant food snack alcohol and sunshine. I have to amuse myself by non-stop paparazzi.
September 07, 2006
US Open: Sharapova vs Golovin
My very first visit to US Open arena. Excellent Quarter Final Sharapova vs. Colovin. The game is wonderful, considering we have Sharapova. It didn't leave any surprise. Sharapova won out without extra efforts. Both of the players are extremely young, Sharapova is 19 and Colovin 18. Earlier on Sunday, Senior player Agassi kissed a tearful goodbye to the tennis court.
September 04, 2006
Wine Trip
August 27, 2006
BBQ-II at Zhen's
Zhen left her 59th apartment and moving to 45th.
August 26, 2006
SFer's visit to NYC
August 20, 2006
Crazy Stones
August 13, 2006
Stu's Band
It took us more than two hours to the middle of Long Island from the city. But the experience is well worth the long trip. I got to see the old time buddy Frank, Bluewoods, and Jingbin. And we enjoyed the wonderful performance from Stu's new band! It really rocks. The west meadow beach is nice too. Although we didn't test the water, but had a great time with the sunshine pebbles and beach. The music, beer and Frank & Stu's seaview house made Bo feel reluctant to leave.
August 05, 2006
Pan Jia Yuan Flea Market
July 30, 2006
Village Underground
Noam started his own band, General Assembly, in his Village Underground, after selling the Cafe Wha. His love to the musci and his creativity are magic ingredients to his success.
Let's take a peek of what is on the menu:
We thought you might like to know about the fantastic entertainment schedule we have launched this summer at the FBPC and the Village Underground. We take enormous pride in our entertainment at the FBPC and the Village Underground. We feel on any give night you would find it very hard to find anything superior. Come down and check out one of our nights, we promise you won't be disappointed. As always, if you are not completely satisfied just let our manger know and we're pretty sure we can make things right. Best of all, there`s never a cover charge (except Sundays :<).
Downstairs Wednesdays nights: The UnionN
Featuring Elan, Jason Murden, Vince Jackson and many special guests, dance to Classic Rock and R&B, Funk, and Reggae. Also available for private parties, the UnionN can be contacted by emailing UnionN@FBPC.com
Downstairs Thursday Nights: World Music with the General Assembly
Featuring Rosalyn McClore, Ron Long, Eric Adams, Franco Morillo, Patrick DeSantos, Kyle Paas and regular special guests including Jason Murden and Inaya Day. The Assembly plays music from the streets of New York, including Funk, Reggae, Rock, Latino, Brazilian, Country, Jazz and more. A dynamic collection of styles and musicians unique anywhere in the world.
Starting this Week: Tuesdays and Wednesdays in our Moroccan lounge we will feature Brazilian Jazz with the Patrick DeSantos Quartet.
Mondays of course is our wildly popular Karaoke night, and Sundays we feature the most famous open-mic night in the world with Ron Grant and Melonie Daniels
This Thursday we will have a special 8:00 performance by Vivian Sessoms and Albright.
For reservations or any questions please don't hesitate to email us.
We're at 130 W 3rd Street right across from the Blue Note. 212-533-4790.
Sincerely,
Noam Dworman
Owner
FBPC
Village Underground
Comedy Cellar
July 23, 2006
Z BBQ
July 19, 2006
VIP Lounge
The beautiful part is that everything is not planned. I happened to know that Ambassador Jesse will be in town when I visited Shanghai. I am excited to meet up with Jesse thousands miles away from New York, since last farewell party.
I called up Wendy, my local insider, for help on local resorts. We ended up at a club called VIP. It is just like the one that I had visited in Atlantic City. I have to refer you to Jesse, our Ambasssdor's more insightful comments of the place, which I not only personal experienced but also concur.
Thanks for Wendy's help to distribute the gifts to other friends that I don't have enough to meet up. And all the best to you all!
July 12, 2006
798
798 Facotry (Dashanzi Art District) located in suburb area of Beijing China. The odd name comes from along with its history of being a millitary factory. (In the old days, those millitary factories were all named with just numbers to hide their real identity, for security and organization purposes.) After over 50 years, those eastern German style big spacious factories buildings shifted their mission "slightly", with more and more artists moving in. Those artists, successful or starving, turned this place into a rising, trendy art zone. Later, bookstores, restaurants, bars blossom. In fact, this area becomes so diverse that some compare it to the East Village in New York City. Yes, we had a village now located far more "east" to the Eeast Village.
More interesting oberservation is that the area still have factories producing actively. The real factory may just be next door to a Studio or Gallery. It is amazing how those people manage to co-exist. The contrast between the two are huge. It is so bold and finally becomes extremely inspiring. The area, the factory itself becomes an art piece.
The same fascinating feeling comes from the MOMA PS1(Public School No.1). It is now an art gallery but used to be the first public school in the States.
It was summer and scotching hot when I visited the factory area. Yet I still saw a considerable number of people walking around the area for those galleries and studios. So I can imagine how crowded it would be when the Dashanzi Art Festival every May.
Xi Tang
Xi Tang is one of the six famous traditional towns in China, which includes Zhou Zhuang, Tong Li, Lu Zhi, Wu Zhen, Xi Tang and Nan Xun. They are all part of UNESCO World Heritage. Xi Tang is a less commercialized one among the six. The architectures remain the style from Ming and Qing Dynasty. The residences in the town still keep their traditional way of living. I actually saw people wash clothes in the river. On the other hand, it is very close to Shanghai, only about one-and-half-hour drive away from the metropolitan. Actually the "Mission Impossible III" is shot here.
July 03, 2006
Great Wall across water
One day gate-way to the Great Wall in the wild.
June 25, 2006
Housewarming Party
Kevin's lasagna is soo good, the best that I had ever had!
June 24, 2006
Mermaid Parade
June 13, 2006
The Little Red Book Party
This party is for Ingrid's new book. And I feel great plesure to be part of the party and honored to be the witness of the scintillating chat between Ingrid and Jesse, which keeps me alert till 5am in the morning.
May 30, 2006
Six Flags
Just got some time reviewing my thrilling experience at Six Flags on Memorial Day Weekends. I could still feel the speed while I was typing the words that night, kinda dizzy (this is not a figurative speaking). I still can not remember the detail of how the hell I agree to follow Irene into the front seat of Kingda Ka, the ultimate rollercoaster: "0 to 128 mph in 3.5 seconds, up to an exhilarating 458 feet high, almost in 90 degrees". All I can remember is that rides of the rest of the day suddenly become so smooth, just like "merry-go-around".
From the neck pains of Grace and Rosalind, I came to realize that rides are made to "ride" rather than "fight". People tend to instinctly filght against dangers especially when the brain is not enough to make a clear judgement. But the instinct could be wrong and enlarge the danger. Actually all we need to do is relax and trust the crazy machine and then the ride will become an enjoyable experience.
I am still awed by Irene and her bravery (or mindless :P, whatever). She and her friends are so experienced roller-coaster rider that they can spot me on the ground, who is taking picture of them, from the rolling cart, and still make faces to the lens.
May 14, 2006
Highline Thai Restaurant
This is a trendy Thai restaurant in meat packing district. We had to give up the original reservation since only 3 of us arrived in time. But luckily we were moved to "bed" on second floor, after a lot of arguing with the waitress. It was quite an interesting eating experience. You can put all the food on the bed. But the gesture is not good for digestion, and we had to stand up and move around to help digestion. The food is excellent. Very delicious, not that authenticate but well adapted.
May 07, 2006
Cinco De Mayo
April 24, 2006
2006 NY Auto Show
Sunday April 23rd is the last day of 2006 New York Auto Show. I thought I was going to skip it as last few years, but I finally got an execuse and made it at the last minute. Well, last hour, I spent a full hour in the Javitz Convention Center. I was so efficient since I knew exactly what I was looking after.
April 16, 2006
Lost my Wisdom -- In Memory of My Tooth
March 20, 2006
S&M Party
It is Sera and Malcolm's joint Birthday party. The wonderful couple happen to be born in the same day of the same year. So that makes things easy, but on the other hand, they have less excuse to throw a party, as Amanda always complains that her birthday is so close to mine. Since the party is named as "S&M", the dressing code requires people to wear Leather or at least Leather accessories :P. The party is hosted at Tuts, owned by Malcolm's friend, an exotic and interesting place to go, and they serve hookah from Egypt.
NXL @ NYC
College roommate NXL came to NYC. We haven't seen each other for almost 5 years. It is a little bit of scary, since I didn't realize it is that long. Well, maybe five years is not a long time at all. I feel like missing my ghetto dorm back in China with the gangs. Our golden years.
February 27, 2006
Summit Meeting at Asian Pub
February 25, 2006
Bye, New York
It is just about half a year ago that we had a party celebrating Clare's moving into her new apartment. Now she is moving again, to HongKong, another Metropolitan, left behind the days in New York. Since Clare is so well connected, a lot of people came to her farewell party. And she kindly introduced her friends to each other, so the life here in New York can keep rolling. One thing for sure, we gonna miss Clare, and hope to see her soon anyplace around the world soon.
February 20, 2006
View from Long Island City
Mrs. Cui came visiting Amanda from Peking Univ. I am happy to find that she also likes taking pictures. We spent about 20 mins in a chilly 14F nite.
January 29, 2006
Dog Year
I just stole The letter from Kai:
"Having travelled for most of the weekend going places in various modes of transportation, I've finally made it back to where I started, Philly. Had a great time in NY, well, NJ to be more precise, well worth the trip. Glad to see all the new blood and the very old blood.
Thanks Zhen the Great for letting us trash your place,
Simon for getting lost so I can spend more time with him,
XX for her dumpling quality control and 晚会 commentary,
Willow for documenting the year of the dog kick off event,
Amanda for offering to help with AS/2 and cross referencing,
Vivi for the so called dumplings that look more like 韭菜包子,
And Qi for just being there.
...
Oh its going to be a great year, I can just feel it. Happy new year everyone and 祝大家旺旺旺!
-Kai"
January 23, 2006
Atlantic City - Boys Night Out
It is all well planed, and perfectly executed. Saturday, we fled from New York City to Marriott Villas in Absecon, NJ. Kai arrived in NJ transit at a station 2 miles from the Villas. We picked him up just in time.
January 20, 2006
P.S.1 - Public School No. 1
P.S.1 (Public School No. 1) Contemporary Art Center is affiliated to Moma and "oldest and second largest non-profit arts center" in the United States. I was attracted to this place by recent Photography Exhibitions from Stephen Shore and Peter Hujar. I found that the magic place itself is a piece of art.
January 09, 2006
Ski at Hunter Mountain
January 01, 2006
NYE @ NYC 2005 - 2006
Please click the above picture for more pictures from the party.
December 11, 2005
Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer
The Big Apple Chorus is a tradition at South Street Seaport, downtown Manhattan. We visit it every year, during the holiday season. Take your time visiting the nice cute little shops around the area before the singing begins.
Next Door
Next Door is a Cafe with live Jazz performance. I guess "Next Door" means next door to the "Blue Note". It is actually in the same block of Blue Note Jazz Cafe, with a much smaller scale and more intimate invironment. Compared to the Next Door, Blue Note is more like for tourists. The band tonight is awesome, with a fantastic drummer. Oh, yes, their pizza is amazing. The smoked salmon pizza with cheese is really smoking. Hint: performance at 9pm & 11:15pm, reservation not necessary, but table 5/6 is really nice and cozy at the corner.
November 28, 2005
Teahouse at New York City
Tea House is on show at U.S in several major cities. And the group happened to choose PACE theatre as their stage. Amanda got the chance to volunteer at the back stage and we were even invited to the reception, got to meet with the stars and talk to them :)
November 26, 2005
Paintball
This is the second time I played paintball. Judy invited us to the game. It is very nice of her to give us the thermal pad, keeping our fingers and toes warm for 7 hours. The battle field, Skirmish USA, is at PA. They boasted USA # 1 and I guess they are. Some one in the bus to the battle field told us that the biggest game in 2005 has more than 3,000 people involved!! It is called "INVASION OF NORMANDY". Lots of people even bring their own night-vision guns. It is incredible!!
Blackfriday Meal
Amanda and I haven't done much cooking in our new apartment. Most of time we eat out. But I somehow feel like cooking. So I invited some friends over to our studio for after-Thanksgiving dinner. And this gave me a perfect excuse for cooking. But since I haven't touched any cooker for almost a year, I asked for some help from Wei and Xiaoxiao, two girl chefs. Wei is very good at cooking, learned cooking when she was in Canada. I guess that was one of few major entertainments for her at that time. Xiaoxiao is talented, I believe, she hasn't done much practice, but does cook well! Oh, yes, Amanda is in charge of appetizer and desert, while Simon volunteered to fight with the crabs. With all the help, I finally made the dinner possible. So it was more like an "DIY invitation". Sorry guys, I will do a better job next time, if there were "next".
November 25, 2005
Thanksgiving Dinner
We spent this Thanksgiving dinner with our new friends Naom and Ava. All the major dishes except the Turkey are prepared by Ava and her assistant. And the talk is interesting. I am glad that I share many similar opinions with Noam.
We later joined the big crowd at the Fat Black Pussycat. Noam gave us the VIP room for gratis, made us feel really like some kind of VIP.
We played several games while drinking, an interesting one is:
1. Think about one thing that you've never ever done before.
2. If anyone has ever done the thing, that person will have to drink.
3. If it happens no one ever did it, you need to drink.
So the motivation is to reveal the secrets of others. (based on the assumption, everybody is open and frank.)
November 15, 2005
Honda Element -- one of the Most Reliable SMALL SUVs
SMALL SUVS:
Toyota RAV4 (2005), Honda CR-V, Honda Element, Subaru Forester, Mercury Mariner*, Mitsubishi Outlander
"Our 2005 reliability survey, the largest of its kind, reached a milestone this year—we've gathered responses on more than 1 million vehicles from Consumer Reports and ConsumerReports.org subscribers, the most we've ever received. These results underpin the most comprehensive reliability data you will find anywhere. Here, we give you a first look at our new Predicted Reliability Ratings for new cars, based on this survey, and the models that we expect to be the most and least reliable. "
Continue reading "Honda Element -- one of the Most Reliable SMALL SUVs" »
November 13, 2005
Photos from the Photo Party
Everything in the party is soo perfect, and I guess everybody had a good time. That's what I like, everybody happy, which is rare to achieve. Thanks for everybody's coming over. Yann's Studio69 is an awesome place for shooting. He himself is a professional photographer shooting for Magazine Maxim.
November 09, 2005
Photo Party at Studio69 NYC
(http://www.studio69nyc.com)| Time: | 12:pm-5pm 11/12/2005 (Saturday) |
| Direction: |
CHELSEA 152-158 west 26th street suite 35 New York, NY 10001 (near FIT, between 6 & 7 avenue) |
| people P: Photographer M: Model O: Others |
M, Amadna P, Francesco P, Mickey M, Nicole O, Simon M, Suzanna P, Willow M, YaTing M, Zhen |
| contact |
|
| weather (a nice day) |
Mostly Sunny High 57°F, Low 46°F Wind: 6 mph UV Index: 3 Moderate Humidity: 56% Sunset: 4:40 PM |
| more | please click the link to continue |
November 06, 2005
Finding Noam
It took Amanda and me two weeks before we finished the DVD of Finding Noam, an interview with the owner of Fat Black Pussycat, Cafe Wha, Olive Tree, and Comedy Cellar.
|
We brought our DVD to Noam as we promised. And he was happy like a child. Actually we are very thankful for Noam providing the opportunity for the interview, and he really opened himself up to us. I learned a lot from the interview, not just about how to sucessfully run a business, but also how to treat your life. |
| I would also like to thank the most unselfish help from Sun Zan, the director of Fang Lin. I can call him up 1:00am in the morning and asking for video editing questions. |
 |
November 02, 2005
Insomnia
Wandering through the daunting city, cursing and being cursed, drinking but still sober, jumping like a mexican bean, casting thunderbolt to cows, chasing the knights riding 100cc motorcycles, we found Nemo.
October 30, 2005
Yellow River Concert in Carnegie
Frank asked me if I would be interested in a Chinese concert at Carnegie Hall. Senior artists, Yin Chengzong and Zheng Xiaoying, was giving a Yellow River Concert. Of course, I am interested. The rythm of the music is so familiar that it sounded kind strange in Carnegie Hall, usually I can hear it from radio/TV. But the difference made it more magnificent. It is a mixed feeling of acquaintance and surprising splendness. Both artists are among the greatest in China. They are better known to the people of my father's age, actually everyone of their age, the red generation.
October 19, 2005
Birthday Flower
I didn't expect anything special for my birthday, since it is not weekend. But still Amanda's flower made my day. I gladly gave Pat one stem of Tulip. She was even happier than me :)
October 17, 2005
Xin's Wedding Reception
Jan has a great family, now they have a new member.
October 13, 2005
An interview with Noam
Noam is the owner of Cafe Wha, and Fat Black Pussycat.
October 09, 2005
A&W Birthday Party
People gather at "Fat Black Pussycat" in the village in the pouring raining for "A&W birthday party". The cozy morocan sofa and spacious reserved table let us completely forget about the rain. Thanks for all the friends coming, we had a wonderful night. Thanks for the happiness shared by all our friends, no matter you were at the party or not. It is because of you that I love New York, and love my life everyday.
October 02, 2005
From Outer Space
October 01, 2005
Cafe Wha?
Cafe Wha? It is a funky basement in the village, with one entrance and one exit on each end. Hold on, read what is put on the front door first before you make any judgement:
The New York Times:
"The crowd waived their arms and swayed their seats. By 1 am, they squeezed between the tables to dance. At 3 am, ushers forced them out the door, so ending a typical night a Cafe Wha"
Zagat Survey:
Top 50 Clubs in New York
"Always Fun thanks to a great house band that has them dancing in the ailes. Plus acts from the next-door Comedy Cellar. It's a perfect antidote to chichi scenes"
New York Post:
"Power house talent - you'd be hardpressed to find a more exhilarating evening out"
September 25, 2005
Super Stars
Zhang Xin and Xiaoxiao are Amanda's Middle School classmates. Please visit Amanda's Blog for more info.
September 18, 2005
Mid-Autumn International Finance Seminar
Simon hosted the Moon Festival party at his NJ apartment. It soon became an International Finance Seminar between Penn and Columbia. And I am a happy listener and picture taker plus snack-cook. I brought over traditional Chinese snacks: salted peanuts and chinese water chestnut (water caltrops).
We did have a peek of the Moon before we drove down to Manhattan, Karaoke at Biny.
September 11, 2005
Mafia
Simon is a very good Judge for Mafia, professional. As he said, Mafia is a good way to memorize the names of the people in the party. This game is also called "Sha Ren" in Chinese, a popular game for a large group of people.
September 04, 2005
South Hampton
I feel like a paparazzi in this samll town. I am the only person with camera in hand. Everybody else is enjoying the slow pace of the town. We are all visitors, but apparantly I am more visitor than the others. This feeling came to me once when I visited Fort Lauderdale. While all the other people enjoying the cool water and sun shine, I was standing there snapping pictures, in suit. People don't have to use pictures to show off their vacation, but suntan. Damn it, I am so used to taking my camera with me, 24/7.
Clare's Birthday
Asian Pub is such an adorable place. Thanks to Clare, and happy birthday.
Asian Pub is located at 35 Cooper Square. As the name suggested, it has an Asian style decoration and a lovely yard. It is actually a fusion of East and West, especially when you see the beautiful East-European waitress. Sitting at the lovely backyard of the Pub, enjoying the breeze of the summer late night, is quite an experience.
August 29, 2005
Kyoto Sushi
The best way to find good food:
August 20, 2005
Cash Box
Just got back from Karaoke at Cash Box, Flushing. It is supposed to be one of the best Karaoke places in New York.
August 14, 2005
Crabbing at Fire Island
It is the second time I went for crabbing. Last time was some three years ago.
I borrowed a small bucket from Stanley, and other tools including a crab cage from Henglin. Well armed, we started to getting crab 5 mins after we began wading in the Fire Island Marina.
July 28, 2005
O - Cirque Du Soleil - Bellagio
Greeting from Vegas
July 24, 2005
Sunset West Meadow
Did I say that I am getting sick of sunset?
July 17, 2005
Gloomy Sunday
It is humid in the weekend. Amanda and I started our five-hour journey in early Saturday morning.
July 04, 2005
I come, I see, I conquer
-- Hiking with Mr. and Mrs. Yang
It is a tough four hours of hiking, more than we expected. We started without any food just a bottle of water for each person. We planed to return to the restaurant at lunch time with ample of food but ended up returning in late afternoon. However, the whole trip involed lots of teamwork, support and sense of accomplishment.
Continue reading "I come, I see, I conquer
-- Hiking with Mr. and Mrs. Yang" »
Grand Slam
I didn't get much exercises during the last six months. Ying invited me back to Stony Brook for a tennis game. I knew I was very weak for lack of excercise, but still I ran all over the court in the game. 15 mins later, I lost my balance and slipped. But things kept getting worse. I threw up because of the violent movement. So the 15 mins was all the excercises I had. After that I happily sat down with my camera, and started snapping pictures of my friens.
July 03, 2005
Lomo, Pac-Man & Retro
(Picture courtesy of cameras.com)
Street & documentary photography is my all-time favorite topic of photography. And recently I found myself addicted to the poetic Lomo photogrphy. The blur, weird images by the cheap plastic cameras is soo amazing. As an amateur photographer, or weekend photographer for now, I apperently don't have the luxury to develop and mass scan negtives. So I decided that majority of my images would be from digital, including the possible lomo pictures. Online search shows me an insane marriage of a $30,000 Imacon digital back (originally designed for Hasselblad), and a $50 plastic Holga camera, with a rubberband! Well, who says that a civilian can not marry a princess. Here it comes. I certainly couldn't afford the 30 grand digital image back, but I do have a digital sensor inside of my Digital Rebel. I plan to play with the gismo a little bit and keep building a digital lomo camera in mind. Actually I have seen some pictures online with Holga and Canon Ixus-i, which comes out quite successful.
Another great gadget I brought home is a Joy Stick TV game set, Namco 5-in-1 Arcade Classics. The Pac-Man game reminds me of the years when I was still a teenage, which is sadly more than 10 years ago. The ultra simple game gave me so much fun. I even invited some friends over my apartment just to share my pleasure :)
June 25, 2005
Lan's visit and Mermaid Parade
This Saturday is the last day of Lan's visit in East-coast, and we plan to spend a perfect weekend in New York together with Mali couple.
I heard about Mali a lot from Chang, who was my college-roomie and Mali's high-school-classmate. The legendary Mali looks just like what I can imagine, a devoted Scientist, yet a Chinese girl craving for icecream as well.
June 13, 2005
Picnic and Baseball Game (Long Island ducks)
This year's company annual event is picnic and baseball game at Citibank Park at Central Islip. Lots of sunshine and abundant food all make a wonderful Sunday.
Continue reading "Picnic and Baseball Game (Long Island ducks)" »
June 06, 2005
Hui and Peng's new home
Hui and Peng just moved into their new apartment last month. I was invited to share their happiness. I really enjoyed the wonderful food and their new Sony 50" HDTV. My plan is to bring popcorn every weekend and watch movie in Pend and Hui's comfortable couch :P
May 30, 2005
Kayaking: the most fun playground is not necessary on the ground
I received a piece of message from Stony Brook Outdoors Club(SBOC), calling for participation in Peconic River kayaking. I am interested in the sport and think my buddies from Shanghai may like to go, too. It turns out that I am right.
In two cars, six of us arrived at Peconic Padller. We had no trouble getting a rent, since the rental shop has over 700 kayak in stock.
The lauch was pretty chaotic. I was the last boat into the water. But barely had my entire boat left the river bank, I heard "help" from Jon. His kayak was toppled! With the help of life vest and his excellent swimming skill, Jon was able to gain balance again and grab the pier. But his glasses are forever gone(imagine some post-human creature may discover this gadget in the muddy bay, how exciting it is!). The think of rescuring his glasses came to my mind for a second, but the muddy riverbed made me quickly dismissed the idea. Jon was very calm and optimisic about the tragedy. And he is determined! Shortly after he changed his wet clothes, we were back in the water again.
The determination got paid off. The balmy weather was so lovely! And we raced in the bay together with beautiful yacht, ducks and even swans!
But just as I was fully enjoying the wonderful environment, I was hit by a small wave unprepared, and toppled!
So the old Chinese saying is never wrong: "Those who know how to swim are usually more prone to drown". I raced back and get changed. My loss is my cell phone, by which I planed to take pictures and send back to my BLog in real time. How lucky I am that I changed my mind, put my expensive Camera Gears in my car.
We paddled and moved further across Rt. 105 over our head. A small sandy beach appeared when we are a little bit tired. We stopped our boat on the beach and started to enjoy the early summer sunshine.
We began to return after we'd gotten enough tan (sun burn actuallly).
Everybody is excited and happy despite the grand loss of: one pair of glasses, one cell phone, some healthy skin and boredness.
Continue reading "Kayaking: the most fun playground is not necessary on the ground" »
May 29, 2005
Thunderbirds!
I just read the message that this weekend on Jones Beach , we will have US Air Force Thunderbirds giving an exciting performce.
It was told that last year, some eighty thousand people were there watching the show, and I was one of them! I couldn't find the pictures from last year, but try to steal some pictures from Bluewoods.
I hope I could make to the beach in such a fine weather, but I happen to have to spend most of my weekends in my office.
May 22, 2005
Party at Tony and Lori's
Francesco just successfully defended his Master's Thesis and Landed a job in Long Island. Tony and Lori hosted a party for lots of things to be celebrated. There are BBQs, music and volleyball. Lots of friends, lots of fun.
I am so happy that many of my buddies stay around in Long Island. And I got to see them today.
Thanks for Tony and Lori, congratulations to Francesco.