Living the Dream...and then some

The Days Go On...

2009-11-10T14:00:00.004-08:00

So much has happened since my last post some months ago from Brazil. Sometimes we have grad plans and ideas of how things will be but they don't always work out that way...forget about always, they don't usually work out that way. So...here I am again with another attempt to maintain this blog and keep it updated.

I will begin with the present and work backwards and forwards until I feel I have included everything I needed to.

Today I had my last midterm and what was a very stressful period is over. There is much more on the horizon with finals just six weeks from now but with a new study plan in mind and some active discipline in regards to my study habits I should be better prepared for finals. So moving on and hoping for better days ahead.

Here are some pictures of me taken on the steps of Columbia University a few weeks ago by a student journalist who did a story on me for the school's newspaper...not Columbia but BMCC

Field Work Plus Teamwork Equals Success

2009-06-10T16:42:00.004-07:00

One of our first field projects found divided into two groups of ten and in the forest for an experiment.Give ten Columbia students a 8*8m plot to sample and the results can be quite chaotic but we eventually got our plan set out, worked together and it turned out a success.

Working together to sort leaves using the Morphospeciies method. It might sound simple but when you are doing this for the first time it can be quite a challenge.

Pictures below shows some of the team hard at work...yes, it is possible to smile while at work in the Atlantic Forest.

Larisa and I getting ready to leave the forest with some of our gears.

Hard at work collecting samples from our forest plot.

Destruction in the Midst of Beauty and Tranquality.

2009-06-09T17:23:00.003-07:00

In our first week we took a 40 minute boat trip along the reservoir to a resort called Fazendinha. We stopped briefly and then embarked on a hike to a high point looking down on the water and resort. The view was spectacular to say the least but from our vantage point we looked across the expanse of the forest before us only to see burning patches, fragments of deforested areas that are now reduced to pastures for grazing and other areas for eucalyptus plantations. The beauty that took out breath away was mixed with continuous destruction of this great forest. A picture tells a thousand words and here are ten of them. Do the math.

"You are entering one of the remaining 5% of the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlantica) fragments in this country. Please respect the flora and fauna present. Maintain silence and don't collect specimens and always conserve the trail."

At the pinnacle of it all, the view is breathtaking and the wind blew strongly to remind of the forces of nature around us.

Like a lioness in an African prairie our fearless, intelligent, cunning and beautiful TA Kaithlin takes in her surroundings as the wind speaks to her.

Our amazingly brilliant and cool instructor never misses a beat and he takes this opportunity to pick our brain on our observations and give us further insight on the knowledge we picked up on our way to the top.

Relaxing with a drink of water at the top of the trail, Tim and I catch some wind and sunshine as we soak in the sight before us.

The reservoir stretches for miles in the valley before us. With this amazing view before you it is hard to think of the destruction that was wrought when this was built. Displacement of locals who face the loss of food supply, loss of animal habitat, isolation of species...the list goes on.

A stop along the forest trail to make observations and have Tim give us more information on what we observe.

Happy Birthday Kuan!

2009-06-02T17:56:00.005-07:00

Thanks to Kuan, we had a grad time at 'Cafe De Tarde' today with some amazing cake to go with our tea and coffee. Here is Kwan during the day of her birthday.

Kuan serious as we learn about Natural Selection and Genetic Drift.

The moment of surprise as Kuan saw the cake, the OMG look.

Still shellshocked, Kuan had to be pushed to the next step of the event.

Make a wish (for warm weather and eternal youth)

Kuan in action having a go at the cake. That was a priceless moment Kwan.

With the birthday girl having some cake...yummm

Kuan closed of her day sifting some weed, I mean grass...its not what you think. We were collecting insect samples from the grass.

Brazil: What I am Seeing

2009-05-26T17:31:00.005-07:00

Nothing is always what it seems and walking though the local area is no different. As beautiful as it may seem to the naked eye, there is so much more to the landscape that one would imagine.

We are all smiles in the beautiful weather as we walked through the area but in reality, there is nothing much to smile about. Residents have been deforesting the area and building farms to replace the forests. This practice has long term negative impact on the environment.

Notice the patches of grassland between the forest. These forests are known as fragments of the original and much of the land is used for grazing, after the trees have been removed. Its looks beautiful but there is so much more to what is seen.

This is a shot of a sloth high up on a tree, away from its predators. It lives in these trees and have been seen in the past year. These are interesting creatures and are an important of the animal life in this region.

For many people all over Brazil, economics is more important than the environment. This is usually the case with people who are more concerned with survival or those more concerned with their economic well being. A common practice is the planting of Eucalyptus tress on the hillside where the forests have been destroyed. The trees are harvested by cutting and burning after which they are sent off to the cities to be used.

The Araucaria trees are mainly large trees with a massive erect stem, reaching a height of 30-80 m and are a very important part of the forests in Brazil, specifically in the Atlantic Rain Forest.

I guess this can be viewed as a very nice picture but notice the bare treeless hill behind me. This is pasture land that has been purchased and is currently being reforested. On both sides are fragments of forests that this new forest will eventually bring together.

Walking through the edge of a forest as we venture out to observe the landscape and the results that human impact has left on it.

Back to Blogging: Brazil Day 1

2009-05-23T18:09:00.006-07:00

After months of waiting and anticipating, I am in Brazil and day 1 is over. Its been an amazing day with free flow through customs, a one hour scenic drive to the site where we are staying, and getting to know some wonderful people.

After only one day so much has happened: we had an amazing lunch, some of us went for a short jog, took a short nap, went kayaking for the first time in over 10 years, had a fabulous dinner, a short orientation session and now blog time.

What a day. Here are a few pics.

The view from the balcony outside my room showing the surrounding hills and a dam.

Hanging out in the lounge.

What an amazing time kayaking on the dam.

Its lunch time, buffet style and the food is amazing, and so much!

The drive from the airport.

Back In NY: Jan 2009

2009-01-17T09:04:00.002-08:00

Its a new year and one of my resolutions is to post regularly on my blog like I used to. Regularly meaning at least once a week in this case.
So much has happened in the past year and it will take me a very long time to update but I hope I can keep with 2009. Already there are so many plan underway that will make the new year all the more interesting and from where I stand, this is going to be one heck of a year.
Join me and lets make the most of 2009 together...all the best.

My Birthday Week

2008-11-11T20:55:00.002-08:00

Its that time of the year again when I don't need an excuse to not study but just have fun (not sure if I can do that this year)

I have been absent from blogging for months but now I am back and for good reason. My birthday is on 3 days, I am totally stressed out with my classes and studies, I was hyper-ventalating today in preparation for an exam, and I now wake up at 5am to study. Serves me right for going to an Ivy League school right!

Anyway, like I said, I am back and will do some posts regularly, like I use to. Now it is time for bed before the clock strikes nidmight and someone turns into a rat or something.

Memories: Happy Birthday Kalina!

2008-07-29T11:32:00.006-07:00

It’s almost four years now since I have known Kalina and within that time, we have become fast friends. Of all the people I know in London, when I come for my summer visits, I spend more time with Kalina than any other of my friends. We have shared many good times and lots of great times over the years and I want to remember some of those times today, on the occasion of her birthday. A day, sad to say, even though I am in London, I will not see her. Kalina has been a wonderful friend and one I am happy for. She supports and believes in me unconditionally. Thank you K, for being a wonderful friend.
Following is a look at our years as friends in pictures, in random order, and not in the least a complete picture of the last four years.

Kalina and I pose for a pic on my farewell, July 2006.

One of us seem to have had too much to drink, the other too much to eat...can you tell?

The good old days...Luki, Kalina, Alex and me at my farewell, July 2006.

Kalina and I having a great time at the company's picnic, July 2006.

With Malaika at Nando's on one of our many trips there for lunch or dinner, 2005.

Office BBQ (which I am now famous for) June 2008.

Company's Christmas Party,December 2005.

Who can resist jumping to Linkin Park's music? "In The End' none of us can.

Chillin' out with a drink at the company's Christmas party, December 2005.

With some team members and some Mojitos at Wetherspoons at our usual haunt, the O2 Center, Swiss Cottage, N/ London. June 2008.

I must have said something really funny to get Kalina to laugh like that, but then, I am a funny guy, right?

With a friend Milos, have one on Oxford Street on a cold Friday night. June 2008.

On a beach in Northern Ireland, on our way to the Giant Causeway, March 2006.

Taking in the spectacular view from the cliff tops in Northern Ireland, March 2006

Salzburg Global Seminar: Night Out In Town

2008-07-29T04:37:00.003-07:00

We went out one night of the week we were in Salzburg. We would have loved to go more often but we were too busy working on our projects to go out too often. Here are some of the highlights.

Joy plants a wet one on me while Bryan tries to figure out what he stumbled into.

Joy, Rosie (who will be at Columbia with me) Hans and I get together for a group shot.

Even quiet Jeffery made it out that night and joined Gaby and me here.

Hans, Rosie, Taioshi, Clara and Joy.

Clara, Gaby, Bryan and I pile in a cab on our way to the town,

Joy and I had lots of fun that night...

The party in full swing...Hilda is in the middle of the shot.

Pretty ladies all in a row...I really know how to pull them. Joy, Hilda, and Gaby.

The ever stylish Betty pose with me.

My London Friends: Kami

2008-07-27T02:15:00.005-07:00

Kami is a trini like me and we became friends quite by chance, but that is another story. We managed to spend quite a lot of time together whenever I am here and this trip was no exception. One of the highlights of my trip here was my first ever visit to Wimbledon and Kami and I made the trip. I was literally a dream come true for me as well as for Kami and we had a fantastic day, plus the weather was great, one of the best days ever for Wimbledon this Summer. We even saw Wimbledon legend Martina Navratilova giving an interview. It was a day well spent...I should do this every year when I come to London.

My London Friends: Kalina

2008-07-27T01:32:00.006-07:00

Kalina and I have been friends from the first time I came to London in 2004 and we have remained friends over the years. I usually spend more time with her than anyone else because we work together, we go to movies every week together, and add to that regular visits to restaurants (Nando's) and pubs. Here is a look at some of our times together in London.

The Nando's experience, Kalina ready with a feast.

Putting my mouth where my food is, showing how it is done at Nando's.

Kalina's bf Ross joined us on this evening at Nando's for fun and food.

Two friends, a close up of our brilliant smiles.

Being the huge Lord of the Rings we are, Kalina and I made it a point to see the stage production before it closed in London and move on to Germany.

Waiting for the Balcony to be opened, we had some other fans get a shot of us.

Posing in front of one of the posters, the show was one of the most spectacular that I have ever seen.

Birthday Galore: London 2008

2008-07-27T01:03:00.009-07:00

I had the opportunity to share and evening with these two couples on the occasion of a pair of birthdays. (I think I was only asked so I would take pictures)Being the odd one out I was happy to be the unofficial photographer and we all had a good time over dinner and drinks.

The two couples, two set of best friends, a perfect evening.

The birthday couple, Shazarra and Jody: the reason for the evening.

Neisha and me pose for cute picture.

Shazarra, Neisha and me smile for the camera

Shazarra and Neisha, best friends in primary school back in Triinidad, the found each other in London after being out of touch for years.

Pete and Jody, best friends since they were thirteen, share a laugh

In Memory of My Father: 22 Years Later

2008-07-26T03:38:00.005-07:00

Today is exactly 22 years to the day my father passed away, but I can still remember that morning as if it were yesterday. It was a morning filled with fear and uncertainty when we got that phone call from the hospital. As the day unfolded, many events played out, most of them best left unmentioned.

For most of my life when my father was alive, I never had a good relationship with him. This was mainly because I wanted him to be what I thought he should be. I used to hate him with a passion and I harbored these feelings for many years. being young, naive, and uneducated, I was unable to understand the man he was, and the circumstances that made him the person he was. I only saw all the negative aspects of his personality and focused on them entirely.

Looking back now, after all these years, I can now see how wrong I was in judging him for things he was not responsible for. Life was not good to him as a child growing up without the love and protection of a family. He endured years of abuse at the hands of relatives and villagers who took advantage of the fact that he was fatherless, and without a mother for most of his young life. He was worked hard and given food and nothing else. Even when he eventually lived with his mother in his early teens, the abuse continued. By this time he was scared physically and emotionally for life. These are just the surface of what he endured and some of the events that shaped his life as a young man.

After years of abuse, he could only react to what he had learned all those years. Eventually he fought back the only way he knew how, with violence. By the time he got married and had children, he did not know how to love and provide for them because he was never loved and provided for all his life. As children, we experienced his anger and violence over the years. I was fortunate to be spared much of that because I was very young. From those early years of my life, I can recall very little, but I do remember when the turning point came in my father's life, and as a result, in our family as well.

Both my parents became Christians when I was around nine years old and I can still remember that night. There was an immediate change in my father. He went from being an angry and violent man, to being a father who did his best to provide for his family the best way he knew how. The first thing he did was to begin building a proper house for us to live in. He was a hard worker and with his lead, we practically built our house on our own. He provided food, shelter, and clothing for us, basic necessities we never really had before.

During my early teenage years, I never saw the good in him. I was a confused teenager who wanted to experience life and felt restricted by my father. During this time, all my feelings of hatred and anger toward my father resurfaced and I wanted to get away from him as much as possible. When I was sixteen, I became a christian and my life, as well as my point of view changed drastically. I began for the first time, to see my father in a new light. I slowly began to understand him and what he had been through, and those events that had shaped his life and personality.

I saw him as my father who loved me and provided for me. I realized he did not really know how to show that love because he himself had never been showed love. In the next few years, i began to appreciate him for the change he had made in his life, and for the tremendous effort he was making to be the father he wanted to be.

I wanted to tell him that I loved him but I never knew how. I came close many times but I never did. I just did not know how. When my father died, I was filled with regret because I never showed my feelings for him. I never let him know how much I appreciated him, how much I admired him, how much, in many ways, I wanted to be like him, strong, confident, and proud. I wish I could turn back time and tell him I appreciate him for being my father, and for all he did, and tried to do for us. It is my single biggest regret to this day and something I have to live with for the rest of my life.

Today, at this point in my life, I wish he could see me and know how far I have come in life. I wish he could know that I am back in school and on my way to graduating from college. I wish he could know that I think of him and all that he went through in his short life. I wish he could be here to celebrate my life with me, to experience my joys and triumphs, to look at me and tell me he is proud of me. I can only wish.

Today I remember my father.

Canada: Baby Emily and Family Reunion

2008-07-25T08:19:00.008-07:00

Paying attention to everything auntie Molly is saying.

Getting a nice oil rundown from grandma...what more can a baby ask for.

Grandma knows how to make this baby laugh.

The four family members hanging out at the mall, close to Camille's house.

Safe and comfortable in mummy's arms.

Daddy and baby Emily...they spend a lot of time staring at each other.

Molly at the mall, beautiful picture.

My long lost uncle Benjeman, one of my mother's only two siblings. I have not seen him before that weekend for over ten years

Baby Emily being held by her uncle Anthony, her dad's brother

Camille, the younger of my two sisters, and Jason, baby Emily's parents.

The family reunion. The first time in 10 years all of us have been in the same room together.

BMCC Graduation: Dinner

2008-07-25T07:09:00.005-07:00

My graduation was a hectic day, and more so because I was feeling quite sick for most of the day. After the ceremony, we retired home for a nap and then headed out to The Olive Garden for dinner.
Jon, David, Molly and my mom joined me to celebrate what had been a momentous day for me.

Savoring the moment, and the food.

Agroup picture after we had our fill.

Molly presented me with a gold band as a graduation present. It is inscribed with the phrase,"Living The Dream" BMCC 2008.

A group toast...I was not drinking so I took the picture.

My mom

My sister Molly

BMCC Graduation: Friends

2008-07-25T03:55:00.007-07:00

Special occasions are made even more special when you can share it with good friends and I am fortunate to have lots of friends who graduated with me. Here are just a few of them whom I got pictures of on our graduation day.

Andrew, Tonisha, and Kenny were all part of the scholarship club of which I was president for two semesters.

Gaby was in my scholarship club as well and we also spent a week in Salzburg along with Juliana. We are all great friends, and members of the Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa.

A group of fellow graduates and well wishers who are present to witness our big day.

Elsie is one of my closest friends from my two years at BMCC. Even though we had no classes together, we were both in the Honor Society.

Alicia and Rachel both attended the Salzburg Global Seminar with me and we share those special memories.

Venus, another Salzburg alumni, joins Rachel and me for this picture.

Another Rachel, also part of the Honor Society...great person and good friend.

Last but not least, Tonisha, a trini like myself. We became fast friends the moment we met in the Spring of 2007.

BMCC Graduation: Madison Square Garden - The Family

2008-07-24T12:44:00.004-07:00

One of he highlights of Spring was my graduation from Borough of Manhattan Community College, the first time in my life that I have graduated from any educational institution. This was a big step for me after dropping out of high school at the age of fourteen, to complete two years of college and BMCC. This is a part of my dream that I have held on to for many years, even when it seemed it would never become a reality.

The event was made even more special when my mother and sister, Molly, came to NY for the occasion. Jon was also present, and these three represent some of the many who have supported me and believed in me, even when I faltered. It is a day I will never forget and I am happy to have shared it with some very special people.

Somethings To Keep In Mind

2008-07-24T12:40:00.001-07:00

Zen Sarcasms

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me alone.

2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt or a leaky tire.

3. It's always darkest before dawn, so if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's the time to do it.

4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.

5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.

6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.

8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.

9. If at first you don't succeed...... skydiving is not for you.

10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

11. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.

12. Some days you're the bug, some days you're the windshield.

13. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

14. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put back in your pocket.

15. A closed mouth gathers no foot..

16. Duct tape is like 'The Force' It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

17. There are two theories to arguing with a woman - Neither one works.

18. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.

19. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

20. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night

Columbia University, School of General Studies

2008-07-23T05:41:00.002-07:00

Playing the waiting game is never easy, especially when you have no choice but to wait. That was the case with me before I came to London and up to the first week I was here. I was anxiously awaiting for news from Columbia University. Would I be accepted or not?

My advisers at BMCC, my previous college all believed that i would be, and I convinced myself that I would, but you never really know. I wanted to say, yes I will be accepted, but it was easy to doubt when there was no real way of knowing. Doubts would creep into my mind and play tricks on me and sometimes when I was alone, I would regress back into my old self when I doubted my abilities, my future, my dreams, everything really.

Redemption finally came in the from of an email from CU, telling me I was accepted as a student for the Fall 2008 Semester. I was ecstatic, overjoyed, thrilled that an answer had come, and a positive one at that. My friend Kalina was at hand and I immediately shared the news with her. Next I email a few people who was in this with me.

After the initial excitement subsided, I realized how fortunate I was to be a prospective student at the prestigious CU. I read later on that only 2% of students who apply actually get accepted, and here I was, one of the chosen. I am truly humbled and proud to be a part of such a select group. I am humbled to think of where I have come from, my family's background, my years 'in the wilderness' and the path that led me to where I am now.

I acknowledge that I did not get here alone. Thanks to my family, some of whom followed my progress in the last few years, all of whom believed that I had it in me to do it and helped in ways they could, and special friends who not only believed in me, but helped me tremendously to get to this point. Thanks to God and his faithfulness, even when we are not faithful, in directing our paths.

Thanks for being with me on this journey. Thanks for your presence, your prayers, your guidance, your time, and your love and friendship you have given over the years. That is what has helped me to live my dreams these past few years, and I know, will continue to inspire me in the years ahead.

London 2008

2008-07-22T13:33:00.000-07:00

London has become one of my favorite places to visit and I always look forward to returning again and again. I arrived on the morning of June 2ND, and after a nice long session with some friendly and courteous officers, during which time they learned lots about me and my life, I was back to my Summer in London.

The weather was not what I had hoped for but it is what can be expected of London, even in the Summer. Overcast, cold and rainy, I ventured out of Gatwick and made my way to Canada Water to the house I would be staying at, the same house I lived in for most of two years between 2004-06. I was happy to be indoors and warm in 'my'room and I quickly settled in. Like a good host (and a great friend) that she is, Neisha had food and drink waiting or me, and I quickly made myself at home.

I should have taken a nap but I did everything but. I quickly set my status on Facebook to, "Adjodha is now in London." I emailed my London friends letting them know I was in the city, emailed my family and other concerned parties in regard to my safe arrival as well as my bonding time with officers I met on my arrival, and called the office to let them know I ready to work.

So began my Summer in London.

A Treasure of a Friend: 18 Years Later

2008-07-05T03:54:00.002-07:00

Pam and I met for the first time on November 12th, 1990 and we hit it off immediately. I remember the day clearly because my birthday was two days later. I can still picture the moment I walked up the stairs only to see Pam's smiling face at the desk.I am sure that exact happened to many others. You can't help but fall under that spell and be charmed in a moment.

Pam wears her heart on her sleeve and is the most caring and compassionate person you will ever meet. Some people tend to take advantage of that but it has not changed her one bit. This lady just keeps coming back stronger than ever.

Life has not always been good and over the years, we have shared stories about our life, we have seen each other fall, we have faced disappointments and pain. We know what it feels like to have no money, no food, no job, and sometimes, no future.But through it all, Pam has always found that inner strength, a strength that comes directly from her faith in Him who is always in control, and she has persevered.

18 years is a long time and looking back, I have so many memories of the bad days and the good days. The bad days are like a shadow we can appreciate now because we have learned our lessons well from them. But the good days are here and I am glad I can share these good days with Pam.

Everyone in the world should have at least one good friend. Someone to turn too when the chips are down. Someone to cry with when times are bad, someone to laugh with and enjoy the good times. Someone who will always believe in you, no matter what you are up against. Someone whom you feel close to, even when oceans and continents separate you physically.

I have that good friend, and more than that, a great friend who personifies the meaning of the word 'friend.' Thank you for being my friend.

Only your friends will MAKE you shovel a driveway full of snow for your dinner.

Getting ready for the cold day ahead, Pam makes sure I am well covered and buttoned up.

November 2007, on a weekend visit to Pam's new home in Ottawa, Canada. We had Tea at a fancy hotel downtown.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Banquet

2008-07-05T02:35:00.005-07:00

The final night of the week in Salzburg gave way to a very special banquet to honor all the students who attended. We were treated to a formal dinner in the Marble Hall, and we were required to dress up. It was a special time for us to be together because we knew it was the last night we were ever going to be in that place, in that moment and we wanted to make the most of it. It was as special as it was meant to be and we all had a wonderful dinner, and a very special final night.

Alicia and I on that final night. Alicia was not one of the late nighters but we did chat quite a bit and got along really well.

Sonya was in my group and we had so much fun together. Unfortunately, she was placed on bed rest for the last few days of the trip and did not attend the banquet. That being the case, we took the party to her room and had a brilliant time.

For every sun there is a moon, for ever day there is a night, for every Venus, there must be a Mars. Here is my beautiful Venus.

Rosie thought I was a great dancer and we got along great after that. She is one terrific lady and funny too.

Tash is a really cool guy and I am glad we got a chance to meet and chat. He is the true South Asian, but I was dressed as one.

The ever stylish, ever Vogue Betty. She was definitely the most fashionable of the lot. Hats off to you Betty.

Smack between two beautiful, charming, and intelligent women. Sandy our chaperone on the left, and Teri on my right.

The IT couple not only sat together that night, but we were also color coordinated, and it was not planned. I miss you Michele!

Everyone wanted to have their picture taken with Jochen and he was more than willing to oblige. He is truly a remarkable person, and a true gentleman. The world needs more like him.

Michele, Venus, Rachel and me on that special banquet night. There you have it, the main part of the in crowd.

Another trini brother, Bryan turned out to be how every trini should be. Cool, fun, easy going, and most importantly, no chip on his shoulder.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Fun In The Beirstuba

2008-07-02T15:52:00.004-07:00

We sat through some heavy sessions, we worked hard, and every evening we played hard as well. We had to...when next were we ever going to be back In Salzburg, hanging out in the basement of a Castle so we milked it for all its worth. Most nights (or mornings) we left around 2am, but as the week progressed, we stayed until 4am on some days. No regrets, no love lost, we were friends having a blast and what a blast we had. Those are moments we will never forget.

Strike a pose! Juliana and Michele were having a good time and it showed.

If nothing else, these ladies knew how to have a good time...can you tell? Anna May and Hilda joined Juliana and Michele for a great picture.

Only one thing was missing from the previous picture...me. Just look at those hands on me and you will know exactly what I am talking about.

Good time and good friends...shaking up the dance floor.

Juliana and Michele gave our resident DJ Bryan, some room on the dance floor to strut his stuff...and strut he did!

Here we go..the life of the party, Juliana, Michele and me.

Working it together, the winning combination.

Juliana has got the moves. If I say so, then it is so. She's got it, your baby shes got it!

Michele showing us how it is done...shake it baby.

I love this picture of Justin playing the piano. reminds me of Dracula from Van Helsing.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Fun In The Beirstuba

2008-07-02T15:10:00.003-07:00

One of the things we looked forward to the most was our evenings downstairs the Schloss, in the Bierstuba. In fact, we were encouraged to spend time there and relax and get to know each other and exchange ideas. We did that and managed to have a ton of fun in the process.

Teri, Alicia and I share a drink as we sit and chat and watch some ping pong.

Jeffrey giving his best shot against me in ping pong.

Denis, Michele, Anna May, Jeffrey, Gaby and I take a break between some very competitive Fussbol.

The IT Couple having some downtime during the evening in the Bierstuba.

What happened to my opponent? Where have they gone?

Gaby having fun with ping pong while the rest of us wait our turn.

Justin was one of only three persons who really knew how to play and gave me some good competition.

Teri was another one who gave me a great game but she could not keep up with my pace. We have to do this again Teri.

Salzburg Global Seminar: The Schloss and Surroundings

2008-06-27T00:38:00.005-07:00

The entrance to the Schloss and it's grounds, we never what awaited us through those gates

Across the Lake, with the Schloss in the background. An amazing view to soothe and calm any soul.

On the grounds of the Schloss with the lake and mountains in the background.

Look at that view. The grounds at the back of the Schloss looking out over the lake towards the mountains.

Anna May and I took a walk around the lake and this is one shot with a view of the fortress on the hill. This fortress can be seen from the front of the Schloss as well as from both sides but not the back.

The Meirhoff, the building where we had our sleeping quarters as well as our daily sessions.

A view of the back gardens from the second floor balcony of the Schloss

A front view of the Schloss

The other side of the back gardens from the second floor balcony

One of the two sea horses at the edge of the lake, one of two that are side by side and featured in the movie, "The Sound of Music."

Salzburg Global Seminar: My Group In The Chinese Room

2008-06-26T15:27:00.004-07:00

My group consisted of Michele, Bryan, Amir, Arie, Sonya, Hans, and our faculty advisor, Andy. I swear we had the best and most efficient group. We got along great, divided up the projects into small sections with 2-3 persons in each section, and we had a fabulous advisor. We never fought and there was no bickering the whole time we worked on our project, and we laughed...oh how we laughed. We had the most amazing time, more so because we were using the Chinese Room of the Schloss with a view of the lake and the snow capped mountains. What more could we ask for.

A nice view of our main work area in The Chinese Room with Arie in the background.

With a view like that, anyone would be inspired to work hard...right.

Michele and I (pretending to be) working side by side ( I think we were having more fun than getting the work done...right Michelle)

Relaxing, reviving, and soaking up the moment in time that never came back.

Bryan...what a hard worker, and what fun to have around...imagine two trinis in the same group.

Hans making a point as Andy pays as much attention as he can, if you can judge by the look on his face.

While some of us worked away, other like Amir...well, you know what they say. A picture is worth a thousand words.

Michele, ever the hard worker (right?) and Arie, working just as hard (???)

Salzburg Global Seminar: Dining Like Royalty 111

2008-06-26T14:34:00.004-07:00

It was lunch time on our fourth day and a beautiful day outside. I could not resist and led a group of sun seekers out to the balcony to enjoy the meal in the meal with the most amazing background ever

What a time I had in Salzburg...what a day...what a moment...

Joy and I, good friends by now, mugging for the camera, something we do quite well.

Hans, Joy, and I seem to be enjoying our lunch together, but don't be deceived.

Joy and Jana are very serious about their meal, unaware of the ever lurking paparazzi

Jeffery digging into some delicious desert

Hans and Joy getting down on their food, not bothered by a hovering cameraman

While most came out to have lunch in the sun and enjoy the great weather, other people, like Hilda for instance, had other ideas, as Betty and Milton looks on.

I decide to feed my good friend Joy, a mere mouthful of food. Isn't that what good friends do every so often?

Hans was having none of it and he let me know, then and there.

.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Dining Like Royalty 11

2008-06-26T13:50:00.005-07:00

A fellow trini, I had no idea the beautiful D'Andrie and I had similar roots until we came back to NY and she joined a trini group on FB.

Amir (on my left) and I were in the same group. I don't remember the name of the guy on my right.(Message me if you know it)

Aurthur and Dominic sure knows how to enjoy a meal and pose for a picture at the same time

Jana, Rennae, and Arie share a meal and a table with me.

Chris is the Asian guy, but again, I don't remember the other guy.

Anna May, Juliana and Francois sharing my table and at least of of us is not ready for my quick shooting snaps...can you guess who?

Salzburg Global Seminar: Dining Like Royalty

2008-06-26T10:01:00.003-07:00

It was food, food, and even more food at Salzburg. It was always buffet style, always hot, always tasty, and always enough for everyone. I have never had that much fun having meals with so many special people, and definitely not three meals a day, seven days a week, buffet style.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Lecturers, facilitators and all round amazing people

2008-06-26T09:33:00.004-07:00

One of the amazing aspects about Salzburg were the great speakers who took timeout from their extremely hectic schedules to visit and share with us valuable information, and give and insight into how we can all become global citizens. Life is not about me, not about now, not about this minute. There is more to life than what is in front of us.
At Salzburg, we were introduced to people who were living what they were talking about. People who had gone places, done things and reached heights that we had only begun dreaming about. I am privileged to have come into contact with such people and listen to their real life experiences and learn from them. Here are some of them.

Salzburg Global Seminar: Special Friends

2008-06-22T00:27:00.009-07:00

One of the best things about the SGS is the fact that it brought some amazing people together in one place for a week. Many of those amazing persons happened to be from my sponsor school, Borough of Manhattan Community College. In the week we spent together, many of these guys became close friends. Sometimes it seems like it's to short a time for this closeness to develop but believe me, it happened.
Now that we have all moved on to new schools, or some in the same school, we still keep that bond we have grown among us (via FB and other means). We have become an intricate part of each other other's lives. Here is a close up look at some of the honorable mentions. (Missing are Taylor, Venus, Teri, to mention a few)

The ultimate 'IT Couple" of the week, Michelle and I became the best of friends during the week in Salzburg. She was the only one who dared call me by the "b" word and I had my own special adjectives for her. We had so much fun together, and shared so much personal stuff. It was an amazing time for both of us.

Some of the group that I hung out with most of the time in the Beirstuba, the place were we had the most fun and cemented our friendships.

This picture features Anna May (Philippines) Juliana, and Francois (Haiti) I know Anna May will never forgive me for putting this picture on my blog but I just wanted to have one that I took, rather than one from someone else. Beautiful, funny, sexy, brilliant, caring,,,did I mention fun. I love you Anna May.
Francois and I sat next to each other on the first leg of our flight that took us to Frankfurt. We chatted for over an hour and within that time, I managed to get an insight into this quiet, strong, young man who was not afraid to live according to his beliefs, even if it meant being different from the crowds.

I had no idea Rachel was such a cool person and so much fun but we are now great friends and love each other to death. She is now on my list of funnist (is that a word)persons I know.

Joy is one of the few persons from one of the other schools represented that I felt a special closeness to. We seemed to have formed a bond out of nothing and I am glad for all those times we sought each other out and became great friends in the process

Sandra was our chaperone for the week in Salzburg and definitely an extraordinary person. She looked out for us and made sure we all got to Salzburg and back to NY in one group. Cool and fun, it was a pleasure having Sandy with us.
Harry Mars was one of the organizers of the trip and he was very much the gentleman all along. He has a deep affection for each of us and it is my pleasure to know him and call him my friend.

This picture was taken at JFK as we gathered before check in. From the left is Jeffery (Hong Kong) Juliana (Brazil) yours truly (Trinidad and Tobago, if you did not know) Gabriela (Cuba) and Denis (Russia)
Jeffery and I had many conversations and I had the opportunity to find out what makes this quiet, deep, caring young man tick.
I knew Juliana from Phi Theta Kappa but only casually, even though I voted for her as a vice president. All that changed from the time we met at the airport and now we are as close as friends can be. She is a strong, caring, focused, and fun person if you ever meet one.
Gaby and I were already friends and the person I knew best from the entire BMCC group but we became even better friends as our common ground expanded to greater things.
Denis I thought, did not smile enough and I was successful and forcing many smiles out of him. Not sure what he thinks of me but he is a cool guy whose eyes are open to what is happening in the world around him.

Salzburg Global Seminar: A Day At Dachau 2

2008-06-21T15:17:00.004-07:00

When we arrived at Dachau, we were issued with individual audio guides and with mine in hand, I set out to walk along a path that thousands had walked, some to their death, and fortunately, many others to safety and freedom. I choose to walk alone because I did not want to talk to anyone in a time I place I felt I had no reason to talk.
I can never truly express what I felt as I walk through the grounds, the museum, and the various memorials that have been erected on the site. I can never understand how we can allow ourselves to reach to a point where we kill our friends, neighbours, and even relatives because someone tells us that we are better than them, and that they are worse than animals. Even as it happens today, all over the world, it seems that we will never learn that we are one and the same, no matter that we are black or white, bond or free, Jew or Gentile.
It broke my heart to think so many had to suffer and die because a nation followed a leader who made them feel superior but all that is history, and in spite of "Never Again," many around the world have not learned from this brutal part of our history. Hopefully, we ca all play a part in changing the way the world thinks and sees itself.

A picture of the pile of bodies that was awaiting cremation outside the ovens on the day the camp was liberated

The entrance of the site...such a small entrance for the thousands who entered.

The Russian Orthodox Memorial, one of a few on the site

The Jewish Memorial erected on the site

Not the best day for pictures, I could barely muster a smile

This is a memorial site representing the thousands whose ashed was dumped unceremoniously after cremation. It is only one of a few on the site.

The ovens where the bodies of the dead prisoners were cremated. Just overhead, at the front of the ovens, there are rafters that were used to hang prisoners. No one knows for sure how many died this way.

At a glance, it can be easily mistaken for a shower but no water ever came out of these jets. This was the gas chamber of Dachau. It was never used to kill prisoners but it is reported that officers would gas a few prisoners that they wanted to get rid of.

Another memorial to the thousands who died. This is located opposite the gas chamber and oven room.

Salzburg Global Seminar: A Day At Dachau 1

2008-06-21T14:56:00.003-07:00

One of the highlights of our visit to Salzburg was the visit to Dachau. We knew beforehand that we would be making the trip but with all the activities going on around us, there was really no time to think about it. Then the day came and we got on the bus for the two hour ride there.
Nothing prepared me for the emotions that swept over me as we rode the bus to the site. Not all the movies I have seen, not all the articles I have read on the war, ant not all the books I have read. It was a day of mixed emotions for me to stand there on the same ground that thousands walk on, never know where their next step would lead.

On the bus, sitting with Jeffrey, we made our way silently to the memorial site.

It seemed as if the weather was preparing us for the trip but being cold and melancholy. There was never a single ray of sunshine on the ride there or back.

The famous words "Never Again" written in several languages greets the visitor close to the museum. I am not sure if the world has been living up to that but it is altogether another chapter.

A piece of artwork that shows that represents the plies of bodies that was found when the camp was liberated'

A wide open area in front of some of the buildings where the prisoners were gathered morning and evening to be counted by their guards.

The Salzburg Global Seminar

2008-05-19T07:58:00.002-07:00

I have tried to explain to some of my friends at BMCC what the Salzburg Seminar was all about. Many of them could not get the concept so this is how I would break it down for them.

"If you are a student who is attending college and you plan to get your degree, find a great job, make lots of money and do all the things you always wanted to do, and live happily ever after, then The Salzburg Seminar is not for you."

The Salzburg Seminar aims to give students a global prospective to their studies. It helps you to see that there is more to life and the world that what meets the eye. It is more than having what you want to make you happy. It opens up a whole big world and gives you a glimpse of what is happening out there and shows how each student can become an agent of change and betterment.

I have to say that my eyes have been opened and now I have a better picture of what I want to do with my life and how I can go about doing that. I have an important part to lay in making this world a better place to live in, and so does everyone else. I need to do what I have to do and do it to the best of my ability. I am glad I have exposed to people and resources that I can access as I fulfill my life's goal. Be sure to stay on this journey with me as the dream unfolds.

Salzburg: The Living experience

2008-05-19T07:45:00.004-07:00

If I could wake up every morning for the rest of my life, look out my window, see the ice capped mountains beyond a shimmering lake, walk among the trees and feel the calm that I felt in Salzburg, I would be content.

One of the most beautiful places I have visited and stayed at so far in my life, my time at the Schloss Leopoldskron was a week of bliss. I spent as much time as possible outdoors and did not care about the cold. Water and mountains are my favorite scenery and I enjoyed every peaceful scenic moments in Salzburg.

Following are some of the pictures I took around the buildings we stayed in. I had the best time and would return at the drop of a hat.

The Schloss Leopoldskron from across the lake.

The grounds behind the Schloss toward the lake.

Looking toward the Alps from the rear of the Schloss.

Carnegie Hall Performance

2008-05-19T07:25:00.004-07:00

I had an opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall with the BMCC Downtown Chorus but because I was in Salzbur for the main rehearsals with he conductor and the orchestra, I did not. Instead, I got a free ticket to a balcony seat and thoroughly enjoyed the combined choir of 300 singers, conductor by Dr Anton Armstrong, perform Gabriel Faure's "Requiem." It was absolutely beautiful and even though I did not sing, I am happy to have been there to enjoy.

After the concert, my choir director, Dr Eugenia E Yau, and her husband Jose, took us to a nearby bar and we had some drinks and pizza, all compliments Jose. We all had a grand time relaxing with the knowledge of a job well done behind us.

Congratulations to all!Special thanks to Dr Yau and all her hard work in providing this awesome, once in a lifetime opportunity.

Let the party begin. Jon, Gianni and me.

Gianni, Jon, and Pramela...can you tell the thorn from the roses?

Our very talented and awesome director and friend, Dr. Eugenia Yau and her husband Jose with me.

Introducing....the two tenors....drum roll please...

Dr. Yau with some of the talented singers from our Chorus.

Meet the "Three Musketeers," Peter, Jon and me.

Part of the group, enjoying drinks on Jose and (hungrily) awaiting the pizza.

Finals Week Is Here

2008-05-19T06:44:00.000-07:00

It has begun! The long (not) anticipated week of finals, that bittersweet time for all students, is NOW!

I just finished my first final of the week and thank God it was Physics. I am so happy that is over and done with. I have one final for each remaining day of the week and then I am home free. Physics was my biggest worry and now I can breeze through the remaining exams in the subjects that are more to my liking.

Before going on, I need to backtrack a little and fill in all the gaps of the past month. As you know, in April, I spent a week in Salzburg and believe it or not, that week has changed my life in many ways.

I will be going back to that time and posting stuff that took place from my week in Salzburg till now. Happy reading.

From Salzburg to New York

2008-04-28T10:37:00.003-07:00

It was quite a reality check to arrive back in NY and see that nothing had changed in the week that I was away. But why should it have anyway? New York had no real bearing on the fact that I attended The Salzburg Global Seminar and the only change expected was with me.

Today, Monday 28Th, April, I am back in the swing of things with classes at 8am and surprisingly enough, I was awake and alert. I am proud of myself. After seven nights of an average 3 hours sleep, I thought it would be tough on me to sit through my classes, but so far so good. Tomorrow will be the real test though, when I have classes and other activities from 8am right up until 9:30pm.

On the bright side, I have made some wonderful new friends, I have learned so much about myself and my future and where its headed, and I had tons of fun in the process. What more can I ask for! I have already been given more than I deserve and I am thankful for every moment of joy and enlightenment that comes my way.

Look for much much more updates and pictures in the coming week.

On my way to the city center with some of the students. One of the many stops along the way that we could pass without getting a few photos.

This is a picture of the entire group of students and the one faculty member from my college, Borough of Manhattan Community College, (BMCC)that was a part of The Salzburg Global Seminar.

Some Pics Until I Have Time To Write

2008-04-22T09:29:00.004-07:00

The view from the back of the Schloss Leopoldskron looking out towards the lake.

Looking at the Schloss from across the lake.

A bit of a tete-a-tete at the back of the plane as we amused ourselves on the long flight.

Meeting the group at JFK before proceeding to check-in

A corner view of the Schloss through the trees on the grounds.

Another view of the lake from the back of the Schloss

Another view of the lake from the back of the Schloss

The Salzburg Global Seminar

2008-04-20T14:26:00.003-07:00

We left for Salzburg at 4pm on Friday 18th, 40m and arrived at the palace around 11am on Saturday 19th. From the moment we got there, we all decided that we were not leaving (if only). From the air the city looked absolutely stunning but that was nothing comapred to the place we are staying.

I would love to take the time to go into details but at the moment, I am too tired to find the rights words to give a proper description. For now, let me say that we are staying on the grounds of a beautiful palace, and we are having all our meals, some of our workshops, and lots of our freetime in the palace. I have a key to the palace as well. How cool is that. Meals at the palace with view of the snow capped Alps across the waters on a beautiful lake... Think on that till next time.

A view of the palace from across the lake that was featured in The Sound of Music.

Having lunch in the palace today, Sunday 20th April, with Otis on my right and Amir on my left.

Standing in front of the gate that leads into the property.

Brimfull of Asha

2008-04-19T12:13:00.002-07:00

This past week there was a flurry of emails between us roomies about an upcoming performance by Asha Bhosle at Carnegie Hall. After all the back and forth, I got tickets for the three of us, Jon, David and myself, to attend.

All three of us made our (visiting)debut at Carnegie Hall that night but I am sure the talented Ms. Bhosle is no stranger to that stage. It was a thrilling night for me to witness a performer whose music I have know since early in my life. It was also the first time I have attended the performance of an artiste as prominent as Asha Bhosle.

Her repetoir was extensive and included, semi-clasical indian, old and new Indian film songs, most of which I knew, or at least heard. Now i want to se more live performances and I will be checking out for other events with top artists.

Who knows? Maybe I will catch Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan or even Diana Ross before I leave NY.

I am writing from Salzburg, Austria, so look for more updates.

Two days To Salzburg!

2008-04-16T07:40:00.003-07:00

This is the group from BMCC who will be attending The Salzburg Seminar!

Baby Emily Alexis

2008-04-14T08:34:00.002-07:00

Here is Baby Emily, born April 8Th, 2008. Seen here with Mommy Camille and daddy Jason

Couldn't Resist The Tree

2008-04-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Look, there's a monkey in the tree,no, it's two monkeys.

Friends in Trinidad

2008-04-13T08:43:00.002-07:00

While I was busy playing some football on the beach at Manzanilla during my visit home in January, I heard someone calling my name. But it was not the way everyone else used my name. Everyone calls me Lloyd but people who have known me for many years in Trinidad calls me Lloyde and this was the name I was hearing.
I looked toward the voice and who could I see but Chris, I friend of mine whom I had not seen in at least five years. We knew each other from church many years ago, but became friends some years ago and hung out quite a bit in the years before I left Trinidad. One can imagine my shock and surprise to see him and what a coincidence it was.
Anyway, we had a good chat about life as it is now, and of course, the good old days. Chris is now married with children, two I think, and I am here in NY studying. We have come a long way from the days when we used to hang out and ponder on our future.

Missing Trinidad: Manzanilla Beach

2008-04-13T08:22:00.004-07:00

Its Sunday today and I am sitting at home working on an English essay about my life back in Trinidad. My mind somehow drifter back to the days when we used to visit the beach every weekend, spent the night doing bar-b-Que's and then bathing all the next day before heading home, completely exhausted.
These are some pictures from my last visit home and a day spent at Manzanilla Beach.

See the rainbow in the picture.

We had a great time smimming and playing in the water.

A view of the beach from the water, coconut trees swaying in the breeze.

The coconut trees at dusk, it was a beautiful evening as the daylight retreated and gave room to the night.

Nicholas, Rakesh, and me.

Happy Birthday Neisha!

2008-04-12T10:43:00.003-07:00

I believe that every one needs to have at least one close friend, someone who will be there no matter what happens in our lives. Someone who will see us for who we are and still be our friend. I am fortunate to have not one but at least three friends like this. Neisha is one such friend.

I met Neisha about eight years ago when I was the youth leader in my home church in Trinidad. We immediately became friends and Neisha was always willing to help out with activities and programs in the group. We always had so many fun evenings and laugh together and worked together.

Fast forward to October 2004.
I flew to London where Neisha has been living for the past five years. Neisha met me at the airport, took me home to drop off my bags and then took me on a whirlwind tour of Central London. This was the point from where our friendship moved up to a whole new level. For the two years I lived in London, Neisha and I became very close friends and now I can say she is one of my best friends.

There are many qualities to a good friend. One who listens, is always available, caring, considerate, knows all about you but still loves you, and many more. Neisha is all this and much much more. I am proud and happy to call her my friend and know that she feels the same about me.

Thank you so much for being the wonderful person you are and I am truly blessed and fortunate to have you as my friend. Thanks for all the fun times we have had together and the anticipation of many more years as friends. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Just before going out with friends to celebrate a birthday. Jan 2006

A night out with friends in Central London...what a night that was!

"Trini to de bone!" Watching the Soca Warriors in the 2006 World Cup against England.

After work office "lime" sponsered by our manager, Jeff. O2 Center, Finchley Road, London

A quiet even at our house on Greenland Quays, London. We had so much fun there.

Neisha and I in front of our house with the marina and Canary Wharf in the background.

Late at night on the # 1 bus, heading to Central London for a night out.

Think Twice About That Haircut

2008-04-09T08:40:00.001-07:00

A Chinese hair salon has been shut down and fined 500,000 yuan ($71,280) for holding two customers hostage and charging wildly excessive fees for haircuts, a newspaper reported on Monday.

College students Zhang Yi and Yuan Sha Sha went for a haircut at Baolou International Beauty Salon in Zhengzhou, in the central province of Henan, expecting to pay the 38 yuan ($5.42) advertised on the window.

But when the barbers were done, they produced a joint bill for 12,000 yuan ($1,700), enough to make anyone's hair curl, the Beijing News reported.

"After borrowing from 16 people, the two were only able to come up with 9,800 yuan and it wasn't until after 10 pm were they allowed to leave the hair salon," it reported.

It was not the first time that the shop tried to cheat consumers. One was slapped with a bill for 4,776 yuan when she came in for a haircut last September. In December, another customer opted for a 68 yuan haircut, but was asked to pay 5,670 yuan.

The shop was eventually shut down with nearly 100 local residents applauding outside, the newspaper said.

(Reporting by Beijing Newsroom; Editing by Nick Macfie)

($1=7.015 Yuan)

Announcing: Emmily Alexis McIssac

2008-04-09T06:56:00.002-07:00

My sister Camille had her first baby yesterday, Tuesday April 8Th at 9:30 pm, in Toronto, Canada.
That makes me an uncle for the 7Th time. I originally planned to visit my sister this weekend but my mother there before the birth so I will go after my exams. Look out for pictures since I will be posting as soon as I get some.

April Is Here

2008-04-02T10:20:00.003-07:00

I repressed into my boyhood days yesterday, April 1ST, and played a practical joke on most of my friends.
I sent out an email saying I was involved in an incident at school and may be facing suspension. It was a big joke but here are some of the responses I got within five minutes.

One friend called to ask what was going on. In other words, what foolish thing had I done to get in trouble and throw away my life.

Another saw right through me and wished me a happy April Fool's Day in return. These two friends so far from NY.

A very good friend in London emailed her reply, with a disclaimer. "God is bigger than anything. (If this is an April Fool's joke, ha ha ha)."

The classic was another friend in London who called me immediately, trying to calm me down and help in any way possible. (The things you have to do to get a phone call from some friends)

So much for that. I had a good laugh though and stillsmile when I think of the frantic voices on the phone. Here is s site that list the 100 biggest pranks for April Fool's Day. Check it out.

http://www.museumofhoaxes.com/hoax/aprilfool/

Epcot Center: Morocco and Japan

2008-03-28T14:05:00.002-07:00

This part of the Epcot Center around the lake has representations of some countries, all of which we visited (well, except America. We live here, after all)and spent some time observing some of the displays or just checking out the shops. Morocco and Japan were two of the places we had meals at and they were both very good.

Orlando Weekend: Welcome Distraction

2008-03-27T08:37:00.005-07:00

A weekend in Orlando visiting Disney world and Universal Studios right now would be great. These pictures however, is from my trip in February. Even though Orlando did not make my list of places to visit in 2008, the opportunity came and I flew with it. I wish I had time to describe the trip in detail and all the fun we had but time is limited. I did have a ton of fun though...can you tell?

The famous Epcot Center. Anyone knows why it looks like a golf ball?

Jon next to one of the lakes.

Another view of the lake we encountered as soon as we entered.

The Stress of Being a Student

2008-03-27T08:25:00.003-07:00

At first I thought it was just me but after chatting with other students, I realize that so many of us can't wait for this semester to end. It is as though this is the worst of all the semesters we have had and we all agree we are a bit overwhelmed. Just this morning I was speaking with two other students and they both said the same thing that I am feeling. I don't think I have been looking forward to vacation time like now. I really can't wait.

In spite of that, I am enjoying my classes and getting to know some new students as the semester goes on. Hopefully we will all make it through and come out on top.When I think of this, I can't imagine what senior college will be like.

On a brighter note, I got my visa yesterday to visit Austria so that is one headache less. I went only once, had everything they asked for and more, and now I pick up my passport on Monday. One thing less I have to worry about. I can now focus on other aspects of the trip.

Well...I am off to another class...life goes on.

This is where I would like to be right now (Manzanilla Beach, Trinidad)

More Tobago Pictures.

2008-03-17T19:34:00.005-07:00

From Fort George, we moved on to some other Forts in Tobago. We came across the mystery tomb. Read the inscription and see if you can make sense of it. Let me know what you think.

This is the site of the oldest Fort in Tobago.

Try to solve the mystery of this tomb.

The main building of Fort George, now a museum.

Look at that breathtaking view. You can stay there forever.

Jon at Fort George just before we left to visit other Forts.

Relaxing at Fort George, enjoying the view.

More Pictures From Tobago

2008-03-16T14:07:00.005-07:00

Enjoy the warm water and brilliant sunshine at Dead Man's Cove

Making friends and giving some attention to nice dog at Fort George

A view from our boat as we sailed alongside Pigeon Point.

Here are so more pictures from beautiful Tobago. Every one should visit at some point in their life

Trinidad 10: A Day in Tobago

2008-03-15T11:18:00.009-07:00

It was supposed to be a day spent in beautiful Tobago with my mother, sister, and Jon but when the day came, only Jon and I went. We took the ferry early in the day and had a nice uneventful two and half hour trip before we got there. It was a beautiful day with brilliant sunshine, clear blue skies and an inventing ocean, any direction you looked.

We were fortunate to have a cool taxi driver, the only woman in the line, who dropped us off to some of the places we visited and even got us a nice discount on the boat tour of the Bucco Reef, the Nylon Pool and a detour on a small cove with warm water. It was a great day and I have tons of pictures so here are a few. The next time I spend a day in Tobago will be for a friend's weeding but who know when that will be. Maybe when she reads this she will tell me.

Jon sitting on the wall of Fort George, with the countryside in the background
.

Jon looking out at Pigeon Point.

A view of Store Bay from our boat on the way to the Reef and Nylon Pool.

A 'bird's eye view' of Pigeon point from our boat

On the way to Tobago as we left Trinidad

Tobago, here I come

Trinidad 9: The Caroni Swamp

2008-03-09T19:41:00.005-07:00

This is one swamp you will not find any green monsters so if you go, don't expect to see Shrek or any of his friends.

Instead you will see the beautiful Scarlet Ibis birds, the national bird of Trinidad and Tobago, as they fly there to nest.

We took a river boat on a guided tour and finally parked in a corner and waited for the birds to fly in for the night. The Egrets came first and the green trees turned white. Soon after, the flocks of red could be seen swooping down to the trees and changing the green/white to bright red/pink.

It was a sight to behold as we sat there and observer an amazing aspect of nature that man had nothing to do with.
Enjoy the pictures and if you visit Trinidad, be sure to take a trip to the Caroni Swamp.

No Time To Blog!

2008-03-06T19:53:00.003-08:00

When this semester began, I thought it will be the easiest one but I was mistaken. Seems like everywhere I turn, something is happening and I have no time to blog. I should be in bed, really.

I do have so many things to blog about; I am yet to finish my section on Trinidad and Tobago. I have to post some pictures from Orlando as well as other good things that has been happening.

One really good thing is two good friends that I 'found' again after being out of touch for about seven years. There is also two sisters, both living in the US, whom I have not seen in at least ten years, that I am in touch with again. Their family were there in the beginning, somewhere back in 1975 when my family began attending church and we became Christians.

There was also the issue of college applications. I am transferring from my present college, which is a two year program, to another school to complete my four years toward my degree.

In spite of the rush of the days, life is good. More and more I realize how blessed I am in these past weeks. Included are some pictures of the few you get when you step out of my school. It is a stunning view, especially at night.

Management Lessons With Humor

2008-02-26T07:50:00.004-08:00

Lesson 1:
A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower, when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next-door neighbour.
Before she says a word, Bob says, 'I'll give you $800 to drop that towel. After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob, after a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 and leaves.
The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs. When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, 'Who was that?'
'It was Bob the next door neighbour,' she replies. Great,' the husband says, 'did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?'

Moral of the story:
If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.

Lesson 2:
A priest offered a Nun a lift. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg.
The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?'
The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?'
The priest apologized 'Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.' Arriving at the convent, the nun sighed heavily and went on her way.
On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, 'Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.'

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

Lesson 3:
A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp.
They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, 'I'll give each of you just one wish.'
'Me first! Me first!' says the admin clerk. 'I want to be in the Bahamas , driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.' Puff! She's gone.
'Me next! Me next!' says the sales rep. 'I want to be in Hawaii , relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life.' Puff! He's gone.
'OK, you're up,' the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, 'I want those two back in the office after lunch.'

Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say.

Lesson 4
An eagle was sitting on a tree resting, doing nothing. A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him, 'Can I also sit like you and do nothing?' The eagle answered: 'Sure, why not.'
So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Moral of the story:
To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.

Lesson 5
A turkey was chatting with a bull.
'I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree' sighed the turkey, 'but I haven't got the energy.'
'Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?' replied the bull. They're packed with nutrients.'
The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree.
The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch.
inally after a fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top of the tree.
He was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree.

Moral of the story:
Bull Shit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there..

Lesson 6
A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field.
While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him.
As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realize how warm he was.
The dung was actually thawing him out!
He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy.
A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate.
Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him.

Morals of the story:
(1) Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy.

(2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.

(3) And when you're in deep shit, it's best to keep your mouth shut!

Depreciating Assets

2008-02-25T19:26:00.002-08:00

New York Before Orlando Weekend

2008-02-25T18:46:00.002-08:00

When I came downstairs to get the train at 4:30am on my way to JFK to fly to Orlando I was pleasantly surprised to see the entire street covered in snow and it was absolutely beautiful. Being me, I whipped out my camera and began taking pics to record the moment that was the most beautiful our street has ever been. This is what it it looked like.
It was a bit sad leaving the snow and the possibility of walking through Central Park when it was ccovered with snow but I was going to sunshine and warmth for three days so I got over it very easily. The weekend was as much fun as one can imagine and Disneyworld and Universal Studios has the be the funnest place that I never planned to be at in 2008. Look our for pictures (some of the 400 I took will find themselves on here) and updates on all the fun. No promises though since my semester is getting busier by the day.

Trinidad # 8 Some Friends 1

2008-02-13T09:32:00.007-08:00

With five weeks on my hand in Trinidad someone actually asked what I planned to do the whole time. If it were up to me, I would have spent every day at the beach or hiking or visiting some nature reserves, most of which I did not get around to doing but I did manage to visit some friends.

This one in particular includes a whole family. Babina, (affectionately known as Reds) and I became friends after the death of a neighbour when my church spent some time with the bereaved family. She has two sons who were very young and I became a big brother to them and a friend of the family.

I have many pleasant memories visiting their home where we would sit and chat for hours, sometimes until the "wee" hours of the morning about everything under the sun. Reds always had questions, many of them relating to the bible and church and we would go back and forth discussing everything that was on her mind.

At some point in time, my friend Pamela and I held classes in the family house for kids living close by, including Red's kids. We had many good days with he kids there (and some frustrating ones as well) but it was a good experience for both Pam and myself in community work, something both of us do till today.

These pictures are of my visit to their home and shows Reds, my mom and myself. Another shows her youngest son Roland and his gf on another night. (Reds is of Amerindian descent and the hair is real)

Trinidad # 7: Nature's Bounty

2008-02-09T06:03:00.002-08:00

One of the great things about living on a tropical island is the amount of fruit trees to be found and where I grew up in Las Lomas is no exception. In fact, there were many days when fruits trees in the village like mangoes and cashews and coconuts were a major part of our diet to make up for the shortage of food in our home.

One of my favorite things things to do during the mango season was to climb one of the trees around our house with a knife in my back pocket, find a comfortable spot among the branches, pick a few ripe mangoes and have a nice relaxing time on the tree eating them. These particular mangoes I am refering too are quite large so the most I was able to eat in one go was two...the good old days.

On my recent trip home I visited some friends and was in that mode again beacuse the trees were laden with all manner of fruits. Needless to say, we had a good time picking and eating and for me, I enjoyed being in the outdoors again, climbing trees like I used to a a little boy running free in the village.

Trinidad # 6: My Long Lost Nephew

2008-02-09T05:35:00.000-08:00

This may sound odd but it really did happen to our family years ago and I am glad I had the opportunity and the means to remedy it.

One of my two older brothers, Anand (or Chillout as he is affectionately know) was married manyyears ago but was seperated from his wife not too long after. By this time they had a son and my estimate is that he was about 6-8 months old at the time of his parents' seperation.

Sadly enough, due to circumstances beyond our control, my family, including never saw the child again. Shocking I know but there were factors at work and we let it go and next thing you know, 20 years had passed and we did not know our nephew and he (still)does not know his father or relatives on his father side of the family.

On my trip home, a cousin of mine offered to take me and my mother to thier house and so we went to visit. In Trinidad, you don't have to call (not that we had a number to call) and announce your arrival, you can just show up and thats exactly what we did. When we arrived, I was nervous because his mother had made some statements in the past letting us know in no uncertain terms that we should stay away from "her" son but thank God, He was the only one at home when we got there.

When he came out of the house and I confirmed that he is indeed Denish Maharaj, I pointed my mother and said this is your grandmother and I am your uncle and my name is Lloyd. he stook there in shock but smiling at the same time.

He finally caught himself and let us in and we had a good chat before his family showed up (that is another chapter that I will not go into)Turns out Denish will be 21 in May 2008 and he works as a salesman for a large wholesale company.

It was shocking to see that Denish is the spitting image of his father: they had the same smile, laughed in the same manner and even talked in the same soft tone. That one day made my trip worthwhile and I hope in the years to come, Denesh will get to know his "lost" relatives and more importantly, his father.

The pictures show Denish, my mother, and of course, your's truly.

My Salzburg Blog

2008-02-09T05:29:00.000-08:00

As part of The Salzburg Seminar delegation, all students are asked to do a blog of the entire experience so being the good student that I am, I did and here is the link to it.
Be sure to check it out and follow along in what promises to be an amazing journey.

http://llminnyc.blogspot.com/

I am going to Austria!

2008-02-05T19:52:00.000-08:00

After months (well two months really) off waiting for a reply from The Salzburg Scholarship Selection Committe, I found about five voicemails waiting for me when I returned for me when I got back to New York from Trinidad. In a matter of minutes I had spoken to the persons in charge and made an appointment to be interviewed.

The day finally came and I met with the group for 45 mins but I still had to wait for a week for an answer. Finally it came and I was told I will be going to Austria with fourteen other BMCC students and at least one of them is a friend of mine.

This is so exciting and I can't wait to stay in the castle that was used as the residence In "The sound of Music." One week in Salzburg during Spring Break!

Anyway, stay tuned and I will do a post on exactly what I will be doing there.

Giants Win! Giants Mania in New York!

2008-02-05T19:43:00.001-08:00

It was my first Superbowl and it was fun, not that I am a football fan or anything but I do admire hard work and perseverance in any form...and besides I like sports.

It was interesting watching the game and being told what they were trying to do and so forth and so on, but the main thing is that New York won and I am glad for that because I live here now.

A few days after the win, the team was paraded though the streets of NY, where they were eventually given "The Keys to the City.' I tried to catch the parade with my friend Elsie, but all we got was hoards of Giants fans and the most police officers I have ever seen in any one day. My class schedule did not help either. Here are some of the pictures I took at the top of Chambers Street, which happens to be the street my school is on.

Go Giants!

Trinidad # 5 My Babies

2008-02-02T14:59:00.000-08:00

One of the things I missed most when I left Trinidad was my dogs, all four of them. I spent a signigicant amount of time with Chivas (the mother)Dougla, Frosty and Rebel. Here they are...and I still miss them.
As we all know, being around pets can be very relaxing and most mornings I would go to the back of the house and play with them. Sometimes at night when I got home I would do the same and we would all have a nice chat in the cool night.

Trinidad # 4 Sun, sand and sea

2008-02-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

It must be a good sign to begin the year at my favorite beach in Trinidad, Maracas Beach. Turns out some friends of my brother stopped by his house on New Year's day and upon hearing that I was home on vacation, called me up and next thing you know, we were all on the merry road to Maracas Beach.

The weather was great, the company was fun and even though the time was short we all had a great time.

One Week Down...

2008-02-01T14:56:00.000-08:00

...and counting.

Its the end of the first week of classes but I feel as if I have been at it for weeks or even months. Not a good sign I am sure but I am hoping that over the weekend I can get myself together and get on with it.

For some strange reason I have not been able to adjust and get back into the swing of things here in NY and I want to balme it on too much sun, too much home-cooked meals and definitely too much fun over the previous five weeks.

For those of you who don't know, this is my fourth semester and I will be graduating this Spring and transfering to a four year college to complete my degree. Its decided and I will do my under grad in Social Work at either York College in Queens or Lehman College in the Bronx. These are the only two CUNY (City University of New York) that has a BSW. Hopefully I can do my MSW at Columbia and if not Hunter College will be fine.

Time for me to start my weekend...

Quote of the Month

2008-02-01T14:47:00.000-08:00

I just came across this quote in a newsletter from an organization called Hope For New York and thought I'd share it. Think about it.

"I've seen and met angels wearing the disguise of ordinary people living ordinary lives."

Tracy Chapman

Trinidad # 3 "Nicing" Up De Place

2008-01-29T06:40:00.000-08:00

If you know anything about Trinidad culture, you will know that Christmas is the time when everyone makes that extra effort to make their homes more beautiful and/or replace existing furniture and appliances with brand new ones (thanks to all the no deposit/take it home for 3 mths credit. etc. available) This is something that most people do and in just the space of a month before and after Christmas, homes are completely transformed.

When I got home, our house was being repainted to match all the blooming flowers in the front yard and I got right into the swing of things. I am not really one for DIY but I do enjoy painting with some sing-along music to keep me distracted. We did this for the first three days I was there and it was well worth it.

Here I am all messed up with paint as well as the front of the house with all the plants. (Not that I had anything to do with the beautiful plants)

Trinidad # 2 Family History: Lost Forever?

2008-01-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

One of the things I was hoping to accomplish while in Trinidad was to visit some relatives and try to get some information about my grandparents and great grandparents. This proved to be much more difficult than anticipated.

I visited my father's two sisters, the only ones left of his many siblings and was very disappointed with their responses. They could not give me any names of either of their grandparents and I could not help but think they could not be bothered by what is past.

I was certain at least one of them would be able to give me something to work on but I got nothing, absolutely nothing. I left their homes feeling like the day was a complete and all the family's history was lost forever. The sad part is that it is lost. If they don't want to talk about it or don't remember, then it is lost for sure and there is nothing I can do about it.

On my mother's side, there is one of her mother's sister still alive but at 75, there was little she could tell. Turns out most of the older Indians in Trinidad used only one name and children never used the proper names of their parents and grandparents. This resulted in another dead end with the other side of the family long forgotten. So much for that.

The picture is of my father's youngest sister and another of his older sister.

Trinidad # 1

2008-01-26T10:35:00.000-08:00

Before leaving for Trinidad on Dec 19th I was way too busy with finals ans other school activities to really fell the excitement of going home but by the time I got there and stepped out of the airport, I was ready for five weeks in the sun.

I was met by my mother and sister Molly as well as my friend rakesh and his wife Anjanie and their adorable daughter Adrianna. Turns out that Adrianna's b-day is they same as mine so from my 39th, we celebrate together.

My day was spent at home eating some much needed home cooked curry and then we were off to the mall to hang out and relax.

Here are some pics from that first day. You can see all the persons I mentioned as we hung out at home and at the mall.

Trinidad to New York

2008-01-26T10:25:00.000-08:00

After five weeks in Trinidad and Tobago I was not prepared for the cold of the NY Winter. My first day here made me want to stay in bed all wrapped up in blankets but I had to face reality and eventually leave the house.
Now that life is back to normal, that is, no warm days in the sun on the beach, I have to face my fourth semester of college as well as all the topics I want to blog about and also catching up with friends that I seem to have lost touch with in the past few weeks.
So, get ready, look out for regular updates and tons of photos from my trip back home where I spent my first Christmas in Trinidad in four years.

School Is Out! Its Vacation Time in the Sun!

2007-12-18T15:17:00.000-08:00

Maracas Here I Come!!!! (see pic)

My Fall semester is finally over and you will not believe how relieved I am right now...or maybe you do. This has been one heck of a day and even though I was prepared (at least pretty much) my nerves ran ragged during the course of the day.

But that is all behind me now so lets talk about the future! Tomorrow morning, Wednesday, at 6 am, I will be flying home to Trinidad and Tobago for my first Christmas in four years there so I am excited but pretty tired too so not much energy for excitement.

I am glad I will be getting home during the day so I can sit and chat with everyone there and catch up which means...for the next month I will be posting from Trinidad.

Time to go now and enjoy the evening having dinner and packing so I promise to be back real soon.

Canada II: Snow, Snow and more Snow!!!

2007-12-16T19:35:00.000-08:00

One of the highlights of the trip was seeing the most snow in my life. I first saw snow in London and then in Northern Ireland where I there was enough to build a snowman but this was real snow. It was on the trees, on the pathway and on the cars and best of all, it was not melting.

Pam and her husband Francois and his daughter Gabriela, together with Jon and me went to Gantineau Park and spend one afternoon and boy, did I have the time of my life. No more looking at movies or cards with snow in them...I was in the snow and as cold as it was, it was exhilarating as well.

Needless to say the time passed quickly and we had to head home but no before there were snow fights all around, some serious tobogganing and lots of skidding. I could have spent the entire day there just walking and playing in the snow. I have to do this again! Speacial thanks to the Seignorets' for their hospitality!

Canada Here I Come! I

2007-12-16T19:18:00.000-08:00

Considering the fact that my sister is living in Canada for the better part of twenty years, one would think that's where I would go when I do visit Canada but that was not the case. With her blessing (which she forgot she gave) I visited my friend (of 17 years) an her husband in Ottawa.

Since I came to the US to study I always expected to visit the second largest country in the world but Ottawa was the furthest place from my mind by with some planning from my rommie and my friend I found myself at the Canadian High Commission in NY. After a series of questions, and the office being satisfied that I had no plans to get married and settle in Canada (me, settle anywhere...God forbid!) he was nice enough to grant me a visa to visit his lovely country.

The overnight trip was just that...overnight...and we had a snow white Canada awaiting us in addition to an excited best friend. You would think it was Santa arriving but arrive we did and it was a blast. We had what was supposed to be breakfast at 1pm and did not move from the table till after 5pm when the man of the house came in.

The weekend was a blast and here are some photos to it prove . Checkout Jon, Pamela and me in from of the house to begin with.

Paintballing In Pennsylvania!

2007-12-15T09:10:00.000-08:00

If you did not know it before now you know!

Being a member (and President) of the Out In Two Scholarship definitely has its benefits and one such benefit was a trip to the forests of Pennsylvania for a day of paint balling, which incidentally, was the day after my birthday night so naturally I considered it an extension of my celebrations.

On the field we divided into two teams. What was a group of seventeen all out for a day of fun turned into two distinct groups out for "blood". It was open war and we had the "guns" to show how serious we were and no was was going to escape unscathed.
The first hit I took produced a yell only the great ape Godzilla could match! I was stunned that this could hurt so much so I vowed I would get my revenge at the next round. So said so done! I was relentless to the point where I could not differentiate comrades from enemies until the session was over and my team won.
For the rest of the day I took my fair share of hits and most of the other guys were relentless as well and for the last session which turned out to be a free for all with every man for himself my gun jammed and after taking numerous hits to the body, I stuck my gun in the air and call "out".
Needless to say, I have one bruise that seems to want to stay with me for a long time but what the heck...we all had a blast...literally.

Will I do it again? You bet I would!

Birthday Way..The Grand Finale

2007-12-15T07:53:00.000-08:00

This is the end of what was a fun night...can you tell? Someone observer my shirt matched my new face cream!

Birthday Way...Act III Friends at Home

2007-12-15T07:36:00.000-08:00

This is the first time having friends over for anything at the new apartment and small as it is, everyone had a good time socializing and of course, eating all the delicious food the "birthday boy" provided.

It was a good opportunity to see some friends whom you never see and meet new ones like our neighbour and her daughter. I did miss the house in Greenland Quays, London where I celebrated in 2005 as well as my farewell from London, and I did miss all my London friends at this celebration.

The funniest part was the cake. I had an ice cream cake in the freezer and did not remember it till after everyone had left. By this time there was the three room mates and my niece so we took it out, lit one candle and then had a feast. A cake that was made for 20 persons was now being devoured at 1am by four people.

After the cake came the opening of presents which is always the best part even though I had to wait a two days after my actual birthday but to make up, I had opened an amazing gift two weeks early that my sister Molly had given to me...that is, a laptop which I am using right now.

There ended my three day celebration of my birthday. The question is: what shall I do for an encore? We will just have to wait and see what 2008 brings our way.

Birthday Way...Act II "Tiffin Wallah"

2007-12-13T08:29:00.000-08:00

As if one round of food and cake was not enough, I headed to an Indian veg restaurant that we had been to and I really liked with a different group of friends. We had been to Tiffin Wallah before and it had an authentic Indian feel to it, that is , based on some aspects of India that I experienced when I visited in the Summer of 2007.

I liked the fact that it was a pure veg restaurant and the food was so good, I did not miss having meat.

For this round of the celebration, we had Nathan and Leslie and they brought a friend, Elizabeth, Veronica (a trini classmate) and her husband Garvin, and of course the room mates, David, Jon and Me. (We missed Will and Christian who would have certainly been there except they had just moved back to Texas to have their baby).

The food was good and the company was even better and I had a free dinner because it was my birthday. Thank you guys for making my birthday very special.

Birthday Way...Act I "Out In Two Club"

2007-12-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

For those of you who know me, you will know that my birthday is always a big deal for me. The only other time I like to fuss about is Christmas but birthdays are always better since its always about me. Even as the number increases the fun gets better and my circle of friends increase.My b-day began at about 11:45pm on the night of 11/13 because I get to decide when to start my official celebration. I open one present at that time and then went to bed.The morning was like any other morning and I had my Biology and English classes and then the fun began.

Being the President of the Out In Two Scholarship Club has its privileges and one of them is getting a chance to celebrate with all the Scholars. Our club advisor ordered a big cake and lots of food (we always have food at our club meetings)and it was one big celebration. One of the scholars, Brian, also had his b-day on the same day as mine so we had two cakes. Brian is in the red shirt in the pictures with me. Thanks Lesley and thanks Out In Two for a wonderful start to my b-day in 2007.

GRANDMA IN COURT

2007-12-08T09:19:00.000-08:00

I just had to post this...its too funny to pass up...and yes Pam, I promise to do my post on Canada soooooooooon.

Lawyers should never ask a Louisiana grandma a question if they aren't prepared for the answer. In a trial, a Southern small-town prosecuting attorney called his first witness, a grandmotherly, elderly woman to the stand.

He approached her and asked, 'Mrs. Jones, do you know me?'

She responded, 'Why, yes, I do know you, Mr. Williams. I've known you since you were a young boy, and frankly, you've been a big disappointment to me. You lie, you cheat on your wife, and you manipulate people and talk about them behind their backs. You think you're a big shot when you haven't the brains to realize you never will amount to anything more than a two-bit paper pusher. Yes, I know you.'

The lawyer was stunned! Not knowing what else to do, he pointed across the room and asked, 'Mrs. Jones, do you know the defense attorney?'

She again replied, 'Why, yes, I do. I've known Mr. Bradley since he was a youngster, too. He's lazy, bigoted, and he has a drinking problem. He can't build a normal relationship with anyone and his law practice is one of the worst in the entire state. Not to mention he cheated on his wife with three different women. One of them was your wife. Yes, I know him.'

The defense attorney almost died.

The judge asked both counselors to approach the bench and, in a very quiet voice, said, 'If either of you idiots asks her if she knows me, I'll send you to the electric chair.'

Indian Concerts In New York:

2007-12-06T10:44:00.000-08:00

Thanks to our new room mate David, I had the opportunity to see some amazing performances by Indian artists in the last few months.
The first is a band called Indian Ocean and there music is a fusion of Indian and other styles of music. They are well know for taking Indian folk sings, rearranging them, adding a fusion of music and recording it. It becomes a completely new song with an amazing sound that is distinct to band. Their sound was like nothing you have ever heard.
When you see the members they look like any other Indian but they are talented way beyond the normal scope.

The Two Masters:

When someone speaks of a performer as a master in their field many names can come to mind.
The other concert I attended with David featured two masters: Zakir Hussain on the Tabla and Rahul Sharma on the Santur. We almost did not get in but managed to get the last two tickets available. How cool is that!

Zakir Hussain is a true master or an Ustad as he is know to Indians. He made it seem so effortless playing the set of drums and could change the rhythm and flow with such ease it made you drift into a place of quiet contentment. Rahul Sharma, a master on the Santur was as eloquent as they come. He exuded queit confidence and a oneness with the music as he joined forces with Hussain to shower the audience with a touch of Indian classical heaven.
I had never see a Santur before but I always knew what a tabla was and sitting in the NYU auditorium and listening to these two men play these instruments with such precision was a truly amazing experience. There were no vocals but listening to the music was like a great escape. Time seemed insignificant as the music floated across the hall and seemingly into your soul.
If you are an open minded person and enjoy unique experiences, and if you ever have an opportunity to see either of these men perform, don't miss it. You will not regret. For me it was one of the best musical experiences I have ever had.

Boston

2007-11-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

I had my first trip to Boston with David and Jon and we drove all of ten hours to get there, partly thanks to David but mostly due to horrendous traffic and bad weather. It qualifies as my second Road Trip complete with stops in towns along the way to stock up on junk food and do other stuff.
We met David's friend Davina and her friend Emily and had a nice time walking along the streets at night, visiting Mike's, the famous pastry shop as well as some cool streets that reminds you of some London cobbled streets.
Boston is an old city with some very fascinating history and fabulously old buildings, one of which we visited and was spellbound at the beauty and intricacy of the architecture. We also visited the Harvard Campus and wished we were students there. Can you believe the building in the last picture houses a cafeteria? Its a shame really1
It was a nice trip and we made some new friends so I should not worry about a cafeteria in a fabulous building that seems more suitable as a church.

Backing Up...Halloween!!!

2007-11-27T13:09:00.001-08:00

I have not been blogging lately because I was trying to keep all my posts in the order in which they occur. Now I have put that aside and I am going to post when I can and what is most convenient.
This is Jon and I and David on Halloween night on the streets of NY. We make a frightful sight don't we?

My second

Birthday Reflections

2007-11-14T10:39:00.002-08:00

Birthdays come once a year and this is always a good time to reflect and remember who you are and where you are. More importantly for me though is to always remember where I have come from.

It has been a long time coming but it was worth the wait. I can honestly say this is where I need to be in my life right now and I would not trade places with anyone. I am grateful for who I am and where my life is headed.

I am also aware of the many people who have contributed to making me who I am today and I am taking this time to acknowledge this fact.

My family has played a big part in the whole process and I am grateful for my parents and all my sisters and brothers. We may have lived apart for many years but I was able to observe and learn from all of you. I hope we have many more years to get to know each other better and grow closer to each other.

I believe every person should have at least one close friend. How fortunate I am to have not one, not two but quite a few

A Tribute to My Sister Molly For Her Birthday

2007-11-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Molly,

Just wanted to remind you that you mean a lot to me. I am so happy you are my sister and I lokk forward to many more years we can share together.

All the best you you.

Your brother, always.

Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness, love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take 'no' for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they
think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what
makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideas.
They give moral support to their
family and friends.
Women have vital things to say
and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

Animals' Revenge

2007-11-04T17:41:00.000-08:00

Some funnies to start the month

Kids Are Quick

2007-10-31T08:03:00.000-07:00

TEACHER: Maria, go to the map and find North America
MARIA: Here it is.
TEACHER: Correct. Now class, who discovered America?
CLASS: Maria

_______________________________
TEACHER: John, why are you doing your math
multiplication on the floor?
JOHN: You told me to do it without using
tables.

__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glenn, how do you spell "crocodile?"
GLENN: K-R-O-K-O-D-I-A-L"
TEACHER: No, that's wrong
GLENN: Maybe it is wrong, but you asked me how I spell it.

____________________________________________
TEACHER: Donald, what is the chemical formula for water?
DONALD: H I J K L M N O.
TEACHER: What are you talking about?
DONALD: Yesterday you said it's H to O.

__________________________________
TEACHER: Winnie, name one important thing we have today that we didn't have 10 years ago.
WINNIE: Me!

__________________________________________
TEACHER: Glen, why do you always get so dirty?
GLEN: Well, I'm a lot closer to the ground than you are.

_________________________________
TEACHER: George Washington not only chopped down his father's cherry tree, but also admitted it. Now, Louie, do you
know why his father didn't punish him?
LOUIS: Because George still had the ax in his hand.

______________________________________
TEACHER: Now, Simon, tell me frankly, do you say prayers before eating?
SIMON: No sir, I don't have to, my Mom is a good cook.

______________________________
TEACHER: Clyde , your composition on "My Dog" is exactly the same as your brother's. Did you copy his?
CLYDE : No, teacher, it's the same dog.

___________________________________

TEACHER: Harold, what do you call a person who keeps on talking when people are no longer interested?
HAROLD: A teacher

Monday blues

2007-10-29T09:29:00.001-07:00

and to add to it, look what I just found out...see picture.

Yes, its another day again and what a day it has been and its not even 1pm yet. I went to bed after 1am, got up early, rushed to school to meet my study group for some last minute review before a Bio exam and guess what? My professor did not show up!
Ok...not to bad. We got some extra time for review. An hour later I make my way to my English class where we are studying Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. 1pm comes and goes and no professor so all my classes are cancelled for the day. This is usually an ideal situation for the typical student but as you all know, I am not a typical student.
I would have preferred to sleep in, have a relaxing morning and then come to school for the activities I have today. So much for that.
Hope your day worked out better than mine.

Something Unique In New York City...more

2007-10-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

Something Unique In New York City

2007-10-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

Architect and engineers compete to see whose team can build the most spectacular structure using little more than cans of food at Canstruction, the 13th annual NYC Design and Build competition in New York .
All these cans will go to the food bank afterwards.
Scroll down and enjoy.

Pratical Solutions and Suggestons ...more

2007-10-26T08:34:00.000-07:00

I especially love the one bout the complaints deparment. Good idea of you have employees or co workers who like to whine al the time.

Pratical Solutions and Suggestons

2007-10-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

Some of these might help to have a smoother running office. I can think of at least two places I have worked at that would benefit from implementing at least one of these.

TCBY-Trinidad The Work Inventive Plan

Allegra-London What Every Office Needs

You do the math.

Have a good one guys.

Where Is Friday When You Need It?

2007-10-18T14:46:00.000-07:00

Where is Friday so I can stay home from school! I know you all feel this way and can't wait for that special day to come.
Hope you have a good one.

Vanaja: The Movie You Must See

2007-10-02T09:43:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday morning met us sitting at home with David who was visiting, chatting and planning what we should do for the day. I had a seminar to attend but we all expressed our desire to see a movie.
I explained to David what sort of Indian movies I like. That being, movies that portray true aspects of Indian culture, those that show classical dances that are distinctive of the Indian people and even the dress representative of India. All is this is part of the reason I don't go out of my way to see the Bollywood blockbusters.
David told us about this movie, Vanaja and we made our way there at 5pm. We thoroughly enjoyed the movie from the word go. The characters were real, the acting was of the highest standard and it made you feel as if you know these people and can understand exactly what they were experiencing. We laughed, some of us cried, we all got angry at times and we were left hoping that things would work out for Vanaja.
Imagine our surprise to learn that the movie was done as part of a thesis by a student at Columbia University! I would have believed it was written and directed by the best in the business, it was that good. Even better, there was a Q and A with the student and the actress who played the title role Vanaja! That made the experience all the better. David was happily surprised when he realised the movie was in Telegu, his native language.
In saying all this, you Must see this movie!

When September Ends...

2007-10-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

September was an interesting month with q a few interesting things happening. Apart from all those that I have already blogged about, September brought my sister Molly to New York for another business trip and another visit with the little brother.
It was too bad that I had school most days but we did manage to go shopping quite a bit and not just for Molly but she picked up a number of things for the apartment, mainly kitchen items I never got around to buying, which was always needed.
He one week stay included many evenings out to dinner and one of her favourite was a trip to Ellen's Stardust Diner, a 50's style diner in the heart of the theatre district in New York's Times Square.(http://lovetoeatandtravel.com/Site/US/NY/Food/ellens.htm)
The waiters and waitresses all sing and the entertainment goes on throughout the night. They are all aspiring actors and actresses and they sure can sing. We all had a great time and left with he resolve to take all our NY visitors to Ellen's.