*WALL OF TEXT INC!!*

So much to be said in so little time (and Blog SPACE!), so I will try to not ramble on and on about my iPad expectations because I know not everyone cares, but this is my Blog and I can do whatever I like! Unless KY decides to omit some details because well she has the right!! (; _ ;) *sad face* I know I am not all that powerful as one would like to be...Therefore I will try to keep this to a minimum and open up the floor for others to comment and give me their thoughts and opinions!

So I've come to the sad conclusion I should stop getting on the band wagon, hyping myself up for new products, and looking forward to something that usually ends up as a disappointment...What am I talking about you ask? Well recently or rather just a few hours ago, I was slightly crushed by the announcement of the iPad.

January 27, 2010

Unveiling of the iPad

Bridging the GAP between Laptop and Tablet PC

The fateful day Steve Jobs has yet again crushed me with his new glamorous item that was hyped up beyond recognition.

The world awaited as Steve Jobs stepped up to the spotlight to reveal Apple's new product the iPad. It is a tablet based item that enables you to surf the internet, watch movies, play games, install applications, and read e-books. Which essentially if you really think about it is an oversized iPod Touch (which apparently is going to be launched in March for the Wi-Fi version, and a month or so later for the installment of the 3G version). It runs off the same system or OS as the iPhones (WHOA REVOLUTIONARY TACTIC GUYS), and this was a decision based on battery life and ease of use. Now personally I would have been more impressed if they had installed the Mac OSX, which is an awesome OS in comparison and perhaps (some may argue with me here) less buggy than the iPhone platform. Like I say to a lot of people, I am neither a patron of Microsoft nor Apple, if I had the choice I would just stick with Linux for all I care, but unfortunately a lot of the games I play are catered towards Windows hence I just go with it and have a Windows based computer. Although I do admit to the superior grpahic designing software available upon Apple my thin wallet does not cater me towards the Apple products. It is far cheaper to built one's computer off old parts, and junk @ Akihabara (yeah GEEKS!!).

Ok getting back to the topic, the slight disappointed I had with the iPad besides from the OS was the fact it was shown simply as an oversized iPod Touch. In all reality Steve Jobs does a good job of selling a product, but even his show was not enough to impress me all that much with the glamor iPad had to offer.

I was not completely sold...I'm sure a lot of people are as disappointed as I was, but again this is just me saying not really sure that the $499 price tag will be enough to convince me to purchase the item when it comes out. The iPhone was a revolutionary phone in its time that catered for the people with attractive qualities, the glitz and glam as to say, but overall while living in Japan I noticed a lot of inconsistencies and uselessness that could only be said for different consumers in this country. First the phone bill is ridiculously high. I for one do not intend to pay over $30 per month on my phone, but with the iPhone you will easily go over that with use of internet, mail, etc. Even with the package that includes free use of the net, one can argue, $70+ per month on a phone is ridiculous for every day use. Now if we move that onto the iPad...although AT&T will cater the iPad with a $30 3G package, I highly doubt that the Japanese market can come up with such low prices, since the iPhone itself comes with a hefty price tag of $46 in official up keep of the phone. I also doubt that Japan will come out with the iPad in time with the March release...I look forward to their ridiculous pricing scheme as Wi-Fi is not readily used outside of the home in Tokyo area. I do miss those days when Wi-Fi could be used in Starbucks all over the US. For a technologically advanced country we lack the generousity of "FREE INTERNET" in local areas. We do have wonderful Internet Cafe's which lets you in for a really cheap price ($3+ per 15 minutes also really not that cheap considering...), over all not sure how Japan will adapt with the whole iPad concept.

The iPad goes further with the whole thing by not installing a camera...perhaps not a bad move, as I would totally be sketched out at a person aiming such a huge material at anything. Just imagine someone aiming the iPad (assuming it is like notebook size) at you to take a picture. Why would anyone invest in a camera that size? Probably a smart move on Apple's part to just go with an attachment camera that hooks up directly with the iPad in order to see the pictures as an album?

I will admit with the fact this is probably the cheapest Apple has produced for something they made. The notebooks are way out of league for most struggling artists, and too much to pay for someone who can buy a cheap Windows based computer for college. Apple PC's are catering more to the sophisticated crowd who own it as a status symbol. With the appearance of the iPhone, Steve Jobs and Apple made it a more commercial name that was used all over the world to a closer degree than their PC's. Now with the iPad we can sort of use a system that is inbetween the PC and the iPhone/iPod Touch. I guess with the Tablet they are trying harder to make it a Household name, in which everyone can be familiar with. Someone once compared Windows with a Dog and Apple with a Cat. A Dog will wag its tail for everyone, but a Cat will be picky about who they seek admiration from. With the iPad, maybe they are trying to be more like a Dog...to cater to the masses.

So far I'm not too impressed with the way Apple is producing. I might be more tempted to just go with the Nook or Kindle. Then again I probably won't since I am archaic and rather read books on paper. I still like the smell of old books, the crisp new pages that flip under my fingers, and the thrill I get from holding a hardcover book on my couch on lazy afternoons.

I think I'll wait a few months until Apple works out all the kinks in the iPad when it releases in March. Perhaps see if anyone I know owns it and ask to play with it a little....


*please note this is my personaly opinion laced with information that I read and watched online. If you don't agree with my views I welcome your thoughts and comments. I just wanted to put my views out there, well perhaps they might put it into consideration as I know corporations monitor any entries online about their new products and such (><)b*aw yeah*

*EDIT ADDITIONAL NOTE: Apparently the iPad has a battery life of 10 hours...I am assuming this is just Vanilla iPad with just minimal use, much like iPhone on idle?! 10 hours is impressive, but honestly I expect more, since the iPhone technically built to withstand 16hours, and with today’s flights you need more than 10 hours. Definitely need 12 hours for a good one way trip. I mean with all the applications I am sort of thinking the run time on the battery is about 75% or less because you will use up more batteries as you use more applications or run programs and watch movies what not. If you solely use it as a e-book reader perhaps 10 hours?

Also I would really appreciate them to perhaps consider a LAN connection with the iPad like I said above, not all countries are Wi-Fi friendly. It would also be a good thing since we can more or less use a LAN connection in more areas, and a little more reliable than the Wi-Fi systems. The iPhone although impressive is not very good with Wi-Fi solid connections. It gets dropped faster when you are just a bit far from the Wi-Fi point. Perhaps an increase in strength of the Wi-Fi would be nice. Blue tooth is always there but again is it a necessity for an iPad?! Another few things I ponder about when I think on it....

xoxo

Luci

A Selection from YAHOO! on what Apple failed to deliver...interesting (. _ .) *//stare*

1. No 3G Support for Verizon - not so relevant as I live in Japan atm...
2. No jaw-dropping new user interface - no surprises there
3. No built-in camera - scroll up! for my comments on this
4. No Flash support - slightly irritated at this and also the whole concept of NO LAN capability slightly worrisome...
5. No user-replaceable battery - not that we have that in any other Apple Product...
6. No TV Subscription - would be more sufficient but I guess the iTunes is supposed to make up for it?
7. No iPhone software 4.0 announcement - interesting since the iPhone has been on 3.x for ages

You can see YAHOO!'s comment in the link if you prefer theirs over mine. ENJOY!

Well first off...I am in no way a Football fan nor an enthusiast. The only thing I know is that football is one of the nationally loved sports of the US, and one thing I never really learned to appreciate even with my nice 6 year stint in the states. Nonetheless, I neither hate it not love it, and have no opinion what so ever on the subject matter. I did watch the Super Bowl with my friends every year for the sole purpose of well hanging out with my friends, and eating junk food to my desire while the masses in the room got drunk. I did partake in the drinking but usually with Soda (always Coca-Cola~) and made sure I ate about 3 days worth of food via chips, salsa, guacamole, pizza, Jambalaya, and whatever else was on the table.

So why am I mentioning the N.F.C Finals?

I just have to give a shout out to my friends from college. We spent 4 precious college years in New Orleans constantly seeing the defeat of the Saints. I for one always witnessed the disappointment, discouraging losses, and the constant bickering from the few northerners who pressed the loss into the loyal Saints fans. Really guys WHO'S LAUGHING NOW B*TCH!

IT'S ABOUT FREAKIN TIME I SAY!

The Saints finally got their day. On a triumphant win against the Minnesota Vikings 31-28...with overtime. The Saint's FIRST (and hopefully not the last *knock on wood*) Super Bowl!! If you are planning for a trip to NOLA, I suggest you tread with care NFL fans of other teams. These guys down South can get a little...rough!

Saints 31 - Viking 28

VICTORIOUS!!!

Hey Guys!! -Samar&Chuck(aka Tim) -well I know I am missing tons of peeps, but these 2 are the most hardcore Saints fans I know!- Victory Tastes SWEET Doesn't IT!!?

WHO DAT!!

courtesy of New York Times N.F.C. Championship Final: Saints 31, Vikings 28 (Overtime)

xoxo

Luci

P.S. I am in no way partial to any team in the NFL. Please note all things expressed here are my own opinions and well quite frankly it is my blog so hey go bitch in your own blog about the Vikings losing if you so wish!! My friends are totally stoked and I'm happy for them!

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So before I fully comment on the evening's events I just wanted to post some scenes from 2manydjs. Which by the way was a fun filled evening. There were resemblence to the Punk events I use to frequent in my college days...the shoving...the people (although the clientèle was different)...very much my Jersey Elbows in action...and probably one of the most civilized mass event I've ever been on. I even got an apology from people who shoved me or accidentally knocked over my head...!

JAPANESE PEOPLE ARE SO POLITE!!

It was definitely different from anything I have been to, as the noise level was not something I was use to....recently silence was all I had to endure and the really loud remix of the Djs did get to my ears, and they are (still right now Sunday evening) ringing a little bit...

The only complaint I had was the location...No matter how efficient the Japanese public transport systems are that they are not 24/7. The event (or rather we left right after the main show) ended close to 4 a.m. Not a bad hour to be, as it is still dark and room for some sleep, getting back home was the hardest part of the operation. In order to make use of the trains we had to wait until 5:30 a.m. when the trains in the area started. The limited amount of 24 hour establishment was a problem and natually with the slim selection most people congrrgated to the nearest Bamiyan which by the way had the worst service ever. It took us about 10 minutes to realize we should keep moving and find something else...so after 10 minutes more of walking we stopped at McDonald's and waited....by the way if you were to go to an event @ Zepp Tokyo at those early morning hours, and need a location to wait until the trains started I suggest Saizeriya (really surprised that it has an English Wikipedia page!) which is across the street from the Odaibakaihinkouen Station (お台場海浜公園) which is the nearest station to the event venue. It looked -from the outside as we dashed to the train station- a lot brighter, cleaner and perhaps better service provided (?) than the other 2 locations. Don't quote me on this, but it's just an assumption. I personally would go for cheap Italian over Chinese or Mickey D's, but that's just me!!

Anyhow enjoy some of the musical and visuals of 2manydjs!!

My personal favorite moment when they involved the works of NIRVANA!!(><)b *aw yeah*

More reporting to come...! AS I GET MY HEARING BACKZ!!

xoxo

Luci

P.S. Comments WELCOME!!

For those, who don't know me well...(which possibly might not be the case currently as our readers are probably my gaming buddies)...I am really a niche market. When I say niche, I mean a totally expanding market, but still not as major as one hopes to be like the Celebrities, Models, Playmates (aka Bunny Girls!), Singers, Cosplay Girls (by the way surprisingly a HUGE market not just in Japan but USA, Europe and of couse any other Asian countries), or the Rich & Famous.

I am part of the expanding market of Geeky Girls, yes that's right I said it!

I am a GEEK.

Don't ever mistake me for a nerd because (despite my shortness and tiny nature) I do have a black belt in Karate and will have no problems kicking you A**! -Please note some parts of this may get REALLY technical and REALLY boring for some, because well it contains lots of gaming lingo, and totally my love for gaming.

I am part of the massively expanding Online Community aka MMORPG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Game). Although I can safely say my character and I are "retired" at this point, but I am still actively associated with the part of the world which plays World of Warcraft aka WoW. The WoW community is pretty huge worldwide, and I must admit I started playing a while back in my college days (which by the way seems like a decade ago...). It even had a spot in Southpark in the episode 'Make Love, Not Warcract', the 4 kids played it and the episode consisted of them acting out the extremes of gamers...although the habits were some what accurate it is kind of hilarious to the normal viewers.

I have managed to play as a full-time employee in Tokyo, Hong Kong, and back in Tokyo again. I use to play with some of the best ranked people in the Oceanic Server and I am still very much good friends with the Guildmaster of Not Steamboat (the top tanked Guild in Thaurissan and the Oceanic Region! -Hey Sanctus you have now made my blog). By the way, for those aspiring Priest Players (like I once was, and well now I just am a casual player who happens to have a pretty well geared Priest), he is one of the best Priests and well if you ever need a Hero he is your man. SANCTUS YOU ARE MY HERO! Just make sure to let me still be your lacky once you have too many fan mails in your mailbox.

*my character would look something like this! If I play and put more time into it...currently

I hate to be a snob, but in the gaming world much like the real world there are elites and the normal players, I was lucky enough to be part of the Elites. It does have its perks. I had access to some of the best players and the best Raids...do I miss it? Hell Yeah! Will I ever go back? Perhaps...but not yet. I think I am OK with the real world, to not sink back fully into the virtual again. I'll leave my rantings and thought son gaming until the next time, because well if you got me seriously started on the whole gaming issue I won't stop for a while...GAME ON PEOPLE!

*ENDING GAMING RANT HERE*

So I have agreed to go to a DJ event tomorrow evening with KY @ Zepp Tokyo. Again for those who know me, you are probably wondering "WTF YOU @ A DJ EVENT??!" And your thoughts, exactly, is partly the reason why I am am writing this selection. I have been enlisted to go to 2manydjs VS Vitalic. Again I have no idea what they play or what is going down, but I think with no expectations of previous events it is safe to say I will either ENJOY IT IMMENSELY or just simple Stand there awkwardly trying to look like I am dance (because well Tiny Asian Girls Cannot Dance when they have 2 left feet!!). I just kind of imagine it to be a Rave minus the Drugs, Glow Sticks, Teenagers (highly doubt that teenagers cna afford this event as it will be cositng more than $16.00), Shady White Person selling drugs, and maybe more abundance in Liquor (with less shady beer kegs). Oh and the whole concept of having a roof over the event as it is at a respectable location is another difference too (>_<)b *aw yeah* There is a first time for everything, and I might as well do it in the comfort, luxury and safety of Japan with my good friend KY than in a remote location in the middle of no where (like an abandoned warehouse) surrounded by sketchy individuals with cop cars incoming any minute!!

Surprisingly 2manydjs played in Summer Sonic 2009, which is a packed event in the middle of no where in Japan...so I guess they do play songs that also cater to the rock crowds?! It is my shallow understanding that Summer Sonic is a Rock heavy event (correct me if I am wrong).

Again looking at the description (in Japanese) I am not so sure what they actually do in terms of Music. Like I said before, my friends know this is TOTALLY not my scene. I am more on the other side of the spectrum listening to Punk, Rock, Heavy Metal, and anything and everything with a good guitar/bass/drums/etc. Which as one clearly sees is not the case here. I will be pretty much the ODD ONE OUT. If you see a tiny girl on the floor desperately trying not to suffocate in the sea of people, that will be me. I can sort of imagine myself trying not to be eye level of the armpits of the deodorant lacking people around me. Come to think of it...I guess I can just totally bust out my JERSEY ELBOWS (Deb knows what I'm talking about) and make some space.

For those curious souls, Jersey Elbowing is when you (most often in a Punk Event surrounded by 16 year old chunks) shove the surrounding human beings with a knock from your forced elbow in all directions. Basically a grand way to knock someone out at the Mosh Pit level. The reason I refer to it as Jersey Elbows than other areas, is due to the face Deb was from NJ and I she used it so often with me at Punk events in NOLA that I become accustomed to it's name. By the way I am an excellent person in Mosh Pits.

TAKE NO PRISONERS!!!

I will be trekking to the corner of Tokyo to see a Belgian DJ spin with other DJ's from France (equally random, and why is he here?) and Japan areas. This should be interesting. I must admit though the names of the DJ's are somewhat as random as the handles for online Forums, in game names, and some Punk Bands. I guess I can just soak in my first Tokyo DJ event and hopefully come out with out an arrest record and my dignity intact?!

By the way...I am however kind of intrigued at Punk Spring 2010! This is more my scene, and well would be interesting to see 311 and New Found Glory *lawl* Maybe I can drag some of my friends or even guilt trip KY into going with me? Either or, I am totally digging out my PUNK outfits from back in the day (sadly I have not grown since I was 16 and still can fit into anything from 16 onwards) and go to the DJ event.

Stay tuned for my First (hopefully well not the last of my) DJ experience...

So what does one do with $40,000 in expendable cash?

I can imagine a lot of people just hovering over the thought of perhaps it is time to stick it under the mattress for safe keeping. In this economy who can really blame them? I mean it is a good chunk of money for a down payment for a car, perhaps to bring your college tuition loan down a notch (I know I can use that LOL), or even to pay for your wedding! Anyway you put it $40,000 is a good amount of money that would sit nicely in anyone’s pocket/bank account/mattress.

But the overall reality is this “cash” (so to say) giveaway is strictly for those who LOVE to shop. Finally the gods of Shopping have declared a day for those Shop-a-holics to give way into their deepest darkest urges!

The gracious people at Net-a-Porter are celebrating their 1millionth order and giving away (YES THAT IS RIGHT THEY ARE GIVING IT AWAY) $40,000 Shopping Spree to 1-Uno-いち-One-Einn-Moja-하나-один-Un-One EXTREMELY Lucky Winner!

So what does one do with $40,000 worth Shopping Money?

Just surf your way down to Net-a-Porter where you can see an array of wonderfully *swoon* worthy clothes, shoes, lingerie, accessories, and what not to your desire! The Rick Owens jacket you’ve been eyeing on that fashion blog? YOURS!! The wonderful Balmain collection you’ve been drooling over? No Problem! Those gorgeous Christian Louboutin pumps you have been nagging about for ages? It is only but a click away! You name it they’ve got it, and it can be yours if you win!

Just remember to register with their Net-a-Porter Celebration site to get in the drawing!
No worrying about your credit card bill this time, just point, click, and wait for it to arrive on your doorsteps! It’s a wondrous world we live in, NO? Everything and almost anything from mail-order brides to Cigarettes can be yours with just a click.

Your dream Closet is only a Mouse Click away!

if only finding our Mr. Right was this easy...

xoxo
Luci

P.S. the registration starts on Jan 21 (LONDON TIME) and ends Feb 11 (LONDON TIME). Just make sure you don’t screw it up (><)b Because it may be the one chance to get a whole new wardrobe without having to pick up the bill later on! -check out countdown on the side if you are wondering about the date!

P.P.S. Just to put this into perspective, the money can buy you over 60 Christian Louboutin Shoes, the whole Spring Collection of Balmain, and with some left over you can totally buy some bags and accessories to go with your brand new wardrobe. If you feel the need, you can totally outfit yourself in the latest Alexander McQueen/McQ Clothing, and in my case I can perhaps invest in that Vivienne Westwood Lily Dress I’ve spoken so highly of…it was on sale too *aha*

P.P.P.S. By the way I am totally already fantasizing about winning and have some things in my head that I want. My Wishlist is getting longer by the minute, now all I have to do is not step on any toes, be good, do good deeds onto other, get myself an IN with the drawing committee or perhaps start looking for a Hacker who will let me WIN?! (Kidding Kidding KIDDING!!) Then again I am sure KY is entering, and if she wins...maybe I can smoothe my way into an outfit or two? (same goes for her since she introduced this thing to me so if I win...!) Either way THIS GIRL is totally psyched at the prospect of a good Celebration!

Compared to the average Japanese female, I spend a far smaller portion of my discretionary non-food/travel spending on beauty products. This may have something to do with my inability to stick to a regimen of any sort, whether it be daily makeup or blogging...?(Considering post #2 sat in my Draft box for a week, let's aim for weekly, shall we?) My slobness aside, this brings me to the topic of my only daily routine: shampoo.

So imagine my panic one cold morning as I walk into the shower, only to discover that I am totally shampoo-less! I apparently had forgotten to restock in between my travels, but fear not. This is why the good folks at pharmacies load you with free samples and hotel bathrooms come equipped with an abundant selection of mini bottles. Well in this particular case, my choices were few and far between; all I could find were a very organic/expensive/European one(that I had intended to save for a special occasion) and a recently-acquired "exotic"-looking one.

It was a tough call indeed, but in the end, I decided to saveIndia's largest-selling shampoo for an even more special occasion (you can learn amazing facts about the shampoo market/habits in India from the PowerPoint) because "hair becomes visibly longer with continued use" and they sure have the imagery below to prove it (apologies for the poor quality of the photos)! Even for someone who lives in Japan, where many a women can be seen in commercials/ads flipping their beautiful long hair left and right, the emphasis placed on the sleekness, shininess, blackness, and the LONG-NESS is simply out of terrestrial proportion!

While I anxiously await the day I get to experience this चाँपो (chāmpo), I was quite pleased with the indulgence of Korres shampoo that morning. As I left the house, I started contemplating whether it is worth investing in this nicer shampoo. So I spent some quality time at the office conducting some cross-national price-comparison study. Naturally my sample was limited to places with English-speaking people or languages (whatever the word shampoo is) I can recognize, but here is what I found; I would be paying almost 3x the local/Greek price or 2x of UK! I was equally confused by the price diparity within the Eurozone (wasn't that the whole point???) and the presumably very costly method of shipping used to transport "fresh" shampoo from Greece to the Far East.

Greece--€6.00
UK--£7.50-9.00
Austria--€9.50, Spain--€10-12, Italy-- €11.50 (xampú in Catalan, how cute!)
US--$17.00-25.00
Autralia--AU$25.00, Japan--¥2,100

Needless to say, I am sticking to my less-organic, widely-available shampoo for now. Or going out and getting some more free samples.

Random Finds of The Week:

1. Shiseido to buy Bare Escentual, which is very unusual for this Japanese cosmetics giant. They are also being smart and keeping Leslie Blodgett, albeit at a hefty premium.
2. Tank takes a different spin on digital magazine at Because! It works more like an online store with categories, product descriptions, and links to online retailers, but the real twists are the videos that go with each item. It gives the feeling of turning the pages of a fashion editorial or a look book. Even better, watching an online fashion show, which seems to be the wave of future. Yet another cool trick Tank pulled off is the fashion-music mash-up. For example, these Dries Van Noten red ankle boots were accompanied by the sounds of Only You by Yazoo, and the link takes you straight to iTunes. While heavy on the browser, it is worth every byte for the browsing experience.

As a girl I feel justified...actually I know it to be a Birth Right to wear cute shoes and make my feet look pretty, along the way making myself feel tall and beautiful. Actually I believe it is the birth right of any person to buy nice shoes and walk as though you own a million dollars. The power of a Nice shoe is limitless!!

Let's face it, when you are about 5 feet tall and have freakishly small feet, you can really use the confidence booster.

My feet are equivalent to that of a normal 12 year old. Size 5 shoes are damn hard to come by in most countries. Getting told that I should head down to the children's shoe department really depressing..My height is unfortunately the size of a middle schooler in most non-Asian countries. My own little brother passed me up in height in fourth grade. Also not being able to find clothing that fit me in general...is all SAD FACE.

To put it simply, if it wasn't for the fact I live in Japan I would be trampled over by foot traffic in in the city, squished like a peanut in the subway, and desperately gasping for air between people who haven't discovered deodorant in an confined space....trust me it sucks to be at eye level with most people's armpits....(I MEAN REALLY PEOPLE is 3 dollars way too much to pay for?) I think this is half where my phobias of confined space comes in. By the way I hate elevators, and try to take the stairs, in a way I justify it as exercise so it's a win-win.

More or less I firmly believe that I just was not meant to live comfortably in the world of giants. I like the oompa-loompas struggle in this world for survival. Unfortunately I do not have a Willy Wonka to rescue me to work in his Chocolate Factory... (T_T)/ *wave*

Anyway my bitterness aside, my thing is shoes. Be it kicks, pumps, sandals, and what-cha-ma-call-its, I love anything and everything pretty on my feet. It's a miracle what simple well done pedicure can do for one's confidence at a time of crisis. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing the bottom of your feet as smooth as a baby's bum, and your toe nails sparkling in the sunlight. Although financially not so smart when it comes to winters, since you are less likely to show your feet in the long run. I mean let's face it guys and gals, if you were not in a steady relationship you would totally forgo the usual routine of shaving your legs to make them look smooth if you didn't need to. I mean no one sees your legs under all that layer at this time...so it makes sense really to just let it go al-a-natural.

I once heard...

Always wear nice shoes, because nice shoes will take you nice places.

No matter what happens, as long as you wear nice shoes and wear them proudly, you will always find a way. The shoes will lift your spirits and make you believe (although in my case I am almost a midget with freakishly small feet) you are a 10 feet tall megalomaniac. The world is your oyster, and the people merely players in your theater.


So most of the time I make it a point to wear nice shoes. Unless I am going to work or a Club...there is no way in hell I am wearing nice shoes to this work place. It would make me way too happy, which is not the atmosphere of the office. They try so hard to make you be miserable, so my thinking is I can act all miserable at work so I can be all happy in other areas of my life where I want to spend more energy. Why not at a Club you say? Let us put this as an example...as a true shoe lover can you honestly let your shoes be stepped on, smoked on, flicked ash on, poured drinks on, and everything/anything else that is just unholy to shoes? As a true shoe lover and an enthusiastic spokes person for foot wear I cannot emphasize enough the reasons why you would never wear nice shoes out to a Club in Japan. Sneakers on the other hand are acceptable foot wear because it is washable and bleach works wonders to clean the filth off at any moment of the day.


Although one can make the argument Louboutins were not made to be walked on! Or Manolos were made to be driven by Limos! Or Jimmy Choos were meant to be catered to! They are shoes after all. No matter how wonderful, and beautiful they may be...those little beauties were meant to be worn on your precious feet to be carried to nice places. The idea behind the theory is that with nice shoes you will feel better and want to get out. I think my shoes are all crying in my closet, because they are waiting to bust out and make a move in to the world.


My all time favorite and proudest pair are Alaïa Vernis Soir pumps.
They are my absolutely favorite and prized possession out of everything I own. I think they hold a special place in my heart because it is the one shoe that carried me through the bad times and good. I have a special place in my close for my Alaïas and I hope that I can keep wearing them around with pride and joy until the day we must part ways (but not yet)...

xoxo

Luci

P.S. Just remember always to wear nice shoes because who knows where you will end up tomorrow!

P.P.S. My favorite pair of Manolos unfortunately got trampled on by some rude lady then the heel was sadly stuck between the cracks of the pavement, and now I am afraid to wear them...my cute Louboutins are hiding in the corner because my feet shrunk and are the shoes are bit too big for me...Jimmy Choos would have to wait until the summer, because this is just not sandal season...Zanottis are way too big and I need to find a new home for them soon or else I may be shot at for keeping such cuties in the darkness of the closet for way too long. So now I am nursing my feet in order to wear my shoes again! I am making do with the cheap shoes I got at Ueno junk shop, currently my fake Ugg like boots are serving me justice by keeping my feet warm. Over all I really need to start busting out and making myself more happy or making occasions to wear my happy shoes!

*If anyone is in the market for some Zanotti Pumps then perhaps you would like to see if you fit into these...it's a size 36, and a bit too big for me so I would give them up quite fairly and not so cheaply but not overly expensive...just a thought!? Yeah yeah shamelessly showing off my shoes...so bite me! It's my blog and I'll do what I want uh-huh!

So how excited am I that I get to watch Avatar in 3D!!!? Ｏ(≧∇≦)Ｏ So now I have a date to go to the movies this evening (good thing too since my brother is out and not cooking tonight and a meal of gummy bears was probably not a good idea to start with).

I LOVE YOU KY!! -God knows why you got excited for this movie but hey I won't mention that you were weirded out by me a few months back when I mentioned I totally would kill to see this movie and you said I can see why you'd go but not really for me, now you are going with me so it is all WORKING MY WAY UH HUH!!

Words cannot begin to explain the excitement. So I guess I will start putting random text faces to express my wholesome feelings and if I were at home I would totally be doing a little jig or dance to commemorate my excitement. And since if I started dancing around the office or seriously looking happy they might actually start wondering I am mentally ill. So I am going to sit here quietly as I update here and totally just try to look tired and unhappy as the rest of the crew whiel inside I feel like this....

♪AW ヾ(≧ー≦)ゞ ヾ(_ _)〃 ヾ(≧ー≦)ゞ ヾ(_ _)〃YEAH♪

゛6((((≧▽≦))))9"Shake It♪Shake It♪゛6((((≧▽≦)))) 9゛

7:15p.m. cannot come soon enough....

xoxo

Luci

Just because I know people are like WTF is this crazy girl doing I am just going to link the awesome trailer which was in HD! And yeah I am not relaly making sense, but hey these small victories are a few things I can look forward to in my life at the moment @ a deadend job.

YEAH MAN THIS IS WHAT VICTORY TASTES LIKE!!

ZOMGWTFPWNATION @ YOU!!

oh sh*t...this HD version doesnt seem to fit in the limited Blog Space...oops

Official Avatar Movie


Jan 15, 2009 Post Script...After the Movie the next day...

After watching the movie I must admit it was ALL THAT I IMAGINED IT TO BE AND MORE!!! I mean this is like watching the future of MMORPG and all online gaming. Plugging into a virtual world to your own Avatar to game on? Really it is a Geek's dream. Imaging literally being your character...no more dwindling with a keyboard or mouse. Walking, Breathing, and Feeling the virtual reality surrounding our characters. Just imagine what will be like casting spells and fighting! (of course without the whole DEATH iRL part...now that would just be a total bummer and no one would really utilize it if death occurred during your gaming... *eww*) World of Warcraft or any games for that matter would have NOTHING on the future of gaming where you can plus yourself in! Now I think the next concern would be the whole feeding issue and well the Bio breaks...(^^;) Perhaps feeding tubes (much like beer hats) would be invented for that matter?! (drinking potato chips from a tube sounds yummy delicious no?) I really don't want to think about the Bio issue...(diaper??!) so let us all assume one, will like now, get up and walk to the *uh-hem* bathroom.


Otherwise the movie was interesting. I am sure KY has more to say on the content of the movie than I do *cough*DanceswithWolves*cough* but on my side..a thoroughly satisfying experience.

Now moving onto the 3-D aspect...all together not that satisfying in the fact well the goggles for one was way too big for my head. It kept slipping and the focus was not centered for me so it was a bit difficult to get the full fledging effect of the 3-D. Now it begs the question, did it really need to be in 3D? The glasses made it a bit darker (perhaps the movie was made brighter for the 3-D glasses?) but when I took a peek without the 3-D glasses the picture was more lively and vivid and a lot more beautiful than seen through the glasses. Which makes me believe that the world is not so ready for the 3-D Television sets...TV's should stay the way it is without the 3-D thing until further developed. 3 hours was a very long time to sit through a 3-D movie and it did make my head hurt a bit afterwards. Perhaps more kids will be wearing glasses if the 3-D TV comes out...now that would totally be a plot by the optical society to increase revenue!! One needs to sit farther away from the screen (so a huge nut like me who loves sitting near the screen for the full effect like a dummy has a hard time) because the effects are better seen from afar and not so up close. Also its better to sit center than the sides. I personally would not shell out big bucks to go watch another 3-D movie for a while....good thing it was a discount day yesterday!! Or else this movie would probably have been seen at the comfort of home (via DVD or well you know the other options...)


So as a conclusion, I would say very much happy with the movie! Not so much with the whole 3-D aspect. I would probably buy it on Blue Ray once it makes its way out into the DVD world and watch it comfortably at home using my brothers PS3 than get my hopes up for a 3-D TV. I am quite satisfied with Plasma/LCD television sets until they come up with a better way to get the third dimensional effect than a pair of goggles that are way too big for one's head (like mine).

...partner in crime who is dissatisfied with her work and with much free time. 'Tis moi.

To commemorate my belated maiden journey on the B(log)-Train, my "semi-oximoronic" self feels the need to write in a retro-looking font. This typewriter font turns out be appropriate as my obsession of the day is... (insert drum roll or a gong, whatever floats your boat) vintage clothing shops!

From real and virtual strolls, I recently stumbled upon EVA and STAR STORE @ STYLIST (mostly in Japanese), and I am looking forward to making my pilgrimage this weekend! It is rather strange for me to be talking about vintage clothing, as I literally cringe in used clothing stores. Previously-owned/worn garments must be marketed in just the right way to appeal to me, and that is "vintage" and "one-of-a-kind." While all is well with fast fashion, global brands, and viral marketing, sometimes all I want to hear is others say, Where in the world did she get that? Is that too much to ask for? (I may later shoot myself in the foot by posting these links.)

Traceable and untraceable at the same time, vintage clothing can be truly fascinating and frustrating in terms of pricing. While there are considerations for procurement costs, upkeep expenses, "appreciation" and "depreciation" over time, supply and demand, competitive pricing, and whatever-else-they-may-teach-you-at-business-schools, it is nearly impossible to numericize and/or break down most of these factors. It can be anywhere between a complete seller's market and a stop-loss strategy for the current owner. And even for a fairly savvy consumer, it gets very difficult to "Name the Price."

So I guess I will just have to see how far my X0,000 yen takes me this weekend...?

Thanks to my friend for the inspiration.

23,000 yen for a gucci bag--->cheap

then again, used---> expensive?

but also, vintage (as in value for being used)--->cheap?

and goes the endless spiral...

To Whom It May Concern: Please bear with my excessive use of quotation marks, hyphens, and "..."

P.S. I totally approve the VW wedding gown.

P.P.S. I may join your gym and motivate you if you fill out the application for me, like you did with this blog?

*Done and done....I'll sign you up for my gym @ Tipness with my mad skills of reduction perhaps we can convince them to waive the fees? -Luci

P.P.P.S. In related news, check out the consistently-entertaining writings of Cintra Wilson on Lily et Cie in NYT and Susanna Lau's endless musings on Merchant Archive. Don't get me wrong, I love and admire The Style Bubble as much as the next person, but I don't seem to have the attention span for it sometimes...

So I finally got off my crazy train and gave publishing rights to my friend aka the collaborator I've been trying to get on the Blog train thing.

HAI!!!

I know you are so going to study the GMAT WITH ME BECAUSE WE ARE BOTH SERIOUSLY F*CKED IF WE DON'T!

(Love the urgency of our lives...this may be the one and only urgent matter besides where to eat our next meal or bar to have drinks at, we are literally turning into lifeless 50+ women nearing retirement age...ho-boy)

So I've managed to invite her down to write along in my blog as I keep mentioning earlier. She is...

• 
  
  Good Friend of mine - whom I met in my previous job (and unlike most people was seriously down to Earth and well grounded unlike me) We hang out often enough since both our jobs have minimal time involved
  
  
  
• 
  
  Loves Fashion and can totally talk about it non-stop (although I think I talk more about shoes because that is more my obsession and she is catching on the shoe train!)
  
  
  
• 
  
  Fun person to hang out with in general - she can out drink most people I know and honestly I wish I could drink as much... (T_T)
  
  
  
• 
  
  The one person who I think may be really good at this whole Blog thing and not know it!
  
  
  

We've been talking about starting a fashion blog forever, and well quite frankly I just decided one day to make a blog and just drag her as* over to the dark side of blogging *muwaahahaha* Overall, why not use our free time (in between GMAT studies and what not) for something good and interesting that lets us have freedom and be creative. Hopefully she will be convinced to collaborate with me...or I can just simply write alone like a loner and see where my ADHD takes me from here.

Either or, I hope she joins me for the Blog-iverse and NEXT STOP *crossing fingers* reporting for the runway in 201X coming to a city near you?! Always the hopeful one

xoxo
Luci

P.S. I just hit my 4 posts a month thing with this one! *woot* Now it's just icing on the cake from here

<(^-^<) <( _ _ )> (>^-^)> *dance Kirby dance*

I just figured out another thing I should have added to my resolution but didn't...

• Go to the GYM at least 5 times a month - seems like a legit way to go for my health?

Seeing as though the gym is literally right next door to my office and really well equipped. I see no reason or rhyme for me NOT to go...but for all those unmotivated souls out there you know how hard it is to go and work out every damn day.


I was doing really well for a while when I went like 4-5 times a day but lately...*kerplut* I think at this point if I get my money's worth every month its a good sign...aha (^^;)

SOMEONE PLEASE MOTIVATE ME!!

Or better yet, LFGYMPARTNER who will work out with me and keep me motivated. Hopefully I can totally get into the habit of going to the gym again or else I will be just wasting away and living the unhealthy life of a celery *shudder*

-hey atleast this one seems semi-achievable...

xoxo
Luci

There are a lot of things I want, yet it's sometimes not reasonable or justifiable so I keep a list of the gorgeous things in life I find. I think I just want to put this on my wish list for the time being since it's fresh on my mind! And it is always a sin for something this cute to go unnoticed in my books. (My partner in crime may not agree but hey I luvs it!)

These days it seems like everyone and their siblings are getting engaged(even my little brother is engaged WTF!! now how am I suppose to justify myself to my parents dammit!)/married I figured this is a fitting item to put on my list.

I know it's a bit SATC - Carrie, but you can never go wrong with Vivienne Westwood and perhaps couple this with a pair of comfy Louboutins or Manolos, you are sure to be the winner at the Ball, and land that cute prince who will sweep you off your feet!

You think she'd know better than to wear white on the bride's big day.

-CSI: Las Vegas Episode Rashomama

Well we can always make an exception perhaps when this may be the only time you will be wearing a white dress in public past labor day. (Knowing myself really I probably wouldn't know better at some point and make a really huge mistake in the long run, I figure I might as well look nice doing it no?) What girl can pass up a nice white sexy dress to go with her cute shoes. Not this one that is for sure! Plus it's white, not black and cannot be used for funerals, hence weddings seems like the next viable option anyhow.

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD GOLD LABEL

Lily wedding gown @ NET-A-PORTER

Vivienne Westwood Gold Label - From the Grande Dame of British fashion, Vivienne Westwood's Gold Label is all about experimentation. Encouraging wearers to do it themselves, for spring/summer, Westwood champions a mix and match attitude to getting dressed with expertly cut separates and two-in-one pieces working extra hard - silk scarves double up as halter-neck dresses and knitted camisoles can be worn as mini skirts. Key buys include beautiful folded silk corset tops and luxurious floor-length evening gowns.

First off...HAPPY NEW YEAR!! It's the year of the Tiger! (My brother's year coincidentally) I hope that you all made it through without much shananigans like drunken disorderly behavior (nudity, fighting cops, public urination, non-PG13 PDA, etc.), major family fall outs (like a huge fight between the 2 sides of the family R&J style shoot out), employment issues (getting fired, lawsuits, etc.) or getting involved in any random happenings (like terrorism, hijackings, what not). If you did...just consider it as a good sign. Since that will probably be the high light of your year. The whole bundle of badness rolled into one. Now all you have to look forward to is some good ol' fashion boring year with only a few glitches along the way.

Come on now...how many possible terrorist incidents can you get involved with in a year randomly? Statistically the odds are totally against you which is in your favor. Really? You got arrested for drunken disorderly behavior? Well hey, at least it was all in the name of good fun while on vacation and not done in front of your boss. Major Family Fall Outs? Puh-lease, as if your aunt has not tried to kill your uncle with a knife and threaten divorce before, just another example of how you are not going to turn out when you are married.


So overall I would say you LIVED and are off to a good start, no?


Moving on...

How many of you can HONESTLY say you've kept up your resolutions for the past year?

I for one will vouch for myself that all the resolutions I've made in my life NEVER EVER materialize over...a few days (longest I would assume to be a month or two at most if I was being really lenient). So this year I figured I would make my resolution Public for all to see and perhaps record on my successful keepings along the way.



My Resolutions for the Year 2010 are as follows:

1. Update my blog at least 4 times a Month (unless I get kidnapped, get lost in a third world country without internet, get jailed, or some unlikely happenings) and also that includes selections from my partner in crime. -hopefully we will update more than 4 times a month *fingers crossed*
2. Find New Employment - I would dearly like to stop working for a dead end company which tells me it is OK to sleep on the job and making a loss is not a problem because other divisions are earning money, and my sole purpose is to exist. Oh please someone just shoot me if I stay here longer...wait...I might be the one shooting...oh crap!
3. Find a like minded compatible person who is able to withstand my craziness, OCD-ness, ADHD, my anime like voice, also like playing games and will think my Geekiness is cute, and ultimately someone who doesn't think I am TOTALLY CRAZY
4. Be positive no matter what and be Happy. I tend to get down in some areas and I would like to try and improve that...Happiness is a choice and I would like to be happy no matter what the hardship. I also want to try to help as much people as I can. I've given advice to others and helped them in ways I can. I hope I can improve upon that and keep helping people because when I see them happy it just adds to my happiness and makes me be glad to have done what I did.
5. Just to even it out...learn a usable skill. Whether it be social, professional, personal...I want to learn a skill. Studying for the GMAT is step 1 (hopefully if my #2 resolution fails I have this whole go to graduate school by racking up more debt to fall back one....), let's see if I can build upon that and learn a language or something. Just in case Plan A & B fail..!

I'm sure there are more, but at the moment these are what I am sticking to and well now off to sleep in my comfy bed.

From the Pyramids!

Happy New Year Everyone!

May the start of your 2010 be as uneventful as mine o(^-^)o

xoxo

-Luci