The Kite Runner

I finished watching "The Kite Runner"- a good enough movie but it just goes to show how much is lost between the book and the film. A positive thing that the movie had going for it was how it was able to skip the parts that dragged the book down especially the melodramatic incidents of the last chapters. It was also fascinating to learn through the bonus features how international the whole film project was from the cast and crew to the locale- Afghanistan was shot in China!



"The Kite Runner" is such a story about friendship, redemption and forgiveness that it was easy to get emotional while watching the movie but not necessarily because of the scenes playing out. My mind was going off on all kinds of tangents. It's sad that war and poverty is still so much a way of life. And, equally sad is how religion gets twisted to justify violence. And I thought of simpler times in general. Oh, nostalgia! The movie also made me wish I was more aware and in tune of my culture.

Murder on the Orient Express

"Murder on the Orient Express" is a movie I've been wanting to watch but was never really in the mood to actually sit through it. Old movies just aren't my style and this was from 1974. But once I got around to it, I found the film highly entertaining.

The movie is, of course, based on Agatha Christie's mystery novel featuring her famous detective- and my favorite- Hercule Poirot. When you've formed your own idea of how a character looks, it's hard to get into someone else's portrayal of them. However, Albert Finney played the part of Poirot well and even had the detective's famous moustache. The rest of the cast was very star studded. The names I was able to recognize included Lauren Bacall, Ingrid Bergman, Jacqueline Bisset, Sean Connery, Anthony Perkins, Vanessa Redgrave, Michael York, and Wendy Hiller.

The movie mostly stayed true to the book and without having it seem like a lifeless re-enactment of it. I think that's what makes any adaptation good- if it can retain the spirit of the original source but can bring its own interpretation and energy into it. The cleverness of the crime and solution was captured as well. I also enjoyed the small jokes I caught in reference to the casting like the reference to "Psycho" with Anthony Perkins' character's close attachment to his mother on this film.

According to the "making of" documentary, the movie was meant to be a throw back to old-fashioned glamorized filmmaking. With the cast, costumes and music, I think "Murder on the Orient Express" achieved its goal. In another bonus feature- "Agatha Christie: A Portrait"-, it was nice to see pictures of the literary legend in her later years. This movie just reminded me of how much of a genius she really was.

Volunteering

I figured that while I was still terminally unemployed, it would be a good time to check out what volunteering opportunities there were out in the world. Or, at least, in my immediate vicinity. I was hoping there'd be some at Central Library since it was close by and I was familiar with that environment. I was thinking I could check in and shelve items. I attended a meeting there last week to see what was available. I felt so old that day. I was surrounded by mostly teenagers and some were so young they had a parent with them for supervision. It lasted about an hour- going over some background information on the library district and the different areas in which to volunteer in. Unfortunately, there were no spots at that location but finding out about my work history, one of the coordinators suggested I check out the Friends' Library Store. So I did.

Friends is a non-profit organization run by volunteers that helps support the library system with its sales of not only donated materials like books, CD's and DVD's but also of greeting card, postcards, bookmarks, book ends, literary gifts, shirts, hats, posters, drinks and snacks. For such a small space, I was surprised they could fit all that in.

The interview went well. While my previous work experiences were impressive enough, I think what made them decide to take me was talking to one of my ex-bosses whom I was told said "great things" about yours truly. I'm not sure what the exact words were but it felt nice that someone would have "great things" to say about me.

I just finished my first day there even though I was practically doing everything I would have done working in a bookstore- but without getting paid. The highlight was definitely interacting with the customers. There was a nice lady, who was not only a reader but a booklover as well, and we talked about some good books we've read and even recommended some titles to each other. I missed those connections.

I enjoyed myself and am glad I've rejoined the ranks of the contributing members of society. I look forward to volunteering some more with Friends.

Starlight Parade

The Starlight Parade kicked off the annual Portland Rose Festival- over a week long celebration that included the Waterfront Village (a sort of carnival with rides and food booths), a fireworks display, Fleet Week, and the Grand Floral Parade.

I wasn't exactly sure what it was but someone described it as Portland's version of Disneyland's Main Street Electrical Parade. I was definitely curious and it had an interesting name. Many streets in downtown were closed off and spectators had set up camp on the sidewalks since that afternoon.

I found a spot by Central Library at about 8pm. Kids were enjoying themselves- running around, playing with light sabers and eating cotton candy- while the grown ups kept watch and talked amongst themselves. There was a sense of excitement and community all around.

It started with the Starlight Run- a marathon that runs the entire parade's route of 3.1 miles. At first I was wondering why some of the runners were dressed up as Dr. Seuss characters, clowns and why one guy was wearing a huge cardboard cutout of the Brady Bunch board with him taking the father's square. Apparently, it was also a costume contest for individuals and groups. The run was for all ages with kids running on their own, being pushed in strollers or riding on the shoulders of a parent. It looked really fun and something I'd like to do next year- sans wearing a costume.

As I was in a corner, part of the fun was seeing how the big vehicles would maneuver the sharp turn without running anyone over. Then there were those people who kept trying to cross the streets in the midst of a procession. I wondered where the homeless people went as there weren't any offensive smells.

Then there was the actual parade of lit-up decked-out vehicles, floats of various businesses and local clubs and associations, and high school marching bands and cheerleaders.

It didn't end until a little after 11pm. I'm sure the parade would have run smoother had it not been for the MAX trains that crossed the route. The weather actually held out (meaning it didn't rain) although a little on the chilly side. It was my first time watching a parade in its entirety and it was definitely interesting.

Mark Twain

I watched a film on Samuel Clemens a.k.a. Mark Twain. It was directed by Ken Burns who has made a name for himself with other acclaimed documentaries, most recently "The War". Told through photographs and Twain's own words with insights from scholars and writers, it was an enjoyable way to learn about someone who I was only familiar with through having read a couple of his books- "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn"- as a schoolboy.

Mark Twain became a hugely celebrated public figure for his incredible way with words, using them not only to make people laugh- which he did so successfully- but also to explore/expose certain faults of American society. His private life was full of one heartbreaking loss after another and a rollercoaster ride of triumphs and failures. I was just in awe of the way he lived his life and the talent- especially his wit- that I can only wish to fraction of. He was an amazing man and I think deserves all the praise he gets. I will definitely be reading more of his works.

Library Events

Libraries are one of my favorite places in the world- as a reader, naturally, and as a saver. They have the reputation of being these ancient stuffy buildings with out of date books and stern librarians waiting around corners ready to "shoosh" you with the slightest noise from your lips. But that's not the case anymore. Not only do libraries have the latest releases in books and a whole array of reference materials but they also have the most recent DVD's and CD's ready for check out. They also provide computers with internet access and rooms to hold meetings and special events.

Central Library is one such library. I have already written about how beautiful and interesting it is architecturally but I have been lucky enough as well to check out a few of their programs and exhibits.

The library held a Portland Opera preview of "Aida". Opera isn't my type of music at all and it was for lack of anything else to do that day and with a bit of curiosity that I decided to check it out. I was glad I did for I had a surprisingly wonderful time learning a little history about operas- Verdi's in particular as he created "Aida"- and listening to wonderful performances. I was surprised how his music was familiar in that its been used many times in movies, TV and other media. It was amazing how powerful the voices were and incredible the effect it had on the audience, including myself.

Central Library also holds monthly exhibits in its Collins Gallery. In April, it was the Tears of Joy Theatre's 35th celebration of its puppets and masks. I particularly liked the Pinocchio, Aladdin, Greek mythology, and Arabian Nights displays. I was amazed by the craftsmanship and detail that was put into each one.

May's exhibit is dedicated to Pierre Lecure, a French poet who made beautiful books with the help of printmakers and other artists to showcase his work. I've always loved books but it was usually the words that captivated me so it was incredible to see the books themselves as part of the art. There were about 40 books in display. Different textures of paper were used ranging from rare Mexican bark and airy China paper. Each book had its own unique style and design and housed in different materials like woodcuts and in an ultra light balsa wood box. Often times the poetry themselves would complement the colorful collage of pastel paper or mirror the etchings made on the opposite page creating a sense of movement with the words. The opening reception on May 6th talked about Lecure and his works and offered refreshments not only of cookies, vegetables, cheese and crackers but also of very filling wraps.

I am looking forward to future events Central Library will be holding. The ones I mentioned were just what I've taken part in but it has also had swing dance lessons, writing workshops, computer and language classes just to name a few- and all for free. I think one of the smartest things anyone can do is to get a library card and take advantage of everything it has to offer.

Quarterlife

I took on the role of tour guide when two of my friends from Las Vegas visited me for my 25th birthday. I know Portland isn't exactly anyone's #1 vacation destination so I was glad they came. I got to share the things I've come to enjoy so far about my new home and experience new things with them. Although I was worried how I was able to keep them entertained for their whole trip.

The first spot I showed them was Pioneer Courthouse Square since it was close to the hotel they were staying in- the Westin. I pointed out the waterfall fountain, the inscribed names on the bricks, and the bronze statue of a businessman with an umbrella. I'm proud to say I did a little research on the places I was planning on showing them. We then took the MAX to the Bijou cafe- a popular restaurant where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast.

Next, we entered Chinatown through the gateway on 4th and Burnside guarded by a pair of golden lions on either side. Not as impressive as San Francisco's version and located in the old town district of downtown, I wouldn't want to get caught in the area at night. Even in broad daylight, I was afraid of getting mugged or shot at. Walking at a brisk pace, we found ourselves at the Portland Saturday Market where we were surrounded by vendors selling their wares and food carts of all kinds from all over the world. We grabbed a bite of elephant ears- a sweet and tasty treat reminiscent of Chinese doughnuts.

We then took a walk through the Waterfront Park. I think they enjoyed- as I've had- the panoramic view of the many bridges crossing the Willamette with the occasional boats speeding by. The beauty of the area and the joggers, bikers and walkers passing by makes anyone want to get fit.

It was in search of restrooms that we ended up in Pioneer Place- a mall I didn't even know existed until a couple of weeks after moving here and despite walking by it countless of times. I thought the stores fronting the mall were stand alones but they are actually four blocks of connected shopping with a traditional food court.

A short ride on the MAX and we were at Finnegan's. Actually comprised of Big and Little Finnegan's, this independent toy store brings out the kid in anyone. You'll find yourself reminiscing- as we did- through your childhood and the toys and games you used to play with. The bigger store is more traditional and kid-oriented. The smaller one has more novelty items.

Across from Finnegan's was the Central Library. Of interest were the Beverly Cleary children's library which includes a bronze statue of a tree depicting animals and characters from kid's literature, the first floor stairs with its "Tree of Knowledge" artwork, and the old-fashioned card catalogue. I did feel bad for making them walk the extra long flight of steps to the third floor but at that level was the Collins Gallery- where every month there's a new display. Currently, it was puppets and masks from the Tears of Joy Theatre. I liked the displays featuring Pinocchio, Aladdin and Greek characters. Although Central Library has computers with internet access, the current movies to check out in DVD's, and an elevator (which we took down), it's still what I picture a library to be from my younger days.

We then took a streetcar to my place where I had an "MTV Cribs" moment showing them around. It was a little nerve-wracking and embarrassing letting others see what little I had. At the same time, I felt proud that it was mine.

Here is the tour of my place. Walking in, on the left, is a dressing room and, beyond that, the bathroom. While I have no use for a dressing room, I thought of using the space as an office or a bedroom. On the right is a walk-in closet which has built-in shelves where I display my collections of CD's, DVD's, and books. Further down the entrance is a kitchenette on the left and the living room on the right. Most of what you see in the studio is hardwood flooring but in the nearest corner is where I sleep- a deflated airbed matted by two comforters. (I thought I was getting a deal buying an airbed for $10 but it didn't come with a pump. I'm sure it wasn't meant to be manually blown.) On the far corner, by the heater and window overlooking PSU and the Park Blocks, is my writing space- a fold-out table and fold-out chair.

The kitchen consists of a stove, refrigerator, sink, and dishwasher. Inside the refrigerator were butter and water. Had I gone grocery shopping, there would also have been bread and peanut butter and jelly.

As I had decided to use my closet to showcase my collections, I needed somewhere else to put my clothes. So naturally I used the kitchen cabinets. I do still find myself heading to the closet to get a change of clothes when I should know to go to the kitchen instead. I guess old habits do die hard. Once I get a job, I can always furnish it some more but right now I like my existence.

When that was done, we walked through most of the South Park blocks admiring the sculptures outside of the Art Museum before going to Powell's Books.

Powell's is a reader's playground- a whole city block and four floors of books, books, and more books- old and new, hardcovers and paperbacks, US and international editions all sharing the same shelves. With its own parking garage and coffee shop, the store map they give away is handy in navigating through the different colored rooms. You can literally lose yourself in a good book- or in this case: a good bookstore.

After a little shopping, we ate lunch at Noodles & Company where I really didn't plan on going to but, as long as they liked the food, it was all good. Because the weather was holding up, I decided to bring them to Nob Hill where we stopped at the Moonstruck Chocolate Company. I felt bad that I made them walk uphill for the more than 10 blocks to get there but let it be known that to spend a day with me requires a good pair of sneakers. We rode the streetcar back to the Westin and we played a seemingly endless- but fun- game of Uno. I won by the way- fair and square and not because it was my birthday.

As dinner approached, we then braved the hail to Typhoon!- a Thai restaurant we chose because of the cleverness of its name- where I really couldn't eat because I was so stuffed by then. After that, I dropped them off at their hotel and said goodnight. We talked and walked, laughed and ate, and that was just the first day.



The weather was not as co-operative as it was the day before. And we were still stuffed and tired from yesterday's activities. After a quick stop to my apartment complex where we took in the scene from the rooftop patio- which was my first time up and I've lived there for almost two months, we had a light breakfast at Stumptown Coffee Roasters- one of the many cafes in the city. It was disappointing in terms of food and beverage quality but the place had a decidedly unique design and atmosphere.

Originally, we talked about going out to the Japanese Gardens but a lot of factors forced us to change our minds and go to the much nearer Chinese Classical Gardens. Taking up only a mere city block, it does have a gift shop by the entrance and a tea house inside the premises. Even though I really don't have an eye for nature, I found the whole place very nice. I even walked barefoot on the mosaic tiles to get into the whole experience. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and evidently loved the place so that helped.

After the gardens, I treated them to Paccini, the Italian restaurant right next door to my apartment. More than anything, it's the moments sharing stories and laughing at each other's jokes over a delicious meal that I enjoy the most. We sat by the fireplace, ate and talked for hours until they had to leave as not to miss their flight. It felt good not only to have people to talk to but to talk about such personal and grown up things. It seemed we talked about everything. It was a wonderful way to cap off our time together and a great way to celebrate my 25th birthday.

"Mortal Syntax"

I went to a reading of June Casagrande's new book "Mortal Syntax" at the Burnside Powell's Books. I'm sure I must have skimmed her first book "Grammar Snobs are Great Big Meanies" since words and its usages do fascinate me. I had seen a newspaper article earlier in the day for the event and decided it might be fun to check it out. I'm glad I did. June Casagrande was funny, smart and articulate but the thing I liked most about her was she wasn't afraid to say "I don't know."

In "Mortal Syntax", she takes questionable grammatical situations and uses different reference materials to determine whether the usages are correct or not- or at least, acceptable. Some of them I already knew- like not to use "irregardless" or "I could care less". It was interesting to note how certain improper grammar have become acceptable just by having it used that way for such a long time- like "Aren't I?" And through popular use, words like "d'oh" and "bootylicious" find themselves in the dictionary and I guess that's why the words "ass" and "bitch" have become commonplace.

There was a large turnout of people- from copyeditors and teachers to regular folks like me. It made me feel smart being around them- who were all interested in grammar, words. I was glad some of them even bought her books because I did feel guilty for going there without really knowing who she was and having no intention to buy anything. What I took from the event was learning should be- and is- fun and I shouldn't let fear of looking or sounding stupid stop myself from asking questions.

Passing Time in Portland

Portland reminds me of two places I've called home. It has the richness of history and culture of San Francisco and the affordability of Las Vegas, Plus, there are bums all over the place.

I spent the first few days looking for familiar places and I immediately found things I liked about the city.

Portland to me is a city of- and for- readers. From Powell's Books, the steps of Central Library, and the engraved bricked floor of Pioneer Courthouse Square just to name a few, you can find things to read in the most unexpected places.

I was amazed by how reliable the modes of transportation were, with dedicated lanes for the streetcars, trains and bikes. While most of downtown has free public transportation, you might just find yourself traveling by foot. Everything is within walking distance and there's something to see everywhere. Food carts line the streets with the aroma of the international dishes they serve inviting you to take a taste. Parks are located practically in every block. Each building is unique and seems to have its own character and history. Plus how could you not like a place where one day you come across a scary looking clown driving a van listening to loud rap music, the next day six angels riding the trains and then an Elvis impersonator belting out his most famous hits?

I've been trying to enjoy Portland's outdoors as much as possible but, of course, that's hard to do when it's usually raining here. But when the sun does decide to shine, I've gone on many different walks. I walked alongside the Willamette River and crossed the Steel Bridge. It was a nice scenic route. I read the quotes and poetry engraved in the stones of the Japanese Memorial and passed by Mill Ends Park- boasting to be the world's smallest- and Salmon Street Springs, a fountain where people can soak themselves during the summer.

Just outside my apartment complex is the Portland State University and the beginning stretch of what is known as the Park Blocks where every Saturday (except in winter) they hold a Farmers Market. While I like salad, I'm not really into buying fresh produce but when I decided to check it out, I enjoyed myself. There was music and free samples, which I loved. I tried some Earl Grey crème tea, hazelnut and peanut butter brittles, bread, jalapeno jam, cheese, salmon but my favorite was the carrot cake samples they gave out on opening day. And yes I went for seconds on that.

I've passed the time sitting on the benches of the park and campus with my notebook in hand, trying to soak up some inspiration from the beauty of nature around me. I've also sat on the brick steps of Pioneer Courthouse Square enjoying the sun, gazing up at the surrounding buildings admiring the architecture, watching the countless other people doing the same thing, and reading a book.

And right next door to where I live is an Italian restaurant. Whether or not that's a good thing is still left to be decided. On one hand, I love Italian food and I could eat there everyday. However, being unemployed and trying to eat healthy, I'm tempted every morning as I step out my building by the delicious smells of freshly baking focaccia bread. Paccini is a cozy little joint that caters mostly to the PSU crowd. With its affordable prices and huge, filling portions, this is one restaurant I would recommend to anyone. Needless to say, I give in more than I resist temptation.

Getting My Own Place

Getting my own place was not easy- at times bordering on frustration and hopelessness. I lucked out in finding a relatively inexpensive place to stay in temporarily but I knew I wouldn't be able to keep it up for long. It was scary not knowing when I was going to have a more permanent roof over my head.

To my credit, I didn't come to Portland without looking at some apartments online first. I was even keen on one in particular. I figured once I got here, I'd go there and I'll be set. But I found out the apartment was income restricted- as were the other places within my price range- and I didn't have the proper documents with me. But, if you thought about it, who was more income restricted than I was at the moment? I had no place to stay in and I had no job. I only had my backpack and my online savings.

The apartment finder magazines were useful in finding- well- apartments I might want to check out. Plus, they had their own websites that provided more information. Another thing that really helped was just walking around and that's how I stumbled upon my current residence.

I was able to talk to someone face to face- as opposed to corresponding via e-mail or telephone. I filled out an application and even got a discount on the move-in rate. I would have been more ecstatic if the leasing lady didn't act so loopy. It was like having Paula Abdul take down my information. She wasn't even writing legibly and I can tell it wasn't some sort of short-hand either because it seemed she dozed off a couple times in mid-sentence and the pen just trailed off. She would also ask me the same questions repetitively and I felt I was suffering through a serious case of deja vu. It didn't help matters when she called later that day and said the apartment she assigned to me was actually already reserved for someone else. Luckily there was another unit available- albeit at a slightly higher price and with no discount. It was still the best offer I had so I told her to proceed.

Then things kept coming up- problems with my application or she would need information I had already given her. I found myself at their office almost everyday to check what progress- if any- was being made. All the while, I had to keep extending my stay at the motel. First just for a couple of days, then it became a week. To make matters worse, I had already spent over a month's worth of rent in two weeks. I had felt like a big shot with how much money I had been able to save to move here but that amount was quickly dwindling. The only upside I could think of was the motel had HBO- not that there was anything good to watch considering all they seemed to show were "In Treatment" and "Disturbia".

I needed to know if I was going to get the studio or if I should start looking elsewhere. I'm sure the leasing specialist was doing her job but since nothing seemed to be happening I made sure to go to their office on her day off so someone else would have had to help me. That morning, I went in, answered some questions, and by that evening, I had my own place.