Gentleman Gypsy

New Year

2011-01-03T12:54:00.001-04:00

Well SunJoo and I have had our first Christmas together as well as our New Year. We traveled to Summerside to spend Christmas with mom and came back home to Halifax to spend New Years here. Overall the holidays were a quiet affair and very relaxing. I am now in the process of gearing up for the next term at NSCC. As well I have a few days to complete the first chapter of the the novel I plan to write. So far the whole story arc is falling into place quite well.

Other than this I shall also be continuing with my Sword training starting on Saturday I think. While there is no official Dojang in Halifax, myself and another black belt student began training together in the fall and have taken one student. It has been great to get back into this art and I am losing weight and getting back into shape again. I have modified the gumdo logo to create one for our club. However where we are not official I must state that this is work in progress and the basis of this graphic came from the official logo for the Haidong Gumdo Association.

Shearwater International Air-show 2010

2010-09-12T19:43:00.001-04:00

Well Today we woke up early to get to Shearwater before the crowds, SunJoo and I woke at 7:00am and got ready to go out. This involved getting showered and starting to make Sushi (with wonderful smoked salmon). While SunJoo made the Sushi I went off to pick up Ian and my cousin Daniel. Once I had them in the car it was a quick trip back to the apartment to pick up SunJoo. In retrospect we should have brought our chairs as we stood a lot. This was SunJoo’s first time at an air show and she enjoyed it very much. However this being said I was kind of disappointed with the static displays this year. There were only six and none were of the Jets. Understandable because the main runway at Shearwater has been torn up and they only have a short landing strip now so none of the main attractions could land all flew out of the Halifax International airport.

The air display was fantastic though and here are a few of the pics I took:

C-117 and SunJoo

SunJoo and Daniel on a tank.

Wildcat

Hawk 1

Snowbirds

Texan/Canadian version is the Harvard

Wildcat flying between radar domes.

CF-118 Strutting its stuff.

Canadian Forces Parachute team SkyHawks

F/A-18E Superhornet

Wildlife and Sea Kayaking

2010-07-17T20:12:00.001-04:00

Well SunJoo and I have just finished a day of Sea Kayaking out at East Coast Outfitters. It was a great afternoon. It started as a foggy day on the water around 4:00 PM but after about half an hour out the fog burned off and we were surrounded by great landscapes and beach heads. The rocks of the bay and the seaweed gave us little trouble as we paddled our way through the bay and to the edge of the North Atlantic. Regrettably we took no camera along to get any good sea faring pictures. My left shoulder is a little sore but overall I think I’ll live.

On Thursday we went to the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park. It was fun seeing all the animals and we did manage to get a few pics before my battery died.

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NYC

2010-05-11T23:47:00.001-04:00

It is the evening of the 11th almost transitioning to the 12th of May. SunJoo and I are at the DO Dream Guest House on Wall St. it is a great place, very comfortable and welcoming after an eventful day of travelling. we woke very early this morning in Halifax and caught our flight to Toronto, and watched Shutter Island as the in-flight movie. (actually we started it on the flight to T.O. and finished on the flight to NYC. Customs was very efficient and polite and not at all as problematic as I thought it might be.

Upon arrival in NYC (at LaGuardia) we were met by a private taxi service for the guest house and driven directly there. SunJoo and the driver spoke in Korean all the way and it made me feel oddly comfortable as it reminded me of may taxi rides I had had in Seoul. Seoul being a city I am very comfortable in the experience fostered a psychological reassurance here.

We then went on an excursion around NY, contrary to previous beliefs I had held about the coldness of the occupants of large cities I find NYC to be quite welcoming. We went to the harbour area and took some pictures of a tall ship (the PeKing) and then went uptown to Union Square. After wandering around and taking many pictures we went for coffee (Think Cafe) and then dinner at Saigon Grill, bothe excellent choices. We then went to see The Blue Man Group. I cannot describe this as it is too good and my words would only cheapen the experience.

Until next I write….

New to SLR

2010-04-24T21:07:00.001-04:00

Well Sun-Joo and I have just recently purchased a Canon Rebel XS 10.1 MP DSLR camera and were out and about with it this evening. As I am new to the whole SLR thing right now I just left it on the full auto settings but I am reading the manual. (Don’t snicker I can here all of you now “reading the manual” You’re not supposed to do that I know).

Anyway here are a couple of the shots taken today.

Fall from Grace

2010-01-23T09:35:00.001-04:00

I used to frequent Gatsby's when I was in University, however over the last few years the place has seemingly taken a nose dive. 2 years ago with friends I ventured into the restaurant and had little to no service. It took 20 minutes to get a waitress and another 20 to get the invoice.
Last night after 2 years I decided to go and give it one more chance. I ordered the Italian sausage spaghettini. The sauce was good but it astounds me that the chef would try to pass off hot-dogs sliced on an angle as Italian Sausage. I brought this to the attention of the waitress (a good server so I cannot fault her actually her service was exemplary). I ended up paying half for the dinner as I was already behind schedule and did not want to re-order. suffice it to say I shall not be darkening the door there again.

Cylon or Replicant Pt.II

2010-01-16T21:24:00.001-04:00

“You were made as well as we could make you.” Elden Tyrell
“But not to last” Roy Batty

These words uttered by during the endgame sequence between creator and creation in the movie Bladerunner perhaps gives one method of control over our creations. An incept date, or in laymen’s terms expiry date for the robot; a predetermined death that the makers set for a pre-programmed lifespan. Again this brings up the moral quagmire of us playing god. In Bladerunner Replicant s were controlled by the fact that they had no emotional connection that would bring about the questioning of human masters. However, as revealed in the movie the Tyrell Corporation was experimenting with the idea of implanting memories within the programming of the Replicant. This would have the effect of not only making them believe they are human, but give the ability to control them easier. Would this have worked as a preventative measure in the world of Battlestar? Regrettably we don’t know. The real question is rather will this work in the real world when we become the creator of these sentient beings? What would happen to the identity and the persona of a Cylon/Replicant were their true nature revealed to them? How would they react to the knowledge that they are machines? Could you or I accept the revelation that we are not what we think? How would the mind reconcile this knowledge?

Cylon or Replicant? Pt. I

2010-01-15T19:45:00.001-04:00

Having Just read the Can Robots be Trusted article in the February 2010 edition of Popular Mechanics (why it is a month ahead when it is only now January 15^th I have no idea), I find myself thinking on all of the different sci-fi renditions we have been inundated with over these last few years. Even though the article debunks what most people fear, the extinction of humanity at the hands of a cold logical machine, I cannot help but wonder if we may slip down that road anyway.

For me the first things that come to mind (much like the articles author) are movies like The Terminator, 2001, where logical and self-aware A.I., take drastic measures to protect themselves and eradicate the humans who threaten them. It strikes at the heart of one of our deepest fears; betrayal of our creations. Do we deserve the fate so ominously heralded? Or is there way out?

Battlestar Galactica deals with this in its story with a possible solution given by, of all characters, Ellen Tigh, “We wanted to warn the colonies about creating Cylons, We wanted to tell them ‘keep them close’...but we were too late. The war had already begun”.[1] The idea was to care for and appreciate that which we create in order to have the trust we need to interact socially. The article presents the idea that one thing that may allow this is that we as humans will react positively to a robot “...if you have the robot behave and move in ways that are known to enhance trust and engagement the reaction is the same as it is with people.”[2] This, at least, gives us some hope.

So what of the rights of the creation from the creator? We have seen this argued in sci-fi forums like Bladerunner, Star Trek, I-Robot and others over the years. Will we have the moral fortitude to give equal rights to these creations or will we fall into the pit the 12 Colonies and the Tyrell Corporation? Herein lays the conundrum when it comes to machines: if we have the right to create do we have the right to destroy them. The obvious argument being it is a machine and does not have life. We must somehow quantify what life is, but are we then not stealing fire from the gods? Likening ourselves to god in our arrogance and determining what life is and is not? There is a whole other can of worms both ethical and spiritual.

[1] Battlestar Galactica Season 4 Deadlock.

[2] Can We Trust Robots, Popular Mechanics Feb. 2010, pg. 60.

Point Pleasant Lodge

2010-01-13T20:56:00.001-04:00

Well it is now day 0 of moms treatment, she had the stem cell replacement done and we are back at the lodge after a good dinner. In a few minutes I shall be calling my wife and waking her up for her busy day. Thankfully the lodge has wi/fi and I am able to check e-mail and do my finances online.

I am hoping that things will go well for mom, right now we are awaiting the levels of white/platelets/etc. to drop. When it does mom will be admitted to the hospital for 2 weeks until they rise again.

I have bought a mouse for the computer and got it on sale for 24.95 plus taxes. it works really well with this system and helps me to avoid the touch pad (which I still use).

Planning a trip soon when everything settles down.

The New Year

2010-01-02T14:25:00.001-04:00

So this is 2010, the year we make contact. One of the discussions over the transition to the new year was how sci-fi got so many things wrong. For instance Space 1999, V, and the afore mentioned movie title in the first line of this post. So where did they get it right?

Star Trek influenced tech:
Cell phones that look like the old communicators.
Touch screen computer interfaces like the control panels on the Enterprise D.
And other things....

hopefully that link will provide a good chuckle or two.

Having just spoken with my wife I am hoping that this January flies by though I know that there are some tough times ahead of me before February comes. My mothers treatment begins a week from Monday. This hopefully will go smoothly though I know that it won’t be at all a easy.

A pre New Year post

2009-12-31T16:08:00.001-04:00

Well as the year draws to a close I find that much reflection on the events requires far too much brain power. :)

I have been in Halifax for the last while due to circumstances beyond my control. I have been looking forward to the new year and the journey to Korea I shall be taking in Feb for a week or so. I shall be very much pleased to see my in-laws and experience Seoul once again. I have missed Korea greatly, there are many places have wanted to see with Sun-Joo. I cannot wait until we are able to once again have jajang-bokki near her old school. (a fond memory for me).

With all that has transpired over the 12 months that have made up 2009 it is difficult to order my thoughts on how to relate them. Dad’s passing on June 1st left me in an odd headspace. I have since recovered of course and realized how much of my personality has been influence by him. I continue to honour his memory and do justice to the faith he had in life and in family.

A New Beginning

2009-10-12T17:24:00.001-04:00

As with most life changing events there comes the need to redefine yourself. I am continuing that process right now and adjusting to my new life. However, with this new chapter I needs must also acquire gainful employment. I am looking into a number of venues both federal and civilian. It has not been easy and I am more than likely going to have to return to University or college of some sort to gain more skills or amplify and hone those I already have.

As can be deduced from the picture above I am now married. I am adjusting well to married life. Sun-Joo and I have just recently returned from Halifax where we enjoyed Thanksgiving Dinner with family and went to the Movie Zombieland with Ian and Karen. BTW I highly recommend this film though Sun-Joo would disagree with me It was well worth watching.

Convalescence

2009-05-15T16:26:00.001-04:00

Well I have just gone through my second ACL replacement. This time for my left knee. The procedure is a little different from the patellar graft that was done to my right knee in 1995. This time instead of getting a graft from my patella ligament I received a donor graft (cadaver). What this achieves is there is no unnecessary harvesting of ligament from any other portion of my leg causing more damage and longer recovery time. They simply remove my torn ligament and replace it with the donated one. The surgery took place on the 13th of May and I was released from the hospital the next day. (Much hilarity ensued during my overnight stay at the hospital and into the next day).

I truly believe that there is one word in the English language which will invariably cause any man to shudder: catheter. Now from my previous surgery on my right knee 14 years ago I had some vague memory of what was involved (in case you are wondering by vague I actually mean acute and vivid). The insertion of a rubber tube into your nether regions is never going to be very pleasant. (third times the charm is that it?).

I must however say that overall the nursing staff were great to me. I did get to be mildly sarcastic with one of the Student nurses. (in case you read this “Hi Lisa hope you don’t prematurely pull another I.V. out LOL) During my stay I think I became a teaching example for both I/V. and a lab rat for the catheter. At one point I was the subject of curiosity for I developed a reaction to the adhesive tape used to secure my I.V.. When it was removed a patch of hives appeared on my arm where the tape had been. about 6 nurses came in over the next 20 minutes to have a look at this, All in all as stated the Nurses were in every way professional and provided great care. A big thank you to Lisa, Lauren, Shauna, and any I am remiss in remembering here.

I am currently now at home and am in a cast of sorts. basically three steel rods in a fabric sleeve that Velcro's up giving lateral stability and effectively immobilizing my knee. I am on crutches for the next month at least and can have this current brace removed in about a week and a half. The only thing I am thankful for is that it is now getting warmer and I have no need to worry about ice or other hazards.

I am now just awaiting my EI payments to come in and am actively searching for what ever work will be available here or in Halifax or other areas of Canada.

Pink Floyd the Wall

2008-12-23T22:39:00.001-04:00

Well actually the Aussie Pink Floyd show to be exact. It was quite good. Amazing really. The music was pounding enough to feel in my chest and the light show was well done.

Winter's bite

2008-11-24T22:05:00.001-04:00

Well winter has come with a vengeance. leaving much snow in its wake. This picture was taken a day after the storm but you can see that my car is still covered.

Remembrance Day

2008-11-11T14:11:00.001-04:00

Another year has passed, with less veterans around to help us mark the day of Remembrance. It is always on this day that it is brought clearly into focus for me why it is I wish to serve my country in any way, shape and form. We owe such a debt to those who sacrificed so much. Braving the cold wind and threat of rain I journeyed to the cenotaph as many others in this land have done to pay respect to those who have served and those still serving.

My family has its own connections to the Forces, and it shall always have a place in my life. Now and forever. My grandfathers both served in their way during the war years, one in the merchant navy the other at Magazine Hill in Halifax.

in the eye of the storm.

2008-09-07T19:39:00.001-04:00

well this shot was taken out the front door of the house in what I expect was the eye of the storm that just passed through or it was merely the calm between two storms. Either way it was still nice to see.

Halifax weekend

2008-08-18T22:04:00.001-04:00

Some pics from the weekend.

Cabot Park P.E.I.

2008-07-13T22:42:00.001-04:00

Spent the afternoon at Cabot park today, went for a walk through a section of it that I had not been to since I had vacationed there with Sue Shawyer in 1999. It's still a beautiful place though these pics from my cell phone do it no justice.

X-Files

2008-07-10T17:51:00.001-04:00

can't wait for this

some military pics

2008-07-09T10:51:00.001-04:00

A Choice to Make

2008-03-22T16:31:00.001-04:00

Well, I am awaiting an offer from a company based out of Calgary for employment. Once made I have a choice, stay in the Maritimes or leave my ancestral home and build a life in a new area. There are many difficult choices in life, this one is no exception. I am leaning toward the journey though.

There are many reasons why this is, but first and foremost that I can more easily make a career out there than I can here. There are more opportunities for myself and my fiancee out there. As well after having met in person the people I would be working with I have a much better feeling regarding the choice.

Shall write more later.

Another new beginning

2008-03-02T17:57:00.001-04:00

As I write this I am fighting with my headset and microphone as the wire is tangling and getting shorter and shorter. I am not happy with it.

The picture was just taken about 5 minutes ago, showing how much snow has fallen. and how much I have to dig out of when the road is cleared out. Its days like this that I dislike the winter.

I am in the market for a job and am looking as far and wide as possible to get gainful employment. I am tired, stressed, and wondering where my life is going to end up. I have confidence that I will be ok and that I shall have a good career and be successful however it will take time to get there.

Home Again

2008-02-23T23:58:00.001-04:00

After having spent almost 6 months trying to get my commission with the Canadian Forces I have returned home. I would have graduated this I am quite sure of, however, due to the injury incurred during training I could not meet the physical requirements for the course and now am in need of surgery. I am hoping that the civi world will be efficient enough to expedite this that I may carry on with my life without much upheaval.

New Year's Post

2008-01-02T18:23:00.000-04:00

Well, it is now the new year andI had one surprise today as I walked around my hometown of Halifax, I was interviewed by a couple of people from CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) and asked what New Years resolutions I had made and if I had kept them. In all honestly I had no idea what to say, but thinking quickly I said "To complete my military training and to be married by the summer."
I have been thinking of Sun-Joo all day and have sent her a post card and started to write a letter to her. It should be sent before I board the plane for Montreal on Saturday.

Christmas is almost here.

2007-12-24T17:41:00.001-04:00

Less than 12 hours from now it shall be Christmas, my second at home with family and also my second separated from my love, Sun-Joo. I have promised to make this the last, all Christmases from now on shall be spent with her. I plan on watching "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" provided we can find it online, There are some Korean Websites that have streaming video of English programs where we might find it. It would be fun to watch with her. Addendum, I shall be watching it with her on Christmas Day.
I just finished watching Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. It has been over a year since I have watched the extended version of this movie, and I hope that in the future I am able to share this with my children (when of course I have them).
I have often been thinking of the future in the past few months, there are many things I wish to accomplish.

Update 2

2007-12-21T11:31:00.001-04:00

Well Sun-Joo and I have finished watching the third season of Battlestar Galactica. She caught fairly quickly who four of the new cylons would be. Of course we are now awaiting the 4th season to start and I have sent her Razor for Christmas. I was hoping that the 3rd season would be out on DVD by now but I am still waiting.
Next week I shall be heading down to Halifax I think. It all depends on when my pay comes in. I am hoping to spend some time with old friends and have a good new years bash before I go back to St-Jean Garrison and complete my training.

How it looked when I was last there....

Just checking something

2007-12-21T00:06:00.000-04:00

As most of you know I have been accepted into the Canadian Armed Forces as an Officer and have been in St-Jean, Quebec for quite some time.
On a more personal not I should have mentioned something about a very special event in my life...... I am engaged, Sun-Joo and I got engaged in August and are in the midst of getting all things organized.

An apology

2007-04-19T21:03:00.000-04:00

Mainly an apology to those who have read this blog, as I have not been as faithful in the posting that I would like. Much of this is due to the lethargy that has set in during this protracted winter. Spring seems non-exitstent and the annoying thing is that I would love to be walking the beaches or some park but the wind has been horridly cold.

I am hoping that the weather will warm up a little more that I might be able to do more outdoor activities. As can be seen from the picture above, this area does have a lot to offer. I have always loved the sea, it enthralls me but not enough to become a sailor. The airforce calls more so.

Update

2007-04-01T12:31:00.000-04:00

I have really been busy over the last few weeks, schedule at work has been switching around som much that I know not if I am comming or going. As a result I have been unable to post until now. So much to say.....
My birthday and Sun-joo's has come and gone, we both wish we couldhave been together for them. considering they are so close to one another we shall probably celebrate them together on the mid day( the 11th of March) . As well our 200th day as a couple has come. Every day that comes I see as a blessing with her.
I am continuing to prepare for the rewrite for the Nav test. That in itself os a little daunting. So much math to remember, its hard to know where to begin. Trying to remember all the functions and how to do the math is a pain. I have not done math in my head for more than 15 years (simple math is easy ).
I have been putting together a package to send out to Sun-Joo and her family, I look around and see so many things that I would like to send. For instance, her father enjoys different types of beer, and there are so many here that I would love to send a huge crate of samples; everything from Sleaman's Honey Brown to Clancy's Amber Ale, I can hear Ian now "Why not some Schooner?" yes Ian some schooner and Kieths and Pumphouse, Rickards, Proppeller and all the micro brews I can find.
So hard to choose what to send....

I went to a hockey game this eveinng, Summerside vs. Moncton, I know I live in Summerside but for some reason I was wishing that the Moncton team would win. Maybe I always have had a soft spot for the underdog. The game was quite good. Many shots on each side, but I I found that the home team (Summerside, white and boue shirts) seemed to not have any spirit in playing. The Moncton team (in the Black above) overall played much better, thier passing was almost perfect and they definately seemed to work better as a team.

Heraldry

2007-03-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

I've been thinking about my family history again. I realize that it has been many years since I have done any research in this area, now that I have my credit card I really should get a membership at one of the geneology sites. My friend Ian uses Ancestry.com I think. It would be interesting to be able to trace my family back to 1066 in England. I am aware there are two branches of my family name, one possibility is a German background, the other is Norman French, (Norman French leads back to William the Conqueror). Either way I am hoping to find interesting information. As stated in a previous post paternal grandfather was a memeber of the RCMP. And my maternal grandfather was a Clipper ship captain.

Amazed

2007-02-14T22:00:00.000-04:00

I arrived home from work last night and was surpised to find the gifts above had arrived from Korea. Traditional cookies for the Asian New Year which is this weekend, and a Valentines gifts. (Begining the Year of the Pig, a year of good luck and enterprise). Needless to say I was completely amazed and very thankful to Sun-Joo and her mother for these delicious treats. The last time I had them was when I was in Korea, and I have missed them very much. Also included in the package were some packages of Jajamyung, a wonderful noodle dish that I have missed as well.

Movies, movies, movies !!!!!!!!! Sun-joo also included 3 vcd's of Korean movies that she had been telling me about, Shilmido (a really great film), The king and the Clown, and the third which is Welcome to Dngmakgol. I have been looking forward to these movies for a while.

I'm going to have alot of fun this weekend watching these films and enjoying the traditional treats with my parents.

A very big Thank-You to Sun-joo and her mother. Everything is amazing and really appreciated!!!!

고맙습니다!!!

No such luck

2007-02-02T20:16:00.000-04:00

Well weather has been a pain so I am unable to travel to Halifax perhaps until tomorrow. Freezing rain and snow will be keeping me here until further notice. Hopefully I'll be able to travel by noon.

Hali bound

2007-02-01T19:26:00.000-04:00

I could be headed down to Hali this weekend. My Grandmothers 88th brithday is this weekend so I should go down to see her. I think there is a large gathering this weekend so that means seeing many relatives. Should be interesting. I'll be sure to Keep in touch with Sun-Joo this weekend. Posting more in a little bit.

Toward the weekend

2007-01-29T21:39:00.000-04:00

Last night I watched my favourite show Battlestar Galactica, it is really well written and I find the characters to be more enjoyable the more I watch. You can't help but get caught up with the flow of the story.

Had a good day, was let off work early due to the call volume being low. Went to the gym and had a really good work out, can still feel it in my shoulders and arms. Supper this evening was Bebimbap, a great Korean dish of mixed greens and rice with Gochu Jang (chilie pepper paste).

Eyes are strange

2007-01-26T20:36:00.000-04:00

Well I had my eye exam yesterday. Rather interesting when you have to run to your car with your head under your coat and try to find your sunglasses. I had drops put in to open the iris and well for the rest of the day my eyes were extremely sensitive to light. Must have been an strange sight for people to see someone running with a jacket over their head. It took about 15 hours for my eyesight to get back to normal. I could not focus on anything and wearing my glasses was useless.

Back to cooking

2007-01-24T19:27:00.000-04:00

Well, now that I have a job again, I am also able to help put food on the table. This evening I made one of my favourite soups, Pho Bo Tai. Unfotunately the picture above does not do justice to the flavourful food that it is. It is a realtively easy dish to make provided you have the proper ingredients and the patience to prepare everything in advance. The hardest thing to get is the fish sauce needed for the added flavouring. I forgot to ask Sun-Joo if she likes this particular food so I'll have to check with her tomorrow when I speak with her.

Good memory

2007-01-23T23:12:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken during Chusok in Seoul. I had been invited to a picnic and we decided to go to the Han river. As the sun was setting I had wanted to get some good pictures of the river and surrounding area this is one of the best to have been taken that day. There are many memories that I carry with me from Korea, most of which are pleasant, this day was one of the best. Spent with some good food and former students, we played frisbee and spoke about the future and wondered where all of us would be in the comming years.

...the one less traveled by,

2007-01-17T22:11:00.000-04:00

As I think about the days to come, my thougths drift to Sun-Joo and the future I wish for us. There are so many paths that two people may travel in life and the chances one has to make a life worth living come only once. I see all the choices I have made in my life spread out behind me that have led inexorably to the paths that lay at my feet. I was born into a military family, my brother has joined, as well as some of my cousins. It is a wise career choice, and I have finally set my mind to this path. One not all in our country take, yet in many ways one of the most honourable, and respectable careers one could take. So I have chosen the "one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference"- Robert Frost
I know how many things I would like Sun-Joo and I to experience together. Camping, horseback riding, even ballroom dancing to name a few. I know that there are many challenges ahead for us, long distance relationships are difficult. I also believe in us.

Driving Conditions

2007-01-16T16:29:00.000-04:00

Today's nominee for foolish people, would be me. It's too bad that "work" didn't consider the roads to be foul enough for me to not drive in. The conditions for the early morning drive were fairly good provided you remained under the speed limit and drove cautiously. The evening however was another matter. I was expecting the roads to be, if not clear, passable. Nice to know that I was wrong. I keep forgetting that I live in PEI where the definition of a city can be a place with only 12,000 people. (Anyone else think this is a little ludicrous)? The "mainstreet" was still covered as are most if not all of the sidestreets. Still, I did take some satisfaction in the knowledge that there were school delays, (not closures) today. All those poor children having to get up early and realize that "Yes, you have to go to school today!!!!" (insert evil laugh here). If I have to go to work then most assuredly they must go to school.......
I'm hoping the driving will be better tomorrow as I must head to Charlottetown for my medical exam. I am really hoping that I can get into the Forces. Somthing about working for Resolve as a Customer Service Rep. for the rest of my life just does not appeal to me.

A well cared for blade.

2007-01-15T20:32:00.000-04:00

Well my cleaning kit finally arrived, and I shall be busy this evening cleaning and caring for my sword. It is a good feeling to be able to clean and polish the blade again. It has been a while since I have had the oil to properly care for it.
As well it has now been about 2 months since I have practiced any forms or related exercies regarding Gumdo. I really miss it. I wish there were more do-jangs in Canada for this wonderful art. At the moment there are only 8 or so. Its a great Martial Art for mind and body, you really get alot of spatial awareness from it.

Talking to Sun Joo this morning really brightened my day. We usually speak for about an hour or two everyday, but since I started my job that time has been reduced to about 15 minutes a day. However we do text message each other and that brings a smile to my face every time I receive one.

Looking to the past

2007-01-11T20:54:00.000-04:00

It's interesting to look at things from a different perspective. I mean take the picture above, much has changed in my life since I played hockey. As I grew up I stayed small and had to quit playing as everyone else got much bigger than I. Now, looking back, I really miss playing. I'm hoping that whenever I have children of my own that they become interested in some sort of activty. It really did help to develop my confidence as a child. (Oh if you take a close look at the stick I am holding it was my favorite as it was signed by Howie Meeker).

I am now on a health kick of sorts as I have joined a gym and will be going at least 5 days a week to exercise. I really feel out of shape and want to drop a few pounds and improve my endurance. My work out is fairly good and I am enjoying it. Its interesting to come home and feel your muscles ache in a good way.
At some point I have to start doing Haidong Gumdo again. I need to find a large area with hight ceilings and open space to practice my forms. By mixing both my gym work out and Gumdo I might be able to get the endurance I'm after.

Ever down the road.

2007-01-09T23:11:00.000-04:00

Second day of training, and second of Gym. Muscles are telling me "hey don't do this" to which I replied: "Suffer in silence!" an argument insued and I won. (Though tomorrow that may not be the case, short lived victory and all that stuff).

I have to call the recruiting office tomorrow and set up an appointment for a madical exam. This should be interesting. I'm just praying they don't say "well, you're a little overweight". That would be ironic due to the fact that when I joined the Forces when I was 18 I was a little underweight.

We'll see what happens...... Until then I will sign off by saying I miss you Jagi. (Mani ta mani bogoshipeyo).

semi-worn path

2007-01-08T21:35:00.000-04:00

I started work today at Resolve, (a customer support position). 3 weeks of training to do this job. Pay is OK roughly average for CC so it will keep me in money enough to take care of my bills and such. This is the third job as a customer care rep. that I have had in my life.

Honestly I really feel not like posting as I have a horrid cold and just got back from the gym. The work out was negligible but when I got to the crunches it really took a toll on my abs. I'm really needing a shower. Mostly for the hot water against aching muscles.

The picture above is in Summerside along the boardwalk. Strange weather today started snowing about mid-morning then rain in the afternoon and night. The roads will be horrible if this freezes... Global warming, what a nasty thing, and most people walk around saying "what beautiful weather...." or "It's so warm lets play golf" and grab the mini-van or the SUV and chug their way to the Golf Green. All the while adding to the green house emissions. Joy oh Bliss.

Pirates in the tree

2007-01-06T21:26:00.000-04:00

(picture used without permision)

Just spent the evening watching Pirates of the Carribean: Deadman's Chest. It's amazing what a movie like that can do for the imagination. The longing for the open sea, wind in the sails, the crashing of the waves.

I've just been told that my Great, Great Grandfather (mothers side) who was a Clippership Captain, was also a Rum Runner. Interesting to have a pirate in the family tree. Oddly enough the Paternal Great Great Grandfather was a member of the first RCMP sea unit to be huning down these scallywags. Arrrrr!!!!

Canada Gold

2007-01-05T17:09:00.000-04:00

(picture used without permission)

18th straight win at the World Junior Hockey Championships and Canada comes home with the gold medal for three years running.

Normally I'm not that much on following hockey but I must say I was thouroghly impressed with our team at the WJHC. I watched both of the last two games. The shoot out to determine the winners between U.S. and Canada left me on the edge of my seat. But as well, watching the final minutes of the last game deciding the gold medal between Russia and Canada was riviting. A six man powerplay with Russia pulling thier goalie to attempt to even the score and take the lead. Canada won with a final score of 4 to 2. That brightened my day.

I spent about $300.00 today getting a gym membership and some good running shoes. Its high time to get myself back into shape. I need to improve my endurance and get rid of some of my weight. Ideally I'd like to drop about 15 pounds (7 kilos). I plan on getting the full worth of my money and putting myself in the best shape that I can. First thing they say though is to take a picture of yourself before you start so that you can see the results later on. I'll post that picure later.

Played a few games of Uno over the web with Sunjoo this morning. She won more often than I. It is great that technology keeps making communicating overseas easier. We are often on msn together via web cam. This has definately allowed our relationship to grow as we learn more and more about each other.

Portage

2007-01-04T21:32:00.001-04:00

It never ceases to amaze me how many impatient people there are driving on the roads these days. Speeding down the highway at 120 km/h when the speed limit is listed at 90 km/hr. I was passed twice by the same car only to arrive at my destination 5 minutes before the person who was in such a rush. (And I did the speedlimit all the way).
I had to go to Charlottetown today to get one of my suits finished. The drive was good as the roads were clear and the temperature was about +5 celcius.

Interestingly enough, I was reading today that 2007 is supposed to be the hottest year on record. Certainly noticing the mildness of the winter here in Atlantic Canada. Just wondering what will go on in the future.

Tomorrow I have to register at the local gym and start a work out. I'm hoping to lose about 15 pounds and put some muscle back on. It has been a while since I have worked out. (before Christmas). I am really wanting to get back into shape.Mainly I'm wanting to get back into shape to increase my endurance. I know that when Sun Joo gets here I'm wanting us to take dance lessons and perhaps do some horseback riding.

Employed

2007-01-03T21:32:00.000-04:00

I Guess that there are advantages to leaving a job on good terms. I walked into Resolve (formerly Watts Communications) and no sooner did I drop my resume off than I was asked to fill out an application then had an imporomptu interview, and was offered a slot in the next training session to start next week. That takes a load off my mind and allows me to focus on other things.

To illustrate the wandering nature of my life the above photo is of a temple in Kyeong-ju Korea that I visited last year just before my birthday. The Temple is Bulguk-sa and is one of the oldest in Korea (if not the oldest). The serenity that one feels walking the grounds is amazing.

Breaking Camp

2007-01-02T00:10:00.000-04:00

Welcome, this marks a new chapter in my journey and a continuation of the constantly evolving path that I have walked for these 35 years. I look forward to many new experiences and realizations that will allow me to grow and perhaps not be stunted.

January 2007, and my only regret is that my girlfriend and I are separated by so much distance. Sunjoo, is in Korea, and I miss her immensely. We have been speaking every day on the phone and through web cam since the day I left Seoul. By far she is the sweetest and most amazing woman I have met. She is a nurse, and we have plans to be together here once she finishes her international certifications for nursing. Long Distance relationships are difficult but so far we are doing quite well.

Well, eveything is in place now fow my application to the Canadian Forces. To some I imagine this would come as a shock. However I had thought of rejoining the military before I went back to Korea the second time to work at YBM. The only thing that prevented me from completing the application process in 2002-3 was that the security clearence check could have taken as long as 2 years to complete. The fact that I had been given conflicting information by the recuiting officers I talked to in Edmonton annoyed me as well. Now however it is just a waiting game as the centre has sent for my previous military records (from archives in Ottawa) and my medical history.

Those who know me are probably wondering if I have lost a nut or two. Yes, Injury and I seem to be well acquainted however, it is possible for me to change. Being back in Canada has changed me in a number of ways. I am no longer sullen and lethargic. Though I do find that I still get inordinately tired after eating certain foods. (Not a good thing when one has to drive for 3 hours). I am as well more optimistic, the change has been a good thing for me.
Looking back I did enjoy my time at YBM, though really wish I had been more socialble with my co-workers. I do tend to get into a rut if I become depressed and that really did a job on me in my last months. Suffice to say I miss Peter, Sonober and the gang back in Shinchon and hpe that they are all well.
It is the new year and I have spent the time with Ian Ross and Yeji here in Halifax. It has been over 6 years since I spent a newyears in his company. As with any time under his roof there is much thought given to song and wine. Though copious amounts of burbon and soju flowed as well.
For those out in the world, I wish you well and hope that the new year gives you new beginnings and new opportunities to excell in all you desire.