今天讀舒展超的專欄，他提起一種香港茶餐廳的新飲品，叫「兒童鴛鴦」。原來，「兒童鴛鴦」就是「好立克」〈Horlicks〉加「阿華田」〈Ovaltine〉。文中提到， 由於茶餐廳把飲品命名為「兒童鴛鴦」，原意是給小孩子喝的，身為成年人的作者不好意思跟侍應點「兒童鴛鴦」。
滿以為一位朋友的妹妹能夠造「好立克」雪糕已經很神奇了，自己也買了個雪糕機想學造。讀了那篇文章，發現繼成年人鴛鴦後，香港現在時興把不同的飲品混在一起，例如「益力多」沙冰、「利賓納」沙冰等等。其實，要造這些應該不難，今個週末便去買「好立克」和「阿華田」，試製「兒童鴛鴦」。戰戰兢兢的，大概不會肚子痛吧？！
曾幾何時，有朋友告訴我說：「你有這麼大個人，人家把他們下半生的退休生活交託給你，你還是像個小孩子一般，放假穿短褲，笑容燦爛、跳蹦蹦的，一點專業人士的專嚴也沒有！」唉唷，上班時嚴肅極了，放假嘛！下次回香港渡假，懶理自己是否成年人，一定要嚐嚐「兒童鴛鴦」的味道，看看差別有多大。
舒展超的文章如下：
http://www.voy.com/140788/1298.html
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Monday, May 30, 2005
Long Distance Relationship
Having gone through long distance relationships, I admire people who have made it work. It definitely involves a lot of hard work, and it is very challenging. Rationally, there are more downsides to long distance relationships. People grow apart (whether or not they are physically together…) In order to maintain a long distance relationship, there are numerous phone calls, letters, trips involved. The lack of face time is surely another disadvantage. One of our biggest complaints was “Where were you when I needed a hug?”
I do not regret having the long distance relationship because that defines part of me. If I had the chance to do over, I would still go for it but with far better care. No one is silly enough to dive into a long distance relationship. I certainly would not entertain the idea unless there is something potentially extraordinary.
Even though nowadays I would think twice before getting into a long distance relationship, I can see some advantages of it. At least one relationship in the past, we worked extra hard on communications to keep the relationship alive. It was quite a commitment from each of us. Our understanding of each other was better than those who were physically together. We treasured every minute spent together. There was enough personal space to grow with endless encouragements. Deep down inside, we knew there was someone out there rooting for each other. We learned about each other’s character which would not be too far off years later. To this date, although we are no longer together, we still trust each other’s opinions on non-relationship issues.
I do not regret having the long distance relationship because that defines part of me. If I had the chance to do over, I would still go for it but with far better care. No one is silly enough to dive into a long distance relationship. I certainly would not entertain the idea unless there is something potentially extraordinary.
Even though nowadays I would think twice before getting into a long distance relationship, I can see some advantages of it. At least one relationship in the past, we worked extra hard on communications to keep the relationship alive. It was quite a commitment from each of us. Our understanding of each other was better than those who were physically together. We treasured every minute spent together. There was enough personal space to grow with endless encouragements. Deep down inside, we knew there was someone out there rooting for each other. We learned about each other’s character which would not be too far off years later. To this date, although we are no longer together, we still trust each other’s opinions on non-relationship issues.
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Vague Memory - Hospital Stay
Recently, a two year old loved one was admitted to the hospital. In addition to worrying about her, it also brought back some vague memory of being admitted to the hospital when I was about her age.
It was night time when my parents brought me to the hospital. The lighting in the hospital was dim. Perhaps, I was being held or I was put in a rolling bed. I could only see the yellow lights on the ceiling passing me one by one. The nurse gave me a tag. My parents brought me to a big room. It was a roomful of cribs. The whole place was quiet. My parents put me in this crib close to the window. My mother kissed me goodbye and disappeared. I dozed off.
Once I woke up, there was this boy, who was a bit older than I was, standing next to my crib. I say that because he was walking around freely and was not in a crib! Meanwhile, I was locked inside the crib. The sky was still dark. Other babies were still sleeping. There was no exchange of words between us. Somehow, he found a piece of wood. He put that piece of wood against my crib, and gave me a die cast metal toy car. We started playing together. He handed me the car, showed me how to let go of the car on the slope letting it slide downwards. I guess at that age, I was quite amused.
Daytime, the ward was lively. Kids were running around. My parents and my brother came to visit me. After they took off, I was bored. I attempted to climb out of the crib and I made it! It was amazing how much determination I had to get out of that crib. I roamed around in the ward looking for the boy. I found him along with other big kids sitting in a circle, perhaps listening to someone telling a story. I started playing with him and other kids until the nurse found me and put me back into the crib.
I do not know who he was and whether or not he got well and left the hospital at the end. I certainly hope that he is still alive to this date. Obviously, I was too young and was not sophisticated enough to talk and ask for his name and phone number! However, I truly appreciated his company. Back then, friendship was so simple. Every now and then, this nameless little boy pops into my head. He might have been my first little friend!
Here is the hospital that I stayed at:
http://www.ha.org.hk/qeh/m_general.html
It was night time when my parents brought me to the hospital. The lighting in the hospital was dim. Perhaps, I was being held or I was put in a rolling bed. I could only see the yellow lights on the ceiling passing me one by one. The nurse gave me a tag. My parents brought me to a big room. It was a roomful of cribs. The whole place was quiet. My parents put me in this crib close to the window. My mother kissed me goodbye and disappeared. I dozed off.
Once I woke up, there was this boy, who was a bit older than I was, standing next to my crib. I say that because he was walking around freely and was not in a crib! Meanwhile, I was locked inside the crib. The sky was still dark. Other babies were still sleeping. There was no exchange of words between us. Somehow, he found a piece of wood. He put that piece of wood against my crib, and gave me a die cast metal toy car. We started playing together. He handed me the car, showed me how to let go of the car on the slope letting it slide downwards. I guess at that age, I was quite amused.
Daytime, the ward was lively. Kids were running around. My parents and my brother came to visit me. After they took off, I was bored. I attempted to climb out of the crib and I made it! It was amazing how much determination I had to get out of that crib. I roamed around in the ward looking for the boy. I found him along with other big kids sitting in a circle, perhaps listening to someone telling a story. I started playing with him and other kids until the nurse found me and put me back into the crib.
I do not know who he was and whether or not he got well and left the hospital at the end. I certainly hope that he is still alive to this date. Obviously, I was too young and was not sophisticated enough to talk and ask for his name and phone number! However, I truly appreciated his company. Back then, friendship was so simple. Every now and then, this nameless little boy pops into my head. He might have been my first little friend!
Here is the hospital that I stayed at:
http://www.ha.org.hk/qeh/m_general.html
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Star Wars Episode III – Revenge of the Sith
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…
I went to the theatre with my brother to see the first Star Wars movie. It might very well be the first time that I went to a cinema. Growing up, we had the luxury of owning all sorts of Star Wars toys such as Storm Troopers, X-wing fighters, etc. I like Star Wars. However, I am not one of those die hard fans who would dress up like Princess Leia! My hair has never been long enough to make the two big buns anyway.
I saw both Episodes I and II on the opening night. Back then, I needed not worry about buying the tickets. Instead going on the opening night, two days ago, a friend suggested seeing Episode III today. This is the first time ever that I have purchased movie tickets online two days before the show! We were so glad that we went to the theatre more than an hour before the show to find good seats. The theatre was packed.
I am not particularly fond of Episodes I and II. Episode III explains how the cutie pie Anikan Skywalker turns to the dark side and becomes Darth Vader. Before going into the theatre, I knew most of the good guys died in this episode. Somehow, I feel bad for Anikan. Even though there are not many superb dialogues as usual, I still like the movie a lot. It explains a lot of things in Episodes IV, V and VI. I am definitely going to revisit those three movies.
Will there be a third trilogy?
May the Force be with you.
I went to the theatre with my brother to see the first Star Wars movie. It might very well be the first time that I went to a cinema. Growing up, we had the luxury of owning all sorts of Star Wars toys such as Storm Troopers, X-wing fighters, etc. I like Star Wars. However, I am not one of those die hard fans who would dress up like Princess Leia! My hair has never been long enough to make the two big buns anyway.
I saw both Episodes I and II on the opening night. Back then, I needed not worry about buying the tickets. Instead going on the opening night, two days ago, a friend suggested seeing Episode III today. This is the first time ever that I have purchased movie tickets online two days before the show! We were so glad that we went to the theatre more than an hour before the show to find good seats. The theatre was packed.
I am not particularly fond of Episodes I and II. Episode III explains how the cutie pie Anikan Skywalker turns to the dark side and becomes Darth Vader. Before going into the theatre, I knew most of the good guys died in this episode. Somehow, I feel bad for Anikan. Even though there are not many superb dialogues as usual, I still like the movie a lot. It explains a lot of things in Episodes IV, V and VI. I am definitely going to revisit those three movies.
Will there be a third trilogy?
May the Force be with you.
奇怪問題
跟朋友們吃晚飯時，有人問：「xx 是否你的男朋友喲？」當時我正在接電話，隨口答：「No」大家相安無事，繼續閒聊，繼續吃飯。我的反應比較慢，待我講完了電話後良久，才突然發現那問題很怪。
不少人問過相似的問題，但「xx」是不同的人物。其中多數「xx」只是較要好的朋友。同事朋友們旁敲側擊，雖然他們有懷疑，我依然堅持：「我們只是吃頓飯，不算是約會！」十年以來只有一次，被人問中了一半，當時還沒正式拍拖呢。
大概因為家裡只有兄長的關係，玩的多是男孩子玩意：下棋、玩具模型、電腦遊戲、魔戒(Lord of the Rings)、星戰(Star Wars)、高達(Gundam)等等。從小，較要好的朋友多是男生，可以跟他們煲上很多個鐘頭電話粥，神奇地有著無限的話題，但內容絕不包括情話綿綿！
最不明白的是為甚麼一男一女走在一起，談得來，有默契，便會被問及是否正在拍拖。也許這是拜心理學家佛洛伊德所賜，他把男女之間任何事情，均用性為大前提來解釋。怎麼大部分人要把一般男女關係歸類呢？自問一向沒有這種觸覺。
曾經，有人不喜歡我跟其他男生走得太近，他認為男人都有另類企圖，一直覺得他多疑。長大以後，漸漸地明白他也有點兒道理。有部分人吧，也不是全部都是這樣陰濕的，與其猜度，還是抱著「Innocent until proven guilty」的態度會好過一點。
後記：提起星戰，我買了票看星戰第三集！
Weird Question
While having dinner, someone asked, “Is xx your boyfriend?” I was taking a phone call, so I casually answered, “No.” Everyone moved on and continued eating. My reaction was a bit slow. Quite a while after I finished the phone call, I realized it was a very weird question.
A lot of people have asked me similar questions. However, “xx” were different people. Most of the “xx” are only good friends. Coworkers and friends have tried different ways of asking. Although they have doubts, I have always insisted, “It is only a dinner. It’s not a date!” In the past ten years, there was only one time that the friend was half right. This guy and I were not officially dating when the question was asked at the time.
Probably because I have only one older brother, most of the things that I did were boys’ activities: playing chess, building models, computer games, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Gundam, etc. Since childhood, most of my good friends have been boys. I could talk to them on the phone for hours with endless topics, but the contents have never been flirty talks!
The thing puzzles me is why people would ask if a boy and a girl are dating when they hang out together, have common topics, etc. Maybe it is because of Sigmund Freud. He attempted to explain everything between a boy and a girl using sex as the motivation. Why would most people have the need to categorize the types of relationship between the two genders? I am not sensitive in this arena.
In the past, someone did not like me being too close to other boys. He thought that men all have alternative motives. I had always thought that he was a cynic. Growing up, I have gradually realized that he might have a point. Maybe some people do have different motives, but not all are like this sneaky. Rather than guessing, having the attitude of “innocent until proven guilty” serves me better.
P.S. Speaking of Star Wars, I bought tickets to see Star Wars Episode III - Revenge of the Sith!
不少人問過相似的問題，但「xx」是不同的人物。其中多數「xx」只是較要好的朋友。同事朋友們旁敲側擊，雖然他們有懷疑，我依然堅持：「我們只是吃頓飯，不算是約會！」十年以來只有一次，被人問中了一半，當時還沒正式拍拖呢。
大概因為家裡只有兄長的關係，玩的多是男孩子玩意：下棋、玩具模型、電腦遊戲、魔戒(Lord of the Rings)、星戰(Star Wars)、高達(Gundam)等等。從小，較要好的朋友多是男生，可以跟他們煲上很多個鐘頭電話粥，神奇地有著無限的話題，但內容絕不包括情話綿綿！
最不明白的是為甚麼一男一女走在一起，談得來，有默契，便會被問及是否正在拍拖。也許這是拜心理學家佛洛伊德所賜，他把男女之間任何事情，均用性為大前提來解釋。怎麼大部分人要把一般男女關係歸類呢？自問一向沒有這種觸覺。
曾經，有人不喜歡我跟其他男生走得太近，他認為男人都有另類企圖，一直覺得他多疑。長大以後，漸漸地明白他也有點兒道理。有部分人吧，也不是全部都是這樣陰濕的，與其猜度，還是抱著「Innocent until proven guilty」的態度會好過一點。
後記：提起星戰，我買了票看星戰第三集！
Weird Question
While having dinner, someone asked, “Is xx your boyfriend?” I was taking a phone call, so I casually answered, “No.” Everyone moved on and continued eating. My reaction was a bit slow. Quite a while after I finished the phone call, I realized it was a very weird question.
A lot of people have asked me similar questions. However, “xx” were different people. Most of the “xx” are only good friends. Coworkers and friends have tried different ways of asking. Although they have doubts, I have always insisted, “It is only a dinner. It’s not a date!” In the past ten years, there was only one time that the friend was half right. This guy and I were not officially dating when the question was asked at the time.
Probably because I have only one older brother, most of the things that I did were boys’ activities: playing chess, building models, computer games, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars, Gundam, etc. Since childhood, most of my good friends have been boys. I could talk to them on the phone for hours with endless topics, but the contents have never been flirty talks!
The thing puzzles me is why people would ask if a boy and a girl are dating when they hang out together, have common topics, etc. Maybe it is because of Sigmund Freud. He attempted to explain everything between a boy and a girl using sex as the motivation. Why would most people have the need to categorize the types of relationship between the two genders? I am not sensitive in this arena.
In the past, someone did not like me being too close to other boys. He thought that men all have alternative motives. I had always thought that he was a cynic. Growing up, I have gradually realized that he might have a point. Maybe some people do have different motives, but not all are like this sneaky. Rather than guessing, having the attitude of “innocent until proven guilty” serves me better.
P.S. Speaking of Star Wars, I bought tickets to see Star Wars Episode III - Revenge of the Sith!
Thursday, May 19, 2005
動人的求婚招數
一個男人要是有誠意，會變得很有心思，無論如何天涯海角，他總會有法子感動到意中人。前幾天看到這篇副刊文章，就把它節錄下來：
藍天約會﹕100枝玫瑰 機場求婚記
5月 17日 星期二 05:05 更新
【明報專訊】從溫哥華返香港的航班上，在機組人員休息的時候，一名男乘客對我們一名同事說﹕「我很愛我的女朋友，今次回香港，我一定會向她求婚。」
那同事很耐心地聆聽他的故事。最後那男乘客要求說﹕「我預備了100枝玫瑰花向她求婚。但是我需要你們的幫忙。」如此浪漫，叫每個女孩子都羨慕心醉，不單我的同事，當時機上所有空姐，甚至在旁聽到的乘客都非常樂意幫忙﹗
當航機降落到香港時，大家都懷著興奮和緊張的心情，盼望著那緊張一刻的來臨。男乘客的女朋友當時正在接機大堂等候，她東張西望，但總看不到思念的他。
突然，有人向她送上一枝白玫瑰但一言不發便離開。她很驚訝，到處張望。接著又有人送上一枝白玫瑰，之後又走開了。
99個陌生人助求婚
她仍是站著不動，一枝又一枝的，接受著這些陌生人送上、令她莫名其妙的白玫瑰，直至她收到第99枝白玫瑰後，她心愛的人出現了，手執一枝紅玫瑰，跪在地上，對她說﹕「我會永遠愛你，嫁給我吧﹗」她感動得淚流滿面，說不出話來。其實，也毋須說什麼，她只需輕輕點頭，就可以擁有無限幸福了﹗
原來，世上真的有那麼動人的故事。我在想﹕不知何時可以遇上我的真命天子呢﹖
文﹕Tsang Wai Ling（國泰航空公司供稿）
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Retirement Modeling – Defined Benefit
A traditional employer sponsored defined benefit (DB) plan is one of the components of retirement planning. The rest are personal savings/investments, employer sponsored defined contribution (DC) plans such as 401(k) plans, and government benefits such as Social Security and Medicare.
For the younger generation, the government benefits probably will not exist at their retirement. Americans are drowning in debt, and thus cannot save/invest much. In order to improve the prospect of a more comfortable retirement, it is increasingly important to gain a better understanding on retirement planning.
Recently, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) has taken over the United Airlines pension plans. The news has triggered discussions and concerns about the safety of the traditional DB plans. Rather than viewing a DB benefit as an entitlement that one can count on, it is more reasonable to view it as something that might not be 100% available years later. Due to the current not-so-strong economic climate, perhaps, one needs to recognize the possibility of his pension plan being terminated.
To factor in the DB plan termination possibility in retirement planning, let’s take a look at the maximum monthly benefit guaranteed by PBGC. In 2005, the maximum guaranteed monthly benefit limits at ages 65, 62, 60, and 55 are $3,801, $3,003, $2,471, and $1,711, respectively.
Analyzing these figures, the early retirement reduction is about 7% per year from age 65 to age 60, and about 4% per year from age 60 to age 55. By averaging the limits over the past 30 years, the increase in the maximum limit amounts is about 5% annually. A person younger than age 40 can use this annual increase to project the maximum limits forward.
The next thing to look at is the particular DB plan that someone has. If the benefit at any given point with early retirement reduction is more generous than the PBGC limit derived by using the elements mentioned in the previous paragraph, it is more conservative to take the PBGC limit for projection purposes. Obviously, this approach is based on the assumptions that the benefit formula stays constant, PBGC will always be around, and it is not changing its guaranteed benefits drastically.
For the younger generation, the government benefits probably will not exist at their retirement. Americans are drowning in debt, and thus cannot save/invest much. In order to improve the prospect of a more comfortable retirement, it is increasingly important to gain a better understanding on retirement planning.
Recently, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) has taken over the United Airlines pension plans. The news has triggered discussions and concerns about the safety of the traditional DB plans. Rather than viewing a DB benefit as an entitlement that one can count on, it is more reasonable to view it as something that might not be 100% available years later. Due to the current not-so-strong economic climate, perhaps, one needs to recognize the possibility of his pension plan being terminated.
To factor in the DB plan termination possibility in retirement planning, let’s take a look at the maximum monthly benefit guaranteed by PBGC. In 2005, the maximum guaranteed monthly benefit limits at ages 65, 62, 60, and 55 are $3,801, $3,003, $2,471, and $1,711, respectively.
Analyzing these figures, the early retirement reduction is about 7% per year from age 65 to age 60, and about 4% per year from age 60 to age 55. By averaging the limits over the past 30 years, the increase in the maximum limit amounts is about 5% annually. A person younger than age 40 can use this annual increase to project the maximum limits forward.
The next thing to look at is the particular DB plan that someone has. If the benefit at any given point with early retirement reduction is more generous than the PBGC limit derived by using the elements mentioned in the previous paragraph, it is more conservative to take the PBGC limit for projection purposes. Obviously, this approach is based on the assumptions that the benefit formula stays constant, PBGC will always be around, and it is not changing its guaranteed benefits drastically.
Saturday, May 14, 2005
朋友的婚訊
兩個月前的一個夜深，收到中學老朋友石仔的電話：「喂，告訴你一件事，但是你不要尖叫啊‧‧‧」心裡覺得有點奇怪，在盤算他究竟想說甚麼的同時，還是答應了保持冷靜。然後，他繼續說：「我要結婚了！」跟著問：「知不知道哪裡結婚比在香港排期快？」
「吓？！你當真的嗎？！」
一面覺得開心，一面覺得震驚。開心的當然是他終於成家立室，這個有責任感的好男人以後有伴了，不用再聽他說過時過節沒有著落〈例如聖誕節，情人節等等〉。震驚的是自問對他的近況都略懂一二，兩個多月前連固定女朋友也沒有，我怎也沒有想到他會這麼閃電式結婚。自小到大，都認為石仔既聰明又鬼馬，他果然與衆不同。
聽著他興奮地告訴我，有關那位很年輕時已經認識的另一半的多種優點，我真的替他未婚妻高興〈五月十六日才正式註冊，今天還是未婚妻吧〉，心想：「我將來嫁的人，要像石仔那樣，對他未婚妻那麼尊重、那麼自豪，否則不要也罷！」整件事最美麗的地方，是他們經過這麼多年後，終於又走在一起，還認定對方為終身伴侶，跟童話故事情節一模一樣。
隨後，石仔要求我保守這個秘密，尤其不要洩漏給我們的朋友知道。這兩個月來，已經很少看見他在網上出現，跟他聊天的機會少了，他的 blog 也不像以前般常常更新，可見他為這婚事有多忙碌。他曾經告訴我婚期，也準備了一封電郵待他倆前往關島結婚時登上 blog ，公告天下，真是非常非常的浪漫啊！
之前，我善忘，不記得石仔的正式婚期，但又急不及待的想告訴一位朋友〈從不喜歡把事情暪著他，至今亦然〉。結果，天天到石仔的 blog 看看他的婚訊發出了沒有，如果他公開了，我就可以發電郵給人家。今天凌晨時分，終於發出了！〈http://www.philipwai.com/mywedding/email.htm〉他們旅行結婚不請客，多麼的灑脫呢！
Wedding Announcement from a Friend
Two months ago past midnight, I received a phone call from Philip, an old friend from high school, “Hey, tell you something, but promise me not to scream…” This was strange. While I was trying to guess what he was going to tell me, I promised him to be calm. Then, he said, “I am getting married!” He asked, “Do you know where we can get married faster than waiting for our turn in Hong Kong?”
“Huh?! Are you serious?!”
On one hand, I was very happy for him. On the other hand, I was shocked. I was happy because this responsible guy finally has a someone. From now on, I will not hear him talking about having no plans during holidays (e.g. Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc.). I was shocked because I thought I knew what he had been up to. More than two months ago, he did not even have a stable girlfriend. I did not foresee that he would get married at such lightning speed. Since childhood, I have regarded Philip as smart and cool. He is really different from anyone else.
Listening to him talking about all the good things about his other half who he met during teenage years, I was very happy for his fiancée (the wedding date is May 16th, she is still his fiancée as of today). I thought, “The person I would marry in the future has to be like Philip: being so respectful and proud of his fiancée. Otherwise, there is no way that I would marry the guy!” The most beautiful of the whole thing is that they get back together after all these years and decide that each other to be the one. This is just like a fairy tale.
Afterwards, Philip asked me to keep this as a secret, especially from our friends. During these two months, I rarely saw him online. Chances to chat with him were minimal. His blog was not updated as frequently. This shows how busy he has been with the wedding. He once told me about the wedding date and the fact that he had prepared an email to post on his blog on the day when they flew to Guam for the wedding. It is so romantic to announce to the world this way.
I forgot Philip’s exact wedding date. I could not wait to tell my friend all about it (I have never liked keeping things away from him, even now.) As a result, I checked Philip’s blog daily looking for the wedding announcement. Once he makes it public, I can email my friend. Today around midnight, Philip finally posted it! (http://www.philipwai.com/mywedding/email.htm) They are “eloping” and will not have a wedding banquet. How simple that is!
「吓？！你當真的嗎？！」
一面覺得開心，一面覺得震驚。開心的當然是他終於成家立室，這個有責任感的好男人以後有伴了，不用再聽他說過時過節沒有著落〈例如聖誕節，情人節等等〉。震驚的是自問對他的近況都略懂一二，兩個多月前連固定女朋友也沒有，我怎也沒有想到他會這麼閃電式結婚。自小到大，都認為石仔既聰明又鬼馬，他果然與衆不同。
聽著他興奮地告訴我，有關那位很年輕時已經認識的另一半的多種優點，我真的替他未婚妻高興〈五月十六日才正式註冊，今天還是未婚妻吧〉，心想：「我將來嫁的人，要像石仔那樣，對他未婚妻那麼尊重、那麼自豪，否則不要也罷！」整件事最美麗的地方，是他們經過這麼多年後，終於又走在一起，還認定對方為終身伴侶，跟童話故事情節一模一樣。
隨後，石仔要求我保守這個秘密，尤其不要洩漏給我們的朋友知道。這兩個月來，已經很少看見他在網上出現，跟他聊天的機會少了，他的 blog 也不像以前般常常更新，可見他為這婚事有多忙碌。他曾經告訴我婚期，也準備了一封電郵待他倆前往關島結婚時登上 blog ，公告天下，真是非常非常的浪漫啊！
之前，我善忘，不記得石仔的正式婚期，但又急不及待的想告訴一位朋友〈從不喜歡把事情暪著他，至今亦然〉。結果，天天到石仔的 blog 看看他的婚訊發出了沒有，如果他公開了，我就可以發電郵給人家。今天凌晨時分，終於發出了！〈http://www.philipwai.com/mywedding/email.htm〉他們旅行結婚不請客，多麼的灑脫呢！
Wedding Announcement from a Friend
Two months ago past midnight, I received a phone call from Philip, an old friend from high school, “Hey, tell you something, but promise me not to scream…” This was strange. While I was trying to guess what he was going to tell me, I promised him to be calm. Then, he said, “I am getting married!” He asked, “Do you know where we can get married faster than waiting for our turn in Hong Kong?”
“Huh?! Are you serious?!”
On one hand, I was very happy for him. On the other hand, I was shocked. I was happy because this responsible guy finally has a someone. From now on, I will not hear him talking about having no plans during holidays (e.g. Christmas, Valentine’s Day, etc.). I was shocked because I thought I knew what he had been up to. More than two months ago, he did not even have a stable girlfriend. I did not foresee that he would get married at such lightning speed. Since childhood, I have regarded Philip as smart and cool. He is really different from anyone else.
Listening to him talking about all the good things about his other half who he met during teenage years, I was very happy for his fiancée (the wedding date is May 16th, she is still his fiancée as of today). I thought, “The person I would marry in the future has to be like Philip: being so respectful and proud of his fiancée. Otherwise, there is no way that I would marry the guy!” The most beautiful of the whole thing is that they get back together after all these years and decide that each other to be the one. This is just like a fairy tale.
Afterwards, Philip asked me to keep this as a secret, especially from our friends. During these two months, I rarely saw him online. Chances to chat with him were minimal. His blog was not updated as frequently. This shows how busy he has been with the wedding. He once told me about the wedding date and the fact that he had prepared an email to post on his blog on the day when they flew to Guam for the wedding. It is so romantic to announce to the world this way.
I forgot Philip’s exact wedding date. I could not wait to tell my friend all about it (I have never liked keeping things away from him, even now.) As a result, I checked Philip’s blog daily looking for the wedding announcement. Once he makes it public, I can email my friend. Today around midnight, Philip finally posted it! (http://www.philipwai.com/mywedding/email.htm) They are “eloping” and will not have a wedding banquet. How simple that is!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Ideal Weekend Plans
Quite often, it is hard to think of what to do over the weekend. I get bored easily. I need variety:
Lazy Plan:
- Vegetate. Do nothing. Trust me. It is very hard to find a weekend to achieve this.
Local Plan(s):
- Photograph lilacs in the Arnold Arboretum in the spring. (Lilac Sunday is on May 15th this year… Should I play hookey?)
- See fall foliage in the Tower Hill Botanic Garden in October.
- Visit Yin Yu Tang in the Peabody Essex Museum in the witch town (Salem, Mass.) near Halloween.
Inland Plan (Western Massachusetts):
- Stay overnight in the Berkshires so that you can star gaze.
- Attend a Boston Symphony Orchestra concert in Tanglewood.
Seashore Plan (Rhode Island):
- Walk around in Newport.
- Picnic and fly kites in Brenton Point State Park.
- Go to Waterfire in Providence at night.
Gotham City Plan (New York City):
Too many things to do, too little time…
- Visit the Met and Guggenheim Museum.
- See a Broadway show.
Eat, eat and eat…
Museum Hopping Plan (Washington DC):
- Visit the Smithsonian Museums in the Mall.
- Have the Sunday Castle Brunch at the Smithsonian Castle. Hmmm, mimosa…
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Saturday, May 07, 2005
Brookline Reservoir
On the way to pottery class every Saturday, I pass by Brookline Reservoir on Route 9 east. On a rainy chilly day such as today, the pink flowers on the trees look particularly sharp. On a sunny day, there are a few people walking / jogging around this reservoir. Few years back, I was one of them.
Perhaps, it was on a weekday after work. Maybe not... Gosh, involuntary selective amnesia. Anyway, it was during a late afternoon in the summer. I do not remember how we ended up at the reservoir. It was possible that we were just being spontaneous: drove by the place and decided to take a walk.
Around this not-so-big reservoir, there are benches. Almost each bench has some engraving stating a donor’s name and who he/she wants to honor. There is this one that I do not remember verbatim what is on the bench, but it reminds me of a scene in the movie Notting Hill: For June, who loved this garden – from Joseph who always sat beside her. June Wetherby , 1917 – 1992.
Brookline 水塘
每逢星期六往陶瓷班的途中，都會經過九號小路東旁的Brookline 水塘。在像今天陰涼下雨的天氣，樹上的粉紅色的花朵特別鮮明。在天晴的時候，有不少人在步行或慢跑。幾年前，我是其中之一。
也許，那是閒日下班以後。也許不是‧‧‧啊，非自願的選擇性失憶。無論如何，那是一個夏天的黃昏，已經不記得我們怎樣到水塘去了。有可能是基於我們突然有興致：車子駛過水塘便決定去走走。
在這不太大的水塘旁邊，有幾張木長櫈。幾乎每一張都刻著捐贈人的名字和被紀念的名稱。我不記得其中一張上面寫甚麼，但它令我想起摘星奇緣的一幕：給心愛這花園的June，常常坐在她身邊的 Joseph 立。June Wetherby , 1917 – 1992.
Perhaps, it was on a weekday after work. Maybe not... Gosh, involuntary selective amnesia. Anyway, it was during a late afternoon in the summer. I do not remember how we ended up at the reservoir. It was possible that we were just being spontaneous: drove by the place and decided to take a walk.
Around this not-so-big reservoir, there are benches. Almost each bench has some engraving stating a donor’s name and who he/she wants to honor. There is this one that I do not remember verbatim what is on the bench, but it reminds me of a scene in the movie Notting Hill: For June, who loved this garden – from Joseph who always sat beside her. June Wetherby , 1917 – 1992.
Brookline 水塘
每逢星期六往陶瓷班的途中，都會經過九號小路東旁的Brookline 水塘。在像今天陰涼下雨的天氣，樹上的粉紅色的花朵特別鮮明。在天晴的時候，有不少人在步行或慢跑。幾年前，我是其中之一。
也許，那是閒日下班以後。也許不是‧‧‧啊，非自願的選擇性失憶。無論如何，那是一個夏天的黃昏，已經不記得我們怎樣到水塘去了。有可能是基於我們突然有興致：車子駛過水塘便決定去走走。
在這不太大的水塘旁邊，有幾張木長櫈。幾乎每一張都刻著捐贈人的名字和被紀念的名稱。我不記得其中一張上面寫甚麼，但它令我想起摘星奇緣的一幕：給心愛這花園的June，常常坐在她身邊的 Joseph 立。June Wetherby , 1917 – 1992.
Friday, May 06, 2005
Patient and Patience
I have always wondered why these two words look so similar. Perhaps, patients, who are suffering, have little patience. Patience is required to deal with patients. One needs to be very forgiving towards patients.
In general, it is very important to have all sorts of support for the patients. Minor illness is nothing. In emergency or any more serious situation, no one wants to go through it alone no matter how much pride the person has.
I do not mind going to the emergency room alone. However, out of the many times I have been to the emergency room, I certainly preferred the times when I was not alone. It is always nice to be able to lean on someone else’s shoulder while waiting.
Thus far, I am blessed with my loved ones. They are just a phone call away whenever I need them. No matter how strong and independent I might seem, I truly appreciate the love and patience I have been given.
In general, it is very important to have all sorts of support for the patients. Minor illness is nothing. In emergency or any more serious situation, no one wants to go through it alone no matter how much pride the person has.
I do not mind going to the emergency room alone. However, out of the many times I have been to the emergency room, I certainly preferred the times when I was not alone. It is always nice to be able to lean on someone else’s shoulder while waiting.
Thus far, I am blessed with my loved ones. They are just a phone call away whenever I need them. No matter how strong and independent I might seem, I truly appreciate the love and patience I have been given.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
五四運動與我
今天上班時，突然記起是日正是五四運動八十六週年，相信大部份會中文的華裔人士都知道這重要的日子，今天不打算談政治，只想看看五四運動對我個人的影響。第一次知道五四是在中史堂學近代史，然後便是中國文學堂學的近代文學，例如徐志摩、胡適、冰心、魯迅等等。「輕輕的我走了，正如我輕輕的來‧‧‧」對一般人來說，五四運動讓女生可以上學念書，也開始鼓勵科學研究，我有今天的獨立都是間接因為五四。
也令我想起，五四運動七十週年，對於我來說是人生的轉捩點。四月份，當時我正準備香港會考，不是抵賴，雖然當年自己對政治不熱衷，中國大陸的學生運動令我集中不了精神溫習，也令我對哲學產生興趣。比我高一班的同學們，在淋漓大雨的情況下去遊行，我被家裡禁足，不能去。那段時期給我的印象就是天黑黑想下雨的樣子，也令我想起有三個高我一班的男孩子，常常晚上一塊兒到旺角某足球場談心。如今，一個大概在文化界，一個在商界，另外一個不知道在那裡了。
其實，那一整年對我來說是凌亂一片，天旋地轉的，隨著五四，便是六四。六四提前了我到外國升學的時間表，為了探訪外國的學校，連謝師宴也沒去。幸好娘親守諾言，我還可以趕回來去畢業營，因為家教嚴勵，一生人第一次宿營呢〈那也是同學們對我母親苦苦央求的成果〉。六月某天在學校圖書館，被質詢有關去留的問題，衝口而出一句：「我已經夠煩了，請你不要煩我好嗎？」弄得人家不開心，真不好意思。然後便是社辰，我倒不記得我在社辰做過甚麼。啊，做場刊。七月就是畢業禮，家人都不在香港，但是有好朋友出席，一樣高興。
八月份會考放榜，心情一點兒也不緊張，因為自知快要離開了，那天真真正正的放棄留下來念中六的權利，放棄了考進中文大學的可能。回家吃晚飯，母親罕有的維護我，不把兄長的會考成績相提並論，不能比啦。幾天後，跟人家煲了通霄電話粥，他終於表態想我留下來，奈何我當年是一個非常聽話的女兒，月底便要走了。「‧‧‧我揮一揮衣袖，不帶走一片雲彩」自此以後的若干年，展開了我跟長途電話公司和航空公司「打工」的日子。幾年後，幾經努力維繫，大家始終也是分開了，現實就是這樣，大家長大了，依然一個東一個西的，大概這就叫命運吧。
原來，歷史真的與人息息相關，每件事情都有連鎖反應。由於以上種種，形成今天不折不扣的我。曾幾何時，讀了一篇胡適著的「留學日記」，文中提及波士頓一遊，提起耶教醫術派教堂〈The First Church of Christ Scientist〉和波士頓公立圖書館〈The Boston Public Library〉。想起來，當年五四的人物，有很多跟我一樣，都是在外國留學的，我在波士頓走過的路，很多很多年前，胡適、冰心等也走過。然而，基於他們的取向，他們對中國近代文化的貢獻很大。令人值得鼓舞的是，既然我踏著他們的足跡，也許我也可以像他們一樣，對世界作出若干貢獻。
也令我想起，五四運動七十週年，對於我來說是人生的轉捩點。四月份，當時我正準備香港會考，不是抵賴，雖然當年自己對政治不熱衷，中國大陸的學生運動令我集中不了精神溫習，也令我對哲學產生興趣。比我高一班的同學們，在淋漓大雨的情況下去遊行，我被家裡禁足，不能去。那段時期給我的印象就是天黑黑想下雨的樣子，也令我想起有三個高我一班的男孩子，常常晚上一塊兒到旺角某足球場談心。如今，一個大概在文化界，一個在商界，另外一個不知道在那裡了。
其實，那一整年對我來說是凌亂一片，天旋地轉的，隨著五四，便是六四。六四提前了我到外國升學的時間表，為了探訪外國的學校，連謝師宴也沒去。幸好娘親守諾言，我還可以趕回來去畢業營，因為家教嚴勵，一生人第一次宿營呢〈那也是同學們對我母親苦苦央求的成果〉。六月某天在學校圖書館，被質詢有關去留的問題，衝口而出一句：「我已經夠煩了，請你不要煩我好嗎？」弄得人家不開心，真不好意思。然後便是社辰，我倒不記得我在社辰做過甚麼。啊，做場刊。七月就是畢業禮，家人都不在香港，但是有好朋友出席，一樣高興。
八月份會考放榜，心情一點兒也不緊張，因為自知快要離開了，那天真真正正的放棄留下來念中六的權利，放棄了考進中文大學的可能。回家吃晚飯，母親罕有的維護我，不把兄長的會考成績相提並論，不能比啦。幾天後，跟人家煲了通霄電話粥，他終於表態想我留下來，奈何我當年是一個非常聽話的女兒，月底便要走了。「‧‧‧我揮一揮衣袖，不帶走一片雲彩」自此以後的若干年，展開了我跟長途電話公司和航空公司「打工」的日子。幾年後，幾經努力維繫，大家始終也是分開了，現實就是這樣，大家長大了，依然一個東一個西的，大概這就叫命運吧。
原來，歷史真的與人息息相關，每件事情都有連鎖反應。由於以上種種，形成今天不折不扣的我。曾幾何時，讀了一篇胡適著的「留學日記」，文中提及波士頓一遊，提起耶教醫術派教堂〈The First Church of Christ Scientist〉和波士頓公立圖書館〈The Boston Public Library〉。想起來，當年五四的人物，有很多跟我一樣，都是在外國留學的，我在波士頓走過的路，很多很多年前，胡適、冰心等也走過。然而，基於他們的取向，他們對中國近代文化的貢獻很大。令人值得鼓舞的是，既然我踏著他們的足跡，也許我也可以像他們一樣，對世界作出若干貢獻。
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
港產電影
很少看香港製作的電影，印象中它們比較沒內容和胡鬧。去年以前，印象較深的是「我和春天有個約會」，但那大概已是十年前，跟兩個舊同學去戲院看的。
去年十月，坐長途機由香港返美國，在心情混亂的情況下，挑了一部港產電影──「天作之盒」來看。〈網站：http://www.themiraclebox.com/，其中有很好聽的主題曲：http://www.themiraclebox.com/boxmenu.html 〉 事後才知道這是福音電影，事後才想起朋友的母親在電郵中陳述，有關一個香港女醫生在 SARS 危機時期，為醫治病人而逝世的真人真事。
據說，「天作之盒」就是根據她來拍的。片中沒有甚麼紅藝人，也許我不留意香港的藝人罷了。故事也不是甚麼高潮迭起的，由女醫生認識她的醫生丈夫，怎樣因女醫生要去澳洲進修，兩地分隔，到她丈夫患血癌而死，再到她決心照顧典型肺痰病人，然後殉職，回天國再會她丈夫，一直都是平平淡淡的。
可是，這已經足夠我哭一場了，隔壁的乘客也許覺得我怪怪的，那可管不了。片中那種平庸真摰的愛真的教人羡慕‧‧‧也令人感到，人生在世，總有他〈或她〉事先安排的目的，令我想起一段英文的禱告：God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.
Hong Kong Movies
I seldom watch movies made in Hong Kong. My impression is that those movies generally do not have any contents. Before last year, one of the Hong Kong movies that gave me some memory was “I Have a Date with Spring”. However, it was about ten years ago when I went to the theatre with my old classmates.
Last October, I took a long flight from Hong Kong back to the US. With mixed emotions, I picked a Hong Kong produced movie called “The Miracle Box” (website: http://www.themiraclebox.com/ and there is a very nice theme song: http://www.themiraclebox.com/boxmenu.html ). Afterwards, I found out it was a religious movie. Additionally, I then recalled an email from my friend’s mother mentioning a female doctor who died from taking care of the SARS patients.
“The Miracle Box” is based on the story of this female doctor. In the movie, there was no well known actor or actress. Or, it might be because I did not pay attention to the Hong Kong movie industry. The story was quite leveled. It talked about how the female doctor met her doctor husband, how she went to Australia for post doc, how her husband had leukemia, and finally how she died from taking care of her SARS patients, went to heaven to reunite with her husband. All these were done in a very calm and tranquil way.
However, this was enough for me to cry. I think the passengers next to me thought that I was nuts, but I did not care. I long for the kind of love reflected in the movie. I also feel that there is a pre-determined purpose for anyone in the world. This also reminds me of the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.
去年十月，坐長途機由香港返美國，在心情混亂的情況下，挑了一部港產電影──「天作之盒」來看。〈網站：http://www.themiraclebox.com/，其中有很好聽的主題曲：http://www.themiraclebox.com/boxmenu.html 〉 事後才知道這是福音電影，事後才想起朋友的母親在電郵中陳述，有關一個香港女醫生在 SARS 危機時期，為醫治病人而逝世的真人真事。
據說，「天作之盒」就是根據她來拍的。片中沒有甚麼紅藝人，也許我不留意香港的藝人罷了。故事也不是甚麼高潮迭起的，由女醫生認識她的醫生丈夫，怎樣因女醫生要去澳洲進修，兩地分隔，到她丈夫患血癌而死，再到她決心照顧典型肺痰病人，然後殉職，回天國再會她丈夫，一直都是平平淡淡的。
可是，這已經足夠我哭一場了，隔壁的乘客也許覺得我怪怪的，那可管不了。片中那種平庸真摰的愛真的教人羡慕‧‧‧也令人感到，人生在世，總有他〈或她〉事先安排的目的，令我想起一段英文的禱告：God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.
Hong Kong Movies
I seldom watch movies made in Hong Kong. My impression is that those movies generally do not have any contents. Before last year, one of the Hong Kong movies that gave me some memory was “I Have a Date with Spring”. However, it was about ten years ago when I went to the theatre with my old classmates.
Last October, I took a long flight from Hong Kong back to the US. With mixed emotions, I picked a Hong Kong produced movie called “The Miracle Box” (website: http://www.themiraclebox.com/ and there is a very nice theme song: http://www.themiraclebox.com/boxmenu.html ). Afterwards, I found out it was a religious movie. Additionally, I then recalled an email from my friend’s mother mentioning a female doctor who died from taking care of the SARS patients.
“The Miracle Box” is based on the story of this female doctor. In the movie, there was no well known actor or actress. Or, it might be because I did not pay attention to the Hong Kong movie industry. The story was quite leveled. It talked about how the female doctor met her doctor husband, how she went to Australia for post doc, how her husband had leukemia, and finally how she died from taking care of her SARS patients, went to heaven to reunite with her husband. All these were done in a very calm and tranquil way.
However, this was enough for me to cry. I think the passengers next to me thought that I was nuts, but I did not care. I long for the kind of love reflected in the movie. I also feel that there is a pre-determined purpose for anyone in the world. This also reminds me of the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.
小病是福
當一個人小病，有個善解人意的人照顧，給你私人空間，又可以向人家撒嬌，甚麼也不用做，那就是小病是福。否則，我才看不出有甚麼福來。
唯一想起的是一大堆要做的事，腦海中便出現一個時間表：如果不上班會有甚麼後果呢？甚麼可以延遲一點，甚麼需要繼續跟進，甚麼可以交給人家做，還要盤算不上班，除了睡覺休息外，難得一天待在家，還可以做甚麼，時間真的不夠用呢！
結果，除了睡覺外，便是坐在電腦前面，回覆公司的電郵，其實跟上班沒有多大分別，唯一的好處是可以穿睡衣。科技的進步，在這種情形下到底是好事、還是壞事呢？
唯一想起的是一大堆要做的事，腦海中便出現一個時間表：如果不上班會有甚麼後果呢？甚麼可以延遲一點，甚麼需要繼續跟進，甚麼可以交給人家做，還要盤算不上班，除了睡覺休息外，難得一天待在家，還可以做甚麼，時間真的不夠用呢！
結果，除了睡覺外，便是坐在電腦前面，回覆公司的電郵，其實跟上班沒有多大分別，唯一的好處是可以穿睡衣。科技的進步，在這種情形下到底是好事、還是壞事呢？
Monday, May 02, 2005
Stay-at-Home Mom Salary
I have a lot of respect for women who are courageous enough to give up their positive career outlook to become a full-time mom. Most often, their hard work is not well recognized. Approaching Mother’s Day, people start to price how much a stay-at-home mom is worth:
Salary.com Analysis Reports on How Much Stay-at-Home Moms Would Earn in Annual Salary: $131,471
[Press Release] Business Wire via Yahoo! Finance - May 02 5:01 AM
A new research analysis completed by Salary.com reveals that today's 5.4 million stay-at-home moms would earn $131,471 in annual salary, including overtime pay, if paid in cash in addition to the steady flow of rewarding hugs and kisses from their children.
Here are the figures from the above article:
- Job Title: National Average Annual Salary
- Teacher-Daycare Center: $26,891
- Van Driver: $30,762
- Housekeeper: $18,750
- Cook: $31,099
- CEO: $612,623
- Nurse: $56,113
- General Maintenance Worker: $29,656
- Base Pay (40 Hours): $43,461
- Overtime Pay (60 Hours): $88,009
- ---------------------------------------------
- Mom's Annual Salary: $131,471 (off by $1 due to rounding)
This is an interesting estimate. If the company did not provide the base pay and the overtime pay separately, my reaction would have been that the CEO function is weighted too heavily. The mom has better be a very capable person! However, the overtime pay being double the base pay seems to be more reasonable. Let’s say a mother works 100 hours a week, 52 weeks a year. The hourly rate of pay for her would be around $25.28 not including benefits. Depending on a woman’s salary level in a corporate environment, $25.28 might not be a one to one trade off. There must be something else not measurable that causes a woman to make such decision. I wonder if we could find a way to measure the opportunity costs for not staying at home to justify the difference.
Lyrics – Home
It is always nice to hear this song by Michael Buble when I am driving home at night.
…
And I feel just like I’m living someone else’s life
It’s like I just stepped outside
When everything was going right
And I know just why you could not
Come along with me
But this was not your dream
But you always believe in me
Another winter day has come
And gone away
And even Paris and Rome
And I wanna go home
Let me go home
And I’m surrounded by
A million people I
Still feel alone
Oh, let go home
Oh, I miss you, you know
…
Sunday, May 01, 2005
My Rusty Mandarin
When I was asked how my day at the hospital was today, my brain was blank. Volunteering just happened a few hours back. I hope I do not have Alzheimer’s. What exactly did I do today?!
Well, other than helping patients to leave the hospital, there was really nothing eventful. Ah, I take it back. I did use my rusty Mandarin to help a patient. I was very conscious not to use any English words in a sentence. It was challenging! The good thing is that the patient understood me.
This reminds me of a news article from a few days back:
More Young Americans Take Chinese Language Challenge
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Apr 26 6:10 AM
Studying geometry can be taxing for a 10-year-old. But Dr. Zhang's class of young American students are not merely learning all the angles, they are doing it in Chinese.
Once again, I feel the need to brush up my Chinese.
Well, other than helping patients to leave the hospital, there was really nothing eventful. Ah, I take it back. I did use my rusty Mandarin to help a patient. I was very conscious not to use any English words in a sentence. It was challenging! The good thing is that the patient understood me.
This reminds me of a news article from a few days back:
More Young Americans Take Chinese Language Challenge
Reuters via Yahoo! News - Apr 26 6:10 AM
Studying geometry can be taxing for a 10-year-old. But Dr. Zhang's class of young American students are not merely learning all the angles, they are doing it in Chinese.
Once again, I feel the need to brush up my Chinese.
Identification Cards
There are certain age benchmarks in a person’s life. For example, kids under age 16 in Hong Kong are banned from arcades. Teenagers under 18 cannot watch certain movies, nor buy cigarettes, alcohol, or certain magazines, etc. I did not care about any of those except for perhaps some movies.
During college years in the US, many students who are under 21 would like to obtain a fake ID to go to night clubs and to buy alcohol. I had no desire to drink or to go to night clubs back in college. However, I did use my sibling’s student ID card to get into the main library of Chinese University of Hong Kong during winter and summer breaks.
After age 21, it comes age 25. Age 25 is the age when a person can rent a car without paying for surcharge in the US. A lot of big car rental companies do not rent cars to anyone under age 25. The quality of the car rental before age 25 was rather poor. It is an exciting age to rent better cars especially when someone is traveling. Obviously, not a lot people are desperate enough to show their fake ID for this purpose because it implies a serious consequence if anything goes wrong.
Things change quite a bit after graduating from school. If someone is no longer in school, he/she loses all the student discounts to museum admissions, ski trips, airfares, etc. Therefore, a college student ID is highly sought after. I surely wish that I had a student ID when I was in Europe! It would have given me a lot of the bells and whistles.
During college years in the US, many students who are under 21 would like to obtain a fake ID to go to night clubs and to buy alcohol. I had no desire to drink or to go to night clubs back in college. However, I did use my sibling’s student ID card to get into the main library of Chinese University of Hong Kong during winter and summer breaks.
After age 21, it comes age 25. Age 25 is the age when a person can rent a car without paying for surcharge in the US. A lot of big car rental companies do not rent cars to anyone under age 25. The quality of the car rental before age 25 was rather poor. It is an exciting age to rent better cars especially when someone is traveling. Obviously, not a lot people are desperate enough to show their fake ID for this purpose because it implies a serious consequence if anything goes wrong.
Things change quite a bit after graduating from school. If someone is no longer in school, he/she loses all the student discounts to museum admissions, ski trips, airfares, etc. Therefore, a college student ID is highly sought after. I surely wish that I had a student ID when I was in Europe! It would have given me a lot of the bells and whistles.
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