I'm currently sitting in my messy room, taking a break from packing and eating lunch. I can't believe I move tomorrow. This has come so incredibly fast. I'm pretty much feeling every emotion about it, and in all honesty, I just want to be settled and done. Moving is pretty stressful stuff. Especially on 3 hours of sleep.
Well anyway, just wanted to post a quick update on things. Everything is coming along, and I need to finish packing before I head over to my second family's house tonight for dinner and goodbyes.
Not sure when I'll post again... But it will probably be at my new place.
Until then,
Have a very happy and safe Fourth of July-
Austen
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Sunday, July 1, 2012
It's A Great Day At Chick-Fil-A
"It's A Great Day At Chick-Fil-A" was the phrase that was passed down to me from Megan, my former co-worker before she moved to Texas. Since then, I carried that phrase on whenever I greeted guests at the Drive-Thru speaker.
My time has run its course at Chick-Fil-A. Now, I'm not gonna go into a whole lot of detail like I did with my John's Incredible Pizza post. I'm going to keep it short and sweet- Although I always didn't see eye-to-eye with some people there, I'm glad I was given the experience and opportunity to work there.
I really did meet some incredible people that made me laugh and enjoy my shifts. And in the beginning, I got to work alongside my brother, who helped get me this job in the first place.
I grew up always saying I would NEVER work in a fast-food restaurant. But as it turns out, I ended up liking it. Too much.
I will say, I do think the CFA of Bakersfield needs a little bit of help, and I really hope these changes coming soon will make things better, and the employees happier. I'm a firm believer that you should love your job. Sometimes you have to do what you have to do, I understand. But don't make something that you hate your life. There's so much more to life than that.
I want to thank every one of you who I was able to work with. I've said my whole life that every person I encounter inspires me in some way. And that's still true. Through this job I've learned, I've grown, and I was able to get more experience in various things that will last a lifetime.
Thank you guys, I wish you the best, and may our paths cross again in the future.
My time has run its course at Chick-Fil-A. Now, I'm not gonna go into a whole lot of detail like I did with my John's Incredible Pizza post. I'm going to keep it short and sweet- Although I always didn't see eye-to-eye with some people there, I'm glad I was given the experience and opportunity to work there.
I really did meet some incredible people that made me laugh and enjoy my shifts. And in the beginning, I got to work alongside my brother, who helped get me this job in the first place.
 |
| My twin and I, confusing guests at front counter. |
I will say, I do think the CFA of Bakersfield needs a little bit of help, and I really hope these changes coming soon will make things better, and the employees happier. I'm a firm believer that you should love your job. Sometimes you have to do what you have to do, I understand. But don't make something that you hate your life. There's so much more to life than that.
I want to thank every one of you who I was able to work with. I've said my whole life that every person I encounter inspires me in some way. And that's still true. Through this job I've learned, I've grown, and I was able to get more experience in various things that will last a lifetime.
Thank you guys, I wish you the best, and may our paths cross again in the future.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Carrying On The Tradition of Music
Music has been a major factor in my life since the third grade. From that point, up until graduating high school and even after, I have grown musically through playing in different orchestras, competing in Solo Ensemble, playing in the school orchestra and school plays, taking private lessons, playing for weddings and parties, and just getting together to play in quartets with friends.
Although I play violin and piano, for some reason I really excelled in violin, and it became my instrument of choice. I love everything about music and playing, but my senior year of high school I had to make a pretty tough decision. Music wasn't something I was going to major in. I can tell you why, but that's a whole other story. Basically I turned down a scholarship offer, and realized one can not make a career in music.
I wasn't really sure what I was going to do from there music-wise, until my dad came to me and said that his friend's wife opened up a music store in town, and are looking for private teachers. I thought that this could be kinda fun, so I told them I'm interested, and before I knew it, I was hired as a Violin Instructor for the Family Music Center, which taught Kindermusik.
Become a violin teacher for kids? How easy! (So I thought.)
After a few weeks of advertising and trying to get the word out, I had someone interested in taking lessons. So we got a day and time set up, and I was ready to begin teaching with my first student- A 5 year old Asian girl. I was nervous. I have a little experience with teaching violin, but to my age group, not to a little girl who's never picked up an instrument before in her life. So I did what my teachers in the past have done to me, and I followed the same teaching habits I remember that helped me, and it wasn't a month later before we were a quarter way through the first book.
In the musical world (And world in general...), Asians are stereotyped for being "Smart" and "Dedicated". I have come to the conclusion that this is so. This girl, Rene, absolutely spoiled me. She actually practiced, she cared, and she was a typical little girl who always interrupted me to ask who my favorite princess was. (Cinderella!). We absolutely flew through the steps to playing the violin, and she was playing decent songs before the end, when they decided to take a break.
My next few students to come weren't nearly as dedicated. In fact, since Rene, I haven't had a kid who picked it up that fast. (Since Rene, I haven't taught an Asian...).
Some students came and went, some stayed. It didn't matter though, I loved every bit of it.
If you would have asked me two years ago if I wanted, or even liked kids, I would tell you no. But through this experience, through being around them more, and with the help of my past two other jobs, I have learned to really adore these little crib midgets. As it turns out, they really aren't that bad.
Right now, I'm looking into other music stores in So Cal. I found that I really do enjoy teaching, and of course I'll continue playing. Music is me, it's a passion, and I will never let it go.
I owe a huge thanks to Carolyn. Not only for bringing music into the younger generation, but to give me this incredible opportunity which has taught me so much more.
John, Carolyn, and Fam- If your in my area, let me know. A Disney trip ever 8+ years is unacceptable, and you have connections through me. Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.
If your interested in lessons from the Family Music Center, check out their website:
The Family Music Center
"I like symphonic music. A good concert, if you're kind of relaxed, it can do something to you. It's sort of an emotional break you get by listening to the music." -Walt Disney
Although I play violin and piano, for some reason I really excelled in violin, and it became my instrument of choice. I love everything about music and playing, but my senior year of high school I had to make a pretty tough decision. Music wasn't something I was going to major in. I can tell you why, but that's a whole other story. Basically I turned down a scholarship offer, and realized one can not make a career in music.
I wasn't really sure what I was going to do from there music-wise, until my dad came to me and said that his friend's wife opened up a music store in town, and are looking for private teachers. I thought that this could be kinda fun, so I told them I'm interested, and before I knew it, I was hired as a Violin Instructor for the Family Music Center, which taught Kindermusik.
Become a violin teacher for kids? How easy! (So I thought.)
After a few weeks of advertising and trying to get the word out, I had someone interested in taking lessons. So we got a day and time set up, and I was ready to begin teaching with my first student- A 5 year old Asian girl. I was nervous. I have a little experience with teaching violin, but to my age group, not to a little girl who's never picked up an instrument before in her life. So I did what my teachers in the past have done to me, and I followed the same teaching habits I remember that helped me, and it wasn't a month later before we were a quarter way through the first book.
In the musical world (And world in general...), Asians are stereotyped for being "Smart" and "Dedicated". I have come to the conclusion that this is so. This girl, Rene, absolutely spoiled me. She actually practiced, she cared, and she was a typical little girl who always interrupted me to ask who my favorite princess was. (Cinderella!). We absolutely flew through the steps to playing the violin, and she was playing decent songs before the end, when they decided to take a break.
My next few students to come weren't nearly as dedicated. In fact, since Rene, I haven't had a kid who picked it up that fast. (Since Rene, I haven't taught an Asian...).
Some students came and went, some stayed. It didn't matter though, I loved every bit of it.
 |
| Me, teaching one of my older students. |
Right now, I'm looking into other music stores in So Cal. I found that I really do enjoy teaching, and of course I'll continue playing. Music is me, it's a passion, and I will never let it go.
 |
| A picture of me playing in high school. |
John, Carolyn, and Fam- If your in my area, let me know. A Disney trip ever 8+ years is unacceptable, and you have connections through me. Thank you, and I look forward to seeing you all again very soon.
If your interested in lessons from the Family Music Center, check out their website:
The Family Music Center
"I like symphonic music. A good concert, if you're kind of relaxed, it can do something to you. It's sort of an emotional break you get by listening to the music." -Walt Disney
Sunday, June 24, 2012
I Bought A Lemon!
Four years ago I purchased my 98 Ford Ranger.
Four years later I regret that purchase.
Within these four years, I replaced the engine, tranny, lifted it, added wheels/tires, went through 3 radiators, replaced buttons inside on my steering wheel, replaced the drive line, tightened my steering wheel, and a plethora of other things.
Within the past week I just finished fixing an oil leak and bought 2 new front tires. I just got my truck back at lunch, and it's successfully healthy once again.
Besides one thing- It needs new back brakes. I have 2 notches left until I say 'Bye Bye Brakes!'.
I have to say, I'm incredibly thankful for my dad and grandpa. I know nothing of mechanical work... I can change my oil, and radiator, and that's about it. But my dad knows pretty much everything, and he has helped me (Saving me money also!) with all of this.
By the end of this week, my truck should be in the best shape ever. And I hope... I really really hope... That this condition stays with us for awhile, since I'll be in So Cal now.
Here's hoping for the best, because I can't afford a new vehicle!
Four years later I regret that purchase.
Within these four years, I replaced the engine, tranny, lifted it, added wheels/tires, went through 3 radiators, replaced buttons inside on my steering wheel, replaced the drive line, tightened my steering wheel, and a plethora of other things.
Within the past week I just finished fixing an oil leak and bought 2 new front tires. I just got my truck back at lunch, and it's successfully healthy once again.
Besides one thing- It needs new back brakes. I have 2 notches left until I say 'Bye Bye Brakes!'.
I have to say, I'm incredibly thankful for my dad and grandpa. I know nothing of mechanical work... I can change my oil, and radiator, and that's about it. But my dad knows pretty much everything, and he has helped me (Saving me money also!) with all of this.
By the end of this week, my truck should be in the best shape ever. And I hope... I really really hope... That this condition stays with us for awhile, since I'll be in So Cal now.
Here's hoping for the best, because I can't afford a new vehicle!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Theme Parksters
Theme Parksters. Remember that name, because if your an amusement park fan you should be apart of this new website launching soon.
You see, my bro, cousin, and I are tired of the un-moderated, poorly-moderated, and foamy theme park sites that are online right now. We want a better place, and more mature place, and a fun place for fans of all stages of fandom to come and discuss, to come and learn, and to come and participate in.
We are creating a new and different Theme Park site. Excuse me while I be blunt and un-sugar coat this: My goal is to shut down Mice Chat and damage other sites. I'm tired of "Fans" complaining about things and thinking they know everything when they don't. You have a right to an opinion, and I encourage you to express it. But don't get crazy, and you MCers know what I mean by this. It's not just MC though. I'm tired of all forums right now, and I don't really participate in them anymore.
This new site will be handled much differently and better.
It's not finished yet, but I encourage you to check out our Facebook and Twitter pages.
I'll definitely keep you updated on it all.
Theme Parksters. Your on the right track.
You see, my bro, cousin, and I are tired of the un-moderated, poorly-moderated, and foamy theme park sites that are online right now. We want a better place, and more mature place, and a fun place for fans of all stages of fandom to come and discuss, to come and learn, and to come and participate in.
We are creating a new and different Theme Park site. Excuse me while I be blunt and un-sugar coat this: My goal is to shut down Mice Chat and damage other sites. I'm tired of "Fans" complaining about things and thinking they know everything when they don't. You have a right to an opinion, and I encourage you to express it. But don't get crazy, and you MCers know what I mean by this. It's not just MC though. I'm tired of all forums right now, and I don't really participate in them anymore.
This new site will be handled much differently and better.
It's not finished yet, but I encourage you to check out our Facebook and Twitter pages.
I'll definitely keep you updated on it all.
Theme Parksters. Your on the right track.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Where To Now?
I've been really thinking the past few days what I'm going to continue to share with my readers. Firstly, I don't understand why you guys read the Random Post anyway, I just ramble and tell un-interesting stories. But I'm thankful that I've had over 6,000 hits so far, and that I continue to get positive feedback. Thank you.
Secondly, with moving and such, I'm not going to share every single thing that happens. Just the important and fun stuff, that I think you guys will like.
Thirdly, I am going to try to post often. For the next 2 weeks, up until I move, I'm going to try to write something daily, or at least every other day. Maybe memories, stories, what's going on, or anything else. Remember... This is the Random Post, so it will remain random! ;)
Where to now? You tell me. I'm always up for writing, for sharing a story, and to hear your thoughts on my posts.
Secondly, with moving and such, I'm not going to share every single thing that happens. Just the important and fun stuff, that I think you guys will like.
Thirdly, I am going to try to post often. For the next 2 weeks, up until I move, I'm going to try to write something daily, or at least every other day. Maybe memories, stories, what's going on, or anything else. Remember... This is the Random Post, so it will remain random! ;)
Where to now? You tell me. I'm always up for writing, for sharing a story, and to hear your thoughts on my posts.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Flying High and Far
For a little over a week now, I've been secretly busy planning and organizing a new change in my life. I've told only those who I'm closest to what's going on, and I've waited to announce it publicly until now.
On my last trip to Disneyland to preview Carsland (Which, by the way, is absolutely incredible!), my future roommate Patrick and I went apartment searching, which quickly turned into finding a place. I announced a few months back that I was moving to Southern California, and now, after much talking and planning and thinking and praying, I have a date set. I'll be officially moving in to my new apartment July 6th, however my last night in Bakersfield will be July 4th. On July 5th, the "Adventure Continues", and I make that final drive out over the Grapevine to my new home.
I'm so incredibly excited to be making yet another dream of mine come true, and I'm so thankful for a friend like Patrick to help me out and give me this opportunity.
The hardest part of it all? Leaving behind my parents, my sister, and my brother. But like I've been telling them, I'm only 2 hours away. There's no reason they can't visit me, and I can't come back and visit them.
Living in Garden Grove and working isn't going to be easy. But I think I'm ready for the challenge, and experience of it all. I'm thankful for my family and friend's support over this, and I can't wait to share my adventures with you all.
"Always, as you travel, assimilate the sounds and sights of the world." -Walt Disney
On my last trip to Disneyland to preview Carsland (Which, by the way, is absolutely incredible!), my future roommate Patrick and I went apartment searching, which quickly turned into finding a place. I announced a few months back that I was moving to Southern California, and now, after much talking and planning and thinking and praying, I have a date set. I'll be officially moving in to my new apartment July 6th, however my last night in Bakersfield will be July 4th. On July 5th, the "Adventure Continues", and I make that final drive out over the Grapevine to my new home.
I'm so incredibly excited to be making yet another dream of mine come true, and I'm so thankful for a friend like Patrick to help me out and give me this opportunity.
The hardest part of it all? Leaving behind my parents, my sister, and my brother. But like I've been telling them, I'm only 2 hours away. There's no reason they can't visit me, and I can't come back and visit them.
Living in Garden Grove and working isn't going to be easy. But I think I'm ready for the challenge, and experience of it all. I'm thankful for my family and friend's support over this, and I can't wait to share my adventures with you all.
"Always, as you travel, assimilate the sounds and sights of the world." -Walt Disney
Monday, June 4, 2012
Just a Pyro at Heart
You've probably heard me talk about getting my "explosive license" so I can legally do all fireworks, so I just wanted to clarify with some people what I'm actually doing.
I love fireworks. And lights. But right now let's just concentrate on the fireworks. I usually do, ehem, "Good" fireworks in my neck of the woods. But these "Good" fireworks are majorly frowned upon by those in law enforcement and those that drive those red trucks that hold a couple of gallons of water.
If you didn't already know, fines have increased this year if you get caught, it's considered a felony, and you could do jail time. I really don't want to do any of these things, so after getting some help from a friend (Thanks Bryan!), I've been inspired to get my Explosive License so I can legally shoot off, and import, all types of Pyro.
I'm in the process of watching a couple of DVDs to help me, and continuing to research all the fun topics in this exciting field online. I'll be done filling out this application in a few days, and I'll go from there.
What's interesting is this license is an "Explosive License", so technically I could apply for dynamite, detonators, blasting agents, black powder, and other things that go BOOM. But I'm not... Just fireworks. (Disappointing, right?)
Anyway, that's what's going on. If I get this before the Fourth, then it's going to be a fun celebration.
I love fireworks. And lights. But right now let's just concentrate on the fireworks. I usually do, ehem, "Good" fireworks in my neck of the woods. But these "Good" fireworks are majorly frowned upon by those in law enforcement and those that drive those red trucks that hold a couple of gallons of water.
If you didn't already know, fines have increased this year if you get caught, it's considered a felony, and you could do jail time. I really don't want to do any of these things, so after getting some help from a friend (Thanks Bryan!), I've been inspired to get my Explosive License so I can legally shoot off, and import, all types of Pyro.
I'm in the process of watching a couple of DVDs to help me, and continuing to research all the fun topics in this exciting field online. I'll be done filling out this application in a few days, and I'll go from there.
What's interesting is this license is an "Explosive License", so technically I could apply for dynamite, detonators, blasting agents, black powder, and other things that go BOOM. But I'm not... Just fireworks. (Disappointing, right?)
Anyway, that's what's going on. If I get this before the Fourth, then it's going to be a fun celebration.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Tomorrowland Entrance
First off, I want to give credit to my bro Jake Williams. He threw this idea into my head and I just elaborated on his original design.
In our opinion, Tomorrowland needs a new, fresh entrance. With some exciting changes going to happen in the next few years in this side of the Park, why not update the beginning of this Land also?
Our proposal: Move Astro Orbiter to where the Observatron is currently located. Take out those "French Fry Rocks" completely. And put in this modern yet classic, new entrance:
The actual "Tomorrowland" sign on this walk-under structure would have a black background with twinkling stars.
Here's another idea though- Instead of having this painted, why not make it out of a type of glass? That way it's a modern see-through during the day, and at night it could be illuminated a nice shade of blue. (Heck, you could even get really creative with it and incorporate the colors into the Fireworks show/Parade).
That's not all we came up with though. We re-designed Tomorrowland altogether, and added Digital Mapping in certain areas, upgraded lighting, and new attractions and rides. Maybe if I have time this week I'll draw an overhead view of it all.
I'm really curious though, what do you think of this design? What do you think of a new entrance in general?
In our opinion, Tomorrowland needs a new, fresh entrance. With some exciting changes going to happen in the next few years in this side of the Park, why not update the beginning of this Land also?
Our proposal: Move Astro Orbiter to where the Observatron is currently located. Take out those "French Fry Rocks" completely. And put in this modern yet classic, new entrance:
 |
| Using all the colors currently found on the "Tomorrowland" sign. Not my first choice... |
 | ||||||
| Keeping the colors simple, and all grey like on Space Mountain. |
The actual "Tomorrowland" sign on this walk-under structure would have a black background with twinkling stars.
Here's another idea though- Instead of having this painted, why not make it out of a type of glass? That way it's a modern see-through during the day, and at night it could be illuminated a nice shade of blue. (Heck, you could even get really creative with it and incorporate the colors into the Fireworks show/Parade).
That's not all we came up with though. We re-designed Tomorrowland altogether, and added Digital Mapping in certain areas, upgraded lighting, and new attractions and rides. Maybe if I have time this week I'll draw an overhead view of it all.
I'm really curious though, what do you think of this design? What do you think of a new entrance in general?
Monday, May 28, 2012
Latest Klout Perks
I received a ton of Klout Perks in the past week, as did many of you. Here are some of the cool stuff I got:
Looking forward to some other stuff that should be arriving shortly!
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| 4-pack of Red Bull Total Zero |
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| $50 Amtrack gift certificate |
 | |
| A TON of Lipton's Tea and Honey packets |
Looking forward to some other stuff that should be arriving shortly!
Monday, May 21, 2012
Disneyland Price Increases
I normally don't write about stuff like this, because I see it pointless. Everyone has their own opinions and views, and everyone has their own conspiracy theory. But, I'm hearing a lot of negativity so I thought I'd give my two cents.
First off I'd like to say that this is expected.
Second, I'd like to say that I'm not for prices to continually increase, but I know it will happen.
I do find it sad that when I was little my parents would take all 4 of us to Disneyland and it would only cost $200 for everything. And now it takes close to $1,000.
But, why should Disneyland decrease their prices? People still go. Hardcore fans like myself will pay it, and those that never have been before will save for it. This summer they will still be at capacity for Carsland, or for the Holidays. Or just busy all year in general. As long as people go, the prices will continually go up. Because people pay it.
No, Disney did not raise the prices to pay for John Carter. That's just being ignorant, in my opinion. Two separate departments. And when the DVD comes out, they will probably break even and then some.
Disney is letting Annual Passholders do more "cool" stuff now like tours and previews, Disney is adding on like crazy with stuff like Carsland, possible new shows on the Castle, and a soon upgrade to Tomorrowland and possible Thunder Mountain refurb. Disneyland is changing rapidly, and some cool stuff is on its way into the Park.
We could always get rid of World Of Color, the fireworks, Carsland, and a few other costly upgrades and bring the prices down....
But I'll continue to pay the prices, because Disneyland is one of my rare passions that I'll pay a lot of money for.
First off I'd like to say that this is expected.
Second, I'd like to say that I'm not for prices to continually increase, but I know it will happen.
I do find it sad that when I was little my parents would take all 4 of us to Disneyland and it would only cost $200 for everything. And now it takes close to $1,000.
But, why should Disneyland decrease their prices? People still go. Hardcore fans like myself will pay it, and those that never have been before will save for it. This summer they will still be at capacity for Carsland, or for the Holidays. Or just busy all year in general. As long as people go, the prices will continually go up. Because people pay it.
No, Disney did not raise the prices to pay for John Carter. That's just being ignorant, in my opinion. Two separate departments. And when the DVD comes out, they will probably break even and then some.
Disney is letting Annual Passholders do more "cool" stuff now like tours and previews, Disney is adding on like crazy with stuff like Carsland, possible new shows on the Castle, and a soon upgrade to Tomorrowland and possible Thunder Mountain refurb. Disneyland is changing rapidly, and some cool stuff is on its way into the Park.
We could always get rid of World Of Color, the fireworks, Carsland, and a few other costly upgrades and bring the prices down....
But I'll continue to pay the prices, because Disneyland is one of my rare passions that I'll pay a lot of money for.
Summertime
Well I found out my last grade this morning. This is the class I was incredibly worried about. Thankfully I passed with a C, so I did graduate. I now have a 2 degrees- A degree in Social Science, and a degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Communication.
This summer I need to take 2 more classes to get my 60 credits, then I'll be ready for a University. Right now I'm looking into California State University Long Beach, or Fullerton. I'm still trying to decide my major as well.
It's crazy how fast 2 years goes by. I still remember graduation high school...
But, life goes fast, and I'm ready for yet another adventure.
As of right now though, it's summertime, and I'm looking forward to a vacation at the end of this week.
This summer I need to take 2 more classes to get my 60 credits, then I'll be ready for a University. Right now I'm looking into California State University Long Beach, or Fullerton. I'm still trying to decide my major as well.
It's crazy how fast 2 years goes by. I still remember graduation high school...
But, life goes fast, and I'm ready for yet another adventure.
As of right now though, it's summertime, and I'm looking forward to a vacation at the end of this week.
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