The Road Less Traveled

This book,"The Road Less Traveled" bluntly points out how people's will and action conflict, and how to solve this conflict. This solution is simple - to lead a disciplined life, to do things in an orderly manner and plan ahead. These suggestions are not printed in fancy writing nor accompanied with attractive pictures, but they sure present the solution to those daily questions. Good book. Share with you.

Toy-grabbing machine

This thing may look innocuous, but you can lose a fortune while playing it. With one 10$ coin, you get one chance to move a 'claw' around and pick your desired stuffed toy. But, as you may have noticed, that these 'claws' have been 'adjusted' and few can actually get what they aim for.

Though most people do realize that, still, that gambler's mentality keeps them putting coins into that slot. Also some Japanese friends told me they have somewhat the similar things in their neighborhood, but they don't think these machines present too much a challenge.

Tax season

Told students that, besides hilarious April First, holy Easter, there is one more 'big thing' that most Americans have to pay attention to - paying the tax. Oh, well, it is also time for me and people in Taiwan to get ready to fill the tax forms, either.

Noticed that some co-workers do not seem to be concerned about this big "dent" to their wallet, and asked one. They have a practical idea towards this income tax - they simply ask the treasurer to deduct certain proportion from their salary EVERY month; therefore, there is no need for them to 'squeeze' out that amount of money.

Me? Somehow managed to save some from the utility bills and daily expenses, just enough to make both ends meet. With the recent price hike, sure need to use money carefully.

small gardens

Compared with my neighbors' beautiful gardens, mine seem uncamped. This is probably because i'm busy and lazy. There are several herbs, vegetables growing in this smll square. Chillies, rosemary and mint take up most of the space. Sometimes, kids come and pluck away chillies to play with; moms get to have some mint to go with their dishes. ^_^ If had more time, perhaps will try to use the space on the roof to grow some other vegetables. It is fun to have a small patch of land available in this crowded city.