TChan Music's BLOG

Exams...

2012-01-14T22:13:00.000-08:00

Yes, Exam Week is once again among me. (Well... soon). So, studying. I'm intentionally making a sorta blank post to express my nervousness.

Well, looking forward to singing more songs after my exams ;D

New YouTube channel!

2012-01-03T16:48:00.001-08:00

Happy 2012 everyone!

Wow, I haven't posted in a LOOONNNGGGG time. So here we go! What would I post about? Of course my new YouTube channel! Haha. I deleted my account TACevangelist (D,=) and created a new one to signify a new chapter of my life, a new outlook. Well, it's really not that deep actually. My thinking process was more like "I just want a new start on YouTube". And so I did.

You can check out my new YouTube channel at

http://www.youtube.com/user/ThomasChanMusic

Yes, I typed this address out a lot lately, so I've pretty much got it memorized ;D

YAY! I'm so excited! If you manage to see this post, I would VERY VERY much appreciate it if you could go to my channel, watch the vids (there are only three right now, haha!) and tell me what you think! And comment! And subscribe! and all that good stuff! Haha. =D

Off to do some Physics homework. Hope I can post on this blog more often!

TChan Goes Apple

2011-09-02T15:12:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! Just gonna be a quick blog post update. I've officially gone Apple! (Sorry Windows). My dad surprised me yesterday with a MacBook Pro for my 16th birthday! Long made short, I was ecstatic about getting a MacBook, because I've been eyeing one for a really long time.

A Mac is definitely not the same as PC, and I'm already adjusting to the changes. Finder instead of My Computer... getting used to Launchpad and Mission Control (that's a really cool name by the way...), ect. This morning I've successfully transferred my entire iTunes collection to my MacBook, which I was extremely thrilled. Also, FaceTime is great, and I've already called many of my friends and relatives to try out the cool application.

Another reason I wanted a MacBook was GarageBand, iPhoto, and iMovie. Well, mostly GarageBand. Now, editing music and making songs will be much easier! Well... once I figure out how to use it anyways. (More blog posts in the future!)

I'm sure I still have many things I have yet to discover about this MacBook Pro. But on Day 2, I'm already loving it.

Thanks Dad! =D

Back to school...

2011-08-30T18:47:00.000-07:00

Just realized how long it's been since I posted on this blog. Yes, I finished summer school and got a pretty decent mark, so I'm quite happy. (I'm not sure what I got on my Provincial exam yet, so I'm still a little queasy. I hope I did well though!)

Summer's almost ending, and it's almost time to get back to school. For the most part, I'm excited about meeting my teachers for this year, spending more time in the lab, meeting new people, spending more time with my music buds, seeing everyone again, participating in all the clubs I signed up for, and have a huge schedule. =P For some reason, it is stressful, but I do enjoy it somehow, haha! I am also excited to wear my uniform again (well, mostly my Edmundian sweater!!), it's been too long. It's my second to last year of high school, and I've heard a lot of rumors that it is the busiest and most stressful year. In some ways, I'm looking forward to it, but in others it's not.

Things I'm not excited about: well, that's quite a list too. I'm not excited about picking up my books the day after tomorrow. The fine still lingers I believe, unless St. Anthony answered my prayers and the book is found. Once again, (refer to previous blog post) I refuse to pay for a book that I know I've returned. I hope that everything will be OK; but for now, I can't help but worry. The teacher in charge of the bookroom told me to wait to see if it shows up when I pick up my books. I hope it does. Just hoping for the best.

I am also not looking forward to continuing Planning 10, no offense to anyone. It's a great course, and I do agree that it provides great information. But simply the idea of continuing it from one grade to the next instead of finishing everything in one school year really bothers me, and I am not looking forward to picking up what I left off in June.

MATT MAHER! Yes, I had to type that in capital letters because I'm terribly excited! Matt Maher (which, by the way, is one of my FAVOURITE CCM artists ;D) is ready for his sixth album release (well, third studio album). Named "The Love in Between", it'll be released on my birthday, September 20. I am thrilled - and I do really want this album for my birthday. Unfortunately... I don't know where to get it as unfortunately CCM (Contempory Christian Music) isn't as popular here as it is in the States... finding a store that sells it will be quite difficult, as you can imagine! Check out www.mattmahermusic.com for previews of some songs that will be on the album!

Well, this blog post has been long enough! I'll try to post as often as I can from now on, just to update y'all. Well, until next time! BYE! =D

Oh, how wonderful the Bookroom is to us.

2011-07-15T09:39:00.000-07:00

So I've been breezing by summer school, and it's not too hard, which I am quite fortunate about. As well, I'm not doing too bad either; I think I'm pretty much standing at a pretty decent 95% .

Oh, my regular school is giving me a cause of worry though. Although I've returned a book to my teacher in October, the book somehow did not manage to get to the Bookroom, or it may not have been checked in. So now, I am being charged for a book that I've already returned.

I now have to wait for August 22nd when the Bookroom opens again to give textbooks for next year. Luckily, if the book 'shows up', I will not have to pay. However, if it does not, that $35 is coming out of my pocket, although I am positive that I returned it and am therefore not liable for the book anymore.

Oh, how wonderful the Bookroom is to us.

Lots of Writing!!!! (and other exciting things!!!)

2011-06-24T11:21:00.000-07:00

So, I actually still have one more exam, the Science Provincial, on Monday, but as of now, I"m doing a LOT of writing!!! ^^ I've been working on two series concurrently, as well as writing songs occasionally (haven't been feeling the vibe to write music lately... D=)

That's the logo for the book I'm writing right now. This series connects with the Tales of Orbsia, which I have been working on as well (taking a break from to write Lystra right now, but finished Book One). Yes, I love writing fantasy novels because it really interests!

AS WELLLLLLLL Matt Maher's new album, The Love in Between, is set for release on September 20!!! AACCKKK! THAT'S MY BIRTHDAY!! Haha, can't control how excited I am for this new album!! One of his songs on the album, Turn Around, was released a couple days ago for listening. (go to www.mattmahermusic.com to hear it!!) I am SO STOKED!!

Spirit Day 2011 is getting a head start too with registrations for the Stage Team! I think I'll wait for September to register for Spirit Team this year. (Get more experience first, haha!) Spirit Day is end of October this year, October 29 and 30. I CAN'T WAIT! Looking forward to helping out there!

Alright, enough of my excitement, haha! Until next time!

'Look Me in the Eye' ReRecording Session

2011-05-22T17:11:00.000-07:00

Haha, yes, my friends were complaining of the lack of quality of the recent new song that I posted on YouTube. Well, since it's the long weekend, and long weekends mean TChan Music recording sessions, I've re-recorded my song "Look Me in the Eye" with some of my friends. Here's the link to the new and improved track!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXPvPiPRo4E

Yes, we didn't have time to record another song, so my new song "See You Again" will have to wait till next time... which will probably be during the summer. (We'll also be making a music video for Look Me in the Eye this summer as well; busy summer!)

Until next time!

Youth Day 2011 Reflection + Summary

2011-05-08T14:31:00.000-07:00

(Youth Day picture taken from www.oyyam.com)

So the following article is actually one I wrote that's going to be in the BC Catholic (YAY!). It's a reflection on the AMAZING time I had at Youth Day 2o11! So... enjoy!

The car ride was dreary and dull as the rain pelted down on the windows of the car. My worst fears had come true – it was raining on Youth Day. (Darn!) It was a silent ride, as I said something random every five minutes to stir up some conversation. No one else talked or got my weird sense of humour.

The awkwardness of the car ride instantly melted away as we pulled up in the parking lot of Archbishop Carney School (which is a beautiful school by the way). Cheers and sounds of friendly conversation filled my ears as I stepped out of my car and thanked the driver; my dad. Rain pelted down on me as my group and I rushed to the school. Instantly, many of my friends that I met from YouthLeader during the summer and Spirit Day 2010 rushed to hug me and say hi. It was a little bit overwhelming and happy, but truth to say for a second there I forgot some of their names! (Sorry!)

What really amazed me about this scene was this – imagine the rain pelting down on everyone, but no one was upset, or grumpy, or cranky at all. Everyone was just excited and happy, and in spite of the rain, gave large hugs to everyone else and chattered excitedly on millions of different topics. I talked with many people myself and caught up with many more that should be much more than “Facebook friends”. By the time we were welcomed into the gym with many excited Logistics volunteers, I had already high fived, fist-bumped, and/or talked to many, many people.

Olivier and Stephanie, the two emcees for Youth Day, welcomed everyone with great enthusiasm. The band, led by musical guest Joia Farmer, was sure to get all the youth pumped up by many uplifting worship songs. I bet it got God pumped up there too! The music reminded us why we were really here – to spend time with God, to grow closer to Him, and reconnect with those friends we’ve disconnected from.

Mark Hart, vice-president of Life Teen, but better known by his nickname “The Bible Geek” took the stage to begin his talks. He was hilarious and had much to share with us! One of the messages that he was sharing with us was this – we need to realize that we need God in our lives, and it is only Him that will make us eternally happy. We must rely on Him and be ROOTED in Him and let Him transform our lives. No longer should it be My Will be done, but Thy Will be done. It was also a special honour to meet Mark Hart during the break and converse with him about a bunch of random things from school to musical instruments and of course, Twitter. What a great guy!

The night ended with more music and talks from Mark Hart, Joia Farmer, and Paul Hood. I was exhausted by the end of the three hours, and wondering to myself how I will ever make it through tomorrow if it’s going to be triple the greatness of Friday.

Six hours of sleep later, we were back at Archbishop Carney for the morning, (yes, it was raining again!) and Joia Farmer explains her ‘conversion’ to the Vancouver Canucks! This is met with much excitement and the band continues to attempt to wake everyone up with many songs and praise music, although everyone was awake already! Mark Hart continues his talks and testimonies, once again causing many laughs and reflective moments in the audience.

The Divine Time sessions were next, and I attended a beautiful session named “Created to Worship”, led by the amazing Dylan Drego. He explained the power of music and how it can be used for worship and praying twice. We discussed the importance of words in songs and he even gave us tips on song writing! This was incredibly useful to me and I had a great time!

The soccer game was something all the youth, including me, was talking with excitement and anticipation, as the priests were a pretty confident group. Father “Mad Skillz”, Father “We Will Win” and Father “Blue Shorts” were just some of the many people on the Men in Black team that dominated the Youth, once again, with a score of 1-0. Looks like their confidence paid off. Yes, we were crushed, but at least we were uplifted by an umbrella talk shared by the commentators. Besides, many Youth ended up switching sides and cheering for the priests anyways.

The great sacrifice of the Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Michael Miller after more moving and informative talks and an EXTREMELY fun (and random) social. I was given the privilege of proclaiming God’s Word at Mass and it was a great experience to do so.

Adoration followed after dinner, and it was accompanied by a touching talk by Deacon Brian Duggan. It was an amazing experience to be able to enter Adoration with five hundred plus other people alongside you. Joia Farmer and the band did an amazing job during adoration and to end off the night.

Overall, I think this Youth Day meant a lot to me because I ALLOWED it to mean so much to me. The talks really moved me and convinced me that I need to have a better effort to connect with God. And at the end of it all, we have to remember that what we learn and do at Youth Day isn’t just one day and then it’s over. We must continue the evangelization and spirit for the rest of our lives, and constantly ask God to guide us in our lives. We are never alone because we are one Church – a Church that supports each other in times of need. This was truly experienced at Youth Day. We need to remain ROOTED in God, and build up strong so neither birds, nor rocks, nor thorns can stop us from proclaiming the Truth of God to the world.

'Look Me in the Eye' is COMPLETED!

2011-04-26T13:27:00.001-07:00

Yay! It's finally done! My first original song is just a beginner thing, a touch of the music world. I will be making sure that future songs will be better.

The recording session was so much fun. We recorded pianos, guitars, and drum tracks and of course, the vocals. Even though we had a whole day it did seem kind of rushed, but I had so much fun. Our little mini production team was awesome as well.

Here are the links to "Look Me in the Eye" on YouTube!
Link to the piano instrumental: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxGsp9Mxo1s
Link to the instrumental: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXfVy6BtA0o
Link to the song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUl3XUmix4g

Check it out when you have time! I can't wait to do more songs and make an album, haha!

'Look Me in the Eye' Recording TOMORROW!

2011-04-24T09:56:00.000-07:00

YES, I'm SO EXCITED RIGHT NOW! (by the way, sorry I haven't posted in a while). My first original song, "Look Me in the Eye" will be recorded at my friend's house tomorrow! There will be drums, there will be piano, there will be guitar, there will be vocals (of course), and there will be fun!!!

This is the album [single] picture of "Look Me in the Eye".

IS THAT COOL OR WHAT?! XD If you haven't seen it already, (and to get you more pumped), the piano instrumental is on YouTube on my channel "tacevangelist". Or, here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xxGsp9Mxo1s

I'm so excited right now and I can't wait to do some recording. I'll try to update y'all when it's done. We are going to record an official instrumental and the actual song, of course.

CAN'T WAIT! I'LL KEEP Y'ALL POSTED! (LOL, is this how it feels like to be a recording artist? If so, I'm excited!!)

HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE! CHRIST IS RISEN! =D

American Idol TOP 13!

2011-03-05T19:29:00.001-08:00

So American Idol and the American public has chosen the TOP 13 finalists of this season's American Idol! The American Idol is one of these thirteen people!

The TOP 13! from www.americanidol.com

Overall, I think all of these 13 contestants are very, very talented and all of them are equally likely to take the title of American Idol. The votes this year from the American public are going to be very, very tight. So technically I'm rooting for everyone but I'm especially rooting for Lauren Alaina, Scotty McCreery, Stefano Langone, Pia Toscano, Karen Rodriguez and Thia Megia. Wow, that's like half the list of people. This is going to be very, very tight.

The TOP 13 show is this week on Wednesday, with one contestant eliminated the day after, all live. Can't wait.

The Amazing Race 18 and American Idol 10!

2011-02-20T18:41:00.000-08:00

Lots of TV lately!! XD American Idol is heating up, with only 60 contestants remaining until the live shows. The Las Vegas round, in which they will eliminate 20 people, will air this Wednesday, and then the TOP 24 will be revealed on Thursday! It's advancing pretty quick and I hope all my favorites advance to the semi-finals and finals! Heck, maybe they'll even be the next American Idol! =D

On the other hand, The Amazing Race 18 - Unfinished Business premiered today. Basically, this 18th season features many of the fan favorites from the previous seasons. It's a fun season because since the racers already have experience on the show, the challenges will be much more... challenging! It's going to heat up pretty quick! I'm excited =D

As well, Youth ConnX is coming up in exactly a month! It's a 25 hour social justice solid food fast that we're doing at my parish. We're fundraising for Haiti this year.

Well, that's it for now! Tonight I'm finishing up To Kill a Mockingbird as well as doing some Planning homework. Busy night! Until next time.

SNOW DAY!

2011-01-12T18:50:00.001-08:00

Wow, it's a snow day at VC today, and I basically spent my entire day studying and on the computer. It's been a while since we got snow, eh?

I did miss some important stuff at school today because of the snow day, but I'm sure it'll all be made up when we get back.

Planning 10/11 started yesterday, and I guess it's OK so far. I'm hoping I can do lots of assignments in advance so I don't have to worry about it later on. The assignments aren't too hard yet, but I'm sure they'll take more reflecting and thinking later on.

Well, that's it for now I guess. Until next time!

Happy Late New Year!

2011-01-08T19:07:00.000-08:00

Wow, I haven't written in this thing for awhile. Things have been good, but really really busy!!! Just getting back from winter break, so lots of homework, essays, you get it =D Exams are coming up in a couple weeks as well... the stress is back!!! =D

Nothing much happened lately. I have been starting to write more songs, and my first song that I'll actually have a chance of completing is almost done. (Yes, I'm really slow!!!) I can't wait to write more songs, because it's actually pretty fun. But right at this moment, there's a lot of studying to be done! Can't wait for exams to come and go... then at least I'll be a little more relaxed.

Also on my second book in The Tales of Orbsia - named after the second Realm in my world, Wealto. Not a lot of time to write right now of course, but soon I hope to continue!!!

Well, that's it for now, just wanted to update. Until next time! =D

'Tis the Season!

2010-12-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Wow, Christmas is fast approaching. It's my absolute favorite holiday of the year. Maybe it's because of the warm environment, or just the atmosphere that makes you want to go and invite everyone in your family to a huge celebration or gathering. It's so wonderful. I hope I can relive those memories this Christmas. Parties, dinners, snow. Perfectly beautiful.

Merry Early Christmas!

The Word becomes flesh. =D

Finished my book!

2010-11-27T16:26:00.000-08:00

I have always been writing ever since like... young. But this is one of the first full novels that I've written and I'm very excited. I'm hoping to get it published.

Introducing... The Tales of Orbsia - Book One - Prospera

It's going to be a seven book series about a Magical world with many mystical secrets and powerful beings, and a kind of Magic called "Mystia Magic" - which is the strongest magic of all magical worlds in the Universe.

I've finally finished my first book, although it isn't as long as a regular length novel. It's 105 pages, but I'm probably going to make some extensions to it after I get the several copies that I sent out back. I'll wait for feedback and stuff, but currently, I'm on the second book.

Yes, it's the second book in the series =D I wonder if I'll be able to write all seven books? I hope so. Maybe I can get this published too? That'll be way cool.

Spirit Day 2010!!

2010-11-09T18:27:00.001-08:00

Wow, what a great weekend helping out at Spirit Day 2010 - CHOSEN!

It was a great weekend full of enthusiastic kids (mostly) amazing musical guests, amazing performers, amazing volunteers (shoutout to my fellow Logistics Team, as well as Spirit and Stage team!) and just an amazing experience volunteering in general. What a crazy two days at the Chandos Pattison Auditorium, but it was so worth it, and so much fun (even though I didn't get to see most of the shows! =D)

The weekend weather was mostly very good, but it was very very cold, so now I'm sitting here having a cold from those two days ;D

But in conclusion, it was an AMAZING weekend! So many people had to pitch in to make this work for all the awesome grade sevens ready to recieve confirmation. Great job to everyone - and to the grade sevens - hope ya had fun! =D

Spirit Day 2010 - CHOSEN.

2010-10-24T19:25:00.000-07:00

Wow, haven't blogged in a while.

Excited for Spirit Day 2010! Excited to be CHOSEN (haha, see what I did there? =.=") to attend that event that I so loved three years ago... haha. Too bad Matt Maher won't be here this year. I am CHOSEN to help out with the Logistics Team (actually I applied) - not quite sure exactly what I'm CHOSEN to do yet but I can't wait!

Image taken from OYYAM website

Problems:
I am currently in need of a carpool - the group I was supposed to go with is now not going anymore, so I need someone who can drive me all three days or at least some of the three days. >_< (How will I do my homework?) Hope I can make it to Spirit Day 2010! I need to find a carpool quick though. Until next time!

Glee Club kickoff tomorrow!

2010-10-18T16:25:00.000-07:00

Lately, grade 10's been way busier than what ever happened in grades 9 and 8. Well, of course =D Running around with a Yearbook assignment, catching up with missed tests and homework (because of We Day on Friday!! =D) and trying to get the Edmundian sweater orders sent in. It's been busy! (by the way, the sweaters are still not done yet. I'll try to get that done tomorrow.)

Because everything's been so stressful, it's good to have something to relax with, and that's why I'm glad that tomorrow is the VC-LFA Glee Club Kickoff!

Yes, I'm very excited, and I'm wondering if this has attracted anyone from LFA over... but I hope we have a good turnout tomorrow.

Well, that's it for now! GLEE!

To try, to stumble, to fall, to fail.

2010-10-14T16:49:00.000-07:00

That's my quote of the day. No words can explain how upset and how disappointed I'm feeling at this moment.

Yes. I didn't make the cast list. And this meant a lot for me too.

Well. 'nuff said.

Grease Audition! PART 2

2010-10-13T18:33:00.000-07:00

Yup, I did all I could, the most painful part is the waiting.

Yes, the callbacks were today, and I learned a pretty fun dance routine. It was fun! Unfortunately I didn't get called back to do the other two categories, so I guess that's it for now. The results get released in approximately half an hour (7:00 to 7:30 ish) by email. I hope I get a part...

Really nervous right now. Well anyways! I'll write again soon. Hope to be singing good news on this blog in approximately half an hour!

Grease callbacks tomorrow!

2010-10-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

So nervous right now just thinking about it... but yeah. The Grease callbacks are tomorrow! I think it's better if I calm myself, but I'll probably be freaking out by the time it rolls around tomorrow afternoon. I wonder if I'll have time to study for that French test... should get a start tonight.

The long weekend's over... it was nice while it lasted I guess.

Well... there's not much else left to say, so it's a good bye for now. I'm nervous for tomorrow, but I'm really excited as well!

VC-LFA Glee Club is a go!

2010-10-05T19:09:00.001-07:00

Yes, I've talked with the drama teacher at VC about having a Glee club with LFA and VC in between practice dates for Grease, and she agreed! We will have practises every Tuesday, with Grease practises every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Hopefully organizing the Glee club won't have an effect on my chances of getting into Grease. This is very exciting!

This is the logo for the club!

Yes, you can barely see the LFA logo, but I couldn't find a darker one. This is exciting! Our kickoff will be Tuesday, October 19. Excited! Let's hope we can get lots of enthusiastic recruits!

Grease Callback!

2010-10-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

Yes! I am one of the (approximately) 40 students out of 140 (about) called back for another audition next Wednesday, October 14. This audition will feature choreography, singing for a role, and cold read for a role. I am currently assigned in the dance section only, and I may be asked to stay for singing and cold reading as well, depending on how my dance audition goes. Very nervous, but very happy. A couple more steps until the final cast!

Glee and Grease.

2010-09-27T17:49:00.000-07:00

YESS!!! I am now officially a Gleek. =D I started watching Glee online on Saturday, and I am very impressed at the storyline as well as the talent of the actors. I love watching a good drama or series =D It is very good... currently on episode 6 on season 1, so I have lots to catch up with before I get to watch season 2 on TV right now. Here's a Gleeky picture I made on Microsoft Word.

Here's my gleeky picture!

My audition for Grease went ok today too, here's basically what happened:

I fix my hair one last time, take a deep breath, say a prayer, and step into the now empty theater; deserted except for six teachers sitting at a table in the middle of the theater. They looked at me expectantly.
"Thomas!" came the drama department head. "Nice to see you."
I make my way down the steps - only took a couple seconds, but seemed like hours. I shivered and shook as I descended, one step after another. The time was coming up.
The teachers make comments about the application. Then motion for me to begin.
I announce my monologue's name. And then I began. I did the Grease hair thingy too - they laughed. I forgot my line, sort of.
Continued to blank out many times for a couple milliseconds during the monologue. Finally it was done.
"So what will you be doing for your SOONNNNNGGGG?"
The word. Song. I had to sing. I had almost forgotten that point - I had felt so good after doing the monologue. Now for the deciding point.
I sang "Angels" by David Archuleta, originally by Robbie Williams. When I finished the first sentence I already knew I had something wrong. I had sung too high.
Helplessly I continued singing until I reached the chorus. The notes started to rise - I struggled to keep on tune. My drama teacher mouth-ing along at the table.
Off-tune. Couldn't reach half the notes in the chorus.
After I had finished they told me good job, and that results would be next week or something like that (I was too shaken up to hear)
Shakily I left the theater.

So that's the story of my audition! Well, that's it for now. See ya later.

Grease!

2010-09-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

Yes, this year's musical that VC is doing is GREASE. Yes, a lot of people get all hyped out when they hear that, but honestly, I have no idea what GREASE is. I know it's a musical, but I never watched it or know what it's about.

Next week will be Grease auditions, and I signed up for Monday at 4:30 PM. I don't know, it sort of happened. I went to the workshop, picked up a couple monologues and then just signed up. I guess it was because I haven't been in a production for a very long time, and I'm hungry for that stage once again. In fact I've never performed before on the VC stage for like a hundred people like I did at SFX, so this will be a new experience if I make it.

I will probably be singing "Everything" by Michael Bublé for my audition song, but I am also considering two David Archuleta songs as well, "Zero Gravity" as well as "Angels". If you guys have any opinions, let me know =D

Nervous but also sort of excited as well! Hope I get even just a minor role =D

Welcome to BPATH!

2010-09-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hey all BPATHers!

If you're reading this, you're probably searching for the Clue on my blog. Well... enjoy! Please be careful of false Clues and look as careful as you can! Take your time! =D

Weekend-full of activities!

2010-09-16T16:14:00.000-07:00

Wowie, this weekend is the weekend before my birthday, and it'll be a busy one. Late September is always when a ton of clubs and events kick off, and more. Let's scan through this weekend's activities.

On Friday night will be our EDGE Youth Ministry's kickoff. Very excited for this as this is technically my fifth year of EDGE; three years as participant and now my second year as Junior Leader. Excited to work with many people and meet many new people this year, as well as working with the kids.

Saturday is a big, big day - BPATH - Birthday Party at Thomas' House. Haha, it was an acronym that I made up last year, and it fits pretty well, especially PATH. I've done a lot of preparations for this party and I hope that it'll flow smoothly. Yes, I'm having this party two days before my birthday, but no one has parties on Mondays during the school year anyways.

Sunday is Mass, of course, followed by the second part of our Parish's Youth Ministry Kickoff - LifeTeen. It's going to be another busy and fun day; this will be my second year of LifeTeen.

Wow, so busy weekend! On Saturday I'll be posting a message for all the BPATHers on top of my Blog, so just ignore that. It's for the game that's going to be happening later in the afternoon on Saturday.

Until next time! See ya.

7 more days!

2010-09-13T18:11:00.001-07:00

Haha! I really love countdowns! So here's a super super large countdown for anything you could possibly imagine. =D

1 more day until Meet the Teacher at SFX! (September 14)
4 more days until EDGE kickoff! (September 17)
5 more days until birthday party! (September 18)
6 more days until LifeTeen kickoff! (September 19)
7 more days until MY BIRTHDAY! (September 20)
9 more days until Mid-Autumn Festival! (September 22)
22 more days until David Archuleta's album release! (October 5)
37 more days until President's Honor Society assembly! (October 20)
157 more days until Christmas! (I think...) (December 25)

Haha, enough countdowns! Excited! Until next time!

.esreveRnI morf kcaB

2010-09-12T16:41:00.000-07:00

Hello bloggers! I just came back from my parish's LifeTeen retreat, this year theme being InReverse. Or esreveRnI. But anyways, it was an amazingly deep and meaningful retreat focusing on our Lord's prayer, the Our Father. We dissected the prayer into segments and went through each of them - in the reverse order, of course.

There's school tomorrow...

Until next time!

Problems... and more rants on excitement. =D

2010-09-05T15:38:00.001-07:00

My internet's been running kind of slow lately... actually, not lately; like weeks. Wonder what the problem is? Should I get a new browser?

So because of that, Blogger's been kind of slow too. Correction - really slow. And the Twitter widget isn't working... hmmm... wonder what that's all about. Forgot how I installed the widget, so if I remove it, I'll have to find out how to do it again, which I don't have the time for. =D

Now Playing on my iTunes: "Something 'Bout Love" by David Archuleta =D

Can't wait for David Archuleta's album release on Sunday, October 5! It was supposed to be released September 14, six days before my birthday, but it got delayed so now I'm setting my sights for a late birthday present. I'll be trying to go to Metrotown or one of the malls after Mass that day so I can get it. I hope it's in stock and that they have have a LOT in stock. I have to make sure I get one!!! David does such a great job, can't wait for his third album =D

Now Playing on my iTunes: "Zero Gravity" by David Archuleta =D

Yes, I'm on my David Archuleta playlist right now. Excited =D

There's three more days until school. I guess I'm excited to see everyone again, well sort of anyways. Senior School! A new chapter in my life - and that's for sure in all areas of life. =D

My mom's planning on going to Seattle tomorrow for Labour Day shopping trip, but with all the people we probably won't be able to cross the border for a very long time... oh goodie. But getting away is always fun so I can't wait! It's actually still in the planning stages. My mom loves last minute trips. ;D

Now Playing on my iTunes: "Waiting for Yesterday" by David Archuleta. =D

Until next time! See ya.

Who's watching 仁心解碼?

2010-09-02T16:25:00.001-07:00

LOL, I found glasses that look so much like 李應春's on 仁心解碼!!! It's so funny, but so awesome nevertheless!

Sorry, that was just another blog post! Thank you very much.

By the way, I love Pokémon! Recently started the interest of Pokemon TCG again! LET'S BATTLE!

Hello September! (60th Post!)

2010-09-01T12:53:00.001-07:00

Well, September's here, and in seven days school will be starting again. IN A WEEK. That wonderful unforgettable summer full of activities and new discoveries and questions will end in a week! It's unbelievable! It's one of those feelings that you don't want summer to end.

Yesterday I went to the bookroom at VC to pick up my textbooks for grade 10. I got eleven books (no comment) =.=" Six of the books were novels, so probably they give out all the novels at the beginning of the year so we don't have to go and check them out in the middle of the year. I am SO going to break my back carrying this stuff to school first day... yes, I will split it into two loads and two days, don't worry about that.

If you haven't done so already, check out my YouTube account, tacevangelist. It has singing and piano covers of mostly Christian songs and some secular. 14 videos are up, so if you have time to burn, check those out and tell me what you think. =D

That's it for now! Until next time!

I'm not waiting for a record deal.

2010-08-25T12:24:00.000-07:00

I've watched one of David Choi's videos on YouTube yesterday, and he explained a lot about his knowledge of record deals. Yes, a recording contract would be AMAZING for me, and it'll be like a dream come true, but for now, I think I should start writing and recording songs on my own. Who knows, I could make a music video and album too...

Problem is, I don't have any of those professional music and voice recording stuff, so I have no idea how I'm going to pull this off. If you know someone who does, that'll be really awesome if I can get someone to help me with this. I have the piano, and I'll sing, but I don't have the equipment D=

Also considering on learning to play guitar. My friends say once you know piano, guitar will be easy. I hope so. Anyone wanna teach me?

More covers up... should I be doing more?

2010-08-25T12:22:00.000-07:00

I posted a bunch more piano covers and singing covers that I can't count. You can check them out on my YouTube account tacevangelist.

The question is, should I be doing more covers? Some people from my school are making really bad comments. Or are they just haters? Feeling insecure, but opinions guys! If you have an opinion, please let me know.

Three singing covers up!

2010-08-20T17:24:00.000-07:00

I've done three singing covers yesterday, all in the time of one hour and all on a day of a tired voice =.=" The songs are Remembrance (Matt Maher), The House You're Building (Audrey Assad), and You Raise Me Up (Josh Groban) [SHORT].

My username is tacevangelist, if you want to check out those videos. I'll be posting more piano and singing stuff in the next couple days.

18 days left until school...

First two piano covers up!

2010-08-19T13:56:00.000-07:00

Yes, I've posted my first two piano covers on YouTube under my new account, tacevangelist. This account will have videos of my piano AND SINGING covers. (not singing yet, but soon!)

And so now I continue on my singing dream. Until next time!

19 more days until school...

Singing and music...

2010-08-18T13:36:00.000-07:00

A random reflection on music and singing...

But before that... I think it's pretty fun coming up with arrangements on the piano for my favorite Christian songs. I've made a couple arrangements, but of course I didn't write any of them down. For some reason, I really don't like writing the little notes on the staff... LOL. I've done arrangements for "Your Love is Extravagant", "Heart of Worship", "Everything is Yours (Audrey Assad)", "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever", and "Jesus My Everything", the best of my arrangements being "Your Love is Extravagant." I'm thinking of posting these arrangements on my piano covers and singing covers account, tacevangelist (nothing there yet...) When I do make sure you guys tell me what you think! All of the arrangements are in C =D

Now the reflection.

To me, music has a way of expressing meanings and feelings that sometimes, cannot be expressed through words. Music can convey a feeling, and even someone who does not understand the language of the lyrics, they can still have a feel a feeling through the melody of the song; sad, happy, angry, joyful.

Singing makes me feel free, when I sing I escape to a world where there are only the lyrics, and in the case of Christian music, God. Singing makes me feel good and free.

I love music. Thank the Lord for music!

From your prospective singer/songwriter; until next time!

YouTube Covers!

2010-08-16T14:54:00.001-07:00

Yes. So I've temporarily stopped writing the song "Wish You Were Here" and will resume when I feel the time is write.

To pursue my unrealistic goal of being a singer/songwriter I will first post YouTube covers. If you have any good songs or suggestions, let me know.

I've also tried playing "Your Love is Extravagant" on the piano and came up with a pretty good arrangement. I guess I'll continue playing other songs and creating my own arrangment and key that I'm comfortable singing =D

Until next time!

YouthLeader Reflection

2010-08-15T18:13:00.000-07:00

YouthLeader has been such an amazing experience, that I can’t even begin to describe even half of it. I guess a good place to start (or talk about) are my favorite experiences or events.

The meals were amazing, totally appreciate the awesome cooks who work so hard so we can fill our bellies… to that I’m truly grateful. The meals were delicious by the way! There were many choices of food every meal so that we can definitely have something we like. Oh, and don’t forget the unique graces!!!

Another of my favorite parts of YouthLeader are the people. At first, I thought there’ll be like a million people, but it turned out there were only forty-seven people, so a small group is a perfect way to start getting to meet new people. The best part is that we all have one thing in common – GOD! To God I am truly grateful for all the people here. They are all so nice… and basically you can talk to anyone and you’re bound to get smiles and laughs. It was especially interesting to learn about where everyone was from.

A challenging experience I had was leading the night social with five people on Tuesday. A ‘social’ is exactly what it sounds like, playing games and activities to get to know each other. What was crazy was that six people – totally never met each other before – could come together and pull something like this off. Well, I guess if we work together and we have God, amazing things can happen.
Yes, MR. SIU, we did talk about you! We met a couple STA guy/gals and instantly one topic in common: “Do you know Paul – Mr. Siu?” We miss you, oh and the rest of the YMs too.
We are learning tons of stuff here, for example, principle-centered living, proactive leadership, communication skills, and of course, following the most important person in our lives: JESUS (a.k.a. GOD!!!)

Thursday night we had "date night" and that was a kind of interesting thing to do. Basically the girls had to ask a guy out, and since there were more guys than girls some girls had to ask two guys, which was sort of embarrassing? Well, anyways, it was kind of fun and dinner was delicious too. Following that we had the most important celebration in the Catholic faith: Mass. I was reading the first reading, and the Mass went pretty smoothly, considering we only had one hour to prepare it. The most touching part was during the Sign of Peace, when we went around and hugged and shook hands with everyone at YouthLeader. It was so touching and nice!

The last day was also a fun, but sad one. There were email lists floating around, and I was doing a signature sheet. At the end, we "presented" a gift that was given to us that we will try to use for the community, and I gave the gift of joy and enthusiasm. We finished off the last prayer with the presentation of a crucifix for everyone. In the final sign of peace, there was crying, red eyes, hugs, and shaking hands. It was such a touching moment, and we promised each other that we WILL change the world, and we will reunite in the future.

What a great experience. I will always remember such a touching camp that I had shared with 50 other people. Once again, thank you God, for making this experience so much more meaningful and enjoyable.

YouthLeader 2010 Logo!

Screenplay and Songwriting!

2010-08-05T11:36:00.000-07:00

Yes, I found more stuff to do this summer! Firstly, I have begun songwriting! I know since I'm so inexperienced that this will be pretty challenging, and it IS. I spent the past hour (I think...) writing a verse and a chorus for the first song I'm writing, "Wish You Were Here" on the piano. Wow. So challenging. I haven't had a left hand yet, just the melody on the right hand. Looking back, I don't think I'll be able to play this again, I made it too complicated >_<

As for the YouTube series: we will be doing it! I'm writing Season One right now, which will be ten episodes. It will talk about two fraternal twins at home during the summer doing all kinds of random stuff every episode. Season Two will focus more on back to school and stuff.

TAKE IT FROM THOMAS ARCHIE CHAN'S BLOG FIRST: THE NAME OF THE SERIES! I haven't told anyone yet except for my fellow co-director Paulo Dancel, but now, if you're reading this, you will find out! With Phoenix Productions, the series will be called... Justin & John. OK, so don't tell anyone!

Here is the logo (I made it in like, five minutes, so it's kind of bad.)

So yeah! Hope you sort of like it. Hope this thing is able to take flight! Our first YouTube series! Goodie! So excited.

YOUTH LEADER COUNTDOWN: 4 days

Until next time! See ya!

Making the most of the rest of the summer...

2010-08-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm off to Youth Leader 2010 in six days! But thinking about August just reminds me of how fast the summer is ending.

So right now I'm trying the make the most of it. I know The One Ingredient Mystery is still in its planning stages as we cannot gather all nine people together on one day to film, but I'm thinking that maybe a mini YouTube series wouldn't be too hard to do. We'll get a small cast together of like three or four main characters, and get "guest stars", and make it like a short comedy, a nice little treat for someone to watch at the end of the day or when they're bored or something. It's not a bad idea.

However, I'll need ideas for storylines and plot and such... and that's going to take a while. Like, different plots per episode, but the same character structure and maybe a BIG plot running through the entire show... but a theme and a motivator would be VERY helpful.

If you've got any ideas, email me at thomas.a.chan777@gmail.com or email Phoenix Productions at vc.phoenixproductions@gmail.com.

The summer is flying away quick! And I hope this idea can take off, and that we will give it the wings to fly... ^^

Well anyways, did I talk too much already? Like David Archuleta, I am born a ramblin' man as well =D

IDEAS, IDEAS! WANTED: IDEAS! INSPIRATION! ANYTHING THAT YOU CAN SUGGEST TO PHOENIX PRODUCTIONS!

Hello August! (and my 50th Post!!!)

2010-08-01T20:29:00.001-07:00

Hello August! My first post of this month, and coincidentally, my 50th post overall. YAY!

Currently, I am experimenting with different colors of fonts. It's pretty fun!

LOL, sorry. Quick glance at possible events in August!

August 9-13, 2010 - Youth Leader 2010 Training Conference =D Can't wait, wonder what's in store =D

Now for the possible other events:

Trip to Seattle - Yes again. My cousins are getting passports so they want to go with us to Seattle Premium Outlets =D
Trip to Kelowna - dunno if we're still going. We used to go, dunno if cousins are planning to go or not...
Pick up books at Bookroom - not necessarily a highlight... but it still must be done for GRADE 10 =D

Well... and also thanks to Uncle Kei for buying David Archuleta's Christmas album for me! It's in the mail and commiinngggggggg.... Can't wait to listen to Christmas from the Heart in the middle of August! Well... maybe in a couple months. But very excited =D

David Archuleta's sophomore album Other Side of Down is coming out October 5 too! Before it was supposed to come out six days before my birthday, but oh well, late birthday presents work too =D

So tired of changing different colors! But it was fun. Anyways, until next time, see ya! More jogging and running and soccer tomorrow. Yippee!~

Mosquito bites...

2010-07-31T11:29:00.000-07:00

Arrgg... I was just jogging with my cousins and mosquitoes swarm me: they LOVE me. D=

I currently have six bites on my legs and neck, and one on elbow. (>_<) Probably some of them are still sprouting. Yikes, I wonder how many I'll have by the end of today...

So if you see me tomorrow and I have red spots on my neck, THEY ARE NOT PIMPLES OR ZITS, THEY ARE MOSQUITO BITES >_<

Well... that's it for now, until next time!

PS. Anyone know how to set a personal ringtone (like, mp3 file) on LG Neon? (Well, LG TE365F if you want technical terms)

Running and Mahjong =D

2010-07-27T09:56:00.000-07:00

Heh heh... yesterday was pretty fun!

First started the morning bright and early with jogging lessons/session and soccer with my cousins in this park in Richmond. Very good, but very tired. Had lunch, went to Future Shop and Best Buy, and then went back to their house, where we spent the rest of the day playing Mahjong, eating, going on the computer, and playing piano. Overall, it was tiring, but a really fun day =D

T3 tonight!

Canadian Idol... COME BACK... D=

2010-07-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Another random blog post!

Canadian Idol was supposed to be on its seventh season in 2009, but that got canceled because of the recession. Now since there's no hope for it to come back in 2010... I hope it comes back next year. I'll be finally old enough to try out and I really want to get the chance to experience something like this.

The possibilities of it coming back are slim (I think...) but I hope it does =D

T3 News

2010-07-21T10:30:00.000-07:00

Another random blog post =D

Haha, just came back from my second T3 session, and it was a blast =D We dove into the first three chapters of Matthew. Discussion was nice too, but we ended up talking about magic, wizards, vampires, and werewolves and how they contradict to the Church's teaching (something like that).

Overall, it was fun =D Until next time!

Archie's new single!

2010-07-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

OK, I think I sound like an advertisement right now, but DAVID ARCHULETA'S NEW SINGLE "Something 'Bout Love" came out today on iTunes and www.DavidArchuleta.com.

I'm so excited as the song is pretty good too... right now it's placed as #48 on the iTunes Top Songs chart, and #25 on the iTunes Top Pop Songs chart. Great job David!

In other news, I've learned to play "Crush" on the piano. It was kind of challenging, but I can finally play it (well... the relatively 'simpler' version anyways). I'm not very experienced.

I'm off to T3 Bible Study tonight. It's a fun way to learn the Bible when the Bible Geek Mark Hart teaches it. Until next time! =D

Busy busy summer...

2010-07-17T10:24:00.001-07:00

Wow, especially since my Macau friend is here, we're going to a whole ton of places in Vancouver we normally won't go =D

We're going to the Aquarium today, and I don't know how long we'll be there, but yeah =D

IN OTHER NEWS: I'm learning to play "Crush" by David Archuleta on piano. I think I'm doing OK... I'm not a very experienced piano player so this is a really hard song for me to play. *Note to self - PLAY SLOWER. I never get the chord rolls right in the chorus...

IN OTHER NEWS: My birthday is in two months, and I know EXACTLY what I want already - David Archuleta's new album, "Other Side of Down". I can't wait to hear it! He always does such a great job, lyrics are meaningful, and he's an amazing writer and nice person overall. I can't wait!

Off to aquarium. Until next time!

So pumped!

2010-07-15T17:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I almost always am anyways =D

By the way, I start sounding like an advertisement right about now. >_<

Anyways, today on www.DavidArchuleta.com, David finally announced the name and release date of his third album! The name of his third album will be called "Other Side of Down", and the release date - that's the crazy part. SEPTEMBER 14th!!!!

And so you'd probably be wondering "ok...so?" Well, it's not that significant really. But the release day - September 14, is SIX DAYS after school starts (September 8), and SIX DAYS before my birthday (September 20), so in the middle... but now, I know what I want for my birthday =D

I'm so pumped, I'm sure David did an amazing job with his newest album, as he is simply amazing. I can't wait to get the album!

Until next time, see ya!

Random.

2010-07-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will be Audrey Assad's first album release; "The House You're Building". I am expecting to order it on Amazon.ca along with David Archuleta's Christmas album, "Christmas from the Heart". However, there is only free shipping for orders over $39. So, I'm currently trying to figure out what else to buy. That $39 total is probably before taxes. What am I going to buy?

Nothing else much to say. I can't wait for more music! =D

Windy this morning...

2010-07-12T10:05:00.000-07:00

Wow, what wind this morning. Was it a thunderstorm? Or something else...

I know it's kind of early/late and all, but I'm still trying to find David Archuleta's Christmas album. Let's hope I can find it today...

Until next time! Thanks for reading this really random post =D

Back in Vancouver!

2010-07-11T10:41:00.000-07:00

Wow, so finally I'm back in Beautiful British Columbia.

Truly. No more huge flashy lights, no more crazy heat, no more towering (but really beautiful!) hotels. Just the calm city of Vancouver, the tranquil mountains, and the gorgeous sea. And the not-too-hot weather.

Very tired from vacation, and I don't think I've fully rested yet, but whatever.

Las Vegas is beautiful indeed, but like they say, "There's no place like home." =D

Until next time!

Today was dull.

2010-07-08T19:16:00.000-07:00

OK, so my mom went to go shopping and she still hasn't returned yet. She either can't stop shopping or can't find a way to come back.

We came back first because we were so absolutely bored. There were no shops of interest whatsoever so my dad, Catherine and I were sitting in the food court doing random stuff and having some lunch.

When we were going to ride the bus home the fare-payer machine didn't work so the security person said we could ride for free.

The ride was supposed to take thirty minutes but it took us one and a half instead. There was a giant traffic jam in the Vegas Strip so I was trapped in a supposedly-air conditioned car with tons of other people. It was HOT - it seemed like I was there forever. Good thing I finally managed to leave.

Today was kind of dull. Tomorrow we're exploring the other hotels in the Vegas Strip - a lot to see in a couple hours.

Until next time, see ya!

I met DAVID ARCHULETA....

2010-07-07T18:01:00.000-07:00

I feel like the luckiest person in the world right now.

I can't believe we could actually do it, but we actually did. We rode a taxi all the way out to Henderson's Deseret Books to meet DAVID ARCHULETA.

The taxi fee cost around $29 dollars but it was so worth it. W

e arrived at around 11:00 AM, and we didn't really know where to go. So we walked around. Then we saw a crowd. Instantly we knew. =D

So it was waiting out in the sun for an hour for David Archuleta to arrive. It was amazing though. At one point, a woman and her baby came out of the bookstore. The bookstore had TAINTED DOORS so everyone's eyes were glued to the door. When that woman came out EVERYONE SCREAMED (except me) because they thought it was David Archie. But it wasn't. They found out soon enough. The sound sounded like this: "AHHH

HHH... oh...."

David Archie did a performance of his single "Crush" as well as another song from his debut album; "Angels". It was an amazing experience and I was feeling the hype and excitement.

Then we waited for another hour to get my book signed. I managed to get tons of pictures with him - all these pictures are on Facebook. I feel so lucky - and thanks so much to my dad for taking the pictures =D

I bought his debut album and then left the bookstore after David left too. What an amazing experience. More adventures from Las Vegas to come, I know it! =D

Me and David Archuleta - both smiling, both in red t-shirts, and both having an amazing time =D

A bump in the road... and updates from Vegas

2010-07-06T23:03:00.000-07:00

My dad analyzed the location of the bookstore that David Archuleta's going to be signing in tomorrow. It's too far away. If we ride the taxi there, it'll cost us around $30 for one trip. We can ride the bus, but it's so time consuming. I'm NOT walking there. It's in the nearby Henderson, just near the border-ish. I really want to see David... have him sign my book, get a picture or two, and maybe get a couple signatures for my friends and maybe a chat if he has time. But even a picture and book signing will be enough if he doesn't have time to do everything else.

The only choice I have now is for my dad to rent a car. Who knows how much that's going to cost... Will I ever get to see David?

This meeting might be an important and changing one in my life. To meet one of my role models and favorite singers - I've never done that before. Will my dream come true? It's so rare that my role model or favorite singer would be so close to where I am - that I am so close in meeting... [except for that time at Spirit Day when Matt Maher was there - hey, I didn't know him back then >_<]

Today was busy though. The plane ride was a killer, I felt sick the entire landing down. And then I started feeling all queasy. That twenty minutes felt like HOURS. Glad that's over. All pictures from today are on my Facebook profile. Check it out if you're interested =D

I'm gonna get some rest now. I hope I can meet David Archuleta tomorrow. More updates to come soon I hope! Until next time!

Off to Las Vegas...

2010-07-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am! Well, of course I never been there before so I hope it's a fun trip. I love traveling ^^

One of the really exciting highlights of this trip (I hope) is to meet David Archuleta, my role model and favorite singer. He'll be doing a book signing in Las Vegas tomorrow, and I hope I can get my book signed, and get a picture with him, and maybe bring home a couple autographs for my friends. This will be so special for me, I really hope I get to meet him!

Our flight isn't until the afternoon, so I guess this morning will be a morning to like pack and make sure we have everything for the trip. I guess I'm sort of excited.

Check Facebook for Las Vegas pictures in a couple days! (Maybe even tomorrow night or something, if my dad brings his computer =D)

Until next time, see ya! I'm so excited! =D

What a coincidence... quelle coïncidence!

2010-07-05T11:19:00.000-07:00

Really? Seriously? Am I dreaming?

I better not get my hopes TOO high, but before I get all excited on this blog post I better fill you in on what's happening. (Or I HOPE is happening) It's kind of a long story...

So as you may know, I bought David Archuleta's book "Chords of Strength" (A Memoir of Soul, Song, and the Power of Perseverance) yesterday, and I'm loving it and yeah...

So tomorrow I'll be going to Las Vegas for a couple days, mom must be really desperate to do some shopping or something... but yeah. So we're leaving tomorrow.

Today I was watching David Archuleta's video blog and he announced that he'll be having a book signing of his new book in LAS VEGAS on JULY 7 - ONE DAY after I arrive in Las Vegas. To have an opportunity to meet one of my most favorite singers and role models is like a dream come true, especially if I (sort of...) want to be a singer. XD This will be an amazing experience (and I'll get my book signed and maybe a picture!!!!) and I really hope I'll get to meet DAVID ARCHULETA =D

Just by the way, I don't get it, but his fans are like 90% female and 10% like male (approximately). or maybe 95. So there'll probably be like a million girls and like, an occasional guy. I better go quickly so I don't feel to awkward with all the screaming girl fans. >_<

Another problem: I don't even know where the bookstore is. It's located in Henderson, Nevada, and that's around a fifteen minute drive from the airport, twenty minutes drive from the heart of Las Vegas (that is if there isn't traffic). I don't want to go for nothing - I don't even know if I should go to the book signing. But it's like a mini-dream come true... oh well, I'll figure out when I get there.

Miracles happen so unexpectedly... God is with us =D

Until next time!

The Power of Perseverance...

2010-07-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Yes! I finally got David Archuleta - my favorite singer's - book today - "Chords of Strength - A Memoir of Soul, Song, and the Power of Perseverance". Talk about perseverance, I had to look in four bookstores to finally find this book =D It costed around $27 dollars and I instantly bought it. I couldn't wait to read it!

And turns out, it was NOT a disappointment. I'm only around twenty pages in and I'm already LOVING it. It's very inspirational and moving, and even if you aren't a fan of David, I still recommend you read this book. It's very, very amazing =D [Now I sound like an advertisement...] >_<

But it really is an amazing book. He's an amazing singer, makes amazing music, AND he's an amazing writer too. Enjoying this book very much. That searching through four bookstores drama was totally worth it =D

Can't wait to read more of it! Until next time!

Seattle tomorrow...

2010-07-03T19:08:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately I didn't find David Archuleta's book "Chords of Strength - A Memoir of Soul, Song, and the Power of Perseverance". I'm so upset... but maybe I'll find it tomorrow... more in next paragraph.

Yes, I'm going to Seattle tomorrow! My mom probably wants to score some Independence Day deals down in the USA, and I don't blame her. I actually am a "little" excited. Well, really excited. More t-shirts, music, and hopefully I'll find David Archuleta's book =D

We'll probably have to wake up really early to avoid the border waits. But oh well, can't be helped. I think we'll have to wait AT LEAST half an hour to an hour even if it's like five o'clock... (Say, that's not a bad idea =P)

Don't worry everyone! I went to Mandrin Mass today at 5:30 at SFX so of course I won't be missing Mass =P However I won't be present for Youth Mass so... have fun without me? =P

Well, that's it for now. Super pumped. Until next time!

Searching for a book...

2010-07-03T10:17:00.000-07:00

Another really random post =D

Today I'll be going to Chapters (Metrotown, Downtown, whichever one my mom decides to go...). I'll be looking to buy a book today and hopefully I'll find it - "Chords of Strength - A Memoir of Soul, Song and the Power of Perseverance" by David Archuleta. Yeah, he's an amazing singer, but his writing, from what I've heard, is amazing as well. I can't wait to read it, hopefully it'll be in stock.

Find me on Twitter! ---> thmogulchan

Until next time, see ya. =D

Wow... I'm bored. In other news...

2010-07-02T16:00:00.001-07:00

Well, not much 'other news'. I'm actually desperately looking for something to do. My mom's considering going to Banff or Seattle in a couple of days, I personally don't have a preference. But anywhere is fine, since I'm so terribly bored at home.

Got Twitter! Find me at thmogulchan

New favorite singer!!! David Archuleta, American Idol season seven runner up, his voice is amazing =D Large vocal range. My favorite songs are "A Little Too Not Over You", "Crush", "Waiting for Yesterday", "Zero Gravity",.... well most of his songs are my favorites anyways =D

Suddenly I want to be a singer...

Until next time! See ya =D

Canada Day!

2010-07-01T19:23:00.000-07:00

Well yeah... I ended up going to Canada Place and walked around for like twenty minutes, but that was pretty much it. And then my mom went on a shopping trip and I tagged along I guess. It was actually sort of boring... I was actually expecting a better Canada Day. Oh well...

More exciting things to come this July and August! Still determined that this will be the best summer ever! =D

P.S. I got Twitter. =D My username is thmogulchan. Follow me if you have time =D

Do I... sing?

2010-06-30T19:06:00.000-07:00

OK, so I'm pretty bored, so here's another random blog post =D

I've been singing since I was a little kid. I sing everywhere (I still do...), and when I'm bored I sing as loud as I can (as long as dad isn't home, if he is, I sing quiet) my favorite songs until eventually I get sick of my favorite songs. I recorded my voice when I was singing a couple times, and...

I almost barfed. I didn't know I sounded so terrible... I wonder how many people I plagued with my terrible singing voice =P

Well, I'll keep singing, just because. I know there's at least one person who likes what I'm singing - the Lord. I think that's pretty much it. I don't know if it's actually good or not, but I think it's terrible. I've received a couple compliments before, but of course, a singer never really likes listening to his or her own voice anyways. I dunno...

Until next time! =D

Well...

2010-06-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well, exactly what the title says. Yes, I HAVE ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DO RIGHT NOW... Well... so obviously I am TOTALLY bored.

Since there's nothing else to say, I guess I'll write again soon =D Until next time!

Random thought...

2010-06-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

My background on my blog looks like Metal Burst, a Pokemon move. >_<

Sis' Grad Dinner was cool.

2010-06-26T09:35:00.001-07:00

SOOO tired from yesterday's Grad Dinner. The food was good though, and so was the Magic Show. Loved the slideshow as well. I talked sooo much yesterday, and I wished I got to see the pictures I took. EVERY SINGLE ONE was blurry. Good thing I got other people to take pictures for me. But that camera's getting old, and my hand is getting shakier. The photos aren't very good anymore. I think I need a new camera.

Here you see me and some of the amazing YMs. XD

Well... that's the end of it I guess. Sister must be so tired... it's around 10:00 and she still didn't wake up yet. And she usually wakes up at 8 like me... I don't blame her. She was like a celebrity yesterday =P She must have had a MILLION pictures taken of her.

Until next time, see ya.

TOIM - From the Co-Director's Desk

2010-06-25T16:09:00.000-07:00

Wow... so TOIM (The One Ingredient Mystery), is ready to launch its first filming day NEXT WEEK on Tuesday, June 29... I'm so excited. This will be the first movie I've ever made - and our little company, Phoenix Productions. It's going to be so awesome and of course, thanks in advance to all my amazing friends who volunteered to be in this thing... I hope it comes out a success.

It's a pretty simple logo I made with Microsoft Word. Not really professional at all... but it'll have to do for now. My other Co-Director seems to be making a better one... but I haven't gotten any responses yet.

Let's all hope that this will be a success!

Congrats Catherine!

2010-06-25T12:45:00.000-07:00

Another great day for Catherine as she graduates from Grade 7. I attended her Grad Mass and Ceremony this morning, and so happy that she got the Christian Witness Award. Congrats!

Wow... off to celebrate her graduation. Tonight's the Grad Dinner, I can't wait! =D

What time is it? SUMMERTIME =D

2010-06-23T13:28:00.001-07:00

YES! It's finally summer! I can't believe it. I just finished my last exam today, and now I finally can have a loonggg.... well deserved break. There's so much stuff I've planned for this summer - so I can hardly wait!

Summer's inching closer...

2010-06-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true!!! Only two more exams until SUMMER! I'm so terribly excited...

Well... I still have to study. Until next time!

Summer events overview!!!

2010-06-20T18:33:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's almost summer. There's only three more exams left... the MATH exam... the SCIENCE exam... and the FRENCH exam...

There's so many things that I'm hoping to do this summer...

June 23 - Hangout after exams!! (Maybe attending...)
June 29 - First Movie Filming Day - The One Ingredient Mystery (excited!)
June 30 - Friend's Beach Party - (Maybe attending...)

July 1 - CANADA DAY (Don't know if I'm doing anything...)
July 3 - SUMMER PATH (Party at Thomas' House!!)
July 5 - 16...? - Mom's friend (Uncle Kei) visits from Macau. WHOOP!
July 11 -12 - Friend's Summer Party and Sleepover of the Century!!

August 6-8 - Youth Ministry Camp (I don't know if I'm going or not...)
August 9-13 - Youth Leader Camp (I'll probably be going to this one.)
August 14 - Cousin's birthday (party? or not?)

And although I'd love to attend, there's no way I could attend Momentum Ski Camp... I can't grow my interest on pursuing moguls... D=

Well... back to studying for exams.

Wait... I'd like a CLUE please.

2010-06-19T11:01:00.000-07:00

If you have no idea what this is talking about... ignore it. It's for a future... event.

CLUE #11 LOCATION: Thomas' Blog

Wow agent... look at you. You are smart. Looks like I may have underestimated you. Looks like you have found the eleventh Clue... and only four more steps until you find the precious ingredient - CONGRATULATIONS! But be careful... false Clues are everywhere...

Now we're getting big money. Let's see if you can solve my next Clue.

You've been outside, now for a pleasant surprise
you'll end up going to the backside
if you have no idea what I'm saying,
Get your shoes on, and run!

Good luck agent. This may be your ending point. (Hey... looking under the stairs may be a start.)

Tom Cheung
IT Department Head
Palace Corporation

Exam week in progress...

2010-06-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

Wow... so tried and I've only done two exams so far...

Next week's exams will be on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday and will be math, science and French respectively.

I've got one difficult exam out of the way, and I've got one more (French). I'm not too worried about math or science, but French is a big deal. My average relies on it.

Can't wait until summer!

Sister's back from camp.

2010-06-03T16:19:00.000-07:00

Yes, she's back from camp, and it seemed she had more fun than I did when I was at camp two years ago. D= She gets a half day tomorrow so lucky her too D=

Tomorrow's the Middle School Awards. I don't know if I should be excited or not. Oh well... =D

I'm not getting any studying done, and I think I need to start pretty soon. My getting President's Honor Society depends on it.

Yay! First post in June!

2010-06-02T17:46:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's a new month! There's approximately twenty more days until SUMMER! Well, studying is the top priority now, if I want to do well in my exams in TWO WEEKS. Well, until next time!

Bazaar was fun, fun, fun!!!

2010-05-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, yesterday was a crazy, crazy day. Lots of running around, but mostly taking tons of bubble tea orders, stirring bubble teas, putting caps on bubble teas, and serving bubble teas. Lots of bubble tea talk yesterday, and in fact I even bought two myself. They were actually pretty good.

Now I'm super tired. May's ending, and June's 'starting' on Tuesday, which means I'm going to start going into Exam Study and Preparation mode now. I don't want to... but I have to. I'll be studying starting tomorrow (kind of LATE for some people who started mid-May) but now all the major May events are over, I'm going to start preparing for Exams. My exams are from June 17-18, [weekend], and then June 21-23. Then I'm off. I only have 17 more days to study, a little over two weeks. I hope that's enough time.

My sister's receiving Confirmation today. Yay for her~

Until next time, see ya.

Edmundian Barbeque was a blast.

2010-05-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

The Edmundian Barbeque we had today was pretty awesome; it was basically a way for the new Edmundians (Like me) to meet up with the other Senior Edmundians we'll be working with next year. It was great way to socialize and have dinner as well. It wasn't really a barbeque, more of what they call a "Pizza Party", but whatever. It was fun.

We got our Yearbooks two days ago, and I'm actually working really hard to fill its signature pages with signatures and messages from classmates and friends. Last year, I only covered one and half pages, which was pretty disappointing. Actually, I love getting signatures and reading the messages again when I have time during the future. Right now, I have around four pages filled, (record broken from last year!!!) and I'm planning to make it five or maybe even six by the end of next week. (I probably wouldn't have so many people to sign, but whatever).

SFX's annual Bazaar and Singathon is tomorrow, and I'm super pumped. I'll be there at around 9:00 to 9:30-ish tomorrow and probably won't be home until twelve hours later, 9:00PM. I don't know, I might actually decide to stay the whole time (until 10PM...) I have a little bit of homework I need to do so I guess I'll bring that tomorrow. It'll be so worth it. I can't wait!!!

Until next time, see ya.

Bazaar... and other exciting things.

2010-05-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

Our parish's annual Bazaar and Singathon is in SIX DAYS. I seriously can't believe it. It seemed so far away before... but now is coming closer than ever! I can't wait. I'll be at the Youth Loft selling Bubble Tea and other stuff... but it's going to be awesome. CAN'T WAIT!!!

On other notes, I'm going to Metro tomorrow. Hopefully I can get an iPod. My old MP3 seriously looks really bad, if you look at PROPERTIES:

Free memory: 000.33 MB

>_< Well, you can't expect much from a five-year-old MP3 that only has 512MB of memory.

An iPod nano with 8GB is already plenty. I hope I can get one tomorrow =D

I've got 'MOMENTUM'... well, would like to anyways.

2010-05-23T16:23:00.000-07:00

Well, at least that's what I wish. Momentum is a MOGUL ski camp during the summer that I would really LOVE to attend, but I have a couple problems with this:

1) I don't know if I'm good enough for MOGULS [even the beginner kind]
2) Cost?

and worst of all...

3) Parents won't let me.

What a shame. Alexandre Bilodeau will be coaching there, and it would be so... AMAZING if I got coached by a gold medalist (and role model!!!). Still... I don't think I'm good enough... and my parents want me to do kung fu. They don't want anything to do with skiing. (Why not? I want to ski, not KUNG FU.)

Well.. I guess I can keep dreaming.

PE was 'electrifying.'

2010-05-13T18:01:00.000-07:00

Shuffle, shuffle, ZAP! Shuffle, shuffle, ZAP! That was basically what we did for half of PE class today.

Let's see where it all began...

WE WERE BORED. We were outside, playing ultimate frisbee in the sizzling, hot heat. Bad combination. And plus, I don't even like ultimate frisbee. So it was terrible. We were terribly bored, and the PE teacher was talking with some other teacher.

And then we started walking, and we touched the METAL go-post on the field. ZAP! Static electricity. And then... we shuffled again... ZAP! Pretty soon, a whole group of us were doing it. Wow... that was pretty awesome.

Never before had PE turned to science class. And never before had static electricity been SO fun. [I'm not saying it isn't dangerous. What we were doing is a mild form of static electricity. Kids - don't try this at home... JUST KIDDING!]

Youth Day was AWESOME.

2010-05-09T07:38:00.000-07:00

This year's Youth Day - with the theme Radical Commitment, was not disappointing at ALL. In fact, it was one of the best Youth Days I went to.

To begin with, I woke up on a gorgeous Saturday morning at around 6:30 AM. (OK, maybe that wasn't so great). After a short ride to Archbishop Carney, we were instantly granted our t-shirts and name tags, and then it's into the gym for our first session!

The first session was filled with many loud and happy songs, and a great and touching talk by Jesse Manibusan. After that, it was an exciting dance Divine-Time session in the Multipurpose Room - what a way to get some exercise before lunch AND praise God with PRAISE T.E.A.M.!

At lunch we had delicious hot dogs, chips and juice, as we cheered on our favorite "team" in the Youth vs. Men in Black soccer game. The Youth won this year in a surprising 2-1 win.

After lunch, it's going to Taize Prayer by myself - it was a soothing and amazing session filled with calming music and readings, considering all the crazy events of this morning. After Taize, I went back to the gym for social time.

Social time was also a highlight. I was just strolling around, bought a t-shirt, and watched the talent show that was going on in the gym. It was amazing.

The Mass with Archbishop Miller and the music continued to make this day a wonderful one. But the best was still yet to come...

At dinner (pasta, cookies and salad!!!) we went back to the gym for the closing session. More music, and more talks by Jesse Manibusan, and everyone, including me, was especially hyped out! Running around the gym in a human CHAIN, screaming, jumping up and down, and constantly standing up to cheer and clap were symptoms of this hyped out behavior!

Wow, after an amazing day, we finally drove home. It was an amazing, but tiring day. My voice was hoarse, and I had to sleep.

Well, that was a really bad summary of an amazing 12 hour event, but of course, in order to experience the full awesome-ness this event had to offer, of course you had to go!

Can't wait for next year's Youth Day! I'm sure it'll be just as amazing, if not more! =D

Pictures are coming to Facebook soon.

Today was...

2010-05-07T14:51:00.000-07:00

Wow. So my sister didn't have school but I did, but luckily it was a B Schedule, I got off at 2:00 PM. Today was really pointless because we pretty much watched movies or did homework in all the classes because none of the teachers wanted to give homework on Mayfair weekend. And that's probably why we got a B Schedule, because they had to finish setting up for VC's major fundraiser tomorrow, Mayfair.

I won't be going, because I have the gigantic Archdiocesan event: Youth Day! I'm so excited, and I can't wait. Although Mayfair is a great day for socializing and meeting up with friends on a weekend as well as having fun and chilling with all the games there, I guess I don't have to go every year. Maybe next year.

I'm so tired, and I figure I pretty much have to get TONS of sleep tonight. I'll have to wake up at around 6:45 AM tomorrow, and around 7:00 AM on Sunday for setting up for Mother's Day Brunch. So, I'll have to get TONS of sleep to make up for all the lost sleep this weekend. ^^ But, on the bright side, I'm super excited for both events happening this weekend so I can't wait! Even waking up early will be worth it!

MOTE was amazing.

2010-05-06T20:31:00.001-07:00

The annual school play at St. Francis Xavier School - Missionary of the East - was definitely amazing. And to think on how many hours all of the cast and crew put into it, I think it was pretty worth it. Too bad they can't do another performance... ENCORE! =D

The sets were amazing, the songs were amazing, the the storyline was pretty entertaining as well. Overall, I think it was extremely well done.

Dinner at Ken's afterwards kicked off the amazing night. Good thing I don't have homework tonight...

Tired. Until next time!

OH. And TWO MORE DAYS UNTIL YOUTH DAY!!! =D

The Countdown Continues...

2010-05-04T16:32:00.001-07:00

Only four more days until Youth Day!!!

Youth Day in five days!

2010-05-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

Haha, I'm so excited. I've been looking forward to Youth Day for... how long now?

ONLY FIVE MORE DAYS!!!!

Yikes... mistakes in French video.

2010-05-03T16:11:00.001-07:00

I haven't even seen the whole movie yet and I already saw two mistakes.

The first one was that one of our group members got cropped out of the scene, apparently he walked to far to the left and totally walked right off the screen. The second problem was that we forgot to film the other half of the "phone conversation" we were supposed to have. Oh well... I don't know what to do right now, but it pretty much seems that we'll have to do another filming session. *sighs*

Space Center was...

2010-05-03T16:07:00.001-07:00

Our field trip to the space center wasn't excellent. It wasn't bad either, but I thought it could have been better.

We did a number of activities and such, which were rather interesting, but not really. And, we were going to ride the Mars simulator, which broke. Luckily it got fixed. At first I was nervous, but it turned out it wasn't really that interesting at all. It might have been fun for an 8 year-old, but for a 14 to 15 year old, not necessarily.

One of the parts that were sort of interesting was the Star Theater. That was one of the best parts. In conclusion, the Space Center was kind of small, and the trip was OK, but not the best one I've had.

French filming... a success?

2010-05-01T18:28:00.001-07:00

Well, after three and a half hours, we're done. DONE. PERIOD. Well, it was the work after cameras running out of batteries, people forgetting lines, people laughing during EVERY scene, and cameras running out of memory, and us running all over the place. It was tiring. Really tiring.

Well, glad that's over. Now we have to do the editing and stuff, and hope that's successful. Fingers crossed for a good mark, everyone!

Now I'm out for dinner. I've had enough yelling for DAYS.

...A Clue?

2010-05-01T12:39:00.000-07:00

If you have no idea what this is talking about... ignore it. It's for a future... event.

CLUE #11 LOCATION: Thomas' Blog

Wow agent... look at you. You are smart. Looks like I may have underestimated you. Looks like you have found the eleventh Clue... and only four more steps until you find the precious ingredient - CONGRATULATIONS!

Now we're getting big money. Let's see if you can solve my next Clue.

You've been outside, now for a pleasant surprise
you'll end up going to the backside
if you have no idea what I'm saying,
Get your shoes on, and run!

Good luck agent. This may be your ending point.

Tom Cheung
IT Department Head
Palace Corporation

Still waiting...

2010-05-01T12:35:00.001-07:00

Wow... it's so hard to wait for an hour. And plus, I haven't even had lunch yet. Only 50-ish more minutes....

French Video Project!

2010-05-01T12:19:00.000-07:00

Wow, another new blog! I think this is the second one that I have... but oh well. The more the merrier!

Today me and my group of friends are filming our French project, entitled Vacances a Paris. It's sunny right now, so that's a good sign. I hope they'll all come on time... a couple minutes late is alright, but not if they're like HALF AN HOUR late =.="

This will be another film with "Phoenix Productions", our filming group that me and my friend Paulo Dancel came up with a couple weeks ago. This will be our second video with Phoenix Productions!

This morning my grandma was getting so angry, she was just saying all these things and showing her disapproval of friends coming over to film. I totally disagree. "Never come to MY house to film ever again!" Yeah, right. Like that's going to happen. Where ELSE can we film?

The guys are supposed to come in an hour, and I am so excited. I don't know what I should do until then, I've been trying to burn three hours already. I can't wait to start filming!

Until next time, see ya.