First-time Skiing

 My friend Junfu won two tickets to Snowbird Center, and he generously offered me one of them. So the week after I came back from New York, we made plans to go skiing together. 

Entrance.

These pictures show the lounge area before you start skiing, and after you get tired and want to rest.

Coincidentally it was Easter's week, so they had someone dressed up in bunny mascot. Of course I won't miss the chance to take a photo with bunny.

The Chickadee Slope for beginners.

We went on the cable chairs to the top.

This is the only picture I have of Junfu. He doesn't really like taking photos. He has a few pictures of himself in his iPad though.

Finally found our place at the Mountain Kids. Basically the slope is a 10° angle which is perfect for absolute beginners. I fell around 3 times here, then it got easy and I could maneuver myself with a little effort.

After that my confidence level went up, and I decided to to challenge the Chickadee. Even though a Mexican guy was kind enough to teach me, I still fell at the bottom of the mountain where there is a steep slope on every attempt. I was scared to bump into people cos I didn't know how to control the speed, so I ended up falling on the snow to prevent collision.

Dani later told me that the Chickadee Slope is most certainly NOT for first-time skiers! No wonder I fell so many times there, cos it's not my level!

The skis will fall off if you have ice sheets at the bottom of your shoes.

Finally, before we went back, I got Junfu to help me take a photo with the sign. The clothes are loose for me because they belong to Dani. 

Cost breakdown:

Entrance tickets: $85 (free cos I got the lucky draw ticket from Junfu)

Ski rental: $35 (I paid only $23 cos Dani loaned me her clothes, helmet and gloves)

Bus round trip: $9 (remember to prepare exact amount, no change provided)

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Subtotal: $129

(-) Discount: $97

(+) Add Extra: $1 (failure to give exact bus fare)

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Total paid: $33

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U of U Student Evaluation

Recently, U of U asked me to fill in the course + professor evaluation, and I realized a big difference between U of U and UM. From the above picture, you see that the ratings are actually made available to students to help them choose classes for the next semesters, which is very helpful. In UM, what happens to course evaluations is that they get sent to lecturers and that's the end of the story. But U of U has such openness and transparency that they divulge the ratings to students as well. Here's an example: 

 When you click on feedback, it directs you to this page.

You can see clearly the ratings that past students gave to the course and the professor, which helps you in making your decision whether or not to sign up for this course. UM should make this change as well, and it's not for criticizing any particular courses or lecturers, but simply to make it easier for students to decide whether the course is suitable for him/her.

By the way, I love this class - it's so fun and relaxing, and I get to learn something new! I had considered for quite a bit before signing up for this class because I'm not sure if I'm guitar material with my short stubby fingers, but thank heavens I did! This is one of the most enjoyable classes in my UGrad days! Prof Todd is always so kind and encouraging, he made the classes interesting even when we were playing open strings. He used to play in bands when he was younger, but now he's settled in Utah and teaches beginner and intermediate classic guitar classes.

Must-Have Floral Dress for Spring

It's finally Spring in Utah! In April! The weather is still cool, but you can feel the Sun's heat burning your skin. No wonder people say there are only two seasons in Utah: Summer and Winter. Now that the Winter is over, it's time to show some skin.

Springs are always the season everyone looks forward to especially in the fashion industry. It is the season where you can dress lightly and still look stunning effortlessly. Floral prints always have that relation with spring season and it brings a sweetness touch to anyone who wears them. For the ladies who have no idea what to wear during the Spring season, there are a few floral dress designs that is a must-have to add into your wardrobe. 

1. Small Prints

Small floral print pattern on your dress is perfect for the individuals who want to show off their innocent side. It makes you appear simple yet girlish in a way that is subtle. Simply match the small print dress floral design with a nice pair of ballerina flats and flaunt your elegance.

2. The Flare

Twirl around everywhere you go from the office, parties, weddings or social gatherings with your friends with a floral flare dress. The flare cut design gives you a sophisticated mature appeal while still maintaining a touch of sweetness. This dress is suitable to be worn to any occasion and can be easily accessorized. Pull together the perfect outfit with the right shoes and step out with confidence.

3. Floral Two Piece

The floral two piece dress is a versatile fashion item to own as you can easily mix matches the bottom skirt with any coloured top. Besides that, this dress gives you a casual feel which is perfect to be worn on dates or casual hangouts with your friends. Choose from the wide range of two piece floral dress designs that represents your personal style and show it off in front of others. Be the center of attention and never look out of style during the Spring time.